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Science News for December 12, 2019


NASA's NICER delivers best-ever pulsar measurements, 1st surface map

Scientists have obtained precise measurements of a pulsar's size and mass, as well as the first-ever map of hot spots on its surface using NASA's NICER telescope. The new data reveals that pulsars are not simple objects with powerful magnetic fields, but rather complex systems with multiple hot spots.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateDec 12, 2019

Veterans study suggest two sub-types of Gulf War illness

Researchers at Georgetown University Medical Center used fMRI to categorize Gulf War illness patients into two distinct groups based on brain activity changes after exercise. The study suggests that different brain regions are associated with two subtypes of GWI, leading to potential new diagnosis and treatment strategies.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalBrain Communications·DateDec 12, 2019

Telehealth increases primary care physicians' accurate diagnosis of skin conditions

A recent study published in the Journal of Telemedicine and Telecare found that a telehealth program increased primary care physicians' accurate diagnosis of skin conditions by nearly 84% for adult cases and 72% for pediatric cases. The program provided expert recommendations through videoconferencing sessions with dermatologists, redu...

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Telemedicine and Telecare·DateDec 12, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

A galactic dance

The NGC 5394/5 galaxies are engaging in a slow and intimate dance, fueled by their gravitational interactions. This process has already led to the coalescence of hydrogen gas into regions of star formation, resulting in the sparkling of new stars.

SourceAssociation of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA)·DateDec 12, 2019

Virus multiplication in 3D

Researchers have successfully determined the three-dimensional structure of a vaccinia virus RNA polymerase at atomic resolution, providing key findings on virus multiplication. The complex is composed of various subunits and relies on host tRNA molecules to function, enabling an essential step in the pathogen's life cycle.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalCell·DateDec 12, 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.

Insight into the neglected tropical disease sleeping sickness

The study identifies hundreds of proteins involved in the cell division cycle of Trypanosoma brucei gambiense and rhodesiense parasites. This discovery holds promise for developing targeted drugs that can treat sleeping sickness without harming humans or animals.

SourceLancaster University·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateDec 12, 2019

Speech could be older than we thought

Researchers challenge the theory of a descended larynx, which proposes that speech can only emerge with the larynx in a low position. However, monkeys produce well-differentiated proto-vowels, suggesting control of articulators is key to vocalization. This finding opens up new perspectives on the emergence of articulated speech.

SourceCNRS·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 12, 2019

With novel technique, new study is first to definitively map the early development of PTSD

A recent study has provided new insights into the early development of PTSD, revealing that it proceeds along two independent tracks. The research, which tracked symptoms over 30 days after a traumatic event, suggests potential interventions to prevent its development and proposes different treatment approaches for fear-based and depre...

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalDepression and Anxiety·DateDec 12, 2019

Is ivermectin safe during pregnancy?

A systematic review and meta-analysis found no conclusive evidence supporting the safety of ivermectin administration among pregnant women. The studies included in the analysis reported some adverse events, but the number of cases was too low to be conclusive.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalThe Lancet Global Health·DateDec 12, 2019

Scandinavians' little linguistic hat trick

The study found that Norwegian, Swedish, and Danish languages use topicalization to move sentences elements to the front, making them stand out from other languages. This feature allows speakers to emphasize certain words without changing the overall meaning of the sentence.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalLanguage·DateDec 12, 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.

IQ test for artificial intelligence systems

Researchers are developing a framework to assess the 'intelligence' of AI systems by grading them on problem-solving skills and adaptability. The AIQ test will evaluate systems based on accuracy, time taken, and data requirements.

SourceWashington State University·DateDec 12, 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.

Running away from exercise: The curious case of migraine

A recent study published in Cephalalgia highlights an overlooked relationship between migraine and exercise. Anxiety sensitivity is found to be associated with physical activity avoidance in women with probable migraine, particularly with vigorous intensity.

SourceInternational Headache Society·JournalCephalalgia·DateDec 12, 2019

Study pinpoints new drug targets to treat Nipah virus

Researchers have identified 150 possible inhibitors of the Nipah virus, a highly deadly disease with no licensed drugs against it. The study found that 13 proposed inhibitors showed high potential against all strains of the virus.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateDec 12, 2019

The mathematics of prey detection in spider orb-webs

Researchers have developed a theoretical mechanical model to study how spider orb-webs detect prey through vibrations. The model reveals that web dynamics are crucial in localizing prey, and it has potential applications for bioinspired materials.

