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Science News for December 18, 2019


Tracking thermodynamic fundamentals

Researchers at Kiel University successfully measured entropy in complex plasmas using video microscopy and laser technology. They found that the thermodynamic fundamentals are fulfilled, leading to new insights into strongly coupled systems.

SourceKiel University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateDec 18, 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.

Hebrew U researcher cracks Newton's elusive '3-body' problem

Researchers at Hebrew University of Jerusalem use traditional mathematics to predict planets' movements in unstable three-body systems. Their findings provide a new understanding of these complex processes and are essential for visualizing complicated phenomena.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalNature·DateDec 18, 2019

Reflecting on the year in chemistry

The American Chemical Society's Year in Chemistry 2019 special issue features top research trends, including advances in machine-learning, microplastics, and 3-D printing. Experts predict further AI advancements and greener processes for making nitrogen-based compounds and materials in 2020.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateDec 18, 2019

Paper-based test could diagnose Lyme disease at early stages

Researchers have developed a handheld, paper-based device to diagnose Lyme disease soon after infection. The assay achieved a sensitivity of 85.7% and specificity of 96.3%, making it more sensitive than existing tests and requiring only 15 minutes to complete.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Nano·DateDec 18, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Working women healthier even after retirement age

Women who worked consistently during their prime midlife years had better physical health than non-working women later in life, according to a new study published in Demography. The research also found that working women were less depressed and lived longer, with a lower risk of death by 2012.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalDemography·DateDec 18, 2019

CBT for social anxiety may have a protective effect on cells

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) reduces anxiety levels in patients with social anxiety disorder while increasing protective enzymes telomerase and glutathione peroxidase. This may protect cells against oxidative stress and cellular aging.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalTranslational Psychiatry·DateDec 18, 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.

Together you're less alone

Researchers investigated primate societies' evolutionary paths and found pair living played a crucial role in transitioning from solitary life to complex societies. The study suggests that paternal care increased offspring survival, reinforcing pair living and paving the way for group living.

SourceDeutsches Primatenzentrum (DPZ)/German Primate Center·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 18, 2019

When cells cycle fast, cancer gets a jumpstart

Researchers at Yale University found that cancer-causing gene mutations can cause rapid cell division, leading to malignant cancer traits. In one form of blood cancer, normal cells with these mutations can remain healthy unless they divide quickly, suggesting a new mechanism for cancer development.

SourceYale University·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 18, 2019

Large UK study shows teenage girls far more likely to self-harm

A major new study found that around 15% of UK teenagers reported self-harm, with teenage girls being significantly more likely than boys. The study links poor mental health and wellbeing among 14-year-old girls to factors such as gender inequality and poverty.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalResearch Papers in Education·DateDec 18, 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.

Rates of depression and substance use higher for pregnant teens, study finds

Teenage pregnant women are more likely to experience poorer mental health, higher rates of substance use, and live in poverty. However, a Canadian study found that teenage pregnancy is not associated with a higher risk for preterm birth or low birth weight compared to pregnancies among women aged 20-34 years.

SourceLawson Research Institute·JournalJournal of Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology·DateDec 18, 2019

Submarine cables: billions of potential seismic sensors!

Scientists have successfully detected seismic waves using submarine telecommunications cables, which can also detect earthquakes, swell, and underwater noise. The researchers deployed a 41 km-long cable to retrieve data from an underwater observatory, converting it into over 6000 seismic sensors.

SourceCNRS·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 18, 2019

Deployment of 5G technology in drones and robots

The 5G-DIVE project validates 5G technology for remote control of industrial robots and autonomous coordinated drone flight, requiring high bandwidth and low latency. The project aims to improve performance and corporate value through Fog Computing and intelligent design.

SourceUniversidad Carlos III de Madrid·DateDec 18, 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.

Season of birth may be linked to risk of heart death

A large US study found that women born in the spring and summer had a slight but significant increase in cardiovascular death compared to those born in autumn. The researchers suggest that seasonal fluctuations in diet, air pollution levels, and sunlight may contribute to these differences.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateDec 18, 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.

