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Science News Archive November 2019


Page 11 of 41

Decoding the fundamental mechanisms of human salivary lubrication

Researchers unveil molecular mechanisms governing saliva's lubrication properties, resolving distinct roles played by mucin- and non-mucinous proteins. Hydrated mucin forms a mesh-like nano-reservoir trapping water molecules, while positively-charged small molecular proteins aid boundary lubrication.

A new antibiotic to combat drug-resistant bacteria is in sight

Researchers have discovered a novel peptide, Darobactin, effective against antibiotic-resistant gram-negative bacteria. The substance binds to the BamA protein, disrupting the bacterial external membrane and leading to its death. This finding presents a promising lead for developing a new antibiotic.

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.

Trials promise good news for countries with dengue and Zika virus

Researchers have found an effective and environmentally sustainable way to block the transmission of dengue virus using a new strain of Wolbachia bacteria. In trials carried out in Malaysia, the strain reduced cases of dengue by 40% and established itself even in hot temperatures.

New type of e-cigarette vaping injury described in CMAJ

A previously healthy 17-year-old male was hospitalized with life-threatening bronchiolitis after a week of persistent cough. The case suggests a new form of damage from vaping products, similar to popcorn lung, and highlights the need for further research and regulation.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Neighborhood matters for fentanyl-involved overdose deaths

A study by Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health found that fentanyl-involved overdose deaths are concentrated in resource-deprived neighborhoods. The research used census block group-level data to examine the local geographic distribution of drug overdoses, revealing a unique perspective on overdose locations.

Predicting metastasis from primary tumor size

A new mathematical model predicts the presence of undetectable metastases based on primary tumor size, which is associated with a poorer prognosis. The model accurately reflects clinical study data for several cancer types, highlighting the potential dangers of delays in surgery for smaller tumors.

Study shows lower mortality from induction of labor at 41 weeks

A Swedish study of 2,760 women found that induction of labor after 41 full gestational weeks resulted in no deaths, whereas six cases of perinatal death were recorded when labor was waited for until 42 weeks. The study suggests a safer alternative for mothers and babies.

New Alzheimer's risk gene discovered

A new study has identified a genetic variation in the Mucin 6 gene that may contribute to late-onset Alzheimer disease. The findings suggest a strong association between the genetic variant and the disease, implying a large effect size and opening up possibilities for future therapeutic targets.

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.

Scientists help soldiers figure out what robots know

A US Army Research Laboratory team developed new algorithms to integrate context into artificial intelligence, advancing robotics and AI processes in areas like natural language communication and world model development. The research supports the Next Generation Combat Vehicle by integrating context-driven AI within human-autonomy teams.

Life under extreme conditions at hot springs in the ocean

Marine researchers investigated adaptability of marine organisms to highly acidified seawater after earthquake and typhoon hit a volcanic island. Organisms were able to adapt to changes in biogeochemistry, providing insights into effects of ocean acidification on marine communities.

Climate change reassessment prompts call for a 'more sober' discourse

An international research team has called for a more sober discourse around climate change prospects, highlighting the understatement of potential warming's speed and the scope for practical mitigation. Despite this, global decarbonization has accelerated to trend on course to achieve the Paris 2C target.

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.

CUHK Faculty of Engineering develops novel imaging approach

The CUHK Faculty of Engineering has developed a novel imaging approach that enables faster 3D imaging for biomedical research. The new method uses compressive sensing and multi-focus laser scanning to reduce the number of measurements by up to 90%, resulting in significantly faster image acquisition times.

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.

Grid reliability under climate change may require more power generation capacity

Researchers developed a new modeling approach that considers climate and water impacts on electricity infrastructure development, revealing the U.S. power grid may require an additional 5.3% to 12% of capacity to meet demand and reliability requirements. The study suggests viable solutions include tradeoffs in regional technology choic...

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.

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.

Breaking (and restoring) graphene's symmetry in a twistable electronics device

Researchers at Columbia University have developed a new way to control the properties of two-dimensional materials by adjusting the twist angle between them. By creating multiple moiré patterns in a graphene-boron nitride device, they were able to study the effects of coexisting moiré superlattices on a layer of graphene.

