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Science News Archive November 2019 - Page 28


Page 28 of 41

Combining satellites, radar provides path for better forecasts

Researchers at Penn State combined geostationary satellites and traditional weather radar to create a system that produces the best forecasts for severe thunderstorms. The study found that assimilating satellite and radar data simultaneously leads to the most accurate predictions, with warning times increased by up to 40 minutes.

SourcePenn State·JournalMonthly Weather Review·DateNov 11, 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.

'Ghost' footprints from Pleistocene era revealed by radar tech

Researchers used ground-penetrating radar to resolve 96% of human tracks at White Sands National Monument, gaining insights into biomechanics and extinct fauna. The technique may unlock behavioral and biomechanical archives of Pleistocene animals.

SourceCornell University·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 11, 2019

Large scale integrated circuits produced in printing press

Researchers at Linköping University and RISE have developed a process to print complete integrated circuits with over 100 organic electrochemical transistors. The technology uses screen printing and can be used to power devices such as displays and sensors.

SourceLinköping University·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 11, 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.

Degenerative eye condition (AMD) to affect 77 million Europeans by 2050

A degenerative eye condition called AMD is projected to affect 77 million Europeans by 2050, with the number of existing cases rising by 15% and new cases increasing by 75%. The estimated projections show that one in four older adults will have AMD, ranging from under 1 in 10 for those younger than 65 to over 27% of those over 75.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBritish Journal of Ophthalmology·DateNov 11, 2019

UC research finds potential target for tumor-causing condition

Researchers have discovered that autophagy activity is essential to maintain high mTORC1 activity in cells with mutated genes, and blocking this process can mimic human TSC symptoms. This finding holds promise for developing new therapeutic concepts for treating patients with this devastating disease.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalNature Metabolism·DateNov 11, 2019

Aging in good health: The inequalities are widening

Researchers found that life expectancy in Switzerland has increased, but the country's population who only attended compulsory schooling are living longer in poor health. The gap between men and women is also widening, with women experiencing a smaller increase in healthy years due to their higher life expectancy

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalInternational Journal of Public Health·DateNov 11, 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.

'Messy' production of perovskite material increases solar cell efficiency

Scientists at Cambridge discovered that perovskite materials can be more efficient when their chemical compositions are less ordered, simplifying production processes and lowering costs. This is achieved by creating areas with different compositions that trap energized charge carriers, improving solar cell efficiency.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Photonics·DateNov 11, 2019

LSU Health research discovers potential new Rx target for AMD and Alzheimer's

Researchers at LSU Health New Orleans School of Medicine have discovered a new mechanism by which elovanoids may protect brain and retinal cells against neurodegenerative diseases. The study identifies elovanoids as a potential therapeutic approach for age-related macular degeneration and Alzheimer's disease.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 11, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Study: E-cigarettes may be more harmful to heart health than tobacco

A landmark study suggests that e-cigarette use is associated with coronary vascular dysfunction at rest, even in the absence of physiologic stress. The researchers found that blood flow decreased after both inhalation and handgrip stress in e-cigarette users compared to traditional cigarette smokers.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·DateNov 11, 2019

Biomarker blood test could reveal high risk heart patients in need of treatment

A new biomarker blood test has identified adults with mild hypertension who are at higher risk for cardiovascular events without symptoms. The test detected slight elevations in protein biomarkers in approximately one-third of these individuals, who were more likely to experience heart attacks, strokes, or congestive heart failure.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalCirculation·DateNov 11, 2019

Researchers find nature's backup plan for converting nitrogen into plant nutrients

Scientists at Princeton University found that vanadium can facilitate nitrogen fixation when molybdenum is scarce, suggesting the process may be more resilient than previously thought. This discovery has significant implications for understanding nutrient budgets and biodiversity in ecosystems.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 11, 2019

Evolution of butterfly wing pattern mimicry

Researchers identified genomic elements regulating optix gene expression in Heliconius butterflies, found to be necessary for normal pattern development. These elements evolved in parallel in distantly related species with similar patterns, highlighting the complexity of butterfly wing patterning.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 11, 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.

