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Science News Archive December 2019 - Page 24


Page 24 of 36

Consider soil in fall-applied ammonia rates, Illinois study says

A new Illinois study found that fall-applied anhydrous ammonia may not meet corn's nitrogen needs. The study showed varying uptake efficiency depending on soil type and crop rotation, with richest soils being lower in nitrogen recovery.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalSoil Science Society of America Journal·DateDec 9, 2019

Giving common antibiotic before radiation may help body fight cancer

Researchers found that vancomycin alters the gut microbiome to improve the function of dendritic cells, which can help the immune system fight tumors more effectively. The approach has potential implications for a wide variety of cancer types and could lead to a new treatment strategy.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 9, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Speedy and precise multicolor imaging of biomolecules now possible

Scientists have developed a new imaging technique that allows for fast and precise tracking of biological molecules using gold, silver, and gold-silver alloy nanoparticles. This breakthrough enables the visualization of molecular movements in unprecedented detail, opening up new avenues for understanding cellular processes.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalACS Photonics·DateDec 9, 2019

Microcapsules for targeted drug delivery to cancer cells

Scientists at Peter the Great Saint-Petersburg Polytechnic University create a method of targeted drug delivery to cancer cells using microcapsules made of polymeric compounds and gold nanorods. The technology allows for precise treatment of tumors without harming healthy tissues.

SourcePeter the Great Saint-Petersburg Polytechnic University·JournalBiomaterials Science·DateDec 9, 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.

How planets may form after dust sticks together

Researchers found that particles in microgravity develop strong electrical charges and stick together, forming large aggregates. This process helps explain how asteroids and planets form in outer space. The study also identifies new approaches for controlling fine particle aggregation in industrial processing.

SourceRutgers University·JournalNature Physics·DateDec 9, 2019

Seahorse breeding project aims to reverse species decline

A unique breeding project at SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium is designed to save the native White's Seahorse species in Australia. The project, led by Robbie McCracken, has successfully bred and raised six babies, with plans to release them into the wild next year.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·DateDec 9, 2019

Predicting a protein's behavior from its appearance

Researchers developed MaSIF, a machine learning-driven method to predict protein interactions and biochemical activity based on surface appearance. The algorithm analyzes chemical and geometric properties of proteins, creating a unique 'fingerprint' for each, enabling the prediction of behavior patterns.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Methods·DateDec 9, 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.

Loss of tropical Pacific glaciers

The last known tropical glaciers in the West Pacific Warm Pool are at risk of disappearing within a decade. The study found that the Puncak Jaya glaciers in Indonesia lost around 1.05 meters of ice per year between 2010 and 2015, with thinning rates increasing five-fold during strong El Niño events.

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

New clues to the link between ALS and type 2 diabetes

A study by Karolinska Institutet researchers identifies a molecular mechanism linking ALS and type 2 diabetes, where immunoglobulin G antibodies target calcium channels in pancreatic beta cells, leading to cell death. The findings suggest altered humoral immunity may be a generalized phenomenon for other neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 9, 2019

Aspirin may no longer be effective as cardiovascular treatment

A recent review found that aspirin no longer provides a net benefit for primary prevention of cardiovascular disease and cancer, despite its long history of reducing heart attack risk. Aspirin use has decreased in recent years due to the emergence of statins and improved cancer screening technology.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalFamily Practice·DateDec 9, 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.

UCLA study shows inhibition of gene helps overcome resistance to immunotherapy

Researchers at UCLA Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center found that inhibiting PAK4 gene overcomes resistance to anti-PD-1 therapy in preclinical models. Biopsies from patients with melanoma showed high expression of PAK4, correlating with suppressed immune cell infiltration into tumors.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalNature Cancer·DateDec 9, 2019

Increasing food intake by swapping mitochondrial genomes

Researchers linked genetic variation in fruit fly mitochondrial genomes to changes in food intake, providing a new tool for studying human metabolic traits. The study used the Drosophila Genetic Reference Panel and identified specific haplotypes associated with increased food consumption.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Metabolism·DateDec 9, 2019

Climate change and fishery employment

Climate variability between 1996 and 2017 caused a significant decrease in county-level fishing employment in New England, with an estimated 16% decline. The study highlights the regional impact of climate change on fisheries and suggests that climate may influence fishing employment.

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

Ultrafast stimulated emission microscopy of single nanocrystals in Science

Scientists at ICFO have created a new microscopy technique that allows them to study the dynamics of individual quantum dots without degrading the samples or relying on fluorescent labels. By using laser pulses to promote QDs into excited states, they can image and track the evolution of charged particles within the nanoscale.

