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Science News Archive March 2019 - Page 17


Page 17 of 43

Fish-inspired material changes color using nanocolumns

Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a material that can change its color by manipulating the orientation of nanostructured columns in response to a magnetic field, mimicking the flashing colors of neon tetras.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalACS Nano·DateMar 20, 2019

Coral reefs near equator less affected by ocean warming

A new study published in Nature Communications found that coral reefs near the equator are less affected by ocean warming than those at higher latitudes. Corals in these regions were found to be more tolerant of high temperatures, with some even able to withstand temperatures that would bleach corals elsewhere.

SourceFlorida Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 20, 2019

Volcano cliffs can affect monitoring data, study finds

A new study by University of East Anglia researchers reveals that steep cliffs on volcanoes can cause a reversal in the pattern of deformation, leading to inaccurate tilt measurements. This affects data collected by monitoring equipment, such as tiltmeters, which are often placed on caldera rims.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateMar 20, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Sniffing out Parkinson's disease

A team of researchers discovered the chemicals responsible for the distinctive smell of Parkinson's disease using a 'super smeller'. The finding could lead to an early diagnosis and monitoring of the condition. Hippuric acid, eicosane, and octadecanal were identified as biomarkers in sebum samples from patients with Parkinson's.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Central Science·DateMar 20, 2019

Sustainable fisheries and conservation policy

A five-point plan proposes integrating recreational fishing into global fisheries management to address conflicts and loss of social welfare. The proposal aims to consider the unique needs of anglers, who support a significant number of jobs worldwide.

SourceForschungsverbund Berlin·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 20, 2019

New study reshapes understanding of how the brain recovers from injury

Researchers found that retinal ganglion cells depend on the primary visual area of the brain to remain healthy, leading to permanent visual impairment. However, some eye cells remain connected to unscathed neurons in the visual cortex, suggesting a potential for vision recovery through neuroplasticity-based therapies.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·DateMar 20, 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.

Seeing through food and drug fakes and frauds

Researchers have developed a simple method called chronoprinting that can detect counterfeit medicines and food products. By analyzing how samples change over time, chronoprinting uses image analysis algorithms to distinguish pure from adulterated substances.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalACS Central Science·DateMar 20, 2019
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.

Complex societies gave birth to big gods, not the other way around

A team of researchers used the Seshat database to analyze 300,000 records on social complexity and religion across 500 past societies. They found that beliefs in big gods followed, not preceded, increases in social complexity, suggesting that collective identities are more important for cooperation.

SourceComplexity Science Hub·JournalNature·DateMar 20, 2019

Skin diseases are more common than we think

A recent study found that at least one skin abnormality affects 64.5% of the adult population, with men being more frequently affected than women. The prevalence of skin diseases increases with age and is associated with significant economic burdens.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology·DateMar 20, 2019

Human microbiome metabolites tip the scale in intestinal E. coli infections

A multi-disciplinary team of researchers at Harvard's Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering discovered four human microbiome metabolites that enhance colon injury by enterohemorrhagic E. coli (EHEC) in a human-mouse comparative study using Organ-on-a-Chip technology.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalMicrobiome·DateMar 20, 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.

Evidence rogue waves are getting more extreme

Researchers have found that rogue waves are becoming more prevalent and severe, especially during winter months. The study used long-term data to investigate the behavior of these rare ocean phenomena, which can be hazardous for ships and coastal areas.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 20, 2019

Cities rethink parking as ride-hailing grows and parking revenue declines

A study found that people who use ride-hailing are willing to pay more to avoid driving, including parking stress, which could lead cities to reconsider parking infrastructure. Researchers suggest cities should allocate curb space for walking, biking, and transit, and monetize car trips to meet sustainable goals.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Denver·DateMar 20, 2019

Computer scientists create programmable self-assembling DNA

Researchers at University of California, Davis and Maynooth University created programmable DNA molecules that can self-assemble into patterns by running their own program. They designed and ran 21 algorithms, demonstrating the potential of the system for sophisticated molecular engineering.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalNature·DateMar 20, 2019

Pushing MYC inhibition closer to the clinic

Researchers have developed a mini-protein MYC inhibitor that effectively treats non-small cell lung cancer, exhibiting minimal side effects. The therapy works by targeting the MYC oncogene, leading to reduced tumor growth and improved patient outcomes.

