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Science News for January 17, 2020


Reward improves visual perceptual learning -- but only after people sleep

A new study suggests that reward only improves visual perceptual learning if participants follow up the task with sleep. The researchers found that reward reinforces neural circuits between reward and visual areas of the brain, which are then more likely to reactivate during sleep to facilitate task learning.

SourceBrown University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 17, 2020

Prosecutors' race, class bias may not drive criminal justice disparities

A new study led by Christopher Robertson found no significant differences in charges, fines, and sentences across racial and socioeconomic groups. This contradicts decades' worth of previous research on prosecutorial bias. Instead, policymakers may focus on addressing disparities before arrest, such as economic development and education.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalJournal of Empirical Legal Studies·DateJan 17, 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.

Scurvy is still a thing in Canada

Researchers at McMaster University discovered that scurvy, a disease caused by vitamin C deficiency, still exists in Canada. The study found 52 patients with low Vitamin C levels, including 13 with diagnosed scurvy and 39 who tested positive but lacked symptoms.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateJan 17, 2020

Green in tooth and claw

A new study from Washington University in St. Louis suggests that early human ancestors could have eaten hard plant foods like nuts and seeds without causing damage to their teeth. The researchers used experiments on modern tooth enamel to demonstrate that even the hardest plant tissues barely influence microwear textures.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 17, 2020

Sanitary care by social ants shapes disease outcome

Ants' social interactions and sanitary care significantly impact the competitive outcome of coinfecting pathogens within the insect body. By modulating pathogen competition, ants' grooming helps prevent infections, altering the disease outcome.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalEcology Letters·DateJan 17, 2020

Research shows real risks associated with cannabis exposure during pregnancy

A new study published in Scientific Reports reveals that regular cannabis use during pregnancy can lead to reduced birth weight by up to 8% and decreased brain and liver growth. The researchers used a rat model and human placental cells to demonstrate the impact of THC on fetal development.

SourceUniversity of Western Ontario·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 17, 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.

Walking with atoms -- chemical bond making and breaking recorded in action

A research team from UK and Germany has successfully recorded the dynamic behavior of a metal-metal bond in dirhenium molecules at the atomic scale. The breakthrough uses transmission electron microscopy to film the 'walking' of atoms along a nanotube, revealing changes in bond length and strength.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 17, 2020

Ingestible medical devices can be broken down with light

Researchers create a new material that can break down in response to light, offering a faster and easier way to remove gastrointestinal devices. The light-sensitive hydrogel is made from a combination of strong components linked together by a chemical bond that breaks when exposed to specific wavelengths of light.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 17, 2020

America's most widely consumed oil causes genetic changes in the brain

Researchers found soybean oil causes genetic changes in the brain, affecting obesity, diabetes, and neurological conditions. The study discovered 100 genes not functioning correctly, including a gene that produces oxytocin, leading to potential ramifications for brain function and diseases.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalEndocrinology·DateJan 17, 2020

Male sparrows are less intimidated by the songs of aging rivals

Research at Duke University found that older male swamp sparrows sing less frequently and consistently, leading other males to approach them closer. This suggests that a decline in song quality may indicate to other males that an aging rival is no longer a threat.

SourceDuke University·JournalBehavioral Ecology·DateJan 17, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Microplastics affect sand crabs' mortality and reproduction, PSU study finds

A recent Portland State University study found that sand crabs' adult mortality increases and reproductive success decreases when exposed to plastic microfibers. Microplastic exposure also affects embryonic development rates, potentially impacting higher trophic levels in the food chain.

SourcePortland State University·JournalLimnology and Oceanography·DateJan 17, 2020

Psychedelic drugs could help treat PTSD

Clinical trials suggest that psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy is more effective than traditional therapy alone in treating PTSD. The combination of MDMA and traditional psychotherapy has shown promising results, with patients experiencing temporary adverse reactions not requiring additional medical intervention.

SourceAmerican College of Neuropsychopharmacology·DateJan 17, 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.

NASA water vapor imagery shows Tino's heavy rain potential over Fiji

Tropical Cyclone Tino's intense water vapor content and low cloud top temperatures indicate a high risk of heavy rainfall and strong winds. NASA's Aqua satellite imagery provides critical data for meteorologists to track the storm's movement and potential impact on Fiji and surrounding islands.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 17, 2020

How sensitive can a quantum detector be?

A new device created by Aalto University and Lund University has set a new standard for measuring the tiniest energies in superconducting circuits. The calorimeter uses a strip of copper one thousand times thinner than a human hair to detect energy changes, providing essential insights into quantum thermodynamics.

