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Science News for December 3, 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.

What's driving erosion worldwide?

Researchers employed satellite imagery and statistical models to identify the socio-economic causes of soil erosion globally. They found that national borders reveal areas with unnaturally high erosion rates, highlighting the 'country effect' as a major driver of soil loss.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Sustainability·DateDec 3, 2019

$2.9 million funds new UIC study on sleep apnea, chronic kidney disease

Researchers will evaluate how sleep-disordered breathing impacts chronic kidney disease progression, recruiting 2,200 adults from the CRIC study. They hypothesize that sleep apnea is associated with increased risk of chronic kidney disease progression due to its effects on blood pressure, insulin resistance, and organ damage.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·DateDec 3, 2019

BU finds potentially harmful air contamination near new Bedford Harbor

A new Boston University School of Public Health study estimates the non-cancer health effects of breathing airborne PCBs around New Bedford Harbor, affecting thyroid hormones in people living close to the harbor. The levels of PCBs in the air are high enough to raise risks of diabetes, low birth weight, and impaired neurodevelopment.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateDec 3, 2019

Smog-eating graphene composite reduces atmospheric pollution

Researchers developed a graphene-titania composite that degrades up to 70% more atmospheric nitrogen oxides than standard titania in real pollutant tests. The composite can be coated on materials like concrete to passively remove pollutants from the air, promoting a healthier environment.

SourceGraphene Flagship·JournalNanoscale·DateDec 3, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

UMD astronomers catch a natural comet outburst in unprecedented detail

University of Maryland astronomers observe natural comet outburst, capturing start-to-finish sequence with NASA's Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) data. The team gained detailed observations of the explosive emission of dust, ice, and gases during the close approach to Earth.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateDec 3, 2019

MA physician assistant programs adopt first-in-nation partnership to prevent opioid abuse

In an effort to curb opioid misuse, Massachusetts physician assistant programs have adopted a cross-institutional partnership to ensure safe prescribing practices. The initiative aims to educate students on the prevention and management of prescription drug misuse, following a consensus-building process among nine PA programs.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalThe Journal of Physician Assistant Education·DateDec 3, 2019

Virtual reality could help flu vaccination rates

A new study suggests that immersive virtual reality can increase the acceptance of flu vaccinations among adults aged 18-49. The research found that participants who experienced a five-minute virtual reality simulation showed increased concern about transmitting flu to others and were more confident in the effectiveness of vaccination.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalVaccine·DateDec 3, 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.

Death of STAT lab tests could be good for patient care

A new study suggests that standardizing lab test turnaround times could improve patient care by reducing unnecessary STAT orders and increasing efficiency through automation. By cutting usual STAT time in half for most tests, facilities can reduce demand and provide faster results for critical tests.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalLaboratory Medicine·DateDec 3, 2019

World first as artificial neurons developed to cure chronic diseases

Researchers have successfully reproduced electrical properties of biological neurons onto semiconductor chips, enabling medical devices to cure chronic diseases. The artificial neurons require only 140 nanoWatts of power, making them ideal for bio-electronic implants.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 3, 2019

A Freiburg research team deciphers how stem cells decide their identity

A Freiburg research team has cracked the code on how embryonic stem cells determine which cell types to develop into. They found that genes controlling cell differentiation are selectively used and that transcription factors like Eomes and Brachyury play a key role in this process.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateDec 3, 2019

Cannabis dependence and abuse nearly doubled risk of heart attack post-surgery

Patients with active cannabis dependence and abuse are at nearly twice the risk of suffering a heart attack after surgery, according to a study led by St. Michael's Hospital. Researchers analyzed records of over 4 million adults from 2006-2015 and found a significant increase in cannabis use disorders among surgical patients.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalAnesthesiology·DateDec 3, 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.

Study reveals dynamics of crucial immune system proteins

Researchers at UC Santa Cruz have worked out the details of key molecular interactions involved in antigen selection and processing by MHC-I proteins. The new findings help explain puzzling differences among MHC-I proteins and suggest ways to manipulate them for diagnostic and therapeutic applications.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 3, 2019

Lack of specialists doom rural sick patients

Research by Saint Louis University finds that rural patients with chronic conditions have higher death rates, more hospitalizations, and limited access to specialist physicians. The study suggests strategies to improve specialist care in rural areas, including telemedicine and loan forgiveness for physicians.

