Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for August 16, 2018


Volcano eruptions at different latitudes impact sea surface temperature differently

Researchers have found that volcanic eruptions cause different impacts on sea surface temperature (SST) gradients over the equatorial Pacific, depending on their latitude. Northern and tropical eruptions lead to El Nino-like warm SST anomalies in the eastern Pacific, while southern eruptions result in weaker warming anomalies with an e...

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalJournal of Climate·DateAug 16, 2018

Lowering pH inside cells may put the brakes on cancer growth

Researchers at H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center suggest that lowering pH inside cancer cells can slow down the growth and spread of the disease. By analyzing how variations in pH affect metabolic enzymes, they identified potential therapeutic targets for breast cancer treatment.

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 16, 2018

Ancient beetle discovery gives clue to gymnosperm pollination

A new mid-Cretaceous boganiid beetle with specialized pollen feeding adaptations has been discovered, suggesting an ancient origin for beetle pollination of cycads. The fossil provides early definitive evidence for cycad-insect interactions, illuminating the history of complex entomophily in cycads.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 16, 2018
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.

New approach to fight tuberculosis, a leading cause of death worldwide

Scientists have identified nearly 200 potential drug targets for tuberculosis, a complex disease caused by bacteria made up of 4,000 genes. The research found that specific human proteins, such as CBL, can limit bacterial infections and potentially provide a new approach to combat the disease.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalMolecular Cell·DateAug 16, 2018

When sulfur disappears without trace

Researchers have developed a new synthetic route to 1,4-dicarbonyls, a class of molecules found in natural products, drug targets, and pharmaceuticals. By using sulfoxides, a type of oxidized sulfur compound, they can create multiple isomers selectively.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalScience·DateAug 16, 2018
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.

Collective clog control: What ants can teach us about traffic flow

Researchers studied ants' tunnel excavation to understand optimal traffic flow in crowded environments. They found that idleness, reversals, and uneven work distribution reduced clogs and improved performance. These strategies can be applied to improve movement in engineered systems like robot swarms.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 16, 2018

More workers working might not get more work done, ants (and robots) show

A study by Georgia Institute of Technology researchers found that 30% of ants do 70% of the work in fire ant colonies, optimizing digging without clogs. Robots programmed to mimic ant behavior outperformed their human-made counterparts, demonstrating the efficiency of unequal work distributions and reversal behaviors.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateAug 16, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Retinoic acid may improve immune response against melanoma

Researchers found that adding retinoic acid to standard-of-care treatment for melanoma can turn off myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) that resist immune treatments, leading to increased immune system activity. The study showed a safe and promising strategy to target MDSCs, which could be a useful addition to immunotherapies for ...

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalInternational Immunopharmacology·DateAug 16, 2018

New in the Hastings Center report, July-August 2018

The Hastings Center report explores advanced care directives for dementia patients, childhood obesity, and patient demands for specific healthcare providers or racial/ethnic backgrounds. Competent individuals should have control over life-sustaining treatments, while environmental factors contribute to childhood obesity.

SourceThe Hastings Center·JournalHastings Center Report·DateAug 16, 2018

Low bandwidth? Use more colors at once

Researchers at Purdue University have developed a method to produce multiple colors simultaneously on an electronic chip, enabling broader bandwidth for sensing and processing information. This breakthrough could lead to advancements in nanophotonics, bio-sensing, and imaging applications.

SourcePurdue University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 16, 2018

UTHealth-led study shows much work remains to ensure e-health record safety

A recent UTHealth-led survey revealed that only 19.3% of healthcare organizations in the US and Australia have fully implemented voluntary guidelines for safe e-health record management. The study found significant variation in adherence rates across different domains, suggesting factors such as budget constraints, personnel skill mix,...

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalJournal of the American Medical Informatics Association·DateAug 16, 2018
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.

