Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for August 6, 2018


NASA gets an infrared look at intensifying Tropical Storm Ileana

Tropical Storm Ileana is intensifying off the coast of Mexico, with cloud top temperatures reaching minus 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The National Hurricane Center predicts heavy rain and flash flooding in coastal areas, with possible isolated maximum amounts of 6 inches.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 6, 2018

Transplantation followed by antiviral therapy cured hepatitis C

Researchers found that transplantation followed by antiviral therapy cured hepatitis C in all 20 patients who received kidneys from infected donors. The treatment resulted in excellent renal function and stable to improved quality of life.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateAug 6, 2018

Mice individuality is influenced by their relations

Researchers study mice living in 'Souris City' device to identify distinct personalities based on behavior differences. The study reveals that dopamine-producing neurons play a key role in shaping individuality, with mice exhibiting radically different strategies for navigating the maze.

SourceCNRS·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 6, 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.

Epigenetic markers of ovarian cancer

Researchers at Johns Hopkins and Insilico Medicine discovered novel epigenetically silenced genes in ovarian cancer, including methylation of the GULP1 gene. GULP1 expression is associated with late-stage disease and poor overall survival, suggesting its potential as a biomarker.

SourceInSilico Medicine·JournalCancer Letters·DateAug 6, 2018

First North American co-occurrence of Hadrosaur and Therizinosaur tracks found in Alaska

A team of paleontologists discovered dozens of hadrosaur and therizinosaur tracks in Denali National Park's lower Cantwell Formation, providing evidence that Alaska served as a gateway for dinosaur migration between Asia and North America during the Late Cretaceous period. The co-occurrence of these dinosaurs in Alaska challenges previ...

SourcePerot Museum of Nature and Science·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 6, 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.

Concepts for new switchable plasmonic nanodevices: A magneto-plasmonic nanoscale router and a high-contrast magneto-plasmonic disk modulator controlled by external magnetic fields

Researchers developed new magneto-plasmonic nanoscale routers and modulators for various nanophotonic functionalities. The devices exploit the propagation of surface-plasmon-polaritons in magneto-plasmonic waveguides to achieve high-contrast switching.

SourceForschungsverbund Berlin·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 6, 2018

Drug prices not always aligned with value, CU Anschutz researchers say

A study by CU Anschutz researchers found that US drug prices are not aligned with their value or net health benefits. The researchers used a forecasting model to calculate cost-effectiveness for commonly reimbursed cardiovascular drugs, revealing a wide spectrum of cost-effectiveness and varying price-to-health-gain ratios.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalHealth Affairs·DateAug 6, 2018

Advancing transplantation: Hepatitis C-infected organs safe for transplantation when followed by antiviral treatment

A clinical trial at Penn Medicine has successfully cured 20 patients of the Hepatitis C virus (HCV) after receiving kidney transplants from infected donors who were treated with an antiviral therapy. The results show that the quality and function of the transplanted kidneys are similar to those from non-HCV infected donors.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateAug 6, 2018

Striking a balance between immunity and inflammation

Researchers found that mice infected with hookworms produce super-killer macrophages that are efficient at killing the worms but also cause tissue damage and inflammation. The study reveals that RELMalpha, an immune protein, helps balance immunity and inflammation by downregulating inflammatory responses.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalJournal of Leukocyte Biology·DateAug 6, 2018

Sources of atmospheric sulfur isotope anomalies

Researchers from China and the US analyzed five sulfur isotopes in aerosol, SO2, and coal samples to determine their sources. The study reveals that photochemical reactions in the stratosphere produce sulfate aerosols enriched with 33S, while biomass and fossil fuel combustion yield sulfates depleted in 36S.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 6, 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.

Tobacco 'power wall' linked to adolescents' views about e-cigarettes

A RAND Corporation study found that adolescents who view tobacco ads in convenience stores are more willing to try vaping products. Hiding the 'power wall' behind an opaque barrier reduced willingness by 15%. Researchers suggest limiting point-of-sale advertising may help reduce industry efforts on adolescent nicotine use.

SourceRAND Corporation·JournalNicotine & Tobacco Research·DateAug 6, 2018

Researchers link weight-loss surgery to lower risk of diabetes complications

Researchers found that bariatric surgery reduces the risk of nerve, kidney and eye disease in patients with type 2 diabetes. The study included over 3,900 patients who underwent bariatric surgery and compared them to a control group of over 11,000 patients who received usual medical care.

