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Science News Archive April 2019


Page 1 of 44

Engineers tap DNA to create 'lifelike' machines

Researchers developed DASH materials that exhibit metabolism, self-assembly, and organization - key traits of life. The biomaterial autonomously emerges from nanoscale building blocks, grows, and decays, allowing it to perpetuate dynamic processes.

SourceCornell University·JournalScience Robotics·DateApr 11, 2019

Too much smiling in a sales pitch could kill the deal

A recent study published in the Academy of Management Journal found that overconfidence and prolonged joy can lead to decreased funding. Presenters who flashed their biggest smiles for three seconds received more funding than those who did so for just two seconds, but those who smiled for four seconds lost funding

SourceUniversity of South Florida·JournalAcademy of Management Journal·DateApr 30, 2019
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Do 'microglia' hold the key to stop Alzheimer's disease?

Researchers studied how microglia cells in the brain respond to toxic proteins associated with Alzheimer's disease. The study found that age, sex, and genetics affect microglial response, suggesting that modulating this response could lead to new treatments.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 30, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Twelve-year follow-up after peptide receptor radionuclide therapy

A 12-year retrospective clinical study shows the long-term effectiveness of PRRT, allowing patients to maintain a high quality of life. The overall response rate is about 70-80 percent, and prognosis is generally favorable for patients who respond to therapy.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateApr 30, 2019

A promising new treatment for infants with Noonan syndrome

Researchers at Université de Montréal found that MEK inhibitor trametinib can reverse hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and valvular obstruction in patients with RIT1-associated NS. Dramatic improvement was seen in two infants treated with the drug, suggesting a new treatment option for life-threatening heart disease.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateApr 30, 2019
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.

Lines blurring between human herpes simplex viruses

Research found that HSV-1 and HSV-2 are mixing together to result in several new, different recombinant versions of herpes. This blurring of lines has important implications for HSV vaccine development.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateApr 30, 2019

Keto diet has potential in military, researchers say

A new study published in Military Medicine found that a ketogenic diet can lead to significant weight loss and improvements in insulin sensitivity among military personnel. Participants on the keto diet lost an average of 17 pounds and reduced their body fat by 5%, while those on a normal diet experienced no such changes.

SourceOhio State University·JournalMilitary Medicine·DateApr 30, 2019
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.

Consumers prefer pork cooked to 145 degrees, study says

Pork enthusiasts can improve taste, juiciness, and tenderness by cooking chops to the new USDA standard of 145 degrees Fahrenheit. Consumers strongly prefer pork chops cooked to 145 over the old standard of 160 degrees.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Animal Science·DateApr 30, 2019

Researchers identify causes and mechanisms of polycystic ovary syndrome using family-based genetic analysis

A study using family-based genetic analysis has identified the DENND1A gene as playing a major role in PCOS, enabling personalized medicine approaches and better disease prediction. The findings suggest that rare genetic variants in this gene contribute to the disorder's distinctive hormonal profile.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateApr 30, 2019
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.

Breaking open the gates of antibiotic resistance

Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University have discovered a way to target both of a bacteria's defenses with one hit, weakening its ability to develop antibiotic resistance. By interfering with a specific type of tRNA molecule, the team was able to make bacteria more susceptible to antibiotics.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalCell Systems·DateApr 30, 2019

Argonne helps provide platform for future advanced nuclear reactor

The Versatile Test Reactor will allow scientists to test various fuels, coolants and reactor components to evaluate new technologies for future generations of advanced nuclear reactors. The reactor's experimental configurations will provide key information to scientists as they work to develop innovative reactor designs.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·DateApr 30, 2019

Tracking small things in cells

Researchers created SCOTfluors, a class of small fluorophores that can be attached to common metabolites and emit light in the visible to near-infrared range. This allows for the observation of metabolite trafficking in living cells without destroying them.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateApr 30, 2019
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 shows high phenolic acid intake -- associated with a healthy diet -- is associated with reduced breast cancer risk

A high intake of phenolic acids associated with a healthy diet is linked to a decreased risk of postmenopausal breast cancer. The study found that women who consumed the most hydroxycinnamic acids, particularly chlorogenic acids found in coffee and fruits, had a 62% lower risk of developing breast cancer compared to those with low intake.

