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Science News Archive March 2018 - Page 31


Page 31 of 41

New record set for carbon-carbon single bond length

Researchers at Hokkaido University have synthesized an organic compound with a record-long C-C bond of 1.806 angstroms, surpassing previously reported world records. The novel polycyclic hydrocarbon named 10c is stable and exhibits unique properties due to its extended C-C bond length.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalChem·DateMar 8, 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.

Monoclonal antibodies crucial to fighting emerging infectious diseases, say NIAID officials

Researchers from NIAID highlight the potential of monoclonal antibodies in treating and preventing emerging infectious diseases. These therapies have shown promise in clinical trials, such as the Ebola outbreak, and may offer a more targeted approach to infection prevention and treatment.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 8, 2018

JHU performs first laboratory simulation of exoplanet atmospheric chemistry

Scientists at Johns Hopkins University conducted the first laboratory simulations of exoplanet atmospheres to understand haze formation and its impact on habitability. The study found that certain gas combinations produce more haze particles, which can affect atmospheric temperature structures and potentially shield life.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalNature Astronomy·DateMar 8, 2018

Most living kidney donors are women, and men are donating less than before

A new study reveals that changes in living kidney donation in the US over the last decade have varied by sex, resulting in a widened gap in donation between women and men. The incidence of donation was 44% higher in women after adjusting for differences in age, race, and geographic factors.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateMar 8, 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.

Uncovering the genetics of skeletal muscle growth and regeneration

Researchers from Brigham and Women's Hospital found that zebrafish larvae with a mutation in DDX27 showed reduced muscle growth and impaired regeneration. The study provides specificity to the processes controlling protein synthesis in muscles, which will hopefully allow for targeted treatments for skeletal muscle diseases.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateMar 8, 2018

Researchers sew atomic lattices seamlessly together

Scientists create atomically-thin fabrics by stitching different crystals together in a single session, resulting in the most perfectly aligned materials ever grown. This breakthrough opens up new possibilities for electronics, including flexible LEDs and strain-sensing fabrics.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalScience·DateMar 8, 2018

Multiple optical measurements reveal the single cell activation without contrast agent

The researchers developed a label-free multimodal microscopy platform that allows non-invasive study of cellular preparations. The platform enables the study of fine cellular processes, such as macrophage cells activation upon exposure to lipopolysaccharide (LPS), at single-cell level through phenotypic and molecular characterization.

SourceOsaka University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 8, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Deep-sea observatories to offer new view of seabed earthquakes

A mission is underway to lower sub-seafloor observatories into the Hikurangi subduction zone off New Zealand. This expedition aims to understand why destructive tsunamis occur after shallow earthquakes and underwater landslides, shedding light on New Zealand's largest earthquake and tsunami hazard.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·DateMar 8, 2018

How does the brain's spatial map change when we change the shape of the room?

A new study explores how our cognitive maps adapt to changing environments and reveals distinct connections between grid cells, place cells, and border cells. Researchers found that grid cells closer to the changing walls shift more than those further away, suggesting a non-homogeneous rescaling of the spatial metric.

SourceSainsbury Wellcome Centre·JournalScience·DateMar 8, 2018

Fiber-fermenting bacteria improve health of type 2 diabetes patients

A high-fiber diet promotes the growth of beneficial gut bacteria that improve blood glucose control and reduce inflammation in people with type 2 diabetes. The study found that only 15 strains of short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria are driven by a fiber-rich diet, leading to better insulin production and weight loss.

SourceRutgers University·JournalScience·DateMar 8, 2018

On Twitter, false news travels faster than true stories

A new MIT study found that false news travels more rapidly and deeply on Twitter than real news, with false statements retweeted up to 70% more often. Researchers attribute the phenomenon to human psychology, suggesting that novelty drives the spread of falsity.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateMar 8, 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.

NIAID scientists assess transmission risk of familial human prion diseases to mice

Scientists from NIAID exposed research mice to brain samples from three people who died from a familial prion disease. Two mutations, Y226X and G131V, were found to be transmissible to mice. The finding highlights the hardiness of prion infectivity and potential risks associated with prion transmission.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalActa Neuropathologica Communications·DateMar 8, 2018

Scientists discover a key function of ALS-linked protein

Researchers discover FUS plays a crucial role in the microRNA-mediated gene silencing system, which regulates cellular activity. Disruption of this system may contribute to neurodegenerative diseases like ALS and FTD. The study suggests that FUS facilitates guiding and targeting of messenger-RNAs by microRNAs.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalMolecular Cell·DateMar 8, 2018

Commercial pesticides: Not as safe as they seem

A comprehensive review of gaps in risk assessments for adjuvants in commercial pesticides highlights the need for new regulations to protect people and the environment. The review found that exposure to environmental levels of some adjuvant mixtures can affect non-target organisms and even cause chronic human disease.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Public Health·DateMar 8, 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.

