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Science News Archive 2019 - Page 80


Page 80 of 486

Faster heartbeat helps deer mice to survive at high altitudes

Researchers discovered a genetic variant in the Epas1 gene that enables high-altitude deer mice to survive by increasing their heart rate in response to low oxygen levels. This adaptation is also found in Tibetans living at high altitudes, suggesting potential benefits for long-term survival.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateOct 30, 2019

Nanoceramics from the ball mill

Researchers have found a way to produce corundum nanoparticles using simple mechanochemistry in a ball mill, which could lead to more robust and easier-to-manufacture automotive catalysts and ceramics. The production method involves grinding lumps of boehmite in a ball mill for 3 hours and then heating them briefly.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience·DateOct 30, 2019

Bionic breakthrough

The Utah Bionic Leg, developed by the University of Utah, enables amputees to walk with more power and better balance. The prosthetic limb features sensors, motors, a computer processor, and artificial intelligence that work together to provide assistance during walking and other activities.

In one direction or the other: That is how DNA is unwound

A study published in PNAS reveals that DNA helicases unwind the double strand more easily in one direction than the other, with the speed of unwinding depending on the sequence composition of the bases. This discovery has implications for understanding gene expression and the regulation of cellular activities.

SourceScuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 30, 2019

Twisted physics

A new study reveals twisted bilayer graphene can exhibit superconducting and insulating regions, increasing its usefulness for electronic devices. The discovery is a significant advance in the emerging field of Twistronics, enabling the creation of materials with high-temperature superconductivity.

Tiny swimming donuts deliver the goods

Researchers created microscopic, 3D-printed tori (donuts) coated with nickel and platinum to mimic biological behavior. These 'micro swimmers' can swim in water, respond to signals, and transport particles, potentially delivering targeted drugs or aiding in micromixing.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 30, 2019

Avocados may help manage obesity, prevent diabetes

Researchers have discovered that avocatin B, found only in avocados, counters incomplete oxidation in skeletal muscle and the pancreas, reducing insulin resistance. The study found significant weight loss and improved insulin sensitivity in mice fed with a high-fat diet supplemented with AvoB.

SourceUniversity of Guelph·JournalMolecular Nutrition & Food Research·DateOct 30, 2019

Intensified global monsoon extreme rainfall signals global warming -- A study

A study published in Journal of Climate found significant associations between global warming and intensified extreme rainfall in global monsoon regions, affecting nearly two-thirds of the world's population. Regional characteristics, including aerosols, urbanization, and climate natural variability, also impact extreme rainfall.

Study suggests interventions against frailty

Interventions aimed at reducing obesity, sedentary behavior, smoking cessation, and improving physical activity have the potential to delay or reduce frailty. Age is a strong predictor of frailty, with other variables such as modifiable risk factors like obesity and lower body strength also being significant risk factors.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 30, 2019

Study considers double-edged sword of trust in regulatory agencies' monitoring of firms

Researchers found that strong relationships between regulators and firms improve monitoring quality initially, but eventually lead to negligence and collusion. The study suggests an optimal duration for relationships may exist, with mandatory auditor rotation programs potentially reducing failures in some cases.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalOrganizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes·DateOct 30, 2019

The danger of great gift expectations

A new study found that neatly wrapped gifts lead to higher expectations but lower attitudes towards the gift, while sloppily wrapped gifts yield more favorable attitudes despite representing the same item. Gift givers should consider wrapping time and budget accordingly based on the recipient's relationship.

SourceSociety for Consumer Psychology·JournalJournal of Consumer Psychology·DateOct 30, 2019