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Science News Archive March 2019 - Page 25


Page 25 of 43

Machine learning sheds light on the biology of toxin exposure

A machine learning approach using high-quality animal model data sheds new light on the biology of the liver and kidneys after toxin exposure, revealing nine distinct patterns of response to chemical exposure that may be broadly relevant to studies of human disease. The analysis highlights defense mechanisms and novel biomarkers, provi...

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalMolecular Systems Biology·DateMar 14, 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.

Duplicate or mirror?

Scientists have discovered that the direction of laser light hitting a molecule determines its chiral form. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient production of molecules with uniform chirality for pharmaceuticals. The research was conducted using the planar formic acid molecule and the reaction microscope method.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 14, 2019

Research demonstrates how immunotherapy may be effective for fighting TB

New research from the University of Notre Dame discovers that extracellular vesicles from Mycobacterium tuberculosis-infected cells can activate an immune response against the disease. This approach, when combined with antibiotics, shows promise in treating drug-resistant tuberculosis.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalEMBO Reports·DateMar 14, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Tectonics in the tropics trigger Earth's ice ages, study finds

Researchers have identified tropical tectonic pileups as the likely trigger for three major ice ages in the last 540 million years. The team found that these collisions caused a chemical reaction between rocks and the atmosphere, pulling carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere and leading to cooling temperatures globally.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateMar 14, 2019

Tobacco control policies linked to reduced smoking

A new study found that increased tobacco taxes and smoke-free policies in European countries were significantly related to a reduction in smoking among older adults. The association was particularly strong among those between 50 and 65 years old and those with lower levels of education.

SourceWiley·JournalAddiction·DateMar 14, 2019

'Tingle' wearable device improves position tracking accuracy utilizing thermal sensors

A new study published in npj Digital Medicine found that a wearable tracking device called Tingle achieves higher accuracy in position tracking using thermal sensors. The device was able to distinguish between behaviors directed toward six different locations on the head, potentially aiding in the diagnosis and management of conditions...

SourceThe Child Mind Institute·Journalnpj Digital Medicine·DateMar 14, 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.

Mental health issues increased significantly in young adults over last decade

The percentage of young Americans experiencing mental health disorders rose significantly between 2005 and 2017, but remained stable for older adults. The study suggests that increased digital media use may be contributing to the trend, particularly among teens and young adults.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Abnormal Psychology·DateMar 14, 2019

Traffic accidents involving moose are 13 times more likely to result in human death

Motor vehicle collisions involving moose are 13 times more likely to result in human fatalities compared to deer crashes, a study found. The study analyzed data from northern New England and noted that moose-motor vehicle crashes often involve head, neck, and face injuries due to the animal's massive size and weight.

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateMar 14, 2019

Tracking turtles with telemetry

Scientists developed a unique model that can predict Eastern Pacific leatherback turtles' location along the coast of Central and South America. The model aims to reduce bycatch mortality of this critically endangered species.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Center for Environmental Science·JournalEcosphere·DateMar 14, 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.

The genetics of regeneration

A team of researchers from Harvard University has discovered genetic switches that control the process of whole-body regeneration in animals. Using three-banded panther worms, they found that a non-coding DNA section activates a 'master control gene' called early growth response (EGR), which controls various processes by switching othe...

SourceHarvard University·JournalScience·DateMar 14, 2019

Drug could alleviate side effects of chemo for breast cancer patients

Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine have discovered a method to forecast which breast cancer patients will experience heart problems from trastuzumab, a commonly used chemotherapy drug. A class of medications already approved by the FDA may mitigate these side effects.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalCirculation·DateMar 14, 2019

Early menopause in smokers linked to bladder cancer

Research links early menopause to increased bladder cancer risk, particularly in smokers. The study found that women who went into menopause before the age of 45 were 45% more likely to develop bladder cancer than those who had later menopause.

SourceEuropean Association of Urology·DateMar 14, 2019

Review of the recent advances of 2D nanomaterials in Lit-ion batteries

Researchers summarize recent advances in 2D nanomaterials for electrodes in lithium-ion batteries, showcasing their high electrochemical and mechanical properties. The review highlights the potential of 2D nanomaterials as anodes and cathodes, with applications in high-performance energy storage devices.

SourceWorld Scientific·JournalNANO·DateMar 14, 2019
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.

Are we at the limits of measuring water-repellent surfaces

The contact angle method, used for over two centuries, is being called into question due to its dependence on camera accuracy and subjective decisions. Newer methods that measure adhesion or friction forces are proposed as a solution, offering lower errors and more relevant physical terms.

