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Science News for October 31, 2017


'Tensor algebra' software speeds big-data analysis 100-fold

Researchers developed a system called Taco that generates optimized code for tensor algebra operations on sparse data, offering a 100-fold speedup over existing software. The system automatically optimizes code by tracking and discarding zero entries, reducing wasted computation.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateOct 31, 2017

Young bats learn bat 'dialects' from their nestmates

A new study shows that young bats adopt a specific 'dialect' spoken by their colonies, even when it differs from their mother tongue. Researchers used playback recordings to expose pups to different vocalizations and found they developed a dialect resembling the one they were exposed to.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateOct 31, 2017

Air pollution is associated with cancer mortality beyond lung cancer

A large-scale epidemiological study has associated certain air pollutants with increased mortality from kidney, bladder, and colorectal cancers. The study followed over 600,000 adults in the US and found that exposure to PM2.5, nitrogen dioxide, and ozone was linked to higher cancer death rates.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateOct 31, 2017

Flour power to boost food security

Researchers at the University of Queensland have identified genes that control a cell protein holding wheat grain layers together, leading to improved milling efficiency and nutritional profiles. This breakthrough could increase flour yield by up to 10% and unlock new high-yielding field wheats.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 31, 2017
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.

NASA examines the powerful US Northeast storm

The NASA GPM satellite collected detailed data on the storm's distribution and intensity of precipitation, revealing intense rain rates over 2 inches per hour. The storm's freezing level and wind gusts were also mapped, indicating heights of up to 5.6 miles and winds greater than 70 mph.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateOct 31, 2017

Orphaned elephants' social lives substantially altered by poaching

Research at Colorado State University found that orphaned female elephants have limited access to mature, dominant individuals, affecting their social integration. Social bonds with surviving adults may not compensate for lost relationships during early years following disruption.

SourceColorado State University·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 31, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

A special issue to commemorate the centenary of Duzheng Ye's birth

The Institute of Atmospheric Physics published a special issue in AAS to commemorate Duzheng Ye's life's achievements. The collection focuses on Ye's theories and their impact on modern weather forecasting, climate change research, and Tibetan Plateau meteorology.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateOct 31, 2017

Half of UK adults miss a quarter of their teeth when brushing

A new study found that half of UK adults (48%) admit to missing at least a quarter of their teeth while brushing. The survey also shows a lack of guidance on tooth brushing habits, with six in ten adults having never been shown how to brush correctly by a dentist or hygienist.

SourceThe PR Works Limited·DateOct 31, 2017

How an interest in bipolar disorder drugs led to a better understanding of leukemia

A research project that began with an interest in bipolar disorder drugs has led to a better understanding of leukemia. The study found that the protein GSK-3 affects RNA splicing, which is linked to acute myeloid leukemia. This discovery could also explain why lithium causes increased white blood cell count.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateOct 31, 2017

New toolkit reveals novel cancer genes

Researchers have identified 27 novel tumour suppressor genes that may prevent cancer formation, using a powerful statistical model on over 2000 tumours across 12 human cancer types. This discovery could pave the way for targeted cancer therapies and deepen our understanding of cancer genomics.

SourceThe Francis Crick Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 31, 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.

Prenatal exposure to BPA at low levels can affect gene expression in developing rat brain

Research from NC State University reveals that prenatal BPA exposure at levels below the current FDA safety threshold alters hormone receptor expression, synaptic transmission, and neurodevelopment in the developing rat brain. The study found sex-specific differences in sensitivity to BPA exposure, with females appearing more sensitive.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNeuroToxicology·DateOct 31, 2017

The Lancet Oncology: Major report sets out how to accelerate cancer research and care, delivering on US Cancer Moonshot initiative

The Lancet Oncology Commission recommends prioritizing key areas for US$2 billion funding to advance cancer research and treatment, focusing on prevention, targeted interventions, and patient-centered data sharing. The report aims to improve cancer care for underserved groups and reduce health disparities.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·DateOct 31, 2017
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.

Giving rookie dads the online info they really need

A Canadian study created a website tailored for men transitioning to parenthood, addressing their specific information needs. The site provides resources on parenting, relationships, work-life balance, stress management, and sleep improvement.

