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Science News Archive April 2019 - Page 7


Page 7 of 44

Gestational diabetes in India and Sweden

A new study from Lund University found that Indian women are younger and leaner when developing gestational diabetes compared to Swedish women. The researchers identified a gene linked to increased risk in Swedish women but protective effects in Indian women.

SourceLund University·JournalJournal of Internal Medicine·DateApr 26, 2019

Scientists take a 'metamaterials' approach to earthquake damage

Researchers are investigating whether metamaterial concept can be scaled up to city size to reduce earthquake damage. Simulations show that structures act as resonators, plucking energy from Rayleigh waves, and optimal building arrangement could reduce damage by decreasing height radially inward.

SourceSeismological Society of America·DateApr 26, 2019

Mount Sinai researchers find significant delays in West Nile virus reporting

Researchers discovered that reports of human cases of West Nile virus were delayed by two to 14 weeks between illness onset and confirmation. Accurate and reliable forecasts are possible using real-time reports of human and mosquito testing positive for the virus.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 26, 2019

A personality test for ads

Researchers used digital footprints to determine personality traits and matched them with images, finding that extroverts preferred simple images featuring people, while open-minded individuals favored cool colors. The study showed that personalized ads could increase consumer interest and purchase intentions.

SourceSociety for Consumer Psychology·JournalJournal of Consumer Psychology·DateApr 26, 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.

Large genome-wide association study is first to focus on both child and adult asthma

A recent genome-wide association study found that childhood-onset asthma is associated with nearly three times as many genes as adult-onset asthma. The study identified 61 independent asthma-related genes, with most being specific to childhood onset. The findings suggest different mechanisms cause the inception of asthma in childhood c...

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalThe Lancet Respiratory Medicine·DateApr 26, 2019

Creativity is not just for the young, study finds

A new study reveals that Nobel Prize winners in economics exhibit two distinct life cycles of creativity. Conceptual innovators tend to peak in their mid-20s, while experimental innovators reach their creative peak in their mid-50s. This research suggests that the type of approach taken by an individual plays a significant role in dete...

SourceOhio State University·JournalDe Economist·DateApr 26, 2019

Novel therapies slow CKD progression in patients with diabetes

A new SGLT2 inhibitor medication has been shown to significantly slow the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in patients with diabetes. The CREDENCE trial demonstrated a 34% reduction in the risk of end-stage kidney disease, as well as improved cardiovascular outcomes.

SourceERA – European Renal Association·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateApr 26, 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.

Association between high blood PCB levels and premature death

A large Swedish study found a strong association between high blood polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) levels and premature death. The study, which followed over 1,000 seniors for 10 years, showed that individuals with the highest PCB levels had a 50% excess mortality rate from cardiovascular disease.

SourceUppsala University·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 26, 2019

How does chronic edema impact health-related quality of life?

The LIMPRINT study found that chronic edema significantly impacts health-related quality of life in patients, particularly those with leg swelling. The condition is often neglected and difficult to treat, affecting a large portion of the population.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalLymphatic Research and Biology·DateApr 26, 2019

Another victim of violence: Trust in those who mean no harm

Researchers found that exposure to violence impairs the ability to place trust in individuals who are likely to be helpful, leading to increased disciplinary infractions. The study suggests that this cognitive disruption can have long-lasting effects on social functioning and stability.

SourceYale University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 26, 2019

AI-generated profiles? Airbnb users prefer a human touch

Researchers found that when participants were unsure whether a profile was written by a human or an algorithm, they distrusted the one they believed to be machine-generated. The study suggests designing AI communication tools with transparency and trustworthiness in mind can improve user experience.

SourceCornell University·DateApr 26, 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.

Changes from head injuries associated with increases in youth offending

A longitudinal study found that changes in individuals with head injuries were associated with increases in self-reported and violent offending among adolescents and early adults. Head injury is five to eight times more common among individuals involved with the criminal-justice system than in the general population.

