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Science News Archive February 2019 - Page 26


Page 26 of 40
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.

Insulin signaling failures in the brain linked to Alzheimer's disease

Researchers at Joslin Diabetes Center found impaired insulin signaling in the brain negatively affects cognition, mood, and metabolism in Alzheimer's disease. The study used a novel mouse model to demonstrate the impact of disrupting insulin and IGF1 receptors on learning, memory, and mood.

SourceJoslin Diabetes Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 11, 2019

Connection between home energy efficiency and respiratory health in low-income homes

A new study published in Environmental Research found that people living in drafty homes in low-income, urban communities are at a higher risk of respiratory health issues such as asthma. The study revealed that residents in homes with the highest air-exchange rates were more likely to report chronic cough and asthma-like symptoms.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalEnvironmental Research·DateFeb 11, 2019

Keeping SDGs from being a zero-sum game

Scientists at AAAS Annual Meeting explore ways to address unintended consequences of achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), highlighting the need for interdisciplinary approaches. Researchers discuss strategies for reducing tradeoffs between human well-being, nature conservation, and resource management.

SourceMichigan State University·DateFeb 11, 2019

On the land, one-quarter of vertebrates die because of humans

A recent study found that humans are responsible for more than 25% of vertebrate deaths globally. The research analyzed 42,755 animal deaths and found that 28% were directly caused by humans. Larger animals and adults are more likely to be killed by humans.

SourceSUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry·JournalGlobal Ecology and Biogeography·DateFeb 11, 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.

Trump's simple, confident language has strong historical roots

New research confirms that President Trump and leaders like him are part of a long-term trend towards intuitive thinking in politics. The study found that low analytic thinking and high clout are becoming more common globally, particularly in the US and Canada.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 11, 2019

Your genes could impact the quality of your marriage

A study at Binghamton University found that variation on the Oxytocin Receptor gene impacts marital quality by influencing how partners provide and receive support from each other. Couples with certain genotypes, particularly those associated with social deficits, reported lower satisfaction with their marriages.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalJournal of Family Psychology·DateFeb 11, 2019

Beyond romance

A new study explores how an individual's genetics and brain activity correlate with altruistic behaviors directed toward romantic partners. The team found that pathways related to bonding in other animals showed up in humans, suggesting a link between empathy and altruism more generally.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalBehavioral Neuroscience·DateFeb 11, 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.

Many Arctic lakes give off less carbon than expected

Researchers found that many Arctic lakes are self-contained units with low carbon emissions, contradicting previous assumptions about the region's role in global carbon cycles. The study's findings suggest that these lakes may not be significant contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, at least for now.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalNature Geoscience·DateFeb 11, 2019

Brazil will have the technology to transplant pig organs into humans

A Brazilian project aims to assess how patients awaiting kidney transplants react to porcine blood, with the goal of reducing the country's transplant waiting list. The initiative uses gene-edited pigs and CRISPR-Cas9 technology to make organs compatible with human bodies.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·DateFeb 11, 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 research insights hold promise for kids with DMD

A new medicine under development, vamorolone, shows improved safety in treating both inflammation and heart disease in experimental models of DMD. This is significant because the current standard of care, prednisone, reduces chronic inflammation but has harsh side effects.

SourceChildren's National Hospital·JournalLife Science Alliance·DateFeb 11, 2019

BFU scientists developed tungsten-based hydrogen detectors

Researchers from BFU and NRNU MEPhI created a tungsten oxide-based detector for hydrogen gas mixes, showing a significant increase in sensitivity. The new detector has the potential to improve the detection of hydrogen leakages, a critical issue in industries using hydrogen.

SourceImmanuel Kant Baltic Federal University·JournalThin Solid Films·DateFeb 11, 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.

More than a courier

A study by Harvard Medical School researchers suggests that axon growth cones can make decisions locally and function semi-autonomously without the cell body. This challenges traditional dogma about neurons, proposing a more intricate web of decision-making and the existence of semi-independent units.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNature·DateFeb 11, 2019

Stress-free training may enhance surgical skill

Researchers found that students trained in a relaxed environment acquired microsurgical suturing and cutting skills rapidly, with performance levels comparable to seasoned surgeons. The study's results challenge traditional training doctrines, suggesting that stress-free conditions can improve skill acquisition and retention.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 11, 2019

Surrounded by low achievers -- High on positive emotions?

