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Science News Archive December 2019


Page 26 of 36

Infant morbidity decreases with incentive-based prenatal tobacco interventions

A new study from the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus reveals that incentive-based smoking cessation programs can significantly reduce infant morbidity and mortality. The Baby & Me Tobacco Free program provided financial incentives to pregnant women, resulting in a 24-28% reduction in preterm birth and neonatal ICU admiss...

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.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

UM-led experiment closes critical gap in weather forecasting

A UM-led experiment has shown promise in improving subseasonal weather forecasting, providing critical lead time for natural hazards like heat waves and polar vortex. The SubX project aims to provide better subseasonal forecasts to the National Weather Service, using complex computer models and large data infrastructure.

Simple experiment explains magnetic resonance

Physicists at UC Riverside have designed an experiment to demonstrate magnetic resonance using a compass, aligning with the need for accessible explanations of medical imaging. The project, developed by undergraduate students and local high school teachers, showcases a hands-on, table-top approach to improving scientific literacy.

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.

Gamma-ray laser moves a step closer to reality

Calculations by Allen Mills predict the existence of stable positronium bubbles in liquid helium, which could lead to the creation of gamma-ray lasers. Such lasers have applications in medical imaging, spacecraft propulsion, and cancer treatment.

Fish scattering sound waves has impact on aquaculture

A new study by Benoit Tallon and colleagues found that schools of fish scatter sound waves, which affects the evaluation of fish biomass in aquaculture. The research uses mesoscopic physics to estimate the biomass of wild fish schools in their natural environment.

Genetic typing of a bacterium with biotechnological potential

Researchers have developed a genetic typing method for Pseudomonas putida, which enables the detection of its virulent strains. The study's findings highlight the bacterium's biotechnological value and its importance in understanding disease-causing pathogens.

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.

Breakthrough in battle against invasive plants

Researchers developed a global database to predict invasive plant populations, finding that species from disturbed environments are more likely to become invasive. The study suggests avoiding the export of these species, which can cause harm to people, industry, and wildlife worldwide.

How do you cultivate a healthy plant microbiome?

A new study by University of California, Berkeley, identified a core microbiome in commercial tomatoes that is robust and stable. The researchers used experimental evolution to select for microbes that best survived on the plants, resulting in a healthy plant microbiome.

Surface effects affect the distribution of hydrogen in metals

Scientists from Peter the Great St.Petersburg Polytechnic University detected a surface effect that prevents hydrogen from entering metal, causing errors in industrial testing and evaluation of materials properties. A theoretical model was developed to describe this phenomenon.

Peanut allergy vaccine to rewrite the immune system

Researchers have developed a novel vaccine that uses a virus-based platform to rewrite the body's natural response to peanut allergens, causing a non-allergic immune response. The vaccine has shown signs of success in mouse models and preliminary in vitro studies, paving the way for human trials.

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.

BU physician to receive distinguished Chair of Medicine Award

David Coleman, MD, will receive the Robert H. Williams, MD, Distinguished Chair of Medicine Award from the Association of Professors of Medicine (APM) for his exceptional leadership as chair of the Department of Medicine at Boston University School of Medicine and physician-in-chief at Boston Medical Center.

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.

Hire more LGBTQ and disabled astronomers or risk falling behind, review finds

A new review analysis published in Nature Astronomy finds that increasing diversity among astronomers can lead to significant research discoveries and improved innovation. The study highlights progress in gender equity, with initiatives such as the Pleiades Awards leading to a culture change in Australian astronomy.

Regan, Baker and Weiss receive funding for traineeship

Kelley Regan, Pamela Baker, and Margaret Weiss received a $20,600 grant to support a dynamic coaching outreach program in special education. The project aims to enhance the training experiences for teachers using technology in varied ways.

Animated videos advance adoption of agriculture techniques

Researchers at Michigan State University found that animated videos on agricultural techniques resulted in high retention and adoption rates among farmers in remote Mozambique. After two years, the farmers retained a 97% rate of the storage solution and adopted the technique with an 89% adoption rate.

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.

Stormquakes: Powerful storms cause seafloor tremors

Researchers have discovered a new seismic phenomenon originating at the ocean floor due to powerful storms. Stormquakes, characterized by magnitude 3.5 quakes, are caused by storm-induced pressure zones on the seafloor. The track of the storm and depth of the ocean play key roles in determining whether a stormquake occurs.

Espina conducting thrombus proteomic analysis

Researchers are using RPPA technology to analyze ischemic stroke specimens, focusing on protein content and identification of specific proteins of interest. The project aims to demonstrate the utility of this approach in understanding thrombus formation.

