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Science News Archive September 2019 - Page 7


Page 7 of 43

Promising steps towards a treatment for pulmonary fibrosis

Researchers found that blocking interleukin-11 protein with therapeutic antibodies can reverse lung fibrosis in a mouse model. This discovery holds promise for treating idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), a life-threatening lung disease. Clinical trials are expected to begin by 2021.

SourceMedical Research Council (MRC) Laboratory of Medical Sciences·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateSep 25, 2019

Engineered protein crystals make cells magnetic

Researchers have engineered protein crystals that can generate magnetic forces many times stronger than previously reported. By introducing these crystals into living cells, scientists can move the cells around with a magnet, offering potential applications in fields such as biotechnology and biomedical engineering.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalNano Letters·DateSep 25, 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.

Smoothing wrinkles in mice -- without needles

Researchers developed a needle-free 'exosome' treatment that reduces wrinkles in UV-exposed mice, improving skin health and collagen production. The treatment uses a jet of air to deliver medications deep into the skin, providing a more youthful appearance.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Nano·DateSep 25, 2019

Faster than ever -- neutron tomography detects water uptake by roots

Researchers visualize dynamic water transport in soil and roots using neutron tomography, gaining insights into efficient water use in crop cultivation. The technique enables faster imaging, overcoming previous limitations to study rapid processes.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalOptics Express·DateSep 25, 2019

Unravelling an alternative mechanism of airway mucosal immunity

A study published in Mucosal Immunology reveals that ASC and NLRP3 are key players in maintaining innate immune homeostasis in the airway, independent of caspase-1. This alternative mechanism may provide a new understanding of different possible mechanisms involved in airway protection against microbial infections.

SourceKanazawa University·JournalMucosal Immunology·DateSep 25, 2019

Web tool prioritizes health risks for postmenopausal women

A new online calculator helps middle-aged women predict their risk of conditions like heart disease, stroke, and cancer. The tool accounts for multiple health conditions at once and identifies changing probabilities over time.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalMenopause·DateSep 25, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

High carbon dioxide can create 'shrinking stems' in marshes

Marsh plants produce more stems that are noticeably smaller under high carbon dioxide, but adding nitrogen reverses this effect. This adaptation may help marshes absorb energy from storms and build soil, providing a defensive power against sea level rise.

SourceSmithsonian·JournalNature Climate Change·DateSep 25, 2019

T. rex used a stiff skull to eat its prey

Researchers at University of Missouri create 3D model showing how ligaments and joints in T. rex skull work, revealing it was stiffer than previously thought. This discovery could advance human and animal medicine by providing better models of joint interactions.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalThe Anatomical Record·DateSep 25, 2019

Adult fly intestine could help understand intestinal regeneration

Researchers discovered a key signaling pathway in adult fly intestines that promotes intestinal regeneration after stress. This finding has potential applications for regenerative medicine, particularly in treating inflammatory bowel diseases and colorectal cancer.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 25, 2019

Converging on a global waste solution

A multidisciplinary team at the University of Pittsburgh is developing novel research paradigms to address the complex challenge of global waste through circular economy design. The project aims to advance fundamental science behind circular economy solutions, including product design and life-cycle assessment.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·DateSep 25, 2019
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.

Prediction system significantly increases palliative care consults

A new prediction system significantly increased palliative care consultations for seriously ill patients by 74%, according to a University of Pennsylvania study. The Palliative Connect trigger system uses predictive analytics to identify patients in need of palliative care consultation, leading to earlier and more effective interventions.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateSep 25, 2019

Most Europeans want governments to help the homeless

A survey of European citizens found a majority (58%) hold positive attitudes towards homelessness, while 30% have negative views. Positive attitudes were more common among urban residents and those who support homeless individuals.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 25, 2019

Research suggests there's a better way to teach physics to university students

A new physics curriculum that teaches energy first shows promise in helping university students develop their calculus skills, particularly those with lower math abilities. Students who took the new curriculum performed better in subsequent engineering classes and on standardized physics conceptual tests.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalPhysical Review Physics Education Research·DateSep 25, 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.

Brain anatomy changes with maturation to adolescence

Researchers discovered a 'wave of brain maturation' occurring in children from age 9-12, corresponding with increased social and academic demands. This neurological development is linked to improved impulse control, cognitive processing, and executive function.

