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Science News for August 8, 2018


New RNA & DNA-sequencing platform matches thousands of drugs to late-stage cancer patients

A new RNA sequencing platform has been developed to match thousands of drugs with late-stage and drug-resistant multiple myeloma patients, providing a more accurate treatment approach. The platform's results showed that a majority of patients benefited from personalized treatment plans based on their cancer's RNA profile.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalJCO Precision Oncology·DateAug 8, 2018

Human microbiome influences rotavirus vaccine response

A proof-of-concept study found that antibiotic treatment prior to vaccination increased viral shedding in healthy adult men, while narrow-spectrum antibiotics showed a slight increase in early vaccine boosting. The results suggest a potential correlation between the microbiome and vaccine performance.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateAug 8, 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.

Environmental regulations drove steep declines in US factory pollution

A study by University of California, Berkeley economists found that air pollution emissions from US manufacturing fell by 60% between 1990 and 2008 due to stricter environmental regulations. The researchers analyzed data on over 1,400 products and found that changes in production technologies were the primary driver of these decreases.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalAmerican Economic Review·DateAug 8, 2018

Inducing labor at 39 weeks decreases need for cesarean section

A study found that inducing labor at 39 weeks in healthy women reduces the need for cesarean sections and is as safe as waiting for spontaneous labor. The procedure may also lower the risk of preeclampsia and respiratory issues in newborns.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateAug 8, 2018

Cancer cells send out 'drones' to battle immune system from afar

Researchers discovered that cancer cells release exosomes carrying PD-L1 to suppress the immune system, enabling a new approach to predict treatment response and track therapy effectiveness through blood tests. This finding has significant implications for precision medicine and personalized cancer care.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNature·DateAug 8, 2018

Drug makes rats less likely to imbibe alcohol

Researchers have created a new drug that stimulates GPR88 receptor, reducing rats' tendency to drink alcohol. The molecule, RTI-13951-33, is potent and selective for the receptor, crossing the blood-brain barrier more effectively than its predecessor.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Medicinal Chemistry·DateAug 8, 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.

Hybridization boosts evolution

Researchers from four international universities analyzed cichlid fish DNA to understand the formation of new species. They found that hybridization between species led to rapid evolution and adaptation, boosting innovation and species development.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 8, 2018

Hidden signs in cancer tissue

A study by ETH Zurich researchers has discovered new cancer-specific molecular changes in RNA molecules, which could inform the development of cancer treatments. The analysis found that alternative splicing occurs more frequently in tumor tissues than healthy tissues, particularly in pulmonary adenocarcinomas.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalCancer Cell·DateAug 8, 2018

Surviving large carnivores have far-reaching impact

A global study using camera trap data found that large-bodied mammalian carnivores exclude other carnivore species, shaping local communities. This leads to a chain reaction affecting prey species, plant communities, and even insect populations.

SourcePenn State·JournalEcology Letters·DateAug 8, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Blocking sunlight to cool Earth won't reduce crop damage from global warming

A new analysis by University of California, Berkeley researchers concludes that injecting particles into the atmosphere to cool the planet would have no effect on reducing crop damage from rising temperatures. The study found that lower productivity due to reduced sunlight would negate any benefits of cooler temperatures.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNature·DateAug 8, 2018

Scientists squeeze nanocrystals in a liquid droplet into a solid-like state and back again

Researchers at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory have discovered a way to transform a liquid-like state into a solid-like state and back again by introducing a chemical compound. The study has implications for developing all-liquid electronics and interacting with cells, and could lead to new ways of controlling nanoscale elements.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 8, 2018

Disaster relief: How can AI improve humanitarian assistance?

The workshop discussed how AI can help victims of disasters, including using unmanned aerial vehicles to find survivors and robots to communicate with trapped victims. The goal is to leverage AI to better deliver resources and people to those in urgent need.

SourceOffice of Naval Research·DateAug 8, 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.

