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Science News Archive March 2018 - Page 41


Page 41 of 41

Crowdsourced family tree yields new insights about humanity

Researchers have created a massive 13 million-person family tree using genealogy data, revealing trends in marriage, migration, and longevity. The study found that people are more likely to marry fourth cousins than seventh cousins, and that women in Europe and North America have migrated more than men.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalScience·DateMar 1, 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.

Rethinking childbirth education could save AU $97 million p.a.

Research by NICM Health Research Institute and Western Sydney University finds effective childbirth education programmes can reduce caesarean births, saving the healthcare system millions annually. The study suggests antenatal education could reduce birth-related healthcare costs by up to nine percent.

SourceNICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University·JournalBMJ Open·DateMar 1, 2018

Using crowdsourced data, scientists build massive family tree that tells tales of humanity

Researchers created a massive crowd-sourced family tree analyzing 86 million public profiles from Geni.com, uncovering trends in migration patterns and genetic relatedness. The study found females migrate more than males, and couples born between 1800-1850 showed increased marital distances despite higher genetic relatedness.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMar 1, 2018

Researchers use recycled carbon fiber to improve permeable pavement

A Washington State University research team has developed a technique to greatly strengthen permeable pavements by adding waste carbon fiber composite material. The recycling method reduces energy consumption and chemicals, making it a critical factor for recycling waste materials.

SourceWashington State University·JournalJournal of Materials in Civil Engineering·DateMar 1, 2018

Virtual predator is self-aware, behaves like living counterpart

Scientists at University of Illinois create artificially intelligent ocean predator called Cyberslug, which reacts to food and responds to its own kind like the actual sea slug Pleurobranchaea californica does. The virtual creature has simple self-awareness, relating motivation and memories to external world perception.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournaleNeuro·DateMar 1, 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.

Food abundance driving conflict in Africa, not food scarcity

A study published in the American Journal of Agricultural Economics refutes the idea that climate change leads to civil war in Africa due to food scarcity. Instead, conflicts are driven by competition over abundant food resources, with most armed groups unable to sustain themselves and instead seeking control over local food supplies.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalAmerican Journal of Agricultural Economics·DateMar 1, 2018

Challenges of food allergies connected to personality traits for first time

A study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that adults with food allergies face unique challenges in daily life, including anxiety and social exclusion. Openness to experience was the biggest predictor of these issues, highlighting the importance of personality traits in coping with a food allergy.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateMar 1, 2018

A spinning top of light

Physicists develop new method to precisely characterise extremely short light pulses, allowing for detailed information about electron place of origin in novel materials. This enables study of superconductors and topological materials, crucial for quantum computing and energy-efficient processors.

SourceForschungsverbund Berlin·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 1, 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.

Prognostic role of elevated mir-24-3p in breast cancer

Researchers found elevated mir-24-3p in breast cancer patients destined to metastasize despite best available therapy. High expression of mir-24-3p correlated with poor survival rate and specific gene expression signature in TCGA.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·DateMar 1, 2018

Image conscious people are more likely to give to crowdfunding campaigns

A new study from the University of Portsmouth found that people who are more image conscious tend to support more crowdfunding campaigns. The research also showed that funders with public profiles containing photos engage in significantly greater levels of visible funding activity.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalComputers in Human Behavior·DateMar 1, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Reducing a building's carbon output can also lower costs

Researchers at Concordia University developed a method to optimize energy consumption in buildings, reducing carbon emissions by 59% while cutting costs by 75%. The study used hydro-powered heat pumps and lake cooling as renewable energy sources, demonstrating the potential for net-zero energy usage.

SourceConcordia University·JournalApplied Energy·DateMar 1, 2018

Violence against girls in conflict-affected populations reinforces gender norms

In conflict-affected populations, adolescent girls are perceived as responsible for their own safety and burdened by violence, with communities holding differing views on responding to abuse. Research highlights the need for programs addressing victim-blaming and silencing experiences of violence through community structures.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalChild Abuse & Neglect·DateMar 1, 2018

Release of the first textbook on blood and marrow transplantation for nurses

The European Blood and Marrow Transplantation Textbook for Nurses has been released, providing comprehensive guidance on transplant nursing. The book aims to improve patient care by promoting training, education, and research in the field of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) and cellular therapy.

