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Science News Archive October 2019 - Page 9


Page 9 of 47

New findings could improve diagnosis, treatment of depression

Scientists have identified genes associated with a common depression symptom: lack of motivation. This finding could lead to new diagnostic methods and targeted treatments for depression. The study uses mouse models to understand brain changes related to specific symptoms.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNeuron·DateOct 28, 2019

Mathematics reveals new insights into Marangoni flows

Researchers found that impurities swept away in deeper water decrease in size with surface elasticity, while counterflows cancel out fluid movement. In shallow water, the boundary becomes blurred, revealing new processes in well-studied physics experiments.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateOct 28, 2019

New insights could help block the path of cancer 'super-highways'

Researchers at the Francis Crick Institute identified a key mechanism controlling tissue structure, which could help identify drugs that make it harder for cancer cells to spread. The study found that collisions between cells help create different tissue structures, some of which aid cancer progression and can be targeted by drugs.

SourceThe Francis Crick Institute·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateOct 28, 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.

An amazingly simple recipe for nanometer-sized corundum

Scientists developed a simple method for producing nanometer-sized corundum with high porosity at room temperature. The process involves milling a powder in a ball mill for a few hours, resulting in thermodynamically stable nanoparticles. This breakthrough reduces energy and costs associated with traditional production methods.

SourceThe Henryk Niewodniczanski Institute of Nuclear Physics Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalScience·DateOct 28, 2019

Training for Title IX investigators lacks tested, effective techniques

New research at Iowa State University reveals that Title IX investigators are using untested techniques in interviews, which may hinder investigations. The study suggests the use of science-based interviewing strategies to improve the effectiveness of investigative interviews.

SourceIowa State University·JournalJournal of Applied Research in Memory and Cognition·DateOct 28, 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.

Science shows hype about your opponent actually messes with your game

A study from Duke University's Fuqua School of Business found that players perform worse against opponents with rising rankings due to 'status momentum', which affects their mental game. This theory counters the widely debated 'hot hand' concept, suggesting a player's positive momentum can heighten their own performance.

SourceDuke University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 28, 2019

Women surgical residents suffer more mistreatment, burnout, suicidal thoughts

A new study found that women surgical residents are more likely to experience mistreatment, including verbal abuse, sexual harassment, and pregnancy/childcare discrimination, leading to higher burnout rates. The study also revealed that 5.3% of women surgical residents had suicidal thoughts in the last year compared to 3.9% of men.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateOct 28, 2019

Study: In the long run, drugs and talk therapy hold same value for people with depression

A cost-effectiveness analysis suggests that individuals with new diagnoses of major depression should have access to both antidepressants and cognitive behavioral therapy, as the costs and benefits are equivalent after five years. This study provides insights into treatment decisions and could inform future care and insurance coverage.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateOct 28, 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.

Let there be...a new light

Researchers have synthesized a new type of chiral light that can tell right- and left-handed molecules apart. This innovative light interacts differently with each type of molecule, allowing for precise control over chemical reactions and potential applications in drug development.

SourceForschungsverbund Berlin·JournalNature Photonics·DateOct 28, 2019

Protected areas and anthropogenic pressures

Researchers analyzed 12,315 protected areas across 152 countries to assess their impact on reducing anthropogenic pressures. Protected areas in temperate and forested regions have slowed human pressure, with countries with higher socioeconomic development experiencing lower rate increases.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 28, 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.

Biomarker for schizophrenia can be detected in human hair

A study found that a subtype of schizophrenia is related to abnormal hydrogen sulfide levels in the brain, which can act as a biomarker. Higher than normal levels of the enzyme Mpst were detected in postmortem brains and hair follicles from people with schizophrenia.

SourceRIKEN·JournalEMBO Molecular Medicine·DateOct 28, 2019

Make fungi think they're starving to stop them having sex, say scientists

Researchers at the University of Bath have characterized receptors unique to fungi that prevent sexual reproduction, which could be targeted to slow down fungal evolution. By making fungi believe they are starving, these receptors could inhibit sex and increase the shelf life of resistant crops and antifungal compounds.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateOct 28, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Snail habitats and schistosomiasis transmission

Researchers used drone and satellite imagery to map snail habitats in the Lower Senegal River Basin, finding that non-emergent vegetation was a stronger predictor of human infection than host snail counts. Removing this vegetation may benefit snail control efforts, reducing schistosomiasis transmission risk near human water-contact sites.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 28, 2019

Scientists are developing a way to counter ulcerative colitis

Researchers conducted the world's first international study to compare two new drugs for treating ulcerative colitis. The results published in The New England Journal of Medicine show Vedolizumab as 9-12% more effective than Adalimumab in treating moderate to severe forms of the disease.

