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Science News Archive July 2019 - Page 34


Page 34 of 41

Indications why older people are more susceptible to Alzheimer's disease

Research finds that older brains have a higher rate of tau protein spread, contributing to Alzheimer's disease progression. The study uses gene vectors to demonstrate this connection in mice, raising questions about therapeutic options and disease mechanisms.

SourceDZNE - German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 8, 2019

Quantum chemistry on quantum computers

Researchers at Osaka City University develop a quantum algorithm to determine spin quantum numbers on quantum computers, enabling accurate wave function calculations. This breakthrough solves complex issues in chemistry and physics, accelerating the development of practical quantum computers.

SourceOsaka City University·JournalPhysical Chemistry Chemical Physics·DateJul 8, 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.

Toxicity of silver nanowires

Researchers found that smaller silver nanowire diameters reduce toxicity to cells, with wires adopting crumpled forms within endolysosomes for containment. This could lead to increased transparency and device performance without compromising safety.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 8, 2019

Nutritional supplements and diets not always protective, WVU research suggests

A WVU study found that only folic acid and omega-3 supplements showed promise in reducing cardiovascular risk. Eating less salt was also beneficial for overall survival and cardiovascular mortality rates. However, the quality of evidence supporting other supplements and diets was considered low due to methodological issues.

SourceWest Virginia University·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJul 8, 2019

Nanobowl arrays endow perovskite solar cells with iridescent colors

Researchers developed colorful perovskite solar cells by depositing a uniform perovskite thin layer into arrayed nanobowls acting as a structured electron transport layer. The cells exhibited high-efficiency photovoltaic performance with up to 16.94% efficiency, overcoming previous color limitations.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Materials·DateJul 8, 2019
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.

Patients with an 'empathic' GP at reduced risk of early death

A new study from the University of Cambridge found that patients with diabetes who have an empathetic GP are at a lower risk of early death. The study analyzed data from 867 individuals and found that those with better experiences of empathy had a significantly lower risk of death over the subsequent 10 years.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateJul 8, 2019

Study finds psychiatric diagnosis to be 'scientifically meaningless'

A new study published in Psychiatry Research has concluded that psychiatric diagnoses are scientifically worthless as tools for identifying discrete mental health disorders. The study found significant overlap in symptoms between diagnoses and highlighted the limitations of diagnostic manuals such as the DSM.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalPsychiatry Research·DateJul 8, 2019

New anticancer agents may better control tumor growth in nearly every cancer type

Researchers at Purdue University have discovered a novel set of MYC promoter G-quadruplex stabilizers that demonstrate anticancer activity in human cancer cell cultures. The agents downregulate the expression of the MYC oncogene, which is overexpressed in cancer and associated with all aspects of cancer development.

SourcePurdue University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJul 8, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Deforestation and protected areas in Brazil

A study by Herrera et al. reveals that federal protections in Brazil's Amazon reduce deforestation more effectively than state-level measures. The results suggest that the effectiveness of protected areas depends on the level of government involvement.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 8, 2019

GW pilot study finds collagen to be effective in wound closure

A GW pilot study found topical collagen powder to be as effective as primary closure for punch biopsy wound treatment and possibly superior in early cosmetic outcomes. The study showed that wounds treated with collagen healed at least as well as those treated with primary closure.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalJournal of Drugs in Dermatology·DateJul 8, 2019

A study in scarlet Japanese macaques

A team from Kyoto University's Primate Research Institute found that female red skin color acts as a 'badge' of their social status, not fertility. Female Japanese macaques with darker/redder hindquarters are of higher social rank.

SourceKyoto University·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateJul 8, 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.

Left out to dry: A more efficient way to harvest algae biomass

Researchers at the University of Tsukuba developed a reusable nanostructured graphene system to efficiently remove water from algae biomass, preserving environmental benefits. This innovation increases the yield of eco-friendly biofuels, pharmaceuticals, and fertilizers.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalAdvanced Sustainable Systems·DateJul 8, 2019

New imaging method aids in water decontamination

A new imaging method developed at Cornell University helps remove pollutants from water by identifying optimal catalyst particle sizes and shapes. The technique, called COMPEITS, reveals previously unknown behaviors of catalysts, rendering pollutants nontoxic.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature Chemistry·DateJul 8, 2019

Exploiting green tides thanks to a marine bacterium

Scientists have identified a marine bacterium that can break down the polysaccharide ulvan from sea lettuce into fermentable monosaccharides. This discovery opens up new possibilities for biotechnological exploitation of ulvan, particularly in the agrifood and cosmetics industries.

