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Science News for December 11, 2019


Heat energy leaps through empty space, thanks to quantum weirdness

Researchers at UC Berkeley discovered that heat energy can be transferred across a few hundred nanometers of empty space through the Casimir interaction, a quantum mechanical phenomenon. This finding could have profound implications for designing microelectronic components where heat dissipation is key.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNature·DateDec 11, 2019

Revealing the physics of the sun with Parker Solar Probe

The Parker Solar Probe has returned significant data on the Sun's atmosphere, revealing insights into the solar wind and its effects on space weather. The probe's findings have shed light on magnetic disturbances in the solar wind and the processes that heat the Sun's outer atmosphere.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateDec 11, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Training the brain: resilience program helps student-athletes adjust to college life

A unique resilience program at UMass Amherst has been shown to improve decision-making and emotional awareness among diverse college athletes, while lowering perceived stress. The program, developed by Genevieve Chandler, focuses on active coping, building strength, cognitive awareness, and social support.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalJournal of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association·DateDec 11, 2019

Elderly people should aim to keep up step count this winter

After just two weeks of reduced physical activity, older adults experience significant losses in muscle mass and strength, as well as gains in body fat percentage. This can lead to a reduction in cardiorespiratory fitness and mitochondrial function, which are critical for maintaining healthy muscles and metabolic health.

SourceThe Physiological Society·DateDec 11, 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.

Why polar bears at sea have higher pollution levels than those staying on land

A new study reveals that polar bears at sea, particularly pelagic bears, accumulate more pollutants due to their diet rich in marine life closer to pollutant sources. This is attributed to increased energy requirements and longer periods without ice, forcing them to feed on land-based prey or rely on fat reserves.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateDec 11, 2019

Virtual reality and drones help to predict and protect koala habitat

Researchers used a combination of VR, aerial thermal-imaging, and ground surveys to develop a statistical model for predicting koala locations. The three-pronged approach proved 75% more accurate than ground surveys alone, providing critical information for koala protection.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 11, 2019

Artificial intelligence boosts MRI detection of ADHD

A study published in Radiology: Artificial Intelligence found that deep learning can improve MRI detection of ADHD by using a multi-scale approach to construct the brain connectome. This method provided significantly better performance than single-scale approaches, highlighting the predictive power of the brain connectome.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateDec 11, 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.

How light a foldable and long-lasting battery can be?

Researchers from POSTECH have successfully developed a flexible battery with thin and three-dimensional organic electrode, increasing energy density by four times. The new technology uses a three-dimensional copper collector to lower the weight of a battery by 10 times more than conventional copper collectors.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalACS Nano·DateDec 11, 2019

Risk analysis powers air pollution solutions

Studies use portable sensor technology and cellphone apps to measure air pollutant exposure, providing insights into reducing public health risks. Key findings include increased risks of respiratory diseases in children exposed to air pollution.

SourceSociety for Risk Analysis·DateDec 11, 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.

Diet, not exercise, may be key to addressing our biggest cause of liver disease

A new study found that people with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease have lower physical work capacity due to a functional iron deficiency, which impairs energy production. The research suggests focusing on improving iron availability through diet may be more effective than exercise in addressing the condition.

SourceEdith Cowan University·JournalClinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology·DateDec 11, 2019

Adding tucatinib to drug combination extends survival for advanced HER2+ breast cancer patients

The trial showed that adding tucatinib to capecitabine and trastuzumab improved progression-free and overall survival in advanced HER2-positive breast cancer patients, regardless of whether they had brain metastasis. The treatment combination also increased the overall response rate compared to standard care.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateDec 11, 2019

New material design tops carbon-capture from wet flue gases

A team of scientists at EPFL has designed a new material that can capture CO2 from wet flue gases more efficiently than existing commercial materials. The material uses a novel approach to overcome the competition between CO2 and water adsorption sites.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature·DateDec 11, 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.

