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Science News Archive January 2020


Page 1 of 40

New research looks at type 1 diabetes and changes in the environment

New research from the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus suggests that changes in the environment may contribute to the rising incidence of type 1 diabetes. The study examined various environmental exposures and found that none of the associations were strong enough to explain the rapid increase alone.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·DateJan 31, 2020

Do less and get stronger: Science proves you can lift less with better results

Researchers found that athletes who used a load velocity profile lifted less overall but gained strength and power, improving muscular performance. The study suggests that traditional training methods may not be the most effective, as athletes may lift too much or too little, leading to fatigue and injury.

SourceUniversity of Lincoln·JournalThe Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research·DateJan 31, 2020

Ecologist Exequiel Ezcurra receives AAAS Science Diplomacy Award

Exequiel Ezcurra, a professor of ecology, has been recognized for his leadership in bringing together research, education, outreach, and policy to protect the environment. He has made significant contributions to conservation science, ecosystem management, and policy outcomes.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·DateJan 31, 2020

First view of hydrogen at the metal-to-metal hydride interface

University of Groningen physicists have visualized hydrogen atoms at the titanium/titanium hydride interface, resolving a long-standing challenge in materials science. The new technique allows for the observation of both heavy titanium and light hydrogen atoms, shedding light on their interaction and properties.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 31, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Biophysics: Orientation of protein patterns

Researchers have discovered two crucial mechanisms that contribute to the robust orientation of polarized proteins along the long axis of the fertilized egg. The study shows that the ellipsoidal geometry of the egg influences patterning and selection of the long axis polarization.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 31, 2020

Simplifying simple sequence repeats

A recent study by Dr. Mark Chapman optimizes protocols for identifying simple sequence repeats (SSRs) in genomic and transcriptomic data, increasing efficiency in microsatellite discovery. The research found that small assemblies of two million read pairs can generate sufficient markers for basic population genetic studies.

SourceBotanical Society of America·JournalApplications in Plant Sciences·DateJan 31, 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.

Lung cancer screening decision aid delivered through tobacco quitlines improves informed decision-making

A study by the University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center shows that a lung cancer screening decision aid delivered through tobacco quitlines effectively reaches a screening-eligible population and results in informed decisions about lung cancer screening. The decision aid, which explains eligibility, risks, and benefits, encoura...

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJan 31, 2020

Global science team on red alert as Arctic lands grow greener

A global team of scientists is analyzing satellite and drone data to better understand the impact of climate change on Arctic vegetation. The research found that the greening of Arctic regions is caused by more than just warming temperatures, with other changes including differences in snowmelt and landscape wetness.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalNature Climate Change·DateJan 31, 2020

How the immune system becomes blind to cancer cells

Cancer cells use a camouflaging effect to escape the immune system by binding to SHP2 and PD1, activating a response switch-off mechanism. Researchers at the University of Freiburg and Leibniz University Hannover have identified this protein interaction as a target area for new treatments.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 31, 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.

Phantom genes keep diabetes at bay

A recent study published in Nature Communications discovered that a specific Long noncoding RNA called LincIRS2 is essential for maintaining healthy metabolism. Mice lacking this gene developed metabolic complications, while those with activated LincIRS2 maintained normal blood sugar levels even in obesity.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 31, 2020

Renewed funding for Cancer Prevention and Control Research Network at UNC-Chapel Hill

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has secured renewed funding for the Cancer Prevention and Control Research Network (CPCRN), a flagship program for preventing and controlling chronic diseases. Researchers from eight institutions will collaborate to produce research on implementing evidence-based approaches to reduce canc...

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - Office of Research Communication·DateJan 31, 2020

Mutation's role in blood cancers revealed by ideal team-up

A genetic mutation in SRSF2 disrupts DNA's message sending process, leading to excessive NMD activity that destroys healthy blood cells. This excessive activity is a hallmark of blood cancer. Researchers discovered an effective treatment approach using antisense oligonucleotide therapy.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenes & Development·DateJan 31, 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.

