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Science News Archive January 2019 - Page 7


Page 7 of 37

Weather at key growth stages predicts Midwest corn yield and grain quality, study says

A University of Illinois study developed an algorithm to predict both end-of-season yield and grain composition by analyzing weather patterns during three critical periods in corn development. The predictions apply to the entire Midwest corn crop and could influence global markets for animal feed applications.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalAgronomy·DateJan 29, 2019

Alzheimer's in a dish

Researchers at Harvard Medical School have created a new model of sporadic Alzheimer's disease, which points to molecular causes and potential treatments. The model, reported in Cell Reports, removes a major obstacle for scientists seeking to understand the disease.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalCell Reports·DateJan 29, 2019

Cells that destroy the intestine

Researchers at FAU have identified TRM cells as a key player in inducing acute inflammatory episodes in bowel diseases, leading to flare-ups and tissue damage. Patients with high proportions of these cells are more likely to experience severe symptoms.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalNature Immunology·DateJan 29, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Laser-fabricated crystals in glass are ferroelectric

A team of researchers has demonstrated that laser-generated crystals in glass can be manipulated to control their ferroelectric domain structure. This allows for the creation of new optical devices with high efficiency and low loss links, crucial for future quantum information transfer systems.

SourceLehigh University·JournalMRS Communications·DateJan 29, 2019

Vegan diets are best for gut hormones and satiety, according to new study

A recent study published in the journal Nutrients found that vegan meals increased beneficial gastrointestinal hormones in individuals with obesity, type 2 diabetes, and healthy participants. This increase in gut hormones can help regulate blood sugar, enhance insulin secretion, promote satiety, and support weight management.

SourcePhysicians Committee for Responsible Medicine·JournalNutrients·DateJan 29, 2019

How to send a finch extinct

A University of Queensland-led study found that environmental legislation is failing to protect the southern black-throated finch's habitat, leading to a steep decline in its population. The research highlights the need to halt the decline of this bird's habitat to prevent extinction.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalEnvironmental Science & Policy·DateJan 29, 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.

Huge step forward in decoding genomes of small species

Researchers at the Wellcome Sanger Institute and Pacific Biosciences successfully assembled the genetic code of a single Anopheles coluzzii mosquito, opening doors to understanding genetic diversity in insects. The breakthrough reduces DNA needed for genome sequencing by an order of magnitude, enabling studies on previously inaccessibl...

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalGenes·DateJan 29, 2019

Women twice as likely to suffer from severe depression after a stroke

A new study published in the European Journal of Neurology found that women are more likely to experience severe depression following a stroke, with 20% of women suffering from severe depression compared to 10% of men. The study suggests that women's social relationships and longer lifespan contribute to this increased risk.

SourceKing's College London·JournalEuropean Journal of Neurology·DateJan 28, 2019

In test of wisdom, new research favors Yoda over Spock

Researchers from the University of Waterloo discovered that a balanced mix of emotions improves wisdom. Wise reasoning no longer requires uniform emotional control but rather recognizing multiple perspectives and integrating them for compromise. This study provides new insights into the relationship between wisdom, emotion, and balance.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalJournal of Experimental Psychology·DateJan 28, 2019

Groundbreaking new reusable adhesive works underwater

Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a new reusable adhesive that activates quickly and maintains strong adhesion underwater. The shape memory polymers (SMPs) can be manipulated to transition between two states, allowing for reversible dry adhesion and enabling applications such as wet or submerged wall mounting.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalAdvanced Materials Interfaces·DateJan 28, 2019
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.

Artificial skin could give superhuman perception

Researchers at the University of Connecticut created a sensor using iron oxide nanoparticles in silicone that can detect pressure, temperature, and vibration, as well as magnetic fields and sound waves. The sensor could potentially help burn victims feel again and serve as an early warning for workers exposed to high magnetic fields.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJan 28, 2019

Plasmonic pioneers fire away in fight over light

Researchers at Rice University argue that photoluminescence, not Raman scattering, is responsible for the remarkable light-emitting properties of metal nanoparticles. This breakthrough could lead to improvements in solar-cell efficiency and the development of new biosensors.

SourceRice University·JournalNano Letters·DateJan 28, 2019

A solid scaffolding for our cells

Researchers at UNIGE have deciphered the fundamental role of the Not1 protein in regulating ribosome activity, allowing proteins to assemble at the right time and place. This discovery sheds light on a crucial element of cellular machinery and its potential link to diseases.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateJan 28, 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.

