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Science News for August 9, 2018


Primate study offers clues to evolution of speech

Researchers link vocal repertoire to brain region size in primates, finding a positive correlation between cortical association areas and vocal complexity. The study reveals the importance of specific brain regions in controlling vocal production, providing insight into human speech evolution.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalFrontiers in Neuroscience·DateAug 9, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

NASA satellites assist states in estimating abundance of key wildlife species

Researchers combined NASA satellite imagery with wildlife surveys to model the effects of plant productivity on mule deer and mountain lion populations. They found that prey and predator abundance both increased with plant productivity, leading to potential conflicts with humans.

SourceS.J. & Jessie E. Quinney College of Natural Resources, Utah State University·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateAug 9, 2018

UBC study: Kidney transplant chains more effective in saving lives

A UBC study found that prioritizing kidney transplant chains over exchanges can increase the total number of transplants and save more lives. This is particularly beneficial for hard-to-match patients with end-stage renal disease. The research could lead to longer kidney transplant chains through improved matching algorithms.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia - Sauder School of Business·JournalOperations Research·DateAug 9, 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.

Pairs of small colliding galaxies may seed future stars

Researchers found that dwarf-galaxy mergers can replenish a galaxy's supply of star-making fuel, like the Milky Way's. The Large and Small Magellanic Clouds hold enough gas to replenish half of the Milky Way's supply, with their gas footprint continuing to expand even after collision.

SourceColumbia University·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateAug 9, 2018

How ions gather water molecules around them

Researchers from Ruhr-Universität Bochum used terahertz spectroscopy to gain new insights into the hydration shell of charged particles. They found that hydration shells with a size between two and 21 water molecules were determined for more than 37 salts, depending on the ion's size and valency.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateAug 9, 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.

A way to block fat from entering tissues

Researchers have identified a mechanism by which fat is transferred into tissues, revealing that blocking key receptors can limit fat delivery. Disabled mice on high-fat diets showed no weight gain, while control mice gained twice as much weight.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 9, 2018

Supercomputer simulations show new target in HIV-1 replication

Scientists used supercomputers to model HIV-1 replication and identified inositol hexakisphosphate as a key molecule promoting assembly and maturation. This discovery opens a door for developing new treatments and therapeutics.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·JournalNature·DateAug 9, 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.

Does rain follow the plow?

A University of Arizona study resolves controversy over rain's relationship to soil moisture, revealing morning soil moisture can impact afternoon rainfall in the region. Drier soils enhance rain on days with limited wind-borne moisture, while wetter soils increase rain when winds bring more moisture.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateAug 9, 2018

Texas A&M to lead NSF-funded water insecurity research network

The Household Water Insecurity Research Coordination Network (RCN) aims to develop a geospatial perspective on water insecurity, which affects vulnerable households worldwide. The team will create a water security metric and engage with stakeholders in the international water sector.

SourceTexas A&M University·DateAug 9, 2018

SERSitive: New substrates make it possible to routinely detect one molecule in a million

Researchers from the Institute of Physical Chemistry of Poland have developed new substrates for Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS) that guarantee signal enhancement and repeatability. These substrates enable the routine detection of small amounts of chemical compounds, including organic molecules and specific bacteria.

SourceInstitute of Physical Chemistry of the Polish Academy of Sciences·DateAug 9, 2018

Genes drive aging, making normal processes damaging

Researchers found that genes driving biological processes in worms can also lead to age-related diseases in humans. The study reveals how autophagy, a process used for energy extraction, causes severe deterioration of the intestine and promotes tumour growth when overactive.

SourceLancaster University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 9, 2018

Arsenic in combination with an existing drug could combat cancer

Researchers discovered a previously unrecognized mechanism by which arsenic trioxide and all-trans retinoic acid work together to destroy Pin1, a unique enzyme that activates over 40 cancer-driving proteins. This finding suggests novel strategies to treat common cancers, including triple-negative breast cancer.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 9, 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.

