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Science News Archive February 2019 - Page 11


Page 11 of 40

New weapon to combat counterfeit goods: use your smartphone to check for fake merchandise

Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have developed a 100% effective labelling system that uses a unique chemical fingerprint to identify genuine products. The system, which can be checked using a phone app, has been tested with a 100% success rate and has the potential to revolutionize the fight against counterfeit goods.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateFeb 21, 2019

With nanopore sensing, VCU physics researchers detect subtle changes in single particles

Researchers at VCU have developed a technique to observe subtle changes in clusters of matter, shedding light on their catalytic properties and potential applications in drug discovery. This breakthrough enables the study of molecules on nanoclusters in real-time, revealing fast-paced configuration and position changes.

SourceVirginia Commonwealth University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateFeb 21, 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.

Russian scientists show changes in the erythrocyte nanostructure under stress

Researchers from Lobachevsky University have discovered that erythrocytes undergo changes in their nanostructure when subjected to stress, which can lead to programmed cell death. This finding has significant implications for the development of optimal treatment regimens for patients with atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease.

SourceLobachevsky University·JournalSovremennye tehnologii v medicine·DateFeb 21, 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.

The FASEB Journal: GI neuroimmune disruption contributes to Gulf War Illness

A mouse model study published in The FASEB Journal suggests that gastrointestinal neuroimmune disruption is a contributing mechanism of Gulf War Illness. The research found that exposure to pyridostigmine bromide causes long-lasting gastrointestinal issues and immune system changes in the gut and brain.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateFeb 21, 2019

Evidence-based care may improve outcomes for patients with acute kidney injury

A new study found that evidence-based care can improve patient outcomes for acute kidney injury, reducing hospital stays by several days. The intervention also led to improved recognition of AKI, medication optimization, and fluid assessment, resulting in better patient care.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateFeb 21, 2019

Do volcanoes or an asteroid deserve blame for dinosaur extinction?

Researchers find evidence suggesting an asteroid/comet impact reignited massive volcanic eruptions in India, coinciding with the worldwide extinction at the end of the Cretaceous Period. The eruptions, known as the Deccan Traps, produced climate-altering gases that may have played a role in the mass extinction.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalScience·DateFeb 21, 2019

More flexible nanomaterials can make fuel cell cars cheaper

A new method of increasing reactivity in ultrathin nanosheets can make fuel cells for hydrogen cars cheaper, promising faster and more efficient production. By tuning the materials' thinness, researchers can create more strain, changing material properties and accelerating reactions.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalScience·DateFeb 21, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Quantum dots can spit out clone-like photons

Researchers at MIT and ETH in Zurich have developed a system to produce coherent single photons using perovskite quantum dots. The study found that these materials can maintain coherence levels approaching those of established emitters, making them promising for quantum computing applications and secure quantum communications.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateFeb 21, 2019

How to keep stink bugs out this winter

Researchers found that sealing holes less than 3mm wide can keep out most brown marmorated stink bugs. Removing dead stink bugs can also deter new arrivals, while 'seeding' traps with corpses may improve performance but requires further testing.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalJournal of Economic Entomology·DateFeb 21, 2019

New in the Hastings Center Report, January-February 2019

The article explores the intersection of social media, emerging technologies, and medical ethics. Bioethicists discuss various issues such as bias in AI systems and patient relationships affected by social networking sites. The authors also provide recommendations for addressing ethical challenges in these areas.

SourceThe Hastings Center·JournalHastings Center Report·DateFeb 21, 2019

Climate change may affect ecological interactions among species

A study published in Nature Climate Change finds that climate change can redistribute the strength of ecological interactions between predator and prey species. Higher temperatures lead to more intense predation pressure, while increased climate instability weakens predators' effectiveness in controlling pests.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalNature Climate Change·DateFeb 21, 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.