Paleontology: Experiments in evolution

The newly discovered Asfaltoventor vialidadi from Patagonia exhibits a unique blend of skeletal traits, challenging current understanding of tetanuran relationships. This finding supports the concept of evolutionary experimentation during periods of rapid diversification and mass extinctions.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 11, 2019

A likely trigger of tropical glacier melt 20,000 years ago

An analysis of sediment carried by glaciers in both South America and East Africa reveals tropical glaciers began to melt earlier than expected around 20,000 years ago. Rising temperatures at the poles reduced atmospheric circulation, slowing heat out of the tropics and triggering early melting.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 11, 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.

'Financial infidelity': What defines it, who is at risk, and what are the consequences?

Financial infidelity is defined as hiding financial behaviors expected to be disapproved of from one's partner. Consumers more prone to this often prefer secretive options like personal credit cards and cash. The study found that concealment of financial information in mobile banking apps also increases the risk of financial infidelity.

SourceIndiana University·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateDec 11, 2019

CDC selects UIC for public health research network

The University of Illinois at Chicago will establish a Policy, Practice and Prevention Research Center (P3RC) to study various public health issues, including obesity and diabetes among Chicago schoolchildren. The center will also support researchers and community leaders in advocating for change and leveraging research data.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·DateDec 11, 2019

Punching holes in opaque solar cells turns them transparent

Researchers in Korea have developed a strategy to transform opaque solar cells into transparent ones, allowing for more efficient energy harvesting. The transparent solar cells have a high-power conversion efficiency of 12.2 percent and long-term stability, making them ideal for turning windows into solar panels.

SourceCell Press·JournalJoule·DateDec 11, 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.

Tree cavities for wild honeybees

Researchers identified hotspots for wild honeybee nesting sites, including unmanaged forests and coniferous forests in Sweden and Finland. The study suggests that conserving trees with cavities should be included in forest management to support pollinator populations.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalConservation Letters·DateDec 11, 2019

Study sheds light on 'overlooked' bee species

The study found that solitary bees can tolerate a range of environmental conditions and have distinct preferences for nesting sites. The project's results could help inform land management to better protect ground-nesting bees.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalEcosphere·DateDec 11, 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.

Stanford scientists pry apart party drug's therapeutic, addictive qualities

Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine have identified a specific brain chemical, serotonin, responsible for the social behavior-enhancing effects of MDMA. The study suggests that novel treatments targeting this pathway may alleviate symptoms of psychiatric disorders marked by social awkwardness and withdrawal.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateDec 11, 2019

Illinois team develops first of a kind in-vitro 3D neural tissue model

Researchers created living biohybrid nerve tissue using stem cells to develop 3D models of neural networks, enabling better understanding of brain function and disease development. The 3D models can be controlled with optogenetics and used for drug testing and studying complex behaviors.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 11, 2019

The songwriter is creative -- the singer, not so much

Researchers found that country music songwriters employ two strategies to co-write songs with less talented but more famous artists: bespoke facilitation, where they take a backseat, and the manipulation dance, where they pre-write most of the song. This approach helps create good songs while avoiding alienating their partner.

SourceOhio State University·JournalSocial Psychology·DateDec 11, 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.

Scientists link decline of Baltic cod to hypoxia -- and climate change

A recent study by Dr. Karin Limburg and Michele Casini reveals that hypoxia caused by climate change is responsible for the declining condition of Baltic cod. The researchers analyzed otoliths, or earstones, found in the fish's hearing and balance system, which showed a clear link between hypoxia and the decline of the species.

SourceSUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry·JournalBiology Letters·DateDec 11, 2019

Earth was stressed before dinosaur extinction

Fossilized seashells from Antarctica reveal that the Earth's oceans were undergoing significant changes in response to increased carbon dioxide from volcanic eruptions. These findings provide new insights into the causes of the Cretaceous-Paleogene mass extinction event, which led to the demise of the dinosaurs.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalGeology·DateDec 11, 2019

ER visits did not rise with Medicaid expansion under Affordable Care Act

Patient visits to primary care physicians increased by 3.6% after Medicaid expansion, but ER department visits remained unchanged. The study found that factors such as data quality and state policies may limit the accuracy of findings.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateDec 11, 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.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Study finds association between poor diet, age-related macular degeneration

A study from the University at Buffalo found an association between poor diets high in red and processed meat, fried food, refined grains, and high-fat dairy, which increase the risk of developing late-stage age-related macular degeneration. The study suggests that limiting intake of these foods may help preserve vision over time.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalBritish Journal of Ophthalmology·DateDec 11, 2019

Tropical flower offers potential new route for treating pancreatic cancer

Researchers have developed drug-like molecules from a tropical flower that kill pancreatic cancer cells, offering a potential new route for treatment. The findings suggest these 'anti-austerity' agents could remove the ability of cancer cells to tolerate starvation conditions, leading to cell death.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalChemMedChem·DateDec 11, 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.

