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Science News for August 29, 2018


Researchers identify new potential biotherapy for Alzheimer's disease

A team of researchers at the University of Florida has identified a novel approach to treating Alzheimer's disease by harnessing the power of an immune cell protein. Soluble versions of TLR5 can reduce amyloid plaque buildup and prevent neuronal damage in mouse models.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateAug 29, 2018

NASA sees post-Tropical Cyclone Lane come to an end

Post-Tropical Cyclone Lane has ceased to be a tropical cyclone and will dissipate soon after hitting record-setting rainfall on the Hawaiian Islands. The NASA-NOAA Suomi NPP satellite captured a visible image of its final hours, showing wind shear taking its toll on the storm.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 29, 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.

JCESR receives Secretary of Energy's Achievement Award

The Joint Center for Energy Storage Research (JCESR) has received the Secretary of Energy's Achievement Award for its significant achievements in developing high-performance, low-cost energy storage technologies. The award recognizes the contributions of 29 individuals across multiple JCESR institutions.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·DateAug 29, 2018

Mathematics can assist cities in addressing unstructured neighborhoods

Researchers developed a novel way to analyze poor urban communities, revealing obstacles between unplanned areas and infrastructure. The models identify distinctions between informal and formal neighborhood structures, enabling the creation of people-centered urban planning solutions.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 29, 2018

Best of ESC Congress 2018

At ESC Congress 2018, a record 156 countries were represented, with over 4,500 abstracts presented in 500 expert sessions. Key clinical trials included MARINER, CAMELLIA-TIMI 61, and ASCEND, which may impact practice and guideline updates. The congress also featured new guidelines for hypertension care.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateAug 29, 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.

Global fisheries could still become more profitable despite global warming

Researchers found that harvesting sustainable seafood globally can lead to higher food production and profits, even considering declining fish populations due to ocean warming. The study suggests that implementing adaptive management practices could offset the negative impacts of climate change on fisheries.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 29, 2018

How the forest copes with the summer heat

A University of Basel study reveals that native forest trees can adapt to extreme drought by closing their pores, preventing damage and reducing water loss. Despite this, researchers caution that prolonged dry spells could weaken trees and make them more susceptible to insect infestations.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalJournal of Ecology·DateAug 29, 2018

CNIO researchers find first indicators of prognosis for the most aggressive breast cancer

Researchers identified six protein kinases that predict the evolution of triple negative breast cancer, allowing for new pharmacological targets and potential treatment combinations. The study's findings indicate a high cure rate (95%) for patients with no activated proteins, but increased relapse risk if one or more are active.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 29, 2018

NASA examines intensifying Tropical Storm Norman

Tropical Storm Norman is rapidly intensifying, with maximum sustained winds reaching near 60 mph, and a high chance of becoming a hurricane by Thursday. The storm's infrared satellite signature indicates significant strengthening over the next couple of days.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 29, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Discovery could lead to higher immunotherapy response rates for bladder cancer patients

Researchers at Mount Sinai discovered that stromal cells in bladder cancer tumors prevent immune cells from attacking them, leading to low response rates with PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors. The study identified genes linked to more aggressive cancers and found that tumors with these genes were less responsive to treatment.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 29, 2018

Jang to receive GSA's 2018 Minority Mentorship Award

Yuri Jang, PhD, receives GSA's 2018 Minority Mentorship Award for her exceptional mentorship of minority researchers in the field of aging. She has mentored over 30 scholars during her 15-year tenure, inspiring them to pursue research and careers promoting the well-being of minority older adults.

SourceThe Gerontological Society of America·DateAug 29, 2018

Unlocking the secrets of cell division in cancer

Researchers found liver cells do not need ORC1 to replicate DNA, a key component of cell division. This process, called an endocycle, allows cells to copy their DNA multiple times without dividing, resulting in larger cells with more DNA. Understanding this mechanism could help explain how cancer arises and how it spreads.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalGenes & Development·DateAug 29, 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.

The hidden life of rock gnome lichen

A new genome-wide analysis of the rock gnome lichen reveals its genetic distinctiveness across different locations and informs conservation efforts. The research highlights the importance of preserving habitat and geography in maintaining biodiversity.

SourceAdvanced Science Research Center, GC/CUNY·JournalAmerican Journal of Botany·DateAug 29, 2018

Attacking aftershocks

Using deep learning algorithms, researchers have developed a system that forecasts aftershocks significantly better than random assignment. By analyzing earthquake data and physics-based models, they identified the second invariant of the deviatoric stress tensor as an important factor in predicting aftershock locations.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature·DateAug 29, 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.

