Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for December 10, 2019


Study: Water births are as safe as land births for mom, baby

A new study by University of Michigan researchers found that water births are no more risky than land births, with fewer first and second-degree tears. The study analyzed 397 waterbirths and 2025 land births, showing similar outcomes in neonatal intensive care admissions and postpartum hemorrhage rates.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalBirth·DateDec 10, 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 are Utah's dry lakes impacting air quality and human health?

A new study from Brigham Young University found that 90% of urban dust in Utah comes from dry lakebeds, posing a significant threat to air quality and human health. The research suggests that preserving lakes could help lower the amount of dust blown into urban areas.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalChemical Geology·DateDec 10, 2019

Video discharge instructions in ED associated with less AOM symptomatology

A study published in Academic Emergency Medicine found that video discharge instructions in the emergency department lead to a clinically important reduction in acute otitis media (AOM) symptomatology. Children of parents who watched a five-minute video experienced less symptomatology compared to those with paper handouts.

SourceSociety for Academic Emergency Medicine·JournalAcademic Emergency Medicine·DateDec 10, 2019

Why doesn't deep-brain stimulation work for everyone?

Researchers created individualized maps of functional networks in the thalamus and basal ganglia, revealing variation in symptom response to deep-brain stimulation. The study suggests that successful treatment depends on tapping into the correct network for each patient.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNeuron·DateDec 10, 2019

Smoking cessation treatment targets adolescents

A new study found that varenicline tartrate is effective in quitting smoking among adolescents, with a higher rate of long-term success compared to the placebo group. However, it did not prevent relapse. The researchers suggest pairing medication with therapy and behavioral treatments for better results.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateDec 10, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

All Bitcoin mining should be environmentally friendly

A new blockchain algorithm called Proof-of-Search (PoS) has been proposed to reduce the environmental impact of Bitcoin mining by redirecting wasted energy towards solving optimization problems. The algorithm preserves the robustness of PoW while introducing miniblocks to prevent corruption.

SourceNara Institute of Science and Technology·JournalIEEE Access·DateDec 10, 2019

New laser technique images quantum world in a trillionth of a second

Researchers have recorded how electrons interact with atomic vibrations in solids, capturing the processes that cause electrical resistance and superconductivity. The study enables visualization of dynamic properties of quantum materials, shedding light on high-temperature superconductivity and other phenomena.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalScience·DateDec 10, 2019

Blood transfusions: Fresh red blood cells no better than older ones

A new study finds that transfusions using fresh red blood cells are no more beneficial than older red blood cells in reducing the risk of organ failure or death in critically ill children. The results indicate that current standard blood-bank practice of dispensing older red cells is just as safe and effective.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalJAMA·DateDec 10, 2019
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

ERC Consolidator Grant for research on spatial navigation

Ruth-Universität Bochum researcher receives ERC grant to study grid cell patterns in human brain, potential link to Alzheimer's disease. The research aims to better understand the role of grid cells in spatial navigation and identify early markers for Alzheimer's.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·DateDec 10, 2019

Multiplication and division of the orbital angular momentum of light

Novel optical elements enable multiplication and division of orbital angular momentum (OAM) of light, offering a promising solution to increase information capacity of optical networks. The research results have been published in Light: Science and Applications.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateDec 10, 2019

Weizmann physicists image electrons flowing like water

Researchers at Weizmann Institute of Science have visualized electrons flowing through graphene, mimicking the flow of liquid through a pipe. This behavior has important implications for creating new electronic devices with reduced resistance.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalNature·DateDec 10, 2019
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.

Trashed farmland could be a conservation treasure

Researchers propose transforming low-productivity agricultural land into conservation reserves, which could help nations meet their United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The approach recognizes the value of uncontested lands, allowing for quicker and cheaper conservation efforts than traditional methods.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNature Sustainability·DateDec 10, 2019

Dementia study reveals how proteins interact to stop brain signals

Researchers at the University of Edinburgh found that amyloid beta and tau proteins work together to hamper key genes responsible for brain messaging in people with Alzheimer's disease. This damage can be reversed by reducing the presence of tau proteins, according to the study.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalCell Reports·DateDec 10, 2019

Project adapts basic tech to give voice to patients in Africa

A new system allows thousands of patients in rural Africa to provide anonymous feedback on their care using a basic USSD tool. The results showed promising outcomes, with users enthusiastic about empowering themselves to communicate their experiences.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the ACM on Human-Computer Interaction·DateDec 10, 2019

'TransMap' will ensure reliable and efficient transportation networks

Researchers at the University of Arkansas are developing a new data-driven map, TransMap, with $1.5 million funding from the US Department of Transportation. The system will utilize the Internet of Things to provide real-time, interactive maps and geospatial data for transportation infrastructure planning.