Why the system needs sleep

A systems genetics study in mice identified molecular signaling pathways that predict resilience or susceptibility to sleep loss. The analysis revealed that fatty acid metabolism influences brain activity and phenotypes, challenging the brain-centric view of sleep regulation.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateAug 9, 2018

Penalty kick research hits the spot

A new study from the University of Portsmouth suggests that implicit practice methods can help football players improve their penalty kick accuracy. The research found that using these methods, which encourage independent decision-making, results in higher kicking accuracy compared to explicit training methods.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalHuman Movement Science·DateAug 9, 2018

Scientists uncover new details in how sense of smell develops

Researchers found a newly discovered stem cell that controls the size of the olfactory epithelium's surface area, which regulates its development. This discovery could help explain why dogs have such a superior sense of smell due to their complex turbinate structures.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateAug 9, 2018

Bribing bacteria to play nicely is good for everyone

Researchers find that giving mice dietary iron supplements enables them to survive a normally lethal bacterial infection and results in later generations of bacteria being less virulent. The approach promotes the health of the host, taming the behavior of the bacteria.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalCell·DateAug 9, 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.

'Tic'-tock

Researchers at Hiroshima University have found a genetic marker that indicates when a person with a fast heartbeat is at high risk of developing tachycardia-induced cardiomyopathy (TIC) and eventual heart failure. This discovery could lead to earlier diagnosis and treatment of the condition, reducing the risk of cardiac damage or death.

SourceHiroshima University·DateAug 9, 2018

Community health centers can help boost rates of colorectal cancer screening

A Kaiser Permanente study found that community health center programs mailing free colorectal cancer screening tests to patients' homes increased screening rates by nearly 4 percentage points. Clinics that implemented the program had higher proportions of patients screened, with reminder letters significantly improving return rates.

SourceKaiser Permanente·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateAug 9, 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.

The underestimated cooling effect on the planet from historic fires

A new study suggests that historic fires may have had a significant cooling effect on the planet, contrary to previously believed levels of aerosol pollution. The research, led by the University of Leeds, found that fire activity may have been as common before 1750 as in modern times.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 9, 2018

Machine learning technique reconstructs images passing through a multimode fiber

Researchers use deep neural networks to recognize images transmitted over optical fibers, achieving high accuracy despite distortions caused by environmental factors. The technique has potential for improving endoscopic imaging in medical diagnosis and increasing the information-carrying capacity of fiber-optic telecommunication networks.

SourceOptica·JournalOptica·DateAug 9, 2018

Higher alcohol taxes are cost-effective in reducing alcohol harms

Research suggests that increasing alcohol taxes is the most cost-effective method of reducing alcohol-related harms. A 50% hike in alcohol excise taxes could add up to 500 healthy years of life for every 1 million people. Restrictions on advertising and hours of sale are also recommended.

SourceJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·JournalJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·DateAug 9, 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.

It's complicated: Our relationship with texting

Research on texting and sexting found that people who described their partner as having a similar texting style reported greater relationship satisfaction. Additionally, texting was shown to bring people closer or create distance depending on the motivations underlying its use.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·DateAug 9, 2018

Dogs set to benefit from simple blood test to spot liver disease

A new blood test can quickly detect early signs of liver disease in dogs, enabling prompt treatment and reducing the need for invasive biopsies. The test is based on insights from human patients and has been successfully tested on 250 dogs.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalJournal of Veterinary Internal Medicine·DateAug 9, 2018

North American diets require more land than we have: Study

A new study by University of Guelph researchers found that global adherence to USDA guidelines would require one giga-hectare of additional land, roughly the size of Canada. The study highlights the need for international coordination of national dietary guidelines due to limited global lands.

SourceUniversity of Guelph·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 9, 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.

Wearable 'microbrewery' saves human body from radiation damage

Researchers have engineered yeast microbreweries within disposable badges to detect low doses of radiation, potentially reducing cancer risk. The technology uses yeast's response to radiation to measure electrical conductivity, providing an instant reading of radiation exposure.

SourcePurdue University·JournalAdvanced Biosystems·DateAug 9, 2018

Biomarkers link fatigue in cancer, Parkinson's

A new study from Rice University links biological markers for cancer-related exhaustion to fatigue in Parkinson's disease, highlighting potential targets for treatment. Researchers found elevated levels of inflammatory biomarkers in patients with Parkinson's who experienced fatigue, similar to those seen in cancer patients.