Fishery yields will be dramatically reduced by 2300, study sugges

A new modeling study predicts that climate change will dramatically reduce global fishery yields, with declines of up to 20% globally and 60% in the North Atlantic by 2300. The study attributes these declines to a lack of ocean mixing, which would drive a decline in fish populations near the surface.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMar 8, 2018

Haphazard cholesterol checks put Australians at risk of heart disease

A recent study found that 49% of patients on cholesterol medications did not receive the recommended annual HDL-C test, while 19% received more tests than needed. The study estimates that this leads to a yearly expenditure of A$4.3 million due to overutilisation and A$11.3 million in cost savings from underutilisation.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalBMJ Open·DateMar 8, 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.

Scientists show how the brain may be wired for drinking fluids

Researchers created a detailed diagram of the brain circuits behind thirst and satiety in mice, showing that opposing lines of communication play critical roles. The study provides insights into the rules governing the brain's response to dehydration and may shed light on appetite regulation.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournalNature·DateMar 8, 2018

Research reveals a mechanism that drives ataxia type 1

A study has identified a critical protein interaction that triggers the development of spinocerebellar ataxia type 1 (SCA1), a rare neurodegenerative disease. The researchers found that polyQ-ATAXIN1 forms a complex with capicua, which disrupts gene expression and leads to neurodegeneration.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalNeuron·DateMar 8, 2018

NSF support helps advance research in geography and spatial science

The National Science Foundation (NSF) awarded over $10 million to fund 64 projects advancing geographic patterns, human-environmental interactions, and spatial dynamics. These research projects address critical questions of societal significance in fields such as land use, technology, social networks, and environmental sustainability.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·DateMar 8, 2018

Supply bottleneck impairs nerve function

A recent study published in PNAS found that disrupted mRNA transport into axons leads to impaired nerve function and cell death, exacerbating conditions like ALS and spinal muscular atrophy. The researchers identified a noncoding RNA, 7SK, as playing a crucial role in these transport complexes.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 8, 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.

Bullying based on stigma has especially damaging effects

A recent study by University of Delaware professors found that while interventions for stigma-based bullying have increased, their implementation and evaluation need improvement. The researchers suggest increasing the capacity of school health professionals to address LGBTQ bullying and developing strategies to reduce stereotypes and p...

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalDevelopmental Review·DateMar 8, 2018

TSRI scientists zero in on treatment for Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease

Researchers at TSRI have discovered a path to treating Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease subtype CMT2D by restoring normal protein function in the nervous system using a small molecule. The study reveals that mutant protein interactions with HDAC6 are responsible for nerve damage, and blocking this interaction can restore proper nerve function.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 8, 2018

Across the metal-molecule interface: Observing fluctuations on the single-molecule scale

Scientists at Tokyo Institute of Technology developed a technique to analyze structural and electronic fluctuations on the single-molecule scale across the metal-molecule interface. This method provides information that cannot be obtained using conventional methods, with important implications for devices like organic solar cells.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMar 8, 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.

No progress seen in reducing antibiotics among outpatients

A new study found that antibiotic prescriptions continue to be prescribed at high rates in outpatient settings, contributing to drug-resistant infections and excess healthcare costs. The researchers analyzed data from Express Scripts Holding Co. and found no decline in overall antibiotic prescription rates over a three-year period.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateMar 8, 2018

New 3-D measurements improve understanding of geomagnetic storm hazards

Scientists used 3D data to calculate voltages along power lines in the mid-Atlantic region, finding significantly different results compared to previous 1D calculations. The study suggests that 3D data should be used whenever available to determine vulnerable areas of the power grid.

SourceU.S. Geological Survey·JournalSpace Weather·DateMar 8, 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.

Inherited mutation leads to overproduction of EPO

Researchers discover first mutation in EPO gene causing increased production of EPO hormone, leading to abnormally high red blood cell mass. The mutation reprograms a second mRNA in the EPO gene, resulting in biologically active EPO production and increased symptoms.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 8, 2018

Best practices lacking for managing traumatic brain injury in geriatric patients

A recent review article emphasizes the urgent need for more clinical research, data, and prognostic models on traumatic brain injury in older adults. The lack of geriatric-specific TBI guidelines presents barriers to optimal care, and the authors discuss issues related to neurocritical care, neurosurgical management, and rehabilitation.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Neurotrauma·DateMar 8, 2018

Study shows bowel care is top concern for those with spinal cord injury

A study by Victoria Claydon found that bowel care is the top concern for individuals with spinal cord injuries, followed by sexual function, bladder function, and pain. The research highlights the need for holistic solutions to address the complex bodily system impacts of spinal cord injury.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalJournal of Neurotrauma·DateMar 8, 2018

