Bluesky Facebook Reddit Email

Science News Archive July 2019


Page 39 of 41

Improving wind farm efficiency

Researchers developed a wake steering technique that increases total power production while reducing variability in wind speeds, leading to improved efficiency for near-average wind conditions. The study used field experiments on an array of 6 turbines over 10 days at a wind farm in Alberta, Canada.

Danish researchers create worldwide solar energy model

Researchers at Aarhus University have developed an historically accurate solar energy model with global, regional and local level performance data made available via open license. The model will help in optimizing future sustainable energy systems by analyzing photovoltaic installations.

Well-meaning climate measures can make matters worse

Research from NTNU and others finds that some climate change mitigation strategies may increase land use and water consumption, offsetting potential emissions reductions. The study suggests a shift towards sustainable lifestyles and limited consumption could be more effective in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Antibiotic resistance and DNA recombination

Researchers discovered that multiple antibiotic resistance mutations in E. coli acquired simultaneously, rather than through gradual evolution. This finding suggests a recent emergence of the pandemic multidrug-resistant strain, possibly within the last 12 years.

New study solves mystery of salt buildup on bottom of Dead Sea

A new study explains why salt crystals are piling up on the Dead Sea's floor by proposing a 'salt fingering' process where tiny disturbances create channels for salt to flow down. This finding helps understand the formation of massive salt deposits found in Earth's crust, including those beneath the Mediterranean Sea.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Rutgers researchers identify the origins of metabolism

Researchers reverse-engineered a primordial protein and inserted it into a living bacterium, successfully powering its metabolism, growth, and reproduction. The discovery sheds light on the origins of metabolism and has implications for synthetic biology and bioelectronics.

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.

In Health Affairs: Large positive returns on HIV treatment

The study found that antiretroviral therapy (ART) averted 9.5 million deaths worldwide between 1995-2015, with global economic benefits reaching $1.05 trillion. Future projections estimate that up to 40.2 million new HIV infections could be avoided by 2030, generating $4.02 trillion in economic gains.

Carbon budget of harvested wood products

Studies suggest that harvested wood products can store up to 441 megatons of CO2 per year by 2030. However, their net carbon sink value is threatened by global emissions and economic fluctuations that can turn them into a source of emissions.

UCI, UC Merced: California forest die-off caused by depletion of deep-soil water

A study published in Nature Geoscience found that California's Sierra Nevada mountain range experienced a catastrophic forest die-off due to depleted deep-soil water. The researchers discovered that years of severe drought and abnormally warm temperatures exceeded the safety margin for trees, leading to widespread tree death.

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.

Trends in Antarctic sea ice

Over a 40-year period, Antarctic sea ice coverage increased gradually until 2014 before declining sharply between 2014 and 2017. This trend is more pronounced than observed in the Arctic over the same time frame, with implications for climate modeling and understanding.

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.

Response to gene-targeted drugs depends on cancer type

Researchers found that cancer cells respond differently to targeted drugs based on tumour type and genetic weaknesses. The study suggests rethinking precision medicine and designing clinical trials with both gene faults and tumour type in mind.

Brain network evaluates robot likeability

A study using functional magnetic resonance imaging identified a brain network that determines if a robot is a worthy social partner. Participants preferred more lifelike robots, but disliked those with human-like features.

CPAP provides relief from depression

A significant decrease in depression cases was observed after CPAP treatment for sleep apnea in patients with cardiovascular disease. The study found that CPAP treatment had a broader benefit of preventing depression, independent of improved sleepiness.

Alcohol and pregnancy policies: Birth outcomes & prenatal care use by race

Research examining US alcohol and pregnancy policies from 1972-2015 found varying effects on birth outcomes by race. For White women, most policies had adverse effects, while for Black women, four policies had beneficial effects. The study suggests future research should explore the reasons behind these disparities.

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.

Researchers discover genetic mutation behind serious skull disorder

A collaboration of researchers from Oregon State University, University of Oxford, and Erasmus University discovered a genetic mutation causing craniosynostosis, a condition where skull bones fuse prematurely. This finding may lead to the prevention of the disorder and a better understanding of its effects on other organ systems.

3D holograms bringing astronomy to life

Researchers from the University of Leeds have developed 3D holograms to share their work on massive star cluster formation with the general public. The holograms allow people to watch millions of years of stellar evolution in 3D, making it easier for non-experts to understand complex topics.