Genomic study of 412 anthrax strains provides new virulence clues

Researchers analyzed over 400 anthrax strains and found that human and animal samples tend to have more virulent plasmids than environmental sources. The study suggests a correlation between plasmid copy number and virulence, offering new insights into the severity of specific anthrax strains.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalmSystems·DateAug 29, 2018

Drought increases CO2 concentration in the air

A new study uses satellite technology to measure the impact of droughts on photosynthesis and ecosystem respiration. Researchers found that during dry years, natural ecosystems removed about 30% less carbon from the atmosphere, leading to faster CO2 concentration increases.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature·DateAug 29, 2018

Mongrel Mob open up to Otago researchers for the good of their health

A study published in Royal Society Open Science found that Mongrel Mob members had low knowledge of viral hepatitis, leading to risky infection behaviors. The research also identified concerning liver health issues, including high rates of inflammation and damage.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateAug 29, 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.

New research: Ketamine activates opioid system to treat depression

A new study found that ketamine's antidepressant effect requires opioid system activation in humans, raising concerns about the risk of dependence. The study used naltrexone, an opioid blocker, to block ketamine's effects and found that it reduced antidepressant symptoms but not dissociative effects.

SourceAmerican Psychiatric Association·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateAug 29, 2018

Researchers highlight neglected evidence on the cardiovascular risks of toxic metals

A comprehensive analysis found associations between exposure to toxic metals and increased risk of cardiovascular disease and coronary heart disease. The study's authors call for attention to metals as a significant source of cardiovascular risk, highlighting the need for population-wide strategies to minimize exposure.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalThe BMJ·DateAug 29, 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.

Drought, groundwater loss sinks California land at alarming rate

A new Cornell University study reveals that the San Joaquin Valley in central California is sinking by up to a half-meter annually due to drought and ongoing groundwater extraction. Groundwater depletion has been estimated at 10 miles cubed between 2012 and 2016, posing significant engineering problems and threatening water quality.

SourceCornell University·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 29, 2018

New Texas supercomputer to push the frontiers of science

The University of Texas at Austin will build the nation's fastest academic supercomputer with a $60 million NSF grant, expected to enable major scientific discoveries in fields like astrophysics and zoology. The system, known as Frontera, will begin operations in 2019 and be twice as powerful as its predecessor.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·DateAug 29, 2018

New national training program aims to mainstream glycosciences

The National Heart Lung and Blood Institute will award $20 million to four academic centers over five years, with UC San Diego receiving $5 million. The program aims to correct the lack of attention given to glycans in biomedical research and train 18 early-career glycoscientists.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateAug 29, 2018

Electronic device implanted in the brain could stop seizures

Researchers have successfully implanted a device in mice brains to detect, stop and prevent epileptic seizures. The device uses a neurotransmitter to signal to neurons to stop firing, effectively ending the seizure. Early results show promising potential for treating conditions like Parkinson's disease and brain tumors.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 29, 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.

Cannabis extract helps reset brain function in psychosis

Research from King's College London has found that cannabidiol can help reduce psychotic symptoms by resetting abnormal brain activity. The study provides the first evidence of how cannabidiol acts in the brain to alleviate psychosis and suggests it could be a safer alternative to current treatments.

SourceKing's College London·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateAug 29, 2018

Tight-knit teammates may conform to each other's behavior

A study found that athletes who feel more closely connected to their teammates are more likely to conform to their behaviors, including both positive and risky actions. The researchers suggest that teams should find ways to encourage bonding without pressuring members to engage in negative behavior.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Sport and Exercise Psychology·DateAug 29, 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.

Better assessments for early AMD

The European MACUSTAR consortium is conducting a multi-country clinical study on early AMD, focusing on intermediate-stage disease progression. Novel tests will be developed to assess earlier stages of the disease, improving diagnosis and treatment methods.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalOphthalmologica·DateAug 29, 2018

Diehl to receive GSA's 2018 Distinguished Mentorship in Gerontology Award

Dr. Manfred Diehl, a renowned gerontologist, has been awarded the GSA's Distinguished Mentorship in Gerontology Award for his outstanding mentoring skills and impact on the field. He has successfully mentored numerous students through various fellowships and training programs, inspiring them to innovate and strive for excellence.