SourceVall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMar 20, 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.

Magnetic stir bars carry 'memory' from previous flasks and tubes

Researchers found that magnetic stir bars become permanently contaminated with metal nanoparticles after a week of use, affecting subsequent reactions. Regular cleaning procedures are insufficient to remove such contamination completely.

SourceAKSON Russian Science Communication Association·JournalACS Catalysis·DateMar 20, 2019

'Particle robot' works as a cluster of simple units

Researchers developed particle robotics systems comprising disc-shaped units that can push and pull each other in coordinated movement. The cluster can gravitate toward light sources and transport objects, with particles able to add or subtract without impacting the group.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateMar 20, 2019

Solving the 'Catch 22' of rectal cancer

Researchers developed a non-invasive MRI methodology to determine if tumours have invaded lymph nodes prior to surgery. This innovation helps clinicians choose optimal treatment strategies and reduces overtreatment risks. By improving accuracy, SPI may also aid in selecting patients for pre-operative radiation and chemotherapy.

SourceChampalimaud Centre for the Unknown·JournalCancer Research·DateMar 20, 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.

Research paves way for new source for leukemia drug

Researchers at Oregon State University have patented a method for synthesizing cephalotaxine and homoharringtonine (HHT), previously only available from an Asian tree. This development paves the way for more readily available and affordable leukemia treatments.

SourceOregon State University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateMar 20, 2019

Laser-targeted removal of prostate tumors works as well complete removal of prostate

Researchers from University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston developed a laser treatment that selectively destroys cancerous prostate tissue while preserving erectile and urinary functions. This technique is shown to be as effective as complete removal or radiation therapy with improved quality of life.

SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·JournalJournal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology·DateMar 20, 2019
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.

Transformation of VA to 'whole health' model featured in JACM special issue

The VA's 'whole health' model is a leading-edge effort to address social determinants of health and move from volume to value. The model features multimodal approaches in integrative health, including evidence-informed complementary and integrative approaches as part of a commitment to diminishing reliance on opioids.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalThe Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine·DateMar 20, 2019

Better water testing, safer produce

Researchers compared two water testing methods to ensure safe irrigation water for leafy greens, finding excellent results when samples were clean. However, discrepancies arose when environmental factors like sediments and salts were introduced, highlighting the need for a user-friendly guide to ensure consistent accuracy.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·DateMar 20, 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.

Chromatin changes rapidly in response to low oxygen, study finds

Researchers at the University of Liverpool have found that chromatin changes quickly in response to low oxygen, preceding gene expression activation. This discovery sheds light on how cells respond to oxygen deprivation and may pave the way for novel therapeutic approaches.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalScience·DateMar 20, 2019

Generic advice doesn't help patients drop pounds

A new study from Duke University found that patients shed more weight when doctors give specific instructions, such as tailored behavioral goals and educational material, compared to generic advice. Patients who received empathetic care also lost more weight on average.

SourceDuke University·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateMar 20, 2019

Baby step towards breath-testing for gut disorders

A new breath test could diagnose gastrointestinal damage in children without invasive procedures, reducing trauma and costs associated with oesophageal testing. The trial uses a Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP4) enzyme found in the small intestine to measure gut health.

SourceFlinders University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 20, 2019

Changes in ocean 'conveyor belt' foretold abrupt climate changes by four centuries

A new study reveals that the Atlantic Ocean's conveyor belt is slowing down, with some scientists fearing it could lead to dramatic temperature drops in Europe and exacerbate hurricanes. The research suggests that past changes in ocean circulation patterns may have preceded major climate shifts by several centuries.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 20, 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.

Study examines how high altitude affects memory

A new study investigated the impact of high altitude exposure on short-term memory, identifying effects on spatial and verbal memory. The study found that high altitude exposure can lead to deficits in these aspects of cognition, affecting daily functioning.