Facebook memes during 2016 presidential election differ from gender stereotypes

A Baylor University study found that Facebook memes of Donald Trump in the 2016 election focused more on his hairstyle and facial expressions than on his policy, while those of Hillary Clinton centered on the email scandal and her relationships. The study also revealed that most pages featuring Trump had a higher following than those f...

SourceBaylor University·JournalSocial Media + Society·DateJan 28, 2019

Bad brakes

Researchers at Harvard Medical School have identified a faulty molecular brake that interferes with the heart muscle's ability to contract and relax. The study found that a mutation in the MyBPC3 gene leads to an overactive motor that propels abnormal muscle contractions, causing the heart to beat too much and relax poorly.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJan 28, 2019

Lowering blood pressure reduces risk of cognitive impairment

A clinical trial led by Wake Forest School of Medicine found that intensive control of blood pressure significantly reduced the risk of developing mild cognitive impairment (MCI) in older people. MCI is a precursor to early dementia and increases the risk of dementia progression, but reversion to normal cognition is possible.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalJAMA·DateJan 28, 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.

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.

Birds-of-paradise genomes target sexual selection

Researchers analyzed 5 birds-of-paradise species' genomes, identifying genes linked to coloration, morphology, and feather development. The study provides insights into the evolutionary mechanisms behind the extraordinary plumage of these birds.

SourceGigaScience·JournalGigaScience·DateJan 28, 2019

Study examines long-term opioid use in patients with severe osteoarthritis

A study published in Arthritis & Rheumatology found that prescription opioids are commonly used long-term to treat pain in older patients with severe osteoarthritis. The study also revealed substantial statewide variation in rates of treatment with long-term opioid therapy for osteoarthritis, which was not fully explained by difference...

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatology·DateJan 28, 2019

Cassava high in iron and zinc could improve diets and health in west Africa

Researchers developed cassava with significantly higher iron and zinc concentrations through genetic modification, which can improve diets and health in West Africa. The 'biofortified' cassava retains mineral levels after processing and cooking, providing a nutritionally available source of essential micronutrients.

SourceDonald Danforth Plant Science Center·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateJan 28, 2019

Cancer: A mutation that breaks gene interplay in 3D

Researchers discovered that EZH2 mutations disrupt chromatin organization, leading to increased tumor growth and altered gene expression. Inhibiting mutated EZH2 restores normal gene regulation, highlighting its therapeutic potential for cancer treatment.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Genetics·DateJan 28, 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.

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.

Extratropical volcanoes influence climate more than assumed

Researchers found that extratropical eruptions produce strong hemispheric cooling in proportion to their sulfur release, contrary to the assumed weaker impact. This study sheds light on the importance of injection height and helps quantify volcanic eruptions' past climate variability effects.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel (GEOMAR)·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJan 28, 2019

Tangled up in quantum computing

The Interdisciplinary Quantum Information Research and Engineering (Inquire) instrument enables researchers in various fields to benefit from quantum resources, including entangled photons. Researchers can send photons into the central hub for high-tech imaging or receive entangled photons for secure communication.

SourceUniversity of Arizona College of Engineering·DateJan 28, 2019

How do fish and birds hang together without colliding? Researchers find the answer is a wake with purpose

Fish and birds are able to move in groups without separating or colliding due to the interaction of followers with their leader's wake. This phenomenon allows slower followers to keep up with faster-flapping leaders by surfing on their wake, enabling efficient energy harvesting from natural resources.

SourceNew York University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 28, 2019

Not all saturated fats are equal when it comes to heart health

A new study published in the International Journal of Cardiology confirms that diets rich in palmitic and stearic acid, found in meats, increase cardiovascular risk. In contrast, eating fewer long-chain saturated fats and consuming plant-based proteins lowers the risk of myocardial infarction.

SourceElsevier·JournalInternational Journal of Cardiology·DateJan 28, 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.

JILA researchers uncover quantum structure of buckyballs

Researchers measured hundreds of individual quantum energy levels in the buckyball, revealing its intricate structure and enabling new insights into extreme quantum complexity. The findings have potential applications in quantum computing and astrophysics.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalScience·DateJan 28, 2019

Do bigger brains equal smarter dogs? New study offers answers

A new study led by the University of Arizona found that larger-brained dogs outperform smaller dogs in measures of executive functions. The research, which used data from over 7,000 purebred domestic dogs, showed that bigger breeds have better short-term memory and self-control.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalAnimal Cognition·DateJan 28, 2019

Abandoned fields turn into forests five times faster than thought

Russian scientists discovered that abandoned arable land is immediately overgrown with forest if there are no grass fires, contradicting the previous assumption of a five-year wait period. Grass fires significantly influence vegetation growth and density on former agricultural fields.

