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Science News Archive November 2018 - Page 21


Page 21 of 42

Marijuana use has no effect on kidney transplant outcomes

A recent study published in Clinical Kidney Journal found that marijuana use by live kidney donors had no measurable impact on the outcomes of kidney transplants. The study, which reviewed over 290 living donor medical records, also showed no long-term differences in kidney function between marijuana users and non-users.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalClinical Kidney Journal·DateNov 15, 2018

Scorpion venom to shuttle drugs into the brain

Researchers at IRB Barcelona develop peptide shuttle using scorpion venom to transport drugs across blood-brain barrier, improving efficacy for neurological treatments. The miniCTX3 peptide shows great efficiency in carrying compounds of different nature across the BBB.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalChemical Communications·DateNov 15, 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.

Five nanosecond decision-making

A team of researchers is using a $820,000 DARPA grant to design a new kind of chip that can automatically match software with hardware, significantly reducing the time it takes. The chip, called DASH-SoC, aims to achieve this in just five nanoseconds.

SourceUniversity of Arizona College of Engineering·DateNov 15, 2018

Cosmic fireworks

Astronomers have discovered a rare gamma-ray binary system, allowing for the study of particle acceleration in a unique environment. The system, consisting of a massive star and a rapidly rotating neutron star, was detected emitting high-energy particles accelerated by its strong magnetic field.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateNov 15, 2018

Mergers drive a powerful dusty quasar

Astronomers found a dust-obscured quasar formed from a galaxy merger, revealing how mergers can power quasars and obscure them with dust. The study used ALMA to analyze the quasar WISE J224607.57?052635.0 and its companion galaxies.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateNov 15, 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.

Stress of stretching solids: 3D image shows how particles distribute in metals

Using 3D crystallography, researchers at Nagoya Institute of Technology study how particles shape up metal composites. They found that controlling particle distribution can improve the composite's strength and ductility, leading to better materials for applications like bridge suspension wires.

SourceNagoya Institute of Technology·JournalMaterials Characterization·DateNov 15, 2018

Can you repurpose this unique Navy drone?

The Nomad is a low-cost rotary wing vehicle designed for electronic warfare, featuring counter-rotating coaxial rotors and compact storage in an integrated launch tube. Patent licensing makes it available for repurposing in other applications, including commercial sales.

SourceTechLink·DateNov 15, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Recommending plants to benefit and attract pollinators

A survey of horticultural employees found that knowledge of beneficial plants for pollinators is a weak topic, highlighting the need for specialized education and training. The researchers recommend more-detailed labeling of pollinator food plants to benefit customers seeking pollinator-friendly options.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateNov 14, 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.

Large areas of the Brazilian rainforest at risk of losing protection

Up to 15 million hectares of Brazilian Amazon are at risk of losing legal protection due to agricultural growth, which could lead to valuable natural ecosystems and biodiversity loss. The study suggests that revising the law or implementing non-deforestation commitments could mitigate this issue.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalNature Sustainability·DateNov 14, 2018

Salmon are shrinking and it shows in their genes

A study of salmon in Northern Finland found that the gene version urging them to mature earlier has become more prevalent, while the version for larger growth is rarer. This suggests that evolution is at play as salmon adapt to their environment.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateNov 14, 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.

Houston's urban sprawl increased rainfall, flooding during Hurricane Harvey

Researchers recreated Hurricane Harvey using computer models and weather data, finding that urbanization led to a wetter hurricane with higher flood peaks and more damage. The study highlights the need to consider urban development when calculating hurricane risk and preparing for hurricane damage and recovery.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalNature·DateNov 14, 2018

Epoxy compound gets a graphene bump

Rice University scientists have developed a new epoxy compound that combines graphene foam for improved conductivity and strength. The composite material is substantially tougher than pure epoxy and far more conductive, while retaining its low density.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Nano·DateNov 14, 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.

Who joined the Islamic State from France between 2014 and 2016?

A study by Nicolas Campelo found that married men with children, families with married parents, and individuals experiencing depression or loneliness are more likely to remain radicalized. However, women and those with supportive family backgrounds tend to become less radicalized over time.

SourceSpringer·JournalPalgrave Communications·DateNov 14, 2018

Using social media to weaken the wrath of terror attacks

A report from Michigan State University and global counter-terrorism experts highlights the dangers of unregulated social media after terror attacks. Communications after an incident often lead to a spike in hate crimes and disinformation, perpetuating fear and fueling the terror cycle.

SourceMichigan State University·DateNov 14, 2018

Study of 2,000 children suggests London air pollution is restricting lung development

A study of 2,000 children suggests that London's diesel-dominated air pollution is restricting lung capacity, putting them at risk of lifelong breathing disorders. Despite improvements in air quality through the introduction of Low Emission Zones, there was no evidence of a reduction in small lungs or asthma symptoms.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalThe Lancet Public Health·DateNov 14, 2018

New US study reveals natural solutions can reduce global warming

A new US study found that restoring the nation's lands and coastal wetlands could absorb a fifth of greenhouse gas pollution, equivalent to emissions from all US vehicles. The study identified natural solutions such as reforestation, forest management, and tidal wetland restoration that can store carbon and avoid emissions.

SourceNature Conservancy·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 14, 2018
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Using the plant microbiome to restore native grasslands

Researchers argue that reintroducing native microbiomes can accelerate succession and increase plant diversity in restored communities. The study also highlights the importance of mycorrhizal fungi in maintaining these relationships.

SourceAmerican Institute of Biological Sciences·JournalBioScience·DateNov 14, 2018

Ringling train chugs into digital world

The century-old Wisconsin train car has been digitally accessed through 3D models and printed spare parts created using digital photogrammetry and terrestrial laser scanning. The project, led by the University of South Florida, aims to preserve the fragile antique components while allowing for future restoration efforts.

