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Science News Archive March 2018 - Page 26


Page 26 of 41

Oseltamivir does not increase risk of suicide in children

A new study analyzed 21,047 children and found no association between oseltamivir use and increased risk of suicide. The research used a novel study design to reduce statistical concerns and concluded that oseltamivir does not increase the risk of suicide in pediatric patients.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateMar 13, 2018

Scientists create hybrid nanomaterials in fight against cancer and bacteria

Researchers have created BN/Ag hybrid nanomaterials that demonstrate effectiveness as catalysts, antibacterial agents, and drug delivery systems for treating oncological diseases. The hybrids show high potential for cancer therapy and water disinfection, offering a new approach to combatting these threats.

SourceNational University of Science and Technology MISIS·JournalBeilstein Journal of Nanotechnology·DateMar 13, 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.

Team discovers that wind moves microinvertebrates across desert

Researchers from University of Texas at El Paso discover that high desert winds disperse small invertebrates and colonize hydrologically disconnected basins. The findings have large implications for understanding the wind-aided dispersal of freshwater organisms, which are crucial to the food web.

SourceUniversity of Texas at El Paso·JournalLimnology and Oceanography Letters·DateMar 13, 2018

How much snow accumulates in North America each year? More than scientists thought

Scientists at Ohio State University have revised the estimate of snow volume for North America, finding that snow accumulation in a typical year is 50% higher than previously thought. The total snow accumulation is around 1,200 cubic miles, with most of it occurring atop the Canadian Rockies and other mountain ranges.

SourceOhio State University·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateMar 13, 2018

Multifunctional metalens unlocks with light

Researchers at Harvard SEAS developed a flat metalens that can resolve details smaller than a wavelength of light, generate optical vortices and holograms, and exhibit achromatic behavior in multiple colors.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNano Letters·DateMar 13, 2018

Using whole genome analysis to home in on racing pigeon performance

Researchers identified new genetic clues for enhanced racing pigeon performance through whole genome sequencing and gene expression analysis. They found a polygenic basis for the birds' adaptations, with key genes involved in athletic performance such as CASK, SIK1, and PTPRD.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateMar 13, 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.

Sensor City awarded £3.5 million for 5G health and social care project

Sensor City, a joint venture between University of Liverpool and Liverpool John Moores University, has been awarded £3.5m to investigate 5G community Wi-Fi in health and social care. The project aims to reduce the digital divide and measure its impact on patient monitoring, loneliness, and communication between hospitals and communities.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·DateMar 13, 2018

Lopsided ear function can lead to lopsided brain development

Researchers found that lopsided ear function can lead to asymmetric brain development, causing differences in motor behavior. They used mice with a genetic defect to demonstrate the link between inner ear function and brain asymmetry, which was also observed in humans with normal ear function.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMar 13, 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.

Thyroid gene variation may increase risk for Alzheimer's disease in African-Americans

Researchers found that African Americans with a common genetic variation are 30% more likely to develop Alzheimer's disease dementia. In contrast, European Americans without the polymorphism are not at increased risk. Further studies are needed to understand why this correlation only appears in African-Americans.

SourceRush University Medical Center·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateMar 13, 2018

Technique developed to improve appendicitis care for pediatric patients

Researchers have created a new tool to help clinicians diagnose appendicitis in children, reducing the use of CT scans and healthcare expenditures. The calculator uses data from ten pediatric emergency departments and independently validated results using data from a single children's hospital.

SourceChildren's Hospitals and Clinics of Minnesota·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateMar 13, 2018

IUPUI field-data study finds no evidence of racial bias in predictive policing

The study, led by George Mohler, found no statistically significant difference in arrest rates by ethnic group between predictive policing and standard patrol practices. The researchers also discovered that arrests were higher in algorithmically-selected areas but remained unchanged when adjusted for crime rates.

SourceIndiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis School of Science·JournalStatistics and Public Policy·DateMar 13, 2018

Ultra-white coating modelled on beetle scales

A team of scientists at the University of Cambridge has created a super-thin, non-toxic, lightweight, edible ultra-white coating that mimics the structure of beetle scales. The material scatters light extremely efficiently, producing bright white colours without the need for pigments.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateMar 13, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Mending broken hearts with cardiomyocyte molds

A team of researchers at Michigan Technological University has created 3D substrates that mimic the natural heart environment, enabling cardiomyocytes to mature more quickly and have improved functionality. This breakthrough could lead to more effective treatment options for individuals with heart injuries.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateMar 13, 2018

Emotional suppression reduces memory of negative events

A study published in Neuropsychologia found that both conscious and unconscious emotional suppression reduce participants' memory of negative images. However, explicit emotional suppression has a greater impact on reducing negative emotions associated with the images.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNeuropsychologia·DateMar 13, 2018

Field-data study finds no evidence of racial bias in predictive policing

A field-data study in Los Angeles found that predictive policing did not result in biased arrests, with arrest rates by ethnic group showing no statistically significant difference. However, the researchers noted that higher crime rates and proportionally higher arrest rates were observed in algorithmically selected areas.