SourceAalto University·JournalScience·DateMar 14, 2019

IVF birthweights increased over 25 years

A study of 3000 IVF births found average birthweight increased by 180g, despite low initial risks. Embryo freezing may mitigate this risk, suggesting a lower health impact on newer IVF children.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalHuman Reproduction·DateMar 14, 2019

Sea quark surprise reveals deeper complexity in proton spin puzzle

The latest data from the STAR experiment at RHIC show that different flavors of antiquarks contribute differently to proton spin, with up antiquark spins making a greater contribution than down antiquark spins. This result provides new insights into the proton spin puzzle and reveals a more complex picture than previously thought.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review D·DateMar 14, 2019

New SDSU study examines role of sea urchins on California kelp

A new SDSU study reveals that California sheephead and spiny lobsters play a crucial role in controlling sea urchin populations in Southern California kelp forests. The research provides valuable insights into the complex predator-prey relationships in these ecosystems, which are essential for maintaining the health of kelp forests.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalEcology·DateMar 14, 2019

New research unlocking the secrets of how languages change

Researchers studying Nicaraguan Sign Language find that signs don't move towards the face to be easier to understand. The study uses machine learning and computer vision techniques to analyze language change over 40 years, shedding light on how languages evolve.

SourceRochester Institute of Technology·DateMar 14, 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.

BU: Central American kidney disease epidemic linked to occupational heat exposure

A new study finds that occupational heat exposure is linked to a decline in kidney function and chronic kidney disease (CKD) in artisanal brick makers in Nicaragua. The researchers found 12.1% of the sample had stage 3-5 CKD, with risk factors including operating ovens, less education, older age, and inadequate water intake.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Kidney Diseases·DateMar 14, 2019

Exotic 'second sound' phenomenon observed in pencil lead

Scientists have observed a new mode of heat transport in graphite, known as second sound, which behaves like sound when moving through the material. At temperatures above 80K, heat travels through graphite as a wave, cooling points instantly and carrying heat away at close to the speed of sound.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateMar 14, 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.

Diet-induced changes favor innovation in speech sounds

A study by an international team led by researchers at the University of Zurich found that diet-induced changes in the human bite resulted in new speech sounds, contradicting the theory of a fixed range of human sounds. This shift allowed for the rise of labiodentals, such as the sound 'f', in modern languages.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalScience·DateMar 14, 2019

IQ a better predictor of adult economic success than math

A new study published in PLOS ONE suggests that IQ is a better indicator of adult wealth than math skills for very preterm and very low-weight babies. The research followed over 400 children born in Bavaria, Germany, from birth to adulthood and found that IQ was a stronger predictor of life course economic success.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee at Knoxville·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 14, 2019

New method to reduce uranium concentration in contaminated water

Researchers propose a novel method for reducing uranium concentration in contaminated water by utilizing amidoxime-functionalized ordered mesoporous silica SBA-15. The results show high U(VI) sorption capacities and selectivity, as well as effective regeneration and reuse after six cycles.

SourceWorld Scientific·JournalNANO·DateMar 14, 2019

Charting 8,000 years of Iberian genomic history

Researchers have reconstructed an 8,000-year genetic history of the Iberian Peninsula using ancient DNA from over 270 individuals. The study reveals complex population structures and unexpected interactions with North Africa and the Pontic-Caspian steppe.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMar 14, 2019
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.

CRF research to be presented at ACC.19

Research from the Cardiovascular Research Foundation will present latest data on PCI, imaging technologies, and TAVR at ACC.19. The study found that treatment with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or receptor blockers affects revascularization after percutaneous coronary intervention.

SourceCardiovascular Research Foundation·DateMar 14, 2019

Accelerating advances for HIV-positive youth in Eastern Cape, South Africa

The study found that high parenting support, government cash transfers, and safe schools were associated with positive outcomes for targets in at least three Sustainable Development Goals. The UN's development approach was validated as an effective solution to maximize positive policy impacts.

SourceUniversity of the Witwatersrand·JournalThe Lancet Child & Adolescent Health·DateMar 14, 2019

Noninvasive ultrasound stimulation of spleen could lead to new treatments for inflammatory arthritis

Researchers have discovered that noninvasive daily ultrasound stimulation of the spleen in mice with inflammatory arthritis results in significantly less joint swelling compared to untreated mice. The study is a first step towards developing new treatment options for rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease affecting millions of peo...

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 14, 2019

Green tea cuts obesity, health risks in mice

A new study published in the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry found that green tea extract reduced weight gain and inflammation in mice fed a high-fat diet. The researchers also discovered improved gut health, including more beneficial microbes and less permeability in the intestinal wall. These findings suggest that green tea may h...

SourceOhio State University·JournalThe Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry·DateMar 14, 2019

Engineering treatments for the opioid epidemic

A biomedical engineer is developing a therapeutic option that would prevent the opiates from crossing the blood-brain barrier, preventing the high abusers seek. The treatment involves generating an anti-opioid antibody that will arrest the drug in circulation and prevent it from getting to the brain.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·DateMar 14, 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.