Chemists create new route to PHAs: naturally degradable bioplastics

Colorado State University scientists create a novel chemical catalysis pathway for producing PHAs with enhanced mechanical and physical properties. This breakthrough offers a scalable solution to the plastics crisis, enabling faster production and tunability of biodegradable materials.

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Magnetic wave flows under better control from now on

Researchers at the Henryk Niewodniczanski Institute of Nuclear Physics have created a new model to simulate the flow of magnetic waves through magnonic crystals. This breakthrough allows for better control over the material's properties, which is crucial for applications in spintronics and electronics.

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.

Texas Heart Institute perfusion student awarded prestigious scholarship

Leslie Gonzalez, a Texas Heart Institute perfusion student, has been awarded the prestigious Perfusion Without Borders scholarship. She will travel with The Novick Cardiac Alliance to Medellin, Colombia in February 2020, gaining experience on global perfusion practices and preparing for lifelong involvement in mission work.

Secure data transmission with ultrasound on the mobile phone

Researchers at St. Pölten UAS have developed an open-source protocol for secure data transmission using ultrasound, enabling users to control app communication and protect user privacy. The technology, called SoniTalk, has potential applications in industries such as IoT, Industry 4.0, and digitalisation.

New antitumoral drug release strategy created for breast cancer treatment

Researchers have developed a novel approach to treat breast cancer by harnessing the power of bacterial proteins to deliver targeted therapies. The new strategy involves the use of non-toxic bacterial amyloids as reservoirs for antitumoral proteins, leading to a sustained release and increased efficacy.

Using controlled environment food production to solve food shortages

Researchers explore controlled environment agriculture as a means to address urban food systems, offering advantages such as year-round crop production and reduced energy consumption. The study highlights the potential for controlled environments to increase food security and support local economies.

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Sugar delivered to Earth from space

Researchers found ribose and other essential sugars in meteorites, indicating an extraterrestrial origin. The discovery suggests that these sugars could have contributed to the formation of primordial RNA on Earth.

Deep learning to analyze neurological problems

A new study uses deep neural networks to accurately assess neurological disorders in rats and mice, identifying key features of motor impairments. This breakthrough technology has the potential to standardize diagnosis and monitoring of neurological disorders, enabling early interventions and improved patient outcomes.

Competing signals shrink or grow liver tumor at the margins

In a mouse model of liver cancer, researchers found that activating the Hippo molecular signaling pathway in tumor cells drives growth, while suppressing it in surrounding healthy cells inhibits tumor growth. Systemic inhibition of Yap and Taz could have unwanted consequences by blocking tumor-suppressing abilities of healthy cells.

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.

Pollinator friendliness can extend beyond early spring

A study found that certain bulbs can persist in warm-season lawns, providing nutrition for pollinating insects. Five bulbs persisted for multiple years, including crocus and grape hyacinth, which attracted pollinators. The researchers suggest incorporating proven forage sources into landscapes to support pollinator health.

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.

Bone breakthrough may lead to more durable airplane wings

Researchers at Cornell University have discovered a way to strengthen bone structure using computer software, potentially treating osteoporosis and creating lightweight materials for the aerospace industry. The team found that horizontal rod-like struts play a crucial role in extending the fatigue life of bone.

Magnesium deprivation stops pathogen growth

A study by University of Basel researchers found that a cellular pump restricts bacterial growth in host cells by causing magnesium shortage. This discovery provides new insights into the role of NRAMP1 transporter in combating intracellular pathogens.

Escher's angels and demons woodcut predicts how matter deforms

Researchers used Escher's woodcut to predict crystalline body deformation under external forces, revealing a connection between hyperbolic spaces and plastic deformation. The study proposes a new mathematical description of complex material deformation phenomena.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

How to fight illegal cocoa farms in Ivory Coast

A study by Ohio State University researchers found that regular foot patrols in two forest reserves reduced illicit activity by over half between 2012 and 2016. The patrols led to the arrest of six poachers, destruction of hundreds of hectares of cocoa farms, and a significant decline in gunshots and snares used to capture game.