APS tip sheet: Modeling supermarket traffic jams

Researchers analyzed customer movement patterns in Tesco supermarkets to develop a method to reduce congestion. Placing popular goods near store perimeters was found to be effective in decreasing aisle crowding.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·JournalPhysical Review E·DateDec 18, 2019

New insights into the formation of Earth's crust

Researchers have discovered that stable isotopes of zirconium can be fractionated by magnitudes much larger than previously thought. This finding changes the view on how this element behaves in the solid Earth, enabling a new tool to gain insights into magma chemistry as it crystallizes.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 18, 2019

Perpetual predator-prey population cycles

Experiments by McGill University and University of Oldenburg confirm regular oscillations in predator-prey populations can persist without complete depletion of prey resources. The study found that less efficient predators can lead to prey recovery, potentially creating endless cycles.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature·DateDec 18, 2019

Booze on the brain

Researchers at Santa Clara University identified a specific brain pathway that helps regulate drinking behavior, which may be disrupted in individuals with alcohol use disorder. The study suggests that this pathway's dysfunction could contribute to the development of compulsive drinking habits.

SourceSanta Clara University·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateDec 18, 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.

Comparing heirloom and modern wheat effects on gut health

Researchers found that a popular modern variety of wheat does not impair gastrointestinal health in mice compared to heirloom wheat. Heirloom wheat slightly reduced levels of the pro-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-17 and improved gut barrier function, suggesting that modern wheat varieties may be healthier for healthy individuals.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateDec 18, 2019

Parental coaching adolescents through peer stress

A study by University of Illinois researchers reveals that mothers' coaching styles can impact adolescent peer adjustment. Low reactive youth benefited from active, engaged coping strategies, whereas high reactive kids fared better with self-reliant suggestions. This suggests a personalized approach to parenting is necessary to address...

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Applied Developmental Psychology·DateDec 18, 2019

PPPL invention could improve efficiency of engines while reducing pollutants

Researchers at PPPL have developed a novel design that could increase the efficiency of gasoline-fueled internal combustion engines while reducing toxic emissions. The patented method rapidly spins gas inside cylinders to operate at lower temperatures, resulting in lower Nitrogen Oxide emissions and improved fuel economy.

SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·DateDec 18, 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.

OU awarded a $4.5 million grant for climate study

The University of Oklahoma received a $4.5 million grant to apply cutting-edge science and tools for climate adaptation in the south-central United States. Researchers will focus on decision-making support for Oklahoma, Texas, Louisiana, and New Mexico.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·DateDec 18, 2019

Concussions common among college students, more prevalent off the field than on

A three-year study found concussions are twice as prevalent as previously believed and occur significantly more often off the playing field. The research also showed that females are more susceptible to concussions and that incidence is higher among non-sport-related activities, such as falls and motor vehicle accidents.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateDec 18, 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.

Researchers discover how ant species uses abdomen for extra power during jumps

A study published in Integrative Organismal Biology reveals that ants like Gigantiops destructor use their abdomens to add speed and power to their jumps, enabling them to travel faster through leaf litter habitats. This unique behavior allows the ants to navigate complex forest floors with greater ease.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Liberal Arts & Sciences·JournalIntegrative Organismal Biology·DateDec 18, 2019

Solving the puzzle of IgG4-related disease, the elusive autoimmune disorder

A team of scientists from Tokyo University of Science has made a breakthrough in understanding the inflammation mechanism in IgG4-related disease. They found that cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) and T follicular helper cells (Tfh cells) are necessary for pancreatic inflammation, and propose Janus kinase (JAK) as a suitable therapeutic t...

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalInternational Immunology·DateDec 18, 2019

Vaping of marijuana on the rise among teens

The 2019 Monitoring the Future (MTF) survey found that vaping of marijuana has more than doubled in the past two years, with past month use nearly tripling. Daily marijuana vaping also increased, reported at 3.5% among 12th graders. Overall, marijuana remains the most commonly used illicit drug by adolescents.

SourceNIH/National Institute on Drug Abuse·JournalJAMA·DateDec 18, 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.

Ice sheet melting: Estimates still uncertain, experts warn

Climate scientists continue to face uncertainties in predicting ice sheet melt rates, which directly impact sea-level rise projections. Recent research highlights the need for improved observations and computer models to refine these estimates and inform climate adaptation efforts.

