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Science News Archive March 2018 - Page 32


Page 32 of 41

UBC researchers invent new method to create self-tinting windows

Researchers at UBC developed a simple technique to create smart windows with dynamic tinting, reducing energy losses by switching between clear and tinted states. The new method reduces production costs compared to conventional glass windows, making it more feasible for commercial use.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalChem·DateMar 8, 2018

Unique inflammation patterns emerging in patients with type 1 diabetes

Research analysis of blood mediators in type 1 diabetes and kidney disease patients reveals 10 elevated proteins, with TNF-alpha family and IL-6 significantly impacting 40% of patients. This study suggests personalized medicine approach to target specific inflammatory mediators for effective treatment.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalFrontiers in Immunology·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.

Ramon L. Jimenez, M.D., receives AAOS' highest leadership honor

Ramon L. Jimenez, MD, is awarded the AAOS' highest leadership honor for his outstanding contributions to advancing important causes in orthopaedics, including mentoring physician leaders and promoting cultural competency. He has worked diligently to improve patient care and diversify the orthopaedic workforce.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateMar 8, 2018

Enzyme ensures thick insulation

Researchers at ETH Zurich have discovered that Schwann cells produce fatty acids through an enzyme called FASN, which is essential for myelin layer formation and maintenance. This breakthrough has implications for understanding the development of rare childhood diseases and potential treatments.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateMar 8, 2018

Scientists accurately model the action of aerosols on clouds

Researchers have developed a high-resolution climate model that accurately simulates the interaction between aerosols and clouds. The model shows that increasing aerosol density can lead to a decrease in cloud cover in certain areas, contradicting previous assumptions.

SourceRIKEN·JournalNature Communications·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.

On Twitter, false information travels farther and faster than the truth

A study analyzing Twitter data from 2006 to 2017 found that false information diffused significantly farther and faster than true news, reaching up to 100,000 people. The top 1% of false-news cascades spread even more widely, with political news being the most virulent.

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

Algorithm shows differences between nurse, doctor care

Researchers at University of Illinois Chicago analyzed electronic health records to identify divergent scopes of practice for nurses and doctors. The study found that only 26% of patient records showed an overlap in terms, with average 4 related terms between professions.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalInternational Journal of Medical Informatics·DateMar 8, 2018

Illinois researchers develop heat switch for electronics

Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a new technology that can switch heat flows 'on' or 'off' using liquid metal droplets. This innovation has the potential to significantly improve system performance and reliability in electronics systems.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateMar 8, 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.

Helmintex assay detects low intensity schistosomiasis infections

A novel Helmintex assay has been shown to detect low-intensity schistosomiasis infections with high accuracy, surpassing traditional methods. The study found that the HTX method detected eggs in 29% of samples negative according to the Kato-Katz method.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateMar 8, 2018

Cooking up change for rust belt chemical manufacturers

American chemical manufacturers are adopting new technologies to improve efficiency, thanks to a $10 million grant collaboration between academia and industry. The goal is to replace traditional batch processing methods with continuous processing, which could lead to significant energy savings and improved competitiveness.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·DateMar 8, 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.

The shapes of water

Researchers at Arizona State University have observed a previously unseen property of water, where it changes from one liquid to another under super-cooling and specific conditions. This phenomenon, known as a liquid-liquid phase transition, was only seen in computer simulations until now.

SourceArizona State University·JournalScience·DateMar 8, 2018

Non-invasive brain stimulation improves gait impairment of Parkinson's disease patients

A new study suggests that transcranial direct-current electrical stimulation can significantly improve gait impairment in Parkinson's disease patients by simultaneously targeting both motor and cognitive networks. The treatment shows promising results in reducing freezing of gait and improving executive functions and mobility.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalMovement Disorders·DateMar 8, 2018

What do iPhones, Halloween candy, and sushi have in common?

A study published in Journal of Retailing found that consumers seek a balance between uniqueness and conformity when making choices, as seen in iPhone memory option selections, sushi sales, and trick-or-treating candy choices, regardless of age.

SourceJournal of Retailing at New York University·JournalJournal of Retailing·DateMar 8, 2018

Decoy molecules target E. coli to treat UTI in mice

Researchers at WashU Medicine have discovered a way to treat urinary tract infections (UTIs) without using antibiotics. By targeting specific sugar-protein interactions, they found that decoy molecules can trick E. coli bacteria into releasing their grip on the bladder and kidneys.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 8, 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.