BioSA -- Bridging the gap with biodegradable metals

The BioSA project aims to create a more attractive option for filling defects in load-bearing areas with biodegradable metals. The team is working on designing an implant that corrodes at a controlled rate, reducing the need for second surgical interventions.

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.

Transformer cells: Shaping cellular 'behaviour'

Researchers have identified the key challenges and breakthrough technologies for applying skeletal muscle progenitor cells in cell therapy. The study highlights the importance of suitable scaffolds and extracellular matrices in regulating progenitor cell behavior, which is crucial for successful tissue regeneration.

Our water cycle diagrams give a false sense of water security

Researchers created new water cycle diagrams to promote better understanding of human impact on the 21st century water cycle. The diagrams depict human activities such as consumption, land use changes, and climate change, highlighting the need for accurate representation.

Delaying ALS onset in mice

Researchers discovered that overexpressing macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) in mice with SOD1 mutations slows down disease progression and extends lifespan. MIF may play a potential therapeutic role in ALS treatment.

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.

Scissors get stuck -- another way bacteria use CRISPR/Cas9

Researchers discovered Cas9's ability to block gene activity without cutting DNA in pathogenic bacterium Francisella novicida, regulating disease-causing genes. This finding expands the versatility of CRISPR/Cas9 for genome engineering and potential antibiotic resistance solutions.

Diversity in lizard and snake skulls

A study on squamate skulls reveals that diet, habitat, and evolutionary forces shape the wide range of skull features. The research found correlations between skull traits, with aquatic and burrowing species exhibiting rapid evolution.

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.

Standard TB tests may not detect infection in certain exposed individuals

Researchers identified a group of people who appeared to have naturally mounted an immune response to TB despite being exposed for over 10 years. The study found that nearly 200 people from 2500 households tested negative on repeated standard TB tests, suggesting either insufficient test sensitivity or a natural defense.

A cold-tolerant electrolyte for lithium-metal batteries emerges in San Diego

Researchers at the University of California - San Diego have developed a new cold-tolerant electrolyte for lithium-metal batteries, improving cycling efficiency and reducing dendrite growth. The breakthrough could lead to lighter batteries capable of storing more charge, extending electric vehicle range and lowering battery costs.

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.

Face recognition and perception of racial groups

Researchers found that brains process ingroup faces as more unique, while outgroup faces are viewed as repeated instances of the same social category. This early perception may contribute to racial stereotyping and bias, with studies suggesting it begins in brain's face-selective cortex.

Scientists track the source of the 'Uncanny Valley' in the brain

Researchers identified brain regions involved in creating the Uncanny Valley sensation, tracing it back to circuits processing social cues and valuation systems. The study's findings suggest ways to improve likability of artificial agents by adjusting these mechanisms.

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.

Peer support reduces carer burden

A La Trobe University study found that peer-led support programs for carers significantly improved carer well-being, reducing psychological distress by 8.6% and increasing positive feelings by 7.6%. The program also increased carers' knowledge of mental health conditions and improved communication with the person they care for.

Three-dimensional model illuminates key aspects of early development

Rockefeller scientists created a 3D model of early embryonic tissues using stem cells, allowing them to simulate developmental processes in time and space. The researchers successfully demonstrated the utility of their tool by inducing symmetry breaking, a fundamental process driving embryonic development.

Some children are more likely to suffer depression long after being bullied

A new study from the University of Bristol found that childhood bullying is strongly associated with trajectories of depression that rise at an early age. Children who continued to show high depression into adulthood were also more likely to have genetic liability for depression and a mother with postnatal depression.

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.

More Effective influenza vaccine begins US clinical trials

A new, more effective influenza vaccine is being tested in the US, aiming to improve seasonal flu shot effectiveness. The vaccine uses adjuvants to enhance protection against infection, with a technology designed by artificial intelligence.

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.

Coupled proteins

The study uncovered several hundred coupling events between GPCRs and G-proteins, greatly expanding the understanding of how these receptors work. This new data enables better prediction of GPCR-G-protein coupling and potential design of artificial GPCRs with specific signalling properties.

Two-degree climate goal attainable without early infrastructure retirement

The study finds that existing power plants and energy infrastructure will release significant amounts of carbon into the atmosphere if not retired early, posing a threat to the 1.5-degree Celsius climate goal. However, the world can still meet the 2-degree goal without early retirement if new fossil fuel sources are not built.