SourceSaint Louis University·JournalHealth Affairs·DateDec 3, 2019

Bio-inspired hydrogel can rapidly switch to rigid plastic

Researchers at Hokkaido University developed a hydrogel that stiffens 1,800-fold when exposed to heat, inspired by thermophilic proteins. The material, composed of polyelectrolyte poly(acrylic acid), transforms from soft to rigid upon heating and can be reversed with cooling.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateDec 3, 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.

Distress tolerance plays role in alcohol use and abuse among firefighters

Research by University of Houston psychology professor Anka Vujanovic reveals that distress tolerance amplifies associations between posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms and alcohol use severity. PTSD symptom severity is also associated with heavy drinking, highlighting the need for targeted interventions.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalPsychiatry Research·DateDec 3, 2019

Meteorite-loving microorganism

A team of scientists discovered an archaeon that can efficiently colonize and utilize meteorite material, suggesting that extraterrestrial compounds may have played a crucial role in the evolution of life on Earth. This finding provides valuable information about the potential for life beyond our planet.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalChemical Science·DateDec 3, 2019

NASA finds second tropical system develops in Arabian Sea

Tropical Storm 07A develops with very high and powerful storms, with cloud top temperatures as cold as minus 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The storm is expected to move northwest and dissipate in a day or so, posing no significant threat to Mumbai, India.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateDec 3, 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.

Women wearing hijabs in news stories may be judged negatively

A study by Penn State researchers found that women wearing hijabs in news stories can elicit harsher social judgment, with conservatives showing lower empathy and perceived innocence. The study suggests potential obstacles for women who wear hijabs in the real world, highlighting the need for more nuanced portrayals in media.

SourcePenn State·JournalMass Communication & Society·DateDec 3, 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.

Rural-urban flip: How changing ACA rules affected health insurance premium costs

An analysis found that rural subsidized enrollees pay less in premiums than urban counterparts after the Trump Administration's 2017 cut of Cost Sharing Reduction payments. Silver loading and switching have led to more affordable insurance for some consumers, but also encourage enrollment in bronze plans with less financial protection.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalHealth Affairs·DateDec 3, 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.

AI helps find signs of heart disease on lung cancer screens

A study found that AI can accurately measure coronary artery calcium, a marker of heart disease, in patients getting lung cancer screening CT scans. The system uses deep learning to automate the assessment, making it easier for doctors to decide on preventative therapy.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateDec 3, 2019

Unemployment encourages men to try traditionally female-dominated work

A study by University of North Carolina at Charlotte researchers found that unemployed men are more likely to transition to female-dominated jobs, resulting in higher wages (4% increase) and increased occupational prestige. This shift may help offset the negative effects of unemployment on job status.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Charlotte·JournalSocial Science Research·DateDec 3, 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.

Neuro interface adds tactile dimension to screen images

Scientists from Duke University and HSE University developed a neurointerface that allows monkeys to control a cursor with their brains, enabling future development of upper-limb neuroprostheses. The breakthrough provides tactile feedback, increasing movement precision and natural control.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 3, 2019

Siting cell towers needs careful planning

A study published in Environmental Research suggests that cell towers should be placed at least 500 meters away from schools, hospitals, and sleeping areas to reduce health risks. The existing laws in the US, however, do not consider environmental effects when siting cell towers.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalEnvironmental Research·DateDec 3, 2019

Dramatic transition in Streptomyces life cycle explained in new discovery

A new study reveals the critical role of c-di-GMP in controlling the transition from vegetative growth to sporulation in Streptomyces bacteria. The signaling molecule binds to master repressor BldD, controlling gene activity and ultimately preventing reproductive hyphae from differentiating into spores.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalMolecular Cell·DateDec 3, 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.

Conservative boards more likely to dismiss CEO

A recent study by Singapore Management University found that conservative boards are more likely to dismiss CEOs who have engaged in financial misconduct. The researchers used a scoring system to assess the political ideology of board directors and found that liberal boards were less likely to take action against the CEO.