SourceWiley·JournalBrain and Behavior·DateMar 20, 2019

Tropical storms likely to become more deadly as climate changes

Research from Oregon State University suggests that climate change could lead to a 52% increase in tropical storm-related deaths, mainly affecting vulnerable populations in developing countries. The study's findings are based on analyzing mortality data and simulating the impact of climate change on storm frequency and severity.

SourceOregon State University·JournalWorld Development·DateMar 20, 2019

Premature babies could benefit from combined glucocorticoid and antioxidant therapy

Researchers suggest that combining glucocorticoids with antioxidants could further improve clinical treatment for premature babies while minimizing potential risks. The proposed therapy aims to overcome adverse effects associated with existing glucocorticoid treatment and accelerate lung maturation in infants.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalTrends in Endocrinology and Metabolism·DateMar 20, 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.

'Terminator'-like liquid metal moves and stretches in 3D space (video)

Researchers created a magnetic liquid metal that can move and stretch both horizontally and vertically without being fully immersed in liquid. The material exhibits high conductivity, low melting point, and deformability, making it suitable for use in soft robotics and flexible electronics.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateMar 20, 2019

New Cretaceous fossil sheds light on avian reproduction

A team of scientists discovered a new Cretaceous fossil with an egg preserved inside its body, revealing unusual reproductive system abnormalities. The fossil, representing a new species Avimaia schweitzerae, shows an eggshell consisting of two layers instead of one, indicating the egg was retained too long inside the abdomen.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 20, 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.

Butterfly numbers down by two-thirds

Research team discovers significant decline in butterfly species near intensively cultivated fields, with fewer than half the number of species found in nature preserves. The study emphasizes the urgent need for ecologically sustainable cultivation methods to mitigate this impact.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalInsect Conservation and Diversity·DateMar 20, 2019

US indoor climate most similar to northeast African outdoors

A North Carolina State University study found that US indoor climate preferences are most similar to those of west central Kenya and northeast Africa, with warm conditions and low humidity prevailing. The survey of 37 states showed that Americans aim for a climate closest to the outdoor conditions in these regions.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateMar 20, 2019

Brain-inspired AI inspires insights about the brain (and vice versa)

Researchers from UT Austin developed an LSTM-based language model that predicts brain activity with greater accuracy than ever before when listening to stories. The model incorporates context up to 20 words, improving predictions even with minimal context.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·JournalJournal of Cognitive Neuroscience·DateMar 20, 2019

BMI, but not age at puberty, tied to risk of multiple sclerosis

A new study attributes the link between earlier puberty and multiple sclerosis (MS) to body mass index (BMI), finding that increased BMI is also linked to a greater risk of MS. Researchers analyzed genetic data from over 329,000 women and found that people with an earlier age of puberty were more likely to develop MS.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateMar 20, 2019

Taking up the charge to modernize energy grid software

A Lehigh University team led by Frank E. Curtis is developing new algorithms to improve resilience in the Department of Energy's Grid Optimization Competition. The goal is to address complex optimization problems, such as the SCOPF problem, and develop more flexible and resilient grid software.

SourceLehigh University·DateMar 20, 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.

Supercomputer simulations shed light on how liquid drops combine

Researchers used supercomputer simulations to analyze interactions between tiny ripples on droplet surfaces, finding that these waves enable the initial contact and merger of droplets. The study's findings have implications for improving 3D printing technologies and understanding thunderstorm formation.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 20, 2019

North Africans were among the first to colonize the Canary Islands

A new study published in PLOS ONE found that people from North Africa were among the first to colonize the Canary Islands, arriving by 1000 CE. The researchers analyzed ancient mitochondrial genomes and identified lineages consistent with radiocarbon dating evidence, suggesting a complex and heterogeneous process of colonization.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 20, 2019

Protein BRCA1 as a stress coach

Researchers discovered BRCA1 protein helps neuroblastoma cells cope with stress by opening a side track for repair. This mechanism enables tumours to grow rapidly despite DNA damage.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalNature·DateMar 20, 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.

Local extinction of Southern California mountain lions possible within 50 years

Two isolated mountain lion populations in southern California are threatened by low genetic diversity and mortality, which can be addressed through conservation strategies focused on connectivity and coexistence. Research suggests that connecting these populations could help prevent extinction within the next 50 years.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalEcological Applications·DateMar 20, 2019