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Science News Archive February 2019


Page 14 of 40

How zebra stripes disrupt flies' flight patterns

Researchers found that zebra stripes deter flies from landing due to visual disruption and twitching behavior. Zebras swish their tails constantly and run away if flies are persistent, whereas horses primarily twitch and swish to ward off flies, allowing them to be dislodged.

Delhi's complicated air pollution problem

Delhi's air pollution is a complex issue, with multiple sources including burning from power plants, landfills, and individual fires. Experts cite difficulties in collecting accurate data due to erroneous official numbers and uncounted small sources.

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.

New compound could help treat ovarian cancer

Researchers from the University of Sheffield discovered a compound that kills cancer cells without triggering apoptosis, making it resistant to treatment. The new drug lead is highly active against treatment-resistant cancers and may be particularly effective against ovarian cancer.

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.

Study finds way to potentially improve immunotherapy for cancer

A study by Cedars-Sinai Medical Center has identified a drug called dasatinib that could enhance the effectiveness of immunotherapies for various types of cancers. The researchers found that combining dasatinib with anti-PD-1 therapy increased sensitivity in cancer cells, making it a promising approach to improve treatment outcomes.

New study: How to save a seabird

Alaska's longline fisheries have reduced seabird bycatch by 77-90% since adopting streamer lines in 2002, saving thousands of birds per year. However, recent years have seen an increase in bycatch rates, particularly for albatrosses and northern fulmars.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Peer support, healing hands may curb prescription opioid misuse

A program offering group support, acupuncture, mindfulness, massage, and gentle exercise reduced pain intensity by 12% and boosted pain self-efficacy by 22% among participants with chronic pain, according to a UCSF-led study published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine.

Viruses that linger in the gut could trigger type 1 diabetes

Researchers found elevated levels of enteroviruses in the intestinal tracts of children with islet autoimmunity, a precursor to Type 1 diabetes. The study suggests that these viruses may spread from the gut into the pancreas and trigger autoimmune responses.

How coral bleaching threatens Caribbean communities

A study analyzing Caribbean islands reveals that independent island nations like Cuba and Jamaica are less vulnerable to coral bleaching than territories like Saint Barthélemy. The study found that independent islands have lower social-ecological vulnerability due to their reduced economic dependence on reefs.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Extinguishing fear memories relies on an unusual change to DNA

Researchers discovered a DNA modification that enhances fear extinction, enabling the brain to rapidly adapt to changing conditions. They found adenosine modifications in neurons involved in fear extinction, which increase levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and promote new non-fearful memories.

UBC researchers discover how blood vessels protect the brain during inflammation

Researchers at UBC have discovered a protein called podocalyxin that plays a key role in protecting the brain from harmful blood components during inflammation. The study's findings could lead to the development of new treatments for stroke, epilepsy, and multiple sclerosis by inducing temporary opening of the blood-brain barrier.

Nitisinone increases melanin in people with albinism

A small pilot clinical study suggests that nitisinone increases melanin production in some people with oculocutaneous albinism type 1B, a rare genetic disease. The drug may help protect against the sun's UV rays and promote normal vision development.

EEG helps scientists predict epileptic seizures minutes in advance

Scientists at UT Southwestern Medical Center have developed a method to predict epileptic seizures at least four minutes in advance using EEG monitoring. The study shows that delivering an edible acid called acetate can prevent seizures if detected early, providing new potential therapy options.

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.

Massive database traces mammal organ development, cell by single cell

Researchers at the Allen Institute have created the largest single-cell database of mammal organ development, tracing gene expression from a single cell to fully formed organs. The study provides valuable insights into human biology and developmental diseases, with potential applications in understanding common adult diseases.

Salt could be a key factor in allergic immune reactions

Researchers found elevated salt concentrations in the skin of patients with atopic dermatitis, which can lead to Th2 cell activation and increased production of IL-4 and IL-13. The study suggests a link between salt intake and the occurrence of atopic dermatitis.

A volcanic binge and its frosty hangover

Researchers from Heidelberg University discovered a large igneous province that could have triggered the Gaskiers glaciation approximately 580 million years ago. The basaltic eruptions covered an area of over 1,000 kilometers and may have led to short-term global warming before causing long-term climate effects.

Simulated ocean mesoscale structures induce air-sea interaction

Researchers used a high-resolution model to study mesoscale air-sea interaction, revealing its significant impact on oceanic circulation, atmospheric processes, and cloud formation. The study highlights the importance of resolving oceanic mesoscale eddies and fronts in global coupled models.