SourceSingapore Management University·JournalStrategic Management Journal·DateDec 3, 2019

Great Barrier Reef study shows how reef copes with rapid sea-level rise

Researchers found three distinct phases of reef growth since end of Pleistocene era, including periods of slower, deeper growth due to increased sediment and nutrient flux. The study provides a new model of reef growth that suggests the more protected parts of the reef might have been suitable for early coral development.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalSedimentary Geology·DateDec 3, 2019

Southern Arizona once looked like Tibet

Research suggests that southern Arizona was a high-elevation plateau with elevations over 10,000 feet, similar to Tibet, due to its thick Earth's crust. The study provides insight into mountain formation and distribution of natural resources like copper.

SourceUniversity of Wyoming·JournalGeology·DateDec 3, 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.

Electron correlations in carbon nanostructures

Researchers from Kiel and Copenhagen developed a new computational model to simulate the detailed behavior of electrons in graphene nanoribbons. The model predicts that correlation effects due to electron repulsion have a dramatic influence on local energy spectrum, enabling precise control over electronic properties.

SourceKiel University·JournalNano Letters·DateDec 3, 2019

Global carbon emissions growth slows, but hits record high

Global fossil-fuel carbon dioxide emissions reached a record high in 2023, driven by increasing natural gas and oil consumption. Despite slower emissions growth, researchers warn that emissions could increase unless national energy policies change dramatically.

SourceStanford University·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateDec 3, 2019

Sleep helps memory, right? Not for eyewitnesses

New research investigated the effect of sleep on eyewitness memory and found no benefit for eyewitness identification accuracy. Despite this, reliability remained high, with participants accurately identifying guilty suspects even after a 12-hour delay or sleep period.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateDec 3, 2019

Global carbon emissions increase but rate has slowed

Global carbon emissions are projected to increase by 0.6% in 2019, with natural gas and oil driving growth, while coal use declines in the EU and US. The slower rate of growth is attributed to structural changes and energy policies aimed at phasing out fossil fuels.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalNature Climate Change·DateDec 3, 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.

Diabetes drug has unexpected, broad implications for healthy aging

Scientists at Salk Institute discovered that metformin activates multiple biochemical switches, including Protein Kinase D and MAPKAPK2, which may explain its health-span-extending effects. The study identified new targets and cellular processes regulated by AMPK, shedding light on the therapeutic benefits of metformin.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalCell Reports·DateDec 3, 2019

Towards high quality ZnO quantum dots prospective for biomedical applications

Scientists have successfully prepared high-quality ZnO quantum dots using a novel one-pot self-supporting organometallic procedure, offering promising prospects for biological applications. The new method yields stable and uniformly sized particles with unique physicochemical properties.

SourceInstitute of Physical Chemistry of the Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateDec 3, 2019

Detecting solar flares, more in real time

A new machine learning tool can analyze massive amounts of satellite data to detect significant features for space weather. The algorithm identifies patterns that humans may miss, enabling faster and more accurate forecasts.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalJournal of Space Weather and Space Climate·DateDec 3, 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.

Focused ultrasound may open door to Alzheimer's treatment

Researchers used focused ultrasound to target and open areas of the blood-brain barrier in three women with early-stage Alzheimer's disease. The technique successfully opened and closed the barrier within 24 hours, with no adverse effects.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateDec 3, 2019

Characterizing whale vocalization can help map migration

Researchers are using unique whale vocalizations to track the seasonal movements of North Atlantic killer whales, gaining insights into their behavior and ecology. By characterizing individual pods' calls, scientists can better understand their migration patterns and identify potential factors driving changes in their populations.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateDec 3, 2019

Young tree swallows carry environmental stress into adulthood

Researchers at Cornell University found a negative relationship between the temperature during tree swallows' development and their hormonal response to stressors as adults. This phenomenon could help explain how changing environments are impacting many different species.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·DateDec 3, 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.

Chronic opioid treatment may raise risk of post-traumatic stress disorder, study finds

A new UCLA-led study suggests chronic opioid treatment may raise the risk of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in individuals who are likely to experience severe emotional stress. Researchers found that mice given morphine before and after a traumatic event showed enhanced fear learning, indicating increased PTSD susceptibility.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalNeuropsychopharmacology·DateDec 3, 2019

How does language emerge?

