Bluesky Facebook Reddit Email

Science News Archive April 2019


Page 16 of 44

Experimental antiplatelet compound for acute stroke shows promise

A new experimental compound inhibits clot formation without raising the risk of bleeding, providing an effective and safer alternative to current therapies. The study found that the drug is well-tolerated at high doses and has a rapid, specific, and reversible action on platelets.

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.

Triplet superconductivity demonstrated under high pressure

Researchers at Tohoku University and Université Grenoble Alpes have demonstrated triplet superconductivity in the uranium-based material UBe13 using high pressure and magnetic fields. This phenomenon involves electrons forming parallel spin pairs, unlike conventional superconductors where opposite spins pair together.

Why language technology can't handle Game of Thrones (yet)

Researchers evaluated four state-of-the-art tools for recognizing names in text and found solutions to boost accuracy from 7% to 90%. They also extracted social networks from novels to explore differences in story structure. The study highlights the challenges faced by NLP tools in handling names in popular fiction.

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.

Antimicrobial paints have a blind spot

Researchers tested spore-forming bacteria on antimicrobial paint surfaces and found that most died, but a few strains, like Bacillus timonensis, survived. This raises concerns about the effectiveness of these paints and potential risks to human health.

Turning an old enemy into a helpful friend

A study by EPFL researchers found that the KRAB domain-containing zinc finger protein Zfp30 initially repressed a retrotransposon, but later evolved to activate genes involved in fat-cell formation instead, surprising scientists

Research finds pregnant women feel pushed out of their jobs

Research from Florida State University finds that pregnant women are more likely to feel 'pushed out' of their workplaces, leading them to opt-out. The study confirms inherent biases against expectant mothers and highlights the need for employers to provide equal career support to both men and women with children.

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.

General anesthesia hijacks sleep circuitry to knock you out

Scientists at Duke University discovered that general anesthesia works by hijacking the neural circuitry responsible for sleep and hormone regulation. The study found that certain anesthetic drugs activate a cluster of cells at the base of the brain, leading to unconsciousness and offering potential new avenues for developing pain-free...

A history of the Crusades, as told by crusaders' DNA

A team of researchers analyzed the DNA of nine 13th-century Crusaders, revealing a genetically diverse group that intermixed with local populations. The findings provide insights into the history of the Crusades and highlight the importance of ancient DNA in understanding historical events.

Bioengineers program cells as digital signal processors

Researchers have developed a system that allows living cells to perform analog-to-digital signal processing, enabling precise control over cellular responses. This breakthrough expands the toolkit for synthetic biologists, who can now use genetic circuitry to process complex signals and make informed decisions.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

A mother lode of protection

A new study found that a maternal vaccine can effectively protect against HSV-1 and HSV-2 infections in mouse offspring, transferring infection-fighting antibodies to their nervous system. The vaccine has shown promise in preclinical animal models and phase 1 human trials, offering new hope for preventing neonatal herpes infections.

New method to detect off-target effects of CRISPR

A team of scientists at the Gladstone Institutes has developed a reliable method to identify potential off-target effects in therapeutically relevant cell types. The DISCOVER-Seq technique uses DNA repair factors to pinpoint exact sites where CRISPR cuts occur, enabling more accurate genome editing.

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.

Tiny, fast, accurate technology on the radar

Researchers at KAUST have developed a compact radar with short wavelengths to enhance close-range detection capabilities. The device is capable of target detection, speed estimation, and tracking at ranges of up to 12 meters, making it suitable for visually impaired people and unmanned devices.

Data mining digs up hidden clues to major California earthquake triggers

A comprehensive new earthquake catalog has identified 1.81 million quakes in southern California, 10 times more than previously detected, providing a more precise picture of stress evolution in fault systems. The catalog will help researchers detect and locate quakes more precisely, identifying key physical and geographic details to pr...

A hole in one for holographic display

Researchers at KAIST have designed an ultrathin display that can project dynamic, multi-colored 3D holographic images using tiny pinholes in a thin film. The system is small and scalable, paving the way for widespread applications of 3D holographic displays.

Ocean circulation likely to blame for severity of 2018 red tide

A new study by the University of South Florida finds ocean circulation was the major determinant of Florida's 2018 red tide blooms. The study used ocean circulation models and autonomous underwater gliders to pinpoint the initiation zone for the blooms, which were likely carried to the coastline by a rare upwelling circulation.

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.

In rare cases, immune system fails despite HIV suppression

Despite effective antiretroviral therapy (ART), five individuals experienced extreme immune decline, a rare phenomenon known as EXID, where CD4+ T cell levels declined by an average of 157 cells per microliter. Gene mutations and HIV strain variations may contribute to this paradoxical response.