Tracking the trends of online dating in major US Cities

A new study analyzing online dating website interactions in four major US cities found that both men and women pursued partners about 25% more desirable than themselves. The authors discovered a consistent hierarchy of desirability based on age, education, gender, and race/ethnicity.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 8, 2018

NASA sees major Hurricane Hector moving south of Hawaii

Hurricane Hector maintains its major hurricane status as it moves south of Hawaii, with cloud top temperatures indicating strong storms capable of creating heavy rain. The National Weather Service predicts tropical storm conditions and large surf along the Big Island and Maui, prompting monitoring from interests in Johnston Island.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 8, 2018

World record: Fastest 3D tomographic images at BESSY II

Scientists at the Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin have developed an ultra-stable turntable to capture fast 3D tomographic images at a rate of approximately 2000 projections per second. This breakthrough enables detailed analysis of material processing, such as pore formation in metallic foams.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalJournal of Synchrotron Radiation·DateAug 8, 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.

Immigrants use little health care, subsidize care of non-immigrants: Harvard/Tufts study

A new study by Harvard Medical School and Tufts University finds that immigrants use significantly less health care than US-born individuals, with lower rates of utilization and expenditures. Immigrants also pay more out-of-pocket health care payments, effectively subsidizing private insurance and some public programs like Medicare.

SourcePhysicians for a National Health Program·JournalInternational Journal of Health Services·DateAug 8, 2018

New NYUAD research finds 3D printers offer alternate method to create microfluidic probes

Researchers at NYU Abu Dhabi have developed a method to create microfluidic probes using 3D printing, which provides an effective and inexpensive technique for studying cancer cells. The new approach enables scientists to fabricate probes that can deliver reagents in a localized manner, allowing for targeted cell culture and analysis.

SourceRubenstein Associates, Inc.·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 8, 2018

Half a degree less warming can avoid precipitation extremes

A study published in Nature Communications found that reducing global warming by half a degree Celsius could significantly decrease extreme precipitation events, resulting in lower exposure to flooding and landslides. The research suggests that limiting warming to 1.5°C could robustly benefit the populous global monsoon region.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 8, 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.

Boxers or briefs? Loose-fitting underwear may benefit sperm production

Men who wear loose-fitting boxers have significantly higher sperm concentrations and total sperm counts compared to those who don't. Researchers found a potential compensatory mechanism where decreased sperm production triggers hormone production boosts to stimulate gonad activity.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalHuman Reproduction·DateAug 8, 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.

Can medical marijuana help treat intractable epilepsy?

A review suggests that cannabidiol, a compound in cannabis, may have modest efficacy in treating severe epilepsy, particularly in children. However, more rigorous clinical trials are necessary to fully understand its potential and minimize side effects.

SourceWiley·JournalBritish Journal of Clinical Pharmacology·DateAug 8, 2018

Good news for fishermen: Browning impacts fish less than expected

A new study by Umea University researchers found that browning in lakes has a limited impact on fish populations, affecting only lakes with average depths of 2-3.5 meters. This suggests that the expected decline in fish populations due to browning is less severe than previously thought

SourceUmea University·JournalLimnology and Oceanography·DateAug 8, 2018

Eye conditions provide new lens screening for Alzheimer's disease

A significant link was discovered between age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma and Alzheimer's disease. Patients with these eye conditions were at a 40-50% greater risk of developing Alzheimer's disease compared to similar individuals without these conditions.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·DateAug 8, 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.

Inducing labor at 39 weeks reduces likelihood of C-sections

A multicenter study funded by the National Institutes of Health found that inducing labor in healthy first-time mothers at 39 weeks reduced cesarean sections compared to waiting for labor naturally. Infants born to induced mothers did not experience more stillbirths or newborn deaths.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateAug 8, 2018

The Umov Effect: Space dust clouds and the mysteries of the universe

Researchers at Far Eastern Federal University are working on a new method to determine the ratio of dust and gas in comets' tails and heads. This will help scientists better understand the Solar System's evolution and formation.

SourceFar Eastern Federal University·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateAug 8, 2018

Taming defects in nanoporous materials to put them to a good use

A team of researchers led by Dr Marco Taddei at Swansea University's ESRI has found a way to utilize defects in metal-organic frameworks to capture CO2. The team investigated the role of defects in post-synthetic exchange, a process that allows MOFs to be modified through exchange of components of their structure.

SourceSwansea University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateAug 8, 2018

NASA sees Debby transitioned into a tropical storm

NASA's Aqua satellite captured an infrared image of Debby on Aug. 8, revealing three areas of strongest thunderstorms and cloud top temperatures as cold as minus 50 degrees Fahrenheit. The storm has transitioned from a subtropical to a tropical cyclone, with maximum sustained winds near 45 mph.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 8, 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.

