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Science News Archive January 2019 - Page 8


Page 8 of 37

Cycling and treadmill workstations may be 'healthier' than standing options

A systematic review of available evidence suggests that cycling and treadmill workstations are associated with greater short-term physiological changes compared to standing versions. Both types boosted heart rate, energy expenditure, and reduced blood pressure. However, treadmill versions interfered with keyboarding skills.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalOccupational and Environmental Medicine·DateJan 28, 2019

Making 'sense' of the 'cart before the horse' in mammalian cells

Scientists have discovered that an antisense RNA can induce the formation of fusion genes in mammalian cells, which may lead to new cancer therapies and biomarkers. The 'cart before the horse' hypothesis is challenged by this finding, revealing a non-coding RNA's role in gene recombination.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 28, 2019

Peptide papers point to new ways of tackling bacteria

Researchers have solved a 20-year riddle of how crucial step in antibiotic biosynthesis occurs, opening way to potentially redesigning antibiotics. The team structurally characterised the peptide bond forming domain in Ebony enzyme, revealing its novel types of condensation domain and its role in regulating neurotransmitters.

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

Study finds freestanding EDs charge more than urgent care centers

A study by Vanderbilt University Medical Center found that freestanding emergency departments (FSEDs) charge significantly more than urgent care centers, even with lower annual patient volumes. FSEDs experienced a decrease in patient volume between 29.5% and 94.8% after converting from urgent care centers.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalJournal of Emergency Medicine·DateJan 28, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Myocarditis: Overshooting the mark

Researchers have identified midkine as a key driver of inflammation in the heart muscle that can lead to heart failure in patients with myocarditis. The study found that inhibiting midkine reduced neutrophil infiltration and improved heart function.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateJan 28, 2019

Finding second hits to knock out leukemia

Scientists at CeMM Research Center have developed a method to identify promising drug combinations for chronic lymphocytic leukemia. By combining epigenetic analysis and high-throughput imaging, researchers can predict which drugs are likely to work together effectively, reducing trial-and-error approaches.

SourceCeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateJan 28, 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.

Football instant replays can affect fans' brand attitude

Researchers found that spectators felt more positive emotions when a referee's decision benefited their team during suspenseful games. The study suggests that advertisers can use individual targeting and tailored branding to create positive associations with sponsored brands.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalNOLEGEIN-Journal of Consumer Behavior & Market Research·DateJan 28, 2019

iMT: Creating a blueprint for cortical connectivity

Scientists at Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience create a novel technique called iMT, capable of tracing intricate neural connections with unprecedented sensitivity. This breakthrough could improve our understanding of the brain and uncover novel approaches for diagnosing and treating brain disorders.

SourceMax Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateJan 28, 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.

Advanced Photonics, a new SPIE-CLP open-access journal, publishes its first issue

The inaugural issue of Advanced Photonics showcases significant research across optics and photonics technologies, including light-sheet microscopy and deep learning for digital holography. The journal aims to provide a trusted source of groundbreaking research in optics and optical technologies.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateJan 28, 2019

Space technology predicts droughts several months in advance

Scientists from Australian National University used space technology to predict droughts and increased bushfire risk with unprecedented precision. The team combined satellite data with a computer model simulating the water cycle and plant growth, enabling accurate forecasts of vegetation state up to five months in advance.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 28, 2019

Penn engineer's 'metallic wood' has the strength of titanium and the density of water

Scientists at the University of Pennsylvania have developed a new material called metallic wood that has the strength of titanium but is four to five times lighter. The material's porous structure can be infused with other materials, making it suitable for applications such as plane wings or prosthetic legs that also serve as batteries.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalScientific Reports·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.

Carbon dioxide, water use efficiency, and tree growth

Researchers report that long-lived white cedar trees in northeastern Canada have increased water use efficiency since 1850, likely due to elevated carbon assimilation rates. However, no associated increase in growth rates was observed, suggesting that CO2 stimulation may not lead to increased carbon storage.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 28, 2019

Speed of light: Toward a future quantum internet

Researchers have demonstrated proof-of-principle for an all-photonic quantum repeater, a critical step in long-distance quantum communication. This technology could enable faster and more secure global quantum Internet applications.

SourceUniversity of Toronto Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 28, 2019

How to create health care centaurs, half doctors and half managers

A study by Marco Sartirana and colleagues found that hospital doctors' ability to become 'hybrid' roles is dependent on effective organizational support. Successful transformations occur when professionals are surrounded by a supportive network, allowing them to legitimize their new management role.

SourceBocconi University·JournalPublic Management Review·DateJan 28, 2019

£700k award funds new research into ways to control liquid droplets

Academics from Northumbria University are continuing their groundbreaking research on liquid droplet behavior. They will investigate ways to control the formation of droplets using electrical voltages, which has never been possible before. This technology could lead to innovative techniques for printing and coatings applications.