SourceSociety for Industrial and Applied Mathematics·JournalSIAM Journal on Applied Mathematics·DateDec 12, 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.

Ghost imaging speeds up super-resolution microscopy

Researchers used ghost imaging to enhance the speed of super-resolution microscopy, achieving nano-scale resolution in just 10 image frames. The new approach resolves structures with spatial and temporal resolutions at which biological processes take place.

SourceOptica·JournalOptica·DateDec 12, 2019

Out-of-network costs soar for non-emergency hospitalizations

Researchers found that out-of-network, non-emergency hospital costs rose rapidly from 2012 to 2017, affecting 16% of individuals with an average cost of $621. Average costs for emergency and non-emergency care increased significantly.

SourceOhio State University·JournalThe American Journal of Managed Care·DateDec 12, 2019

Breast cancer patients to be evaluated for genetic testing

The American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics recommends evaluating breast cancer patients for genetic testing based on existing clinical criteria. Genetic testing should include full gene sequencing and be conducted in a lab certified by the College of American Pathologists or Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalGenetics in Medicine·DateDec 12, 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.

Martian aurora offers climate change clues, Embry-Riddle reports

Researchers at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University present findings that a type of Martian aurora is the most common on the Red Planet, offering insights into water loss and climate change. The study uses data from NASA's MAVEN spacecraft to track hydrogen escape and understand how Mars' atmosphere has changed over time.

SourceEmbry-Riddle Aeronautical University·DateDec 12, 2019

Team finds bovine kobuvirus in US

A new study has confirmed that bovine kobuvirus is the causative agent for calf diarrhea in US cattle. The virus was found in four of nine samples tested at the University of Illinois Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalEmerging Infectious Diseases·DateDec 12, 2019

Breakthrough in Zika virus vaccine

Researchers at the University of Adelaide have made significant progress in developing a novel Zika virus vaccine that prevents infection in pre-clinical models. The vaccine's effectiveness has been demonstrated in mouse models, offering a promising solution to prevent congenital effects in infants born to infected mothers.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 12, 2019

Short-lived light sources discovered in the sky

A team of international researchers has discovered approximately 100 red transients in publicly available sky data from the 1950s to the present, which could be attributed to natural astrophysical phenomena or rare events. The findings have potential implications for our understanding of stellar evolution and active galactic nuclei.

SourceStockholm University·JournalThe Astronomical Journal·DateDec 12, 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.

Carolina parakeet extinction was driven by human causes, DNA sequencing reveals

The study reveals the Carolina parakeet's rapid extinction was mainly a human-mediated process, with no signs of inbreeding or population decline found on its genome. The genomic analysis suggests that the bird's unique diet may have contributed to its demise, and experts wonder if de-extinguishing the species could be possible.

SourceUniversitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona·JournalCurrent Biology·DateDec 12, 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.

People willing to risk near-certain death for an HIV cure

A new study found that nearly one-quarter of people living with HIV are willing to participate in clinical trials that carry significant risks, including near-certain death, in exchange for the potential of an HIV cure. The study highlights the need for additional ethical safeguards when enrolling individuals in such high-risk research.

SourceThe Hastings Center·JournalEthics & Human Research·DateDec 12, 2019

Novel e-skin achieves self-powered hippocampal neural stimulation

Scientists developed a novel self-powered e-skin capable of inducing a neural response, which can be controlled by photo illumination. The technology has potential applications in quantifying neural plasticity changes and developing novel neural-stimulation systems.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNano Energy·DateDec 12, 2019

The danger behind certain biologics

A research team discovered that dendritic cells play a crucial role in the immune system's response to disease-causing pathogens, which may explain why TNF inhibitors carry a risk of serious infections and cancer. The study suggests that programming dendritic cells could lead to better treatments for persistent infections and cancer.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 12, 2019

Study highlights high cost of fossil fuel pollution on children's health

A new study by Columbia University researchers estimates the per-case costs of six childhood health conditions linked to air pollution, including preterm birth and asthma. The study suggests that policies to clean the air and address climate change will yield numerous benefits for children's health.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalEnvironmental Research·DateDec 12, 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.

