Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for August 23, 2018


Antibiotic side effects in kids lead to nearly 70,000 ER visits in the US each year

A new analysis found that antibiotic use in children leads to an estimated 69,000 emergency room visits each year for allergic reactions and other side effects. The risk varies by child age and type of antibiotic used, with younger children aged 2 or under being at highest risk.

SourcePediatric Infectious Diseases Society·JournalJournal of the Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society·DateAug 23, 2018

Fresh and raw diets for dogs may have health benefits, study says

A study published in the Journal of Animal Science found that fresh and raw diets for dogs can be more digestible than traditional kibble, leading to lower blood triglyceride levels. The diets also showed major shifts in the microbiota of the dogs' gut, but all diets were considered healthy and palatable.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Animal Science·DateAug 23, 2018

Predicting when virus outbreaks will peak

Scientists developed a model to accurately predict the transmission dynamics of various viruses, enabling optimized vaccination programs. The analysis analyzed over 100 enterovirus serotypes and demonstrated patterns in their transmission cycles.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 23, 2018

Scientists close in on mystery surrounding dangerous blood syndromes

A new study identifies HIF1A, a gene that regulates metabolic changes and oxygen levels in cells, as a potential therapeutic target for treating myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). The researchers found that inhibiting HIF1A reversed a broad spectrum of MDS symptoms in genetic mouse models.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalCancer Discovery·DateAug 23, 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.

Rice U. lab finds evidence of matter-matter coupling

Researchers at Rice University have discovered the first example of Dicke cooperativity in a matter-matter system, which could lead to faster information processing and lower power consumption. The discovery uses a magnetic field to prompt cooperativity among spins within a crystalline compound made primarily of iron and erbium.

SourceRice University·JournalScience·DateAug 23, 2018

How can parents help children navigate an increasingly diverse world?

A team of multidisciplinary researchers provides novel insights into parenting and diversity, identifying common themes and future directions for research. The study sheds light on the impact of increasing population diversity on parenting adolescents, offering new ways of thinking about parenting.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - Office of Research Communication·JournalJournal of Research on Adolescence·DateAug 23, 2018

Increased phosphate intake elevates blood pressure in healthy adults

A recent study has found that consuming more phosphate with food increases blood pressure and pulse rate in healthy young adults. The study, published in the Journal of the American Society of Nephrology, suggests that increased phosphate intake can lead to an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateAug 23, 2018

Treatment for severe heartburn prevents cancer

Effective medical treatment and surgery prevent esophageal cancer in people with severe heartburn. The study used health data from 1964 to 2014 and found a significant decrease in cancer risk after treatment.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateAug 23, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

The molecular link between aging and neurodegeneration

A study published in Cell describes the discovery of a molecular link between aging and two major genetic causes of neurodegenerative diseases, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD). The findings reveal possible new targets for treatment and highlight the need for a better understanding of the biology of...

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalCell·DateAug 23, 2018

'Safe' UV light may prevent infections in catheters, cardiac drivelines

Researchers at Columbia University Irving Medical Center have discovered that UV light can kill drug-resistant bacteria, a major cause of infections around skin-penetrating medical devices. The study, published in PLOS ONE, suggests that far-UVC light delivered through optical fibers could be used to prevent catheter-based and drivelin...

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 23, 2018

How did alvarezsaurian dinosaurs evolve monodactyl hand?

The discovery of Bannykus and Xiyunykus sheds light on the evolution of alvarezsaurian dinosaurs' monodactyl hands. These ancient theropods display a major macroevolutionary shift from grasping hands to specialized, functionally monodactyl hands.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 23, 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.

