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Science News Archive March 2018 - Page 13


Page 13 of 41

Can a smartwatch detect irregular heartbeat?

A smartwatch coupled with a machine learning algorithm detected atrial fibrillation (AF) with high accuracy in patients undergoing treatment for AF. The study used data from 9,750 participants and found promising results for the use of commercially available smartwatches to detect AF.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateMar 21, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Learning to see

Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital developed an artificial intelligence technique, AUTOMAP, that enables the production of high-quality images in less time and with lower doses. This approach uses deep learning to automatically determine the correct image reconstruction algorithm, allowing for instant feedback during scanning.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalNature·DateMar 21, 2018

AADR awards the 2018 AADR Jack Hein Public Service Award to Teresa Dolan

Teresa Dolan, a renowned researcher and clinician, was recognized by the American Association for Dental Research (AADR) with the 2018 AADR Jack Hein Public Service Award. The award honors her exemplary service promoting oral health research to a wide constituency.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateMar 21, 2018

Design approach developed for important new catalysts for energy conversion and storage

Northwestern University researchers have discovered a new design approach for creating catalysts that can accelerate chemical reactions and processes, including clean energy conversion and storage. The method has the potential to impact various industries such as pharmaceuticals, optical data storage, and petroleum products.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 21, 2018

Blue holes bring forgotten chemical element back on stage

Researchers found that bonds based on antimony yield powerful new catalysts, enabling precise molecular transformations and opening up untried prospects. The discovery puts antimony back into the spotlight, highlighting its exceptional qualities for molecular transformation.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateMar 21, 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.

Physicists reveal material for high-speed quantum internet

Researchers discover silicon carbide as a promising material for single-photon emission, enabling high-speed quantum internet. This breakthrough could guarantee unconditionally secure data communication lines forever.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·Journalnpj Quantum Information·DateMar 21, 2018

Racial disparities in HIV control persist despite equal access to care

A study found racial disparities in HIV control exist even when patients have equal access to care, with differences attributed to adherence to combination antiretroviral therapy. Black veterans had higher viral loads than white counterparts, highlighting a critical issue in healthcare disparities.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalAIDS Patient Care and STDs·DateMar 21, 2018

Seizures may be detected through sound

Researchers developed a novel method to detect ongoing seizures in comatose patients using brain waves converted to sound. The sonification of EEG provides a potential tool for quickly assessing patients with suspected subclinical seizures like nonconvulsive status epilepticus.

SourceWiley·JournalEpilepsia·DateMar 21, 2018

How trees coexist. New findings from biodiversity research published in Nature Communications

A study published in Nature Communications found that tree diversity and neighbourhood interactions significantly impact forest productivity, promoting more wood production and reducing soil erosion. By planting multiple native tree species at small spatial scales, afforestation programs can benefit from biodiversity conservation.

SourceTechnische Universität Dresden·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 21, 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.

Brain stethoscope listens for silent seizures

A new brain stethoscope technology has been developed that translates brain electrical activity into sounds, allowing medical professionals to detect silent seizures. Medical students and nurses were found to be remarkably accurate in identifying seizures with this tool, outperforming their traditional diagnostic abilities.

SourceStanford University·JournalEpilepsia·DateMar 21, 2018

Depth-sensing imaging system can peer through fog

The MIT system uses a time-of-flight camera to measure the arrival times of reflected light and estimates a gamma distribution to filter out fog reflections. It calculates a different gamma distribution for each pixel, handling variations in fog density, and produces images of objects at distances up to 57 centimeters.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateMar 21, 2018

Mumps resurgence likely due to waning vaccine-derived immunity

A new analysis from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health suggests that waning immunity is a major factor in the recent mumps resurgence among young adults in the US. The study found that vaccine-derived immune protection against mumps persists for approximately 27 years after the last dose.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMar 21, 2018

Targeting telomeres to overcome therapy resistance in advanced melanoma

A study published in Clinical Cancer Research demonstrated the efficacy of targeting aberrantly active telomerase to treat therapy-resistant melanoma. The research found that a modified telomerase substrate impaired telomere dysfunction and induced cell death in melanoma cells, suggesting a potential therapeutic strategy.