SourceIndiana University·JournalStatistics and Public Policy·DateMar 13, 2018

What do spacecraft, newborns and endangered shellfish have in common?

Researchers developed a microbial detection technique that can reveal previously undetectable bacteria in various environments. KatharoSeq detected bacteria on surfaces at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, a neonatal intensive care unit, and an endangered abalone rearing center, revealing new insights for improving environmental health.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalmSystems·DateMar 13, 2018

Toilet-to-tap: Gross to think about, but how does it taste?

A study published in Appetite found that people prefer the taste of ID-treated wastewater to traditional tap water. The researchers also discovered that women are more likely to prefer bottled water than men and that marketing efforts should focus on similarities between ID and bottled water.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalAppetite·DateMar 13, 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.

Compassion helped Neanderthals to survive, new study reveals

New research reveals Neanderthal healthcare was widespread and effective, with a focus on caring for injured peers. Despite severe injuries, individuals remained part of the group, highlighting the social significance of healthcare in Neanderthal society.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalWorld Archaeology·DateMar 13, 2018

March/April 2018 Annals of Family Medicine tip sheet

A randomized controlled trial found that mindfulness meditation training reduced the incidence of major depressive disorder by 11% compared to usual care, while also improving depression symptoms. Additionally, comprehensive asthma management tools improved asthma control and reduced hospital visits in primary care practices.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateMar 13, 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.

Mowing the lawn less often improves bee habitat

A study by the USDA Forest Service found that mowing lawns less frequently can significantly improve pollinator habitat, increasing flower growth and diversity of bee species. This practice is estimated to benefit an estimated 40 million acres of lawn in the US, promoting native bee populations.

SourceUSDA Forest Service - Northern Research Station·JournalBiological Conservation·DateMar 13, 2018

'Digistain' technology offers revolution in detailed cancer diagnosis

A new imaging technology has been developed to grade tumour biopsies, eliminating human subjectivity and variability. The Digistain method uses mid-infrared light to map out chemical changes that signal cancer onset, providing a reliable indicator of disease progression.

SourceImperial College London·JournalConvergent Science Physical Oncology·DateMar 13, 2018

Genetic prehistory of Iberia differs from central and northern Europe

A recent study published in PNAS reveals that Iberian populations have a unique genetic makeup, tracing most of their ancestry to the first Neolithic migrants. The research also found that early farming practices had a homogenous diet, with little genetic influx from hunter-gatherer groups over time.

SourceUppsala University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 12, 2018

How the color-changing hogfish 'sees' with its skin

Researchers at Duke University discovered that hogfish sense light with their skin, which differs from eye-based vision. The skin's unique ability allows it to detect changes in brightness or wavelength, such as moving shadows or light fluctuations, enabling the fish to adapt its color pattern accordingly.

SourceDuke University·JournalJournal of Comparative Physiology A·DateMar 12, 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.

Method to grow large single-crystal graphene could advance scalable 2-D materials

A new technique allows for the growth of large, single-crystal-like graphene films over a foot long, enabling high-quality two-dimensional materials necessary for practical applications. The novel approach harnesses an evolutionary 'survival of the fittest' competition among crystals to produce uniform and robust graphene.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalNature Materials·DateMar 12, 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.

Patients in primary care networks had fewer visits to ED, shorter stays

A new study found that patients in primary care networks had significantly fewer emergency department visits and shorter hospital stays. The analysis of data from Alberta, Canada, suggests a province-wide program to promote team-based primary care can effectively reduce ED use.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateMar 12, 2018

Canakinumab doesn't prevent prediabetes from progressing to diabetes

Research presented at the American College of Cardiology's 67th Annual Scientific Session found that canakinumab had no effect on rates of newly diagnosed diabetes in people with prediabetes. Despite cardiovascular benefits, the drug did not slow or prevent the progression from prediabetes to diabetes.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·DateMar 12, 2018

The changing voices of North Atlantic right whales

A study published in Animal Behaviour examined the acoustic behavior of North Atlantic right whales, finding that their calls change as individuals age. Similar to human infants, younger whale calls are shorter and less structured, but develop into clearer sounds with better defined structure as they mature.

SourceNOAA Northeast Fisheries Science Center·JournalAnimal Behaviour·DateMar 12, 2018

Human health and the Great Recession

The Great Recession of 2008 was associated with significant increases in blood pressure and fasting blood glucose levels, especially among vulnerable populations. Stress and medication use changes during the recession likely contributed to these health effects.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 12, 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.

Female researchers publish childcare recommendations for conference organizers

A group of women in science, including Dr. Patricia C. Lopes, have published recommendations for conferences to better accommodate parents with young children. The suggestions include financial support, flexible registration options, and inclusive policies to reduce the 'baby penalty' on female researchers' career mobility.

