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Science News Archive August 2019 - Page 16


Page 16 of 38

Physicists use light flashes to discover, control new quantum states of matter

Researchers at Iowa State University have made three groundbreaking discoveries about non-equilibrium quantum phase discovery via non-thermal ultrafast quench near quantum critical points. These findings could lead to the development of new technologies such as optical computing, novel sensors and high-speed communication capabilities.

SourceIowa State University·JournalNature Photonics·DateAug 20, 2019

The journey of the pollen

Researchers from Kiel University discovered a complex interplay of factors influencing pollen adhesion to surfaces. They found that pollen's adhesive properties change depending on the duration of contact and microstructure of the surface, providing new insights into coating processes and transporting medicinal substances.

SourceKiel University·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateAug 20, 2019

Biomolecular analyses of Roopkund skeletons show Mediterranean migrants in Indian Himalaya

Ancient DNA data from Roopkund Lake reveals diverse groups of people died at the lake in multiple events around 1000 years apart. The study, published in Nature Communications, found three distinct genetic groups among the skeletons, with ancestries related to present-day India, the eastern Mediterranean, and Southeast Asia.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Geoanthropology·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 20, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Decades-old puzzle of the ecology of soil animals solved

An international research team deciphered the defence mechanism of filamentous fungi, discovering that certain fungal pigments like aurofusarin protect fungi from predation. These pigments were found to repel small soil animals such as worms and springtails, and may have evolved due to extremely high concentrations of defence chemicals.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 20, 2019

Study reveals profound patterns in globally important algae

A new study has found that Atlantic coccolithophores are surprisingly scarce in fertile equatorial waters, despite being abundant in subpolar and temperate regions. This discovery sheds light on the inner workings of the ocean carbon cycle and raises questions about the impact of coccolithophore populations on global productivity.

SourceBigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences·DateAug 20, 2019

BU finds alternative to 'revolving door' of opioid detox and relapse

Researchers at Boston University School of Public Health found that patients who start long-term buprenorphine treatment before discharge from a short-term inpatient program are less likely to relapse and more likely to keep up treatment. This approach reduces the risk of overdose and improves outcomes for opioid users.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalAddiction·DateAug 20, 2019

New research explores the use of New Psychoactive Substances by young people

A study of 2,039 young people found that NPS users experienced significant mental health problems and physical issues, including heart and liver damage. The research also identified contributing risk factors such as family breakdown, trauma, and peer pressure, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to address NPS use.

SourceNational Institute for Health Research·DateAug 20, 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.

City parks lift mood as much as Christmas, Twitter study shows

A study by the University of Vermont found that visitors to urban parks use happier words and express less negativity on Twitter after their visit, with a lasting effect. The impact is comparable to the mood spike on Christmas Day, highlighting the importance of green spaces for mental health.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalPeople and Nature·DateAug 20, 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.

Green space is good for your mental health -- the nearer the better!

A new study by researchers at the University of Warwick and others found that living within 300m of urban green space is associated with greater happiness, sense of worth, and life satisfaction. The study used data from 25,518 people in London and found that proximity to green space was more important than lifestyle factors.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalApplied Geography·DateAug 20, 2019

Antibiotic use linked to heightened bowel cancer risk

Research published in Gut journal suggests a link between antibiotic use and increased risk of bowel cancer, particularly for cancers of the proximal colon. Conversely, rectal cancer risk was found to be lower among those prescribed antibiotics, possibly due to differences in gut microbiome activity.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalGut·DateAug 20, 2019

BAFfling cancer growth strategies

Researchers at CeMM Research Center have identified new targets for treating BAF mutant cancers by analyzing the effects of single subunit loss on chromatin accessibility and transcription. The study reveals that aberrant functions of remaining complexes may confer cancer-promoting properties, making them potentially druggable.

SourceCeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences·JournalNature Genetics·DateAug 20, 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.

Painting a bigger biosociological picture of chronic pain

A recent study published in PLOS Biology has made significant progress in understanding chronic pain by integrating psychosocial factors and neurobiology. The researchers found two key traits - Pain-trait and Emote-trait - that are associated with back pain characteristics, as well as a link between socioeconomic status and chronic pain.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateAug 20, 2019

Doctors tell parents too late that their child is near death, survey suggests

A survey of bereaved Danish parents suggests that doctors often inform them of their child's terminal illness too late, with over four in ten saying they were told just hours before death. The study highlights the need for improved education and training for healthcare professionals on how to break bad news to families.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Supportive & Palliative Care·DateAug 20, 2019

Longline fishing hampering shark migration

An international study found that longline fisheries globally impact migrating shark populations, with approximately a quarter of their migratory paths affected. The research used satellite tracking and big data analysis to examine shark movements at a global scale.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNature·DateAug 20, 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.

