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Science News Archive April 2019 - Page 43


Page 43 of 44

The evolution of bird-of-paradise sex chromosomes revealed

Researchers analyzed 11 songbird species genomes and found that junk DNA facilitated the separation of sex chromosomes. Only dosage-sensitive genes survived on the W chromosome due to recombination suppression, leading to long-term genetic erosion and functional gene retention.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateApr 1, 2019

Global microbial signatures for colorectal cancer established

Researchers have established disease-specific microbiome changes that are globally robust, despite differences in environment, diet, and lifestyle. These findings provide a basis for future non-invasive cancer screening and may enable new research into the causal role of gut microbes in colorectal cancer development.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalNature Medicine·DateApr 1, 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.

Biopsy alternative: 'Wearable' device captures cancer cells from blood

A prototype wearable device can continuously collect live cancer cells directly from a patient's blood, offering a biopsy alternative. This innovation could help doctors diagnose and treat cancer more effectively by providing better information for planning treatments.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 1, 2019

Predicting tropical cyclones after volcanic eruptions

Tropical volcanic eruptions can shift the intertropical convergence zone, affecting global patterns of tropical cyclone likelihood and intensity. The effects can last for up to 4 years after large eruptions.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 1, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Drinking diplomacy

In 18th-century Russia, a Spanish diplomat's initiative to establish an informal men's club called the 'Order of the Anti-Sober' aimed to foster socialization and political discussion among elites. The club's rules promoted camaraderie, excluding prejudices and encouraging close relations among members.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalThe International History Review·DateApr 1, 2019

Project delivers low-cost future network architecture for mobile operators

The TIGRE5-CM project has developed an SDN-based architecture for future mobile networks, simplifying deployment and configuration. The system improves the efficiency and accuracy of indoor localization services, enabling better end-user experiences in applications like transportation hubs.

SourceIMDEA Networks Institute·JournalIEEE Transactions on Mobile Computing·DateApr 1, 2019

How neighborhoods predict social mobility

Researchers found that exposure to harmful neighborhoods, such as those with high lead levels, incarceration, and violence, predicts adult income and well-being. Harsh childhood environments also increase the risk of teen pregnancy among poor black and white females.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 1, 2019

Chicago tops list of most dangerous cities for migrating birds

A study by Cornell University found that Chicago tops the list of most dangerous cities for migrating birds due to its unique combination of light pollution and geography. The research also revealed that four eastern cities in the US make the autumn list, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts to reduce bird mortality.

SourceCornell University·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateApr 1, 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.

Awake lumbar interbody fusion

The study reports lower hospital stay durations, surgery times, and intraoperative blood loss in awake endoscopic MIS-TLIF procedures. After a minimum of 1-year follow-up, patients experienced significant clinical improvement with durable functional status improvements.

SourceJournal of Neurosurgery Publishing Group·JournalNeurosurgical FOCUS·DateApr 1, 2019

Research connects big data marketing tools, land conservation

Researchers connected big data marketing tools to land conservation efforts, identifying landowners more likely to install riparian buffers. The study found that using microtargeting techniques could increase the impact of conservation programs and reduce outreach costs.

SourceThe University of Montana·JournalConservation Biology·DateApr 1, 2019

New polymer mixture creates ultra-sensitive heat sensor

Scientists at Linköping University have developed an ultra-sensitive heat sensor based on a polymer mixture that uses ions as charge carriers, resulting in a signal 100 times stronger than traditional materials. The new material has potential applications in wound healing, electronic skin, and smart buildings.

SourceLinköping University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 1, 2019

Artificial intelligence sheds new light on cell developmental dynamics

Researchers developed a comprehensive map of cell developmental dynamics using AI, enabling the evaluation of computational biology methods. The study highlights outstanding challenges and pioneers new ways to assess trajectory inference methods, leading to improved disease understanding.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateApr 1, 2019
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

In phase 3 trial, rituximab not associated with clinical improvement in patients with ME/CFS

In a phase 3 randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, researchers found that B-cell depletion using rituximab over 12 months was not associated with clinical improvement in patients with myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). The study, published in Annals of Internal Medicine, contradicts previous phas...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateApr 1, 2019

Study links insurance coverage to access to hospital care

Researchers found that uninsured and Medicaid patients are more likely to be transferred from emergency departments, discharged without admission, or admitted to hospitals with limited critical care services. Financial incentives for hospitals may contribute to these disparities in access to acute hospital care.

