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Science News for February 11, 2020


Citizen scientists discover rare cosmic pairing

Two brown dwarfs, one about 34 times the mass of Jupiter and the other about 72 times the mass, are found to be linked despite being 341 astronomical units apart. The discovery confirms that brown dwarf systems can be very low-mass and extremely far apart yet connected.

SourceAmerican Museum of Natural History·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·DateFeb 11, 2020

Using sound and light to generate ultra-fast data transfer

A breakthrough in controlling terahertz quantum cascade lasers enables the transmission of data at rates of 100 gigabits per second. The innovation uses acoustic waves to modulate the lasers, overcoming previous limitations and paving the way for ultra-fast wireless links and satellite communications.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 11, 2020

More than just a carnival trick: Researchers can guess your age based on your microbes

A new study has found that researchers can accurately predict a person's chronological age using machine learning algorithms and microbiome samples. The study analyzed data from over 4,400 participants across various body sites, including skin, saliva, and feces, and found significant gender-specific differences in gut microbiome results.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalmSystems·DateFeb 11, 2020
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.

Replacing animal testing with synthetic cell scaffolds

Scientists use electrospun synthetics to mimic the extracellular matrix, standardizing research conditions. The study reveals that different types of breast cancer cells grow best in specific cellular environments.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalIEEE Open Journal of Engineering in Medicine and Biology·DateFeb 11, 2020

New method predicts individual response to Ebola infection

A team at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health has developed a new method that accurately predicts human disease outcomes based on gene expression in individuals infected with Ebola. The model uses machine learning and was tested on a data set collected from Ebola patients in western Africa, confirming its accuracy.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalCell Reports·DateFeb 11, 2020

Utah researchers discover key protein in endometrial cancer growth

Researchers at Huntsman Cancer Institute have identified a critical protein called ETV4 that promotes estrogen signaling in endometrial cancer cells. By removing ETV4, tumor growth can be significantly reduced, offering new avenues for treatment development.

SourceHuntsman Cancer Institute·JournalCancer Research·DateFeb 11, 2020
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.

Personalized cancer vaccines

Researchers at EPFL have created a prototype vaccine that can travel to the desired location and activate immune cells, overcoming two major obstacles in therapeutic cancer vaccines. The Polycondensate Neoepitope (PNE) combines a patented technique with an algorithm for predicting mutated tumor antigens.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalACS Central Science·DateFeb 11, 2020

Biologists reveal cellular architecture of potential fountain of youth

Researchers Alyssa Johnson and Adam Bohnert have discovered a new class of lysosomes, dubbed 'tubular lysosomes,' which can form complex networks that affect aging, disease, and stressors. Their findings could lead to medical therapies and treatments to extend health and longevity in humans and animals.

SourceLouisiana State University·DateFeb 11, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Scientists develop non-invasive method to predict onset of dementia

Researchers developed a machine learning algorithm to predict dementia onset using electronic medical records, showing similar accuracy to invasive tests. The method could help identify patients at risk earlier, allowing for prevention and better quality of life.

SourceRegenstrief Institute·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateFeb 11, 2020

Atom or noise? New method helps cryo-EM researchers tell the difference

Researchers developed Q-scores to assess true resolution at every point in cryo-EM maps, enabling accurate interpretation of atomic models. The approach validated on large molecules, achieving high-resolution maps close to 1.75 angstroms, and demonstrates improved confidence in molecular interpretations.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalNature Methods·DateFeb 11, 2020

Artificial atoms create stable qubits for quantum computing

Researchers from UNSW Sydney have created artificial atoms in silicon chips that provide improved stability for quantum computing. The artificial atoms, with shells of electrons whizzing around the centre, offer robust qubits that can be reliably used for calculations.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 11, 2020
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.

Coincidences influence the onset and ending of ice ages

Researchers argue that coincidences displace ice ages from predictions, making them harder to predict and potentially leading to abrupt changes. The analysis shows that the climate system is more chaotic than expected, with underlying periodic processes but also significant background noise.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalClimate Dynamics·DateFeb 11, 2020

Alarmingly low rates of HIV testing among at-risk teenage boys

A new study finds that fewer than one in four gay, bisexual and questioning teenage boys have ever received an HIV test, despite high risk of transmission. The study identified factors that increase the likelihood of testing, including frank conversations with doctors about sexual health and testing.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateFeb 11, 2020

