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Science News Archive March 2019


Page 34 of 43

Does awe lead to greater interest in science?

Researchers found that feeling awe leads to a greater awareness of knowledge gaps and increased interest in science. In studies involving virtual reality videos, participants who experienced awe were more likely to seek out scientific information and visit science museums.

Thyroid hormone helped our ancestors survive but left us susceptible

A study found that thyroid hormones hindered the ability of early mammals to regenerate their heart tissue, leading to modern humans' susceptibility to irreparable damage. The researchers discovered a connection between these hormones and the transition from ectothermic to endothermic animals.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Ecologists find a 'landscape of fearlessness' in a war-torn savannah

Researchers discovered that the removal of large carnivores like leopards and hyenas led to an expansion of antelope species into open plains. Reintroducing these predators reversed this effect, causing antelopes to retreat to wooded areas, while plants flourished in their absence.

Industrial engineering professor Shipra Agrawal wins NSF CAREER Award

Shipra Agrawal, assistant professor of industrial engineering at Columbia University, has developed new learning frameworks and algorithms to account for consumer behavior in product pricing and recommendation. Her research aims to improve matching supply and demand, benefiting both consumers and sellers.

Breakthrough could enable cheaper infrared cameras

A new method for making infrared cameras using quantum dots offers faster production and better performance. This technology could enable the use of infrared cameras in autonomous vehicles, smartphones, and other devices, improving their ability to detect heat signatures and see through smoke and fog.

CD38 mutation and potential link to autism

An animal study published in The FASEB Journal explores the potential link between CD38 mutation and autism spectrum disorder. The research revealed that a deficit in CD38 expression leads to brain abnormalities and oxytocin dysregulation, particularly in males, which are associated with social behavior and emotional difficulties.

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.

An all-in-one cyber toolkit for criminal investigations

The Purdue University-developed FileTSAR toolkit is an all-in-one cyber toolkit that helps detectives investigate and solve cybercrimes. It captures data flows, reconstructs multiple data types, and maintains forensic integrity, making it easier for investigators to follow a criminal's digital footprint.

Computer-designed vaccine elicits potent antibodies against RSV

A new nanoparticle vaccine candidate has been designed to elicit potent neutralizing antibodies against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), a leading cause of infant mortality worldwide. The vaccine's computer-designed nanoparticle platform holds promise for applying to other diseases, including flu and HIV.

How well do vaccines work? Research reveals measles vaccine efficacy

Research reveals that vaccines may be less effective at higher pathogen doses and when individuals have similar susceptibility, such as younger or malnourished populations. Mathematical modeling simulations validated these findings with real-world data from nearly 6,000 articles.

When coral reefs change, researchers and local communities may not see eye to eye

A study from Florida State University found that coral reefs change can trigger significant ecosystem shifts, but ecologists and local fishing populations perceive those shifts in fundamentally different ways. The findings suggest that local perceptions of change and ecosystem health differ from those of scientists and resource managers.

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.

The role of intuition in music performance

The study used a conductor metaphor to investigate how users' intuitive notions can be explicitly used by the system to respond to their gestures. The results showed that the tailored system provided more intuitive control over dynamics and tempo, leading to improved performance.

Chemical hydrogen storage system

Researchers at the Weizmann Institute of Science have developed a chemical storage system based on simple and abundant organic compounds. The system uses ethylenediamine and methanol to store and release hydrogen with high theoretical capacity and efficiency.

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.

When semiconductors stick together, materials go quantum

Researchers at Berkeley Lab develop method to turn ordinary semiconducting materials into quantum machines, exhibiting extraordinary electronic behavior. The discovery could help revolutionize industries aiming for energy-efficient electronic systems and provide platform for exotic new physics.

Researchers report high rate of viral suppression among people new to HIV care

Researchers found that 86% of individuals who entered HIV care soon after diagnosis maintained viral suppression after 48 weeks. The high rate of viral suppression is attributed to recent advances in HIV care, including changes in treatment guidelines and the inclusion of integrase inhibitors in first-line ART regimens.

Forgotten fathers: New dads also at risk for postpartum depression

A UNLV study explores new fathers' experiences with postpartum depression, finding that between 5-10% of new fathers suffer from the condition. The research highlights the need to reduce stigma around paternal PPD and provide more information and resources for men struggling with the phenomenon.

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.

Potential new treatment for heart attack

Researchers have discovered a potential new drug that can minimize heart muscle death caused by stress signals after a heart attack. The treatment, targeting protein MAP4K4, reduced damage by 60% in mice and has the potential to be developed into an injection for routine clinical use.

How the microbiota controls neutrophil activity

The microbiota controls neutrophil activity by producing Serum Amyloid A (Saa), a host protein that restricts aberrant activation while enhancing migration to wounds. Saa reduces bactericidal activity and expression of pro-inflammatory genes in neutrophils.

Less-invasive procedure helps surgeons pinpoint epilepsy surgical candidates

A new study published in JAMA Neurology reveals that a minimally invasive procedure can help identify patients with drug-resistant epilepsy who are suitable for brain surgery. The procedure produces more favorable outcomes among patients, including reduced complications and increased likelihood of seizure freedom.

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.

Study reveals elevated risk of cardiovascular disease in young

A new study published in Diabetologia found that women who develop gestational diabetes (GDM) during pregnancy are at double the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) compared to those without GDM. The study also revealed that this increased risk remains even if women with GDM do not go on to develop type 2 diabetes.

Elucidating cellular responses to force

A study published in Cell Systems has characterized global phosphorylation and protein abundance changes in response to physical force in Xenopus embryos. The research team identified precise modulatory points in response to force, highlighting the importance of mechanical forces in tissue homeostasis.