SourceUniversity of Lincoln·JournalEarth-Science Reviews·DateDec 18, 2019

Nanopores can identify the amino acids in proteins, the first step to sequencing

Scientists have developed a method to identify all 20 amino acids in proteins using nanopores, a major breakthrough towards protein sequencing. The technology allows for precise differentiation of modified forms of amino acids, potentially identifying hundreds of modifications.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateDec 18, 2019

Marijuana use in e-cigarettes increases among US students 2017-2018

The study found that the proportion of students reporting ever using marijuana in an e-cigarette increased from 11.1% to 14.7% between 2017 and 2018. This increase was seen among certain demographic groups, including males, females, adolescents, high-schoolers, non-Hispanic whites, and Hispanics.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateDec 18, 2019

Pregnant women with HIV often not given recommended treatment

A recent study published in JAMA Network Open found that 30% of pregnant women with HIV were prescribed medications with insufficient evidence of safety in pregnancy. The study, led by Kathleen M. Powis, suggests that physicians may be prescribing ahead of recommended guidelines.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateDec 18, 2019

Interfacial chemistry improves rechargeability of Zn batteries

Researchers have proposed new concepts for in situ formed and artificial SEIs to fundamentally modulate the electrochemical characteristics of zinc. The interfacial design enables reversible and dendrite-free Zn plating/stripping, resulting in excellent cycling stability with negligible capacity loss.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 18, 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.

Children with HIV score below HIV-negative peers in cognitive, motor function tests

Researchers found that children with HIV performed poorly on neuropsychological tests, particularly in planning and reasoning abilities, compared to their HIV-negative peers. The disparity worsened over time, highlighting the need for further investigation into the underlying mechanisms of these cognitive challenges.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateDec 18, 2019

Little reason for moral panicking after #MeToo

A study by Norwegian University of Science and Technology found that most people agree on what is considered acceptable behavior at work, but emphasizes the importance of clarifying boundaries and addressing stereotypical thinking to effectively reduce sexual harassment.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalSexuality & Culture·DateDec 18, 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.

State of the climate over the Three Gorges Region of the Yangtze River in 2018

Researchers at the Institute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, published a report analyzing climate monitoring data for the Three Gorges area of the Yangtze River in 2018. The study provides basic climate monitoring facts and data to inform further research on extreme climatic events.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateDec 18, 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.

Getting a good night's sleep complicated by menopause

A new study found that postmenopausal women experience more sleep problems, including insomnia and obstructive sleep apnea, compared to premenopausal and perimenopausal women. Researchers confirmed the increase in sleep disorders as women transition from perimenopause to postmenopause.

SourceThe Menopause Society·JournalMenopause·DateDec 18, 2019

Saccharin derivatives give cancer cells a not-so-sweet surprise

Researchers have designed artificial sweetener derivatives that inhibit two tumor-associated enzymes, showing improved activity against cancer cells. These compounds selectively bind to enzymes CA IX and XII, making them potential anti-cancer drugs.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Medicinal Chemistry·DateDec 18, 2019

New coating hides temperature change from infrared cameras

Researchers at UW-Madison developed an ultrathin coating that decouples temperature and thermal light emission, allowing for temperature-independent thermal radiation. This technology has potential applications in heat transfer, camouflage, and infrared imaging protection.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 18, 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.

Battery-powered headgear could short-circuit joint pain

Researchers are developing a non-invasive device that uses transcranial direct current stimulation to desensitize areas tied to knee pain in the brain. Participants wear a cap powered by three AAA batteries and undergo 15, 20-minute sessions over three weeks.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·DateDec 18, 2019

New method captures real-time movement of millions of molecules in 3D

Researchers developed a new method using interferometry to visualize the movement of millions of molecules in 3D, providing insights into biological processes. The technique distinguishes between flow and diffusion movements, enabling the study of virus-cell interactions and cellular dynamics.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 18, 2019

Study shows risks for additional procedures after bariatric surgery

A study published in JAMA Network Open found that gastric bypass surgery is associated with a slightly higher risk of returning to the operating room or having other types of interventions. By four years out, researchers estimated that 26.5% of bypass patients had an endoscopy procedure compared to 18% of sleeve patients.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateDec 18, 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.

The delicate water lily: A rose by another name?

A new study published in Nature reports the genome sequence of the blue-petal water lily, finding evidence of genetic innovations that may have led to the evolution of floral scent and other traits in early-diverged flowering plants. The research sheds light on the early evolution of all angiosperms.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture·JournalNature·DateDec 18, 2019

Health impact of support between African American couples when dealing with racial discrimination

Racism-specific support from spouses significantly benefits African American husbands' and wives' physical and mental well-being. Despite this, Black women often bear the burden of supporting their male partners, highlighting a need for targeted resources and support networks.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Social and Personal Relationships·DateDec 18, 2019

Study: Human management helps rare plants, butterflies survive hurricane

A new study from North Carolina State University shows that ongoing habitat management can help prevent hurricane-driven extinctions. The research found that a rare Florida plant, the pineland croton, weathered the damage from Hurricane Irma better in plots under human management than those left alone.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateDec 18, 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.

