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Science News Archive January 2019 - Page 29


Page 29 of 37

Excessive social media use is comparable to drug addiction

Research from Michigan State University found a correlation between excessive social media use and impaired risky decision-making capabilities. Participants who struggled with poor decision-making on the Iowa Gambling Task also displayed more problematic social media use.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Behavioral Addictions·DateJan 10, 2019

The Lancet: High intake of dietary fiber and whole grains associated with reduced risk of non-communicable diseases

A study published in The Lancet reveals that consuming at least 25g to 29g of dietary fibre per day can reduce the risk of non-communicable diseases such as coronary heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and colorectal cancer by 16-24%. Whole grains also show promise in reducing mortality rates and incidence of these diseases.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·DateJan 10, 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 reveals the enduring benefits of hiring a star

A new study by INSEAD researchers found that collaborating with a creative 'star' increases the chances of becoming a star and boosts innovators' creativity. Working alongside a star designer significantly enhances the ability to create breakthrough innovations through skills such as creative synthesis.

SourceINSEAD·JournalOrganization Science·DateJan 10, 2019

Mothers use sex pheromones to veil eggs, preventing cannibalism

Researchers found that fruit fly mothers incorporate sex pheromones into the eggshell's wax layer to mask its identity from larvae, preventing cannibalism. This nontoxic chemical deception strategy has implications for our understanding of animal behavior and defense mechanisms in diverse species.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJan 10, 2019

Clever budgies make better mates

A study found that male budgies who exhibit intelligent behavior, such as solving problems for food, become more appealing to females. The research suggests a possible evolutionary link between cognitive abilities and mate selection in birds.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJan 10, 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.

Mapping residual esophageal tumors -- a glimpse into the future?

Researchers at Osaka University found that mapping residual esophageal tumors can predict long-term prognosis and direct personalized treatment plans. The study identified four tumor remnant patterns, with specific associations to disease factors such as prognosis and metastasis risk.

SourceOsaka University·JournalAnnals of Surgery·DateJan 10, 2019

A human model to test implants for cataract surgery

A new human model simulates cataract surgery on human donor eyes, allowing evaluation of artificial intraocular lens (IOL) implants. The model predicts that Hoya Vivinex IOL is better able to manage events leading to Posterior Capsule Opacification (PCO) than Alcon Acrysof IOL.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalInvestigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science·DateJan 10, 2019

New dynamic probes for ions interacting with biomolecules

Vibrations of phosphate groups allow for a noninvasive probe of ion geometries in a water environment. Researchers use two-dimensional infrared spectroscopy to map Mg2+ ions in direct contact with PO2- groups, revealing fluctuations of the contact ion pair geometry and embedding water shell.

SourceForschungsverbund Berlin·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·DateJan 10, 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.

Stick insect study shows the significance of passive muscle force for fast movements

Researchers found that small limbs like insect legs can execute fast movements without central nervous system control, thanks to dynamic passive forces generated by the flexor muscle. These findings contradict previous notions of how small limbs move quickly and highlight the importance of active-muscle and opponent interactions.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJan 9, 2019

The lonely giant: Milky Way-sized galaxy lacking galactic neighbors

Researchers detected just two galaxies near M94, with few stars each, contradicting predictions of galaxy formation models. The study suggests that Milky Way-like galaxies host a wider diversity of satellite populations than previously thought.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateJan 9, 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.

Child abuse linked to risk of suicide in later life

Research reveals that children who experience physical, sexual, and emotional abuse are at least two to three times more likely to attempt suicide as adults. The study also found that people not in contact with mental health clinicians face the highest level of risk.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalPsychological Medicine·DateJan 9, 2019

New synthesis strategy for chiral drugs -- versatile chiral chemical species from aldehydes

Researchers at Kanazawa University have developed a new synthesis strategy for chiral drugs by harnessing the potential of aldehyde-derived chiral hydroxycarbanions. This breakthrough enables the selective production of one enantiomer of chiral molecules, paving the way for the creation of complex drugs with desired chirality.

SourceKanazawa University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJan 9, 2019

There's an app for that

Researchers develop phone-based intervention app to strengthen personal and occupational resources in military personnel, promoting balance and growth values. The project's goal is to improve the quality of life for military personnel, addressing stressors such as separation from family and frequent relocation.

SourceSociety for Industrial and Organizational Psychology·DateJan 9, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Investigational cream may help patients with inflammatory skin disease

A study published in the British Journal of Dermatology found that an investigational nonsteroidal topical cream, PAC-14028, improved clinical symptoms and signs in adults with mild to moderate atopic dermatitis. The cream blocks a specific ion channel involved in pain perception and inflammation.