Low-dose metronomic cyclophosphamide complements the actions of an intratumoral C-class CpG TLR9 agonist to potentiate innate immunity and drive potent T cell-mediated anti-tumor responses

Intratumoral SD-101 injection complements low-dose cyclophosphamide in boosting innate immunity and driving potent T cell-mediated anti-tumor responses. This combination therapy improves efficacy against non-injected tumors and long-term survival, even in large tumors.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·DateJan 31, 2020

Safe potassium-ion batteries

Researchers create a novel, flame-retardant electrolyte for potassium and potassium-ion batteries, enabling safe operation at reduced concentrations. The new electrolyte allows for stable cycling of batteries with concentrations suitable for large-scale applications.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJan 31, 2020

Horseback riding combined with cognitive exercises can help children with ADHD and autism spectrum

A study published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science found that a program combining horseback riding and cognitive training improved motor skills, behavior, and academic performance in children with neurodevelopmental disorders. The program showed promise for improving the lives of young people with ADHD and autism spectrum disorder.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Veterinary Science·DateJan 31, 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.

Accelerating chemical reactions without direct contact with a catalyst

Researchers developed a Noncontact Catalysis System (NCCS) to accelerate chemical reactions using gold nanoclusters as intermediaries, enabling independent reactions of normally incompatible substances. This breakthrough could lead to more versatile, efficient, and cost-effective industrial chemical production processes.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 31, 2020

Yale researchers identify protein that could help neutralize deadly bite of the tsetse fly

Researchers at Yale School of Public Health have identified a new family of surface proteins, Fam10, which are uniquely associated with infectious metacyclic parasites transmitted by the tsetse fly. Vaccination with one member of this family significantly reduced parasitemia in mice, making Fam10 proteins promising vaccine candidates.

SourceYale School of Public Health·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 31, 2020

Exotic new topological state discovered in Dirac semimetals

Researchers found that Dirac semimetals exhibit robust, conducting electronic states in 1D, challenging previous conclusions about the nature of these materials. The discovery settles the decades-old problem of whether condensed matter Dirac fermions have topologically protected surface states.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 31, 2020

Ultra-high energy events key to study of ghost particles

Physicists propose using ultra-high energy neutrinos to study interactions beyond the standard model, with a new resonance dubbed the 'Zee burst.' This detection could reveal exotic particles such as supersymmetric partners and heavy decaying dark matter.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJan 31, 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.

Cleveland clinic study clarifies genetic autism risk in PTEN patients

Researchers found CNVs to be genomic modifiers of ASD/DD risk in individuals with PHTS, providing insight into the disorder's clinical outcomes and potential predictors for medical management. The study suggests CNV burden analysis may aid in predicting clinical outcomes for other clinically heterogeneous disorders.

SourceCleveland Clinic·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJan 31, 2020

Seeking better guidelines for inventorying greenhouse gas emissions

Researchers from Yale School of Forestry & Environmental Studies argue that the IPCC guidelines need improvement to accurately calculate and report greenhouse gas emissions. They suggest using satellite imagery and machine-learning tools to expedite quantitative synthesis and address data gaps.

SourceYale School of the Environment·JournalAMBIO·DateJan 31, 2020

Religiousness linked to improved quality of life for people with HIV

Patients living with HIV who attend religious services regularly experience higher emotional and physical well-being, while privately religious individuals face mental health challenges. Researchers suggest integrating spiritual beliefs into holistic treatment programs to improve health outcomes.

SourceChildren's National Hospital·JournalPsychology of Religion and Spirituality·DateJan 31, 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.

Study finds first major discovery in hydroformylation in 50 years

Researchers at Louisiana State University have developed a new cationic cobalt bisphosphine hydroformylation catalyst system that is highly active and extremely robust. The discovery has the potential to replace rhodium-based catalysts, which are currently expensive and in short supply.

SourceLouisiana State University·JournalScience·DateJan 31, 2020

Congenital heart disease more deadly in low-income countries

A comprehensive study of congenital heart disease found lower predicted long-term survival, higher remission rates, and lower prevalence in low-income countries compared to high-income nations. The study revealed a significant disparity in CHD mortality rates between countries, with most deaths occurring in infants under one year old.

SourceChildren's National Hospital·JournalThe Lancet Child & Adolescent Health·DateJan 31, 2020

Choice of anesthesia may affect breast cancer metastases

A new study published in Nature Communications found that sevoflurane anesthesia leads to more metastatic burden in the lung after breast tumor resecting surgery than propofol. The findings may guide clinicians in optimizing anesthesia choice for breast cancer surgery to achieve best long-term outcomes.

