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Science News Archive December 2019 - Page 22


Page 22 of 36

Oxygen shaped the evolution of the eye

Researchers discovered a pattern of mechanisms improving retinal oxygen supply that evolved with enhanced vision in all bony vertebrates. The findings add to our understanding of the evolution of the eye, highlighting its dynamic morphology and relationship with retinal oxygen supply.

SourceAarhus University·DateDec 10, 2019

Tiny magnetic particles enable new material to bend, twist, and grab

Researchers have developed a soft polymer material that can transform into various shapes using magnetic fields, enabling applications such as gripper arms for delicate objects and antennas with changing frequencies. The material is made from three different ingredients: two types of magnetic particles and shape-memory polymers.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateDec 10, 2019

Chiton mollusk provides model for new armor design

Researchers developed a parametric 3D modeling methodology to mimic the geometry of individual scales from the chiton mollusk. The scale armor model provides dual protection-flexibility performance through converging inward upon one another when under force, offering varying amounts of flexibility.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 10, 2019

New insights into the effect of aging on cardiovascular disease

Aging adults are more likely to develop and die from cardiovascular disease due to narrowed, hardened arteries. The study reveals a novel pathway where mitochondrial dysfunction and pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-6 co-exist with aging to promote atherosclerosis.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalCirculation Research·DateDec 10, 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.

Researchers show how opportunistic bacterium defeats competitors

Researchers discovered that Stenotrophomonas maltophilia uses a secretion system to inject toxins into competing bacteria, eliminating them. The study also identified a key toxin molecule that can reduce bacterial replication rates.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateDec 10, 2019

Research sheds important light on the metastasis of neuroblastoma

A new study published in British Journal of Cancer has identified the protein stathmin as a crucial player in the spread of neuroblastoma. Stathmin helps regulate PTPN14 expression, affecting migration and invasion of neuroblastoma cells.

SourceChildren's Cancer Institute Australia·JournalBritish Journal of Cancer·DateDec 10, 2019

Federal disability payments encourage more family caregiving, study finds

A new RAND Corporation study finds that federal disability benefits encourage more family caregiving, with recipients increasing in-kind assistance from adult children and enabling them to reallocate time to care for their parents. The study also shows a significant increase in the likelihood of children receiving payment for their help.

SourceRAND Corporation·JournalJournal of Health Economics·DateDec 10, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Loneliness may be due to increasing aging population

Despite growing older population, studies show that loneliness levels among similar-aged adults have not increased over time, but rather above age 75, loneliness increases. Researchers suggest older adults maintain good health, social relationships to reduce loneliness.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalPsychology and Aging·DateDec 10, 2019

Children much more likely to die after surgery in poor countries

A study published in Anesthesiology found that children in low-resource countries are 100-200 times more likely to die after surgery. The pediatric surgery demand is growing, with over 50% of children requiring surgery before their 16th birthday.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalAnesthesiology·DateDec 10, 2019

Middle-income countries are hardest hit by cardiovascular disease in Europe

The European Society of Cardiology reports that middle-income countries in Europe are disproportionately affected by cardiovascular disease, with higher mortality rates and more years lost due to CVD. The statistics highlight the need for targeted prevention policies and improved access to modern healthcare facilities.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateDec 10, 2019

ASTRO issues new guideline on radiation therapy for basal, squamous cell skin cancers

The American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) has released a new clinical guideline for the use of radiation therapy in treating basal and cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas. The guideline provides recommendations on when to use radiation as stand-alone therapy or following surgery, as well as dosing and fractionation schedules.

SourceAmerican Society for Radiation Oncology·JournalPractical Radiation Oncology·DateDec 10, 2019
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.

Quantum expander for gravitational-wave observatories

Researchers have developed a novel 'quantum expander' to improve signal-to-noise ratio at kilohertz frequencies in gravitational-wave observatories. This innovative approach squeezes quantum uncertainty of laser light inside optical resonators, expanding detection bandwidth.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateDec 10, 2019

Stardust from red giants

Researchers have discovered a new model explaining why our planet has a higher concentration of stardust from red giant stars compared to other bodies in the solar system. The study, published in Nature Astronomy, suggests that the Earth's unique mix of elements was formed during its formation around the Sun.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Astronomy·DateDec 10, 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.

