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Science News Archive June 2018 - Page 37


Page 37 of 40

Researchers find new way to estimate magma beneath Yellowstone supervolcano

Researchers at Washington State University have developed a new way to estimate the rate of magma recharge beneath the Yellowstone supervolcano. The team used deuterium in hot springs to calculate the amount of heat and water flowing out, revealing that previous studies underestimated these flows by significant amounts. This study has ...

SourceWashington State University·JournalGeosphere·DateJun 4, 2018

Gap in substance abuse data could have long-term implications, study finds

A study by The Dartmouth Institute found that a federal regulation change from 2013-2017 led to gaps in substance abuse data, affecting prevalence estimates of chronic conditions like hepatitis C and depression. This can result in underestimated rates of co-morbidity, particularly among younger populations.

SourceThe Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy & Clinical Practice·JournalHealth Affairs·DateJun 4, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

How binging creates alcohol tolerance in flies

Repeated exposure to large quantities of alcohol in fruit flies reduces the activity of a protein regulating communication between neurons. This study provides new insight into the neurobiology of alcohol tolerance, revealing that ethanol interferes with neurotransmitter release and Unc13 protein function.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·JournaleNeuro·DateJun 4, 2018

Asthma and flu: a double whammy

A new study suggests that vaccinating asthmatic children against the flu could significantly reduce their risk of needing hospitalization for an asthma attack. The study found that kids with influenza or parainfluenza had a 37-per-cent or more chance of not responding to treatment, compared to 13 per cent for children without a virus.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateJun 4, 2018
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Alien apocalypse: Can any civilization make it through climate change?

A new study suggests that no civilization can sustainably survive climate change, with four possible scenarios emerging: die-off, sustainability, collapse without resource change, or collapse with resource change. Researchers used mathematical models to analyze the co-evolution of civilizations and planets.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalAstrobiology·DateJun 4, 2018

Unlocking the genome

A team led by Prof. Stein Aerts uncovers how access to relevant DNA regions is orchestrated in epithelial cells, shedding light on biological mechanisms of gene regulation and potential new avenues for cellular reprogramming. Grainyhead, a pioneer factor, acts as a key that can be used to access specific DNA regions.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalNature Genetics·DateJun 4, 2018

Wayne State professor receives NSF CAREER award for vaccine adjuvant research

Haipeng Liu, assistant professor of chemical engineering at Wayne State University, received a $539,422 NSF CAREER grant to develop molecular adjuvants that can enhance the effectiveness of cancer vaccines and overcome tumor-related immune suppression. His research aims to bridge the gap between synthetic chemistry and immunology.

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·DateJun 4, 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.

Role of hippocampus in toddlers' memories

A study of 22 toddlers found that hippocampal activation was higher when they heard a previously learned song, regardless of playback direction. Correctly remembered locations associated with the song also showed stronger hippocampal responses.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 4, 2018

Human blood cells transformed into functional neurons by Stanford researchers

Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine have developed a breakthrough technique to convert human immune cells directly into functional neurons. The transformation occurs through transdifferentiation and achieves high efficiency, generating up to 50,000 neurons from 1 milliliter of blood.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 4, 2018

The health effect of air pollution from traffic

A new study by Lund University suggests that removing exhaust fumes from a smaller European city could prevent 55-93 premature deaths and reduce cases of childhood asthma, bronchitis, and dementia. The study found that even below EU air pollution levels, negative health effects exist.

SourceLund University·JournalEnvironment International·DateJun 4, 2018

The search for the origin of mast cells

Researchers from CNRS and INSERM identify 'primitive mast cells' generated in yolk sac during embryonic development. These cells play a crucial role in shaping the body's immune response, contradicting previous theories on mast cell origin.

SourceCNRS·JournalImmunity·DateJun 4, 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.

Does negative political advertising actually work?

A new study by Yanwen Wang, Michael Lewis, and David A. Schweidel found that negative political advertising is effective in influencing voter preferences and turnout, particularly when created by candidates or their campaigns. In contrast, positive advertising is less effective, while PAC-sponsored ads are significantly less impactful.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalMarketing Science·DateJun 4, 2018

Timing is everything to build kidneys from scratch

USC researchers have discovered that the precise arrival of progenitor cells determines their form and function in the kidney. The study advances understanding of how to assemble building blocks to fashion kidney tissue, which can lead to breakthroughs in drug development and organ transplantation.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateJun 4, 2018

Pacific rats trace 2,000 years of human impact on island ecosystems

Chemical analysis of rat remains from Polynesian islands shows changes humans made to local ecosystems, including native species extinctions and alterations to food webs. The study advances a new method for detecting human transformations of local ecosystems in the past.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Geoanthropology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 4, 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.