SourceCrime and Justice Research Alliance·JournalJustice Quarterly·DateApr 26, 2019

A spoonful of peppermint helps the meal go down

A pilot study at the Medical University of South Carolina found that peppermint oil improved symptoms of esophagus disorders, including difficulty swallowing and non-cardiac chest pain. The study showed a significant improvement in symptoms among patients with spastic disorders of the esophagus.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalDigestive Diseases and Sciences·DateApr 26, 2019

Clearing an icy windshield is about to get easier, says UBC engineer

Researchers developed a new class of anti-ice surfaces called low interfacial toughness (LIT) materials, which can shed ice from large areas with minimal force. LIT materials work by causing cracks to form easily beneath the ice, allowing it to readily dislodge.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalScience·DateApr 26, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New in the Hastings Center Report: Federal right-to-try, the gamification of science, & more

The federal right-to-try law has been criticized for undermining the FDA's role in monitoring drug safety and efficacy, potentially creating a loophole for pharmaceutical companies to sell unapproved drugs. In contrast, citizen science and gamification are changing the way research is conducted, with nonprofessional volunteers contribu...

SourceThe Hastings Center·JournalHastings Center Report·DateApr 25, 2019

Impeding white blood cells in antiphospholipid syndrome reduced blood clots

Researchers discover that inhibiting neutrophils, a type of white blood cell, can prevent blood clots in patients with antiphospholipid syndrome. The study found that two drugs, CGS21680 and dipyridamole, reduced the formation of sticky structures called NETs that trigger blood clots.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 25, 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.

Mysterious eruption came from Campi Flegrei caldera

Researchers verified that the 29,000-year-old Masseria del Monte Tuff eruption at Campi Flegrei caldera was responsible for widespread volcanic ash layers across the Mediterranean. The study suggests that this large-magnitude event occurred between known caldera-forming events, reducing the recurrence interval of such eruptions.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeology·DateApr 25, 2019

New view of how ocean 'pumps' impact climate change

A new paper outlines critical mechanisms involved in the ocean carbon cycle, specifically the biological pump. Researchers found that particle injection pumps are a more efficient way of pulling carbon from the surface into the deep waters.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalNature·DateApr 25, 2019

Place-based management can protect coral reefs in a changing climate

Researchers developed a new tool to pinpoint areas where improved wastewater management and landscape practices can benefit downstream reefs. This study highlights the importance of coordinating local actions across land and sea to promote resilience of coral reefs to global climate change.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalEcological Applications·DateApr 25, 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.

Alcohol relapse rate among liver transplant recipients identical regardless of sobriety period

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine found that liver transplant recipients with alcoholic hepatitis have a comparable alcohol relapse rate regardless of their sobriety period. The study's outcomes support waiving the six-month sobriety requirement for selected patients, promoting equal access to lifesaving transplants.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Intensive Care Medicine·DateApr 25, 2019

Veterans suffer from 'culture shock' when returning to university

A study of 20 military veterans on a US college campus found that cultural differences led to arguments, isolation, and mental health issues. Veterans struggled to relate to civilians' trivial concerns, clothing, and respect for authority figures, often feeling like they were being ostracized.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalJournal of Intercultural Communication Research·DateApr 25, 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.

Americans' beliefs about wildlife management are changing

A new study finds large declines in traditionalist views on wildlife management, with a rise in mutualists believing animals have the same rights as humans. The study's findings have implications for wildlife managers to engage diverse state residents in conservation efforts.

SourceColorado State University·DateApr 25, 2019

Developing a model critical in creating better devices

A new computational model developed by Preeya Achari predicts the behavior of water on the surface of hexagonal boron nitride, a compound used in cosmetic products. The model provides more control over devices made with this material and water, leading to improved performance.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalComputational Materials Science·DateApr 25, 2019

Exercise activates memory neural networks in older adults

A new University of Maryland study reveals that acute exercise increases activation in the hippocampus and other key brain regions associated with memory. This finding suggests that single sessions of exercise can promote adaptations and improve network integrity, potentially reducing the risk of Alzheimer's disease.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalJournal of the International Neuropsychological Society·DateApr 25, 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.

Researchers discover surprising quantum effect in hard disk drive material

Scientists have found a surprising quantum effect in cobalt-iron alloy materials commonly used in hard disk drives. By controlling electron spin direction, the researchers can alter magnetic state, allowing for more efficient information storage and potential applications in electric motors, generators, and magnetic bearings.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 25, 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.

Bacteria uses viral weapon against other bacteria

Researchers discovered that certain bacteria use viruses to identify and kill rival bacteria for resources. The discovery has implications for synthetic biology and medicine, where understanding bacterial competition could lead to breakthroughs in treating infectious diseases.