To the brain, straight from the vein: IV treatment for TBI

Researchers at the University of Georgia developed a new cell-to-cell messaging technology using bio-manufactured exosomes to treat traumatic brain injuries. The treatment, called IV treatment, showed improved functional recovery in rats after TBI.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalJournal of Neurotrauma·DateDec 12, 2019

Innovative research seeks to improve walking for children with CP

Researchers aim to determine if short bursts of vigorous-intensity locomotor treadmill training can optimize motor learning and improve walking capacity, mobility, and performance for children with cerebral palsy. The study will enroll 72 participants aged 6-10 and assess the immediate and retention effects of the intervention.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·DateDec 12, 2019

First-ever quality measures aim to reduce diabetes complications

The Endocrine Society and Avalere Health introduced quality measures to assess healthcare providers' ability to identify and care for older adults at risk of hypoglycemia. The measures focus on outpatient treatment for adults aged 65 and older with type 2 diabetes, highlighting key risk factors and emphasizing education to prevent futu...

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateDec 12, 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.

Combining science and design to measure our exposure to light

Researchers developed a wearable light sensor concept to measure exposure to different light spectrums, filling a gap in current technology. The Spectrace sensor aims to improve our understanding of the physiological effects of light on our bodies, particularly in relation to circadian rhythms and health.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalCurrent Opinion in Behavioral Sciences·DateDec 12, 2019

Knee-jerk vaping bans will fail public health, experts argue

A group of experts argue that knee-jerk vaping bans could do more harm than good, citing evidence supporting the use of nicotine vaping products as a harm-reduction tool. They call for regulatory measures to balance access with youth protection and surveillance systems to detect unanticipated harm.

SourceOhio State University·JournalScience·DateDec 12, 2019

New drugs more likely to be approved if backed up by genetics

A new analysis confirms human genomic data can predict success in clinical trials, with genetically supported drug targets twice as likely to be approved. Historically, drugs targeting proteins with amino acid sequence changes linked to the disease have the best chance of approval.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateDec 12, 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.

Can artificial intelligence help prevent suicides?

Researchers have developed an algorithm capable of identifying who in a social group would be the best persons to be trained as 'gatekeepers' capable of recognizing warning signs of suicide. The tool aims to improve efficiency of suicide prevention trainings for vulnerable populations, such as homeless youth.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·DateDec 12, 2019

Interstellar comet 2I -- Borisov swings past sun

The first identified interstellar comet, 2I -- Borisov, is being tracked by NASA's Hubble Space Telescope as it passes close to the Sun. The comet's nucleus is estimated to be smaller than half a kilometer in diameter and has a chemical composition similar to comets found within our solar system.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateDec 12, 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.

Do summer holidays undo the good work of school?

Researchers are examining changes in children's diets and time use over the summer holidays to better understand factors affecting childhood obesity. The study aims to find effective ways to address the serious issue of childhood obesity by tracking the behavior of 300 Grade four students over three years.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalBMC Public Health·DateDec 12, 2019

Tiny insects become 'visible' to bats when they swarm

Researchers discovered small insects like mosquitoes become visible to bats in large swarms due to Quasi Constant Frequency signals. This finding sheds light on the evolution of bat echolocation and its potential applications for detecting drone swarms.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateDec 12, 2019

Achieving optimal collaboration when goals conflict

New research reveals that knowing more about a partner's actions accelerates joint physical task collaboration. Game theory insights inform the development of robots that can interact with humans in a natural, human-like fashion.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateDec 12, 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.

Novel study underscores microbial individuality

A recent study analyzing over 12,000 microbial genomes found that every cell is genetically unique, defying conventional species definitions. The Global Ocean Reference Genomes Tropics database provides insights into global distribution patterns and energy sources of ocean microbes.

SourceBigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences·JournalCell·DateDec 12, 2019

Study finds differences in energy use by immune cells in ME/CFS

Researchers discovered that specific immune T cells from people with ME/CFS exhibit disruptions in energy production, suggesting changes in the immune system. The study found decreased levels of glycolysis and mitochondrial function in affected cells, potentially providing clues to understanding the mechanisms underlying ME/CFS.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 12, 2019

Metabolic adaptation ensures survival of colon cancer cells

Researchers found that colon cancer cells deficient in p53 use the mevalonate pathway to survive, producing ubiquinone to synthesize new DNA. Statins inhibit this pathway, inducing apoptosis in cancer cells.

SourceGerman Cancer Research Center (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ)·JournalCancer Research·DateDec 12, 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.

Daylight saving time does not misalign human cycles

A recent study published in Scientific Reports found that Daylight Saving Time (DST) regulations do not disrupt human cycles, including sleep and labor patterns. The report highlights the impact of latitude on seasonal adaptation of human activity.

SourceUniversity of Seville·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 12, 2019

Russian scientists studied the effect of selenium on the properties of basil

A team of Russian scientists found that adding micromolar selenium doses to hydroponic substrate increases the levels of useful biologically active compounds in sweet basil leaves. This concentration is safe for the plant, leading to higher antioxidant levels and enhanced nutritional properties.

SourceImmanuel Kant Baltic Federal University·JournalPlants·DateDec 12, 2019

Scientists say you can change your personality

A review of recent research in personality science suggests that personality traits can change through persistent intervention and major life events. Researchers identify neuroticism, extraversion, openness to experience, agreeableness, and conscientiousness as key targets for policy interventions.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalAmerican Psychologist·DateDec 12, 2019

Ultrasound blasts potent glioblastoma drug into brain tumor

Scientists successfully deliver powerful glioblastoma drug paclitaxel into brain tumors in mice using an implantable ultrasound. The new formulation uses albumin instead of toxic cremophor, reducing brain toxicity. This technology has shown to increase drug concentrations by five-fold and prolong survival of brain tumor-bearing mice.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateDec 12, 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.

When flowers reached Australia

New research reveals that Australia's oldest flowering plants are 126 million years old and resemble modern magnolias, buttercups, and laurels. Climate change may have prevented their expansion into Australasia due to cold temperatures.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·DateDec 12, 2019

Herpes's Achilles heel

Researchers at Harvard Medical School have successfully used CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing to disrupt both latent and active herpes virus in human cells. The findings offer a model system for using gene editing in a localized way to disrupt active replication, but the challenge of delivering gene-editing therapy to neurons remains unsolved.

SourceHarvard Medical School·DateDec 12, 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.

New algorithm detects even the smallest cancer metastases across the entire mous

Researchers developed DeepMACT, a novel algorithm that can detect and analyze cancer metastases more than 300 times faster than human experts. The algorithm provides insights into the unique metastatic profiles of different tumor models, enabling tailored drug targeting for various cancers.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalCell·DateDec 12, 2019

Older adults with hypothyroidism face elevated risk of death

Research published in the Endocrine Society's Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that older adults with hypothyroidism are 26% more likely to die from all causes than their peers without the condition. However, this increased risk was not observed in individuals with milder forms of thyroid disease.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateDec 12, 2019

To help protect research, experts agree on a definition of predatory publishing

A consensus definition has been reached by leading scholars and publishers to track and combat predatory journals, which prioritize self-interest over scholarship. The definition highlights false or misleading information, deviation from best practices, lack of transparency, and aggressive solicitation as key characteristics.

SourceThe Ottawa Hospital·JournalNature·DateDec 12, 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.

New potential cancer players revealed by extensive tumor protein analysis

Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine classified over 500 cancers into 10 subtypes based on protein analysis, revealing novel molecular pathways and potential new players in cancer. Four subtypes were found to be linked to the tumor microenvironment, while three others were associated with previously unknown cellular components.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 12, 2019

Why whales are so big, but not bigger

Larger whales consume more prey and have higher energy efficiency due to their size. Filter-feeding whales, however, exhibit rapid increases in energy from food, potentially driving evolutionary pathways to gigantism.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateDec 12, 2019

How humans learnt to dance; from the Chimpanzee Conga

Two female chimpanzees exhibit synchronized bipedalism, displaying near-perfect precision in whole-body tempo synchronization. The discovery sheds light on the evolution of human dance and highlights conjoined full-body rhythmic entrainment in great apes.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 12, 2019

10-year results of NRG Oncology/NSABP B-42 trial

The NRG Oncology/NSABP B-42 trial found that extending letrozole therapy for five additional years improved disease-free survival in postmenopausal women with HR+ breast cancer. The study showed a 26% decrease in the risk of breast-cancer-free interval events and a 29% reduction in distant recurrence rates.

