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Science News Archive January 2020


Page 24 of 40

Plant pigment can significantly reduce blood pressure

A new study found that quercetin can greatly reduce systolic blood pressure and improve HDL cholesterol levels. Quercetin administration is associated with a 10-20% reduction in cardiovascular risk for heart failure, stroke, and myocardial infarction.

Are sinking soils in the Everglades related to climate change?

The Everglades Agricultural Area is experiencing significant soil subsidence due to climate change, threatening the region's ecosystem and agricultural economy. Researchers recommend practices such as crop rotation with rice and adding plant material back into the soil to mitigate decomposition and increase soil carbon.

Study challenges concerns over hospital readmission reduction practices

Researchers at UT Southwestern analyzed Medicare claims data to report no increased mortality risk in heart failure patients treated in observation units and emergency departments. The study suggests that end-of-life care transitions from hospital to post-hospitalization period may contribute to the observed increase in mortality.

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.

Competing crabs don't fight over 'homes'

Two hermit crab species, Coenobita rugosus and C. perlatus, coexist on the same beaches by selecting differently shaped shells as their homes. The study found that C. rugosus prefers short, spherical shells, while C. perlatus prefers elongated shells with a narrow opening.

Dresden biologists make living sperm glow

Researchers used a label-free technique to investigate the metabolism of living biological tissues in fruit flies. They found that sperm had a highly glycolytic metabolism similar to that of cancer cells, which may contribute to their ability to remain fresh in female bodies. The study also suggests potential clinical applications for ...

More interventions follow gastric bypass than gastric sleeve, large study shows

A large study of over 33,000 bariatric surgery patients found that gastric bypass patients were significantly more likely to end up back in the hospital after five years compared to those who underwent sleeve gastrectomy. The researchers also found higher rates of endoscopy and abdominal operations for gastric bypass patients.

Astronomers reveal interstellar thread of one of life's building blocks

Researchers have traced the journey of phosphorus from star-forming regions to comets, revealing where molecules containing the element form and how it's carried in comets. This discovery provides crucial insights into the origin-of-life puzzle, suggesting that phosphorus monoxide played a key role in starting life on Earth.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Designing better nursing care with robots

Researchers developed a control method that allows robots to better lift and move patients without compensating for friction, improving patient safety and comfort. The next step is to add a torso to the robot's arm, making it more human-like.

Immigration and transition: Emerging trends in spina bifida care

As demographics change, spina bifida patients' needs are evolving, highlighting the need for research on quality of life and social determinants. The article discusses emerging trends in spina bifida care and the importance of addressing health disparities among minority populations.

Spinning quantum dots

Physicists Sanjay Prabhakar and Roderick Melnik modelled the interplay between electric fields and electron spins in slowly moving quantum dots. They revealed that spin-orbit coupling occurs, inducing a magnetic field in the absence of an external one.

Managing cannabis use in breastfeeding women

Research highlights the risk of adverse effects from cannabis on breastfeeding infants, with CLCs playing a critical role in guiding mothers. Certified lactation consultants (CLCs) are encouraged to partner with healthcare providers to educate and counsel women using cannabis while breastfeeding.

New study shines light on genetic risk factors for high alcohol intake

A new study published in Science Advances identifies several common genetic pathways linked to compulsive behavior and addiction, including those related to heavy alcohol consumption. The research used genome-wide association studies and model organisms to pinpoint the genes responsible for high levels of alcohol intake.

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.

Building materials come alive with help from bacteria

University of Colorado Boulder researchers have created a new approach to designing sustainable buildings using bacteria. The team developed bricks that can heal themselves, remove carbon dioxide from the air, and reproduce, offering a lower-carbon alternative to traditional materials.

Using voice analysis to track the wellness of patients with mental illness

A new study uses an interactive voice application with AI to monitor patients' mental health, offering personalized analysis and finding accuracy comparable to physician assessments. The application, MyCoachConnect, analyzed patients' speech patterns and found unique changes over time, helping track mental states.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Study answers when moderate to late preterm babies go home

A study published in the American Journal of Perinatology found that moderate to late preterm babies with no significant medical problems are likely to be discharged at 36 weeks of postmenstrual age. This data-based estimate can help reduce parent stress and aid families in preparing for their baby's arrival home.

B cells: New allies in sarcoma immunotherapy?

Researchers have found that B cells play a crucial role in the response to immunotherapy for certain types of cancer, including soft tissue sarcomas. These cells, which were previously thought to be passive bystanders, are now seen as key players in the anti-tumor immune response.

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.

Blood stem cell research

University of Delaware biomedical engineer Emily Day is developing a platform technology that can transform the treatment of benign and malignant blood disorders. Her research uses nanoparticle carrier systems to target and deliver cargo to blood stem cells, potentially replacing bone marrow transplants.

The mysterious movement of water molecules

Water molecules behave differently on bismuth telluride compared to conventional metals, repelling each other and remaining isolated on the surface. This discovery is significant as it suggests an advantage in applications exposed to typical environmental conditions.

A new 'cool' blue

Researchers developed a new class of 'cool' blue pigments that are inexpensive, durable, and more environmentally friendly than traditional cobalt blue. The pigments, inspired by the crystalline structure of hibonite, show a range of intense blue colors and reflect near-infrared light.

Toward safer disposal of printed circuit boards

A new method has been developed to remove harmful compounds from waste printed circuit boards. The technique, known as ball-milling, uses a rotating machine to grind up materials and reduce the presence of brominated flame retardants. By breaking down these potentially toxic substances, scientists aim to minimize environmental pollution.

