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Science News Archive May 2018 - Page 10


Page 10 of 44

Using Facebook to help young adults quit smoking

A Facebook-based treatment program found that smokers are 2.5 times more likely to quit after three months compared to an online quit-smoking program. Young adults, who are often reluctant to seek help, showed high engagement and short-term abstinence rates.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalAddiction·DateMay 24, 2018

Health labels may deter people from buying sugary drinks

Participants were 36% less likely to purchase sugary drinks with graphic warnings, while those with Health Star Ratings were 20% less likely. Healthier options were also chosen more frequently when Health Star Ratings were displayed.

SourceEuropean Association for the Study of Obesity·DateMay 24, 2018

Crafting a human niche

Fuentes asserts that humans are distinctive, yet share similarities with apes. He proposes that human ability to alter ecosystems is our most distinguishing feature, enabling creative cooperation, technological innovations, and artistic expression.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalCurrent Anthropology·DateMay 24, 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.

Less muscle wasting in obese people in intensive care may mean they have a better chance of survival

A new study suggests that obese patients in intensive care may have a lower risk of muscle wasting and a higher chance of survival compared to non-obese patients. The 'obesity paradox' refers to improved survival rates among critically ill individuals with obesity, potentially due to the adaptive response of the muscle to excess weight.

SourceEuropean Association for the Study of Obesity·DateMay 24, 2018

UTSA researcher studies math achievement among Hispanic high school students

A UTSA researcher analyzed responses from over 18,000 Hispanic, White, Black, and Asian respondents to investigate math achievement and motivational factors. The study found that Hispanics generally trailed other racial/ethnic groups in math achievement and motivation.

SourceUniversity of Texas at San Antonio·JournalHispanic Journal of Behavioral Sciences·DateMay 24, 2018

EOVSA reveals new insights into solar flares' explosive energy releases

Scientists at New Jersey Institute of Technology's Owens Valley Solar Array (EOVSA) captured potent solar flares in multiple radio frequencies for the first time. The new data reveals that high-energy particles are promptly transported throughout the explosive magnetic field, shedding light on the acceleration process.

SourceNew Jersey Institute of Technology·DateMay 24, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

The secret to honing kids' language and literacy

A study by Michigan State University found that children who can self-regulate earlier develop higher language and learning skills through second grade. Self-regulation enables children to keep information in their working memories, pay attention to tasks, and inhibit behaviors.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalEarly Childhood Research Quarterly·DateMay 24, 2018

Kaiser Permanente researchers develop new models for predicting suicide risk

Kaiser Permanente researchers developed new models predicting suicide risk by combining electronic health record data with standardized depression questionnaires, identifying high-risk patients more accurately. The approach could inform decisions on follow-up care, referrals, and personal safety plans.

SourceKaiser Permanente·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateMay 24, 2018

ULB archaeologists discover a 1,000-year-old mummy in Peru

Archaeologists from Université libre de Bruxelles uncover an exceptionally well-preserved mummy dating back to 1000-1200 AD at the Pachacamac site, offering insights into Pre-Colombian burial practices. The discovery provides valuable information on the local ancestors' worship and fertility symbols found in the area.

SourceUniversité libre de Bruxelles·DateMay 24, 2018

Hot cars can hit life-threatening levels in approximately one hour

Researchers found that car interiors can heat up to 116 degrees Fahrenheit and dashboards to 165 degrees Fahrenheit in approximately one hour, leading to potential fatal injuries for young children. The study highlights the importance of taking preventive measures to avoid such tragedies.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalTemperature·DateMay 24, 2018

400-million-year-old evolutionary arms race helps researchers understand HIV

Researchers have discovered a 400-million-year-old anti-viral protein that can potentlly block HIV, revealing an evolutionary arms race between the virus and the immune system. This ancient gene, HERC5, has been involved in a centuries-long battle for survival with viruses, resulting in sophisticated shields to block them.

SourceUniversity of Western Ontario·JournalJournal of Virology·DateMay 24, 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.