Sitting still linked to increased risk of depression in adolescents

A new study found that adolescents who spend more time sitting are at a greater risk of developing depression by age 18. The study suggests that even light physical activity, such as walking or doing chores, can reduce the risk of depressive symptoms by up to 10%.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalThe Lancet Psychiatry·DateFeb 11, 2020

Hybrid transistor improves next-generation displays

Researchers at KAUST have developed a hybrid organic transistor for use in electronic displays and large-area electronics, overcoming production challenges of metal oxide TFTs.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Electronics·DateFeb 11, 2020

Recent advances in addressing tuberculosis give hope for future

Recent advances in TB diagnostics, treatments and prevention offer hope for reducing and ultimately eliminating the burden of tuberculosis. The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases has made significant progress in improving TB diagnostics, therapeutic regimens and prevention approaches.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateFeb 11, 2020
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.

Bayreuth researchers discover new arsenic compounds in rice fields

Researchers have developed a new measuring method to detect sulphur-containing arsenic compounds in rice soils, which have not been accounted for in health assessments. The study identifies the need for further research on the formation and transport of these compounds to assess health risks.

SourceUniversität Bayreuth·JournalNature Geoscience·DateFeb 11, 2020

Pedal to the metal: Speeding up treatments for ALS

Researchers found that healthy cells clear harmful aggregates via endocytosis, a process previously thought to occur only on external substances. This discovery could lead to improved treatments for ALS by increasing the efficiency of endocytosis. The next step is to develop ways to enhance this process using genetic and chemical methods.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalMolecular and Cellular Biology·DateFeb 11, 2020

Telemedicine helps pregnant women tackle taboo issue

A recent study by MUSC Health found that telemedicine can be an effective way to reach pregnant women with opioid use disorder, with no significant differences in maternal and newborn outcomes compared to in-person care. Integrated, collaborative care models are crucial for treating this chronic disease, and telemedicine maximizes the ...

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateFeb 11, 2020
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.

Prater is first UTA professor to be appointed Jefferson Science Fellow

Edmund Prater, a professor at the University of Texas at Arlington, has been appointed as the first UTA professor to be selected as a Jefferson Science Fellow. He will spend a year working with the U.S. State Department's Bureau of Education and Cultural Affairs, Office of American Spaces.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateFeb 11, 2020

DIY tools TalkBox and SenseBox help people with disabilities to communicate

Researchers at University of Maryland Baltimore County developed DIY assistive technology platforms, including TalkBox and SenseBox, to facilitate communication for people with disabilities. These open-source platforms use low-cost sensors and a Raspberry Pi to enable users to communicate through images, sounds, or tactile objects.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Baltimore County·JournalIEEE Pervasive Computing·DateFeb 11, 2020

Making 3-D printing smarter with machine learning

Researchers at USC Viterbi School of Engineering develop machine learning algorithms to predict shape deviations in 3-D printing, resulting in improved accuracy across various applications and materials. The software tool, PrintFixer, is designed to be accessible to industry professionals and hobbyists alike.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalIEEE Transactions on Automation Science and Engineering·DateFeb 11, 2020

Foot-and-mouth-disease virus could help target the deadliest cancer

Scientists have identified a peptide from the foot-and-mouth-disease virus that targets a protein on pancreatic cancer cells, allowing for highly potent drug delivery and complete tumour killing in mice. The research offers a promising new approach to treating pancreatic cancer with limited side effects.

SourcePancreatic Cancer Research Fund·JournalTheranostics·DateFeb 11, 2020
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.

Stroke: Macrophages migrate from the blood

Researchers discovered that shortly after a stroke, macrophages from the blood attack dead and adjacent healthy brain tissue. This process was hindered by inactivating the Cxcr4 gene, which acts like an antenna for inflammatory processes in the brain.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateFeb 11, 2020
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Can T'ai Chi alleviate chronic low back pain in older adults?

A randomized controlled trial found that T'ai Chi was feasible and acceptable for improving chronic low back pain in adults over 65. High attendance rates and perceived benefits were observed among participants, suggesting a potential treatment option for this population.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalThe Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine·DateFeb 11, 2020

Local genetic adaption helps sorghum crop hide from witchweed

Research finds that sorghum crops in areas with high witchweed prevalence have genetic adaptations to resist the parasite, altering hormone production. While these mutations confer some resistance, they also affect photosynthesis and growth, raising potential trade-offs.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 11, 2020

Disease found in fossilized dinosaur tail afflicts humans to this day

Researchers discovered a rare disease called Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) in the fossilized tail of a young dinosaur that lived in Canada 60 million years ago. The study found that the disease has survived for over 60 million years and still affects humans, particularly children under 10.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 11, 2020
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.

