Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for November 3, 2017


Scientists identify mechanism that helps us inhibit unwanted thoughts

Researchers discovered that a neurotransmitter called GABA plays a crucial role in inhibiting unwanted thoughts, particularly in individuals with disorders such as schizophrenia and anxiety. The study found that higher GABA concentrations in the hippocampus are associated with better thought suppression abilities.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 3, 2017

A new method to evaluate overall performance of a climate model

A new multivariable integrated evaluation (MVIE) method provides a comprehensive and quantitative evaluation of climate model performance. The method includes three levels of statistical metrics, offering an integrated evaluation of model performance in simulating multiple fields.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalGeoscientific Model Development·DateNov 3, 2017

Inexplicable spasms can now be explained with hormones

Researchers at Aarhus University have found a hormonal link to unexplained seizures in women, revealing a biological cause for the previously psychologically attributed condition. The study measured hormone levels in patients with psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES) and found lower neuropeptide Y levels, associated with stress re...

SourceAarhus University·JournalStress·DateNov 3, 2017
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.

Biomarkers may provide early warning of lung problems in 9/11 firefighters

Researchers found that elevated blood eosinophil and neutrophil concentrations were associated with accelerated lung function decline and airflow obstruction. These biomarkers may serve as an early warning system for 9/11 firefighters at risk of developing severe lung problems.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAnnals of the American Thoracic Society·DateNov 3, 2017

Can environmental toxins disrupt the biological 'clock'?

A study found that exposure to environmental toxins can suppress the circadian clock in Daphnia plankton, leading to a loss of daily oscillations. This disruption has significant implications for human health, potentially linking environmental toxins to chronic inflammation and disorders like cancer, diabetes, and obesity.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalEcology and Evolution·DateNov 3, 2017

Obesity increases incidence, severity, costs of knee dislocations

A study of over 19,000 knee dislocation cases found obesity increases complications and costs of care. Obese patients are more likely to experience vascular injury, which can lead to amputation if left untreated. Hospital stays for obese patients with vascular injury were 15.3 days, costing $131,478 on average.

SourceBrown University·JournalJournal of Orthopaedic Trauma·DateNov 3, 2017
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.

Insomnia linked with early death and kidney dysfunction

A study of over 900,000 US veterans found chronic insomnia to be associated with increased risks of early death, rapid kidney function decline, and kidney failure. The study suggests that attention to proper management of chronic insomnia could have long-ranging positive effects on overall health.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·DateNov 3, 2017

RUDN chemists have discovered a new formation mechanism of anti-cancer substances

RUDN University scientists have discovered a new formation mechanism for anti-cancer substances, which can be used to synthesize organophosphorus compounds with specified properties. The researchers found that the reaction does not proceed according to the previously thought Michaelis-Arbuzov reaction mechanism, but rather another way.

SourceRUDN University·JournalJournal of Organometallic Chemistry·DateNov 3, 2017

Potential new treatment for Fragile X targets one gene to affect many

Researchers at Rockefeller University have discovered a potential new treatment for Fragile X Syndrome by targeting chromatin remodeling proteins, which play a key role in the disease's symptoms. The study found that inhibiting these proteins can alleviate symptoms and improve neuronal function.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalCell·DateNov 3, 2017

USDA invests in research to improve domestic aquaculture production

The USDA has awarded grants to support the development of environmentally and economically sustainable aquaculture in the US. Researchers will focus on creating disease-resistant vaccines for key species such as catfish and trout, as well as implementing more efficient and sustainable farming practices. The goal is to foster a globally...

SourceNational Institute of Food and Agriculture·DateNov 3, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Science confirms you should stop and smell the roses

A recent study published in the Journal of Positive Psychology found that taking a moment to notice nature can increase general happiness and well-being. Researchers asked participants to document how nature they encountered made them feel, with positive effects observed even in urban environments.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalThe Journal of Positive Psychology·DateNov 3, 2017

Scratching the surface of mature monocytes...and coming up with CXCR7

A new study published in the Journal of Leukocyte Biology has identified a novel therapeutic target to reduce brain inflammation in diseases like multiple sclerosis and Parkinson's. Mature monocytes have been found to express CXCR7 receptor on their surface, which may be used to block inflammation and HIV infection in the brain.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalJournal of Leukocyte Biology·DateNov 3, 2017

Contributing author available to comment on Climate Science Special Report

The 2017 Climate Science Special Report details past, current and projected changes to the climate, including increased atmospheric and ocean temperatures, melting glaciers, and rising sea levels. Alaska climatologist John Walsh is a contributing author and can provide insights on recent U.S. climate change in the global context.

SourceUniversity of Alaska Fairbanks·DateNov 3, 2017
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.

