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Science News Archive November 2018 - Page 35


Page 35 of 42

Machine-learning system could aid critical decisions in sepsis care

Researchers developed a predictive model to guide clinicians in deciding when to give potentially life-saving drugs to ER patients suffering from sepsis. The model analyzes health data and predicts whether patients will need vasopressors within the next few hours, with an accuracy rate of over 80 percent.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateNov 6, 2018

33,000 people die every year due to infections with antibiotic-resistant bacteria

The study estimates that antibiotic-resistant bacteria cause a substantial burden of disease in the EU/EEA, with 75% attributed to healthcare-associated infections. The annual number of deaths due to these infections is comparable to that of influenza, tuberculosis, and HIV/AIDS combined.

SourceEuropean Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC)·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateNov 6, 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.

New measure for the wellbeing of populations could replace Human Development Index

A new index, Human Life Indicator (HLI), measures human wellbeing by considering years of life, similar to life expectancy at birth. The HLI can distinguish between populations with varying lifespans and may provide a more accurate assessment of human development than the Human Development Index.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalPopulation and Development Review·DateNov 6, 2018

First-in-class YEATS inhibitors that show promise for leukemia treatment

Researchers at The University of Hong Kong developed first-in-class YEATS inhibitors that target a novel therapeutic target for acute myeloid leukemia treatment. The inhibitors successfully suppressed cancer-promoting gene expression and demonstrated enhanced effects when combined with existing anti-leukemia drugs.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateNov 6, 2018

A new piece to the puzzle sheds light on how UHRF1 regulates gene activity

Scientists at Helmholtz Zentrum München have discovered new details about the UHRF1 protein, which regulates gene activity and is produced at elevated levels in cancer cells. The research reveals an unexpected function of the UBL domain in DNA methylation and defines a new role for this domain in regulating gene expression.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalMolecular Cell·DateNov 6, 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.

Scientists to track the reaction of crystals to the electric field

A new method for measuring crystal response to electric fields was developed by an international scientific team from Peter the Great Saint-Petersburg Polytechnic University. The technique helps improve existing and create new functional materials.

SourcePeter the Great Saint-Petersburg Polytechnic University·JournalJournal of Applied Crystallography·DateNov 6, 2018

Face the music: Explicit anti-piracy warnings are best deterrent

A new study found that explicit anti-piracy warnings with graphics are the most effective way to stop music piracy. Researchers tested 220 college undergraduates' reactions to various symbols, action words, and warning phrases, finding that those conveying risk and pairing repercussions were the most effective.

SourceUniversity of Nevada, Las Vegas·DateNov 6, 2018

Trying to understand cells' interior design

Researchers at IBS discover sequence-dependent information influences liquid-liquid phase separation. Single-stranded DNA forms droplets easily, while double-stranded DNA requires specific conditions due to its rigid structure.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateNov 6, 2018

Regeneration in the digestive tract

Researchers found that gut bacteria partially recovered six months after antibiotic treatment, but with a loss of sensitive bacterial species. Resistance genes also increased in the remaining bacteria. Over time, good microbes like bifidobacteria took over, normalizing the microbiome.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalNature Microbiology·DateNov 6, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

External structure can affect the function of enzymes

A study published in Communications Biology found that changing an enzyme's surface density can alter its ability to bind different substrates. By swapping single components on the surface, researchers were able to convert one enzyme into another, with implications for biotechnology applications.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalCommunications Biology·DateNov 6, 2018

Novel tracer developed for precision targeting of non-small cell lung cancer

Researchers developed a novel SPECT tracer to image c-Met expression in NSCLC, producing clearer images in less time and reducing radiation exposure. The tracer showed high specificity and rapid clearance from the body, making it potentially suitable for clinical use.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateNov 6, 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.

Risk factors of type 2 diabetes and CVD accumulate in children with poor aerobic fitness

A new study from the University of Eastern Finland found that poor aerobic fitness in children is associated with a higher risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The study's findings suggest that traditional measures of aerobic fitness may overestimate its role in identifying children at increased risk.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalScandinavian Journal of Medicine and Science in Sports·DateNov 6, 2018

Computer model more accurate at identifying sources of foodborne illnesses than traditional

A new machine-learning model developed by Google and Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health can identify potentially unsafe restaurants more accurately than existing methods, helping to detect lapses in food safety in near real time. The model's overall precision rate was 52.3%, compared to 22.7% for routine inspections.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·Journalnpj Digital Medicine·DateNov 6, 2018

ZSL report finds palm oil companies' commitments lacking

A recent survey by ZSL's SPOTT found that only 49 of the world's top palm oil producers and traders have committed to zero-deforestation pledges, but many lack effectiveness in addressing deforestation. Companies must provide detailed information on monitored areas and methods used to track forest cover.

SourceZoological Society of London·DateNov 6, 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.

Sarcopenic obesity: The ignored phenotype that need more studies for a better understanding

Sarcopenic obesity is a condition characterized by both muscle loss and increased body fat mass. Researchers emphasize the need for more studies to understand its health consequences and develop effective treatments. Experts suggest considering sarcopenic obesity as a scientific priority, citing organizations such as ESPEN and EASO.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalThe Open Nutrition Journal·DateNov 6, 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.

Weakening Tropical Storm Xavier observed by NASA

Tropical Storm Xavier weakened to a remnant low pressure area on Nov 6, 2018, with strong southwesterly vertical wind shear observed. The GPM core satellite analyzed the storm's precipitation structure, revealing powerful convective storms reaching altitudes of up to 11.1 km.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 6, 2018

Subtle visual cues nudge users to reveal more in online forum

Subtle visual cues, such as crowd size and connectivity icons, can encourage users to disclose more information on online forums. The study tested these cues on a sexual health forum and found that participants were more willing to share private information when they felt connected to others in the network.

