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Science News for November 18, 2018


Alcohol-impaired driving and drinking at private residences

A study found that 73% of drinking occasions occurred at home, while only 9% were at restaurants or bars. Drinking at home was rarely associated with driving after drinking or impaired driving, but still led to substantial numbers of drunken driving events.

SourcePacific Institute for Research and Evaluation·JournalJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·DateNov 18, 2018

Scientists explain how wombats drop cubed poop

Researchers studied the digestive tracts of wombats and found that elastic properties of intestinal walls allow for cube formation. Wombats use cube-shaped poop to mark their home ranges and communicate with other wombats.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·DateNov 18, 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.

New dual-action cancer-killing virus

Researchers developed a dual-action virus that kills cancer cells while targeting adjacent fibroblasts shielding them from the immune system. The therapy showed promise in human cancer samples and mice without causing toxicity.

SourceMedical Research Council·JournalCancer Research·DateNov 18, 2018

Explaining a fastball's unexpected twist

Investigations by Utah State University researchers reveal that two-seam fastball pitch movement is influenced by finger grip and spin axis tilt. The knuckleball's unique point of separation mid-flight also affects its trajectory, contrary to initial assumptions based on the Magnus effect.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·DateNov 18, 2018

Noise pollution in hospitals -- a rising problem

Research highlights the negative impact of hospital noise on communication, patient rest, and recovery, as well as staff performance and burnout. The authors propose a new approach to addressing noise pollution, prioritizing SPL reduction and involving patients in its creation.

SourceKing's College London·JournalThe BMJ·DateNov 18, 2018

Bullying and violence at work increases the risk of cardiovascular disease

People who experience workplace bullying or violence are at higher risk of heart and brain blood vessel problems, including heart attacks and stroke. The largest prospective study found a strong association between the two, with those exposed to frequent bullying or violence having a 59% higher risk of cardiovascular disease.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateNov 18, 2018

New treatment to protect people with peanut allergies ready for FDA review

A new treatment has been shown to help people with peanut allergies build up a tolerance to the allergen, allowing them to consume small amounts without experiencing severe reactions. The study found that two-thirds of participants were able to tolerate the equivalent of two peanuts per day after nine to 12 months of treatment.

SourceAmerican College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology·DateNov 18, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Helping Marvel superheroes to breathe

Researchers found that Ant-Man and the Wasp's bug-sized state would lead to serious oxygen deprivation issues due to reduced atmospheric density. Microfluidic technologies could help alleviate these issues by providing controlled flow rates and directions of air, similar to insect respiratory systems.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·DateNov 18, 2018

Researchers propose solutions for urine sample splash dilemma

Researchers have proposed a solution to the uncomfortable and messy issue of providing urine samples. A patented product called the Orchid, designed by Faith Leibman, features a funnel-like catch attached to a urine sample cup, making it easier for women and people with disabilities to provide a urine sample.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·DateNov 18, 2018

Swarmlike collective behavior in bicycling

A team of researchers analyzed aerial video footage of bicycle races to determine the causes of changes in peloton collective behavior. They found two types of propagating waves within pelotons, driven by rider vision and sensory input, which challenge previous assumptions about aerodynamics' role in group dynamics.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·DateNov 18, 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.

UK needs to redesign health policies for men

A new report calls on the UK government to redesign health policies for men, taking into account their unique experiences in the workplace. The report highlights the need for targeted marketing campaigns and out-of-hours services to reach men at risk of poor physical and mental health.

SourceLancaster University·DateNov 18, 2018