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Science News Archive May 2019 - Page 23


Page 23 of 42

GW researcher seeks to improve diagnostic utility of neonatal EEGs

Researchers at George Washington University are developing a non-invasive diagnostic tool for newborn brain injury using electroencephalography (EEG). The team, led by Matthew Colonnese, aims to improve the interpretation and understanding of EEG in neonates, both preterm and term.

SourceGeorge Washington University·DateMay 15, 2019

3D images reveal how infants' heads change shape during birth

Researchers captured detailed images of infants' skulls and brains before and during delivery using 3D MRI, finding that fetal head molding occurs in all seven infants, with different parts of the skull overlapping. The study suggests that infants experience greater skull stresses during birth than previously thought, potentially under...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 15, 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.

How climate change will affect the rural northeast: Expect three weeks of heat

By 2060, rural Northeast counties will experience record-breaking heat for three weeks a year, with those in low-income areas most affected. The study finds that vulnerable counties will see a decline in population while the poor population grows, highlighting the need for heat adaptation strategies.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalAnnals of the American Association of Geographers·DateMay 15, 2019

A new way of diagnosing and treating disease -- without cutting skin

Researchers at the University of British Columbia have developed a specialized microscope that can diagnose diseases like skin cancer and perform precise surgery without cutting skin. The technology uses ultrafast infrared lasers to scan tissue quickly and selectively treat diseased structures.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 15, 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.

What are the neurological side effects of CAR T-cell therapy?

A study by Brigham and Women's Hospital found that 77% of patients experienced at least one neurological symptom after CAR-T treatment, which were often temporary. The symptoms included encephalopathy, headache, tremor, weakness, and language dysfunction, with most effects being reversible.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalBrain·DateMay 15, 2019

How loud is too loud when it comes to sports whistles?

A new CDC study cautions that sports whistles used by referees, coaches, and others are a risk factor for hearing loss. The study measured the acoustic signature of 13 whistle brands, finding sound levels between 100-120 decibels, which can exceed safe daily exposure within just a few seconds.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateMay 15, 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.

Cellular rivalry promotes healthy skin development

In a recent study, Rockefeller scientists found that skin cells in mice engage in two forms of competition, one during early embryonic development and the other before birth. Loser cells are eliminated by winners, promoting healthy tissue development. Disrupting this process leads to slower skin development and reduced barrier function.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalNature·DateMay 15, 2019

On the way to fighting staph infections with the body's immune system

Researchers have discovered that gamma/delta T cells are the specific cells mediating the mouse's defense against Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infection. In a study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, researchers identified V gamma 6/Vdelta 4+ gamma/delta T cells as the key players in this response.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 15, 2019

Major questions concerning the role of microscopic life and our future

A recent study explores the role of microscopic life in shaping the Earth's evolution and its impact on climate change. Microorganisms have been instrumental in creating a hospitable climate for human growth, but their responses to global warming pose significant threats.

SourceAlfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research·JournalNature Reviews Microbiology·DateMay 15, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Blood flow command center discovered in the brain

A team of researchers from Australia, France, New Zealand, and the UK have discovered a group of brain cells that function as a 'master-controller' for the cardiovascular system. These cells, found in the medulla oblongata, coordinate activity across the cardiovascular system, including blood flow to the heart and blood vessels.

SourceMacquarie University·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·DateMay 15, 2019

Neanderthals and modern humans diverged at least 800,000 years ago

A new study has found that Neanderthals and modern humans diverged at least 800,000 years ago, contradicting previous estimates of around 300,000-500,000 years. The research used dental evolutionary rates to analyze early Neanderthal fossils from Sima de los Huesos, Spain.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 15, 2019

Scientists suss out the secrets of human screams

Human screams exhibit a wide range of acoustic factors, including high pitch and roughness, which can vary in emotional context. The study's findings suggest that humans may use different-sounding screams in various situations, warranting further investigation into their interpretation.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateMay 15, 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.

