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Science News for January 6, 2020


Scientists discover the mechanism of DNA high-order structure formation

Researchers have uncovered how histone chaperones use chemical energy to assemble chromatin, a critical process in gene expression regulation. The discovery sheds light on the misregulation of chromatin structures and their role in developmental disorders and cancers.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 6, 2020

Carbon dioxide in early atmosphere

A study of 2.7 billion-year-old micrometeorites reveals that the early atmosphere likely contained between 25-50% CO2, leading to a cooler climate with evidence of glaciation. This finding suggests lower nitrogen levels in the ancient atmosphere, allowing for a modest greenhouse effect.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 6, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Power dressing

Researchers at KAUST have developed a stretchy and self-healing thermoelectric material that can generate electricity using body heat. The material has been shown to be robust enough to withstand daily stress and strain, making it a promising candidate for powering wearable technologies.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateJan 6, 2020

Researchers united on international road map to insect recovery

Researchers from over 70 countries develop a comprehensive road map to address the pressing issue of declining insect populations, driven by human-induced stress factors such as habitat loss and climate change. The plan outlines immediate, mid-term, and long-term actions to prioritize conservation efforts and restore ecosystems.

SourceNetherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO-KNAW)·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateJan 6, 2020

Mindfulness makes it easier to forget your fears

A new study shows that brief daily mindfulness training facilitates extinction of conditioned fear reactions, producing lasting reductions in threat-related arousal responses. Mindfulness appears to have a specific effect on extinction retention, which could improve treatment effects for anxiety and trauma-related disorders.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark Faculty of Health Sciences·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 6, 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.

A new link between fear, imitation, and antisocial behavior in children

Researchers found that young children who exhibit less fear and desire for social connection are at risk of developing callous-unemotional traits, which can lead to antisocial behavior. These traits are characterized by a lack of empathy and sensitivity to others' emotions.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalJournal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry·DateJan 6, 2020

LD Motif Finder locates ancient hidden protein patterns

A machine learning tool has identified 12 new human proteins carrying functional leucine-aspartic acid (LD) motifs, which play a significant role in cell adhesion and morphogenesis. The researchers also found that LD motif signaling evolved over 800 million years ago, possibly by co-opting ancestral interaction sequences.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalBioinformatics·DateJan 6, 2020

Formation of a huge underwater volcano offshore the Comoros

Researchers have observed processes in the upper mantle before a new submarine volcano formed off the Comoros island. The team reconstructed the partial emptying of a large magma reservoir and identified a dramatic movement of molten rocks before the eruption.

SourceGFZ GeoForschungsZentrum Potsdam, Helmholtz Centre·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJan 6, 2020

Removing body clock gene protects mice against pneumonia

Researchers have found that deleting the BMAL1 clock gene makes immune cells more effective at fighting off pneumonia-causing bacteria. The study reveals that strengthening the actin skeleton of these cells is key to their increased effectiveness.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 6, 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.

Biodiverse forests better at storing carbon for long periods, says study

A new study found that diverse natural forests with multiple tree species are more reliable and stable at absorbing and storing carbon than plantations dominated by just a few tree species. Natural forests showed higher stability of carbon capture across years, particularly in dry conditions.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateJan 6, 2020

Researchers use remote sensing to estimate nitrogen deposition in North China

The study estimated nitrogen deposition in northern China using a combination of remote sensing data and atmospheric chemical transport model simulations, revealing an average flux of 54.5 kg N per hectare. This represents 10% of the annual nitrogen application for winter wheat-summer maize rotation in the region.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAtmospheric and Oceanic Science Letters·DateJan 6, 2020

Shutdown of coal-fired plants in US saves lives and improves crop yields

A new study found that shutting down coal-fired plants in the US reduces nearby pollution, saving an estimated 26,610 lives between 2005 and 2016. The transition from coal to natural gas also improves crop yields, with a loss of 10.2 billion bushels of crops avoided.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Sustainability·DateJan 6, 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.