SourceChapman University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 12, 2018

Early warning system for deadly amphibian pathogen

Researchers detect Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis fungus in environmental DNA samples from lakes in California, providing an early signal of potential outbreaks and offering a non-invasive method to screen for the pathogen. The discovery could help save amphibian species around the world from extinction.

SourceWashington State University·JournalDiseases of Aquatic Organisms·DateMar 12, 2018

Crisis or self-correction: Rethinking how the media cover science

A new analysis argues that generalizations about a crisis in science aren't justified by available evidence. The study proposes that communicators of science convey its investigatory nature and self-correction process more accurately to prevent faulty narratives.

SourceAnnenberg Public Policy Center of the University of Pennsylvania·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 12, 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.

Holography approach improves heads up displays for planes and cars

Researchers developed a holographic heads-up display that increases the size of the displayed image, allowing drivers and pilots to see information without shifting their gaze. The technology uses holographic optical elements to redirect light and create a larger eye box, making it easier to view critical data.

SourceOptica·JournalApplied Optics·DateMar 12, 2018

Keeping GPUs young

TU Wien and UC Irvine's chip management method improves GPU performance by slowing down the aging process in more than 95% of cases. The technique distributes tasks among cores to minimize physical stress, increasing overall system speed.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalIEEE Transactions on Computers·DateMar 12, 2018

'Haa haa haa': Raven food calls disclose their age and sex

Researchers found that common ravens use food calls to convey age and sex information, allowing individuals to assess competition and decision-making processes. This cognitive ability enables ravens to extract useful data from these vocal signals, which may aid in foraging success.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalFrontiers in Zoology·DateMar 12, 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.

Four kinds of algal toxins found in San Francisco Bay shellfish

A study by UC Santa Cruz researchers has found that 99% of mussels collected from San Francisco Bay were contaminated with at least one algal toxin, and 37% contained four distinct kinds of toxins. The contamination exceeded regulatory guidelines for multiple toxins in previous years.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalHarmful Algae·DateMar 12, 2018

Computers discover compounds that could reduce Listeria's virulence

Researchers from North Carolina State University have identified potential compounds that could inhibit the virulence of Listeria by targeting an enzyme involved in bacterial cell surface modifications. Inhibiting this enzyme renders Listeria less virulent, making it a promising approach for combating severe food poisoning and listerio...

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalMolecular Informatics·DateMar 12, 2018

Why some older people are rejecting digital technologies

A new study reveals that older adults' resistance to digital technologies stems from personal values, societal concerns, and fears. The study suggests that designers of online services must offer better safety nets and reassurance to attract older users. Social isolation and a desire for face-to-face interaction also contribute to this...

SourceLancaster University·JournalCommunications of the ACM·DateMar 12, 2018

How to build a better railway -- in (almost) every cell in your body

A microscopic 'railway' system in cells can adjust its structure to suit bodies' needs, with research suggesting stabilization by kinesin enzymes. This discovery could lead to improved treatments for diseases linked to microtubule abnormalities, such as Alzheimer's and cancer.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateMar 12, 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.

More homes built near wild lands leading to greater wildfire risk

Research from the University of Wisconsin-Madison shows that homebuilding near wild areas since 1990 has greatly increased homes at risk from wildfires, leading to higher costs in fighting fires. The study found that the wildland-urban interface, where homes and wild vegetation meet, has grown rapidly across the US.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 12, 2018

Will run for meth

Researchers found that mice increased their running on a wheel two hours before the door to the nebulizing chamber was open. The activated brain regions included those implicated in reward processing and craving: the orbitofrontal cortex, dorsomedial hypothalamus, and lateral septum.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·JournaleNeuro·DateMar 12, 2018

Canakinumab reduces risk of cardiovascular events in populations with unmet clinical need

A new analysis found that canakinumab substantially reduced cardiovascular event rates among patients with diabetes and those with moderate to severe chronic kidney disease. The drug also showed benefits in reducing rates of major adverse cardiovascular events among high-risk atherosclerotic patients.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateMar 12, 2018

ASTRO issues clinical guideline for whole breast radiation therapy

The new guideline recommends hypofractionated whole breast irradiation (WBI) for most breast cancer patients, regardless of age or tumor stage. This accelerated treatment offers a more convenient and lower-cost option without compromising cancer control or side effects.

SourceAmerican Society for Radiation Oncology·JournalPractical Radiation Oncology·DateMar 12, 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.

Study finds early signatures of the social brain

A new study from MIT found that children as young as 3 have a brain network devoted to interpreting thoughts of other people. The researchers scanned the brains of 122 children aged 3-12 and found early signatures of this theory-of-mind network being wired up.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 12, 2018

Great Recession still plagues workers with lower lifetime wages

Workers who lost their jobs during the Great Recession continued to earn lower lifetime wages, even after re-entering the workforce. About 45% of these losses resulted from reduced work hours and 55% from lower hourly wages. Effective reemployment services could help workers recover by re-establishing a good job match.

SourcePrinceton School of Public and International Affairs·DateMar 12, 2018