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Science News Archive May 2019 - Page 7


Page 7 of 42

How stress leads to Facebook addiction

A study by Ruhr-University Bochum found that daily stress levels are positively correlated with Facebook engagement and addiction risk. Users who receive little offline social support are most at risk of developing a pathological dependence on the platform.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalPsychiatry Research·DateMay 28, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

All ears: Genetic bases of mammalian inner ear evolution

A team of scientists has identified two new genes, STRIP2 and ABLIM2, involved in the evolution of the inner ear in mammals. These findings highlight the promise of evolutionary studies to pinpoint novel key functional genes.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateMay 28, 2019

Why parents should teach their kids to give

Researchers found that hands-on experience with giving can contribute to children's financial literacy and long-term well-being. Teaching kids to give can also promote a sense of generosity and improve relationships.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalJournal of Family and Economic Issues·DateMay 28, 2019

Lost in translation: The medium is the message for a healthy heartbeat

A recent study published in Cell Reports reveals how a genetic message to produce healthy heart tissue is altered during stress and aging, contributing to sudden cardiac death. The discovery allows for the potential development of targeted therapies to help people at risk of arrhythmias and heart attacks.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalCell Reports·DateMay 28, 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.

New mutations for herbicide resistance rarer than expected, study finds

Researchers found no herbicide-resistant mutants among over 70 million grain amaranth seeds, indicating a very low mutation rate. The study suggests that low-level herbicide application does not contribute to the onset of new mutations conferring resistance.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalWeed Science·DateMay 28, 2019

The discovery of acoustic spin

Researchers observe acoustic spin in airborne sound waves, leading to new physics and applications for emerging topics in fundamental physics and acoustics. The discovery enables the control of particle rotation with torque and holds promise for acoustic communication.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateMay 28, 2019

Thai dinosaur is a cousin of T. rex

Scientists at the University of Bonn have identified two new dinosaur species in Thailand, both distant relatives of T. rex. The creatures were efficient predators with a more primitive structure than their tyrannosaur cousin.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalActa Palaeontologica Polonica·DateMay 28, 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.

Stiffening arteries in teenagers with persistent obesity

A study of over 3,000 children followed from age 9 to 17 found that those with persistent obesity experience increased arterial stiffness, a clear sign of atherosclerosis. The researchers emphasize the importance of normalizing fat mass and improving metabolic health in this age group.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalThe Lancet Child & Adolescent Health·DateMay 28, 2019

3D printed artificial corneas similar to human ones

Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology developed an artificial cornea using 3D printing technology, replicating the human corneal structure. The cornea is made from decellularized corneal stroma and stem cells, offering transparency similar to the human cornea.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalBiofabrication·DateMay 28, 2019

Robert A. Holman selected as Fellow of The Oceanography Society

Dr. Robert A. Holman's work on developing remote sensing tools and advancing coastal understanding earned him Fellow status from The Oceanography Society. His sustained leadership enabled the nearshore community to collectively advance oceanography and coastal engineering questions.

SourceThe Oceanography Society·DateMay 28, 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.

Factors associated with elephant poaching

African elephant populations are stabilizing in some regions, with poaching rates falling from 10% to 4% between 2011 and 2017. Corruption and poverty drive poaching, suggesting efforts to reduce ivory demand may be more effective than law enforcement alone.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 28, 2019

Cranberries join forces with antibiotics to fight bacteria

A new study has found that cranberry extract makes bacteria more sensitive to antibiotics, reducing resistance and allowing for lower doses to be effective. This breakthrough could help combat the growing threat of antibiotic resistance.

SourceMcGill University·JournalAdvanced Science·DateMay 28, 2019

Does being seen really make cyclists safer on the road?

Researchers found motorists give more room to cyclists wearing high-visibility vests, but visibility aids alone cannot ensure sustainable safety. Gordon Lovegrove proposes combining visual reinforcement with driver education in safety apparel to curb accidents.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalSustainability·DateMay 28, 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.