Alzheimer's one day may be predicted during eye exam

Scientists have detected signs of Alzheimer's disease in the eyes of patients who showed no symptoms, using a non-invasive technique called optical coherence tomography angiography. The study found that patients with elevated levels of Alzheimer's proteins had significant thinning in the center of their retinas.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateAug 23, 2018

Smartphones may be used to better predict the weather

Researchers at Tel Aviv University have developed a system to harness data from smartphones to forecast weather patterns, particularly those that lead to flash floods. The smartphone sensors can monitor various atmospheric conditions, such as temperature, humidity, and light levels, providing valuable data for accurate forecasts.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalJournal of Atmospheric and Solar-Terrestrial Physics·DateAug 23, 2018

Research reveals dangerous midlife switch of ditching activity to sit still

New research reveals a dangerous midlife switch from daily activity to sedentary behavior, with black men and women at highest risk. The study, published in the American Journal of Epidemiology, calls for revised national physical activity guidelines to address this trend.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalAmerican Journal of Epidemiology·DateAug 23, 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.

Tracking Sargassum's ocean path could help predict coastal inundation events

A recent study explores how Sargassum's growth and movement along ocean currents affect its distribution patterns. The research reveals two key regions influencing the spread of Sargassum across the Atlantic, providing potential insights for predicting coastal inundations.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Center for Environmental Science·JournalMarine Ecology Progress Series·DateAug 23, 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.

Caution needed when prescribing antibiotics to hypertension patients, study finds

A new rat study suggests that individual variations in genetic makeup and gut bacteria may explain the different effects of antibiotics on blood pressure. The researchers treated two strains of rats with three common antibiotics, resulting in distinct responses in systolic and diastolic blood pressure. These findings highlight the impo...

SourceAmerican Physiological Society·JournalPhysiological Genomics·DateAug 23, 2018

Improving cell replacement therapy for Parkinson's disease

Researchers developed a protocol to isolate dopaminergic neurons from stem cells, improving cell-replacement therapy outcomes. The study found that transplanted cells with the contactin 2 protein exhibited better dopamine release and reduced motor symptoms in Parkinson's disease models.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalMolecular & Cellular Proteomics·DateAug 23, 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.

Handheld probe images photoreceptors in children

Duke University researchers have developed a handheld probe that can image individual photoreceptors in the eyes of infants, allowing for early detection of eye diseases and brain-related traumas. The new technology uses adaptive optics and is much smaller and faster than previous systems, making it ideal for imaging young children.

SourceDuke University·JournalOptica·DateAug 23, 2018

Blood vessels instruct brain development

Researchers discovered that endothelial cells instruct neurons on their correct positioning in the cerebral cortex through laminin secretion. This finding highlights the importance of neurovascular communication in brain development and may hold key to treating dementia and mental illness.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalScience·DateAug 23, 2018

Advanced microscope technology reveals novel side to cell signaling complex

Researchers used advanced cryo-EM technology to determine the structure of a molecular complex implicated in birth defects and several cancers. The study revealed that two Patched-1 molecules simultaneously engage a single Hedgehog molecule, forming a unique 2-to-1 ratio PTCH1-HH complex required for efficient Hedgehog signaling.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalScience·DateAug 23, 2018

Radical transformations likely needed to achieve universal health care

A new analysis by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health suggests that achieving universal healthcare (UHC) will require significant transformations in how health services are delivered, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. The study emphasizes the importance of investing in quality medical services, adopting innovative...

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalScience·DateAug 23, 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.

A human enzyme can biodegrade graphene

Researchers found that myeloperoxidase can degrade both single-layer and few-layer graphene, opening up new avenues for developing biodegradable graphene-based materials. This discovery is crucial for ensuring the safe use of graphene in biomedical applications.

SourceGraphene Flagship·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateAug 23, 2018

When irrigation efficiency increases, so does water use

Agricultural irrigation accounts for 70% of water use in some regions, and increased efficiency can lead to more water extraction, not less. Higher irrigation efficiency may even increase on-farm water use and groundwater extraction, argues a recent study by the American Association for the Advancement of Science.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 23, 2018

Polymer antibodies efficiently target and eliminate cancer cells

Researchers have developed a new class of anti-cancer medicines based on nanoMIPs, which selectively bind to specific molecular targets. This approach ensures high specificity and stability over temperature and acidity, expanding treatment options for various diseases.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalNano Letters·DateAug 23, 2018

The birth and death of proteins in a single cell

Researchers developed a new method to distinguish changes in protein synthesis from degradation in single living cells. They found that protein synthesis and degradation rates change significantly during the cell cycle, with nearly half of proteins stopping to be degraded during mitosis.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalMolecular Cell·DateAug 23, 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.