Brain's alertness circuitry conserved through evolution

Researchers have discovered brain circuitry essential for alertness and brain states in zebra fish and mice, suggesting the human brain is likely similarly wired. The study used a molecular method to identify six suspect circuits composed of distinct populations of neurons that modulate neuronal activity.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Mental Health·JournalCell·DateNov 3, 2017

NASA sees Damrey strengthen into a typhoon

Typhoon Damrey strengthened as it approached Vietnam with coldest cloud tops reaching minus 63 degrees Fahrenheit, indicating strong storms capable of generating heavy rainfall. The storm's maximum sustained winds were near 75 knots, and the Joint Typhoon Warning Center expects strengthening before weakening from land interaction.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 3, 2017

University of Louisville lab helps discover new disease that causes kidney failure

Researchers at the University of Louisville discovered a new autoimmune disease that causes kidney failure, dubbed anti-brush border antibody (ABBA) disease. The disease was identified after analyzing biopsied kidney tissue from patients with acute kidney injury, and it affects the nephrons' brush borders by coating them with antibodies.

SourceUniversity of Louisville·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateNov 3, 2017

Pitt study provides clues to body's defense against common oral ailment

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine have identified the key player in the immune system's defense against Candida albicans, a fungus that causes oral thrush. The study reveals that a fungal toxin called Candidalysin plays a crucial role in triggering an immune response to prevent infection.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalScience Immunology·DateNov 3, 2017
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.

Horses can read our body language even when they don't know us

A study published in Animal Cognition found that horses prefer to approach humans with submissive body postures over dominant ones. This preference is thought to be an instinctual understanding of larger vs. smaller postures, as seen in evolutionary communication.

SourceUniversity of Sussex·JournalAnimal Cognition·DateNov 3, 2017

Digger wasps and their chemistry

Digger wasps have species-specific hydrocarbon profiles that vary according to their prey and brood-care strategy. Beetle-hunting digger wasps have more diversified profiles due to reduced need for prey preservation. The unique films are also used for defense against parasites.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalEvolution·DateNov 3, 2017

What do piranhas and goldfish have in common?

A recent study published in Systematic Biology reveals that piranhas and goldfish are more closely related to catfishes than previously thought. The researchers used ultraconserved elements to reconstruct a Tree of Life for Ostariophysi fishes, revealing surprising relationships among the Characiformes order.

SourceLouisiana State University·JournalSystematic Biology·DateNov 3, 2017
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.

Study shows need for adaptive powered knee prosthesis to assist amputees

Researchers at NC State University found that amputees using powered knee prostheses faced difficulties when carrying loads, but load-adaptive settings reduced exertion and improved performance. The study highlights the need for more real-world testing in prosthetics research to expand device utility.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 3, 2017

Zooming in on protein teamwork

Researchers at Goethe University Frankfurt have developed a new super-resolution optical microscopy technique that makes dimerization of membrane receptors visible. The study reveals ligand-specific receptor dimerization and improves our understanding of the decision between cell life or death.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalScience Signaling·DateNov 3, 2017
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.

Sandia develops optical diagnostic to help improve fuel economy while reducing emissions

Researchers at Sandia National Laboratories have developed an optical diagnostic that can quantify the formation of soot in combusting fuel sprays, enabling engine developers to design advanced combustion strategies for cleaner engines. The device uses a custom engineered diffuser to emit light rays with the same brightness over a spec...

SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·JournalApplied Optics·DateNov 3, 2017

Getting the world to listen

Researchers can increase their work's impact by using visual storytelling and developing a media product following a Four Phase Media Development Model. This model involves four steps: scoping, development, release, and review to ensure success.

SourceDe Gruyter·JournalOpen Information Science·DateNov 3, 2017

In pursuit of a universal flu vaccine

A study suggests that targeting the 'stalk' of the hemagglutinin protein, which remains relatively constant across flu strains, could provide broad protection against seasonal and pandemic strains. However, the results also show that the stalk can mutate in response to immune pressure.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 3, 2017
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.

Return of the comet: 96P spotted by ESA, NASA satellites

The ESA and NASA's SOHO mission recently observed comet 96P in two separate sessions, offering valuable insights into its composition and interactions with the solar wind. By combining polarization measurements from both missions, scientists can gain a better understanding of the comet's tail particles.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 3, 2017

Chemists have created compounds that can treat glaucoma

Researchers from RUDN University designed new compounds that selectively inhibit human carbonic anhydrase, reducing intraocular pressure and potentially treating glaucoma. The study's findings suggest a promising approach for developing new antiglaucoma drugs by modifying the compound's molecular periphery.