SourceEuropean Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation·DateMar 1, 2018

No laughing matter, yet humor inspires climate change activism

A new study reveals that humor can effectively inspire young people to pursue climate change activism. The study found that college-aged adults between 18 and 24 were most inspired by the humorous video, which made them more likely to want to engage in activism and believe climate change is risky.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Communication·DateMar 1, 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.

How reliable is diagnostic testing for Zika?

A study by German Center for Infection Research scientists found that molecular diagnostic tests for the Zika virus in Brazil were not always reliable, resulting in false-positive or false-negative results. This highlights the need for reliable diagnostics to prevent fatal consequences and inform preventive measures.

SourceGerman Center for Infection Research·JournalEmerging Infectious Diseases·DateMar 1, 2018

Johns Hopkins researchers invent new technology for cancer immunotherapy

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have invented a new class of immunotherapy drugs called Y-traps, which target and disable key immune suppressors in tumors. The treatment has been shown to significantly decrease tumor growth and even work against cancers that do not respond to existing immunotherapy.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 1, 2018

Innovative 'invisible ink' detects TB

Scientists have developed an innovative process to detect TB bacteria using a fluorogenic trehalose analog, called DMN-trehalose. This new stain only illuminates inside living TB bacteria, making diagnosis more accurate and quick. The innovation aims to simplify the traditional smear microscopy process.

SourceUniversity of the Witwatersrand·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMar 1, 2018

Yellow fever virus is detected in urine and semen almost a month after infection

Researchers detected yellow fever virus in urine and semen samples from a patient who survived the disease almost a month after infection. The discovery suggests the virus may be contagious for a period longer than previously thought, potentially allowing asymptomatic individuals to transmit the disease.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalEmerging Infectious Diseases·DateMar 1, 2018

Planning for smallpox outbreak must consider immunosuppression

A smallpox outbreak could have devastating consequences in cities with high rates of immunosuppression. Experts warn that children and young people aged 0-19 years are most at risk, while older adults over 45 may experience severe disease and death.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalEmerging Infectious Diseases·DateMar 1, 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.

Patients with head injuries do better when treated by trauma centers, even if it means bypassing other hospitals

A new research from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine found that patients under 65 who are taken to a trauma center have a higher chance of being favorably discharged, while those over 65 have a lower risk of mortality. The study also highlights a serious care disparity for these severely injured patients.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateMar 1, 2018

Scientists create complex transmembrane proteins from scratch

Researchers designed and expressed custom transmembrane proteins with new functions, overcoming challenges in studying these proteins. The advance enables the creation of multipass proteins with novel structures and functions.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalScience·DateMar 1, 2018

In pursuit of pleasure, brain learns to hit the repeat button

Researchers observed how the brain learns to repeat patterns of neural activity that elicit a feeling of pleasure in mice, providing new strategies for targeting disorders characterized by abnormal repetitive behaviors. The findings also have implications for treating addiction and obsessive-compulsive disorder.

SourceThe Zuckerman Institute at Columbia University·JournalScience·DateMar 1, 2018

Incivility at work: Is 'queen bee syndrome' getting worse?

Research finds that women report higher levels of incivility from other women than men do, particularly if they defy gender norms by being more assertive. The study suggests companies should re-evaluate their cultures and address this issue to create a positive work environment.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalJournal of Applied Psychology·DateMar 1, 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.

Ethnic differences in need for heart pacemakers may have genetic link

Research found South Asian people are less likely to need a pacemaker for bradycardia compared to white Europeans, despite higher incidence of coronary artery disease and stroke in South Asians. The study suggests genetic differences may explain the disparity in heart condition susceptibility between ethnic groups.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalHeart·DateMar 1, 2018

New research points to better way to treat depression

Researchers at TSRI have discovered that individuals with high levels of the enigmatic receptor GPR158 may be more susceptible to depression following chronic stress. This finding provides a potential clue to why some people are more resilient against mental illness, and offers a new target for developing effective treatments.

SourceScripps Research Institute·DateMar 1, 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.