SourcePenn State·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 25, 2019

Individual nutrition shows benefits in hospital patients

A Swiss study finds that individualized nutrition significantly benefits hospital patients, improving treatment outcomes and reducing serious complications. The trial, involving over 2,000 patients, showed a statistically significant reduction in mortality and complication rates.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalThe Lancet·DateApr 25, 2019

33-year study shows increasing ocean winds and wave heights

Researchers analyzed wind speed and wave height measurements from satellites and ocean buoys to find extreme winds increasing by 8% and waves by 5% in the Southern Ocean over the past 30 years. This increase has significant implications for rising sea levels and coastal flooding.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalScience·DateApr 25, 2019
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.

Rehabilitation psychologists: #SayTheWord disability

Rehabilitation psychologists argue that avoiding the term 'disability' has unintended consequences, including reinforcing negative attitudes. They advocate for reclaiming the term as a valued aspect of diversity and identity, and encourage others to normalize its use.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalRehabilitation Psychology·DateApr 25, 2019

Early, hormone-driven breast cancer is less likely to recur if treated with radiotherapy

Women with early, low-risk hormone-driven breast cancer who receive radiotherapy after surgery have a significantly lower risk of recurrence and improved disease-free survival compared to those without radiotherapy. The study found that whole breast irradiation is effective in reducing in-breast recurrences and improving overall survival.

SourceEuropean Society for Radiotherapy and Oncology (ESTRO)·DateApr 25, 2019

Global malaria spending $2 billion short of WHO target, stifling progress

A new study reveals a wide variation in global malaria spending across 106 countries, with development assistance plateauing since 2010. The World Health Organization's annual funding target of $6.6 billion is still not met, and more resources are needed to bridge the $2.3 billion gap.

SourceInstitute for Health Metrics and Evaluation·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateApr 25, 2019

Caffeine gives solar cells an energy boost

Scientists have discovered that caffeine can improve the performance and thermal stability of perovskite solar cells, increasing their efficiency from 17% to over 20%. The unique molecular structure of caffeine allows it to interact with perovskite precursors, giving this technology an edge on the market.

SourceCell Press·JournalJoule·DateApr 25, 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.

NIH awards University of Delaware's Lachke $1.7 million grant

Salil Lachke's research aims to understand the developmental disorders that cause anophthalmia and microphthalmia, rare eye defects occurring in 1 in every 5,300 babies born in the US. The NIH grant will support his investigation of Rbm24, a gene implicated in eye development and potentially other diseases.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·DateApr 25, 2019

Snowmelt causes seismic swarm near California's Long Valley Caldera

Researchers found a strong correlation between meltwater runoff and seismic activity in the region, suggesting that seeping water may trigger small earthquakes. The study suggests that the shallow nature of the earthquakes is due to the unique geology of the area, with steeply dipping rock layers acting as a conduit for meltwater.

SourceSeismological Society of America·DateApr 25, 2019

Unravelling the complexity of air pollution in the world's coldest capital city

This study characterizes spatial and temporal variations in particulate-bound PAH pollution in Ulaanbaatar, identifying sources and health risks. High PAH concentrations were found in areas with coal and wood combustion, highlighting the need for effective air pollution control strategies.

SourceKanazawa University·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateApr 25, 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.

Using DNA templates to harness the sun's energy

A team of researchers at Arizona State University has made significant progress in optimizing artificial photosynthesis systems that mimic the first stage of photosynthesis. They have developed a way to use DNA to self-assemble structures that capture and transfer energy over long distances with high efficiency.

SourceArizona State University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateApr 25, 2019

Being too harsh on yourself could lead to OCD and anxiety

A new study found a correlation between strong feelings of responsibility and the development of OCD or GAD in American university students. The research identified three types of inflated responsibility, with personal blame and continued thinking having the strongest link to the disorders.

SourceHiroshima University·JournalInternational Journal of Cognitive Therapy·DateApr 25, 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.

Haunted by the past

Research at the Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience reveals that insomnia may be caused by a failing neutralization of emotional distress. Good sleepers can settle past experiences as neutralized memories, but people with insomnia are unable to do so.

SourceNetherlands Institute for Neuroscience - KNAW·JournalBrain·DateApr 25, 2019

Working to advance radiation therapy for children with cancer

The new software automates image capture and analysis, providing more accurate radiation beam targeting and refined patient positioning. This technology enhances the quality assurance strategy in radiation therapy, potentially reducing toxicity and improving treatment outcomes.

SourceChildren's Hospital Los Angeles·JournalAdvances in Radiation Oncology·DateApr 25, 2019