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Science News for February 8, 2019


Neurologists speak out about gender disparity at global stroke gathering

Researchers at UTHealth found significant underrepresentation of women among neurology conference presenters and abstract authors. Despite racial disparities, the studies suggest a positive trend in increasing female participation in future years. Strong faculty mentors play a crucial role in supporting women's careers in neuroscience.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·DateFeb 8, 2019

Zwicky Transient Facility spots a bumper crop of supernovae, black holes and more

The Zwicky Transient Facility (ZTF) has discovered over 1,100 supernovae, two black holes, and 50 near-Earth asteroids since its operations began in March 2018. The facility is also conducting a systematic study of transients in galaxy nuclei, aiming to catch stars being ripped apart by supermassive black holes.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalPublications of the Astronomical Society of the Pacific·DateFeb 8, 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.

Famous 'sandpile model' shown to move like a traveling sand dune

Moritz Lang and Mikhail Shkonikov from IST Austria have discovered a new property of the Abelian sandpile model, showing that it can exhibit dynamics similar to those of real-world sand dunes. The researchers used a specific method to add sand grains to the model, which induced self-similar fractal patterns reminiscent of the Mandelbro...

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 8, 2019

New study linking blight and homicide may help predict where murder may occur

A new study by LSU researchers found that nearly 25% of homicides in Baton Rouge occur within 3% of the city's area, often near blighted buildings and convenience stores. The study uses risk terrain modeling to identify areas with high crime rates and suggests ways to combat crime through community safety.

SourceLouisiana State University·JournalSocial Science Research·DateFeb 8, 2019

Innovative, simple treatment to combat the Candida albicans fungus

Researchers have developed an innovative treatment using uterine stem cell conditioned medium, showing antifungal activity against resistant strains of Candida albicans. This breakthrough opens up a new window of hope for treating vaginal candidiasis and its chronic carriers.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateFeb 8, 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.

How exercise may protect against Alzheimer's

Researchers found that exercise increases brain levels of irisin, a hormone linked to improved memory and reduced Alzheimer's risk. Studies in mice suggest that irisin can protect the brain from age-related cognitive decline and may even help prevent or treat dementia.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalNature Medicine·DateFeb 8, 2019

Scientists image conducting edges in a promising 2D material

Researchers at UC Riverside and University of Washington have successfully imaged edge conduction in monolayer tungsten ditelluride, a 2D topological insulator. This discovery could lead to the development of more efficient electronic devices by exploiting this unique property.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 8, 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.

Turning a porous material's color on and off with acid

Researchers at Hokkaido University developed a porous material that turns yellow to reddish-brown when exposed to acid vapor, returning to its original color upon removal. The material's stability is remarkable, maintaining its structure at high temperatures and resisting common organic solvents.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateFeb 8, 2019

How poppy flowers get those vibrant colors that entice insects

Poppies' colorful petals contain high concentrations of pigment, which causes efficient scattering of light. The unique shape of the pigmented cells creates air-filled gaps that reflect light on the cell/air boundary, resulting in striking colors.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalJournal of Comparative Physiology A·DateFeb 8, 2019

Rice U. lab adds porous envelope to aluminum plasmonics

Scientists at Rice University have developed a new method to create porous envelopes around light-powered aluminum nanocatalysts using pseudomorphic replacement. This process enables the creation of greener catalysts that use solar energy and are made from abundant metals, reducing energy burden and environmental impact. The study demo...

SourceRice University·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 8, 2019

Mixed results on early human testing of iron chelation after brain bleed

A recent study on the treatment of brain bleeds found that a drug called deferoxamine improved recovery and neurological function in patients who received intermediate doses of the medication. However, the primary results showed no significant improvement at three months after the bleeding event, but some benefits were observed at six ...

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateFeb 8, 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.

Supercomputing propels jet atomization research for industrial processes

By employing high-performance computing, researchers have developed new models for fine-scale turbulence data that can be used to inform large-eddy simulations, bringing accurate jet spray simulations to a commercial level. This advancement aims to improve fuel injection efficiency and spraying accuracy in various industrial processes.

SourceGauss Centre for Supercomputing·JournalJournal of Fluid Mechanics·DateFeb 8, 2019

New insights into radial expansion of plants can boost biomass production

Research by De Rybel (VIB-UGent) and Helariutta (SLCU) reveals that DOF-type transcription factors control plant radial growth, enabling targeted breeding for higher biomass production. This understanding can improve atmospheric carbon sequestration and increase crop yields.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalCurrent Biology·DateFeb 8, 2019

When sequencing fails to pinpoint a rare disease

Researchers use a novel database on the neutrophil proteome to make genetic diagnoses for two children with severe congenital neutropenia whom typical sequencing had failed. The technique combines proteomic and genomic screening, which shows huge potential for personalized medicine at low cost.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalMolecular & Cellular Proteomics·DateFeb 8, 2019
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.

