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Science News Archive 2019


Page 112 of 486

CDC designates UMass Amherst a flu forecasting Center of Excellence

The University of Massachusetts Amherst has been selected as a CDC Influenza Forecasting Center of Excellence, receiving up to $3 million in funding to develop accurate flu forecasting models. The team will work closely with the CDC and collaborate with industry partners to improve public health response and communication.

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.

CDC funds Carnegie Mellon's Flu Forecasting Center

Carnegie Mellon University has been designated as a CDC flu forecasting center of excellence, receiving $3 million in funding to develop more accurate forecasting tools. The new center will also explore how to effectively communicate forecast information to the public and leaders.

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.

Exploring mysteries of the universe

A team led by Prof Swati Singh is exploring the use of quantum systems to study astrophysical phenomena. They are developing smaller detectors that can be used to detect weak forces exerted by dark matter and gravitational waves, which could provide new insights into these mysteries.

The deeper these octopuses live, the wartier their skin

Researchers discovered that warty and smooth-skinned octopuses from different depths are the same species. The deeper they live, the bumpier their skin and smaller their bodies. Genetic analysis confirmed these findings, indicating that environmental factors, such as food availability, influence the animals' appearance.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Mapping normal breast development to better understand cancer

Researchers used state-of-the-art technology to profile each cell during normal breast development, creating a molecular map to understand how breast tissues are formed and maintained. The team found that cells were already poised to become either basal or luminal cells before birth, with abnormal alterations leading to tumor development.

How to keep cool in a blackout during a heatwave

Researchers found that applying normal tap water to the chest, arms, back, legs, and face with a sponge lowered cardiovascular strain and halved dehydration rates compared to just drinking water. Immersing feet in water was also effective, but not as effective as self-dousing.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

A simple way to control swarming molecular machines

Researchers at Hokkaido University developed a method to control swarming molecular machines using simple mechanical stimuli, exhibiting zigzag patterns or forming vortices. The system uses motor proteins and microtubules, which can self-repair after disruption.

DNA metabarcoding useful for analyzing human diet

A new study demonstrates DNA metabarcoding can amplify and sequence plant DNA from human stool, tracking dietary intake with high accuracy. The method has potential for characterizing animal and fungal components of human diets, offering a promising alternative to traditional assessment techniques.

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.

Weight stigma affects gay men on dating apps

A University of Waterloo study found that Grindr's anonymous nature and lack of size inclusivity contribute to weight stigma among gay men, leading to body dissatisfaction and sexual objectification. Protective factors like positive self-esteem and social support can mitigate these effects.

Scientists discover new antibiotic in tropical forest

Researchers have discovered a new antibiotic, phazolicin, produced by a soil bacterium from a Mexican tropical forest that can prevent harmful bacteria from growing in plant roots. The findings suggest the potential for using this bacterium as a 'plant probiotic' to improve crop health and resistance to disease.

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.

Yale study examines shifts in fertility rates among Generation X women

A Yale-led study found that total fertility rates (TFRs) increased across all educational groups in Generation X women, with the greatest increase seen in college-educated women. College-educated women tend to have a three-child norm, driven by a larger proportion of those with two children having a third child.

Fun run

A University of California - Santa Barbara mechanical engineer's simple running hack uses a light resistance band to increase efficiency by approximately 6.4%. The device optimizes the work needed to swing legs, reducing energy required during each impact with the ground and allowing for shorter strides.

Who is telling the truth about their health?

A study published in PLOS ONE found that self-reported health data can be highly biased depending on the country or age group. Researchers compared self-reported measures with tested equivalents and found significant differences in reporting behavior between countries and age groups. This highlights the importance of treating self-repo...

Modern family roles improve life satisfaction for parents

The study found that modern family roles have closed the 'maternal happiness gap', with mothers and women without children having similar life satisfaction. Meanwhile, fathers' life satisfaction has increased as they take on more active roles in childcare.

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.

Creating a single phonon in ambient conditions

Physicists at EPFL's Institute of Physics have successfully created a single phonon in ambient conditions, allowing them to study quantum phenomena in naturally occurring materials. The breakthrough enables the creation of room-temperature ultrafast quantum technologies with potential applications in various fields.

