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Science News Archive November 2019 - Page 6


Page 6 of 41

Joint statement from six journals highlights concerns about EPA proposed rule

Six leading scientific journals express concerns about EPA's 'Strengthening Transparency in Regulatory Science' rule, citing need for careful analysis of confidential data. The editors-in-chief emphasize the importance of informed decision-making based on full suite of relevant science vetted through peer review.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateNov 26, 2019

We love coffee, tea, chocolate and soft drinks so much, caffeine is literally in our blood

A study by Oregon State University found that 18 batches of supposedly pure human blood serum contained caffeine, cough medicine, and anti-anxiety drugs, highlighting potential issues with contaminated blood transfusions. The research also tested for interactions between botanical supplements and prescription drugs.

SourceOregon State University·JournalJournal of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Analysis·DateNov 26, 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.

LSE study calls for improved mental health support

The study found that the current system of immediate psychological help after a terrorist attack is inadequate, with most people seeking external help and expressing dissatisfaction with their GP's response. The researchers recommend improving the system to provide better support sooner.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of Health Services Research & Policy·DateNov 26, 2019

December's SLAS Discovery special issue now available

The December issue of SLAS Discovery features articles on new screening tools and assays for medically relevant membrane protein targets. The special issue also includes reviews and original research papers on emerging protein-lipid reconstitution methodologies.

SourceSLAS (Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening)·JournalSLAS DISCOVERY·DateNov 26, 2019

High levels of screen use associated with symptoms of anxiety in adolescence

A study by researchers at the University of Montreal found that adolescents who spent more time on social media, television, and computers experienced increased anxiety symptoms. Decreasing screen time was linked to reduced anxiety. The study suggests limiting screen time may be a way to help teens manage anxiety.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalThe Canadian Journal of Psychiatry·DateNov 26, 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.

Extra-terrestrial impacts may have triggered 'bursts' of plate tectonics

A new study suggests that extra-terrestrial impacts could have triggered the emergence of plate tectonics on early Earth. The research used modelling simulations and comparisons with lunar impact studies to reveal that massive impacts continued to shape the planet for hundreds of millions of years, potentially driving tectonic processes.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeology·DateNov 26, 2019

Scientists clarify light harvesting in green algae

Researchers characterized the light-harvesting system of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, a common unicellular green alga. The study reveals the assembly mechanisms and energy transfer pathways of the C2S2M2L2 supercomplex, shedding light on efficient light harvesting in green algae.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Plants·DateNov 26, 2019

Did human hunting activities alone drive great auks' extinction?

A study published in eLife analyzed ancient genetic data to investigate the decline of great auks. The findings suggest that intense hunting by humans likely caused their rapid extinction, even if the birds weren't already under threat from environmental changes. This highlights the potential for industrial-scale exploitation to drive ...

SourceeLife·DateNov 26, 2019

Scientists dissect and redesign protein-based pattern formation

Researchers dissected protein pattern formation into its main functional modules and rebuilt the process from scratch, identifying the minimal ingredients needed for self-organisation. The new system produces less regular patterns than native systems but is still sufficient for reproducing basic biological processes.

SourceeLife·DateNov 26, 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.

Building a better battery with machine learning

Argonne researchers used a machine learning algorithm to relate known molecular structures to larger data sets, reducing computational costs while maintaining precision. The approach improved the accuracy of predictions about battery electrolyte candidates, enabling scientists to identify potential materials for next-generation batteries.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalMRS Communications·DateNov 26, 2019

Using fungi to search for medical drugs

Researchers from the Hubrecht Institute and Utrecht University have set up a library of products derived from over ten thousand fungi to find new therapeutic compounds. They found 34 known compounds, including the cholesterol-lowering drug lovastatin, using zebrafish embryos as a test subject.