Researchers recreated the emergence of language in deaf communities by challenging children to communicate with each other without spoken language. They found that children invented signs for abstract concepts and gradually developed grammatical structures, demonstrating that communication cannot be reduced to words alone.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 3, 2019

How to improve water quality in Europe

The EU Water Framework Directive needs further development to address the complex mixtures of pesticides, medicines, and industrial chemicals in European waters. Researchers have developed new concepts and tools to monitor and reduce exposure to these substances.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ·JournalEnvironmental Sciences Europe·DateDec 3, 2019

An alloy that retains its memory at high temperatures

Researchers created an alloy of titanium, tantalum and scandium that functions for a long time even at high temperatures. By adding a few percent of scandium, the alloy avoids the unwanted omega phase, which was previously a major limitation in high-temperature shape memory alloys.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalPhysical Review Materials·DateDec 3, 2019

How does protein fit in your holiday diet or New Year's resolutions?

A study by Purdue University nutrition scientists shows that eating more protein daily than recommended benefits only those actively losing weight or engaging in strength training. Most adults consuming adequate amounts of protein do not need to increase their intake.

SourcePurdue University·JournalAdvances in Nutrition·DateDec 3, 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.

One dose of radiotherapy as effective as five doses for cancer in the spine

A large study found that a single dose of radiotherapy is as effective as five doses in controlling pain and alleviating symptoms for end-of-life cancer patients with spinal canal compression. The study, published in JAMA, showed similar patient outcomes between one-dose and multi-fraction radiotherapy regimens.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalJAMA·DateDec 3, 2019

Star-quake vibrations lead to new estimate for Milky Way age

A team of scientists used data from NASA's Kepler telescope to calculate that the thick disc of the Milky Way is about 10 billion years old. This finding resolves a long-standing question about the age distribution of stars in the disc.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for All Sky Astrophysics in 3D (ASTRO 3D)·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateDec 3, 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.

Inhibiting a protease could improve the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease

A study published in EMBO Molecular Medicine suggests that blocking the protease MT1-MMP could protect the vasculature in the inflamed gut and reduce severity of colitis. The research found that inhibiting this protease could have potential clinical implications, including identifying biomarkers for mild IBD.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P.)·JournalEMBO Molecular Medicine·DateDec 3, 2019

Investigating the human intestinal mucus barrier up-close and personal

Researchers developed a colon-on-a-chip device using patient-derived cells, enabling the study of intestinal mucus barrier functions and host-microbiome interactions. The device produced a bi-layered mucus structure that mimics the human intestinal surface.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalCellular and Molecular Gastroenterology and Hepatology·DateDec 3, 2019

As a way to fight climate change, not all soils are created equal

Researchers at Colorado State University reveal that soil organic matter has two distinct components: particulate and mineral-associated organic matter, which differ in their origin, makeup, and persistence. Recognizing this diversity is essential for developing effective strategies to sequester carbon and promote soil health.

SourceColorado State University·JournalNature Geoscience·DateDec 3, 2019

Imaging reveals pathways behind depression

Two studies presented at RSNA 2019 used MRI and functional imaging to reveal disrupted blood-brain barriers in patients with major depressive disorder. The findings suggest a link between impaired brain connectivity and emotional regulation, potentially leading to new treatments for depression.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateDec 3, 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.

Metalens grows up

Scientists at Harvard University created an all-glass, centimeter-scale metalens with nanostructures that can focus light, revolutionizing applications like microscopy, cameras, and sensors. The breakthrough enables mass production of large metalenses using conventional chip fabrication methods.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNano Letters·DateDec 3, 2019

Early immune response may improve cancer immunotherapies

Researchers discovered a new mechanism for detecting foreign material during early immune responses, which could help detect elusive cancers. ERAP1 protein can break down peptides bound to MHC I, allowing immune cells to recognize and destroy infected cells.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateDec 3, 2019

Highly sensitive epigenomic technology combats disease

Researchers at Virginia Tech have developed a microfluidic technology to study diseases such as breast cancer and schizophrenia using low-input sequencing methods like MOWChIP-seq, allowing for the analysis of epigenomes in smaller cell numbers.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalNature Protocols·DateDec 3, 2019

VTT developed an optical fiber made of cellulose

Researchers at VTT created an optical fibre from cellulose, suitable for measuring moisture levels in buildings. The cellulose-based fibre absorbs and releases water, allowing for accurate measurements.