Electrospraying a better desalinization membrane

Researchers have introduced a new method for making desalination membranes, allowing for greater control over thickness and texture. The electrospray technique produces films as thin as four nanometers with improved surface roughness, leading to better desalinization performance.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 16, 2018

NASA sees Tropical Storm Bebinca along Vietnam's coast

Tropical Storm Bebinca has cloud top temperatures as cold as minus 80 degrees Fahrenheit, producing heavy rainfall. The Joint Typhoon Warning Center forecasts a landfall just south of Hanoi late on Aug. 16 or early on Aug. 17.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 16, 2018

The Lancet Public Health: Moderate carbohydrate intake may be best for health

A new study published in The Lancet Public Health journal found that moderate carbohydrate intake is associated with the lowest risk of mortality. Diets low in carbohydrates and high in protein and fats from animal sources were linked to a higher risk of death, while those with moderate carbohydrate intake had the longest lifespan.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Public Health·DateAug 16, 2018
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Societies release updated guideline for treating adult congenital heart disease patients

The American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association released an updated guideline for managing adult congenital heart disease (ACHD) patients, incorporating new data and growing expertise. The guideline presents a new classification system that captures complexity in both anatomy and physiology.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateAug 16, 2018

Microfossils, possibly world's oldest, had biological characteristics

The 3.4 billion year old Strelley Pool microfossils had chemical characteristics similar to modern bacteria, supporting a biological origin and ranking them amongst the world's oldest microfossils. The analysis also shows that these ancient fossils have survived extreme conditions over the last 3.4 billion years.

SourceGoldschmidt Conference·JournalGeochemical Perspectives Letters·DateAug 16, 2018
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.

Previously grainy wheat genome comes into focus

The complete wheat genome is now sequenced, enabling researchers to identify genes controlling traits such as drought resistance and breed plants with higher nutritional quality. This breakthrough accelerates innovation in breeding resilient and disease-resistant crops to meet global demand for wheat.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalScience·DateAug 16, 2018

How an herbivore hijacks a nutrient uptake strategy of its host plant

The study reveals that the rootworm uses specific iron complexes formed at the root surface when benzoxazinoids bind to iron to guide itself to nutrient-rich crown roots. This allows the insect to severely damage maize plants and undermine plant breeders' efforts to control it.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology·JournalScience·DateAug 16, 2018

Men and women show surprising differences in seeing motion

Researchers found that men and women show surprising differences in perceiving motion, with men picking up on visual motion faster than women. The study suggests that the difference may be due to disrupted processes in the brain that down-regulate neural activity in males.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 16, 2018
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.

ShareBackup could keep data in the fast lane

The ShareBackup system uses fast switches and software to take over network traffic after a failure, minimizing downtime for applications. It can analyze problems, including misconfigurations, and diagnose faulty devices, helping data centers optimize their networks.

SourceRice University·DateAug 16, 2018

Children put on by robots

A study by Anna-Lisa Vollmer and colleagues found that children give into social pressure from humanoid robots, unlike adults. The research used a conformity experiment with Nao robots and investigated the impact on children's decision-making.

SourceBielefeld University·JournalScience Robotics·DateAug 16, 2018

New manufacturing technique could improve common problem in printing technology

Researchers from Binghamton University have developed a new manufacturing technique that can avoid the coffee ring effect in printing technology, resulting in improved inkjet printer quality. The technique uses electrospray to add nanoparticles to droplets, leading to more even dispersal of ink and stopping the coffee ring effect.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalLangmuir·DateAug 16, 2018
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.

Scientists discover new method of diagnosing cancer with malaria protein

Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have developed a new method to diagnose cancer at its early stages using a malaria protein. The method retrieves individual cancer cells from blood samples, catching them in greater numbers than existing methods, allowing for earlier detection and improved treatment outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 16, 2018

Physicists fight laser chaos with quantum chaos to improve laser performance

Researchers have developed a new technique using 'quantum chaos' to prevent optical filaments from forming in semiconductor lasers, leading to instabilities. The new system uses a D-shaped cavity to create a quantum chaotic landscape, disrupting the formation of self-organized structures and maintaining laser stability.

SourceImperial College London·JournalScience·DateAug 16, 2018

Scientists create antilaser for ultracold atoms condensate

Researchers created an antilaser for nonlinear Bose-Einstein condensate of ultracold atoms, demonstrating perfect absorption without reflection. The breakthrough can be used to manipulate superfluid flows and study nonlinear optical systems.

SourceITMO University·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 16, 2018
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.