Study suggests that a novel wearable nasal device to reduce smelling ability can induce weight loss and changes to dietary preferences

A novel wearable nasal device was found to reduce body weight and change dietary preferences in individuals aged 50 and under. The study showed a significant drop in olfactory sensitivity and improved insulin levels in participants who used the device, while those over 50 experienced greater weight loss.

SourceEuropean Association for the Study of Obesity·DateMay 24, 2018

Programming synthetic molecular codes to turn genes 'on'

Researchers at Kyoto University developed a synthetic molecular code that can script gene activation, targeting histones and emulating the natural histone acetylation process. The code, called Bi-PIP, successfully activated a specific gene associated with central nervous system disorders in living cells.

SourceKyoto University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMay 24, 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.

Tumor cells evade death through in extremis DNA repair

Researchers at IRB Barcelona identify p38 as a protective mechanism for tumor cells against excessive DNA accumulation, which would cause cell death. Combining p38 inhibitors with chemotherapy shows promise in shrinking tumors and killing cancer cells.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalCancer Cell·DateMay 24, 2018

What your choice of clothing says about your weight

A new study found that darker and multicolour clothes are preferred by women with higher BMIs, while men with larger BMIs opt for black or white garments. Clothing size is also closely related to BMI and waist circumference.

SourceEuropean Association for the Study of Obesity·DateMay 24, 2018

UTIA plant geneticist named Fulbright scholar

Hadziabdic Guerry is a plant geneticist working on the frafra potato project, which aims to transform the species into an alternative food source. The research focuses on assessing the genetic diversity and spatial structure of existing populations to improve production and nutritional value.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture·DateMay 24, 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.

Bold lizards of all sizes have higher mating success

Researchers found that boldness in male and female yellow-spotted monitor lizards was associated with higher mating success. However, this boldness came with a cost: exposed individuals were at a higher risk of being eaten by predators during the wet season.

SourceEcological Society of America·JournalEcosphere·DateMay 24, 2018
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Obese and overweight patients hospitalized with pneumonia are 20 percent to 30 percent less likely to die than normal-weight patients

Research from over 1000 US hospitals found that obese and overweight patients hospitalised for pneumonia have improved survival rates compared to normal-weight patients. The study, which analyzed data from almost 1.7 million patient episodes, found that increasing body mass index was significantly associated with improved survival in p...

SourceEuropean Association for the Study of Obesity·DateMay 24, 2018

Imminent extinction of northern white rhinoceros motivates new genetic recovery efforts

Researchers have identified valuable pools of genetic material from cryopreserved cell lines, which may help guide a tailored recovery program for the northern white rhinoceros. The study's findings suggest that advanced sequencing technologies and novel reproductive strategies could improve recovery efforts for other endangered species.

SourceSan Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance·JournalGenome Research·DateMay 24, 2018

How greener grids can stay lit

A new index helps utilities balance electricity distribution with lower consumer costs by accounting for the variability of decentralized energy sources like solar and wind. The index suggests deployment of flexible loads according to market conditions, potentially leading to lower costs and grid stability.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalIEEE Transactions on Smart Grid·DateMay 24, 2018

Ultrasound-firewall for mobile phones

Researchers at St. Poelten University of Applied Sciences developed an ultrasound-firewall app that detects and blocks acoustic cookies, allowing users to control their device's audio data transmission. The project aims to provide a new standard for secure ultrasonic communication and protect user privacy.

SourceSt. Poelten University of Applied Sciences·DateMay 24, 2018

Polymer crystals hold key to record-breaking energy transport

Researchers from University of Bristol and Cambridge created polymeric semiconductor nanostructures that absorb light and transport its energy further than previously observed. Lightweight semiconducting plastics can now be used to convert sunlight into electricity more efficiently.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalScience·DateMay 24, 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.

Bursts of brain activity linked to memory reactivation

Researchers found that sleep spindles, brief bursts of brain activity, are linked to memory reactivation and improve retention. The rhythmic pattern of spindles may help segregate memories, preventing interference between them.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMay 24, 2018

Study shows in-home therapy effective for stroke rehabilitation

A US clinical trial found that in-home telerehabilitation was as effective as traditional in-clinic therapy in improving arm motor status in stroke survivors. The study, conducted at 11 sites, showed significant improvements in patients who received the home-based program, with a total of 97.9% patient compliance.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·DateMay 24, 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.