Designer polymers on demand

Researchers create designer polymers with precise properties by controlling the order and number of subunits. They achieve this through a selective approach, allowing for on-demand control over sequence, structure, and architecture.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Central Science·DateAug 8, 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.

Largest study yet shows type of underwear is linked to men's semen quality

A new study published in Human Reproduction journal found that men who wear boxer shorts have higher sperm concentrations than those who wear tighter fitting underwear. The researchers also discovered a link between the type of underwear and lower levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which stimulates sperm production.

SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·JournalHuman Reproduction·DateAug 8, 2018

NTU and Harvard scientists discover fat-blocking effect of nanofibers

Researchers from NTU and Harvard found that adding nano-sized cellulose fibers to food reduced fat absorption by up to half in laboratory and animal experiments. The discovery could aid in the global battle against obesity by reducing fat absorption, a strategy reinforced by existing knowledge on high-fibre diets.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalACS Nano·DateAug 8, 2018

Hijacking hormones for plant growth

Researchers have designed synthetic compounds similar to auxin, a hormone controlling plant growth, development and behavior. These compounds could be used for agricultural purposes, such as manipulating fruit ripening or preventing transgene spread.

SourceWiley·JournalNew Phytologist·DateAug 8, 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.

This small molecule could hold the key to promising HIV treatments

A study published in Nature reveals that IP6 plays crucial roles in the immature and mature development of the HIV-1 virus. This discovery opens the door to possible new therapies by identifying compounds similar to IP6 that could block its action, preventing the virus from maturing.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature·DateAug 8, 2018

Two new UTA School of Social Work professors win international award

Researchers have developed an innovative app, SageServe, to connect older adults with online-based volunteer opportunities, reducing social isolation. The app aims to enhance health and well-being by strengthening existing social roles and developing new ones, catering to those with physical disabilities or cognitive impairments.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateAug 8, 2018

New discovery sheds light on proteins critical in mood and behavior disorders

Researchers at Columbia University Irving Medical Center have found evidence of how certain transport proteins are working at the molecular level, potentially leading to improved treatments for psychiatric disorders like depression, anxiety, and OCD. The study's findings suggest that a universal feature of these transport proteins may ...

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 8, 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.

Learning to ask older adults better questions about their memory

A study by Penn State researchers identified 13 types of problems with screening questions for Alzheimer's disease, including vagueness and emotional triggers. The findings suggest that clinicians can improve their understanding of patients' unique experiences by asking better questions.

SourcePenn State·JournalThe Gerontologist·DateAug 8, 2018

Carbon dioxide levels on flight deck affect airline pilot performance

Researchers found that pilots performed significantly better in flight simulations when CO2 levels were between 700 ppm and 1,500 ppm compared to 2,500 ppm. The negative effects of CO2 on flight performance became more pronounced with longer simulation times.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalJournal of Exposure Science & Environmental Epidemiology·DateAug 8, 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.

Harmful bacteria thrived in post-Hurricane Harvey floodwaters

Researchers found elevated E. coli levels in Houston's major bayous immediately after Harvey, decreasing over two months. Fecal bacteria and antibiotic resistance genes were highest in homes with stagnant floodwater inside. Residents should exercise caution when handling post-Harvey floodwaters.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·DateAug 8, 2018

NSF award to shine more light on proteins

A $318,696 NSF award will support the development of a novel biosensing nanotechnology to visualize trace biomarker proteins under a microscope. This technology has the potential to greatly advance protein sensing, enabling accurate diagnoses based on biopsies and improving basic biomedical research.

SourcePenn State·DateAug 8, 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.

New antibody analysis accelerates rational vaccine design

Scientists have developed a faster way to analyze the outcome of experimental vaccines against HIV and other pathogens. The new system lets researchers quickly assess the full spectrum of antibodies produced in an individual's response to a pathogen or vaccine.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalImmunity·DateAug 8, 2018

Harrington Discovery Institute announces new scholars

The Harrington Discovery Institute has announced three new scholars in collaboration with FFB and ADDF, selected through a competitive review process for their research on therapies for retinal degenerative diseases and Alzheimer's disease. The institute provides financial support and drug development assistance to accelerate these pro...

