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Science News Archive October 2018


Page 8 of 47

Surprising network activity in the immature brain

Researchers discovered robust long-range patterns of correlated spontaneous activity in immature ferrets, contradicting expectations. These early activity patterns served as a template for the development of mature distributed networks, suggesting that 'local connections build a network activity scaffold'.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Gut microbiota products can favor diabetes

Researchers at Sahlgrenska Academy discovered that gut microbiota in people with type 2 diabetes produces a substance impairing insulin response. This finding highlights the importance of diet and gut microbiota interaction in understanding metabolism in health and disease.

Earth's dust cloud satellites confirmed

Researchers have confirmed the existence of two elusive clouds of dust in semi-stable orbits around the Earth, known as Kordylewski clouds. The observations were made using a linearly polarising filter system attached to a camera lens at Judit Slíz-Balogh's private observatory in Hungary.

Mouse study suggests vaccine strategy for immunocompromised patients

Researchers have identified a cellular target that may improve vaccine efficacy in immunocompromised individuals, who are highly susceptible to fungal infections. The study found that targeting CBLB, a protein important in regulating immune response, can elicit immunity through a unique T cell pathway.

Concussion and college football: how many hits to the head is too much?

Researchers found that cumulative head impact exposure plays a role in the occurrence of concussive injuries in some college football athletes, with 72% experiencing more impacts before the concussion occurred. The study supports policies to limit head impact exposure during training and games.

Testing cells for cancer drug resistance

Biophysicists at Ruhr-University Bochum developed a Raman microscopy method to detect cancer drug resistance in tumour cells. The new approach shows effectiveness in non-mutated cells but remains ineffective in mutated cells, similar to clinical observations.

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.

Fruit fly study challenges theories on evolution and high-carb diets

Researchers found that fruit flies with a specific mitochondrial DNA mutation thrived on high-carbohydrate diets, while those without the mutation stagnated on protein-rich diets. The study suggests a potential link between this mutation and human health issues related to carbohydrate intake.

Five out of five? Study reveals psychological influences in online reviews

A study by University of East Anglia researchers found that the length of time between product consumption and posting affects review quality, with early reviews being more negative and later ones more positive. The study also discovered that geographical and cultural distances influence how reviewers rate experiences.

Baby's tears and mom's libido

Researchers at the University of Tokyo found that a substance in young mice's tears makes female mice more likely to reject male sexual advances. The study aims to develop a natural mouse birth control method by adding a specific pheromone molecule to drinking water, which could reduce mouse populations and alleviate pest control issues.

Shielded quantum bits

A team of physicists at the University of Konstanz has developed a theoretical concept to shield electric and magnetic noise, extending the coherence time of spin qubits. This enables thousands of computer operations to be carried out in fractions of a second, paving the way for more efficient quantum computing.

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.

High on the highway -- stoned-driving on the increase

The article discusses the rise of cannabis-intoxicated driving in the US and challenges surrounding detecting THC levels. Stoned-driving poses a significant accident risk, particularly when combined with alcohol or other substances.

Loss of work productivity in a warming world

A global online survey found that heat-related work productivity loss varies significantly between developed and developing countries. The study estimated average WPL losses of 3.5 days for developed countries and 6.6 days for developing countries under different warming scenarios.

Diagnosing strokes is complicated by 'mimics' and 'chameleons'

Stroke specialists often see conditions known as stroke mimics and 'chameleons' that can mimic ischemic strokes, making accurate diagnosis complicated. Accurate diagnosis requires a detailed history and neurologic examination to avoid administering clot-busting drugs incorrectly.

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.

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.

Cappuccino made with jackfruit seed flour has chocolate aroma

A study conducted in Brazil found that roasted jackfruit seeds can replace between 50% and 75% of cocoa powder in milk and coffee used to make cappuccino without impairing flavor or aroma. The researchers developed an instant powder containing coffee with milk and chocolate, which can be a potential substitute for traditional cappuccino.

Financial education key to reducing student loan stress

A recent study by University of Missouri researcher Lu Fan found that nearly two-thirds of student loan borrowers lack adequate financial literacy to manage their debt. The study also revealed that women are more likely to feel anxious about their student loans, while men tend to be less concerned and more likely to miss payments.

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.

Brainwave activity reveals potential biomarker for autism in children

A team of researchers at Kanazawa University used magnetoencephalography to monitor brainwaves in children with autism spectrum disorder and those developing typically. The study found significant differences in motor-related gamma oscillations, suggesting a potential biomarker for autism diagnosis.

Sex, drugs and estradiol: why cannabis affects women differently

A new review of animal studies reveals that sex differences in response to cannabis are not just socio-cultural, but biological too. Estradiol affects control of movement, social behavior and filtering of sensory input via modulation of the endocannabinoid system.

Pitt's Susan Fullerton receives AAAS Award for Women in the Chemical Sciences

Dr. Susan Fullerton, a researcher at the University of Pittsburgh, has received the 2019 Marion Milligan Mason Award for her novel work on ion transport and next-generation electronic devices. The award recognizes her contributions to advancing women in the chemical sciences and provides funding and leadership development opportunities.

