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Science News for August 28, 2018


Six countries in the Americas account for half of all firearm deaths

A new study reveals that six countries in the Americas - Brazil, the US, Mexico, Colombia, Venezuela, and Guatemala - accounted for over half of all firearm-related deaths in 2016. The study found that global firearm-related deaths exceeded conflict and terrorism deaths every year from 1990 to 2016, except for 1994.

SourceInstitute for Health Metrics and Evaluation·JournalJAMA·DateAug 28, 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.

Migrating monarchs facing increased parasite risks

Research found that migrating monarchs encounter high levels of disease when interacting with resident monarchs at tropical milkweed sites, which can lead to reproductive issues and reduced migration rates. Monarch populations are vulnerable to parasitic protozoan OE due to the loss of natural migration patterns.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalEcology Letters·DateAug 28, 2018

Amazonian rainfall increases in wet season

Recent study reveals Amazonian precipitation in wet season has largely increased during the past three decades due to changes in sea surface temperature (SST) variability. This finding suggests a new perspective for studying long-term change in Amazonian precipitation.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateAug 28, 2018

A non-canonical strategy may improve cancer radiotherapy

Researchers have found that disrupting the non-canonical NF-κB pathway improves the effects of radiotherapy by enhancing the immune system's ability to interact with radiation. This new approach may lead to novel combination strategies for improving cancer treatment.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalImmunity·DateAug 28, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Differences between combined, isolated use of cannabis, nicotine on brain networks

Researchers at the Center for BrainHealth investigated concurrent cannabis and nicotine use on brain networks. The study found that combined use had greater connectivity compared to isolated use of either substance. These findings suggest unique contributions of cannabis and nicotine on brain network connectivity.

SourceCenter for BrainHealth·JournalBrain Structure and Function·DateAug 28, 2018

Smoking and drinking can damage arteries 'very early in life'

A recent study published in the European Heart Journal found that teenage smokers and heavy drinkers experience arterial damage, which can predict heart problems later in life. The research analyzed data from over 1,200 adolescents and showed that a combination of smoking and drinking significantly increased arterial stiffness.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateAug 28, 2018

Discovery on East Asian monsoon dynamics

Scientists found four pivotal strengthening events in the East Asian summer monsoon between 1250-1900 CE, with ocean sediments offering a more reliable record of past monsoon signals. The study provides insights into Asian monsoon dynamics and their impact on regional societies.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateAug 28, 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.

Close ties with fathers help daughters overcome loneliness

A recent study found that girls who have closer relationships with their fathers tend to report less loneliness as they transition from first grade to fifth grade. This suggests that fathers can help their daughters feel more connected and reduce feelings of isolation.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Family Psychology·DateAug 28, 2018

Chest pain drug falls short in preventing first episode of ventricular arrhythmia or death

A clinical trial of over 1,000 patients with implantable cardioverter defibrillators found that ranolazine was safe but did not significantly decrease the likelihood of the first occurrence of ventricular arrhythmia or death. However, it did lower the number of recurring episodes of ventricular tachycardia.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateAug 28, 2018

Scientists in Fiji examine how forest conservation helps coral reefs

A new study uses modeling tools to identify areas where forest conservation in Fiji can reduce harm to coral reefs and their fish populations. The research found that protecting or restoring native forests can provide the most benefit to downstream coral reef systems.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 28, 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.

Take a vacation -- it could prolong your life

A 40-year study found that vacations can prolong life by reducing stress. Men who took longer vacations had lower mortality rates than those with shorter vacation times, suggesting that stress reduction is key to cardiovascular health.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateAug 28, 2018

The 'invisible hand' doesn't control markets

New research from Michigan State University challenges the traditional 'invisible hand' theory of market control. A third party's intervention disrupts trading relationships, establishing trust and loyalty among parties involved. This leads to favorable prices, but also creates a risk of runaway train-like effects unless regulated.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalRationality and Society·DateAug 28, 2018

Diagnosis is not best predictor of avoidable hospitalizations of nursing home residents

A recent study from Regenstrief Institute found that a patient's diagnosis is not the primary factor in determining whether a nursing home resident needs to be hospitalized. Instead, coordinated care systems and quality improvement opportunities are crucial in preventing unnecessary hospitalizations. The study highlighted gaps in commu...

