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Science News Archive June 2019 - Page 37


Page 37 of 41

Home exercise program reduces rate of falling in at-risk seniors

A 12-month home exercise program reduced fall rates by 36% in high-risk seniors with a history of falls and mobility impairments. The study found improved cognitive function as a secondary benefit, reducing risk of injury and loss of independence for older adults.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalJournal of the American Medical Association·DateJun 4, 2019

Vulnerability to Ebola and Lassa fever can now be properly assessed

Researchers developed a new methodology to calculate vulnerability based on adaptive capacity, which can help international bodies allocate resources. The study found that the most vulnerable states are not necessarily those with high confirmed cases, but rather those that struggle to cope with the disease.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London (B )·DateJun 4, 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.

New approach optimizes use of future wave electricity generators during disaster

Researchers have developed a strategy for using floating ocean devices to provide emergency electricity to affected areas, potentially reducing recovery time. The new approach uses variational calculus to optimize the deployment of multiple wave energy devices in a daisy chain configuration.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Renewable and Sustainable Energy·DateJun 4, 2019

Early lives of Alaska sockeye salmon accelerating with climate change

Climate change is speeding up Alaska sockeye salmon's growth rate in freshwater, causing them to migrate to the ocean faster. However, this shift may not benefit the species long-term, as it takes an extra year at sea, where they face increased competition with hatchery-raised salmon.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateJun 4, 2019

Tolerance to stress is a 'trade-off' as fruit flies age

Fruit flies' stress tolerance is linked to aging, with higher levels of PKG conferring protection but costing locomotor activity later in life. The study reveals a novel role for the PKG pathway in healthy aging and senescence.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateJun 4, 2019

Would you eat genetically modified food if you understood the science behind it?

A recent study published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology found that people's existing knowledge about genetically modified food is a significant determining factor of their attitudes towards it. Learning the underlying science leads to more positive attitudes, a greater willingness to eat them, and a lowered perception of GM...

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalJournal of Environmental Psychology·DateJun 4, 2019

New process to rinse heavy metals from soils

A research team at Stanford University has developed a new method to clean contaminated soils by rinsing them with a mixture of water and EDTA, a chemical that attracts heavy metals. The process involves percolating the mixture through the soil, collecting the toxic brew, and filtering it to capture the heavy metals.

SourceStanford University·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 4, 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.

'Citizen scientists' help track foxes, coyotes in urban areas

Researchers found a significant amount of overlap between their data and citizen sightings, with roughly 65% for red foxes and 56% for coyotes. The study highlights the potential of citizen science to inform urban canid management and monitor human-carnivore interactions.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalLandscape and Urban Planning·DateJun 4, 2019

Researchers study surveillance MRI in breast cancer survivors

A large study published in Radiology found that breast MRI screening for breast cancer survivors leads to higher cancer detection rates, but also results in more unnecessary biopsies. The study analyzed data from over 13,000 women and found no significant differences in sensitivity between breast MRI and mammography.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateJun 4, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Zebrafish capture a 'window' on the cancer process

Researchers observed micro-perforations in the basement membrane zone, allowing inflammatory cells to access and feed growing cancer cells. This 'window' into the cancer process enables targeting of these weak spots with cancer therapeutics.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalCell Reports·DateJun 4, 2019

NASA-NOAA satellite sees system 91L's eeach into the western gulf of Mexico

System 91L is a tropical low pressure system located in the Bay of Campeche, spanning across Mexico's Yucatan state and surrounding states. The system has a 40% chance to develop into a depression over the next two days, producing heavy rainfall over eastern Mexico, southeastern Texas, and the Lower Mississippi Valley.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJun 4, 2019
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.

Do images of food on kids' clothes influence eating behavior?

A U-M study analyzed 3,870 clothing items and found that one in 11 featured food graphics, with two-thirds being unhealthy. The analysis suggests that food graphics on kids' clothes may influence children's eating habits and reinforce obesity-promoting messaging.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalEating Behaviors·DateJun 4, 2019

Building blocks of the Earth

A research team from the University of Cologne has recalculated the distribution of volatile elements on Earth, finding that some building blocks have a chemical composition similar to primitive meteorites. The study suggests an alternative source for vital components such as water and carbon.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJun 4, 2019

Beta blockers reduce stress-induced irregular heart rhythm

A new study by Yale researchers found that beta blockers can minimize the impact of negative emotions on heart rhythm in individuals with a history of atrial fibrillation. The medication reduced the risk of AFib episodes triggered by stress and anger, while still having an effect on those taking beta-blockers.

