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Science News Archive January 2019


Page 22 of 37

Urbanization may hold key to tiger survival

A new WCS-led study links tiger fate to demographic transition in human populations. The research highlights the importance of urbanization and education in tiger conservation, emphasizing the need for engagement with cities to save tigers.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

From emergence to eruption: Comprehensive model captures life of a solar flare

A team of scientists developed a single, cohesive computer model to simulate the entire life cycle of a solar flare, from energy buildup to explosive release. The comprehensive model captures the formation of tangled magnetic field lines and roiling sunspots, which can impact Earth's power grids, communications networks, and astronauts.

New yeast model of metabolic disorders may lead to life-saving therapies

A new Tel Aviv University study uses genetically manipulated yeast cells to mimic the pathology and symptoms of congenital metabolic diseases. The innovative platform will allow scientists to screen thousands of drug-like small molecules to identify potential therapies for these devastating diseases.

How manganese produces a parkinsonian syndrome

Researchers discovered manganese's role in disrupting protein transport, leading to parkinsonian symptoms. Manganese accumulates in cellular vesicles, disturbing nerve cell function and affecting Parkinson's disease-like symptoms.

Dry-cured ham bones -- a source of heart-healthy peptides?

Researchers have discovered that dry-cured ham bones contain peptides with cardioprotective effects, inhibiting enzymes involved in cardiovascular disease. The use of ham bones to make broths and stews could have a positive impact on cardiovascular health.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Almost a quarter of antibiotic prescriptions in the US are inappropriate

A recent study published in The BMJ found that nearly a quarter of antibiotic prescriptions for privately insured outpatients in the US were inappropriate. Inappropriate prescribing was more common among adults than children, with colds, chest infections, and coughs being the three most common reasons.

Right green for crop, environment, wallet

Researchers have developed an efficient way to manage nitrogen in agriculture, using light sensors to monitor crop health and vitality. This approach reduces nitrogen fertilizer application, decreases environmental pollution, and lowers greenhouse gas emissions, increasing economic returns for farmers.

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.

How bad will my postpartum depression be in 12 months?

A new Northwestern University study identifies four factors that can accurately predict the severity and longevity of postpartum depression in new mothers. The study found that early intervention can improve treatment outcomes, and clinicians can tailor care to individual women's needs.

Mechanism helps explain the ear's exquisite sensitivity

A gel-like structure in the inner ear moves according to a sound's frequency, allowing detection of faint sounds Researchers at MIT found that the size and arrangement of pores within the tectorial membrane make it highly selective, amplifying middle frequencies while reducing high and low tones

High-speed supernova reveals earliest moments of a dying star

Researchers observe evidence of a 'hot cocoon' material enveloping a relativistic jet escaping a dying star, providing insight into the earliest moments of a supernova. The discovery was made using a coordinated approach with space- and ground-based observatories.

Record-breaking ocean temperatures point to trends of global warming

The 2018 ocean heat content observations reveal the highest recorded temperature for the global ocean since the 1950s. This increase in heat content is ~100 million times more than the Hiroshima bomb and highlights the consequences of global warming on oceanic water temperatures.

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.

Water, not temperature, limits global forest growth as climate warms

A study published in Science Advances reveals that trees are becoming more water-limited as the climate warms, with changes most evident in northern climates and high altitudes. The research found that tree growth has shifted from being temperature-limited to being water-limited over large areas.

The influence of endocrine disruptors on the male and female thyroid

A European collaborative project SCREENED aims to develop new 3D in vitro tests to predict the effects of endocrine disruptors (EDs) on thyroid function. The tests will mimic the structure and function of the native thyroid gland, allowing for selective identification of male and female responses to ED exposure.

New research confirms US Fed right to hold news conferences after every meeting

A new study from the University of Toronto found that holding news conferences after every FOMC meeting may have done the opposite, setting markets up for unnecessary surprises. The research highlights the potential risks of treating meetings differently, which could reduce transparency through delayed information release.

Moving more in old age may be linked to sharper memory

A study found that moving more, even simple routine physical activity like housework, can protect the brain from damage and preserve memory and thinking skills. The study looked at 454 older adults and found that those who moved more had better thinking and memory skills compared to those who didn't.

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.

Health risks through fumigated containers

Research highlights the dangers of fumigated containers, which can release harmful substances into the air if not handled properly. The German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment warns that these risks can be exposed to consumers and retail personnel who come in contact with contaminated products.

Proteins use a lock and key system to bind to DNA

Researchers discovered that proteins use the DNA's three-dimensional structure as a type of keyhole to select specific binding sites, rather than just patterns in the genome's code. Over 80% of proteins bind to a specific shape pattern in the genome, which helps explain how they avoid confusing different sequences.

Simple rules predict and explain biological mutualism

Biomedical engineers at Duke University developed a framework to predict mutually beneficial biological systems using machine learning. They created a simplified metric to determine collective benefit using variables like temperature, pH, and genetics.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Anti-inflammatory compound protects against cancer growth and recurrence

A dual COX-2/sEH inhibitor may offer a novel alternative to protect against debris-mediated inflammatory responses, which can lead to tumor survival and growth. The study used mouse models of ovarian cancer to demonstrate the anti-inflammatory compound's effectiveness in suppressing cancer growth.

