Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive February 2019 - Page 9


Page 9 of 40

Study finds ultrasound can assess bone health, increase early screening for osteoporosis

Researchers found ultrasound of the calcaneus to be equal to DXA data in assessing bone health, paving the way for widespread use of low-cost screenings for populations at risk. The findings support preventive lifestyle changes as the best approach to improving bone health and reducing osteoporosis risk.

SourceAmerican Osteopathic Association·JournalThe Journal of the American Osteopathic Association·DateFeb 25, 2019

Over half of home health care clinicians say they lack adequate information from hospitals

A survey of Colorado home health care clinicians found that 60% lacked adequate information from hospitals to guide patient treatment. The study highlights major gaps in communication between hospital and home health staff, which can result in medication errors and other serious consequences.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJournal of the American Medical Directors Association·DateFeb 25, 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.

Entangling photons of different colors

Researchers created quantum-correlated pairs made up of one visible and one near-infrared photon, combining the best of both worlds. This breakthrough promises to boost light-based circuits' ability to securely transmit information over long distances.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalNature Physics·DateFeb 25, 2019

New research casts doubt on cause of Angkor's collapse

Researchers have long debated the causes of Angkor's demise, but new evidence suggests that land use declined gradually over 100 years before the supposed collapse. The study shows that forest disturbance and soil erosion decreased, and the moat was eventually covered in floating vegetation, indicating a lack of maintenance.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 25, 2019

Long working hours linked to heightened depression risk in women

Research found that long working hours, particularly 55+ hours a week and/or weekends, are associated with increased depressive symptoms in women. Women in male-dominated occupations often work longer hours, while those in low-paid service sector jobs tend to work weekends, both linked to depression.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·DateFeb 25, 2019

New NASA mission could find more than 1,000 planets

The study predicts that WFIRST will find about 100 of those not-yet-discovered planets could have the same or lower mass as Earth. The telescope will map the Milky Way and other galaxies 100 times faster than Hubble Space Telescope, scanning a small piece of the universe with high resolution.

SourceOhio State University·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Supplement Series·DateFeb 25, 2019
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Unprecedented biological changes in the global ocean

A new computer model reveals accelerating biological changes in the global ocean, which can redistribute ocean communities and species worldwide. The model predicts these changes one year in advance, enabling identification of regions overlooked by current field observation programs.

SourceCNRS·JournalNature Climate Change·DateFeb 25, 2019

Graphite offers up new quantum surprise

The researchers observed an unusual quantum Hall effect in bulk graphite, which is typically only possible in two-dimensional systems. The material behaves differently depending on whether it contains odd or even number of graphene layers, with surprising results persisting for hundreds of layers thick.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalNature Physics·DateFeb 25, 2019

Discovery improves understanding of Lou Gehrig's disease

A collaborative study improves understanding of ALS by identifying a key role for ubiquilin proteins in regulating cellular waste. The researchers found that mutated ubiquilins fail to regulate lysosomes, leading to excess waste buildup and disease development.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateFeb 25, 2019
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.

Light-driven signaling of bacteria may provide clues to defeat dangerous infections

Researchers at the Advanced Science Research Center discovered a unique protein sensing and signaling process in bacteria Erythrobacter litoralis that responds to blue light. This finding could help develop new drugs targeting related signaling processes in pathogenic bacteria.

SourceAdvanced Science Research Center, GC/CUNY·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 25, 2019

Newborns with suspected food allergies breastfed significantly longer

Research led by Dr. Karen A. Robbins found that mothers whose infants had suspected food allergies reported breastfeeding them for significantly longer periods, with an average of 45.8 weeks compared to 32 weeks for those without concerns. This suggests a potential link between breastfeeding duration and the development of allergies.

SourceChildren's National Hospital·DateFeb 25, 2019

Passive dynamics in snakes' slithering motion

A study on a desert snake reveals that passive mechanics play a crucial role in its movement, allowing it to navigate complex terrain without altering its self-deformation pattern. This finding has implications for the design of limbless robots, which could improve their mobility in challenging environments.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 25, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Uncovering the origins of cultivated strawberries

A recent study published in Nature Genetics reveals the intricate evolutionary history of cultivated strawberries, which originated from the hybridization of four diploid species native to Europe, Asia, and North America. The octoploid strawberry genome analysis has identified genes controlling fruit quality traits and disease resistan...