SourceNorthumbria University·DateJan 28, 2019

Mechanism explains breast cancer cell plasticity

Breast cancer cells can shift between two forms of the cell surface molecule CD44, CD44s and CD44v, with different properties and behaviors. Cancer cells expressing mainly CD44s have increased metastatic behavior and resistance to therapy, while those expressing CD44v present increased cell proliferation.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalGenes & Development·DateJan 28, 2019
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.

Opioid injecting linked to substantial rise in bacterial heart infections

A study of people who inject drugs found a significant increase in the risk of infective endocarditis, a serious infection of the heart lining, possibly linked to increasing use of hydromorphone. The risk rose from 13.4 to 35.1 admissions per three months between 2011 and 2015.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJan 28, 2019

Brain biomarkers could help identify those at risk of severe PTSD

Researchers have identified distinct brain patterns that respond differently to learning danger and safety in individuals with varying levels of PTSD symptom severity. The study found that more severely symptomatic veterans exhibited greater corrections in physiological arousal and brain activity when faced with unexpected stimuli.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Mental Health·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateJan 28, 2019

Future changes in human well-being to depend more on social factors than economic factors

A new study projects that global well-being will depend more on social factors than economic ones in the next three decades. The researchers used a mathematical approach to project the subjective well-being of the world's population, taking into account dimensions such as freedom, corruption, generosity, and social support.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalNature Communications·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.

Does intensive blood pressure control reduce dementia?

The SPRINT MIND trial found that intensive lowering of systolic blood pressure did not significantly reduce dementia risk, but had a measurable impact on mild cognitive impairment. The study demonstrated that intensive blood pressure control is safe for the brain and may offer avenues for prevention.

SourceNIH/National Institute on Aging·JournalJAMA·DateJan 28, 2019

Researchers use AI to detect early signs of Alzheimer's

Researchers used machine learning to identify clusters of relationships in medical data that could predict Alzheimer's disease, including cardiovascular health and immune system response. This approach may lead to earlier diagnosis and better prognosis with new blood tests.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalFrontiers in Aging Neuroscience·DateJan 28, 2019

Why it's so important to have a primary care doctor

Americans with primary care receive more recommended cancer screenings, flu shots, and reported better patient experience compared to those without. Primary care also leads to better overall healthcare access.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJan 28, 2019

Persistent sore throat could be larynx cancer warning

A study of over 800 patients with laryngeal cancer found a significant risk of the disease associated with persistent sore throats combined with other symptoms. The research aims to improve early detection and treatment outcomes for cancer patients.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalBritish Journal of General Practice·DateJan 28, 2019

Study shows flight limitations of earliest feathered dinosaurs

A new study reveals that Anchiornis, one of the earliest known feathered dinosaurs, had feathers with thicker alpha-keratins instead of beta-keratins, lacking necessary biomechanical properties for flight. However, its molecular composition may signify an intermediate stage in the evolution of avian flight feathers.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 28, 2019
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.

Trial using donated eye tissue offers stem cell surgery hope

A clinical trial has shown promise in using stem cells from donors to repair the surface of the eye in patients with limbal stem cell deficiency, a significant cause of sight loss. The trial also sheds light on the causes of sight disorders and offers clues about how eye tissue loss could be repaired.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalStem Cells Translational Medicine·DateJan 28, 2019

The energy implications of organic radical polymers

Researchers have discovered a new class of polymer that can store and exchange electrons, leading to faster charging times for batteries. The organic radical polymers' unique structure allows rapid charge transfer during redox reactions.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalNature Materials·DateJan 28, 2019

UIC gets $12 million to continue largest study of Latinos

The University of Illinois Chicago will continue its role as the Chicago field center for the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos, a multi-site study of health issues and risk factors among Hispanic/Latino adults. The new funding will support phase III of the study, which aims to bring back participants for a follow-up exa...

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·DateJan 28, 2019

Want to squelch fake news? Let the readers take charge

A new study shows that crowdsourcing audience judgments about news source quality can identify and marginalize online misinformation. The study found that both Democrats and Republicans distrust hyperpartisan sites, with low trust ratings across the board.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 28, 2019

Addressing dietary inequities in Canada

Dietary inequities in Canada refer to differences in diet quality between people of lower and higher socioeconomic status. Existing nutrition policies are insufficient to address the root causes of poor diets, particularly among those with lower social positions.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·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.

High rates of opioid prescriptions may be linked to poor labor force participation

A new US study found that prescription opioids are negatively affecting labor force participation and unemployment rates nationwide. The study discovered a strong adverse effect of opioids on labor markets, with a 10% increase in opioid prescriptions per capita leading to a 0.6 percentage point drop in labor force participation rates.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee at Knoxville·JournalThe Journal of Human Resources·DateJan 28, 2019

To catch a wave, rocket launches from top of world

The CAPER-2 mission aims to understand how particles are accelerated in the aurora borealis by studying the interaction between electrons and atmospheric gases. The team hopes to uncover the fundamental physics behind this process, which is crucial for understanding space radiation and astrophysical phenomena.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 28, 2019

A 'compelling call' for pediatricians to discuss firearm safety

Research highlights the dangers of unsafe gun storage and calls for pediatricians to counsel families on safe handling practices. The authors advocate for innovative design features and childproofing technologies to reduce firearm-related injuries among young children.