SourceThe Gerontological Society of America·DateAug 29, 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.

Bifunctional compound tackles pain relief and opioid dependency

Researchers have developed a bifunctional compound that both relieves pain and suppresses opioid dependency in primates, providing 100-fold stronger pain relief than morphine. The compound lacks rewarding characteristics and motor impairment, indicating a safer alternative to traditional opioids.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateAug 29, 2018

New test uncovers metabolic vulnerabilities in kidney cancer

Researchers developed a novel approach using glucose to assess how kidney cancer tumors use glucose. The study found that ccRCC tumors process glucose differently than most tissues, providing a potential target for new treatments.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalCell Metabolism·DateAug 29, 2018

DOE study targets safer storage of nuclear waste

A University of Houston engineer is leading a $800,000 project to improve the safety of storage containers for nuclear waste. The team will explore ways to reduce or avoid the degeneration of glass containers used to store radioactive waste.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateAug 29, 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.

Biodegradable plastic blends offer new options for disposal

Researchers develop biodegradable plastics that break down under diverse conditions, offering new options for disposal. The study examines the degradation of individual bioplastics and blends under managed and unmanaged environments, finding improved characteristics in certain blends.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateAug 29, 2018

NYC’s tobacco-free pharmacy law substantially reduces tobacco retailer density yet impact is unequal across neighborhoods

A new study finds that NYC's tobacco-free pharmacy law substantially reduces tobacco retailer density overall, particularly in high-income neighborhoods. However, disadvantaged neighborhoods experienced little to no change in retailer density, highlighting unequal impact across neighborhoods.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalTobacco Control·DateAug 29, 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.

Spinal muscular atrophy drug may be effective if started later than previously shown

A study published in Neurology suggests that spinal muscular atrophy drug nusinersen may be effective for muscle control even when treatment is started in children seven months and older. The research found significant muscle control improvements in participants, including an 8-year-old child, with some able to sit up without support.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateAug 29, 2018

Father's diet could affect the long-term health of his offspring

A study by the University of Nottingham discovered that a lack of protein in a father's diet can negatively impact his offspring's long-term health. The research found that low-protein diets affect sperm quality, leading to increased obesity, type 2 diabetes, and reduced metabolic gene expression in offspring.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 29, 2018

Robotic herding of a flock of birds using drones

Researchers created a new algorithm to safely herd flocks of birds away from airports, reducing bird strikes and potential damages. The drone-based system successfully diverted entire flocks without fragmenting their formation.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalIEEE Transactions on Robotics·DateAug 29, 2018

Study finds multiple sclerosis drug slows brain shrinkage

A clinical trial of over 250 participants with progressive multiple sclerosis found that ibudilast slowed down brain shrinkage compared to a placebo. The study showed a difference of approximately 2.5 milliliters of brain tissue between the two groups, but it is unclear if this translates to improved symptoms or function.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateAug 29, 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.

'Archived' heat has reached deep into the Arctic interior, researchers say

A new study has found that warmer water from hundreds of miles away is penetrating deep into the Arctic's interior, leading to a two-fold increase in heat content over the past 30 years. If this 'archived' heat reaches the surface, it could melt the entire sea-ice pack covering most of the region for most of the year.

SourceYale University·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 29, 2018

Clearing a xenotransplantation hurdle: detecting infectious agents in pigs

A new study has developed highly sensitive and specific assays to detect infectious agents in pigs, a crucial step towards ensuring the safety of xenotransplantation. The assays were validated on over 300 pig specimens and showed promising results, suggesting they can identify potential pathogens in donor pigs.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalXenotransplantation·DateAug 29, 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.

Food activates brown fat

Researchers at TUM demonstrated that food increases thermogenesis in brown fat, contrary to the long-held assumption that it only responds to cold. This discovery could lead to new ways to prevent obesity and diabetes.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalCell Metabolism·DateAug 29, 2018

Scientists take big step toward finding non-addictive painkiller

Researchers at Wake Forest School of Medicine discover a safe and non-addictive pain medication called AT-121, which suppressed addictive effects of opioids and produced morphine-like analgesic effects. The compound also blocks abuse potential of prescription opioids like buprenorphine, offering hope to treat pain and opioid abuse.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateAug 29, 2018

A new take on fighting multi-drug resistant bacteria

Researchers at UH University have won a $3.5M grant to develop technology suggesting the best combinations of antibiotics to kill certain resistant bacteria. The project aims to combat antibiotic resistance, a major public health threat.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateAug 29, 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.