SourceChildren's Hospital Los Angeles·DateSep 25, 2019

Nanotechnology improves chemotherapy delivery

A new nanotechnology-based process uses magnetic particle imaging to monitor chemotherapy concentrations in real-time, allowing doctors to adjust doses precisely. This innovation has the potential to minimize side effects and improve treatment outcomes for cancer patients.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalNano Letters·DateSep 25, 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.

Kids in poor, urban schools learn just as much as others

A nationwide study reveals that schools serving disadvantaged and minority children teach as much to their students as those serving more advantaged kids. The learning gap disappears when students return to school after summer break, suggesting that schools are neutral in addressing inequality.

SourceOhio State University·JournalSociology of Education·DateSep 25, 2019

Stressed out: Americans making themselves sick over politics

A new study from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln reveals that nearly 40% of Americans report politics as a source of stress, with one in five experiencing lost sleep. The research also found that exposure to media promoting opposing views can drive individuals crazy and damage friendships.

SourceUniversity of Nebraska-Lincoln·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 25, 2019

New species of crocodile discovered in museum collections

Researchers have discovered a new species of ten-foot-long crocodile in New Guinea, separated from another by the island's mountain range. The species, Crocodylus halli, was named after Philip Hall, who first investigated the reptile's lineage.

SourceField Museum·JournalCopeia·DateSep 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.

Researcher awarded grant to study effects of vaping

A researcher at the Oklahoma Tobacco Research Center has been awarded a five-year grant to study the long-term effects of vaping on human health. The study aims to examine the effects of vaping on respiratory function and determine if users become susceptible to other tobacco products.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·DateSep 25, 2019

Can going nuclear combat climate change?

The International Energy Agency argues that nuclear power can fill the gap in low-carbon electricity generation, but safety concerns and high costs are barriers. Nuclear reactors can generate energy with low greenhouse gas emissions like other low-carbon sources.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateSep 25, 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.

NASA finds light rain in former hurricane Kiko's remnants

NASA's Global Precipitation Measurement mission detected scattered light rain from the remnants of Hurricane Kiko, which weakened to a remnant low-pressure area on September 24. The rainfall data is used by forecasters at NOAA's National Hurricane Center to improve forecasts.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 25, 2019

New satellite may make flood prediction easier

A new satellite mission, SWOT, will enhance flood modeling globally, even in extensively studied regions. It will provide more accurate floodplain maps and predictions for areas affected by snowmelt, hurricanes, and ice jam breakup.

SourceOhio State University·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateSep 25, 2019

World's first three-organoid system opens doors for medical research and diagnosis

Scientists at Cincinnati Children's developed the world's first three-organoid system, growing a connected set of mini human organs including liver, pancreas, and biliary ducts. The breakthrough allows for studying organ function in concert, reducing animal-based medication studies and accelerating precision medicine.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalNature·DateSep 25, 2019

ER visits escalate when kids with asthma also have depression, anxiety

Children with asthma who also have depression and anxiety are more likely to visit the ER, with a rate of 28 visits per 100 child years compared to 16 for those without mental health diagnoses. This population may benefit from more intensive care coordination to improve medication compliance and symptom recognition.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateSep 25, 2019

Ocean's key role in achieving climate goals

Acting on ocean-focused emissions activities can significantly contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The implementation of changes in research, technology, and policy development could lead to a substantial reduction in global emissions by nearly 11 billion tons in 2050.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateSep 25, 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.

Studies link air pollution to mental health issues in children

Three studies from Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center reveal a strong association between short-term air pollution exposure and exacerbations of psychiatric disorders in children, with higher risks for disadvantaged neighborhoods. The research also found links to generalized anxiety and depression in otherwise healthy children.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateSep 25, 2019

Study: Climate change could cause drought in wheat-growing areas

A new study warns that up to 60% of current wheat-growing areas could experience severe and prolonged droughts by the end of the century due to climate change. This would have a significant impact on global food production and lead to increased food prices.

SourceUniversity of Arkansas·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 25, 2019

NASA-NOAA satellite finds Jerry now a post-tropical storm

Jerry has been designated a post-tropical cyclone due to the lack of strong thunderstorms in recent satellite imagery. The post-tropical storm is expected to produce 1 inch or less of rainfall across Bermuda through tonight, with swells continuing to affect the island over the next few days.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 25, 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.