SourceStony Brook University·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 31, 2020

Exploring strangeness and the primordial Universe

Dr Johann Rafelski reviews decades of work on quark-gluon plasma, exploring strangeness production and discovery methods. He highlights the evolution of understanding this primordial material, which once filled the Universe, and the ongoing experimental efforts to recreate it.

SourceSpringer·JournalEPJ Techniques and Instrumentation·DateJan 31, 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.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Researchers identify possible new combination treatment for advanced melanoma

A study suggests that combining NKTR-214 with adoptive cell therapy may produce a stronger immune response against advanced melanoma, increasing the number of anti-tumor immune cells and their lifespan. This approach could be effective for more patients with advanced solid tumors.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 31, 2020

Pinpointing rare disease mutations

Researchers developed a new database of gene essentiality, providing insight into the causes of rare childhood diseases. The study identifies new mutations likely responsible for these conditions and offers a valuable resource for clinicians and researchers.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory - European Bioinformatics Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 31, 2020

New research highlights how plants are slowing global warming

According to a new study, human activities have inadvertently increased plant growth globally, which absorbs carbon dioxide and cools the planet. This 'global greening' trend could be slowing down global warming by up to 0.2-0.25 degrees Celsius.

SourceBoston University·JournalNature Reviews Earth & Environment·DateJan 31, 2020

Discovery takes pressure off blood measurements

Researchers at Monash University developed a wearable device using continuous wave radar and photoplethysmogram sensors to calculate continuous blood pressure measurements. The device achieved high accuracy rates, with 93% success during sedentary tasks and 83% during exercises.

SourceMonash University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 31, 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.

Migraine rats, medical facts

Pre-clinical studies reveal that cortical spreading depression and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) play significant roles in migraine. Botox, CGRP, and PACAP-38 show promise as potential treatments.

SourceInternational Headache Society·JournalCephalalgia·DateJan 31, 2020

Army research may improve stroke, TBI treatment

Researchers have discovered that the glymphatic system goes awry during a stroke, promoting brain cell drowning and swelling. This finding may lead to novel interventions to reduce stroke severity and improve outcomes.

SourceU.S. Army Research Laboratory·JournalScience·DateJan 31, 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.

Mason joins NIH grant to study young environmental exposures

Researchers at George Mason University will investigate the role of early life exposures in childhood health and disease as part of a $1.5M NIH grant. The project aims to understand how early life experiences impact children's development and health outcomes.

SourceGeorge Mason University·DateJan 31, 2020

Infant and toddler teachers receive specialized training on helping young minds

The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston has received a $3 million grant to provide child development strategies to infant and toddler specialists and teachers. The training focuses on improving interactions between teachers and children, as well as family engagement strategies to build strong emotional and social skill...

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·DateJan 31, 2020

Efficient cryopreservation of genetically modified rat spermatozoa

A new cryopreservation technique has been developed to preserve genetically modified rat spermatozoa, which are difficult to store due to their large size and sensitivity to temperature changes. The method, tested on genetically modified rats, successfully produced over 300 offspring from a single male rat.

SourceKumamoto University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 31, 2020

Inherited DNA-repair gene mutations in African American men with prostate cancer

Researchers analyzed DNA data from African American and Caucasian American men with prostate cancer, finding lower frequencies of pathogenic/likely alterations in 14 well-characterized DNA repair genes among African Americans. The study suggests a higher risk for germline BRCA mutations but lower risks for non-BRCA mutations

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·DateJan 31, 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.

Researchers describe unique genetic identity of primordial lung progenitors

Researchers at Boston University School of Medicine have identified the unique genetic program behind primordial lung progenitors, a rare and transient cell type. This discovery may lead to improved stem cell protocols for treating respiratory diseases such as COPD, cystic fibrosis, and lung interstitial disease.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 31, 2020

Do state regulations affect adult use of e-cigarettes?

A recent study using national data from over 895,000 US adults examined the association between state regulations and e-cigarette use. The results show that stricter state regulations are linked to lower adult e-cigarette use.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJan 31, 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.

Could resetting our internal clocks help control diabetes?

Disturbances in the internal clocks of pancreatic cells are linked to type-2 diabetes. Researchers successfully restored clock function using a natural compound, improving insulin secretion and providing new hope for diabetes care. The study shows that synchronizing the internal clocks can help regulate blood sugar levels.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 31, 2020