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Science News Archive January 2019


Page 1 of 37

Do all chemotherapies have equal long-term heart risk?

A study of 28,000 childhood cancer survivors found that exposure to different anthracycline chemotherapies results in variable long-term cardiovascular risk. Specifically, daunorubicin was associated with decreased cardiomyopathy risk compared to doxorubicin, while mitoxantrone appeared to have greater long-term cardiomyopathy risk.

Evolution, illustrated

A team of researchers led by Professor Hopi Hoekstra conducted a years-long study on the survival of light- and dark-colored mice in different habitats. The results confirmed the intuition that light-colored mice survive better in light-colored habitats, and also pinpointed a mutation related to survival that affects pigmentation.

Salmon populations may adapt their eggs to survive in degraded rivers

A University of Southampton study reveals that salmon egg membranes adjust their structure to cope with reduced oxygen levels in rivers. This adaptation enables embryos to incubate successfully. The research found that membrane thickness, porosity, and permeability vary among different salmon populations.

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.

The 'stuff' of the universe keeps changing

Researchers reveal how stars contribute to the creation of elements, from hydrogen to heavier elements like lawrencium. The study highlights the dynamic nature of the periodic table, which has grown as new elements have been discovered or created in laboratories.

Short anti-rejection therapy protects transplants in diabetic animals

Researchers have found a short anti-rejection therapy that can protect transplanted pancreatic islets in diabetic animals, enabling long-term survival and function without the need for life-long immune suppression. This breakthrough could lead to an effective treatment of type 1 diabetes with fewer side effects.

Effectively collecting tiny droplets for biomedical analysis and beyond

Researchers at City University of Hong Kong create innovative method to transport micro-droplets using capillary force on slippery surface, enabling detection of E. coli and S. aureus bacteria in biomedical analysis. This technology has potential applications in fog collection, water harvesting, heat exchangers, and other fields.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Male birth control for the malaria parasite

Researchers at Penn State have identified a complex of proteins crucial for the maturation of the malaria parasite's sexual stage, which is required for transmission to mosquitoes. Disrupting this complex inhibits the parasite's ability to mature and infect mosquitoes, offering a new tool in the fight against malaria.

Plastic in Britain's seals, dolphins and whales

A new study reveals that microplastics have been ingested by every marine mammal examined, with synthetic fibers being the primary source. The findings suggest that while the number of particles is relatively low, more research is needed to understand the potential impacts on animal health.

Scientists shed light on processes behind age-related decline in brain structures

A new study by Cardiff University reveals that aging damages white matter cells, which can affect grey matter in the hippocampus and cognitive function. Researchers found that damage to support cells in white matter may lead to tissue health issues in the hippocampus, a region important for memory and involved in Alzheimer's disease.

Skin cancer can spread in mice by hijacking the immune system

Scientists have found that invasive skin cancer molecules reprogram healthy immune cells, allowing the cancer to spread. Researchers discovered that blocking certain chemicals can help prevent the aggressive skin cancer from coming back after treatment.

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.

The FASEB Journal: Molecular mechanisms behind AICAr drug; impact on ALL

A new study in The FASEB Journal reveals that AICAr inhibits cell proliferation and has cytotoxic potential for childhood ALL cells by regulating nucleotide metabolism. The researchers confirm that Acadesine's inhibition of cell proliferation is independent of AMPK activation, but dependent on P53.

New 3D printer shapes objects with rays of light

A new 3D printer uses light to transform gooey liquids into complex solid objects in a matter of minutes, smoother and more flexible than traditional printers. The technology has the potential to mass-customize products, including prosthetics and eyeglass lenses.

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.

Treatment for obesity and fatty liver disease may be in reach

Researchers discovered 27 new molecules with significant therapeutic potential for treating fatty liver disease and obesity by activating the PPAR-delta protein. These molecules are currently undergoing pharmaceutical evaluations and show promise in improving physical endurance and reducing waistlines.

New computational method reduces risk of drug formulation

A new method developed by researchers at the University of Luxembourg and others can predict how drug molecules arrange themselves in different energetic conditions, reducing the risk of formulation failures. This approach could help pharmaceutical companies avoid costly development errors and ensure their drugs function properly.

Scientists find 'new' science instrument on Mars rover Curiosity

Scientists have made the first surface gravity measurements on a planet other than Earth using NASA's Curiosity rover on Mars. The rover's accelerometers, used for navigation, were calibrated to measure subtle changes in gravitational acceleration, providing new information about the subsurface of Mars.

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.

More die after surgery than from HIV, TB, and malaria combined -- study

A new study estimates that around 4.2 million people die within 30 days of surgery globally, with half of these deaths occurring in low- and middle-income countries. The researchers project that expanding surgical services to address unmet need would add another 1.9 million post-operative deaths annually.

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.

Researchers breathe new life into COPD research using mouse models

Researchers used mouse models to explain the developmental process behind COPD, finding that immune cells called basophils induce airway degeneration by triggering a cascade of immune responses. The study's findings may lead to therapies targeting basophils or related immune cells to slow down emphysema progression.

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.

How the immune system protects us against bowel cancer

Researchers found the immune system plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy intestinal stem cells and preventing bowel cancer by enhancing DNA repair mechanisms. The study discovered that cells of the innate immune system can recognize genotoxic environmental factors, such as glucosinolates, and send signals to epithelial stem cell...