SourceChildren's National Hospital·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateJan 28, 2019

Train the brain to form good habits through repetition

A new study published in Psychological Review reveals that forming good habits depends more on repetition than satisfaction. The research suggests that our brains tend to stick with repeated actions, even if they're no longer rewarding, and opens up a better understanding of conditions like Obsessive Compulsive Disorder.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalPsychological Review·DateJan 28, 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.

Injection of opioids linked to significant increase in bacterial heart infections

Researchers discovered a significant rise in infective endocarditis among Ontarians who inject drugs, with hydromorphone prescriptions linked to the increased risk. The study found that reusing injection equipment, common among opioid users, allows for bacterial contamination and increases the chances of heart infection.

SourceLawson Research Institute·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJan 28, 2019

Study: Climate change reshaping how heat moves around globe

New research shows climate change is shifting how the atmosphere and oceans move heat around the globe, with significant effects on global temperatures. The study found that warming temperatures are driving increased heat transfer in the atmosphere, while reducing it in the ocean.

SourceOhio State University·JournalNature Climate Change·DateJan 28, 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.

Defending against cyberattacks by giving attackers 'false hope'

MU researchers create an artificial intelligence system to quarantine cyberattackers, providing a temporary distraction to allow for a more sophisticated defensive strategy. This approach aims to exploit the psychological aspect of cyberattacks, making attackers believe their efforts are successful.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalFuture Generation Computer Systems·DateJan 28, 2019

Manipulating cell networks with light -- New frontiers in optical microscopy

A new optical microscope system called SIFOM stimulates multiple cells simultaneously using holographic method and monitors cell activity using 3D measurements. The system has potential applications in reconstructing lost nerve pathways, constructing artificial neural networks, and developing food resources.

SourceKobe University·JournalOptics Letters·DateJan 28, 2019

Bad cholesterol: 'Slim down' fat-carrying particles to reduce its spread

The University of Warwick has identified the enzyme DGAT1, which controls how much fat is added to particles released by the liver. Inhibiting this enzyme allowed scientists to 'slim down' particles and load them with less fat, reducing the amount of 'bad' cholesterol in the blood.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalJournal of Lipid Research·DateJan 28, 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.

Mimicking nature for programmable and adaptive synthetic materials

Scientists from JNCASR and inStem successfully created a synthetic mimic of cytoskeletal networks with structural and temporal programming. The system was developed through reaction-driven controlled growth, enabling precise control over one-dimensional growth and self-repairing features.

SourceNational Centre for Biological Sciences·JournalNature·DateJan 28, 2019

New therapeutic targets for kidney fibrosis emerge

A new study identifies key factors involved in cell cycle arrest and illuminates a novel intracellular structure, paving the way for new therapeutic targets to treat kidney fibrosis. The research team found that blocking the formation of TASCCs reduced the severity of kidney fibrotic disease progression in preclinical models.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJan 28, 2019

Common test for mental health understanding is biased

A study found that the RMET test for mental health understanding is biased against less educated individuals, as well as ethnic and racial minorities. The test relies too heavily on a person's vocabulary, intelligence, and culturally-biased stimuli.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalPsychological Medicine·DateJan 28, 2019

Fiber sensors may leave the jacket on

Researchers at Bar-Ilan University have successfully mapped liquids outside coated optical fibers, enabling sensing applications beyond the lab. The use of a polyimide coating overcomes the protective barrier previously hindering sensor performance.

SourceBar-Ilan University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateJan 28, 2019

GW cancer researchers investigate nanoimmunotherapies for cancer

Researchers at George Washington University Cancer Center have engineered a nanoimmunotherapy ensemble to increase the potency of immune checkpoint inhibitors in treating cancer. The goal is to convert 'cold' tumors into 'hot' tumors, which can be more responsive to immunotherapy.

SourceGeorge Washington University·DateJan 28, 2019
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.

Missing link in planet evolution found

Scientists have discovered a 1.3 km radius body beyond Neptune's orbit, revealing more about the planet formation process. The detection supports models where planetesimals grow slowly into kilometer-sized objects before merging to form planets.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalNature Astronomy·DateJan 28, 2019

Proton transport 'highway' may pave way to better high-power batteries

A team of researchers has found that diffusion may not be necessary to transport ionic charges inside a hydrated solid-state structure of a battery electrode. This discovery could lead to new design principles for electrodes and potentially improve the energy density and cycle life of high-power batteries.

SourceOregon State University·JournalNature Energy·DateJan 28, 2019