SourceThe Wistar Institute·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateMar 21, 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.

Neuroscientists develop potential tools for the study of brain function

Researchers have identified a novel thermogenetic tool, Gr28bD, that can regulate individual neurons in the brain through temperature changes. This breakthrough has the potential to advance fundamental brain research and lead to new treatments for Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 21, 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.

AADR to award the 2018 Distinguished Scientist Award to William Maixner

The American Association for Dental Research (AADR) has recognized William Maixner for his outstanding contributions to chronic pain research, a field he considers a 'hidden epidemic'. He is being honored with the $5,000 award for his exceptional research in this area.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateMar 21, 2018

Drinking sugary drinks may be associated with greater risk of death

Adults who consume large amounts of sugary beverages have a higher risk of dying from heart disease or other causes compared to those who drink fewer sugary drinks. The study found a graded association between consuming more sugary beverages and an increased risk of death, with those in the top 25% having twice the risk as those in the...

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateMar 21, 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.

New interactive map shows climate change everywhere in world

The University of Cincinnati's new interactive map, ClimateEx, analyzes five decades of global weather data to demonstrate climate change and its diversity. Researchers can compare the climates of different places and predict areas prone to extreme weather phenomena.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalBulletin of the American Meteorological Society·DateMar 21, 2018

Researchers link dietary supplement DHA to higher fat-free body mass in children

A study by University of Kansas researchers found that pregnant women consuming a DHA supplement had children with higher fat-free body mass at age 5. The study suggests that improving maternal DHA nutrition has a favorable programming effect on the fetus, influencing body composition in early childhood.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateMar 21, 2018
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Medical expansion has improved health -- with one exception

A new study found that medical expansion and increased specialization are associated with longer life expectancy and less mortality, but pharmaceutical industry growth is linked to negative health effects. The study suggests that the growing drug industry may be contributing to the rising costs of healthcare.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Health and Social Behavior·DateMar 21, 2018

Belly fat promotes diabetes under orders from liver

Researchers found that a liver enzyme increases abdominal fat inflammation in obese mice, leading to insulin resistance. Soothing this inflammation improves insulin sensitivity without affecting weight.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalNature·DateMar 21, 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.

New valve technology promises cheaper, greener engines

Researchers at University of Waterloo develop patented system for opening and closing valves, increasing internal combustion engine efficiency by more than 10%. This affordable technology has the potential to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions in various industries.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalMechatronics·DateMar 21, 2018

Insects could help us find new yeasts for big business

Scientists propose a new strategy using insect-yeast ecology to inform the search for industrially relevant yeasts. Insects are drawn to yeasts due to their sugar presence, and these mutualistic relationships can lead to yeast deposition in new environments.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·DateMar 21, 2018

The problem of jaguars and space in western Paraguay

Researchers estimate jaguar spatial needs and movements in Gran Chaco and Pantanal ecosystems. Jaguars require large home ranges, up to 15 km daily movements, and are affected by deforestation rates, leading to conflict with humans.

SourceDe Gruyter·JournalMammalia·DateMar 21, 2018

Bats can learn from other species, in addition to their own

Researchers found that bats can learn novel prey cues from members of the same species as well as different species. One-third of the bats learned about new prey on their own but did so more slowly than those learning from a different species.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 21, 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.

New links between genetic abnormality and brain function in Huntington's disease

A new study identifies alterations in functional connectivity across the whole brain in carriers of the Huntington's disease gene mutation, associated with motor and cognitive function. The study also shows significant associations between the extent of the degree of gene mutation and measures of brain connectivity.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalBrain Connectivity·DateMar 21, 2018

Identifying the chemical forming carcinogens in recycled water

Researchers have identified dichloramine as the compound responsible for forming a potent carcinogen called N-nitrosodimethyalmine, or NDMA, in recycled water. The study found that minimizing dichloramine concentrations can reduce NDMA formation.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·DateMar 21, 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.

