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Science News Archive November 2019


Page 1 of 41

World-first studies reveal occurrence of 'chew and spit' eating behaviour

A large-scale study has found a significant prevalence of 'chew and spit' eating behaviour among adolescent teenagers, with 12.2% of respondents reporting the behaviour. The study also links chew-and-spit to increased psychological distress, lower health-related quality of life, and associated disordered eating habits.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalEating Disorders·DateNov 30, 2019

Armored with plastic 'hair' and silica, new perovskite nanocrystals show more durability

Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology developed a novel approach to improve perovskite nanocrystal durability by encasing them in a plastic and silica double-layer protection system. The new method enables high-quality, complex architecture perovskites with controlled dimensions and surface chemistry, unlocking potential for v...

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 29, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

No kale left behind: A new supple management method to limit perishable waste

Researchers at University of Toronto's Rotman School of Management devised a new method to manage perishable inventory, cutting costs by up to 27%. The single most effective strategy is shortening lead time between receiving an order and delivering it, reducing costs for suppliers in the food retail industry.

SourceUniversity of Toronto, Rotman School of Management·JournalProduction and Operations Management·DateNov 29, 2019

New study reveals high levels of pollution on London Underground

Researchers from King's College London have found that fine particles (PM2.5) on the London Underground are significantly higher than in other modes of transport, posing a health risk to commuters. The study suggests that certain stations, such as Oxford Circus and London Bridge, require interventions to reduce exposure.

SourceKing's College London·JournalEnvironment International·DateNov 29, 2019

Sounds of the past give new hope for coral reef restoration

Researchers found that playing healthy reef sounds through loudspeakers in dead coral patches doubled fish arrival and increased species diversity by 50%. This 'acoustic enrichment' method could help kick-start natural recovery processes on damaged coral reefs.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 29, 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.

Study pinpoints barriers to preventive care for people at high risk for HIV

A study published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine found that many high-risk individuals eligible for HIV preventive medication face knowledge gaps, attitudinal roadblocks, and placement of responsibility on patients, leading to low access rates. The researchers recommend increased primary care access and educational initiat...

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateNov 29, 2019

NASA-NOAA satellite analyzes a strengthening Typhoon Kammuri

Typhoon Kammuri continues to strengthen with a noticeable increase in its central dense overcast (CDO), indicating some strengthening of the storm. The storm's maximum sustained winds have increased to 85 mph, and it is forecast to make landfall in the central and northern Philippines on Dec. 3.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 29, 2019

Paleontologists identify new group of pterosaurs

Researchers describe an extremely well-preserved pterosaur specimen from the Afro-Arabian continent, shedding light on the evolutionary history of these creatures. The study suggests that this type of pterosaur likely fed on crustaceans and lived in shallow marine waters during the Late Cretaceous period.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 29, 2019

New evolutionary insights into the early development of songbirds

Researchers at Uppsala University sequenced a chromosome in zebra finches called the germline-restricted chromosome (GRC), finding it tens of millions of years old and crucial for songbird biology. The GRC plays a key role in early embryonic development and protects somatic cells from negative effects.

SourceUppsala University·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 29, 2019

SUTD-led research sets the groundwork for patient-specific 3D printed meniscus

The study developed a comprehensive computational model of an intact knee joint to analyze the biomechanical response of soft-tissues under different meniscus conditions. The results suggested that a composite meniscal implant with a shell-core structure performed better than other options, restoring natural joint mechanics.

SourceSingapore University of Technology and Design·JournalIEEE Access·DateNov 29, 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.

Study sheds new light on role iron biology plays in disease

New research from the University of Alberta sheds light on iron biology's role in three human diseases: porphyria, Andersen disease, and Wolfram syndrome. The study finds that a protein called aconitase regulates genes in the nucleus to control iron levels.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 29, 2019

To see the invisible

Researchers found that the retina can receive energy from infrared light at a lower threshold, allowing for improved sensitivity in microperimetry devices. This discovery has the potential to detect functional retinal changes, such as age-related macular degeneration, earlier and better.

SourceInstitute of Physical Chemistry of the Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalBiomedical Optics Express·DateNov 29, 2019

Dietary supplements may delay aging in animal models

Researchers have found that dietary supplements can improve the clean-up process in cells called mitophagy, which breaks down defective mitochondria, thereby delaying aging processes in animal models with Werner Syndrome. This study provides promising results for potential treatments and understanding of the mechanisms of aging.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 29, 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.