New strategy improves efficiency of CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing

A new CMP-fusion strategy called CRISPR-chrom enhances CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing efficiency, especially at previously difficult-to-target sites. The approach demonstrates a substantial increase in CRISPR-Cas9 activity with no notable increase in off-target effects.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalThe CRISPR Journal·DateFeb 21, 2019

Handwriting: The foodie font of love

A recent study found that handwritten font on menus can convey a sense of love and care, leading customers to believe healthier food options are better for their bodies. This perception influences customer behavior, including increased social media interaction with the restaurant's brand.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Business Research·DateFeb 21, 2019

Innovative nanocoating technology harnesses sunlight to degrade microplastics

Researchers at KTH Royal Institute of Technology developed an innovative nanocoating technology that can degrade microplastics using visible light, reducing energy consumption and byproducts. The technology showed a 30% increase in degradation of low-density polyethylene microplastic residues.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalEnvironmental Chemistry Letters·DateFeb 21, 2019

JILA researchers make coldest quantum gas of molecules

JILA researchers have made a long-lived, record-cold gas of molecules that follow the wave patterns of quantum mechanics. The creation of this gas boosts the odds for advances in fields such as designer chemistry and quantum computing.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalScience·DateFeb 21, 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.

Surprising findings on forest fires

Fires increased during phases of lush steppe oak forest growth in relatively humid and warm climates. This contradicts the assumption that dry brushwood was decisive for early fires, suggesting fire risk is linked to plant biomass.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalQuaternary Science Reviews·DateFeb 21, 2019

Fruit fly wing research reshapes understanding of how organs form

A Rutgers University study has discovered that fruit fly wings remain the same shape even when cells are manipulated to change their division pattern, revealing a new way organs form. This breakthrough could lead to improved diagnosis and treatment of genetic diseases like mitral valve prolapse and van Maldergem syndrome.

SourceRutgers University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateFeb 21, 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.

Could saffron be as effective as stimulant medicines in treating ADHD?

A new study published in the Journal of Child and Adolescent Psychopharmacology found that saffron was as effective as methylphenidate in controlling ADHD symptoms in children and teens. The researchers also noted similar side effects, making saffron a promising herbal alternative for treating ADHD.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Child and Adolescent Psychopharmacology·DateFeb 21, 2019

Believing in yourself can backfire when investing in equity crowdfunded ventures

A new study from Indiana University's Kelley School of Business found that amateur investors with high self-efficacy are prone to crowd bias and herding behaviors, leading to poorer investment decisions. The researchers suggest that online training courses could help mitigate these risks and improve the equity crowdfunding landscape.

SourceIndiana University·JournalJournal of Business Venturing·DateFeb 21, 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.

How bird feather patterns form

Researchers discovered that EDA/EDAR signaling drives the wave of patterning, while FGF20 induces cell aggregation and compresses the epidermis to intensify FGF20 expression. This process shapes the precise hexagonal array of feathers in birds.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateFeb 21, 2019

Social connectedness may help victims of cyberbullying

A new study suggests that social connectedness can act as a protective buffer against the negative mental health effects of cyberbullying. The findings indicate that individuals with stronger social connections are less likely to experience depression, anxiety, and stress due to cybervictimization.

SourceWiley·JournalPsychology in the Schools·DateFeb 21, 2019

Study: Teacher retention bonuses lead to positive results

A new study found that offering teachers a $5,000 retention bonus led to an increase in test score gains among students in both reading and mathematics. The program, which was implemented in high-poverty schools in Tennessee, saw a significant improvement in reading test scores among students compared to similar non-participant schools.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalEconomics of Education Review·DateFeb 21, 2019

Cracking feather formation could lead to cooler birds

Scientists have discovered how bird feathers form in a wave-like motion, creating a regular pattern in the skin. This discovery could help design strategies to reduce feather density in farmed birds, improving their heat tolerance in tropical climates.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalPLOS Biology·DateFeb 21, 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.

