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Science News Archive January 2019 - Page 24


Page 24 of 37

'Outdated' management plan increases risks to Alaska's large carnivores

A study published in PLOS Biology warns that Alaska's management plan, which prioritizes reducing bear and wolf populations for hunters, lacks scientific monitoring and may interfere with important ecosystem services. The plan has led to an increase in reported brown bear hunting kills over the past three decades.

SourceOregon State University·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJan 15, 2019

Fraction of US outpatient treatment centers offer medication for opioid addiction

A new study from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health found that only 36.1% of US outpatient treatment centers offer medication treatment for opioid use disorder, with significant variation among states. Treatment facilities in Medicaid expansion states were more likely to offer medication treatment.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalHealth Affairs·DateJan 15, 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.

Gene expression study sheds new light on African Salmonella

Researchers discovered 677 genes and small RNAs expressed differently between African and global Salmonella strains, leading to alterations at the protein level. The study provides a powerful tool for understanding the bacteria's genetic basis and potential antibiotic resistance.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJan 15, 2019

Pioneering surgery restores movement to children paralyzed by acute flaccid myelitis

Acute flaccid myelitis, a devastating illness affecting mostly children, has seen breakthroughs in treatment through nerve transfer surgery. Dr. Scott Wolfe's pioneering work has restored arm movement and function in several young patients, providing new hope for those affected by this mysterious and debilitating condition.

SourceHospital for Special Surgery·JournalPediatric Neurology·DateJan 15, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Gut microbes from healthy infants block milk allergy development in mice

A new study suggests that gut microbes from healthy human infant donors can protect against the development of cow's milk allergy in mice. The research found that transplanting these microbes into mice exposed to milk prevented allergic reactions, while those with microbes from infants allergic to milk did not experience protection.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNature Medicine·DateJan 14, 2019

Research reveals strategies for combating science misinformation

A new study identifies four key areas to combat climate misinformation: public inoculation, legal strategies, political mechanisms, and financial transparency. The research proposes coordinated strategies to counter false content and expose the institutional network enabling its spread.

SourceYale School of the Environment·JournalNature Climate Change·DateJan 14, 2019

Discovery casts doubt on cell surface organization models

Researchers challenged conventional two-dimensional models of cell surface organization, revealing three-dimensional effects on diffusion and molecular movement. This study has significant implications for understanding cell signaling, cell-to-cell contacts, and cell migration.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalCommunications Biology·DateJan 14, 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.

New research from Barnard president Sian Beilock helps students excel on science exams

A new study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences reveals that brief pre-exam de-stressing strategies can reduce performance gaps between lower-income and higher-income students. The interventions, which included expressive writing and reappraisal, improved exam scores and course-passing rates for lower-incom...

SourceBarnard College·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 14, 2019

Wild insects 'get old' before they die

Researchers studied wild crickets for ten years and found that those who invested more in reproduction showed signs of aging, including reduced chirping and increased fighting losses. The study suggests that aging may be driven by energy allocation towards reproduction rather than decline, challenging the idea that aging is inevitable.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalEvolution·DateJan 14, 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.

NYSCF scientists make strides in creation of clinical-grade bone

Researchers at NYSCF identified two growth media types that support effective expansion of mesenchymal progenitor cells for bone treatment and repair. MP cells have promise in treating blood, heart, and immune diseases as well as repairing damaged bone and cartilage.

SourceNew York Stem Cell Foundation·JournalStem Cell Research & Therapy·DateJan 14, 2019

Step forward in understanding human feet

A study by the University of Exeter and the University of Queensland reveals that plantar intrinsic muscles have a minimal impact on supporting the arch of the human foot during walking and running. However, these muscles are crucial for propelling forward motion.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 14, 2019

ZIP code or genetic code?

Researchers used a massive insurance database to analyze the effects of genes and environment in 560 common conditions among over 56,000 twin pairs. The study found that nearly 40% of diseases had a genetic component, while 25% were driven by environmental factors.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNature Genetics·DateJan 14, 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.

In breast-cancer prevention, race matters

A new study found that African-American women are less likely than white women to pursue potentially life-saving preventive care due to racial disparities in healthcare. High-risk black women were also less aware of their options and at a disadvantage when it came to getting access to information about prevention.