Study finds racial/ethnic disparities in pain treatment by emergency responders

A new study by Portland State University researchers found racial and ethnic disparities in pain treatment by emergency responders, with Hispanic and Asian patients receiving lower quality care. The study analyzed 25,732 health records and found that odds of pain assessment were 21-31% lower for these groups compared to white patients.

SourcePortland State University·JournalMedical Care·DateDec 18, 2019

Different approaches to 'zero-sum' thinking, contribute to political divide

A study found that zero-sum thinking fuels political divisions in the US, with conservatives viewing policies as threats and liberals as opportunities. The research suggests that framing policies to emphasize or challenge the status quo can increase bipartisan support.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 18, 2019

Switching cereals in India for improved nutrition, sustainability

A new study from the University of Delaware suggests that India can sustainably enhance its food supply and reduce environmental impacts by reducing reliance on rice and planting more nutritious crops like sorghum and finger millet. The traditional cereals have higher nutritional quality, use less water and energy, and emit fewer green...

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 18, 2019

Forgetfulness might depend on time of day

Researchers identified a gene in mice that influences memory recall at different times of day, causing mice to be more forgetful just before waking up. The study found that the circadian clock regulates memory retrieval via dopamine and PKA-induced GluA1 phosphorylation.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 18, 2019

Researchers support new strategies for HIV control

Elite controllers, a subset of HIV-positive individuals, have distinct transcriptional profiles and enhanced ribosomal function in their lymphoid tissue CD8+ T cells. This allows them to suppress HIV replication through cytokine production, presenting an alternative approach to traditional viral eradication strategies.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateDec 18, 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.

Alzheimer's study shows promise in protecting brain from tau

Researchers have found that suppressing MSUT2, a gene involved in tau regulation, may protect against Alzheimer's disease. The study also highlights the importance of preserving PABPN1 activity to prevent brain degeneration.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateDec 18, 2019

Grain traits traced to 'dark matter' of rice genome

Researchers found that key changes during rice domestication reflect selection on traits determined by a portion of the genome that does not transcribe proteins. Non-coding RNAs, suspected to play important roles in regulating growth and development, were also implicated.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 18, 2019

Deprivation strongly linked to hospital admissions

Research from the University of Cambridge found that people living in deprived areas are more likely to be admitted to hospital, with manual workers and those with low educational attainment at highest risk. The study suggests that addressing environmental deprivation is crucial for reducing hospitalization rates.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalBMJ Open·DateDec 18, 2019

National clinical trial provides mastectomy alternative for recurrent breast cancer

A phase 2 clinical trial has demonstrated an effective alternative to mastectomy for breast cancer patients experiencing recurrence after initial lumpectomy and whole-breast radiation. The treatment involved a second lumpectomy followed by partial breast reirradiation, resulting in long-term cancer control and low toxic side effects.

SourceVirginia Commonwealth University·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateDec 18, 2019

'Like a video game with health points,' energy budgets explain evolutionary body size

A new model of animal energy budgets reveals that resource variation is a key mechanism driving evolutionary body size. By considering factors such as metabolism, reproduction costs, and offspring energy delivery, the model shows that larger bodies provide more room for energy storage, helping animals survive uncertain environments.

SourceSanta Fe Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 18, 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.

Is targeting aging the future of medicine? Researchers make the case

Researchers argue that intervening on biological aging mechanisms can slow multiple age-related diseases, extending health span. Geroscience seeks to define the underlying causes of aging, aiming to delay or prevent diseases simultaneously.

SourceThe Gerontological Society of America·JournalPublic Policy & Aging Report·DateDec 18, 2019

Using robots to inspect sewer pipes

The University of Texas at Arlington is collaborating with the city of Waxahachie on a pilot project to inspect several miles of sewer pipelines using robotic technology. This will allow for more accurate estimates of pipeline service life, reducing the need for costly replacements and enabling 'microsurgery' repairs.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateDec 18, 2019

Quantum dot technology invisibly records vaccination history on skin

A research team developed a microneedle platform using fluorescent quantum dots to deliver vaccines and record vaccination history in the skin. The platform offers a dependable way for clinicians to keep accurate medical records, potentially saving millions of lives worldwide.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateDec 18, 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.

