Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive July 2019 - Page 23


Page 23 of 41

Ancient Roman port history unveiled

A team of researchers successfully reconstructed anthropic influences on sedimentation in the ancient harbour of Portus, a complex of harbour basins and canals that formed the hub of commerce in the Roman Empire. The findings suggest that the Romans were proactively managing their river systems earlier than previously thought.

SourceLa Trobe University·JournalQuaternary International·DateJul 15, 2019

Wearing hearing aid may help protect brain in later life

A new study found that people who wear a hearing aid for age-related hearing problems maintain better brain function over time. The research suggests that wearing a hearing aid may mitigate the risk of dementia, with benefits seen in measures assessing working memory and attention.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·DateJul 15, 2019

Study documents impacts of selective logging on Congo's intact forest landscapes

A new study documents the impacts of selective logging on Congo's intact forest landscapes, highlighting the loss of biodiversity and ecosystem health. Researchers found that logged habitats have lower tree densities and reduced ape resources, while IFLs retain higher tree densities and more abundant ape populations.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalFrontiers in Forests and Global Change·DateJul 15, 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.

High-performance sodium ion batteries using copper sulfide

Researchers have discovered a new strategy to extend sodium ion battery cyclability using copper sulfide as the electrode material. This leads to high-performance conversion reactions and is expected to improve the commercialization of sodium ion batteries.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalAdvanced Science·DateJul 15, 2019

Researchers describe new ALS biomarkers, potential new drug targets

Researchers have identified unique populations of neurons and associated cells in the spinal cords of patients with ALS, which could serve as useful biomarkers for earlier diagnosis. The study found different types of motor neurons and microglia present in less affected regions of patients with focal-onset ALS.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalNeurobiology of Disease·DateJul 15, 2019

NIH and partners to launch HIV vaccine efficacy trial in the Americas and Europe

The NIH is launching a Phase 3 HIV vaccine efficacy trial called Mosaico, which will assess the safety and effectiveness of an investigational vaccine regimen designed to prevent HIV acquisition among men who have sex with men and transgender people. The trial will enroll 3,800 participants in North America, South America, and Europe.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·DateJul 15, 2019

OSU researcher expands research into deadly muscle-wasting syndrome

A researcher at Oregon State University has received a $2.3 million grant to develop an effective treatment for cachexia, a muscle-wasting syndrome that kills up to 30% of cancer patients. The new research aims to preserve muscle mass and reduce death and suffering among patients with various cancers.

SourceOregon State University·DateJul 15, 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.

Lower than expected risk of bone density decline with Truvada PrEP

Researchers found a 1% average decrease in bone mineral density in the spine and 0.5% decline in hip among Truvada PrEP users with daily adherence. This lower-than-expected risk suggests that young, healthy individuals on Truvada for PrEP have only a minimal risk of decreased bone density.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalAIDS Research and Human Retroviruses·DateJul 15, 2019

Early human species' teeth provide insight into evolution of breastfeeding

Researchers analyzed 2-million-year-old teeth to understand breastfeeding patterns in extinct early human species Australopithecus africanus. They found the species breastfed for up to one year and experienced cycles of food scarcity, influencing their nursing behaviors.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNature·DateJul 15, 2019

New NSF grant awarded to study Earth's 'flat slabs'

A $2.7 million NSF grant will study an active flat slab in Colombia, investigating its effects on the continental crust and volcanism. The research will compare two parts of the flat slab, allowing scientists to understand the initial migration and cessation of volcanism, as well as the formation of ore deposits.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·DateJul 15, 2019

Unlocking chemo-resistance in cancer

Researchers have discovered the precise mechanism behind 5-Fluorouracil resistance in cancer, revealing a previously unknown protein called BOK as the key to understanding this phenomenon. Without BOK, cancer cells become dormant and can survive chemotherapy treatment before mutating into more aggressive forms.

SourceLa Trobe University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 15, 2019

Coupled exploration of light and matter

Researchers from ETH Zurich have discovered a way to boost polariton-polariton interaction, enabling strong coupling between matter and light. This breakthrough opens up new perspectives for photonics and many-body physics.

SourceETH Zurich Department of Physics·JournalNature·DateJul 15, 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.

