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Science News Archive February 2019


Page 1 of 40

How Capsella followed its lonely heart

Researchers found that the gene INDEHISCENT plays a crucial role in shaping Capsella's distinctive heart-shaped fruits by upregulating auxin biosynthesis. This discovery may lead to improved crop yields and denser oilseed rape canopies through genetic modification.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalCurrent Biology·DateFeb 28, 2019

New study links electronic cigarettes and wheezing in adults

A new study by the University of Rochester Medical Center found that adult vapers are nearly twice as likely to experience wheezing, a precursor to serious health conditions. The research also highlights the potential for vaping to cause lung damage and long-term respiratory issues.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalTobacco Control·DateFeb 28, 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.

Generic immunosuppressants have reduced costs after organ transplantation

The introduction of generic immunosuppressive medications has led to significant cost savings for transplant patients and the Medicare program. On average, payments decreased by 48%-67% for Medicare Part D plans and 24%-44% for patients receiving the low-income subsidy.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateFeb 28, 2019

Researchers move closer to practical photonic quantum computing

A new measurement technique called COSPLI enables researchers to map and measure large-scale photonic quantum correlation with single-photon sensitivity, a critical step towards making photon-based quantum computing practical. The method uses CCD cameras and suppresses noise to detect signals from individual photons.

SourceOptica·JournalOptica·DateFeb 28, 2019

Lehigh University computer science researcher earns NSF CAREER Award

A recent NSF CAREER Award recipient aims to develop trustworthy machine learning from untrusted models, with a focus on safeguarding complex systems that piggyback on less-than-trustworthy technology. The grant will support work in creating tools to verify model safety and detect abnormal phenomena throughout the system's lifecycle.

SourceLehigh University·DateFeb 28, 2019

New findings shed light on origin of upright walking in human ancestors

A new study published in the Journal of Human Evolution provides evidence for a more robust adaptation to bipedalism in the human ancestor Ardipithecus ramidus. The research shows that Ardipithecus used its big toe as a propulsive lever when walking, marking a key transitional phase in human evolution.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalHuman Evolution·DateFeb 28, 2019

New project explores how international security alliances fail

Researchers at UC Davis are studying how international security alliances like NATO break down due to free riding and unequal burden-sharing. The study aims to improve understanding of the conditions that lead to these problems, with implications for policy decisions.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·DateFeb 28, 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.

Scientists at FAU are researching a new method for developing artificial ovaries

Scientists at FAU create porous scaffolds using electrospinning to support ovarian follicle growth, showing promising results. The goal is to develop an ideal artificial ovary that mimics the natural environment for follicle maturity, potentially increasing fertility in cancer patients.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 28, 2019

India's child nutrition program sees higher utilization, but fewer gains in high-burden states

The study found improved access for historically marginalized castes and tribes, but women with low education and poorest households were relatively excluded from program benefits. Utilization of ICDS services increased significantly between 2006 and 2016, especially in central and southern states.

SourceInternational Food Policy Research Institute·JournalBulletin of the World Health Organization·DateFeb 28, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

500-million-year old worm 'superhighway' discovered in Canada

Researchers have discovered fossilized worm tunnels dating back to the Cambrian period, suggesting animal life was more widespread than previously thought. The finding reveals evidence of large populations of worms living in sedimentary rocks, which were once believed to be barren.

SourceUniversity of Saskatchewan·JournalGeology·DateFeb 28, 2019

An atlas of an aggressive leukemia

A team of researchers has created a detailed 'atlas' of cell states for acute myeloid leukemia (AML), a type of aggressive cancer. The atlas, generated using single-cell genomics and machine learning, identifies distinct cell types and their genetic characteristics, shedding light on the disease's heterogeneity.

