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Science News Archive May 2018 - Page 35


Page 35 of 44

Invisible structures exposed!

Researchers used AI and image analysis to reconstruct the structure of plants with hidden branch structures, including those under leaves. The new technology will help in future cultivation techniques such as detailed daily management and forecasting plant growth.

SourceOsaka University·DateMay 7, 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.

Are psychological interventions associated with chronic pain outcomes?

A systematic review and meta-analysis found that psychological interventions using cognitive behavioral approaches can reduce chronic pain intensity and improve self-efficacy in older adults. However, the study's limitations highlight the need for further research to develop more effective treatments.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateMay 7, 2018

Thank brain for gratitude

Researchers discovered a brain network that gives rise to feelings of gratitude, identifying the medial prefrontal cortex and perigenual anterior cingulate cortex (pgACC) as key regions. These areas process relevant social information and integrate it into complex emotions, such as gratitude.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateMay 7, 2018

In ancient rocks, scientists see a climate cycle working across deep time

Scientists have documented a 405,000-year climate cycle in ancient rocks, which repeats every 405,000 years and plays a role in natural climate swings. The cycle is believed to result from a complex interplay with the gravitational influences of Venus and Jupiter.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 7, 2018

Night shift work and human health

Research suggests that night shift work can disrupt human circadian rhythms, leading to gene expression changes and immune system dysregulation. The study's findings highlight the potential risks of long-term night shift work on human health, particularly in relation to medical disorders such as diabetes and cancer.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 7, 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.

Eggs not linked to cardiovascular risk, despite conflicting advice

A new study by University of Sydney researchers found that eating up to 12 eggs per week does not increase cardiovascular risk factors in people with pre-diabetes and type 2 diabetes. The study also showed no impact on weight loss or cholesterol levels in participants.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateMay 7, 2018

Social context matters in spread of disease

Researchers found that the sex composition and mating dynamics of a fruit fly community significantly impact disease transmission rates. Males faced a greater risk of infection when outnumbered by females, highlighting the importance of social context in disease spread.

SourceRice University·JournalBehavioral Ecology·DateMay 7, 2018

Scientists discover roadblocks that stop brain white matter healing

A new study identifies a molecule that triggers a pathway blocking white matter repair, leading to chronic injury. The molecule, hyaluronic acid (HA), accumulates in lesions and prevents oligodendrocyte progenitor cells from producing myelin.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 7, 2018

New biotech technique accelerates protein therapy research

A Northwestern-led synthetic biology research team has developed a new biotech technique called GlycoSCORES that promises to accelerate research into protein therapies. The technique uses cell-free protein synthesis, protein glycosylation, and mass spectrometry to rapidly screen sequences for making glycoproteins.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateMay 7, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Understanding how DNA is selectively tagged with 'do not use' marks

Researchers at Salk Institute identify a small family of proteins controlling DNA methylation marks, crucial for gene regulation. This discovery sheds light on epigenetic mechanisms in plants and animals, potentially leading to new strategies for correcting genetic defects associated with diseases like cancer.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalNature Genetics·DateMay 7, 2018

Study: Alcohol-related cirrhosis patients are sicker, costlier and often female

A recent study by Michigan Medicine has found that over one-third of cirrhosis cases are related to alcohol consumption, with women being disproportionately affected. The study reveals that patients with alcohol-related cirrhosis have higher healthcare costs and poorer health outcomes compared to those without the condition.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalHepatology·DateMay 7, 2018

Protecting confidentiality in genomic studies

Researchers at MIT and Stanford University present a new system for protecting genomic data privacy in large-scale biomedical studies. The system uses secret sharing to divide sensitive data among multiple servers, enabling efficient privacy protection for millions of genomes.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateMay 7, 2018

New insights into blood vessel growth

Researchers at Goethe University Frankfurt found that single cells in the innermost layer of blood vessels proliferate after injury and contribute to the formation of new vessels. This process, known as clonal expansion, is thought to play a significant role in tissue damage repair, such as in diabetes or heart attacks.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalCirculation Research·DateMay 7, 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.

Planetary waves similar to those that control weather on Earth discovered on sun

An international team of scientists has discovered planetary waves of vorticity on and inside the Sun similar to those that significantly influence weather on Earth. These solar Rossby waves are gigantic in size and contribute half of the Sun's large-scale kinetic energy, with wavelengths comparable to the solar radius.

SourceRubenstein Associates, Inc.·JournalNature Astronomy·DateMay 7, 2018

Built for speed: DNA nanomachines take a (rapid) step forward

Researchers at Arizona State University have created a DNA walker that can rapidly traverse a track, significantly increasing speed and paving the way for new innovations in DNA nanotechnology. By optimizing DNA strand length and sequences, the device can cover ground up to 100 times faster than previous devices.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateMay 7, 2018

Global tourism carbon footprint quantified in world first

A comprehensive study by the University of Sydney reveals that global tourism is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, with small islands and luxury travel being key drivers. The research estimates that tourism-related emissions are four times greater than previous estimates and are growing faster than international trade.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalNature Climate Change·DateMay 7, 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.