SourceUniversity of Arkansas·DateDec 10, 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.

New findings on satiety signaling from intestine

Researchers discovered a connection between gastric bypass surgery and the release of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), a hormone regulating appetite. The study found that mHMGCS, an enzyme triggering ketone body formation in the small intestine, inhibits GLP-1 release.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalGut·DateDec 10, 2019

Migraine prevention in children and adolescents

Cinnarizine and sodium valproate show promise as preventive agents for pediatric migraine, reducing headache frequency by over 50% compared to placebo. The study suggests these medications may be a new option for children and adolescents with migraine, but long-term safety concerns need further investigation.

SourceInternational Headache Society·JournalCephalalgia·DateDec 10, 2019

June rainfall in the lower Yangtze River Basin can be predicted four months ahead

Researchers have made a breakthrough in predicting June rainfall in the lower Yangtze River Basin with four-month accuracy. The Met Office's seasonal forecasting system successfully identifies variations in mei-yu rainfall linked to atmospheric circulation patterns.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateDec 10, 2019
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.

Online tool helps patients demystify the 'Pandora's box' of genomic sequencing

A new decision aid tool has been shown to reduce the time patients spend speaking with genetic counselors while increasing their knowledge of the benefits of genomic sequencing. The study found that patients who used the Genomics ADvISER needed to spend 24 minutes less speaking with a counselor than those who did not access the tool.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalGenetics in Medicine·DateDec 10, 2019
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.

Lower BMI means lower diabetes risk, even among non-overweight people

Researchers found that a lower body mass index (BMI) is associated with reduced type II diabetes risk, including in individuals who are not overweight. A study of 287,394 British individuals found that a 1 kg/m2 BMI reduction lowered diabetes risk by 37% among non-overweight people without a family history of diabetes.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateDec 10, 2019

What blocks bird flu in human cells?

A study by Max Delbrück Center researchers explains that avian influenza A viruses are unable to transform infected human cells into effective virus factories due to a lack of the matrix protein M1. The virus requires this protein to export its genetic material from the cell nucleus, which is necessary for building new viruses.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 10, 2019

AGA releases guideline on management of gastric intestinal metaplasia

Gastric intestinal metaplasia is a marker associated with increased risk of gastric cancer, prompting the need for standardized clinical practice. The new AGA guideline provides evidence-based recommendations for testing H. pylori eradication and surveillance strategies.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateDec 10, 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.

'Invisible,' restricted horse racing therapy may leave a trail

A study led by Mary Robinson and Jinwen Chen found potential biomarkers of extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) that could be used to enforce the ban on its use in horses within 10 days of a race. The researchers detected changes in five inflammatory factors, including TNF-? levels, up to three weeks after ESWT treatment.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalEquine Veterinary Journal·DateDec 10, 2019

Close friends help macaques survive

Researchers found that strong social connections, especially with favored partners, increase a macaque's survival chances by 11%. Macaques on Monkey Island showed better survival rates with stronger social ties.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·DateDec 10, 2019

Justified and unjustified movie violence evokes different brain responses, study finds

A new study by researchers at the University of Pennsylvania found that scenes of unjustified and justified violence in movies activate different parts of the adolescent brain. Viewers show a synchronized response in the ventromedial prefrontal cortex when watching justified violence, suggesting they see it as acceptable for self- or f...

SourceAnnenberg Public Policy Center of the University of Pennsylvania·JournalFrontiers in Behavioral Neuroscience·DateDec 10, 2019
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.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Smits wins Batchelor Prize

Professor Alexander J Smits has been recognized for his seminal contributions to the understanding of wall turbulence, particularly in its structure and behavior at extreme conditions. His work on bio-inspired propulsion and drag reduction has inspired new interests in biomimetic flows.