Bright warning colors on poison dart frogs also act as camouflage

New research led by scientists at the University of Bristol has found that bright warning colors on poison dart frogs not only signal danger but also function as camouflage. The frog's pattern allows it to blend in from a distance while still displaying its warning signal when close, providing a clear advantage.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 4, 2018

NIST atomic clock comparison confirms key assumptions of 'Einstein's elevator'

Physicists at NIST have performed the most accurate test of Einstein's general relativity theory using remote atomic clocks. The experiment confirmed that measurements of nongravitational effects are independent of time and place, with a result consistent with predicted values.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalNature Physics·DateJun 4, 2018

Functional MRI reveals memory in sleeping toddlers

Scientists have discovered how brain regions activate during memory recall in two-year-olds using functional MRI. The hippocampus plays a key role in forming and recalling memories, especially episodic memory, which involves remembering events and contexts.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 4, 2018

Globular clusters 4 billion years younger than previously thought

New research led by the University of Warwick has found that globular clusters may be only around 9 billion years old, revised from their previous age of 13 billion. The discovery brings into question current theories on how galaxies, including the Milky Way, were formed.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJun 4, 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.

On the search for new approaches to cure lung cancer

Scientists are exploring ways to develop innovative therapies for treating non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) by understanding the role of deregulated protein kinases, or MAPKs. Elevated levels of these enzymes in NSCLC tissue have been linked to tumor progression and immune evasion.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·DateJun 4, 2018

Polarized cells give the heart its fully developed form

Researchers have discovered how polarized cells coordinate heart tube remodelling through tissue-scale polarisation of actomyosin activity. A disrupted PCP signalling pathway alters cytoskeleton structure, leading to impaired heart formation and most congenital heart diseases.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 4, 2018

New study points to a potential 'Achilles heel' in brain cancer

Researchers at Virginia Commonwealth University have discovered a mechanism that protects glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) stem cells from programmed cell death. The study found that protective autophagy is regulated by the gene MDA-9/Syntenin, and inhibiting this process can lead to cancer cell death.

SourceVirginia Commonwealth University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 4, 2018

Storm's coming: New technique for simulation of extreme weather events

Japanese researcher develops simple method for generating large data required for ensemble modeling, providing high computational stability and versatility in simulating various weather events. The new approach demonstrates effectiveness in initial conditions for typhoon and global warming simulations.

SourceKanazawa University·DateJun 4, 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.

Two-step process underpins upkeep of key protein in cell division

Researchers have identified a critical aspect of healthy cell division and revealed how a vital protein called CENP-A is incorporated into chromosomes. A two-step process was found to be essential for replenishing the protein, involving targeting and transcription-induced remodelling of chromatin.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateJun 4, 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.

Light exposure during sleep may increase insulin resistance

A new study suggests that nighttime light exposure during sleep can disrupt metabolic function, leading to increased insulin resistance. The researchers found that just one night of light exposure acutely impacts measures of insulin resistance, which is a diminished ability of cells to respond to insulin.

SourceAmerican Academy of Sleep Medicine·DateJun 4, 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.

Protein pair quickly makes memories of new places

Researchers found that neurogranin and FMRP proteins quickly form a complex to enable memory encoding within minutes of encountering a novel context. This process is crucial for understanding how abnormalities in these proteins contribute to human neuropsychiatric disorders.

SourcePicower Institute at MIT·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 4, 2018

Phosphite fertilization and weed suppression

Transgenic cotton plants expressing the bacterial gene ptxD can convert phosphite into phosphate, outcompeting weeds that lack the gene. This selective fertilization approach facilitates weed control without herbicides.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 4, 2018

New algorithm enhances ptychographic image reconstruction

Researchers developed a new algorithm, GDP-ADMM, to further enhance the capabilities of SHARP in reconstructing high-resolution images from ptychographic datasets. The new framework takes advantage of state-of-the-art mathematical aspects to improve data acquisition and image resolution.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalActa Crystallographica Section A·DateJun 4, 2018

Study: Exercise mitigates genetic effects of obesity later in life

A new study suggests that regular exercise can reduce the influence of genes on obesity for women over age 70. The research found that physical activity weakened the genetic associations with body mass index, providing hope for older adults to overcome their weight destiny through healthy habits.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·DateJun 4, 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.