How recent economy kept black, white young adults from leaving nest

A new study from Johns Hopkins University finds that increasing rents and declining employment rates disproportionately affected young black adults, causing them to stay with their parents longer. In contrast, white young adults were more likely to delay moving out due to job insecurity.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalJournal of Housing Economics·DateMay 7, 2018

For mothers with advanced cancer, parenting concerns affect emotional well-being

A study by UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center researchers found that parenting concerns significantly impact the quality of life of mothers with late-stage cancer. The study surveyed 224 mothers and discovered that these concerns contribute as much to their emotional well-being as day-to-day physical functioning does.

SourceUNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center·JournalCancer·DateMay 7, 2018

Holocene intermediate water ventilation

Researchers discovered significant reduction in Holocene intermediate water ventilation from the Sea of Okhotsk, likely caused by elevated sea surface temperatures and reduced sea ice. This finding has implications for future climate warming, suggesting similar reductions in ventilation and oxygenation may occur.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 7, 2018

Chemical sensing chip sniffs out cocaine within minutes

A new chemical sensing chip can detect cocaine, opioids and marijuana in biological samples quickly and accurately. The low-cost chip uses surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy to identify chemicals based on their unique light-scattering signatures.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalSmall Methods·DateMay 7, 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.

A new way to watch brain activity in action

New technology tracks brain cell interactions in mice, shedding light on neuronal activity and potential insights into brain disorders such as autism and schizophrenia. The device captures three-dimensional images of neurons flashing on and off as they communicate with each other.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalNature Methods·DateMay 7, 2018

Empirical validation of geologic time scale

Researchers validate the geologic time scale by matching magnetic polarity sequences with detrital zircon ages from a long sediment core. The correlation supports assumptions about planetary interactions used to construct the APTS for hundreds of millions of years.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 7, 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.

New evidence that bullfrogs are to blame for deadly fungus outbreaks in western US

A new study by San Francisco State University researchers links the introduction of American bullfrogs to the spread of a deadly fungus that has wiped out over 200 species of amphibians globally. The team found that bullfrogs were often present in the same watersheds as the fungus, suggesting they may be contributing to its spread.

SourceSan Francisco State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 7, 2018

Chemical octopus catches sneaky cancer clues, trace glycoproteins

Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology have developed a chemical trap that exhaustively catches trace glycoproteins, including those produced by cancer. This new method has proven effective in lab tests and could lead to early disease detection and targeted cancer treatments.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 7, 2018

Neuro filter sharpens visual processing

A neuroimaging study found that the brain's visual system fills in missing information to maintain perception when visibility is low. The study, published in eNeuro, provides a more comprehensive account of how individuals perceive their world through vision.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·JournaleNeuro·DateMay 7, 2018

Generic options provide limited savings for expensive drugs

A study published in Health Affairs found that generic options did not significantly reduce prices for the cancer therapy imatinib (Gleevec) after nearly two years of competition. The price drop was only 10 percent, which is significantly lower than expected estimates of 80 percent.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalHealth Affairs·DateMay 7, 2018

New study finds climate change threatens Marine Protected Areas

A new study predicts that climate change will transform marine ecosystems in Marine Protected Areas, leading to extinctions and loss of biodiversity. By 2100, warming temperatures could make these areas uninhabitable for most species, with the Arctic and Antarctic regions expected to warm especially quickly.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalNature Climate Change·DateMay 7, 2018
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Tufts CTSI receives $56 million NIH Clinical and Translational Science Award

The National Institutes of Health has awarded Tufts Clinical and Translational Science Institute (CTSI) $56 million to support its local, regional, and national research initiatives. The funding will accelerate the translation of research into clinical use, medical practice, and impact on health.

SourceTufts Clinical and Translational Science Institute·DateMay 7, 2018

Alligators on the beach? Killer whales in rivers? Get used to it

Recent studies suggest that large predators such as alligators, sea otters, and mountain lions are re-colonizing ecosystems they once occupied due to conservation. This challenges the long-held assumption that these species are habitat specialists. As populations recover, these species are adapting to new habitats with surprising ease,...

SourceDuke University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMay 7, 2018

UCalgary scientists discover a new way to battle multiple sclerosis

Researchers challenge conventional thinking about MS root cause and develop new treatment approach by protecting myelin from immune attack. The study provides compelling evidence that MS could begin with myelin damage, opening new lines of thinking for this disease.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 7, 2018

Leukemia protective role of Y chromosome gene discovered

Researchers found that the Y-chromosome gene UTY acts as a tumour suppressor, protecting male mice from developing AML. The study also reveals that loss of UTX leads to increased cancer risk in both humans and mice, highlighting potential new treatment avenues for AML.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalNature Genetics·DateMay 7, 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.