UCI-led study reveals how blood cells help wounds heal scar-free

A UCI-led study found that circulating blood cells play a crucial role in scar-free skin healing by assisting wounded skin repair. The research discovered diverse wound fibroblast sub-types, with some having molecular signatures of originating from blood cells.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 8, 2019

Study identifies new target to prevent, treat alcoholism

Researchers at OHSU discovered a gene linked to lower expression in primates who consumed heavy amounts of alcohol, which reduced consumption by almost 50% when increased in mice. The study highlights a novel target for treating alcoholism and mood disorders.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalNeuropsychopharmacology·DateFeb 8, 2019

How bees stay cool on hot summer days

Harvard scientists develop a framework explaining how bees use environmental signals to collectively cluster and ventilate their hive. They found that individual bees respond to temperature variations, and the physics of fluid flow leads to efficient cooling solutions.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateFeb 8, 2019

NASA looks at Tropical Cyclone Funani's rainfall rates

Tropical Cyclone Funani's strongest rains wrapped around the center and extended northwest, with heaviest rainfall found around the center and a fragmented band of thunderstorms northwest. Rainfall rates reached up to 13 mm per hour, as the storm continued to move southeast towards Mauritius.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateFeb 8, 2019

Gummy-like robots that could help prevent disease

Researchers have developed micromachines that can mechanically stimulate cells and microtissues, potentially preventing diseases. These gummy-like robots use cell-sized artificial muscles powered by laser beams to carry out complex tasks.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalLab on a Chip·DateFeb 8, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Study: Serious health concerns missed in older adults

Nearly half of adults aged 65 and older have two or more symptoms like pain, fatigue & depression, increasing the risk of negative health outcomes. Researchers urge improved training among healthcare workers to address symptom burden in older adults.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateFeb 8, 2019

Tackling tumor scar tissue could be key to treating pancreatic cancer

Researchers have identified at least four different types of scar tissue in human pancreatic cancer, each influencing the disease in a unique way. This discovery may lead to tailor-made treatments, including immunotherapies, that target the powerful scar tissue wall protecting the cancer.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalThe Journal of Pathology·DateFeb 8, 2019

MRI cardiac stress test shows promise at identifying fatal heart disease

A study from Duke Health researchers reveals that MRI cardiac stress testing can predict mortality and diagnose coronary artery disease more effectively than existing methods. The non-invasive technology has potential as an alternative to stress echocardiograms, catheterizations, and nuclear exams.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateFeb 8, 2019

Does the presence of colleges and hospitals increase home prices?

A study by University of California, Riverside researchers found that colleges and hospitals increase home prices, with average prices higher in ZIP codes with universities than without. The impact of distance from these institutions also varies, with stronger correlations for two-bedroom homes and one-bedroom rents.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalJournal Of Big Data·DateFeb 8, 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.

Think big -- at least when it comes to global conservation

The eight largest countries account for 50 percent of Earth's land area but barely three percent of nations. Larger countries accumulate more ecosystem values, concentrating power in a few hands, and their domestic policies can have global environmental repercussions.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalConservation Biology·DateFeb 8, 2019

How a fungus can cripple the immune system

Researchers discovered that gliotoxin, a mycotoxin from Aspergillus fumigatus, inhibits the production of leukotrieneB4 in neutrophilic granulocytes, disrupting communication between immune cells. This allows fungal spores to infiltrate tissues and organs, posing a fatal threat to people with weakened immune systems.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalCell Chemical Biology·DateFeb 8, 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.

Fluconazole makes fungi sexually active

Researchers discovered that fluconazole treatment makes fungi sexually active, combining different resistance mechanisms and producing highly resistant offspring. This finding can help develop better drugs and overcome resistance.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalmBio·DateFeb 8, 2019

DNA traces on wild flowers reveal insect visitors

Researchers from Aarhus University discovered that insects leave tiny DNA traces on flowers they visit, revealing at least 135 different species of butterflies and insects. This eDNA method holds vast potential for tracking endangered pollinators and managing unwanted pest species.

SourceAarhus University·JournalEcology and Evolution·DateFeb 8, 2019

Five solutions offered for achieving gender equality in medicine and science

Researchers Profs. Sonia Kang and Sarah Kaplan offer five solutions to address structural and systemic barriers to advancing women in science, medicine and global health. The authors challenge common myths about diversity and inclusion and propose innovative interventions to create a more inclusive environment.

SourceUniversity of Toronto, Rotman School of Management·JournalThe Lancet·DateFeb 8, 2019

Munitions at the bottom of the Baltic Sea

The Baltic Sea is home to large quantities of sunken munitions, posing an environmental risk. Researchers have provided guidelines and decision-making support to help address this issue.

SourceAlfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research·DateFeb 8, 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.

Psychology: Robot saved, people take the hit

A team of researchers from Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München conducted a study on human perception and behavior towards robots. They found that when robots are humanized through anthropomorphic features, participants are less likely to sacrifice them to save human lives.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalSocial Cognition·DateFeb 8, 2019

Shorter course of radiation therapy effective in treating men with prostate cancer

A new UCLA-led study shows that men with low- or intermediate-risk prostate cancer can safely undergo higher doses of radiation over a significantly shorter period and still have the same successful outcomes as from a much longer course of treatment. The study analyzed data from 2,142 men treated with stereotactic body radiotherapy for...

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateFeb 8, 2019

Physicist Elisabeth Gwinn receives 2019 AAAS Lifetime Mentor Award

Elisabeth Gwinn, a professor at the University of California, Santa Barbara, has been awarded the 2019 AAAS Lifetime Mentor Award for her significant impact on promoting diversity and inclusion in physics. Her mentorship has led to a disproportionate number of women and underrepresented minority students pursuing Ph.D.s in physics.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·DateFeb 8, 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.

Bridging the 'liking-gap,' researchers discuss awkwardness of conversations

Conversations are fundamental to relationships, but people often feel anxious about them. Researchers found that people tend to rank their ability to have a conversation low, but this is not as bad as it seems. In fact, people are very forgiving in conversations and can enjoy talking to strangers.

SourceSociety for Personality and Social Psychology·DateFeb 8, 2019

New method improves infrared imaging performance

A new method developed by Northwestern Engineering's Manijeh Razeghi has greatly reduced image distortion caused by spectral cross-talk in dual-band photodetectors. This work enables high spectral-contrast infrared imaging devices for various applications, including medicine and security.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalIEEE Journal of Quantum Electronics·DateFeb 8, 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.

Is there a science to romantic love? Yes, and UC Davis is a leader

Phillip Shaver, a renowned psychologist at UC Davis, has received the Society for Personality and Social Psychology's Legacy Award for his pioneering work on attachment theory. His research has significantly expanded our understanding of human bonding and relationships.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·DateFeb 8, 2019

'X-ray gun' helps researchers pinpoint the origins of pottery found on ancient shipwreck

Archaeologists used a portable X-ray fluorescence detector to analyze ceramic pieces from the Java Sea Shipwreck, pinning their origins to specific kiln sites in southeastern China. The findings reveal complex trade networks between Asia and Africa in the 12th and 13th centuries, challenging traditional Eurocentric views of globalization.

SourceField Museum·JournalJournal of Archaeological Science·DateFeb 8, 2019

Life on the edge in the quantum world

Researchers at Aalto University have successfully controlled quantum phenomena in a custom-designed electrical circuit called a transmon. They were able to make the transmon jump multiple energy levels in one go, achieving speeds close to the theoretically calculated quantum speed limit.

SourceAalto University·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 8, 2019

Sea snakes that can't drink seawater

A new study reveals that sea snakes in dry regions rely on freshwater lenses formed on the ocean's surface to quench their thirst. Researchers found that only a portion of the captured snakes accepted the offered freshwater after rainfall began.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 8, 2019

At-home rehab comparable to clinic-based therapy to improve mobility

A randomized, assessor-blinded trial found that home-based telerehabilitation is as effective as clinic-based therapy in restoring arm function among stroke survivors. The study used a computer-based telerehabilitation system with game-ified activities and therapists using videoconferencing to assess progress.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateFeb 8, 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.

Lightning's electromagnetic fields may have protective properties

A new study by Tel Aviv University researchers suggests that extremely low frequency electromagnetic fields from lightning, known as Schumann Resonances, may protect cells from damage under stress conditions. The study found significant effects on living heart cells of rats within 30-40 minutes when exposed to these fields.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 8, 2019

Researchers develop human cell-based model to study small cell lung cancer

Scientists have created a human cell-based model to study the initiation and progression of small cell lung cancer, identifying critical tumor suppressor genes. The new model allows researchers to study the disease at different stages, enabling further studies on treatment strategies.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateFeb 8, 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.

Women's hormones play role in drug addiction, higher relapse rates

A Vanderbilt University study found that women's hormonal cycles play a critical role in drug addiction and relapse. When fertility-related hormone levels are high, females are more prone to seek rewards and make stronger associations with environmental cues, leading to higher relapse rates.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalNeuropsychopharmacology·DateFeb 8, 2019

Cricket females choose male losers

Researchers found that female crickets choose males who lost fights over alpha males for mating. In a study using the cricket Gryllus bimaculatus, females preferred males with lower aggression levels during courtship.

