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Science News Archive March 2018 - Page 16


Page 16 of 41

Making fragrances last longer

Researchers create device that absorbs trace fragrances on skin, gathering a profile of scents remaining after rinsing off. By mixing with polymers, they enhance fragrance retention and reduce costs for industry and consumers.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateMar 20, 2018

Weight loss after stomach-narrowing surgery eases chronic knee pain

A new report finds that lap-band surgery significantly reduces arthritic knee pain in extremely obese individuals, with younger patients experiencing more substantial relief. Weight loss is most beneficial for those who lose the most weight, particularly those in their 40s.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalSeminars in Arthritis and Rheumatism·DateMar 20, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Natural enemies reduce pesticide use

A study found that increasing crop diversity in agricultural landscapes reduces aphid populations and decreases the need for pesticides. This is because natural enemies of aphids, such as ladybirds and spiders, have better living conditions in diverse landscapes.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateMar 20, 2018

NASA finds Tropical Cyclone Eliakim's clouds warming

Tropical Cyclone Eliakim's cloud tops have been found to be warming by NASA, suggesting the storm is weakening due to strong wind shear. The warmer cloud tops also led to a decrease in rainfall on the northern side of the storm.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 20, 2018

Sustained bacterial outbreak in mosquitoes limits spread of life-threatening diseases

Researchers use ordinary differential equation-based model to calculate effective method of introducing Wolbachia to wild mosquitoes, reducing spread of life-threatening diseases. The two-sex model accounts for aquatic life stage, heterosexual transmission, and multiple pregnant states, capturing entire transmission cycle.

SourceSociety for Industrial and Applied Mathematics·JournalSIAM Journal on Applied Mathematics·DateMar 20, 2018

New linguistic analysis finds Dravidian language family is approximately 4,500 years old

A new linguistic analysis by an international team has estimated that the Dravidian language family, spoken by 220 million people in South Asia, originated around 4,500 years ago. This estimate matches well with earlier studies and is supported by advanced statistical methods and hand-collected data from native speakers.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Geoanthropology·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateMar 20, 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.

How GDP affects success in eSports

A study by HSE University researchers found that per capita GDP and IT infrastructure significantly impact success in competitive gaming. Countries with higher GDP tend to perform better, while living standards also play a role, especially for online tournaments.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalInternational Journal of Sport Finance·DateMar 20, 2018

First population-scale sequencing project explores platypus history

Researchers sequenced the genomes of 57 platypuses across Eastern Australia and Tasmania, establishing a family history and kinship in unprecedented detail. The study provides insights into population structure, diversity, and evolutionary forces at work, shedding light on the conservation challenges facing this unique species.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateMar 20, 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.

Antibiotics could be key to relieving chronic bladder pain

A new clinical study led by Sheela Swamy of University College London found that antibiotics can significantly reduce symptoms of chronic bladder pain and urinary tract infections. The study analyzed 624 women who had suffered from long-term symptoms for over six years, with no relief from previous treatments.

SourceSpringer·JournalInternational Urogynecology Journal·DateMar 20, 2018

Even flies like a familiar song

Fruit flies are attracted to unique wing pulse patterns, and exposure to these sounds during development teaches them to prefer their species' own pulse. The study found that female pC1 neurons play a crucial role in the courtship learning process.

SourceNagoya University·DateMar 20, 2018

Why do some people 'hear' silent flashes?

Researchers found that visually-evoked auditory response (vEAR) is more common than other types of synaesthesia, affecting up to 21% of the population. The study suggests a connection between vEAR and physiological factors such as raised cortical excitability in the brain.

SourceCity St George’s, University of London·JournalCortex·DateMar 20, 2018

US children now draw female scientists more than ever

Over five decades, US children's artwork depicting female scientists increased from less than 1% to 28%, reflecting shifting gender roles and media representations. Researchers found that children's exposure to male scientists accumulates during development, shaping stereotypes.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalChild Development·DateMar 20, 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.

