A new study published in Radiology found that MRI effective for monitoring liver fat levels in obese patients undergoing weight loss treatments. The study assessed liver fat before and after bariatric surgery using quantitative chemical shift-encoded MRI, showing a significant decrease in liver fat content after six to ten months.
SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateDec 18, 2018
A new study reveals that the gut microbiome helps regulate the host's immune system by moderating vitamin A levels. The bacteria fine-tune the conversion of vitamin A to its active form, reducing an overactive immune response and promoting co-existence with the microbiome.
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.
Researchers disentangled 'hiatus' confusion by analyzing global surface temperature data and comparing model projections to observations. They found no statistical evidence of a pause or slowdown in global warming.
SourcePotsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateDec 18, 2018
Two UC3M projects have been awarded grants to develop accessible technologies, including the EASIER system that simplifies text for people with intellectual disabilities and eB2-TEA app that detects crises in individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Researchers at KU Leuven devised an elegant way to use sound waves to keep chemicals flowing in miniature reactors. The technology improved efficiency by forcing particles into the center of channels, mixing them, and stopping clogging.
Researchers applied machine learning to analyze Cascadia data, discovering a constant tremor that predicts slow slippage and fault failure. The study found a direct parallel between the loudness of the signal and the physical changes, allowing for more accurate predictions of megaquakes.
SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·JournalNature Geoscience·DateDec 18, 2018
A study combining 96 randomized clinical trials found that opioids had small improvements in pain and physical functioning compared to placebo, but also an increased risk of vomiting. Nonopioid alternative pain medications showed similar benefits with lower risks.
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.
Researchers at CNIO and Hospital 12 de Octubre have discovered a potential new combination therapy for myelofibrosis, a severe haematological disease. The three-drug combination of nilotinib, prednisone, and ruxolitinib enhances the treatment's effectiveness by potentiating each other's benefits.
SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalHaematologica·DateDec 18, 2018
A 12-week-long mobile phone-based intervention encouraging Chinese smokers to quit resulted in a 6.5% success rate, significantly higher than control group rates. Researchers suggest this approach could improve population health and be considered for large-scale use in China.
Researchers discover Ets1 gene's role in autoimmune disease lupus; found that faulty gene leads to Tfh2 cell expansion and autoantibody production. Blocking IL4 pathway mitigates SLE features.
SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalImmunity·DateDec 18, 2018
A team of ETH Zurich researchers has found a way to harmonize conflicting results from fossil-based and phylogenetic analysis of species emergence and extinction. By considering different mechanisms of speciation, such as budding, cladogenesis, and anagenesis, they have developed a computer model that accounts for these assumptions, pr...
SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 18, 2018
A new study examines data from California Youth Authority and finds a strong likelihood of recidivism among offenders convicted of violent crimes. The research highlights the importance of considering an offender's entire criminal history during sentencing or parole decisions.
SourceIowa State University·JournalYouth Violence and Juvenile Justice·DateDec 18, 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.
Estonian scientists have developed a genetic testing technology called TAC-seq, which enables precise analysis of clinical biomarkers at the single-molecule level. This method raises the precision of biomarker analysis and is poised to make it more affordable.
SourceEstonian Research Council·JournalGenomic Medicine·DateDec 18, 2018
Researchers at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory have discovered a copper catalyst that can efficiently convert carbon dioxide into valuable chemicals and fuels without wasteful byproducts. This breakthrough could enable the production of renewable fuels, reducing dependence on fossil fuels and lowering greenhouse gas emissions.
SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Catalysis·DateDec 18, 2018
Research identifies chain reaction in cells that helps cancer survive BRAF and MEK treatment. A new process called ER translocation connects two common resistance mechanisms, increasing autophagy and drug resistance.
SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalCancer Discovery·DateDec 18, 2018
Researchers found that Saturn's iconic rings are losing ice particles at a maximum rate, draining an Olympic-sized pool in half an hour. The entire ring system is expected to vanish in 300-100 million years.
SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalIcarus·DateDec 18, 2018
A Japanese team has developed a new technique for manufacturing ultraprecise multilayer focusing mirrors that can achieve X-ray beam sizes of less than ten nanometers. This breakthrough enables high-performance X-ray free-electron lasers (XFELs) with improved quality and intensity.
SourceOsaka University·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 18, 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.
Researchers analyzed data from over 1,000 breast cancer patients and identified seven clusters of patients based on their immune evasion mechanisms. This study provides a better understanding of how breast cancer hides from the immune system, allowing oncologists to develop more personalized treatment options.
SourceFlorida State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 18, 2018
A new study reveals that tourists in Morocco object to using barbary macaques as photo props, citing concerns about animal welfare and potential health risks. The practice is perceived as unacceptable by 88% of respondents, who also raise concerns about hygiene and the risk of infections.
A new study in eLife describes a 50-million-year-old fossil flower species that defies widely accepted theories of plant evolution. The discovery of Nanjinganthus dendrostyla sheds light on the origins of angiosperms, potentially indicating an earlier emergence than previously thought.
Research by Harvard University's Catherine Dulac reveals that male mice engage in infanticide due to a combination of sensory cues, including the shape of pups and specific pheromone signals. These signals allow males to identify newborn infants and recognize their need for nurturing versus protection from attack.
A new study published in Nature Ecology & Evolution reveals that pterosaurs had at least four types of feathers, including simple filaments and down feathers, which are also found in modern birds and dinosaur groups. The discovery pushes back the origin of feathers by approximately 70 million years.
SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateDec 18, 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.
Researchers discovered a previously unexplored consequence of global wind energy proliferation: wake effects from upwind facilities that can reduce downwind neighbors' energy production. The study shows that these effects are measurable and predictable, with the largest impact occurring when winds are in a specific direction at night.
SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·JournalNature Energy·DateDec 18, 2018
A Clemson University field study found that tree species grow optimized leaves to compensate for hurricane damage, capturing carbon dioxide at higher rates. However, some trees' lower-quality new leaves may reduce lifespan and energy production.
Researchers from RIKEN and JAXA use ALMA radio observatory to measure magnetic field strengths near two supermassive black holes. The findings reveal that the magnetic fields are insufficient to heat coronae to one billion degrees Celsius, contradicting previous assumptions.
SourceRIKEN·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·DateDec 18, 2018
A new study published in JAMA examined data from over 88,000 pregnancies where pregnant women took ondansetron during the first trimester. The researchers found no increased risk of cardiac malformations but a slight increase in oral clefts associated with ondansetron use.
SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJAMA·DateDec 18, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
A new study by the University of Warwick identifies constraints on older adults' ability to adapt to heatwaves or cold snaps due to financial issues and social isolation. The research recommends implementing policies to improve individuals' health status, strengthen knowledge of extreme temperatures, and enhance social networks.
SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 18, 2018
A team of biologists has discovered red wolf DNA in a group of canines living on Galveston Island, Texas, raising hopes for the species' survival. The finding, which may represent lost genes from captive breeding, challenges conventional science's dismissal of 'red wolves' as coyotes.
Researchers at UVA Health System have made a breakthrough in understanding human papillomavirus (HPV) and its role in causing cancers. They discovered that the virus relies on a specific enzyme, USP46, to form tumors, making it a promising target for new therapies.
SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalMolecular Cell·DateDec 18, 2018
A meta-analysis of 19 randomized controlled trials found that Internet-based interventions significantly reduced mean weekly alcohol consumption and improved adherence to low-risk drinking limits. Older adults and those with lower education levels showed greater treatment response, while human-guided interventions had a stronger impact...
Researchers developed a versatile vaccine effective in mice against Powassan virus and other tick-transmitted flaviviruses. The mRNA-based vaccine platform shows promise for rapid production of vaccines against emerging flaviviruses.