SourceRegenstrief Institute·JournalInnovation in Aging·DateAug 28, 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.

E. coli strain from retail poultry may cause urinary tract infections in people

A study found that a specific E. coli strain from retail poultry products is causing urinary tract infections in people, with nearly 80% of meat samples and 72% of patient cultures positive for the bacteria. The research suggests that cooking poultry thoroughly and handling it carefully are crucial to prevent foodborne illnesses.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalmBio·DateAug 28, 2018

Goats prefer happy people

A new study found that goats can differentiate between positive and negative human facial expressions and prefer to interact with the former. The researchers observed that goats spent more time approaching images of happy faces than angry ones, suggesting a preference for positive emotions.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateAug 28, 2018

Crowdsourcing campaigns increase HIV testing among at-risk men in China

Researchers found a 9% increase in HIV testing during the intervention period, with crowdsourcing effective in promoting HIV self-testing among MSM. The study suggests crowdsourcing as a tool for developing youth-friendly HIV services and improving treatment outcomes worldwide.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateAug 28, 2018

FeCo-selenide -- Next-generation material in energy storage devices?

Researchers fabricated an asymmetric supercapacitor based on FeCo-selenide nanosheet arrays, demonstrating a specific capacitance of 978 F/g and cycle stability of 81.2%. The device also showed excellent electrochemical performance, providing evidence that FeCo-selenide could be the next-generation promising electrode material.

SourceWorld Scientific·JournalNANO·DateAug 28, 2018

Blood pressure drug slows aortic dilatation in Marfan syndrome

Treatment with irbesartan, a blood pressure medication, slows aortic dilatation in children and young adults with Marfan syndrome. The five-year study found a clinically important reduction in aortic dilatation rates, potentially delaying surgical intervention and reducing complications.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateAug 28, 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.

Invisible needles

Researchers from Politecnico di Torino and NUST MISIS create a new metamaterial that cloaks nano-sensors, improving their accuracy in optics and biomedicine. The development is part of the Italian-Russian project ANASTASIA, funded by Compagnia di San Paolo.

SourceNational University of Science and Technology MISIS·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 28, 2018

The link between obesity, the brain, and genetics

New research at McGill University found that people with higher BMI tend to have reduced cognitive flexibility, increased volume in the left amygdala and decreased volume in certain memory structures. The study suggests a model where genetics play a role in obesity through brain anatomy and cognitive functions.

SourceMcGill University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 28, 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.

Is it safe for women with heart disease to become pregnant?

Researchers analyzed data from over 5,700 pregnant women with heart disease and found that fewer deaths occurred during pregnancy compared to previous years. However, nearly one in ten women with pulmonary arterial hypertension died during pregnancy or early post-partum. Pre-pregnancy counseling is crucial to identify high-risk patients.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateAug 28, 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.

Remote islands harbor higher numbers of non-native species

Research by an international team from the University of Vienna reveals that remote islands have higher numbers of non-native species, which can lead to extinction events and threaten unique island species. The study found that isolation from the mainland increases the number of non-native species, while native species decline.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 28, 2018

Does chemotherapy harm ability to function for older women with breast cancer?

A study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that short-term decline in physical function was common among older adults treated with chemotherapy for breast cancer. However, about half of patients were resilient and able to recover their ability to function within 12 months.

SourceAmerican Geriatrics Society·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateAug 28, 2018

Combination approach shows promise for beating advanced melanoma

A UCLA-led study found that a combination of pembrolizumab and SD-101 can alter the tumor microenvironment, enabling the immune system to attack cancer more effectively. The treatment has shown promise in people receiving immunotherapy for the first time, with some patients experiencing complete tumor disappearance.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalCancer Discovery·DateAug 28, 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.

Rethinking a healthy diet from a global perspective

Scientists developed an updated international approach to identifying a healthy diet by analyzing data from large global studies involving over 240,000 people from more than 50 countries. The new guidelines suggest higher amounts of fruit, vegetables, nuts, and fish in the diet to reduce cardiovascular disease risk.