Martens recolonized Isle Royale in the '90s, showing island's dynamism

Researchers found that martens on Isle Royale were genetically linked to populations in Ontario, suggesting they arrived in the 1990s. The population's low genetic diversity indicated a severe bottleneck, with estimates suggesting two individuals repopulated the island just before their reappearance in 1993.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 23, 2018

Pay attention to the 'noise' in your brain

A recent study published in Nature Communications found that variability in neural responses is not just random noise, but rather due to fluctuations in internally generated signals like attention. This discovery has significant implications for understanding how our brains work and focus, potentially leading to diagnostic tools for ne...

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 23, 2018

Watching the clock: faster countdowns may make people more patient

Faster countdowns have been found to increase patience in video game players, even after the game is over. The study suggests that a quicker countdown creates a sense of time passing more quickly, reducing impatience and encouraging more deliberate decision-making.

SourcePenn State·JournalTiming & Time Perception·DateAug 23, 2018

Landslides triggered by human activity on the rise

A new study found that human-induced landslides have increased globally, causing over 5000 deaths in India's Kedarnath landslide. The research highlights the need for regulation and education to prevent such accidents.

SourceEuropean Geosciences Union·JournalNatural Hazards and Earth System Sciences·DateAug 23, 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.

Japanese encephalitis also affects urban areas

A study by CIRAD researchers found that Japanese encephalitis circulates as intensely in Phnom Penh, Cambodia's capital, as it does in rural areas. Vaccinating children remains the best way to protect humans, while vaccinating sows and controlling mosquitoes can reduce virus circulation.

SourceCirad·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateAug 23, 2018

How healthy is the American diet? The Healthy Eating Index helps determine the answer

The new HEI-2015 evaluates diet quality based on 13 components reflecting aspects of the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. It demonstrates reasonable variation across population subgroups and reflects many dimensions of dietary guidance, suggesting its potential as a tool to understand the influence of total diet quality.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics·DateAug 23, 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.

How the human immune system protects against Ebola

A study published in PLOS Pathogens reveals that two types of human antibodies synergize to inhibit different steps of Ebola virus infection. Antibody cocktails combining complementary antiviral effects are proposed as a potential treatment strategy.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateAug 23, 2018

Experts voice safety concerns about new pebble-bed nuclear reactors

Researchers advise caution on new pebble-bed nuclear reactors due to potential for accidents and inadequate safety measures. The design lacks key safeguards, including a high-pressure containment structure and redundant cooling system, increasing the risk of radioactive material release.

SourceCell Press·JournalJoule·DateAug 23, 2018

How sleep loss may contribute to adverse weight gain

A new study from Uppsala University found that one night of sleep loss can cause tissue-specific changes in gene expression and metabolism, leading to increased fat accumulation and muscle loss. This may explain why shift work and chronic sleep loss increase the risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes.

SourceUppsala University·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 23, 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.

Garlic ingredient from the lab bench

Ajoene, a stable organosulfur compound in garlic oil extracts, has similar health-promoting effects to allicin and exhibits anticancer activity. Researchers have developed a total synthesis approach to produce ajoene with improved yields, paving the way for its further evaluation in medicinal research.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateAug 23, 2018

Parents' behavior during playtime may affect toddler's weight later on

A study by Penn State researchers found that mothers who engage with their children during playtime and gently guide them to clean up can help toddlers with poor regulation skills maintain a healthy weight. As preschoolers, these children tend to have lower BMIs compared to those with good regulation skills, suggesting that parents' be...

SourcePenn State·JournalInternational Journal of Obesity·DateAug 23, 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.

Fish lice could be early indicators of metal pollution in freshwater

Researchers found that a specific type of fish louse, Argulus japonicus, can accumulate high concentrations of metals, potentially serving as an early warning system for water quality. The lice's unique mechanisms for protecting themselves from toxins may hold the key to detecting metal pollution.

