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Science News Archive July 2018 - Page 25


Page 25 of 38

The highly complex sugarcane genome has finally been sequenced

The sugarcane genome has been sequenced using a novel method that leverages colinearity with the sorghum genome, enabling molecular screening techniques for breeding and biomass production. The reference sequence obtained is of high quality, revolutionizing genomic and genetic approaches for sugarcane species.

SourceCirad·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 11, 2018

University of Montana ecology professor helps map climate corridors

A University of Montana ecology professor and researchers have tracked shifting North American habitats to identify climate corridors. The study found routes along north-south trending passes and mountain ranges, which are often circuitous and poorly captured by existing conservation strategies.

SourceThe University of Montana·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateJul 11, 2018

Combination treatment fortifies the aging immune system

A combination treatment has safely enhanced the ability of the immune system to fight infections in the elderly, reducing their incidence by a year. The treatment, which inhibits TORC1 protein complex, showed improved immune response towards seasonal influenza vaccine, paving the way for therapies targeting infectious diseases.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJul 11, 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.

Giant, recently extinct seabird also inhabited Japan

Scientists discovered spectacled cormorant fossils in Japan dating back 120,000 years, indicating the bird's previously believed limited range was incorrect. Climate changes and human activity may have contributed to the species' extinction, with more research needed on its biological aspects.

SourceKyoto University·DateJul 11, 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 analyzes opioid overdose risk during and after pregnancy among Massachusetts women

A Massachusetts-based study found that opioid overdose events decreased during pregnancy but increased in the postpartum period, particularly when fewer resources were available to mothers with substance use disorder. The research team developed a unique dataset linking statewide resources and found that women with opioid use disorder ...

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateJul 11, 2018

Tiny fern holds big environmental promise

Researchers have sequenced the genome of a tiny fern species, Azolla filiculoides, which has been found to have significant environmental applications. The fern's unique gene provides insect resistance and can be used as a sustainable fertilizer, while its symbiotic relationship with cyanobacteria allows for nitrogen fixation.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature Plants·DateJul 11, 2018

Why are neuron axons long and spindly? Study shows they're optimizing signaling efficiency

Researchers at UC San Diego have found that axon geometry is crucial in information flow, with a 'refraction ratio' of 0.92 indicating optimal balance between signal latency and refractory period. This discovery has implications for understanding neurological disorders like autism and developing more brain-like artificial neural networks.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 11, 2018

Snorts indicate positive emotions in horses

Snort production is significantly associated with positive situations and internal states in horses, suggesting a potential tool for improving animal welfare practices. Horses living in naturalistic conditions emit more snorts than those in restricted environments.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 11, 2018

Using light for next-generation data storage

Tiny nano-sized crystals of salt can store digital information using light, offering a promising alternative to traditional magnetic and solid-state data storage. The technology demonstrates rewritable data storage in crystals that are hundreds of times smaller than visible to the human eye.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalOptics Express·DateJul 11, 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.

A step closer to single-atom data storage

EPFL researchers use Scanning Tunneling Microscopy to demonstrate the stability of a holmium single-atom magnet in extreme conditions. They achieve record-breaking coercivity and show that these atoms can withstand high temperatures without demagnetizing.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJul 11, 2018

Study raises concern about flame-retardant metabolites in bald eagles

Researchers have discovered that chemicals used in flame retardants can be broken down into more toxic compounds in birds, including bald eagles. The study found that these metabolites can accumulate in the eggs of bald eagles, potentially affecting their reproduction and overall health.

SourceIndiana University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJul 11, 2018

MSU researchers lead team that discovers heaviest known calcium atom

Researchers from MSU and RIKEN Nishina Center discovered eight new rare isotopes of elements phosphorus, sulfur, chlorine, argon, potassium, scandium, and calcium. Calcium-60 is the heaviest known calcium atom with 20 protons and 40 neutrons.

SourceMichigan State University Facility for Rare Isotope Beams·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJul 11, 2018

Most black adults have high blood pressure before age 55

A recent study found that approximately 75% of black adults and 40% of white women are likely to develop high blood pressure by the age of 55. Lifestyle changes, such as adopting a healthy diet and exercising regularly, can significantly reduce the risk of high blood pressure.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateJul 11, 2018
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Airbnb benefits white neighborhoods; not so for black and Hispanic areas

A study by Purdue University researchers found that Airbnb generates significant tourism activity in predominantly white neighborhoods, but has little impact on black and Hispanic areas. The study analyzed over 3.5 million Yelp reviews and employment data to determine the economic spillover effect of Airbnb on local restaurants.