Natural ecosystems protect against climate change

Researchers at University of Göttingen found mangroves absorb carbon efficiently, prioritizing conservation and restoration. The study analyzed a five-meter-deep core of sediment in Segara Anakan Lagoon, revealing the interaction between climate fluctuations and human activity affected carbon accumulation.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateDec 10, 2019

Too many Canadians live with multiple chronic conditions, say UBC researchers

A new UBC study finds that many Canadians live with multiple chronic health conditions, including cardiometabolic diseases like stroke, heart disease, and diabetes. Lifestyle behaviors such as physical inactivity, poor diet, and high stress levels are associated with a higher risk of developing these conditions.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalBMC Public Health·DateDec 10, 2019

Invest in pollinator monitoring for long-term gain

A new study suggests that investing in pollinator monitoring schemes can yield significant economic benefits, with potential savings of at least £1.50 for every £1 invested. The research, presented at the British Ecological Society's annual meeting, explores cost-effective methods for improving pollinator monitoring in the UK.

SourceBritish Ecological Society·DateDec 10, 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.

Twelve honored by society for risk analysis

The Society for Risk Analysis has awarded six prestigious awards and named six new Fellows, recognizing 12 individuals for their significant contributions to the field of risk analysis. The awardees include experts in decision analysis, education, service, practice, achievement, and statistical methods.

SourceSociety for Risk Analysis·DateDec 10, 2019

She uses mushroom enzyme and light to create green chemicals

Associate Professor Selin Kara aims to develop a fully green and sustainable production process for chemicals using natural enzymatic reactions. She plans to use bio-catalysis and photobiocatalysis in miniaturized bioreactors to create high-value products with minimal environmental impact.

SourceAarhus University·DateDec 10, 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.

Can eating ice cream make you scream?

A study found that half of adults experienced headaches after consuming a cold stimulus, with moderate pain lasting less than 30 seconds. The pleasure of eating ice cream or drinking cold drinks may be reduced due to painful headaches.

SourceInternational Headache Society·JournalCephalalgia·DateDec 10, 2019

Genetic breakthrough identifies heart failure risk in African and Latino Americans

A new study has identified a genetic variation that significantly increases the risk of heart failure in African and Latino Americans. The transthyretin or TTR V122I genetic variant was associated with an increased risk of heart failure, with patients being two-fold more likely to have the condition.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalJAMA·DateDec 10, 2019

Communications device offers huge bandwidth potential

Researchers have created a new device that can rapidly switch functionality to support high-speed wireless communications, enabling multiple conversations over the same network. The device uses microcapillaries filled with plasma, metal or dielectric gas to generate multiple channels operating simultaneously at different frequencies.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Reviews·DateDec 10, 2019

University of Cincinnati research looks at side effects for pediatric medications

A study by University of Cincinnati researchers found that certain antidepressant medications cause more side effects in children and adolescents with OCD and anxiety disorders. SSRIs were associated with increased rates of agitation, while SNRIs showed no significant link to suicidality.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateDec 10, 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.

LSU Health discovers role of 2 proteins in sight and preventing blinding eye diseases

Research led by Dr. Nicolas Bazan has discovered the critical role of MFRP and Adipor1 proteins in preserving retinal function. The study found that mutations in these proteins lead to retinal degeneration, highlighting their importance in preventing age-related macular degeneration and other eye diseases.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalFASEB BioAdvances·DateDec 10, 2019

Gut feeling: A network approach towards understanding IBD

Researchers have developed a combined experimental and computational pipeline to understand the role of genes in IBD. The study uses organoids to analyze gene expression and identifies 'master regulators' that overlap with IBD-related processes. This breakthrough enables design of new experiments to explore IBD-related processes further.

SourceEarlham Institute·JournalMolecular Omics·DateDec 10, 2019

Greenland ice losses rising faster than expected

The Greenland ice sheet has lost 3.8 trillion tonnes of ice since 1992, with the rate of ice loss increasing seven-fold over three decades. The study's findings show that the ice sheet is tracking the IPCC's high-end climate warming scenario, predicting 40 million people will be exposed to coastal flooding by 2100.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalNature·DateDec 10, 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.

New aluminium hydroxide stable at extremely high pressure

Researchers discovered a new aluminium hydroxide phase that remains stable at pressures exceeding the Earth's mantle. This finding suggests water can be stored in these hydroxides within deep Earth environments, terrestrial super-Earths, and icy planet cores.