SourceUniversity of Johannesburg·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 23, 2018

Handheld imager poised to provide new insights into eye and brain diseases

Researchers developed a handheld ophthalmology instrument with adaptive optics technology to image individual photoreceptors in the eye, improving diagnosis of eye diseases. The device can capture images of tiny photoreceptors close to the center of the retina, providing insights into brain-related diseases and trauma.

SourceOptica·JournalOptica·DateAug 23, 2018

Zeroing in: What triggered the recent yellow fever outbreak in Brazil

Scientists investigate the recent yellow fever outbreak in Brazil, finding that it originated from nonhuman primates in the forest and spread to humans. The study highlights the importance of real-time disease monitoring and public health countermeasures.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 23, 2018

Two methods for measuring children's exposure to radio frequencies are compared

Researchers compared personal and spot measurement methods for assessing radio frequency exposure in children, finding that spot measurements can be a useful alternative for classifying low, moderate, or high levels of exposure. The study involved 50 children who participated in personal measurements over three days.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalEnvironment International·DateAug 23, 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.

Watching neurons in action

Researchers from OIST have developed a novel technique to record the activity of single neurons in awake animals, allowing for the detection of even the smallest changes in voltage. This breakthrough enables the study of how neurons function in living organisms, providing insights into brain function and behavior.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 23, 2018

A novel graphene quantum dot structure takes the cake

Researchers at NIST create graphene quantum dot structure using magnetic fields, confirming novel pattern of concentric rings. The discovery has practical applications in quantum computing and opens possibilities for relativistic quantum simulators.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalScience·DateAug 23, 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.

Two new truffle species discovered in Florida pecan orchards

Researchers have identified two new truffle species on roots of pecan trees in Florida orchards, which may lead to increased crop profit. The newly found species, Tuber brennemanii and Tuber floridanum, are edible but lack appealing odors, making them less desirable for consumption.

SourceFlorida Museum of Natural History·JournalMycologia·DateAug 23, 2018

Early-life alcohol intake may increase the odds of high-grade prostate cancer

Heavy alcohol consumption during adolescence and young adulthood may increase the odds of developing high-grade prostate cancer. Men who drank at least seven drinks per week between ages 15-19 had three times the odds of being diagnosed with clinically significant prostate cancer compared to non-drinkers.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalCancer Prevention Research·DateAug 23, 2018

Signaling cascade that repairs damaged nerve cells characterized

Researchers at Nagoya University have identified a signaling cascade involved in the regeneration of damaged nerves in roundworms, which shares similarities with the recognition and engulfment of apoptotic cells. This discovery may lead to pharmaceutical interventions to treat conditions like brain and spinal cord injuries.

SourceNagoya University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 23, 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.

Research finds bots and Russian trolls influenced vaccine discussion on Twitter

Researchers found that bot accounts shared anti-vaccination messages 75% more than average users, while Russian trolls used polarizing language to promote discord. The study suggests a significant portion of online vaccine discourse may be generated by malicious actors with hidden agendas.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateAug 23, 2018

Baby poop may be source of beneficial probiotics

Researchers at Wake Forest School of Medicine developed a probiotic cocktail from infant feces that modulated the gut microbiome and enhanced SCFA production in mice and human feces. This finding suggests these human-origin probiotics could be used to treat diseases associated with gut microbiome imbalance.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 23, 2018

Scientists find link between water pollution and morbidity in Murmansk region

Researchers found high levels of toxic metals in drinking water, including nickel, copper, cadmium, and lead, leading to increased morbidity rates. The study also revealed a significant link between the accumulation of these metals in kidneys and livers, increasing the risk of malignant neoplasms.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateAug 23, 2018

Natural sugar defends against metabolic syndrome, in mice

Researchers found that trehalose improves insulin sensitivity in mice by activating a gene called Aloxe3, which boosts calorie burning and reduces fat accumulation. Trehalose also has beneficial effects on the liver's metabolism, similar to fasting.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJCI Insight·DateAug 23, 2018

Lithium-oxygen battery technology charges ahead

Researchers have developed a way to increase operating temperature and use alternative materials to overcome thermodynamic barriers in lithium-oxygen batteries. The resulting cell achieves nearly 100% coulombic efficiency, a significant step towards commercial adoption.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 23, 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.