New insight into river flows and sediment transport under ice cover

A new study from the University of Eastern Finland explores the effects of ice cover on river channels and sediment transport. The research found that ice cover influences flow structures and increases sediment deposition in 'whirlpools' with low flow velocity. This discovery highlights the importance of considering seasonal changes in...

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Firearm homicide rate higher in US counties with greater income inequality

A national study found that US counties with greater income inequality have a higher rate of firearm homicide deaths. The association was positively correlated across all races and individual groups, with African-Americans experiencing a nearly 10% increase in firearm homicide rates for every 0.04 greater value of the Gini index.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Superconduction: Why does it have to be so cold?

Researchers have found that superconductivity can be explained by applying quantum physics laws and a complex 'Feynman diagram' calculation. The new method enables a better understanding of high-temperature superconductivity.

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.

A prosthetic that restores the sense of where your hand is

Researchers have developed a prosthetic that restores the sense of where your hand is, allowing amputees to feel tactile sensations and proprioception in real time. The new device uses intraneural stimulation to deliver simultaneous position and tactile feedback, resulting in improved function and prosthesis embodiment.

The new exercise trend that's made for everyone

Researchers propose incorporating short high-intensity incidental physical activity (HIIPA) into daily routines to improve health. HIIPA involves brief bursts of high-intensity exercise, such as walking uphill or carrying groceries, which can be done in just a few minutes a day and offer significant health benefits.

New blood test may map fetal genome for countless mutations

Researchers developed a non-invasive blood test to map fetal genomes and detect genetic disorders with high accuracy. The test can identify countless diseases caused by small impairments in the fetal genome, offering a safe and simple procedure for parents-to-be.

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.

A scientific method for perfect fondue

Researchers developed a scientific approach to create deliciously melted fondue by balancing cheese, wine and starch. The study found that adding potato starch and ethanol decreased the fondue's viscosity for optimal mouthfeel and dipping coverage.

NASA finds Tropical Cyclone Wutip organizing

Tropical Depression 02W has strengthened into a tropical storm, with NASA-NOAA's Suomi NPP satellite capturing visible images of its organized center. The storm is forecast to intensify and potentially become a typhoon, affecting Guam and the surrounding areas.

The Mark Foundation funds 14 new cancer innovation projects

The Mark Foundation has selected 14 new ASPIRE Award winners, funding high-risk, high-reward cancer research projects across the US and internationally. These projects focus on early cancer detection, immunotherapy, tumor microenvironment, and more, with the potential to advance cancer medicine.

Bat influenza viruses could infect humans

Researchers have discovered that bat influenza viruses can infect humans and livestock by using the MHC-II molecule to enter host cells. This finding suggests that these viruses have the potential to cause zoonotic transmission, leading to serious illnesses and deaths.

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.

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.

Origins of giant extinct New Zealand bird traced to Africa

Researchers from Australia, New Zealand, and the US reveal that the African origins of New Zealand's giant extinct adzebill bird were traced to the tiny flufftails found in Madagascar and Africa. Genetic data analysis suggests a close relationship between the adzebills and their living relatives.

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.

UH chemist earns CAREER award for work in luminescence

University of Houston chemist Thomas Teets tackles three topics: blue light-emitting compounds, near-infrared spectra, and photocatalysts for organic synthesis. He also leads educational projects to introduce children and art enthusiasts to the chemistry of light.

Correlated nucleons may solve 35-year-old mystery

Researchers developed a universal function that links short-range correlations between protons and neutrons in the nucleus to the EMC Effect, a phenomenon where quarks inside nuclei have lower average momenta than predicted. The study provides a possible explanation for the effect and offers a new perspective on the atom's nucleus.

Foreign bees monopolize prize resources in biodiversity hotspot

Honey bees are outcompeting native pollinators for access to pollen and nectar in San Diego's natural habitats. The study found that honey bees account for more than 90 percent of pollinators observed visiting flowers on the most abundantly flowering native plant species.

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.

Steep rise in self-poisonings in children and adolescents

A study published by University of Sydney found a significant increase in self-poisonings among young Australians aged 5-19 years from 2006 to 2016. The incidence rose by 98% and was predominantly caused by substances widely available, such as household products and prescribed medications.

BU awarded NIH grant to support student research

Boston University School of Medicine has been awarded a five-year, $482,400 NIH grant to bolster the development of physician-scientists. The grant will support a summer research program for first-year medical students, providing them with research experience and opportunities to present their work at national conferences.