SourceRice University·DateAug 9, 2018

Nuclear gatekeeper could block undruggable prostate cancer targets

Blocking POM121 transport inhibits tumor aggressiveness and restores chemotherapy efficacy in preclinical models. This study identifies nuclear pore proteins as effective anti-cancer targets for advanced prostate cancers, offering a new approach to target undruggable molecular drivers.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalCell·DateAug 9, 2018

ASHG honors James R. Lupski with Victor A. McKusick Leadership Award

James R. Lupski, MD, PhD, receives the Victor A. McKusick Leadership Award for fostering and enriching human genetics development, as well as its integration into science, medicine, and health. Dr. Lupski's research focuses on understanding mutational mechanisms and linking specific mutations to human disease.

SourceAmerican Society of Human Genetics·DateAug 9, 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.

Can rare lymphocytes combat rheumatoid arthritis?

Researchers at FAU have identified ILC2 as a key player in the development of rheumatoid arthritis. By increasing ILC2 levels during therapy, symptoms can be reduced. However, treatment must start before disease onset to be effective.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalCell Reports·DateAug 9, 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.

SNS completes full neutron production cycle at record power level

The Spallation Neutron Source (SNS) has reached a record power level of 1.3 megawatts, achieving 94 percent accelerator beam availability. This milestone establishes a new baseline for operation and paves the way for researchers to conduct faster analyses using neutrons on various materials.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·DateAug 9, 2018

Even men get the blues after childbirth

Postpartum depression is no longer seen as primarily a female reproductive issue, with new research suggesting that men experience comparable rates of depression after childbirth. Cultural and hormonal factors are being reevaluated in light of the findings.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·DateAug 9, 2018

Researchers call for comprehensive transformation of food systems

A group of international researchers calls for a comprehensive transformation of food systems to meet the Sustainable Development Goals and Paris Agreement on climate. The proposed four-pillar strategy prioritizes nutritious food access, sustainable agriculture, climate change mitigation, and rural renaissance.

SourceSpringer·JournalAgronomy for Sustainable Development·DateAug 9, 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.

Neuroscientists get at the roots of pessimism

Researchers at MIT found that stimulating the caudate nucleus, a brain region linked to emotional decision-making, induces animals to make more negative decisions. The study suggests that this type of pessimistic thinking could influence approach-avoidance decision-making and may be related to depression and anxiety.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNeuron·DateAug 9, 2018

Dietary carbohydrates could lead to osteoarthritis, new study finds

Researchers found that a high-carb diet, particularly with high sugar and low fiber content, increased signs of joint inflammation and altered cartilage genes in laboratory mice. The study suggests that dietary carbohydrates may be a contributing factor to osteoarthritis risk, even in the absence of obesity.

SourceOklahoma Medical Research Foundation·JournalDisease Models & Mechanisms·DateAug 9, 2018

Why do some microbes live in your gut while others don't?

A new computational approach has identified genes that may enable microbes to colonize the human gut and survive in its harsh environment. The researchers found thousands of genes across different species that are prevalent in the gut, including those specific to this environment.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateAug 9, 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.

Men are still more likely than women to be perceived as leaders, study finds

A new study by researchers at the University at Buffalo School of Management found that men are still more likely than women to emerge as leaders, despite a narrowing of the gender gap in recent decades. The study attributed this persistence to societal pressures and unconscious biases against communal traits.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalPersonnel Psychology·DateAug 9, 2018

Need a job? Get a tattoo

A new study from the University of Miami Business School and the University of Western Australia found that discriminating against workers with tattoos puts hiring managers at a disadvantage. The study surveyed over 2,000 subjects and found that visible tattoos are not linked to individual employment, wages, or earnings discrimination.

SourceUniversity of Miami·JournalHuman Relations·DateAug 9, 2018

A video game can change the brain, may improve empathy in middle schoolers

A new video game designed to train empathy in middle schoolers showed improved connectivity in brain networks related to empathy and perspective-taking. The game, 'Crystals of Kaydor,' was developed by University of Wisconsin-Madison researchers and found to enhance emotional regulation skills.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·Journalnpj Science of Learning·DateAug 9, 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.

