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Science News Archive November 2018 - Page 7


Page 7 of 42

Music supports the auditory skills of hearing-impaired children

A study published in Music Perception reveals that children with hearing impairments who engage in regular music activities exhibit better speech perception in noisy conditions. The results suggest that parental singing and daily musical engagement are crucial for developing communication skills.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalMusic Perception An Interdisciplinary Journal·DateNov 27, 2018

Keep it complex: Study shows that previous research oversimplified Schizophrenia symptoms

A recent study published in JAMA Psychiatry proposes a new classification system for the negative symptoms of schizophrenia, moving away from the oversimplified two-category approach. This shift aims to improve treatment outcomes by providing more precise measures of symptom severity and guiding the development of targeted therapies.

SourceUniversity of Nevada, Las Vegas·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateNov 27, 2018

Pulsed radiofrequency relieves acute back pain and sciatica

A study found that pulsed radiofrequency (pRF) is an effective treatment option for patients with acute lower back pain from lumbar disk herniation. pRF was superior to steroid injections in reducing inflammation and symptoms, resulting in faster pain relief and improved quality of life.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateNov 27, 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.

Lipid that aids normal skin turnover may help psoriasis

Researchers have discovered a lipid called phosphatidylglycerol (PG) that may help restore healthy skin turnover in people with psoriasis. PG reduced inflammation and raised skin lesions when applied topically to a mouse model of psoriasis, suggesting it could be a new treatment option.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalJournal of Investigative Dermatology·DateNov 27, 2018

Automated technique for anime colorization using deep learning

Japanese researchers have developed a technique for automatic anime colorization using deep learning, which is based on recent advances in machine learning approaches. The technique uses a combination of image segmentation and voting techniques to refine the colorization result.

SourceNara Institute of Science and Technology·DateNov 27, 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.

How antibiotics help spread resistance

Researchers found that certain antibiotics can alter the way bacteria divide and interact with each other, leading to increased competence and the spread of antibiotic-resistant genes. Biofilms play a crucial role in this process, allowing cells to secrete higher concentrations of a peptide that triggers quorum sensing.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalCell Reports·DateNov 27, 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.

Newly discovered wasp turns social spiders into zombies

Researchers discovered a newly found species of wasp transforming social spiders into zombie-like drones, abandoning their colonies. The wasps' parasitic relationship involves injecting hormones to alter the spider's behavior, making it leave its nest and spin new structures.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalEcological Entomology·DateNov 27, 2018

Using fine-tuning for record-breaking performance

Scientists at FAU have developed a new organic molecule that absorbs more light than fullerenes and is very durable. The hybrid printed photovoltaics achieved a certified power conversion efficiency of 12.25%, setting a new record for solution-based organic single-junction solar cells.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalNature Energy·DateNov 27, 2018

Researchers aim to prevent medical imaging cyberattacks

Researchers from Ben-Gurion University of the Negev developed a system to monitor outgoing commands from CT equipment, detecting anomalies and alerting operators before execution. A second study looked at the potential to tamper with mammogram results using AI-powered image manipulation.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateNov 27, 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.

New concept for tractor beam from Star Wars developed

Researchers at ITMO University propose a new approach to creating tractor beams using hyperbolic metasurfaces, which can capture particles and cells. The study shows that these materials have the potential for practical applications in experiments and traps.

SourceITMO University·JournalACS Photonics·DateNov 27, 2018

Trial of investigational Ebola treatments begins in Democratic Republic of the Congo

A randomized, controlled trial is enrolling patients with confirmed Ebola virus disease in the Democratic Republic of Congo to compare mortality among those receiving three investigational drugs with a control group. The trial aims to establish the safety and efficacy of these treatments in a comprehensive response to combat Ebola.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·DateNov 27, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Biologists discover an unusual hallmark of aging in neurons

Researchers at MIT found a mysterious RNA buildup in neurons that increases with age, reducing protein production and potentially contributing to neurodegenerative diseases. The discovery was made using a novel technique that allowed them to isolate and sequence messenger RNA from specific types of cells.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalCell Reports·DateNov 27, 2018