SourceKaiser Permanente·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateAug 6, 2018

VIP neurons shift daily rhythms

Neurons in brain's master clock exhibit regular activity cycle that is disrupted under constant light conditions. Blocking these neurons reduces the severity of shifts in daily rhythms, suggesting a potential mechanism for modern sleep disorders.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateAug 6, 2018

Gene recombination deactivates retroviruses during invasion of host genomes

Researchers have identified key stages in the process of endogenization, by which host genomes defend against invading retroviruses. The study found that recombination between viral sequences and host genomic elements can incapacitate new viral sequences, making them less harmful.

SourceForschungsverbund Berlin·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 6, 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.

Having larger muscles could compensate for poor muscle quality in CKD patients

A new study by the University of Leicester found that larger muscles can compensate for poor muscle quality in Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) patients, improving physical function and strength. The research suggests that muscle size is a more important factor than muscle quality in maintaining good physical performance.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalNephrology Dialysis Transplantation·DateAug 6, 2018

Study: Prioritize cardiac monitoring for high-risk breast cancer patients

A recent study found that 8.3% of trastuzumab-treated patients developed heart failure, highlighting the need for cardiac monitoring in high-risk breast cancer patients. The study also showed a consistent increase in heart failure risk with age, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing cardiac monitoring for younger patients.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateAug 6, 2018

Mayo research team identifies genes that increase risk for triple-negative breast cancer

A Mayo Clinic research team has identified specific genes associated with an increased risk for developing triple-negative breast cancer. Alternations in BARD1, BRCA1, BRCA2, PALB2 and RAD51D genes were linked to a high risk for this subtype of breast cancer, while mutations in BRIP1 and RAD51C genes showed a moderate risk.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateAug 6, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Dispersal of humans in Southeast Asia

Researchers reevaluate Madjedbebe site evidence, suggesting a revised human dispersal timeline for the region; the findings have implications for understanding human migration patterns in Southeast Asia and surrounding areas.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 6, 2018

Scientists develop unique materials to repair damaged organs and tissue

Researchers at Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University create three-dimensional porous material made of collagen and chitosan to restore bone tissue after trauma or illness. The material stimulates natural tissue growth, eliminating the need for lifelong medication.

SourcePeter the Great Saint-Petersburg Polytechnic University·JournalCell and Tissue Biology·DateAug 6, 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.

Mapping the inner workings of a living cell

Researchers developed a new imaging tool to visualize metabolic activities in individual cells, tracking protein, lipid, and DNA production. The technique's potential applications include tumor removal, head injury detection, and developmental disorder diagnosis.

SourceColumbia University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 6, 2018

Diabetes in Bay Area Chinese population linked to fat fibrosis

Researchers found that fat fibrosis in subcutaneous fat is predictive of unhealthy belly fat and insulin resistance in Asian participants. This difference could help explain why Asians develop type 2 diabetes at a lower body weight than Caucasians.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateAug 6, 2018

The starch risk to teeth

A systematic review of 33 studies found that more processed starches increase the risk of cavities due to their breakdown into sugars in the mouth. Whole grain carbohydrates, on the other hand, may offer protection against gum disease and a lower risk of oral cancer.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalJournal of Dental Research·DateAug 6, 2018

Children are highly vulnerable to health risks of a changing climate

Climate change poses significant health risks to children, including dehydration, heat stress, respiratory disease, and vector-borne diseases. Researchers propose strategies for addressing these needs, such as establishing medical protocols and best practice guidelines for climate-related event planning.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateAug 6, 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.

Could climate change affect the development of Turkic Khaganate?

The study suggests that climate change, particularly volcanic activity and extreme weather events, contributed to the growth and decline of the ancient Turkic Khaganate. The researchers used tree-ring chronologies, ice core data, and Chinese dynastic chronicles to analyze the effects of climate change on the empire's development.

SourceUral Federal University·JournalClimatic Change·DateAug 6, 2018

Learning while sleeping? Our learning capabilities are limited

Researchers used magnetoencephalography to show that brain's ability to group sounds into sequences disappears during slow wave sleep. However, elementary associations like stimulus-reflex response can be acquired during sleep, suggesting limitations in learning capabilities.

