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Science News Archive July 2019


Page 32 of 41

Sneaky mating may be in female damselfies' interest

In a rare African damselfly species, females facilitate reproductive success of inferior males when their health is at risk. By evading dominant males' attention and preserving their health, females inadvertently enable sneaker male paternity.

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Autistic adults experience high rates of negative life events

A new study published in Autism Research found that autistic adults are vulnerable to various negative life experiences, including financial hardship, domestic abuse, and social bullying. These experiences are associated with higher rates of anxiety and depression symptoms and lower life satisfaction in autistic adults.

Hate spoilers? This AI tool spots them for you

Researchers developed an AI-based system, SpoilerNet, to flag spoilers in online book and TV show reviews. The tool achieved 89-92% accuracy in detecting spoilers, with most errors caused by distracting words.

Dental evidence of human admixture in Asia

A study found a three-rooted lower molar in a 160,000-year-old Denisovan mandible from China, suggesting that the trait is much older than previously thought. This rare dental feature may have been passed into modern Asian human populations through interbreeding with Denisovans.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

AJTMH tip sheet for July 2019

A new study in Hawaii tallies nearly 82 human infections from the rat lungworm parasite over a decade, highlighting snails and slugs as primary carriers. Meanwhile, research on bednet monitoring reveals high variability in household use, which could be contributing to declining efficacy in malaria prevention.

New technique allows real-time microscopy at high heat and loading

Researchers have developed a technique that allows for real-time microscopic observation of materials under extreme heat and loading conditions. This breakthrough enables the study of material behavior in nuclear reactors and other extreme environments, with potential applications in developing new high-performance materials.

Optimizing the growth of coatings on nanowire catalysts

Researchers chemically treat zinc oxide nanowires to apply a uniform coating of titanium dioxide, enhancing catalytic activity and stability for the water-splitting reaction. The resulting nanowire-shell structures exhibit an amorphous structure with crystalline domains limited to a few nanometers.

UK researchers develop ultrafast semiconductors

Researchers from Cardiff University have developed ultrafast Compound Semiconductor technology, creating highly sensitive avalanche photodiodes with lower electronic noise than silicon rivals. This breakthrough has the potential to yield new class of high-performance receivers for applications in networking and sensing.

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.

B and T cells in celiac disease

Researchers discovered that B cells specifically binding N-terminal epitopes of transglutaminase 2 (TG2) more efficiently take up and present TG2-gluten complexes to gluten-specific T cells. This suggests that B cells with this specificity are the main antigen-presenting cells for pathogenic T cells in celiac disease.

Social worker awarded $3.73 million grant for Alzheimer's care

The LSU School of Social Work has been awarded a $3.73 million grant to improve the quality of life for Louisiana residents and families living with Alzheimer's disease. The program, LA-GWEP, will train social workers, nurses, and physicians in dementia-friendly integrated practice.

Malaria transmission and mosquito bites

African countries study finds that 87.5% of mosquito bites occur indoors, while bed-time bites account for 79.4%, highlighting the need for effective vector control measures.

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.

The ancestor of the great white shark

A team of researchers found a peculiar tooth composition in great white sharks and their relatives, which is similar to that of the fossil shark Palaeocarcharias stromeri. The shared tooth histology indicates that this small shark gave rise to one of the most iconic shark lineages.

Uncertainty in sea level projections

Large ensembles of Antarctic ice sheet simulations show increased uncertainty in sea level projections. Marine ice sheet instability amplifies and skews uncertainty in projected sea level rise.

UBC scientists capture images of gene-editing enzymes in action

Researchers captured high-resolution images of a gene-editing tool called CRISPR-Cas9 using cryo-EM technology, revealing new information about its mechanism. The findings hold promise for developing more efficient and precise versions of the enzyme to correct disease-causing DNA mutations.

Microrobots to change the way we work with cellular material

The new microrobots can load, transport and deliver cellular material with greater speed and less damage than traditional methods, opening up a wide range of applications in life sciences and beyond. They also enable precise control over cell behavior, which is crucial for regenerative medicine and neural repair.

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.

Jurassic shift: Changing the rules of evolution

A British-German study found that environmental factors had a significant influence on species success in the past, but became less important around 170 million years ago. The shift was attributed to the rise of planktonic algae with calcified shells, which changed the rules of evolution.

Research yields new clues to the origin of Tamu Massif

Researchers found magnetic anomalies resembling those formed at mid-ocean ridge plate boundaries, suggesting Tamu Massif formed by mid-ocean ridge 'spreading' rather than as a shield volcano. The discovery weakens the accepted analogy between eruptions of continental flood basalts and oceanic plateaus.

Fish die-offs linked to hotter summers

A study found that fish die-offs in Wisconsin lakes are strongly linked to heat waves and warmer surface water temperatures. By mid-century, fish kills are expected to double, and by 2100, they will quadruple.

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.

New probe could help surgeons more accurately remove tumours

A new probe has been developed to help surgeons detect cancer cells during surgery, with the potential to improve surgical outcomes for patients. The probe uses fluorescence imaging and has been published in Chemical Science, a study led by RCSI researchers.