SourceEuropean Association for the Study of Obesity·DateApr 30, 2019

Responding to extremist attacks: For Muslim leaders, 'It's damned if you do, damned if you don't'

A University of Michigan study found that expressing empathy for victims after an extremist attack can alleviate negative responses from non-Muslims. However, accepting group responsibility can cultivate perceptions of collective guilt and backfire, increasing the perception that Muslim Americans are to blame for terrorist acts.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalMedia Psychology·DateApr 30, 2019

Crisis and suicide prevention services struggle with demand after celebrity suicides

The NIH study found that a sudden increase in demand for suicide prevention services occurs after celebrity suicides, with a significant spike in calls to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. The researchers emphasize the need for increased funding and efficient allocation of existing resources to ensure surge capacity.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Mental Health·JournalPsychiatric Services·DateApr 30, 2019
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.

Anti-stress brain chemical is related to PTSD resilience after trauma

A recent study published in Biological Psychiatry has discovered a relationship between the anti-stress brain chemical nociceptin and PTSD symptom severity. Women with less severe PTSD symptoms had fewer receptors for the chemical in regions of the brain involved in the threat alarm system, suggesting a potential marker for resilience.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateApr 30, 2019

Middle Pleistocene human skull reveals variation and continuity in early Asian humans

A Middle Pleistocene human skull found in southeastern China exhibits morphological similarities to other East Asian archaic human remains but also foreshadows later modern human forms. The discovery provides evidence for regional continuity in human evolution during the region's Pleistocene era.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 30, 2019

Advanced detection tool to limit the spread of devastating tree pathogens

A new detection tool has been developed to identify quarantine tree pathogens, reducing analysis time and enabling prompt reactions. The tool can be used by non-scientists and is crucial in preventing the spread of devastating pathogens like Xylella fastidiosa, Ceratocystis platani, and Phytophthora ramorum.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalAMB Express·DateApr 30, 2019
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.

SwRI using drones with machine learning to automate methane leak detection

Researchers at Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) are developing a system to automate methane leak detection using drones equipped with infrared cameras and machine learning algorithms. The system can identify small methane leaks and substantially reduces false positives, making it more effective than conventional detection systems.

SourceSouthwest Research Institute·DateApr 30, 2019

Can the brain help heal the heart?

Research on brain-heart interactions may lead to life-saving therapies for heart failure and arrhythmia by manipulating specific nerves to emit electrical signals. Dr. Cheng's lab is developing a comprehensive map of neurons and their connections to the heart.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·DateApr 30, 2019

Guidelines proposed for newly defined Alzheimer's-like brain disorder

A newly recognized brain disorder called Limbic-predominant Age-related TDP-43 Encephalopathy (LATE) has been defined with recommended diagnostic criteria. LATE is characterized by cognitive impairment and hippocampal sclerosis, similar to Alzheimer's disease, but progresses more gradually.

SourceNIH/National Institute on Aging·JournalBrain·DateApr 30, 2019
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.

Study shows that controlling or 'wiping out' obesity and excess weight could avoid substantial numbers of premature deaths

A new study published at the European Congress on Obesity highlights the significant impact of obesity and excess weight on premature mortality from non-communicable diseases. According to the research, controlling or 'wiping out' obesity and overweight could reduce premature deaths by up to 31% in some countries.

SourceEuropean Association for the Study of Obesity·DateApr 30, 2019

Cryptographic breakthrough helps spies to shake hands

Researchers at Stevens Institute of Technology have developed a new encryption system called matchmaking encryption, which allows for secure and private communication. The system uses real-time interactions to verify participants' identities, enabling messages to be sent on a 'dead drop' basis and read at a later date.

