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Science News Archive November 2019


Page 21 of 41

Two cosmic peacocks show violent history of the magellanic clouds

A team of astronomers used ALMA to study the structure of dense gas in N159, a bustling star formation region in the LMC. The observations found fan-shaped filaments of gas extending to the north with pivots in the southernmost points, similar shapes and ages of baby stars in two regions separated by 150 light-years.

NASA infrared data shows strength in Fengshen

NASA's AIRS instrument detected coldest cloud top temperatures as cold as minus 63 degrees Fahrenheit around Fengshen's center, suggesting a strong storm. Forecasters expect Fengshen to continue strengthening and reach typhoon status, with maximum sustained winds near 65 mph.

Smart people may learn music faster

A Michigan State University study found that intelligence was the strongest predictor of skill acquisition in beginner pianists, followed by music aptitude. In contrast, growth mindset had little impact on piano performance.

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.

Researchers develop a faster, stronger rabies vaccine

Researchers developed a faster and stronger rabies vaccine by adding B cell activating factor (BAFF) to an existing inactivated virus-based vaccine. This new approach enhanced the immune system's response, increasing virus-neutralizing antibodies quickly and significantly.

A step closer to cancer precision medicine

Researchers developed a computational model, Combined Essentiality Scoring (CES), to accurately identify essential genes in cancer cells. The model predicts cancer essential genes with higher accuracy than existing methods and suggests two predicted genes as potential drug targets for breast cancer and leukemia.

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.

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.

Diverging trends: Binge drinking and depression

A new study reveals a 16% decline in the relationship between binge drinking and depressive symptoms among high schoolers from 1991 to 2018. The decline is even more pronounced among girls, with a 25% decrease in the association.

Americans maintain high levels of trust in science

A new report reveals that Americans have consistently trusted scientists over the past several decades, with a majority expressing confidence in scientific institutions. Despite concerns about science becoming partisan, recent surveys show stable trust levels, particularly among Democrats and Republicans alike.

Observing changes in the chirality of molecules in real time

Researchers have developed a new method to observe changes in molecular chirality during chemical reactions in real time. They used femtosecond laser pulses with tailor-made polarization to follow the disappearance of chirality after bond breakage.

New study casts doubt on China's organ donation data

A new study led by Australian National University researchers casts doubt on China's reported organ donation numbers, suggesting they may be falsified using a simple mathematical formula. The study found anomalies in the data that are difficult to explain, raising the possibility of deliberate manipulation.

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.

Newly developed nanoparticles help fight lung cancer in animal model

Researchers developed nanoparticles that can deliver immunostimulants via inhalation to induce systemic immune response against lung cancer. The treatment converted cold tumors to hot, immune-responsive tumors and showed significant regression of tumors in both lungs and prolonged survival of mice.

Genetic variation in individual brain cell types may predict disease risk

Researchers identified genetic variations in non-coding enhancer regions of specific brain cell types, such as microglia, which may play a role in disease risk. The study provides new insights into how genes are regulated in individual cell types and has significant implications for understanding neurological conditions.

Turning waste heat into hydrogen fuel

Using waste heat helps reduce the cost of producing hydrogen, a key step towards cleaner energy. Researchers developed an approach that uses low-grade waste heat to produce hydrogen, with potential for lower production costs and increased efficiency.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Improved fitness can mean living longer without dementia

A Norwegian University of Science and Technology study found that increasing cardiorespiratory fitness can halve the risk of getting dementia. Participants with poor fitness in the 1980s who improved it within a decade lived two years longer without dementia.

Water could modulate the activity and selectivity of CO2 reduction

A recent study found that the autocatalysis of water enhances the formation of COOH intermediate through proton transfer, accelerating CO generation while hindering methanol synthesis. The research also revealed that high initial partial pressure of water inhibits CO2 conversion due to excessive OH* coverage.

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.

Seeing past the stigma

The Erythroxylum genus has been stigmatized due to its association with cocaine, but a new review article reveals its potential use in traditional medicine and modern medicine. The genus encompasses over 230 species, including E. coca, which has been used for thousands of years.

Breakthrough in malaria research

A genome-wide gene deletion study on malaria parasites identified hundreds of new targets for disease control. The study, led by the University of Bern, used a malaria mouse model to systematically screen the parasite's genome and identify essential metabolic pathways.

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.