Geriatrician leads £2.1 million trial into Parkinson's disease

A new three-year trial, led by a geriatrician, aims to determine whether a commonly prescribed dementia drug can prevent falls in people with Parkinson's. The trial, funded by the NIHR Health Technology Assessment programme, will test a cholinesterase inhibitor treatment on 600 patients across UK hospitals.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·DateMay 24, 2018

By forming clots in tumors, immune cell aids lung cancer's spread

Researchers found that a type of lung cancer's spread is facilitated by immune cells forming clots in tumors. These clots allow tumor cells to migrate and spread to other parts of the body. The study identifies a new target for potential metastasis treatment.

SourceUNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 24, 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.

When the dinosaurs died, so did forests -- and tree-dwelling birds

A new study reveals that the asteroid impact that wiped out dinosaurs also caused a mass extinction of forests, leading to the demise of tree-dwelling birds. The research team analyzed fossil records and pollen evidence to conclude that the temporary loss of forests after the impact made it impossible for arboreal birds to survive.

SourceField Museum·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMay 24, 2018

Cell damage caused by the pesticide DDT is palliated

Researchers at the University of Córdoba have discovered that a selenium-enriched diet can partially repair cell damage caused by the pesticide DDT in mice. The study found that selenium stimulates antioxidant defenses in cells, preventing oxidative stress and damage similar to cancer cells.

SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalFood and Chemical Toxicology·DateMay 24, 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.

Revealed mechanism behind citrus canker bacteria's defense system for predators

Researchers have discovered a previously unknown mechanism used by Xanthomonas citri to resist amoebae, which is controlled by a signaling pathway that enhances its resistance. The study confirms the bacterium's arsenal of mechanisms to withstand environmental competitors and predators.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalEnvironmental Microbiology·DateMay 24, 2018

Tiny particles could help fight brain cancer

Researchers developed nanoparticles carrying temozolomide and a bromodomain inhibitor to target glioblastoma tumors. The particles, coated with transferrin, successfully delivered large doses of chemotherapy drugs directly to the tumor site, reducing side effects.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 24, 2018

Prehistoric people also likely disrupted by environmental change

Researchers found that construction of the Grand Caillou mound began around 800 years ago and was abandoned 600 years later, likely due to changes in the river channel. The site's architecture suggests a high level of environmental and engineering expertise among its builders.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalThe Journal of Island and Coastal Archaeology·DateMay 24, 2018

Introducing the 2018 class of AGA Research Foundation awardees

The 2018 class of AGA Research Foundation awardees will continue to push gastroenterology and hepatology research forward with protected time for fundamental research. The awards program has launched the careers of investigators doing important work that translates to new patient care tools and better outcomes for patients.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·DateMay 24, 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.

Is lower-fat diet associated with breast cancer overall survival?

A lower-fat diet was linked to increased breast cancer overall survival among postmenopausal women, although the increase may be partly due to better survival from other causes. The study found modest increases in vegetable, fruit, and grain intake in the lower-fat group.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateMay 24, 2018

Wood to supercapacitors

Researchers have discovered a way to produce highly conductive electrode materials for supercapacitors sustainably using nanocellulose derived from wood pulp. The new method yields mechanically stable and porous three-dimensional networks with high electrical conductivity.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateMay 24, 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.

South Asian-Americans at higher risk for heart disease and stroke

South Asian-Americans are at a higher risk for heart disease and stroke due to increased risks of severe atherosclerosis, diabetes, and poor diet habits. Behavioral factors such as physical inactivity and unhealthy dietary choices contribute to this risk.

SourceRush University Medical Center·JournalCirculation·DateMay 24, 2018

People with dementia more likely to go missing

A new study published in the Australasian Journal on Ageing found that people with dementia are more likely to wander and become lost, resulting in potentially life-threatening outcomes. The researchers recommend implementing a 'Silver Alert' system, similar to Amber Alerts for missing children, to minimize this risk.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalAustralasian Journal on Ageing·DateMay 24, 2018