SourceUniversité libre de Bruxelles·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 6, 2018

Neural signature of balance

A study published in eNeuro found a common neural signature of balance maintenance in the healthy brain, which could be used to assess balance in patients with movement disorders. The researchers used EEG and EMG to record electrical activity from the brain and muscles while participants walked or stood on a narrow beam.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·JournaleNeuro·DateAug 6, 2018

Combining on and off switches, one protein can control flowering in plants

A University of Wisconsin-Madison research team discovered a previously unknown mechanism for controlling cellular decisions, combining an on-and-off switch in a single protein. The protein EBS binds to two different chemical modifications on histones, promoting or preventing the transition to flowering.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalNature Genetics·DateAug 6, 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.

Wetter soil is leading to reduced methane gas absorption

Researchers at the Advanced Science Research Center found that wetter soil decreases methane gas absorption by 53-89 percent, leading to a positive feedback loop between global warming and climate change. This study highlights the significant impact of reduced methane uptake on global warming and the need for further research.

SourceAdvanced Science Research Center, GC/CUNY·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 6, 2018

Novel vaccine approach proves powerful against Zika virus

Researchers at Ohio State University have developed a unique vaccine that employs an uncommon two-pronged approach to fighting the Zika virus. The single-dose vaccine proved effective in triggering an immune response that prevented later infection by Zika virus.

SourceOhio State University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 6, 2018

African killifish becomes fastest maturing vertebrate on record

Researchers found that African killifish can mature and reproduce in as little as two weeks, setting a new record for the fastest maturation rate in vertebrates. The fish's lifespan is also highly flexible, with some individuals reaching sexual maturity in up to 10 weeks.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 6, 2018

Lessons from flies: genetic diversity impacts disease severity

A study by University of Utah Health scientists reveals that variation in the genetic modifier Baldspot can influence disease severity in retinitis pigmentosa. The research suggests targeting genes like Baldspot could lead to effective treatments against some disorders.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateAug 6, 2018

Earthquakes can be weakened by groundwater

Researchers from EPFL and ENS Paris have discovered that highly pressurized water in the vicinity of an earthquake can reduce its intensity. This finding contradicts previous theories and highlights the importance of considering fluid pressure in geothermal models to accurately predict earthquake behavior.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 6, 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.

Ricocheting radio waves monitor the tiniest movements in a room

A new motion-sensing technology uses radio waves to detect a person's presence and location anywhere inside a room, even beyond the sensor's line of sight. The system works by analyzing patterns created by radio waves bouncing around the room, allowing it to distinguish between different scenarios and locate objects or people in space.

SourceDuke University·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 6, 2018

NASA data shows Tropical Storm John intensifying

Tropical Storm John strengthened off southwestern Mexico's coast, with cloud top temperatures indicating strong storms capable of heavy rain. The storm is forecast to become a hurricane and produce life-threatening ocean conditions along the Mexican coast.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 6, 2018

Rapid diagnostic coupled with local therapy developed for brain tumors

Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital have developed a rapid molecular diagnostic that can determine if a tumor harbors an IDH1 or IDH2 mutation within 27 minutes. The test is coupled with a sustained release microparticle drug delivery system that provides localized treatment and prolonged survival in a mouse model.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 6, 2018

Rice U. system selectively sequesters toxins from water

Rice University scientists develop technology to remove specific contaminants from drinking water and wastewater, reducing energy and cost. The system uses composite electrodes that selectively pull target ions, allowing for more efficient treatment and reuse.

SourceRice University·DateAug 6, 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.

Genome editing improves yield of spider silk

Researchers have successfully engineered silkworms to produce high yields of spider silk using genome editing, a breakthrough that could pave the way for mass production of this versatile material. The transgenic silkworms produced fibers with improved elasticity and extensibility compared to wild-type silkworms.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 6, 2018

Animations prove effective in accurately measuring pain

A new mobile application called Painimation uses animations to assess and monitor pain better than traditional measurement tools. The study found that over 80% of patients enjoyed using the app and it provided similar or more information about pain type and cause than existing questionnaires.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·DateAug 6, 2018

New program keeps elderly out of emergency

A program keeping elderly aged care residents out of hospital emergency departments has been successful in reducing demand on emergency services. The 'Hospital in the Nursing Home' program saw a 47% decrease in hospital admissions among aged care patients, with an estimated economic benefit of AU$8 million per year.

SourceEmergency Medicine Foundation (Australia)·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 6, 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.