SourceCNRS·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateJul 8, 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.

Portland State study shows ways to reduce extreme heat in city neighborhoods

A new Portland State University study demonstrates how planting more vegetation, using reflective materials on hard surfaces, and installing green roofs can help cool urban heat islands. The research found that these solutions can make a significant difference in reducing temperatures, even when applied in combination.

SourcePortland State University·JournalAtmosphere·DateJul 8, 2019

Gadolinium deposition occurs in early MS

A comprehensive study of MS patients found that gadolinium deposition occurs early in the disease, but does not have a clinical impact. However, male patients showed more deposition than female patients, which may be related to dosage based on weight.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalNeurology·DateJul 8, 2019

Why is east Asian summer monsoon circulation enhanced under global warming?

A recent study published in Journal of Climate confirms that the Tibetan Plateau plays a key role in enhancing East Asian summer monsoon circulation under global warming. The study found that enhanced latent heating over the plateau stimulates cyclone anomalies, leading to stronger southerly winds in East Asia.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalJournal of Climate·DateJul 8, 2019
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.

Cave droplets provide window into past climates

Scientists analyzed oxygen isotopes in stalactites and stalagmites from 39 caves worldwide to understand past groundwater recharge. The study found that cave drip water oxygen composition varies between cool and warm climates, providing insights into climate variability and water resources.

SourceCardiff University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 8, 2019

Researchers: Eggshells can help grow, heal bones

Researchers at UMass Lowell have discovered that eggshell particles can increase bone cells' ability to grow and harden, potentially resulting in faster healing. The technique uses crushed eggshells in a hydrogel mixture to support bone growth, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional methods.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Lowell·JournalBiomaterials Science·DateJul 8, 2019

No escape for mosquitoes

Researchers discovered that the Venus flytrap's tactile sensors respond to minute pressure stimuli, converting them into electrical signals that cause the trap to close. The plant has evolved smaller traps to detect the smaller forces generated by lightweight mosquitoes.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalNature Plants·DateJul 8, 2019

Teens abusing painkillers are more likely to later use heroin

A USC study tracked prescription opioid and heroin use in teens over time, finding that those who used painkillers to get high were more likely to start using heroin by high school graduation. The study suggests a link between nonmedical opioid use and later heroin use among youth.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateJul 8, 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.

How noise and age affect brain's sound processing

A new study reveals that age-related and noise-induced hearing losses affect the brain's sound processing differently. Researchers found that mild noise-induced hearing loss causes similar processing impairment as moderate to severe age-related hearing loss.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateJul 8, 2019

First proof-of-concept demonstrates genetic sex selection in mammals

Researchers at Tel Aviv University have made a breakthrough discovery in genetic sex selection, allowing for the production of only female offspring in mammals. The study uses a CRISPR-protein approach to guide gene editing, eliminating male embryos while leaving females unaffected.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalEMBO Reports·DateJul 8, 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.

CNIC is the coordinator of an international consensus document on the use of magnetic resonance

A new international consensus document provides guidelines for the conduct of magnetic resonance imaging studies after a myocardial infarction. The main outcome measure recommended is absolute infarct size, with scanning timing between 3 and 7 days post-infarction.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P.)·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateJul 8, 2019

Cannabis dosage studied to reduce seizures in children with severe epilepsy

A study by the University of Saskatchewan found that medicinal cannabis oil containing CBD and THC can reduce or end seizures in children with severe, drug-resistant epilepsy. The research team tested a dosage regimen that showed significant improvements in quality of life for the children, with some experiencing complete seizure freedom.

SourceUniversity of Saskatchewan·JournalFrontiers in Neurology·DateJul 8, 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.

Scientists develop new method for studying early life in ancient rocks

Scientists have developed a new method to detect signs of early life in ancient rock formations by analyzing high concentrations of potassium. This approach is promising as it could help identify the presence of microorganisms in sedimentary rocks dating back 2.1 billion years.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 8, 2019

Study shows potential for reduced methane from cows

A study by the University of Adelaide and international researchers has shown that it is possible to breed cattle with reduced methane emissions. The genetics of an individual cow strongly influence the make-up of microorganisms in its rumen, allowing for selection of cows with lower levels of methane-producing bacteria.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 8, 2019

Scientists' warning to humanity: Microbiology and climate change

A team of international microbiologists warn that ignoring microorganisms in climate change could lead to dire consequences. They advocate for improved literacy about the topic to address the climate disaster and encourage future generations to understand the microbial world.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalNature Reviews Microbiology·DateJul 8, 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.