Study reveals high rates of dementia in older adults after starting dialysis

A new study reveals that older adults who initiate hemodialysis for kidney failure are at a higher risk of being diagnosed with dementia and Alzheimer's disease. The study found that age, Black race, female sex, and institutionalization were the strongest risk factors for dementia and Alzheimer's disease.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateAug 9, 2018

Reef corals have endured since 'age of dinosaurs' and may survive global warming

A team of scientists found that coral-algal partnerships have endured climate change events since the time of dinosaurs, approximately 160 million years ago. The research suggests that modern corals and their algal partners may survive modern-day global warming due to their long history of adaptability.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 9, 2018

Elderly patients on dialysis have a high risk of dementia

A study of over 350,000 patients found elderly kidney disease patients on dialysis have a substantially higher risk of dementia than healthy community-dwelling older adults. The study calls for more monitoring and prevention measures to address this pressing issue.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateAug 9, 2018

New study views cancer treatment as a game to find strategies that improve patient outcomes

A new study suggests that cancer treatment should be viewed as a game where physicians can exploit their knowledge of the cancer's evolutionary dynamics to develop flexible strategic treatment plans. By continuously adjusting drugs and doses, physicians can delay or prevent cancer progression caused by resistance.

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateAug 9, 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.

Study: Brain proteins, patterns reveal clues to understanding epilepsy

A study published in Nature Communications provides new insight into the regulation of brain cell signaling, which may lead to better treatments for epilepsy and related disorders. By quantifying the interaction between two key proteins, researchers have identified a specific pattern that can be influenced to control brain activity.

SourceUniversity of Nevada, Las Vegas·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 9, 2018

The physician's white coat: Iconic and comforting or likely covered in germs?

A new study from the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston found that wearing a physician's white coat does not affect patient satisfaction or communication. Researchers discovered that patients were often unable to remember if their physicians were wearing white coats, with 40% reporting they couldn't recall.

SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·JournalAmerican Journal of Perinatology·DateAug 9, 2018

Young drinkers beware: Binge drinking may cause stroke, heart risks

Research by Vanderbilt University Medical Center found that frequent binge drinkers had higher blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar at a younger age. Young men who binge drink have higher systolic blood pressure, while young women have higher blood sugar levels compared to non-binge drinkers.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateAug 9, 2018

Nanoparticle therapy could deliver double blow to cancer

A new cancer therapy using nanoparticles could deliver a double blow to cancer by making breast and prostate tumours more sensitive to chemotherapy, reducing toxicity risks. The therapy combines two approved drugs, docetaxel and fingolimod, targeting cancer cells with reduced side effects.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 9, 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.

Can psychedelic drugs heal?

Research suggests that psychedelic drugs can help treat disorders such as social anxiety, depression, and PTSD when used in combination with psychotherapy. Studies have shown promising results for MDMA, psilocybin, and ayahuasca in reducing symptoms of anxiety, depression, and disordered eating.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·DateAug 9, 2018

A new, highly effective and selective molecule is developed to fight malaria

A novel laboratory-synthesized molecule based on natural compounds found in marine gliding bacteria is capable of killing even the strain that resists conventional antimalarials. In tests, it displays low toxicity and high selectivity, acting only on the parasite and not on other cells of the host organism.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalJournal of Medicinal Chemistry·DateAug 9, 2018

New study shows that most teens do have, and use, behavioral brakes

A new study published in the Journal of Youth and Adolescence found that most teenagers do have behavioral brakes, contradicting the long-held idea that adolescence is a time of impulsive behavior. The research suggests that only children with weak cognitive control are at risk for trouble in adulthood.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalJournal of Youth and Adolescence·DateAug 9, 2018

Ph.D. student develops spinning heat shield for future spacecraft

A University of Manchester PhD student has developed a flexible heat shield that utilizes centrifugal forces to stiffen lightweight materials, reducing the need for heavy machinery and enabling low-cost scientific research and recovery of rocket parts. The prototype's design uses aerodynamic drag to slow down during atmospheric entry, ...