SourcePurdue University·DateJul 11, 2018

Ebola survivors suffer from severe neurological problems

Researchers found Ebola survivors in Sierra Leone suffered from a range of neurological disorders, including migraines and stroke. The study suggests that these patients require specialist support and treatment to manage their symptoms.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalEmerging Infectious Diseases·DateJul 11, 2018
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Hurricane Chris's eye stares at NASA's Aqua satellite

Hurricane Chris strengthened into a hurricane on July 10 with maximum sustained winds near 100 mph, bringing heavy rainfall to Newfoundland, Canada. The storm's eye was visible in an infrared image captured by NASA's Aqua satellite, revealing cloud top temperatures as cold as minus 63 degrees Fahrenheit.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 11, 2018

Researchers clarify role of mutations in glioblastoma

A study published in PLOS ONE found that different mutations in the PIK3CA gene drive glioblastoma growth, but not a single targeted drug. However, combination therapies show promise, particularly with buparlisib and selumetinib.

SourceUNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 11, 2018

Bubbles and whispers -- glass bubbles boost nanoparticle detection

Researchers at OIST have created a new sensor design using hollow glass bubbles to detect tiny particles, increasing sensitivity and efficacy. This technology has potential applications in detecting toxic molecules in water and blood-borne viruses in rural areas.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalOptica·DateJul 11, 2018
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Most US lawmakers don't look to universities for behavioral health research

A recent study found that only 27% of US lawmakers seek research from universities, instead opting for advocacy groups, state agencies, and their own staff. This suggests a disconnect between policymakers' needs for relevant information and the types of research produced by academic institutions.

SourceDrexel University·JournalPsychiatric Services·DateJul 11, 2018

Centenary of cosmological constant lambda

The cosmological constant was first introduced by Einstein in 1917 to make the static universe model work. However, after the discovery of cosmic expansion, it became marginalized until recent observations and experiments revived its relevance as a key component of dark energy theory.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal H·DateJul 11, 2018

New study: LDL quality is a novel, modifiable cardiovascular risk marker

A new study found that the quality of LDL particles is a significant cardiovascular risk factor, with aggregation-prone LDL linked to increased risk of death. Improvements in LDL quality have been shown to be possible through cholesterol-lowering medication or healthy diet, offering new hope for cardiovascular disease prevention.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateJul 11, 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.

New gears in your sleep clock

Researchers find two opposing kinases regulating circadian clock, one stabilizing key protein PER2 and the other promoting its degradation. This discovery provides new targets for treating circadian disorders.

SourceKyoto University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 11, 2018

Step-by-step account of systemic lupus erythematosus development revealed

A new study by Osaka University provides crucial evidence for the pathophysiology of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), a chronic autoimmune disease. The research highlights the importance of type I interferon in SLE development and suggests that targeting this protein may lead to more effective treatments.

SourceOsaka University·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateJul 11, 2018

Reaching for tissues at the symphony? It's probably solo time

Researchers at Ohio State University discovered that solos are twice as likely to appear in sad songs, with legato articulation and quiet dynamics being key predictors of this occurrence. This finding provides insight into the creative choices composers make when crafting emotional music.

SourceOhio State University·JournalMusic Perception An Interdisciplinary Journal·DateJul 11, 2018

Uncovering the evolutionary history of IBD-associated colorectal cancer

A study at Queen Mary University of London has identified genetic mutations that occur early in the development of bowel cancer in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). These mutations could form the basis of a simple diagnostic test for predicting who is at high risk of developing IBD-associated colorectal cancer.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalGut·DateJul 11, 2018
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Researchers couple artificial atom to acoustic resonator

The study demonstrates an interaction between a qubit and surface acoustic waves in the quantum regime, enabling an alternative approach to quantum computer design. This allows for smaller, more stable, and compact quantum computers without the limitations of microwave radiation.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJul 11, 2018

Scoping magnetic fields out for prevention

Physicists develop mathematical formula to approximate magnetic field circulation around a closed path or loop, based on Biot-Savart's law. The study provides a new approach to evaluate the effects of magnetic fields on human health and prevent exposure.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal Plus·DateJul 11, 2018
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Reining in soil's nitrogen chemistry

Researchers found that coating fertilizer with maleic-itaconic polymers (MIPs) slows down urease activity, improving nitrogen availability for plants. The study suggests farmers have a choice depending on their soil's acidity, offering a potential solution to increase crop yields and reduce environmental impact.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalSoil Science Society of America Journal·DateJul 11, 2018

Higher blood pressure may be linked to brain disease, Alzheimer's

A study published in Neurology found that higher blood pressure in later life is associated with signs of brain aging and brain lesions, including infarcts and tangles linked to Alzheimer's disease. The risk of brain lesions increases by 46% for those with one standard deviation above the average systolic blood pressure.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateJul 11, 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.

