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Science News for December 5, 2019


Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Wildlife in tropics hardest hit by forests being broken up

Research suggests that tropical forests are hardest hit by forest fragmentation, with sensitivity increasing six-fold at low versus high latitudes. This finding could allow for more effective conservation schemes, such as preserving larger areas of pristine forest.

SourceImperial College London·JournalScience·DateDec 5, 2019

New instrument extends LIGO's reach

The new instrument has helped scientists pick out dozens of gravitational wave signals, including one from a binary neutron star merger. This extended range has enabled LIGO to detect gravitational waves on an almost weekly basis, with the detectors now reaching distances of over 400 million light years.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateDec 5, 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.

Imaging of conjunctival goblet cells helps diagnosis of dry eyes

A new imaging technology assesses conjunctival goblet cells with high definition and contrast, overcoming limitations of existing methods. This non-invasive approach enables precise diagnosis of dry eye syndromes and evaluation of treatment effects, paving the way for precision medicine.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 5, 2019

How gene mutation causes autism and intellectual disability

Northwestern University scientists discovered genetic mutations in the Usp9x gene lead to reduced synapses and increased anxiety in individuals with autism spectrum disorder. This research provides a crucial understanding of the biological basis of intellectual disabilities and mental illness, potentially leading to new treatment options.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNeuron·DateDec 5, 2019

Warm-sector heavy rainfall in China: Studies and challenges

Research on warm-sector heavy rainfall (WSHR) in China has revealed its association with specific synoptic patterns and topography factors in South China. However, WSHR events in other regions are less understood, leading to inaccurate forecasts.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateDec 5, 2019

Immune checkpoint therapy for ER+ breast cancers, a missed opportunity?

Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine discovered that immune checkpoint genes are more actively expressed in resistant tumors, which could be targeted with immunotherapy. This finding highlights the importance of personalized medicine and proper stratification of patients before treatment.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateDec 5, 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.

How much will we eat in the future?

Researchers at Göttingen University predict a significant increase in global calorie requirements by 2100, driven by rising Body Mass Index (BMI) and body height. This could lead to food shortages and exacerbate malnutrition among the poor if not addressed.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 5, 2019

NeutroCure: Exploiting the dual nature of neutrophils to cure inflammatory diseases

The NeutroCure project focuses on harnessing the potential of reactive oxygen species (ROS) produced by neutrophils to treat inflammatory diseases. By developing safe ROS amplifiers, the consortium aims to selectively target pathogenic inflammation and cancer cells while minimizing damage to healthy tissues.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P.)·DateDec 5, 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.

Young people with IBD five times more likely to develop serious infections

A new study published in the UEG Journal found that young patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are at a higher risk of developing severe viral infections. Clinically active IBD and immunomodulators used to treat the condition are identified as main drivers of infection, with thiopurines increasing the risk by six times.

SourceSAGE·JournalUnited European Gastroenterology Journal·DateDec 5, 2019

A momentous view on the birth of photoelectrons

Researchers at ETH Zurich have made a breakthrough in understanding the interaction between light and matter, revealing how linear momentum is transferred to electrons during ionisation. The study found that the timing of electron 'birth' affects momentum transfer, with additional delays induced by interactions with residual ions.

SourceETH Zurich Department of Physics·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 5, 2019

As China rapidly adopts clean energy, use of traditional stoves persists

A McGill-led study found that people's reluctance to give up traditional stoves is linked to factors like age, education, and self-reported health. The study highlights the need for better understanding of household motivations to encourage a successful transition to clean energy.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature Sustainability·DateDec 5, 2019

How extreme environmental conditions affect the human brain

Researchers found changes to the dentate gyrus, an area of the hippocampus responsible for spatial thinking and memory, in participants who spent 14 months in Antarctica. Cognition tests showed effects on both spatial abilities and selective attention.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateDec 5, 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.