SourceLudwig Institute for Cancer Research·JournalCell·DateFeb 28, 2019

Warm seas scatter fish

A recent study found that climate change is disrupting the complex systems underlying global fisheries, with 8% of fish populations experiencing significant negative impacts. The greatest losses in productivity were seen in regions such as the Sea of Japan and North Sea, while the Labrador-Newfoundland region saw significant gains.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalScience·DateFeb 28, 2019

2015-2016 El Niño triggered disease outbreaks across globe

A NASA study found that the 2015-2016 El Niño event triggered widespread disease outbreaks globally, including plague and hantavirus in Colorado, cholera in Tanzania, and dengue fever in Brazil and Southeast Asia. The study analyzed climate data and public health records to quantify the relationship between El Niño and disease outbreaks.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 28, 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.

Gonorrhoea: Drug resistance compromises recommended treatment in Europe

Resistance to azithromycin and ceftriaxone remains a significant threat, with only limited alternatives left for successful treatment. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control monitors the effectiveness of recommended antibiotics through its surveillance programme.

SourceEuropean Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC)·DateFeb 28, 2019

New affiliation to advance therapies for rare diseases

The University of Oxford and Harrington Discovery Institute have established a global center for rare diseases, combining capabilities to deliver new treatments. The centre aims to address unmet need in rare disease research and will leverage resources to support cutting-edge breakthroughs.

SourceUniversity Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center·DateFeb 28, 2019

Hiding black hole found

Astronomers have discovered an intermediate-mass black hole, 30,000 times the mass of the Sun, hidden within a gas cloud near the Galactic center. The finding provides new insight into black hole growth and evolution, suggesting that small black holes can merge to form larger ones.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateFeb 28, 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.

New blueprint for understanding, predicting and optimizing complex nanoparticles

Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a new blueprint to understand and predict the properties of complex nanoparticles. The study enables the synthesis of polyelemental nanoparticles with up to seven different elements, providing a vast playground for exploring novel catalysts and light-emitting nanostructures.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalScience·DateFeb 28, 2019

Amoebae diversified at least 750 million years ago, far earlier than expected

A recent study reconstructed the evolutionary history of amoebae, showing that life on Earth was more diverse than previously thought, with ancestors of Thecamoebians evolving at least 750 million years ago. This discovery changes our understanding of current climate change and provides new insights into the evolution of life.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalCurrent Biology·DateFeb 28, 2019

Inflammation signals induce dormancy in aging brain stem cells

Stem cell research reveals that aging brain stem cells enter a state of dormancy promoted by inflammatory signals, reducing their ability to regenerate neurons. However, blocking these inflammatory signals using antibodies increases dividing activity and improves neuron production.

SourceGerman Cancer Research Center (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ)·JournalCell·DateFeb 28, 2019

Zika: Silent long-term circulation in Thailand

Scientists discover Zika virus has been circulating in Thailand since at least 2002, defying South American pattern of viral strain similarity. The finding highlights the need for effective long-term surveillance systems to monitor the virus's activity.

SourceInstitut Pasteur·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateFeb 28, 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.

Obstructive sleep apnea and cardiovascular disease in women

The study examines the relationship between obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) in women, highlighting sex differences and conflicting evidence. The authors argue that more studies are needed to better understand OSA's impact on CVD outcomes in women, leading to personalized care.

SourceCardiovascular Innovations and Applications·JournalCardiovascular Innovations and Applications·DateFeb 28, 2019

UCF researchers develop first sypersymmetric laser array

A team of University of Central Florida researchers has developed the first supersymmetric laser array, which overcomes a long-standing problem in laser science. The findings have promising applications in various fields, including medicine, military, industry and communications.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalScience·DateFeb 28, 2019

Hall effect becomes viscous in graphene

Researchers at the University of Manchester discovered that graphene's Hall effect becomes viscous due to electron-electron interactions. This phenomenon can lead to unique behaviors such as negative resistance and superballistic flow, even at room temperature.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalScience·DateFeb 28, 2019

Visualizing the interconnections among climate risks

Researchers developed a method to visualize climate risks and their cause-effect relationships across seven sectors, including water, food, energy, and more. The study identified 253 causal relationships between climate drivers and risk factors, highlighting the interconnectedness of climate impacts on human security and health.

SourceNational Institute for Environmental Studies·DateFeb 28, 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.

