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Science News Archive January 2019


Page 16 of 37

Near-term climate prediction 'coming of age', study shows

A new review paper by international climate experts highlights the prospects for skilful near-term climate predictions, out to just a few years ahead. These enhanced models feature the effects of man-made greenhouse gases and natural drivers, providing valuable information for policymakers and aid agencies.

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.

New applications for encapsulated nanoparticles with promising properties

Researchers at the University of the Basque Country have successfully encapsulated semiconductor nanocrystals into polymers, improving their optical properties and fluorescence control. The new method enables stable detection in biomedicine and detection of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) with high sensitivity.

Test for esophageal cancer could save millions of lives

A new esophageal cancer screening test called EsophaCap has been developed using genetic biomarkers to detect the deadly disease. The test involves swallowing a small capsule that dissolves into a sponge, which collects genetic material from the entire length of the esophagus and is then sent for analysis.

Long-read DNA analysis can give rise to errors, experts warn

Researchers from the University of Edinburgh's Roslin Institute found thousands of errors in recent human genome sequences generated by long-read technologies, even after using corrective software. The team suggests that these technologies should be interpreted with caution due to potential major implications in clinical studies.

How hot are atoms in the shock wave of an exploding star?

Researchers measured temperatures of slow-moving gas atoms surrounding a star after an exploding star's shock wave, answering a long-standing question about their physical processes. The results confirm the relationship between atomic weight and temperature, settling an important issue in astrophysics.

Blocking toxic-protein production in ALS

Researchers have identified a key trigger for toxic protein production in ALS and frontotemporal dementia. Targeting the integrated stress response with an approved antidepressant drug shows promise in reducing toxic protein production in laboratory tests.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

How sex pheromones diversify: Lessons from yeast

The study found that one pheromone operates strictly while the other is free to undergo diversification, a mechanism that may lead to reproductive isolation and speciation. This asymmetric system allows for flexible adaptation to mutational changes while maintaining recognition of mating partners.

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.

New insights into magnetic quantum effects in solids

Researchers have made significant progress in understanding magnetic quantum effects in solids, finding that they only occur within narrow parameter ranges. The study sheds light on the behavior of spin systems at different temperatures and interaction parameters.

Rutgers study uncovers cause of bone loss in joint implant patients

Researchers discovered that white blood cells respond to microparticles from prosthetic devices as harmful invaders and engulf them, leading to inflammation, tissue damage, and bone destruction. The study may lead to new therapies to reduce pain and prevent follow-up surgery for joint replacement patients.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Study offers promise for preventing necrotizing enterocolitis in preemies

Researchers at Ann & Robert H Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago have discovered a promising direction towards understanding and preventing necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in premature infants. Blocking NF-κB activity prevented recruitment of white blood cells into the intestine, leading to decreased development of NEC.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Aspirin may lower stroke risk in women with history of preeclampsia

A new study found that regular aspirin use after delivery erases the increased risk of stroke associated with a history of preeclampsia in women under 60. Women in this age group who took aspirin had the same stroke risk as those without a history of preeclampsia, whereas those who did not take aspirin had a 50% greater risk.

Lehigh University computer scientist wins 2019 NSF CAREER Award

Dr. Eric Baumer aims to develop participatory methods for human-centered design of algorithmic systems, incorporating diverse experts and users in the design process. He will work with nonprofits AEquitas and ProPublica to create interactive tools that better align with users' existing practices.

Urbanization changes shape of mosquitoes' wings

A recent study found significant correlations between the population structure of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes and urbanization levels in São Paulo City. The researchers discovered that environmental pressures due to urbanization lead to the selection of phenotypes better adapted to the conditions, resulting in wing shape variability.

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.

2D magnetism reaches a new milestone

The study reports the observation of an XY-type antiferromagnetic material whose magnetic order becomes unstable when reduced to one-atom thickness. This finding is consistent with theoretical predictions dating back to the 1970s.

Study looks at ranger motivation in dangerous African park

A new WCS study examines the job satisfaction of front-line conservation rangers working in challenging conditions at Kahuzi-Biega National Park. The research reveals that rangers' motivation decreases over time, but provides suggestions for improvement, including better salaries, recognition, and security guarantees.

Liver transplant for alcohol-related liver disease in US

A 15-year study found a significant increase in US liver transplants for alcohol-associated liver disease, but with lower five-year survival rates compared to other liver conditions. The study suggests changing attitudes towards sobriety length may be driving this trend.

New targeted oral treatments for severe asthma to be studied

Researchers in Leicester are investigating the use of antibiotics to treat certain types of severe asthma, a condition affecting 1 in 20 people with asthma. The study aims to identify patients with specific subtypes of severe asthma and test new oral treatments, including doxycycline and dexpramipexole.

North Sea rocks could act as large-scale renewable energy stores

Researchers propose using compressed air storage in porous rock formations to meet UK's electricity needs during winter months, providing a viable option for steady and reliable renewable energy supplies. The approach aims to store enough compressed air to cover the UK's typical electricity demand for January and February.