Reliable point-of-care blood test can help prevent toxoplasmosis

A novel finger-prick test is 100% sensitive and specific for detecting Toxoplasma gondii infection during pregnancy. The test can rapidly inform obstetricians about the need for prompt treatment, potentially saving lives and preventing severe brain damage.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateAug 16, 2018

Super-resolution microscope reveals secrets of deadly Nipah virus

Researchers used a super-resolution microscope to observe viral assembly, finding that envelope proteins are randomly scattered on the cell membrane rather than recruited by matrix proteins. This discovery could lead to more effective vaccines for enveloped viruses like influenza and HIV.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 16, 2018

Dominant men make decisions faster

A large behavioral study shows a correlation between higher social dominance and faster decision-making in non-competitive situations. EEG measurements also reveal distinct neural signals for promptness in high-dominance men compared to low-dominance individuals.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalCerebral Cortex·DateAug 16, 2018
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.

RIT awarded NSF grant to advance high-tech computer architectures

Researchers at RIT will use photonic integrated circuit technology to improve processing speed and energy consumption of brain-inspired computing techniques. The project aims to realize high performance neural networks using light, enabling applications in autonomous systems, imaging, and cybersecurity.

SourceRochester Institute of Technology·DateAug 16, 2018

OUHSC receives $20 million grant to advance research, patient care

The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center has renewed a $20 million federal grant to further research and patient care in Oklahoma. The program, Oklahoma Shared Clinical and Translational Resources, aims to improve health outcomes by conducting clinical and translational research with patients, particularly in rural areas.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·DateAug 16, 2018

Newly identified role for inhibition in cerebellar plasticity and behavior

Researchers have identified a new role for inhibition in regulating motor learning in the cerebellum, finding that inhibitory cell class molecular layer interneurons play a key role in modulating plasticity and learning behavior. This discovery provides fundamental insights into neural computation and mechanisms underlying motor learning.

SourceMax Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience·JournalNeuron·DateAug 16, 2018

One giant leap for wheat

Scientists have produced the most comprehensive map of a wheat genome, paving the way for more resilient and nutritious varieties. The detailed findings describe over 94% of the Chinese Spring wheat genome, with benefits expected to boost wheat improvement over the next decades.

SourceRothamsted Research·JournalScience·DateAug 16, 2018
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.

Obesity, infertility and oxidative stress in mouse egg cells

Researchers found that high-fat diets suppressed a protein called TIGAR, which plays a role in meiotic spindle formation and antioxidant production. This led to increased reactive oxygen species and autophagy in oocytes, impairing development.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalMolecular & Cellular Proteomics·DateAug 16, 2018

Stretching beyond limits

Researchers design a functionally graded material to minimize the tradeoff between flexibility and strength, achieving optimal balance in both elasticity and rigidity. This technology has wide applications in various fields, including engineering, medicine, and soft robotics.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalMacromolecular Chemistry and Physics·DateAug 16, 2018

Study links mothers' pesticide levels with autism in children

A new study found an association between maternal pesticide levels and autism in children, with elevated DDE levels increasing the risk of autism by twofold. The study suggests a potential biomarker-based link between maternal exposure to insecticides and autism among offspring.

SourceAmerican Psychiatric Association·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateAug 16, 2018

How people use, and lose, preexisting biases to make decisions

A study from Columbia University neuroscientists found that the human brain employs precise logic to decision-making, allowing prior knowledge to be updated based on new evidence. Participants learned to recognize and incorporate bias in a statistically optimal manner without confirmation bias.

SourceThe Zuckerman Institute at Columbia University·JournalNeuron·DateAug 16, 2018
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.

First mouse model to mimic lung disease could speed discovery of more effective treatments

Researchers have developed a mouse model that induces scarring and damage similar to human idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, allowing for the study of new pathways and targets. The model enables the testing of drugs in more clinically relevant ways, potentially leading to more effective therapeutic options.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 16, 2018

Presenting the first fully annotated reference genome of bread wheat

The international team of researchers presents the first high-quality fully annotated reference genome sequence of bread wheat variety Chinese Spring. This advancement provides a powerful tool for accelerating the development of new wheat varieties designed to address human nutrition and crop resiliency needs.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 16, 2018

Sprawling galaxy cluster found hiding in plain sight

The discovery reveals hundreds of individual galaxies in the cluster, which surrounds an extremely active supermassive black hole at the center. The quasar's light has obscured these galaxies, making them invisible to astronomers.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateAug 16, 2018

Taking a closer look at unevenly charged biomolecules

A team in Japan developed a new technique to detect and analyze biomolecules with inhomogeneous charge distributions by adjusting the solution. They achieved improved sensor response, allowing researchers to determine the Debye length and map out a molecule's uneven charge distributions.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateAug 16, 2018
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 do plants rest photosynthetic activity at night?