Nicotine may harm human embryos at the single-cell level

Researchers found that nicotine disrupts cell-to-cell communication, decreases cell survival and alters gene expression in human embryonic stem cells. This study offers new insights into the effects of nicotine on individual organs and cells within the developing fetus.

SourceCell Press·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateFeb 28, 2019

Home insurance buyers lack access to public flood data

A recent study found that flood mapping information in Canada is inadequate, incomplete and hard to locate, leaving homeowners exposed to significant financial risk. The study highlights the need for better information availability to help homeowners determine if their homes are at risk from flooding.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalNatural Hazards and Earth System Sciences·DateFeb 28, 2019

Data sharing uncovers five new risk genes for Alzheimer's disease

Analysis of genetic data from over 94,000 individuals has revealed five new risk genes for Alzheimer's disease and confirmed 20 known others. The study also implicated a genetic link to tau binding proteins and suggested that therapies developed for early-onset disease could be applied to late-onset Alzheimer's.

SourceNIH/National Institute on Aging·JournalNature Genetics·DateFeb 28, 2019

Interactive surfaces enter a whole new dimension of flexibility

Researchers at Osaka University have developed a novel flexible tube display that utilizes liquid droplets to create interactive surfaces. The system can take various surface shapes and provides information through streaming colored fluids, allowing for intuitive finger manipulation. This innovative technology has the potential to revo...

SourceOsaka University·DateFeb 28, 2019
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.

Bungee jumping for science

For the first time, researchers from Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin have measured the 'Bereitschaftspotential' (readiness potential) outside a laboratory and under extreme conditions. This finding will help advance brain-computer interface development, enabling quadriplegics to control neuroprosthetics and regain hand function.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 28, 2019

In singing mice, scientists find clue to our own rapid conversations

Researchers identified a brain circuit in singing mice that enables high-speed conversation-like exchanges, providing insights into the causes of speech disorders. The study uses Alston's singing mice as a novel mammalian model to examine brain mechanisms behind vocal turn-taking.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalScience·DateFeb 28, 2019

Machinery used in basic cell division does double duty as builder of neurons

Scientists found that microtubule ends couple with kinetochores to direct chromosome segregation during cell division, and this process is similar to neuronal morphogenesis. The KMN network plays a critical role in both processes, suggesting a potential explanation for neurological conditions like microcephaly.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateFeb 28, 2019

Clues to Martian life found in Chilean desert

A NASA rover mission in the Mars-like Atacama Desert has recovered subsurface soil samples containing unusual microbes that are distributed in patches, related to limited water availability and scarce nutrients. The findings will aid the search for evidence of signs of life during future planned missions to Mars.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateFeb 28, 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.

Mother's dengue immunity worsens baby's response to Zika

Researchers found that mothers infected with Zika also had dengue antibodies led to worse fetal brain damage. An immune complex forms when dengue antibodies attach to the Zika virus, recognized by a receptor on placental cells, allowing the virus to travel across the placenta.

SourceDuke-NUS Medical School·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 28, 2019

'Amazing snapshots' plumb volcanic depths

A University of Queensland-led study reveals how quickly magma moves to the surface, providing a better understanding of volcanic systems. The research also sheds light on the internal 'plumbing' of volcanoes, improving frameworks for monitoring eruptions and unrest.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalGeochimica et Cosmochimica Acta·DateFeb 28, 2019

Mobile bedside bioprinter can heal wounds

Researchers developed a mobile skin bioprinting system that can print bi-layered skin directly into wounds. The technology uses the patient's own cells, accelerating wound healing and reducing scarring.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 28, 2019

Heart disease in pregnancy: A special look at peripartum cardiomyopathy

Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) is a disorder where heart failure develops during or after pregnancy. Recent studies suggest angiogenic imbalance plays a key role, with soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt1) and prolactin being important factors. The latest IPAC study recommendations are also referenced.