SourceRUDN University·JournalBioorganic Chemistry·DateNov 3, 2017

Rise of populism affects wildlife management in US

A cultural backlash from US populism limits opportunities for state fish and wildlife agencies to adapt to changing social values. Traditionalist values are associated with lower trust in wildlife agencies, while mutualist values support restrictions on humans.

SourceColorado State University·JournalBiological Conservation·DateNov 3, 2017
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.

Livestock-associated MRSA found among MRSA from humans

The ECDC survey found a significant increase in Livestock-associated MRSA detections in humans across the EU/EEA since 2007. LA-MRSA poses a zoonotic risk, particularly for those working with livestock, and its spread is of concern due to lack of systematic surveillance.

SourceEuropean Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC)·JournalEurosurveillance·DateNov 3, 2017

Electron microscopy uncovers unexpected connections in fruit fly brain

Researchers have discovered new neural connections in a critical brain region of the fruit fly, challenging existing maps and highlighting the need for detailed brain mapping. High-resolution electron microscopy has revealed these unexpected synapses, which may be crucial for learning and memory.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalNature·DateNov 3, 2017

Job numbers reflect rising inclusion of Americans with disabilities

The National Trends in Disability Employment - Monthly Update shows a 9.3% increase in employment-to-population ratio for working-age people with disabilities, outpacing those without disabilities. Effective practices and processes for inclusion of people with disabilities in the workplace are identified as key factors.

SourceKessler Foundation·DateNov 3, 2017
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.

Nighttime blood pressure may predict risk of kidney failure in children

A recent study found that children with high blood pressure at night experienced a faster time to kidney failure than those with normal blood pressure. The study also showed that patients with high blood pressure during both day and night had an even more rapid decline, highlighting the importance of nighttime blood pressure control in...

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·DateNov 3, 2017

CALET makes first direct measurements of high energy electrons in space

The CALET experiment has successfully measured the cosmic-ray electron spectrum up to 3 TeV, providing insight into the origin and acceleration of cosmic rays. The findings suggest the presence of nearby astrophysical sources, such as pulsars or dark matter annihilation.

SourceLouisiana State University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateNov 3, 2017
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.

ALMA discovers cold dust around nearest star

The ALMA discovery reveals two dust belts surrounding Proxima Centauri, one extending four hundred million kilometres from the star and another even farther out. These findings suggest a complex planetary system with multiple planets and potentially offer insights into the formation of the Earth.

SourceESO·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateNov 3, 2017

Study refutes using anti-malaria drug to treat diabetes

A recent study from UC Davis researchers refutes the use of an anti-malaria drug to create new insulin-producing cells for Type 1 diabetes treatment. The findings highlight the crucial need for reproducibility in scientific research, contradicting a previous report that sparked excitement in the field.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalCell Metabolism·DateNov 3, 2017

Vitamin D may be key for pregnant women with polycystic ovary syndrome

A new study led by researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine found that vitamin D deficiency may be a key factor for pregnant women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) getting pregnant. The research revealed that women with PCOS who were vitamin D deficient had a 40% lower chance of achieving a pregnancy compar...

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·DateNov 3, 2017
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Crystals in a pink X-ray beam

A new experimental setup allows for serial crystallography using broad-spectrum X-rays at synchrotron sources, enabling the study of proteins with smaller samples and shorter exposure times. This method reduces unwanted scattered radiation, making it possible to determine protein structures with high precision.

SourceDeutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 3, 2017

Probability calculations -- even babies can master it

Researchers found that babies prefer to look at the likely option when it is easier to distinguish, but not when the difference is smaller. Six-month-old babies can also estimate which color makes up the majority of balls and choose accordingly.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences·JournalChild Development·DateNov 3, 2017

Synthetic material acts like an insect cloaking device

Researchers have developed a synthetic material that can absorb light from all directions, making it suitable for antireflective coatings. This material is similar to the brochosomes used by leaf hopper insects to blend in with their backgrounds, allowing them to hide from predators.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 3, 2017
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Agricultural productivity drove Euro-American settlement of Utah

Researchers applied an ecological model to explain historical settlement patterns in Utah, finding that agricultural suitability drove colonization. The study's results illustrate why populations are distributed across the state and provide insights into the impact of early settlers' decisions on modern-day Utah.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalAmerican Antiquity·DateNov 3, 2017

Protecting the wild: Baylor professor helps to minimize recreation disturbance to wildlife

A Baylor University professor and his team have developed a method to measure recreation disturbance across large landscapes, enabling better understanding of its impact on wildlife. The study aims to provide recreation managers with a tool to mitigate negative effects on wildlife while allowing for responsible recreation use.

SourceBaylor University·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateNov 3, 2017