Exploring the 'dark side' of a single-crystal complex oxide thin film

A team of scientists has discovered new details about a type of thin film being explored for advanced microelectronics. The research reveals that the material's local static properties remain intact when transferred from one substrate to another, making it promising for future complex oxide microelectronics.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJan 6, 2020

Study shows animal life thriving around Fukushima

Researchers have found that wildlife populations are abundant in areas void of human life near the Fukushima nuclear accident zone. Over 20 species were documented, including wild boar and Japanese macaques, in zones with varying levels of radiation contamination.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateJan 6, 2020

Moving domain walls induce losses in superconductor/ferromagnet hybrid systems

Researchers from the University of Jyväskylæ have discovered that moving domain walls in superconducting devices generate voltage, causing losses. This finding has significant implications for magnetic racetrack memory applications, which require low current resistance.

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJan 6, 2020

Scientists develop new method to detect oxygen on exoplanets

Researchers at UC Riverside have developed a technique to detect oxygen in exoplanet atmospheres, which may indicate the presence of life. The method uses NASA's James Webb Space Telescope to identify a strong signal produced by oxygen molecules when they collide.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Astronomy·DateJan 6, 2020

Genes controlling mycorrhizal colonization discovered in soybean

New research from the University of Illinois has discovered genes controlling mycorrhizal colonization in soybeans. The study found that different soybean genotypes have varying levels of root colonization by a common mycorrhizal fungus.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalTheoretical and Applied Genetics·DateJan 6, 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.

Glowing material remembers where it was pressed

Researchers developed a mechanoluminescent material that can visualize pressure application locations for up to three days. The material uses defects in its structure to store energy, which is released as light when pressure is applied or infrared radiation is used.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateJan 6, 2020

Sea-level rise and land subsidence in delta

Researchers analyzed 101 monthly stream and tide gauge records to estimate variations in relative water level in the Ganges-Brahmaputra-Meghna delta from 1968 to 2012. The study found RWL increased by approximately 3mm/year, similar to global mean sea-level increase, leading to estimated maximum land subsidence rates of 1-7mm/year.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 6, 2020

Grouper populations and conservation actions

A study analyzing data from 2005 to 2018 found that targeted seasonal and spatial closures can lead to successful population recovery of Nassau grouper in the Cayman Islands. By the end of 2018, both populations had tripled in size, highlighting the effectiveness of adaptive conservation actions.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 6, 2020

Universal experiences associated with music

A study finds that music samples evoke similar feelings in both Chinese and US participants, suggesting that specific emotions are more universal than broader evaluations. The research suggests that cultural differences may not be as significant in subjective experiences associated with music.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 6, 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.

Having a baby may cost some families $4,500 out-of-pocket

A new study found that out-of-pocket health care spending for maternity care increased significantly between 2008 and 2015, with 98% of women paying some costs. The Affordable Care Act requires full coverage of preventive services but leaves room for plans to impose co-pays, deductibles, and cost-sharing.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalHealth Affairs·DateJan 6, 2020

Plasticizers may contribute to motor control problems in girls

A longitudinal study of 209 New York City women and their offspring found a decrease in fine-motor functions among girls following prenatal exposure to specific phthalates. The analysis identified three phthalates most linked to the deficits: mono-butyl phthalate, mono-benzyl phthalate, and mono-isobutyl phthalate.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalEnvironment International·DateJan 6, 2020

Sublimation, not melting: Graphene surprises researchers again

Researchers used computer modeling to refine graphite's melting curve, finding it actually undergoes sublimation. Graphene was found to 'melt' into a gaseous state, enabling better understanding of phase transitions in low-dimensional materials.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalCarbon·DateJan 6, 2020

Jaguars could prevent a not-so-great American biotic exchange

Researchers found that coyotes and crab-eating foxes are co-occurring in eastern Panama due to deforestation along the Mesoamerican Biological Corridor. Jaguars and other tropical forest predators may prevent coyotes from moving further south by maintaining their habitats.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalJournal of Mammalogy·DateJan 6, 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.