Use of locum doctors rising despite limited evidence on quality and safety

Research highlights factors affecting locum practice quality and safety, emphasizing the need for better understanding of differences between locum and permanent doctors. Organisations must ensure locums are integrated into clinical governance systems and policies are fit for use by all staff.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of the Royal Society of Medicine·DateNov 11, 2019

Associations between childhood maltreatment and offending behaviors later in life

A study published in BMC Public Health found that children who experienced maltreatment are more likely to engage in delinquent and offending behaviors in adolescence and young adulthood. Males showed a significantly higher frequency of non-violent offending behaviors compared to females, with no differences by race or sexual orientation.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Public Health·DateNov 11, 2019

Quitting Facebook could boost exam results

A study by the University of Technology Sydney found that students with lower grades had significantly lower marks when using Facebook, with a six-mark difference in a 60-mark exam. Students who devoted less time to social networking sites saw an improvement in their results.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalComputers & Education·DateNov 11, 2019
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.

Weekend sudden cardiac arrests are more deadly

Researchers found that patients who suffered a cardiac arrest between Saturday and Sunday were about 20% less likely to survive than those on weekdays. The study suggests improving AED awareness, availability, and training can help address weekend cardiac arrests.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateNov 11, 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.

For the first time: A method for measuring animal personality

A study on mice has created a set of objective measurements for personality, revealing the connection between genes, behavior, and individual traits. The researchers found that each mouse had a unique personality that consistently informed its behavior.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateNov 11, 2019

Degradable plastic by DMDO: 'Unnecessary' component key

Associate Professor Kohsaka and his team created a new polyester using DMDO, which reacts with chemicals and decomposes. The study demonstrated the feasibility of this plastic as a possible solution to the plastic waste problem.

SourceShinshu University·JournalEuropean Polymer Journal·DateNov 11, 2019

New catalyst efficiently produces hydrogen from seawater

Researchers have developed a new oxygen evolution reaction catalyst that can produce hydrogen from seawater at current densities capable of supporting industrial demands. The catalyst requires relatively low voltage to start seawater electrolysis and avoids obstacles that limited earlier attempts.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 11, 2019

Each mouse is different

Researchers create algorithm to identify stable traits that capture mouse behavior, revealing unique individual characteristics and genetic basis. The method has potential to advance knowledge of mouse personality and its relation to mental health and disease.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateNov 11, 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.

Causes of declining Arctic surface albedo

A study found a significant reduction in Arctic surface albedo, primarily driven by decreased snow cover fraction accounting for 70% of the decline. Reduced sea-ice extent also contributed to the decrease, while soot deposits did not play a primary role.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 11, 2019

Common anti-inflammatory may increase risk of diabetes

Researchers found that healthy men taking commonly prescribed doses of glucocorticoids for a short period experienced changes in blood sugar metabolism, associated with an increased risk of developing diabetes. The study highlights the need for medical professionals to consider and monitor potential side effects.

SourceSociety for Endocrinology·DateNov 11, 2019

Gold mining critically impairs water quality in rivers across Peruvian biodiversity hotspot

Research reveals artisanal gold mining is altering water clarity and dynamics in the Madre de Dios River watershed, causing increased sediment levels that contain mercury and other contaminants. This has severe impacts on fish populations and other aquatic life, disrupting natural seasonal cycles and habitat of endangered species.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 11, 2019

Project to answer last wishes spreads successfully

A study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found a program that fulfils end-of-life wishes can ease bereavement by encouraging conversations about the patient's identity. The project, which costs around $5 per wish, has been successful at several hospital intensive care unit sites.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateNov 11, 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.

Specific jobs linked to poor heart health for women

A study of over 65,000 postmenopausal women found specific jobs, including healthcare providers, are associated with poorer cardiovascular health. Researchers suggest occupation is an important determinant of women's heart health, highlighting the need for workplace health programs to improve heart health.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateNov 11, 2019

Winter coat color in hares

Researchers used whole-genome sequencing to discover the Agouti gene's role in winter coat color change in mountain hares. The study suggests introgression from non-color-changing species drove this variation, highlighting a key factor in polymorphism of winter coats in hares.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 11, 2019

Vitamin B12 deficiency linked to obesity during pregnancy

Pregnant women with low vitamin B12 levels experience increased fat production and reduced breakdown, predisposing them to obesity. A recent study found that vitamin B12 deficiency impairs fat cell metabolism, leading to increased inflammation and impaired metabolic function.

