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Science News Archive September 2019 - Page 26


Page 26 of 43

Four billion particles of microplastics discovered in major body of water

A study by the University of South Florida and Eckerd College found four billion particles of microplastics in Tampa Bay's waters, highlighting the need to address plastic pollution. Microplastics, tiny plastic particles less than 1/8 inch, come from various sources and can harm marine life through ingestion or surface damage.

SourceUniversity of South Florida·JournalMarine Pollution Bulletin·DateSep 12, 2019

Elaborate Komodo dragon armor defends against other dragons

Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin discovered that Komodo dragon armor is designed to protect against other dragons, not predators. The unique bone structure, featuring four distinct shapes, provides extensive coverage and suggests that young Komodo dragons do not have armor until adulthood.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalThe Anatomical Record·DateSep 12, 2019
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.

All on the table

The study highlights significant gaps in knowledge about underassessed foods, which represent more than half of animal production and over 25% of total food globally. The researchers argue that a more complete global food assessment is necessary to develop sensitive and versatile local solutions to environmental and food security issues.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 12, 2019

Finding (microbial) pillars of the bioenergy community

Researchers at Michigan State University have discovered that many core microbes on bioenergy plant leaves originate from the soil and remain consistent across seasons. The study suggests that these microbes play a crucial role in the plant's growth and health, and their phyllosphere microbiome can be targeted for cultivation.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 12, 2019

Hepatitis C-infected kidneys function as well as uninfected organs after transplant

A new national study by Penn Medicine found that hepatitis C-infected kidneys can function comparably to uninfected kidneys in patients who do not already have the virus. The study showed a significant increase in the use of HCV-infected organs, but raised questions about why these organs are still assigned lower risk scores.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateSep 12, 2019

Spin devices get a paint job

Physicists have developed a novel method to create high-performance spintronic devices using organic molecules, which can be easily configured for different functions. The new fabrication method uses layers of molecules that can be painted or printed onto metals, offering a promising alternative to traditional materials.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNano Letters·DateSep 12, 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.

Routine sparring in boxing can affect brain performance

Researchers found short-term impairments in brain-to-muscle communication and decreased memory performance after nine-minute boxing sparring sessions. The study suggests that routine impacts in sports like football and other combat sports may pose health risks.

SourceUniversity of Stirling·JournalFrontiers in Human Neuroscience·DateSep 12, 2019

Why do birds migrate at night?

Scientists have found that cryptochromes from migratory birds have evolved a mechanism that enhances their ability to respond to light, allowing them to sense and respond to magnetic fields under nighttime conditions. This discovery sheds light on how vertebrate cryptochromes function in low-light environments.

SourceSouthern Methodist University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 12, 2019

'Fire inversions' lock smoke in valleys

Researchers have discovered a feedback loop that reinforces atmospheric inversions, locking smoke in valleys and worsening air quality. Understanding this loop enables scientists to predict when fire inversions are likely to occur, aiding firefighters and residents.

SourceUniversity of Utah·DateSep 12, 2019

Cause of congenital nystagmus found

Researchers at the Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience have found that congenital nystagmus is caused by electrical oscillations in retinal neurons. The study shows that defects in just a few proteins result in erroneous movement signals sent to the brain, leading to the oscillating eye movements characteristic of the condition.

SourceNetherlands Institute for Neuroscience - KNAW·JournalPLOS Biology·DateSep 12, 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.

How breast cancer uses exosomes to metastasize to the brain

Research reveals how breast cancer cells use exosomes to bypass the blood-brain barrier and spread to the brain. Exosomes trick endothelial cells into taking them up, allowing cancer cells to metastasize, and can also manipulate astrocytes to facilitate tumor growth.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·DateSep 12, 2019

The 2019 CNRS innovation medallists

Three innovative minds received the 2019 CNRS innovation medallist award for their groundbreaking work in reducing satellite size and propulsion units. Ane Aanesland and Dmytro Rafalskyi developed new propellant technologies, while Vance Bergeron created electrostimulation solutions to improve paralysis rehabilitation. Livio de Luca pi...

SourceCNRS·DateSep 12, 2019

Bone marrow may be the missing piece of the fertility puzzle

Researchers at Yale University have discovered that a woman's bone marrow plays a crucial role in determining her ability to start and sustain a pregnancy. Bone marrow-derived stem cells travel to the uterus, where they help transform the uterine lining for implantation, essential for embryo implantation and pregnancy maintenance.

SourceYale University·JournalPLOS Biology·DateSep 12, 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.