Designing workplaces with sound disturbances in mind

Scientists investigate how architectural aspects of workplace design change the way sound, including music and conversation, affect workers. Researchers found that 50 dBA of conversation or music coming from behind bothered individuals less than 60 dBA of similar noise coming from the side.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateDec 5, 2019

Technique shows how individual cancer cells react to drugs

A new technique called sci-Plex profiles gene expression in thousands of individual cells when a sample is perturbed, offering a global view of cellular responses. The results suggest that it could be scaled to thousands of samples to target diverse biochemical pathways.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalScience·DateDec 5, 2019

Ecology: Wildfire may benefit forest bats

A study in Scientific Reports found that wildfire severity can increase bat diversity and richness, while pyrodiversity enhances occupancy rates for certain species. The authors suggest that bats may be resilient to increasing wildfires, which could impact conservation strategies.

SourceScientific Reports·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 5, 2019

Graphene takes off in composites for planes and cars

Researchers developed graphene-integrated composites to improve strength and properties of fibre-reinforced composites. These materials can withstand extreme temperatures, humidity, and lightning strikes, making them suitable for aerospace and automotive industries.

SourceGraphene Flagship·JournalComposites Science and Technology·DateDec 5, 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.

Wind and water

Research finds that torrential rains are more severe after a hurricane has weakened to a tropical storm. This counterintuitive finding highlights the importance of considering weakening storms in disaster preparedness plans.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateDec 5, 2019

Ratcheting up NBA rookie salaries may incentivize athletes to finish college

A new salary structure proposes locking in salary gains as athletes advance toward graduation, offering drafted freshmen 60% of the current NBA rookie salary base. This system aims to entice most other college players to graduate before entering the NBA, improving player preparedness and the overall labor market.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalInternational Journal of Sport Finance·DateDec 5, 2019

New study hints at complex decision making in a single-cell organism

A freshwater protist exhibits a hierarchy of avoidance behaviors, suggesting it can change its response to an environmental irritant. The study confirms that single cells can exhibit relatively complex decision-making processes, making evolutionary sense given their apex predator status in aquatic environments.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalCurrent Biology·DateDec 5, 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.

Three types of cells help the brain tell day from night

Researchers at Salk Institute discover intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) in humans, which respond to blue light and help establish healthy day-night cycles. The study's findings may lead to 'smart' lights that prevent depression, foster sleep, and maintain circadian rhythms.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalScience·DateDec 5, 2019

Forest fragmentation hits wildlife hardest in the tropics

A new study reveals that forest fragmentation has a greater impact on wildlife in tropical regions, where species are less adapted to disturbances. The research suggests that conserving habitat and minimizing edge creation is crucial for preserving biodiversity in these areas.

SourceOregon State University·JournalScience·DateDec 5, 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.

Biochemical model enhances power to predict MicroRNA targeting

Researchers developed a biochemical model that reveals novel insights into microRNAs and enables accurate prediction of their effects on genetic expression. The model explains nearly half the variability in miRNA-mediated silencing and greatly surpasses correlative models.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateDec 5, 2019

Your food may help make stickier, safer glues for laptops, packaging, furniture

Researchers at Purdue University have created high-performance, tunable adhesives using compounds found in foods like nuts and fruits. These nontoxic and degradable adhesives could replace carcinogenic formaldehyde-based glues in furniture and other household items, improving health and environmental sustainability.

SourcePurdue University·JournalAdvanced Sustainable Systems·DateDec 5, 2019

Rats are more social than we thought

Researchers discovered that rats can use empathy to sense danger and react accordingly, showing a more interactive process than previously thought. By observing the emotions of other rats, they can prepare for potential threats, with less scared bystanders reducing fear in demonstrators.