UBC researchers unlock secrets of plant development

UBC researchers have discovered an internal messaging system in plants that regulates cell growth and division, enabling them to survive harsh conditions and compete successfully under favorable conditions. The system is driven by a protein called CLASP, which plays a crucial role in cell growth and division.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 23, 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.

New scientific study: no safe level of alcohol

A new scientific study reveals that there is no safe level of drinking alcohol, with nearly 3 million deaths globally attributed to alcohol use in 2016. The study finds massive health risks associated with alcohol consumption, including premature death, cancer, and cardiovascular problems.

SourceInstitute for Health Metrics and Evaluation·JournalThe Lancet·DateAug 23, 2018

Microbes hitch a ride inland on coastal fog

Researchers found that microbial diversity was higher during and after foggy conditions, with pathogenic microbes detected in fog at both study sites. The connection between fog and microbe transport has significant health implications and may be affected by climate change.

SourceCary Institute of Ecosystem Studies·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateAug 23, 2018

The unexpected upside of E. coli

A new study reveals that E. coli produces a compound called enterobactin, which helps cells absorb iron, benefiting the host in the process. This discovery could lead to more effective therapies for iron deficiency anemia, impacting over 1 billion people worldwide.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalCell·DateAug 23, 2018

Antimicrobial stewardship programs in dialysis clinics reduce infections, costs

Implementing antimicrobial stewardship programs in out-patient dialysis facilities can significantly reduce infections caused by multidrug-resistant organisms, infection-related deaths, and costs. The programs promote the appropriate use of antimicrobials, leading to a 4.8% reduction in infections and a 4.6% reduction in death rates.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateAug 23, 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.

New biomarkers of inflammation identified as risk of polyneuropathy

A study has identified six biomarkers of inflammation associated with the risk of polyneuropathy in people with type 2 diabetes. The findings suggest a complex interaction between innate and adaptive immunity in the development of this complication.

SourceDeutsches Zentrum fuer Diabetesforschung DZD·JournalDiabetes·DateAug 23, 2018

Fighting lung infection trumps wound healing

A recent study has found that the innate immune system responds more aggressively to lung infections than wound healing, leading to delayed wound recovery. This priority of responses, known as immune triage, highlights the complex interplay between different parts of the immune system and their impact on overall health.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateAug 23, 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.

Oxford University: Tracking the evolution and transmission of yellow fever

Researchers used genomic and epidemiological approaches to understand the mode of transmission of the South America's largest yellow fever virus outbreak. The study revealed that the virus lineage had spread through a sylvatic cycle of transmission in primates before spilling over into human populations.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalScience·DateAug 23, 2018

How rabies virus moves through nerve cells, and how it might be stopped

Researchers at Princeton University discovered that rabies virus uses a distinct transport process to reach neuronal cell bodies, contrasting with other neuron-invading viruses. Emetine, a protein synthesis inhibitor used to treat amoebic dysentery, efficiently blocks rabies virus transport by immobilizing endosomes carrying the virus.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateAug 23, 2018

Researchers outline risk factors for facial gangrene

Researchers have pinpointed risk factors for noma, a rare disease causing facial gangrene, in northwest Nigeria. Children who were fed pap daily were at higher risk, while those breastfed colostrum and had varied diets were less likely to contract the disease.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateAug 23, 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.

Care access not main driver of racial disparities in kidney disease

A study published in the Journal of the American Society of Nephrology found that black and Hispanic veterans with chronic kidney disease are more likely to progress to advanced kidney disease despite equal access to nephrologist care. Genetic or environmental factors, such as APOL1 mutations, may be central to these disparities.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateAug 23, 2018

A world on fire

Wildfires in Africa, driven by agricultural practices, have intensified due to low humidity, high winds, and extreme temperatures. In contrast, South American fires, particularly in Chile, are exacerbated by a mega drought and flammable tree plantations.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 23, 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.

