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Science News Archive December 2019 - Page 12


Page 12 of 36

Brain waves in mice change based on memory age

A team at RIKEN Center for Brain Science analyzed mouse brain activity using machine-learning algorithms, identifying distinct brain waves for recent and remote memories. They found a strong link between the frontal brain region and hippocampus, suggesting a possible mechanism to track memory age.

SourceRIKEN·JournalCell Reports·DateDec 17, 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.

In breakthrough method of creating solar material, NREL scientists prove the impossible really isn't

Researchers at NREL successfully integrated aluminum into their HVPE reactor and demonstrated the growth of semiconductors aluminum indium phosphide (AlInP) and aluminum gallium indium phosphide (AlGaInP). This breakthrough could lead to cheaper solar cells with comparable efficiency to MOVPE-grown ones.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·JournalACS Applied Energy Materials·DateDec 17, 2019

Sinuses bothering you? Use those nasal sprays regularly

A recent study found that consistent use of nasal saline and corticosteroid sprays can significantly reduce the need for antibiotics and oral steroids in individuals with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). This reduction can lead to fewer side effects associated with these medications, such as gastric issues and mood disturbances. By using ...

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalThe Laryngoscope·DateDec 17, 2019

Meerkat mobs do 'war dance' to protect territory

Researchers found that meerkat clans exhibit aggression by chasing or doing a 'war dance' in over half of interactions, often leading to physical violence. Winning groups move further away from the center of their territory, while losing groups are forced to retreat closer to the center.

SourceUniversity College London·DateDec 17, 2019

Plant-eating insects disrupt ecosystems and contribute to climate change

A new study reveals that plant-eating insects significantly impact forest ecosystems, causing nutrient leaching and increased carbon dioxide emissions. The researchers found that these insects can disrupt ecosystems more than previously thought, especially in cold areas where temperatures may rise.

SourceLund University·JournalJournal of Ecology·DateDec 17, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New ice river detected at Arctic glacier adds to rising seas

Researchers at Cornell University have discovered a new ice river forming on the Vavilov ice cap in Siberia, shedding nearly 11% of its mass since 2013. The rapid ice loss is believed to be linked to climate change, which can cause unstable ice shelves and erosion by warm water.

SourceCornell University·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateDec 17, 2019

HIIT timing matters for increasing fitness

Researchers at Liverpool John Moores University compared two popular HIIT protocols, finding that 60-second intervals with 60-second rest periods improved aerobic capacity and body composition. In contrast, 30-second intervals with 120 seconds of rest had no significant impact on fitness parameters.

SourceThe Physiological Society·DateDec 17, 2019

Special issue of Educational Researcher examines the nature and consequences of null findings

A newly released special issue examines the prevalence of null findings in randomized control trials, highlighting their expected and valuable role in evaluation research. Key articles propose frameworks for defining and interpreting null results, exploring context and implementation fidelity as factors influencing outcomes.

SourceAmerican Educational Research Association·JournalEducational Researcher·DateDec 17, 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.

Newly discovered retinal structure may enhance vision for some birds

Researchers have discovered a novel retinal structure in flycatchers that contains megamitochondria and small oil droplets, potentially enhancing their ability to detect and track insect prey. This unique structure is unevenly distributed across the retina and may provide an additional visual channel for these small predatory songbirds.

SourcePurdue University·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 17, 2019

MIPT researchers close in on new nonvolatile memory

Researchers from MIPT and their international colleagues achieved a breakthrough in nonvolatile memory devices by measuring electric potential distribution across a ferroelectric capacitor. The new memory cell has been shown to endure 10 billion rewrite cycles, surpassing current flash drives.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalNanoscale·DateDec 17, 2019

Instagram's virtual features have real relationship benefits

A recent study by Washington State University researchers found that Instagram helps young adults develop friendships in real life, particularly for those who are more reserved and open to new experiences. The platform's visual features and ease of use encouraged self-expression, leading to deeper relationships offline.

SourceWashington State University·JournalComputers in Human Behavior·DateDec 17, 2019

NREL, Co-Optima research yields potential bioblendstock for diesel fuel

Researchers at NREL have discovered a novel oxygenate molecule that can be produced from biomass, showing promise as a blend for diesel fuel. Initial results suggest improved ignition quality, reduced sooting, and fuel economy gains.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 17, 2019

Even resilient common species are not immune to environmental crisis

A recent study found that the effective population size and genetic diversity of the Sunda fruit bat have shrunk significantly due to urbanization and human-mediated changes. The research team analyzed DNA samples from 1931 and 2011, revealing a nearly 30-fold reduction in genetic diversity.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalCurrent Biology·DateDec 17, 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.