Telemedicine use increases but still uncommon

Annual telemedicine visits increased from 0.02 to 6.57 per 1,000 members between 2005-2017, with growth accelerating after 2015. Most users resided in urban areas, a trend contrasting with the emphasis on expanding telemedicine access in rural regions.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateNov 27, 2018

Study explains waterhemp's metabolic resistance to topramezone

A new study reveals waterhemp's unique detoxification pathway for topramezone, making chemical control difficult. The finding suggests that the weed uses a different mechanism than corn, rendering current herbicides ineffective.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalFrontiers in Plant Science·DateNov 27, 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.

AI system may accelerate search for cancer discoveries

The LION LBD AI system is designed to assist scientists in the search for cancer-related discoveries by analyzing tens of millions of publications. By identifying indirect associations between entities, it can help researchers make new connections and discover potential links that may have been overlooked.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalBioinformatics·DateNov 27, 2018

Lobachevsky University scientists obtain a hexagonal modification of silicon

Researchers at Lobachevsky University have synthesized a hexagonal modification of silicon with enhanced optical properties, which can be used in optoelectronic integrated circuits. The material was created using ion implantation and exhibits an associated emission band in the infrared region.

SourceLobachevsky University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateNov 27, 2018

Early detection of epilepsy in children possible with deep learning computer science technique

Researchers developed a novel classification method combining brain imaging data from MRI and fMRI to recognize patients with benign epilepsy with centrotemporal spikes. This approach improved diagnosis accuracy, enabling early detection and treatment, which leads to better health outcomes for children. The study used a dataset of 40 B...

SourceGeorgia State University·JournalIET Computer Vision·DateNov 27, 2018
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Microplastics pollution in Falklands as high as UK

A new study has discovered high levels of microplastic contamination in the Falkland Islands and Ascension Island, with some areas showing comparable levels to those around the UK. The research highlights the need for standardized monitoring methods to address this growing environmental concern.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalMarine Pollution Bulletin·DateNov 27, 2018

Endurance but not resistance training has anti-aging effects

A recent study published by the European Society of Cardiology found that endurance training but not resistance training slows or reverses cellular aging. Telomerase activity and telomere length increased in volunteers who underwent endurance and high-intensity training, suggesting a potential mechanism for healthy aging.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateNov 27, 2018

Newfound mechanism may yield ways to counter mistaken immune attack on body

A recent study discovered a genetic regulatory mechanism that controls the production of interferon beta, which causes inflammation and activates immune cells. Interfering with specific enzymes involved in RNA methylation may represent a new approach to treating autoimmune diseases.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalGenes & Development·DateNov 27, 2018

Veterans study points to suicide risk from multiple brain injuries

A new Veterans Affairs study found that Iraq and Afghanistan veterans with a history of repeated traumatic brain injuries are at much greater risk for recent suicidal ideation compared to those with one TBI or none. The researchers identified poor sleep quality and depression as key risk factors for suicidal thinking.

SourceVeterans Affairs Research Communications·JournalPsychological Services·DateNov 27, 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.

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.

ASH releases new clinical practice guidelines for venous thromboembolism

The American Society of Hematology has released new clinical practice guidelines for venous thromboembolism, covering evidence-based recommendations for prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. The guidelines aim to improve care for patients with blood clots, addressing current uncertainties and variations in clinical practice.

SourceAmerican Society of Hematology·JournalBlood Advances·DateNov 27, 2018

Seven UC San Diego professors named AAAS Fellows

Seven researchers from the University of California, San Diego have been recognized as AAAS Fellows for their groundbreaking work in various fields. Robert Continetti was honored for his novel studies on molecular reaction dynamics, while Farhat Beg received recognition for his contributions to high energy density science.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateNov 27, 2018

Hacking the aging code: Big data to the rescue

Researchers use big data from medical studies and large biobanks to develop models predicting biological age, aging rate, and potential targets for future anti-aging therapies. The approach also led to the identification of wearable-based biomarkers of aging and frailty.