SourceYale University·JournalHeartRhythm Case Reports·DateJun 4, 2019

Red and white meats are equally bad for cholesterol

A new study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition finds that red and white meats raise low-density lipoproteins (LDLs) by the same amount, regardless of meat type. Plant proteins show the best cholesterol benefit and should be prioritized for heart health.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateJun 4, 2019
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Separation anxiety no more: A faster technique to purify elements

Berkeley Lab scientists develop faster technique to purify elements, opening door to faster discovery of new elements and easier nuclear fuel reprocessing. The method achieves separation factors many orders of magnitude higher than current state-of-the-art methods, reducing contaminants and increasing efficiency.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 4, 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.

How chronic inflammation may drive down dopamine and motivation

A new study suggests that chronic inflammation disrupts the brain's dopamine system, leading to motivational impairments in depression, schizophrenia, and other disorders. The researchers developed a computational method to test their theory, which may yield insights into treating cases of depression and behavioral disorders.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalTrends in Cognitive Sciences·DateJun 4, 2019

It's alive! UNH researchers create innovative 'living' bridge

The Memorial Bridge in New Hampshire has been outfitted with data sensors to transform it into a self-diagnosing bridge. The sensors capture information about the bridge's health, environmental conditions, and traffic patterns. This innovation aims to create the next generation of bridges with maximum safety, reliability, and efficiency.

SourceUniversity of New Hampshire·DateJun 4, 2019

Exposing modern forgers

A new process uses chemical methods to purify samples and detect modern forgeries by analyzing binding agents, providing a clear result. This method was tested on a famous case and proved effective in detecting a fake painting from the 20th century.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 4, 2019
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.

Chemists could make 'smart glass' smarter by manipulating it at the nanoscale

Colorado State University chemists developed a new design for eco-friendly smart glass that works faster and lasts longer. By optimizing nanoparticle spacing, the tinting behavior can be improved, leading to enhanced performance in applications such as windows, batteries, and sensors.

SourceColorado State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 4, 2019

Frogs find refuge in elephant tracks

A new study found that rain-filled tracks of Asian elephants provide temporary habitat for breeding and connect frog populations. The tracks can persist for a year or more, serving as stepping stones for the frogs during the dry season.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalMammalia·DateJun 4, 2019

Deaths from falls increase among older US adults

Death rates from falls for US adults 75 or older rose significantly from 2000 to 2016, with a 128% increase in absolute deaths and a 131% increase in death rates per 100,000 people. This trend was observed across different age groups, particularly among men aged 75-79 and women aged 95 or older.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateJun 4, 2019

Nitric oxide-scavenging hydrogel developed for rheumatoid arthritis treatment

A team of researchers has developed a nano-sized hydrogel that can scavenge nitric oxide and effectively treat rheumatoid arthritis. The hydrogel was shown to be more effective than current therapeutic drugs in suppressing the onset of the disease, with minimal side effects.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalNano Letters·DateJun 4, 2019

Pathogens may have facilitated the evolution of warm-blooded animals

Recent research suggests that pathogens may have driven the evolution of warm-blooded animals by providing a selective advantage. By maintaining stable body temperatures, mammals and birds can prime their immune systems to withstand virulent pathogens, making endothermy a more favorable strategy than ectothermy.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalIdeas in Ecology and Evolution·DateJun 4, 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.

Fear of 'killer shrimps' could pose major threat to European rivers

Researchers found that the mere presence of Dikerogammarus villosus can reduce the effectiveness of its prey, causing them to expend more energy avoiding the predator. This phenomenon, known as a non-consumptive effect (NCE), has major localized effects on river ecosystems and may impact their recovery following perturbation.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalActa Oecologica·DateJun 4, 2019

New genes out of nothing

Scientists explore the emergence of novel genes and functional proteins from random DNA sequences, revealing peptides that confer high resistance to aminoglycosides. The study demonstrates how de novo evolution can be studied experimentally in the laboratory.