SourceMcGill University Health Centre·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·DateOct 31, 2017

Trends in kids' fitness not as bad as assumed

A study published in Frontiers in Pediatrics found that first-graders in one region of Germany have remained reasonably fit over the past decade. Aerobic fitness has declined only in boys, while speed and balance have improved in both sexes.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Pediatrics·DateOct 31, 2017

Young bats learn bat 'dialects' from their nestmates

Researchers found that young bats pick up specific vocalizations from their colony members, developing a unique dialect. This discovery sheds light on the evolutionary origins of language skills and raises questions about how bats adapt to new colonies.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalPLOS Biology·DateOct 31, 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.

Smoking may cause inflammatory bowel disease

A new study reveals that cigarette smoke triggers colitis, an inflammation of the colon, in mice exposed to cigarette smoke. The researchers identified CD4+ T cells and a pro-inflammatory protein as the immune cells responsible for this effect. This finding could lead to the development of new treatments for Crohn's disease.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Immunology·DateOct 31, 2017

Massage could be used to aid recovery of damaged limbs

Researchers found that massage increased muscle growth after loss and improved protein manufacture in cells, leading to faster regeneration. Additionally, non-massaged muscles showed accelerated growth, suggesting massage could benefit both injured and healthy limbs.

SourceThe Physiological Society·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·DateOct 31, 2017
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.

Humans don't use as much brainpower as we like to think

A study published in the Journal of Human Evolution found that humans do not have uniquely expensive brains, challenging a major dogma in human evolution studies. Researchers measured the cross-sectional area of cranial arteries and brain glucose uptake to compare brain costs across 22 species.

SourceDuke University·JournalJournal of Human Evolution·DateOct 31, 2017

Stay focused, if you can

A study by University of Miami researchers found that individuals with specific patterns of salience network dynamics were better able to resist tempting distractors and perform tasks. The study, published in Social Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience, sheds new light on the neural mechanisms underlying self-control and temptation res...

SourceUniversity of Miami·JournalSocial Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience·DateOct 31, 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.

Dissecting effects of 1960s anti-poverty programs on present US

Research by Stanford scholar Claire Dunning shows that 1960s anti-poverty programs like New Careers created entry-level human services jobs, predominantly taken by African-American and Latina women. These jobs were low wage and lacked career advancement opportunities.

SourceStanford University·JournalJournal of Urban History·DateOct 31, 2017
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.

New blood test developed to diagnose ovarian cancer

A new blood test has been developed to detect ovarian cancer with high accuracy, using microRNA profiling to distinguish between cancerous and benign tumors. The test shows promise in accurately predicting ovarian cancer, even when other methods fail.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·DateOct 31, 2017

Experts call for virtual European cancer institute/infrastructure

A new article proposes a virtual European Cancer Institute to combine innovative prevention and treatment strategies, achieving high survival rates in countries with well-developed healthcare systems. The initiative aims to address economic and social inequalities in less developed systems

SourceWiley·JournalMolecular Oncology·DateOct 31, 2017

Alzheimer's disease might be a 'whole body' problem

Research suggests that amyloid-beta, a toxic protein, can travel to the brain from other parts of the body, contributing to Alzheimer's disease. This discovery offers hope for new drug therapies that target the kidneys or liver to prevent the protein from reaching the brain.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateOct 31, 2017

Spicy food may curb unhealthy cravings for salt

A new study found that Chinese adults who enjoyed spicy foods ate less salt and had lower blood pressure, suggesting a potential health benefit. The study linked spice preference to brain activity in regions involved in salty taste, supporting the idea that spices can reduce salt consumption.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateOct 31, 2017

Right-handed baseball players more successful when batting left-handed

Researchers found that right-handed baseball players who bat left-handed have an advantage over those who bat and throw left-handed. This study, reanalyzing data from 1871 to 2016, suggests that throwing right-handed but batting left improves a player's likelihood of becoming a top hitter in Major League.

SourceVrije Universiteit Amsterdam·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateOct 31, 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.

Only 9 countries on track to eliminate hepatitis C

Nine countries are making progress towards eliminating hepatitis C, thanks to innovative approaches and increased funding. Brazil, Egypt, Australia, and Georgia are leading the way with mass screenings, vaccination campaigns, and risk-sharing agreements.

SourceWorld Hepatitis Alliance·DateOct 31, 2017

Lens trick doubles odds for quantum interaction

Researchers at the National University of Singapore have developed a super-resolution imaging technique that doubles the odds of successful photon interaction with atoms. This innovation has significant implications for quantum computing and metrology, as it enables stronger interactions between photons and atoms.

SourceCentre for Quantum Technologies at the National University of Singapore·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 31, 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.