Doxorubicin disrupts the immune system to cause heart toxicity

Researchers found that doxorubicin targets enzymes controlling immune responses in the spleen and heart, disrupting metabolism and leading to impaired inflammation resolution. The drug also poisons specific immune cells, causing a loss of host defense and promoting chronic non-resolving inflammation.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·DateAug 6, 2018

Oxford University: Better sleep linked with family tree strength

A new study published in PLOS ONE found that sleep boosts 'fitness' and future family line reproductive success, suggesting it plays a significant role in evolutionary adaptation. The research used mathematical modeling to compare the fitness of sleeping and non-sleeping strategies under various conditions.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 6, 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.

The bark side of the force

Researchers from CNRS and Cirad have discovered that the bark of certain tree species generates forces that control tree growth and upright posture. This motor function was previously overlooked, but is now recognized as a crucial component of a tree's ability to grow vertically.

SourceCNRS·JournalNew Phytologist·DateAug 6, 2018

Sequenced fox genome hints at genetic basis of behavior

The fox genome study identifies genomic regions associated with tame and aggressive behaviors, revealing potential links to domestication in dogs and Williams-Beuren syndrome in humans. A single gene, SorCS1, is found to be linked to specific behaviors in foxes.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateAug 6, 2018

Soft multi-functional robots get really small...and spider-shaped

Researchers developed an integrated fabrication process to design soft robots on the millimeter scale with micrometer-scale features, enabling changes in structure, motion, and color. The new technology paves the way for a new generation of flexible microrobots for medical and environmental tasks.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateAug 6, 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.

Venture capitalists' reputations take a hit when publicly listed companies they once endorsed fail

New research from Singapore Management University suggests that venture capitalists' reputations can be damaged when their endorsed companies fail to meet expectations. The study found that VCs create high expectations for their portfolio companies, which can have long-lasting consequences for their own reputations.

SourceSingapore Management University·JournalAcademy of Management Journal·DateAug 6, 2018

Climate change and decline of Mojave Desert birds

A study reveals evidence of community collapse in Mojave birds, with 43% loss of previously documented bird species over the past century. Climate change, particularly decreased precipitation, is associated with the decline in Mojave birds, while surface water presence is linked to increased species richness.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 6, 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.

Male birds sing less to females on antidepressants

A new study by the University of York found that dilute concentrations of Prozac make female starlings less attractive to males during courtship. The researchers discovered increased male aggression towards females receiving the medication, leading to a higher risk of mate failure and population decline.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalChemosphere·DateAug 6, 2018

Climate-induced streamflow changes in watersheds

A study found similar trends in streamflow in natural and human-modified watersheds, indicating climate-induced changes. Streamflow decreased in the southern US and increased in northeastern states and Canadian prairies.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 6, 2018

Earth's potential climate trajectories

Researchers investigate intrinsic biogeophysical feedbacks that may lead to 'Hothouse Earth' conditions despite reduced human emissions. The study highlights the risk of exceeding global average temperatures in interglacial periods of the past 1.2 million years.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 6, 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.

The value of pride

Research finds that pride serves an evolved function in human nature, helping individuals weigh self-interest against social approval. The study reveals a close link between pride and the values of those around us, suggesting it's a win-win rather than a sin.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 6, 2018

A targeted approach to treating glioma

Researchers develop targeted approach to treat glioma, using microparticles to deliver drug directly to brain. The treatment targets a specific mutation found in 20-25% of gliomas and has shown promise in extending patient survival.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 6, 2018

Injectable trace minerals improve mineral status in beef heifers

Researchers found that injectable trace mineral Multimin90 improved conception rates in some herds, but not others. In one study, selenium and copper status improved compared to saline injections. The value of injectables lies in ensuring every animal receives the supplement at a chosen timing.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Animal Science·DateAug 6, 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.

Enzyme helps build motor that drives neuron death

Researchers at Vanderbilt University have identified a key enzyme that drives neuron death in neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's and ALS. The enzyme histone deacetylase 1 (HDAC1) modifies a molecular motor that triggers signaling agents to travel down the axon, killing the neuron.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateAug 6, 2018

Differences in immune responses due to age, sex, and genetics

Research reveals that genetic factors and age are the strongest predictors of humoral immune responses to common pathogens and vaccines. The study also found that older individuals and women exhibit stronger antibody responses against most antigens.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalGenome Medicine·DateAug 6, 2018

Created line of spinal cord neural stem cells shows diverse promise

Scientists at University of California San Diego School of Medicine have successfully created a line of spinal cord neural stem cells that can be used to model diseases and potentially provide a scalable source of replacement cells for spinal cord injuries. The diverse cells, derived from human pluripotent stem cells, show promise in a...