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.
A study published in Nature Communications found that separating male and female mice leads to differences in their olfactory sensory receptors. As a result, the mice may perceive odors differently. This research has implications for understanding sex-specific differences in human olfactory function.
SourceUniversity of Wyoming·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 18, 2018
Research published in the Journal of Neurology & Psychiatry found that food allergies are associated with a higher rate of cumulative disease bouts and active disease in multiple sclerosis patients. The study analyzed data from 1349 adults and found that food allergy was linked to a 27% higher rate of disease flare-ups.
SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Neurology·DateDec 18, 2018
Researchers identify strong genetic risk factor for IPF, linking mucociliary dysfunction to lung scarring. The study provides a breakthrough in understanding the cause of IPF and potentially its treatment.
SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 18, 2018
Male smooth guardian frogs of Borneo display extended parental care, staying with eggs for 11 days and transporting tadpoles through the forest. The males' selection of artificial pools is influenced by terrain steepness and presence of predators, indicating a unique strategy in frog parenting.
SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalJournal of Natural History·DateDec 18, 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.
Researchers at Kiel University developed a new computer simulations method to accurately describe dynamic properties of warm dense matter. The study provides unique insights into the behavior of electrons under extreme conditions.
SourceKiel University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateDec 18, 2018
The partnership aims to consolidate research cooperation and explore diverse topics such as poverty, digital economy, and energy transition. Funding will support academic formats like workshops, conferences, and symposia, as well as young researchers' exchange and laboratory work.
Researchers at Newcastle University have developed a way to model disease progression and predict the tipping point of a disease. The models provide early warning indicators that an epidemic is imminent and action needs to be taken.
SourceNewcastle University·JournalEcological Modelling·DateDec 18, 2018
A recent editorial emphasizes the importance of evidence-based treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD), highlighting the benefits of medications like methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone. Experts stress that these treatments should be evaluated like any other chronic illness, free from unnecessary regulations and biases.
SourceBoston Medical Center·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateDec 18, 2018
Tropical Cyclone Kenanga was at hurricane-force when captured by NASA-NOAA's Suomi NPP satellite on Dec. 18. The image showed the eye surrounded by powerful thunderstorms and a large band of storms extending from the south to east.
Meta Quest 3 512GB
Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.
Researchers at University of Alabama at Birmingham discover how Avian Sarcoma Virus binds to cell membrane, providing insights into HIV-1 replication and potential treatment strategies. The study reveals a crucial cluster of four lysine amino acids that interact with acidic membrane lipids.
SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateDec 18, 2018
Researchers found that participants who completed mindfulness training lost an average of 3 kilograms more than those who did not attend the course. The study suggests that mindfulness techniques can help improve eating behavior and facilitate successful weight loss in individuals with obesity.
SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateDec 18, 2018
This study introduces a green method for synthesizing benzopyrano and xanthenol compounds using TiO2 nanoparticles as catalysts. The reaction is carried out in aqueous medium at room temperature, yielding high yields (92-98%) within short reaction times.
SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCombinatorial Chemistry & High Throughput Screening·DateDec 18, 2018
Massachusetts ranked No. 1 in the Milken Institute's 2018 State Technology and Science Index, driven by major research universities and a tech-oriented workforce. Utah rose to fifth place with rapid employment growth in technology and science, while Delaware strengthened its position with venture capital investment.
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.
Researchers studied how male broad-tailed hummingbirds combine speed, sound, and color in their displays to attract females. They discovered that the most dramatic aspects of the dive happen almost all at once, just before the male soars past the female.
SourcePrinceton University·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 18, 2018
Researchers found that average forest trees growing in conditions similar to those of their peers will experience a 75% reduction in growth. The new study is based on a database of unanalyzed tree cores from the US Forest Service and provides a more accurate estimate than previous studies.
SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 18, 2018
A study published in PLOS Medicine found that UK supermarkets' checkout food policies led to a 17.3% reduction in small package purchases of sugary foods within four weeks of policy introduction, with a sustained impact over time.