Mini-microscopes reveal brain circuitry behind social behavior

Researchers used tiny microscopes on mice's heads to visualize brain activity in living mice, showing how and where instincts are shaped by learning. The results found that social experiences can influence brain responses to other mice and even lead to long-lasting changes in the brain's activity patterns.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalCell·DateOct 31, 2017

Aging has distinct and opposite effects on tendon in males and females

Researchers analyzed gene expression changes in tendon tissue of male and female subjects aged 20-24 and 54-70. The study found opposite effects on genes expressed in males and females with age, highlighting the importance of considering gender differences in treating tendon disease.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 31, 2017
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.

Lemurs are weird because Madagascar's fruit is weird

A new study reveals that Madagascar's fruit is too low in protein for lemurs to sustain themselves, prompting them to adopt a leafy diet and develop unusual behaviors like hibernation. The research sheds light on the evolution of lemurs' dietary habits and highlights their unique characteristics.

SourceField Museum·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 31, 2017

Results from the ABSORB IV trial reported at TCT 2017

The ABSORB IV trial found that biosorbable stents are non-inferior to traditional metal stents, but still require further advancements in device technology and technique. The study demonstrated a lower rate of device thrombosis with improved pre-dilatation and post-dilatation techniques.

SourceCardiovascular Research Foundation·DateOct 31, 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.

Researchers map trends in drug development

A new mapping reveals trends in G protein-coupled receptor-targeted drugs, indicating more precise effects and reduced side effects. The study also identifies potential for further research into untargeted receptors related to genetic and immune disorders.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalNature Reviews Drug Discovery·DateOct 31, 2017

Diagnostic revolution targets tuberculosis, other deadly diseases

Researchers at Arizona State University have developed new methods for detecting tuberculosis (TB), a deadly disease that kills over a billion people in the last two centuries. The new tests use nanotechnology to detect TB proteins in patient blood samples, providing rapid and accurate results.

SourceArizona State University·JournalBMC Medicine·DateOct 31, 2017

MSU biologists discovered the pathways of groups of the lophophore

Scientists from Moscow State University have discovered the evolutionary pathways of groups of invertebrates with specific tentacular apparatus - the lophophore. The study reveals that lophophorates are the closest relatives, with a common ancestral morphology.

SourceLomonosov Moscow State University·JournalBMC Evolutionary Biology·DateOct 31, 2017

Religious affiliation at the end of life is changing globally

The study analyzed global data on religious affiliation at the time of death, projecting changes until 2060. Christianity is expected to remain the most common religion, while Islam will increase in prevalence. Regional trends also emerge, with Europe's secularization and Nigeria's Muslim majority

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalScandinavian Journal of Public Health·DateOct 31, 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.

Opening the Van der Waals' sandwich

Engineers at Tohoku University created a system to measure the van der Waals' bonding force between crystal layers, increasing its strength seven times. This breakthrough enables more durable gallium selenide crystals for advanced technologies.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateOct 31, 2017

NREL research yields significant thermoelectric performance

The research demonstrates significant potential for semiconducting single-walled carbon nanotubes as primary material for efficient thermoelectric generators. The discovery enables the fabrication of devices from a single material, simplifying production and improving performance.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateOct 31, 2017

'Monster' planet discovery challenges formation theory

A giant gas giant planet, NGTS-1b, has been discovered orbiting a tiny star, defying conventional formation theories. The planet's proximity to its star and short orbital period pose significant challenges for understanding the origins of such massive worlds.

SourceRoyal Astronomical Society·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateOct 31, 2017

Study shows voting does not reduce crime

A new study published in Political Behavior suggests that voting alone does not directly reduce criminality and may not foster good citizens. The research analyzed a large-scale field experiment involving over 550,000 young adults aged 18-20 in the US, finding no correlation between voting and reduced crime rates.

SourceYale University·JournalPolitical Behavior·DateOct 31, 2017
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.

Illuminated pajamas treat newborns

Researchers developed illuminated pajamas that emit therapeutic blue light directly onto a baby's skin, improving the treatment experience and reducing discomfort. The photonic textiles, woven into satin fabric, are breathable, comfortable, and suitable for everyday wear.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalBiomedical Optics Express·DateOct 31, 2017

Newest dark matter map hints at where astrophysics must go for breakthroughs

A new cosmic picture of the universe's history shows a close agreement with previous findings, leaving little room for new physics that could reveal dark matter and dark energy. The results support the standard model of Big Bang cosmology, but scientists remain hopeful that new observations will offer clues about what lies beyond.