SourceAalto University·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 17, 2020

Digital athletics in analogue stadiums

A study by Aalto University researchers reveals that fans attend live esports events primarily for social interaction and excitement of being near sports stars. In contrast, fans watching online rated 'drama' and 'enjoyment of aggression' higher than live attendees.

SourceAalto University·JournalInternet Research·DateJan 17, 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.

Human-caused biodiversity decline started millions of years ago

A new study suggests that human-caused biodiversity decline started millions of years ago, with early hominins competing with carnivores for food. The researchers propose that human ancestors stole recently killed animals from other predators, leading to the extinction of large carnivore species in East Africa.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalEcology Letters·DateJan 17, 2020

Doubling down on cancer-causing genes

Researchers at UC Riverside are targeting cancer-causing genes Mcl-1 and Bfl-1 for novel therapies in melanoma and lung cancers. They aim to develop potent agents that can help tackle chemotherapy-resistant cancers.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateJan 17, 2020

What is an endangered species?

A survey of Americans reveals a disconnect between expert and public opinions on what constitutes an endangered species, with experts citing higher risk thresholds than the general public. The findings highlight the importance of synthesizing facts and values in decision-making, particularly when it comes to biodiversity protection.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateJan 17, 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.

Rich rewards: Scientists reveal ADHD medication's effect on the brain

Researchers scanned the brains of young adults with ADHD while taking methylphenidate to study its effect on the brain's reward system. The results showed that methylphenidate increased activity in the ventral striatum in response to rewards, suggesting a possible mechanism for improving focus and behavior in individuals with ADHD.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalNeuropharmacology·DateJan 17, 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.

Miniature double glazing

Researchers create a novel material with different thermal conduction properties depending on direction, combining the benefits of insulation and heat dissipation. The material's unique structure allows for efficient transfer of heat within layers while blocking it perpendicular to the layers.

SourceUniversität Bayreuth·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJan 17, 2020

Blood test for eight gene signatures can predict onset of tuberculosis

A blood test using eight gene signatures can predict the onset of tuberculosis three to six months before symptoms appear. This finding could help target antibiotics and save lives, particularly by identifying individuals at risk of developing TB disease after being infected with the bacteria.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalThe Lancet Respiratory Medicine·DateJan 17, 2020

Faking emotions at work does more harm than good

Researchers found that deep acting, trying to align feelings with interactions, leads to higher support from co-workers and progress on work goals. On the other hand, regulators who display both surface and deep acting experience physical and mental strain.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalJournal of Applied Psychology·DateJan 17, 2020

Chemists have managed to stabilize the 'capricious' phosphorus

Researchers have developed a new strategy to improve the stability of black phosphorus, a promising material for optoelectronics. The most effective mechanism of fluorination has been revealed, resulting in increased stability and high antioxidative ability.

SourceSiberian Federal University·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·DateJan 17, 2020

Here and gone: Outbound comets are likely of alien origin

Astronomers analyzed two outbound comets and found their paths align with an interstellar origin scenario. The results suggest that these comets likely came from outside the Solar System, improving our understanding of the outer Solar System's origins.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJan 17, 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.

Human fetal lungs harbor a microbiome signature

Researchers found that human fetal lung microbiomes show changes in diversity during fetal development, with some taxonomic overlap between the placental and lung microbiomes. The study suggests that maternal-fetal microbial DNA transfer may play a role in normal lung and immune system development.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateJan 17, 2020

Chemists allow boron atoms to migrate

Researchers developed a method to retain boron units during C-C couplings, expanding the range of industrial boron compounds. The new process enables sequential incorporation of building blocks and potential future use in pharmaceutical production.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalChem·DateJan 17, 2020

New dog, old tricks? Stray dogs can understand human cues

A new study reveals that untrained stray dogs can successfully follow pointing gestures to a specific location, indicating an innate understanding of complex gestures. The results suggest that dogs may have an innate ability to understand certain human cues, transcending training.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateJan 17, 2020

Internet use reduces study skills in university students

Research at Swansea University and the University of Milan found that students with high levels of internet addiction are less motivated to engage in studies, more anxious about tests, and experience increased loneliness. This excessive internet use impairs study skills and motivation.

SourceSwansea University·JournalJournal of Computer Assisted Learning·DateJan 17, 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.

Programmable nests for cells

Researchers have developed novel nanocomposites of DNA, silica particles, and carbon nanotubes that can be tailored to various applications. These composites enable the creation of environments suitable for human stem cells to settle down and develop further.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 17, 2020

Study: Neuron found in mice could have implications for effective diet drugs

Researchers found a neuron in mice that can suppress appetite without causing nausea, potentially leading to new treatment options for obesity. The study discovered that activating this CALCR neuron increases food intake and contributes to obesity, while deactivating it decreases food intake and body weight.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalCell Metabolism·DateJan 17, 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.