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.

Energizing the immune system to eat cancer

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have identified a method to fuel macrophages with energy needed to attack and eat cancer cells. By rewiring macrophage metabolism, macrophages can overcome signals that prevent them from attacking tumors, leading to tumor shrinkage and prolonged survival in mice.

Blood test detects Alzheimer's damage before symptoms

A new blood test reliably detects signs of brain damage in people with Alzheimer's disease, even before symptoms of confusion and memory loss arise. The test may also identify neurodegeneration in other brain diseases, injuries, and conditions such as multiple sclerosis and traumatic brain injury.

Gene changes may predict breast cancer relapse, study suggests

Researchers identified genetic changes that may predict breast cancer relapse in women taking hormone therapy. The study found subtle differences in gene expression between tumours that relapsed and those that didn't, suggesting potential new tests to identify high-risk patients.

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.

For zombie microbes, deep-sea buffet is just out of reach

A study by Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution scientists found that deep-sea microbes are unable to fully utilize organic carbon due to its scarcity and physical isolation. The research suggests that the unique environment of deep sediments may limit life on Earth and provide insights into the possibility of extraterrestrial microbia...

Mouse studies show 'inhibition' theory of autism wrong

Researchers found that inhibition decreases in autistic mice brains but does not affect spiking rates, instead stabilizing brain activity through compensation. This finding challenges the 'inhibition' theory of autism and suggests other mechanisms may contribute to disease symptoms.

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.

Early prediction of Alzheimer's progression in blood

Researchers at DZNE and HIH developed a blood test that detects neurofilament, a protein found in the blood, which accumulates long before clinical symptoms of Alzheimer's disease. The test accurately reflects the course of the disease and predicts future developments.

In China, a link between happiness and air quality

Researchers discovered a link between air quality and happiness in Chinese cities, finding that higher pollution levels are associated with decreased happiness. Women and those on higher incomes were found to be more sensitive to pollution's impact.

How our brains distinguish between self-touch and touch by others

A new study from Linköping University found that the brain reduces sensory perception when touched by oneself, and this difference arises as early as in the spinal cord. This phenomenon suggests that the brain attempts to predict sensory consequences of one's actions, assigning less importance to self-generated sensations.

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.

Courage to aim for less cleanliness?

The study suggests that letting beneficial microorganisms thrive could aid in fighting infectious diseases, as conventional methods may interfere with their natural containment. By adopting a more diverse approach to health, researchers hope to create stronger defenses against pathogens.

Benefits of agricultural sustainability standards

The study models environmental impacts of adopting Bonsucro Voluntary Sustainability Standards, finding a potential reduction in sugarcane production area and water use. By focusing on 10% of current production area, most benefits can be achieved

Are you a super pooper?

Researchers found that super-donors have stool rich in bacteria that enhance metabolism and can provide the necessary chemicals to restore gut balance. Fecal transplants from these 'super-donors' achieve clinical remission rates double those of other donors, offering new hope for treating a range of conditions.

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.

Fossil illuminates hagfish evolution

A new fossil discovery reveals defining characteristics of hagfish appeared before the Cretaceous period, resolving a longstanding debate on their evolutionary position. The study suggests that hagfish and lampreys form a distinct clade, implying that living jawless vertebrates may not be as primitive as initially thought.

Scientists discover new quantum spin liquid

Researchers at the University of Liverpool and McMaster University have discovered a quantum spin liquid state in TbInO3, a complex material that defies its crystal structure. The exotic state emerges from the local environment around magnetic ions, giving rise to extraordinary properties.

Scientists find genes with large effects on head and brain size

A genome-wide association study found genetic variants that influence head circumference and intracranial volume in 46,000 adults and children, revealing stable genetic influences during development. The study identified 9 novel loci associated with large effects on head circumference, including a rare variant of the TP53 gene.

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.

The first nucleophilic gold complex

Researchers at University of Oxford and University of Jyväskylä have discovered a gold compound that reacts with carbon dioxide to form a product where the gold atom attacks the central carbon atom. This finding marks the first example of nucleophilic reactivity by molecular gold, enabling new applications in chemical reactions.

Unexpected link found between feeding and memory brain areas

A multidisciplinary team has found a new connection between the lateral hypothalamus, a feeding center, and the hippocampus, a memory center, revealing how the protein complex NCOR1/2 regulates memory. The study sheds light on potential links to autism, intellectual disabilities, and neurodegenerative diseases.

FSU research sheds light on spinal cord injuries

Researchers at Florida State University have discovered that a natural immune system response can cause further harm after a spinal cord injury. The study found that the process of clearing myelin debris from the injury site can lead to inflammation and the formation of abnormal blood vessels, inhibiting recovery.

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.

Soil fungi secrete an antibiotic with antitumor activity

A team of researchers isolated a peptide named emericellipsin A from soil fungi, which possesses antitumor and antibacterial properties. The substance was proved to be effective against various types of bacteria and fungi, including those resistant to other antibiotics.

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.