A recent study by Professor Thomas Götz found that students feel better in an environment with lower overall standards than in one with higher standards. The study, involving over 7,700 German school students, suggests a reciprocal effect where achievement influences emotions and emotions influence achievement.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateFeb 11, 2019

Immunotherapy can be effective in treating people with recurrent glioblastoma

A UCLA-led study found that administering immunotherapy drug pembrolizumab before surgery significantly extended the lives of people with recurrent glioblastoma. The study showed that those who received the drug prior to surgery lived nearly twice as long after surgery compared to those who received it afterward.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalNature Medicine·DateFeb 11, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Programming autonomous machines ahead of time promotes selfless decision-making

Researchers found that programming autonomous vehicles in advance leads to more cooperative decisions, as people prioritize collective interests over short-term rewards. This effect generalizes beyond the domain of autonomous vehicles and has implications for shaping societal dilemmas.

SourceU.S. Army Research Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 11, 2019

Researchers identify brain protein crucial to recovery from stroke

A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences reveals that UCHL1, a brain protein, plays a critical role in nerve cell repair after stroke damage. The research found that preventing the inhibition of UCHL1 can decrease injury to axons and preserve neuron function.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 11, 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.

Using artificial intelligence to engineer materials' properties

Researchers at MIT and international partners have developed an AI-powered method to explore the possibilities of strain-engineered materials. By applying machine learning methods, they can accurately predict how different amounts and orientations of strain would affect a material's properties.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 11, 2019

Why Mr. Nice could be Mr. Right

A new study from Michigan State University suggests that finding someone who is nice and conscientious can lead to higher levels of relationship satisfaction. The research found that even among couples with similar personalities, traits like neuroticism and extroversion have a negative impact on relationship happiness

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Research in Personality·DateFeb 11, 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.

Climate, mosquitoes, and dengue fever

Researchers developed a model that predicts dengue incidence based on local mosquito density and climate conditions. The model accurately reproduced observed dengue data and predicted 2015 incidence, suggesting future outbreak risks can be mapped.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 11, 2019

Researchers identify novel molecular mechanism involved in Alzheimer's

A team of researchers has identified a potential new therapeutic target for Alzheimer's disease by suppressing the activity of a signaling molecule called eEF2K. This approach may improve protein synthesis capacity and alleviate cognitive and synaptic impairments associated with the disease.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateFeb 11, 2019

LGBTQ youths are over-represented, have poorer outcomes in child welfare system

A new study found that LGBTQ youths are more likely to end up in foster care or unstable housing, suffering negative outcomes such as substance abuse and mental health issues. The research, published in Pediatrics, analyzed data from over 593,000 California youths and revealed that nearly 30% of those living in foster care identified a...

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateFeb 11, 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.

Phase transition dynamics in two-dimensional materials

The study reveals that using a metallic substrate with higher chemical reactivity can significantly increase the phase transition yield of 2D-TMD materials. This method enables the easy achievement of structural phase transitions and opens possibilities for new device applications such as low contact resistance electrodes.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalAdvanced Science·DateFeb 11, 2019

Geneticists ID molecular pathway for autism-related disorder

Researchers discovered a precise pathway causing neurodevelopmental disorders, including rare condition Kaufman oculocerebrofacial syndrome. Genetic sequencing revealed the buildup of protein BCKDK in the brain, leading to intellectual disability and speech loss.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 11, 2019

Scientists build the smallest optical frequency comb to-date

Researchers developed the smallest optical frequency comb source, achieving integrated soliton microcomb with ultra-low losses and fast optical feedback. The compact device operates at 88 GHz repetition rate and offers potential for mass-manufacturable applications in LIDAR and data-centers.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 11, 2019

Potent marijuana edibles can pose a major unrecognized risk to patients with cardiovascular disease

A case report describes a patient who developed cardiac events after consuming potent marijuana edibles, emphasizing the importance of understanding THC's effects on the cardiovascular system. The study highlights the need for healthcare providers to educate patients with cardiovascular disease about cannabis use and its complications.

