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Science News Archive February 2019 - Page 20


Page 20 of 40

UTMB develops drug to rejuvenate muscle cells

Researchers at UTMB have developed a promising drug that significantly increases muscle size, strength and metabolic state in aged mice. The study found that the drug resets muscle stem cells to a more youthful state, rejuvenating them to effectively repair muscle tissues.

SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·JournalBiochemical Pharmacology·DateFeb 15, 2019

Introduction of flat-rate payments accompanied by an increase in readmission rates

A study published in JAMA Network Open reveals a slight increase in readmission rates among patients discharged from Swiss hospitals under flat-rate payment structures. The researchers found that the rate of 30-day readmissions rose from 14.4% to 15.0%, raising concerns about early discharges and potential impact on hospital quality.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateFeb 15, 2019

First evidence discovered of a gigantic remnant around an exploding star

Astronomers have discovered evidence of a gigantic remnant surrounding an exploding star, indicating that it erupts regularly on a massive scale for millions of years. The team found a super-remnant measuring almost 400 light years across, which is unusually large compared to other known nova systems.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalNature·DateFeb 15, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Patients' own cells could be the key to treating Crohn's disease

Researchers at NIHR Guy's and St Thomas' Biomedical Research Centre develop a treatment involving patients' modified cells, restoring healthy levels of integrin α4β7, effective in treating Crohn's disease. The proposed Tribute Trial will test the treatment's safety and effectiveness.

SourceNIHR Biomedical Research Centre at Guy’s and St Thomas’ and King’s College London·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateFeb 15, 2019

The prospects of American strawberries

The article reviews the challenges, needs, and opportunities of strawberry growers across the US, highlighting increasing use of protected culture strawberry production. Key findings also discuss pest control, labor availability, and consumer demand for year-round availability.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateFeb 15, 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.

'Cellular barcoding' reveals how breast cancer spreads

A new study uses cellular barcoding to pinpoint cells responsible for breast cancer's spread, shedding light on how chemotherapy works and identifying targets for new treatments. Researchers hope to develop targeted therapies by understanding the molecular basis of cancer cell behavior.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 15, 2019

Study shows hope for fighting disease known as Ebola of frogs

A new study found that genetic diversity is key to helping frogs survive the deadly Ranavirus disease. The research showed that a specific combination of immune genes can help tadpoles limit the severity of the virus. This finding has implications for frog species in Florida, which are threatened by the disease.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalImmunogenetics·DateFeb 15, 2019

Can we trust scientific discoveries made using machine learning?

Genevera Allen, a Rice University statistician, emphasizes the need for machine learning systems to question their predictions and assess uncertainty. She argues that current ML techniques often rely on uncorroborated data-driven discoveries, leading to reproducibility issues in fields like precision medicine.

SourceRice University·DateFeb 15, 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.

Researchers reveal brain connections that disadvantage night owls

A study by University of Birmingham researchers found lower brain connectivity in 'night owls' compared to morning larks, leading to poorer attention, slower reactions and increased sleepiness. This can be particularly problematic for those forced to fit into a societal 9-5 working day that doesn't align with their natural rhythms.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalSLEEP·DateFeb 14, 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.

Immunological scarring from coeliac disease

A new study suggests that coeliac disease permanently replaces 'tissue-healing' T cells with 'pro-inflammatory' T cells in the bowel, causing chronic inflammation and potentially contributing to other intestinal disorders. The research has implications for gut health in affected patients.

SourceCardiff University·JournalCell·DateFeb 14, 2019

New research center at TU Graz

The COMET Project aims to create a low-carbon special powertrain research center at TU Graz, focusing on CO2-neutral fuels, hybrid drive technology, and electric powertrain components. The four-year project is funded by six million euros and strengthens Austria's research and production location.

SourceGraz University of Technology·DateFeb 14, 2019

Sea worms and jellyfish treat cancer and kill insects

Scientists have discovered biologically active compounds in marine invertebrates that exhibit strong antitumor and antimicrobial properties. These compounds show potential as new treatments for cancer and can also be used to develop effective insecticides.

SourceFar Eastern Federal University·JournalRussian Journal of Marine Biology·DateFeb 14, 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.