SourceImmanuel Kant Baltic Federal University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateOct 28, 2019
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Which came first: Brain size or drinking propensity?

New research challenges traditional idea about relationship between alcohol use and brain size, suggesting that reduced brain volume may represent a genetically-conferred predispositional risk factor for heavier alcohol consumption. Longitudinal and family data from three independent brain imaging studies confirm this association.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateOct 28, 2019

Chicks born with ability to distinguish and avoid different dangers

A study by Queen Mary University of London and University of Trento reveals that chicks are born with the knowledge to flee from predators and slow down when a threat is far away. This innate ability allows them to survive in their environment without needing to learn through experience.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 28, 2019

Genetics reveal Pacific subspecies of fin whale

Scientists have identified a new subspecies of fin whale in the northern Pacific Ocean using genetic research, highlighting the diversity of marine mammals. The finding reveals that fin whales have been separated for hundreds of thousands of years and can be assigned to their ocean of origin using genetic data.

SourceNOAA Fisheries West Coast Region·JournalJournal of Mammalogy·DateOct 28, 2019

Compact depth sensor inspired by spiders

Researchers developed a compact depth sensor inspired by jumping spiders' impressive depth perception. The metalens sensor combines with an ultra-efficient algorithm to measure depth in a single shot, enabling applications in microrobots, small wearable devices, and virtual/augmented reality headsets.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 28, 2019

An overlooked piece of the solar dynamo puzzle

Scientists at Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf have identified a new form of magnetic instability in the Sun's rotating plasma, which may contribute to its magnetic field generation. This discovery could be a significant step forward in understanding sunspots and their cycles.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalPhysical Review Fluids·DateOct 28, 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.

Theory explains biological reasons that force fish to move poleward

The Gill-Oxygen Limitation Theory explains why fish migrate poleward in response to warming waters. As water temperature increases, the amount of dissolved oxygen decreases, making it harder for fish to breathe, while also increasing their oxygen demand.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalMediterranean Marine Science·DateOct 28, 2019

Study tracks evolutionary history of metabolic networks

The study analyzed how enzymes work and reconstructed the evolutionary history of metabolic networks, showing they became less random and more organized over time. The researchers created a database called MANET, which revealed that early metabolic pathways were more random and less efficient than present-day ones.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 28, 2019

The homeland of modern humans

The study reveals that anatomically modern humans (Homo sapiens sapiens) first appeared in a southern African homeland and thrived there for 70,000 years. The researchers used mitochondrial DNA to reconstruct the earliest human population history, suggesting that climate changes triggered early migrations.

SourceGarvan Institute of Medical Research·JournalNature·DateOct 28, 2019

Great Barrier Reef island coral decline

A long-term study found significant declines in live, hard corals on Great Barrier Reef island groups, with temperature stress and wave exposure identified as key drivers. The research highlights the importance of addressing water quality and climate change to prevent ecosystem collapse.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·JournalEcological Applications·DateOct 27, 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.

Soft drinks found to be the crucial link between obesity and tooth wear

A study from King's College London found that sugary soft drinks are associated with both obesity and tooth wear among adults. The acidic nature of these drinks leads to tooth erosion, particularly in obese patients. This highlights the importance of monitoring calorie intake through acidic sugar-sweetened drinks.

SourceKing's College London·JournalClinical Oral Investigations·DateOct 27, 2019

AAP recommends greater access to surgical treatments for severe obesity

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends increased access to metabolic and bariatric surgery for children and adolescents with severe obesity, citing the growing public health crisis. Studies show that surgery is safe and effective, but underutilized due to barriers such as insurance coverage and limited centers.

SourceAmerican Academy of Pediatrics·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateOct 27, 2019

Tuberculous infection is not life-long in most people

Researchers from Penn-led study suggest that tuberculous infection is rarely life-long and that 90% of infected people will not develop active TB. The study found that immunological memory to the disease can outlast elimination of infection, making it difficult to detect those at risk.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalThe BMJ·DateOct 25, 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.

IKBFU researchers have discovered another natural antioxidant -- alder bark

IKBFU researchers have found that alder bark extracts contain high levels of polyphenols and antiradical activity, offering potential benefits for anti-aging and disease prevention. The study also reveals the presence of oregonin, a diarylheptanoid glycoside with anti-inflammatory and antimycotic properties.

SourceImmanuel Kant Baltic Federal University·JournalEuropean Journal of Wood and Wood Products·DateOct 25, 2019

MIT engineers develop a new way to remove carbon dioxide from air

A new system can capture carbon dioxide from the air at any concentration level, including 400 parts per million, and release it into a carrier stream. This technology has significant implications for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and could eliminate the need for fossil fuels in applications such as soft-drink bottling plants.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateOct 25, 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.