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalActa Astronautica·DateAug 9, 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.

Synapses of the reward system at stake in autistic disorders

Researchers discover that autistic disorders are caused by poor maturation of synapses in the reward system, leading to impaired social communication. This finding has significant implications for understanding and treating autism spectrum disorders.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 9, 2018

Are pet owners abusing animals to get opioids?

A recent survey conducted by the Center for Health, Work & Environment found that 13% of veterinarians in Colorado had seen a client intentionally injure or abuse an animal to obtain prescription painkillers. The study's results highlight the need for better training and surveillance to address opioid misuse among pet owners.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateAug 9, 2018

Cellular self-destruction at 30 micrometers per minute

Researchers found that cells undergo self-destruction via trigger waves that travel at a constant speed of nearly 30 micrometers per minute. This process enables large distances to be covered without losing strength or speed, challenging previous assumptions about cell death propagation.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 9, 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.

Lichen is losing to wildfire, years after flames are gone

Researchers found that lichen communities in severely burned areas showed significantly lower abundance and diversity, even 16 years after the fire. The loss of tree canopy and hot, dry microclimate left in the forest post-fire hindered lichen growth, suggesting that recolonization may not occur until mature trees regrow.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateAug 9, 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.

NASA's Terra Satellite finds Shanshan's strength sapped

Tropical Storm Shanshan was observed in infrared light by NASA's Terra satellite, revealing cold cloud top temperatures and limited precipitation in the northern and eastern quadrants. The storm is forecast to weaken rapidly due to increasing vertical wind shear and decreasing sea surface temperatures.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 9, 2018

New technology improves CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing in mosquitoes, other species

New technology enhances CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing efficiency in mosquitoes, allowing for easier manipulation of gene expression in a wide range of species. This breakthrough enables control of vector-borne diseases, elimination of agricultural insect pests, and potentially gene therapy for human and animal health.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 9, 2018

Learning of a patient's fatal overdose reduces opioid prescribing

A letter from a medical examiner to a physician about a recent fatal overdose can inspire safer prescribing habits, a new study suggests. The research found that physicians who received such letters prescribed 9.7% fewer opioids over three months.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 9, 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.

Kidney cancer's developmental source revealed

Researchers identified specific gene activity in each cell, revealing that Wilms' tumour cells have the same characteristics as normal developing kidney cells. Adult renal carcinoma cells were found to be a version of rare healthy adult kidney cells called PT1.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalScience·DateAug 9, 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.

Roles of emotional support animals examined

A recent study surveyed university counseling centers about student requests for letters to allow emotional support animals, finding that most schools struggle with handling such requests. The research also explores the role of courthouse dogs in providing emotional support to witnesses, but raises concerns about their impact on trials.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·DateAug 9, 2018

A conversation between plants' daily and aging clocks

Researchers found that plant's daily oscillatory clock interacts with the aging linear clock during their lifetime, influencing leaf yellowing timing. The study identified key genes, such as PRR9, involved in this interaction.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 9, 2018

Scientists design material that can store energy like an eagle's grip

Researchers at Queen Mary University of London and University of Cambridge developed auxetic materials with smooth curves, enabling repeated deformations without damage. These materials can be used in energy-efficient gripping tools, re-configurable shape-on-demand materials, and lattices with unique thermal expansion behaviour.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalFrontiers in Materials·DateAug 9, 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.

Melanoma linked with CLL, close monitoring recommended

A large cohort study found CLL patients have a 600% higher risk of melanoma compared to the general population. Close monitoring for early detection is crucial in managing this skin cancer with targeted therapies.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalLeukemia Research·DateAug 9, 2018

Why house sparrows lay both big and small eggs

Research found that bigger eggs are advantageous in rainy weather, while smaller eggs are better suited for hot temperatures. House sparrows compensate for variable egg sizes by laying varying egg sizes within the same clutch.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalJournal of Avian Biology·DateAug 9, 2018

A diverse diet may not be the healthiest one

A diverse diet may actually lead to consuming more calories and increasing the risk of weight gain. Instead, experts recommend prioritizing a balanced eating pattern that emphasizes whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalCirculation·DateAug 9, 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.