SourceNetherlands Institute for Neuroscience - KNAW·JournalPLOS Biology·DateDec 5, 2019

Chronic disease prevention could ease opioid crisis

A study from the University of Georgia found that over 90% of opioid-related hospitalizations are among patients with two or more chronic diseases, highlighting the association between chronic disease and opioid misuse. Researchers argue that prioritizing chronic disease prevention could alleviate the opioid epidemic.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalPreventing Chronic Disease·DateDec 5, 2019

Bystanders can help more cardiac arrest victims survive

Bystanders play a crucial role in saving cardiac arrest victims, with early emergency care by bystanders reducing the chance of survival by 7-10% per minute. Recognizing signs of cardiac arrest and performing CPR, including using an automated external defibrillator (AED), can significantly increase survival rates.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateDec 5, 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.

Mount Sinai receives $1 million grant for prostate cancer research

The Milton and Carroll Petrie Department of Urology at Mount Sinai has received a $1 million grant from The Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation to fund the Prostate Cancer Program. The program aims to advance immunotherapy and personalized genomic vaccine trials aimed at treating prostate cancer.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·DateDec 5, 2019

Kidney patients report positive experiences with novel approach to dialysis access

A new study reports high patient satisfaction with a minimally invasive approach to creating vascular access for kidney patients requiring hemodialysis. The Ellipsys Vascular Access System showed nearly all dialysis access sites remained functional after two years, significantly improving upon surgically created fistulas.

SourceDowling & Dennis PR·JournalThe Journal of Vascular Access·DateDec 5, 2019

More than a watchdog

New research shows that nerve cells in the gut regulate gut immunity, maintain homeostasis, and provide active protection against infection. Gut neurons activate pain-sensing neurons to release neurochemicals slowing M cell differentiation and boosting SFB microbes, which guard against Salmonella invasion.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalCell·DateDec 5, 2019

Fighting bacterial infection with drug-eluting medical devices

Researchers developed a mathematical model to explore interactions between bacteria and drug-eluting medical devices. The model indicates that successful therapy depends on a balance between the drug's action and bacterial proliferation, influenced by coating properties and porosity.

SourceSociety for Industrial and Applied Mathematics·JournalSIAM Journal on Applied Mathematics·DateDec 5, 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.

Water animation gets easier thanks to BYU professors

Researchers at Brigham Young University have created a new method called fluid carving to speed up the animation process for fluids. This technique allows animators to tweak and change animations on the fly without having to re-simulate entire sequences.

SourceBrigham Young University·DateDec 5, 2019

Animals that evolved in low-disturbance areas more 'sensitive' to modern disruption

Animal species from low-disturbance environments are more sensitive to modern forest fragmentation, according to a study of global datasets. The researchers found strong support for the extinction filter hypothesis, suggesting that species adapted to high disturbance areas may be more resilient to new disturbances.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateDec 5, 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.

Next generation of CAR-T cells possible

Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine have developed a new approach to programming CAR-T cells that can prolong their activity and increase their effectiveness against human cancer cells. The technique uses ATAC-Seq to understand what happens when T cells become exhausted, and modifying CAR-T cells to restore balance in...

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalNature·DateDec 5, 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.

St. Michael's Hospital study examines the relationship between sugars and heart health

A new study led by St. Michael's Hospital researchers found that different types of sugars showed varying associations with cardiovascular disease. Higher intake of total or fructose-containing sugars was linked to increased death from cardiovascular disease, while higher sucrose intake was associated with decreased mortality.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateDec 5, 2019

A robot and software make it easier to create advanced materials

A Rutgers-led team has created an automated system to produce polymers, enabling the rapid creation of unique materials with special properties. This innovation aims to improve human health through various applications such as drugs and regenerative medicine.

SourceRutgers University·JournalAdvanced Intelligent Systems·DateDec 5, 2019

Finding meaning in 'Rick and Morty,' one burp at a time

A researcher analyzed the frequency and acoustics of belching while speaking in 'Rick and Morty' to uncover latent linguistic meaning. The study found that burps tend to rumble at a low 300 hertz, jitter 4% more than normal speech, and shimmer 15% more.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateDec 5, 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.