ASHG honors Sekar Kathiresan with 2018 Curt Stern Award

Sekar Kathiresan receives the 2018 Curt Stern Award for his groundbreaking work identifying genetic factors underlying cardiovascular disease risk. His research has led to the development of medicines that mimic protective mutations, reducing heart attack risk.

SourceAmerican Society of Human Genetics·DateJul 11, 2018

Footwear habits influence child and adolescent motor skill development

A new study published in Frontiers in Pediatrics found that habitually barefoot children are noticeably better at jumping and balancing compared to habitually shod children. The researchers also suggest that physical education classes and exercise programs could benefit from including barefoot activities.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Pediatrics·DateJul 11, 2018

Healthy diet reduces asthma symptoms

A new study published in the European Respiratory Journal found that healthy diets with high consumption of fruits, vegetables, and whole grain cereals are characterised by better asthma outcomes. Men who ate healthier diets had a 30% lower chance of experiencing asthma symptoms.

SourceEuropean Respiratory Society·JournalEuropean Respiratory Journal·DateJul 11, 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.

Drones survey African wildlife

Researchers use drones to remotely photograph wilderness areas, then analyze images using object recognition software and verified by humans. The AI system learns to distinguish wildlife from inanimate features, making it possible to cover vast areas economically.

SourceSwiss National Science Foundation (SNSF)·JournalRemote Sensing of Environment·DateJul 11, 2018
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Organ regeneration is no longer a distant dream

Researchers at Osaka University have clarified the cellular mechanism behind left-right asymmetric organ morphogenesis using live imaging and computer simulations. The team discovered that 'cell sliding' is essential for this process, which may lead to breakthroughs in regenerating organs with tubular structures.

SourceOsaka University·DateJul 11, 2018

Hepatitis C vaccine could dramatically reduce transmission in people who inject drugs

A major new study published in Science Translational Medicine found that a hepatitis C vaccine would significantly reduce transmission among injecting drug users, even if it doesn't provide complete sterilizing immunity. The study estimated that the risk of transmission could decrease to between 1 and 25 percent with vaccination.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJul 11, 2018

Engineered cancer cells can fight primary and metastatic cancer

Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital have developed engineered cancer cells that can home in on and destroy tumors using CRISPR technology. The treatment shows promise in preclinical models across multiple types of cancer, establishing a potential roadmap for clinical translation.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJul 11, 2018

Optimizing pulsed electric fields to target cancer with calcium ions

Researchers at Kumamoto University identified optimal PEF conditions for increasing cell membrane permeability to calcium. The study found that larger electric fields produced high calcium intake rates, while smaller fields showed undetectable intake rates initially followed by increased rates.

SourceKumamoto University·JournalDrug Delivery and Translational Research·DateJul 11, 2018
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Preoperative opioid use by patients having surgery

A study of 34,000 patients found nearly 1 in 4 used preoperative opioids, linked to age, tobacco use, illicit drug use, pain severity and depression. Identifying these patients can inform effective pain management plans for complex patient populations.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateJul 11, 2018

High intensity exercise in teenagers could ward off heart disease

Teenagers who participate in high-intensity exercise have lower blood pressure, which may lead to a reduced risk of developing heart disease later in life. The study found that post-exercise hypotension was more pronounced in vigorous intensity exercise than moderate intensity exercise.

SourceThe Physiological Society·JournalExperimental Physiology·DateJul 11, 2018

Youth report improved wellbeing as result of tailored mental health services

A study from Lawson Research Institute and Western University found that patients experienced lasting improvements in managing symptoms, academics, work performance, and relationships. Patients credited a collaborative partnership with their care provider for keeping them engaged in treatment.

SourceLawson Research Institute·JournalEmerging Adulthood·DateJul 11, 2018