Stem cell identity unmasked by single cell sequencing technology

Researchers used single-cell RNA sequencing to identify genes expressed by each cell in the aorta, grouping them into separate populations based on gene expression profiles. This allowed for accurate distinction between stem cells and other blood vessel cells, providing key insights into their identity.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalCell Reports·DateMay 28, 2019

You're having a heart attack; why not ask for help?

A study of 326 patients with acute myocardial infarction found that a perceived inability to act and inaccurate symptom appraisal were common factors contributing to delayed care-seeking. These patients often reported feelings of paralysis, fear, or anxiety, which can be addressed through education and awareness campaigns.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Journal of Cardiovascular Nursing·DateMay 28, 2019

Stem cell study determines most harmful vape liquids

Researchers used stem cells to investigate the impact of e-liquids on cardiovascular disease, revealing that cinnamon and menthol flavors are the most toxic. The study found that acute exposure to flavored e-liquids worsens endothelial dysfunction, which often precedes cardiovascular diseases.

SourceUniversity of Arizona Health Sciences·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateMay 28, 2019

Lifting the lid on bladder cancer support

A new urology care model developed by Flinders University focuses on supporting bladder cancer patients' partners and family, addressing their daily impacts and needs. Health professionals can capitalize on this by providing clear information, counseling, and support to manage the shock, fear, and treatment of bladder cancer.

SourceFlinders University·JournalCancer Nursing·DateMay 28, 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.

Researchers find 28% of 35- to 50-year-old men studied are at-risk for osteoporosis

A recent study published in the Journal of the American Osteopathic Association found that 28% of men and 26% of women between 35 and 50 years old have osteopenia, a precursor to osteoporosis. This finding suggests that middle-aged adults can benefit from bone health assessments to understand their risk of osteoporosis.

SourceAmerican Osteopathic Association·JournalThe Journal of the American Osteopathic Association·DateMay 28, 2019

Scientists revisit the cold case of cold fusion

A team of scientists from top universities and Google is investigating cold fusion, a type of benign nuclear reaction that could offer an attractive option for decarbonizing the global energy system. The research collaboration has produced promising new insights into metal-hydrogen interactions and has not yet found evidence of the phe...

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalNature·DateMay 28, 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.

Domino effect of species extinctions also damages biodiversity

Researchers found that considering mutual dependencies between species increases the number of threatened species due to climate change. In Mediterranean regions, this effect is particularly high, with up to three times the predicted local extinctions when considering co-extinction.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 28, 2019

Study finds how prostate cancer cells mimic bone when they metastasize

Researchers at Duke University Medical Center discovered how prostate cancer cells develop to mimic bone-forming cells, enabling proliferation in the bone microenvironment. This understanding could lead to more effective use of radium-233 and development of new therapies to treat or prevent prostate cancer spread to bone.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 28, 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.

'Loser effect' evolves separate from fighting ability

Researchers found that male broad-horned flour beetles selectively bred for shorter loser effects still didn't improve their fighting prowess. The study suggests a disconnect between the duration of the loser effect and actual fighting ability, with animals using past experience to decide whether to engage in behavior.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·DateMay 28, 2019

Severe air pollution can cause birth defects, deaths

A Texas A&M University study found that particulate matter in the atmosphere can cause birth defects, fatalities, and damage to organs in adult rats. High levels of fine particulate matter were detected in Asia, Houston, and Los Angeles, posing a significant health risk to millions worldwide.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 28, 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.

Inhibitory neurons have two types of impact on brain oscillations

Researchers studied inhibitory neurons' impact on brain oscillations using computer models. They found that these neurons can delay or facilitate the onset of synchronization, which is crucial for understanding brain diseases like Alzheimer's and epilepsy.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal B·DateMay 28, 2019

Light at night is harmful for amphibians, new research shows

Research from Binghamton University finds that exposure to light at night can decrease hatching success in tadpoles and make them more susceptible to additional stressors like road salt pollution and parasites. The study suggests that combining light pollution with other stressors may have negative impacts on amphibian populations.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·DateMay 28, 2019

Synthetic version of CBD treats seizures in rats

A synthetic, non-intoxicating analogue of cannabidiol (CBD) has been found to be effective in treating seizures in rats, reducing both frequency and severity with equal efficacy to herbal CBD. This breakthrough offers a safer and more accessible alternative for epilepsy treatment, potentially paving the way for clinical trials.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 28, 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.