HKBU scholars in world-first breakthrough for difficult-to-treat breast cancer

Researchers at Hong Kong Baptist University have developed a metal compound that inhibits the enzyme lysine-specific demethylase 5A (KDM5A) in TNBC tumours with less toxicity in mice. This discovery holds great promise for the development of targeted drugs for TNBC therapy, offering a new approach to treating this difficult form of bre...

SourceHong Kong Baptist University·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateAug 29, 2018

$3.8 million NIMH grant to diagnose suicidal thinking using brain imaging

A $3.8 million NIMH grant will support the development of a predictive model that uses machine learning techniques to identify neural signatures of suicidal ideation and behavior. This technology has the potential to improve clinicians' ability to detect and treat suicidal patients, reducing suicide risk among young adults in the US.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·DateAug 29, 2018

More than just a DNA repair deficiency syndrome

Researchers found that the CSB protein, previously thought to be solely responsible for DNA repair, also enhances acetylation of alpha-Tubulin and regulates autophagy. HDAC inhibition restores balance, improving skin symptoms in mouse models. Further studies aim to explore its potential treatment for Cockayne syndrome.

SourceLeibniz Institute for Environmental Medicine·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateAug 29, 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.

Nerve fibers regrow through scar tissue after spinal cord injury in rodents

Scientists have discovered a three-pronged treatment that stimulates axon growth through scar tissue in rodents, potentially leading to therapies for humans. The approach triggers axon growth and transmission across damaged tissue, opening doors to restoring connections in people with spinal cord injury.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalNature·DateAug 29, 2018

What's that smell? Scientists find a new way to understand odors

Researchers at Salk Institute and Arizona State University develop mathematical model to organize odor molecules by frequency of co-occurrence in nature, mapping pleasant directions. This breakthrough enables construction of artificial pleasant odor mixtures, with potential implications for understanding diseases like Parkinson's.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 29, 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.

A tool to improve the design of growing urban areas

The study provides a framework to analyze and improve urban design in growing cities, connecting disconnected areas with minimal infrastructure costs. Researchers used topology and spatial analysis to identify opportunities for reblocking, transforming informal settlements into more livable spaces.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 29, 2018

New genetics findings unravel key components of fracture risk in osteoporosis

A recent genome-wide association study found that only two factors - bone mineral density and muscle strength - contribute to fracture risk, while vitamin D levels do not directly predispose people to fractures. Increasing bone strength is more effective in preventing fractures than widespread vitamin D supplementation.

SourceMcGill University·JournalThe BMJ·DateAug 29, 2018

McMullen to receive GSA's 2018 Carroll L. Estes Rising Star Award

Tara McMullen has been recognized with the 2018 Carroll L. Estes Rising Star Award by the Gerontological Society of America (GSA) for her outstanding contributions to social research, policy, and practice. The award honors her work in standardizing post-acute care assessment data and quality measures.

SourceThe Gerontological Society of America·DateAug 29, 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.

Overconfident CEOs are more likely to get sued

Researchers found that overconfident CEOs are 33% more likely to be sued by shareholders. A shareholder lawsuit can curb future risk-taking behavior, leading to lower confidence and more prudent actions. This study highlights the importance of shareholder power in regulating CEO behavior.

SourceStevens Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Financial and Quantitative Analysis·DateAug 29, 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.

Trump supporters on campuses more likely to show prejudice toward international students

A University at Buffalo study suggests that support for President Donald Trump is a predictor of prejudice against international students, along with university identity and socialization. Factors such as standardized test scores and stereotypes also play a role in shaping attitudes towards international students.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalJournal of Diversity in Higher Education·DateAug 29, 2018

How your brain experiences time

A team of researchers has identified a neural clock in the brain that organizes the flow of our experiences into an orderly sequence of events. This discovery sheds light on how our brains measure subjective time, which is distinct from external timekeeping mechanisms like clocks and circadian rhythms.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalNature·DateAug 29, 2018

Terahertz wave activates filamentation of actin

Researchers at Tohoku University have discovered that terahertz wave irradiation activates the filamentation of actin protein. This non-invasive method could overcome problems with current drugs used to control actin filamentation and expand its applications in biological technologies.