Ancient microbes helped to keep Earth's early climate warm

New research suggests ancient microorganisms played a critical role in setting the stage for life on a dimly lit early Earth. These microbes transformed iron into rusty minerals without oxygen and served as a food source for other microbes, producing methane that warmed the planet's atmosphere.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 29, 2019

Smoking may cause white scars on the brain

A new study reveals that scarring in the brain's white matter can affect not only the surrounding areas but also distant parts of the brain. Research by Asta Håberg found that smoking and high blood pressure increase the risk of developing these scars, which can lead to a higher risk of dementia and stroke.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalNeuroImage·DateNov 29, 2019

Providing safe, clean water

Researchers introduce a new water purification method using magnetic nanoparticles coated with an ionic liquid, effectively removing organic, inorganic, and microbial contaminants. The nanoparticles can be easily removed with magnets, making them a promising starting point for decentralized water purification systems.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateNov 29, 2019

Democratic education in populist times

LabSchoolsEurope aims to develop and evaluate methods for dealing with heterogeneity in primary schools, promoting democratic behavior and preventing racism. The project will create multi-lingual practice guidelines, teaching materials, and successfully tested sequences that can be made available online.

SourceBielefeld University·DateNov 29, 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.

Spirituality affects the behavior of mortgagers

Research by Olga Miroshnichenko found that household income and spirituality are linked, with mortgagers who prioritize morality tend to repay loans before maturity. The study analyzed data from the Russian bank sector between 2008-2018, concluding that economic growth and moral values influence mortgage behavior.

SourceUniversity of Tyumen·DateNov 29, 2019

New principle for activation of cancer genes discovered

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet found a new mechanism that renders the MYC gene overactive in cancer cells. The MYC gene is normally controlled by environmental cues and cell architecture, leading to uncontrolled growth.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature Genetics·DateNov 29, 2019

Inter faculty -- Journal of Interdisciplinary Research in Human and Social Sciences, Vol.9

This volume of Inter Faculty Journal examines the phenomena of migration, the complexity of Serbian and Croatian languages, and noun-concluding sentences in Japanese. The research highlights common threads among these studies, including socio-economic factors, governance, and cultural values.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalInternational Academic Journal Faculty of Tourism and Hotel Management·DateNov 29, 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.

Fine-tuning gene expression during stress recovery

Researchers at Hokkaido University found that nuclear stress bodies help cells recover from stress by regulating intron retention, a process essential for gene expression. The discovery sheds light on the mysterious organelles' role in stress response and has implications for understanding various biological functions.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalThe EMBO Journal·DateNov 29, 2019

Elizabeth I identified as author of Tacitus translation

Researchers at Oxford University Press USA argue that Queen Elizabeth I wrote a manuscript translation of Tacitus's Annales, based on unique handwriting styles and paper features. The study provides the first substantial work by Elizabeth I in over a century and sheds light on the politics and culture of the Elizabethan court.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalThe Review of English Studies·DateNov 29, 2019

Immunology: Activation by breakdown

LMU researchers found that a central component of the innate immune response is activated by two short RNAs generated by site-specific cleavage of a precursor RNA molecule, mediated by the same enzyme RNase T2. The activation of one receptor, TLR8, is triggered by binding of these degradation products.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalCell·DateNov 29, 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.

Predicting molecular bond energy by artificial intelligence

Researchers employ neural networks to predict molecular bond energies, reducing computational cost and improving accuracy. The combination of AI and quantum chemistry calculations provides an efficient tool for quickly predicting molecular bond energies in complex systems.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Chemistry·DateNov 28, 2019

Concussion recovery not clear cut for children

Persistent concussion symptoms in children may be a sign of reduced brain function and decreased grey matter, according to researchers at the University of Queensland. The study found that poor sleep was linked to decreases in brain grey matter and reduced brain function, allowing for predictions of recovery outcomes with 86% accuracy.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalAnnals of Clinical and Translational Neurology·DateNov 28, 2019

Australia's got mussels (but it could be a problem)

A new study has found that mussels, introduced to Australia's coastlines, have established themselves and may pose a threat to native species due to genetic pollution. However, the research also suggests that the invasive mussels may bring benefits, such as enhanced tolerance to warm conditions, which could safeguard Australian mussel ...

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalEvolutionary Applications·DateNov 28, 2019

Informed consent for heart procedure: most patients overestimate benefits

A study by the European Society of Cardiology found that most patients do not understand or recall information given to them before heart procedures. Patients often believe that opening blocked arteries can cure their heart disease, despite this being a misconception.

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

The coldest reaction

Researchers at Harvard University have achieved the coldest chemical reaction in history, slowing down molecules to capture the critical act of bond formation. By utilizing ultracold temperatures, they observed the intermediate stage of the reaction for microseconds, enabling direct measurement and validation of theories.

SourceHarvard University·JournalScience·DateNov 28, 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.

Toward more efficient computing, with magnetic waves

MIT researchers have devised a novel circuit design that enables precise control of computing with magnetic waves, without any extra components or electrical current. This approach leverages the spin wave property in magnetic materials to produce measurable output that can be correlated to computation.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateNov 28, 2019

Virtual reality becomes more real

Scientists from Skoltech ADASE lab have developed a method to enhance depth map resolution, enabling more realistic virtual reality and computer graphics. The new approach leverages human perception to assess reconstruction quality, outperforming existing methods in visual quality.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·DateNov 28, 2019

Harvard Wyss Institute researchers demonstrate machine-guided engineering of AAV capsids

Researchers at Harvard's Wyss Institute have developed a high-throughput synthetic biology approach to improve AAV capsid proteins, revealing hidden features and potential new accessory proteins that could help fast-track future gene therapies. The study uses machine-guided design to generate large numbers of high-quality capsid variants.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalScience·DateNov 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.