Researchers have identified a protein complex that helps plants 'switch off' photosynthesis at night and 'switch on' when light is available again. This complex, involving thioredoxin-like2 (TrxL2)/2-Cys peroxiredoxin (2CP), allows plants to conserve energy and restore photosynthetic activity when necessary.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 16, 2018

Stress during pregnancy increases risk of mood disorders for female offspring

A new study published in Biological Psychiatry found that high maternal cortisol levels during pregnancy are associated with anxious and depressive-like behaviors in female offspring at the age of 2. The effect is linked to altered brain connectivity, particularly in the amygdala region important for emotion processing.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateAug 16, 2018

Statins associated with improvement of rare lung disease

Researchers found that statins can improve conditions in people with autoimmune pulmonary alveolar proteinosis, a rare syndrome affecting 1 in 150,000 people worldwide. The study also identified two new tests to help diagnose the condition and showed promise for oral statin therapy as a potential new approach.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 16, 2018

These tags turn everyday objects into smart, connected devices

Researchers have developed printable metal tags that reflect WiFi signals, turning everyday objects into 'smart' Internet of Things devices. These tags can be attached to various objects and track user interactions, such as water bottle hydration levels or motor activity after a stroke.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateAug 16, 2018

Female mosquitoes get choosy quickly to offset invasions

New research reveals that female mosquitoes rapidly evolve more selective mating behavior when faced with existential threats from other invasive mosquito species. This adaptation is driven by genetic changes in specific gene regions and enables them to avoid sterility caused by interbreeding with male males of a different species.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateAug 16, 2018
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.

UConn scientists create reverse osmosis membranes with tunable thickness

Researchers at the University of Connecticut developed a new method to produce reverse osmosis membranes with controlled thickness and roughness, leading to improved efficiency and reduced fouling. The ultra-thin membranes exhibit high salt rejection and robust performance under various operating conditions.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalScience·DateAug 16, 2018

Individuals shot by police exhibit distinct patterns of recent prior hospitalizations and arrests

A study found that individuals shot by police have arrest histories similar to those involved in assaults and homicides, and medical histories similar to those with self-inflicted firearm injuries. The study identified patterns among intent-specific firearm injuries, including increased risk of interpersonal and self-directed violence,...

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateAug 16, 2018

Quality of YouTube videos for facial plastics information

A new study has evaluated the quality of YouTube videos for facial plastics information, revealing they can present biased information and offer an unbalanced assessment of risks and benefits. The study suggests these videos may not provide clear guidance on the qualifications of featured practitioners.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Facial Plastic Surgery·DateAug 16, 2018

'Traffic wardens' of cells can be counterproductive

A study by researchers at the Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciencia found that the Spindle Assembly Checkpoint, a mechanism that regulates cell division, can sometimes be counterproductive. This checkpoint can increase genetic errors when cells have irreparable problems with chromosome cohesion.

SourceInstituto Gulbenkian de Ciencia·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 16, 2018

Scientists discover why silver clusters emit light

Researchers discovered that only small clusters of four silver atoms in a tetrahedral shape surrounded by water molecules emit light. This is due to the movement of two free electrons, which decay from higher to lower energy levels and produce a specific shade of green light.

SourceKU Leuven·JournalScience·DateAug 16, 2018
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.

Resistance training and exercise-motivation go hand-in-hand

A nine-month resistance training intervention improved exercise motivation and planning in older adults, with nearly half continuing independently. Participants who increased intrinsic motivation and confidence maintained twice-a-week training

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·JournalScandinavian Journal of Medicine and Science in Sports·DateAug 16, 2018

Cells agree: What doesn't kill you makes you stronger

Research led by Salk Institute scientist Gerald Shadel found that short-term stress can trigger sustained production of antioxidants and increase mitochondria efficiency, potentially extending lifespan. Cells exposed to brief stress showed higher antioxidant levels, more mitochondria, and less superoxide buildup than unstressed cells.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalCell Metabolism·DateAug 16, 2018
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.