There's a new squid in town

Researchers have identified a new species of bobtail squid in Okinawa's waters, named Euprymna brenneri, which is the eleventh known in the Euprymna genus. The discovery highlights the rich biodiversity of cephalopods off the coast of Okinawa and may shed light on their genes, behavior, and development.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalCommunications Biology·DateDec 11, 2019

Cheers! Maxwell's electromagnetism extended to smaller scales

Researchers at MIT have extended Maxwell's electromagnetism to smaller scales, bridging the gap between macroscopic and nanoscale phenomena. The new model incorporates electronic length scales, enabling nonclassical effects such as nonlocality and surface-enabled Landau damping.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology, Institute for Soldier Nanotechnologies·JournalNature·DateDec 11, 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.

(Noise-) less is more

Researchers at Osaka University developed a high precision 3D circuit simulator to quantify electromagnetic (EM) noise and its origin. The simulator allows for the visualization of EM noise generation and propagation, enabling intuitive understanding of why and where noise occurs, leading to noiseless circuit design.

SourceOsaka University·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 11, 2019

Single-cell analysis of the earliest cell fate decisions in development

The study reveals how embryonic cells may be deviated from a default state and awoken to new developmental possibilities during gastrulation. Researchers used scNMT-seq and MOFA computational methods to analyze gene expression, DNA methylation, and chromatin accessibility in single cells from mouse embryos.

SourceBabraham Institute·JournalNature·DateDec 11, 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.

Researchers discover brain circuit linked to food impulsivity

A team of researchers has identified a specific brain circuit linked to food impulsivity, which could lead to the development of therapeutics for overeating. The study found that activating this circuit, involving melanin-concentrating hormone, increases impulsive behavior around food without affecting motivation or enjoyment.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 11, 2019

Training middle-school educators to identify suicide warning signs

Case Western Reserve University researchers found that virtual training increased middle-school educators' ability to recognize suicidal behavior. The training, Kognito At-Risk simulation, also covers bullying and other topics, highlighting the importance of comprehensive mental health education.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalHealth Behavior and Policy Review·DateDec 11, 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.

New spray gel could help take the bite out of frostbite

Researchers developed a cold-stable spray gel containing heparin and ibuprofen to treat frostbite injuries, showing improved healing rates compared to conventional treatments. The treatment reduced inflammation and accelerated healing, potentially preventing gangrene and amputation.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Biomaterials Science & Engineering·DateDec 11, 2019

Deciphering the equations of life

Researchers developed equations to study life's diversity and predict specific traits, including reproduction timing and lifespan. The new theory refines old understandings about life history tradeoffs and has implications for ecosystem models and management decisions.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 11, 2019

Azteca ant colonies move the same way leopards' spots form

A study by University of Michigan researchers reveals that Azteca ant colonies in Mexican coffee farms exhibit a Turing pattern, similar to leopard spots and zebras' stripes. This finding highlights the complexity of agroecological systems and challenges simplistic pest management approaches.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalBioScience·DateDec 11, 2019

Groups work better when stakes are gradually increased

A new study found that gradualism, increasing project stakes step-by-step, significantly improves group coordination. The research showed that teams with gradually increasing stakes outperformed those with consistently high or low stakes.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalManagement Science·DateDec 11, 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.

Increasing transparency in the healthcare sector: More might not be better

A new study suggests that increasing quality transparency in healthcare can improve social welfare in the short-term, but may have negative effects in the long-term. Policymakers should target specific patient populations, such as younger or urban patients, and incentivize hospitals to make socially optimal investments.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalOperations Research·DateDec 11, 2019

All age groups worldwide 'at high risk' of drop in children's physical activity

A global review of over 50 studies covering 22,000 children found that daily physical activity declined by 3-4 minutes per year, starting from ages 4 or 5. The study indicates that all age groups and genders face a high risk of declining physical activity, emphasizing the need for early promotion and parental involvement.