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.

Acupuncture reduces radiation-induced dry mouth for cancer patients

A randomized trial found acupuncture significantly reduced radiation-induced dry mouth symptoms in head and neck cancer patients. The study, published in JAMA Network Open, suggests that incorporating acupuncture into radiation therapy may prevent severity of dry mouth symptoms, improving quality of life.

Researchers add order to polymer gels

Researchers have created a new polymer gel with an ordered structure, allowing for potential uses in chemical filters, sensors, and drug release. This breakthrough could lead to advancements in various fields by providing a more consistent material.

New ultra-miniaturized scope less invasive, produces higher quality images

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University created a lens-free, ultra-miniaturized endoscope that produces higher quality images while minimizing brain tissue damage. The microendoscope achieves this by using coded apertures and computational reconstruction to create a clearer image from a 'messy' projection.

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.

Shin receives funding to strengthen English-language education in Uzbekistan

Dr. Joan Kang Shin will collaborate with American Councils to provide professional development for English-speaking teachers in Uzbekistan, aiming to improve English language education and incorporate it into public curricula. The project will involve baseline assessments, training programs, and follow-up evaluations.

A new view for glasses

Researchers at The University of Tokyo introduced a new physical model that predicts the dynamics of glassy materials based solely on their local degree of atomic structural order. This theory greatly improves our understanding of how glassy liquids become more viscous on cooling, with potential applications in manufacturing.

How saving the ozone layer in 1987 slowed global warming

A new study reveals that the Montreal Protocol successfully mitigated global warming by banning CFCs in 1987. The treaty has led to a reduction of up to 3°C-4°C of avoided warming in the Arctic, and 1.5°C-2°C in regions like North America, Africa, and Eurasia.

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.

Reducing risk in AI and machine learning-based medical technology

The article highlights the need for regulators to prioritize continuous monitoring and risk assessment in managing AI/ML-based medical technology. The authors suggest that less emphasis should be placed on planning for future algorithm changes, and instead focus on developing new processes to identify and manage associated risks.

Wildlife in tropics hardest hit by forests being broken up

Research suggests that tropical forests are hardest hit by forest fragmentation, with sensitivity increasing six-fold at low versus high latitudes. This finding could allow for more effective conservation schemes, such as preserving larger areas of pristine forest.

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.

New instrument extends LIGO's reach

The new instrument has helped scientists pick out dozens of gravitational wave signals, including one from a binary neutron star merger. This extended range has enabled LIGO to detect gravitational waves on an almost weekly basis, with the detectors now reaching distances of over 400 million light years.

Imaging of conjunctival goblet cells helps diagnosis of dry eyes

A new imaging technology assesses conjunctival goblet cells with high definition and contrast, overcoming limitations of existing methods. This non-invasive approach enables precise diagnosis of dry eye syndromes and evaluation of treatment effects, paving the way for precision medicine.

How gene mutation causes autism and intellectual disability

Northwestern University scientists discovered genetic mutations in the Usp9x gene lead to reduced synapses and increased anxiety in individuals with autism spectrum disorder. This research provides a crucial understanding of the biological basis of intellectual disabilities and mental illness, potentially leading to new treatment options.

Warm-sector heavy rainfall in China: Studies and challenges

Research on warm-sector heavy rainfall (WSHR) in China has revealed its association with specific synoptic patterns and topography factors in South China. However, WSHR events in other regions are less understood, leading to inaccurate forecasts.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Immune checkpoint therapy for ER+ breast cancers, a missed opportunity?

Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine discovered that immune checkpoint genes are more actively expressed in resistant tumors, which could be targeted with immunotherapy. This finding highlights the importance of personalized medicine and proper stratification of patients before treatment.

How much will we eat in the future?

Researchers at Göttingen University predict a significant increase in global calorie requirements by 2100, driven by rising Body Mass Index (BMI) and body height. This could lead to food shortages and exacerbate malnutrition among the poor if not addressed.

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.

Young people with IBD five times more likely to develop serious infections

A new study published in the UEG Journal found that young patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are at a higher risk of developing severe viral infections. Clinically active IBD and immunomodulators used to treat the condition are identified as main drivers of infection, with thiopurines increasing the risk by six times.

A momentous view on the birth of photoelectrons

Researchers at ETH Zurich have made a breakthrough in understanding the interaction between light and matter, revealing how linear momentum is transferred to electrons during ionisation. The study found that the timing of electron 'birth' affects momentum transfer, with additional delays induced by interactions with residual ions.