SourceICFO-The Institute of Photonic Sciences·JournalScience·DateDec 9, 2019

Lactobacillus balances gut microbiome and improves chronic-alcohol-induced liver injury

Researchers found that Lactobacillus rhamnosus can restore a balanced intestinal microbiome and counter liver damage caused by chronic alcohol consumption. The probiotic effect of the bacteria reduced inflammation and fat accumulation in the liver, indicating potential therapeutic applications for alcohol-induced liver disease.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Medicinal Food·DateDec 9, 2019
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Extending HPV vaccination ages would produce relatively small health benefits

A new study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that extending the HPV vaccination age to include women and men up to 45 would produce small, but significant health benefits. The study used a health economic model to evaluate the added effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of such an extension.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateDec 9, 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.

BU study finds new factors linked to suicide

A new study from Boston University School of Public Health found that physical illness and injury increase the risk of suicide in men, but not women. The study used machine learning and health data from Denmark to identify complex factors that may predict suicide.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateDec 9, 2019

Researchers identify 'Achilles' heel' of drug-resistant superbug

The discovery of LiaX, a secret protein that alerts bacteria to antibiotic and immune system attacks, opens doors for future treatment options against antibiotic-resistant superbugs. The protein's activation causes restructuring of the bacterial cell, preventing antibiotics from destroying it.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 9, 2019

Review Commons, a pre-journal portable review platform

Review Commons, launched by ASAPbio and EMBO Press, enables high-quality pre-journal peer review of manuscripts from the life sciences. This platform empowers authors to make informed decisions on paper submission and expedites submission to affiliate journals without restarting reviews.

SourceEMBO·JournalThe EMBO Journal·DateDec 9, 2019

Explaining the tiger stripes of enceladus

Scientists have discovered that the unique tiger stripes on Enceladus are caused by tidal forces from Saturn's gravity, which release pressure and prevent the cracks from freezing shut. This allows water to erupt from the fissures, creating a regular spacing pattern.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalNature Astronomy·DateDec 9, 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.

A sustainable new material for carbon dioxide capture

A new bio-based hybrid foam material has been developed to capture carbon dioxide, offering high efficiency and low operating costs. The material combines zeolites with gelatine and cellulose to create a durable and lightweight substance with excellent CO2-adsorbing properties.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateDec 9, 2019

How Enceladus got its stripes

The study investigates the physical forces acting on Enceladus that allow the tiger stripe fissures to form and remain in place. The researchers found that the fissures could have formed on either pole, but the south pole's unique deformation led to their formation.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalNature Astronomy·DateDec 9, 2019

Spying on hippos with drones to help conservation efforts

Researchers used drones to estimate hippo numbers in the Okavango Delta, northern Botswana, and found the method to be just as effective as traditional land surveys. The drone's bird's-eye perspective allowed for accurate counting of individual hippos, even when they were crowded together.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 9, 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.

Researchers find some forests crucial for climate change mitigation, biodiversity

A study by Oregon State University researchers found that preserving temperate forests in the western United States can mitigate climate change through carbon sequestration, while also enhancing biodiversity. The identified forests have medium to high potential for carbon sequestration and low future climate vulnerability.

SourceOregon State University·JournalEcological Applications·DateDec 9, 2019

Road salt pollutes lake in one of the largest US protected areas, new study shows

A new study by the Ausable River Association and Adirondack Watershed Institute reveals that road salt runoff into Mirror Lake prevents natural water turnover, posing a risk to its ecology. The researchers found that high levels of surface-water chloride have created anoxic conditions, limiting habitat availability for native lake trout.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalLake and Reservoir Management·DateDec 9, 2019

Acoustic focusing to amass microplastics in water

A new device uses acoustic focusing to gather microplastics in water, promising a practical solution to the pollution problem. The device collects particles of different sizes and types with high efficiency, showing promise for future improvements.

SourceShinshu University·DateDec 9, 2019

Dead probiotic strain shown to reduce harmful, aging-related inflammation

A study by Wake Forest School of Medicine identified a dead probiotic strain that reduces age-related leaky gut and inflammation in older mice. The dead probiotic strain, Lactobacillus paracasei D3-5, extended the lifespan of roundworms and improved physical and cognitive functions in mice.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalGeroScience·DateDec 9, 2019

CMAJ priorities for 2020: Editor-in-chief Andreas Laupacis -- editorial

CMAJ's new editor-in-chief, Andreas Laupacis, outlines three priorities for the journal: publishing research relevant to Canadian physicians, expanding nonresearch sections, and increasing patient involvement. He plans to visit universities and healthcare professionals across Canada to gather ideas on improving healthcare.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCMAJ Open·DateDec 9, 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.