Secure data protection in the new internet of things

The DoRIoT project aims to enable statutory regulations and industry standards on data security, reliability, and privacy in the Internet of Things. By developing self-organizing migration of services, companies can operate independently of cloud infrastructure and reduce traffic and reaction time.

SourceOtto-von-Guericke-Universität Magdeburg·DateJul 8, 2019

Cancer genes and the tumor milieu

A recent study by Chiaki Takahashi at Kanazawa University discovered that the cancer gene RB promotes tumor growth by altering the tumor microenvironment (TME). The TME changes enable the accumulation of immunosuppressive cells, which overpower the body's natural defense system.

SourceKanazawa University·JournalCancer Research·DateJul 8, 2019

Good home learning in early years boosts your secondary school achievements

A new study published in School Effectiveness and School Improvement found that pre-schoolers whose parents regularly read and talked about books with them scored better on math tests at age 12. The study, led by Dr. Simone Lehrl of the University of Bamberg, assessed 229 German children from age three until secondary school.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalSchool Effectiveness and School Improvement·DateJul 7, 2019

Robot uses machine learning to harvest lettuce

A robot developed by the University of Cambridge has successfully harvested iceberg lettuce in various field conditions, demonstrating potential for expanding robotics in agriculture. The 'Vegebot' uses machine learning to identify healthy lettuces and cut them without crushing, reducing physical demands on manual harvesting.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalJournal of Field Robotics·DateJul 7, 2019
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Plant nutrient detector breakthrough

Researchers at La Trobe University have discovered a protein that can sense vital phosphorus levels in plants and adjust growth and flowering accordingly. This breakthrough has the potential to reduce fertiliser wastage and improve crop efficiency, leading to significant environmental and economic benefits for farmers.

SourceLa Trobe University·JournalPLANT PHYSIOLOGY·DateJul 6, 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.

Data demonstrate efficacy of more flexible dose of regorafenib to relieve side-effects in mCRC patients

A study at ESMO World Congress on Gastrointestinal Cancer 2019 found that a more flexible dosing regimen for regorafenib improves patients' quality of life while maintaining its efficacy. The reduced and intermittent dose groups showed numerical improvements in tolerance to side effects such as fatigue and hand-foot syndrome.

SourceEuropean Society for Medical Oncology·JournalAnnals of Oncology·DateJul 6, 2019

Arizona's Whiting Knoll fire seen by NASA-NOAA satellite

The Whiting Knoll Fire in east central Arizona has generated enough smoke to be seen from space, with NASA-NOAA satellite images capturing its extent. The fire, which started on June 30, 2019, is burning approximately 1,546 acres and remains only 5% contained.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 5, 2019

First observation of native ferroelectric metal

Researchers observe native ferroelectric metal in bulk crystalline tungsten ditelluride at room temperature. The material exhibits bistable and electrically switchable spontaneous polarization states, enabling potential applications in nano-electronics.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence in Future Low-Energy Electronics Technologies·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 5, 2019

A new way of making complex structures in thin films

Researchers at MIT have developed a new way to create complex structures in thin films using self-assembling block copolymers. The method produces novel patterns that deviate from regular symmetries, exhibiting interlocking areas with regular patterns similar to quasicrystals.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 5, 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.

Estimating gender biases among health care professionals, surgeons

A study used implicit and explicit bias measures to evaluate how healthcare professionals associate men and women with career and family. The research found that surgeons were more likely to perceive men as better suited for surgery and women for family medicine, leading to potential biases in patient care.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJul 5, 2019

Discovery reveals prolific ability of Schwann cells to generate myelin

Researchers have discovered that Schwann cells can spread myelin across multiple axons, overturning the traditional understanding of these cells' function. This finding could lead to new gene-therapy techniques to repair damaged myelin in peripheral nervous system disorders like Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 5, 2019

Caspase-1 initiates apoptosis, but not pyroptosis, in the absence of gasdermin D

In the absence of gasdermin D, caspase-1 induces apoptosis, but not pyroptosis, in macrophages. Caspase family members caspase-3 and caspase-9 are involved in this process. The study suggests that caspase-1 activates Bid, a pro-apoptotic protein, which induces cytochrome c release from mitochondria and subsequent apoptosis.

SourceKanazawa University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 5, 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.