Try togetherness: Study promotes cooperative weed management to curb herbicide resistance

Scientists at the University of Illinois and USDA's Agricultural Research Service promote cooperative weed management as a highly effective solution to curb herbicide resistance. By working together and sharing best practices, farmers can delay the evolution and spread of resistance, buying time for up to two decades.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalPest Management Science·DateJun 4, 2018

Capturing light in a waveguide array

A team of physicists has demonstrated a way to confine light in a waveguide array, making it insensitive to defects. This innovation could lead to cheaper and more efficient photonic devices, such as lasers and solar cells, by reducing material imperfections.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Photonics·DateJun 4, 2018

'Miracle treatment' long-term success for babies with diabetes

A decade-long study has shown that sulphonylurea tablets are a safe and effective treatment option for babies with neonatal diabetes, providing excellent blood sugar control over the long-term. The treatment has been hailed as a 'miracle cure' by patients and their families, offering improved quality of life.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·DateJun 4, 2018

Engineered cotton uses weed-suppression chemical as nutrient

Researchers at Texas A&M AgriLife have developed a fertilizer system that applies phosphite to engineered cotton crops, allowing them to utilize the nutrient while suppressing weeds. This technology has shown promise in inhibiting growth of glyphosate-resistant Palmer amaranth and other herbicide-resistant weeds.

SourceTexas A&M AgriLife Communications·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 4, 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.

Does stabilizing female hormones help lower suicide risk?

Researchers aim to determine if stabilizing estradiol and progesterone can protect females at risk for suicide from increased depression and suicidal thoughts around menses. The study will compare symptoms of suicidality among participants in three experimental conditions: placebo, estradiol stabilization, and progesterone stabilization.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·DateJun 4, 2018

Speed-accuracy tradeoff turns up gain in the brain

A recent study published in eNeuro resolves a long-standing issue in decision-making by showing how the brain optimizes speed and accuracy. Researchers found that the brain adjusts signal-to-noise ratio to balance speed and accuracy, shedding light on the neural mechanisms underlying this crucial aspect of human behavior.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·JournaleNeuro·DateJun 4, 2018

Brain structure may predict diet success

A study found that individuals with greater volume in the dorsolateral and ventromedial prefrontal cortex tend to exhibit improved dietary self-control. This suggests that brain anatomy plays a crucial role in making healthier food choices.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateJun 4, 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.

HIV vaccine elicits antibodies in animals that neutralize dozens of HIV strains

A new experimental vaccine regimen has been developed using a vulnerable site on HIV to induce antibodies that can neutralize multiple strains of the virus. In tests with mice, guinea pigs, and monkeys, the vaccine elicited antibodies that neutralized up to 31% of viruses from a globally representative panel of 208 HIV strains.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNature Medicine·DateJun 4, 2018

Stanford study casts doubt on the predictive value of earthquake foreshocks

A new Stanford study has re-examined the relationship between seismic data and earthquake prediction, concluding that foreshocks are unlikely to provide accurate warnings of impending earthquakes. Researchers found no evidence supporting the idea that slow slip or cascade models can be used for predictive purposes.

SourceStanford University·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJun 4, 2018

Improved calculations suggest changes to statin, aspirin, and blood pressure medication

Researchers developed an improved method for calculating risk for heart attack or stroke, finding that 11 million Americans may need to discuss different prescriptions with their doctor. The new calculations suggest major changes to statin, aspirin, and blood pressure medication prescribing, particularly for African Americans.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJun 4, 2018

Direct coupling of the Higgs boson to the top quark observed

The CMS collaboration has observed the direct coupling of the Higgs boson to the top quark-antiquark pair, a production mechanism considered impossible by the Standard Model. Sophisticated techniques developed by the University of Zurich's Prof. Florencia Canelli enabled this milestone.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJun 4, 2018
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

New algorithm determines ideal caffeine dosage and timing for alertness

A newly developed algorithm determines ideal caffeine dosage and timing for optimal alertness. The algorithm improves neurobehavioral performance by up to 64% using the same total amount of caffeine, or reduces caffeine consumption by up to 65% while maintaining equivalent improvements in alertness.

SourceAmerican Academy of Sleep Medicine·DateJun 4, 2018

Study links short and long sleep durations with excess heart age

A new study found that adults who slept seven hours per night had the lowest excess heart age, while those sleeping less than or more than seven hours were associated with increased risk. The research demonstrates a quantitative method for including sleep duration in cardiovascular risk assessment.

SourceAmerican Academy of Sleep Medicine·DateJun 4, 2018

Novel PET imaging noninvasively pinpoints colitis inflammation

A novel PET imaging method uses antibody fragment probes to target immune cells, detecting inflammation in the bowel and potentially guiding biopsies. The technique has wide applications in various diseases and could unlock assessment of inflammation.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateJun 4, 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.