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Science News Archive March 2018 - Page 8


Page 8 of 41

Mitochondrial disease patients face difficult road to diagnosis

A new study reveals that mitochondrial disease patients often undergo more than eight physician visits and experience multiple misdiagnoses before being correctly diagnosed. The most common misdiagnosis was for psychiatric disorder, followed by fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·DateMar 26, 2018

Top sports leagues heavily promote unhealthy food and beverages, new study finds

A new study finds that top sports leagues heavily promote unhealthy food and beverage sponsors, contributing to the escalating obesity epidemic among children and adolescents. The researchers analyzed Nielsen statistics and found that over three-quarters of promoted foods failed to meet minimal nutrition standards.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateMar 26, 2018

New family of promising, selective silver-based anti-cancer drugs discovered

Researchers at the University of Johannesburg have discovered a new family of economical silver-based complexes that show very promising results against various human cancers. These complexes, such as UJ3, are selective and have low toxicity, making them a potential alternative to existing chemotherapy drugs.

SourceUniversity of Johannesburg·JournalBioMetals·DateMar 26, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Smoking in patients with heart attack reduced with varenicline

A randomized controlled trial found that varenicline significantly reduced smoking in patients with heart attack over the following year. The study showed that about 40% of participants who received varenicline were not smoking at one year, compared to 29% in the placebo group.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateMar 26, 2018

Are antibiotic courses prescribed for sinus infection too long?

Most antibiotic courses for acute sinus infection in adults exceed five days, despite guidelines recommending a maximum of seven days. The study analyzed over 3.7 million visits by private practice physicians and found that nearly 70% of prescribed treatments lasted longer than 10 days.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateMar 26, 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.

Ultrathin endoscope captures neurons firing deep in the brain

Scientists have created an ultra-thin fiber-based endoscope that can image neurons firing in living mice, offering new insights into brain function. The device is five times thinner than the smallest commercially available microendoscopes and allows for deeper brain imaging without damaging tissue.

SourceOptica·JournalBiomedical Optics Express·DateMar 26, 2018

Improving human-data interaction to speed nanomaterials innovation

A new application of data analysis and visualization techniques has been developed to improve the representation of multidimensional materials data. This approach enables scientists to extract useful relationships among properties, facilitating discovery and industrial use in nanomaterials research.

SourceLehigh University·Journalnpj Computational Materials·DateMar 26, 2018

Boys, fathers and mentors work together for STEM engagement

A three-year NSF grant will support the St. Elmo Brady Academy program, which targets fourth- and fifth-grade African-American and Latino boys in Houston's schools. The project aims to encourage a positive perception of math and science among these students through hands-on engineering activities.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateMar 26, 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.

Who becomes a hero? It is more than just a personality trait

A study found that three key factors contributed to collective action in rescuing Tutsi during the genocide: biographical availability, socialization, and situational context. Many rescuers were older, had higher socioeconomic status, and came from families with a history of saving Tutsi.

SourceOhio State University·JournalSocial Forces·DateMar 26, 2018

Research reveals a new direction for halting the citrus greening epidemic

A new study suggests that psyllid nymphs infected with Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus exhibit resistance to the bacteria's effects, thanks to symbiotic bacteria in their gut. Researchers aim to understand and reverse this mechanism to develop a management strategy for citrus greening.

SourceBoyce Thompson Institute·JournalInfection and Immunity·DateMar 26, 2018

How infighting turns toxic for chimpanzees

A recent study analyzed the social networks of 19 male chimpanzees, revealing how power struggles and competition for mates led to the division of the chimp community. The findings suggest that internal conflicts can have far-reaching consequences in primate societies.

SourceDuke University·JournalAmerican Journal of Physical Anthropology·DateMar 26, 2018

Understanding charge transfers in molecular electronics

A research team has found a way to understand and manipulate charge transfers in molecular junctions, enabling the creation of predictable molecular diodes. This breakthrough has significant implications for the field of chemistry and could lead to novel electronics applications.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateMar 26, 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.

Insect toxin detected in the world's longest animal

Researchers at Uppsala University discovered a peptide toxin in the bootlace worm that can paralyze and kill crustaceans and cockroaches, with potential applications in agricultural insecticides. The toxin affects sodium channels, causing electric signalling in nerves and muscles, leading to paralysis.