CRISPR/Cas9 technique suppresses malaria infection in mosquitoes

Using CRISPR/Cas9, scientists have shown that inactivating the FREP1 gene reduces mosquitoes' susceptibility to malaria parasite infection. This technique holds promise for preventing malaria transmission to humans, but may require further refinement to balance resistance with fitness costs.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateMar 8, 2018

Cancer 'signature' first step toward blood test for patients

Researchers at Walter and Eliza Hall Institute have identified a unique molecular signature in the blood that could detect aggressive lung cancer and predict response to immunotherapy, offering new hope for patients with limited treatment options.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalCell Metabolism·DateMar 8, 2018

Thirdhand smoke found to increase lung cancer risk in mice

Researchers found that thirdhand smoke exposure increases lung cancer risk in mice, with toxic residues damaging DNA and leading to mutations. Early exposure is associated with increased incidence and severity of lung cancer.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalClinical Science·DateMar 8, 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.

How brightly colored spiders evolved on Hawaii again and again...and again

A new study reveals that stick spiders have evolved and differentiated into distinct ecological types on each Hawaiian island, with remarkable predictability in their physical traits. The research sheds light on the origins of biodiversity and highlights the need for conserving nature's forms.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 8, 2018

How cellular structure orchestrates immunologic memory

A new study has identified a specific structure within memory cells that enables them to respond rapidly to infections and vaccinations. This discovery sheds light on how the body remembers disease-causing pathogens and can react more quickly upon renewed exposure.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalImmunity·DateMar 8, 2018

A weakened gut barrier may contribute to autoimmune disease

A new study in mice suggests that a weakened gut barrier may contribute to autoimmune disease. Researchers found that certain bacteria, such as <i>Enterococcus gallinarum</i>, can leak out of the intestines and trigger an autoimmune response similar to what's seen in lupus.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·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.

Exposure to air pollution during pregnancy linked to brain alterations

A new study has linked air pollution exposure during fetal life with brain abnormalities, including a thinner cortex, which may contribute to impaired cognitive function in school-age children. Exposure to fine particles was associated with difficulties in inhibitory control, related to mental health problems such as addiction and ADHD.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateMar 8, 2018

Mending materials

A Lehigh University professor has received a prestigious NSF CAREER Award to explore the role of human mesenchymal stem cells in remodeling hydrogel materials for wound healing. Her research aims to develop new biomaterials with optimal properties for tissue regeneration and structural integrity.

SourceLehigh University·DateMar 8, 2018

The enemy within: Gut bacteria drive autoimmune disease

A new Yale study reveals that gut bacteria can travel to other organs and trigger an autoimmune response. Researchers found that suppressing the growth of Enterococcus gallinarum with an antibiotic or vaccine can suppress autoimmunity in mice with chronic autoimmune conditions.

SourceYale University·JournalScience·DateMar 8, 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.

'Bat detectives' train new algorithms to discern bat calls in noisy recordings

Researchers developed new, open-source algorithms to automatically detect bat echolocation calls in noisy audio recordings using deep learning approach. The algorithms were trained on thousands of annotated audio datasets collected by citizen scientists, enabling reliable detection of bat calls in real-world recordings.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateMar 8, 2018

Having children can make women's telomeres seem 11 years older

A recent study by George Mason University researchers found that women who have given birth have shorter telomeres compared to childless women. The study suggests a link between having children and increased telomere shortening, which may be associated with higher morbidity and mortality rates.

SourceGeorge Mason University·JournalHuman Reproduction·DateMar 8, 2018

Big steps toward control of production of tiny building blocks

Scientists have developed diagnostic tools to improve the controllable and selective fabrication of nanomaterials. New discoveries reveal that molecular precursors govern the synthesis of carbon nanotubes in a purely carbon electric arc. This breakthrough opens the door to improved predictive modeling of nanosynthesis.

SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·JournalPlasma Sources Science and Technology·DateMar 8, 2018

A new kind of star

Researchers have developed a novel mathematical model combining general relativity with quantum vacuum polarization, enabling the existence of ultracompact stars and new stellar configurations. The study suggests that these stars could be detectable in future gravitational wave observatories.

SourceScuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 8, 2018
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Exposure to childhood violence linked to psychiatric disorders

A study published in the Brazilian Journal of Psychiatry found that nearly one-quarter of 12-year-olds from public schools had a psychiatric disorder, with depression and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder being the most common diagnoses. Investing in socio-economic inequality prevention and preventing violent events during child...

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalBrazilian Journal of Psychiatry·DateMar 8, 2018

Studies examine trends in pain medication use

Two studies found that acetaminophen use increases during cold/flu season, with a 24% increase in high-dose intake. Acetaminophen is the most commonly used analgesic in France, but its use can lead to liver harm if not taken correctly.

SourceWiley·JournalBritish Journal of Clinical Pharmacology·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.

The 'architecture of life' described by computer modeling

Researchers used a novel, multi-scale modeling method to demonstrate that tensegrity principles govern the spatial arrangement and physical forces experienced by components of living cells. This approach revealed how tensegrity-based changes in molecular shape drive cellular motion and generate tensional forces.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalExtreme Mechanics Letters·DateMar 8, 2018

Some teachers don't talk to anyone about violent incidents

A nationwide study found that one in five teachers who experienced physical or verbal violence at their schools didn't report the incidents to school administrators. The study also showed that significant minorities of teachers who experienced violence also didn't tell their colleagues (14 percent) or family (24 percent).

SourceOhio State University·JournalSocial Psychology of Education·DateMar 7, 2018

Mapping a genetic risk

Researchers mapped gene expression levels to understand how mutations affect traits, finding non-linear relationships that aren't proportional to the level of mutation. This discovery helps improve prediction accuracy for diseases like cleft lip and palate.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 7, 2018

Greehey Institute team finds link between BRCA1 and Ewing sarcoma

Scientists at Greehey Children's Cancer Research Institute have found a new mechanism by which BRCA1 can be rendered dysfunctional in Ewing sarcoma. The study reveals that the mutant oncogene produced by the fusion oncogene traps BRCA1, preventing it from repairing genetic damage.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalNature·DateMar 7, 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.

NASA's Aqua satellite finds Dumazile sheared

NASA's Aqua satellite observed Tropical Cyclone Dumazile moving through the Southern Indian Ocean with a well-defined low-level center of circulation. The satellite also captured clouds pushed south of the center due to vertical wind shear, indicating a significant threat to the cyclone's structure.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 7, 2018

More realistic and accurate organs-on-chips

Researchers created a new type of microfluidic device using collagen-based membranes to mimic the growth of human intestinal cells. The results showed that colon cells grown on the collagen membrane were more viable and differentiated compared to those in other devices.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Biomaterials Science & Engineering·DateMar 7, 2018

Virtual testing of parts could replace physical tests

A £1 million funded research project at Swansea University is developing virtual qualification for high-value manufacturing. This technology uses 3D X-ray imaging to create digital replicas of components, allowing for the assessment of performance and reduction of human error. The goal is to reduce testing time from weeks to hours.

SourceSwansea University·DateMar 7, 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.

Examining preferences for centralizing cancer surgery services

A recent study found that patients are willing to travel up to 75 minutes longer and 5 hours longer to receive specialized cancer care with improved outcomes. Centralization of cancer surgery services can reduce variations in quality of care and improve patient health outcomes.

SourceWiley·JournalBJS·DateMar 7, 2018

Study reveals that Italian adolescents are heavy consumers of caffeine

A study of 1213 Italian adolescents found that nearly half exceeded the American Academy of Pediatrics' recommended daily caffeine intake. Coffee was the main contributor to daily caffeine consumption, highlighting the need for awareness campaigns to reduce caffeine intake among adolescents.

SourceWiley·JournalActa Paediatrica·DateMar 7, 2018

On the immortality of stem cells

Human embryonic stem cells are immortal due to a 'garbage disposal system' called the proteasome. Reducing E3-ubiquitin ligases levels does not affect their behavior, but impacts overall cell function.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 7, 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.

Mental health treatment for victims of human trafficking -- Journal of Psychiatric Practice presents initial recommendations

A review in Journal of Psychiatric Practice recommends cognitive therapies as a favored approach to addressing trauma symptoms in human trafficking victims. Cognitive processing therapy (CPT) shows promise in treating trauma-related distress, with potential benefits including reduced feelings of guilt and shame.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Psychiatric Practice·DateMar 7, 2018