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Methods·DateAug 6, 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.

If you're a woman having a heart attack, insist on a female physician

A new study found that female patients treated by male physicians had lower survival rates compared to those treated by female physicians. Increasing the presence of female physicians in emergency departments may improve outcomes for these patients.

SourceHarvard Business School·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 6, 2018

Inner Solar System's elemental evolution

Meteorite chondrules reveal that oxygen and volatile elements increased in the inner Solar System until around 4.567 billion years ago. Volatile element delivery continued to increase after this point, supporting a model of Mars' early formation under oxidizing conditions and Earth's accretion under reducing conditions.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 6, 2018

More sensitive blood test diagnoses heart attacks faster

A new high-sensitivity blood test for cardiac troponin has been found safe and effective in diagnosing heart attacks faster than traditional methods. The test ruled out heart attack in 30-83.8% of patients within three hours, compared to 80.4% with conventional testing.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateAug 6, 2018

Is too much screen time harming children's vision?

A new study suggests that excessive screen time is contributing to an increase in nearsightedness among children, with symptoms including dry eye and blurred vision. Parents can take steps to mitigate this by encouraging outdoor activities, using good posture, and taking regular breaks from screens.

SourceAmerican Academy of Ophthalmology·JournalOphthalmology·DateAug 6, 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.

Scientists create atomic glue gun to build better nucleic acid therapeutics

Researchers at Scripps Research and Bristol-Myers Squibb developed a new tool, called phosphorus-sulfur incorporation (PSI), to precisely control the 3D architecture of thiophosphate linkages in nucleic acid therapeutics. This technology enables the creation of single isomers with hundreds of thousands of stereoisomers.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalScience·DateAug 6, 2018

Women survive heart attacks better with women doctors: Study

A 19-year review of nearly 582,000 heart attack cases reveals that female patients have a significantly higher survival rate when treated by women doctors. The study's findings also suggest that male doctors with more female colleagues in the ER can improve survival rates for female patients.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 6, 2018

Researchers at the University of New Mexico uncover remnants of early solar system

Researchers have uncovered the remnants of the early solar system with the discovery of an ancient igneous meteorite containing silica-rich crustal rocks. The oldest recorded igneous meteorite, dating back 4.565 billion years, provides valuable insights into planet formation and volcanic rock compositions in the early solar system.

SourceUniversity of New Mexico·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 6, 2018

Patient-physician gender concordance

A study of over 500,000 observations found that female heart attack patients treated by male physicians had lower survival rates. Survival rates improved when there were more female physicians in the emergency department or when male physicians were exposed to more female patients.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 6, 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.

Methane uptake in forest soils

Researchers report significant declines in forest soils' methane uptake, attributed to increased precipitation and hydrological flux. A literature analysis reveals a 77% global average decrease in methane uptake from 1988 to 2015.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 6, 2018

Medicaid expansion leads to greater access to diabetes medications

Researchers found that states expanding Medicaid eligibility in 2014-2015 saw a significant increase in diabetes medication prescriptions, with a 30% rise per 1,000 people. This growth was particularly notable for newer, more advanced forms of insulin and other medications, suggesting improved treatment outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalHealth Affairs·DateAug 6, 2018

Small birds fly at high altitudes towards Africa

Researchers at Lund University tracked the flight height of two small bird species migrating from Scandinavia to Africa, finding they flew as high as 3,950m. The study used a data logger to measure acceleration, air pressure, and temperature during flight, revealing the birds' altitude adjustments in response to changing wind conditions.

SourceLund University·JournalJournal of Avian Biology·DateAug 6, 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.

Stress makes people better at processing bad news

A UCL-led study found that stress enhances people's ability to process and internalize bad news, reversing the typical optimism bias. Under stressful conditions, individuals become more vigilant to bad news, even when unrelated to their anxiety source.