SourceNRG Oncology·DateDec 12, 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.

Many children with kidney disease may be prescribed drugs that are toxic to the kidneys

A recent study found that a significant proportion of children with chronic kidney disease (CKD) are prescribed medications that may be toxic to their kidneys. Among the studied population, 71% of those with CKD and 50% without received at least one potentially nephrotoxic medication over an average follow-up period of 3.3 years.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateDec 12, 2019

Chemists' calculations may advance cancer prediction

Researchers have made a breakthrough in understanding cancer prediction by developing a new method to evaluate cell dynamics and tumor initiation. Their calculations reveal that fixation times are a more important metric than lifetime risks, and that some mutated cells may fix tumors faster than expected.

SourceRice University·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 12, 2019

Fundamental discoveries for future nanotools: Chemists distinguish multiple weak forces

Chemists at the University of Tokyo have made groundbreaking discoveries about how molecules bind together, using a tiny cube structure to study dispersion forces. The team has found that polarizable atoms can create stronger dispersion forces, leading to increased stability in complex structures and potential applications in drug design.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalCommunications Chemistry·DateDec 12, 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.

Students do better in school when they can understand, manage emotions

A comprehensive meta-analysis of over 160 studies involving 42,000 students from 27 countries reveals that emotionally intelligent students tend to achieve better academic performance. Higher emotional intelligence is linked to improved grades, achievement test scores, and social relationships with teachers, peers, and family.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalPsychological Bulletin·DateDec 12, 2019

Hydration may affect cognitive function in some older adults

A Penn State study found that hydration levels among women are associated with lower scores on tests measuring motor speed, sustained attention, and working memory. The researchers suggest that being 'in the sweet spot' of hydration is best for cognitive function, particularly for tasks requiring sustained attention.

SourcePenn State·JournalEuropean Journal of Nutrition·DateDec 12, 2019

Comprehensive background check policies effective in Oregon but not in Washington

A study by UC Davis Violence Prevention Research Program found that Oregon's CBC policies resulted in an 18% increase in pre-firearm-sale checks, while Washington state saw a 4% increase. The different rates are attributed to variations in private-party firearm sales and compliance among private gun sellers.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalInjury Epidemiology·DateDec 12, 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.

Deadly 'superbugs' destroyed by molecular drills

Researchers at Rice University and Texas A&M University developed molecular drills that target and kill antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The drills, which can be activated with light, increase the effectiveness of existing antibiotics, offering a potential solution to superbug infections.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Nano·DateDec 12, 2019

Researchers perfect nanoscience tool for studies of nuclear waste storage

University of Guelph researchers have developed a new tool for studying nuclear waste storage using antimatter. This breakthrough may help in designing safer underground vaults for permanent storage of radioactive waste. The study also reveals intriguing properties of clays that could be useful in other industries.

SourceUniversity of Guelph·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 12, 2019

Tiny quantum sensors watch materials transform under pressure

Scientists at Berkeley Lab developed a tool to harness atomic flaws in diamonds to create ultrasensitive sensors for measuring electric and magnetic fields. They successfully measured phase transitions and pressure-induced phase changes, opening up new avenues for materials research.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateDec 12, 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.

Baby's first breath: A new method for helping preemies to breathe

Researchers have found a way to stimulate breathing in premature babies using pure oxygen, which may help reduce the need for invasive respiratory interventions. The technique has shown promising results in preterm rabbit kittens and human clinical studies, offering a potential non-invasive solution for supporting fragile newborns.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Pediatrics·DateDec 12, 2019

Significant potential demonstrated by digital agricultural advice

A new paper demonstrates that digital extension practices are adopted at rates comparable to traditional in-person extension, with significantly lower costs. The study highlights the research utility of digital extension and its potential for improvement through iteration and testing.

SourcePrecision Agriculture for Development·JournalScience·DateDec 12, 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.

