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Science News Archive October 2019


Page 34 of 47

April Kloxin wins NIH innovator award

University of Delaware Professor April Kloxin wins NIH Director's New Innovator Award to develop synthetic models of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, a fatal disease affecting over 3 million people globally. Her research aims to uncover insights into the underlying causes and potential treatments for lung fibrosis.

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.

β-blockers build heart muscle, may help infants with congenital heart disease

Researchers found that β-blockers can stimulate proper cell division in infant heart tissue and improve heart function. In mouse studies, propranolol treatment resulted in 30% more cardiomyocytes and better recovery from heart attacks. The pathway to clinical translation is promising, as the drug was synthesized nearly 60 years ago.

$1 million Walmart Foundation grant to fund Tata-Cornell ag study

The Tata-Cornell Institute will assess challenges facing small-farm aggregation models in India and Mexico, with a focus on creating lessons, tools, and resource pathways to strengthen small farm aggregators. The two-year study aims to identify successful and unsuccessful strategies for making these organizations economically sustainable.

Chlamydia in testicular tissue linked to male infertility

A recent study has found chlamydia in the testicular tissue biopsies of infertile men with no identified cause, indicating a potential link between the bacteria and male infertility. Chlamydia was detected in 45.3% of fixed testicular biopsies, suggesting a significant impact on fertility.

Physics vs. asthma

The study reveals the detailed 3D structure of the CysLT1 receptor, which plays a crucial role in inflammatory processes and allergic diseases like asthma. The researchers used advanced X-ray sources to determine the receptor's mechanism of operation, providing insights into improving asthma medications.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

First entirely digital clinical trial encourages physical activity

A new study published in The Lancet Digital Health found that a digital clinical trial using the MyHeart Counts app increased physical activity by 10% in participants. The trial, which enrolled over 1,000 participants and ran for 18 months, showed that even simple prompts from a smartphone app can encourage people to exercise more.

Maintaining weight loss beneficial for people with Type 2 diabetes

Researchers found that individuals who lost a significant amount of weight and then maintained 75% of their weight loss had improved risk factors, such as cholesterol levels and blood pressure. However, those who regained weight saw deteriorated benefits, highlighting the importance of long-term maintenance.

Global analysis of submarine canyons may shed light on Martian landscapes

Researchers analyzed global images of submarine canyons to find fundamental differences in their shapes and profiles compared to land-based canyons. The study suggests that processes forming submarine canyons are periodic landslides, seismic activity, or large winter storms, leading to new insights into Martian landscapes.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Reef fish caring for their young are taken advantage of by other fish

Biologists have discovered that coral reef fish take advantage of parental care to raise their own young. Genetic tests revealed that many parents were caring for mixed broods of young from different species. The study found evidence of both adoption and brood parasitism, with unrelated young fish benefiting from parental protection.

Fresh insights could lead to new treatments for liver disease

Researchers at the University of Edinburgh have identified three new sub-types of cells involved in liver scarring, accelerating the disease progression. The discovery is expected to accelerate the development of new treatments for liver diseases, which affect one in five people in the UK.

Study finds prehistoric humans ate bone marrow like canned soup 400,000 years ago

Scientists have found evidence of prehistoric humans storing and consuming animal bone marrow at Qesem Cave, dating back to around 400,000 years ago. The discovery suggests that early Paleolithic people had a sophisticated understanding of food preservation, allowing them to store bone marrow for up to nine weeks before feasting on it.

Study links sleep disturbances and Alzheimer's among Hispanics

A new study led by a University of Miami neurologist found that sleep disturbances among Hispanics may increase their risk of cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease. Insomnia and prolonged sleep duration were linked to declines in memory, executive function, and processing speed, which can precede the onset of dementia.

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.

Women and black Americans more likely to face severe adult obesity

A multi-national study reveals that children of normal weight who later become severely obese are often girls or from black populations, highlighting the need for tailored monitoring and prevention efforts. The study provides a predictive tool for doctors to focus intervention on high-risk individuals.

No soil left behind: How a cost-effective technology can enrich poor fields

A new cost-effective technology, subsurface water retention technology (SWRT), has the potential to significantly improve harvests in sub-Saharan Africa's poor fields. SWRT increases water retention and organic material accumulation, making soils more fertile, resulting in higher maize yields and carbon sequestration.

Unique immune cell could help stop breast cancer

Researchers identified gamma delta T cells in breast tissue, which are associated with remission and higher survival rates. The study suggests that these cells may be used to develop new treatments for breast cancer.

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.

Humans have salamander-like ability to regrow cartilage in joints

Researchers at Duke University Medical Center discovered a mechanism for cartilage repair similar to salamanders' limb regeneration. Cartilage age depends on joint location, with ankles being younger, knees middle-aged, and hips older. MicroRNAs regulate this process and may be developed into arthritis medicines.

How to make biocatalysts immortal

A research team from Bochum and Marseille has developed a self-defence mechanism in biocatalysts that shields them from oxygen, extending their service life up to 22,000 years. The new design uses tiny molecular spheres to create an extremely thin protective film that maintains efficiency.

