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Science News Archive October 2018 - Page 7


Page 7 of 47

User-friendly tools help older adults guide future medical care

A study by UCSF researchers found that user-friendly websites and easy-to-read advance directives can increase engagement in advance care planning among older adults. The PREPARE For Your Care website showed promise for empowering diverse populations, with high levels of new advance care planning documentation in medical records.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateOct 29, 2018

New guidelines on best practices for videoconferencing-based telemental health

The American Psychiatric Association and the American Telemedicine Association have released new best practices for videoconferencing-based mental health services, covering topics such as emergency situations, technical considerations, and patient selection. These guidelines aim to enhance the delivery of effective and safe telemental ...

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalTelemedicine and e-Health·DateOct 29, 2018

Animal species becoming extinct in Haiti as deforestation nearly complete

Deforestation in Haiti has led to the loss of primary forest cover on 42 of its 50 largest mountains. This has resulted in mass extinctions among reptiles, amphibians, and other vertebrates. The study's findings suggest that over the next two decades, all of Haiti's remaining primary forest will be lost.

SourceOregon State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 29, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

One in 10 people may opt-out of proposed organ donor system

A new study found that around one in 10 people are considering opting out of a proposed new system that aims to increase organ donation by presuming consent. The research suggests that campaigns targeting feelings and emotions may be more effective than interventions that present facts.

SourceUniversity of Stirling·JournalBritish Journal of Health Psychology·DateOct 29, 2018

Severity of crime increases jury's belief in guilt

A new Duke study reveals that mock jurors' confidence in guilt increases with the severity of the alleged crime, regardless of evidence. The study found that DNA and non-DNA physical evidence have a significant impact on jurors' decisions, while prior convictions have less effect.

SourceDuke University·DateOct 29, 2018

Anti-cancer virus fits tumor receptor like a 'key in a lock'

Scientists have discovered how the Seneca Valley Virus interacts with tumor receptors, allowing it to selectively target cancer cells while sparing healthy tissues. The study provides detailed images of the virus and its receptor, enabling researchers to design improved cancer therapies.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 29, 2018

Tumor-associated coordinates of circulating DNA

Scientists discovered millions of tumor-associated end coordinates in circulating DNA from hepatocellular carcinoma patients. This detection method could enhance the cost-effectiveness of liquid cancer biopsies by identifying cancer biomarkers more readily.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 29, 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.

Researchers create scalable platform for on-chip quantum emitters

Scientists at Stevens Institute of Technology and Columbia University have developed a method to create large numbers of quantum light sources on a chip with unprecedented precision. The new platform enables the creation of single-photon emitters in defined locations, leading to record-high firing rates and improved efficiency.

SourceStevens Institute of Technology·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateOct 29, 2018

Texas A&M leads $5.7 million research project to attack annual bluegrass

A team of scientists will investigate solutions to limit the impact of annual bluegrass on turf systems, evaluating cultural practices and non-chemical management options. The project aims to improve profitability and social benefits for sod production farms, golf courses, athletic fields, and residential turf systems.

SourceTexas A&M AgriLife Communications·DateOct 29, 2018

Thrill-seeking, search for meaning fuel political violence

A recent study published by the American Psychological Association found that people's search for meaning in life is strongly associated with a need for excitement and support for political violence. The researchers suggest that providing thrilling but non-violent alternatives may help curb the impulse to harm.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateOct 29, 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.

'Milder' ammonia synthesis method should help environment

A Chinese research team has developed a new chemical looping process for synthesizing ammonia from nitrogen gas, water, and renewable energy. The process offers great promise for saving energy and reducing carbon dioxide emissions, potentially addressing the challenges of the energy and environmental crisis.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Energy·DateOct 29, 2018

Oral curcumin shows no benefit in reducing inflammation following vascular surgery

A recent study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal found that oral curcumin did not reduce inflammation or improve outcomes in patients undergoing elective abdominal aortic aneurysm repair. In fact, the study showed an increased risk of post-surgical kidney damage in patients taking curcumin.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateOct 29, 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.