Good motor skills may enhance reading skills in obese children

A new study reveals that poor motor skills are associated with poorer reading skills in obese children, suggesting that motor skill training may improve reading abilities. The study found that daily physical activity should include opportunities for practicing and rehearsing motor skills to enhance academic achievement.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalJournal of Sports Sciences·DateMar 20, 2018

Risk of maternal death doubled in pregnant women with anemia

A major international study found that pregnant women with severe anaemia are twice as likely to die during or shortly after pregnancy compared to those without the condition. The research suggests that prevention and treatment of maternal anaemia must remain a global public health priority.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalThe Lancet Global Health·DateMar 20, 2018

'Missing mutation' found in severe infant epilepsy

Researchers discovered a 'missing mutation' in SCN3A gene that causes severe infantile epileptic encephalopathy. Early anti-seizure medications may prevent disabling brain injury by controlling epilepsy shortly after birth.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalAnnals of Neurology·DateMar 20, 2018

Some patients on levothyroxine have continued symptoms

A large population-based study found that patients on levothyroxine had lower quality of life and more comorbidity than those not taking the hormone. The study also showed that comorbidity had a greater negative impact on the quality of life of LT4 users.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·DateMar 20, 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.

Innovation for 'young & young at heart' finds home at Disney & in geriatrics for #AGS18

The American Geriatrics Society's AGS18 conference will feature more than 100 events and research updates, including the launch of a new comprehensive fracture care curriculum. Researchers will discuss controversies in hypertension management, the benefits of annual wellness visits, and innovative models for dementia care. Top clinicia...

SourceAmerican Geriatrics Society·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateMar 20, 2018

What plants can teach us about oil spill clean-up, microfluidics

A new USC study uses nature-inspired 3D printing to create a material that can separate oil and water, potentially leading to safer and more efficient oil spill clean-up methods. The material also enables "microdroplet manipulation," which has applications in various fields such as cell cultures, chemical synthesis, and DNA sequencing.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateMar 20, 2018

Emerging diseases | is MERS-CoV a threat for Africa?

Researchers from CIRAD and Hong Kong University find MERS-CoV strains in African dromedaries differ from those in the Arabian Peninsula, explaining virus transmission. Genetic differences may account for disease not being transmitted to humans in West and North Africa.

SourceCirad·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 20, 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.

Achieving healthy, climate-friendly, affordable diets in India

Research by IIASA researcher Narasimha Rao found that Indian diets can be improved to reduce micronutrient deficiencies while lowering greenhouse gas emissions. The study suggests that adopting a diet rich in coarse cereals, legumes, and green leafy vegetables can boost protein intake and reduce deficiencies.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalGlobal Environmental Change·DateMar 20, 2018

Hydrogel may help heal diabetic ulcers

Researchers at Rice University have developed a hydrogel that significantly accelerates wound healing in genetically diabetic rodents, promoting tissue growth and regeneration. The study's findings suggest that the hydrogel's cellular infiltration enhances wound closure rates, providing hope for improved treatment of diabetic ulcers.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Biomaterials Science & Engineering·DateMar 20, 2018

UTSA researcher maps San Antonio's music scene

Researchers at UTSA used GIS technology to map the city's live music venues, studios, and production companies, finding Districts 1, 8, and 9 are hubs for growth. The study also showed a correlation between the music scene and alcohol sales.

SourceUniversity of Texas at San Antonio·DateMar 20, 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.

Beyond the WIMP: Unique crystals could expand the search for dark matter

Researchers propose a new particle detector design using doped gallium arsenide crystals that can scan for dark matter signals at lower energies. The technology has the potential to detect particles in the mass range measured in millions of electron volts, expanding the search for dark matter.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateMar 20, 2018

New Gulf of Maine study investigates return of kelp

Researchers are monitoring kelp forests in the Gulf of Maine to establish a baseline for future change. They believe a lack of sea urchin predators has contributed to their return, particularly in Midcoast and Down East regions.

SourceBigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences·DateMar 20, 2018

Trial shows safety of drugs for irregular heartbeat patients undergoing treatment

Atrial fibrillation affects millions worldwide, increasing risk of stroke and heart failure. A new study finds Apixaban and VKAs safe for treatment during catheter ablation procedures, with a significant improvement in cognitive function. The results will reassure clinicians that continuous Apixaban is an effective alternative to VKAs.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateMar 20, 2018

Danger ahead?

A shift in western Arctic wind patterns occurred during the winter of 2017, with sea ice movement also changing. This anomaly is possible indicator of a changing climate, with potentially significant impacts on Arctic ecosystems and food webs.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateMar 20, 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.