SourcePenn State·DateNov 6, 2018

New deep knowledge AI system could resolve bottlenecks in drug research

Researchers at the University of Waterloo have developed a new AI system called Pattern to Knowledge (P2K) that can predict biosequence interactions in seconds. P2K uses deep knowledge from data to identify and predict amino acid bindings, potentially reducing bottlenecks in drug discovery.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 6, 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.

Flow units: Dynamic defects in metallic glasses

Researchers found that flow units, similar to structural defects like dislocations, play a crucial role in metallic glass's mechanical and thermal properties. This discovery paves the way for designing optimized materials through tailoring of these units.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateNov 6, 2018

Orcasound: A citizen science tool for whale research

The Orcasound project has developed a web application that enables citizen scientists to listen to livestreaming audio from hydrophones, complementing computer algorithms in analyzing data. The app aims to bring synergy between human listeners and sophisticated algorithms, saving audio data to online cloud storage for later analysis.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateNov 6, 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.

Tiny thorn snail discovered in Panama's backyard

A team of scientists used CT imaging to identify a new Panamanian species of thorn snail, Carychium panamaense. The study revealed details about the snail's shell and its potential for conservation.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalZooKeys·DateNov 6, 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.

Regeneration science takes a leap forward

Researchers at Tufts University have discovered that delivering progesterone via a wearable bioreactor can induce partial limb regeneration in adult frogs. This breakthrough could lead to new treatments for amputation injuries, potentially benefiting millions of people worldwide.

SourceTufts University·JournalCell Reports·DateNov 6, 2018

NAD can restore mitochondrial function and energy production in MTDPS liver-like cells

Researchers at Medical University of South Carolina identified nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) as a compound that restores mitochondrial function and energy production in Mitochondrial DNA Depletion Syndromes (MTDPS) liver-like cells. NAD was found to increase ATP levels by activating a transcription cascade that results in inc...

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalCell Reports·DateNov 6, 2018
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Researchers discover new gene for hair loss

Researchers have identified a new gene, LSS, responsible for hypotrichosis simplex, a rare form of hair loss. The gene's mutation impairs an enzyme crucial to cholesterol metabolism, leading to progressive hair loss from childhood on.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateNov 6, 2018

For adults, the terrible twos are a confusing earful

A study by Angela Cooper and colleagues found that adults have difficulty distinguishing between children's voices, with only about 40% correct identification rate. The researchers used a space alien interactive game to elicit recordings from 2-year-olds and their mothers, which led to the development of new training methods for improv...

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateNov 6, 2018

Supermarket produce harbors antibiotic-resistance genes

Researchers found that supermarket produce is a reservoir for transferable antibiotic resistance genes, which can evade traditional detection methods. The study highlights the importance of characterizing the resistome in produce and emphasizes the need for improved detection methods.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmBio·DateNov 6, 2018
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Making cheese & co. taste better

Researchers developed a new approach to identify flavor-giving protein fragments in fermented foods. The 'sensoproteomics' method efficiently and quickly identified the decisive fragments responsible for bitter flavors in cheese, reducing possibilities from 1,600 to 17. This innovation aims to optimize the taste of various products.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateNov 6, 2018

New insights into the neural risks and benefits of marijuana use

Research finds that prenatal exposure to THC can impair learning and memory in adolescents, while also improving symptoms in Alzheimer's disease patients. Long-term cannabinoid use alters brain metabolism and connectivity in adults, raising concerns for vulnerable populations.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateNov 6, 2018

Study shows potential to develop brain tumor liquid biopsies

Researchers have successfully detected brain tumor DNA in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) using a cheap and widely available technique, opening up new possibilities for monitoring and treating brain tumors. The test has the potential to increase detection rates and provide more tailored treatment approaches for patients with brain tumors.

SourceCancer Research UK·JournalEMBO Molecular Medicine·DateNov 6, 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.

Fern plant infusion keeps the doctor away in Medieval Europe

A medieval skeleton found in Spain's Balearic Islands revealed the first physical evidence of fern plant use for medicinal purposes. The fern leaf was likely used as an infusion to cure conditions such as dandruff, a common cold, and kidney stones.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalInternational Journal of Osteoarchaeology·DateNov 5, 2018

Study shows movement, evolutionary history of TB in China

A genetic scan of 4,578 TB samples from China revealed just two dominant strains account for 99.4% of cases, with strain L2 spreading widely due to internal movement allowing its spread. The study also found that strain Lineage 4 was introduced via the silk trade between 1084 and 1336 A.D.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateNov 5, 2018

New stats apps show a virtual reality

Researchers at KAUST have developed VR apps to visualize and interpret complex datasets in three dimensions. These apps use immersive technologies to allow users to interactively explore features of the data, leading to more accurate statistical models.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalJournal Of The Royal Statistical Society·DateNov 5, 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.

Society for Neuroscience presents Science Education and Outreach Awards

Fumiko Hoeft receives the Science Educator Award for her work in educating the public about neuroscience through outreach and education. Teodora Stoica and Elena Blanco-Suárez receive the Next Generation Award for their efforts to share neuroscience with local communities through communication, education, and outreach.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateNov 5, 2018

Breast cancer cells become invasive by changing their identity

Breast cancer cells can become invasive by changing their identity through a process called epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). A newly identified protein, CXADR, plays a crucial role in this process. Reintroducing CXADR into breast cancer cells can change their behavior and repress invasive properties.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalCancer Research·DateNov 5, 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.

Daily weighing may be key to losing weight

Researchers found that people who weighed themselves daily or almost daily had a significant weight loss of 1.7 percent in 12 months, while those who never used at-home scales did not lose weight. Daily weighing may increase awareness of behavior changes affecting weight loss.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateNov 5, 2018