Parkinson's gene initiates disease outside of the brain

Researchers discovered that a common Parkinson's gene mutation alters immune cells' reaction to generic infections like colds, triggering an inflammatory reaction in the brain. This 'second hit' initiates the destruction of brain areas responsible for movement.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalBrain·DateMar 21, 2018

Researchers observe the switching of ras protein in detail

The study confirms that GTP-bound Ras proteins do not have hydrogen atoms in their phosphate groups, a crucial assumption challenged by recent neutron diffraction analyses. This discovery has significant implications for understanding cancer treatment and the role of Ras protein in tumour formation.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateMar 21, 2018

Proteins reveal new mechanisms in prostate cancer

A study by Tampere University found new prostate cancer mechanisms that are not shown by genomic alterations, including changes in the citric acid cycle. Several potential new biomarkers of prostate cancer were also discovered.

SourceTampere University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 21, 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.

Brief cardiac arrest? Tend to the heart, but don't neglect the brain

A Baycrest-Rambam study found that patients who survive a brief cardiac arrest and appear neurologically intact may still experience significant memory problems. Comprehensive neuropsychological testing can provide better support for these challenges upon discharge.

SourceBaycrest Centre for Geriatric Care·JournalResuscitation·DateMar 21, 2018

Sex workers need workplace regulations to improve safety: Study

A University of British Columbia study found that indoor sex workers in Canada use creative strategies to protect themselves from violence, but these efforts are limited by stigma and lack of legal protections. The study highlights the need for clear laws and policies to recognize sex work and prevent harm.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateMar 21, 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.

The perfect shot of espresso every time with chemistry

Researchers develop method to optimize espresso by adjusting grinding size and brew ratio, ensuring uniform extraction and improved taste. The study also explores the impact of temperature on grinding coffee, proposing a solution for more consistent flavor.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateMar 21, 2018

Hunting squid slowed by rising carbon levels

Scientists have found that high carbon dioxide levels cause squid to bungle attacks on their prey, leading to a 20% decrease in successful attacks. This effect is observed in two cephalopod orders, pygmy squid and bigfin reef squid, which may have significant consequences for marine ecosystems.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateMar 21, 2018

Sweet surprise

Researchers studying cavefish found that they can live healthy lives with high blood sugar levels, contrary to what is seen in humans. The fish have insulin resistance but no apparent harm from chronically elevated glucose levels.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNature·DateMar 21, 2018

Cutting greenhouse gas emissions would help spare cities worldwide from rising seas

Reducing greenhouse gas emissions would significantly reduce sea level rise globally by the end of the century, especially for coastal cities on the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. Cities like New York, Boston, London, and others would see substantial benefits from emission reductions.

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 21, 2018
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

COSMIC impact: Next-gen X-ray microscopy platform now operational

COSMIC, a next-generation X-ray beamline, enables scientists to probe active chemistry and electronic properties at the nanoscale. It successfully demonstrated ptychographic computed tomography that mapped lithium-ion battery reactions in 3D.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 21, 2018

Do young children learn anything from YouTube videos?

A study of 55 Indian children aged 6-24 months found they were attracted to music and could identify themselves in videos at various stages. However, despite interacting with parents during smartphone viewing, the children did not learn anything from the YouTube clips.

SourceWiley·JournalActa Paediatrica·DateMar 21, 2018

Conservation costs can be higher than bargained for

A new Michigan State University study reveals that participants in payments for ecosystem services programs may become conservation martyrs due to oversimplified payment models. The research highlights the importance of considering opportunity costs at the beginning and monitoring benefits over time to ensure participant well-being.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 21, 2018