True lies: How letter patterns color perceptions of truth

Researchers found that people perceive truthfulness higher in claims following alphabetical order, even when source unknown. This can be exploited by companies to convince consumers of slogans or claims.

SourceSociety for Consumer Psychology·JournalJournal of Consumer Psychology·DateSep 25, 2019

Blood-brain barrier damage occurs even with mild head trauma -- Ben-Gurion U study

A study of adolescent and adult athletes found evidence of damage to the brain's protective barrier, without a reported concussion. The researchers detected leaks in the blood-brain barrier using advanced MRI protocol and biomarkers, suggesting that mild impact can still cause significant trauma.

SourceAmerican Associates, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalJournal of Neurotrauma·DateSep 25, 2019

Aerosols from coniferous forests no longer cool the climate as much

New research reveals that coniferous forest aerosols no longer cool the climate as much, thanks to increased small airborne particles caused by human activities. The reduction of natural aerosols and increase of smaller particles diminish the cooling effect on the climate.

SourceLund University·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 25, 2019

Powerful new synthetic vaccines to combat epidemics

A new type of vaccine that can be stored at warmer temperatures has been developed for Chikungunya, a disease that causes crippling headache and joint pain. The vaccine candidate has shown exceptionally promising results in animal studies, setting the stage for a future vaccine to combat the disease.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 25, 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.

A mouse or an elephant: What species fights infection more effectively?

Researchers found that big mammals have far more neutrophils in circulation than small species, a key defense against early immune responses to invaders like bacteria and parasites. Larger mammals may need more circulating neutrophils to overcome the advantage infectious agents have over them due to their size.

SourceHamilton College·DateSep 25, 2019

University of Alberta researchers developing new 'DNA stitch' to treat muscular dystrophy

Researchers at the University of Alberta are developing a new treatment that could help almost half of patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy by restoring dystrophin protein production. The experimental cocktail of DNA-like molecules has shown dramatic regrowth of dystrophin, which acts as a support beam to keep muscles strong.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalMolecular Therapy·DateSep 25, 2019

FSU research: Fear not a factor in gun ownership

Gun owners report fewer phobias and victimization fears than non-gun owners, study by Florida State University researchers suggests. The study found exceptions for fears of animals and mugging, and implications for gun policy.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalSSM - Population Health·DateSep 25, 2019
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.

Mosquito eye inspires artificial compound lens (video)

Compound lenses developed by researchers are inspired by mosquito eyes, providing a wide field of view with rapid imaging capabilities. The new design has antifogging properties, similar to those found in mosquito eyes, making it suitable for applications in drones, robots and medical devices.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateSep 25, 2019

Researchers report a new way to produce curvy electronics

A team of researchers has reported a new manufacturing method, CAS printing, to produce curvy electronic devices such as smart contact lenses and hemispherical solar cells. The technique enables the efficient production of three-dimensional curvy structures with high accuracy.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalNature Electronics·DateSep 25, 2019

Choose your own adventure

A novel player trait model has been developed to evaluate individual gaming preferences, enabling the creation of tailored experiences. The five-trait model assesses social, aesthetic, challenge, goal, and narrative elements to provide personalized game recommendations.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·DateSep 25, 2019

New research analyzes video game player engagement

Researchers analyzed 1,309 gamers' playing history over 29 months, finding that varying game difficulty based on players' engagement levels increases use by 4-8%. The study suggests introducing surprises like new maps or game modes to offset decreased player curiosity.

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

Benefits for mind, body and work ability seen in Medicaid Expansion study

A University of Michigan study found that Medicaid expansion improved the health, work, and job search outcomes of low-income adults with behavioral health conditions. Those with these conditions showed significant gains in physical and mental health, as well as better job performance.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalPsychological Services·DateSep 25, 2019

Bottom-up synthesis of crystalline 2D polymers

Researchers at TU Dresden and Ulm University developed a new synthetic route to create crystalline 2D polymers with defined structures. The 2D polymers have promising properties for electronic components and systems, including superior charge transport and chemiresistivity.

SourceTechnische Universität Dresden·JournalNature Chemistry·DateSep 25, 2019

Avatars against obesity

Researchers at the University of Würzburg are developing a new therapy approach using virtual reality avatars to combat obesity. The avatars aim to provide a realistic body image, promoting acceptance and self-reflection in patients struggling with the condition.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·DateSep 25, 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.