Studies gauge effect of soft drink taxation, advertising and labeling laws

Two studies found that soft drink taxation and labeling laws led to a decrease in beverage purchases high in sugar, sodium and saturated fat. In Chile, front-of-packaging warning labels reduced consumption by 22.8mL per capita per day, while the UK Soft Drinks Industry Levy increased prices by 31% and resulted in significant reductions...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateFeb 11, 2020
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.

Digital intervention reduces depressive symptoms in people living with HIV

A digital intervention program called Run4Love, tested on the popular Chinese social media app WeChat, significantly reduced depressive symptoms and stress among people living with HIV. The study found a promising approach to addressing mental health gaps in resource-limited settings.

SourceGeorge Mason University·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·DateFeb 11, 2020

Is modern urban life making us unhealthy?

The University of Bristol is working with the Children of the 90s health study to examine the effect of environmental exposures on health. The project aims to develop tools to predict disease risk based on environmental factors and will combine data from multiple studies across Europe.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·DateFeb 11, 2020

New research shows how the malaria parasite grows and multiplies

Scientists have made a breakthrough in understanding the rapid reproduction of the malaria parasite by identifying crucial molecules involved in cell division. This discovery could pave the way for developing novel therapeutic strategies against the disease.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalCell Reports·DateFeb 11, 2020
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.

Researchers look to fungus to shed light on cancer

Researchers at Florida State University discovered a fungus that stabilizes key proteins involved in cancer and neurological disease signaling pathways. The natural product fusicoccin has been identified as a tool to study these networks, leading to the discovery of 14 promising protein-protein interaction targets.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalACS Chemical Biology·DateFeb 11, 2020

New sensor provides better leak protection in buildings

A new, battery-free sensor can detect water leaks in buildings, enabling greater protection and reducing costs. The sensor, powered by nanotechnology, sends alerts to smartphones when exposed to moisture, making it more accessible for building owners.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·DateFeb 11, 2020

Lupus patients who take their medications lower their diabetes risk

Patients with lupus who take their medications consistently have a 39% lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The study found that antimalarial drugs like hydroxychloroquine significantly protect patients against the complication if taken as prescribed for at least 90% of the time.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateFeb 11, 2020

UTA's Maddalena named fellow of Royal Aeronautical Society

Professor Maddalena, director of UTA's Aerodynamics Research Center, has been elected a fellow of the Royal Aeronautical Society for his outstanding contributions to hypersonic research. He is a leading expert in mixing and combustion in turbulent supersonic flows and their application to hypersonic airbreathing propulsion.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateFeb 11, 2020
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.

Revenge is more enjoyable than forgiveness -- at least in stories

A study published by Ohio State University found that people enjoy seeing bad guys get punished more than being forgiven, but appreciate forgiveness stories as the most meaningful. The researchers discovered that readers take less time to respond to narratives with equitable retribution than those with under- or over-retribution.

SourceOhio State University·JournalCommunication Research·DateFeb 11, 2020

Why egalitarian values don't catch on in post-Soviet countries

A recent study found that personal values in post-Soviet countries are primarily determined by national pride, rather than education, age, religiosity, or social status. Despite high rates of divorce and abortion, respondents expressed conservative views on individual choice practices, highlighting a cultural shift towards patriotism.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalJournal of Sociology and Social Anthropology·DateFeb 11, 2020

DNA misfolding in white blood cells increases risk for type 1 diabetes

Researchers at Penn Medicine discovered that changes in DNA sequence can trigger chromatin misfolding in white blood cells, increasing the risk of developing Type 1 diabetes. The study found that these misfolded regions occur before the disease onset and may serve as a diagnostic tool.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalImmunity·DateFeb 11, 2020
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.

A novel formulation to explain heat propagation

Researchers at EPFL have developed a novel formulation that describes how heat spreads within crystalline materials. This breakthrough will help engineers design next-generation electronic devices by explaining hydrodynamic phenomena, which are prevalent in materials like graphite and graphene.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalPhysical Review X·DateFeb 11, 2020

New synthesis methods enhance 3D chemical space for drug discovery

Researchers at Emory University have developed a new approach to organic synthesis that can efficiently transform simple molecules into complex ones with 3D structures. This method opens up whole new chemical space for potential drug targets, enabling the creation of more direct and efficient pathways for pharmaceutical research.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalNature Catalysis·DateFeb 11, 2020
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.