SourceCambridge University Press·DateDec 10, 2019

ERC awards EUR 600 million to Europe's top researchers

The European Research Council has awarded EUR 600 million to 301 top scientists and scholars across Europe, covering a wide range of topics in physical sciences, life sciences, social sciences, and humanities. This funding will create over 2,000 jobs for postdoctoral fellows and PhD students.

SourceEuropean Research Council·DateDec 10, 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.

Scientists discover a novel method to combat antibiotic-resistant bacteria

Researchers have found a way to stimulate skin cells to secrete naturally occurring antibiotics called Antimicrobial Peptides, which target and kill bacteria. By modulating caspase-8 levels in the skin, AMP release can be controlled to prevent infections in diabetics and patients with weakened immune systems.

SourceNational Centre for Biological Sciences·JournalCell Reports·DateDec 10, 2019

Researchers say 30% of patients taking opioids experience adverse drug interactions

A new study reveals that approximately 30% of patients taking opioids experience adverse drug interactions, which can lead to decreased efficacy and increased risk of addiction and overdose. The authors emphasize the importance of a thorough medication history and consulting a pharmacist before prescribing opioids.

SourceAmerican Osteopathic Association·JournalThe Journal of the American Osteopathic Association·DateDec 10, 2019

UW scientist to lead upcoming NASA field study of East Coast snowstorms

A University of Washington atmospheric scientist will lead a NASA field campaign to fly through major snowstorms along the East Coast, observing snow as it forms in clouds to help with satellite monitoring. The goal is to understand how snow distributes unevenly across the storm and improve forecasts.

SourceUniversity of Washington·DateDec 10, 2019

Hastings Center Report, November-December 2019

The Hastings Center Report highlights concerns over GoFundMe's role in facilitating unproven medical treatments, which can harm donors and recipients. The report also explores the doctor burnout crisis, advocating for legal interventions to safeguard healthcare workers' safety and well-being.

SourceThe Hastings Center·JournalHastings Center Report·DateDec 10, 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.

ERC Consolidator Grant for Thomas Böttcher

Research team around Dr Thomas Böttcher studies phage-host interactions to understand the transition from latent to active states, with potential applications for developing alternative antibiotics. The team aims to uncover molecular signals controlling dormant phages and their impact on the human microbiome.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·DateDec 10, 2019

Improving the accuracy of climate model projections with emergent constraints

The study reviews a new method called emergent constraints, which uses current climate information to constrain future climate evolution. This approach aims to reduce uncertainties in climate sensitivity and improve the accuracy of climate model projections.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateDec 10, 2019

Potentially toxic chemicals from LCDs in nearly half of household dust samples tested

A study by the University of Saskatchewan has discovered that liquid crystal monomers from LCDs are present in nearly half of household dust samples, with 90% of these chemicals showing concerning properties. The findings raise concerns about the potential toxicity of these monomers to humans and the environment.

SourceUniversity of Saskatchewan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 10, 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.

Silver improves the efficiency of monograin layer solar cells

Researchers at Tallinn University of Technology have improved the efficiency of monograin layer solar cells by replacing copper with silver in absorber material. This innovation increases efficiency by 2%, making it an attractive solution for renewable energy production.

SourceEstonian Research Council·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry A·DateDec 10, 2019

Floral foam adds to microplastic pollution problem: Study

A RMIT University study found that floral foam breaks into tiny pieces, ingested by freshwater and marine animals, causing stress responses. The vast majority of florists dispose of foam particles down the sink or drain, contributing to microplastic pollution.

SourceRMIT University·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateDec 10, 2019

Improvements needed for hepatitis C testing in youth

A recent study found that under 30% of young patients with substance use history were tested for Hepatitis C Virus (HCV), emphasizing the importance of improved screening and treatment. The study highlights the need to connect those found to have current infection to treatment, particularly among young people who inject drugs.

SourceBoston Medical Center·JournalJAMA·DateDec 10, 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.

How to induce magnetism in graphene

Researchers successfully synthesized a graphene nanostructure with magnetic properties, fulfilling a decades-old prediction. The structure's high exchange coupling energy enables stable spin-based logic operations at room temperature.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateDec 10, 2019

Self-driving microrobots

Researchers at Columbia University have developed a new approach to create autonomous microrobots that can detect and repair defects in synthetic materials. The microrobots use shape-shifting materials to navigate and perform tasks such as distributed sensing, delivery of therapeutic cargo, and on-demand repairs.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalPhysical Review Research·DateDec 10, 2019

'Ojos' study to examine eye disease in Latino communities

Researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago will conduct 3,000 eye exams among Latinos living in Chicago and Miami to study common eye conditions like glaucoma and macular degeneration. The goal is to identify patterns or causes of disease that can be prevented or slowed with treatment.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·DateDec 10, 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.