SourceHubrecht Institute·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 26, 2019
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Fish size affects Snake River salmon returns more than route through dams

New research suggests that fish size, not bypass system route, affects Snake River salmon returns. Larger fish survive at a higher rate in the ocean and as adults in rivers. The study found little evidence of delayed mortality once fish reach estuaries and oceans.

SourceNOAA Fisheries West Coast Region·JournalTransactions of the American Fisheries Society·DateNov 25, 2019

Researchers report first recording of a blue whale's heart rate

Researchers from Stanford University successfully recorded a blue whale's heart rate for the first time using an electronic sensor attached to the whale's flipper. The data suggests that the whale's heart is operating at its limit, which may explain why blue whales have never evolved to be bigger.

SourceStanford University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 25, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Honey bee declines in cultivated landscapes

A study tracked honey bee nutrition and colony growth in Iowa's intensely farmed state. Colonies near soybean fields experienced short-term gains but failed to support long-term health due to lack of floral resources.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 25, 2019

The nature of salmonella is changing -- and it's meaner

A Michigan State University study finds that antibiotic-resistant salmonella strains are increasing, leading to longer hospital stays and worse symptoms. The study also reveals regional differences in the types of salmonella infections, with rural areas affected by enteritis infections.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalFrontiers in Medicine·DateNov 25, 2019

Concussions in high school athletes may be a risk factor for suicide

Research at University of Texas Health Science Center links concussions in high school students to depression and suicidal thoughts. The study reveals teenage males with concussion history are twice as likely to attempt suicide, while females have greater odds of reporting suicidal ideations.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalJournal of Affective Disorders·DateNov 25, 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.

A study compares how water is managed in Spain, California and Australia

A research project at the University of Córdoba and the University of Zaragoza analyzed legislative changes in water management in Spain, California, and the Murray Darling Basin in Australia. The study shows that despite similarities in agriculture and water scarcity, these regions have distinct approaches to managing their watersheds.

SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalGlobal Environmental Change·DateNov 25, 2019

New research training group on the self-organization of soft matter

A new research training group funded by the German Research Foundation will investigate the role of interfaces in synthesizing soft advanced materials and manipulating their properties. The group aims to better understand self-organization processes in the presence of interfaces.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·DateNov 25, 2019

Wearable sweat sensor detects gout-causing compounds

Researchers developed a mass-producible wearable sensor that can monitor levels of metabolites and nutrients in blood by analyzing sweat. The device is more sensitive than current devices, detecting lower concentrations of compounds like uric acid and tyrosine, which are associated with gout, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateNov 25, 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.

The heat is on

An international team of scientists analyzed 3 million species records from 200 ecological communities worldwide to reveal the impact of ocean warming on fish communities. The study found that subtle changes in species movement in response to rising temperatures made a significant impact on the global picture.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNature Climate Change·DateNov 25, 2019

Neuroscientists develop models to identify internal states of the brain

Researchers at Princeton University have developed models to identify internal states of the brain in fruit flies. By analyzing song patterns and behavioral changes, they discovered three distinct strategies - Close, Chasing, and Whatever - linked to specific neurons controlling these shifts.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateNov 25, 2019

Examining work schedules of hospitalists, patient outcomes

An observational study found that hospitalists who worked irregular schedules, such as non-consecutive days, had better patient outcomes compared to those working consecutive days. The study suggests that varying work schedules may lead to improved patient care and outcomes.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateNov 25, 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.

Cellular origins of pediatric brain tumors identified

A research team discovered that several types of highly aggressive and fatal pediatric brain tumors originate from stalled development of progenitor cells in the pons and forebrain. The cells' progress is arrested, and they transform into malignancies while retaining features of the original cells.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature Genetics·DateNov 25, 2019

Prostate cancer: radiation therapy effective in patients with no further treatment options

A new radiation therapy regimen combining lutetium-177 and actinium-225 has been shown to stabilize tumour growth and improve survival rates for patients with late-stage prostate cancer. The study demonstrated significant reductions in side effects, including dry mouth, compared to previous radionuclide therapies.