SourceYale University·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateApr 1, 2019
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Laser technology helps researchers scrutinize cancer cells

Researchers use laser technology to improve on existing methods for measuring metabolic activity in cancer cells. The new technique, single-cell metabolic photoacoustic microscopy, allows for the analysis of around 3,000 cells in about 15 minutes, enabling more accurate assessments of cancer cell characteristics.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateApr 1, 2019

Tracking sludge flow for better wastewater treatment and more biogas

Researchers at RMIT University developed a new method to track sludge flow during thermal treatment, enabling real-time monitoring of process performance. The technique enables engineers to design better wastewater treatment plants and boost biogas production by tracking how sewage sludge flows.

SourceRMIT University·JournalWater Research·DateApr 1, 2019

How the brain fights off fears that return to haunt us

Neuroscientists identify 'extinction neurons' in the hippocampus that suppress fearful memories, but can also lead to relapse when activated. This discovery may help explain why exposure therapy sometimes stops working and could lead to new treatment options.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateApr 1, 2019
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.

Anti-evolvability drugs could slow antibiotic resistance in bacteria

Scientists found that certain antibiotics trigger the generation of toxic molecules called reactive oxygen species (ROS), which can lead to new mutations and antibiotic resistance. ROS-reducing drugs like edaravone can prevent these mutations, suggesting a potential new strategy to combat resistance evolution

SourceCell Press·JournalMolecular Cell·DateApr 1, 2019

Evolutionary history of perching birds

A comprehensive passerine evolutionary tree reveals the relationships among major groups, with divergence dating back to the Middle Eocene. The study suggests complex mechanisms drove diversification, contradicting associations with global temperatures or continental colonization.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 1, 2019

ESA tipsheet for April 1, 2019

Researchers found that cities like Chicago, Houston, and Dallas have the highest levels of exposure to artificial lights, disrupting nocturnal bird migration patterns. A study also showed that humans' connection to nature decreases with age, particularly in teenagers and males. Meanwhile, a network for tracking urban wildlife and using...

SourceEcological Society of America·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateApr 1, 2019

Can technology improve even though people don't understand what they are doing?

A study by Arizona State University researchers found that cultural evolution can generate new adaptive knowledge even when individuals don't understand what they are doing. Participants in an experiment adjusted weights on a wheel to optimize its speed, showing improvement without increased understanding.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateApr 1, 2019
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.

Russian scientists found out how a male-hating bacterium rejuvenates

Researchers from Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University found that Wolbachia bacteria, which prevent the birth and development of males in arthropods, can exchange genetic information to rejuvenate. This process allows them to mend broken genes and adapt to different hosts.

SourceImmanuel Kant Baltic Federal University·JournalMolecular Phylogenetics and Evolution·DateApr 1, 2019

Ammonia emission control in China

Researchers suggest regional emission control strategies based on acid rain and PM2.5 pollution levels to balance benefits and drawbacks of reduced ammonia emissions.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 1, 2019

2019 Gutenberg Research Award for Corine Defrance

Corine Defrance receives the award for her exceptional contributions to the reappraisal of Franco-German relations and her publications on the subject. The GRC Director praises Defrance's impact and recognition, noting her interdisciplinary activities and supervision of research networks.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·DateApr 1, 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.

Well-known drug has less risk for preterm delivery in PCOS

A study published in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology journal found that metformin can halve the risk of late miscarriage and preterm births for women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Women who received metformin during pregnancy also gained less weight, but there was no effect on gestational diabetes or pre-eclampsia.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·DateApr 1, 2019
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.

GGC launches EpiSign, a novel clinical test for epigenetic changes

EpiSign analyzes DNA methylation patterns to diagnose or resolve variants of uncertain significance in patients with genetic disorders and congenital anomalies. The test has identified unique epigenetic signatures for 19 genetic disorders, including those associated with intellectual disability and congenital anomalies.

SourceGreenwood Genetic Center·DateApr 1, 2019

Counties with more trees and shrubs spend less on Medicare, study finds

A new study from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign found that counties with more forests and shrublands tend to have lower Medicare costs. The analysis revealed an average Medicare expenditure savings of $4.32 per person per year for each 1 percent of forest cover.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalUrban Forestry & Urban Greening·DateApr 1, 2019

Traffic jam in the cell: How are proteins assigned to specific transporters?

Heidelberg University researchers have comprehensively analyzed the composition of COPI and COPII transport vesicles, revealing specialized subtypes that transport specific types of proteins. This breakthrough could lead to a better understanding of diseases caused by mutations in vesicular transport mechanisms.