How plants learned to save water

Researchers at Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg reconstructed the evolutionary history of genes controlling leaf pore movement in flowering plants. They found that most genes belong to old families present in all plant groups, including green algae, suggesting they developed before land colonization.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalTrends in Plant Science·DateFeb 21, 2019

How obesity affects vitamin D metabolism

A new study confirms that obesity impairs vitamin D conversion in the liver, affecting its major form in the blood. This finding highlights the need for targeted treatment approaches, such as calcidiol, to address vitamin D insufficiency in obese individuals.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·DateFeb 21, 2019

World's biggest bee found

A team of international scientists and conservationists has successfully rediscovered the world's largest bee, Wallace's giant bee. The species was lost to science since 1981 but has been found in Indonesia, where it is threatened by forest destruction.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·DateFeb 21, 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.

Why a blow to the chest can kill or save you

Researchers create experimental device to subject bioengineered heart tissue to dynamic strain cycles and measure electrophysiological response. Contrary to previous studies, they found that rapid strains do not disrupt electrical impulses, suggesting alternative explanations for deadly blows to the chest.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 21, 2019

Hachimoji -- Expanding the genetic alphabet from four to eight

Researchers expand the genetic alphabet from four to eight letters, demonstrating a double increase in information density. The new DNA and RNA-like systems may be useful for future synthetic biological applications, including larger molecular structures.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateFeb 21, 2019

Rules of inheritance rewritten in worms

Researchers at KAUST created a library of fluorescently marked, GPR-1-overexpressing strains to interrogate gene function and study transgenerational epigenetic inheritance. This tool allows scientists to generate worms with recoded genomes for synthetic biology applications.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateFeb 21, 2019

New paper provides design principles for disease-sensing nanomaterials

Researchers have developed a new approach to create enzyme-responsive nanostructures that can sense overexpression of MMP-9, helping diagnose cancer and autoimmune diseases. The design guidance enables the creation of smart-drug delivery vehicles with precisely tunable properties.

SourceAdvanced Science Research Center, GC/CUNY·JournalACS Nano·DateFeb 21, 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.

Smoking cessation may reduce risk of rheumatoid arthritis

A new study finds that sustained smoking cessation can delay or prevent the development of seropositive RA, a more severe form of rheumatoid arthritis. Quitting smoking for good reduces risk by 37% after 30 years.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateFeb 21, 2019

Can smoking cessation reduce rheumatoid arthritis risk?

A study of 230,732 women found that long-term smoking cessation reduces the risk of a certain form of rheumatoid arthritis by 37%. This type of RA tends to have a more severe disease course with joint deformities and disability.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateFeb 21, 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.

Signals on the scales

A team led by Ludwig-Maximilians-Universitaet neurobiologist Laura Busse investigated how the brain processes visual stimuli. They found that most types of retinal ganglion cells transmit information to the visual thalamus, but with selective processing and weighting at the first neuronal waystation.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNeuron·DateFeb 21, 2019

UBC researchers explore an often ignored source of greenhouse gas

Researchers at UBC's Okanagan campus have discovered that irrigation with lake water releases CO2 from bicarbonates, a natural process that has practical applications for agriculture-based communities. The study suggests that understanding this process is essential in combatting rising atmospheric greenhouse gases.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalGeoderma·DateFeb 21, 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.

New mechanisms regulating neural stem cells

Scientists have identified a key role for protein Akna in regulating neural stem cells via microtubule organization, promoting differentiation and detachment from the niche. This mechanism also plays a crucial role in epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalNature·DateFeb 21, 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.

Nearly two-thirds of American children live in asset poverty, new study shows

A recent study from Oregon State University reveals that over 63% of American children and 55% of Americans live in 'asset' poverty, meaning they have limited assets to rely on during financial crises. This form of poverty poses significant challenges for families, especially those headed by single mothers.

SourceOregon State University·JournalChildren and Youth Services Review·DateFeb 21, 2019

Figuring out the fovea

A team of researchers led by Joshua Sanes created the first cellular atlas of the primate retina, identifying 65-70 separate cell types and their expressed genes. The study sheds light on the mechanisms that give rise to differences in foveal cells and offers a foundation for understanding vision-related diseases.

SourceHarvard University·JournalCell·DateFeb 21, 2019