New AI sees like a human, filling in the blanks

Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin developed an AI agent that can gather visual information and reconstruct a full 360-degree image of its surroundings. The agent uses deep learning to choose the most informative shots, similar to how humans would take pictures in different directions based on prior experience.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalScience Robotics·DateMay 15, 2019

Optimizing device implantation in patients with atrial fibrillation and risk of stroke

Researchers developed a web-based platform to optimize left atrial appendage occluder device therapies for patients with atrial fibrillation and stroke risk. The VIDAA platform combines biophysical models, interactive interfaces, and computational simulations to identify optimal device configurations and positioning strategies.

SourceUniversitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateMay 15, 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.

Weight loss medicines underutilized by veterans

A new study found that weight loss medications are extremely lowly used among eligible veterans, with only about one percent receiving treatment. Barriers such as insurance coverage, age, and ethnicity drive underuse of these medications, highlighting the need for additional research to better understand obstacles.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalObesity·DateMay 15, 2019

Hearing device separates simultaneous voices, amplifies the 'target' speaker

Researchers developed a system that automatically separates audio from different speakers in a crowded environment and compares these voices to the listener's brainwaves. This allows the voice of the speaker who is the center of the listener's attention to sound louder.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 15, 2019
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.

Jawless fish take a bite out of the blood-brain barrier

Researchers developed molecules from the immune system of a parasitic sea lamprey that can deliver anti-cancer drugs directly to brain tumors. The matrix-targeting strategy allows drugs to accumulate in the extracellular matrix, sidestepping cell membrane problems and potentially increasing therapeutic doses.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 15, 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.

Software locates sugarcane genes of interest

Brazilian researchers developed a software program called Polyploid Gene Assembler (PGA) to map specific portions of plant DNA, saving at least two orders of magnitude compared to mapping the whole genome. The technique uses publicly available data from related grasses to locate genes of interest for plant breeders.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalDNA Research·DateMay 15, 2019

End-of-career transitions for older surgeons

The article focuses on supporting an aging workforce while ensuring patient safety during end-of-career transitions. It emphasizes the need to balance continuity of care with workforce sustainability.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateMay 15, 2019

rTMS improves memory in younger and older adults

Researchers found that rTMS improved working memory performance in both young and older adults, with the effect most pronounced when participants were actively using the information. The study suggests that brain stimulation may be a viable treatment option for individuals with Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia.

SourceDuke Department of Neurology·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 15, 2019

Quantum cloud computing with self-check

Researchers at IQOQI have developed a new method for quantum simulation that uses a programmable ion trap quantum computer with 20 quantum bits. This allows for complex simulations to be performed efficiently and accurately.

SourceUniversity of Innsbruck·JournalNature·DateMay 15, 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.

Big data helps identify better way to research breast cancer's spread

Researchers analyzed large volumes of genomic data to determine better research models to fight breast cancer's spread. They found substantial differences between lab-created cell lines and actual advanced tumor samples, with some cell lines showing little genomic similarities to patient tumor samples.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 15, 2019

Magic numbers make nickel nucleus stronger

The team found that the special nickel nucleus (78Ni) is more stable and rigid than other isotopes with similar numbers of neutrons. This discovery challenges current understanding of nuclear physics and has implications for our understanding of matter's origin.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature·DateMay 15, 2019

Chewing gums reveal the oldest Scandinavian human DNA

Researchers discovered oldest Scandinavian human DNA in ancient chewing gums, providing a link between material culture and genetics. The study sheds light on the genetic composition of early Mesolithic populations from Scandinavia.

SourceStockholm University·JournalCommunications Biology·DateMay 15, 2019

Toy transformers and real-life whales inspire biohybrid robot

Researchers at Dartmouth College and City University of Hong Kong developed a swimming robot with a light-controlled cellular engine that can perform highly-targeted drug delivery. The biohybrid device transforms its shape when exposed to skin-penetrating near-infrared light, allowing it to drive and brake through fluid environments.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalSmall·DateMay 15, 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.

Researchers block protein that plays a key role in Alzheimer's disease

A study by Lund University researchers shows that blocking the galectin-3 protein reduces Alzheimer's plaque and inflammation in mice. The protein is also involved in Parkinson's disease and stroke inflammation. Inhibiting galectin-3 with inhibitors can reduce its effects, offering potential treatment avenues.

