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Science News Archive July 2018 - Page 11


Page 11 of 38

A year in words

A recent study by University of Miami psychologists found that vulnerable children benefit from interactions with their peers and teachers to develop literacy skills and social-emotional growth. The research reveals the significance of back-and-forth conversations between teachers and children in language development.

SourceUniversity of Miami·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 23, 2018

Nanocrystals emit light by efficiently 'tunneling' electrons

Researchers at UC San Diego have created a nanosized device that can generate light through inelastic electron tunneling, increasing efficiency to approximately two percent. The device uses a metal-insulator-metal junction to convert electronic energy into photons, with potential for further optimization.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Photonics·DateJul 23, 2018

WSU researcher sees possibility of moon life

Researchers Dirk Schulze-Makuch and Ian Crawford suggest two periods when Earth's Moon was habitable for simple lifeforms, including during its formation and a peak in volcanic activity around 3.5 billion years ago. Conditions were suitable for liquid water and an atmosphere to form on the lunar surface.

SourceWashington State University·JournalAstrobiology·DateJul 23, 2018
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

A 3D model of a human heart ventricle

Harvard researchers create a scale model of a beating heart ventricle using human heart cells and nanofiber scaffolds. The model can be used to study heart function and test new treatments for arrhythmia and other conditions.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateJul 23, 2018

Rise in vehicle ramming attacks a 'social virus' spread through media networks

Researchers at University of Kent and Copenhagen University link rise in vehicle ramming attacks to social media networks and viral contagion. The study suggests that exposure to these actions through news media and online discussion forums encourages others to engage in similar acts, often with different motives.

SourceUniversity of Kent·JournalThe British Journal of Criminology·DateJul 23, 2018

Discovery reveals how obesity causes disease -- and two ways to stop it

New research explains how obesity leads to harmful inflammation, causing diabetes and other health problems. The study identifies two ways to combat this inflammation: blocking harmful oxidized lipids or promoting beneficial phospholipids.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 23, 2018

Princeton researchers discover the 'optimism' of E. coli bacteria

E. coli bacteria adapt to limited nutrients by building up protein-production infrastructure, indicating an 'optimism' for future abundance. The cells optimize resource usage, producing more assembly lines under carbon limitation, but using fewer under phosphorus limitation.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalNature Microbiology·DateJul 23, 2018
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Warming and predator-prey interactions in Arctic tundra

Warming alters Arctic tundra ecosystems, with wolf spiders affecting herbivores and soil animals; Collembola populations decline under warm conditions, while decomposition slows.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 23, 2018

Public support for Endangered Species Act is widespread

A new study finds that nearly four in five Americans support the Endangered Species Act, despite claims of controversy. The survey data contradicts claims that public opinion is divided on the issue, showing high levels of support across various groups.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalConservation Letters·DateJul 23, 2018

Natural chromium sources threaten California groundwater

Researchers found that natural sources of hexavalent chromium affect a larger area and more wells in California than industrial sources, highlighting the need for new groundwater management strategies.

SourceStanford's School of Earth, Energy & Environmental Sciences·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJul 23, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Study shows why eastern US air pollution levels are more stagnant in winter

A new study by the University of Washington shows that winter air pollution levels in the eastern US have remained high due to complex chemical processes, rather than reduced emissions. The study highlights the need for further emissions reductions to improve wintertime air quality.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 23, 2018

News from the Journal of Lipid Research

Lysosomal phospholipase A2, a unique enzyme, interacts with various substrates and modifies phospholipids. Researchers identified Asp13 as a crucial catalytic residue contributing to the enzyme's properties. In contrast, a study on chronic kidney disease found no strong correlation between HDL protein content and cardiovascular risk.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalJournal of Lipid Research·DateJul 23, 2018

NASA finds tropical storm Wukong's comma shape

Tropical Storm Wukong formed on July 22 and took on a distinctive comma shape, characterized by powerful thunderstorms around its low-level center. The storm is expected to strengthen to 60 knots (69 mph) before moving north and turning extra-tropical off the coast of Japan.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 23, 2018

A promising approach to translational research on stem cells for Parkinson's disease

Researchers explore two approaches to stem cell therapy for Parkinson's disease, one using patient-specific induced pluripotent stem cells and the other utilizing parthenogenetic-derived neural stem cells. The latter approach offers advantages in terms of reduced immunogenicity and evasion of ethical issues surrounding embryos.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalStem Cells and Development·DateJul 23, 2018
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Writing the future of rewritable memory

Researchers at the University of Alberta have developed a new, atomic-scale rewritable memory that can store 45 million songs on the surface of a quarter. This breakthrough technology can withstand normal temperatures and is road-ready for commercial use, promising to revolutionize data storage and archival.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 23, 2018

How cannabis and cannabis-based drugs harm your brain

Researchers at Lancaster and Lisbon Universities found that long-term exposure to cannabis impairs learning and memory in animals. Brain imaging studies showed the drug affects key brain regions involved in learning and memory.