Mapping white clover heritage

Researchers in New Zealand have developed a comprehensive map of white clover heritage and genetic landscape, providing a valuable resource for breeders. The 'pedigree map' reveals the history of the species, including its origins and genetic makeup, enabling more informed breeding decisions.

Study examines timing of weight gain in children

A new study analyzed data from 2010 to 2015 and found that body mass index of Wisconsin children rose in the summer and decreased in the fall. The study suggests that school-based obesity prevention initiatives may benefit from additional weight management support delivered at the start of the school year.

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.

Can being neighborly reduce depression in older adults?

A study of over 10,000 Chinese older adults found that living in neighborhoods with higher levels of social participation was associated with lower rates of depression. This increased social connection led to more physical activity and contact with neighbors and own children.

WVU researchers tackle rising health care costs with artificial intelligence

Researchers at WVU are using artificial intelligence to develop more efficient and accurate diagnoses of cardiovascular diseases, potentially leading to cost savings and improved patient outcomes. The four-year project aims to address research challenges associated with AI in healthcare, including data analysis efficiency and privacy m...

New mechanism fueling brain metastasis discovered at Wistar

Scientists at The Wistar Institute have identified a novel mechanism by which astrocytes promote cancer cell growth and metastasis in the brain. The pro-metastatic effect is mediated through the activation of the PPAR-gamma pathway, providing a new lead for PPAR-gamma antagonists in cancer therapy.

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.

Binghamton University professor wins Nobel Prize in Chemistry

M. Stanley Whittingham's work on lithium-ion batteries has revolutionized energy storage and utilization, enabling widespread use of portable electronics. His research has been instrumental in advancing the development of these batteries, paving the way for significant technological advancements.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Electronic solid could reduce carbon emissions in fridges and air conditioners

Researchers from the University of Cambridge have identified a promising replacement for toxic greenhouse gases used in refrigerators and air conditioners. The device, based on layers of oxygen and metallic elements PST, displays the largest electrocaloric effects yet observed in a body large enough for cooling applications.

Chemical evolution -- One-pot wonder

Researchers propose a cascade of chemical reactions to produce RNA's four genetic building blocks, creating a pivotal step in chemical evolution. The process requires simple precursor molecules and can occur under homogeneous environmental 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.

Deep3DFly: the deep-learning way to design fly-like robots

Deep3DFly uses computer science and neuroscience to model fly movements and poses, enabling robots to climb challenging terrain. The system can automatically predict and correct errors in calculations, opening up new possibilities for robotics and medicine.

New study supports nervous system's role in age-related weakness

Researchers found that older adults experience physical weakness due to impairments in brain and nerve function, rather than muscle changes. The study suggests that addressing the nervous system's role could improve quality of life for older adults with age-related strength loss.

Human gut microbes could make processed foods healthier

Researchers at WashU Medicine discovered that certain strains of gut microbes can break down harmful compounds in processed foods and produce beneficial nutrients. These microbes could potentially make unhealthy snacks healthier when added to their composition.

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.

Helping conservation initiatives turn contagious

A study published in Nature Sustainability found that most conservation initiatives follow a slow-fast-slow model, where initial adoption is slow but grows quickly as more adopters connect with potential adopters. This understanding can help policymakers design and promote effective conservation programs.

Highly virulent listeriosis pathogen discovered

Researchers identified a new, highly virulent form of Listeria monocytogenes that causes severe diseases in animals and humans. The strain was discovered in China and combines the virulence characteristics of various highly pathogenic Listeria species into a single isolate.

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.

Rest may help reduce PTSD symptoms, UCL study finds

A new UCL study has found that a period of rest following a traumatic event can reduce the development of involuntary 'memory intrusions' in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The study suggests that increasing memory consolidation, which involves storing and contextualizing memories, may help prevent these disturbances.

Blood test could help to accelerate brain cancer diagnosis

A new blood test has been developed to accelerate brain cancer diagnosis, distinguishing patients with brain cancer from healthy individuals correctly 87% of the time. The technology uses infrared light and artificial intelligence to identify the signs of cancer in a blood sample.

Scientists find gender-distinct circuit for depression

Research found a single circuit in mice that activates during stress, controlled by testosterone, driving different behaviors in males and females. In female brains, the circuit is active under stress but quietens with testosterone introduction, making them resistant to depression-like behaviors.

How chromosomes change their shape during cell differentiation

The study observed changes in A/B compartments of mouse embryonic stem cells, correlating with gene expression and replication timing changes. Chromosome conformation changes preceded gene expression changes, suggesting a physical mechanism for transcriptional regulation.

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.

Physicists couple key components of quantum technologies

Researchers at the University of Münster have created an interface that couples light sources with nanophotonic networks, enabling the integration of quantum optical circuits on chips. The interface uses photonic crystals to enhance a specific wavelength range and can be replicated using established nanofabrication processes.

Threshold-dependent gene drives in wild populations

Threshold-dependent gene drives offer a potential solution to controlling the spread of gene drives in wild populations, increasing control and reducing the risk of unchecked spread. The authors discuss this concept in detail, highlighting its potential benefits and challenges.

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.