SourceOhio State University·JournalEthnicity and Health·DateJan 14, 2019

Military spouses face higher perinatal depression risk

A review paper found that pregnant military spouses report increased depressive symptoms during pregnancy and partner deployment, attributed to social isolation and stress. Specialised support for military spouses may reduce anxiety during deployments.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalJournal of the Royal Army Medical Corps·DateJan 14, 2019

Antibody neutralizes Zika virus in mice

A study using murine models found that a neutralizing monoclonal antibody, ZIKV-195, protects mice from Zika virus infection. The antibody targets and cross-links envelope proteins critical for viral membrane fusion.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 14, 2019

Temple researchers identify long-sought activator of sigma receptors in human cells

Temple researchers discover that choline functions as an endogenous ligand for sigma-1 receptors, triggering intracellular signaling pathways and potentially treating conditions like substance abuse. The findings provide a long-sought activation mechanism for these receptors, which interact with various psychoactive drugs.

SourceTemple University Health System·JournalCell Reports·DateJan 14, 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.

The human brain works backwards to retrieve memories

A new study at the University of Birmingham reveals that when retrieving memories, the human brain focuses on the core meaning first and then recalls specific details. This reversed reconstruction process challenges our understanding of how memories are formed and retrieved.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 14, 2019

Fort McMurray homes have normal levels of indoor toxins, U of T Engineering study reveals

A University of Toronto Engineering study found that dust in Fort McMurray homes contained normal levels of contaminants comparable to Canadian homes. The team collected dust from over 60 homes and reported lower levels of toxic substances than health guidelines, with some chemicals even higher in Toronto homes.

SourceUniversity of Toronto Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJan 14, 2019

Big genome found in tiny forest defoliator

Researchers sequenced the European gypsy moth genome, revealing its largest moth or butterfly genome ever recorded. The study provides insights into the insect's immune system and potential bioinsecticides to protect forests and orchards from destruction.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 14, 2019
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Viennese scientists develop promising new type of polymers

Researchers at Vienna University of Technology have developed a new synthesis process for S-PPVs, promising polymers for various applications. The process uses inexpensive base materials and can be scaled up for industrial quantities, making them suitable for commercial use.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalPolymer Chemistry·DateJan 14, 2019

Cities could play a key role in pollinator conservation

A new study reveals that gardens and allotments are crucial for pollinators, with lavender and borage being key food sources. Cities can play a vital role in conserving pollinators by incorporating these plant species into urban landscapes.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateJan 14, 2019

Pain and substance abuse interact in a vicious cycle

Research finds that experiencing pain can motivate individuals to use substances and make it harder to quit, resulting in a positive feedback loop that maintains both conditions. Clinicians should assess patients for chronic pain and address it during treatment to help them manage withdrawal and develop healthier coping strategies.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalAnnual Review of Clinical Psychology·DateJan 14, 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.

Where is George? Ask this software to look at the crowd

A new software, idtracker.ai, can identify up to 150 individual fish with high accuracy, extracting valuable data for understanding group behavior. The AI-powered system uses deep learning neural networks and conventional algorithms to recognize unique features of each zebrafish.

SourceChampalimaud Centre for the Unknown·JournalNature Methods·DateJan 14, 2019

Experiments detect entropy production in mesoscopic quantum systems

Experiments with Bose-Einstein condensates and optomechanical cavities reveal an increase in irreversibility due to quantum fluctuations. This counterintuitive discovery challenges current understanding of entropy production.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJan 14, 2019

Sugary stent eases suturing of blood vessels

Researchers have developed a stent with a sugar-based coating that can facilitate faster and more precise suturing of blood vessels. The stent, designed using 3D printing technology, was tested on pig arteries and showed significant improvements in surgical time and accuracy.

SourceUniversity of Nebraska-Lincoln·JournalAdvanced Healthcare Materials·DateJan 14, 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.