New treatment target emerging for retinal damage

Scientists at MCG are studying a new treatment target for retinal damage, characterized by blood vessel disruption leading to vision loss. They believe the key lies in arginase 1, an enzyme that helps regulate inflammation, which can be either damaging or reparative.

Survivors of a firearm injury at risk for subsequent hospitalizations

A recent study found that 10% of firearm injury survivors will be readmitted to the hospital within 90 days, highlighting a significant burden of morbidity. The researchers also discovered a 30% increased risk of readmission among those with firearm injuries compared to occupant motor vehicle injury patients.

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.

Curiosity's first attempt at gravimetry advances martian geology

Researchers used Curiosity's repurposed inertial measurement units to detect subtle variations in gravitational fields, contradicting the theory of a buried rock layer. The study suggests that Mount Sharp formed largely in its current form as a free-standing mound within Gale crater.

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.

Adaptive models capture complexity of the brain and behavior

Scientists parse animal behavior into digestible chunks using an adaptive model, spotting subtleties that would have otherwise been missed. The study found that complex dynamics can be broken down into simple linear patterns, allowing for the quantification of brain states and movement behaviors in various organisms.

Statin therapy reduces cardiovascular disease risk in older people

A Lancet study found that statin therapy reduced the risk of a major vascular event by about a quarter for each millimole per litre reduction in LDL cholesterol, even in older people. Statins also did not increase the risk of deaths from non-cardiovascular disease or cancer at any age.

Rainfall extremes are connected across continents: Nature study

Researchers discovered a global pattern of extreme rainfall teleconnections linked to jetstreams, which could enhance weather forecasting and damage mitigation. The study's findings have practical relevance for improving predictions of extreme rainfall events.

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.

Graphene crinkles can be used as 'molecular zippers'

Researchers at Brown University have discovered that graphene crinkles can be used to assemble molecules into linear arrays, known as 'molecular zippers'. This phenomenon enables easier manipulation and study of molecules, which could have applications in studying biomolecules like DNA and RNA.

Minority kidney transplants could increase with new option

A study at Vanderbilt University Medical Center found that African-American patients with blood type B can receive blood type A2 kidneys with similar outcomes. This new option has improved access to transplants for minority patients, increasing the number of available organs and reducing disparities in wait times.

In prenatal testing, 'genomics' sometimes sees what genetic tests can't

A new prenatal genetic testing approach has been shown to improve the diagnosis of fetal anomalies, identifying a significant cause in nearly half of affected pregnancies. The technique, known as whole exome sequencing, offers a valuable addition to standard prenatal tests, providing clear diagnoses and easing parental fears.

Stem cell growth accelerated by tropoelastin protein

A new method of growing stem cells has been discovered using the tropoelastin protein, which could lead to significant cost savings in treatment options. This breakthrough discovery, published in PNAS, uses a cost-effective approach to encourage the growth and recruitment of mesenchymal stem cells.

A new approach to peripheral nerve injury?

A new study published in Cell suggests that targeting immune cells called natural killer cells may help clear out damaged axons and promote healthy regrowth, potentially decreasing chronic neuropathic pain. The findings could lead to a greater understanding of the mechanisms behind neuropathic pain and improve treatment options.

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.

Maximizing the potential of MXenes

MXenes' conductivity increases as intercalants and termination species are eliminated, making them suitable for applications like energy storage and wearable tech. Researchers developed a new electron microscopy technique to measure surface chemistry in real-time, paving the way for termination engineering.

Identity crisis of satiety neurons leads to obesity

Scientists at Helmholtz Munich found a transcription factor called Tbx3 that plays a pivotal role in maintaining energy and sugar metabolism. Its absence leads to an identity crisis of satiety neurons, resulting in obesity.

Endangered sharks being eaten in UK

Researchers at the University of Exeter have discovered endangered hammerhead and dogfish species being sold as food in UK chip shops, highlighting a need for more accurate labelling. The study also found that consumers may unknowingly purchase threatened shark species, posing health risks and contributing to declining shark populations.

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.

Environmentally stable laser emits exceptionally pure light

Researchers developed a compact, environmentally stable laser with an ultra-narrow linewidth of 20 hertz, suitable for improving GPS accuracy and detecting gravitational waves. The laser's stability is maintained through self-referencing temperature sensing, allowing precise correction signals to be applied.

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.

Earth's largest extinction event likely took plants first

A study published in Nature Communications found that the Great Dying, a massive extinction event 252 million years ago, likely targeted plant life before animal species. The research team discovered high concentrations of nickel in Australian sediment, which may have been released from Siberian volcanoes and poisoned plant life.

Estimation of technology level required for low-cost renewable hydrogen production

Researchers in Japan developed an integrated system combining photovoltaic power generation and rechargeable batteries to produce hydrogen at a globally competitive cost. The system can adjust the amount of battery charge/discharge and electrolysis hydrogen production in relation to solar power generated, enabling the production of hyd...

Educated migrants bring wages closer together in regions

A study by National Research University Higher School of Economics found that educated migrants contribute to the convergence of wages across Russian regions. Migrants with secondary or vocational education levels have a significant impact on increasing regional wages, while higher-education migrants have little effect.

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.