New research suggests that removing sweets from checkouts can lead to a significant reduction in the amount of unhealthy food purchased, with 17% fewer small packages of sugary confectionary and chocolate taken home, and 76% fewer on-the-go purchases made.
SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateDec 18, 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.
Researchers discovered a combination of a cancer vaccine with two checkpoint drugs reduced pancreatic cancer tumors in mice, indicating a possible pathway for treatment. The approach has promise for patients who are or become resistant to immunotherapy drugs after a recurrence of their tumors.
SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJCI Insight·DateDec 18, 2018
Researchers used machine learning to categorize porous organic cage molecules based on their cavity shapes and adsorption properties. The study demonstrated that the learned encoding captures key features of the cavities, enabling potential energy savings in gas separations.
SourceOregon State University·JournalACS Central Science·DateDec 18, 2018
A study of 1,500 women found that cesarean delivery was associated with lower risk of stress urinary incontinence and overactive bladder compared to spontaneous vaginal delivery. Operative vaginal deliveries, such as those using forceps or vacuum-assisted, were linked to higher risk of anal incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse.
A new study published in Occupational & Environmental Medicine suggests that workplace resilience programs may not have a positive impact on employees' mental health and wellbeing. The researchers found no evidence that a specific program improved recruits' mental health and attitudes towards mental illness after training.
SourceBMJ Group·JournalOccupational and Environmental Medicine·DateDec 18, 2018
A systematic review of traditional medicine (TCAM) use in Sub-Saharan Africa found significant and widespread use among the general population and specific health conditions. TCAM use was often aligned with sociocultural and spiritual values, with herbal therapy being the most common treatment.
SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalBMJ Global Health·DateDec 18, 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.
Researchers at New York University have developed a method to visualize genetic mutations in single cells, allowing for early detection of rare events and high-resolution analysis of evolutionary tempo. This breakthrough has significant implications for studying mutations in pathogens and human cancers.
SourceNew York University·JournalPLOS Biology·DateDec 18, 2018
Researchers linked health factors like access to public transit, grocery store variety, and food prices to major diseases. The study found significant differences in environmental factors across Canada's provinces, urban-rural communities, and regions.
SourceMcMaster University·JournalCities & Health·DateDec 18, 2018
Researchers uncovered a crucial quality-control mechanism inside cells that fails when contributing to major diseases including cancers. The discovery found an enzyme called casein kinase II adds molecular tags onto Spt6, a key protein in transcription, preventing inappropriate transcription.
SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalCell Reports·DateDec 18, 2018
A new study at Northwestern University has developed a revolutionary tool to rapidly test millions of nanoparticles for specific applications. The novel approach utilizes a combinatorial library, or megalibrary, of nanoparticles and an in situ Raman spectroscopy-based screening technique to identify optimal compositions.
SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 18, 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.
Research reveals that low-income, rural kids are at higher risk of second- and third-hand smoke exposure, with as many as 63% of children having detectable levels of cotinine. The study found that frequent moves, lower income, and more adults in the home increase a child's exposure to smoke.
SourcePenn State·JournalNicotine & Tobacco Research·DateDec 18, 2018
Researchers developed a novel di-cationic ionic liquid catalyst for the solvent-free synthesis of xanthenediones. The method produces excellent yields and short reaction times with minimal catalyst loss.
SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCombinatorial Chemistry & High Throughput Screening·DateDec 18, 2018
A new model of ice friction offers crucial insight into glacier flows, revealing how cavities form during sliding and influencing ice movement. This discovery has significant implications for understanding sea level rise and climate change.
SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateDec 18, 2018
A new study published in the Journal of Health and Social Behavior found a strong link between unfair treatment by police and telomere length, a biological indicator of psychological stress, among black men. Telomeres were shorter for those reporting unfair treatment, and the link was more pronounced in black men.