SourceSaarland University·JournalEuropean Journal of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·DateNov 25, 2019

Breakthrough in understanding common childhood cancer

A study led by Newcastle University has identified circulating neuroblastoma tumour cells in the blood and bone marrow, providing new insights into the disease's progression. The discovery could enable non-invasive testing of targeted treatments and improve patient outcomes.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateNov 25, 2019

Fossils reveal swimming patterns of long extinct cephalopod

Researchers used computational fluid dynamics to analyze the swimming patterns of extinct ammonoid cephalopods, which lived over 300 million years ago. The study reveals insights into the stability of marine ecosystems and how they recover diversity after drastic extinctions.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·DateNov 25, 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.

Downstream signaling: Cilia release ectosomes to deliver important messages in the kidney

Researchers at MUSC found that primary cilia generate approximately 60% of small EVs produced by renal tubule cells, with manipulation of cilium length affecting EV production. The protein content of EVs varies depending on cilia length, suggesting a significant role for cilia in intercellular communication.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateNov 25, 2019

Study tracks genomic changes that reinforce darter speciation

Researchers tracked genomic changes in hybrid orangethroat and rainbow darters, finding regions with genetic divergence contributing to reproductive incompatibility. These differences likely disrupt cell division and alter gene expression, driving the evolution of distinct traits.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateNov 25, 2019

Sexualization, income inequality, and status anxiety

A role-playing experiment involving over 300 women from multiple countries suggests that female self-sexualization is linked to income inequality and social status anxiety. The study supports the hypothesis that social climbing and status competition drive sexualization among women.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 25, 2019

Discovery increases chance of improving iron content in plants

Researchers have identified a key regulator in iron uptake in plants, which controls hundreds of genes and has the potential to increase iron potency in crops like rice and wheat. The study's findings could provide a solution to iron deficiency affecting over 2 billion people globally.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 25, 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.

Study finds increase in pediatric eye injuries from nonpowder firearms

A new study found an increasing rate of eye injuries related to nonpowder firearms among children, with BB guns accounting for most of the injuries. The study highlights the need for protective eyewear and stricter safety legislation to prevent preventable and serious injuries.

SourceNationwide Children's Hospital·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateNov 25, 2019

NASA tracking Extra-Tropical Storm Sebastien towards the UK

Extra-Tropical Storm Sebastien has transitioned from a tropical storm, coupling with a cold front and headed for the United Kingdom. The storm is forecast to affect southern England, with potential for heavy rain and flooding over the next several days.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 25, 2019

Fluid dynamics taught through dance

Researchers used dance to convey the principles of fluid mechanics by creating a 'physics-constrained improvisation.' The goal is to produce an educational video that demonstrates flow past a cylinder at varying Reynolds numbers.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·DateNov 25, 2019

Injection of magnetizable fluid could extend trauma patients' survival time

Scientists are testing a magnetically-actuated fluidic valve to reduce bleeding in trauma patients. The system uses an injectable magnetorheological suspension and externally placed magnets to create an obstruction, halting blood loss and stabilizing blood pressure. This could potentially extend survival time by at least 30 minutes.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·DateNov 25, 2019
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

All the feels

Researchers found that people experiencing higher felt love had significantly higher levels of psychological well-being and extraversion personality scores. They also developed a method to analyze noisy data using Bayesian latent stochastic differential equations model.

SourcePenn State·JournalPersonality and Individual Differences·DateNov 25, 2019

The 'Signal Cell' relaying microbiota signals discovered

Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology discovered a mechanism by which microbiota signals are transmitted to the entire body, controlling hematopoiesis in the bone marrow. This process involves CX3CR1+ mononuclear cells recognizing microbiota signals and releasing cytokines that stimulate the immune system.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalBlood·DateNov 25, 2019

Are toddlers meeting screen-time guidelines?