Donkeys are natural heat lovers and prefer Bethlehem to Britain

New research from the University of Portsmouth reveals that donkeys are less likely to seek shelter from heat and light than mules. The study found that donkeys prefer arid, hot climates with higher sunlight levels, while mules are more sensitive to temperatures and sunlight.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalApplied Animal Behaviour Science·DateDec 17, 2019

Skin cancer mystery revealed in yin and yang protein

Scientists have determined the structure of the B-Raf protein, which is responsible for about 50% of melanomas. The study reveals an asymmetric organization of the complex, enabling asymmetric activation of the B-Raf dimer, a mechanism that explains the origin of paradoxical activation by small molecule inhibitors.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·JournalScience·DateDec 17, 2019

Study identifies way for employers to retain casual workers

A University of Waterloo study found that positive feelings about work in general and a psychological attachment to the organization are crucial for casual workers to return the following year. Job enrichment was shown to increase work engagement and organizational commitment among seasonal student workers.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalManaging Sport and Leisure·DateDec 17, 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.

Scientists discover how proteins form crystals that tile a microbe's shell

Researchers have uncovered the nucleation process behind microbial shells' formation, revealing the role of protein building blocks and their interaction with environments. The study could help scientists design self-assembling nanostructures for various tasks.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 17, 2019

Large carnivores and zoos -- essential for biodiversity conservation marketing

The article suggests that large carnivores and zoos can catalyze public engagement with nature and pro-environmental behavior, fostering an emotional appreciation for diverse species. By exploring connections between people, large carnivores, and zoos, this approach provides a rich multifaceted framework for biodiversity conservation.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalNature Conservation·DateDec 17, 2019

AI improves breast cancer risk prediction

A new AI model developed by researchers can predict which women are at future risk of breast cancer with higher accuracy than existing models. The deep neural network-based approach has a lower false negative rate, indicating that it can identify women who would benefit from additional screening with MRI.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateDec 17, 2019

Scientists reveal the neural basis of confirmation bias

Researchers at Virginia Tech and University College London discovered a key brain region that drives confirmation bias, where activity modulates decision-making and memory. The study found that people tend to favor information reinforcing their existing opinions over contradictory ones.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateDec 17, 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.

Trump's protectionism raises unemployment

A study by Université de Genève researchers shows that Donald Trump's protectionist policies increase unemployment in the US and Mexico, reducing welfare by 0.31% in the US and 6.6% in Mexico.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalJournal of the European Economic Association·DateDec 17, 2019

Old drug offers new hope for children with devastating disorder

Researchers found that fenfluramine significantly reduced convulsive seizures in Dravet syndrome patients, with a 62% decrease in seizures per month. The study also showed improvements in seizure-free intervals and parental assessments of child improvement.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalThe Lancet·DateDec 17, 2019

Research adds new twist to fight against autoimmune diseases

Researchers at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center discovered a new molecular process in mice that triggers T cell-driven inflammation and causes autoimmune diseases. The study found that interactions between myeloid cells and CD4-positive T cells produce excessive IL-1b, leading to auto-inflammatory diseases.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalNature Immunology·DateDec 17, 2019

Moths and perhaps other animals rely on precise timing of neural spikes

Researchers recorded nearly all brain signals sent to wing muscles of hawk moths, showing precise timing within rapid sequences of neural spike is essential for controlling flight muscles. The study reveals the importance of precise spike timing in coordinating five muscles per wing.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 17, 2019

Dense breast notifications are having little impact

A national survey of women found that DBNs are not achieving their desired effects in reducing breast cancer awareness and screening. The study revealed greater anxiety and confusion among black women with higher incomes, while white women with higher incomes had more knowledge about breast density.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateDec 17, 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.

Clemson materials research may advance quantum computing

Clemson University professor Joe Kolis is developing new quantum materials using hydrothermal synthesis to make reliable qubits for quantum computing and data storage. By cooling material at lower temperatures, he aims to achieve the necessary magnetic disorder for quantum phenomenon to take over.

SourceClemson University·DateDec 17, 2019

Here's a bitter pill to swallow: Artificial sweeteners may be doing more harm than good

A recent review suggests that artificial sweeteners, commonly used to aid weight loss, may actually contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes and weight gain. According to UniSA Professor Peter Clifton, consuming large quantities of artificial sweeteners can alter gut bacteria and lead to increased calorie intake.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalCurrent Atherosclerosis Reports·DateDec 17, 2019

First study on human-grade dog food says whole, fresh food is highly digestible

A recent study from the University of Illinois discovered that human-grade dog foods are not only highly palatable but also more digestible than initially estimated. The researchers tested six commercial dog foods made with minimally processed human-edible ingredients, finding high protein quality and low stool volume in dogs.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalTranslational Animal Science·DateDec 17, 2019

Solving a combinatorial quandary

Lehigh University professor Brian Chen is developing software that can predict protein interactions, reducing the need for human interpretation. The software has already successfully demonstrated the ability to predict something completely unknown in a collaboration with Rutgers University.

SourceLehigh University·DateDec 17, 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.

Ancient 'chewing gum' yields insights into people and bacteria of the past

Researchers have successfully extracted a complete ancient human genome from birch pitch used as 'chewing gum' 5,700 years ago. The findings reveal genetic information about an individual's physical characteristics, including dark skin, hair, and eyes, as well as their diet and oral microbiome.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 17, 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.

