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Science News Archive February 2020


Page 37 of 40

Grooves hold promise for sophisticated healing

Researchers at Rice University have created a grooved method to seed 3D-printed scaffolds with living cells, enabling the growth of different tissue types in a single platform. This innovative approach protects cells from heat and shear stresses, allowing for the creation of hard implants that can heal bone, cartilage, or muscle.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New roles for DNA-packaging proteins

Researchers found that linker histone H1 undergoes liquid-liquid phase separation in the nucleus, forming droplets with densely packed DNA and enriching with protein HP1α. This process segregates heterochromatin from euchromatin, revealing a new function of histones in gene regulation.

Artificial intelligence 'sees' quantum advantages

Researchers created a neural network that autonomously finds solutions well-adapted to quantum advantage demonstrations, aiding in developing new efficient quantum computers. This breakthrough enables the prediction of quantum advantages in complex networks, which is crucial for creating cost-effective and reliable quantum devices.

Genetic variants reduce risk of Alzheimer's disease

A DNA study of over 10,000 people has identified naturally occurring gene variants that reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease by impairing tyrosine phosphatase activity and cell survival. The findings suggest PI3K/Akt/GSK-3β signalling pathway as a key target for therapeutic drugs.

Public opinion of drugs effectiveness may be too biased

A study published in BMJ Evidence-Based Medicine found that people with conflicts of interest were more likely to provide positive testaments about psychiatric drug treatments. The authors recommend stricter management or prohibition of COIs to promote transparency and validity in the approval process.

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.

Ad spending on toddler milks increased four-fold from 2006 to 2015

US sales of toddler milks more than doubled from 2006 to 2015, driven by increased TV advertising spending and lower prices. This surge in sales occurred despite health experts' recommendations that parents not serve toddler milks, citing added sugars and lack of nutritional benefits.

Deep learning accurately forecasts heat waves, cold spells

Rice University engineers developed a deep learning system that uses capsule neural networks to predict extreme weather events, such as heat waves and winter storms, with high accuracy. The system achieves 85% accuracy in five-day forecasts by identifying patterns in pressure systems and regional areas.

Sweet nanoparticles trick kidney

Scientists at the University of Freiburg created nanoparticles with polysaccharides, which allow them to pass through the kidneys and be excreted in urine. This breakthrough enables the combination of tumor accumulation and kidney clearance in a single nanoparticle, paving the way for safer nanomedicine administration.

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.

Self-care linked to greater confidence in parents of children with FASD

A new study found that caregivers' self-care strategies are crucial in managing stress and improving family needs for children with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD). Caregivers who report greater confidence in their ability to use self-care also experience reduced parental distress and higher parenting satisfaction.

Peeking at the plumbing of one of the Aleutian's most-active volcanoes

A new technique uses seismic waves from distant earthquakes to image the subterranean structure of Cleveland volcano. The study, published in Scientific Reports, resolved the architecture of the lower and middle crust for the first time, providing crucial information for emergency planning and saving human lives.

Red coral effectively recovers in Mediterranean protected areas

In Mediterranean Protected Areas, red coral colonies (Corallium rubrum) have recovered partially, with health levels comparable to those of the 1980s. The study highlights the effectiveness of marine protections and underscores the need for urgent protection measures in Mediterranean biodiversity hotspots.

Sand dunes can 'communicate' with each other

Researchers at University of Cambridge discovered that sand dunes interact with and repel each other as they move, with turbulent swirls controlling the distance between them. The study used a unique experimental facility to observe long-term behavior, challenging existing theories on dune interaction.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Synthetic mushroom toxin

Researchers at the Technical University of Berlin introduce a new method to synthesize α-amanitin, a highly selective inhibitor of RNA polymerase II. This synthetic route allows for large-scale production and could lead to cancer treatment advancements.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

New hydrogels wither while stem cells flourish for tissue repair

Researchers at Texas A&M University have developed biodegradable hydrogels that create a fertile environment for bone stem cells to grow and proliferate. The study found that the space created by degrading hydrogels enables stem cells to thrive, remodel their local environment, and form intricate cellular networks.

Kidney stem cells can be isolated from urine

Researchers have successfully isolated kidney stem cells from urine, expressing markers similar to bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells and renal stem cell markers. The isolated cells can differentiate into various kidney cell types, including proximal- and distal-tubules and podocytes.

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.

Are neurological disorders associated with increased risk of suicide?

A Danish registry study found a significant association between neurological disorders, including dementia and Parkinson's disease, and increased risk of suicide. The study analyzed nearly 40 years of data for 7.3 million people, revealing that those with neurological conditions were more likely to die by suicide.

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.

Scientists find RNA affecting skin cancer progression

Researchers found a new long non-coding RNA, PRECSIT, that regulates the growth and invasion of squamous cell carcinoma in skin. PRECSIT's expression is linked to the tumor suppressor gene p53, promoting cancer progression via STAT3 signaling.