Badger behavior inside the cull zone

A study by ZSL and Imperial College London found that badgers covered 61% more land each month after a population was culled. Surviving badgers visited 45% more fields and increased the odds of visiting neighboring territories, potentially increasing TB transmission risk to both cattle and other badgers.

Forward or backward? New pathways for protons in water or methanol

Researchers have discovered a new mechanism for proton transfer between acids and bases, involving hydroxide/methoxide ions rather than hydrated excess protons. This breakthrough has significant implications for aqueous proton transport in solutions, hydrogen fuel cells, and transmembrane proteins.

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.

Using machine learning to understand climate change

Researchers have developed a machine learning model to predict global ocean methane emissions, providing a more accurate understanding of the atmosphere's methane cycle. The study reveals that very shallow coastal waters contribute around 50% of total ocean methane emissions, despite making up only 5% of the ocean area.

Children's language skills may be harmed by social hardship

Research suggests that children from economically deprived areas are three times more likely to have speech, language and communication concerns than their more affluent peers. This study highlights the need for policies addressing social factors that impact language development.

Pressure runs high at edge of solar system

Researchers have measured pressure at the edge of the solar system for the first time, finding it to be greater than expected. The pressure, caused by plasma, magnetic fields and particles like ions and cosmic rays, was calculated using observations of galactic cosmic rays from NASA's Voyager spacecraft.

HHS awards major funding award to WFIRM

The Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine has been awarded a five-year, $24 million grant from the US Department of Health and Human Services to advance its lung-on-a-chip technology. The funding will be used to model the effects of chlorine gas on human lungs and develop treatments for resulting injuries.

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.

Screening kindergarten readiness

Researchers found that a kindergarten readiness test can predict future academic success and social behavioral skills. Children with poor academic readiness are up to 10 times more likely to have low reading scores at the end of first grade.

Fish in early childhood reduces risk of disease

Research found that introducing fish or cod liver oil early in life significantly reduces the occurrence of eczema, wheezing and asthma at age six. Children who consumed fish weekly until two years old showed a 28-40% lower risk.

Need to balance guides development of limb-body coordination

Zebrafish larvae's ability to coordinate movement and maintain balance improves as they age, mirroring human brain function. The study suggests that the developing fish rely on their vestibular organs to oversee improvements in coordination needed to remain horizontal.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Using plasma to find Alzheimer's

Tymora Analytical Operations is developing a plasma-based approach for early detection of Alzheimer's disease. The company aims to analyze exosome proteins and phosphoproteins in plasma samples to identify biomarkers linked to the disease.

Four Loko continues to wreak havoc among young drinkers

New studies from George Mason University found that young drinkers underestimates alcohol content in Four Loko, even with new labels, and experienced dangerous effects such as blacking out or vomiting. The studies suggest that limiting the alcohol content of these beverages could help reduce their harmful effects on young people.

Low intelligence linked to suicide risk later in life

People with low intelligence scores are at a higher risk of suicide and attempted suicide later in life. The study found that the association between suicidal behavior and emotional control develops over time, with men with low IQ remaining vulnerable throughout their lives.

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.

Rice bran may help curb malnutrition, diarrhea for infants

A new clinical trial found that adding rice bran to infant diets enhanced growth and reduced diarrhea, while also showing potential for improving gut health. The study's results suggest that rice bran could be a practical dietary intervention strategy in regions with high rates of impaired growth and development.

Thin to win

University of Utah engineers create a new type of optical lens that is thinner and lighter than conventional lenses, working with night imaging and enabling longer-flying drones and military applications. The lens is made of plastic instead of glass, reducing manufacturing costs.

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.

Pesticide companies leverage regulations for financial gains

A Princeton researcher found that pesticide companies lobby for stricter regulations on less profitable products, allowing them to clear the way for more expensive alternatives. This practice has significant economic and public health implications.

Scientists observe a single quantum vibration under ordinary conditions

Researchers create and observe a single phonon in diamond at room temperature, bringing quantum behavior closer to everyday life. This breakthrough technique can now be used to probe other materials for quantum vibrations, potentially leading to advancements in solar cells and quantum computing.

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Sweet corn growers, processors could dramatically increase yield, profit

A new study in PLOS ONE shows that certain hybrids are naturally density tolerant, improving yield when planted at higher populations. Increasing populations of density-tolerant hybrids can lead to an average extra $40 per acre in profit for growers and up to $120 to $280 per acre for processors.