SourceWiley·JournalBritish Journal of Dermatology·DateJan 9, 2019

Artificial bug eyes

Researchers have created bioinspired artificial compound eyes with improved visual properties, enabling better motion detection and light sensitivity. The innovative structure consists of tiny independent repeating visual receptors called ommatidia, grown on top of convex glass domes with antireflective and water-repellent nanostructures.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Nano·DateJan 9, 2019

Study suggests that fear and anger had different effects on conservatives and liberals

A recent study by University at Buffalo researcher Janet Yang found that fear and anger have distinct effects on how conservatives and liberals process information about elections and climate change. Fear was linked to a systematic approach to information processing, while anger was associated with higher perceived knowledge of climate...

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalJournalism & Mass Communication Quarterly·DateJan 9, 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.

Astronomers map 'light echoes' of newly discovered black hole

Researchers used NASA's NICER payload to detect X-ray light from a small black hole (J1820) consuming material from a companion star. Light echoes revealed changes in the environment's size and shape, providing new insights into stellar-mass black holes' behavior.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalNature·DateJan 9, 2019

New method to study biomechanical changes in tissues after laser surgery

Russian scientists developed a new method to study biomechanical changes in tissues after laser surgery, improving the accuracy and safety of eye surgeries. The method uses optical coherence tomography (OCT), which visualizes tissue structure by infrared light scattering, to quantify mechanical properties changes before and after laser...

SourceAKSON Russian Science Communication Association·JournalJournal of Biophotonics·DateJan 9, 2019

Who shared fake news on Facebook during the 2016 US presidential election?

A new study found that only 8.5% of users shared one or more fake news articles on Facebook during the 2016 US presidential election, mostly from older Americans and self-identified Republicans over 65 who shared nearly seven times as many fake news articles

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 9, 2019
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

First evidence of gigantic remains from star explosions

Astronomers have found the first evidence of a 'super-remnant' formed from repeated star explosions in the Andromeda Galaxy. The remnant measures almost 400 light years across and is associated with the most frequent nova explosions known, occurring once a year.

SourceLancaster University·JournalNature Astronomy·DateJan 9, 2019

Certain psychiatric drugs linked with elevated pneumonia risk

A review of published studies indicates that use of benzodiazepines and related drugs may increase the risk of pneumonia. The analysis found a 1.25-fold higher odds for developing pneumonia among current and recent BZRD users compared to non-users.

SourceWiley·JournalInternational Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry·DateJan 9, 2019

Two-thirds of stroke survivors are in exceptionally good mental health

A large Canadian study found that having a confidant was crucial for achieving complete mental health after a stroke, while childhood maltreatment and chronic pain were significant predictors of poor well-being. The study identified over two-thirds of stroke survivors as being in optimal mental health.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalJournal of Aging and Health·DateJan 9, 2019

School counselors reflect on their experience following student deaths

The study reveals four key themes: gravity of losses, logistics of care, personal versus professional conflicts, and increased student cohesion. The school counselors' reflections provide valuable insights into how they navigated crises while balancing their own needs.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Counseling & Development·DateJan 9, 2019
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Scientists hit on the protein and lipid composition of the Siberian mammoth bone

Researchers from Skoltech and MIPT analyzed the protein and lipid composition of a Siberian mammoth bone, identifying 98 proteins and 73 lipids. The study provides insights into the mammoth's diet, health, and nervous system development, complementing paleogenomics and paleoproteomics.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalEuropean Journal of Mass Spectrometry·DateJan 9, 2019

Beech trees are dying, and nobody's sure why

A new disease is killing beech trees in Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Ontario, Canada, causing dark-green bands on leaves and leading to tree death. Researchers are searching for a microbe or insect cause, using molecular techniques to compare DNA and RNA from diseased and healthy trees.

SourceOhio State University·JournalForest Pathology·DateJan 9, 2019

Cosmic telescope zooms in on the beginning of time

Astronomers have detected a distant quasar from the early universe using Gemini Observatory, which provides critical insights into the formation of galaxies. The quasar is fueled by a supermassive black hole at its center, with mass 700 million times that of our Sun.

SourceAssociation of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA)·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateJan 9, 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.

Tobacco use linked with higher use of opioids and sedatives

Concurrent tobacco use is associated with a higher likelihood of receiving prescriptions for opioids combined with muscle relaxants and benzodiazepines. This increased co-prescription may lead to prescription drug addiction due to the heightened risk of overdose.

SourceWiley·JournalAmerican Journal on Addictions·DateJan 9, 2019

About half of US adolescents report having private time with healthcare providers

A new study found that only half of US adolescents report having private time with their healthcare provider, despite professional guidelines recommending confidential services. Young people who receive private time have more positive attitudes towards their provider and clinical preventive services.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateJan 9, 2019

Researchers diversify drug development options with new metal catalyst

A University of Illinois team has created a synthetic manganese catalyst that can oxidize aliphatic scaffolds in the presence of aromatics, enabling chemists to produce new drugs from old ones. The discovery could expedite the drug discovery process and identify metabolites without requiring new syntheses.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Chemistry·DateJan 9, 2019

'Environmentally friendly' flame retardant could degrade into less safe compounds

Researchers found that a promising eco-friendly flame retardant, polymeric flame retardant (polyFR), can break down into potentially hazardous substances when exposed to heat or ultraviolet light. The degradation process yields small, brominated compounds with the potential to cause toxic effects on organisms.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJan 9, 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.