A recent study found that most 2- and 3-year-old children fail to meet recommended daily screen time limits. Maternal screen time and home care were associated factors for non-compliance at younger ages, while only maternal screen time was significant at 3 years old.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateNov 25, 2019

How diversity of respiratory quinones affects microbial physiology

Researchers discovered a fear-greed tradeoff in bacteria that use ancient respiratory quinones for aerobic respiration, leading to oxidative stress and growth limitations. The study provides fundamental insights into microbial bioenergetics evolution and potential strategies for modulating bacterial growth and survival.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 25, 2019

16-million-year-old fossil shows springtails hitchhiking on winged termite

Researchers discovered 25 springtails attached to a large winged termite and ant in 16-million-year-old amber from the Dominican Republic, showing a new type of hitchhiking behavior among soil-dwelling arthropods. This discovery highlights how symphypleonan springtails successfully achieved dispersal worldwide.

SourceNew Jersey Institute of Technology·JournalBMC Evolutionary Biology·DateNov 25, 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.

Intergenerational mobility in the United States

Intergenerational occupational mobility in the US has declined since 1850, with relative decline in status of many occupations. Only a few high-status occupations retained stable percentile ranks, while recent generations face reduced upward mobility.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 25, 2019

Using artificial intelligence to analyze placentas

A team of researchers has developed an AI-powered system that can analyze placentas using computerized photographic image analysis, potentially improving health outcomes for mothers and babies. The system uses artificial intelligence to detect features linked to abnormalities and potential health risks.

SourcePenn State·DateNov 25, 2019

Scientists suggest new solution to the rare-disease problem

Researchers estimate that 10% of the world's population suffers from a rare disease, yet accurate diagnosis remains challenging due to lack of standard definitions. A new commentary proposes a coordinated effort to define rare diseases, which could lead to better diagnosis and treatment for millions affected.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalNature Reviews Drug Discovery·DateNov 25, 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.

Geriatricians, internists, and cardiologists surveyed about deprescribing

A survey of geriatricians, general internists, and cardiologists found that over 80% had recently considered deprescribing a cardiovascular medication due to adverse drug reactions. Barriers to deprescribing include concerns about patient reluctance and interfering with other physicians' treatment plans.

SourceAmerican Geriatrics Society·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateNov 25, 2019

Climate change is reshaping communities of ocean organisms

A study published in Nature Climate Change found that climate change is altering the mix of species in oceans, with warm-water species rapidly increasing and cold-water marine species decreasing. This shift can disrupt fisheries and ocean food chains.

SourceRutgers University·JournalNature Climate Change·DateNov 25, 2019

Flour power: How shoppers choose which bread to buy

Researchers found that brand is the biggest influence on bread buying behavior, followed by type of wheat and value considerations. Only 1% of surveyed consumers regularly purchase gluten-free bread due to perceived lack of value.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalJournal of Marketing Research·DateNov 25, 2019

Rapamycin may slow skin aging, Drexel study reports

A Drexel University study found that rapamycin cream can reduce wrinkles, sagging, and improve skin tone in human subjects over 40. The drug blocks the TOR protein and has anti-aging effects by reducing senescent cells associated with skin aging.

SourceDrexel University·JournalGeroScience·DateNov 25, 2019

Cannabis reduces headache and migraine pain by nearly half

A recent study published in the Journal of Pain found that inhaled cannabis reduces self-reported headache severity by 47.3% and migraine severity by 49.6%. The study analyzed archival data from over 1,300 patients who used medical cannabis to track changes in their symptoms before and after use.

SourceWashington State University·JournalJournal of Pain·DateNov 25, 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.

Unravelling the venomous bite of an endangered mammal

The study identifies the proteins that make up the venom of the Hispaniolan solenodon, a rare and endangered species. The research reveals that these toxins are likely used to cause drops in blood pressure in vertebrate prey, and have evolved independently on at least four occasions in eulipotyphlan mammals.

SourceLiverpool School of Tropical Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 25, 2019