SourceTohoku University·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 29, 2018

Watching two-dimensional materials grow

Researchers have developed a new method to directly observe the crystallisation process of two-dimensional materials under the electron microscope. This allows for accurate study and control of the process, leading to better production methods for ultra-thin crystals with desired properties.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalACS Nano·DateAug 29, 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.

The fate of plastic in the oceans

Researchers discovered that microplastics form stable aggregates with biogenic particles, such as plankton and faecal material, which can sink into deeper water layers. The presence of biofilms on microplastics also facilitates aggregation, potentially affecting the transport and distribution of microplastics in the oceans.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel (GEOMAR)·DateAug 29, 2018

Unstoppable monster in the early universe

Astronomers used ALMA to create the most detailed map of a distant starburst galaxy, finding highly unstable molecular clouds that lead to rapid star formation. The galaxy's gas is estimated to be consumed in 100 million years, 10 times faster than in other galaxies.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalNature·DateAug 29, 2018

A recipe for regenerating nerve fibers across complete spinal cord injury

Researchers have discovered a three-pronged recipe to regenerate severed nerve fibers across complete spinal cord injuries, replicating conditions that promote growth during development. The treatment involves delivering growth factors and proteins to reanimate the genetic program for axon growth and create a permissive environment.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature·DateAug 29, 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.

Failing immune system 'brakes' help explain type 1 diabetes in mice

A study published in Frontiers in Immunology reveals that a specific immune checkpoint molecule, interleukin-10 (IL-10), is not functioning properly in mice with type 1 diabetes. This defect leads to an overactive immune response, attacking insulin-producing cells and causing the disease.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalFrontiers in Immunology·DateAug 29, 2018

Ancient African herders had lasting ecological impact on grazed lands

A new study found that ancient animal herders in Africa added to the ecological richness and diversity of the savanna thousands of years ago. Their practice of penning cattle, goats, and sheep at night created nutrient-rich grassy glades, or hotspots, that still attract wildlife and have increased habitat diversity in the region.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature·DateAug 29, 2018

Hospital rating tools should allow patients to customize rankings

A new web tool demonstrates how patients can create customized hospital rankings based on their individual needs and preferences. By allowing patients to prioritize quality measures, hospital ratings can be made more relevant to each person's healthcare needs.

SourceRAND Corporation·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateAug 29, 2018

Soy natural: Genetic resistance against aphids

Researchers have discovered genetic landmarks associated with soybean aphid resistance in thousands of varieties, paving the way for developing new resistant varieties. This breakthrough could provide an alternative to insecticides, reducing environmental issues and crop losses.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalThe Plant Genome·DateAug 29, 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.

Improving soil quality can slow global warming

A new study suggests that low-tech ways of improving soil quality on farms and rangelands worldwide could capture significant amounts of carbon from the atmosphere and store it in the soil. If instituted globally, these practices could reduce global temperatures by nearly half a degree Fahrenheit by 2100.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 29, 2018

Beavers have an impact on the climate

Beaver dams raise water levels, releasing organic carbon to the atmosphere. Research indicates beavers can act as both carbon sinks and sources, with some ponds fixing up to 470,000 tons of carbon per year or releasing 820,000 tons annually.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalMammal Review·DateAug 29, 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.

Cold climates contributed to the extinction of the Neanderthals

A recent study suggests that climate change contributed to the decline and eventual extinction of the Neanderthals. The researchers found that prolonged extreme cold periods coincide with a near complete absence of archaeological artefacts from the Neanderthals. This indicates that climate change played a significant role in their demise.

SourceNorthumbria University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 29, 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.

New strategic funding to metabolic research at the University of Copenhagen

The Center's new grant will accelerate research on mechanisms involved in metabolic health and disease, aiming to develop new prevention and treatment strategies. The funding will also enable the establishment of technology platforms to empower scientists to conduct cutting-edge research.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·DateAug 29, 2018

Experts warn of cardiovascular risk from heavy metal pollution

A systematic review and meta-analysis found exposure to arsenic, lead, cadmium, and copper increases the risk of coronary heart disease and cardiovascular disease. The study suggests that even low doses of toxic chemicals pose a significant risk to cardiovascular health, highlighting the need for policymakers to take action to reduce p...