Double star system flips planet-forming disk into pole position

Researchers discovered a double star system with a planet-forming disc that orbits at right angles to the binary star orbit, challenging traditional theories. The finding suggests that misaligned circumbinary planets may exist and could have unique seasonal variations.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalNature Astronomy·DateJan 14, 2019

TGF-beta pathway protects against uterine cancer

Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine have discovered that the TGF-beta signaling pathway acts as a tumor-suppressor mechanism in the uterus, preventing endometrial overgrowth and transformation into cancer cells. This finding suggests potential new treatments for uterine cancer patients.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 14, 2019

Demi Lovato's overdose causes surge in media, but few mentions of lifesaving hotline

A new study found that despite high engagement with media coverage of Demi Lovato's overdose, few Americans mentioned the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) national helpline. The study analyzed news reports, tweets, and searches following Lovato's hospitalization in 2018 and Anthony Bourdain's suicide i...

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJan 14, 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.

Recalling happy memories during adolescence can reduce risk of depression

New research from the University of Cambridge suggests that recalling positive experiences can reduce vulnerability to depression in young people. The study found that remembering specific positive memories was associated with fewer negative self-related thoughts and lower levels of cortisol, indicating improved resilience against stress.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateJan 14, 2019

UCI/JPL study: Antarctica losing six times more ice mass annually now than 40 years ago

A UCI/JPL study found Antarctica losing six times more ice mass annually now than 40 years ago, resulting in a half-inch rise in global sea levels. The accelerated melting is attributed to climate change and warm ocean water, with East Antarctica contributing significantly to the total ice mass loss.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 14, 2019

DNA origami: A precise measuring tool for optimal antibody effectiveness

Scientists have developed a precise measuring tool using DNA origami to optimize antibody effectiveness, with distances of approximately 16 nanometres providing the strongest bond. This technology can help better understand the immune response and design more effective antibodies for vaccines and immunotherapy.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJan 14, 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.

Genetic risk for atypical heart attack in women identified

A new study has found a genetic factor on chromosome 6 that increases the risk of spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD), a rare and atypical form of heart attack primarily affecting young to middle-aged women. The genetic variant, known as rs9349379, is also associated with a small protective effect from classic heart attacks.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateJan 14, 2019

DNA tool allows you to trace your ancient ancestry

Researchers developed a new concept called Ancient Ancestry Informative Markers (aAIMs) that can accurately identify and classify ancient populations. The tool enables testing of an individual's similarity to ancient people from various regions, providing insights into their primeval origins.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalGenes·DateJan 14, 2019

Origin of date palms

Date palms in North Africa exhibit mixed ancestry due to hybridization with P. theophrasti from Crete, influencing 18% of their genome. Researchers sequenced genomes of 71 cultivars and five wild relatives to uncover this origin story.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 14, 2019

The duration and quality of sleep is of vital importance in cardiovascular health

The study found that participants who slept less than six hours were 27% more likely to have atherosclerosis compared to those who slept seven to eight hours. Poor quality sleep also increased the risk of atherosclerosis, with participants waking during the night or experiencing frequent movements during sleep being at higher risk.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P.)·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateJan 14, 2019

Breakthrough in organic electronics

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have discovered a simple tweak that could double the efficiency of organic electronics. Double-doping polymers allows semiconductors to become twice as effective, enabling improvements in technologies like OLED displays and solar cells.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalNature Materials·DateJan 14, 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.

Fears over life-saving drug unfounded, finds review

A systematic review of naltrexone found no evidence of serious side effects, contradicting common doctor concerns. The study also highlights the drug's cost-effectiveness and potential to reduce deaths from alcohol-related causes, which remain underutilized due to cultural and prescription biases.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalBMC Medicine·DateJan 14, 2019

American College of Physicians releases new edition of Ethics Manual

The American College of Physicians has released a new edition of its Ethics Manual, providing guidance on complex issues in medicine. The updated manual covers topics such as precision medicine, genetic testing, telemedicine, and end-of-life care, offering practical advice for clinicians, educators, researchers, and policymakers.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJan 14, 2019

Anticancer drug candidate inhibits lethal aggregation of mutant tumor suppressor protein

Researchers discovered that PRIMA-1 reverses mutant p53 aggregate accumulation, leading to the restoration of native protein function. The compound's potential as an anticancer drug is highlighted by its phase II clinical trials and positive results in breast and ovarian cancer cell lines.

SourceInstituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia de Biologia Estrutural e Bioimagem (INBEB)·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJan 14, 2019
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.