SourceMcMaster University·DateAug 28, 2018

New approach makes sprayed droplets hit and stick to their targets

A team of MIT researchers has found a way to balance the size of droplets used in spraying pesticides, making them stick to targets more effectively. The new method uses a fine mesh screen to break up larger drops into tiny ones, reducing waste and pollution.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Fluids·DateAug 28, 2018

All wired up: New molecular wires for single-molecule electronic devices

Researchers designed a novel molecular wire with a polyyne backbone and a ruthenium-based unit, achieving higher conductance than previous organic molecular wires. The origin of high conductance lies in orbital splitting, which induces changes in the electron orbitals to facilitate electron transfer between metal electrodes and the wir...

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateAug 28, 2018

Few people at risk for heart disease understand food labels

A study of 200 Irish adults found that many struggle to understand food labels, particularly men and those at risk for cardiovascular disease. The survey revealed gaps in consumers' use and interpretation of nutritional information, highlighting the need for improved public education and enhanced labeling.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateAug 28, 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.

Genes that regulate how much we dream

Researchers identified two essential genes involved in regulating REM sleep duration in mice. The knockout of these genes resulted in drastically decreased REM sleep and altered sleep patterns. This study provides insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying REM sleep, a crucial aspect of maintaining mental and physical health.

SourceRIKEN·JournalCell Reports·DateAug 28, 2018

Research brief: Researchers 3D print prototype for 'bionic eye'

A team of researchers at the University of Minnesota has successfully 3D printed a hemispherical surface with an array of light receptors. This breakthrough discovery brings scientists closer to creating a 'bionic eye' that could potentially restore vision in blind individuals.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateAug 28, 2018

A novel nanoactuator system has been developed

A new nanoactuator system has been developed that can tune the conformation of biomolecules using an electric field. The system uses a gold nanoparticle tethered on a conducting surface, which can be moved reversibly using electric fields and monitored optically via changes in its plasmon resonance.

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·JournalNanoscale·DateAug 28, 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.

INSiGHT identifies unique retinal regulatory genes

A new platform called INSiGHT was used to examine over 100 genes in the retina, identifying 16 key retinal regulatory genes. Of these, 15 were previously unknown and nine have been linked to human diseases.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalCell Reports·DateAug 28, 2018

New treatment can halve hospital stays for some patients with heart infection

A new treatment has been found to significantly reduce hospital stays for patients with heart infections by halving the duration of intravenous antibiotic treatment. The POET trial showed that giving patients oral antibiotics after at least ten days of intravenous treatment was as effective and safe as continued intravenous treatment, ...

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateAug 28, 2018

If military robot falls, it can get itself up

Scientists at U.S. Army Research Laboratory and Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory develop software to analyze a robot's ability to self-right from any overturned orientation. The team evaluates the Advanced Explosive Ordnance Disposal Robotic System and determines it can right itself on level ground regardless of its ...

SourceU.S. Army Research Laboratory·JournalIEEE Robotics and Automation Letters·DateAug 28, 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.

WSU Spokane researchers develop potential drugs to help curb smoking

Researchers at WSU Spokane have created candidate drugs to slow down the breakdown of nicotine in the body, aiming to reduce tobacco consumption and quit smoking. The substances target liver enzyme CYP2A6, which metabolizes nicotine, potentially alleviating withdrawal symptoms like anxiety and irritability.

SourceWashington State University·JournalJournal of Medicinal Chemistry·DateAug 28, 2018

Twitter useful for stock picks, could boost market efficiency, shows study

A study by University of Toronto researchers found that Twitter is a reliable source for investor information, predicting company earnings and stock price movements. The 'Wisdom of Crowds' concept highlights the value of social media in promoting market efficiency.

SourceUniversity of Toronto, Rotman School of Management·JournalThe Accounting Review·DateAug 28, 2018

Study helps children hit the right note in supporting autistic peers

Researchers discovered that children without autism who participated in music classes with autistic peers displayed increased empathy and a decrease in antisocial emotions. Children with autism reported feeling less victimized after participating in music lessons, which could lead to improved social interactions and reduced bullying.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalAutism·DateAug 28, 2018

Treating inflammatory bowel disorder by delivering microRNAs

Osaka University researchers successfully delivered microRNAs to immune response cells in inflamed intestinal tracts using a super carbonate apatite (sCA), reducing inflammatory cytokines. The study showed that sCA could be used to treat a wide range of immunity and allergic disorders caused by immune responses.

