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Science News Archive September 2019 - Page 23


Page 23 of 43

Human heart evolved for endurance

The study reveals that humans developed longer ventricles and larger chamber sizes due to endurance exercise, contrasting with great apes' shorter intense bursts of resistance. This suggests a trade-off between pressure and volume in the human heart's evolution.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 16, 2019

Look out, invasive species: The robots are coming

Researchers develop robotic fish predators that induce fear responses in mosquitofish, triggering avoidance behaviors and physiological changes associated with energy reserve loss. Brief exposure to a robotic largemouth bass replica provokes meaningful stress responses in mosquitofish.

SourceNYU Tandon School of Engineering·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateSep 16, 2019

UTSA cancer prevention program expands

The Building a Healthy Temple Cancer Prevention Program is expanding to 30 churches in San Antonio and the Rio Grande Valley to educate and support at-risk individuals with faith-based health programming. The program aims to reduce cancer risks through good nutrition, physical activity, and healthy lifestyle habits.

SourceUniversity of Texas at San Antonio·DateSep 16, 2019
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.

Atlantic Ocean may get a jump-start from the other side of the world

Researchers found that as the Indian Ocean warms, it generates additional precipitation, drawing air from other parts of the world to dilute its salinity. This results in saltier water in the Atlantic Ocean, which accelerates its circulation, providing a potential 'jump-start' for the AMOC.

SourceYale University·JournalNature Climate Change·DateSep 16, 2019

Defective cilia linked to heart valve birth defects

Researchers at the Medical University of South Carolina identified mutations in ciliary genes causing bicuspid aortic valve and aortic valve narrowing. The study revealed that disruption of cilia development leads to BAV disease and calcification on the aortic valve.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalCirculation·DateSep 16, 2019

Social isolation derails brain development in mice

Research published in eNeuro found that female mice isolated during adolescence showed atypical brain development and habitual behavior in adulthood. Social isolation was linked to dendritic spine excess and impairment of goal-dependent decision making, highlighting the importance of social experience during adolescence.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·JournaleNeuro·DateSep 16, 2019

How gut bacteria negatively influences blood sugar levels

A world first study reveals how gut bacteria influence blood sugar levels by communicating with cells producing serotonin in the host body. The microbiome worsens metabolism by driving up serotonin levels, leading to significant metabolic problems.

SourceFlinders University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 16, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Needle-free flu vaccine patch effective in early study

A new needle-free flu vaccine patch has been developed that effectively stimulates the immune system without negative side effects. The patch uses a synthetic peptide to disrupt the skin barrier, allowing the flu vaccine virus to be delivered, and has shown promise in early human trials.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalJournal of Investigative Dermatology·DateSep 16, 2019

Success story or artificial inflation? Hospital performance in CAUTIs

A new study by Boston University School of Medicine found that CAUTI rates decreased significantly after the implementation of value-based incentive programs, but not due to improved patient outcomes. The change in definition likely led to artificial inflation of hospital performance scores.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateSep 16, 2019

Biological mechanism explained: How lymphoma cells metastasize to the brain

Researchers discovered that chronic inflammatory processes in aging brains lead to lymphoma cells being retained in the brain tissue instead of being released back into the blood. The NF-kappaB signaling pathway and CCL19 play a crucial role in this process, allowing lymphoma cells to multiply and develop tumors.

SourceGerman Cancer Research Center (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ)·JournalCancer Cell·DateSep 16, 2019

Sweet success of parasite survival could also be its downfall

Researchers found that Leishmania parasites protect themselves from starvation by making an unusual carbohydrate reserve called mannogen, which enables their survival within human hosts. This discovery provides a new understanding of the parasite's metabolism and could lead to the development of new therapies for Leishmaniasis.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateSep 16, 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.

One step closer future to quantum computers

Physicists have identified how to distinguish between true and 'fake' Majorana states in topological superconductors, a crucial step for advancing the field of quantum computers. By investigating supercurrents, they found that sign reversals can indicate trivial states.