Genomic 'map' reveals not all fat is equal

A new study created the first comprehensive genomic map of fat cells, revealing unique features that appear to 'hard-wire' different types of fat. The findings may guide future research into the drivers of harm arising from fat build-up in different parts of the body.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Thought experiment: Switzerland without fossil fuels. Can that succeed?

A study by Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA) suggests that Switzerland can transition to a low-CO2 energy system by reducing building heating requirements by 42%, electrifying 3/4 of remaining heating needs, and increasing electrification of private car journeys to 20%.

Value of climate conversations

A survey of 1,263 people found that discussing global warming leads to increased learning of key facts about the scientific agreement on global warming. This knowledge in turn influences beliefs and promotes more climate-related conversations.

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.

Coralline algal cryptic species diversity

Research on coralline algal diversity reveals fewer species and less diversity in urchin barrens compared to kelp forests with sea otters. The study suggests that cryptic species identification alters ecosystem dynamics perception.

Too much screen time for the kids? Grandparents may also be complicit

A study by Rutgers University found that grandparents allow their grandchildren an average of two hours of screen time during a four-hour visit, highlighting the need for parental guidance. Grandparents, particularly fathers, tend to permit more interactive screen time, while mothers and younger children benefit from stricter rules.

Two new algorithms can identify patients at risk of HIV

Researchers developed two new algorithms that can identify patients at high risk of HIV and may benefit from preventive care. The models use data from patients' electronic health records to flag potential candidates for preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) medication, which is over 90% effective in preventing HIV acquisition.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Is that news really 'fake,' or is it just biased?

Bias and honesty are key factors in determining source credibility, a study by Ohio State University researchers found. People tend to distrust biased sources, even if they believe the information is true. In contrast, untruthful news isn't the only issue for consumers; objective sources can still lose credibility if perceived as biased.

Research team deciphers enzymatic degradation of sugar from marine alga

A research team has elucidated the complex degradation pathway of the polysaccharide Ulvan from marine algae, revealing the biochemical function of 12 enzymes. The findings have significant implications for future biotechnological applications and improve our understanding of the marine carbon cycle.

Natural antioxidant helps improve immune-based therapies by modulating T-cells

Researchers at MUSC discovered that thioredoxin, a powerful antioxidant molecule, can extend the life of adoptive T-cells and improve anti-tumor activity. This finding suggests that treating human T-cells with thioredoxin before administration may increase cell viability and improve the effectiveness of immune-based therapies.

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.

Quantum satellite combines art with science

The National University of Singapore's quantum satellite SpooQy-1 carries a quote from The Golden Record 2.0, a play written for the NUS Arts Festival, to test a quantum light source enabling future secure communication. The satellite, built by CQT and the NUS Centre for the Arts, honours Singapore's diversity and globalised world.

Grazing animals drove domestication of grain crops

Researchers found that ancient plants coevolved with megafaunal grazers to disperse their seeds, making them easy to harvest. The discovery sheds light on the early domestication of small-seeded grain crops like quinoa and amaranth.

Window film could even out the indoor temperature using solar energy

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed a window film that captures solar energy during the day and releases it as heat at night, helping to regulate indoor temperatures. The film uses a specially designed molecule that changes color when it absorbs sunlight, allowing it to capture energy.

Carbon cycles and mass extinction

A mathematical model explains relationship between oceans' carbon storage and environmental disruptions during mass extinctions. The study suggests that Earth's carbon cycle determines the magnitude of disruption, with external inputs influencing surges resulting from mass extinctions.

Does genetic testing pose psychosocial risks?

A new special report by The Hastings Center examines the psychosocial impacts of genetic information, highlighting both potential harms and limitations. Studies suggest that genetic testing can have negative effects on individuals and families, particularly in contexts where stigmatization or anxiety is heightened.

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.

Cancer cells will become vulnerable

Researchers from HSE University used machine learning to discover that stem-loops and quadruplexes contribute to 20-30% of genome breakpoints in cancer, with varying impacts on different types of cancer.

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.

Light touch to improve rheumatoid arthritis diagnosis

Researchers develop a new method to detect rheumatoid arthritis by analyzing hand blood content using infrared spectroscopy. The technique can provide an early diagnosis and assess treatment effectiveness, potentially leading to better long-term outcomes for patients.

How the brain remembers where you're heading to

Researchers discovered theta oscillations play a role in navigation and memory formation, reactivating location-specific activity patterns during virtual reality navigation. This finding may help identify novel biomarkers for neurological disorders like Alzheimer's.

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.

Tuning the energy levels of organic semiconductors

Researchers found that adjusting a single molecular parameter, the molecular quadrupole moment, can tune the energetics in organic films. This effect enhances long-range Coulomb interactions in organic materials.

Blood flow monitor could save lives

A tiny fibre-optic sensor has the potential to save lives in open heart surgery and during surgery on pre-term babies. The continuous cardiac flow monitoring probe is a safe way to give real-time measurement of blood flow.