SourceOsaka University·JournalMolecular Therapy — Nucleic Acids·DateAug 28, 2018

Researchers uncover the science behind blowing bubbles

New York University researchers discovered two ways to blow bubbles: pushing a steady wind on a soap film through a circular wand and gently driving an already-inflated film. This study has potential applications in consumer products with bubbles or droplets, such as sprays and foams.

SourceNew York University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 28, 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.

Researchers find elusive source of most abundant immune cell

A team of researchers at La Jolla Institute for Immunology has identified a previously unknown progenitor population with neutrophil characteristics, which promotes tumor growth. The discovery could serve as an early warning sign for cancer and drive new therapeutic approaches for treating neutropenia, chronic inflammation, and cancer.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateAug 28, 2018

Clinical trials needed to study cannabinoid use in Canadian children

A national approach is needed for trialing cannabinoids in children due to the lack of high-quality evidence and unregulated use of products. Collaboration among academics, industry, and provincial governments is required to conduct multiple-site clinical trials with long-term follow-up.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateAug 28, 2018

Immune system prioritizes distinct immune responses in infants with flu

Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital discovered that unconventional T cells play a crucial role in protecting infants from severe flu complications by promoting lung cell repair. This immune response differs from adults and may provide a new target for therapies to ease flu symptoms in infants.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalImmunity·DateAug 28, 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.

Scientists sweep cellular neighborhoods where Zika hides out

Researchers identify key host-virus protein interactions that enable Zika to evade immune signaling and proliferate. The study provides insight into the viral life cycle and potential targets for antiviral drugs.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalMolecular & Cellular Proteomics·DateAug 28, 2018

Novel gene mutation found in lymphatic disorder

Researchers identified a gene mutation causing abnormal lymphatic circulation and restored normal vessel architecture using signal inhibitors. The study may lead to a new therapy for patients with central conducting lymphatic anomaly, a complex condition affecting immune function and fat transport.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalHuman Molecular Genetics·DateAug 28, 2018

Three previously unknown ancient primates identified

Biological anthropologists from the University of Texas at Austin have discovered three previously unknown ancient primates in San Diego County. The fossils date back 42 million to 46 million years, with estimated weights ranging from 113 to 796 grams.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalJournal of Human Evolution·DateAug 28, 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.

Parasites discovered in fossil fly pupae

Researchers discovered fossil parasites inside their hosts, describing four extinct wasp species that were unknown until now. The study provides major information on the evolution of parasitism and its impact on ecosystems.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 28, 2018

Protein modifications pointing to cancer

Scientists have developed a method to investigate all proteins in tissue samples that are modified by ADP-ribosylation, a stress response pathway. This allows for conclusions to be drawn about activated signaling pathways and potentially leads to new diagnostic and therapeutic possibilities for cancer and other diseases.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalCell Reports·DateAug 28, 2018

The math of malaria

A mathematical model for malaria shows that competition between parasite strains within a human host reduces the odds of drug resistance developing in high-transmission settings. The model reveals how once a drug-resistant strain becomes established, it will spread faster in high-transmission areas than in low-transmission areas.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalPLOS Biology·DateAug 28, 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.

CU researchers identify potential target for treating pain during surgery

A research team at the University of Colorado School of Medicine has identified a potential target for treating pain during surgery, aiming to reduce the use of narcotics. By understanding how nociceptors work, researchers hope to develop new therapies and decrease post-surgical pain duration and intensity.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalScience Signaling·DateAug 28, 2018

All that is gold is not biochemically stable

A study by environmental engineers at Duke University found that gold nanoparticles can be dismantled by microorganisms on aquatic plants, complicating laboratory experiments. This discovery highlights the importance of considering complex ecosystems in research design to ensure accurate results.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateAug 28, 2018

Wilder wildfires ahead?