SourceMichigan State University·JournalNature Genetics·DateFeb 25, 2019

A new spin in nano-electronics

Scientists have successfully generated and controlled extremely short-wavelength spin waves, a promising alternative to traditional electronic data processing. The discovery could enable the development of more compact microchips with reduced energy consumption.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateFeb 25, 2019

Researchers invent a needle that knows where to go

Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital have developed an intelligent-injector for tissue-targeting (i2T2) that detects changes in resistance to deliver medication safely and effectively. The device was tested on animal models and found to precisely deliver medication without overshoot injuries.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateFeb 25, 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.

Study outlines targeted treatment option for aggressive breast cancer

Researchers outline a targeted therapeutic strategy to treat triple-negative breast cancer using POLR2A gene targeting. The proposed approach utilizes nanotechnology-based precision-targeting to kill TNBC cells while sparing normal cells, offering hope for improved treatment options.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateFeb 25, 2019

New skeletal disease found and explained

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have discovered a new skeletal disease linked to an abnormal expression of small RNA molecules. The study reveals that the disease causes skeletal dysplasia, joint pain, and delayed cartilage cell maturation in patients, providing potential diagnostic and therapeutic options.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature Medicine·DateFeb 25, 2019

Manipulating gene expression in neurons with CRISPR

Researchers have developed a neuron-optimized CRISPR activation system that efficiently regulates genes involved in learning and memory, plasticity, and neuronal development. This breakthrough paves the way for studying genetic influences on brain health and disease using model organisms more closely resembling humans.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·JournaleNeuro·DateFeb 25, 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.

Stop recruiting children, UK Armed Forces urged

Experts argue that the UK's policy of recruiting children to the Armed Forces is harmful to teen health and causes specific health harms. The UK is one of only two countries in the world to recruit teenagers, with 15-year-olds allowed to begin the enlistment process at age 16.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Paediatrics Open·DateFeb 25, 2019

Finnish researchers discover a new form of hereditary osteoporosis

Researchers identified a gene defect underlying childhood-onset osteoporosis in two Finnish families and four additional families worldwide. The SGMS2 gene mutation causes changes in bone metabolism and mineralisation, leading to severe short stature and disturbed bone development.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalJCI Insight·DateFeb 24, 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.

Keeping active in middle age may be tied to lower risk of dementia

A study of 800 Swedish women found that those with high levels of mental activities like reading, singing, and gardening were 46% less likely to develop Alzheimer's disease. Women who were physically active also had a reduced risk of developing dementia, with a 52-56% lower risk compared to inactive participants.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalNeurology·DateFeb 24, 2019

Incentives to downsize would ease the housing crisis

A new report suggests that incentivizing downsizing for 'last-time buyers' aged 55+ can ease the UK's housing crisis. The report highlights the role of financial services in expanding mortgage offerings and insurance policies to help older people monetize their housing wealth, thereby funding retirement and covering care costs.

SourceCity St George’s, University of London·DateFeb 24, 2019

School-based health services and educational attainment

A national longitudinal study found that school-based health centers contribute to academic achievement among adolescents, with immunizations and physical exams associated with higher educational attainment. However, individual-level emotional counseling was inversely associated with educational attainment.

SourcePacific Institute for Research and Evaluation·JournalPreventive Medicine·DateFeb 24, 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.

Nanoparticle computing takes a giant step forward

Researchers developed a nanoparticle-lipid bilayer hybrid-based computing platform that enables parallel computation using nanoparticles. The system consists of mobile Nano-Floaters and immobile Nano-Receptors, which can perform AND, OR, and INHIBIT logic operations, and are modularly wired to form complex logic circuits.

SourceSeoul National University·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 23, 2019

Studying species interactions using remote camera traps

Researchers developed a framework to detect species interactions using camera trap data, highlighting the need for standardized data collection and collaboration. The study found that many records are needed to produce trustworthy results, but standardization can achieve this by combining datasets from multiple studies.

SourceForschungsverbund Berlin·JournalRemote Sensing in Ecology and Conservation·DateFeb 22, 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.