Harnessing nature's defenses against tsunamis

A hybrid approach combining mangroves, coral reefs and man-made solutions can protect coastal communities from disaster while preserving biodiversity. The study suggests ecosystem-based protection should be the basis for a coastal protection strategy, making it more cost-efficient and better protecting valuable ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalTrends in Ecology & Evolution·DateDec 12, 2019

Unique polymer fibers: Light, strong, and tough

Researchers have developed unique polymer fibers with high tensile strength and toughness, making them suitable for industrial applications such as textiles, medical technology, and aerospace engineering.

SourceUniversität Bayreuth·JournalScience·DateDec 12, 2019

Beyond 'shovelomics': Growing cassava in the air helps study the plant's mysterious roots

Scientists have developed an innovative method of growing cassava in the air using aeroponics, allowing for real-time observation of root development and identification of genes that regulate growth. This breakthrough could lead to increased yields, improved sustainability, and accelerated plant growth.

SourceThe Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture·JournalPlant Methods·DateDec 12, 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.

Experts review evidence yoga is good for the brain

A review of 11 studies on yoga and brain health found that regular practice can increase the volume of the hippocampus, a region involved in memory processing, and enhance brain regions related to emotional regulation. Yoga also tends to improve prefrontal cortex function, which is essential for decision-making and multitasking.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalBrain Plasticity·DateDec 12, 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.

Chinese team makes nanoscopy breakthrough

A Chinese research team has developed a new technique that enables super-resolution microscopy of living cells with unprecedented speeds and resolutions. The approach, which combines ghost imaging and compressive imaging, can capture processes in living cells on millisecond time-scales with spatial resolution of tens of nanometers.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalOptica·DateDec 12, 2019

Mites can change their diet depending on environmental conditions

Scientists discovered that soil mites alter their diet based on the environment they inhabit, with some species switching from saprophagy to predation. The study focused on oribatid mites and found significant differences in nitrogen isotope content depending on land use systems.

SourceUniversity of Tyumen·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 12, 2019

For controlling tsetse flies, fabric color matters

Researchers engineered a violet-colored polyester fabric that attracts more female tsetse flies and shows improved effectiveness against savannah species. The new fabric was developed based on understanding how flies see color.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 12, 2019

New research aims to improve oral delivery of insulin

A team of researchers at Wayne State University is developing a novel oral insulin delivery system to address the issues of low absorption and bioavailability. The goal is to create a safe and efficient treatment that can enhance the quality of life for diabetes patients.

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·DateDec 12, 2019

Biology: Genetic 'clock' predicts lifespan in vertebrates

A study in Scientific Reports presents a genetic model that accurately estimates lifespans of different vertebrate species by analyzing 42 selected genes and their CpG sites, which are correlated with lifespan. The 'lifespan clock' reveals high predictive power for various species, including extinct ones.

SourceScientific Reports·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 12, 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.

The limits of ocean heavyweights: Prey curb whales' gigantic size

A team of scientists found that whale body size is limited by the availability of their prey, with filter-feeding whales achieving the largest body sizes due to a high-energy payoff. Toothed whales, on the other hand, are limited by the energy spent chasing large prey in deep-sea environments.

SourceSmithsonian·JournalScience·DateDec 12, 2019

Transformative change can save humans and nature

An independent group of international experts concludes that transformative action is needed to address the unprecedented impact of human activities on life on Earth. The study highlights the need for a system-wide reorganization across technological, economic, and social factors to achieve sustainability.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalScience·DateDec 12, 2019

SMART and NTU researchers design polymer that can kill drug-resistant bacteria

Researchers at SMART and NTU have designed a polymer that can kill bacteria resistant to commonly used antibiotics, including MRSA. The breakthrough could lead to the development of medicine to which bacteria are significantly less resistant, saving hundreds of thousands of lives.

SourceSingapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 12, 2019

Child care centers rarely require flu vaccination for children or their caregivers

A new study found that only 24.5% of child care center directors reported having a flu vaccine requirement for children, and even fewer for adult caregivers. However, states with laws mandating flu vaccination for children in day care were more likely to have requirements.

SourcePediatric Infectious Diseases Society·JournalJournal of the Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society·DateDec 12, 2019