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Science News Archive March 2019


Page 35 of 43

Chatterpies, haggisters and ninuts could help children love conservation

A University of Birmingham study found that children who received cultural information about magpies valued the birds' cultural significance and believed it should be protected. In contrast, those given only scientific information showed less regard for cultural heritage and its connection to conservation.

New optical imaging system could be deployed to find tiny tumors

MIT researchers have developed a new optical imaging system called DOLPHIN that can detect tiny tumors deep within living tissue. The system uses near-infrared light and hyperspectral imaging to pinpoint fluorescent probes, allowing for earlier cancer diagnosis and potentially more effective treatment.

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.

Chimpanzees lose their behavioral and cultural diversity

Researchers found that chimpanzee behavioral diversity is reduced by 88% in areas with high human impact, indicating a loss of cultural traditions and social learning opportunities. This study highlights the need to protect animal behavioral diversity as part of biodiversity conservation efforts.

Proof of pimple: Mouse model validates how 'good' and 'bad' bacteria affect acne

Researchers have developed a new mouse model that closely resembles human acne by adding synthetic sebum, allowing them to directly compare 'good' and 'bad' strains of Propionibacterium acnes bacteria. The study found that acne-associated strains caused inflammation and lesions, while health-associated strains had minimal effect.

'Undruggable' Parkinson's molecule spills its secrets

Researchers have successfully pharmacologically activated Nurr1, a key molecule implicated in Parkinson's disease, offering a potential new treatment strategy. The breakthrough discovery provides valuable leads for developing drugs to restore proper dopamine balance and slow the progression of the disease.

Vitamin B3 analogue boosts production of blood cells

A team of scientists has found that an analogue of vitamin B3, nicotinamide riboside, can increase the activity of hematopoietic stem cells and boost their ability to produce new blood cells. This breakthrough has significant implications for stem-cell therapy patients, particularly those undergoing chemotherapy or radiotherapy.

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.

Germ-fighting catheter coating may help prevent infections

Researchers at Brown University have developed a germ-fighting catheter coating that can kill MRSA bacteria and prevent biofilm formation. The coating, which releases the drug auranofin, has shown promising results in lab tests, inhibiting MRSA growth for up to 26 days.

New study informs debate on predator-prey relationships

A new study found little evidence of elk modifying their behavior to avoid grey wolves in Yellowstone National Park, contradicting earlier research on the topic. The study used GPS tracking technology to monitor elk and wolf movements between 2012 and 2016.

Peeling back the data: NYS apple industry has larger economic impact

A Cornell University team found that the NYS apple industry generates an additional $2 billion in industry output and nearly 12,000 jobs due to its significant support of related industries. The new framework for economic impact analysis provides a more accurate picture of the industry's economic contribution.

Design treatment of advanced metals producing better sculpting

A new process developed by Purdue University researchers makes it easier to cut and shape exotic metals, reducing the need for high-force machining. The method uses a designer surface-active agent to create a smoother end surface with fewer cracks and tears.

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.

A television in the bedroom?

A study published in Pediatric Research found that having a TV in the bedroom at age 4 is associated with later physical, mental, and social problems. Children who spent more time watching TV in their room had higher body mass indexes, unhealthy eating habits, lower sociability, and increased emotional distress.

Major mutation pattern in cancer occurs in bursts

Researchers have identified a major mutation pattern in human cancer that occurs in bursts, with the cause of these mutational bursts remaining mysterious. The study, published in Cell, provides a vast resource for investigating the biological mechanisms behind cancer mutations.

Exotic synchronization patterns emerge in a simple network

A team of researchers has identified intricate synchronization patterns in an experimental network, revealing the potential for complex behavior to emerge in even the simplest systems. The study, published in Science, explores how networks can exhibit unexpected coordination and coupling, with implications for understanding and control...

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Three ways studying organic chemistry changes the brain

A new study from Carnegie Mellon University reveals that learning scientific information results in changes in the actual structure of memory-related areas of the brain. The researchers found evidence of microstructural, informational, and network change in the left hippocampus during the learning of organic compounds.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Heart attacks increasingly common in young adults

A study has revealed that young adults under 40 are experiencing an alarming increase in heart attacks, despite having the same mortality rates as older survivors. Substance abuse and diabetes may be contributing to this trend, emphasizing the need for prevention and early detection of cardiovascular disease.

Unlocking the untapped potential of light in optical communications

Researchers at Tokyo Institute of Technology develop a novel multiplexing technique using the optical vortex to encode independent signals, enabling high-speed data transmission with low energy consumption. The device has been fabricated and demonstrated its potential in improving optical networks.

How does the body respond to diffuse cutaneous leishmaniasis?

A study in PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases analyzed gene expression in patients with diffuse cutaneous leishmaniasis, revealing a heightened presence of B cell transcripts and unique patterns of macrophage activation. The research also identified new targets for vaccine development against this rare and neglected tropical disease.

'Meta-mirror' reflects sound waves in any direction

A team of researchers from Duke University and Aalto University has developed a device called a meta-mirror that can perfectly reflect sound waves in any direction. The device uses metamaterials to control the speed and amplitude of sound waves, allowing it to steer them towards desired directions.

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.

Success of university programs to promote rural healthcare in Japan

A study from a Japanese university consortium shows that university programs to promote rural healthcare increase the number of physicians practicing in rural areas. The programs led to an average 24% increase in graduates working in non-metropolitan areas compared to those without these programs.

9.1 million euros for trinational quantum research

The European Commission has approved a 5-year, 9.1 million euro program to enhance quantum science and technologies in the Upper Rhine region. The initiative aims to foster fundamental research and applications, including secure communication networks and new materials.