Illuminating seafloor seismology with existing 'dark' fiber-optic cables

Researchers used existing underwater fiber optic cables to create an array of seismic sensors, mapping a previously unknown fault system off California's coast. The technique, known as Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS), allows for unprecedented detail in monitoring seafloor seismic activity and potential offshore resources.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateNov 28, 2019

Pharmacist-led interventions may help prevent cardiovascular disease

A review of randomized controlled trials found that pharmacist-led interventions, such as medication review and patient education, can help prevent cardiovascular disease. Patients who received these interventions experienced significant reductions in systolic blood pressure, hemoglobin A1c, and LDL-cholesterol levels.

SourceWiley·JournalBritish Journal of Clinical Pharmacology·DateNov 28, 2019
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.

Combine chemical probe resources to optimize biomedical research, scientists urge

A new report recommends that researchers use expert reviews and computational Big Data approaches to select high-quality chemical probes. The report highlights the value of resources like the Chemical Probes Portal, which provides assessments on 192 chemical probes for 181 different proteins of interest.

SourceInstitute of Cancer Research·JournalFuture Medicinal Chemistry·DateNov 28, 2019

Unexpected pattern of fish species richness found in the Amazon Basin

A new study reveals an unusual diversity gradient in the Amazon Basin, with higher species richness in the western portion than expected. The research, led by scientists from France and Brazil, analyzed data from 97 subdrainage basins along the main stem of the Amazon and its tributaries.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 28, 2019

Creating the conditions for a globally just energy transition

A new policy brief highlights the risks of an uneven low-carbon energy transition and provides concrete proposals to prevent such risks. The authors recommend focusing on 'just transitions', accelerating technology transfer initiatives, and coordinating financial flows for energy transitions in developing countries.

SourceResearch Institute for Sustainability (RIFS) – Helmholtz Centre Potsdam·DateNov 28, 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.

Pharmacist-led interventions may help prevent cardiovascular disease

A new study published in the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology found that pharmacist-led interventions can significantly reduce medical risk factors for cardiovascular events. Pharmacist-led interventions included patient education, medication review, and lifestyle modification, resulting in reductions in systolic blood pressure...

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalBritish Journal of Clinical Pharmacology·DateNov 28, 2019

Climate science: Amazon fires may enhance Andean glacier melting

A study found that biomass burning in Amazonia can enhance tropical glaciers in the Andes, with aerosols like black carbon increasing melting by 3-4% or 6%. The impact depends on dust content in snow, highlighting climate pressure from global food demand

SourceScientific Reports·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 28, 2019

An agenda for multidisciplinary cyber risk research

Experts argue that cyber risk requires collaboration across behavioral science, data science, economics, law, management science, and political science. A unified concept model identifies core questions to understand cyber risk and how each field can contribute to its efforts.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateNov 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.

Growing nano-tailored surfaces using micellar brushes

Growing nanoscale polymer brushes on materials' surfaces enables the creation of diverse array of materials with tailored chemical properties. The approach allows for precise control over surface density, length and chemistry, enabling various catalysis and antibacterial applications.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateNov 28, 2019

Additive manufacturing and NI/TI metal bolster cooling technology

A novel elastocaloric cooling material made from nickel-titanium alloy was developed using additive technology, showing high efficiency, ease of scaling-up, and minimal environmental impact. The material demonstrated robust mechanical integrity, withstanding one million cycles without degradation.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalScience·DateNov 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.

Home urine test for prostate cancer could revolutionize diagnosis

A new home urine test has shown to accurately diagnose aggressive prostate cancer and predict treatment needs up to five years earlier than standard clinical methods. The 'PUR' test looks at gene expression in urine samples and provides vital information about tumor aggressiveness.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalBioTechniques·DateNov 28, 2019

Half of all women with HIV are diagnosed late in Europe

Women account for one-third of new HIV diagnoses in the Region, with 54% of cases among them being diagnosed late. Early diagnosis is crucial to start treatment and reduce transmission risk, but current systems are failing women and older adults, according to health experts.

SourceEuropean Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC)·JournalEurosurveillance·DateNov 28, 2019

Tinder is a waste of time for most people

Researchers found that Tinder users had limited success in achieving one-night stands, with most gains coming from traditional dating methods. The study suggests that using Tinder does not lead to an increase in short-term sexual relationships.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalEvolutionary Psychological Science·DateNov 28, 2019

People with depression experience suicidal thoughts despite treatment

A new study from iPSYCH found that one in five people with depression have suicidal thoughts despite treatment with antidepressants. The researchers suggest that more intensive treatment could lead to better responses in patients who don't respond to medication within the first few weeks.

SourceAarhus University·JournalJournal of Clinical Psychiatry·DateNov 28, 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.