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Science News Archive February 2020


Page 28 of 40

What fuels a 'domino effect' in cancer drug resistance?

Researchers at KAIST have discovered mechanisms that fuel a 'domino effect' in cancer drug resistance, enabling failed responses to paclitaxel to speed up the evolution of resistance to other drugs. The study suggests a new strategy for improving second-line cancer treatment.

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.

New measure of biological age can predict health risks

A study from Karolinska Institutet found that a combination of markers, including frailty and the epigenetic clock, can predict health risks and mortality. The researchers followed 845 middle-aged and elderly participants over 20 years, revealing associations between these markers and increased risk of early death.

Telehealth interventions associated with improved obstetric outcomes

A systematic review from George Washington University finds that telehealth interventions can lead to improved health outcomes in low-risk obstetrics, family planning, and gynecologic conditions. Text messaging and remote monitoring are identified as key components of effective telehealth interventions.

Blasting 'forever' chemicals out of water with a vortex of cold plasma

Researchers at Drexel University have found a way to destroy toxic compounds, ominously dubbed 'forever chemicals,' that have contaminated the drinking water of millions across the US. The team uses a blast of charged gas, called cold plasma, to eliminate PFAS from water without heating it up.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Heroin use in US

A recent study examined changes in heroin use and addiction among US adults over 16 years. Heroin use disorder increased significantly between 2002 and 2018, affecting approximately 800,000 adults in the country.

Scientists invent germ-fighting fabric for health care

UMass Lowell researchers develop germ-killing fabric with N-halamine, reducing risk of drug-resistant bacteria and hospital-acquired infections. The fabric can be recharged through bleach washing, extending its effectiveness.

A happy partner leads to a healthier future

Michigan State University research found that optimistic partners contribute to their spouses' health, staving off cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease. Couples who share healthy habits and positive memories together experience improved well-being.

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.

Himalayan glacier shows evidence of start of Industrial Revolution

A study found high levels of toxic metals in a Himalayan glacier dating back to the late 18th century, indicating human activity's impact on the atmosphere began during the Industrial Revolution. The research suggests that coal emissions from Europe traveled over 6,400 miles to contaminate the glacier.

Scientists warn humanity about worldwide insect decline

Scientists warn that humanity is pushing ecosystems beyond recovery, leading to unquantified insect extinctions. To mitigate this, experts suggest setting aside land for conservation, transforming agricultural practices, and communicating with civil society and policy makers.

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.

NASA examines Tropical Storm Uesi's heavy rainfall

NASA measured heavy rainfall around Tropical Storm Uesi's center and in a large band of thunderstorms, triggering warnings for Vanuatu. The heaviest rainfall was falling at 1.2 inches per hour near the center, while a large band of thunderstorms experienced rainfall rates of up to 1 inch per hour.

How some mammals pause their pregnancies

A recent study explored how some mammals postpone embryonic development to await better conditions. The research, led by Abdiasis Hussein, advances understanding of delayed embryo implantation and suggests a link to rapidly dividing cells in tumors.

Creating the ideal nasal tip contour

Dr. Toriumi discusses the complexity of nasal tip contouring and recommends learning from each case to improve outcomes. He highlights the importance of structural grafting for a better long-term aesthetic and functional outcome.

'Women my age tend to drink -- it's normal'

Research found that middle-aged and young-old women tend to consume alcohol at levels exceeding low-risk guidelines. They prioritize appearing respectable and in control over the quantity of alcohol consumed. Health advice needs to acknowledge that women may socially construct their drinking practices to focus on non-biomedical impacts.

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.

Power of older people could save villages

A European Union-funded project is using guided conversations with older adults in rural areas to identify their needs and create innovative solutions. By empowering older people, the project aims to revitalize rural communities and address issues like isolation and loneliness.

Social anxiety and empathic embarrassment

A functional MRI study found that social anxiety characterized by fear of making others uncomfortable is associated with weakened connectivity in the cognitive-empathy brain network. This suggests impaired cognitive processing during embarrassing situations may contribute to social anxiety.

AI, brain scans may alter how doctors treat depression

A national trial has produced a computer that can accurately predict which antidepressant will work for patients based on their brain activity. This breakthrough may lead to personalized depression treatments using AI and brain imaging.

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.

New repair mechanism for DNA breaks

Researchers at the University of Seville have identified new factors necessary for repairing chromosomal breaks that can cause cell death. The discovery involves proteins modifying histones, which are essential for chromosome structure and cohesion.

Orbital cycles in the Early Jurassic

A study of carbon-isotope data from a Welsh mudstone core reveals anomalies consistent with orbital cycles of approximately 405,000 years. These findings indicate that the marine carbon cycle is particularly responsive to such astronomical signals.

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.