Scientists discover a new mechanism in childhood kidney cancer

Researchers found that a problem in gene-regulatory process can cause normal cells to turn malignant and produce Wilms' tumor. The implicated reader protein causes problems by acquiring a new property and being too active, leading to abnormal gene expression and tumor formation.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalNature·DateDec 18, 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.

Walking and cycling to work linked with fewer heart attacks

A new national study found that walking and cycling to work were associated with a significant reduction in heart attacks. For women who walked to work, there was an associated 1.7% reduction in heart attacks the following year, while men who cycled to work experienced the same decrease.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalEuropean Journal of Preventive Cardiology·DateDec 18, 2019

A more intuitive online banking service would reinforce its use among the over-55s

Experts recommend developing more intuitive applications with signposting and instructions to help older adults feel comfortable navigating online banking. Self-sufficiency and technological anxiety influence behavior, making it essential to increase confidence and reduce anxiety through clear communication and usability guarantees.

SourceUniversity of Seville·JournalUniversal Access in the Information Society·DateDec 18, 2019

Pregnancy hypertension risk increased by traffic-related air pollution

Traffic-related air pollution has been linked to an increased risk of hypertensive disorders in pregnant women, with exposure to particulate matter (PM2.5) associated with a 50% higher likelihood of developing preeclampsia. The study highlights the need for further research into the impact of environmental exposures during pregnancy.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences·DateDec 18, 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.

Solar power from 'the dark side' unlocked by a new formula

A new thermodynamic formula reveals bifacial cells can generate 15-20% more sunlight to electricity than monofacial cells, taking into consideration different terrain and surfaces. The formula helps companies design more efficient next-generation solar cells.

SourcePurdue University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 18, 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.

New space image reveals cosmic 'candy cane'

A new image of the Milky Way's center captures a colorful composite of giant molecular clouds, with details on radio filaments and star factories. Scientists use GISMO data to observe microwaves at large scales, making detailed observations for the first time.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·DateDec 18, 2019

Stevia remains the most discussed low/zero-calorie sweetener

The International Stevia Council's 2019 Online Conversation & Trends Analysis reveals stevia as the most discussed low-calorie sweetener, with doubled mentions in both English- and Spanish-speaking countries. Positive sentiment around stevia remains high, increasing by 5% in English-speaking countries.

SourceKellen Communications - NY·DateDec 18, 2019

Research provides new design principle for water-splitting catalysts

A new study by Brown University researchers reveals that the hydrogen atoms bound to platinum at high activity regions are actually inert bystanders, not participating in the reaction. Instead, they sit atop platinum atoms and meet up with each other to form H2 gas, making platinum reactive.

SourceBrown University·JournalACS Catalysis·DateDec 18, 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.

Global urban growth typified by suburbs, not skyscrapers

The study found that suburban expansion is the predominant pattern in cities worldwide, driving inefficient and unsustainable development. Notable exceptions exist in East and Southeast Asia, where high-rise construction is on the rise.

SourceYale School of the Environment·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateDec 18, 2019

A self-healing sweat sensor (video)

Researchers have developed a self-healing sweat sensor that can withstand vigorous exercise and quickly repair itself if damaged. The device, in the form of a headband, accurately tracks electrolyte concentrations in sweat, providing valuable insights into a person's health.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateDec 18, 2019

New clues on dark matter from the darkest galaxies

Researchers analyzed rotation curves of low-surface-brightness galaxies to discover a universal relationship describing dark matter's distribution. This result consolidates clues on dark matter's presence and behavior, opening up new scenarios for interactions with bright matter.

SourceScuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateDec 18, 2019

Chemicals in vaping flavors cause widespread damage to lung tissue

Research reveals that flavored e-liquids trigger inflammation, genetic damage, and dysfunction in the lungs, increasing long-term health risks. The study identifies over 40 chemicals in seven flavors, many of which are known to be harmful if inhaled.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 18, 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.