Yale studies suggest new path for reversing type-2 diabetes and liver fibrosis

A team of Yale researchers has discovered a way to reverse type-2 diabetes and liver fibrosis in mice, highlighting the potential for targeting TET3 protein. The studies, published in Cell Reports and Nature Communications, also suggest that TET3 plays a role in fibrosis development and may be a key target for treatment.

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.

Scientists find new ways to prevent skin scarring

Researchers at Oxford University Press USA have identified new ways to prevent skin scarring after injuries. The study suggests that pressure therapy, silicone treatment, and early laser intervention can reduce scar formation and improve therapeutic response. These findings offer promising hope for patients with hypertrophic scars.

Unlocking the secret of cell regulation

Scientists at the University of Bonn have developed a new method to study the structure of long ribonucleic acids, which are crucial for cellular regulation. The technique involves marking specific locations on the RNA with artificial flags and measuring their distances using a molecular ruler.

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.

Flyception 2.0: New imaging technology tracks complex social behavior

A new imaging system, Flyception2, has recorded ultra-precise brain activities in flies during various stages of mating, including courtship. The study reveals surprising findings about brain nerve cells' activity patterns, with P1 neurons inactive during copulation and mAL neurons switched on.

Publicly sharing a goal could help you persist after hitting failure

Research from Binghamton University found that publicly sharing goals only affects those who care about public perception. Immediate feedback and high incentives are crucial for goal persistence after a failure. People who don't value public reputation aren't affected by the public or private nature of a goal.

Children's mental health is effected by sleep duration

Research from the University of Warwick found that shorter sleep duration is associated with increased depression and anxiety in children. The study examined brain structure and cognitive performance in 11,000 children aged 9-11, revealing lower brain volume in areas involved in emotional regulation.

'Levitating' proteins could help diagnose opioid abuse, other diseases

Researchers at Michigan State University developed a new method to detect protein density in blood plasma using magnetic levitation. This technique could lead to improved disease diagnosis and treatment by identifying distinct patterns of proteins associated with various health conditions, such as opioid abuse and multiple sclerosis.

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

New thalattosaur species discovered in Southeast Alaska

A new species of thalattosaur, Gunakadeit joseeae, has been discovered in Southeast Alaska, providing insights into the marine reptile's family tree. The fossil, which is the most complete thalattosaur ever found in North America, dates back over 200 million years.

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.

Almost 10% of NC state students experienced homelessness

A survey of 1,923 NC State students found that nearly 10% experienced homelessness and over 14% struggled with food insecurity in the previous 30 days. The study highlights the need for institutions to address these challenges and provide support services for students facing housing and food insecurity.

How to survive the complexity of conducting scientific research

A study on co-creation in research reveals the benefits of collaborative models, including improved communication dynamics and decision-making techniques. Practical tools for managing cross-disciplinary research projects have been developed to address the challenges of complexity and diversity.

Gun owners aren't happier, don't sleep better at night

A study by University of Arizona researcher Terrence Hill found that gun ownership is not associated with improved happiness or better sleep. Gun owners were more likely to be married, which was driving their reported happiness. However, a separate study on sleep disturbance showed no difference between gun owners and non-gun owners.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Radiologists describe coronavirus imaging features

Researchers describe key chest CT imaging findings in Wuhan coronavirus patients, highlighting bilateral ground-glass and consolidative pulmonary opacities. The study's findings suggest that lung cavitation, discrete nodules, and lymphadenopathy are characteristically absent in cases of 2019-nCoV.

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.

Chitosan-graft-Polyacrylamide tested as inhibitor of hydrate formation

Researchers from Kazan Federal University have developed a new reagent to combat hydrate formation in Arctic oil production, reducing environmental harm. The chitosan-graft-Polyacrylamide reagent slows down hydrate formation and ensures safe transportation of products in optimal temperature ranges.

Researchers reveal target in acute kidney injury prevention

Researchers have identified a new treatment target for preventing acute kidney injury, which affects up to 10% of hospitalized patients. High levels of soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (suPAR) are linked to the risk of acute kidney injury, and reducing suPAR levels may help prevent damage to healthy kidneys.

Does animal size in zoos matter?

A new study finds that zoos with large, iconic animals like rhinos and tigers tend to have higher attendance and contribute more to conservation funding. However, the research also suggests that zoos can increase conservation impact by diversifying their species collections.

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.

Feeding bluebirds helps fend off parasites

New research shows that feeding bluebirds can significantly impact parasitic nest flies and improve nestling survival. The study found that supplementing birds with food reduces the parasite load and improves antibody levels, which help kill the parasites. The timing of feeding is also crucial, with early feeding benefiting young birds...