SourceVTT Technical Research Centre of Finland·JournalCellulose·DateDec 3, 2019

Healing power of honey

Researchers at Newcastle University have found that layering Manuka honey between layers of surgical mesh acts as a natural antibiotic, inhibiting bacteria growth and preventing infection. The study showcases the potential benefits of infusing medical implants with honey, offering an alternative to antibiotics.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalFrontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology·DateDec 3, 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.

How the strep bacterium hides from the immune system

A study reveals that Group A Streptococcus produces a novel protein called S protein, which binds to red blood cells to evade the immune system. This mechanism increases bacterial virulence and decreases survival in infected mice.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Reports·DateDec 3, 2019

Eating in sync with biological clock could replace problematic diabetes treatment

A new Tel Aviv University study finds that consuming a starch-rich breakfast early in the morning and a small dinner may improve glycemic control among type 2 diabetics, reducing the need for insulin injections. The researchers' 3M-diet was shown to have significant benefits, including weight loss and improved sugar levels.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalDiabetes Care·DateDec 3, 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.

Raising plants to withstand climate change

Flinders University researchers have developed a method to enhance plant tolerance to climate change stressors by manipulating mitochondrial respiration. This approach has shown promise in improving plant recovery from drought and high light conditions.

SourceFlinders University·JournalPLANT PHYSIOLOGY·DateDec 3, 2019

Russia's nuclear industry set to fight the climate crisis by exporting education

The article highlights Russia's nuclear industry's efforts to combat climate change by sharing its educational expertise globally. The researchers emphasize the need for a new 'educational paradigm' to secure the transfer of knowledge to a digital economy, focusing on training personnel in emerging technologies.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalNuclear Energy and Technology·DateDec 3, 2019

Illuminating the path for super-resolution imaging with improved rhodamine dyes

Researchers from DUT and SUTD developed novel rhodamines to overcome fluorophore brightness limitations in SMLM, enabling clearer resolution and analysis of cellular structures. The new dyes show increased fluorescence brightness and 'photon budget', crucial for high-resolution imaging.

SourceSingapore University of Technology and Design·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateDec 3, 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.

Hiring antibodies as nanotechnology builders

A team of researchers at the University of Rome Tor Vergata has developed a novel approach to build and dismantle DNA nanostructures using antibodies. They engineered DNA bricks with recognition tags that assemble in the presence of specific antibodies, enabling the creation of intelligent nanostructures with potential applications in ...

SourceUniversità Roma Tor Vergata·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 3, 2019

Through the eyes of animals

The Quantitative Colour Pattern Analysis (QCPA) framework uses digital image processing techniques to analyze complex visual information in animals. This enables researchers to understand how animals see the world, including color patterns and behavior, which drives their behavior.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalMethods in Ecology and Evolution·DateDec 3, 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.

New remote-controlled 'smart' platform helps in cardiovascular disease treatment

Researchers developed a remote-controlled 'smart' platform to mimic natural extracellular matrix-mediated endothelialization. The platform uses shape-memory polymers and gold nanorods to direct programmed vascular endothelium remodeling in a temporally controllable manner, offering new possibilities for treating cardiovascular disease.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNational Science Review·DateDec 3, 2019

New study looks at motorized scooter injuries

A new study analyzed X-ray and CT scans of people injured in e-scooter accidents, finding that the majority had injuries to their upper extremities, particularly wrists. The study emphasizes the importance of helmet use and speed limits to prevent such injuries.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateDec 3, 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.

CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing shows very low risk of mistakes

A recent study published in Frontiers in Genetics confirms that CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing technology is highly accurate and minimizes off-target effects. The research, conducted on zebrafish, adds to a growing body of work suggesting that unintended mutations from gene editing are extremely rare.

