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Science News for December 6, 2019


Dendrites filtering neuron's excitement

Researchers at Kyoto University discovered that Purkinje cell dendrites can filter and modulate incoming signals, enabling new learning mechanisms in the cerebellum. This finding provides insight into the brain's ability to modify itself and change signaling properties.

Improved pH probes may help towards cancer treatments

Researchers have developed a nanopipette pH biosensor that can detect changes in extracellular pH with high sensitivity and spatial resolution. The device uses a zwitterionic membrane to enable faster responses and has been tested on live cancer cells, showing its potential for cancer diagnosis, prognosis, and targeted therapies.

SourceKanazawa University·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 6, 2019

Infant morbidity decreases with incentive-based prenatal tobacco interventions

A new study from the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus reveals that incentive-based smoking cessation programs can significantly reduce infant morbidity and mortality. The Baby & Me Tobacco Free program provided financial incentives to pregnant women, resulting in a 24-28% reduction in preterm birth and neonatal ICU admiss...

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalPublic Health Nursing·DateDec 6, 2019

UM-led experiment closes critical gap in weather forecasting

A UM-led experiment has shown promise in improving subseasonal weather forecasting, providing critical lead time for natural hazards like heat waves and polar vortex. The SubX project aims to provide better subseasonal forecasts to the National Weather Service, using complex computer models and large data infrastructure.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·JournalBulletin of the American Meteorological Society·DateDec 6, 2019

Breakthrough in battle against invasive plants

Researchers developed a global database to predict invasive plant populations, finding that species from disturbed environments are more likely to become invasive. The study suggests avoiding the export of these species, which can cause harm to people, industry, and wildlife worldwide.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 6, 2019

Hire more LGBTQ and disabled astronomers or risk falling behind, review finds

A new review analysis published in Nature Astronomy finds that increasing diversity among astronomers can lead to significant research discoveries and improved innovation. The study highlights progress in gender equity, with initiatives such as the Pleiades Awards leading to a culture change in Australian astronomy.

Researchers add order to polymer gels

Researchers have created a new polymer gel with an ordered structure, allowing for potential uses in chemical filters, sensors, and drug release. This breakthrough could lead to advancements in various fields by providing a more consistent material.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 6, 2019

A new view for glasses

Researchers at The University of Tokyo introduced a new physical model that predicts the dynamics of glassy materials based solely on their local degree of atomic structural order. This theory greatly improves our understanding of how glassy liquids become more viscous on cooling, with potential applications in manufacturing.

Reducing risk in AI and machine learning-based medical technology

The article highlights the need for regulators to prioritize continuous monitoring and risk assessment in managing AI/ML-based medical technology. The authors suggest that less emphasis should be placed on planning for future algorithm changes, and instead focus on developing new processes to identify and manage associated risks.

SourceINSEAD·JournalScience·DateDec 6, 2019