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Science News Archive October 2018 - Page 39


Page 39 of 47

Evidence mounts linking aspirin to lower risk of ovarian cancer

A new study found that daily low-dose aspirin use reduces the risk of ovarian cancer by 23 percent. In contrast, heavy use of non-aspirin NSAIDs increases the risk. The research analyzed data from over 200,000 women and confirms earlier findings about aspirin's role in reducing certain types of cancers.

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateOct 4, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Amazon rainforest conservation victories spill losses to neighbors

New research reveals that reducing Amazon deforestation has led to a significant increase in natural vegetation destruction in the nearby Cerrado region. The study suggests that the unintended consequences of conservation efforts can have profound impacts on neighboring areas with significant biodiversity.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Geographical Sciences·DateOct 4, 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.

Ghost objects in the sky

Astronomers have found a new type of gamma-ray burst that could not be detected by traditional telescopes. The discovery was made using archived radio data and suggests that these 'orphan' bursts may be related to the collapse of massive stars.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateOct 4, 2018

NASA puts together a composite of Tropical Storm Kong-Rey

NASA's IMERG combined data from multiple satellites and visible imagery to create a composite picture of Tropical Storm Kong-Rey in the Northwestern Pacific Ocean. The heaviest rain fell around the center and northwest, with winds decreasing to 60 knots.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateOct 4, 2018
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.

Species-rich forests store twice as much carbon as monocultures

A large-scale forest biodiversity experiment in China found that species-rich forests stored an average of 32 tons of carbon per hectare, while monocultures averaged only 12 tons. The study suggests that a mix of tree species is necessary for optimal carbon sequestration and climate protection.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalScience·DateOct 4, 2018

In its final days, Cassini bathed in 'ring rain'

Astronomers successfully collected microscopic material streaming from Saturn's rings using Cassini's Cosmic Dust Analyzer and Radio and Plasma Wave Science instruments. The research reveals that the main component of Saturn's rings is water ice, with tiny silicates also present.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalScience·DateOct 4, 2018

Detecting fake news, at its source

Researchers from MIT CSAIL developed a system that uses machine learning to determine if a news source is accurate or biased. The system achieved 65% accuracy in detecting factuality levels and 70% accuracy in detecting bias, using common linguistic features across the source's stories.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology, CSAIL·DateOct 4, 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.

UCLA researchers discover aggressive prostate and lung cancers are driven by common mechanisms

Researchers at UCLA have discovered that late-stage prostate and lung cancers share common molecular mechanisms. The study found that these cancers can evolve similarly, even from different organs, which could lead to the development of drugs to treat not just prostate and lung cancers but also small cell cancers of almost any organ.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalScience·DateOct 4, 2018

Uncovering the exquisite choreography of the developing human heart

Researchers report on the most in-depth study to date of how human stem cells can be turned into heart cells, revealing unique patterns of gene activity associated with cardiac cell development. The findings provide new insights into how the heart builds itself and may lead to new approaches for repairing damaged hearts.

SourceGarvan Institute of Medical Research·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateOct 4, 2018

Windier wind farms

Researchers at UCSB and Cambridge developed models to optimize wind farm productivity by improving airflow mixing and using vertical-axis turbines, potentially leading to orders-of-magnitude improvements in energy production. This could enable more efficient use of land and reduce costs.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalPhysical Review Fluids·DateOct 4, 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.

At-risk teens and young adults overlooked during opioid crisis

A recent study found that at-risk teens and young adults are not being tested for hepatitis C, a serious liver infection, despite their risk of contracting it. The study, which analyzed data from over 250,000 youth, suggests that current guidelines underestimate who is at risk for the infection.

SourceInfectious Diseases Society of America·DateOct 4, 2018

How malaria infection activates natural killer cells

A study published in PLOS Pathogens reveals how malaria infection triggers the immune system's first line of defense by activating natural killer cells through the MDA5 receptor. Treatment with a small molecule that activates MDA5 restores the ability of non-responder natural killer cells to clear infected red blood cells.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateOct 4, 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.