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.

Electronics integrated to the muscle via 'Kirigami'

A research team at Toyohashi University of Technology has developed a donut-shaped kirigami device for EMG recordings, reducing device displacement on large deformable muscle surfaces. The device enables accurate and robust signal acquisition, offering potential for prosthesis control in amputees.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalAdvanced Healthcare Materials·DateDec 9, 2019

Proton-hydrogen collision model could impact fusion research

A new theoretical model predicts how protons will collide with hydrogen atoms in high-energy collisions, validating some previous conclusions while revealing discrepancies. The model has the potential to advance our understanding of plasma behavior and its application in realizing clean energy sources.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal D·DateDec 9, 2019

Bridge protection in catastrophic earthquakes

Researchers at University of Technology Sydney developed a novel ground anchor technology to protect bridges against catastrophic earthquakes. The system uses high-tensile capacity steel cables, embedded into the ground behind the bridge, to deliver incredible strength and energy dissipation.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalSoil Dynamics and Earthquake Engineering·DateDec 9, 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.

Russian astrophysicists discovered a neutron star with an unusual magnetic field structure

Scientists have discovered a unique neutron star with an apparent magnetic field structure that manifests itself under specific angles relative to the observer. The study provides insight into the internal structure of the magnetic field, contradicting earlier assumptions and revealing new properties of neutron stars.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateDec 9, 2019

Climate change and the threat to global breadbaskets

A study by IIASA researchers found that the risk of simultaneous breadbasket failures due to climatic extremes has increased over time, with potential consequences for food price spikes and famine. The analysis suggests a need for more efficient allocation of resources to contingency plans and strategic crop reserves.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalNature Climate Change·DateDec 9, 2019

Have your health and eat meat too

Researchers from the University of South Australia have developed a new version of the Mediterranean diet incorporating lean pork, which delivers cognitive benefits while catering to Western tastes. The Med-Pork diet outperforms low-fat diets in delivering higher cognitive processing speeds and emotional functioning.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalNutrients·DateDec 9, 2019

Research shows ramping up carbon capture could be key to mitigating climate change

A new study published in Nature Scientific Reports suggests that increasing carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology could play a significant role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The research estimates that there is enough space in the world's nearshore continental margins to store 6-7 gigatons of CO2 annually by 2050, and tha...

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 9, 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.

Green hydrogen: Research to enhance efficiency

A team of researchers from Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf has gained new insights into water electrolysis, aiming to enhance the environmental impact of hydrogen-based technologies. The findings offer a possible starting point for improving the efficiency of this process.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateDec 9, 2019

Has physics ever been deterministic?

Researchers propose an alternative view of classical physics, suggesting that the future of an object is genuinely random after a certain number of interactions. This challenges the traditional view of determinism in classical physics and opens up new insights on the relationship between classical and quantum physics.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalPhysical Review A·DateDec 9, 2019

UArizona Health Sciences seeks new way to understand human aging

The study aims to understand how infectious, psychological and physical stressors impact the immune system, lifespan and aging process in humans. By using domestic mice co-housed with lab mice, researchers hope to develop new insights into guarding against reactivation of cytomegalovirus late in life.

SourceUniversity of Arizona Health Sciences·DateDec 9, 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.

Megadroughts fueled Peruvian cloud forest activity

A new study found that megadroughts in the Andes led to widespread deforestation and maize farming in the Laguna de los Cóndores region. However, as climate conditions normalized, forests reclaimed the area, and sediment samples showed an improvement in water quality.

SourceFlorida Institute of Technology·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateDec 9, 2019

Co-addiction of meth and opioids hinders treatment

A large study of 799 people found that methamphetamine use was associated with more than twice the risk for dropping out of treatment for opioid-use disorder. Meth users often experience challenges in daily life, including homelessness and difficulty saying no to drug dealers.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalJournal of Substance Abuse Treatment·DateDec 9, 2019

A tech jewel: Converting graphene into diamond film

Researchers have successfully converted large-area bilayer graphene into the thinnest possible diamond-like material, F-diamane, under moderate pressure and temperature conditions. This flexible and strong material has potential for industrial applications in nano-optics and nanoelectronics.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateDec 9, 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.

The Arctic atmosphere -- A gathering place for dust?

A multi-wavelength lidar provides data on fine dust in the central Arctic during polar night, revealing several layers of dust from human sources and forest fires. The data indicate that the upper atmosphere is more polluted in winter than previously assumed.

SourceLeibniz Institute for Tropospheric Research (TROPOS)·DateDec 9, 2019