New computer modeling approach could improve understanding of megathrust earthquakes

Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin developed a new computer modeling approach to investigate the connection between tiny tremors and devastating megathrust earthquakes. The study shows that changes in crustal stress state occur before major earthquakes, providing valuable insights into the forces driving these events.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalEarth and Planetary Science Letters·DateJan 9, 2019

Study shows how specific gene variants may raise bipolar disorder risk

Researchers discovered that people with bipolar disorder have lower levels of the CPG2 protein, which regulates glutamate receptor numbers at excitatory synapses. Genetic variations in the SYNE1 gene, encoding the protein, undermine its expression and function in neurons.

SourcePicower Institute at MIT·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateJan 9, 2019

Mice sleeping fitfully provide clues to insomnia

Researchers studied genetically modified mice with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), a condition associated with sleep problems. The mice exhibited fragmented and irregular sleep patterns, similar to people with NF1. This study could help identify molecular mechanisms underlying sleep disturbances in humans.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJournal of Sleep Research·DateJan 9, 2019

Ohio State research finds toilet stool may solve common bowel issues

Researchers at Ohio State University found that using a toilet stool can help people with constipation, bloating, and incomplete bowel movements. The study showed that 71% of participants experienced faster bowel movements and 90% reported less straining.

SourceMediaSource·JournalJournal of Clinical Gastroenterology·DateJan 9, 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.

Are your Facebook friends making you feel sick?

A study published in Heliyon found that Facebook users who engage in social comparison are more aware of their physical ailments. The researchers also discovered a positive correlation between Facebook use and perceptions of physical symptoms.

SourceElsevier·JournalHeliyon·DateJan 9, 2019

HRT tablets associated with increased risk of blood clots

A large study published in The BMJ found that HRT tablets are associated with a higher risk of rare but serious blood clots, particularly those containing equine oestrogen. No increased risk was found for skin patches, gels and creams. The study provides important information for women and their doctors to make informed treatment choices.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateJan 9, 2019

UMass Amherst geoscientists reconstruct 'eye-opening' 900-year Northeast climate record

Geoscientists at UMass Amherst have reconstructed the longest and highest-resolution climate record for the Northeastern United States, revealing previously undetected past temperature cycles. The study used branched glycerol dialkyl glycerol tetra ethers (branched GDGTs) to provide an independent terrestrial paleo-thermometer.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalClimate of the Past·DateJan 9, 2019

Let's map our DNA and save billions each year in health costs

Pharmacogenetic testing, which maps a person's genetic makeup, can ensure patients receive effective and safe medications. This technology has the potential to deliver an economic benefit of $12 billion over five years to the national health system in Australia.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalAustralian Journal of Primary Health·DateJan 9, 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.

Stem cell study offers clues for optimizing bone marrow transplants and more

A recent USC-Stanford study reveals that successfully transplanted stem cells exhibit 'extreme behavior' due to radiation and chemotherapy, whereas healthy cells produce blood and immune cells more evenly. The research also shows that certain stem cells become dormant or biased towards producing specific immune cells.

SourceUniversity of Southern California - Health Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 9, 2019

Capturing chemotherapy drugs before they can cause side effects

Scientists have created a 3D-printed device that can absorb excess chemotherapy drugs from a patient's bloodstream before they spread to healthy cells. The device captured about 64% of doxorubicin, a commonly used chemotherapy drug, reducing the likelihood of side effects such as hair loss and nausea.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Central Science·DateJan 9, 2019

Study finds 2 billion birds migrate over Gulf Coast

A new study reveals that an average of 2.1 billion birds migrate along the 1,680-mile Gulf Coast each spring, with peak activity in a specific 18-day period. The research also highlights the importance of understanding migration timing to mitigate threats from human activities.

SourceCornell University·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateJan 9, 2019
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.

New research is using drones to tackle climate change

A team of Nottingham scientists is using drones to survey woody climbing plants and better understand how they may affect the carbon balance of tropical rainforests. The findings have been published in the Journal of Applied Ecology, highlighting the potential problems caused by lianas and their impact on global warming.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateJan 9, 2019

Scientists design protein that prods cancer-fighting T-cells

Researchers create new protein Neo-2/15 that stimulates cancer-fighting T-cells without triggering harmful side effects. The protein has therapeutic properties similar to naturally occurring IL-2 but is computationally designed to be less toxic.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalNature·DateJan 9, 2019