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Science News Archive March 2019


Page 33 of 43

Sewage reveals levels of antimicrobial resistance worldwide

A comprehensive analysis of sewage from 74 cities in 60 countries has yielded comparable global data on antimicrobial resistant bacteria. The study found that North America, Western Europe, Australia, and New Zealand have low levels of antimicrobial resistance, while Asia, Africa, and South America have high levels.

$3 million NIH grant to study APOL1 and HIV synergy

Researchers at Children's National Hospital have received a $3 million NIH grant to investigate the mechanisms of APOL1 and HIV nephropathies in children. The study aims to understand how HIV-1 interacts with APOL1 risk variants in renal cells, triggering chronic kidney disease.

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.

Small animals with big impact

Copepods release substances into oceans that trigger defences in phytoplankton, causing bioluminescence and chemical warfare. The effects can be far-reaching, leading to toxic algal blooms and impacting marine life.

Listening to quantum radio

Researchers at Delft University of Technology have created a quantum circuit that enables the detection of weak radio signals, which could revolutionize fields like radio astronomy and medicine. The breakthrough opens up possibilities for experiments that explore the interplay between quantum mechanics and gravity.

Zinc could help as non-antibiotic treatment for UTIs

Researchers discovered zinc's role in fighting UTI bacteria, identifying its toxic effects on UPEC cells and potential avenues for non-antibiotic treatment strategies. This knowledge could lead to new therapies that don't develop resistance like traditional antibiotics.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Study confirms horseshoe crabs are really relatives of spiders, scorpions

A recent study published in Systematic Biology confirms horseshoe crabs belong to the arachnid family tree, challenging previous hypotheses. By analyzing genetic data and considering multiple analysis methods, researchers found a high degree of confidence that horseshoe crabs are part of the arachnid radiation.

Genetics Society of America grants 2019 Elizabeth W. Jones Award to Bruce Weir

Bruce Weir receives the 2019 Elizabeth W. Jones Award for Excellence in Education, recognizing his 40-year history of training researchers in statistical analysis methods. His work includes the Summer Institute in Statistical Genetics and the Genetic Data Analysis textbook, which have trained thousands of professionals worldwide.

Ocean life in 3D: Mapping phytoplankton with a smart AUV

A Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) team deployed an autonomous underwater vehicle to collect data on phytoplankton, which form the base of the marine food chain. The AUV created a 3-D map of hot spots, providing clues about declining seabird populations.

Cell study reveals key mechanism linked to healthy development

Researchers at the University of Edinburgh have identified a crucial mechanism linking R-loops and Polycomb proteins to gene regulation in human cells. This finding has significant implications for understanding diseases associated with faulty Polycomb proteins or R-loop overproduction, including neurodegenerative disorders like ALS.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Yo-yo dieting may increase women's heart disease risk

Research suggests that yo-yo dieting may increase women's heart disease risk by making it harder to control various risk factors. Women who experienced weight cycling reported lower scores on the American Heart Association's Life's Simple 7 score.

Largest-ever study identifies gene regions associated with sleep duration

A recent study has identified 76 new gene regions associated with sleep duration, revealing a significant link between genetics and sleep patterns. The findings suggest that many genes important for animal models may also influence human sleep, opening up new avenues for understanding the regulation of sleep.

Two for the price of one: Mechanistic insights lead to drug repositioning

Researchers at University of Tsukuba uncover how stratifin causes lung adenocarcinoma to emerge, identifying two drugs with other clinical uses that could be applied effectively in this disease. The study's findings raise hopes for more powerful treatment tools and value drug repositioning as a potential solution.

'Goldilocks' stars may be 'just right' for finding habitable worlds

A new study finds that K stars, which are dimmer than the Sun but brighter than faintest stars, may be particularly promising targets for searching for signs of life. K stars live a long time and have less extreme activity in their youth, giving them plenty of time for life to evolve.

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.

Cytomegalovirus infection broadens spectrum of environmental allergens

A study published in PLOS Pathogens found that cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection can convert harmless protein antigens into allergens, sensitizing immune cells to cause allergic airway disease. This effect is mediated by activated airway dendritic cells and may contribute to the development of asthma.

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.

Getting a flu shot while hospitalized lowers the chance of a heart attack

A large study of nearly 30 million hospital records shows that people who got a flu shot while hospitalized had a 10 percent lower risk of having a heart attack compared to those who didn't get vaccinated. The findings suggest that getting a flu vaccine can reduce the risk of major cardiovascular problems.

Deep brain stimulation sites for OCD target distinct symptoms

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the ventral capsule (VC) or anteromedial subthalamic nucleus (amSTN) reduced OCD symptoms to a similar extent, but produced distinct effects on specific symptoms. VC stimulation improved mood, while amSTN stimulation improved cognitive flexibility.

New research on the role of connectomics in brain development

Researchers analyzed brain connectomes to understand healthy brain development and contribute to disorders like epilepsy. The study identified abnormalities in the salience network of subjects with autism, providing insights into the neural basis of autism.