SourceUniversity of Strathclyde·JournalObesity Reviews·DateDec 11, 2019

Helping plant nurseries reduce runoff

Researchers found that additives like dolomite and micronutrient fertilizer can reduce phosphorus concentrations in drainage water by an average of 70%. These amendments help keep phosphorus in the pot, addressing a major environmental concern. The study aims to explore the long-term retention of retained phosphorus in containers.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalSoil Science Society of America Journal·DateDec 11, 2019

A research team develop biotransistors able to hear small beats of live

A research team has developed biotransistors that can record small beats of live cells and micro-tissues, paving the way for drug development and screening. The transistors, made of organic material on a flexible substrate, are biocompatible and offer intrinsic signal amplification, reducing the need for external amplifiers.

SourceSpanish National Research Council (CSIC)·JournalBiosensors and Bioelectronics·DateDec 11, 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.

Immune outposts inside kidney tumors predict post-surgery outcomes

Researchers discovered immune cells inside tumor samples can predict progression-free survival after surgery for kidney cancer. Patients with well-supported immune cells have longer disease control, leading to improved treatment options and potential adjuvant therapy trials.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalNature·DateDec 11, 2019

Study supports long-term benefits of non-drug therapies for pain

A study based on over 140,000 VA health records found that non-drug therapies for chronic pain reduced the risk of alcohol and drug disorders, opioid poisoning, and suicidal thoughts. Non-drug treatments like acupuncture and massage were linked to lower risks of these adverse outcomes.

SourceVeterans Affairs Research Communications·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateDec 11, 2019

Study reveals rapid increases in cannabis use among individuals with depression

Research suggests a significant increase in cannabis use among individuals with depression over the past decade. The prevalence of cannabis use was approximately twice as common among those with depression compared to those without it. Daily cannabis use was also more common among those with depression, particularly young adults.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalAddiction·DateDec 11, 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.

Isotope analysis points to prisoners of war

Researchers from the University of Bonn used strontium isotope analysis to determine the origins of victims in a 1,400-year-old Maya mass grave. The study found that most victims grew up at least 95 miles from Uxul, with some showing signs of high social status.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·DateDec 11, 2019

Importance of breastfeeding in preventing diabetes reaffirmed in rat study

A new study confirms breastfeeding is crucial for preventing diabetes, as early weaning increases insulin secretion and susceptibility to Type 2 diabetes. The research suggests that not breastfed rat pups are more likely to develop insulin resistance and the adult form of the disease.

SourceThe Physiological Society·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·DateDec 11, 2019

One-third of recent global methane increase comes from tropical Africa

A study published in Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics reveals that one-third of the recent global methane increase comes from tropical Africa's tropics. The research used satellite data to examine trends in atmospheric methane between 26° N and 26° S, highlighting the importance of individual wetlands like the Sudd in South Sudan.

SourceEuropean Geosciences Union·JournalAtmospheric Chemistry and Physics·DateDec 11, 2019

BU finds concerns about other painkillers contributed to opioid crisis

A new Boston University School of Public Health study found that the decline in prescriptions of non-opioid analgesics coincided with a marked increase in opioid prescribing. The study suggests that health risks associated with NSAIDs were one factor that led to increased prescribing of opioids.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateDec 11, 2019
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Low-dose aspirin may not help African-Americans prevent heart attack

A study published by the American Heart Association found that low-dose aspirin did not reduce the risk of a fatal heart attack among African Americans, unlike in white populations. The study used data from over 65,000 participants and suggested genetic differences and poor control of other risk factors may contribute to this result.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateDec 11, 2019

A machine learning approach to identify functional human phosphosites

Researchers at EMBL-EBI have created the largest reference phosphoproteome of almost 120,000 human phosphosites using a machine learning approach. This freely-accessible resource enables scientists to identify critical phosphosites relevant for various biological processes and diseases.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory - European Bioinformatics Institute·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateDec 11, 2019

High doses of vitamin D for critically ill patients yield minimal benefit

A large study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that high doses of vitamin D do not reduce mortality or improve non-fatal outcomes in critically ill patients. The Vitamin D to Improve Outcomes by Leveraging Early Treatment (VIOLET) study included over 200 researchers and showed no difference in mortality rates, hos...