Simple bile acid blood test could tell risk of stillbirth

A simple blood test can now identify women at high risk of stillbirth due to a liver disorder, allowing targeted interventions and reducing unnecessary early deliveries. For most women with the condition, regular bile acid testing will suffice, reassuring them that their pregnancy is not at increased risk.

SourceNIHR Biomedical Research Centre at Guy’s and St Thomas’ and King’s College London·JournalThe Lancet·DateFeb 14, 2019

Artificial intelligence to boost Earth system science

A study by German scientists uses AI to enhance climate and Earth system models, improving predictions for extreme events and seasonal changes. By combining physical modeling with machine learning techniques, researchers aim to create more accurate models that capture complex dynamic processes.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalNature·DateFeb 14, 2019

Men's porn habits could fuel partners' eating disorders, study suggests

A new study from Ohio State University finds that women in relationships with men who regularly watch pornography are more likely to report symptoms of an eating disorder. Perceived pressure to be thin is also a significant concern, with some women feeling pressured by their partners to lose weight and have a thin body.

SourceOhio State University·JournalInternational Journal of Eating Disorders·DateFeb 14, 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.

Heart research gets $4.1 million boost on Valentine's Day

Two Clemson University bioengineers, Will Richardson and Naren Vyavahare, have received NIH grants for new research related to the heart, totaling $4.1 million. They are working on projects aimed at treating cardiac fibrosis and reversing vascular calcification, which could impact millions of patients with cardiovascular disease.

SourceClemson University·DateFeb 14, 2019

Revealed: The gut microbe source of a carcinogenic, DNA-smashing genotoxin

Researchers discovered a link between Escherichia coli and colorectal cancer risk through colibactin, a genotoxic warhead that damages DNA. The study identified potential biomarkers for assessing colorectal cancer risk and provides significant mechanistic insights into the carcinogenic activities of colibactin.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateFeb 14, 2019

Social threat learning influences our decisions

Researchers found that social threat learning, such as watching a video or receiving oral instructions, can influence decision-making just as strongly as first-hand experience. Participants who learned a certain image was dangerous continued to avoid it, even when it led to more shocks, indicating irrational behavior.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 14, 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.

Role of interventional inflammatory bowel disease in the era of biologic therapy

The report highlights the expanding role of interventional inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) endoscopy in managing complex conditions, such as strictures, fistulas, and colitis-associated neoplasia. This approach can help reduce or postpone surgical resection and treat postoperative adverse events.

SourceAmerican Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy·JournalGastrointestinal Endoscopy·DateFeb 14, 2019

Lipoproteins behave 'almost like a tiny Velcro ball'

A recent study published in the Journal of Lipid Research found that the protein makeup of HDL particles plays a crucial role in their ability to predict heart health. The research, led by Nathalie Pamir, identified genetic variants linked to cholesterol efflux capacity and proteins associated with HDL's activity.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalJournal of Lipid Research·DateFeb 14, 2019

Oldest Americans most focused on reducing food waste

A recent survey by Michigan State University found that the oldest Americans are most focused on reducing food waste, with 88% of all respondents taking steps to reduce it. Among those who make efforts, 71% try not to purchase excess food and 71% often consume food before it spoils.

SourceMichigan State University College of Agriculture & Natural Resources·DateFeb 14, 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.

Antidepressant could stop deadly sepsis, study suggests

A study from the University of Virginia Health System suggests that an antidepressant drug could stop deadly sepsis by regulating inflammation. The researchers tested the drug in a mouse model and found it to be effective, paving the way for potential human trials.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateFeb 14, 2019

Cracking colibactin's code

Researchers studied how colibactin damages DNA and created a novel technique to identify DNA adducts. They isolated and characterized the products of the reaction with DNA, revealing a cyclopropane ring structure that forms the colibactin warhead.

SourceHarvard University·JournalScience·DateFeb 14, 2019

Shaping light lets 2D microscopes capture 4D data

Rice University researchers have developed a method to capture 4D data using 2D microscopes, enabling scientists to visualize molecules' locations and movements in living cells. The technique uses custom phase masks to manipulate light and separate spatial and temporal information.