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalThe BMJ·DateAug 29, 2018

Mark Nieuwenhuijsen receives 2018 John Goldsmith Award

Mark Nieuwenhuijsen, Director of Urban Planning, Environment and Health Initiative at ISGlobal, wins the 2018 John Goldsmith Award for his work on promoting healthier cities through reduced car use and increased public transportation. His research aims to reduce premature deaths in cities like Barcelona due to suboptimal urban planning.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·DateAug 29, 2018

Quality of life after spinal cord injury -- what functional abilities have the greatest impact?

A study published in American Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation found that mobility and self-care abilities are the greatest impactors on quality of life for spinal cord injury patients. The research, which analyzed data from 195 patients with traumatic spinal cord injury, revealed differences in priorities between tetraple...

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation·DateAug 29, 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.

US soldiers who attempt suicide often have no prior mental health diagnosis

A recent study of 9,650 US soldiers who attempted suicide reveals that nearly one-third had no prior mental health diagnosis. Risk factors for attempting suicide were similar across both groups, but being in the first year of service and certain sociodemographic characteristics increased the risk in soldiers without a prior diagnosis.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateAug 29, 2018

Air pollution can put a dent in solar power

Research reveals that air pollution can reduce solar panel output by up to 17% in some cities, leading to significant financial losses. The study found that urban areas like Delhi and Beijing could lose tens of millions of dollars annually due to haze-related reductions in solar power.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateAug 29, 2018

New way to break cancer's vicious cycle

University of Toronto researchers have identified protein NUAK2, associated with poor disease prognosis in bladder cancer. Blocking NUAK2 slows down cancer cell growth and raises hopes for treating patients.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 29, 2018

Celebrity culture likely contributed to destigmatizing out-of-wedlock childbirth

A new study by Hanna Grol-Prokopczyk found that celebrities in the US have lower rates of out-of-wedlock births compared to the general population, but this disparity is seen among white women with college education. Celebrity news outlets like People magazine may be contributing to a shift towards more non-traditional family arrangeme...

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalDemographic Research·DateAug 29, 2018

Changes in breakfast and dinner timings can reduce body fat

A 10-week pilot study found that participants who delayed their breakfast by 90 minutes and had their dinner earlier lost more than twice as much body fat compared to those in the control group. This reduction was partly due to decreased food intake, with 57% of participants reporting a decrease in eating opportunities.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalJournal of Nutritional Science·DateAug 29, 2018

A climate 'wake-up call'

Research suggests that proactive implementation of fisheries management and climate action can create a more bountiful future for the world's oceans. The study finds that concerted responses to climate change can lead to increased fish populations, food availability, and profit for fishermen.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 29, 2018

China is hot spot of ground-level ozone pollution

A new study reveals China's air quality is worse than the US, Europe, Japan, and South Korea in terms of surface ozone levels. The country experiences more high ozone days than any other nation, posing a significant threat to human health and crops.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·DateAug 29, 2018

On the horizon: An acne vaccine

Researchers have made significant progress in developing an acne vaccine by targeting a toxin secreted from Propionibacterium acnes bacteria. The vaccine has shown promise in reducing inflammation in human acne lesions. Future studies aim to engineer a non-toxic chemical or targeted vaccine formulation for its human application.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Investigative Dermatology·DateAug 29, 2018

The God of small things

Researchers found that religious people regularly assign significance to unremarkable events, leading to positive emotions like gratitude and contentment. The study suggests that giving meaning to everyday events is a general phenomenon across religious groups.

SourceJames Cook University·JournalJournal of Personality·DateAug 29, 2018

CVIA special issue on special issue on current issues in cath labs

This CVIA special issue brings together valuable new insights into research in cath lab procedures. Papers cover topics such as intravascular ultrasound-guided percutaneous coronary intervention, cardiac catheterization after cardiac arrest, and the current state of transradial access.

SourceCardiovascular Innovations and Applications·JournalCardiovascular Innovations and Applications·DateAug 29, 2018

Protect key habitats, not just wilderness, to preserve species

A new study suggests that protecting key habitats outside of existing wildernesses and preserves is essential for conserving at-risk species with small ranges. The analysis shows that even half of the world's large wilderness areas may not be enough to protect many more species.

SourceDuke University·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 29, 2018

Research study sheds new light on relationship between genes and bone fracture risk

A large international collaboration identified 15 genetic variations linked to bone fracture risk, contradicting previous assumptions about clinical risk factors. The study highlights the importance of increasing bone strength in preventing fractures, rather than relying solely on calcium and vitamin D supplementation.

SourceHebrew SeniorLife Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research·JournalThe BMJ·DateAug 29, 2018