USTC reports diamond ring architecture of a protein complex

The researchers used cryo-electron microscopy to provide a high-resolution view of the NuA4/TIP60 complex. The structure reveals that Tra1/TRRAP serves as a scaffold for NuA4/TIP60 assembly and that human TRRAP mutations are largely centered on interaction surfaces mediating this assembly.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 20, 2018

Low-tech, affordable solutions to improve water quality

Researchers have developed low-cost, low-tech solutions to improve water quality in municipal tanks by circulating water through shower head-like attachments. Additionally, they've found effective adsorbents using polymer-coated magnetic nanoparticles to remove micropollutants from water, which can be reused and restored.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalJournal of Hydraulic Engineering·DateMar 20, 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.

Amygdala neurons increase as children become adults -- except in autism

Researchers found that children with autism have too many amygdala neurons early on and then lose them as they age. Typically developing children, however, gain more amygdala neurons over time, suggesting a link between excessive neuron growth and anxiety in autism.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 20, 2018

Researchers create microlaser that flies along hollow optical fiber

A particle-based laser was created to measure temperature changes along the length of an optical fiber, offering highly localized light delivery to remote locations. The flying microlaser can detect temperature changes of under 3 degrees Celsius with spatial resolution of a few millimeters.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Letters·DateMar 20, 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.

High omega-6 levels can protect against premature death

A new study from the University of Eastern Finland found that high levels of omega-6 fatty acids in the blood are associated with a lower risk of premature death. The research also showed that this association is not limited to cardiovascular disease, but may also apply to other conditions such as diabetes.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateMar 19, 2018

Study: One-third of young adults have ridden with an impaired driver

A recent study found that riding with an impaired driver is prevalent among emerging adults, with 33% reporting the behavior at least once in the previous year. The study also showed that young adults are more likely to ride with a marijuana-impaired driver than an alcohol-impaired driver.

SourceJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·JournalJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·DateMar 19, 2018

Forestry and carbon sequestration in Oregon

Researchers developed a framework to assess forest management strategies in Oregon, finding that these approaches increased net ecosystem carbon balance by 72% from 2011-2015. By 2100, the strategies resulted in a 56% increase in NECB, with benefits for water availability and biodiversity.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 19, 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.

Americans prefer economic inequality to playing Robin Hood, study finds

A new study suggests that individuals in modern democracies, including the US and Germany, show little interest in erasing wealth disparities. Only 12% of available funds are allocated to reduce inequality, with most people preferring a considerable degree of economic inequality.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 19, 2018

Molecular doorstop could be key to new tuberculosis drugs

Researchers at Rockefeller University discover a molecular doorstop antibiotic that kills Mycobacterium tuberculosis, but not suitable for clinical use. By understanding its mechanism of action, medicinal chemists can design new antibiotics that target specific enzymes, offering hope for a more targeted treatment against the disease.

SourceRockefeller University·DateMar 19, 2018

Revolutionary new filter can improve drinking water quality

Researchers at the University of New South Wales have developed a world-first, graphene-based filter that can remove more than 99% of natural organic matter from drinking water. The filter uses graphene oxide membranes to allow high water flow at atmospheric pressure while removing virtually all organic matter.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalCarbon·DateMar 19, 2018

A new kind of quantum bits in two dimensions

Researchers developed a new type of quantum dot allowing for highly tunable energy levels of confined electrons, enabling potential applications in valleytronics. The discovery uses a combination of graphene and hexagonal boron nitride materials.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateMar 19, 2018

Infectious disease transmission on airplanes

Researchers estimate the risk of infectious disease transmission on airplanes, finding that movement patterns can facilitate disease spread. Passengers seated within one row and two seats lateral to an infected individual have a high probability of infection, while others are at low risk.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 19, 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.

Five new species of frogs identified in museum collections

Researchers have discovered five new species of frogs in Southeast Asia, previously misclassified due to subtle differences. Advanced DNA sequencing techniques revealed the existence of these five species, highlighting the importance of accurate species identification for conservation efforts.

SourceYale-NUS College·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 19, 2018

Epidural stimulation shown to normalize blood pressure following spinal cord injury

Researchers at University of Louisville have found that epidural stimulation can safely and effectively elevate blood pressure in individuals with severe spinal cord injury. The study, published in Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, included four research participants who experienced significant improvements in blood pressure regulation.

SourceUniversity of Louisville·JournalFrontiers in Human Neuroscience·DateMar 19, 2018

Adults' political leanings linked with early personality traits

Analyses of two longitudinal studies in the UK found a link between early childhood behavior, such as aggression and hyperactivity, and later economic and political attitudes. Childhood conduct problems were associated with higher levels of economic/political discontent in adulthood.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateMar 19, 2018