'Racist police officer' stereotype may become a self-fulfilling prophecy

A recent study by the American Psychological Association found that officers worried about appearing racist report lower confidence and increased support for coercive policing. The research suggests a vicious cycle where officers' concerns about stereotype threats lead to decreased moral authority and more aggressive policing tactics.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalLaw and Human Behavior·DateJul 15, 2019

DNA analysis of Gibraltar Neanderthals

Researchers analyzed DNA from Gibraltar Neanderthal remains found in 1848 and 1926, finding that some sequences were deaminated due to damage, while others showed significant human DNA contamination. The study suggests it is possible to analyze ancient DNA in highly contaminated specimens using a specific preparation method.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 15, 2019

New study on the immune system of plants: It works differently than expected

A new study published in The Plant Cell found that plant immune systems vary between species, contradicting previous assumptions based on Arabidopsis thaliana research. Researchers used CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing techniques to investigate the tobacco plant Nicotiana benthamiana's immune response.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateJul 15, 2019

Curbing indoor air pollution in India

The program has fast-tracked LPG consumer enrolments by about 16 months, with consumption estimates half that of average rural consumers. However, to fully realize health and environmental benefits, incentives are needed for sustained LPG use.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalNature Energy·DateJul 15, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Stripping down bacterial armor: A new way to fight anthrax

Researchers develop Nanobodies that target the Sap S-layer protein on the surface of the anthrax bacterium, slowing its growth and killing it. The study provides hope for a new treatment option to combat this deadly disease.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalNature Microbiology·DateJul 15, 2019

Can videogames promote emotional intelligence in teenagers?

A new study found that videogames, as part of an emotional intelligence training program, can enhance teenagers' evaluation and expression of emotions. The game, EmotivaMente, was designed to promote emotional intelligence among adolescents and showed promising results in this area.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalGames for Health Journal·DateJul 15, 2019

Cannabis treatment counters addiction: First study of its kind

A large-scale clinical trial has demonstrated that cannabis-based medication can effectively reduce the rate of relapse in individuals with cannabis dependency. Participants treated with nabiximols used significantly less illicit cannabis and showed improvements in physical and psychological well-being.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·DateJul 15, 2019

Hope for restoring sight in acid attack victims

A clinical trial is underway to treat acid attack victims with a revolutionary new approach using collagenase enzyme. The treatment aims to restore sight by softening the underlying tissue and allowing stem cells to repair damage.

SourceNewcastle University·DateJul 15, 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.

Alternative material for superconducting radio-frequency cavity

A new coating of niobium-tin (Nb3Sn) has shown promise for reducing the cost of operating superconducting radio-frequency cavity resonators. The material could allow for operation at lower temperatures and withstand higher electromagnetic fields, saving millions in construction and electricity costs.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalSuperconductor Science and Technology·DateJul 15, 2019

HIV: Holes in the immune system left unrepaired despite drug therapy

A study published in Nature Immunology reveals that HIV drug therapy leaves 'holes' in the immune system, which may contribute to the lack of viral control. The researchers identified key differences in gene expression between HIV patients with and without effective immune responses.

SourceUniversity of Montreal Hospital Research Centre (CRCHUM)·JournalNature Immunology·DateJul 15, 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.

Algae as a resource: Chemical tricks from the sea

Researchers have deciphered how marine bacteria degrade algae biomass, unlocking potential for sustainable chemistry and bioplastics. The study reveals complex biochemical pathways and identifies new enzymes for targeted use in fermentations and product synthesis.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateJul 15, 2019

Scientists explore blood flow bump that happens when our neurons are significantly activated

Researchers studying functional hyperemia found that blood flow to brain cells increases when neurons are activated, and this response may be beneficial for the health of neurons. The study aims to clarify the link between neural activity and blood flow changes, which could improve our understanding of brain diseases like Alzheimer's.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·DateJul 15, 2019

Baby blue-tongues are born smart

Researchers found baby eastern blue-tongue lizards learn at adult levels from a young age, outperforming their adults in cognitive tasks.

SourceMacquarie University·JournalAnimal Behaviour·DateJul 15, 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.

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.

Myth-busting study reveals that gamblers can't detect slot machine payout percentages

A recent study by UNLV researchers found that players cannot reliably detect differences in how much and often a slot machine pays, despite common perceptions. The study used two identical machines with varying payouts over nine months, showing no statistically significant indication of play migration from higher to lower payout games.

SourceUniversity of Nevada, Las Vegas·JournalInternational Journal of Contemporary Hospitality Management·DateJul 15, 2019

Comparative advantage and STEM gender gap

Female students with high math proficiency tend to excel in reading, closing the gender gap in math-related fields. The study suggests that comparative advantage in math over reading contributes up to 80% of the gender gap in math studies and careers.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 15, 2019

Fluorine speeds up two-dimensional materials growth

Researchers find that introducing a controlled amount of fluorine enhances the growth rate of 2D materials like graphene, h-BN, and WS2. This allows for faster production of high-quality films, reducing synthesis time by up to 70%. The study demonstrates a promising approach to controlling the growth of 2D materials.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Chemistry·DateJul 15, 2019

Reducing seizures by removing newborn neurons

Researchers found that removing new neurons born after a brain injury reduced seizures in mice, with a 65% decrease observed. This approach may potentially prevent post-injury epilepsy if implemented within a specific time frame.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateJul 15, 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.