SourceFlorida State University·JournalJournal of Health and Social Behavior·DateDec 18, 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.
Two new studies published in the British Journal of Cancer reveal alarming breast cancer risks for women with false-positive screening results. Women who experience a first false-positive result have a two-fold risk of developing screen-detected or interval breast cancer later in life, while those with a second false-positive result fa...
SourceCancer Research UK·JournalBritish Journal of Cancer·DateDec 18, 2018
A new RNA-binding compound has been found to block the most common genetic cause of both familial ALS and frontotemporal dementia, according to researchers at Scripps Research. The compound targets a specific form of RNA involved in protein production, potentially providing a new avenue for treating these diseases.
SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalCell Chemical Biology·DateDec 18, 2018
Researchers assess the promise of gallium oxide as an ultrawide bandgap semiconductor, offering improved thermal management and gate dielectrics. Ga2O3's potential applications include high-voltage rectifiers in power conditioning and distribution systems, such as electric cars and photovoltaic solar systems.
SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateDec 18, 2018
Moderate-to-large weight gain and loss among middle-aged and elderly Chinese Singaporeans are linked to increased risk of death, with weight loss associated with higher risk than weight gain. The study suggests that maintaining stability in body weight within the non-obese range may reduce mortality risk.
SourceDuke-NUS Medical School·JournalInternational Journal of Obesity·DateDec 18, 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.
Researchers urge employers to integrate mental health first aid into a broader system of support for employees. The Institution of Occupational Safety and Health recommends a 'prevention first' approach that tackles root causes of mental health issues through good management and organizational culture.
A Johns Hopkins-led initiative screened over 5,000 Tibetan refugee children and staff for tuberculosis disease and infection. The study found nearly one in five children had TB infection, highlighting the need for population-level control measures.
SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateDec 18, 2018
A study by the University of São Paulo's Biomedical Science Institute shows that sofosbuvir can eliminate both chikungunya and yellow fever viruses without damaging human cells. This finding has significant implications for public health, particularly in Brazil where a chikungunya epidemic is forecasted.
SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·DateDec 18, 2018
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University have developed a novel computerized approach to detect lung cancer using routine CAT scans. The method analyzes patterns of heterogeneity within and outside the tumor, distinguishing benign from malignant nodules with high accuracy.
SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalRadiology·DateDec 18, 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.
A new study estimates that 2025 million takeaway containers are used annually in the European Union, generating equivalent greenhouse gas emissions of 55,000 cars. Reusable Tupperware containers can reduce carbon footprint when reused over 18 times, while styrofoam has a lower life cycle environmental impact despite being non-recyclable.
SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalJournal of Cleaner Production·DateDec 18, 2018
A study published by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health found significant shifts in Afghan attitudes towards education and child marriage in underdeveloped regions. The research, conducted among nearly 1,400 Afghans aged 12-15 and their parents, indicates that getting married at a young age and leaving school early have be...
SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateDec 18, 2018
A large study found that widespread, low-intensity antibiotic use in the US is more closely linked to antibiotic resistance than high-intensity use by a small fraction of the population. The study analyzed data from over 60 million Americans and found that occasional use was associated with higher rates of resistance.
SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·DateDec 18, 2018
Researchers found children born in the 1990s are reaching skeletal maturity faster than those born in the 1930s. The 'new normal' for bone maturity timing directly impacts pediatric orthopaedic care for conditions like leg-length differences and scoliosis.
SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalClinical Orthopaedics and Related Research·DateDec 18, 2018
Researchers at University of East Anglia have successfully sequenced the common primrose's complete genome sequence, revealing the landscape of genes involved in its two different flowering forms. This breakthrough provides fresh insight into a puzzle that has captivated scientists for over 150 years.
SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 18, 2018
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.
The endocast of Australopithecus fossil Little Foot shows a brain with asymmetrical structures similar to modern humans, but also features distinct from us, including an expanded visual cortex and reduced parietal association cortex. This suggests that the brain's complexity evolved over time in response to environmental pressures.