SourceUppsala University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateSep 16, 2019

Reduce, reuse, recycle: The future of phosphorus

Researchers emphasize the need to boost phosphorus use efficiency in farming systems due to its limited supply and environmental concerns. Strategies include breeding crops that utilize phosphorus more efficiently, designing crop rotations, and utilizing soil organic matter and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalJournal of Environmental Quality·DateSep 16, 2019

A modelling tool to rapidly predict weed spread risk

A new statistical modeling tool uses features of a weed species and geography to predict high-risk areas where weeds are likely to spread first. Land management authorities can use the tool to identify at-risk areas that require careful monitoring, improving early detection and effective containment of invasive weeds.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalMethods in Ecology and Evolution·DateSep 16, 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.

Is copper a cause of Alzheimer's disease?

A University of Houston chemist is investigating the role of copper in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. The researcher aims to understand how cells regulate copper levels, which are found to be unusually high in people with the disease.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateSep 16, 2019

Genetic mutation appears to protect some people from deadly MRSA

A genetic variant in the DNMT3A region of chromosome 2p appears to help people with MRSA clear blood stream infections by regulating immune response. The mutation reduces levels of anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10, allowing for a more effective host response.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 16, 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.

Researchers build microscopic biohybrid robots propelled by muscles, nerves

Researchers at the University of Illinois developed soft robotic devices driven by neuromuscular tissue stimulated by light, enabling biobots to swim and walk autonomously. The new generation of two-tailed bots uses skeletal muscle tissue and optogenetic neurons for propulsion.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 16, 2019

The sleep neuron in threadworms is also a stop neuron

The RIS neuron in threadworms serves both to induce sleep after shedding its cuticle or recovering from stress, and to halt movement during locomotion, enabling the worm to change direction or avoid danger. This dual function highlights the complexity of simple life forms like worms.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 16, 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.

Welcome indoors, solar cells

Researchers at Linköping University have developed organic solar cells that can harness indoor light to produce electricity. The cells achieve high energy efficiency, with some variants converting up to 26.1% of ambient light into electricity.

SourceLinköping University·JournalNature Energy·DateSep 16, 2019

Grassland diversity and climate change

Climate change causes grassland communities to lose diverse species, especially those adapted to drought. The loss of native forbs with high specific leaf area indicates water-limited regions are particularly vulnerable.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 16, 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.

Fish trophic levels in freshwater lake

A study of 148 years of fishing records in Lake Simcoe found that commercial fishing led to depletion of high-trophic-level fish, while recreational fishing helped recover trophic levels. Fish stocking and invasive species also impacted the lake's ecosystem.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 16, 2019

Study finds virtual reality training could improve employee safety

A new study by the University of Nottingham found that virtual reality (VR) training can improve employee safety by increasing engagement and retention. The research used immersive VR systems to simulate health and safety training scenarios, comparing outcomes with traditional PowerPoint training. The results showed that VR-trained emp...

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·DateSep 16, 2019

Light and sound in silicon chips: The slower the better

Researchers at Bar-Ilan University have developed a new concept that combines light and sound waves in standard silicon chips, achieving delays of tens of nano-seconds without introducing additional materials. This breakthrough enables the selective processing of sound waves, which is difficult for electronics and optics alone.

SourceBar-Ilan University·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 16, 2019

Don't make major decisions on an empty stomach, research suggests

A study by Dr Benjamin Vincent found that hunger significantly alters people's decision-making, making them more impatient and prone to settling for smaller rewards. This effect carries over into other kinds of decisions, such as financial and interpersonal ones, indicating a potential danger for those experiencing hunger due to poverty.

SourceUniversity of Dundee·JournalPsychonomic Bulletin & Review·DateSep 16, 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.

Large transnational corporations play critical role in global natural resource management

Researchers identified six corporate actions that can promote environmental stewardship: aligning vision, mainstreaming sustainability, license to operate, financing transformations, radical transparency, and evidence-based knowledge for action. These changes can be implemented by large corporations to ensure long-term sustainability.

SourceOregon State University·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateSep 16, 2019

WVU astronomers help detect the most massive neutron star ever measured

West Virginia University astronomers have detected the most massive neutron star ever measured, weighing 2.17 times that of the sun. This groundbreaking discovery was made possible through the Green Bank Telescope and sheds light on the mysteries surrounding these exotic celestial objects.

SourceWest Virginia University·JournalNature Astronomy·DateSep 16, 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.