SourceAKSON Russian Science Communication Association·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and Evolution·DateFeb 8, 2019

Seasons change: Researchers provide new definition for major Indian monsoon season

A new definition for the Northeast Indian Monsoon (NEM) season has been established using surface temperature analyses, identifying the average onset and demise dates as November 6 and March 13. This definition provides a more objective and reliable approach to monitoring the monsoon season, which is critical for millions of people in ...

SourceFlorida State University·JournalMonthly Weather Review·DateFeb 8, 2019

Adenoid and tonsil trouble for teens

Researchers found that adolescent adenoids and tonsils do not shrink significantly during teenage years, contradicting previous medical consensus. This challenges existing guidelines for respiratory complications like obstructive sleep apnea, potentially leading to changes in surgical procedures.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 8, 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.

The 2008 recession associated with greater decline in mortality in Europe

A study published in Nature Communications found that the 2008 recession was associated with a greater decline in mortality rates in Europe. The researchers analyzed data from 15 European countries and found that periods of economic recession were linked to lower levels of pollution, fewer accidents, and sedentary lifestyles.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 8, 2019

How the brain responds to texture

New research reveals that neurons in the brain's somatosensory cortex respond differently to various features of a surface, creating a high-dimensional representation of texture. This complex neural landscape allows for the rich sensation of texture, enabling us to distinguish between subtle differences.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 8, 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.

SIOP recognizes Lilia Cortina and Vicki Magley with the Katzell Award

Lilia Cortina and Vicki Magley have been honored with the Raymond A. Katzell Award for their work in addressing sexual harassment in the workplace and promoting human well-being through I-O psychology. Their research has garnered significant media coverage, including major news outlets and scientific publications.

SourceSociety for Industrial and Organizational Psychology·DateFeb 8, 2019

Nitrogen gets in the fast lane for chemical synthesis

Rice University scientists have developed a novel method to incorporate nitrogen into molecules, bypassing traditional multi-step processes. This breakthrough enables the quick and efficient production of valuable alpha-aminoketones, which are crucial for drug design and synthesis.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateFeb 8, 2019

Positive thinking during pregnancy could help children's ability in math and science

Research from the University of Bristol found that mothers with an internal locus of control before their child was born were more likely to have a child who excelled in math and science. These internally focused mothers also provided better nutrition, read to their children more frequently, and showed interest in their homework.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateFeb 8, 2019
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.

New NIH research policy seeks greater inclusion across lifespan

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has introduced a new policy that eliminates arbitrary age limits in research, promoting inclusivity across the lifespan. This change aims to improve care for older adults by reducing exclusions and enhancing data analysis.

SourceAmerican Geriatrics Society·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateFeb 8, 2019

Shedding light on the science of auroral breakups

Japanese scientists confirm the role of radiation belt electrons in ionizing the deep atmosphere during auroral breakups. The research provides new insights into the phenomenon, revealing a higher energy level than previously assumed.

SourceResearch Organization of Information and Systems·DateFeb 8, 2019

Study finds a dearth of mental health interventions for ethnic minority youth in the US

A recent study by Arizona State University and DePaul University found that there are only four well-established mental health interventions for ethnic minority youth in the US, addressing issues like anxiety, disruptive behaviors, substance use, and trauma. Cognitive behavioral interventions were effective for Hispanic and Latino yout...

SourceArizona State University·JournalJournal of Clinical Child & Adolescent Psychology·DateFeb 8, 2019

A better way to make acrylics

A team of researchers at UConn and ExxonMobil have discovered a new, more energy-efficient method for producing acrylics. The technique uses a porous catalyst made of manganese and oxygen to facilitate chemical reactions, resulting in reduced energy consumption and fewer unwanted byproducts.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 8, 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.

Among Latinos, Puerto Rican children less likely to use their asthma inhalers

A new study published in the Annals of the American Thoracic Society found that Puerto Rican children were more than five times as likely as Mexican American children to have poor adherence to asthma control medications. Girls of both ethnic groups were also more likely to have poor or decreasing use of the medications.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAnnals of the American Thoracic Society·DateFeb 8, 2019

New drug brings unexpected hope in targeting cancer cells

Researchers have developed a new imaging and platelet targeting chemotherapy agent for early detection and treatment of cancers. The approach holds promise for diagnosing and treating tumors without major side effects.

SourceBaker Heart and Diabetes Institute·JournalTheranostics·DateFeb 8, 2019
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.

Dengue virus infection may cause severe outcomes following Zika virus infection during pregnancy

Researchers at Mount Sinai found that dengue virus infection can enhance the severity of Zika virus infection during pregnancy, leading to increased placental damage, fetal growth restriction, and fetal resorption. This mechanism may explain the high rate of microcephaly and birth defects observed in recent Zika outbreaks.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalImmunity·DateFeb 8, 2019