New study highlights shark protections, vulnerability to fishing

A new analysis shows that habitats of three shark species are relatively well protected from longline fishing, but some prime locations remain vulnerable. The study's findings have important implications for protecting at-risk species from bycatch in U.S. federal waters.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·JournalMarine Ecology Progress Series·DateAug 23, 2018

Integrated analysis finds vulnerabilities to target in a high-risk pediatric tumor

Researchers identified vulnerabilities to target in a high-risk pediatric tumor, rhabdomyosarcoma, through an integrated analysis of cellular origins and epigenetic changes. The study promotes precision medicine by prioritizing drug development and highlighting the importance of preclinical models in streamlining treatment strategies.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalCancer Cell·DateAug 23, 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.

On-again, off-again relationships might be toxic for mental health

A recent study found that on-again, off-again relationships are associated with higher rates of abuse, poorer communication, and lower levels of commitment. Researchers suggest that partners who regularly break up and get back together should re-examine their relationship dynamics to prioritize their well-being.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalFamily Relations·DateAug 23, 2018

Stanford researchers' model could help stem opioid crisis

The Stanford model analyzes opioid use and addiction among Americans, projecting a decline in deaths if doctors reduce prescriptions by 25% over 10 years while expanding treatment programs. The researchers aimed to provide policymakers with 'what-if' scenarios to address the crisis.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateAug 23, 2018

Computing catalysts

A collaboration between University of Pittsburgh and Lubrizol Corporation has revealed the molecular reaction mechanism of PIB polymer. The team found that a 'superacid' catalyst is required for initiation, which could lead to designing different catalysts and controlling the reaction.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalACS Catalysis·DateAug 23, 2018

New research proposes using local data in resolving malnutrition

A new study published in the Food and Nutrition Bulletin reveals that analyzing global data carries risks of missing local patterns and effects of health interventions. Researchers found varying rates of kwashiorkor across villages, with some areas experiencing extreme nutritional stress, highlighting the need for targeted interventions

SourceSAGE·JournalFood and Nutrition Bulletin·DateAug 23, 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.

Traumatic brain injury recovery via petri dish

Researchers at University of Georgia have successfully reproduced the effects of traumatic brain injury and stimulated recovery in neuron cells grown in a petri dish. The procedure has significant implications for studying and treating such injuries.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 23, 2018

Kelp forests function differently in warming ocean

A new study finds that warm-water kelp species are outcompeting cold-water species in UK kelp forests, leading to changes in ecosystem functioning. The warm-water kelps provide a continuous supply of food but also harbor less biodiversity.

SourceBritish Ecological Society·JournalJournal of Ecology·DateAug 23, 2018

Large scale preparation method of high quality SWNT sponges

A new flame burning method was developed to prepare single-walled carbon nanotube (SWNT) sponges on a large scale, achieving mass production and low energy consumption. The resulting SWNT sponges exhibit high conductivity, moderate organic liquid adsorption, good elasticity, and high specific capacitance.

SourceWorld Scientific·JournalNANO·DateAug 23, 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.

Genetically engineered virus spins gold into beads

Engineers at UCR have created gold nanobeads with spiky and hollow structures by modifying the M13 bacteriophage virus. The discovery could lead to more efficient production of electronic components and new applications for wastewater treatment.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNanoscale·DateAug 23, 2018

The Lancet: Alcohol is associated with 2.8 million deaths each year worldwide

The Lancet study estimates that one in three people drink alcohol, with 2.2% of women and 6.8% of men dying from alcohol-related health problems each year. The risk of death increases rapidly with higher levels of consumption, offsetting any potential protective effects against cancer, injuries, and infectious diseases.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·DateAug 23, 2018

UNC builds better particle tracking software using artificial intelligence

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has developed a new method of single-particle tracking based on machine learning, achieving higher accuracy and automation than current techniques. The technique is widely used in physical and life sciences to track individual particles such as viruses, cells, and drug-loaded nanoparticles.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - Office of Research Communication·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 23, 2018

New research uncovers 'one of the tobacco industry's greatest scams'

Two new studies from the University of Bath expose evidence that big tobacco companies are still facilitating tobacco smuggling and funding studies that overestimate levels of tobacco smuggling. The findings highlight the tobacco industry's elaborate efforts to control a global track and trace system and undermine international agreeme...