How antifreeze proteins make ice crystals grow

Researchers from Bielefeld University and international partners have confirmed two-fold ability of antifreeze molecules to trigger or inhibit ice crystal formation depending on temperature. This discovery challenges the long-held view that antifreeze proteins only inhibit ice crystal growth.

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.

Secondhand smoke linked with higher kidney disease risk

A new study has found a strong association between secondhand smoke exposure and the development of chronic kidney disease. Even brief periods of exposure, such as less than 3 days per week, were linked to a higher risk of CKD, with a 66% increased risk compared to those with no exposure.

At the limits of detectability

Researchers at TUM have developed a compact instrument to determine the spectral properties of individual molecules, capturing detailed information on molecule-environment interactions. This breakthrough aims to accelerate the identification of efficient molecules for future organic solar cells.

Embryos' signals take multiple paths

Researchers found that stem cells are sensitive to the speed of signaling molecule delivery, not just its concentration. This discovery highlights the dynamic interactions between morphogens and cells during embryonic development, allowing for more precise control over cell fates and potentially leading to new ways to drive cellular di...

Potential treatment for cancer in butterfly disease

Researchers have discovered a potential treatment for cancer in patients with epidermolysis bullosa, a severe skin disease also known as butterfly disease. The new drug, rigosertib, was shown to be highly effective at killing cancer cells in preclinical studies and may target the cancer without harming healthy cells.

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.

It's raining on the Greenland ice -- in the winter

A new study finds that rain is becoming increasingly common over parts of the Greenland ice sheet, triggering sudden melting events. The researchers estimate that nearly a third of total runoff is initiated by rainfall, leading to more widespread future melting.

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.

Pioneering research to deliver person-centred care

Researchers developed a tool to help patients with progressive conditions identify areas where they need extra support. The Support Needs Approach for Patents (SNAP) is a concise evidence-based intervention that enables patients to express their needs and improves person-centred care.

Using tiny organisms to unlock big environmental mysteries

A new DNA analysis technique reveals insights into how ecosystems respond to climate change and environmental shifts by studying microbial genes. Microorganisms play a vital role in shaping ecosystems, and analyzing their plasmidome helps scientists understand the history of an environment.

BU researchers develop 'acoustic metamaterial' that cancels sound

Boston University researchers created an open, ringlike structure that perfectly cancels out sounds while maintaining airflow, silencing nearly all noise from a loudspeaker. The acoustic metamaterial can be customized to fit various environments, including drones, fans, and MRI machines.

With NSF grant, SLU engineer brings STEM to the visually impaired

A new technology aims to bridge the gap for visually impaired students in STEM fields by using robotics, touchscreen technology, and sound. The project focuses on developing graphics and simulations that can be felt and heard, enabling equal access to math, engineering, and science concepts.

New cell-sized micro robots might make incredible journeys

Researchers have developed a nanofabrication technique to create bug-shaped robots that are wirelessly powered and able to survive in harsh environments. The robots are tiny enough to be injected through an ordinary hypodermic needle and can be controlled using laser power or other energy sources.

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.

Researchers aiming to cure spina bifida get a step closer to their goal

A team of researchers has identified specific factors in stem cell secretions that help protect neurons and reduce the severity of spinal cord injuries linked to spina bifida. The study's findings could pave the way for a cell-free treatment for the birth defect, which can cause lifelong disabilities.

Increasingly complex mini-brains

Researchers at D'Or Institute improve human brain organoid cultivation protocol to display regionalized brain structures and retinal pigmented cells. The team's advancements aim to mimic later stages of brain development, enabling studies on neurological diseases and drug effects.

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.

Women are more successful at crowdfunding than men, says ESMT Berlin study

A new study from ESMT Berlin reveals that women have higher success rates at crowdfunding scientific projects than men. The research analyzed data from over 700 campaigns on Experiment.com and found that students and juniors are more likely to succeed in crowdfunding, with women obtaining more funding than men.

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.

Tiny DNA reader to advance development of anticancer drugs

Researchers from Osaka University developed a tiny DNA reader using microscopic probes and an electrical current to locate anticancer drug molecules. The technology successfully identified individual molecules in short DNA strands, pinpointing exact insertion sites of trifluridine.

SHANK3: the good, the bad and the hopeful

A deficiency in the SHANK3 protein, which regulates synaptic communication between brain cells, is associated with various neurological conditions. Researchers have identified kinases that can regulate SHANK3 stability, offering hope for developing treatments by increasing its abundance.

Probing water's skin

Scientists employed complementary techniques to investigate the reactivity of isoprene at the water interface, finding that oligomers formed exclusively in electrosprays. Computer simulations confirmed these results, highlighting the importance of surface-specific techniques when studying interfacial processes.

In developing nations, national parks could save endangered species

A study published in Folia Primatologica found that protecting national parks can preserve multiple mammal species, including carnivores and ungulates. Researchers observed a significant increase in species diversity within the protected area of Niokolo-Koba National Park in Senegal.

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.

Bullying bosses negatively impact employee performance and behavior

A study by Portland State University found that employees bullied by their bosses are more likely to report unfairness and work stress, leading to decreased organizational citizenship behavior and increased counterproductive work behavior. The researchers attribute the negative work behaviors to perceptions of injustice or work stress.

How the global gag rule stifles free speech

The Global Gag Rule is having a chilling effect, dampening debate, advocacy, and collaboration around abortion and other sexual and reproductive rights. Organizations are declining to participate in meetings where abortion or contraception is discussed, limiting the ability of organizations to deliver quality healthcare.

Researchers find high blood pressure link

A recent study published in Hypertension Research found a significant association between early onset menstruation and high blood pressure in late adulthood. The research suggests that women with early menarche may have less optimal developed cardiovascular systems, increasing their risk for hypertension.

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.