Survey questions cancer doctors' awareness of LGBTQ issues

A recent study surveyed 450 oncologists in the US, revealing that most are unaware of how to treat patients with LGBTQ+ differences but are interested in learning more. The researchers recommend establishing protocols for treating LGBTQ cancer patients and providing education and training for physicians.

What is clean breathing water?

A study published in Environmental Science & Technology found that showering, using sinks, and flushing toilets can expose people to Legionella pneumophila bacteria, which causes pneumonia-like disease. The researchers recommend setting a risk-based concentration limit for indoor water quality to prevent outbreaks.

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.

Common genetic disorder linked to more disease than previously thought

A study published in The BMJ found that people with the most common genetic disorder in northern Europe are associated with substantially higher levels of disease than previously thought. The faulty genes often lead to serious health problems, including haemochromatosis and liver disease.

Fighting perinatal mood and anxiety disorders on multiple levels

Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) affect up to 14% of women in their lifetimes, leading to adverse outcomes for mothers and babies. Integrated care approaches, including screenings in primary care clinics, NICU, and ED, are being implemented to help women with PMADs receive timely treatment.

When activated, 'social' brain circuits inhibit feeding behavior in mice

Researchers at Stanford University discovered that activating social brain circuits can suppress feeding behavior in mice. The study used optogenetics to target specific neurons in the orbitofrontal cortex and found that stimulating fewer than two dozen nerve cells linked to social interaction was enough to inhibit feeding behavior.

Sudden aging

Researchers discover coralline red algae fossils dating back 430 million years, challenging current classification. This finding sheds new light on the development of these algae, which play a crucial role in ocean ecosystems.

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.

Feathers: better than Velcro?

Scientists at UC San Diego discovered that barbules on bird feathers are spaced consistently across species, leading to potential breakthroughs in adhesives and aerospace materials. The study's findings also shed light on the growth patterns of bird bones, particularly the humerus.

Ammonia by phosphorus catalysis

Researchers have discovered black phosphorus as an excellent catalyst for the electroreduction of nitrogen to produce ammonia. The material exhibits high selectivity and efficiency in this process, making it a promising alternative to traditional methods. However, further improvements are needed to prevent degradation over time.

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.

Nudging does not necessarily improve decisions

Researchers from the University of Zurich found that nudging's effectiveness depends on a person's underlying decision-making process. The study suggests that certain behavioral models can improve decisions through nudging, such as the limited attention model.

The pace at which the world's permafrost soils are warming

The world's permafrost soils have warmed by an average of 0.3 degrees Celsius between 2007 and 2016, according to a new global study. This warming poses significant threats to infrastructure and the environment, including increased carbon dioxide and methane emissions.

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.

Research to improve welding process for manufacturing industries

Researchers at the University of Leicester have developed a method to optimize arc welding and additive manufacturing processes, improving efficiency and reducing costs. By tracking melt pool behavior using X-ray imaging, they discovered that controlling flow and surface tension can improve weld quality and properties.

Schizophrenia linked to genetic structural abnormality in adolescent brain

Researchers from the University of Warwick have discovered a genetic mutation associated with higher risk for schizophrenia, which disrupts brain development and increases mental illness risk. A new pathway of genetic risk was found, providing possibilities for prevention and theoretical study before clinical symptoms emerge.

Study finds following heart health guidelines also reduces diabetes risk

A recent study by researchers at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center found that following heart health guidelines can significantly reduce the risk of developing diabetes. Participants who met the recommended ranges for four or more of the seven factors had a 70% lower risk of developing diabetes over the next 10 years.

Just like flipping a switch -- in only half a picosecond

Molecules can switch between magnetic and non-magnetic forms dynamically, enabling applications like efficient solar cells and quantum computing. The researchers found this process occurs in half a picosecond, far faster than initially believed.

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

U develops first dark sky studies minor in the US

The University of Utah has established a new undergraduate minor in dark sky studies, the first of its kind in the US. The minor combines science and humanities to explore the impacts of artificial light at night, with students conducting field-based research and developing innovative solutions.

Leuven experts push the boundaries of 3D microscopy

Researchers at VIB-KU Leuven have developed new methods for 3D microscopy, including ALMOST, which provides unprecedented imaging of reflective opaque objects. Additionally, a modernized Golgi staining technique has been optimized to study neurons in more detail, preserving ultrastructural details.

Advancing environmental research

The new grant will support activities at four partner institutions, including the University of Delaware, to build up the state's research expertise and workforce for future jobs. The project aims to improve water quality, focusing on salinization and its effects on drinking water and freshwater habitats.

Cheering on a potential diabetes drug from bench to bedside

A promising compound TTP399 targets glucokinase protein implicated in type 2 diabetes, improving glycemic control and reducing liver fat. Phase 2 clinical trial of 190 participants shows no adverse effects, paving way for potential new treatment options.

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.

Trends over time in antibiotic prescribing by dermatologists

Between 2008 and 2016, antibiotic prescribing by dermatologists declined overall, driven largely by a decrease in extended courses for acne and rosacea. However, the use of postoperative antibiotics after surgical visits increased, raising concerns that practice should be evaluated

Chaos in the body tunes up your immune system

Researchers at the University of Copenhagen's Niels Bohr Institute have found a new mechanism in bodily cell regulation through chaos. Chaotic swings in a protein's concentration activate genes, optimally tuning the immune system.

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.

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.