Can solar technology kill cancer cells?

Researchers at Michigan State University have developed a new approach to detect and attack cancer cells using light-activated fluorescent dyes. The breakthrough utilizes technology traditionally reserved for solar power, offering promising results in breast, lung, and skin cancer cell lines and mouse models.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 25, 2019

Algorithm identifies cancer patients in need of advance care planning conversations

A new algorithm developed by a Penn Medicine-led team flags patients who would benefit most from advance care planning conversations, leading to improved timely discussions. The study found that 51% of high-priority flagged patients died within six months compared to less than four percent in lower priority group.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateOct 25, 2019

Placing another piece in the dark matter puzzle

Researchers at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz used a novel nuclear magnetic resonance technique called ZULF to search for dark matter. They found no evidence of ultralight dark matter particles with couplings above a particular threshold, ruling them out as possible candidates.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 25, 2019

What 26,000 books reveal when it comes to learning language

A UB researcher's study using 26,000 books suggests that the learning environment plays a significant role in shaping language behavior. The researchers analyzed data from 10 different studies involving over 1,000 participants and found that culture-specific books explained much of the variance in the data.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalBehavior Research Methods·DateOct 25, 2019
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Electrospun fibers weave new medical innovations

Electrospun fibers are being explored as a novel method for creating effective contraceptives and treating brain tumors. A University of Cincinnati study discovered that coaxial electrospinning can combine different materials to improve drug delivery and effectiveness.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalChemPlusChem·DateOct 25, 2019

Only half of US children get enough sleep during the week

Research found that only 48% of school-age US children get sufficient sleep, leading to improved learning outcomes and childhood flourishing. Children who get enough sleep show increased interest in learning, do required homework, and demonstrate positive behavioral traits.

SourceAmerican Academy of Pediatrics·DateOct 25, 2019

Did an extraterrestrial impact trigger the extinction of ice-age animals?

A study published in Scientific Reports suggests an asteroid or comet hit Earth 12,800 years ago, causing a period of extreme cooling and contributing to the extinctions of over 35 species of megafauna. The impact hypothesis is supported by platinum spikes found at research sites worldwide, including South Carolina, Europe, and Chile.

SourceUniversity of South Carolina·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 25, 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.

Daylight not rain most important for Africa 'green-up' phenomenon

New research reveals that daylight hours are the key factor in starting Africa's iconic 'green-up' phenomenon, where plants and trees grow their leaves. The study found shorter daylight hours before the growing season resulted in later vegetation growth.

SourceLancaster University·JournalCommunications Biology·DateOct 25, 2019

Mentally ill die many years earlier than others

A nationwide study in Denmark found that people with mental disorders die 10-7 years earlier than the general population. The study, published in The Lancet, explores mortality rates for different types of mental disorders, including depression and anxiety.

SourceAarhus University·JournalThe Lancet·DateOct 25, 2019

Antibiotics not necessary for most toothaches, according to new ADA guideline

The American Dental Association recommends against prescribing antibiotics for healthy adults with toothaches, citing evidence that they do not alleviate symptoms and can cause harm. In cases where dental treatment is delayed or signs of infection are present, antibiotics may be considered, but only in specific scenarios.

SourceAmerican Dental Association·JournalThe Journal of the American Dental Association·DateOct 25, 2019

New study on early human fire acquisition squelches debate

Researchers discovered evidence of controlled fire in Lusakert Cave 1, contradicting the long-held notion that Homo sapiens were the first to master fire. The team used archaeological, hydrocarbon, and isotope analysis to determine the age of fire control among early humans.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 25, 2019
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.

Memory training builds upon strategy use

Researchers found that working memory training relies on task-specific strategies to improve performance, rather than increasing capacity. Hundreds of commercial programs claim to boost memory, but their effects are limited to similar tasks.

SourceAbo Akademi University·JournalJournal of Memory and Language·DateOct 25, 2019

Hydrogen boride nanosheets: A promising material for hydrogen carrier

Researchers have discovered that hydrogen boride nanosheets can store and release significant amounts of hydrogen under ultraviolet light, making them a promising material for hydrogen carriers. The discovery reinforces the view that these nanosheets could go beyond graphene as a multifunctional material.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 25, 2019

Energy regulation rollbacks threaten progress against harmful ozone

A new study by Georgia Institute of Technology researchers warns that rollbacks of US energy regulations could lead to increased CO2 emissions, slowed progress in reducing pollutants, and worsening air quality. This could result in higher costs for healthcare and finances due to increased cases of respiratory illness.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalOne Earth·DateOct 25, 2019