Unveiling the depths of Jupiter's winds

Researchers used NASA's Juno spacecraft data to reveal that Jupiter's colorful bands are not just surface phenomena, but significant strata extending 3,000 km deep. The analysis shows that Jupiter's atmosphere is only 1% of its total mass, a surprising discovery.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalNature·DateMar 8, 2018

Engineered cartilage template to heal broken bones

Researchers at UConn Health developed a novel hybrid hydrogel system to promote endochondral ossification, a process critical for long bone formation. The system uses fibrin and hyaluronan to guide the growth of cartilage templates, which release factors that initiate vascularized bone formation.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalJournal of Biomedical Materials Research·DateMar 8, 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.

Prosthetic limbs represented like hands in brain

A new UCL-led study found that people with one hand can recognize a prosthetic limb as their real hand, particularly those who use a prosthesis regularly. This adaptation allows the brain to compensate for the missing limb, enabling more comfortable and easier-to-use prosthetics.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalBrain·DateMar 8, 2018

False news spreads widely and easily

A new MIT study found that false news spreads widely and easily on Twitter, traveling farther and faster than the truth. Contrary to conventional wisdom, humans play a key role in spreading false news, with falsehoods being 70% more likely to be retweeted.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateMar 8, 2018

Nanostructures made of previously impossible material

Researchers at TU Wien create nanostructures made of previously impossible material by incorporating high proportions of foreign atoms into crystals. This results in new materials with significantly altered properties, including potential applications in optoelectronics and microelectronics.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalACS Nano·DateMar 8, 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.

High-fiber diets, with aid from gut microbes, can help treat type 2 diabetes

A high-fiber diet can alleviate symptoms of type 2 diabetes by promoting a specific group of gut bacteria, according to researchers. The study found that patients under a high-fiber diet had greatly reduced blood sugar and body weight compared to those on standard care.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMar 8, 2018

A lifetime of regular exercise slows down aging, study finds

Researchers found that regular exercise can slow down muscle mass loss, body fat, cholesterol levels, and immune system decline with age. The study of amateur cyclists aged 55-79 showed no signs of aging in their muscles, bodies, or immune systems.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalAging Cell·DateMar 8, 2018

New research boosts precision of T cell immunotherapies

Researchers have developed novel T cell immunotherapies using custom-made receptors called synNotch that can precisely target cancer and autoimmune diseases. The technology has the potential to overcome major hurdles in T cell immunotherapies, leading to more favorable treatment outcomes for patients.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·DateMar 8, 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.

Is your stress changing my brain?

Researchers at the University of Calgary discovered that stress transmitted from others can change the brain in mice, altering CRH neurons that control the brain's response to stress. In females, these effects are reversed after a social interaction, while males do not exhibit this reversal.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateMar 8, 2018

Survivors of childhood cancer are at great risk of heart problems in adulthood

Survivors of childhood cancer are at increased risk of premature cardiovascular disease and high blood pressure, dyslipidaemia, congestive heart failure, venous thromboembolism, stroke, and peripheral artery disease. Early screening and lifestyle modifications may help prevent long-term cardiovascular diseases.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateMar 8, 2018

How common is food insecurity among older adults?

A study found that food insecurity occurs in 9.2% of older adults, with higher rates among women, people without a spouse, and those with certain health conditions. The researchers highlight the need for combined methods to identify food insecurity and connect older adults with community-based resources.

SourceAmerican Geriatrics Society·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateMar 8, 2018

Improving birth outcomes one amino acid at a time

Researchers found that L-arginine supplementation increased blood vessel development in the placenta and reduced low birth weight/preterm birth and stillbirth. The study suggests that L-arginine may be a critical component in regulating blood vessel development, with implications for other conditions linked to poor birth outcomes.

SourceUniversity Health Network·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMar 8, 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.

New way to fight sepsis: Rev up patients' immune systems

Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine have discovered a new way to fight sepsis by boosting the immune system with a drug that increases key immune cells. The approach has shown significant and lasting improvements in patients, offering hope for improved survival rates.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJCI Insight·DateMar 8, 2018

Marine charities net more than iconic fishery: Massachusetts

A study by a team of economists and marine experts found that protecting marine coastlines contributes $179 million to the state's economy, more than finfish landings and whale-watching. Coastal conservation groups support activities such as beach cleanup and education campaigns.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateMar 8, 2018

Early-killed rye shows promise in edamame

A University of Illinois study found that early-killed cereal rye reduces weed density by 20% and suppresses early-season weed growth by 85%. The cover crop management system also promotes easy edamame emergence, which is notoriously challenging for the soybean variety.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalWeed Science·DateMar 8, 2018