SourceUniversity Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center·DateAug 8, 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.

Induced labor at 39 weeks reduces cesarean births

A large national study finds that inducing labor at 39 weeks reduces cesarean deliveries, maternal and fetal complications. Women who underwent elective induction reported less pain and lower rates of preeclampsia and gestational hypertension.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateAug 8, 2018

A love of steel

Steel researcher Peter Felfer receives a 1.5 million euro grant to investigate the damage caused by hydrogen at the atomic level. He aims to build an atom probe that can differentiate between hydrogen in the material and environment.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·DateAug 8, 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.

Earth now and 2.5 billion years ago: New study of air helps understanding both

A new study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences reveals a previously unknown sulfur isotope effect that helps identify sources of air pollution in China. The researchers used sulfur isotopes to analyze coal and air samples, finding a connection between biomass burning and aerosol formation.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 8, 2018

Military sexual assault linked to PTSD and depression in LGB veterans

A study found that LGB veterans were more likely to have experienced military sexual assault, which was directly linked to the presence of PTSD and depression. The research highlights the need for better prevention, training, and interventions to support LGB veterans' mental health.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Traumatic Stress·DateAug 8, 2018

New species of rare ancient 'worm' discovered in fossil hotspot

Scientists have discovered a new species of lobopodian, an ancient relative of modern-day velvet worms, in 430 million-year-old Silurian rocks. The creature was fully three-dimensionally preserved and reconstructed using digital technology.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateAug 8, 2018

Tying down electrons with nanoribbons

Researchers have discovered that nanoribbons can trap individual localized electrons, potentially enabling new quantum materials with unique electronic and magnetic properties. The discovery was made by combining theoretical predictions with experimental synthesis, using topological insulators as a starting point.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNature·DateAug 8, 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.

Study illuminates genes behind beautiful 'glow' of Bermuda fireworms

Researchers at the American Museum of Natural History have identified a unique enzyme responsible for the bioluminescence in Bermuda fireworms, which powers their dramatic mating display. The study also examines genes related to reproductive timing and changes in the animals' bodies before swarming events.

SourceAmerican Museum of Natural History·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 8, 2018

For the first time, scientists are putting extinct mammals on the map

Researchers created a comprehensive family tree and atlas of mammals, connecting nearly 6,000 living and recently extinct species. The database includes human-induced regional range losses and provides new baselines for restoration, changing scientists' beliefs about what is 'natural' or not.

SourceAarhus University·JournalEcology·DateAug 8, 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.

Mom still matters, UCLA psychologists report

A new UCLA psychology study found that young adults are more likely to choose their parents over their closest friends when faced with a decision. The study involved 174 participants aged 18-30 and showed that the bias toward parents occurred regardless of age or gender.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalPsychological Science·DateAug 8, 2018

Balloon-borne telescope looks for cosmic gamma rays

The GRAINE collaboration launched a balloon-borne nuclear emulsion telescope to observe high-energy cosmic gamma rays. The experiment successfully completed a record-long flight of 17 hours and achieved high-resolution observations, marking a significant milestone in the field of cosmic gamma-ray research.

SourceKobe University·DateAug 8, 2018

NASA sees wind shear affecting Tropical Storm Yagi

Tropical Storm Yagi experienced strong vertical wind shear, which led to cloud top temperatures of -80°F (Celsius) and the potential for heavy rain. The storm is moving northeast at 35 knots (40 mph), expected to briefly intensify before weakening.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 8, 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.

My host is my castle

Researchers from Harvard University review the tripartite system between bats, bat flies, and Laboulbeniales fungi, highlighting the need for further study on this understudied phenomenon. The team aims to advance our understanding of the biology, host associations, and phylogenetic relationships of these organisms.

SourceHarvard University, Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology·JournalTrends in Parasitology·DateAug 8, 2018

Best of both worlds: Combining two skeleton-building chemical reactions

Scripps Research scientists have developed a powerful new strategy for synthesizing molecular skeletons of chemicals used in drugs and other important products. The method combines two chemical reactions, C-C cross coupling and cycloaddition, providing unprecedented flexibility and control over chemical synthesis.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalNature·DateAug 8, 2018

Researchers link residential characteristics with productivity one year after brain injury

A study found that foreign-born Hispanics living in areas with many foreign language speakers were 2.8 times more likely to engage in productive activities like employment and volunteer work one year after TBI. The researchers emphasize the importance of tailoring interventions to individual needs, considering neighborhood factors.