Nanoparticles to treat snakebites

Researchers developed nanoparticles that bind to venom toxins, mitigating local damage and systemic distribution of toxins in mouse experiments. The treatment has the potential to be administered subcutaneously after a bite, offering a new approach to treating snakebites in rural settings.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateOct 4, 2018

Determining cell fate and the onset of Crohn's disease

A UH biologist is using a new grant to study how defects in cellular cross-talk lead to Crohn's disease. By examining stem cells isolated from patients, she hopes to find new targets for drug development and reduce inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateOct 4, 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.

Part-organic invention can be used in bendable mobile phones

Researchers at Australian National University have developed a thin and flexible semiconductor material that can convert electricity into light efficiently. The invention opens the door to biodegradable or recyclable electronic devices, reducing e-waste and environmental damage.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateOct 4, 2018

Successful mouse couples talk out infidelity in calm tones

A study by researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison found that California mice who communicate calmly after infidelity are more likely to produce a litter of mouse pups and have good fathers. The quality of their conversations helps predict pair bond success, with less aggressive vocalizations indicating a stronger bond.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and Evolution·DateOct 4, 2018

Even small gifts boost business

A study by the University of Zurich found that even small gifts can significantly increase sales, particularly when given to the boss. In a controlled experiment, sales representatives gave customers six tubes of toothpaste worth around 10 francs, leading to orders almost twice as high.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalManagement Science·DateOct 4, 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.

Light makes Rice University catalyst more effective

Rice University researchers have created a new catalyst that can convert ammonia into hydrogen fuel at ambient pressure using light energy, significantly lowering the activation barrier. The catalyst, made of copper with trace amounts of ruthenium, uses plasmonic effects to enhance its efficiency.

SourceRice University·JournalScience·DateOct 4, 2018

Genetic mutation may increase risk of pancreatic cancer in females

A study found that female-specific genetic mutation ATRX increases susceptibility to pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer. The research team discovered that deleting the gene in females led to increased progression to cancer, while males with the mutation experienced reduced risk of injury and progression to cancer.

SourceLawson Research Institute·JournalCellular and Molecular Gastroenterology and Hepatology·DateOct 4, 2018

Ground shaking during devastating flood offers new insights

A recent study found that glacial lake outbursts can trigger massive erosion and landslides, causing widespread damage to infrastructure. The research, published in Science, suggests that non-climatological drivers such as earthquakes and climate change may play a significant role in shaping fluvial erosion rates.

SourceGFZ GeoForschungsZentrum Potsdam, Helmholtz Centre·JournalScience·DateOct 4, 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.

HZB researchers are used to boost the efficiency of silicon solar cells

Researchers at HZB integrated a thin layer of singlet fission-capable tetracene crystals into a silicon solar cell, successfully generating two pairs of charge carriers simultaneously. This breakthrough increases the quantum efficiency to 200 percent and brings the theoretical efficiency limit closer to 40 percent.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalMaterials Horizons·DateOct 4, 2018

Immune cell variations contribute to malaria severity

Researchers found that natural killer cells fail to respond to malaria infection in some patients, leading to more severe disease outcomes. By identifying key genes involved, they discovered a potential therapeutic target using poly I:C treatment.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateOct 4, 2018

SMU engineering professors receive NSF grant to improve drone communications

Southern Methodist University professors receive an $849,839 NSF grant to build a multi-dimensional drone communication framework, addressing three-dimensional connectivity issues. The project aims to optimize transmission to intended receivers in various swarm formations, with potential applications in commercial and military sectors.

SourceSouthern Methodist University·DateOct 4, 2018

A new take on the 19th-century skull collection of Samuel Morton

A new study on Samuel Morton's 19th-century skull collection found that while Morton accurately measured brain size, his conclusions on racial intelligence were based on racist biases. The analysis of handwritten documentation revealed systematic underestimations of African cranial capacity due to inconsistent data collection methods.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalPLOS Biology·DateOct 4, 2018
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.