SourceGero·JournalFrontiers in Genetics·DateNov 27, 2018

Home videos of children can be scored to diagnose autism, Stanford study says

A new study from Stanford University School of Medicine has developed a method to diagnose autism in children using short home videos, expanding on previous feasibility studies. The researchers employed machine learning to determine relevant behavioral features and devised an algorithm to provide an overall diagnostic score.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateNov 27, 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.

Pre-pregnancy health coverage climbs after Medicaid expansion

After Medicaid expansion, low-income women in expansion states saw significant increases in preconception health coverage, rising from 43% to 57%. This led to improved access to preconception care and reduced pregnancy risks.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateNov 27, 2018

Putting hybrid-electric aircraft performance to the test

Researchers created a flight-performance simulator to test the performance of a hybrid-electric drivetrain on a Tecnam P2006T aircraft. The study found that a parallel hybrid architecture can lead to substantial improvements in fuel efficiency, particularly for short-range missions.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalJournal of Aircraft·DateNov 27, 2018

Why small size matters: Tiny mitochondria stimulate brain cell connections

Researchers discovered that small, spherical mitochondria inside brain cells help neurons grow and form proper connections. This unique shape is tied to the neuron's shape and allows for optimal calcium uptake, driving healthy axonal growth and cellular communication.

SourceThe Zuckerman Institute at Columbia University·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 27, 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.

UA researchers help discover genetic factor that can help or hurt risk for heart disease

A team of UA researchers discovered a previously unknown genetic effect that can raise or reduce the risk of coronary artery disease or ischemic stroke. People with the beneficial version of the genetic factor have less inflammatory cells lining their blood vessels, making them more resistant to building up plaque.

SourceUniversity of Arizona Health Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 27, 2018

Is your office messy? If so, you may be seen as uncaring, neurotic

Participants in three experiments rated researchers with messy offices as less conscientious, agreeable, and less neurotic than those with clean offices. The findings suggest that perceived disorganization can impact how others treat individuals in personal and professional settings.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalPersonality and Individual Differences·DateNov 27, 2018

Why screen time can disrupt sleep

Salk scientists discovered that melanopsin cells, responsible for regulating consciousness and sleep, respond to prolonged illumination, but can become desensitized. The study may lead to new treatments for migraines, insomnia, jet lag and circadian rhythm disorders.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalCell Reports·DateNov 27, 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.

Photonic radiation sensors survive huge doses undamaged

Researchers at NIST discovered that oxide-coated silicon photonic devices can withstand up to 1 million gray of radiation exposure, making them suitable for measuring radiation dose in medical and industrial applications. This breakthrough could lead to the development of precise radiation sensors for medical imaging and therapy.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 27, 2018

Drug use, religion explain 'reverse gender gap' on marijuana

A study by North Carolina State University found that women are more likely to support strict marijuana policies due to their religious beliefs and lower rates of cannabis use. Mothers, in particular, do not differ from childless women in terms of their views on marijuana policy or reported use.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalSocial Science Quarterly·DateNov 26, 2018

New technique to make objects invisible proposed

Researchers at the University of Extremadura have demonstrated electromagnetic invisibility of objects using an alternative technique based on filler cloaking. This method makes objects invisible from the interior without using any external device.

SourceUniversity of Extremadura·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 26, 2018

Health surrogates for older adults often don't know their care preferences

A new study found that only 21% of health surrogates actually know what an older adult would want in the event of a serious illness, despite 75% feeling confident in their knowledge. The researchers emphasize the need for improved advance care planning and communication between patients and their health surrogates.

SourceYale University·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateNov 26, 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.

Mere sunlight can be used to eradicate pollutants in water

Chemists at Martin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg have developed a new process that utilizes hydrated electrons to degrade dissolved pollutants. The process requires only sunlight and can be conducted outdoors with minimal equipment, offering a promising solution for water pollution remediation.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalChemistry - A European Journal·DateNov 26, 2018