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Science News Archive October 2019


Page 28 of 47

Did early mammals turn to night life to protect their sperm?

In the Triassic period, early mammal ancestors (therapsids) turned to a nocturnal lifestyle to overcome thermoregulation challenges. Their rapid endothermy led to elevated body temperatures, posing a risk to sperm quality. By becoming active at night, these mammals could preserve sperm quality.

Research highlights importance of religious vote amid changing social landscape

A study by University of Waterloo researchers found that Canadians who consider religion important tend to vote for conservative parties, with a strong link between religiosity and voting behavior. The study also notes a decline in the proportion of people considering religion important, reflecting broader societal shifts.

Quantum physics: Ménage à trois photon-style

Scientists at UNIGE have entangled three pairs of photons to create a highly-correlated triangle, exhibiting strong quantum correlations. This discovery could lead to the development of new ultra-secure encryption keys and revive fundamental quantum physics research.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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Synthetic cells make long-distance calls

Engineered E. coli bacteria using transcriptional circuits from Rice lab researchers can synchronize gene expression across large distances, enabling collective action in community settings. The discovery could lead to treatment of gut microbiome conditions and interaction with bioelectronics.

Taking vitamin D by oral spray just as effective as taking a tablet

A recent University of Sheffield study found that taking vitamin D by oral spray is just as effective as taking a tablet in improving levels. The six-week trial compared the efficacy of vitamin D3 delivered through both capsule and sublingual methods, with results showing an equal rate of improvement in participants.

New findings about mechanisms regulating brain inflammation

A recent study has identified a key regulator of microglia function during inflammation, which could become a significant component in treating neurodegenerative diseases. TET2 protein modulates the immune response generated by microglia cells in the brain under inflammatory conditions.

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.

AAFP releases updated Feline Zoonoses Guidelines

The American Association of Feline Practitioners has released updated guidelines for feline zoonoses, which are preventable diseases transmitted from animals to humans. The guidelines aim to educate veterinary teams and cat owners about these risks and provide recommendations for prevention and treatment.

NSF renews grant for University of Arizona Cybersecurity Program

The University of Arizona's two-year AZSecure Cybersecurity Fellowship program will continue to train students in cybersecurity, covering tuition and fees, with a stipend of $34,000 per year. The renewal funding will help about 20 more students over the next five to seven years.

The giant geode of Pulpí

The Pulpí geode is an 11-meter hollow ovoid with crystal-paneled walls, formed from gypsum crystals up to 2 meters in size. The team studied the geology and geochemistry of the abandoned mine where the geode was found, revealing that the crystals formed at around 20 °C.

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

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Protein that triggers plant defenses to light stress identified

Researchers have discovered a protein that triggers a defense mechanism in plant cells when exposed to excessive light, protecting them from damage. This finding has implications for agriculture, as it could help crops withstand harsh climate conditions and increase the production of proteins used in vaccines.

From ribbon to scroll: Gaining shape control by electrostatics

Northwestern University researchers have discovered a new method to control the formation of scroll-like cochleate structures, which could inform future drug-delivery strategies. By regulating electrostatic interactions and elastic energies, they were able to capture and release macromolecules in a size-selective manner.

Inside the fuel cell -- Imaging method promises industrial insight

Researchers demonstrate high-contrast imaging of water states for fuel cell applications and indicate how their new method can be applied to other hydrogen-relevant industrial processes. The team's cross-continental collaborations were critical to confirm experimental findings and optimize contrast-to-noise ratio in acquired images.

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.

Study on climate protection: More forest -- less meat

A recent EU study found that expanding forest areas in Europe can help mitigate global warming by reducing meat consumption and transforming the food system. The research suggests that a minimum of 23% increase in forest area is needed to meet the Paris climate goal, while also ensuring a secure food supply.

Osteoarthritis can increase your risk for social isolation

Research from the EPOSA study found that people with osteoarthritis are at higher risk of social isolation due to joint pain and limited mobility. Regular physical activity and social engagement can help alleviate this risk, suggesting potential benefits for healthcare providers in referring patients to senior centers.

Novel technique helps explain why bright light keeps us awake

Researchers at Salk Institute and UC San Diego developed a novel technique to trace neural connections, enabling them to understand how brain responds to light signals. They found that different time scales affect how neurons communicate with the retina and brain regions.

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

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Diversity may be key to reducing errors in quantum computing

Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology developed Ensemble of Diverse Mappings (EDM) to improve quantum computer reliability. By combining output probability distributions of diverse ensemble, EDM amplifies correct answer by suppressing incorrect ones.

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.

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.

A mathematical model reveals long-distance cell communication mechanism

A mathematical model developed by researchers at KAIST reveals how cells can communicate over long distances to spur collective action, even with short distance signaling. The team identified a cell communication mechanism that quickly forms a network of local interactions to facilitate synchronization.