Sounding rocket mission will trace auroral winds

The AZURE mission aims to measure vertical winds in the ionosphere, creating a tumultuous particle soup that redistributes energy and momentum. By tracking colorful tracers released into space, researchers will gain valuable data on the flow of particles in key regions of the ionosphere.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 1, 2018

NASA's GPM observes Arkansas and Tennessee flooding downpours

The Global Precipitation Measurement mission captured intense rainfall rates exceeding 5.1 inches per hour in southwestern Arkansas. Life-threatening flood conditions resulted from over 10 inches of rain, with storm tops reaching heights above 5.6 miles.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 1, 2018

Nervous system puts the brakes on inflammation

Research by Weill Cornell Medicine scientists reveals that the nervous system can dampen excessive inflammation in the gut and lungs, which may lead to new treatments for diseases like asthma and inflammatory bowel disease. The study also found that beta-adrenergic receptors play a crucial role in controlling the immune response.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalScience·DateMar 1, 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.

5TONIC showcases innovation momentum toward 5G

The 5TONIC consortium is demonstrating use cases for next-generation wireless technologies, including smart factory applications and cell virtualization. With the deployment of CommScope's OneCell C-RAN small cell solution, they are accelerating the development of 5G networks and improving spectrum efficiency.

SourceIMDEA Networks Institute·DateMar 1, 2018

Déjà vu and feelings of prediction: They're just feelings

Researchers recreated déjà vu in human subjects to study the feeling of premonition, finding participants were no more likely to predict the future than blind guesses. During déjà vu, they felt like they knew what's going to happen next, mirroring real-life experiences.

SourceColorado State University·JournalPsychological Science·DateMar 1, 2018

Regular walking may protect against heart failure post menopause

Walking for at least 40 minutes, two to three times a week, significantly lowers the risk of heart failure among post-menopausal women. The study found that brisk walks and walking frequency/duration/pace all contribute equally to this benefit, making walking an accessible form of exercise for older women.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·DateMar 1, 2018

New study reveals the secret of magmas that produce global treasures

A new study from the University of the Witwatersrand reveals that magmas can form chromite deposits through decompression as they rise to the surface, producing valuable resources like platinum and chromium. The study suggests that lithostatic pressure reduction plays a vital role in forming these deposits.

SourceUniversity of the Witwatersrand·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 1, 2018

Successful synthesis of gamma-lactam rings from hydrocarbons

A team of researchers has developed a novel reaction to insert nitrogen into C-H bonds, creating useful ring-shaped molecules. The breakthrough synthesis uses inexpensive feedstock hydrocarbons as substrates, offering a new solution to the long-standing challenge in pharmaceutical and chemical industries.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalScience·DateMar 1, 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.

Vitamin D reduces mortality

A Norwegian study found that individuals with normal vitamin D levels can reduce their risk of death from cardiovascular disease by up to 30%. The optimal amount of vitamin D varies from person to person, and measuring levels is advised for those who have experienced cardiovascular disease.

SourceThe University of Bergen·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateMar 1, 2018

Catch 22: Immune systems protect hosts, but drive bacterial evolution

A study in house finches reveals that immune systems can inadvertently help bacteria become stronger over time, leading to a catch-22 situation. Researchers found that birds with stronger immunity to more virulent strains were more likely to exclude low-virulence strains from future infections.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMar 1, 2018

Diet, bugs and beating high blood pressure

Researchers found that three healthy diets generally reduced blood pressure in most participants, but some individuals responded less well due to differences in their gut bacteria. The study suggests a potential new approach for identifying an individual's clinical response to diet therapy and adherence to prescribed diets.

SourceUniversity of Kent·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateMar 1, 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.

Discovery shows wine grapes gasping for breath

Researchers discovered that grapes experience internal oxygen shortage during ripening, leading to cell death and potentially affecting wine quality. The study's findings suggest that manipulating oxygen supply can reduce cell death, and may lead to new ways of selecting grape varieties for warmer climates.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalJournal of Experimental Botany·DateMar 1, 2018

2008 Great Recession led to increase in obesity, diabetes and mental health issues

A new study reveals the 2008 Great Recession led to a significant increase in obesity, diabetes, and mental health problems, especially among women and those with lower education. The researchers found a decrease in smoking and drinking, but an increase in the use of medicines and mental health issues.

SourceCity St George’s, University of London·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·DateMar 1, 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.

Do you know where your xenon is?

Researchers discovered xenon compounds with nickel and iron at extreme pressures and temperatures, which could explain the missing noble gas in Earth's atmosphere. The study provides evidence for previously theorized compounds of iron and xenon under core conditions.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 1, 2018