SourceAnn & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago·JournalFrontiers in Genetics·DateDec 3, 2019

AI improves chest X-ray interpretation

Researchers developed AI models for chest X-ray interpretation that can detect fractures, nodules, opacity and pneumothorax as effectively as experienced radiologists. The models were trained on large datasets and evaluated using a panel of radiologists to increase expert consensus and accuracy.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateDec 3, 2019

Laws help reduce pollution and do not affect competitiveness, study finds

A recent study by researchers at the University of Granada found that laws and regulations play a crucial role in reducing pollution, with compulsory laws exerting a stronger effect than voluntary measures. The study, which analyzed over 70 studies and 97,000 firm observations from around the world, concludes that outcome-based regulat...

SourceUniversity of Granada·JournalAcademy of Management Annals·DateDec 3, 2019

Imaging technique gives catalytic 2D material engineering a better view

Researchers at Kanazawa University develop a scanning electrochemical cell microscopy technique to engineer the catalytic properties of 2D transition metal dichalcogenides. The study reveals changes in catalytic activity at edges, terrace features and heterojunctions, which agrees with previous reports.

SourceKanazawa University·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateDec 3, 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.

NASA catches typhoon Kammuri post landfall

Typhoon Kammuri made landfall in the Philippines on December 2, bringing maximum sustained winds of 115 knots. NASA-NOAA's Suomi NPP satellite provided infrared and nighttime imagery of the storm, revealing a thick band of powerful thunderstorms around its eye.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateDec 3, 2019

Concussion alters how information is transmitted within the brain

A new study reveals that concussion damage affects the way information is transmitted between brain hemispheres. Researchers found a delay in reaction time when processing words presented to the left visual field, indicating a problem with information crossing from one hemisphere to another.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateDec 3, 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.

For some corals, meals can come with a side of microplastics

A new study found that corals are more likely to eat microplastics when fed other food sources, but not when given microplastics alone. The research suggests that some coral species may adapt to life with microplastics, while others may be negatively impacted by chronic exposure.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 3, 2019

Love, lies and money: Study introduces, defines and measures financial infidelity

Researchers introduce the concept of financial infidelity, defined as engaging in a financial behavior expected to elicit disapproval and intentionally failing to disclose it. The study's findings reveal that consumers prone to financial infidelity exhibit stronger preferences for secretive purchase options and concealing their actions.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateDec 3, 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.

Scientists devise catalyst that uses light to turn carbon dioxide to fuel

Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory have developed a photocatalyst made of cuprous oxide that can selectively reduce carbon dioxide to methanol using sunlight. The catalyst's unique geometry and surface structure enable it to convert CO2 into a usable fuel with high selectivity.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature Energy·DateDec 3, 2019

Female fish can breed a new species if they aren't choosy about who is Mr. Right

Researchers discovered over 40 new species of cichlid fish in Lake Mweru, formed around one million years ago. The team found that females were more likely to mate with males from different species if their coloration was attractive or light conditions made it difficult for them to see.

SourceSt. John's College, University of Cambridge·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 3, 2019

Gas giant composition not determined by host star

Researchers find no correlation between a gas giant planet's composition and its host star's heavy element content, contradicting previous theories on planetary formation. The authors suggest other factors, such as location in the disk or distance from neighbors, may be contributing to this discrepancy.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalThe Astronomical Journal·DateDec 3, 2019

Fake news feels less immoral to share when we've seen it before

Repeated exposure to fake news can make it seem more acceptable to share, even if individuals know it's false. In a series of experiments involving over 2,500 participants, researchers found that people rate fake headlines as less unethical to publish and share when seen multiple times.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateDec 3, 2019

Two chiral catalysts working hand in hand

A team of researchers from the University of Münster has developed a new synthetic method for producing all four stereoisomers of α,β-disubstituted γ-butyrolactones. The method uses two chiral catalysts working in tandem to efficiently produce the final product.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalNature Catalysis·DateDec 3, 2019

Building a better breast with eye-tracking technology

A new study by Piotr Pietruski and colleagues used eye-tracking technology to assess breast aesthetics and symmetry. The findings suggest that the lower breast area, particularly the nipple-areola complex, is a key factor in determining attractiveness.

SourceAmerican Society of Plastic Surgeons·JournalPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery·DateDec 3, 2019