Majority of children with allergies needlessly avoid common antibiotics

A new study published in Pediatrics found that eight in 10 children who reported being allergic to non-beta-lactam antibiotics were not truly allergic, highlighting the need for improved and timely access to formal allergy evaluations. This can prevent lifelong avoidance of certain antibiotic classes and help combat antibiotic resistance.

SourceMurdoch Childrens Research Institute·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateDec 17, 2019

First US study shows strong results for procedure to treat knee pain from OA

A new US study demonstrates the effectiveness of genicular artery embolization (GAE) in treating osteoarthritis knee pain. The minimally invasive procedure blocks blood flow to certain parts of the knee, providing rapid relief from pain and disability. Results show significant improvement in pain scores, with nearly all patients experi...

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalJournal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology·DateDec 17, 2019

Novel genetic signature that can predict some kinds of breast cancer is identified

Researchers have identified a genetic signature associated with the degree of pathological angiogenesis in breast cancer tumors. The study combined gene expression profiles from public databases with analysis of retinopathy models to uncover key genes involved in pathological angiogenesis, providing a new tool for breast cancer treatment.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateDec 17, 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.

Limiting global warming would relieve populations from wet and dry extremes in China

A study published in Science Bulletin finds that limiting global warming to 1.5°C would reduce precipitation extremes in China, particularly in southeastern regions. The research highlights the social impacts of climate change, with heavy rainfall events intensifying across the country and dry extremes increasing in South China.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalScience Bulletin·DateDec 17, 2019

Moffitt researchers develop more efficient approach to create mouse models

Researchers at Moffitt Cancer Center have developed a new platform for creating genetically engineered mice to study melanoma, which is significantly faster than the traditional approach. This new method uses chimera mouse models and chimera-derived melanoma cell lines to provide a faster way to study skin cancer.

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalCancer Research·DateDec 17, 2019

New metrics needed to evaluate and combat HIV epidemics in the US

A commentary published in the American Journal of Public Health argues that existing metrics are insufficient to track the public health response to HIV in the US. Newer metrics are needed to inform and evaluate efforts aimed at reducing new HIV infections by 75% and 90% over the next five and ten years, respectively.

SourceCUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateDec 17, 2019

Consider marine life when implementing offshore renewable power

Researchers warn of potential negative impacts of offshore renewable energy on marine life, including head trauma and hearing loss. The study suggests that consideration should be given to the impact of technologies like wind turbines and wave energy converters on marine animals before implementation.

SourceCell Press·JournalTrends in Ecology & Evolution·DateDec 17, 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.

Good aerobic fitness doesn't protect children against type 2 diabetes, staying active does

Good aerobic fitness is not linked to lower risk of insulin resistance in obese children. Instead, more physical activity and less sedentary time were associated with reduced insulin resistance regardless of body fat percentage. The study suggests that more physical activity plays a key role in preventing type 2 diabetes in childhood.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalMedicine & Science in Sports & Exercise·DateDec 17, 2019

Limiting the loss of nature

A University of Queensland-led team proposes a global goal to limit the loss of nature by setting a 'no net loss' target for natural ecosystems. The researchers considered socioeconomic factors across 170 countries and recognized the need for equitable contributions to conservation and restoration.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateDec 16, 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.

Evolutionarily novel genes work in tumors

A team of scientists discovered evolutionarily novel genes expressed in all tumors, which could serve as excellent tumor markers. The new research confirms a theory that the number of oncogenes should correspond to the number of differential cell types, providing a new perspective on cancer prevention and therapy strategies.

SourcePeter the Great Saint-Petersburg Polytechnic University·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 16, 2019

New tool uses AI to flag fake news for media fact-checkers

Researchers at the University of Waterloo developed an AI tool that uses deep-learning algorithms to determine if claims are supported by other posts and stories on the same subject. The system achieved 90% accuracy in stance detection, a key area of research in detecting fake news.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·DateDec 16, 2019

Researchers make robots from self-folding kirigami materials

Scientists at North Carolina State University have designed a new type of material, called active kirigami, which can autonomously change shape in response to heat. This innovation enables the creation of programmable robots with increased freedom of actuation.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 16, 2019

Hard as a rock? Maybe not, say bacteria that help form soil

Researchers discovered that bacteria can degrade solid bedrock by oxidizing iron and extracting energy from it. The study found that these microorganisms use proteins on their outer surface to move electrons, allowing them to 'munch' rocks without taking minerals into their cells.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 16, 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.

Having to defend one's sexuality increases fear of childbirth

A Linköping University study reveals that LGBTQ+ women's fear of childbirth is comparable to heterosexual women's but exacerbated by identity-related concerns. Healthcare staff must receive training to address minority stress and create trust with these patients.

SourceLinköping University·JournalMidwifery·DateDec 16, 2019

Methane emissions from natural gas well blowout

Researchers used atmospheric methane measurements to detect and quantify methane emissions from a gas well blowout in Ohio. The estimated emission rate was 120 metric tons per hour, exceeding the peak emission rate from the Aliso Canyon blowout in California in 2015.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 16, 2019