SourceLancaster University·JournalJournal of Neurochemistry·DateJul 23, 2018
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

A scientific study characterizes our circles of friendships

The study reveals that people with high cognitive capacity can expand their circle of intimate friendships, while smaller communities tend to broaden their close friendships. The researchers found evidence supporting the Dunbar number theory, which suggests a limit on the number of friends our brain can handle.

SourceUniversidad Carlos III de Madrid·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 23, 2018

Novel intervention for anxiety symptoms among people with bipolar disorder

Researchers developed a novel psychological intervention to treat anxiety in bipolar disorder, which was effective in improving clinical outcomes and reducing suicidality. The intervention included individualized formulation-driven approach and cognitive behavioral strategies to address anxiety experiences.

SourceLancaster University·JournalDepression and Anxiety·DateJul 23, 2018

Blindness gene discovered

UNIGE researchers identified a new gene, MARK3, as the cause of a recessive genetic disorder leading to childhood blindness. The discovery enables accurate diagnosis and may lead to personalized treatment options.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalHuman Molecular Genetics·DateJul 23, 2018
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Scientists get first look at T cell responses in Ebola virus survivors

A new Scripps Research study found that nearly all Ebola survivors had killer T cells responding to the nucleoprotein, while only a minority responded to the glycoprotein. This discovery suggests a more effective vaccine strategy by targeting both proteins.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 23, 2018

The Scream: What were those colorful, wavy clouds in Edvard Munch's famous painting?

Researchers at Rutgers University suggest that nacreous clouds with iridescent colors may have inspired the iconic red-and-yellow sky in Edvard Munch's The Scream. The study provides a detailed analysis of cloud patterns and color content in relation to volcanic sunsets, potentially linking Munch's painting to these atmospheric phenomena.

SourceRutgers University·JournalBulletin of the American Meteorological Society·DateJul 23, 2018

Researchers explore popular food trends in nutritional review

Legumes have been shown to successfully reduce coronary heart disease and improve blood glucose levels. Additionally, moderate coffee consumption is associated with lower risks of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality. A predominantly plant-based diet with limited animal products appears to be beneficial for heart health.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateJul 23, 2018
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Slacking on your savings? Cognitive bias could be to blame

A new study by Cornell University neuroscientists suggests that cognitive bias can be a major obstacle to saving money. The researchers found that people tend to spend more brain power on earning than saving, leading to warped time perception and making it harder to prioritize saving over earning.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 23, 2018

If only A.I. had a brain

Researchers developed an artificial synapse inspired by the human brain, which efficiently processes information and demonstrates excellent energy efficiency. This breakthrough could lead to the development of energy-efficient neuromorphic computing, revolutionizing AI devices and transforming industries.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJul 23, 2018

Environmental changes in the Mekong Delta spell trouble for farmers

The Mekong Delta is experiencing environmental changes that threaten the livelihoods of its 15 million people, with rising sea levels and droughts affecting agricultural productivity. The delta's unique ecosystem is being disrupted by dam-building upstream and climate change, leading to saltwater intrusions and reduced sedimentation.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Soil and Water Conservation·DateJul 23, 2018

New research: High burden of hepatitis C among people who inject drugs

A new study reveals that over 39% of people who have injected drugs in the last year are living with hepatitis C infection. The research emphasizes the need to expand hepatitis C prevention, testing, and treatment strategies among people who inject drugs to achieve global elimination.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalAddiction·DateJul 23, 2018
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Study finds flushing water lines protects inconsistently and may increase lead exposure

Research by LSU Health New Orleans School of Public Health found that flushing water lines may not be effective in reducing lead levels, potentially increasing exposure to children. The study suggests that certified water filters and more proactive interventions may be needed to protect children from lead in drinking water.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateJul 23, 2018

A warmer Midwest could lead to a common bird being less common over the next century

Researchers predict Acadian flycatcher populations will decline substantially due to reduced breeding productivity and increased nest predation under severe warming projections. Climate change poses a significant risk of quasi-extinction to this common Midwestern songbird species by the twenty-first century.