Commercial weight management groups could support women to manage their weight after giving birth

Women who were overweight at the start of their pregnancy benefit from attending commercial weight management groups post-pregnancy, losing around 3kgs by 12 months. The researchers argue that a larger clinical trial is needed to determine the definitive health and cost-effectiveness benefits of such programs.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalBJOG An International Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology·DateJan 6, 2020

Reducing forest isoprene emissions

Field trials show that suppressing isoprene production in poplars has no significant impact on woody biomass production. The findings suggest that isoprene emissions can be diminished without affecting productivity in temperate forest plantations.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 6, 2020

Families of children with autism face physical, mental and social burdens

Research by Rutgers University found that families caring for children with autism spectrum disorder experience high levels of emotional burnout, social isolation, and financial strain. Families with more than one caregiver tend to fare better in terms of emotional well-being.

SourceRutgers University·JournalInternational Journal of Autism & Related Disabilities·DateJan 6, 2020
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.

A fast radio burst tracked down to a nearby galaxy

Astronomers have localized a repeating fast radio burst (FRB) to a region approximately seven light years across in the Milky-Way-like galaxy, making it one of the closest yet seen. This discovery enables more detailed study and may help narrow down possible explanations for FRBs.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature·DateJan 6, 2020

Boys who are bullied online may have more risky sex

A study of US high school students found that peer victimization is associated with depression and risky sexual behaviors, including unprotected sex and substance use. Cyberbullying, in particular, predicts increased risky sexual behaviors among adolescent boys, particularly when they are depressed.

SourceDe Gruyter·JournalInternational Journal of Adolescent Medicine and Health·DateJan 6, 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.

Study links Medicaid expansion and recipients' health status

A new study published in Health Affairs found that adults in Southern states with expanded Medicaid programs experienced lower rates of physical and mental health decline compared to those without expansion. The research suggests that access to the safety net is an inadequate substitute for coverage, highlighting the need for non-expan...

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalHealth Affairs·DateJan 6, 2020

Early-life adversity and brain changes in adulthood

Research reveals that early-life deprivation is associated with reduced total brain volume and altered brain structure, even after years of environmental enrichment. This study suggests that early adversity can have lasting impacts on adult brain development.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 6, 2020

Ooh là là! Music evokes 13 key emotions. Scientists have mapped them

A study of over 2,500 people in the US and China identified 13 universal emotional responses to music, including amusement, joy, and relaxation. The research provides a framework for understanding how music evokes emotions across cultures and has potential applications in psychology, therapy, and music streaming services.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 6, 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.

Processed foods highly correlated with obesity epidemic in the US

A review article published by George Washington University researcher Leigh A. Frame found a strong correlation between processed food consumption and the rising obesity epidemic in the US. The study suggests that limiting ultra-processed foods and increasing whole grain, fruit, and vegetable intake can help combat weight gain.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalCurrent Treatment Options in Gastroenterology·DateJan 6, 2020

Study finds 80% of medical students feel low sense of personal achievement

A new study finds that 80% of medical students experience a low sense of personal achievement, while 17% report high levels of depersonalization. The study's lead author attributes this to the unique stresses and pressures of each year of medical school.

SourceAmerican Osteopathic Association·JournalThe Journal of the American Osteopathic Association·DateJan 6, 2020

NASA's Hubble surveys gigantic galaxy

The gigantic spiral galaxy UGC 2885 is 2.5 times wider than the Milky Way and contains 10 times as many stars, with modest ongoing star birth at half the rate of our galaxy.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 6, 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.

A better estimate of water-level rise in the Ganges delta

Scientists provided reliable regional estimates of land subsidence and water-level rise in the Ganges-Brahmaputra-Meghna delta, projecting 85-140cm rise by 2100. The delta's 200 million inhabitants face significant flooding risks due to climate change, intense monsoon rainfall, rising sea levels, and land subsidence.

SourceCNRS·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 6, 2020

NASA finds heavy rain potential in Tropical Cyclone Blake

Tropical Cyclone Blake has a high potential for creating heavy rain due to its cloud top temperatures being as cold as -81 degrees Fahrenheit. The storm is currently located north of Western Australia and is forecasted to make landfall east of Port Hedland within the next 24 hours.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 6, 2020

Laser pulse creates frequency doubling in amorphous dielectric material

Researchers created excited electrons that briefly doubled the frequency of a beam as it bounced off an amorphous TiO2 slab. This breakthrough widens the range of optical materials useful for micro- and nanoscale optoelectronic applications, enabling new options for creating second-order nonlinear effects.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJan 6, 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.