SourceUppsala University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 26, 2018

Seawater lithium and Permian-Triassic mass extinction

Researchers analyzed sedimentary rocks and found light lithium isotopes in South China's seawater, potentially linking terrestrial and marine ecological crises. The findings suggest a connection between the Siberian Traps' eruptions and the Permian-Triassic mass extinction event.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 26, 2018

Carbohydrate biomarker improves screening for breast cancer patients

Researchers have identified a specific sugar found on aggressive breast cancer cells that can be used as a biomarker to detect high-risk patients. This discovery aims to improve screening for early-stage breast cancer patients, reducing unnecessary treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation.

SourceCanadian Glycomics Network·DateMar 26, 2018

Mutation prompts lung tumor cells to morph into gut cells

A team of researchers found that lung tumor cells can revert to a developmental program similar to their nearest relatives when a key gene is lost. This discovery highlights the remarkable resilience and adaptability of cancer cells.

SourceDuke University·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateMar 26, 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.

Looking deeper into brain function

Researchers propose a new concept to uncover connections between brain regions and cognitive functions, using a bottom-up approach. Recent advances in statistical methodology and brain imaging data provide the basis for this new method, which could help reveal the core functions of brain areas.

SourceForschungszentrum Juelich·JournalTrends in Cognitive Sciences·DateMar 26, 2018

Cell-penetrating 'nanodrills' show promise for intracellular drug delivery

Researchers at Oregon State University have created cell-penetrating nanomaterials that can deliver molecular drugs and cargo into cells. The nanodrills, with distinct shapes resembling drill bits, showed a strong capacity for encapsulating guest molecules for therapy or imaging.

SourceOregon State University·JournalJournal of Controlled Release·DateMar 26, 2018

Study examines blood lead levels of Flint children before and after water crisis

A study by Michigan Medicine and Rutgers New Jersey Medical School found Flint childhood blood lead levels decreased from 11.8% in 2006 to 3.2% in 2016, with a historic low of 1.15 micrograms per deciliter in 2016. A random spike in blood lead levels was also observed between 2010 and 2011.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·DateMar 26, 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.

Prenatal choline intake increases grey and white matter in piglets

A study found that prenatal choline intake increases grey and white matter in piglets' brains. Piglets from mothers with sufficient choline had higher concentrations of grey and white matter, while those from deficient mothers had smaller brain regions.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalCurrent Developments in Nutrition·DateMar 26, 2018

Human cytomegalovirus reprograms hematopoietic progenitor cells to achieve latency

Researchers have discovered that human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) differentiates human hematopoietic progenitor cells into a long-lived, immunosuppressive monocyte subset for viral latency. This unique cell population is identified through specific surface proteins and can evade the T-cell immune response.

SourceNanjing University School of Life Sciences·JournalNature Microbiology·DateMar 26, 2018

Trends in US surface water body area

Researchers report lower surface water bodies in western US, while eastern half experiences greater variability and increased areas in the Southeast US and Great Plains.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 26, 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.

New standards for ancient protein studies set forth by multi-national group of researchers

A team of researchers from institutions at the leading edge of palaeoproteomics have published guidelines to support good practices in the field and ensure robust, reproducible results. The guide aims to provide consistency to a new field, addressing issues such as data reporting standards, authentication measures, and lab contamination.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Geoanthropology·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateMar 26, 2018

Keeping the genetic code

Researchers at Wyss Institute developed a CRISPR/Cas9 genome surveillance tool to prevent point mutations in human DNA. The approach enhances Cas9's specificity, allowing for the removal of deleterious genetic variants.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 26, 2018

Food waste: The biggest loss could be what you choose to put in your mouth

A new study suggests that adopting plant-based diets could increase global food production by 50-200 times, making it a game-changer for addressing hunger and food waste. By replacing animal-based foods with edible crops, researchers estimate that 350 million more people could be fed with the same land resources.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 26, 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.

Animal migrations

Research estimates vulnerability and extinction risk of migratory species from different regions and ecosystems worldwide. Migratory animals face barriers such as roads, dams, and urban development, which can lead to population decline and increased extinction risk.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London (B )·DateMar 26, 2018

Drug reduces inflammation in stroke patients

Researchers at the University of Manchester have found that an anti-inflammatory drug, Kineret, significantly reduces levels of inflammation in patients with ischemic strokes. The study, funded by the Stroke Association, shows promise for fast and effective treatment of stroke, but further trials are needed to confirm its effectiveness.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalStroke·DateMar 26, 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.