Researchers at UCSB and NCAR find that climate change is affecting the connection between El Niño and wildfires, leading to more extreme and frequent fires. As the Earth warms, El Niño events are expected to have a larger impact on fire risk in California and other fire-prone regions.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateAug 28, 2018

Leaf molecules as markers for mycorrhizal associations

Scientists at the Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology have found substances that accumulate in plant leaves when mycorrhizal fungi successfully colonize roots, providing a new tool for studying fungal associations and breeding programs. The discovery has significant implications for global phosphate resources and food production.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology·DateAug 28, 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.

In warming Arctic, major rivers show surprising changes in carbon chemistry

Researchers found that major Arctic rivers have increased alkalinity production over the past 40 years, potentially offsetting the negative effects of climate change. This increase in riverine alkalinity could be triggered by thawing permafrost, changes in acid deposition, and other human activities.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateAug 28, 2018

New phase proposed in the relationship between figs and wasps

A new phase has been proposed in the relationship between figs and wasps, revealing a sixth developmental cycle where insects other than wasps can insert their eggs into figs. This finding highlights the complex mutualism between figs and wasps, which have evolved over 65 million years.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalActa Oecologica·DateAug 28, 2018

New cancer treatment uses enzymes to boost immune system and fight back

Researchers at UT Austin have developed a new approach to treating cancer using enzyme therapy, which boosts the immune system by degrading kynurenine, a metabolite that suppresses the immune system. The treatment could prove effective in treating various types of cancers and is expected to initiate clinical trials soon.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateAug 28, 2018

Multiple facets of biodiversity reduce variability of grassland biomass production

Research shows that multiple facets of biodiversity, including species richness and plant evolutionary history, jointly reduce annual variation in grassland productivity. High-species-rich communities with diverse histories exhibit reduced biomass production variability.

SourceGerman Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateAug 28, 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.

Purdue researchers developing novel biomedical imaging system

Purdue University researchers are developing a photoacoustic tomography system that provides real-time compositional information of body tissue without contrast agents. The technology has the potential to detect or monitor diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer.

SourcePurdue University·JournalPhotoacoustics·DateAug 28, 2018

Getting to the roots of our ancient cousin's diet

Researchers found that Australopithecus africanus had wider, splayed roots than Paranthropus robustus and Paranthropus boisei, indicating increased lateral chewing loads. The study suggests that the orientation of tooth roots provides valuable insights into the dietary ecology of ancient humans and their extinct relatives.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateAug 28, 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.

Breakthrough sensor to help people with bipolar disorder monitor lithium levels

Researchers from the University of Surrey developed a fiber-based sensor that can detect lithium concentration levels in blood, providing an easy-to-use alternative to invasive blood samples. The sensor is ready to use and doesn't require pre-conditioning, making it ideal for people with bipolar disorder and depression.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalACS Sensors·DateAug 28, 2018

Writing a 'thank you' note is more powerful than we realize, study shows

A study found that people's likelihood of expressing gratitude is driven by predictions of recipient reactions, highlighting the importance of overcoming fear to write sincere thank-you notes. The research suggests that writing gratitude letters can improve well-being for both writers and recipients at little cost.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalPsychological Science·DateAug 28, 2018

Carbon in color: First-ever colored thin films of nanotubes created

Researchers at Aalto University developed a method to control the fabrication of carbon nanotube thin films, producing colored thin films for various applications. The breakthrough uses aerosols of metal and carbon, with small doses of carbon dioxide tuning the growth of nanotubes.

SourceAalto University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateAug 28, 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.

Mapping out cancer's movements

Researchers have developed a new method using TOF-SIMS to map the flow of biomolecules in and around solid tumors. This technique reveals how tumors signal to their microenvironment and sap local tissue resources.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalBiointerphases·DateAug 28, 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.

HIV/AIDS research yields dividends across medical fields

HIV/AIDS research has led to significant advances in heart disease, hepatitis, and cancer. Scientists have better understood the vital role of CD4+ T cells in thwarting other infectious diseases and certain cancers.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateAug 28, 2018

Novel brain network linked to chronic pain in Parkinson's disease

A novel brain network has been discovered that links chronic pain in Parkinson's disease to a specific region of the brain, including the subthalamic nucleus. This research provides new insights into pain processing and suggests a potential target for pain relief in PD and other neurological diseases.