HIV may affect the brain despite ongoing antiretroviral therapy

A new study has found that HIV can be detected in the central nervous system of patients on long-term antiretroviral therapy, linked to poorer cognitive performance. The discovery highlights the need to address viral mechanisms of cognitive decline in cART-treated patients.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 15, 2019

The rush to air conditioning in Europe pushed by urbanization and climate change

A new study reveals that households in Europe will increasingly rely on air conditioners to adapt to climate change, generating more greenhouse gas emissions. The study shows that household wealth, presence of elderly family members, and environmental awareness are crucial factors in deciding to install AC.

SourceUniversità Ca' Foscari Venezia·JournalEnvironmental Science & Policy·DateJul 15, 2019

Study shows advantages for stress urinary incontinence surgery

A study of over 1,800 cases found that the need for additional surgery was twice as high after transobturator sling surgery compared to retropubic sling. The study also revealed lower reoperation rates and fewer complications with the retropubic procedure.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateJul 15, 2019

Combined breast and gynecologic surgery: Study says not so fast

Researchers found that patients undergoing combined breast and gynecologic surgeries had significantly longer hospital stays and higher complication rates compared to those with single-site surgery. The study highlights the importance of separating these procedures for better patient outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalThe Breast Journal·DateJul 15, 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.

Investigation into fungal infection reveals genetic vulnerability in Hmong

A new study identifies a genetic vulnerability in Hmong people that makes them more susceptible to blastomycosis. The research found that Hmong individuals produce less interleukin-6 (IL-6), an essential immune response, leading to reduced Type 17 cytokine T helper cells and increased disease severity.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalmBio·DateJul 15, 2019

Intravenous anesthetic with reduced side effects

A new class of drug lead derived from N-arylpyrrole exhibits potent anesthetic activity with minimal blood pressure suppression, suggesting a safer alternative to traditional anesthetics. The compound shows promise in tadpoles and rats, providing hope for improved patient safety.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 15, 2019
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.

A material way to make Mars habitable

Silica aerogel could warm the Martian surface, increasing atmospheric pressure and temperatures similar to Earth's greenhouse effect. This regional approach to making Mars habitable offers a more achievable solution than global atmospheric modification.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature Astronomy·DateJul 15, 2019

Infants attribute agency using sound variability

Researchers found that infants as young as 10.5 months can recognize communication through variable sound sequences, leading to increased attention towards target shapes in interactions with agents. This ability may play a crucial role in language acquisition and social-cognitive development.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 15, 2019

Out of Africa and into an archaic human melting pot

Researchers found evidence of interbreeding between modern humans and Neandertals, Denisovans, and two unnamed archaic groups in Island Southeast Asia and East Asia. The ancestors of modern humans mixed with these groups before they became extinct.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 15, 2019

New biomarker-guided strategy has potential for liver cancer treatment

Researchers discovered a cellular pathway linked to cancer that may benefit patients with hepatocellular carcinoma by reducing side effects and extending immunotherapy duration. The study found that blocking the IL-6/JAK1 pathway could resolve immunotherapy side effects and improve treatment outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 15, 2019
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.

Improving heat recycling with the thermodiffusion effect

Numerical simulations reveal that thin films with negative thermodiffusion coefficients increase the absorption of vapour, improving heat recycling. The study offers valuable new insights into enhancing the performance of falling film absorbers.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateJul 15, 2019

Blood samples from the zoo help predict diseases in humans

Researchers analyzed blood samples from 21 animals to identify biomarkers for diseases like lung tumors and Alzheimer's. These biomarkers are evolutionarily conserved, meaning they occur in humans and other species with similar function.

SourceSaarland University·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateJul 15, 2019

'Artificial intelligence' fit to monitor volcanoes

A new volcano monitoring platform, MOUNTS, analyzes satellite images using artificial intelligence to detect precursory signals and provide early warnings for volcanic eruptions. The platform, which integrates multiple sets of diverse data types, has been successfully tested on recent events and currently monitors 17 volcanoes worldwide.

SourceGFZ GeoForschungsZentrum Potsdam, Helmholtz Centre·JournalRemote Sensing·DateJul 15, 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.

Association of blood extracellular vesicle biomarkers with Alzheimer's disease

Researchers analyzed blood samples from cognitively normal participants who developed Alzheimer's and found an association between neuronal-enriched extracellular vesicles and the disease. The study suggests these biomarkers may play a role in Alzheimer's progression, potentially serving as diagnostic or monitoring tools.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateJul 15, 2019