SourceSociety for Endocrinology·DateNov 11, 2019

Men who receive home care from spouse more likely to feel burdensome than women

A new study by University of Michigan researchers found that men who receive caregiving from their spouses are more prone to feeling guilty and depressed due to negative spousal exchanges. In contrast, wives in caregiving relationships show less susceptibility to these effects, suggesting a difference in gender dynamics.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalJournal of Social and Personal Relationships·DateNov 11, 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.

The pathway to Parkinson's takes a surprising twist

Researchers found that Parkinson's disease dopamine neurons can shut down without fully dying, releasing chemicals that cause inflammation and senescence in healthy neighbors. This discovery suggests new avenues for therapies targeting SATB1 or p21 to prevent or slow the disease.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateNov 11, 2019

Wide-ranging gender disparities remain in pediatrics

Despite small gains, women make up only 18% of medical school deans and 26% of chairs in pediatrics; researchers argue that basic scientific principles can foster gender equity. Initiatives have failed due to lack of institutional support, and diversity task forces risk widening inequities.

SourceDrexel University·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateNov 11, 2019

Brand drug discount cards increase private insurer costs by 46%

Research found brand pharmaceutical company discount cards for brand-name drugs increased private insurer costs by 46%. The study analyzed data from 2.8 million prescriptions, showing that patients using these cards often paid more due to higher insurance premiums.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCMAJ Open·DateNov 11, 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.

NIH RO1 grant to help improve ultrasound tomography for breast cancer detection

The NIH RO1 grant aims to improve ultrasound tomography for breast cancer detection by developing physics-based computational models and advanced image reconstruction methods. The goal is to create high-resolution images that can detect subtle cancers, especially in younger women with denser breast tissue.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·DateNov 11, 2019

Salmonella -- how the body fights back

Scientists discovered that blood stem cells acquire energy from bone marrow support cells in response to salmonella infection, enabling them to produce millions of bacteria-fighting white blood cells. This discovery could lead to new approaches to treating people with salmonella and other bacterial illnesses.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 11, 2019

Forecasting dengue: Challenges and a way forward

A team of scientists has developed new ways to forecast dengue infections by combining disease and climate data. The project aimed to predict maximum weekly cases, the week of peak cases, and total season cases, but models still struggle to accurately predict epidemics.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 11, 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.

Side effects of insomnia drugs

A recent study compared two insomnia treatments, brotizolam and suvorexant, finding they improved sleep efficiency but had varying impacts on balance. Orexin receptor antagonists like suvorexant may have fewer side effects than commonly prescribed hypnotics.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 11, 2019

Study reveals how two strains of one bacterium combine to cause flesh-eating infection

A new study reveals that genetic variations in a single species of bacteria can amplify infection, making it more dangerous than either strain alone. The researchers discovered that when the two strains work together, one produces a toxin that breaks down muscle tissue and enables the other to infect organs.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 11, 2019

Researchers highlight progress and challenges of phloem research

New study highlights significant advances in phloem-insect/pathogen interaction understanding, but notes research gaps and barriers to study. Researchers propose integrating phloem-feeding insect/pathogen interactions into plant science for improving host resistance.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 11, 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.

Gut microbes and colorectal cancer

A study explores the genetic mechanisms by which alterations in colon-associated microbes might promote colorectal cancer. Alterations in gut microbes have been linked to increased DNA methylation changes and CRC risk.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 11, 2019

Potential vitamin and Alzheimer's drug produced in yeast

Researchers at DTU Biosustain successfully produced 0.6g/L of ergothioneine in yeast broth, a promising antioxidant with neuroprotective effects. The production method could lead to cheaper and more accessible supplements, addressing high market prices due to chemical synthesis costs.

SourceTechnical University of Denmark·JournalFrontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology·DateNov 11, 2019

Opioid-related cardiac arrest patients differ from other cardiac arrests

A recent study found that opioid overdose victims who suffer cardiac arrest differ from other cardiac arrest patients, with unique characteristics that may require different treatment. Opioid-related cardiac arrest survivors are more likely to be admitted to a hospital due to improved survival rates in urban and rural areas.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateNov 11, 2019

A cheaper way to scale up atomic layer deposition

Scientists at EPFL have developed a cheaper way to scale up atomic layer deposition, reducing costs and increasing precision. The new liquid-phase method uses standard lab equipment and achieves coatings that are not possible with gas-phase ALD.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateNov 11, 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.