Sleep difficulties in children with Autism caused by shallower brain waves -- Ben-Gurion U.

Researchers at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev found that children with autism have trouble entering deep sleep and exhibit shallow brain waves, leading to severe sleep disturbances. The study suggests that increasing daytime physical activity, behavioral therapies, and pharmacological alternatives may help generate deeper sleep.

SourceAmerican Associates, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalSLEEP·DateJan 6, 2020

Young women still may be getting unnecessary pelvic exams

A new study by UCSF and CDC estimates that millions of young women in the US are undergoing medically unnecessary pelvic exams and Pap tests. The exams can lead to false positives, over-treatment, anxiety, and unnecessary cost.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJan 6, 2020

Blood pressure control for people aged 80 and older: What's the right target?

A study found that intensive blood pressure control in people aged 80 and older reduces the risk of heart attacks, stroke, and mild cognitive impairment, but increases the risk of declines in kidney function. Benefits were highest in those with higher cognitive performance.

SourceAmerican Geriatrics Society·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateJan 6, 2020

Polluted wastewater in the forecast? Try a solar umbrella

Researchers at Berkeley Lab demonstrate a 'photo-thermal' solar umbrella that can double evaporation rates in polluted wastewater, reducing the environmental impact of settling ponds. The device uses mid-infrared light to absorb and retain heat, enhancing evaporation rates by more than 100%.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Sustainability·DateJan 6, 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.

Some genetic sequencing fail to analyze large segments of DNA

A recent study found that clinical whole exome sequencing at major commercial labs inadequately analyzes more than a quarter of genes, affecting the accuracy of genetic disorder diagnoses. The reanalysis revealed stark inconsistencies in gene coverage across different labs, with some testing only 34% of genes.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalClinical Chemistry·DateJan 6, 2020

Well-being and perceptions of social status

Young people's ratings of their family's social status correlate with crime conviction rates, employment, education, and mental health. By age 18, twins from lower-status families are more likely to experience poor outcomes.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 6, 2020

Wearable AC

Researchers create breathable and waterproof device using passive cooling to deliver personal air conditioning, with potential applications in healthcare and sustainable fashion. The wearable AC can cool the human body by up to 11 degrees Fahrenheit during the day.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 6, 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.

2017 San Diego wildfire increased pediatric ER visits for breathing problems

A small wildfire in San Diego County in 2017 resulted in a significant increase in children visiting the emergency room for breathing problems, according to new research. The study found that children under the age of 12 were more likely to develop breathing issues leading to an ER visit.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAnnals of the American Thoracic Society·DateJan 6, 2020

Severe childhood deprivation has longstanding impacts on brain size in adulthood

Researchers found that Romanian adoptees who experienced institutional deprivation as children had smaller brains (8.6% smaller) compared to English adoptees. The study also showed a correlation between deprivation and lower IQ and ADHD symptoms, suggesting brain changes may play a mediating role.

SourceKing's College London·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 6, 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.

New research may lead to increased use of available hearts for transplant

A new study published in Annals of Thoracic Surgery found that many 'high-risk' donor hearts can be transplanted with similar survival rates as 'low-risk' donor hearts. The researchers, led by Dr. David Morales, used a risk-based matching system to match donors with recipients and found that the results were promising.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·DateJan 6, 2020

Vaping lung injury symptoms have been reported online for at least seven years

Researchers analyzed online forum data from 2008-2015 to find health problems associated with e-cigarettes existed before the 2019 VAPI outbreak. The study suggests many more users may have serious symptoms, and cases similar to those in the current epidemic have likely existed previously.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·DateJan 6, 2020

Finding a new way to fight late-stage sepsis

Scientists at Ohio State University have created a treatment for late-stage sepsis using nanotechnology to transform donated immune cells into a powerful antibacterial drug. The therapy demonstrated significant improvements in survival rates and bacteria clearance in mouse models of sepsis.

SourceOhio State University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJan 6, 2020

Specifying irrigation needs for container-grown plants

Researchers found that using a leaching fraction test can justify the amount of irrigation applied and provide a way to monitor irrigation efficiency. The study also showed that small daily adjustments to evapotranspiration-based scheduling programs are not beneficial for saving water compared to adjustments made every 1 to 3 weeks.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateJan 6, 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.