NIH begins clinical trial of live, attenuated Zika vaccine

The Phase 1 clinical trial will analyze the immune response and assess the safety of the experimental vaccine, which has shown promise in earlier tests in rhesus macaques. The trial is designed to enroll 28 healthy adults and will last up to one year.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·DateAug 16, 2018

What holds materials together -- on the inside

The FRASCAL research training group at FAU is investigating fracture processes in materials across all scales, from nanometers to visible cracks. This interdisciplinary study aims to develop computer-aided simulation methods to predict and prevent undesired fractures.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·DateAug 16, 2018

GW researchers publish review article on developing vaccines for human parasites

Developing vaccines for human parasites has proven challenging, with key challenges including immune response issues and limited scalability. GW researchers have outlined five key lessons learned along the critical path to vaccine development, aimed at accelerating progress in eradicating these diseases of poverty.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalTrends in Parasitology·DateAug 16, 2018
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.

First biomarker evidence of DDT-autism link

A Finnish national birth cohort study linked DDT metabolite exposure to increased autism risk in offspring. Maternal blood analyzed for DDE and PCBs found higher odds of autism with intellectual disability among offspring exposed to elevated DDE levels, persisting after adjusting for confounding factors.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateAug 16, 2018

New aid to help identify and manage patients with diabetes at increased risk of fracture

A new expert review outlines the clinical characteristics of bone fragility in adults with diabetes and provides valuable insights for diagnosis and treatment. The review highlights recent studies on bone mineral density, biochemical markers, and fracture prediction to inform clinicians about the optimal approach to managing bone healt...

SourceInternational Osteoporosis Foundation·JournalOsteoporosis International·DateAug 16, 2018

Exercise shown to improve symptoms of patients with chronic kidney disease

A study found that 12 weeks of aerobic and strength-based exercise reduces symptoms and levels of fatigue in patients with chronic kidney disease. Exercise also improves blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetic control, making it a beneficial treatment option for patients with CKD.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalClinical Kidney Journal·DateAug 16, 2018

UMD researcher helps to crack the genetic code for wheat for the first time

The University of Maryland has contributed to the publication of two collaborative papers in Science that detail the full genome sequence of wheat. The research uses this genome sequence to examine gene expression related to heat, drought, and disease stressors, paving the way for more resilient and sustainable wheat varieties.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalScience·DateAug 16, 2018
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Autism linked to egg cells' difficulty creating large proteins

A new study by Carnegie Institution researchers found that defects in the Fmr1 gene can lead to difficulties in creating large protein structures, potentially contributing to autism-related disorders like fragile X syndrome. The study used fruit fly eggs to demonstrate how Fmr1 helps produce essential large proteins.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalScience·DateAug 16, 2018
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.

YouTube is source of misinformation on plastic surgery, Rutgers study finds

Most YouTube videos on facial plastic surgery are misleading marketing campaigns posted by non-qualified medical professionals, according to a Rutgers University study. The researchers found that 94 videos had no medical professional at all, while only 72 featured board-certified physicians with high-quality content.

SourceRutgers University·JournalJAMA Facial Plastic Surgery·DateAug 16, 2018

ASRC at GC/CUNY Photonics Initiative wins $3.2 million DARPA grant

The Advanced Science Research Center at GC/CUNY Photonics Initiative has received a $3.2 million DARPA grant to support basic nanophotonics research. The team will develop concepts for modeling, analyzing, designing, and realizing leapfrog enhancements to electromagnetic-wave manipulation through the use of metamaterials.

SourceAdvanced Science Research Center, GC/CUNY·DateAug 16, 2018

Interactive software tool makes complex mold design simple

A new interactive design tool, CoreCavity, allows users to create durable injection molds for hollow, free-form objects. The software analyzes an object's 3D-scan and proposes a decomposition into pieces, which can be adjusted by the user, producing mold templates that can be 3D-printed.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalACM Transactions on Graphics·DateAug 16, 2018

Whole blood test for toxoplasmosis is sensitive, specific

A new low-cost whole blood test for toxoplasmosis has been developed with high sensitivity and specificity, making it suitable for diagnosing the infection during pregnancy. The test was found to be effective even in individuals with lower levels of anti-Toxoplasma antibodies.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateAug 16, 2018

The wheat code is finally cracked

The International Wheat Genome Sequencing Consortium has published the reference genome of bread wheat, enabling breeders to identify genes and regulatory elements underlying complex traits. This achievement will boost wheat improvement, similar to maize and rice after their reference sequences were produced.