Inoculating against the spread of viral misinformation

Researchers examined over 500 vaccine-related ads on Facebook and found that a small group of anti-vaccine ad buyers targeted specific audiences, while pro-vaccination ads were often rejected due to Facebook's policies. The study highlights the need for social media platforms to balance free speech with public health concerns.

New process kills mosquito larvae using bacteria in the male's gut microbiome

A team of researchers from Ben-Gurion University has developed an innovative approach to kill mosquito larvae by delivering bacteria into the male mosquito's gut during mating. The method uses natural bacteria that produce a toxin only lethal to mosquito larvae, resulting in a targeted and effective biological pest control solution.

Master regulator in mitochondria is critical for muscle function and repair

New research reveals MICU1 protein's role in maintaining muscle size and function, repairing damaged fibers, and regulating calcium balance. Loss of MICU1 disrupts calcium uptake, leading to muscle fatigue, weakness, and atrophy, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic target for neuromuscular diseases.

Scientists close in on malaria vaccine

A team of researchers identified protective antibodies against severe malaria in children, paving the way for a potential vaccine. The discovery uses genomic sequencing and machine learning to pinpoint specific proteins and antibodies that provide immunity.

Near-infrared electrochromism of a new multilayered complex

Researchers have developed a new multilayered complex that displays high-performance near-infrared electrochromism. The complex, prepared by layer-by-layer coordination assembly on metal oxide substrates, exhibits two reversible redox waves and excellent electrochromic performance with a contrast ratio of up to 56% at 1150 nm.

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.

Unhealthy habits can start young: Infants, toddlers, and added sugars

A new study found that nearly two-thirds of infants and almost all toddlers consumed added sugars in their daily diets, primarily in flavored yogurts and fruit drinks. The widespread intake points to a serious problem, as early eating patterns can lead to negative health conditions such as cavities, obesity, and elevated blood pressure.

What vision do we have for the deep sea?

A new study warns against a rush to exploit deep seafloor resources, emphasizing the importance of conservation of ecosystems. The international community is urged to develop a legal framework that considers the common heritage of mankind status, ensuring sustainable use of marine biodiversity.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Sociable crows are healthier -- new research

A new study by Anglia Ruskin University finds that crows in larger social groups have lower parasite loads and are healthier. The research reveals a correlation between sociability and health, suggesting that strong social bonds reduce stress levels and make crows less susceptible to parasites.

Rubber in the environment

Researchers calculated that over 30 years, around 200,000 tonnes of micro rubber accumulated in Switzerland's environment. Tire abrasion is the primary source of micro rubber, responsible for 97% of particles released.

Alpine rock axeheads became social and economic exchange fetishes in the Neolithic

Research led by the Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona found that Alpine rock axeheads were a crucial component of pan-European exchange networks, with some rocks traveling over 1000 kilometres. The study's results suggest that the rocks' exceptional durability and resistance to friction made them highly valued for their production value.

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.

Chemists use light to build biologically active compounds

Researchers at the University of Münster have developed a novel method to build three-dimensional scaffolds from flat aromatics using light. The method utilizes a photocatalyst to facilitate an energy-transfer catalyzed intramolecular [4+2] cycloaddition, resulting in the creation of dehydroisoquinuclidines and other valuable structures.

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.

Is evolution predictable?

Researchers used CRISPR gene editing to study butterfly wing patterns, finding that similar patterns evolved through different genetic pathways despite shared environmental pressures. The study reveals the complex interplay between chance and history in shaping evolutionary outcomes.

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.

How maternal Zika virus infection results in newborn microcephaly

Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine discovered that the Zika virus protein NS4A disrupts brain growth by hijacking a pathway that regulates the generation of new neurons. The study found that overexpression of Zika protein NS4A causes microcephaly in flies by inhibiting the function of ANKLE2, a cell cycle regulator.

Blood test for deadly eye melanoma

Researchers at University of Queensland have discovered markers in blood that differentiate benign moles from melanoma, as well as detect cancer spread to other areas. The blood test may monitor very early signs of the disease, allowing for better screening of patients with eye naevi.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Treatments for leading cause of blindness generate $0.9 to $3 billion

A new economic study by USC researchers suggests that breakthrough treatments for wet age-related macular degeneration (wAMD) offer significant patient benefits and societal value. The treatments generate $5.1 to $8.2 billion in patient benefits, translating to $0.9 to $3.0 billion in societal value over three years.