Study traces evolution of acoustic communication

A study tracing acoustic communication across land-living vertebrates reveals that the ability to vocalize dates back to 350 million years ago. The researchers found that this trait is associated with a nocturnal lifestyle, which provides an advantage for sound-based communication.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 17, 2020

Rethinking interactions with mental health patients

A study of clinical interviews between psychiatrists and inpatients found that patients with thought disorder can communicate productively with their doctors. Psychiatrists use non-confrontational approaches, open-ended questions, and transactional techniques to build respectful relationships and achieve shared understanding.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalAustralasian Psychiatry·DateJan 17, 2020

Violence and adversity in early life can alter the brain

A new study found that childhood violence exposure and social deprivation can alter white matter connectivity between the amygdala and prefrontal cortex, leading to a heightened response to threats. Social support acts as a buffer, reducing the negative effects of early-life stress.

SourceAmerican College of Neuropsychopharmacology·DateJan 17, 2020

Transformational innovation needed to reach global forest restoration goals

The U.N. and international organizations have set ambitious forest restoration targets, but data shows that many countries in the global South are struggling to meet their commitments. Local communities' involvement is crucial for success, but current efforts often lack this essential element.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Baltimore County·JournalConservation Letters·DateJan 17, 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.

Researchers find that cookies increase ad revenue for online publishers

A study published in Marketing Science found that cookies increase ad revenue for online publishers, with opt-out users generating 52% less revenue. The study also discovered a privacy paradox, where consumers' stated preferences overstate their actual behavior, and identified demographic patterns among opt-out users.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalMarketing Science·DateJan 17, 2020

Cheap drug may alleviate treatment-resistance in leukemia

Researchers discovered three substances that reduce SAMHD1's ability to break down cytarabine, a common AML treatment. The combination of standard AML-treatment with hydroxyurea has shown to prolong median survival in mice and human blood cells.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalEMBO Molecular Medicine·DateJan 17, 2020

3D printing with applications in the pharmaceutical industry

University of Seville researchers successfully printed a 3D image using stabilised gold nanoparticles and biodegradable polymer systems. This breakthrough has significant implications for the pharmaceutical industry, particularly in the development of personalized biosensors.

SourceUniversity of Seville·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 17, 2020

Molecules move faster on a rough terrain

Researchers from Université libre de Bruxelles found that large molecules move faster near rougher surfaces at the nanometric scale, defying simulations. The team created a rough surface of aluminum and applied weak electric fields to measure molecular motion.

SourceUniversité libre de Bruxelles·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJan 17, 2020

Acid reflux drugs may have negative side effects for breast cancer survivors

Research links proton pump inhibitors to poorer concentration and memory in breast cancer patients. Cognitive problems reported by PPI users were 20-29% more severe than those in non-users. The study suggests an association between PPI use and cognitive decline in breast cancer survivors.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Cancer Survivorship·DateJan 17, 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.

Spider-Man-style robotic graspers defy gravity

Researchers created a suction unit that can grip rough surfaces, overcoming vacuum leakage limitations. The zero-pressure difference method uses a high-speed rotating water ring to maintain vacuum and achieve energy efficiency.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateJan 17, 2020

Study finds disparity in critical care deaths between non-minority and minority hospitals

A recent study published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine found a significant disparity in critical care deaths between non-minority and minority hospitals. Critically ill African American patients were more likely to experience poorer outcomes, with nearly a third treated at only 14 hospitals.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateJan 17, 2020

Psychology program for refugee children improves wellbeing

A positive psychology program, Strengths for the Journey, was evaluated in Greek refugee camps and found to improve wellbeing and optimism in refugee children, while reducing depressive symptoms. The seven-day program doubled participants' ratings of wellbeing and optimism.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalDevelopment and Psychopathology·DateJan 17, 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.

'Melting rock' models predict mechanical origins of earthquakes

Engineers at Duke University have developed a model predicting mechanical behaviors and origins of earthquakes in various rocks, providing insights into unobservable phenomena deep beneath the Earth's surface. The model accurately reproduces how friction decreases as rock speed increases, shedding light on earthquake mechanisms.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 17, 2020

The way you dance is unique, and computers can tell it's you

A recent study published in the Journal of New Music Research reveals that people's dance styles are almost always the same, regardless of music genre. The researchers used motion capture technology to analyze participants' movements and found that computers could identify individuals with an astonishing 94% accuracy.

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·JournalJournal of New Music Research·DateJan 17, 2020