Do hospital ads work?

Researchers found that hospital advertising increases patient choice, with wealthy patients and those living far from hospitals responding well. However, a blanket ban on hospital advertising can lead to increased hospital readmissions by up to 1.2 per 100 discharges.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalMarketing Science·DateAug 20, 2019

The Lancet Neurology: High blood pressure and rising blood pressure between ages 36-53 are associated with smaller brain volume and white matter lesions in later years

A study of 502 individuals found that high blood pressure and increasing blood pressure during midlife are associated with reduced brain volume and white matter lesions in later life. However, there is no evidence that these associations are linked to cognitive decline or the build-up of beta-amyloid plaques.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Neurology·DateAug 20, 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.

New rapid DNA test to diagnose chlamydia infection in koalas

A new DNA test can diagnose chlamydia infection in koalas within 30 minutes, providing on-the-spot results and allowing for quicker treatment decisions. The test, developed using the LAMP method, targets a specific sequence of DNA in the bacteria and has been successfully trialled at Currumbin Wildlife Hospital.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalMicrobiologyOpen·DateAug 20, 2019

Smart sink could help save water

A smart sink was tested at Stanford University to see if it could help people use less water while still being comfortable. The results showed that participants used up to 26% less water when washing dishes with the automated faucet.

SourceStanford University·DateAug 20, 2019

New immune system understanding may help doctors target cancer

Researchers have discovered that natural killer cells interact with HLA class 2 proteins, which can activate them to attack cancer cells. This breakthrough may lead to new ways to harness the immune system to fight cancer and avoid attacking healthy tissues.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalNature Immunology·DateAug 20, 2019
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

How to improve multiple sclerosis therapy

Researchers identify various disease mechanisms underlying progressive MS, highlighting the need for precise therapy approaches targeting different pathomechanisms. Financial obstacles, including patent expirations, also hinder the development of new drugs.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalNature Reviews Drug Discovery·DateAug 20, 2019

Examining the link between caste and under-five mortality in India

A recent study found that under-five mortality rates in India remain high among scheduled caste and tribe populations, with significant gaps between well-off and deprived castes. The researchers identified key factors contributing to these disparities, including educational attainment of women and household wealth.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 20, 2019

Study supports link between pollution and neuropsychiatric disorders

A new study suggests a significant link between exposure to environmental pollution and an increase in the prevalence of neuropsychiatric disorders. The study found poor air quality associated with increased rates of bipolar disorder and major depression in both the US and Denmark.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalPLOS Biology·DateAug 20, 2019

Laser printing technology: Creating the perfect bioprinter

Researchers analyzed 33 studies on laser-induced forward transfer (LIFT) bioprinting to optimize techniques and materials. They found that LIFT technology provides precise cell transfer and precise 3D printing capabilities, with potential applications in tissue transplantation.

SourceSechenov University·JournalBioprinting·DateAug 20, 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.

New hydrogels show promise in treating bone defects

Researchers from UCLA School of Dentistry developed a new hydrogel that promotes tissue repair and regeneration, inducing stem cell migration to enhance bone healing. The clay-enhanced hydrogel has a more porous structure, improving its ability to deliver cells to defective areas.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 20, 2019

Low levels of vitamin D in elementary school could spell trouble in adolescence

A University of Michigan study found that children with vitamin D deficiency during elementary school were nearly twice as likely to develop externalizing behavior problems as those with higher levels. Low levels of the protein transporting vitamin D were also linked to self-reported aggressive behavior and anxious/depressed symptoms.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalJournal of Nutrition·DateAug 20, 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.

Is pollution linked to psychiatric disorders?

A new study suggests a possible link between environmental pollution and an increase in psychiatric disorders. Poor air quality was associated with higher rates of bipolar disorder, major depression, schizophrenia, and personality disorders in both US and Danish populations.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateAug 20, 2019

A lack of self control during adolescence is not uniquely human

A review of adolescent brains across species reveals that impulsiveness is a biological adaptation crucial for brain maturation. The human brain undergoes significant changes during adolescence, including pruning of neural connections and strengthening of white matter tracts, which enables optimal brain function in the adult stage.