SourceUniversity of Bath·DateAug 23, 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.

Algal blooms a threat to small lakes and ponds, too

A recent study by Ohio State University researchers found high levels of toxins in water near farm fields in rural Ohio, posing serious health risks to people, pets, and wildlife. The study highlights the need for judicious fertilizer use and measures to reduce animal waste contamination to control algal blooms.

SourceOhio State University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateAug 23, 2018

Prospect of a new treatment for rheumatoid arthritis

A new drug, upadacitinib, has been shown to be effective in patients with moderate to severe forms of rheumatoid arthritis who have not responded to conventional treatments. The drug, a selective inhibitor of Janus kinase 1, has been found to improve joint swelling and pain symptoms in a phase III clinical trial.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalThe Lancet·DateAug 23, 2018

Study: Heart abnormalities may trigger sudden unexplained death in epilepsy

Researchers discovered a link between SCN1A gene mutations and cardiac arrhythmias in epilepsy patients with Dravet syndrome, which may trigger sudden unexpected death. The study found that even after removing the mutated gene, an increase in sodium current occurred, leading to potential heart problems.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateAug 23, 2018

Biomimetic chemistry: Carbohydrate capture

Researchers have designed and synthesized a molecular structure featuring a helical binding pocket that selectively captures xylobiose, a disaccharide class of carbohydrates. The molecule's synthesis and characterization were published in Angewandte Chemie, with the journal editors rating it as 'very important.'

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateAug 23, 2018

Researchers test autobiographical memory for early Alzheimer's detection

A study from the University of Arizona found that individuals with the APOE e4 gene variant who carry it described memories with less vivid detail than those without it. The researchers hope to develop a clinical test sensitive enough to detect preclinical brain changes of Alzheimer's disease.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalJournal of the International Neuropsychological Society·DateAug 23, 2018

Dramatic development of immune system after birth

Researchers from Karolinska Institutet have discovered that a baby's immune system undergoes dramatic changes within the first few weeks of life, adapting to its new environment. This phenomenon was made possible by using advanced techniques of immune cell analysis.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalCell·DateAug 23, 2018

The world's cleanest water droplet

Scientists at TU Wien and Cornell University develop a novel method to create ultra-pure ice and apply it to titanium dioxide surfaces, revealing that smallest impurities are surprisingly significant. The study finds that two organic acids, acetic acid and formic acid, are the main culprits behind surface contamination.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalScience·DateAug 23, 2018

Research reveals gene regulation can be digital and stochastic

Researchers discovered that gene regulation is largely digital and stochastic, with genes being on or off for a fraction of time. This finding adds complexity to human diseases, such as neuropsychiatric disorders, and may help better understand dosage-sensitive genes contributing to these conditions.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalScience·DateAug 23, 2018

Discovery of two new Chinese dinosaurs by international research team

The discovery of Bannykus and Xiyunykus provides significant insights into the evolution of alvarezsaurs, an enigmatic group of theropod dinosaurs. The fossils reveal transitional steps in their adaptation to new diets, showing that these dinosaurs evolved short arms only later in their evolutionary history.

SourceUniversity of the Witwatersrand·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 23, 2018

Modifying the major model of a modern major mouse model

Scientists have created a more complete humanized mouse model by combining human hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells with mesenchymal stem cells. This allows for more realistic testing of immunotherapies, leading to improved cancer treatment predictions. The new model enables researchers to compare the interaction of the immune sys...

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalMolecular Carcinogenesis·DateAug 23, 2018