Soft drink companies copy tobacco playbook to lure young users

A UCSF study reveals that soft drink companies copied tobacco's playbook to attract young users. The research found that executives from R.J. Reynolds and Philip Morris used similar strategies to promote sweetened beverages, including child-focused marketing tactics and flavors, after selling their tobacco brands.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalThe BMJ·DateMar 14, 2019

Non-invasive imaging technique valid for identifying small airway disease in lung

A non-invasive imaging biomarker called Parametric Response Mapping (PRM) can identify small airway damage in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). This technique measures lung density during inhalation and exhalation, helping to predict patients who will lose lung function.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateMar 14, 2019
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.

Engineering living 'scaffolds' for building materials

Engineered living materials use living cells as scaffolds to create composite materials with unprecedented control and versatility. The team engineered a bacterium to attach nanomaterials to its cell surface, creating stable hybrid living materials with emergent properties.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalACS Synthetic Biology·DateMar 14, 2019

Wild African ape reactions to novel camera traps

Researchers found that bonobos reacted more strongly to camera traps than chimpanzees, while younger apes were more curious and explored them longer. The study highlights the need for scientists to consider animal responses to unfamiliar monitoring equipment in their natural habitats.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 14, 2019

When is best time to get flu shot? Analysis compares scenarios

A University of Pittsburgh analysis reveals that waiting until October to get flu shots may save thousands of lives. The study found that compressed vaccination periods starting in October can prevent up to 22,062 cases of flu and save as many as 258 lives compared to status quo vaccination timing.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateMar 14, 2019

Scientists crack genome of superfood seaweed, ito-mozuku

Researchers at the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University have decoded the genome of the popular Japanese brown seaweed ito-mozuku. The study reveals genes that drive up fucoidan production, a substance with potential health benefits, and provides data that could aid in farming.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 14, 2019

Converting biomass by applying mechanical force

Researchers at the University of Münster have identified a new reaction mechanism for converting biomass into fuels and chemicals using mechanical force. The mechano-catalytic reaction reduces energy requirements and eliminates unnecessary steps, leading to a more efficient and environmentally friendly process.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateMar 14, 2019
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.

Poor pitch singing could be a matter of the tune in your head

University at Buffalo researchers found a relationship between sub-vocalization, auditory imagery, and poor pitch singing accuracy. Sub-vocalization, or silent muscle movements of the face and larynx, may be a counterproductive strategy for singers, leading to inaccuracy.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalPsychophysiology·DateMar 14, 2019

Negative emotions can reduce our capacity to trust

A study found that negative emotions suppress trust by disrupting brain activity and connectivity in key social cognition regions. Negative affect also impairs the strength of connections between these regions, predicting lower levels of trust.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 14, 2019

Brain wave stimulation may improve Alzheimer's symptoms

Researchers found that a unique combination of light and sound improved cognitive and memory impairments similar to those seen in Alzheimer's patients. The treatment also greatly reduced amyloid plaques in the brains of mice, clearing large swaths of critical brain areas.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalCell·DateMar 14, 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.

How a mitochondrial enzyme can trigger cell death

Researchers discovered that cytochrome c binds to specific membrane domains and regulates the oxidation of cardiolipin, a key player in apoptosis. This finding could lead to new drug targets for treating neurodegenerative diseases like Huntington's disease.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalStructure·DateMar 14, 2019

What makes a cell turn cancerous?

Retinoblastoma arises from abnormal proliferation of cone cells due to a tumor-suppressing gene mutation. Dr. Cobrinik's research aims to understand how RB mutations affect cone cells, which could lead to new cancer therapies.

SourceChildren's Hospital Los Angeles·DateMar 14, 2019

Astronomers discover 83 supermassive black holes in the early universe

A team of astronomers has discovered 83 quasars powered by supermassive black holes in the early Universe, increasing the number of known black holes at that epoch. The survey reveals the average spacing between supermassive black holes is a billion light-years, providing insights into their origin.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateMar 13, 2019

It's not your fault -- Your brain is self-centered

A study published in Psychological Science found that our brains automatically prioritize self-referential stimuli, such as our names or faces, over random information. This 'self-referential bias' can drive decisions and behaviors, potentially leading to selfish outcomes.

SourceDuke University·JournalPsychological Science·DateMar 13, 2019
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.

Protected areas could help large herbivores bounce back after war

A new study reveals that protected areas can help large herbivores rapidly recover from war-induced declines. The study found that total biomass has substantially recovered since 1994, but species composition has shifted dramatically, with formerly dominant herbivores now outnumbered by smaller antelopes.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 13, 2019