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Slow-motion interplate slip detected in the Nankai Trough near Japan

Researchers have discovered slow-slip events along the Nankai Trough subduction zone, which can last for hours or months and are difficult to detect using conventional seismological techniques. The study used a Global Navigation Satellite System-Acoustic ranging technique to monitor changes in the seafloor's position.

New algorithm predicts gestational diabetes

A new computer algorithm can predict in early pregnancy or before pregnancy which women are at high risk of gestational diabetes. The study analyzed data on nearly 600,000 pregnancies and identified nine parameters that accurately predicted the risk of developing gestational diabetes.

Faster, cheaper tests for myopia possible

Researchers at Flinders University have developed a new method to measure myopia, using OCT to identify irregularities in the eye's shape. This approach could lead to more effective monitoring and prevention of vision loss, as high myopia is expected to become the leading cause of blindness worldwide by 2050.

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.

Dating a galaxy crash

A team of researchers used a single star affected by the Milky Way-Gaia-Enceladus collision to determine its age and date the event to approximately 11.5 billion years ago. The study provides insights into the impact of galaxy collisions on their evolution.

Drug epidemic likely 'killing more Americans than we think'

Research from University of Pennsylvania and Georgetown suggests drug-associated mortality is double the initially reported number. Drug use decreased life expectancy after age 15 by 1.4 years for men and 0.7 years for women, with West Virginia and other states experiencing high rates.

Researchers identify gene with functional role in aging of eye

In mouse studies, a 'methylation clock' on the ELOVL2 gene ticked toward impaired vision with decreased gene expression, but boosting expression rescued age-related decline in visual function. The study highlights ELOVL2's regulatory role in producing essential fatty acids for healthy retinal function.

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.

With these neurons, extinguishing fear is its own reward

A new study has identified the population of brain cells responsible for fear extinction training, discovering that these neurons are also activated by feelings of reward. The study suggests that fear extinction is equivalent to receiving a reward, providing potential therapeutic targets for treating anxiety disorders like PTSD.

Good connections key to startup success

A new study suggests that young startups with strong professional connections are more likely to achieve long-term economic success. The research used a visual network to analyze connections between companies and employees, finding that central positions in the network predicted future success.

BU and Thai researchers find strengths and gaps in Thailand diabetes care

A new study by researchers from Boston University School of Public Health and Chulalongkorn Universities identified strengths and weaknesses in Thailand's diabetes care. The majority of Thai adults with diabetes were never diagnosed, but most who were diagnosed received treatment and controlled their condition.

New assessment of gas locked in ice in European waters

A study has mapped several sites in Europe containing gas hydrate, a relatively clean fuel that could play a role as a substitute for coal in the coming decades. Gas hydrate is stored in an ice-like form beneath the seabed, with potential deposits found off Greenland, Svalbard, Norway, Ireland, and the Mediterranean Sea.

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.

Neandertals went underwater for their tools

Neandertals used clam shells as scrapers and pumice stones as abrading tools, collecting resources from the beach and coastal waters of Italy. The study found that nearly a quarter of the shells had been collected underwater, suggesting Neandertals waded or dived into coastal waters to gather materials.

Animals should use short, fast movements to avoid being located

A new study from the University of Bristol found that unpatterned animals using short, fast movements are less likely to be detected by predators. The research used human participants as surrogate predators and quantified the effects of movement duration, speed, and target pattern on localization accuracy.

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.

Irrigation alleviates hot extremes

A new study finds that irrigation has a significant cooling effect during warm extremes in regions such as Southern Europe, North Africa, and South Asia. This effect partly offsets the warming caused by global greenhouse gas emissions, reducing the likelihood of hot extremes by a factor of 2-8 in some areas.

Global team enables child with a fatal genetic disease to recover

A young boy with a fatal genetic disease has made a remarkable recovery thanks to a collaborative effort between physicians and immunologists from around the world. The team combined exceptional clinical care, genetic diagnosis, and a novel immunotherapeutic drug to bring the child into full remission.

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.

BPA activates immune response in mice that passes down through generations

Researchers found BPA exposure triggers an immune response that passes down through generations, leading to increased risk of allergic asthma. The study suggests that even after removal from the environment, descendants may still inherit changes in DNA expression that cause aberrant immune system activation.

Scientists breach brain barriers to attack tumors

Scientists have found a novel method to combat glioblastoma, a deadly brain tumor, by introducing VEGF-C into the cerebrospinal fluid of mice. This approach significantly extended survival rates when combined with immune system checkpoint inhibitors, offering new hope for treatment options.

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.

How coworkers impact the value of your skills

A recent study by Harvard's Growth Lab analyzed administrative data on Sweden's 9 million inhabitants, finding that workers with complementary coworkers earn high wages and returns on education, comparable to having a college degree. The research offers a tool to assess the right and wrong coworkers in fields of expertise.

Reconnecting with nature key for sustainability

A new study by the University of Exeter found that people who live in areas with more natural exposure are more likely to engage in environmentally friendly behaviors. Urban greening initiatives could play a key role in reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainability.

Study of patients on heart pumps debunks myths about categories and outcomes

A new analysis of patients on heart pumps found that the newer generation device provides better treatment outcomes regardless of initial therapy goals. The study suggests that categorizing patients into distinct groups may not be necessary, and a single treatment goal of extending survival and improving quality of life could suffice.

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.