NASA-NOAA satellite provides wide view of Tropical Cyclone Oma

The NASA-NOAA Suomi NPP satellite provided a wide view of Tropical Cyclone Oma in the Southern Pacific Ocean, capturing its massive size and weakening signs. The storm's elongation is a sign of weakening due to northeasterly winds pushing clouds and thunderstorms into the southern quadrant.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateFeb 22, 2019

Study: With Twitter, race of the messenger matters

Researchers at the University of Kansas discovered that tweets from white and black Twitter users can influence young people's views on the issue. While participants looked longer at messages from white users, they rated black users as more credible in self-reported data.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·DateFeb 22, 2019

UCF study finds high IQs won't be enough to prevent ecological disasters

A UCF study found that high general intelligence is not enough to stop ecological disasters, highlighting the importance of social intelligence in managing shared resources. The research used a digital game to simulate an ecosystem and found that teams with high social intelligence were more effective at optimizing resource use.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 22, 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.

Geographic distribution of opioid-related deaths

The study analyzed data on over 351,000 opioid-related deaths from 1999 to 2016, revealing a significant increase in mortality rates in the eastern United States. Synthetic opioids were found to be driving these increases, prompting policymakers to reconsider their strategies for reducing opioid-related deaths.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateFeb 22, 2019

Could blockchain ensure integrity of clinical trial data?

UCSF researchers created a blockchain-based system to ensure the integrity of clinical trials data, creating an immutable audit trail that makes tampering visible. The system allows for real-time reporting of adverse events and protects data from corruption.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 22, 2019

Understanding high efficiency of deep ultraviolet LEDs

Researchers at Tohoku University discovered that terraced steps in AlGaN-based LED fabrication increase efficiency by forming micropaths of electric current. This process enhances the conversion of electrical energy to optical energy, paving the way for more efficient LEDs.

SourceTohoku University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateFeb 22, 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.

HIV infections in US could be reduced by up to 67 percent by 2030, study finds

A new study predicts that meeting national HIV prevention goals could substantially reduce new HIV infections in the US by 67 percent by 2030. Implementing innovative models for delivering HIV care and prevention interventions, as well as sufficient investments to bring them to scale, are crucial to achieving this goal.

SourceGeorgia State University·JournalAIDS and Behavior·DateFeb 22, 2019

Food allergies: A research update

A new paradigm shift in food allergy treatment is on the horizon, allowing children to gradually reintroduce forbidden foods and reducing long-term anxieties. Researchers and clinicians will provide support as families navigate these new treatments and manage psychosocial concerns related to daily life.

SourceChildren's National Hospital·DateFeb 22, 2019

Exploring the global landscape of quantum technology research

A collection of articles from leading researchers worldwide provides an unprecedented view of the global quantum technology landscape. The articles discuss the history of supporting research in quantum technology, the timing of heavy investment, and future outlooks for each region.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalQuantum Science and Technology·DateFeb 22, 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.

Antarctic flies protect fragile eggs with 'antifreeze'

Belgica antarctica flies secrete a clear jelly around their eggs, acting as temperature and humidity buffer. The gel helps the eggs survive Antarctica's temperature fluctuations and dryness, allowing them to thrive in the continent's extreme environment.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateFeb 22, 2019

Researchers engineer a tougher fiber

North Carolina State University researchers created fibers that combine rubber's elasticity with metal's strength, resulting in a tougher material. The fibers can stretch up to seven times their original length before failure while absorbing energy, making them suitable for applications like soft robotics and textiles.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 22, 2019

A quantum magnet with a topological twist

Researchers at Princeton University observed exotic electronic properties in kagome magnets, including negative magnetism and flat-band electrons. The study used state-of-the-art scanning tunneling microscopy and spectroscopy to explore the behavior of electrons in a kagome-patterned crystal.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalNature Physics·DateFeb 22, 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.

US patient advocacy groups received majority of pharma donations in multi-country study

A new study found that US-based patient advocacy organizations received 74% of total contributions from the world's 10 largest pharmaceutical companies in 2016. The study highlights inconsistent reporting and disclosure across countries, impeding transparency of pharma contributions to patient advocacy groups.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateFeb 22, 2019

Are the French lousy at languages? Not if there's noise!

Researchers found French participants successfully detected English sentence accent with a 90% success rate, rivaling native speakers. They used both local and distributed cues, unlike Finnish and Dutch speakers who relied on their mother tongue cues.

SourceCNRS·JournalLanguage and Speech·DateFeb 22, 2019