SourceUniversity of South Florida·DateNov 14, 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.

Super-Earth orbiting Barnard's Star

Astronomers detect a super-Earth orbiting Barnard's Star, with the planet having a mass at least 3.2 times that of Earth, and orbits its host star in roughly 233 days. The exoplanet lies close to the snow line, making it inhospitable for life as we know it.

SourceESO·JournalNature·DateNov 14, 2018

A 15-minute scan could help diagnose brain damage in newborns

A new 15-minute brain scan predicts damage with 98% accuracy, helping doctors assess the extent of newborn brain damage and plan for long-term development. The scan may also aid in developing new treatments for brain injury in babies.

SourceImperial College London·JournalThe Lancet Neurology·DateNov 14, 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.

Next-gen batteries possible with new engineering approach

Researchers developed a three-dimensional polymer sponge that promotes ion transfer while inhibiting dendritic growth in lithium metal batteries, potentially increasing cycle life and safety. The technology could enable more powerful and stable metal battery technologies for everyday use.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Energy·DateNov 14, 2018

Massive impact crater from a kilometer-wide iron meteorite discovered in Greenland

Researchers have discovered a 31-km wide meteorite impact crater buried beneath the ice-sheet in northern Greenland, with evidence suggesting it formed after ice began to cover the region. The crater's well-preserved condition indicates it may be relatively young, with possible dating as recent as 12,000 years ago.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 14, 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.

When electric fields make spins swirl

Researchers at IBS discover ferroelectrically tunable skyrmions, promising faster data storage density and speed. The discovery enables the creation of nanoscale, non-volatile, and reversible skyrmion memories.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Materials·DateNov 14, 2018

UH receives $1.7 million to educate more computer science teachers

The University of Houston will train 240 new STEM teachers over five years through the teachHOUSTON program, aiming to address the shortage of educators in the Houston area. The program, funded by a $1.7 million grant from the Department of Education, targets current computer science majors and underrepresented groups.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateNov 14, 2018

Drug combination makes cancer disappear in mice with neuroblastoma

Researchers have found a drug combination that made tumors disappear in mice with neuroblastoma, a childhood cancer. The CBL0137/panobinostat combination was more effective than single drug treatments and showed promise for reducing side effects and increasing survival rates.

SourceECCO-the European CanCer Organisation·DateNov 14, 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.

Defense against intestinal infection in organism is affected by prostaglandin E2

Experimental inhibition of prostaglandin E2 enhanced the ability of mice to combat infectious colitis, resulting in increased migration of defense cells and production of antimicrobial peptides. Inhibiting PGE2 also favored the expression of defensins, considered natural antibiotics, in the colon.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 14, 2018

Streamlined method helps people with diabetes act on CGM data

A new streamlined method by the Endocrine Society helps people with diabetes use CGM data to refine insulin doses and improve blood glucose control. The approach, based on trend arrows in Abbott FreeStyle Libre systems, provides simplified calculations for users.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalJournal of the Endocrine Society·DateNov 14, 2018

UCI researchers discover molecular mechanisms of an African folk medicine

Researchers at UCI School of Medicine have discovered the molecular basis for therapeutic actions of an African folk medicine used to treat various illnesses, including diabetes and epilepsy. The study found two components of the Mallotus leaf extract bind to a previously unrecognized binding site on KCNQ1 potassium channels.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 14, 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.

Precision neuroengineering enables reproduction of complex brain-like functions in vitro

Researchers from Tohoku University and the University of Barcelona have developed an in vitro neural circuit model that reproduces complex brain-like functions. The study reveals the importance of modular organization for maximizing flexibility in neural circuits, as well as the potential of biophysical models to understand collective ...

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 14, 2018

Microgel powder fights infection and helps wounds heal

A team of engineers discovered a microgel powder that reduces bacteria and virus ability to infect by at least 99 percent. The powder, made from hydrogen peroxide, is reusable and can be used in various applications such as remote clinics or war zones.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalActa Biomaterialia·DateNov 14, 2018

Recommendations to reduce recidivism in transgender women

A new analysis by University of Pittsburgh researchers identifies barriers that make it difficult for transgender women to re-enter their communities after incarceration. Key findings include the importance of social support and access to trans-inclusive resources such as career services, healthcare, and transportation.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·DateNov 14, 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.

Late Miocene ape maxilla (upper jaw) discovered in western India

A Late Miocene ape maxilla was discovered in the Kutch basin, western India, significantly extending the southern range of ancient apes in the Indian Peninsula. The specimen, dated to around 11-10 million years ago, belongs to the Sivapithecus genus and provides new insights into human evolution.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 14, 2018

SwRI's Terry Alger honored with TAMEST O'Donnell Award

Dr. Terry Alger, a Southwest Research Institute director, received the 2019 Edith and Peter O'Donnell Award for his role in developing vehicle engine technologies that lower pollution levels and improve fuel economy. The award recognizes his innovative work on novel hybrid engines, connected and autonomous features, and abnormal combus...

SourceSouthwest Research Institute·DateNov 14, 2018

Researchers discover novel 'to divide or to differentiate' switch in plants

Researchers identified a scaffolding protein POLAR that regulates GSK3-like kinase activity, driving asymmetric cell division and promoting stomatal formation. The study provides insights into the molecular mechanisms of plant development, suggesting potential targets for crop improvement.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalNature·DateNov 14, 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.

Stress in early life has a lasting impact on male birds' song

A study found that male birds' song complexity and frequency are linked to their early life conditions, with healthier nestlings producing more intricate songs as adults. Researchers monitored 18 wild white-throated dippers and discovered that better nutrition during the nestling period led to improved singing skills.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 14, 2018