Research explores how grape pests sniff out berries

A new study found that female grape berry moths detect a subset of volatile organic compounds emitted by grapes, as well as nearby plants like gray dogwood and apple trees. The researchers suggest that the moths use these common volatiles to find their target habitat before using other cues to locate specific berries.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Chemical Ecology·DateDec 10, 2019

Making robots more perceptive

Nader Motee is investigating real-time perception and planning for networks of robots, aiming to improve efficiency and resiliency. His research also focuses on risk-aware planning and control to mitigate effects of local failures in nonlinear dynamical networks.

SourceLehigh University·DateDec 10, 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.

Breathing new life into the rise of oxygen debate

A study published in Science reveals that the three major oxygenation events on Earth occurred spontaneously due to feedbacks between the global phosphorus, carbon, and oxygen cycles. This new theory drastically increases the possibility of high-oxygen worlds existing elsewhere, making intelligent life more common.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalScience·DateDec 10, 2019

Oxygen shaped the evolution of the eye

Researchers discovered a pattern of mechanisms improving retinal oxygen supply that evolved with enhanced vision in all bony vertebrates. The findings add to our understanding of the evolution of the eye, highlighting its dynamic morphology and relationship with retinal oxygen supply.

SourceAarhus University·DateDec 10, 2019

Tiny magnetic particles enable new material to bend, twist, and grab

Researchers have developed a soft polymer material that can transform into various shapes using magnetic fields, enabling applications such as gripper arms for delicate objects and antennas with changing frequencies. The material is made from three different ingredients: two types of magnetic particles and shape-memory polymers.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateDec 10, 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.

Chiton mollusk provides model for new armor design

Researchers developed a parametric 3D modeling methodology to mimic the geometry of individual scales from the chiton mollusk. The scale armor model provides dual protection-flexibility performance through converging inward upon one another when under force, offering varying amounts of flexibility.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 10, 2019

New insights into the effect of aging on cardiovascular disease

Aging adults are more likely to develop and die from cardiovascular disease due to narrowed, hardened arteries. The study reveals a novel pathway where mitochondrial dysfunction and pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-6 co-exist with aging to promote atherosclerosis.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalCirculation Research·DateDec 10, 2019

Researchers show how opportunistic bacterium defeats competitors

Researchers discovered that Stenotrophomonas maltophilia uses a secretion system to inject toxins into competing bacteria, eliminating them. The study also identified a key toxin molecule that can reduce bacterial replication rates.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateDec 10, 2019

Research sheds important light on the metastasis of neuroblastoma

A new study published in British Journal of Cancer has identified the protein stathmin as a crucial player in the spread of neuroblastoma. Stathmin helps regulate PTPN14 expression, affecting migration and invasion of neuroblastoma cells.

SourceChildren's Cancer Institute Australia·JournalBritish Journal of Cancer·DateDec 10, 2019
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.

Federal disability payments encourage more family caregiving, study finds

A new RAND Corporation study finds that federal disability benefits encourage more family caregiving, with recipients increasing in-kind assistance from adult children and enabling them to reallocate time to care for their parents. The study also shows a significant increase in the likelihood of children receiving payment for their help.

SourceRAND Corporation·JournalJournal of Health Economics·DateDec 10, 2019

Loneliness may be due to increasing aging population

Despite growing older population, studies show that loneliness levels among similar-aged adults have not increased over time, but rather above age 75, loneliness increases. Researchers suggest older adults maintain good health, social relationships to reduce loneliness.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalPsychology and Aging·DateDec 10, 2019

Children much more likely to die after surgery in poor countries

A study published in Anesthesiology found that children in low-resource countries are 100-200 times more likely to die after surgery. The pediatric surgery demand is growing, with over 50% of children requiring surgery before their 16th birthday.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalAnesthesiology·DateDec 10, 2019

Middle-income countries are hardest hit by cardiovascular disease in Europe

The European Society of Cardiology reports that middle-income countries in Europe are disproportionately affected by cardiovascular disease, with higher mortality rates and more years lost due to CVD. The statistics highlight the need for targeted prevention policies and improved access to modern healthcare facilities.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateDec 10, 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.