SourceStevens Institute of Technology·DateApr 30, 2019

Analysis of old people's civic participation

A 55-year study found that older citizens' civic participation improves their cognitive function, physical and mental health. The research highlights the need for more diverse data from non-English speaking countries to design effective policies promoting civic participation.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalThe Gerontologist·DateApr 30, 2019
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Put down the protein shake: Variety of protein better for health

A new study suggests that consuming a variety of protein sources, rather than relying on a single type, can have numerous health benefits. The research found that excessive consumption of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) from popular protein powders may reduce lifespan and negatively impact mood and weight gain.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalMetabolism·DateApr 30, 2019
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.

Innovative treatment restores sight in patient

Researchers have developed an innovative treatment using long-acting steroid implants to improve vision and reduce symptoms in patients with melanoma-associated retinopathy. After three years of monitoring, the patient's visual acuity remained stable at 20/20, marking a significant breakthrough in treating this debilitating ailment.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateApr 30, 2019

Keeping fit is more than physical: It's a state of mind

A new study in Heliyon reveals that individuals who engage in solo or group exercise activities are more motivated by social connectedness than those exercising alone. Exercise motivation, self-control styles, and personality traits also predict participation frequency, with CrossFit participants ranking highest in intrinsic motivation.

SourceElsevier·JournalHeliyon·DateApr 30, 2019

Do you smell what I smell?

A recent study from the Monell Center sheds light on individual differences in odor perception, finding that small changes in olfactory receptor genes can significantly impact how strong and pleasant an odor is. The research used high-throughput sequencing technology to identify genetic variations affecting odor perception.

SourceMonell Chemical Senses Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 30, 2019
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.

When a 'she' becomes an 'it'

A study published in Scientific Reports found that the human brain perceives women less humanity and more like an object when they are dressed in a swimsuit or underwear. This perception might trigger treatments typically observed in interactions with objects, leading to gender violence.

SourceUniversità di Trento·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 30, 2019

Expert: Justin Trudeau's French isn't bad; Quebecers just don't think he belongs

A professor at Binghamton University analyzed Quebec's criticism of Justin Trudeau's French, finding it stems from linguistic purism and a bias towards monolingual French speakers. Bosworth argues that language is used to position Trudeau as an outsider in Quebec, despite his strong identification with French.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalThe American Review of Canadian Studies·DateApr 30, 2019

EGLN inhibitor protects normal tissue and enables RT in mouse model of pancreatic cancer

In a mouse model of unresectable pancreatic cancer, administration of the EGLN inhibitor FG-4592 prior to ablative radiotherapy provided protection against fatal gastrointestinal bleeding and improved survival. The study found that FG-4592 effectively mimicked hypoxia in normal tissues, protecting them from radiation damage.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalCancer Research·DateApr 30, 2019

Researchers define Alzheimer's-like brain disorder

Limbic-predominant Age-related TDP-43 Encephalopathy (LATE) is a newly-defined brain disorder resembling Alzheimer's disease but caused by misfolded TDP-43 protein. It affects 25% of individuals over 85 years old, causing gradual cognitive decline and impacting daily life.

SourceRush University Medical Center·JournalBrain·DateApr 30, 2019
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Excessive rainfall as damaging to corn yield as extreme heat, drought

A recent US study found that excessive rainfall can reduce corn yield by up to 34% relative to expected yields, similar to the impact of extreme heat and drought. The research highlights the need for improved crop insurance models to address climate change-driven extreme weather events.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateApr 30, 2019

Isle Royale winter study: 13 new wolves, 20 radio-collared moose

The annual Winter Study report chronicles the effects of wolf reintroductions on the island's ecosystem, with 13 new wolves and 20 radio-collared moose providing valuable data. Researchers expect a slowing down of moose population growth due to severe vegetation damage, while wolf pups may be possible this year.

SourceMichigan Technological University·DateApr 30, 2019

What can be done to prevent another CRISPR crisis?

A new article recommends explicit management of conflict of interests, banning exclusive rights to research results, and enhanced informed consent to guide germline gene editing. The author argues that regulation and penalties are necessary to ensure public trust in science.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateApr 30, 2019