SourceCardiovascular Innovations and Applications·JournalCardiovascular Innovations and Applications·DateFeb 28, 2019

Cell atlas of the aging lung

A study published in Nature Communications reveals that genes in lung cells lose synchronized behavior with age, leading to changes in gene activity and metabolic pathways. The researchers also found alterations in the extracellular matrix surrounding lung cells, affecting protein composition.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 28, 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.

Blood test could give two month warning of kidney transplant rejection

Researchers have developed a blood test that can predict kidney transplant rejection up to two months in advance. By monitoring seven immune genes, doctors may be able to intervene before damage occurs, improving patient outcomes and organ lifespan.

SourceNIHR Biomedical Research Centre at Guy’s and St Thomas’ and King’s College London·JournalEBioMedicine·DateFeb 28, 2019

Zips on the nanoscale

A team of scientists has developed a new method for synthesizing nanographenes on non-metallic surfaces, including metal oxide surfaces. This innovation enables the creation of electronic nanocircuits that could replace existing microelectronics.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalScience·DateFeb 28, 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.

Scientists develop bubble diameter prediction model for industrial use

A research team developed a simple correlation to predict bubble diameter using nonlinear least square optimization, validating it with experimental data and literature results. The new correlation shows reasonable accuracy in predicting bubble diameter under various operating conditions.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalChemical Engineering Science·DateFeb 28, 2019

Happy in marriage? Genetics may play a role

A new study found that couples with the GG genotype in the oxytocin gene receptor reported greater marital satisfaction and feelings of security. This genetic variation affects social bonding and is linked to personality traits such as emotional stability and empathy.

SourceYale University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 28, 2019

How prostate cancer becomes treatment resistant

Scientists from Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute identified how prostate cancer becomes treatment-resistant NEPC following targeted treatment. They found that an FDA-approved drug holds potential as a NEPC treatment and uncovered new therapeutic avenues to prevent transformation.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalCancer Cell·DateFeb 28, 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 climate solutions are not enough

A new policy perspective published in Science warns that a ten-year delay in emissions reductions could negate natural climate solutions' benefits. Natural climate solutions like forest enhancement and carbon sequestration are not enough to meet the Paris Agreement's goals without rapid mitigation efforts.

SourceWorld Wildlife Fund·JournalScience·DateFeb 28, 2019

Challenges in cardiovascular risk prediction and stratification in women

The article highlights the challenges in predicting and stratifying cardiovascular risk in women due to sex-specific factors, traditional risk models' flaws, and inadequate representation of women in CVD research. This has led to a persistent gap in awareness, diagnosis, and treatment of ischemic heart disease in women.

SourceCardiovascular Innovations and Applications·JournalCardiovascular Innovations and Applications·DateFeb 28, 2019

AU researchers develop genetic test to detect antimicrobial resistance

The new rapid genetic test detects the Macrolide efflux gene A, which causes resistance to erythromycin and azithromycin. The test works as accurately as culture-based methods but gives results in minutes, improving point-of-care diagnostics and potentially leading to better outcomes.

SourceAmerican University·JournalBMC Infectious Diseases·DateFeb 28, 2019

Pan-filovirus T-cell vaccine protects mice from Ebola and Marburg

A new pan-filovirus T-cell vaccine has been developed to protect against multiple filovirus species, including Ebola and Marburg. The vaccine induces killer T cells against conserved regions of inner filovirus proteins, offering potential protection against other known and unknown viruses in the filovirus family.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateFeb 28, 2019

Unveiling disease-causing genetic changes in chromosome 17

A Baylor College of Medicine study reveals extensive single Watson-Crick base pair mutations contribute to the characteristics of Potocki-Lupski and Smith-Magenis syndromes. The research identifies two groups of patients: those with recurrent and non-recurrent genetic changes.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalCell·DateFeb 28, 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.

Researchers reveal unexpected genome-wide off-target mutations caused by cytosine base editing

Researchers found that cytosine base editors (BE3 and HF1-BE3) cause unexpected genome-wide off-target mutations in rice, with single-nucleotide variants predominantly occurring in transcribed genic regions. The high frequency of these mutations suggests a need for optimization to increase the specificity of cytosine base editors.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalScience·DateFeb 28, 2019