Very-low-carb diet shows promise in type 1 diabetes

A survey of patients with type 1 diabetes on a very-low-carbohydrate diet found exceptional blood-sugar control with few complications, including lower rates of hypoglycemia and diabetic ketoacidosis. The researchers call for controlled clinical trials to test the diet's safety and efficacy.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateMay 7, 2018

Preclinical M.D. Anderson study suggests ARID1a may be useful biomarker for immunotherapy

Researchers identified a link between ARID1a mutations and mismatch repair deficiency, which can render tumors susceptible to immune checkpoint blockade therapies. The study found that tumors with ARID1a mutations exhibited increased sensitivity to anti-PD-1 therapy, suggesting potential benefits for patients with these mutations.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalNature Medicine·DateMay 7, 2018

New research training group investigates autarkic fiber composites

Researchers at TU Dresden are developing intelligent material combinations for autarkic fibre composites with integrated actuators and sensors. These materials can react quickly and precisely to environmental changes, making them suitable for applications in mechanical engineering, robotics, architecture, and orthotics.

SourceTechnische Universität Dresden·DateMay 7, 2018

Prescription drug monitoring programs may have negative unintended consequences

A study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that prescription drug monitoring programs may not reduce fatal overdoses as expected, but instead linked to an increase in heroin overdose deaths after restrictions on opioid prescribing were implemented.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMay 7, 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.

Global spread of invasive ants

Researchers analyzed border interceptions of ants at US and NZ ports for nearly 100 years, finding over 75% originated from countries with prior introductions. The study highlights a mode driving global spread of invasive species.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 7, 2018

Women see through flashy cars and bling

A study published in Evolutionary Psychological Science found that women prioritize practical qualities over flashy displays of wealth when evaluating potential partners. Men who conspicuously display their wealth are perceived as less committed to long-term relationships and more interested in short-term sex.

SourceSpringer·JournalEvolutionary Psychological Science·DateMay 7, 2018

The apparent inner calm of quantum materials

Researchers from UNIGE and CEA have discovered a novel topological phase transition in BACOVO, governed by two different sets of topological excitations. The team was able to control which set dominated the other, yielding a quantum phase transition.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Physics·DateMay 7, 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.

Reflecting on possessions can curb people's impulse buying

A study by Rice University found that reflecting on personal possessions can reduce impulse buying by lowering willingness to pay for new products. The researchers discovered that people who reflected on using their possessions recently were less likely to buy impulsively and expressed a lower willingness to pay for new items.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of Public Policy & Marketing·DateMay 7, 2018

FSU research: New model could help rebuild eroding lands in coastal Louisiana

A new model by Florida State University researcher Jaap Nienhuis can help stakeholders figure out what factors to consider when rebuilding land in fragile wetlands. The model takes into account various factors such as water and sediment discharge, root strength, and soil consolidation.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateMay 7, 2018

Deadly duet

Researchers at TUM have deciphered the mechanism of action for a class of pore-forming bacterial toxins. This breakthrough could lead to new substances that inhibit toxin interaction and prevent fatal cell damage.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 7, 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.

New CRISPR technology 'knocks out' yeast genes with single-point precision

Researchers have developed a novel CRISPR-Cas9 technology that enables precise editing of any gene in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae by deleting single nucleotide changes. This allows for individual gene studies and optimization of genome engineering, potentially increasing productivity in industries such as ethanol production.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateMay 7, 2018

Cells change tension to make tissue barriers easier to get through

A study published in Developmental Cell found that a signal from the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) signaling molecule Eiger reduces tension in tissue barrier cells, allowing immune cells like macrophages to pass through more easily. This mechanism was previously unknown and has potential importance beyond fruitflies to vertebrates.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateMay 7, 2018

Higher risks associated with vaginal birth after cesarean, although absolute risk small

Researchers found that attempted VBAC is linked to higher relative rates of severe adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes compared to elective repeat cesarean delivery. This is particularly concerning for women with a history of single previous cesarean section, where predicting successful VBAC can be challenging.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateMay 7, 2018

Impacts of windfarm construction on harbor porpoises

Scientists developed a predictive model to assess wind farm construction noise impact on harbor porpoise population. The DEPONS model evaluates disturbance effects on animal movements and foraging behaviors.

SourceAarhus University·JournalConservation Letters·DateMay 7, 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.

Environmental consequences of importing food

A meta-analysis of 168 studies across six continents shows that importing Brazilian and US soybeans led to widespread land-use changes, increasing nitrogen pollution by over 100,000 metric tons. The study highlights the need for sustainable agricultural practices in both exporting and importing countries.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 7, 2018

New approach in the fight against antibiotic resistance

Scientists at FAU and University of Oxford have discovered a regulatory checkpoint in bacterial gene expression that could be used to develop new antibiotics. This finding has the potential to help overcome antibiotic resistance, which kills around 700,000 people worldwide each year.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 7, 2018

Carnivores in captivity give birth at the same time of year as those in the wild

Researchers found that over 80% of carnivore species in zoos reproduce during the same time of year as their natural habitats. The study suggests that seasonality is an innate characteristic linked to daylight length and genetic adaptations. This discovery sheds light on evolutionary processes influencing reproductive behavior.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalJournal of Biological Rhythms·DateMay 7, 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.