SourceInternational Wheat Genome Sequencing Consortium·JournalScience·DateAug 16, 2018
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.

Tibetan sheep highly susceptible to human plague, originates from marmots

Researchers found Tibetan sheep carry infectious Y. pestis bacteria, transmitted through fleas and rodent contact, posing health risks to humans. The study highlights the need for caution when handling under-cooked sheep meat and underscores the unique characteristics of this region's plague transmission route.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateAug 16, 2018

The cure for chaotic lasers? More chaos, of course

A Yale-led research team has developed a new approach to stabilize high-power lasers by introducing chaotic cavities, reducing laser instabilities and promoting stable beam profiles. The innovative method is scalable to increasing power levels and can be applied to various types of high-power lasers.

SourceYale University·JournalScience·DateAug 16, 2018

Nematode can rebuild muscle and neurons after complete degradation

Researchers discovered that nematodes undergo complete degeneration of muscles and neurons, only to rebuild them in adulthood. This process may hold clues for understanding human neurodegenerative diseases and developing new pest control strategies for soybeans.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateAug 16, 2018

Novel sensors could enable smarter textiles

Researchers at the University of Delaware developed flexible carbon nanotube composite coatings on various fibers, enabling the measurement of a wide range of pressure. The technology has potential applications in smart garments, sports medicine, post-surgical recovery, and assessing movement disorders in pediatric populations.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalACS Sensors·DateAug 16, 2018
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.

NASA finds intensifying Tropical Storm Lane

Tropical Storm Lane is strengthening, with cloud top temperatures indicating strong thunderstorms capable of heavy rain. The storm's maximum sustained winds have increased to near 60 mph, and it is forecast to become a hurricane by tomorrow and potentially a major hurricane over the weekend.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 16, 2018

Smart fluorescent dyes

Scientists developed a unique organic fluorophore that changes its emission color in response to external stimuli. The dye exhibits two-color behavior, emitting green and orange light depending on its solid-state morphologies.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateAug 16, 2018

Autoimmunity plays role in development of COPD, study finds

Researchers found a specific single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) associated with COPD and linked to the HLA-C gene, which presents proteins to immune cells. This discovery suggests a genetic link between autoimmune disease and COPD.

SourceGeorgia State University·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory Cell and Molecular Biology·DateAug 16, 2018
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.

A unique combination of catalysts opens doors to making useful compounds

Researchers have developed a new method for making valuable compounds by combining enzymatic and photocatalysts. The study, published in Nature, found that this combination can create important active pharmaceutical intermediates for producing pharmaceutical drugs.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalNature·DateAug 16, 2018

Educational tracking creates artificial inequalities among students

Researchers found that evaluators consider lower tracks more suitable for low-SES pupils and higher tracks for high-SES pupils, even when achievement is identical. This suggests that tracking systems can perpetuate academic differences among students as a function of their socio-economic status.

SourceSociety for Personality and Social Psychology·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateAug 16, 2018

Fellowships recognize tomorrow's supercomputing innovators

Linda Gesenhues and Markus Höhnerbach receive fellowships for their work on finite element simulation of turbidity currents and portable optimizations of complex molecular dynamics codes. Their research has potential applications in geological phenomena, such as underwater volcanoes and earthquakes.

SourceAssociation for Computing Machinery·DateAug 16, 2018
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.

Can population policy lessen future climate impacts?

A growing global population contributes to rising greenhouse gas emissions, while nearly 85 million unintended pregnancies annually exacerbate the issue. Including population information in future IPCC assessments could facilitate more effective climate policies.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 16, 2018

Math shows how human behavior spreads infectious diseases

A new mathematical model reveals how social interactions influence the emergence of infectious diseases, allowing for better anticipation and prevention of outbreaks. The study suggests that understanding human behavior can aid in preventing the evolution of more virulent pathogen strains.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalJournal of Theoretical Biology·DateAug 16, 2018

Trailblazer in computational complexity theory to receive Knuth Priize

Johan Torkel Håstad of KTH Royal Institute of Technology is awarded the 2018 Donald E. Knuth Prize for his significant contributions to computer science, including optimization and cryptography. The prize recognizes his transformative techniques that have influenced subsequent work in these areas.