Fireflies, heart beats, and the science of sync

Researchers at Caltech have experimentally demonstrated how a simple network of identical synchronized nanomachines can give rise to out-of-sync, complex states. This knowledge may lead to new tools for controlling these networks, such as developing new defibrillators for shocking the heart back into rhythm.

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.

Gay and lesbian spaces in the city becoming more diverse, not going away

New research by University of British Columbia shows LGBTQ Americans dispersing and diversifying their living spaces beyond traditional gayborhoods. The study reveals a range of emerging neighborhoods catering to specific subgroups within the LGBTQ community, including queer communities of color and same-sex couples with children.

New photography approach gives traditional cameras ultra-high imaging speeds

Researchers developed a new imaging method, called compressed optical-streaking ultra-high-speed photography (COSUP), that can capture images at speeds of up to 1.5 million frames per second using standard sensors. COSUP has potential applications in biomedical research, movie production, and scientific research.

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.

Study: Democracy fosters economic growth

Researchers found that democracies employ broad-based investment in health and human capital, leading to improved economies. Countries that have democratized within the last 60 years tend to start off slowly but eventually catch up with nondemocracies.

New graphene-based device is first step toward ultrasensitive biosensors

Researchers at University of Minnesota develop graphene-based device that detects protein structures with near-perfect efficiency, leading to improved diagnosis and treatment of diseases. The device uses plasmons to generate local electric fields, enabling detection of single layers of protein molecules.

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.

Using laser 'tweezers,' scientists grab and study tiny protein droplets

Researchers investigate the conditions that drive protein droplets to switch from a fluid to a gel-like state, finding that environmental factors play a crucial role. The study uses innovative techniques such as optical tweezers and laser poking to probe the dynamics of these tiny molecules, which may be involved in health and disease.

'Specialized' microbes within plant species promote diversity

Research found that microbes specialize at the genotype level, promoting diversity by killing common species and making room for rare ones. This leads to increased seed dispersal, creating landscapes that allow pathogens to effectively promote diversity.

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.

The power of one country to influence treaty ratification

A new study found that a single country's ratification of an international treaty can significantly influence other nations' decisions, with the US playing a key role. Countries can be both positive and negative influencers on how others respond to agreements, but positive influence is more common.

Mathematics of sea slug movement points to future robots

New insights into nonsmooth surfaces, inspired by frilly surfaces on coral reefs and kale leaves, suggest potential applications in soft-body robotics. The research reveals that these surfaces can change direction without stretching, allowing for efficient movement and flexibility.

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.

Is dry eye disease associated with migraine headaches?

Dry eye disease is linked to an increased risk of migraine headaches, with symptoms including stinging, burning, or scratchy sensations. The study suggests a possible association between the two conditions, warranting further research into diagnostic and treatment options.

Crystal-clear view of a key neuronal receptor opens door for new, targeted drugs

Researchers at Bar-Ilan University discovered the intricate molecular mechanism of the guidance receptor 'Robo', which reacts to signals in its environment while avoiding premature activity. The findings provide a basis for designing effective drugs targeting Robo receptors, potentially treating various neurological and cancer conditions.

What triggered the 100,000-year Ice Age cycle?

A new study found that a slowing of ocean circulation in Antarctica's waters drastically altered global ice age cycles, making them colder and longer. The mid-Pleistocene transition, with no obvious orbital cause, remains largely unexplained.

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.

Study finds nonprofit partnerships can help solve bureaucratic tangles

A new study by North Carolina State University suggests that nonprofit organizations can better serve their constituents by partnering with public institutions to overcome bureaucratic red tape. The researchers found that these partnerships provided nonprofits with access to contacts that could facilitate efficient navigation of bureau...

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

A nap a day keeps high blood pressure at bay

A study found that napping during the day can significantly lower blood pressure levels, with an average drop of 5 mm Hg. This reduction is comparable to other known interventions for lowering blood pressure.

Hubble & Gaia accurately weigh the Milky Way

Astronomers combined data from Hubble and Gaia to estimate Milky Way's mass, reducing uncertainty from decades of research. The galaxy is found to weigh approximately 1.5 trillion solar masses within a radius of 129,000 light-years.

New target for chronic pain relief confirmed by scientists

Researchers at Hiroshima University discovered a potential new target for chronic pain treatment by activating the REV-ERBs receptor. This discovery could lead to more effective drugs for various types of chronic pain, including sciatica, cancer, and rheumatoid arthritis.

Human impacts erode behavioral diversity in chimpanzees

Research on 144 chimpanzee groups found that high levels of human impact significantly reduce behavioral diversity, including the loss of unique tools and hunting behaviors. The study suggests population size and social learning play key roles in maintaining cultural traits.

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.

Green spaces can help you trust strangers

A new study by the University of Waterloo found that green spaces and colourful urban design elements increase happiness, trust of strangers, and environmental stewardship. Simple interventions like adding greenery or rainbow crosswalks can enrich public spaces.