SourceUniversity College London·DateAug 6, 2018

Visa restrictions can lead to increase in illegal migration

Research finds that restricting student and high-skilled visas has little impact on overall migration, while limiting family and low-skilled visas reduces migration but diverts aspiring migrants to unauthorized channels. Enforcement of unauthorized migration is also inefficient.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 6, 2018

Size matters: if you are a bubble of volcanic gas

Scientists discovered that gas bubbles rising to the surface can alter volcanic gas composition, which affects eruption forecasts. The findings also suggest a new pathway for chemical changes in gases during large-scale eruptions.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Geoscience·DateAug 6, 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.

Vaping draws strong support -- from bots

A study found that more than 70% of tweets about e-cigarettes were posted by robots, while human users showed strong support for vaping. The team analyzed nearly 194,000 geocoded tweets and identified adolescent Twitter users as particularly enthusiastic about e-cigarettes.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalJournal of Health Communication·DateAug 6, 2018

Comprehensive pediatric CAR T guidelines developed by MD Anderson and PALISI

The guidelines outline lessons learned by experts in various fields to identify early signs and symptoms of treatment-related toxicity, detailing ways to manage it. Key recommendations include monitoring for cytokine release syndrome and addressing parent and/or caregiver concerns.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalNature Reviews Clinical Oncology·DateAug 6, 2018

Probiotic use is a link between brain fogginess, severe bloating

Researchers found a significant connection between probiotic use, bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine, high levels of D-lactic acid, and brain fogginess. The study suggests that excessive probiotic use can lead to severe bloating and disorienting brain fog.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalClinical and Translational Gastroenterology·DateAug 6, 2018

Researchers solved mystery of clownfish coloration

The researchers discovered a connection between the colouration of clownfish and the toxicity of sea anemone species they live with. The more venomous anemones have less white stripes on their hosts, suggesting the bright colouration has a protective function.

SourceUniversity of Turku·JournalJournal of Evolutionary Biology·DateAug 6, 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.

Earth at risk of heading towards 'hothouse Earth' state

A new study warns that reducing greenhouse gas emissions may not be enough to avoid a 'Hothouse Earth' state, where temperatures could rise by 4-5°C and sea levels increase by 10-60m. The authors call for accelerated transition towards an emission-free world economy.

SourceStockholm Resilience Centre·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 6, 2018

Hitler: Election campaigner with limited influence?

Research by Peter Selb and Simon Munzert found Hitler's 455 public appearances had surprisingly small effect on electoral outcomes. His personal involvement only positively impacted the 1932 presidential election, but overall campaign effects were minor.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalAmerican Political Science Review·DateAug 6, 2018

Modeling policy impacts on legal and illegal immigration

A computational model simulated potential migrants' decisions and found that restrictive policies, such as limiting visas, reduce immigration by up to 32%. However, these restrictions also increase unauthorized immigration, which may be difficult to offset with increased enforcement.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 6, 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.

Chinese astronomers discover most lithium-rich giant in galaxy with LAMOST

A team of Chinese astronomers has discovered the most lithium-rich giant known to date using the LAMOST telescope. The star's lithium abundance is approximately 3,000 times higher than that of typical giants, providing valuable insights into the universe's evolution and Big Bang theory.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Astronomy·DateAug 6, 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.

Ancient virus defends koalas against new viral attacks

Scientists found that an ancient and unrelated endogenous retroviral element is inserting itself into the new retrovirus via recombination, deactivating it. This process may be a molecular defense mechanism of hosts against new retroviral attacks.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 6, 2018

A system to synthesize realistic sounds for computer animation

Researchers at Stanford University have developed a system that automatically renders accurate sounds for complex animated content, such as splashing water or colliding objects. The system takes into account the vibrations of each object and how they excite sound waves, resulting in highly detailed and realistic sounds.

SourceStanford University·DateAug 6, 2018

People process bad news better under stress

A laboratory and natural experiment demonstrate how threat dissolves human optimism bias, allowing individuals to flexibly shift between optimistic and pessimistic patterns. The study suggests that stress can improve the processing of bad news, enabling people to adapt their optimistic outlook to changing environmental conditions.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateAug 6, 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.

Next-generation metabolomics may facilitate the discovery of new antidepressants

Next-generation metabolomics may facilitate the discovery of new antidepressants by providing broader coverage and higher resolution than traditional methods. The technique has demonstrated great potential in accelerating pharmaceutical R&D, particularly for natural products like albiflorin, a promising multi-target drug candidate.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCurrent Pharmaceutical Design·DateAug 6, 2018