Modern technology and old-fashioned legwork solve science mystery

Researchers at Dartmouth College and Harvard Medical School have confirmed that single-cell eukaryote Stentor roeseli can make complex decisions, demonstrating avoidance behavior and a hierarchy of responses to stimulus. The study uses modern technology to recreate an early experiment that was debunked decades ago.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalCurrent Biology·DateDec 5, 2019

Taming chronic inflammation may reduce illness, save lives

Chronic inflammation is linked to 50% of all deaths worldwide, causing heart disease, cancer, diabetes and more. Identifying new biomarkers for early diagnosis and better treatment can help reduce chronic disease and improve health.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalNature Medicine·DateDec 5, 2019

Machine learning, imaging technique may boost colon cancer diagnosis

A new imaging technique combining machine learning and optical coherence tomography detects precancerous and cancerous tissue with 100% accuracy, according to a pilot study. The technology may assist traditional colonoscopy by providing real-time, non-invasive imaging for deeper precancerous polyps and early-stage cancers.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalTheranostics·DateDec 5, 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.

Anti-hepatitis medicine surprises

A new study found that an existing antiviral treatment is effective against both the hepatitis C virus and potentially fatal complications such as reduced liver functioning and cirrhosis. The treatment also improves cognitive function, with patients experiencing improved reaction times.

SourceAarhus University·JournalJournal of Viral Hepatitis·DateDec 5, 2019

Preterm birth linked to increased rates of diabetes in children and young adults, with certain effects stronger in females

New research reveals a significant association between preterm birth and an increased risk of developing type 1 and type 2 diabetes in children and young adults. Women born preterm are particularly at higher risk, with a 30% increase in type 2 diabetes risk and a 60% increase in type 1 diabetes risk compared to their male counterparts.

SourceDiabetologia·JournalDiabetologia·DateDec 5, 2019

Preterm births more likely when dads live in lower income areas

A new study links early preterm birth to dads' lifetime socioeconomic status, with fathers from lower-income neighborhoods facing three times higher rates of preterm birth. This finding highlights the importance of considering both parents' socioeconomic factors in reducing preterm birth rates.

SourceAnn & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago·JournalMaternal and Child Health Journal·DateDec 5, 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.

New early Cretaceous mammal fossils bridge a transitional gap in ear's evolution

New fossil species Origolestes lii sheds light on transitional gap in mammalian ear evolution. The discovery provides a crucial reference point for understanding the decoupling of jaw and hearing systems, paving the way for improved hearing and chewing capabilities in future mammals.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateDec 5, 2019

Rats exchange information about danger in a reciprocal fashion

In a groundbreaking study, researchers found that rats can transfer information about danger to each other in both directions, influencing their responses to threats. The study suggests that this reciprocal exchange of information could enhance the detection of danger within groups, similar to cross-species eavesdropping.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateDec 5, 2019

Obesity surgery improves the heart

A study presented at EuroEcho 2019 found that bariatric surgery significantly improved subclinical heart function, reversing abnormal heart structure and function in obese individuals. The surgery also led to improvements in type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidaemia, resulting in a lower risk of cardiovascular disease.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateDec 5, 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.

Gene expression regulation in Chinese cabbage illuminated

Researchers at Kobe University discovered that histone modification H3K27me3 plays a vital role in regulating gene expression in Chinese cabbage, particularly in vernalization. The study found that H3K27me3 modifies gene expression during plant tissue development and represses gene activity.

SourceKobe University·JournalDNA·DateDec 5, 2019

Mouse study shows nerve signaling pathway critical to healing fractures

A recent Johns Hopkins Medicine study found that a protein signal stimulates the generation of vital nerve cells throughout injured areas, crucial for bone repair. Without this signaling pathway, bone formation is hampered, leading to significant reductions in blood vessel formation and mineralization of new bone.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 5, 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.