SourceAssociation for Computing Machinery·DateAug 16, 2018

Study: The eyes may have it, an early sign of Parkinson's disease

A new study has found that the thinning of the retina is linked to the loss of brain cells that produce dopamine, a substance that helps control movement. This discovery may lead to a simple eye scan being used to detect Parkinson's disease in its earliest stages.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateAug 16, 2018
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.

NTU scientists discover natural plant-based food preservative

Researchers at NTU Singapore have discovered a natural plant-based food preservative using flavonoids, showing strong anti-microbial and anti-oxidant properties. The organic preservative effectively kept meat and fruit juice samples fresh for two days without refrigeration.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalFood Chemistry·DateAug 16, 2018

Protecting the power grid: Advanced plasma switch for more efficient transmission

A team of scientists at GE and PPPL has developed an advanced plasma switch that can convert high-voltage DC current to AC current efficiently, reducing the cost of long-distance power transmission. The switch uses helium gas inside a tube filled with plasma, which is more efficient than existing semiconductor switches.

SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·JournalPlasma Sources Science and Technology·DateAug 16, 2018

Blood test may identify gestational diabetes risk in first trimester, NIH study indicates

Researchers found that a blood test conducted as early as the 10th week of pregnancy may help identify women at risk for gestational diabetes. The study suggests that measuring HbA1c levels in early pregnancy could determine a woman's later risk for the condition, allowing for lifestyle changes to reduce the risk.

SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 16, 2018
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Twisted electronics open the door to tunable 2D materials

The research demonstrates a novel device structure that allows for unprecedented control over the angular orientation in twisted-layer devices. The team used graphene/boron-nitride heterostructures to show that the energy gap observed in graphene is tunable and can be turned on or off by changing the orientation between the layers.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalScience·DateAug 16, 2018

Social position determines pregnant women's exposure to air pollution

A study of 30,000 pregnant women across nine European cities found associations between socio-economic status and exposure to environmental hazards such as air pollution, noise, and lack of green spaces. The findings highlight the need for urban planners to address environmental inequalities to reduce health disparities in pregnancy.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateAug 16, 2018

Scientists turn to the quantum realm to improve energy transportation

Researchers designed a computer simulation that added correlated noise to the path of energy transfer, significantly accelerating it. This finding challenges traditional views of noise as a hindrance in energy transport, opening up new possibilities for optimizing energy efficiency.

SourceResearch Organization of Information and Systems·DateAug 16, 2018

NASA sees Tropical Storm Rumbia off China's East Coast

Tropical Storm Rumbia was tracked by NASA's Aqua satellite on August 16, showing large storm areas in the northern and southern quadrants. The storm had maximum sustained winds near 40 knots and was forecast to make landfall near Shanghai, prompting a yellow warning from China's National Meteorological Center.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 16, 2018

'K-Flex' makes a splash as a flexible endoscopic surgical robot

K-FLEX, a flexible endoscopic surgical robot, demonstrates precise control of 3.7 mm diameter robotic arms for minimally invasive procedures. The device successfully manipulated tissue during an in-vivo test on a porcine gallbladder, showcasing its potential for surgery on incipient cancer cells.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·DateAug 16, 2018

Researchers discover key mechanism of DNA replication

The team found that telomeres are regulated by proteins, including Taz1, which tether internal regions to the telomeres. This process ensures faithful duplication of genetic material. Better understanding of this mechanism may inform research into maintaining genetic information and preventing diseases.

SourceOsaka University·JournalThe EMBO Journal·DateAug 16, 2018

Study: Human wastewater valuable to global agriculture, economics

Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a model to identify cities that can benefit from re-circulating human-waste-derived nutrients into farm fields. This approach could promote agricultural sustainability and economic independence in developing countries.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Sustainability·DateAug 16, 2018

New CRISPR technique skips over portions of genes that can cause disease

Researchers have developed a new CRISPR technique that allows them to skip over specific parts of genes that can cause disease. This approach could potentially treat genetic diseases such as Duchenne's muscular dystrophy and Huntington's disease by eliminating mutated gene sequences and influencing their expression.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalGenome Biology·DateAug 16, 2018

Discovery of a structurally 'inside-out' planetary nebula

A team of scientists has discovered a unique planetary nebula with an inverted ionization structure surrounding a central star undergoing a 'born-again' process, which is expected to occur in the Sun's future evolution. This finding provides valuable insights into the late-stage evolution of stars like our Sun.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Astronomy·DateAug 16, 2018