First study on climate change impact in Mediterranean

A new study published in Nature Climate Change synthesizes the effects of climate change and environmental problems in the Mediterranean region. The research highlights interconnected risks to sustainable development, including water scarcity, biodiversity loss, and human security threats.

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.

OU professors to lead global research on bluegreen algae in freshwaters

A global research team led by OU professors Karl D. Hambright and Lee R. Krumholz is investigating the complex interactions between cyanobacteria and associated bacteria in freshwater blooms. The team aims to discover new avenues for bloom mitigation through a deeper understanding of microbial co-evolution.

Novel insights into the heart health benefits of cocoa flavanols and procyanidins

A new study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that cocoa flavanols, especially (−)-epicatechin, improve blood vessel function and lower blood pressure. Flavanol-only groups experienced all benefits, while procyanidin-enriched extracts showed reduced cholesterol without improvements in vascular effects.

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.

High-impact clinical trials yield results that could improve kidney care

Recent clinical trials have shown promising results in reducing progression of kidney disease and improving cardiovascular outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes. These trials investigated the effects of linagliptin, a DPP inhibitor, on kidney outcomes, as well as high-dose versus low-dose intravenous iron therapy for hemodialysis p...

Nephrologists may need more training in women's health issues

A recent study has found that nephrologists often lack confidence in managing various women's health issues, including menstrual disorders and menopause. The survey of 154 nephrologists revealed inconsistent documentation of obstetric history, highlighting the need for improved patient-centered care.

Link between what we see and how we remember 'breaks' as we get older

Researchers at Baycrest's Rotman Research Institute found that older adults exhibit greater eye movements but weaker brain activity when forming memories from visual information. This breaks the usual linkage between what we see and how we remember, leading to unfamiliar objects despite repeated viewing.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

'Navigator' neurons play critical role in sense of smell

Researchers identified 'navigator' neurons that play a key role in establishing the olfactory map and correcting faulty connections. These neurons, which only exist during early development, undergo exuberant axon growth and have distinct molecular signatures.

Turning cells against pancreatic cancer

Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory have identified molecular signals that can convert tumor-promoting fibroblasts into beneficial ones in pancreatic tumors. By manipulating these signals, they aim to recruit tumor-restricting cells into the anticancer fight and develop a combination therapy approach.

Easier treatment for blinding eye disease shows promise in clinical trial

Researchers have developed an implantable delivery system that enables patients to go 15 months in between treatments, significantly improving the conventional regimen of nearly monthly eye injections. The study found that patients treated with the highest drug concentration were able to maintain their vision for a longer period.

Bioactive novel compounds from endangered tropical plant species

Researchers at Kanazawa University have identified three new compounds from the leaves of a threatened tropical plant species with potent antiproliferative activities against various human tumor cell lines. The study highlights the potential of rainforest plants as a rich source of bioactive natural products for cancer drug discovery.

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.

3D 'organ on a chip' could accelerate search for new disease treatments

Researchers have developed a 3D 'organ on a chip' that enables real-time continuous monitoring of cells, which could lead to the development of new treatments for diseases. The device allows scientists to study cells and tissues in new ways, mimicking the body's native three-dimensional environments.

Tampering with cellular fats holds great promise

Engineers boosted cells' ability to produce unsaturated lipids, leading to increased membrane respiration and growth rate. This knowledge could improve biofuel production and develop new treatments for diseases like type 2 diabetes.

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.

Large cells for tiny leaves

Researchers at the Max Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research have discovered a protein called LMI1 that regulates leaf growth and shape. The study found that LMI1 limits cell division, preventing cells from developing into other types and reducing the size of organs.

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

New data provides guidance for management of moderately dysplastic moles

A study of moderately dysplastic moles found that patients who received close observation did not develop melanoma at the site of the excised mole, but had a higher risk of developing melanoma at a separate site. The findings suggest that dysplastic moles are not precursors to melanoma, but rather a risk factor.

Texas Governor's Office honors four UTA disability programs

Four UTA disability programs received the Martha Arbuckle Award for their innovative local committee projects. These initiatives focus on recruiting and retaining students with disabilities, training the general workforce about disabilities, driving disability-related research, and helping UTA reach full compliance with disability righ...

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.

Tracing the lineages of the mammalian gut community

A new study reveals that the unique compositions of bacteria in mice' guts are inherited from parents and remain stable over generations. The dominant mode of transmission is vertical inheritance, but some bacterial pathogens can be transmitted horizontally, possibly due to increased oxygen tolerance.

Study of 500,000 people clarifies the risks of obesity

A new study using genetic-based approach reveals that being overweight increases the risk of death from all causes, including cardiovascular diseases and various cancers. The study found that even within the normal weight range, a lower body mass index is associated with improved survival rates.

CCNY study breaks Förster resonant energy transfer (FRET) distance limit

A City College of New York-led research team breaks the Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) distance limit using engineered nanocomposite structures called metamaterials. This breakthrough enables the possibility of measuring larger molecular assemblies, with significant increase in energy transfer distance reported.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Can we limit global warming to 1.5 °C?

A special issue published in Energy Efficiency Journal outlines how carbon emissions can be reduced through demand-side approaches, including transport sector strategies such as telecommuting, public transport, and vehicle electrification.