Brain differences detected in children with depressed parents

A new study reveals structural brain differences in children at high risk for depression due to parental history of depression. The right putamen region was found to be smaller in these children compared to those without a family history of depression.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateDec 5, 2019

Gulf Coast corals face catastrophe

A new study by Rice University researchers warns that coral reefs in the Gulf of Mexico are on the brink of collapse due to rising temperatures and ocean acidification. The study found that even reducing greenhouse gas emissions to meet the Paris Agreement's targets may not be enough to preserve the reefs.

SourceRice University·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·DateDec 5, 2019

Cancer treatment for patients with HIV

A study found that cancer treatments in HIV patients were linked to decreased immune system health (lower CD4 counts) and higher mortality rates. Nearly 200 patients with both conditions were analyzed, providing valuable insights into the effects of cancer treatment on individuals with HIV.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateDec 5, 2019

Between arousal and inhibition

Scientists have found that granule cells and interneurons in the brain process incoming signals differently due to their distinct structures and functional characteristics. This discovery sheds light on how malfunctions can arise in information processing, leading to memory impairments and neurological disorders.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 5, 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.

Conferring leaf rust resistance in cereal crops

Scientists have identified specific genes that confer nonhost resistance to wheat leaf rust in barley, a breakthrough that could transform the breeding of durable disease-resistant cereal crops. This discovery has the potential to improve global food security by providing a solution to one of the biggest problems in wheat production.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Plants·DateDec 5, 2019

'Virtual biopsy' allows doctors to accurately diagnose precancerous pancreatic cysts

Researchers at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center have developed a new 'virtual biopsy' method that accurately diagnoses precancerous pancreatic cysts with unprecedented accuracy. This diagnostic tool allows doctors to eliminate precancerous cysts and potentially save lives by identifying them early.

SourceMediaSource·JournalClinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology·DateDec 5, 2019

Carbon emissions from volcanic rocks can create global warming -- study

Scientists discovered that greenhouse gas emissions from volcanic rocks can create massive global warming effects, with calculations suggesting the largest temporary global warming of the past 65 million years. Large Igneous Provinces (LIPs) are linked to spikes in climate change and the carbon cycle.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 5, 2019

What is a scream? The acoustics of a primal human call

Human screams share specific acoustic characteristics, including higher pitch and roughness, variability in frequency, and a wider range of sound waves. Listeners can readily distinguish screams from other human calls, highlighting the unique properties of this primal human call.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Nonverbal Behavior·DateDec 5, 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.

DOE funds UT Austin engineers for geothermal energy ecosystem

The University of Texas at Austin is launching a unique initiative to make itself a national hub for geothermal energy expertise and startups. The new Geothermal Entrepreneurship Organization will leverage existing expertise in geosystems and drilling engineering to develop technologies and launch companies.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·DateDec 5, 2019

Scientist identify new marker for insecticide resistance in malaria mosquitoes

Researchers have characterized three genes associated with insecticide resistance in malaria mosquitoes, found to cause resistance to all four classes of public health insecticides. This breakthrough work provides much-needed tools for monitoring the growing problem through molecular testing.

SourceLiverpool School of Tropical Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 5, 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.

Bats may benefit from wildfire

A study found that bats in the Sierra Nevada appear to be well-adapted to wildfire, with overall species richness increasing in burned forests. This suggests that prescribed burns and managed wildfire may benefit these species by creating diverse habitat conditions, including openings for roosting and insect-foraging.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 5, 2019

'Junk DNA' affects inherited cancer risk

A new study found that genetic variations in non-coding regions of DNA can drive cancer development. Researchers analyzed over 6 million genetic variants and discovered correlations between specific SNPs and the expression of oncogenes and tumour suppressor genes.

SourceCancer Research UK·JournalBritish Journal of Cancer·DateDec 5, 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.

Stanford scientists reliably predict people's age by measuring proteins in blood

Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine have developed a blood test that can reliably predict a person's age with 97% accuracy. By measuring the levels of 373 proteins in the blood, the test can identify three distinct inflection points in the human life cycle where physiological aging accelerates. This breakthrough could...