Surprise! TESS shows ancient north star undergoes eclipses

Astronomers using TESS data have discovered that Alpha Draconis, a well-studied binary star system, regularly undergoes eclipses. The brief eclipses last only six hours and provide an opportunity to measure the masses and sizes of both stars with high accuracy.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 6, 2020

Story tips: Weather days, grid balance and scaling reactors

Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory developed a computer simulation to compare energy use on similar weather days, helping utility companies and homeowners determine potential energy cost savings. The team also created a geothermal energy storage system that reduces peak electricity demand up to 37% in homes while balancing gr...

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalApplied Thermal Engineering·DateJan 6, 2020

Collaborative conservation approach for endangered reef fish yields dramatic results

A collaborative conservation approach involving government agencies, researchers, and nonprofits has led to a significant recovery of Nassau Grouper populations in the Cayman Islands. The population increased by nearly threefold over 10 years, with rapid growth due to an increase in new, younger fish joining the aggregation.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 6, 2020

Land-use history and biodiversity

A study examining 220,000 records of land use in western France found that conversion to crop production has long-lasting impacts on biodiversity. Functional diversity was relatively high in areas with old, permanent grasslands, highlighting the importance of retaining these sanctuaries.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 6, 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.

Poplar genetically modified not to harm air quality grow as well as non-modified trees

Research collaboration discovers genetically modified poplar trees can grow and produce biomass without emitting harmful isoprene. The modification allows trees to adjust to climate stress through natural seasonal cycles, retaining their growth potential. This breakthrough could lead to more sustainable forest plantations.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 6, 2020

Don't wait to get concussion care; early treatment may mean faster recovery

A new study published in JAMA Neurology suggests that early clinical treatment for concussions can significantly reduce recovery time. Athletes who received treatment within the first week of their injury recovered faster than those who delayed care, with longer recovery times reported after eight days to three weeks post-injury.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateJan 6, 2020

Step toward 'ink' development for 3-D printing a bioprosthetic ovary

Researchers have identified the location of structural proteins in a pig ovary, paving the way for 3D printing an artificial ovary that can support eggs and hormone-producing cells. The technology has huge potential for girls who undergo fertility-damaging cancer treatments.

SourceAnn & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 6, 2020

Epilepsy study shows link between brain activity and memory

A new study by Cedars-Sinai researchers found that abnormal electrical pulses from specific brain cells cause temporary memory disruptions in epilepsy patients. The study's findings could lead to better treatments for cognitive impairment in epilepsy patients, with the potential to improve their quality of life.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·DateJan 6, 2020
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Gene therapy shown to offer long-term benefits for people with Haemophilia A

A breakthrough gene therapy treatment has been shown to offer long-term benefits for people with Haemophilia A, transforming the lives of 13 UK patients. The treatment resulted in a substantial fall in bleeding rates three years after treatment, with none requiring regular factor VIII injections.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJan 6, 2020

Maximizing bike-share ridership: New research says it's all about location

A new study found that nearly 80% of bike-share usage comes from areas within 1,000 feet of stations, and a 10% increase in bike availability increases ridership by more than 12%. Increasing bike availability is key to maximizing bike-share ridership.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalManagement Science·DateJan 6, 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.

Study suggests antiretroviral therapy does not restore disease immunity

Researchers found that ART may not restore immune protection from childhood vaccinations and infections prior to HIV infection. This could leave patients susceptible to chronic diseases and inflammation, potentially shortening their lifespan.

SourceSUNY Downstate Health Science University·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateJan 6, 2020

Cancer drugs could potentially treat COPD, Sheffield research finds

Researchers at the University of Sheffield have identified a class of cancer drugs that accelerate neutrophil cell death and promote healing in the lungs. This breakthrough could lead to the development of effective treatments for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which affects millions worldwide.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·DateJan 6, 2020

Antibodies gather and form a circle for defensive attack

A team of researchers used atomic force microscopy to study the dynamic assembly of antibodies against the self-molecule GM1. The autoantibodies form a hexameric ring structure on the membrane, serving as a landing place for complement proteins. This process is crucial in Guillain-Barr’ syndrome, an autoimmune disorder.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences·DateJan 6, 2020

Bioinspired sonar reflectors

Researchers have developed bioinspired shapes that serve as acoustically conspicuous guideposts for sonar-guided autonomous vehicles. These bioinspired sonar reflectors were tested in experiments and showed promising results, enabling robots to navigate through new environments with improved accuracy.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 6, 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.