Study reveals molecular features of anxiety in the brain

Researchers from Brigham and Women's Hospital develop a computational approach to study anxiety, uncovering over 209 genes with varying activity across anxiety categories. The study identifies new targets for drug development, including genes related to synaptic plasticity, hormones, and G-protein coupled receptors.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalTranslational Psychiatry·DateDec 18, 2019

A soft robotic insect that survives being flattened by a fly swatter

DEAnsect, a soft robotic insect, is equipped with dielectric elastomer actuators (DEAs) that enable it to move forward through vibrations. The insect is lightweight and quick, allowing it to navigate different terrain types, including undulating surfaces.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalScience Robotics·DateDec 18, 2019

SMU develops efficient methods to simulate how electromagnetic waves interact with devices

Researchers at Southern Methodist University have developed a more efficient algorithm to simulate the interaction of electromagnetic waves with devices, reducing simulation time from days to hours. This breakthrough has significant implications for various scientific fields, including biology, astronomy, and military applications.

SourceSouthern Methodist University·JournalSIAM Journal on Applied Mathematics·DateDec 18, 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.

If the world can capture carbon, there's capacity to store it

A new study demonstrates that there's more than enough suitable storage for captured carbon dioxide on the world's continental shelves to meet IPCC goals. The research suggests that developing enough CO2 injection wells over a relatively short period is manageable and can help achieve emissions cuts of up to 13% by 2050.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 18, 2019

Scientists find way to supercharge protein production

Researchers at WashU Medicine have developed a method to supercharge protein production up to a thousandfold, which could significantly increase the production of protein-based drugs, vaccines, and biomaterials. This breakthrough has the potential to reduce costs and improve efficiency in various industries.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 18, 2019

BU chemists develop new biodegradable adhesive

Boston University researchers have developed a biodegradable adhesive that can effectively stick to various surfaces, replacing traditional plastic adhesives. The adhesive's formula is easily adaptable to suit industrial and medical applications.

SourceBoston University·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 18, 2019

Study: Obesity could affect brain development in children

A new study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that children with higher BMI tend to have a thinner cerebral cortex, especially in the prefrontal area. This may help explain the correlation between obesity and decreased executive function, such as working memory.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateDec 18, 2019

NASA's Webb telescope to search for young brown dwarfs and rogue planets

The James Webb Space Telescope will study the smallest, faintest residents of NGC 1333, distinguishing between objects that form like stars and those that form like planets. The team aims to identify cluster members as puny as Jupiter for the first time ever, shedding light on their origins and the star formation process.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateDec 18, 2019

Genes and family are biggest predictor of academic success, study suggests

A new study from the University of York found that parents' socioeconomic status and children's inherited DNA differences are powerful predictors of educational achievement. Children with high genetic propensity for education but poor backgrounds had limited access to higher education, while those with low genetic propensity but afflue...

SourceUniversity of York·JournalDevelopmental Science·DateDec 18, 2019

Improved 3D nanoprinting technique to build nanoskyscrapers

The new method enables the creation of tall-and-narrow nanostructures with controllable dimensions, including transparent nanoelectrodes with high optical transmission and tunable conductivity. Researchers achieved this by adding 'table salt' to the polymer solution, improving electrostatic attraction between nanofibers.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNano Letters·DateDec 18, 2019

Star fruit could be the new 'star' of Florida agriculture

Researchers are exploring how cover crops can enhance the sustainability of star fruit farms in Florida. By incorporating cover crops like sunn hemp and velvet bean into their practices, farmers can improve soil organic matter and reduce the need for synthetic inputs.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·DateDec 18, 2019

Injecting 'solar cells' into the body to regenerate brain cells

Associate Professor Menglin Chen's team has created a light-controlled neural stimulating scaffold inside the body using nanofibers coated with photovoltaic nanomaterials. This non-genetic method can locally stimulate cells electrically and has shown regenerative effects on neural model cells.

SourceAarhus University·DateDec 18, 2019

Depression and suicide risk linked to air pollution

A new analysis found that people exposed to higher levels of air pollution are more likely to experience depression or die by suicide. Reducing global average exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) could result in a 15% reduction in depression risk worldwide.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateDec 18, 2019

Pattern of heavy alcohol drinking may damage heart tissue

A new study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association finds that heavy drinking can cause subclinical heart damage, increasing levels of blood biomarkers associated with inflammation and cardiac wall stretch. Heavy drinkers are more likely to experience cardiovascular disease than non-problem drinkers.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateDec 18, 2019

Are herpes virus infections linked to Alzheimer's disease?

Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine report no link between increased levels of herpes virus and Alzheimer's disease, contrary to a previous study. The team also provides a new statistical and computational framework for analyzing large-scale sequencing data.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalNeuron·DateDec 18, 2019

Engaging with the arts linked to longer life

A study of over 6,000 UK adults aged 50+ found that regular engagement with the arts was associated with a lower risk of death. The more frequently people participated in arts activities, the greater the protective effect, with those attending arts events once or twice a year having a 14% lower risk of dying.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateDec 18, 2019

First images of an 'upgraded' CRISPR tool

Researchers at Columbia University Irving Medical Center have developed a new gene editing tool called INTEGRATE, which uses cryo-electron microscopy to capture high-resolution images of the complex in action. The tool appears to work by targeting DNA for accurate insertion of genetic payloads without introducing DNA breaks.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalNature·DateDec 18, 2019

Australian desalination plant attracts fish

A large desalination plant in Sydney, Australia, has been found to attract certain species of fish, increasing their abundance at the discharge site. The researchers suggest that turbulence caused by high-pressure release of salty solution may be responsible for this effect.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateDec 18, 2019

Immune to influence

Researchers from the University of Konstanz conducted an experimental study on how vaccination arguments propagate in online chains. The study found that existing vaccination beliefs are resilient to radicalization and do not become more extreme even when exposed to opposing views. This has significant implications for public health, h...

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalVaccine·DateDec 18, 2019

Zika vaccine protects fetus in pregnant monkeys

An experimental Zika DNA vaccine VRC5283 reduced virus levels and improved fetal outcomes in pregnant rhesus macaques. The results suggest the vaccine may prevent transmission to humans as well.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateDec 18, 2019

Researchers apply temperature gradients to grow and move liquid crystals

Texas A&M University researchers discovered that applying a small temperature difference to zirconium phosphate particles initiates their liquid crystallization. The team found that varying temperatures can move liquid crystals by creating a temperature gradient, opening new doors for applications beyond common liquid crystal uses.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalACS Nano·DateDec 18, 2019

NASA's GISMO instrument maps inner Milky Way, sees cosmic 'candy cane'

The Goddard-IRAM Superconducting 2-Millimeter Observer (GISMO) instrument has mapped the inner Milky Way, revealing a feature resembling a cosmic 'candy cane' with two prominent radio filaments. The image showcases the galaxy's central zone, highlighting areas of star formation and high-speed electron spirals.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateDec 18, 2019

Shigella strain resistant to all oral antibiotics circulating in Victoria

A highly contagious intestinal bacteria, Shigellosis can cause 190 million cases of diarrhoea globally each year. In Victoria, a drug-resistant Shigella strain has emerged, making treatment with oral antibiotics impossible, requiring hospitalization and intravenous antibiotics instead.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateDec 18, 2019

Storing medical information below the skin's surface

Researchers have developed a novel way to record patient vaccination history by storing data in a pattern of invisible dye delivered under the skin. The dye remains stable for at least five years and can be detected using a specially equipped smartphone, promising to improve vaccine administration in developing nations.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateDec 18, 2019

UTA developing better bridge inspections

UTA researchers create a non-contact testing system to inspect bridges without disrupting commuters. The system uses sensors mounted on a moving platform to detect mechanical waves and map hidden damage, enabling more accurate maintenance plans.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateDec 18, 2019

Fluorescence spectroscopy helps to evaluate meat quality

Scientists developed a new method to evaluate meat quality using fluorescence spectroscopy, which is precise in classifying meat into standard quality categories. The method detects specific compounds that emit light of a specific frequency range, agreeing with the assumption that connective and adipose tissue make meat more tender.

SourceSechenov University·JournalJournal of Biophotonics·DateDec 18, 2019

Different mutations in a single gene can wreak many types of havoc in brain cells

A study found that different mutations in a single gene can cause various problems in brain cells. Researchers discovered that even healthy proteins may interfere with mutant proteins' actions, leading to irregular neuronal firing. The findings emphasize the importance of understanding each mutation for personalized medicine.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNature Genetics·DateDec 18, 2019

Close to half of US population projected to have obesity by 2030

By 2030, nearly half of US adults are expected to have obesity, and more than a quarter will have severe obesity. The study predicts that several states will have obesity rates close to 60%, with severe obesity becoming the most common BMI category among low-income adults.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateDec 18, 2019

Mealworms safely consume toxic additive-containing plastic

A new Stanford study shows that mealworms can eat Styrofoam containing toxic chemicals without building up harm in their bodies. The worms' guts concentrate and remove these additives through biodegradation, making them a promising source of protein-rich feedstock for other animals.

SourceStanford University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateDec 18, 2019