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalNature Medicine·DateDec 5, 2019

Immune system can be coaxed into selecting key antibodies to fight HIV

Researchers at Duke University Medical Center developed an immunogen that selectively bound to antibodies with necessary mutations, which led to the production of potent neutralizing antibodies. The study demonstrates the ability to engineer the immune system to create an environment where effective antibodies can be made.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalScience·DateDec 5, 2019

Root of childhood kidney cancer discovered

Researchers identified patches of normal-looking kidney tissue carrying DNA changes that cause Wilms' tumour, promising improved treatment and prevention strategies. The study found epigenetic changes associated with cancer in normal kidney tissue, enabling cells to grow rapidly into pre-cancerous patches.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalScience·DateDec 5, 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.

Can Arctic 'ice management' combat climate change?

Researchers tested a radical geo-engineering approach using climate models and found that it could potentially delay Arctic sea ice decline by decades. However, the approach would not produce meaningful cooling effects globally or in lower latitudes. The study suggests that while 'ice management' is an interesting concept, it cannot me...

SourceAlfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research·DateDec 5, 2019

Siberian blue lakes and their inhabitants

The study of two Siberian blue lakes reveals a similarity in zooplankton species composition to other Western Siberian lakes, with species such as cladocerans and copepods dominating. The concentration of heavy metals exceeds sanitary standards, but is characteristic of the region's aquatic ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of Tyumen·DateDec 5, 2019

NASA finds tropical cyclone 02S consolidating

Tropical Cyclone 02S is strengthening and consolidating as it moves west-southwest towards Madagascar. The storm's shape and organization indicate a shift from weakening to strengthening, with NASA monitoring its progress using satellite data.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateDec 5, 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.

Lights on fishing nets save turtles and dolphins

A new study found that LED lights along the top of floating gillnets in Peruvian waters can cut accidental bycatch of sea turtles by more than 70%, and small cetaceans (including dolphins) by over 66%. The research suggests that this simple, low-cost technique could help save wildlife while allowing fishers to fish more sustainably.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalBiological Conservation·DateDec 5, 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.

Developing a digital twin

University of Texas and MIT researchers develop predictive digital twins for UAVs, using physics-based models to capture the details of their behavior. The system can make real-time predictions of a UAV's health, enabling autonomous decision-making and reducing the risk of crashes.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·DateDec 5, 2019

OSIRIS-REx cameras capture particle ejection from asteroid Bennu

The OSIRIS-REx spacecraft captured images of material being ejected from asteroid Bennu's surface, revealing three discrete events of particle ejection. The authors suggest micro-meteorite impacts and dehydration as possible causes, with implications for the asteroid's evolution.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateDec 5, 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.

How flowers adapt to their pollinators

Researchers found that flower shapes have evolved in adaptation to distinct pollinators, but not uniformly across the entire flower. The showy sterile organs of flowers adapted more quickly to different pollinators than the reproductive organs.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalChemical Science·DateDec 5, 2019

Domestic abuse survivors twice at risk of long-term illnesses

Female survivors of domestic abuse are nearly twice as likely to develop fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome compared to non-abused women. The study examined GP records of 18,547 abused women and found a significant association between abuse and these long-term illnesses.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalJournal of Interpersonal Violence·DateDec 5, 2019

Scientists see defects in potential new semiconductor

Researchers have discovered point defects in beta gallium oxide, which could impact its efficiency as a semiconductor. The defects can provide opportunities for unprecedented control of the material's properties if properly manipulated.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPhysical Review X·DateDec 5, 2019

Artificial cells act more like the real thing

A team of researchers at Penn State developed protocells with enzymatic activity, actively moving independently like living cells. High ATP concentrations surprisingly suppress protocell movement by binding to the ATPase enzyme.