SourceAKSON Russian Science Communication Association·JournalEcological Processes·DateJan 28, 2019

What you eat could impact your brain and memory

Researchers at Iowa State University discovered a link between the satiety hormone Cholecystokinin and reduced Alzheimer's disease risk, with higher levels associated with a 65% decrease in cognitive impairment. The study suggests that dietary factors may play a role in preventing or slowing disease progression.

SourceIowa State University·JournalNeurobiology of Aging·DateJan 28, 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.

UBC researcher adopts play-by-play method to understand how counsellors can promote health

A UBC researcher has developed a method to analyze behaviour change counselling sessions, enabling counsellors to identify what makes interventions work. By examining minute details of interactions between clients and practitioners, the new approach helps counsellors promote positive changes in their patients.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalHealth Psychology·DateJan 28, 2019

Big data provides clues for characterizing immunity in Japanese

Researchers at Osaka University used large biobanks to fine-map the key immunity-related part of the genome, revealing significant associations with diseases and traits. The study found that single genes can influence multiple traits, a phenomenon known as pleiotropy.

SourceOsaka University·JournalNature Genetics·DateJan 28, 2019

Aerosol-assisted biosynthesis strategy enables functional bulk nanocomposites

Researchers developed a general and scalable biosynthesis strategy to produce uniform bulk nanocomposites composed of bacterial cellulose and nanoscale building blocks. The method successfully produces nanocomposites with high mechanical strength, electrical conductivity, and tunable carbon nanotube content.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalNational Science Review·DateJan 28, 2019
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.

Study: Predicting gentrification in order to prevent it

A new research model predicts gentrification in US neighborhoods based on people, place, and policy factors. The study finds that diversity, access to jobs, and housing quality are key predictors of gentrification, highlighting the role of urban planners in shaping neighborhood change.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Denver·JournalJournal of Urban Affairs·DateJan 28, 2019

Targeted antisense oligonucleotide drug tested in humans

A first-in-human study demonstrated the ability of a new class of antisense oligonucleotide therapeutics to target the liver, resulting in improved potency and safety at therapeutic doses. The study showed that the conjugated drug was up to 30-fold more potent than the parent antisense oligonucleotide.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalNucleic Acid Therapeutics·DateJan 28, 2019

Measuring forces of living cells and microorganisms

A new technique using micropipette force sensors measures the tiny forces exerted by living cells and microorganisms with high precision. The method allows for testing the reaction of cells to environmental factors and has potential applications in biomedicine, such as identifying drugs for infectious diseases.

SourceAalto University·JournalNature Protocols·DateJan 28, 2019

For endangered lemurs, internet fame has a dark side

A study of Twitter activity reveals that viral videos of exotic animals can fuel demand for them as pets. Researchers analyzed nearly 14,000 tweets mentioning pet or captive lemurs and found a significant spike in searches for 'pet lemur' after a popular video went viral.

SourceDuke University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 28, 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.

Scientists use microorganism to fabricate functional bacterial cellulose in situ

A research team has developed a novel method for fabricating functional bacterial cellulose through in situ fermentation of Komagataeibacter sucrofermentans. The new approach provides environmentally friendly conditions, lower production costs, and controlled distribution of functional moieties.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 28, 2019

Whopping big viruses prey on human gut bacteria

Researchers have identified a new group of massive viruses, known as megaphages, that target specific bacteria found in the guts of individuals eating non-Western, high-fiber diets. These phages, which are 10 times larger than average phages, can carry genes that exacerbate human illnesses and may move between humans and animals.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNature Microbiology·DateJan 28, 2019

Fluid-inspired material self-heals before your eyes

A Northwestern University team has developed a novel material that can self-heal within seconds when scratched or cracked, preventing localized corrosion. The coating, inspired by fluids, flows and reconnects to rapidly heal, even after repeated damage.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalResearch·DateJan 28, 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.

Is increased screen time associated with delayed child development?

A study of 2,400 Canadian children found that higher screen time at ages 2 and 3 was associated with poorer performance on developmental screening measures by age 5. The opposite association wasn't observed, suggesting potential drawbacks to excessive screen time in young children.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateJan 28, 2019

How ion adsorption affects biological membranes' functions

A new mathematical model describes how ion adsorption affects biological membranes' electrical properties at different pH levels. The model reveals that calcium ions have a greater ability to adsorb than barium ions, with hydroxide-containing ions being more readily absorbed.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateJan 28, 2019