Bone, not adrenaline, drives fight or flight response

A recent study suggests that osteocalcin, a hormone released by the skeleton, is necessary for the fight or flight response to be triggered in bony vertebrates. This finding challenges the long-held assumption that adrenaline drives this response.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalCell Metabolism·DateSep 12, 2019

Researchers develop chemical reaction method for more efficient drug production

Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology researchers have developed a more efficient method to produce polyene substructures, a crucial framework in many natural products and pharmaceutical molecules. The new 'one-pot' solution eliminates lengthy preparation steps and excess waste, making the production process more economical.

SourceTokyo University of Agriculture and Technology·JournalChemical Communications·DateSep 12, 2019

Exercising at home has a positive effect on Parkinson's patients

A recent study by Radboud University Medical Center found that exercising at home using motivating apps significantly improves cardiovascular fitness and motor disability in Parkinson's patients. The cycling exercise program was more effective than stretching exercises alone, with a notable impact on disease progression.

SourceRadboud University Medical Center·JournalThe Lancet Neurology·DateSep 12, 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.

Bones secrete a stress hormone

Research reveals that bone-derived hormone osteocalcin plays a critical role in mediating the acute stress response, which is distinct from hormones released by the adrenal glands. Osteocalcin levels rise in response to stress, triggering physiological responses such as increased energy expenditure and heart rate.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateSep 12, 2019

Research discoveries suggest that LH dipeptide improves mental health

Researchers discovered LH dipeptide as a potent anti-inflammatory agent that inhibits the secretion of inflammatory cytokines from microglia, reducing brain inflammation and depression symptoms. Consuming foods rich in LH dipeptide may be a safe method for maintaining good mental health.

SourceKobe University·JournalNutrients·DateSep 12, 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.

Researchers use metamaterials to create two-part optical security features

New optical security features use a two-piece metamaterial system to create difficult-to-replicate optical phenomena, making it harder to counterfeit money or intercept secure information. The approach offers improved forgery protection and can be used for various applications, including banknotes and identification cards.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Letters·DateSep 12, 2019

New review highlights benefits of plant-based diet for rheumatoid arthritis

A plant-based diet has been shown to reduce inflammation and improve symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis through various mechanisms. Studies have found that plant-based diets are low in fat and high in fiber, which can reduce inflammatory markers and promote healthy gut bacteria.

SourcePhysicians Committee for Responsible Medicine·JournalFrontiers in Nutrition·DateSep 12, 2019

'Time-outs' not associated with long-term negative effects in children

A recent study found no long-term negative effects of time-outs on children's emotional and behavioral health. Despite previous alarming claims, researchers did not find a relationship between reported use of time-outs and increased behavior problems.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics·DateSep 12, 2019

Terahertz waves reveal hidden processes in ultrafast artificial photosynthesis

A team of researchers directly observed charge transfer and intermolecular interactions in artificial photosynthesis on a picosecond scale. They used time-resolved attenuated total reflection spectroscopy in the terahertz region to reveal the process, which involves rhenium complexes and Triethanolamine solvent.

SourceOsaka University·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 12, 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.

Strategies to connect with barricaded buyers

Researchers found that suppliers can enhance competitiveness by engaging in 'peacocking' behavior, embedding unique capabilities into RFPs, and providing innovative solutions. Price is also important, but its importance varies by service and product.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateSep 12, 2019

Simple model captures almost 100 years of measles dynamics in London

A simple epidemiological model accurately predicts measles transmission dynamics in London over almost a century, accounting for historical events like the 1918 pandemic. The study's findings suggest long-term disease dynamics can follow simple rules, with implications for understanding other ecological phenomena.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateSep 12, 2019

How marketers can shape customer sentiment during events

A new study from the Journal of Marketing finds that firms' own social media posts surrounding customers' experiences can influence digital sentiment. Informational content offers a substantial means to improve customer sentiment in negative interaction event outcomes, increasing positive sentiment by nearly 20%.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateSep 12, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Big game hunting for a more versatile catalyst

Researchers at Harvard University have discovered the architecture of a copper-nitrenoid complex that can transform carbon-hydrogen bonds into valuable building blocks for chemical synthesis. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient and sustainable production methods for pharmaceuticals, household products, and other chemicals.

SourceHarvard University·JournalScience·DateSep 12, 2019

Scientists discover new breakthrough in cancer hair loss treatment

Scientists have found a way to protect hair follicles from chemotherapy, potentially preventing hair loss. Researchers used CDK4/6 inhibitors to halt cell division and reduce damage caused by taxanes, common anti-cancer drugs that can induce permanent hair loss.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalEMBO Molecular Medicine·DateSep 12, 2019

The rare molecule weighing in on the birth of planets

Astronomers have discovered a rare form of carbon monoxide in the dust and gas disc around a young star, revealing it to be much heavier than previously thought. This finding provides new insights into the formation of planets and challenges existing theories about planetary system formation.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateSep 12, 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.