'Surprise' out-of-network bills after in-network elective surgery

A study using large health insurer claims data found that approximately 1 in 5 patients received surprise out-of-network bills after having in-network elective surgery. The average potential balance was $2,011, with anesthesiologists and surgical assistants being the most common providers involved.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateFeb 11, 2020

Storm-induced sea level spikes differ in origin on US east, gulf coasts

Research led by the University of Arizona found that the US East and Gulf Coasts have different responses to storm surges due to ocean and atmospheric circulation interactions. The Gulf Coast, particularly New Orleans, is highly sensitive to tropical cyclone characteristics, leading to elevated storm surge heights.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalJournal of Climate·DateFeb 11, 2020

'Atomic dance' reveals new insights into performance of 2D materials

Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a new method to visualize the dynamic motion of atoms in atomically thin 2D materials. The technique reveals that sulfur atoms in MoS2 move continuously to vacant areas, causing grain boundaries to separate and leading to material failure.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalACS Nano·DateFeb 11, 2020

Build-up of brain proteins affects genes in Alzheimer's disease

New research found that the accumulation of tau and amyloid proteins in the brain significantly alters gene expression, particularly in genes related to inflammation. The study provides new insights into the progression of Alzheimer's disease and highlights potential pathways for treatment.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalCell Reports·DateFeb 11, 2020
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.

Deep learning can fool listeners by imitating any guitar amplifier

Researchers created a digital amplifier model using a deep neural network that can accurately simulate the sound of various guitar amplifiers, including popular brands like Marshall and Orange. The study uses black-box modelling to replicate the observed input-output mapping of analogue circuitry.

SourceAalto University·JournalApplied Sciences·DateFeb 11, 2020

A better way to rebuild cartilage

A team of scientists has created a new class of 3D-printed biomaterials that can direct the regeneration of functional tissue in damaged cartilage. The materials are designed to provide cells with the exact cues they need to form tissue organized in the same way as natural cartilage.

SourceLehigh University·DateFeb 11, 2020

Live imaging of flowers reveals hidden secrets of plant reproduction

Researchers have developed a live-cell imaging technique that enables the visualization of fundamental processes in flower development and opens up new avenues for research on plant sexual reproduction. The technique, called light sheet fluorescence microscopy (LSFM), records movies of plant reproductive events for the first time.

SourceeLife·DateFeb 11, 2020
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Inquiry-based labs give physics students experimental edge

Researchers at Cornell University found that traditional lab models hinder student engagement, while inquiry-based labs promote active learning and ownership over experiments. Exam scores remained the same, but inquiry-based labs improved student attitudes toward experimentation and scientific thinking.

SourceCornell University·JournalPhysical Review X·DateFeb 11, 2020

Ancient Antarctic ice melt increased sea levels by 3+ meters -- and it could happen again

A new international study led by UNSW Sydney reveals that the West Antarctic Ice Sheet melted rapidly during the Last Interglacial period, causing a multi-metre rise in global mean sea levels. The research suggests that the ice sheet is highly sensitive to future ocean warming, posing an urgent need to minimize warming.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 11, 2020

Software updates slowing you down?

Researchers at Texas A&M University developed a tool to identify the source of errors caused by software updates using deep learning. The algorithm, which analyzes performance counters, can find bugs in a matter of hours instead of days.

SourceTexas A&M University·DateFeb 11, 2020

Rabies: New prophylactic and therapeutic avenues

Researchers have visualized a broadly neutralizing human monoclonal antibody, RVC20, which blocks the entry of the rabies virus into cells. The findings highlight new perspectives for prevention and treatment of the deadly disease.

SourceInstitut Pasteur·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 11, 2020
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.

Hot climates to see more variability in tree leafing as temperatures rise

A recent study by Oak Ridge National Laboratory found that tree budburst, or the timing of leaf emergence, is becoming more variable in hotter regions due to rising temperatures. In contrast, cold climates show a more stable pattern of budburst year-over-year.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 11, 2020

Understanding recent US mumps outbreaks

A recent study analyzing over 200 mumps virus genomes provides insights into the US outbreaks, revealing a dominant strain responsible for many cases. The research also demonstrates the value of high-quality genomic data in public health surveillance and suggests future efforts should incorporate whole genome sequencing.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateFeb 11, 2020

Simulations show effects of buoyancy on drift in Florida Current

Researchers have developed a new model to track object drift based on satellite data from GPS-equipped buoys in the Florida Current. The study finds that buoyancy has the greatest effect on an object's trajectory, with implications for cleaning up ocean litter and tracking algae movement.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateFeb 11, 2020
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.