Manganese may finally solve hydrogen fuel cells' catalyst problem

Researchers have discovered a new catalyst made from manganese that is comparable in ability to split water as platinum and other metal-based alternatives. The stability of the catalyst makes it potentially suitable for hydrogen fuel cells, which could lead to wide-scale adoption of the technology.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalNature Catalysis·DateOct 29, 2018

Inside these fibers, droplets are on the move

Researchers at MIT have developed a new method to process larger volumes of fluid using individual fibers, overcoming limitations in traditional microfluidic devices. This innovation enables the detection of rare substances, such as cancerous cells among millions of normal cells.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 29, 2018

Novel quantum dots enhance cell imaging

Researchers developed novel quantum dots for enhanced mRNA FISH, achieving accurate RNA counting and 3D cell imaging. The new probe overcomes FISH limitations with compact quantum dots, providing stable and efficient labeling.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 29, 2018

Free movement can protect humans from environmental threats

Researchers find that greater freedom of movement and social opportunities can help vulnerable populations adapt to climate change. Policies giving people more freedoms reduce the impact of environmental changes on these groups.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalAnnual Review of Environment and Resources·DateOct 29, 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.

Tobacco smoking pre-dated European contact in Pacific Northwest

Researchers found biomarkers of nicotine in 1,200-year-old stone pipes from the Columbia River Basin, challenging the idea that bearberry was the main ritual smoke plant. The discovery establishes a history of ritual tobacco use in the interior Pacific Northwest, informing education and smoking abatement programs.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 29, 2018

Study: Coal power plant regulations neglect a crucial pollutant

A study by Rice University researchers found that Texas would be healthier with stronger limits on sulfur dioxide emissions from coal plants. The study analyzed 13 coal plants and concluded that particulate matter is the deadliest air pollutant, causing respiratory diseases, heart attacks, and strokes.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of the Air & Waste Management Association·DateOct 29, 2018

Can attending a top high school reduce teens' marijuana abuse?

Students from lower-income neighborhoods who attended top-performing Los Angeles County high schools were less likely to abuse marijuana. Attending one of these schools was linked to lower marijuana use, fewer peers abusing drugs, and improved academic performance.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateOct 29, 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.

Scientists neutralize reactive nitrogen molecules to enhance cancer immunotherapy

Researchers at the University of Notre Dame have found a way to inhibit T-cell activation by targeting nitration of an amino acid in cancer cells. This approach could enhance cancer immunotherapy by identifying activity-based markers and designing approaches that shut down specific mechanisms inhibiting T-cell activation.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 29, 2018

Interior Northwest Indians used tobacco long before European contact

Researchers at Washington State University have uncovered evidence of ancient tobacco smoking in the interior Pacific Northwest dating back over 1,200 years. The study's findings challenge long-held views on the region's pre-contact smoking practices and highlight the sophistication of indigenous cultures in managing plants and animals.

SourceWashington State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 29, 2018

Insights into melanoma initiation offer new therapeutic opportunities

Researchers at VIB and KU Leuven uncovered a critical role of the long non-coding RNA SAMMSON in boosting protein synthesis, enabling unrestrained cell growth. The study identifies SAMMSON as an essential step in melanoma initiation.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateOct 29, 2018

Berkeley computer theorists show path to verifying that quantum beats classical

Researchers at UC Berkeley have developed a practical proposal known as random circuit sampling (RCS) to prove quantum supremacy in quantum computers. This technique uses complex mathematical constructs to demonstrate the 'quantum accent' of a device, making it difficult for classical computers to replicate.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNature Physics·DateOct 29, 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.

Experimental vaccine may reduce post-stroke blood clot risk

A new experimental vaccine has shown to reduce the risk of secondary strokes caused by blood clots for over two months without triggering an autoimmune response. The vaccine, S100A9, provides protection against blood clot formation and works as well as oral blood thinner clopidogrel in a major artery.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateOct 29, 2018

Studies raise questions over how epigenetic information is inherited

Researchers from the University of Cambridge found that epigenetic marks are reprogrammed from one generation to the next, contradicting previous theories. Only a small percentage of variably-methylated transposable elements showed evidence of epigenetic inheritance.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateOct 29, 2018

Truck driver pain and discomfort can be alleviated

A Canadian study found that truck drivers experience high rates of musculoskeletal pain and discomfort, with factors including organizational safety climate, job satisfaction, and physical fitness contributing to the issue. The study identified potential solutions, such as holistic programs addressing multiple risk factors, and encoura...

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalJournal of Transport & Health·DateOct 29, 2018

At least one year between pregnancies reduces risks for mother and baby

A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that waiting at least 18 months between pregnancies reduces risks for both mothers and babies. The research suggests that a gap of 12-18 months is the optimal interval, with risks to the mother decreasing significantly after this period.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateOct 29, 2018

Imaging collaboration sheds new light on cancer growth

Researchers have discovered how cancer cells' cell replication is derailed, leading to rapid tumour expansion. The findings could help predict how cancer cells respond to chemotherapy and improve understanding of cancer evolution.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalCell Cycle·DateOct 28, 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.