A new cross-border science journalism initiative for Latin America

The Cross-Border Science Journalism Project will award financial support to a team of Latin American science writers to produce a cross-border environmental investigative project. The project will be published in Spanish by media partners in Latin America and in English by U.S. media partners.

New world map of fish genetic diversity

A global distribution map of fish genetic diversity has been created, revealing uneven distribution across marine and freshwater species. Temperature plays a key role in shaping genetic diversity among marine fish, while habitat complexity and changes over time are crucial for freshwater species.

Gulf coast mollusks rode out past periods of climate change

According to new research, Gulf coast mollusks were able to survive past periods of climate change, including the Paleocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum (PETM), which warmed the planet by 9-14 degrees Fahrenheit. The study suggests that these resilient communities may adapt again to today's climate change.

Five things to know about egg freezing

Elective egg freezing is a common method to increase pregnancy chances at a later age. Patients under 35 with normal ovarian reserve have the best chance of success, but future live births are not guaranteed. The treatment process takes 10-14 days and fees are not covered by Canadian government health insurance.

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.

Penn State receives five-year $3.7 million grant to study virus evolution

The Penn State team aims to create a handheld device that can quickly and cheaply detect evolving viruses in the field using data science and machine learning. The device will utilize laser technology to capture vibrations on the surface of viruses, tracking minute changes to differentiate between emerging strains.

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.

Global warming and extinction risk

A German research team has identified bony fish as particularly sensitive to climate change, with snails and oysters being less threatened. The study combines fossil data with experimental studies, providing a basis for future collaboration and more precise predictions of species extinction.

Model shows how to make on-farm sustainable energy projects profitable

Researchers developed a computational model that maximizes economic return on anaerobic digestion systems, accounting for uncertainty and key factors such as farm size and species. The model identifies optimal locations, capacities, and service areas to generate profit from farm-based sustainable energy projects.

Is it hemp or marijuana? New scanner gives instant answer

A handheld spectrometer has been developed to determine THC levels in cannabis plants, enabling farmers and law enforcement to quickly identify whether a plant is hemp or marijuana. The test distinguishes between various hemp and marijuana varieties with high accuracy.

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.

Casting light on the brain's inner workings

Researchers have developed a wireless, battery-free device that can observe the brain at the single-neuron level, allowing for better understanding of neural interactions. The device uses light to record individual neurons, capturing changes in brightness depending on activity, and transmits information wirelessly.

Industrial revolution and atmospheric contamination in Himalayas

A study found records of 23 trace metals in an ice core from the Dasuopu glacier, accumulating since 1499 and peaking during winter and spring. The onset of human impact on the Himalayas is unclear due to limited ice core records, but evidence suggests anthropogenic activity may have started around 1780.

Some smartphone apps not accurate enough to spot all skin cancers

A review of evidence published in The BMJ found that smartphone apps assessing mole risk cannot detect all skin cancers. While AI-powered apps offer potential for earlier detection and treatment, limitations and variable performance indicate insufficient promise to recommend their use.

Nicholas Jakubovics named Journal of Dental Research Editor-in-Chief

Nicholas Jakubovics, a renowned oral microbiologist, has been appointed as the new Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Dental Research. With over 20 years of experience studying dental plaque formation and extensive editorial expertise, he is poised to lead the journal to new heights.

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.

Vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy connected to elevated risk of ADHD

A study found a significant association between low maternal vitamin D levels during early to mid-pregnancy and an increased risk of diagnosed attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children. The research used the Finnish Maternity Cohort, which included 1,067 children with ADHD and their matched controls.

Acid-loving microbe can improve understanding of past climate

Researchers from Dartmouth College used an acid-loving microbe to improve the accuracy of past climate records by studying its response to food and energy availability. The findings suggest that factors other than temperature can influence the membranes of single-celled archaea, adding complexity to paleoclimate studies.

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.

Not everything is ferromagnetic in high magnetic fields

Physicists at HZB discovered a non-ferromagnetic phase in U2Pd2In crystals under high magnetic fields, with a structure containing 80 magnetic moments. The finding may help develop more precise theories for 5f electron systems and has implications for many other materials.

Quantum fluctuations sustain the record superconductor

Researchers have discovered that atomic quantum fluctuations stabilize the record-breaking superconductor LaH10, enabling superconductivity at much lower pressures than previously expected. The study reveals a highly symmetric structure with a single minimum energy landscape, contrary to classical predictions, which could lead to high-...

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.

First artificial enzyme created with two non-biological groups

Researchers at University of Groningen develop novel artificial enzyme using unnatural amino acid and copper complex, demonstrating potential for improved industrial chemical catalysis. The study showcases the power of combining abiological components to achieve active site creation, paving way for new enzymatic options.

Cannabis and false memories

A study by Kloft et al. found that cannabis use increases susceptibility to false memories and misinformation in mock crime scenarios. This research has significant implications for the questioning of cannabis-intoxicated eyewitnesses and suspects during investigative interviews.