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateDec 11, 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.

Unique data confirms why water turns brown

A 79-year study confirms that increased coniferous forests are the primary cause of water browning in lakes and rivers. Organic soil leaching into lakes and streams also contributes to this process.

SourceLund University·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateDec 11, 2019

Focus on food security and sustainability

The researchers highlight the urgent need for investment in research infrastructure to provide reliable data on population health, nutrition, and agricultural practices. An international body is proposed to address pressing nutritional and agricultural issues and prepare policy decisions.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 11, 2019

Study to help manage shark populations in Pacific Panama

A recent study highlights the alarming exploitation of shark populations in Pacific Panama, with many species caught immature and vulnerable to intensive fishing. The research recommends implementing seasonal fishing bans and monitoring programs to improve conservation strategies.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·DateDec 11, 2019

New insights to major disease pathways

Australian researchers have discovered a further 148 previously unknown proteins affected by oxidative stress in the human body, linked to major diseases such as heart disease and cancer. The new chemical tool developed at Flinders University's Chalker Lab has mapped over 1000 proteins modified under oxidative stress.

SourceFlinders University·JournalChemBioChem·DateDec 11, 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.

Real-time photoacoustic thermometry of tumors during HIFU treatment in living subjects

Researchers developed a photoacoustic (PA) thermometry system for HIFU treatment guidance, enabling real-time monitoring of temperature increase at tumors during treatment. The system allows for simultaneous ultrasound imaging, PA imaging, and PA thermometry, enhancing the accuracy and safety of HIFU treatments.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalIEEE Transactions on Biomedical Engineering·DateDec 11, 2019

Examining opioid prescribing after new Florida law

Researchers compared opioid prescribing at discharge from Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida, before and after a 2018 law change. The study found significant reductions in opioid prescribing rates following the law's implementation.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateDec 11, 2019

Print me an organ -- Why are we not there yet?

Recent advancements in 3D bioprinting have the potential to revolutionize organ transplantation by enabling customized organs for patients. However, significant technical challenges need to be overcome, including biomimicry, vascularization, and tissue maturation.

SourceSingapore University of Technology and Design·JournalProgress in Polymer Science·DateDec 11, 2019

Site search: A digital approach to proteins and cancer

Researchers at Purdue University have developed a digital approach called Site search that enables scientists to study specific protein sites linked to serious diseases. The software, NmrLineGuru, supports fast simulation and analysis of protein interactions with drugs.

SourcePurdue University·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 11, 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.

$2.5 million to protect the brain from metabolic insult

Researchers are testing whether changing brain's fuel source from glucose to ketones could potentially save neurons and neural networks over time. The study, funded by a $2.5 million grant, aims to understand how ketones affect brain cells and connectivity in the face of insulin resistance.

SourceChildren's National Hospital·DateDec 11, 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.

Pathways toward post-petrochemistry

Scientists have introduced a new electrochemical method to produce ethylene from CO at room temperature and standard pressure, achieving high Faradaic efficiency and C2 selectivity. The technique uses a copper catalyst and optimized electrode structure, allowing for efficient separation of gaseous ethylene.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateDec 11, 2019

Human consumption of fish antibiotics investigated in new study

A new study investigates online sales of fish antibiotics and finds that consumers are purchasing these medications for human use, raising concerns about unintended consequences. The research highlights the potential risks of self-medication and the need for healthcare professionals to educate patients on safe medication use.

SourceASHP (American Society of Health-System Pharmacists)·DateDec 11, 2019

Promising new approach to treating some of the worst types of leukaemia

A new approach to treating MLL-rearranged leukaemia (MLL-r leukaemias) has shown promising results, with a small molecule inhibitor called VTP50469 producing a 'dramatic response' in specially-bred mice. The therapy is designed to target molecules critical for the survival and growth of cancer cells.