Recording every cell's history in real-time with evolving genetic barcodes

Researchers develop a method to continuously record cells' development using genetic barcodes, allowing them to trace the full developmental lineage of every mature cell. This breakthrough resolves longstanding questions about brain patterning and promises to exponentially increase understanding of cellular growth and disease emergence.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalScience·DateAug 9, 2018

CU School of Medicine's Kenneth Tyler article in New England Journal of Medicine

Kenneth Tyler's review article in the New England Journal of Medicine highlights the need for improved diagnosis and treatment of acute viral encephalitis. The condition, which affects about seven patients per 100,000 population annually, imposes a heavy economic burden on healthcare systems.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateAug 9, 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.

Back to the future of climate change

Researchers at Syracuse University use nitrogen isotopic composition of sediments to understand changes in marine conditions during the Paleocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum, a brief period of rapid global warming approximately 56 million years ago. The study provides a benchmark for present and future climate and ocean models.

SourceSyracuse University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 9, 2018

Quantum chains in graphene nanoribbons

A material called graphene nano-ribbons has different electronic properties depending on its shape and width, allowing for the creation of tailor-made semiconductors, metals or insulators. The ribbons form a chain of interlinked quantum states with adjustable electronic structure.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalNature·DateAug 9, 2018

You're only as old as you think and do

Increasing control and physical activity may be the secret to staying young for older adults. Research suggests that a younger subjective age is associated with better memory performance, health, and longevity. A study found that participants who reported feeling more in control on days with higher step counts felt younger.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·DateAug 9, 2018

Palliative care may reduce suicide risk in veterans with lung cancer

A large-scale patient population study reveals that palliative care is associated with a significantly reduced risk of suicide in veterans diagnosed with advanced stage lung cancer. The findings show that patients who received at least one palliative care visit had an 81% lower rate of suicidal death.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalAnnals of the American Thoracic Society·DateAug 9, 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.

Discovery could lead to better treatment for leukemia

Researchers at University of Illinois Chicago discovered that a mutation in the NPM1 gene helps improve sensitivity to chemotherapy in patients. The study found that patients with this mutation tend to respond better to chemotherapy and have higher rates of remission.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalJCI Insight·DateAug 9, 2018

Scientists discover how to protect yeast from damage in biofuel production

Researchers have identified two changes to a single gene that can make yeast tolerate pretreatment chemicals used in biofuel production. The modified yeast can survive and ferment alongside amounts of toxic ionic liquids, increasing efficiency by up to 70%. This breakthrough could revolutionize the biofuel industry.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalGenetics·DateAug 9, 2018

Potential solutions to drug shortages and the lack of competition in generic medicines

The authors propose increasing incentives and modifying regulations to improve competition, redirecting overinvestment in new drug development to the generic market, and pivoting from short-term survival mode to long-term organized responses. These solutions aim to enhance competition, provide patients with reliable access to vital dru...

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateAug 9, 2018

Hybrid catalyst with high enantiomer selectivity

Researchers at Hokkaido University have developed a hybrid catalyst that combines simple rhodium and organic catalysts to selectively produce molecules with high enantiomer selectivity. This technology is expected to assist in rapid and low-cost drug synthesis, particularly for nucleotide medicine.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalNature Catalysis·DateAug 9, 2018

Pass the salt: Study finds average consumption safe for heart health

A large international study found that individuals consuming average amounts of sodium (3-5g/day) do not face increased health risks. However, those exceeding five grams a day may experience cardiovascular events, and improving dietary quality with potassium-rich foods can mitigate this risk.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalThe Lancet·DateAug 9, 2018

Surprise finding in neurons

Researchers discovered a high infection rate of Purkinje neurons with HHV-6 in patients with bipolar disorder and/or severe depression. The study suggests viruses can cause cognitive disturbances leading to mood disorders, contradicting the belief that dormant viruses never cause disease.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateAug 9, 2018