SourceCell Press·JournalTrends in Neurosciences·DateAug 20, 2019

Global change is triggering an identity switch in grasslands

A new study found that global change is triggering a significant shift in grassland plant species, with many plots experiencing drastic changes despite minimal changes in total species count. This shift could impact the critical services provided by grasslands, including carbon storage and food production.

SourceSmithsonian·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 19, 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.

5 cool technologies your tax dollars are funding

Recent advances in biomedical imaging and bioengineering funded by the NIH include a non-invasive blood glucose monitoring device and a skin patch that monitors blood pressure continuously. Additionally, researchers have developed painless laser scans for breast cancer screening and prosthetic hands with sensory feedback.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Biomedical Imaging & Bioengineering·DateAug 19, 2019

Global change and plant community composition

Grassland plant communities exhibit delayed responses to global change drivers like nutrient pollution, drought, and climate warming. The number of applied anthropogenic factors increases the likelihood of community response.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 19, 2019

Numerical estimation and visual fixation

A study of 27 people found that numerical estimation relies on accumulating quantities across multiple visual fixations. This challenges the long-held assumption that approximate numerical estimation occurs rapidly and in parallel.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 19, 2019

Lipophilic statins associated with significantly reduced liver cancer incidence and mortality

A nationwide cohort study found that lipophilic statin use was associated with significantly lower risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) incident, all-cause death, and liver-related death. The benefits were dose and duration-dependent, with the greatest reduction in HCC risk occurring after at least 600 cumulative defined daily doses.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateAug 19, 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.

Religion associated with HPV vaccination rate for college women

A new study found that 25% of female college students between 18-26 years old have not been vaccinated for HPV, with 70% identifying with a particular religious faith. College students are advised to educate themselves on the importance of HPV vaccination despite their parents' previous opposition.

SourceUniversity of South Florida·JournalJournal of Religion and Health·DateAug 19, 2019

Peer influence, social networks might be leveraged to aid gun violence reduction efforts

A Northwestern University study found that the Violence Reduction Strategy (VRS) program reduced gunshot victimization among participants by 3.2 percentage points, with spillover effects reducing victimization among their peers by 1.5 percentage points. These findings suggest that social networks can be leveraged to enhance gun violenc...

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateAug 19, 2019

New clues on stem cell transplant rejection revealed in study

Scientists found that mutations in mitochondrial DNA can induce an immune response, leading to the rejection of stem cell transplants. The study used hybrid stem cells with nuclear and mitochondrial DNA from different sources and showed that even a single mitochondrial mutation can trigger an immune response.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateAug 19, 2019

A novel T-cell subset associated with type 1 diabetes

A recent study at University of Eastern Finland discovered a novel T-cell subset, peripheral helper T cells, associated with the onset of type 1 diabetes. These cells were found to be more frequent in children who later developed the disease and those with autoantibodies indicating genetic risk.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalDiabetologia·DateAug 19, 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.

Reassessing nuclear safety

A recent study reassesses nuclear safety by prioritizing both objective and subjective risks, aiming to reduce psychological and physical trauma. The guidelines advocate for improved system resilience and shift towards systems-thinking in risk assessment.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 19, 2019

Comparing your house to your neighbors' can lead to dissatisfaction

A new study by Iowa State University researcher Daniel Kuhlmann found that people are more likely to be dissatisfied with their homes if they are smaller than their neighbors'. This phenomenon, known as positional housing concerns, suggests that people's perceptions of their own homes are influenced by the size of their neighbors' houses.

SourceIowa State University·JournalHousing Studies·DateAug 19, 2019

Scientists uncover mystery of DNA methylation

Researchers at Technical University of Denmark have developed a method to quickly couple enzymes with specific methylation patterns, revealing which enzymes are responsible for certain patterns. This discovery holds great promise for improving DNA transformation and introducing foreign DNA into host organisms.

SourceTechnical University of Denmark·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 19, 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.

Physical activity in adolescence and later life reduces the risk of colorectal adenoma

A study analyzing data from almost 30,000 nurses found that physical activity in adolescence and later life cumulatively reduce the risk of advanced adenomatous polyps, a precursor to colorectal cancer. The study showed that adequate physical activity in both adolescence and adulthood reduces the risk by 39%.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalBritish Journal of Cancer·DateAug 19, 2019