Disappearing bumblebee species under threat of extinction

A new study led by York University reveals the American Bumblebee is critically endangered due to a 70% reduction in its area of occurrence and an 89% decrease in relative abundance. Immediate conservation action may save the species from extinction, similar to the fate of the Rusty-patched Bumblebee.

Crusaders made love and war, genetic study finds

A recent study of ancient DNA from Crusader skeletons confirms they intermingled with local populations, forming families and fighting alongside them. The researchers found that the Crusaders' genetic presence was short-lived, with no lasting impact on Lebanese genetics.

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.

Investigators incorporate randomized trial within dialysis care delivery

A recent clinical trial found that longer hemodialysis sessions did not improve patient outcomes, while also highlighting the need for effective strategies to engage clinicians and patients in trials embedded within routine care. The study's findings suggest a pressing need for data-driven guidance in dialysis practice.

Study shows female managers don't mean higher pay for women

A recent study published in the European Sociological Review found that having a female manager does not lead to higher earnings for women. Despite increasing representation of women in management positions, the gender gap in earnings remains significant, with women earning an average of 7% less than men.

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.

Taming the genome's 'jumping' sequences

Researchers found that KZFP proteins domesticate regulatory sequences in transposable elements, minimizing their impact on early embryonic development. This process allows for the incorporation of transposable element-based controlling sequences into transcriptional networks.

New concept for novel fire extinguisher in space

A research team at Toyohashi University of Technology has developed a novel fire extinguisher concept called Vacuum Extinguish Method (VEM), which uses vacuum to suck in flames and combustion products. This method is suitable for enclosed spaces like spacecraft or submarines, where traditional extinguishers can spread harmful gases.

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.

Intentions attributed to other people change how we see their actions

Researchers found that when we watch people perform actions, our expectations distort our perception of their behavior. However, this distortion does not occur with inanimate objects. The study suggests that our attributions of intention play a key role in shaping our understanding of others' actions.

Ocean currents bring good news for reef fish

Researchers discovered that reef fish rely heavily on food from the open ocean, with some species relying on more than 400 grams of plankton per kilogram of fish produced. The study found that areas of the reef exposed to the open ocean produce the largest quantities of fish, offering hope for resilient reefs.

BRB-seq: The quick and cheaper future of RNA sequencing

BRB-seq, a novel approach to RNA sequencing, preserves strand-specificity and detects the same number of genes as gold standard methods. The technique is 25 times less expensive than commercial RNA sequencing technologies, enabling bulk RNA sequencing of large sets of samples.

Study shows promise in repairing damaged myelin

A scientific breakthrough provides new hope for people with multiple sclerosis, as researchers have developed a compound that stimulates repair of the protective sheath that covers nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. The study, published in JCI Insight, shows promising results in repairing damaged myelin without severe side effects.

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.

The secret to a stable society? A steady supply of beer doesn't hurt

Researchers recreated ancient brewing techniques to analyze ceramic beer vessels from Cerro Baúl. They found that the vessels were made of clay from nearby sources and that the beer was made of pepper berries, a drought-resistant ingredient. This steady supply of beer helped keep Wari society stable by forming unity among populations.

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.

Media alert: new articles in The CRISPR Journal

The CRISPR Journal publishes research on gene editing technologies, including base editors that enable precise base substitutions without DNA cleavage. A new method for multiplex site-directed mutagenesis also offers great promise for studying gene function.

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 use genetic profiles to predict obesity risk at birth

Researchers have developed a scoring system based on genetic markers to predict an individual's inborn risk for obesity. The score accurately predicted BMI and obesity in over 300,000 individuals, with those in the top 10% being 29 pounds heavier on average and 25 times more likely to develop severe obesity.

Could computer games help farmers adapt to climate change?

Researchers developed a web-based game, Maladaptation Game, to improve understanding of climate change methods and adaptation strategies among Nordic farmers. The game presents players with four agricultural challenges and requires strategic decisions, providing a summary of potential negative outcomes.

Research provides important insight on the brain-body connection

Researchers found that neurons in the motor cortex divide into externally focused and internally focused groups, with externally focused neurons controlling different body parts and internally focused neurons communicating only within the group. The study's findings have implications for brain disorders such as Rett Syndrome, which may...

Infection biology: Gut microbe helps thwart Salmonella

Researchers have identified a gut microbe, Mucispirillum schaedleri, that helps protect against Salmonella infections. The bacterium competes with Salmonella for nutrients, such as nitrate, and prevents the growth of pathogens by reducing their ability to express virulence factors.

GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Weak honey bee colonies may fail from cold exposure during shipping

A US Department of Agriculture study found that cold exposure can cause weak honey bee colonies to fail during long-distance hauling. Colonies with fewer than 10 frames are more likely to lose bees and struggle to maintain stable temperatures, increasing the risk of failure and chilling.