SourceUppsala University·JournalmBio·DateJun 4, 2019

Study: Cholesterol in eggs tied to cardiac disease, death

A large-scale study found that consuming high amounts of cholesterol from eggs is associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular disease and death. The researchers also noted that even healthy diets can have negative effects when eggs are consumed excessively, emphasizing the importance of moderation and balance in daily eating habits.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Lowell·JournalJournal of the American Medical Association·DateJun 4, 2019

Ant reactions to habitat disruptions inform a result of evolution, according to Conco

Researchers want a standardized approach to studying how ants react to environmental changes, with insights suggesting all ant communities respond strongly to openness in their habitats. This heterogeneity is due to millions of years of biogeographic and evolutionary history, leaving a signature on contemporary ant community structure.

SourceConcordia University·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·DateJun 4, 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.

Extra finger 'birth defect' could provide blueprint for robotic extra limbs

Researchers studied polydactyly, a condition where people are born with extra fingers or toes. They found that the brain allocates dedicated areas to the extra digits, making them as useful as standard digits. This discovery could provide a blueprint for developing artificial limbs and digits.

SourceImperial College London·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 4, 2019

Sticking to sports can help kids adjust

Children who engage in organized physical activity at a young age are less likely to experience emotional difficulties by 12, according to a new study. The research suggests that consistent participation in sports can promote global development and socio-emotional benefits.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalPediatric Research·DateJun 4, 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.

Mathematicians work out how to predict success in show business

Researchers analyzed 1.5 million actor and actress careers to discover that the most productive year is typically early in a career, with around 85% accuracy in predicting peak success. The study also found that most careers last only one year, and that actors are more likely to find work after a cold streak.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 4, 2019

Researchers develop breakthrough process to create cancer-killing drugs

Researchers at Dartmouth College developed a new strategy for drug discovery and development, enabling the creation of targeted therapies against cancer and neurodegeneration. The technique produces potent compounds selectively toxic to glioblastoma while showing minimal harm to healthy brain cells.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 4, 2019

New DOE program connects fusion companies with national labs, taps ORNL to lead

The Innovation Network for Fusion Energy (INFUSE) program aims to accelerate fusion energy development through research collaborations between industry and DOE's national laboratory complex. ORNL will manage the program, leveraging its expertise in plasma experimentation, materials development, and computer modeling of fusion systems.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·DateJun 4, 2019

Researchers identify link between more frequent, intense heat events and deaths in Las Vegas

A study by Desert Research Institute researchers found a clear correlation between extreme heat and mortality rates in Las Vegas over the last decade. The study identified adults over 50 as particularly vulnerable to heat-related deaths, which often occurred due to pre-existing heart disease.

SourceDesert Research Institute·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Science and Technology·DateJun 4, 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.

Scientists crack origin of the Persian walnut

The Persian walnut is the result of a 3.45 million-year-old hybridization between two long-extinct species. Using whole-genome sequencing, researchers found evidence of this ancient hybridization and provided insight into the evolution of walnuts.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateJun 4, 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.

Sleepless nights linked to high blood pressure

A study published in Psychosomatic Medicine found that a bad night's sleep can lead to a spike in blood pressure, even on the following day. Researchers wore portable blood pressure cuffs and actigraphy monitors on participants to measure the impact of sleep efficiency on cardiovascular health.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalPsychosomatic Medicine·DateJun 4, 2019

'Only the stressed die young'

Research on Drosophila reveals that Ets21c promotes intestinal epithelial renewal, but its loss accelerates tissue turnover and makes flies vulnerable to stress. The study contributes to understanding regenerative processes under favourable and stressful conditions.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalCell Reports·DateJun 4, 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.

Gene mutation evolved to cope with modern high-sugar diets

A gene mutation that became more common in humans after cooking and farming emerged as a potential adaptation to modern high-carb diets. The variant is associated with improved blood sugar regulation and may have helped ancient humans manage food scarcity.

SourceUniversity College London·DateJun 4, 2019

Dowsing for electric fields in liquid crystals

Physicists Pawel Pieranski and Maria Helena Godinho have found that the 'dowser texture' in nematic liquid crystals responds differently to electric fields in various materials. This phenomenon, known as electro-osmosis, enables detection of subtle electrical effects.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateJun 4, 2019

Should STEMI patients recover in the ICU?

A new Michigan Medicine research found that intensive care unit admission was associated with improved 30-day mortality rates for patients who had a STEMI heart attack and weren't clearly indicated for an ICU or non-ICU unit. The study analyzed Medicare data from over 100,000 patients hospitalized with STEMI and showed a clear benefit ...

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalThe BMJ·DateJun 4, 2019