ASTRO issues new guideline on radiation therapy for basal, squamous cell skin cancers

The American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) has released a new clinical guideline for the use of radiation therapy in treating basal and cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas. The guideline provides recommendations on when to use radiation as stand-alone therapy or following surgery, as well as dosing and fractionation schedules.

SourceAmerican Society for Radiation Oncology·JournalPractical Radiation Oncology·DateDec 10, 2019

Quantum expander for gravitational-wave observatories

Researchers have developed a novel 'quantum expander' to improve signal-to-noise ratio at kilohertz frequencies in gravitational-wave observatories. This innovative approach squeezes quantum uncertainty of laser light inside optical resonators, expanding detection bandwidth.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateDec 10, 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.

Stardust from red giants

Researchers have discovered a new model explaining why our planet has a higher concentration of stardust from red giant stars compared to other bodies in the solar system. The study, published in Nature Astronomy, suggests that the Earth's unique mix of elements was formed during its formation around the Sun.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Astronomy·DateDec 10, 2019

Natural ecosystems protect against climate change

Researchers at University of Göttingen found mangroves absorb carbon efficiently, prioritizing conservation and restoration. The study analyzed a five-meter-deep core of sediment in Segara Anakan Lagoon, revealing the interaction between climate fluctuations and human activity affected carbon accumulation.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateDec 10, 2019

Too many Canadians live with multiple chronic conditions, say UBC researchers

A new UBC study finds that many Canadians live with multiple chronic health conditions, including cardiometabolic diseases like stroke, heart disease, and diabetes. Lifestyle behaviors such as physical inactivity, poor diet, and high stress levels are associated with a higher risk of developing these conditions.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalBMC Public Health·DateDec 10, 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.

Invest in pollinator monitoring for long-term gain

A new study suggests that investing in pollinator monitoring schemes can yield significant economic benefits, with potential savings of at least £1.50 for every £1 invested. The research, presented at the British Ecological Society's annual meeting, explores cost-effective methods for improving pollinator monitoring in the UK.

SourceBritish Ecological Society·DateDec 10, 2019

Twelve honored by society for risk analysis

The Society for Risk Analysis has awarded six prestigious awards and named six new Fellows, recognizing 12 individuals for their significant contributions to the field of risk analysis. The awardees include experts in decision analysis, education, service, practice, achievement, and statistical methods.

SourceSociety for Risk Analysis·DateDec 10, 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.

She uses mushroom enzyme and light to create green chemicals

Associate Professor Selin Kara aims to develop a fully green and sustainable production process for chemicals using natural enzymatic reactions. She plans to use bio-catalysis and photobiocatalysis in miniaturized bioreactors to create high-value products with minimal environmental impact.

SourceAarhus University·DateDec 10, 2019

Can eating ice cream make you scream?

A study found that half of adults experienced headaches after consuming a cold stimulus, with moderate pain lasting less than 30 seconds. The pleasure of eating ice cream or drinking cold drinks may be reduced due to painful headaches.

SourceInternational Headache Society·JournalCephalalgia·DateDec 10, 2019

Genetic breakthrough identifies heart failure risk in African and Latino Americans

A new study has identified a genetic variation that significantly increases the risk of heart failure in African and Latino Americans. The transthyretin or TTR V122I genetic variant was associated with an increased risk of heart failure, with patients being two-fold more likely to have the condition.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalJAMA·DateDec 10, 2019

Communications device offers huge bandwidth potential

Researchers have created a new device that can rapidly switch functionality to support high-speed wireless communications, enabling multiple conversations over the same network. The device uses microcapillaries filled with plasma, metal or dielectric gas to generate multiple channels operating simultaneously at different frequencies.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Reviews·DateDec 10, 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.