SourceKessler Foundation·JournalJournal of Head Trauma Rehabilitation·DateAug 8, 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.

London calling! Travelers seek 'trust' in holiday destinations

A study by Queensland University of Technology researchers found that tourists trust destinations like London based on its vibrancy, contemporary, competence, sophistication and sincerity. The results showed that when a destination is perceived as competent, it becomes more desirable for tourists.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalJournal of Strategic Marketing·DateAug 8, 2018

Drug identified that could reverse pulmonary arterial hypertension

Researchers have made a major breakthrough in developing a new treatment for pulmonary arterial hypertension, identifying a drug that inhibits HIF-2α and reverses established PAH, suppression of vascular remodeling and right heart failure, and increased survival.

SourceAnn & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateAug 8, 2018

Stanford scientists tie specific brain circuit to sociability in mice

Researchers found that releasing serotonin in a specific part of the brain enhanced social behavior in mice, providing insights into autism spectrum disorder and potentially leading to new treatments. The study suggests that targeting this brain circuit could ameliorate social deficits in individuals with these disorders.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalNature·DateAug 8, 2018

Matchmaking for sweet potato? It's complicated

Researchers found that using legume cover crops reduces the need for nitrogen fertilizer by up to 35% compared to cereal cover crops or no cover crop at all. This simple technique can help farmers maximize sweet potato yields while reducing costs and environmental impact.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalAgronomy Journal·DateAug 8, 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.

Introducing the latest in textiles: Soft hardware

Researchers at MIT have developed soft hardware that can be worn, integrating high-speed optoelectronic semiconductor devices into fibers woven into washable fabrics. This breakthrough could lead to a new 'Moore's Law' in fibers, enabling rapid growth in capabilities.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateAug 8, 2018

Top 43 reasons why men remain single -- according to Reddit

A study on Reddit comments reveals that most single men wanted a relationship, but struggled with social skills such as flirting and confidence. The analysis identified 43 reasons, including poor looks, lack of effort, and mental health issues.

SourceSpringer·JournalEvolutionary Psychological Science·DateAug 8, 2018

There and back again: Mantle xenon has a story to tell

A new study by Washington University in St. Louis reveals that the Earth shifted its volatile transport regime around 2.5 billion years ago, with a significant increase in regassing potentially enabled by subduction. This change had a profound impact on the internal churning of the mantle and plate motions at the surface.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalNature·DateAug 8, 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.

Crowdsourcing algorithms to predict epileptic seizures

A study by University of Melbourne researchers reveals that clinically relevant epileptic seizure prediction is possible in a wider range of patients than previously thought. The crowdsourcing of over 10,000 algorithms worldwide led to an average 90% improvement in seizure prediction performance compared to previous results.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalBrain·DateAug 8, 2018

NASA's GPM passes over weakening Hurricane John

The Global Precipitation Measurement mission provided detailed coverage of hurricane John, revealing heavy rainfall in the eastern half of the hurricane. The satellite's radar data showed extremely heavy rainfall rates of over 2 inches per hour just east of John's eye, with storms reaching altitudes of up to 13.5 km.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 8, 2018

Scientists create biodegradable, paper-based biobatteries

Researchers at Binghamton University have created a biodegradable, paper-based battery that is more efficient and easy to produce than previous designs. The hybrid paper battery uses a combination of paper and engineered polymers to give it biodegradable properties.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalAdvanced Sustainable Systems·DateAug 8, 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.

Older adults who get physical can lower their heart disease risk

A recent study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that older adults who spend less time sitting and more time engaged in light to vigorous physical activity benefit from healthier levels of heart and vessel disease markers. The results showed that increased physical activity was particularly beneficial for...

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateAug 8, 2018

UToledo chemists discover how blue light speeds blindness

Blue light from digital devices and the sun transforms vital molecules in the eye's retina into cell killers, leading to age-related macular degeneration. A new therapy is being explored that uses a natural antioxidant called alpha tocopherol to slow down this process.