Mindfulness may reduce opioid cravings, study finds

A study published in Drug and Alcohol Dependence found that combining mindfulness techniques with methadone therapy reduces opioid cravings and improves pain management. Researchers at Rutgers University discovered that mindfulness-based interventions can increase self-awareness, self-control over cravings, and emotional regulation.

Mindfulness meditation training alters how we process fearful memories

A study published in Biological Psychiatry found that mindfulness meditation training enhances the ability to recall a 'safety' memory, leading to reduced fear and anxiety. The researchers used MRI scans to examine changes in the brain associated with attention and memory following mindfulness meditation training.

E-cigarettes: 5 things to know

E-cigarette use among Canadian youth has increased significantly, with a threefold risk of starting cigarettes among nonsmokers aged 14-30 who try e-cigarettes. E-cigarettes are unregulated devices with unknown long-term health risks and potentially serious pulmonary effects.

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

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Frailty: The rising global health burden for an aging society

A new series on Frailty published in The Lancet highlights the need for evidence-based interventions and robust trials to prevent and manage frailty. Despite progress in understanding frailty, gaps in knowledge remain, including a lack of consensus on its definition and assessment.

Drug-light combo could offer control over CAR T-cell therapy

Researchers developed a system that allows for spatiotemporal control of CAR T-cell therapy, enabling cancer cells to target specific locations and times. This approach reduces the risk of non-specific targeting of organs and normal tissues, potentially improving treatment outcomes.

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.

Increased risk of tularemia as the climate changes

Researchers at Stockholm University developed a method to predict impacts of climate change on tularemia outbreaks. The study shows that relatively small changes in climate and water conditions can sharply increase incidence of tularemia in humans.

'I predict your words': that is how we understand what others say to us

A recent study published in eNeuro has shown that our auditory system and brain can make predictions about words in complex, uncertain, and noisy situations. The study used electroencephalography to analyze the brain waves of volunteers listening to unknown syllables, revealing a phenomenal ability to detect errors in predictions.

Targeting deeply held values crucial for inspiring pro-environmental behavior

A recent study suggests that targeting deeply held values is crucial for inspiring pro-environmental behavior. Researchers found that people with egalitarian values tend to care more about benefiting the environment, while those with hierarchical values prioritize authority and influence. The study's conclusions highlight the importanc...

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.

Highest mortality risks for poor and unemployed

A recent study using a large German dataset reveals that good education and high income can reduce mortality rates, while unemployment increases the risk. The study highlights the importance of addressing socioeconomic factors to improve public health outcomes.

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.

Factors that predict obesity by adolescence revealed

A new study has revealed three simple factors that predict whether a healthy weight child will be overweight or obese by adolescence. The research found that a child's and mother's Body Mass Index (BMI) and the mother's education level are key predictors of weight problems by age 14-15 years.

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.

Gene mutation in the chloride channel triggers rare high blood pressure syndrome

Researchers have discovered that a gene mutation in the chloride channel causes hyperaldosteronism, leading to abnormally high blood pressure and kidney damage. The study used a mouse model to investigate the pathological mechanisms of the disease, providing insights into the effects of an open chloride channel on aldosterone production.

Repeated febrile convulsions linked to epilepsy and psychiatric disorders

A comprehensive register-based study from Aarhus University, Denmark, found a significant association between repeated febrile convulsions and the risk of developing epilepsy and psychiatric disorders. Children who suffered three or more febrile convulsions had a 15% risk of developing epilepsy within thirty years.

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.

Lost in combat?

Researchers uncovered a collection of 31 unusual objects, believed to be the personal belongings of a Bronze Age warrior who died on the battlefield 3,300 years ago. The discovery provides insights into the equipment and origins of the warriors, with evidence suggesting at least some were from southern Central Europe.

Putting the power of a film director in an autonomous drone

A team of Carnegie Mellon University researchers has developed a fully autonomous aerial cinematography system that can learn humans' visual preferences. The system uses deep reinforcement learning to reason about visually interesting scenes, safety, and context, making it useful beyond entertainment and sports applications.

Interstellar comet with a familiar look

A team of scientists from the Jagiellonian University discovered an interstellar comet with a familiar look, providing new insights into exosolar minor bodies. The comet's dusty morphology and reddish hue suggest it may be similar to native Solar System comets.

Astronomers use giant galaxy cluster as X-ray magnifying lens

Researchers have successfully used a massive galaxy cluster as an X-ray magnifying glass to detect a tiny dwarf galaxy in its first, high-energy stages of star formation. The technique allows for the zooming in on extreme, distant X-ray-emitting phenomena and could be used to age-date different parts of a galaxy.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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