SourceRice University·JournalOptics Express·DateFeb 14, 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.

Cell study sheds light on damage linked to ageing

A study published in Genes & Development sheds light on the damage caused by senescence, a vital cell process that plays a key role in aging. The research reveals that manipulating tiny parts of cells can prevent certain forms of cellular damage.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalGenes & Development·DateFeb 14, 2019

The FASEB Journal: Magnetic fields enhance bone remodeling

A recent study published in The FASEB Journal revealed that Static Magnetic Field treatment can significantly enhance osteogenesis in human bone-derived mesenchymal stem cells. The researchers observed improved bone formation potential and better osteogenic markers in the SMF-treated cells compared to the control group.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateFeb 14, 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.

Electronic tool has potential to improve asthma care, study finds

A new electronic decision support tool has shown promise in improving asthma care, with a 45% increase in patients receiving asthma action plans and a 59% increase in asthma control assessments. The system uses data from patient questionnaires to provide personalized recommendations for clinicians.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalEuropean Respiratory Journal·DateFeb 14, 2019

Tiny satellites reveal water dynamics in thousands of northern lakes

Researchers used small satellites to observe changes in 85,000 North American lakes over summer 2017, finding significant shoreline fluctuations that add up to hundreds of square kilometers. These findings could impact calculations of natural greenhouse gas emissions from these northern lakes.

SourceBrown University·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateFeb 14, 2019

It doesn't take much for soldiers to feel cared for

Researchers found that caring contacts reduced suicidal ideation and risk by lowering odds from 15% to 9%. Simple text messages can provide support during stress and transition, improving mental health outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateFeb 14, 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.

Blindfolded training could help doctors save young lives

A simulation training study found that blindfolding pediatric team leaders improved their leadership skills ratings by 11% compared to non-blindfolded leaders. The technique may help save lives by enhancing communication and reducing distractions during resuscitation scenarios.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Pediatrics·DateFeb 14, 2019

Improved RNA data visualization method gets to the bigger picture faster

A new method called FIt-SNE has been developed to speed up the analysis of single-cell gene expression data, reducing rendering time from over three hours to just fifteen minutes. This innovation allows researchers to capture rare cell populations and visualize thousands of genes at the level of single cells simultaneously.

SourceYale University·JournalNature Methods·DateFeb 14, 2019

What's age got to do with it?

New research from the European Society of Cardiology shows that physiological health, as measured by exercise stress testing performance, is a better predictor of survival than chronological age. This finding suggests that individuals who are physically fit may live longer than those who are not.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Journal of Preventive Cardiology·DateFeb 14, 2019

Free access to research will help save horses and ponies

A collection of 27 papers has been compiled to better understand the pathophysiology of endocrinopathic laminitis in horses. The research highlights the key role of insulin dysregulation and equine metabolic syndrome in driving the condition.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalEquine Veterinary Journal·DateFeb 14, 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.

How proteins become embedded in a cell membrane

A team of ETH Zurich researchers used single-molecule force spectroscopy to investigate how membrane proteins become embedded in cell membranes. They discovered the role of two helper proteins, insertase and translocase, which enable membrane proteins to embed themselves in the membrane. The study sheds light on the folding pathways of...

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 14, 2019

Most triggers for irregular heartbeat can be easily modified

A new study by UCSF researchers found that the majority of triggers for atrial fibrillation (AF), an irregular heartbeat, are easily modifiable lifestyle choices. Nearly 74% of patients reported experiencing AF triggered by common factors such as alcohol, caffeine, exercise, and lack of sleep.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalHeartRhythm Case Reports·DateFeb 14, 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.

Philosophy: What exactly is a black hole?

A precise definition of a black hole's singularity proves elusive, with diverse definitions among physicists and different physical approaches to understanding the phenomenon.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature Astronomy·DateFeb 14, 2019

Gravitational waves will settle cosmic conundrum

Measurements of gravitational waves from binary neutron stars will definitively resolve the debate on the universe's expansion rate. By observing 50 binary neutron stars over the next decade, scientists can calculate the Hubble constant accurately, resolving the conflict between conflicting measurements.

SourceSimons Foundation·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 14, 2019