University of Cincinnati research looks at side effects for pediatric medications

A study by University of Cincinnati researchers found that certain antidepressant medications cause more side effects in children and adolescents with OCD and anxiety disorders. SSRIs were associated with increased rates of agitation, while SNRIs showed no significant link to suicidality.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateDec 10, 2019

LSU Health discovers role of 2 proteins in sight and preventing blinding eye diseases

Research led by Dr. Nicolas Bazan has discovered the critical role of MFRP and Adipor1 proteins in preserving retinal function. The study found that mutations in these proteins lead to retinal degeneration, highlighting their importance in preventing age-related macular degeneration and other eye diseases.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalFASEB BioAdvances·DateDec 10, 2019

Gut feeling: A network approach towards understanding IBD

Researchers have developed a combined experimental and computational pipeline to understand the role of genes in IBD. The study uses organoids to analyze gene expression and identifies 'master regulators' that overlap with IBD-related processes. This breakthrough enables design of new experiments to explore IBD-related processes further.

SourceEarlham Institute·JournalMolecular Omics·DateDec 10, 2019
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.

Greenland ice losses rising faster than expected

The Greenland ice sheet has lost 3.8 trillion tonnes of ice since 1992, with the rate of ice loss increasing seven-fold over three decades. The study's findings show that the ice sheet is tracking the IPCC's high-end climate warming scenario, predicting 40 million people will be exposed to coastal flooding by 2100.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalNature·DateDec 10, 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.

New aluminium hydroxide stable at extremely high pressure

Researchers discovered a new aluminium hydroxide phase that remains stable at pressures exceeding the Earth's mantle. This finding suggests water can be stored in these hydroxides within deep Earth environments, terrestrial super-Earths, and icy planet cores.

SourceEhime University·DateDec 10, 2019

Genetic brain disorder fixed in mice using precision epigenome editing

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine used targeted gene epigenome editing to reverse a genetic mutation causing WAGR syndrome, a condition leading to intellectual disability and obesity. The study suggests the potential for developing epigenome editing therapies to prevent brain developmental disorders.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 10, 2019

Deep learning helps tease out gene interactions

A new method, called CNNC, uses convolutional neural networks to infer gene interactions from massive amounts of gene expression data. The approach outperforms existing methods at identifying disease-related genes and developmental pathways that might be targets for drugs.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 10, 2019

Have you found meaning in life? Answer determines health and well-being

A recent study by University of California San Diego School of Medicine found that the presence of meaning in life is associated with better physical and mental well-being, while the search for meaning in life may be associated with worse mental well-being and cognitive functioning. The researchers also discovered an inverted U-shaped ...

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJournal of Clinical Psychiatry·DateDec 10, 2019

Could we cool the Earth with an ice-free Arctic?

An ice-free Arctic region could lead to increased global warming, but also offer benefits like reduced shipping distances and heating demands. IIASA researchers propose strategies to increase the North Atlantic current, which could lower ocean temperatures and mitigate climate change.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalSN Applied Sciences·DateDec 10, 2019

Immunotherapy drug improves outcomes for some children with relapsed leukemia

Blinatumomab treatment demonstrates longer survival, fewer severe side effects, and higher undetectable residual disease rates compared to standard chemotherapy for children with high- or intermediate-risk B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. The study shows promising results as a bridge to curative bone marrow transplant.

SourceNIH/National Cancer Institute·DateDec 10, 2019

Grapevine red blotch disease threatens US grape industry

The virus causes red veins and blotches on grape leaves, reducing fruit size, ripening time, and sugar colors. Researchers aim to understand the disease's spread, potential vectors, and economic impact on grape production and wine quality.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·DateDec 10, 2019

Inane things with a taste of freedom

The Soviet Union profited from screening foreign films during the Cold War, with Hollywood movies serving as a weapon in the fight against the USA. The films were often shown on closed networks or renamed to avoid copyright issues.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalStudies in Russian and Soviet Cinema·DateDec 10, 2019

Could dark carbon be hiding the true scale of ocean 'dead zones'?

A new study suggests that dark carbon fixation could be contributing to the growth of ocean 'dead zones', where oxygen is scarce. This means that existing models may underestimate the impact of climate change on these regions, leading to severe ecological and economic consequences.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalGlobal Biogeochemical Cycles·DateDec 10, 2019

Can salmon eat their way out of climate change?

Researchers found that juvenile Coho salmon grew fastest and survived longest when exposed to natural temperature gradients and plenty of food. However, there is a catch: while food can help offset the effects of rising temperatures, it cannot completely compensate for the impacts of climate change.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalCanadian Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences·DateDec 10, 2019