Study reveals structure of a 'master switch' controlling cell division

A study has revealed the structure of FoxM1 protein in its inactive state, which could lead to the development of new cancer treatments by stabilizing the protein. This understanding also provides insight into how transcription factors function and switch between active and inactive states.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·DateMay 28, 2019

Using the past to unravel the future for Arctic wetlands

Researchers reconstructed past moisture conditions and vegetation histories to understand how Arctic wetlands have responded to warming temperatures over the last century. The study found that under certain conditions, Arctic wetlands may transition into peatlands, creating new natural carbon storage systems.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateMay 28, 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.

Increase in global fishing fleets

The global fishing fleet increased from 1.7 million to 3.7 million vessels between 1950 and 2015, with a significant expansion in Asia. Meanwhile, catch per unit effort (CPUE) decreased globally, except for Oceania, where it increased.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 27, 2019

Air pollution and organ development

Exposure to fine particulate matter during pregnancy impairs fetal development, leading to smaller organs and metabolic disorders in adulthood. The study highlights the importance of reducing prenatal air pollution exposure to prevent long-term health consequences.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 27, 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.

Trends in ocean carbon sinks

A study examines ocean carbon sinks over two decades, finding they may account for 10-40% of atmospheric CO2 buildup. Current carbon cycle models underestimate sensitivity to climate variability, suggesting inaccurate global carbon budget predictions.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 27, 2019

Major step forward in the production of 'green' hydrogen

Scientists have created a revolutionary new chemical reactor that can produce pure hydrogen as a product stream. The 'hydrogen memory reactor' avoids costly separation of final products by retaining 'chemical memory' of reacting gas conditions, making the process more efficient and environmentally friendly.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalNature Chemistry·DateMay 27, 2019

New causes of autism found in 'junk' DNA

Researchers used machine learning to analyze whole genomes of 1,790 individuals with autism and their unaffected parents and siblings. Noncoding mutations were found to be comparable in number to protein-coding mutations causing gene disablement.

SourceSimons Foundation·JournalNature Genetics·DateMay 27, 2019

Artificial intelligence detects a new class of mutations behind autism

A Princeton University-led team used AI to decode the functional impact of non-coding DNA mutations in people with autism. The researchers analyzed 1,790 family genomes and found thousands of potential genetic contributors. This breakthrough method is applicable to discovering genetic contributions to any disease.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalNature Genetics·DateMay 27, 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.

Group A strep genome research expedites vaccine development efforts

Researchers identified a common gene signature in almost all global Strep A strains through genomic sequencing of thousands of genomes from over 20 countries. This finding has the potential to aid in the development of an effective global vaccine, which could combat the bacterial pathogen responsible for millions of deaths annually.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalNature Genetics·DateMay 27, 2019

Exploring the origins of the apple

Researchers tracing the history of apples from wild origins to domestication reveal that ancient megafauna and Silk Road trade routes played key roles. The modern apple is a hybrid of at least four wild populations, with genetic material originating from the Tien Shan Mountains of Kazakhstan.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Geoanthropology·JournalFrontiers in Plant Science·DateMay 27, 2019

NMR structure of a key anticoagulant protein may help prevent thrombosis

The NMR structure study provides unprecedented insights into the molecular mechanism of Ixolaris' action on Factor Xa, a key enzyme in blood clotting. The results may lead to the development of specific inhibitors that can prevent thrombosis without interfering with other enzymes.

SourceInstituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia de Biologia Estrutural e Bioimagem (INBEB)·JournalBlood·DateMay 27, 2019

Factors in plague transmission

Low-density areas transmitted plague faster than high-density areas due to reduced contact rates, while temperatures below 20° C slowed transmission, while increased precipitation accelerated it. Climate changes may alter the dynamics of plague transmission.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 27, 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.