SourceThe Kavli Foundation·DateOct 31, 2017

Future climate change may not adversely affect seafood quality

A study by the University of Plymouth found that oysters exposed to expected future levels of ocean acidification and warming do not lose their sensory qualities. This has potentially positive implications for global food supply, as seafood represents a significant portion of animal protein intake.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·DateOct 31, 2017

Football position and length of play affect brain impact

A new study found that playing position and career duration influence brain damage in former football players, with non-speed players experiencing more localized damage. The researchers used MRI techniques to analyze brain structure and function, suggesting that position-specific helmets may be warranted.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateOct 31, 2017

US cancer drug costs increasing despite competition, new research shows

A recent study found that US cancer drug costs increased substantially after launch, with prices rising by 37% over 12 years. The research team analyzed the monthly price trajectories of 24 FDA-approved cancer drugs and discovered no correlation between price changes and market structure or competition.

SourceAmerican Associates, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateOct 31, 2017
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.

Research links locus coeruleus activity with hyperarousal in PTSD

A new study in Biological Psychiatry provides direct human evidence for a decades-old theory linking heightened arousal and reactivity in posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) to overactivity of the locus coeruleus (LC), a brain region that mediates arousal and reactivity. The study found that participants with PTSD exhibited increased ...

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateOct 31, 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.

Surveillance safe for non-cancerous breast lesion typically treated surgically

A large study of FEA lesions found that only a small percentage (2.4%) upgraded to breast cancer at surgery, while 30% were upgraded to higher-risk but non-cancerous lesions. Surveillance over surgery is recommended for women with FEA who do not have genetic mutations or are not interested in chemoprevention.

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateOct 31, 2017

How to store information in your clothes invisibly, without electronics

Researchers at the University of Washington developed a new type of smart fabric that can store digital data without electronic components. The fabric uses off-the-shelf conductive thread with magnetic properties to encode and decode data, enabling secure passcode storage and smartphone-controlled interactions.

SourceUniversity of Washington·DateOct 31, 2017

After Harvey: Scientists study changes in Galveston Bay

Researchers from the University of Houston are studying the impact of rainwater surging into Galveston Bay, estimating 34 trillion gallons fell along the Texas-Louisiana coast. They will survey the sea bottom and collect sediment samples to understand extreme event sedimentation patterns.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateOct 31, 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.

Bilingual preschoolers show stronger inhibitory control

A University of Oregon study found that bilingual preschoolers develop faster inhibitory control skills than monolingual peers. The research used a longitudinal approach to examine the effects of bilingualism on executive function development in low-income children.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalDevelopmental Science·DateOct 31, 2017

Genome scientists use UK Salmonella cases to shed light on African epidemic

Researchers have identified a different strain of Salmonella Typhimurium in the UK that is less severe and susceptible to antibiotics compared to the strain causing high levels of disease in sub-Saharan Africa. The genomic differences between the two strains may hold clues to why the African strain causes such high mortality rates.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalGenome Biology·DateOct 31, 2017

Elderly chromosomes activate genes differently than in the young

Researchers discovered that our chromosomes age along with us, affecting how our immune system renews itself. In young people, thousands of gene sites are open, while in older adults, these sites become closed, leading to decreased activity in genes and pathways critical for defending against disease.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateOct 31, 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.

Energy efficiency labeling for homes has little effect on purchase price

A Norwegian research team found that energy efficiency labeling for homes has no significant effect on purchase price. The researchers conducted a thorough analysis of home sales data before and after the labeling system was introduced in Norway in 2010. They discovered that any apparent impact of the label was likely due to other fact...

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalEnergy Policy·DateOct 31, 2017
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.

Does cutting weekend allied health services hurt patients?

A study published in PLOS Medicine found that removing weekend allied health services from hospitals had no significant effect on patients' length of stay or adverse events. In fact, having no services was associated with a 2% reduction in length of stay and a 3% decrease in adverse events.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateOct 31, 2017

NSF RAPID grant boosts CCNY's Caribbean storm study

The City College of New York has received a $174,895 NSF RAPID grant to investigate the impacts of post-hurricane land-atmosphere interactions on convective and precipitation processes in the Caribbean region. Researchers will conduct field studies in Puerto Rico to improve their understanding of storm development and intensification.