Introducing 'phyjama,' a physiological-sensing pajama

Researchers developed physiological-sensing textiles that can be woven into sleep garments to monitor heart rate and breathing rhythm. The technology, dubbed 'phyjama,' extracts signals from pressured regions of the textile to get a more accurate composite reading.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·DateSep 12, 2019

Advanced MRI brain scan may help predict stroke-related dementia

A new MRI analysis technique using diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) helped predict thinking problems and dementia related to small vessel disease. Participants with the most brain damage were more likely to develop these conditions, and the scan accurately predicted three-fourths of dementia cases.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateSep 12, 2019

Mysterious Jurassic crocodile identified 250 years after fossil find

A fossil skull found in a Bavarian town in the 1770s has been recognized as Mystriosaurus laurillardi, a now-extinct species that lived in tropical waters during the Jurassic Period. Researchers have also identified another skull discovered in Yorkshire, belonging to the same species.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalActa Palaeontologica Polonica·DateSep 12, 2019

New drug target discovered for the lung disease PAH

Scientists identified a molecular pathway that contributes to PAH's development, targeting the EYA3 protein for new therapies. Blocking this protein prevents dangerous lung artery thickening and reversal of vascular remodeling was seen in laboratory rat models.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 12, 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.

Epilepsy surgery: The earlier the better, overview study shows

A systematic review and meta-analysis suggests that people with drug-resistant epilepsy have better prospects of being seizure-free if they undergo surgical treatment at an earlier stage. The study found a 15-21% higher probability of attack freedom for those who underwent surgery early compared to later stages.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalNeurology·DateSep 12, 2019

UBC researchers design roadmap for hydrogen supply network

A new study by UBC researchers provides a comprehensive model for hydrogen adoption in British Columbia, recommending a refuelling infrastructure and production plants to support the adoption of hydrogen-powered cars. The study sees significant growth in hydrogen demand every year, provided policies like B.C.'s carbon tax are maintained.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalInternational Journal of Hydrogen Energy·DateSep 12, 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.

Few people with peanut allergy tolerate peanut after stopping oral immunotherapy

A study found that desensitization from peanut oral immunotherapy can be maintained by continuing a modest dose of peanut protein, offering more protection against allergic reactions. Participants who passed food challenges had lower initial levels of antibodies and indicators of allergic activity in their blood.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalThe Lancet·DateSep 12, 2019

Standardized medical residency exam may reduce pool of diverse and qualified candidates

A recent study found that a standardized medical school exam can bias the entry of diverse and qualified candidates into radiation oncology residency programs. The researchers suggest that using a holistic approach to evaluate applicants could help address these biases, incorporating emotional intelligence and other core competencies.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalPractical Radiation Oncology·DateSep 11, 2019

Mako shark tracking off west coast reveals 'impressive' memory and navigation

Researchers tracked 105 mako sharks over 12 years, finding that they return to the same productive waters in Southern California Bight each year. The study demonstrates impressive memory and navigation skills, with sharks traveling up to 90 miles a day and staying within specific temperature ranges.

SourceNOAA Fisheries West Coast Region·JournalAnimal Biotelemetry·DateSep 11, 2019

A curiosity-driven genetic discovery that should impact cancer treatments

Researchers at Trinity College Dublin have discovered new biological targets that may help combat cancers resistant to existing drugs. The study, published in Molecular Cell, reveals the importance of 'accessory components' in targeting Polycomb genes and their role in regulating cellular identity.

SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalMolecular Cell·DateSep 11, 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.

Study: Want more investors to your startup? Better make an impassioned pitch

A study from Case Western Reserve University found that entrepreneurs who pitch their startup ideas with passion are more likely to entice investors. The researchers used functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) to examine the neural responses of investors' brains, revealing a causal relationship between passion and interest. As a ...

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalJournal of Business Venturing·DateSep 11, 2019

'Planting water' is possible -- against aridity and droughts

A mathematical model, EcH2o-iso, was developed to reflect the complex interplay between vegetation, soil, and water regimes. The model shows that certain types of vegetation can increase evaporation or promote groundwater recharge.

SourceForschungsverbund Berlin·JournalHydrological Processes·DateSep 11, 2019

Supporting menstruating girls: Are we making progress?

A new study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that socio-cultural values and beliefs around menstrual hygiene management are key to improving school environments for menstruating girls. The study identified gaps in research and provided recommendations for policy and practice changes.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalJournal of Adolescence·DateSep 11, 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.

Teens with opioid use disorder may benefit from medication treatment

A review of the literature suggests that adolescents with severe opioid use disorder can be treated with these medications as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. However, further research is needed to understand optimal treatment duration and retention rates.

SourceJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·JournalJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·DateSep 11, 2019