Misperceptions about racial economic progress are pervasive

A national survey of over 1,000 adults reveals widespread misperceptions about racial economic progress, with 97% of participants underestimating the Black-White wealth gap. The researchers argue that cognitive factors and stereotypes contribute to these misperceptions.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPerspectives on Psychological Science·DateSep 16, 2019

New microscopes unravel the mysteries of brain organization

Researchers have developed custom-built microscopes called mesoSPIMs, which can image the minute detail of brain tissue down to individual neurons. These new microscopes provide new insights into brain and spinal cord organization, enabling researchers to investigate neuronal networks involved in cognition, pleasure, or drug addiction.

SourceWyss Center for Bio and Neuroengineering·JournalNature Methods·DateSep 16, 2019

Daily aspirin may benefit many patients without existing cardiovascular disease

Researchers found that 2.5% of women and 12.1% of men without established CVD could derive net benefit from aspirin treatment for 5 years. The study used data from a well-characterized web-based decision support program in New Zealand, identifying persons likely to benefit from aspirin treatment based on personalized benefit-harm analy...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateSep 16, 2019

Potential target for Krabbe disease therapy

Researchers have identified acid ceramidase as a key enzyme in the production of psychosine, a toxic glycolipid that accumulates in people with Krabbe disease. Removing or inhibiting this enzyme has been shown to decrease or eliminate psychosine production and disease symptoms.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 16, 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.

NASA finds Tropical Depression Peipah dissipating

Tropical Depression Peipah weakened to a swirl of clouds on Sept. 16, with wind shear pushing strong thunderstorms southwest of the center. The storm was centered near 24.8 degrees north latitude and 142.8 degrees east longitude, about 82 miles east of Iwo To Island, Japan.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 16, 2019

Genetic responses of wild wheat to global warming

Researchers found elevated selection and increased mutational burdens in wild emmer wheat under global warming, but also more beneficial mutations. Genetic responses vary by temperature and rainfall, with high temperatures associated with lower mutational burden and reduced selection.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 16, 2019

Finding your niche

New research suggests that societal complexity is linked to personality traits, with more complex societies exhibiting greater diversity of personality types. This is explained by the presence of multiple socioecological niches, which shape individual behavior and contribute to success or reinforcement within a given environment.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateSep 16, 2019

Childhood behavior linked to taking paracetamol in pregnancy

A longitundinal cohort study found an association between paracetamol intake during mid-pregnancy and behavioral problems in children. Hyperactivity and attention issues were common among young children whose mothers took paracetamol 'sometimes' or more often.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalPaediatric and Perinatal Epidemiology·DateSep 15, 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.

Gutsy effort to produce comprehensive study of intestinal gases

A comprehensive study of intestinal gases has been conducted by UNSW Sydney, examining their interactions with the microbiome and associated disorders. The research highlights the importance of gases in maintaining human health and provides a novel tool for analyzing gastrointestinal gases in vivo.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalNature Reviews Gastroenterology & Hepatology·DateSep 15, 2019

Antibiotic resistance surges in dolphins, mirroring humans

Researchers from Florida Atlantic University and Georgia Aquarium have found a significant increase in antibiotic resistance in bottlenose dolphins, with the prevalence of resistance to at least one antibiotic reaching 88.2 percent. The study's findings suggest that the isolates originated from human activities or discharges, highlight...

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalAquatic Mammals·DateSep 15, 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.

The magic wavelength of cadmium

Researchers have found a magic wavelength in cadmium, enabling the creation of atomic clocks with unprecedented accuracy. This breakthrough could revolutionize time measurement and test new physics theories.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateSep 14, 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.

Researchers have identified areas of the retina that change in mild Alzheimer's disease

Researchers at the Complutense University of Madrid have identified areas of the retina that change in patients with mild Alzheimer's disease. The study used optical coherence tomography to measure retinal layer thickness and found significant thinning in certain locations, which can be used to diagnose the disease before other tests.

SourceUniversidad Complutense de Madrid·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 13, 2019

Negative posts on Facebook business pages outweigh positive posts 2 to 1

Research found that negative posts receive more comments than positive ones and tend to attract more attention, highlighting the need for companies to respond to negative content strategically. The study analyzed data from 12,000 posts from Fortune 500 companies, finding a nearly 2:1 ratio of negative to positive posts on business pages.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalInformation Systems Research·DateSep 13, 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.