SourceHeidelberg University·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 1, 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.

The hotter it gets, the more forests act as insulators

Research shows forests in temperate, boreal, and tropical regions lower air temperatures by an average of 4°C compared to surrounding areas. The study suggests that management strategies can improve forest microclimates and mitigate the effects of global warming on biodiversity.

SourceCNRS·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateApr 1, 2019

UM researchers publish new discoveries on bacterial viruses

Researchers studied viruses that infect pathogenic bacteria called bacteriophages to develop a vaccine against bacterial infection. They found that some bacteriophages induce an anti-viral response in humans, which can hinder the clearance of bacterial infections.

SourceThe University of Montana·JournalScience·DateApr 1, 2019

Key brain region for navigating familiar places identified

Researchers have discovered that two brain regions guide navigation in familiar and new environments. The hippocampus plays a role in tracking distance in new environments, while the retrosplenial cortex takes over when navigating well-known places. This finding helps explain why Alzheimer's patients experience severe disorientation.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalCerebral Cortex·DateApr 1, 2019

BU finds Medicare Advantage networks are broad and getting broader

A new study by Boston University School of Public Health found that Medicare Advantage networks are becoming broader, with a share increase from 80.1% to 82.5% between 2011 and 2015. This expansion was linked to rural areas having around 85% broad-network plans.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalHealth Affairs·DateApr 1, 2019
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.

Global microbial signatures for colorectal cancer established

Researchers mapped gut microbes of colorectal cancer patients to identify disease-specific changes globally robust despite environmental differences. The study establishes a panel of gut microbes associated with colorectal cancer and shows potential for non-invasive cancer screening.

SourceUniversità di Trento·JournalNature Medicine·DateApr 1, 2019

How the brain finds meaning in metaphor

A study by University of Arizona researcher Vicky Lai found that the brain's sensory-motor region is activated within 200 milliseconds of hearing an action-based metaphor. This suggests that this region plays a crucial role in comprehension, supporting previous findings from fMRI studies.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalBrain Research·DateApr 1, 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.

Sleepovers reduce stress in shelter dogs

A recent ASU study found that short-term foster care, also known as sleepovers, can significantly reduce stress in shelter dogs. The study tracked the dogs' stress hormone cortisol levels before, during, and after sleepovers, showing a significant decrease in stress levels.

SourceArizona State University·JournalPeerJ·DateApr 1, 2019

Blood test helps accurate, rapid diagnosis for pre-eclampsia

A new blood test has been shown to diagnose pre-eclampsia on average two days sooner than current methods, reducing serious complications by 20%. The test measures placental growth factor (PlGF) in a woman's blood, enabling clinicians to provide timely and targeted care.

SourceKing's College London·JournalThe Lancet·DateApr 1, 2019

Cleaning up oil using magnets

Functionalised iron oxide particles can attract hydrocarbons, including crude oil and petrol, allowing for easy removal by magnet. The process is environmentally-friendly and can be reused, reducing the impact of contamination on the environment.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateApr 1, 2019
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Be the change you want to see in the world

A new European study suggests that individuals can play a significant role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions by making voluntary lifestyle changes, such as eating less meat and using fewer cars. However, the authors argue that these changes alone are insufficient to meet the Paris Agreement goal of limiting warming to 1.5C, highligh...

SourceUniversity of Sussex·JournalEnergy Research & Social Science·DateApr 1, 2019

Special journal issue highlights shift work science, solutions

A special journal issue highlights the science and solutions behind shift work, addressing health and safety risks, sleep deprivation, and more. The issue provides practical guidance for employers and workers, and will inform policy makers and researchers.

SourceWashington State University·JournalIndustrial Health·DateApr 1, 2019

Cocaine trafficking dynamics in Central America

Researchers created an agent-based model called NarcoLogic to simulate cocaine trafficking networks and interdiction efforts in Central America. The model shows how traffickers adapt their strategies in response to interdiction, leading to the emergence of new trafficking nodes and expanding the network.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 1, 2019

Is the Anzac legend misrepresented for all the wrong reasons?

A new book argues that the Australian government has reshaped Anzac history at memorial sites in France to serve political and commercial agendas. The glorification of Anzac is showcased by expensive museums and memorials that prioritize Australian nationalism over joint efforts with other nations.

SourceFlinders University·DateApr 1, 2019
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.