IADR announces the IADR Centennial Emerging Leaders award winners

The IADR Centennial Emerging Leaders Award recognizes young investigators who will lead groundbreaking research and discovery in dental, oral, and craniofacial research. The award winners are poised to advance health and well-being worldwide with their outstanding promise for service and leadership.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateFeb 11, 2020

'Genetic rewiring' drives cancer's drug resistance

A type of micro RNA known as MIR1249 plays a key role in allowing bile duct cancers to resist chemotherapy. The researchers hope that targeting this molecule could make chemotherapy more effective.

SourceInstitute of Cancer Research·JournalHepatology·DateFeb 11, 2020
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.

Teens with a history of ADHD need stronger monitoring of health risks

Researchers found that primary care doctors rarely discuss safe driving and monitor patients for risky sexual behavior with adolescents who have a history of ADHD. The study highlights the need for additional resources and training to provide better care for these patients as they transition from childhood to young adulthood.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalJournal of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics·DateFeb 11, 2020

UC research could help reduce disease incidence in organ donors

Researchers at the University of Cincinnati are using APOL1 genotyping to identify high-risk African American donors and reduce their chances of developing kidney disease. The study aims to optimize the health of organ donors by protecting them from genetic factors that increase their risk of kidney disease.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalAmerican Journal of Nephrology·DateFeb 11, 2020

Mice 'detectives' hint at how humans read between the lines

Scientists at Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown designed an experiment where mice had to infer water reward locations using indirect evidence. The study revealed key brain regions involved in inference and compared mouse performance to a human version of the task, highlighting the cognitive skill's importance.

SourceChampalimaud Centre for the Unknown·JournalNeuron·DateFeb 11, 2020

Cairo car drivers exposed to dangerous levels of pollution, new study finds

A new study from the University of Surrey found that Cairo car drivers are exposed to dangerous levels of air pollution, particularly in cross-city routes. Drivers who leave their windows open can be exposed to 65% more PM10 and 48% more PM2.5 than those with windows closed and AC on.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalSustainable Cities and Society·DateFeb 11, 2020
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Why the goby can conquer the waters of the world

The round goby's exceptional adaptability is attributed to its immune system, which features up to 30 times more inflammatory genes than comparable species. This enables the fish to deal with pathogens and extreme environmental conditions, facilitating its successful colonization of diverse waters around the world.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalBMC Biology·DateFeb 11, 2020
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.

What fuels a 'domino effect' in cancer drug resistance?

Researchers at KAIST have discovered mechanisms that fuel a 'domino effect' in cancer drug resistance, enabling failed responses to paclitaxel to speed up the evolution of resistance to other drugs. The study suggests a new strategy for improving second-line cancer treatment.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 11, 2020

New measure of biological age can predict health risks

A study from Karolinska Institutet found that a combination of markers, including frailty and the epigenetic clock, can predict health risks and mortality. The researchers followed 845 middle-aged and elderly participants over 20 years, revealing associations between these markers and increased risk of early death.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·DateFeb 11, 2020

Telehealth interventions associated with improved obstetric outcomes

A systematic review from George Washington University finds that telehealth interventions can lead to improved health outcomes in low-risk obstetrics, family planning, and gynecologic conditions. Text messaging and remote monitoring are identified as key components of effective telehealth interventions.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateFeb 11, 2020
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.

How the brain's immune system could be harnessed to improve memory

Researchers at RMIT University found that microglia cells can be activated to boost memory performance in rats by up to 50%, reversing damage caused by neuroinflammation. This discovery could lead to the development of new treatments for cognitive decline and dementia.

SourceRMIT University·JournalJournal of Neuroinflammation·DateFeb 11, 2020

Heroin use in US

A recent study examined changes in heroin use and addiction among US adults over 16 years. Heroin use disorder increased significantly between 2002 and 2018, affecting approximately 800,000 adults in the country.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateFeb 11, 2020

Scientists invent germ-fighting fabric for health care

UMass Lowell researchers develop germ-killing fabric with N-halamine, reducing risk of drug-resistant bacteria and hospital-acquired infections. The fabric can be recharged through bleach washing, extending its effectiveness.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Lowell·DateFeb 11, 2020
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.