SourceChildren's Cancer Institute Australia·JournalCancer Cell·DateDec 11, 2019

Blood pressure drug could help problem drinkers: QUT research

A study at Queensland University of Technology (QUT) suggests that pindolol, a blood pressure medication, can reduce anxiety-like behavior and neurogenic maladaptations in mice with long-term heavy alcohol consumption. The drug also restores damage caused by alcohol to new and immature neurons in the brain.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalFrontiers in Behavioral Neuroscience·DateDec 11, 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.

Financial infidelity: Secret spending costs couples and companies

A new study identifies financial infidelity as a real problem for consumers and companies, with secretive spending habits common among romantic partners. Retailers can boost sales by offering inconspicuous packaging and cash payment options to appeal to financially unfaithful shoppers.

SourceBoston College·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateDec 11, 2019

Scientists eager to explain brain rhythm boost's broad impact in Alzheimer's models

Increasing 40Hz gamma rhythm power in the brain has been shown to strengthen neural connections and improve symptoms in Alzheimer's disease models. The study used light flickering or sound buzzing at 40Hz to achieve this effect, which was found to decline pathological amyloid and tau protein buildups and protect neurons from degeneration.

SourcePicower Institute at MIT·JournalTrends in Neurosciences·DateDec 11, 2019

Boosting the impact of consumer research in the world

A new paper argues that consumer researchers can broaden their impact by breaking boundaries and communicating with a wider audience. The study suggests ways for researchers to influence academics, industry, government, and society, leading to fresh insights and tangible effects.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateDec 11, 2019

It's time to explain country in indigenous terms

A research paper explores Indigenous Australian place relationships using Yanyuwa terms, highlighting the importance of understanding ecological health through Indigenous knowledges. The study examines human relationships with places that play a key role in ecological health, revealing specific terms for good land and sea management.

SourceFlinders University·JournalOceania·DateDec 11, 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.

Water common -- yet scarce -- in exoplanets

The study found that while water vapour is common in exoplanet atmospheres, its amounts are surprisingly lower than expected. The results also suggest a depletion of oxygen relative to other elements and provide clues into how these exoplanets may have formed without substantial accretion of ice.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateDec 11, 2019

Safer viruses for vaccine research and diagnosis

Researchers have developed a new biotechnology platform to produce safer 'hybrid' viruses for vaccines and diagnostics against mosquito-borne diseases. The Binjari virus, inert to humans, is used to create 'dangerous-looking' viruses like Zika and dengue that cannot grow in humans or animals.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateDec 11, 2019

Mountain goats' air conditioning is failing, study says

A new study reveals that Glacier National Park's iconic mountain goats are under threat from climate change, as they seek out dwindling snow patches to cope with heat stress. The researchers found that breathing rates decrease by up to 15% when goats rest in these patches.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 11, 2019

Illumination drives bats out of caves

Researchers found that bats avoid all light colors and prefer dark entrances, regardless of color. Inside caves, bats react sensitively to any light, showing a slight preference for red over amber and white lights only when dark was not an option.

SourceForschungsverbund Berlin·JournalGlobal Ecology and Conservation·DateDec 11, 2019

Refined carbs may trigger insomnia, finds study

A new study by Columbia University researchers suggests that a diet high in refined carbohydrates, particularly added sugars, may be partly to blame for insomnia. Women who consumed more vegetables and whole fruits were less likely to develop problems with insomnia.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateDec 11, 2019

New study identifies barriers to conservation success

A ground-breaking new study has found that conservation charities face numerous hurdles, including funding issues, inadequate leadership, and a lack of strategy. The research suggests that a typology of barriers can help conservationists identify and manage risks to their projects.

SourceCambridge University Press·JournalOryx·DateDec 11, 2019

Skipping one night of sleep may leave insomniacs twice as impaired, study says

A new study published in Nature and Science of Sleep found that individuals with chronic sleep-onset insomnia who pulled an all-nighter performed up to twice as badly on a reaction time task as healthy normal sleepers. This impairment may be hidden during the normal day but exposed after pulling an all-nighter, increasing their risk of...

SourceWashington State University·JournalNature and Science of Sleep·DateDec 11, 2019

A vaccine against chronic inflammatory diseases

Researchers developed a vaccine that targets flagellin in the gut microbiota to reduce inflammation. The vaccine showed protection against intestinal inflammation and metabolic disorders such as diabetes and obesity.