SourceElsevier·JournalCanadian Journal of Cardiology·DateFeb 11, 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.

Arctic sea ice loss in the past linked to abrupt climate events

A new study links sea ice loss in the Arctic to major climate events, including rapid warming of 16 degrees Celsius in Greenland. The research, published in PNAS, used ice cores and numerical model simulations to determine that sea ice changes played a critical role in past abrupt climate change events.

SourceBritish Antarctic Survey·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 11, 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.

Questions in quantum computing: How to move electrons with light

Researchers at Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) have demonstrated how microwaves interact with matter, enabling the movement of electrons. This breakthrough may help improve quantum computing by controlling electrons with precision, leading to faster and more powerful technologies.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalPhysical Review B·DateFeb 11, 2019

Grocery-store based nutrition education improves eating habits

A new study published in the Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior found that grocery store-based nutrition counseling was effective in changing dietary habits of patients with hypertension. The program improved intake of fruits, whole grains, and healthy fats, while reducing sodium and saturated fat consumption.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·DateFeb 11, 2019

Machine learning algorithm helps in the search for new drugs

A machine learning algorithm has been developed to speed up the process of discovering new medicines, identifying four new molecules that activate a protein relevant to symptoms of Alzheimer's disease and schizophrenia. The algorithm is twice as efficient as industry standards and can analyze vast amounts of chemical data.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 11, 2019

Managing young women at high risk of heart disease

A new review highlights the importance of identifying premenopausal women with elevated risk factors, such as ovarian dysfunction and pregnancy complications. These women should be screened early for cardiovascular disease and receive close follow-up and lifestyle modifications.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateFeb 11, 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.

Researchers identify early home and family factors that contribute to obesity

A 21-year longitudinal study found that family stress, maternal depression, and lack of active stimulation are significant risk factors for childhood obesity. The study, published in Childhood Obesity, identified four BMI trajectories through childhood, highlighting the importance of early intervention strategies.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalChildhood Obesity·DateFeb 11, 2019

Lefty or righty molecules lend a hand to material structures

Researchers at Rice University have created chiral polymers that can enable materials with unique properties, such as optical and sensing capabilities. The discovery could lead to the creation of metamaterials with tunable properties, including tough-but-flexible compounds with distinct functions.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 11, 2019

Bias may affect providers' knowledge of transgender health

A Michigan Medicine-led study found that increased hours of education related to caring for transgender patients does not correlate with improved knowledge among physicians and other providers. Transphobia was the only predictor of provider knowledge, highlighting the need for medical education to address unconscious bias.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalMedical Education·DateFeb 11, 2019

Termites shape and are shaped by their mounds

Researchers developed a model explaining how external environmental factors drive internal airflows in termite mounds, triggering building behavior and altering mound architecture. The model sheds light on swarm intelligence and may inspire designing more sustainable human structures.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 11, 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.

Engineered miniature kidneys come of age

Researchers at Wyss Institute develop method to enhance kidney organoid vascularization and maturation, enabling accurate modeling of kidney diseases and drug toxicity testing. This breakthrough paves the way for new building blocks in renal replacement therapies.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalNature Methods·DateFeb 11, 2019

It is all about electrons, not names

Researchers identified genes encoding oxidoreductases as key attributes for characterizing global microbial communities. This approach provides a new diagnostic tool for assessing ecosystem services and developing management policies. The study sheds light on the critical role of microorganisms in planetary physiology.

SourceUniversidad de Concepción·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 11, 2019

PET imaging agent may allow early measurement of efficacy of breast cancer therapy

Researchers have found that a new PET imaging agent, 18F-FFNP, can measure changes in progesterone receptor levels resulting from hormone therapy for breast cancer patients. This could provide an earlier indicator of therapy effectiveness and inform individualized treatment decisions.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateFeb 11, 2019
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.

Scientists use machine learning to ID source of Salmonella

A team of scientists developed a machine-learning approach to predict the animal source of certain Salmonella outbreaks with 83% accuracy. The system identified poultry and swine sources as the top predictors, followed by bovine and wild bird sources.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalEmerging Infectious Diseases·DateFeb 11, 2019