SourceCity College of New York·DateOct 31, 2017

Landmark discovery turns marathon of evolution into a sprint

A research team has discovered a technique called Accelerated Evolution that rapidly generates valuable natural products by mimicking bacterial evolution processes. This breakthrough could lead to hundreds of new compounds and revolutionize natural product drug discovery.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 31, 2017

Why do some head knocks cause more damage than others?

UNC researchers discovered that high-intensity shear shock waves amplify deep inside the brain, delivering a tenfold increase in tissue-ripping acceleration. This phenomenon may explain why some head knocks cause more harm than others.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalPhysical Review Applied·DateOct 31, 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.

Tracking mosquitoes with your cellphone

Researchers at Stanford University developed a platform called Abuzz that uses cellphone recordings to track mosquito populations and distributions. The platform aims to create the world's largest network of mosquito surveillance, enabling targeted control efforts and reducing the burden of mosquito-borne diseases.

SourceStanford University·DateOct 31, 2017

Strength exercise as vital as aerobic new research finds

A new study of over 80,000 adults found that strength-based exercise reduced the risk of premature death by 23% and cancer-related death by 31%. The research suggests that governments and public health authorities should promote strength-based guidelines to encourage long-term health and wellbeing.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalAmerican Journal of Epidemiology·DateOct 31, 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.

'Monster' planet discovery challenges formation theory

NGTS-1b, the largest planet compared to its companion star, has been discovered by an international collaboration of astronomers. The giant gas giant orbits a small star half the size of our Sun and challenges theories on planet formation.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateOct 31, 2017

Future volcanic eruptions could cause more climate disruption

A new study found that future volcanic eruptions could lead to surface cooling of up to 40% due to the oceans' decreased ability to moderate the climate impacts. The increased cooling would disrupt the water cycle, decreasing global precipitation.

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 31, 2017

More money, education only makes discrimination worse for minorities

A study by Ohio State University found that upwardly mobile blacks and Hispanics experience more racial discrimination than their socioeconomically stable peers. This discrimination may be linked to poor health outcomes among young adults of color. The research suggests that addressing poverty alone is insufficient to eradicate health ...

SourceOhio State University·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·DateOct 31, 2017
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.

Chromosome organization emerges from 1-D patterns

Using computer models, researchers analyzed epigenetic marks to predict how chromosomes fold in three dimensions. By training a neural network on these marks, they were able to identify the structural types of chromatin and validate their findings with additional data.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 31, 2017

INRS to upgrade its tomography and ultrafast dynamic imaging facilities

INRS is upgrading its research facilities to study geological reservoirs, monitor hydrocarbons around sea ice, and understand chemical bonds, thanks to a $12 million investment. The new Multidisciplinary Tomography Centre will provide access to comprehensive non-destructive analysis tools.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·DateOct 31, 2017

Aliens may be more like us than we think

A new study published in the International Journal of Astrobiology suggests that aliens could have evolved in a similar way to humans, with natural selection playing a key role. The research uses evolutionary theory to predict the biological make-up and behavior of complex alien life forms.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalInternational Journal of Astrobiology·DateOct 31, 2017
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.

SourceData is making data discoverable

SourceData provides a suite of tools to generate, validate and use figure data, making it efficient to find and reuse published results. The platform links figures to other related figures across papers and journals, creating a searchable knowledge graph.

SourceEMBO·JournalNature Methods·DateOct 31, 2017

Uncomfortable sight from an ancient reflex of the eye

A new study from Penn researchers shows that a reflexive system of the human eye also produces a conscious, visual experience that may be related to excessive light sensitivity. The findings suggest that people have brain activity and a visual experience in response to invisible light pulses that stimulate melanopsin cells.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 31, 2017

The world's shortest laser pulse

Researchers at ETH Zurich generate the world's shortest controlled laser pulse with a duration of 43 attoseconds, allowing for unprecedented time resolution in studying molecular dynamics. This breakthrough enables faster charge transfer and potentially more efficient solar cells.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalOptics Express·DateOct 31, 2017
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.

How to detect the risk of dyslexia before learning to read

A new approach to detecting dyslexia has been developed by associating auditory processing in children with their reading skills. The study found that children who had difficulty processing low-frequency sounds were more likely to have reading problems and may be at risk of developing dyslexia.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateOct 31, 2017

New app will help prevent HIV among transgender women

The Transwomen Connected app aims to cater to the physical, mental and emotional needs of transgender women. The project will build a mobile app with HIV prevention tools and resources tailored specifically with their needs in mind.

SourcePortland State University·DateOct 31, 2017