Clemson mathematician helps deepen understanding of Earth's mysterious mantle

A new framework for integrated geodynamic models is being developed by a team of researchers, including Clemson mathematician Timo Heister. The Advanced Solver for Problems in Earth's Convection (ASPECT) software will simulate processes in the Earth's mantle, providing insights into geological events and tectonic plate movements.

SourceClemson University·DateJan 6, 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.

Nerve stimulation may benefit women with fibromyalgia

A recent clinical trial found that nerve stimulation via TENS significantly improved movement-related pain and fatigue in women with fibromyalgia. The treatment, given along with standard treatments, offers a non-invasive self-management option for chronic pain management.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatology·DateJan 6, 2020

Half of women with heart failure get the wrong treatment

Half of women with heart failure do not receive adequate treatment due to the underlying cause being unrelated to a heart attack, leading to progressive stiffening of the heart. Obesity and high blood pressure are significant risk factors for this type of heart failure in women.

SourceThe University of Bergen·JournalNature Medicine·DateJan 6, 2020

JUUL delivers substantially more nicotine than previous generation e-cigs and cigarettes

A new study by UCSF researchers found that JUUL delivers significantly higher levels of nicotine to the bloodstream compared to previous-generation e-cigarettes and cigarettes. The study also revealed that JUUL impairs blood vessel function similarly to cigarette smoke, which can have severe cardiovascular consequences.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalTobacco Regulatory Science·DateJan 6, 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.

New study unravels the complexity of childhood obesity

Researchers examined how children's psychological characteristics interact with their parents' characteristics and family dynamics to affect nutrition intervention outcomes. The study found a significant impact of strong family dynamics on improved nutritional interventions, while weak family dynamics led to minimal changes.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalNature·DateJan 6, 2020

False negatives: Delayed Zika effects in babies who appeared normal at birth

Colombian infants exposed to Zika virus in the womb showed neurodevelopmental delays despite having normal brain imaging and head circumference at birth. The study found a link between subtle brain injuries and impaired neuromotor development in Zika-exposed children, emphasizing the need for long-term follow-up.

SourceChildren's National Hospital·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateJan 6, 2020

Ghost worms mostly unchanged since the age of dinosaurs

A team of biologists discovered a group of annelid worms that have remained largely unchanged for 275 million years, despite their distinct genetic makeup. The Stygocapitella worms' slow evolution is attributed to their adaptation to stable environments, with changes potentially linked to population crashes or developmental constraints.

SourceNatural History Museum, University of Oslo·JournalEvolution·DateJan 6, 2020

Progesterone from an unexpected source may affect miscarriage risk

A recent study found that disruptions in progesterone signaling between maternal and embryonic tissue may be linked to recurrent miscarriage. The study discovered that migratory cells from the placenta produce enzymes necessary for progesterone production, which are lower in women with a history of recurrent miscarriages.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalJournal of Lipid Research·DateJan 6, 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.

Dogs and wolves are both good at cooperating

Researchers found that dogs and wolves perform equally well in coordinating their actions to obtain rewards, indicating shared basic cooperation abilities. The study suggests that these skills were present in the dog-wolf ancestor and have not been lost during domestication.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Geoanthropology·JournalJournal of Comparative Psychology·DateJan 6, 2020

Antarctic waters: Warmer with more acidity and less oxygen

Researchers found Antarctic waters had changed by comparing shipboard measurements with robot float data, revealing larger-than-predicted warming and oxygen loss around the Antarctic coast. The team improved climate models to better reflect environmental changes, which could impact predictions of ice melt.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJan 6, 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.

Cannabis edibles present novel health risks

Cannabis edibles take on average four hours longer to produce noticeable effects than inhaled cannabis, increasing the risk of overconsumption. Vulnerable groups, such as children, pets, older people, and youth, are at particular risk due to delayed effects and potential for accidental overconsumption.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCMAJ Open·DateJan 6, 2020