Is glass transition driven by thermodynamics?

The study reveals a clear correlation between structural order and dynamics in supercooled liquids, indicating that glass formation is thermodynamic. The researchers found that the link between slow alpha and fast beta modes has a common structural origin, resolving two issues at once.

SourceInstitute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalPhysical Review X·DateMar 26, 2018

Portable device detects severe stroke in seconds with 92 percent accuracy

A new portable device worn like a visor can detect severe stroke in patients with over 90% accuracy, allowing for timely and comprehensive care. This device simplifies the decision-making process for emergency personnel, enabling them to quickly identify patients who require endovascular therapy.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalJournal of NeuroInterventional Surgery·DateMar 26, 2018

Stress signaling in ancestors of land plants

Gene expression studies reveal genes involved in stress response signaling in streptophyte algae, the ancient ancestors of land plants. These findings provide insight into the evolution of land plant stress response mechanisms.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 26, 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.

Why does sleep become disrupted in old age?

Research suggests that age-related disruptions in sleep are not due to changes in individual neurons' activity. The study found similar effects of sleep deprivation on local sleep oscillations across different age groups.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateMar 26, 2018

Team brings subatomic resolution to 'computational microscope'

Scientists have built a computational microscope that can simulate atomic and subatomic forces driving molecular interactions. The tool streamlines efforts to understand chemistry, model large systems, and develop new pharmaceutical agents.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Methods·DateMar 26, 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.

Competition and conflict in Formula One racing

Researchers analyzed 732 Formula One races to find that drivers of similar status, age, or competing in safe conditions are more likely to experience collisions. The study suggests that targeting these factors could aid in preventing conflicts among drivers.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 26, 2018

Program to recruit under-represented minority high schoolers into medicine shows promise

A summer enrichment experience in South Carolina significantly improves students' biomedical knowledge by 38 percent, raising their understanding of how to prepare for medical school by 34 percent. The program aims to address physician shortages by recruiting more future physicians from underrepresented minority communities.

SourceAmerican Osteopathic Association·JournalThe Journal of the American Osteopathic Association·DateMar 26, 2018

E-cigarettes hampered smoking cessation in study

A recent study found that e-cigarette users were less likely to abstain from tobacco at 6 months compared to non-users. However, this finding may not be representative of the general population, and more research is needed to determine the efficacy of e-cigarettes in smoking cessation.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMar 26, 2018

Spiders and scorpions have co-opted leg genes to build their heads

Researchers Emily Setton and Prashant Sharma discovered that spiders and scorpions co-opted leg genes to build their heads. This genetic adaptation allows scientists to trace the evolutionary history of these animals, revealing a complex web of genetic mechanisms underlying their diversity.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 26, 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.

As antibiotics fail, global consumption of antibiotics skyrockets, further driving drug resistance

A new study reveals that global antibiotic use increased by 39% between 2000 and 2015, with significant increases in low-income and middle-income countries. The study highlights the need for strategies to reduce unnecessary antibiotic use and support alternatives to address the growing threat of drug resistance.

SourceBurness·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 26, 2018

The rhythm of genes: How the circadian clock regulates 3-D chromatin structure

Researchers at EPFL discovered that the circadian clock orchestrates gene expression by regulating chromatin structure, affecting protein synthesis and physiological processes. The study found that promoter-enhancer looping oscillates along the 24-hour cycle, controlled by the circadian clock.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalGenes & Development·DateMar 26, 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.

Are fire ants worse this spring because of Hurricane Harvey?

Researchers assess whether extreme weather events like Hurricane Harvey impact invasive pests, pollinators and other species. The team evaluates changes in ant communities to determine if floods accelerated the invasion process by invasive fire ants and tawny crazy ants.

SourceRice University·DateMar 26, 2018

Themed issue lays foundation for emerging field of collective movement ecology

A themed issue in Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B gathers researchers exploring collective movement ecology, merging movement ecology and collective animal behavior. New technologies and data from wild groups are being integrated to inform conservation decision-making.

SourceSanta Fe Institute·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London (B )·DateMar 26, 2018