SourceUSDA Forest Service - Northern Research Station·JournalNature Climate Change·DateJul 23, 2018

'Stable marriages' between microbes, nutrients may explain diverse yet stable communities

Researchers created a mathematical model to understand microbial community stability, diversity, and reproducibility. They found that cross-feeding processes and nutrient consumption levels contribute to the emergence of multiple levels of consumption, promoting higher diversity and stability.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalThe ISME Journal·DateJul 23, 2018
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Mandate patient access to primary care medical records

Patient access to primary care medical records is crucial for fully patient-centered care, but obstacles such as authorization forms, fees, and long waits hinder this ability. Mandating patient portals would address these challenges and enhance the effectiveness of universal healthcare systems.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJul 23, 2018

A new 'periodic table' for nanomaterials

Researchers created a machine learning technique to categorize different molecules based on the nano-sized shapes they form. The approach could help materials scientists identify suitable precursor molecules for synthesizing target nanomaterials.

SourceKyoto University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 23, 2018

Test to save patients from invasive open biopsies

Researchers developed a diagnostic test using needle biopsies to detect malignant hyperthermia, a fatal genetic condition caused by muscle protein mutations. The new test is less invasive and can be performed on children, providing potential early diagnosis.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 23, 2018
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Neural correlates of reading

Researchers mapped brain activity in response to letters and words in specific brain regions, finding distinct representations for letter-forms and word-forms. The study sheds light on the neural basis of reading in the human brain.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 23, 2018

Scientists develop new materials that move in response to light

Researchers at Tufts University have developed magnetic elastomeric composites that can flex, grip, release or rotate when exposed to lasers or sunlight. The materials can exhibit complex movements like crawling, walking or swimming and can be triggered and controlled wirelessly using light.

SourceTufts University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 23, 2018

Estrogen could promote healthy development of preterm infants

A study on human brain tissue and preterm rabbits suggests that estrogen treatment can restore the balance of interneurons in the cerebral cortex, which is disrupted in premature birth. This finding implies that mimicking the in utero environment may have the potential to improve developmental outcomes for preterm infants.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateJul 23, 2018

Turmeric eye drops could treat glaucoma

Researchers have developed turmeric-based eye drops that can reduce retinal cell loss in rats with glaucoma. The treatment shows promise for diagnosing Alzheimer's disease and has been found to be well-tolerated.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 23, 2018
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Build an ark? Biologists discuss conservation prioritization

A team of international scientists found that preserving phylogenetic diversity among species can preserve 18% more functional diversity than selecting species at random. However, in some areas and groups, this method was less effective, highlighting the need for further research and adaptation.

SourceUtah State University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 23, 2018

Democracies are more prone to start wars -- except when they're not

A new study finds that democratic leaders tend to be more aggressive in international conflicts due to public pressure and audience costs. However, exceptions exist, such as democracies with strong protections for a free press or those facing an existential threat from another nation.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalAmerican Journal of Political Science·DateJul 23, 2018

Scientists uncover new connection between smell and memory

Researchers at the University of Toronto have identified a mechanism that recreates vivid sensory experiences from memory using smell. The findings shed light on how sensory-rich memories are created and stored in our brains, and could explain why loss of smell is recognized as an early symptom of Alzheimer's disease.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 23, 2018

Unwrapping the brewing secrets of barley

Researchers at the University of Adelaide found a link between enzymes involved in malt production and a specific tissue layer within barley grains. The study showed that grains with more aleurone had increased enzyme activity, which could lead to improved brewing processes and new malts.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 23, 2018
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Curing breast cancer but at what cost? Patients report heavy financial toll

A new study by the University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center found that many breast cancer patients are struggling financially due to their treatment. The study reveals that 38% of women were worried about finances, and some experienced extensive hardships, including debt and losing their home.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalCancer·DateJul 23, 2018

Breast cancer fuelled by mysterious Yin Yang protein

Scientists have identified a mysterious molecule called Yin Yang1 that may fuel tumour growth in breast cancer, revealing how tumours change their 'appearance' to evade treatment using epigenetics. The findings suggest doctors should take new tumour samples when a patient's cancer spreads

SourceImperial College London·JournalNature Medicine·DateJul 23, 2018

Elastic slingshot powers snipefish feeding

Researchers discovered that snipefish use an elastic-boosted head flick to capture prey at unprecedented speed, with the fastest recorded events occurring in just two milliseconds. This mechanism allows the fish to pivot their heads rapidly and bring their mouth up close to the prey.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·DateJul 23, 2018
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Scientists ID more than 1,200 genes linked to educational attainment

An international research team has identified more than 1,200 genetic variants associated with educational attainment. The study found that a polygenic score developed from these variants can predict 11-13% of the variation in years of completed schooling, comparable to demographic factors like household income.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalNature Genetics·DateJul 23, 2018