The science of knitting, unpicked

The study of knitting reveals the underlying mathematical rules governing shape and stretchiness, which could lead to designing new tunable materials. Researchers aim to create flexible material replacing biological tissues with personalized sizing and elasticity.

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.

Women of childbearing age have staggeringly low rates of lipid screening

A study reveals that eight out of ten women of childbearing age have never had their cholesterol levels checked, highlighting gaps in lipid screening. Research suggests that high cholesterol during pregnancy can lead to early birth and low birth weight babies, as well as increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.

'Radiance Light Trends' shows changes in Earth's light emissions

A new web application called Radiance Light Trends allows anyone to analyze satellite data on light emissions since 1992, tracking changes in regions like Berlin and the Tucson International Airport. The app provides valuable insights into the causes of these changes, including energy-saving measures and greenhouse lighting.

Getting more mileage from microsatellites

Researchers used next-generation sequencing to identify additional DNA markers in the carob tree, increasing resolution for population genetics studies. This approach shows promise for analyzing species with limited genetic diversity, including those that underwent strong bottlenecks.

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.

Electrifying wound care: Better bandages to destroy bacteria

Researchers at Ohio State University have discovered a new way to destroy bacteria that can prevent wounds from healing. By using electroceutical bandages, the team found that electrical impulses can break down biofilms and kill bacteria, leading to faster wound healing.

UTSW researchers determine structures of elusive innate immunity protein

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center used cryo-electron microscopy to determine the near-atomic structure of the smallest membrane protein solved to date. The study reveals new insights into the primitive function of the cGAS-STING pathway, which could lead to better immunotherapies for cancer and autoimmune diseases.

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.

Scientists identify genetic factors that may cause some people to become obese

Researchers at Rockefeller University have identified a genetic mechanism that may contribute to 10% of all obesity cases. Alterations in the cellular machinery regulating leptin production can lead to obesity treatable with leptin therapy, and human genetics studies suggest a similar mechanism may contribute to obesity in some patients.

Anti-inflammatory drug is the key to boosting cardiac reprogramming

Researchers at the University of Tsukuba identify diclofenac as a factor promoting cardiac reprogramming in postnatal and adult fibroblasts, while inhibiting COX-2 and suppressing inflammatory signaling. This finding has important implications for developing new therapies for cardiac regeneration in pediatric and adult patients.

Cancer most frequently spreads to the liver; here's why

Researchers at University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine found that hepatocytes orchestrate cancer spread to liver by activating protein STAT3, which increases production of SAA proteins. This 'soil' allows cancer cells to 'seed' and establish in the liver.

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.

Does cognitive function affect oral health during aging?

Poorer cognitive function in older adults is associated with poorer oral health and a higher risk of tooth loss. A study of 4,416 UK adults found that those with lower cognitive function scores had a 39% higher odds of tooth loss compared to those with higher scores.

Light from an exotic crystal semiconductor could lead to better solar cells

Researchers at Rutgers University have developed a new way to control the light emitted by hybrid crystal semiconductors, which could lead to more efficient solar cells and other electronic devices. By adjusting voltage applied to an electrode, they can increase the intensity of light emitted up to 100 times.

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Effects of spaceflight on heart cell formation from stem cells

Researchers used time-lapse imaging to show that mouse induced pluripotent stem cells differentiated into cardiomyocytes significantly faster at microgravity. The study, published in Stem Cells and Development, suggests a promising area of research for regenerative medicine and manned space travel.

Autism: Brain activity as a biomarker

Scientists discovered consistent brain activity patterns in people with autism that could be used to track treatment progress. The findings suggest that altering these patterns may help improve symptoms, but further studies are needed for confirmation.

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.

Eating the flu

A new study reveals that a diet rich in birds is the key factor driving influenza A virus exposure in wild African mammals. Herbivores showed low prevalence and diversity, while carnivores had the highest diversity and prevalence.

Dinosaurs were thriving before asteroid strike that wiped them out

Scientists model dinosaur species distribution in North America to show they were adaptable and not declining before the meteorite, contrary to previous theories. The study finds a range of habitats could support dinosaur groups at the end of the Cretaceous, but these areas are less likely to preserve fossils.

Fish diversity linked to Caribbean coral reef health

A new study by Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences reveals that a diverse portfolio of herbivore fish species is equally important to keeping reefs well grazed and hospitable to baby corals. This finding has significant implications for the management of tropical fisheries.

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.

Blue-enriched white light to wake you up in the morning

A KAIST research team found that blue-enriched white light exposure improves melatonin levels and subjective perception of alertness, mood, and visual comfort compared to warm white light. This study proposes a new approach to indoor lighting strategies, benefiting residential areas, learning environments, and working spaces.

Graphene quantum dots for single electron transistors

Researchers developed graphene quantum dots embedded in hexagonal boron nitride, enabling successful synthesis of high-quality single-electron transistors. The study demonstrated the manifestation of Coulomb blockade phenomena in each graphene quantum dot as a separate single electron transmission channel.

Statins linked to higher diabetes risk

Individuals taking statins may experience higher insulin levels and insulin resistance, leading to a greater risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The analysis found a 38% increased risk among those who used statins for 15 years or more.

Rain is important for how carbon dioxide affects grasslands

A new study found that grasslands increase in vegetation biomass when exposed to elevated carbon dioxide levels, especially during rainy periods. This suggests that seasonal precipitation plays a crucial role in determining the impact of CO2 on plant growth.

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.