SourceUniversity of Toledo·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 8, 2018

Novel approach to coherent control of a three-level quantum system

Scientists study quantum interference in a three-level quantum system and demonstrate complete control over individual electron spins. The researchers extend coherence time by a hundredfold, providing protection for fragile quantum states and opening new perspectives for sensor technology.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalNature Physics·DateAug 8, 2018

Expedition probes ocean's smallest organisms for climate answers

Phytoplankton, tiny plant-like organisms, play a key role in removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere through photosynthesis. The EXPORTS team is studying the pathways, fates, and carbon cycle impacts of phytoplankton and zooplankton using advanced underwater robotics and satellite imagery.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 8, 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.

Models may help reduce bycatch from longline fishing

Researchers developed models that predict the month-by-month movements of longline fishing fleets on the high seas. These predictions can help regulatory agencies pinpoint potential hotspots where by-catch risks are greatest and take proactive measures to reduce accidental kills.

SourceDuke University·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 8, 2018

Is your lung cancer really ROS1-negative?

A CU Cancer Center study found that common laboratory tests used to determine ROS1 status in lung cancer have inherent limitations, leading to false-negative results. The study highlights the need for multiple testing methods and secondary analysis to confirm results, particularly for patients with suspicious symptoms or unusual profiles.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateAug 8, 2018

Inducing labor can help prevent cesarean births

A new national study has found that inducing labor in first-time mothers at 39 weeks can lower respiratory problems and potentially decrease cesarean rates and hypertension. Researchers suggest discussing induction with healthcare providers to inform the decision, as it may lead to significant changes in pregnancy management.

SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateAug 8, 2018

Mission: Possible -- mapping dangerous terrain

Researchers are creating self-guided packages made of biodegradable materials to map coastlines and sea bottoms. These devices aim to dissolve upon reaching shore, providing up-to-date information on potentially hostile regions. Additionally, a swarm of drones will be developed using cameras, sonar, and sensors to evade tracking, with ...

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateAug 8, 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.

Ketogenic diets may lead to an increased risk of type 2 diabetes

Research suggests ketogenic diets may cause an increased risk of Type 2 diabetes in the early stage of the diet, particularly through insulin resistance. The study found that fatty acids from a ketogenic diet can have signaling roles in the brain.

SourceThe Physiological Society·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·DateAug 8, 2018

New research pinpoints pathways Ebola virus uses to enter cells

A new study by Texas Biomedical Research Institute sheds light on the role of specific proteins in triggering autophagy, a mechanism allowing Ebola virus to enter cells. The findings have implications for treating complex diseases such as cancer and Alzheimer's, where macropinocytosis is dysregulated.

SourceTexas Biomedical Research Institute·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateAug 8, 2018

To understand working memory, scientists must resolve this debate

Working memory is a crucial aspect of cognitive function, and researchers are trying to understand its underlying mechanisms. A recent study suggests that brief, coordinated bursts of neural activity may be essential for maintaining working memory. This finding challenges the traditional view that neurons fire continuously during this ...

SourcePicower Institute at MIT·DateAug 8, 2018

Flipping a switch in the space between atoms

Dr. Nick Strandwitz is exploring a multi-step method to address temperature issues in atomic layer deposition (ALD), a process crucial for precision thin film growth. His goal is to control the crystallinity of the material, which affects its electronic properties.

SourceLehigh University·DateAug 8, 2018

Computational platform optimizes multiple myeloma treatments

Researchers developed QPOP, a computational platform that identifies effective drug combinations against bortezomib-resistant MM. The platform successfully predicted dosages for combination therapies, leading to reduced tumor size and prolonged survival in mouse models.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateAug 8, 2018

Scientists reduced the weight of optics for satellite observation by 100 times

Researchers at Samara University developed an ultralight diffraction optic that weighs just 5 grams, compared to a massive system of lenses and mirrors weighing 500 grams. The new technology enables high-resolution images with comparable quality to consumer cameras and mobile phones.

SourceSamara University·JournalIEEE Journal of Selected Topics in Applied Earth Observations and Remote Sensing·DateAug 8, 2018

Oral delivery of nanoparticles

Researchers have successfully designed nanoparticles that can be absorbed through the intestine and into the bloodstream when taken orally. The modified particles showed improved uptake in rats, with about 47% making it into the blood, compared to 7% for unmodified particles.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Nano·DateAug 8, 2018