SourceEhime University·DateDec 10, 2019

Genetic brain disorder fixed in mice using precision epigenome editing

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine used targeted gene epigenome editing to reverse a genetic mutation causing WAGR syndrome, a condition leading to intellectual disability and obesity. The study suggests the potential for developing epigenome editing therapies to prevent brain developmental disorders.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 10, 2019

Deep learning helps tease out gene interactions

A new method, called CNNC, uses convolutional neural networks to infer gene interactions from massive amounts of gene expression data. The approach outperforms existing methods at identifying disease-related genes and developmental pathways that might be targets for drugs.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 10, 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.

Have you found meaning in life? Answer determines health and well-being

A recent study by University of California San Diego School of Medicine found that the presence of meaning in life is associated with better physical and mental well-being, while the search for meaning in life may be associated with worse mental well-being and cognitive functioning. The researchers also discovered an inverted U-shaped ...

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJournal of Clinical Psychiatry·DateDec 10, 2019

Could we cool the Earth with an ice-free Arctic?

An ice-free Arctic region could lead to increased global warming, but also offer benefits like reduced shipping distances and heating demands. IIASA researchers propose strategies to increase the North Atlantic current, which could lower ocean temperatures and mitigate climate change.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalSN Applied Sciences·DateDec 10, 2019

Immunotherapy drug improves outcomes for some children with relapsed leukemia

Blinatumomab treatment demonstrates longer survival, fewer severe side effects, and higher undetectable residual disease rates compared to standard chemotherapy for children with high- or intermediate-risk B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. The study shows promising results as a bridge to curative bone marrow transplant.

SourceNIH/National Cancer Institute·DateDec 10, 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.

Grapevine red blotch disease threatens US grape industry

The virus causes red veins and blotches on grape leaves, reducing fruit size, ripening time, and sugar colors. Researchers aim to understand the disease's spread, potential vectors, and economic impact on grape production and wine quality.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·DateDec 10, 2019

Inane things with a taste of freedom

The Soviet Union profited from screening foreign films during the Cold War, with Hollywood movies serving as a weapon in the fight against the USA. The films were often shown on closed networks or renamed to avoid copyright issues.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalStudies in Russian and Soviet Cinema·DateDec 10, 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.

Could dark carbon be hiding the true scale of ocean 'dead zones'?

A new study suggests that dark carbon fixation could be contributing to the growth of ocean 'dead zones', where oxygen is scarce. This means that existing models may underestimate the impact of climate change on these regions, leading to severe ecological and economic consequences.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalGlobal Biogeochemical Cycles·DateDec 10, 2019

Can salmon eat their way out of climate change?

Researchers found that juvenile Coho salmon grew fastest and survived longest when exposed to natural temperature gradients and plenty of food. However, there is a catch: while food can help offset the effects of rising temperatures, it cannot completely compensate for the impacts of climate change.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalCanadian Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences·DateDec 10, 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.

RNA modification -- Methylation and mopping up

Scientists identify a new type of RNA modification in bacteria that is attached under stress and removed quickly. The sulfur-containing base modification helps regulate protein synthesis and could serve as an efficient detoxification mechanism to remove reactive chemical groups.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 9, 2019

Grandmother effect in killer whales

A study on killer whales found that grandmothers play a crucial role in improving the survival of their grandoffspring. The research suggests that postreproductive females can better provide care due to not having reproductive pressures, potentially contributing to the long lifespan of killer whales.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 9, 2019

Killer whale grandmothers boost survival of calves

Post-menopausal killer whale grandmothers improve the chances of survival for their grand-calves, allowing them to focus time and resources on the latest generation. The study found that these grandmothers played a particularly important role in times of food scarcity, where salmon was scarce.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 9, 2019

UConn study: Wing genes responsible for tiny treehopper's extraordinary helmet

Researchers at UConn's Ecology and Evolutionary Biology Department shed new light on the evolution of the treehopper's distinctive helmet. By analyzing RNA sequences, they found that the gene expression lines up with wings rather than the dorsal body wall, suggesting a unique developmental pathway.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateDec 9, 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.

Cities and their rising impacts on biodiversity -- a global overview

The study highlights the severe impacts of urban growth on natural habitats, particularly in tropical coastal regions. Researchers suggest that scientists are not studying the issue adequately and propose future research focusing on lower-income countries, indirect impacts, and quantifying urban effects on biodiversity.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature Sustainability·DateDec 9, 2019

Exercise yields some cardiovascular benefits in children with excess weight

Daily physical activity improved key measures of cardiovascular health, such as good cholesterol levels and aerobic fitness, in overweight children. Gradual reductions in body fat, like that experienced by exercise participants, is more beneficial than focusing on weight loss.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalInternational Journal of Obesity·DateDec 9, 2019