SourceLund University·JournalActa Neuropathologica·DateMay 15, 2019

Coherent? Voice disorders significantly affect listeners, too

Researchers found speakers with voice disorders showed a tenfold increase in speech intelligibility errors compared to healthy speakers. Listeners also struggled with understanding words, especially those with 'breathiness' quality in their voices.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalJournal of Voice·DateMay 15, 2019

New surface treatment could improve refrigeration efficiency

Researchers at MIT have developed a new surface treatment that can improve the efficiency of refrigeration systems. By promoting droplet formation, the coating facilitates heat transfer, leading to an overall efficiency improvement of about 2%. The process is scalable and can be applied to various materials, making it a promising solut...

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJoule·DateMay 15, 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.

Robot therapists need rules

The use of embodied AI in psychiatry raises concerns about access, effectiveness, and social effects. While AI applications have enormous potential, urgent action is needed to establish guidelines and regulations.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·DateMay 15, 2019

How egg cells choose their best powerhouses to pass on

Researchers studied how egg cells in fruit flies choose the healthiest mitochondria to pass on. They found that mitochondrial selection is triggered by a drop in Mitofusin levels, allowing for the elimination of faulty mitochondria.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalNature·DateMay 15, 2019

How a new father views his relationship with his partner

A new study found that first-time fathers feel closer to their mothers as co-parents and romantic partners when they believe they have her confidence in child care. The researchers used data from the New Parents Project, which investigated how dual-earner couples adjust to becoming parents for the first time.

SourceOhio State University·JournalFamily Process·DateMay 15, 2019

New whistle alerts bats to steer clear of wind turbines

Researchers from Texas A&M University have developed a biomimetic whistle that uses bat's natural echolocation to deter bats from flying into wind turbine blades. The device, mounted on turbine blades, produces an ultrasonic sound detectable by bats at distances of up to 100 meters.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateMay 15, 2019

As bumblebee diets narrow, ours could too

A new study reveals that bumblebees' dietary needs are crucial for their development and the production of favorite foods like tomatoes, blueberries, and strawberries. The loss of plant diversity can lead to developmental delays and stress on queens, ultimately affecting colony growth.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalEnvironmental Entomology·DateMay 15, 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.

Membrane madness: The ins and outs of moving materials through the cell

New research reveals distinct features of membrane channels in skeletal and heart muscle cells, shedding light on the mechanisms behind inherited arrhythmias and providing a promising avenue for targeted drug development. The study also highlights the vital role of phosphatidylethanolamine in mitochondrial energy production.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 15, 2019

SAEM 2019:Gun safety, over testing and more

At SAEM 2019, experts like Rebecca Cunningham emphasized the need for gun safety beyond 'gun control', focusing on injury prevention. Meanwhile, a study found opportunities to reduce over-testing in emergency departments through data analysis and targeted quality improvement initiatives.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·DateMay 15, 2019

From Earth's deep mantle, scientists find a new way volcanoes form

Geoscientists have found evidence that material from the transition zone in Earth's mantle can percolate to the surface to form volcanoes. This discovery provides a new understanding of the relationship between the transition zone and volcanism, with implications for global geodynamics and the evolution of our planet.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature·DateMay 15, 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.

Iceland volcano eruption in 1783-84 did not spawn extreme heat wave

A Rutgers-led study found that the massive Laki volcano eruption in Iceland did not lead to an extreme summer heat wave in Europe. Instead, it caused unusually cold winters due to natural climate variability and high-pressure systems. The eruption also had devastating effects on Iceland's livestock and human populations.

SourceRutgers University·DateMay 15, 2019

'Striking' differences in rates of HIV/AIDS within African nations

A new study reveals striking variation in HIV prevalence across African countries, with some areas experiencing over a 5-fold difference in numbers of people infected. The study's findings highlight the need for targeted interventions to address persistent high infection rates in sub-Saharan Africa.

SourceInstitute for Health Metrics and Evaluation·JournalNature·DateMay 15, 2019

The Lancet Global Health: 1 in 7 babies worldwide born with a low birthweight

The study found that over 20 million babies were born with a low birthweight (less than 2500g) in 2015, with almost three-quarters of these babies born in Southern Asia and sub-Saharan Africa. The authors call for immediate action to tackle underlying causes of low birthweight and ensure clinical care for small babies.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Global Health·DateMay 15, 2019