Diabetes medication may protect against a common cause of blindness

A new study published by the American Academy of Ophthalmology suggests that taking metformin, a common diabetes medication, can lower the risk of age-related macular degeneration. Researchers found that patients who took metformin had half as many cases of AMD compared to those who did not.

SourceAmerican Academy of Ophthalmology·DateOct 28, 2018

Australia's changing relationship with alcohol

A recent study by La Trobe University found that Australians are re-evaluating their relationship with alcohol, with younger adults being key drivers of change. The research revealed that 30% of Aussies have reduced their drink intake and 6% have quit drinking altogether.

SourceLa Trobe University·JournalAlcohol and Alcoholism·DateOct 28, 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.

Does the US discard too many transplantable kidneys?

A study comparing transplant data from the US and France reveals that approximately 2,000 donated kidneys are discarded annually in the US, despite a shortage of organs. Adopting greater willingness to accept higher-risk donor groups could provide an additional 132,445 allograft life-years.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·DateOct 27, 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.

RSC Thermal Methods Group Chairman takes inaugural award at ESTAC

Professor Ted Charsley, a leading authority on thermal analysis, received the prestigious David Dollimore ESTAC Award at the 12th European Symposium on Thermal Analysis and Calorimetry. He was recognized for his outstanding contributions to the field of thermal analysis and calorimetry.

SourceUniversity of Huddersfield·DateOct 26, 2018

NASA's IMERG reveals Hurricane Willa's rainfall

Hurricane Willa produced heavy rainfall totals over 20 inches in the Pacific Ocean off Mexico's coast, with 15 inches in parts of Mexico and Southeastern Texas. NASA's IMERG data analysis revealed these extreme rainfall accumulations using satellite data from the GPM Constellation.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateOct 26, 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.

NASA's Aqua Satellite tracks super Typhoon Yutu's oblong eye

NASA's Aqua satellite captured visible images of Super Typhoon Yutu, showing an oblong eye surrounded by powerful thunderstorms. The storm underwent an eyewall replacement cycle, resulting in a contracting eye and weakening winds before strengthening again as the outer eye wall contracts.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateOct 26, 2018

I will drink to that

Researchers at Nara Institute of Science and Technology identify PP2A B55δ as a major regulator of alcohol fermentation by yeast. Understanding this molecular pathway could lead to ways to chemically enhance production of fermented beverages like sake.

SourceNara Institute of Science and Technology·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateOct 26, 2018

Getting the most out of atmospheric data analysis

A team of researchers has developed a mutual information approach to interpreting atmospheric data collected over an 18-year period, finding strong correlations between new-particle formation and water content, sulfuric acid concentration, temperature, and relative humidity.

SourceKanazawa University·JournalAtmospheric Chemistry and Physics·DateOct 26, 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.

Study: Animal migration requires both movement corridors and food

Mule deer migration routes in Wyoming reveal a strong link between fitness and nutritional condition. The research identifies landscape features that facilitate movement and access to forage, while also highlighting the importance of avoiding human disturbance.

SourceUniversity of Wyoming·JournalEcological Applications·DateOct 26, 2018

Debunked the effectiveness of glasses for color blind people

Researchers debunked the effectiveness of EnChroma glasses for color blind individuals, showing they do not improve color vision or correct color blindness. The study used 48 volunteers and multiple testing methods, concluding that the glasses' effect is similar to those used for specific activities, such as hunting.

SourceUniversity of Granada·JournalOptics Express·DateOct 26, 2018

When it comes to respiratory effects of wood smoke, sex matters

A recent study found that wood smoke exposure results in higher inflammatory markers for male subjects and lower inflammatory markers for female subjects. The researchers suggest that sex-specific effects may be missed when lumping data together, emphasizing the need to consider sex-specific responses when studying environmental pollut...

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateOct 26, 2018

Humans help robots learn tasks

Researchers at Stanford University have created two frameworks, RoboTurk and SURREAL, that enable humans to teach robots basic skills more efficiently. The systems allow people to direct robot arms to perform tasks like picking up objects in real-time using a smartphone and browser.

SourceStanford University·DateOct 26, 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.

Business education program focused on East Asia

Virginia Tech will create an international business education program focusing on East Asia with the new grant. The program will integrate language and culture studies through coursework, study abroad, and internships in China, Korea, and Southeast Asia.

SourceVirginia Tech·DateOct 26, 2018