SourceeLife·DateAug 28, 2018

Components of heart healthy diet may differ from what was previously thought

A new study suggests that a heart-healthy diet may consist of foods previously thought to be detrimental, such as dairy products and meat. The research, which analyzed data from over 218,000 people across five continents, found that consuming these foods was associated with lower risks of cardiovascular disease and death.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalThe Lancet·DateAug 28, 2018

Tackling the great paradox of biodiversity with game theory

Scientists developed a new mathematical model using game theory to explain the biodiversity paradox, which predicts that hundreds of plankton species can coexist in open sea water despite limited resources. The model shows that biodiversity increases exponentially with the number of resources, leading to a large number of potential spe...

SourceChampalimaud Centre for the Unknown·DateAug 28, 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.

NASA looks at fluctuating strength of Tropical Storm Lane

Tropical Storm Lane underwent significant changes in its strength after being analyzed by NASA's Aqua satellite on August 27. The storm showed powerful thunderstorms east of its center but weakened due to wind shear, only to regain tropical storm status later that day.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 28, 2018

Current advice to limit dairy intake should be reconsidered

Research suggests that dairy products can protect against total mortality and cerebrovascular causes, but milk consumption increases the risk of CHD. Public health officials should revise guidelines on dairy consumption, recommending fat-free or low-fat milk.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateAug 28, 2018

Disentangling the relationships between cultural traits and other variables

A team of researchers identified three sources of non-independence in cultural variables: phylogenetic non-independence, spatial autocorrelation, and covariation. By controlling for these factors, they found that parasites have no more explanatory power for cultural traits than other environmental factors like biodiversity and climate.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Geoanthropology·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateAug 28, 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.

Higgs particle's favorite 'daughter' comes home

Researchers at Princeton University have detected the Higgs boson's decay into two bottom quarks, a pathway that confirms theories about matter's nature. The detection gives scientists a new way to study the physical laws governing the universe.

SourcePrinceton University·DateAug 28, 2018

Teenagers have a hard time reading one another's tones of voice

Researchers found that teenagers have difficulty reading the emotions expressed in their peers' voices, particularly when it comes to tones of voice conveying anger, meanness, or happiness. However, they can accurately interpret adult tone of voices. This challenges the social interactions and relationships among teens.

SourceMcGill University·JournalJournal of Nonverbal Behavior·DateAug 28, 2018

NASA finds little improvement in Miriam's structure

NASA's Aqua satellite detected slight improvement in Tropical Storm Miriam's cloud pattern and convective organization on Aug. 27. The storm still exhibited wind shear effects, with coldest cloud top temperatures reaching -63 degrees Fahrenheit.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 28, 2018

Ironing out the difficulties of moving fluids in space

Researchers on the International Space Station are studying ferrofluids with magnetic fields to create pump systems without mechanical moving parts. This could extend system lifetimes and improve performance in next-generation space vehicles.

SourceNASA/Johnson Space Center·DateAug 28, 2018

An ocean apart, carnivorous pitcher plants create similar communities

Research reveals that pitcher plant communities converge in terms of microbial life and small animal populations, even across different continents. The study found that Asian and North American pitchers house similar species, such as bacteria and insects, and can even mimic each other's ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·DateAug 28, 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.

How eggplants became Asian -- genomes and elephants tell the story

Researchers sequenced eggplant and wild relative plastomes, finding a single event led to two lineages: one in Africa and the other in Asia. This dispersal resulted in the current wide distribution of eggplant relatives across Africa, linked to African elephant and impala seed dispersal.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalAmerican Journal of Botany·DateAug 28, 2018

First randomised trial tests criteria used to diagnose heart attack

A new randomized trial tested a revised set of criteria for diagnosing heart attacks, but found that using these criteria did not reduce the rate of recurrent heart attacks or cardiovascular deaths. The study suggested that the revised criteria could lead to more diagnoses and treatment, but with no adverse effects on patient outcomes.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalThe Lancet·DateAug 28, 2018

New compact hyperspectral system captures 5-D images

A new compact hyperspectral system captures 5-D images with high speed and accuracy, benefiting applications such as optical-based sorting and personal medical monitoring. The system uses structured light to create detailed digital archives of historically valuable artifacts.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Express·DateAug 28, 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.