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Science News Archive July 2019 - Page 39


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.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 1, 2019

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.

SourceAarhus University·JournalProgress in Photovoltaics Research and Applications·DateJul 1, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Geisel study finds downside risk contracts still less common for ACOs

A new study found that while the number and variety of ACO contracts have increased, downside risk contracts remain relatively rare. Researchers analyzed data from 2012 to 2018 and found that only a third of ACOs chose contracts with downside risk in 2018.

SourceThe Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth·JournalHealth Affairs·DateJul 1, 2019

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.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalEcological Economics·DateJul 1, 2019

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.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 1, 2019

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.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalWater Resources Research·DateJul 1, 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.

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.

SourceRutgers University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 1, 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.

Location-based data can provide insights for business decisions

A study by Oregon State University found that location-based data from social commerce sites like Yelp can predict restaurant success. The hybrid model, which combines contextual and geographic models, performed best in predicting business performance.

SourceOregon State University·JournalExpert Systems with Applications·DateJul 1, 2019

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.

SourceHealth Affairs·JournalHealth Affairs·DateJul 1, 2019

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.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 1, 2019

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.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJul 1, 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.

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.

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.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 1, 2019

Research questions link between unconscious bias and behavior

A new study reviewing 492 studies on changing implicit bias found only a small percentage examined changes over time or behavioral effects. Researchers question the promise of implicit bias training to address social problems like discrimination.

SourceUniversity of Arkansas·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateJul 1, 2019

Corals in Singapore likely to survive sea-level rise: NUS study

A NUS study found that corals in Singapore's waters typically don't extend beyond eight metres, reducing the impact of rising sea levels. The research highlights the resilience of coral reefs in Singapore and informs conservation efforts.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalMarine Environmental Research·DateJul 1, 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.

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.

SourceInstitute of Cancer Research·JournalMolecular Cancer Therapeutics·DateJul 1, 2019

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.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateJul 1, 2019

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.

SourceFlinders University·JournalEClinicalMedicine·DateJul 1, 2019

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.

SourcePacific Institute for Research and Evaluation·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence·DateJul 1, 2019

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.

SourceOregon State University·JournalHuman Molecular Genetics·DateJul 1, 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.

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.

SourceRoyal Astronomical Society·DateJul 1, 2019

Benzodiazepine use with opioids intensifies neonatal abstinence syndrome

A study published in Hospital Pediatrics found that concurrent benzodiazepine exposure impacts the severity of neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) more so than other substances. Infants exposed to both opioids and benzodiazepines were over 50% likelier to require medication treatment.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalHospital Pediatrics·DateJul 1, 2019

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.

SourceUniversity of Malta·DateJul 1, 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.

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.

SourceSechenov University·JournalApplied Physics Reviews·DateJul 1, 2019

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.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJul 1, 2019

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.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 1, 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.

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.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalMolecular Cell·DateJul 1, 2019

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.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 1, 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.

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.

SourceUniversity Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center·JournalNature Medicine·DateJul 1, 2019

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.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJoule·DateJul 1, 2019
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

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.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 1, 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.

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.

SourceLa Trobe University·JournalPsychological Medicine·DateJul 1, 2019

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.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateJul 1, 2019

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.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJul 1, 2019
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.

Pharmaconutrition — Modern drug design for functional studies

Researchers have developed effective activators for the bitter taste receptor TAS2R14, which could have significant health effects. The receptors play a role in the human immune system and are found on lung and testicle cells.

SourceLeibniz-Institut für Lebensmittel-Systembiologie an der TU München·JournalCellular and Molecular Life Sciences·DateJul 1, 2019

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.

SourceHeidelberg University·JournalCell·DateJul 1, 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.

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.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalNature·DateJul 1, 2019