SourceINSERM (Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale)·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 11, 2019

C. diff carriers are common source of infections in health facilities, study shows

A study published in Infection Control & Hospital Epidemiology found nearly 1-in-10 patients without symptoms were C. diff carriers, increasing the risk of infection transmission. Identifying carriers could be a key strategy to prevent C. diff spread in healthcare facilities.

SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateDec 11, 2019

Studies show integrated strategies work best for buffelgrass control

A literature review of 229 studies found that multiple techniques and follow-up treatments are most effective in controlling buffelgrass. The invasive weed can outcompete native species by accessing deeper water and nutrients, highlighting the need for restoration of drought-tolerant native species.

SourceCambridge University Press·JournalInvasive Plant Science and Management·DateDec 11, 2019

Information technology can save police lives, according to a new study

A new study by the University of Houston found that widespread adoption of information technology by law enforcement agencies can significantly reduce violence against police officers. The research revealed a 50% decrease in assaults and deaths, with benefits extending to other high-risk occupations such as factory workers and truck dr...

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalDecision Support Systems·DateDec 11, 2019

Modulation of proliferation factors in lung adenocarcinoma with an analysis of the transcriptional consequences of genomic EGFR activation

The study reveals that EGFR overexpression is associated with lower expression of multiple proliferation genes, leading to replication stress and decreased survival. Interestingly, certain proteins like CLPTM1L and PBXIP1 are upregulated in EGFR-activated cases, but this does not promote increased proliferation.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·DateDec 11, 2019

New research pinpoints which of the world's trees are climate-ready

Researchers have discovered that evergreen tree species, such as holly and ivy, are more water-efficient under rising CO2 concentrations, potentially giving them a competitive edge over deciduous trees. This advantage is expected to be particularly pronounced in cooler climates like Ireland.

SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 11, 2019

New research seeks to improve safety equipment for pregnant women

A new model developed by UBC Okanagan engineer Hadi Mohammadi maps the impact of trauma on a pregnant woman's uterus, aiming to make airbags and seatbelts safer. The study found that pregnant abdomens respond more rigidly to greater impacts, posing a risk to both mother and fetus.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalInternational Journal for Numerical Methods in Biomedical Engineering·DateDec 11, 2019

Running research: Heel-toe or toe-heel?

A comprehensive review of 53 studies found no evidence that changing a runner's strike pattern reduces injury risk or improves performance. Running on the front of feet may make runners less efficient in the short term.

SourceLa Trobe University·JournalSports Medicine·DateDec 11, 2019

Mechanisms help pancreatic cancer cells avert starvation

Pancreatic cancer cells use a process called macropinocytosis to engulf nutrients, which are then broken down into building blocks for cell growth. The study identified key molecular steps involved in boosting this process, including the activation of protein kinase A and v-ATPase.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalNature·DateDec 11, 2019

A way to 'fingerprint' human cells

A new method called scPred uses single cell analysis techniques with machine learning algorithms to identify specific types of cells. This can help diagnose cancer and autoimmune diseases earlier, and personalize treatments for individual patients.

SourceGarvan Institute of Medical Research·JournalGenome Biology·DateDec 11, 2019

New insect virus provides a safer platform for flavivirus vaccines and tests

A new species of insect virus, Binjari virus, has been identified that can be engineered to house genes from disease-causing flaviviruses. This non-infectious virus represents a flexible tool for testing diagnostics and vaccines for various infectious diseases, including yellow fever, dengue, and West Nile encephalitis.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateDec 11, 2019

Insights into psoriasis suggest a new treatment target

Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital have uncovered a novel pathway explaining why skin thickens in psoriasis, suggesting new strategies for developing therapies. The study found a defect in the epigenetic covering that resulted in loss of DNA methylation hydroxymethylation mark, leading to dysregulated stem cell behavior.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJournal of Investigative Dermatology·DateDec 11, 2019

A window into the hidden world of colons

Biomedical engineers at Duke University have created a system that allows real-time observations of individual cells in the colon of a living mouse. This breakthrough enables researchers to study the digestive system's microbiome, inflammatory bowel disease, and colon cancer, as well as explore potential treatments for gastrointestinal...

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 11, 2019