Special issue: Gas giant planets

This special issue of Science presents research on Cassini's final transmissions to Earth, revealing new observations and insights into Saturn's atmosphere and rings. The studies found that water, methane, and organic-rich material fall into the planet's atmosphere, modifying its composition and structure.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateOct 4, 2018

Large-scale wind power needs more land, causes more climatic impact than previously thought

Researchers found that large-scale wind farms would require five to 20 times more land area than previously estimated, and their operation would warm average surface temperatures by 0.24 degrees Celsius in the continental US. The study suggests that localized warming occurs even with smaller projections of wind power generation.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalJoule·DateOct 4, 2018

UMN researchers use 3D technology to identify optimal stem cells for transplantation

Researchers at the University of Minnesota Medical School have discovered a subset of muscle stem cells that are located close to blood vessels and are likely to be the more potent stem cell population in maintaining muscle health. This groundbreaking study uses 3D technology to study the interaction between stem cells and blood vessel...

SourceUniversity of Minnesota Medical School·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateOct 4, 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.

Physician experts highlight research ahead of Otolaryngology's Annual Meeting

The American Academy of Otolaryngology will present cutting-edge research on various otolaryngology topics at their Annual Meeting. Key studies include evaluating the prognostic utility of hemoglobin-to-red cell distribution width ratio in head and neck cancer, investigating the association between depression and long-term overall surv...

SourceAmerican Academy of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery·DateOct 4, 2018

Rethinking lethality in youth suicide attempts

A Mayo Clinic study found that firearms were involved in 85% of first-time youth suicides, resulting in high lethality rates. The study also revealed that prior mental health concerns were absent in 41.2% of youth index attempters.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateOct 4, 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.

Solving a medical mystery: Cause of rare type of dwarfism discovered

Scientists have identified the cause of Saul-Wilson syndrome, a rare type of dwarfism characterized by short stature and developmental delays. A single spontaneous gene change alters protein packaging in the cell's Golgi complex, affecting protein function and stability.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateOct 4, 2018

Gastric banding as effective as metformin in slowing prediabetes, type two diabetes

A study funded by NIH found that gastric banding is as effective as metformin in stabilizing disease for people with prediabetes or new-onset type 2 diabetes. Participants who underwent gastric banding surgery lost significantly more weight and showed similar improvements in insulin sensitivity compared to those taking metformin.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases·JournalDiabetes Care·DateOct 4, 2018

Adherence to annual lung cancer screening needs improvement

A study found that despite a well-designed low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) screening program, only 77.6% of eligible veterans underwent annual repeat scans. This highlights the need for improved adherence to lung cancer screening to maximize mortality benefits and cost-efficacy.

SourceAmerican College of Chest Physicians·DateOct 4, 2018

Viruses in blood lead to digestive problems

Researchers found that viruses like West Nile and Zika can kill neurons in the gut, disrupting bowel movement and causing intestinal blockages. The study provides clues to sudden onset of digestive woes and potentially points to a new strategy for preventing such conditions.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalCell·DateOct 4, 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.

Malaria parasites adapt to mosquito feeding times, study shows

Malaria parasites have evolved to replicate in sync with mosquitoes' feeding cycles, causing regular bouts of fever. Scientists discovered that these parasites are more infectious to mosquitoes during the day, and their replication patterns likely evolved to optimize transmission.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·DateOct 4, 2018

Community health workers could help tackle NHS workload crisis

A modelling study suggests that integrating community health workers at scale could significantly reduce the NHS primary care workload crisis. The researchers estimate that 110,585 community health workers would be needed to cover England's general practice population, costing £2.22bn annually.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of the Royal Society of Medicine·DateOct 4, 2018

Concerns about a US defense agency program aimed at modifying crops (and more?)

A US defense agency program aims to genetically modify crops using infectious viruses, sparking concerns about its potential military applications and the risk of creating new biological weapons. The approach, known as HEGAAs, would deliver the viruses through insects, raising questions about transparency and public deliberation.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateOct 4, 2018