SourcePenn State·JournalNano Letters·DateDec 5, 2019

Can a single-celled organism 'change its mind'? New study says yes

Researchers confirm what Herbert Spencer Jennings described over 100 years ago: single-celled organisms like S. roeseli can make decisions that allow them to 'change their mind.' The findings suggest a hierarchy of avoidance behaviors determined by previous experience, with protists exhibiting complex problem-solving behaviors in respo...

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateDec 5, 2019

NASA analyzes Kammuri's heavy rainfall

Typhoon Kammuri brought heavy rains to the Philippines, with surface rainfall accumulations exceeding 500 mm (~20 inches) over the central Philippine Sea. The storm also caused significant flooding and landslides, resulting in up to 17 fatalities.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateDec 5, 2019

Study finds BPA levels in humans dramatically underestimated

A recent study has found that BPA levels in humans are significantly higher than previously estimated, with a 44-fold increase in exposure. The research challenges the safety assumptions of regulatory agencies and highlights the need for more accurate measurement methods.

SourceWashington State University·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·DateDec 5, 2019

Recycling nutrient-rich industrial waste products enhances soil, reduces carbon

Researchers found that recycling nutrient-rich industrial waste products can enhance soil health while reducing carbon emissions and maintaining crop yields. The study used heat-inactivated spent microbial mass (SMB) as a fertilizer, which provided similar crop yields to conventional fertilizers but at greater rates.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture·DateDec 5, 2019

The Lancet Public Health: One in two people who are homeless may have experienced a traumatic brain injury in their lifetime

A systematic review and meta-analysis suggests that one in two homeless people have experienced a traumatic brain injury (TBI) in their lifetime, with almost one in four experiencing moderate or severe TBI. The findings highlight the need for healthcare workers to be aware of the burden of TBI in this population.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Public Health·DateDec 5, 2019

Detailed insight into stressed cells

Researchers at Goethe University develop a new method to measure acute cellular stress responses, enabling precise time-resolved measurements of thousands of proteins. This breakthrough opens the door for new therapeutic strategies in diseases like cancer and neurodegenerative disorders.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalMolecular Cell·DateDec 5, 2019

Gene network sparks future autism treatment

A mutated gene, USP9X, regulates a network of genes underlying Intellectual Disability and Autism Spectrum Disorder. Focusing on this network may lead to therapy developments for neurological disorders.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNeuron·DateDec 5, 2019

Older adults who 'train' for a major operation spend less time in the hospital

A new study found that older adults who participate in preoperative rehabilitation programs have shorter hospital stays and lower total insurance payments. The program, which includes physical exercise, healthy eating, and stress reduction techniques, was associated with improved outcomes for patients, providers, and payers.

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateDec 5, 2019

Fusion by strong lasers

Researchers investigate possibility of facilitating controlled fusion reactions with assisted tunneling processes using X-ray free electron lasers. Theoretical results show promise for increasing tunneling rate, paving way for successful controlled fusion reaction.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalPhysical Review C·DateDec 5, 2019

NASA tracking Tropical Storm 06A through Arabian Sea

Tropical Storm Pawan, located near latitude 9.5 degrees north and longitude 55.9 degrees east, is moving to the west with maximum sustained winds of 40 knots (45 mph/74 kph). The storm is expected to weaken over the next day as it approaches Somalia.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateDec 5, 2019

Project examines religion's impact on family size and health

A new study will investigate the relationship between religion, family size, and child health across multiple cultures. The research aims to understand why children born to religious parents tend to thrive despite initial predictions suggesting they would perform poorly.

SourceUniversity of Otago·DateDec 5, 2019

New tool to detect blackleg disease in potato has widespread application

A new online tool called Uniqprimer has been developed to detect blackleg disease in potatoes with high accuracy and ease of use. It quickly designs species-specific DNA tags for detecting pathogens using DNA testing, allowing for accurate pathogen detection and informing farmers' on-farm decision making.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalPlant Disease·DateDec 5, 2019