NASA sees Hector's large eye after passing Hawaii

NASA's Aqua satellite captured Hurricane Hector's large eye after it passed the Hawaiian Islands. The storm's cloud top temperatures were as cold as minus 70 degrees Fahrenheit, indicating strong storms capable of heavy rain. A tropical storm watch is in effect for Johnston Island, with swells expected to produce dangerous waves.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 9, 2018

NASA's Parker Solar Probe is about to lift off

Parker Solar Probe will make its journey to the Sun's atmosphere, closer than any spacecraft in history, with a highly elliptical orbit and speeds of up to 430,000 miles per hour. The spacecraft will observe the acceleration of the solar wind and study extreme events on the Sun, such as solar flares and coronal mass ejections.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 9, 2018

Research brief: New 3D-printed device could help treat spinal cord injuries

Researchers at the University of Minnesota have developed a groundbreaking 3D-printed device that uses regenerative cells to connect living nerve cells above and below spinal cord injury sites. The device has shown promise in improving bladder control, stopping uncontrollable movements, and alleviating pain.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateAug 9, 2018

Loss of a gene long ago puts marine mammals at risk today, as environments change

A genome-wide scan reveals the shared loss of Paraoxonase 1 (PON1) gene function across marine mammal lineages, leaving them vulnerable to neurotoxic chemicals. This loss may be related to PON1's role in fatty acid oxidation and poses a significant health risk for marine mammals living near agricultural runoff.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 9, 2018

There can be no sustainable development without profound changes in food systems

A proposed four-pillar strategy aims to drastically change consumption patterns, ensuring agricultural production and supply chains play a greater role in sustainable development. The transformation hinges on renewing food system governance, prioritizing human development, food security, and rational resource management.

SourceCirad·JournalAgronomy for Sustainable Development·DateAug 9, 2018

Genetic mutation underlying severe childhood brain disorder identified

Researchers have identified a genetic mutation and faulty development process that causes a debilitating brain-based disorder in children. The mutation, in the alpha-N-catenin gene (CTNNA2), leads to abnormal cell adhesion and impaired neuronal migration, resulting in severe intellectual impairment and limited life expectancy.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalNature Genetics·DateAug 9, 2018

New theory may explain cause of depression and improve treatments

A new review suggests that mitochondrial dysfunction may be the root cause of depression, providing a potential breakthrough for novel antidepressant medication. The researchers found that depression is associated with decreased energy production and increased metabolic demand in brain cells.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Neuroscience·DateAug 9, 2018

Epigenetic reprogramming of human hearts found in congestive heart failure

A study led by Adam Wende found an underlying mechanism that reprograms the hearts of patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy, altering cellular remodeling and metabolism. The researchers identified epigenetic changes that encode a 'metabolic plasticity' in failing hearts, which may repair the ischemic and failing heart.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalLaboratory Investigation·DateAug 9, 2018

Marine mammals lack functional gene to defend against popular pesticide

Researchers found that marine mammals lost the functional Paraoxonase 1 (PON1) gene, which protects land-dwelling mammals from pesticides. This loss may have allowed marine mammals to adapt to a marine environment, but also makes them vulnerable to organophosphate poisoning.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalScience·DateAug 9, 2018

Doctors reduced opioid prescriptions after learning a patient overdosed

A USC study found that when clinicians are given information about a patient's fatal overdose, they prescribe fewer powerful painkillers. Clinicians who received a letter from the county medical examiner were 9.7% less likely to prescribe opioids in the following three months.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalScience·DateAug 9, 2018

Targeting a brain mechanism could treat aggression

Scientists discovered a link between polysialic acid and aggressive behavior in mice with psychiatric disorders. The absence of the enzyme ST8SIA2 reduced fear processing and anxiety, leading to abnormal aggression.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateAug 9, 2018

Scientists identify genetic marker for gastric cancer prognosis

Researchers have discovered a genetic marker, MUC16 mutation, associated with higher tumor mutation load and improved responsiveness to immunotherapy in gastric cancer. This finding could help identify eligible patients for immunotherapy treatment, which currently responds positively in only 20-30% of cases.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateAug 9, 2018