SourceUniversity of the Witwatersrand·JournalJournal of Human Evolution·DateDec 18, 2018
Researchers at MIT and Sandia National Laboratories have developed a new laser-based system that can monitor radiation-induced changes continuously, providing more useful data much faster than traditional methods. This allows for detailed studies of the performance of materials in just hours, instead of months.
SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNuclear Instruments and Methods in Physics Research Section B Beam Interactions with Materials and Atoms·DateDec 18, 2018
A new study published in the Biodiversity Data Journal reveals a total of 20,539 samples of different Iberian spider species, with 11 new species discovered. The research highlights the lack of knowledge on Iberian spiders and emphasizes the need for standardized protocols and wider taxonomical data to protect their conservation.
SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalBiodiversity Data Journal·DateDec 18, 2018
A study of 39,742 people found that exercise was just as effective as most blood pressure lowering drugs in reducing systolic blood pressure, especially for those with high blood pressure. Combining endurance and dynamic resistance training also showed promising results.
SourceBMJ Group·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·DateDec 18, 2018
The Gluonic Excitations Experiment, or GlueX, has completed its first phase of data collection at the Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility. The experiment aims to produce and study hybrid mesons, which can offer new insights into quark confinement and the strong force.
SourceDOE/Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility·DateDec 18, 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.
Researchers at NYU Tandon School of Engineering have developed a physics-based model that reveals the relationship between structural defects in graphene and electrode sensitivity. By optimizing point defects in number and density, they can create an electrode up to 20 times more sensitive than conventional ones.
SourceNYU Tandon School of Engineering·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateDec 18, 2018
Researchers at the University of Alberta have identified a potential new treatment for ALS by repurposing an existing medication called telbivudine. The drug targets the toxic properties of SOD1, a misfolding protein that causes toxicity in patients with ALS.
SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalNeurobiology of Disease·DateDec 18, 2018
Researchers found a correlation between bismuth ferrite's structure and its magnetic properties, which can help create new materials with specific properties. The study revealed that structural distortions caused by substitutions, lattice defects, and exchange interactions affect the material's magnetic behavior.
SourceImmanuel Kant Baltic Federal University·JournalJournal of Physics and Chemistry of Solids·DateDec 18, 2018
A team of UD engineers has developed a method to use CRISPR/Cas9 technology for conditional gene regulation, introducing a new functionality to the technology. This allows scientists to precisely target and edit DNA within living cells, which could help correct inherited diseases.
SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateDec 18, 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.
A Texas A&M engineering team uses machine learning and AI to develop an autonomous framework for discovering new materials. The system can adaptively pick the best models to find optimal materials, reducing the time and cost of research.
SourceTexas A&M University·JournalPhysical Review Materials·DateDec 18, 2018
A Genetic Data Protection Act is needed to control access to medical genetic data by law enforcement agencies, according to a University of Queensland analysis. The researchers warn that current laws do not fit well with genetic data, putting vulnerable individuals and their descendants at risk.
SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalGenetics in Medicine·DateDec 18, 2018
A study from Osaka University reveals how human pluripotent stem cells can be differentiated into corneal and retinal cells by growing them on specific forms of the protein laminin. The findings show that different laminin isoforms affect cell behavior, density, and interactions, which in turn influence the types of ocular cells produced.
A new study published in The Annals of Thoracic Surgery found no major impact on brain health after major heart surgery. Researchers compared cognitive decline between patients undergoing heart surgery and those who received a catheter-based procedure, and found that the two groups showed little difference in memory performance.
SourceElsevier·JournalThe Annals of Thoracic Surgery·DateDec 18, 2018
A team from the Technical University of Munich has achieved photochemical deracemization of chiral compounds, converting a mixture into a single enantiomer with high concentrations up to 97 percent. This method saves time and energy by utilizing all molecules in the process.
SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature·DateDec 18, 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.
A new study by International Institute for Sustainability presents a flexible tool to increase restoration cost-effectiveness by up to eight times, considering multiple criteria such as biodiversity conservation and climate change mitigation. The study identifies optimal priority areas for restoration, showcasing the potential of spati...
SourceInternational Institute for Sustainability·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateDec 18, 2018
Researchers have discovered that dynamic stall at high speeds is characterized by tiny flow structures within a vortex, making it difficult to control. By understanding these turbulent fluctuations, they aim to develop ways to interact with and control the flow field, potentially leading to improved aircraft performance.
SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·DateDec 18, 2018
A recent study suggests that black men diagnosed with low-risk prostate cancer (Gleason score 6) may have a more aggressive form of the disease, leading to higher mortality rates compared to non-black men. The research found a significant disparity in prostate cancer death rates between black and non-black patients with Gleason 6 cancers.
SourceDana-Farber Cancer Institute·JournalJAMA·DateDec 18, 2018
A recent study found that moderate to severe loneliness persists across the adult lifespan, particularly during late-20s, mid-50s, and late-80s. However, researchers also discovered a strong inverse association between wisdom and loneliness, suggesting that wiser individuals are less lonely. The study highlights the need for solutions ...
SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalInternational Psychogeriatrics·DateDec 18, 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 recent study by Chinese researchers reveals that horizontal heat flux in the mixed layer is crucial for extreme heat events. The analysis of a 2015 heatwave found that this factor, combined with sensible heat flux, drove high temperatures.
SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateDec 18, 2018
A promising compound discovered by Swiss TPH researchers is highly effective against Buruli ulcer, both in vitro and in vivo. The study found that compound Q203 has an activity level exceeding the current most active antibiotic rifampicin, potentially leading to a shorter treatment regimen with fewer adverse side effects.
SourceSwiss Tropical and Public Health Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 18, 2018
Researchers created a predictive model to identify inhibitors of the multi-drug resistance associated protein-2 efflux transporter, achieving prediction accuracy of up to 0.79. The support vector machine model built on selected features showed the best performance.
SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCombinatorial Chemistry & High Throughput Screening·DateDec 18, 2018
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet analyzed 3.8 million live-born children and found that approximately 1 out of 105 children with severe growth restriction died before age 18, compared to 1 in 202 for moderate growth restriction and 1 in 289 for normal development.
SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateDec 18, 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.
Targeting chemical signals between the gut and brain may lead to a new treatment for obesity by disrupting nerve cells that send messages about food intake. Researchers found that nitric oxide reduces sensitivity of nerves, leading to increased food consumption in obese mice.
SourceThe Physiological Society·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·DateDec 18, 2018
Researchers will assess bone strength and nutrition among men and women in the Boston area to develop interventions for preventing bone loss and fracture risk. The study aims to provide insight into the impact of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) on bone health.
Researchers have identified a novel form of inflammatory regulation that increases response to painful stimuli. A protein fragment, ARD, plays a key role in this process, increasing PI3K activity and sensitizing pain receptors.
Researchers discovered that some bacteria use multi-component flagella to manoeuvre out of small spaces, enabling them to escape and infect. The study's findings could lead to the development of new methods to block the transmission of harmful infections.
SourceUniversity of York·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 18, 2018
Seismic activity near Oroville Dam was related to reservoir discharge altering pressure on underlying rock fractures, causing them to open and close. The events occurred for decades prior to the dam's spillway failure and continued after it.
SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalBulletin of the Seismological Society of America·DateDec 18, 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.
Researchers describe the full annual life cycle of a dragonfly in the Western hemisphere for the first time, using citizen science and chemical analysis. The common green darner migrates north in spring, south in fall, and has a wingspan of just 7.5 cm but covers an average of over 600 km.
SourceUniversity of Maryland Baltimore County·JournalBiology Letters·DateDec 18, 2018
Scientists developed a technique to integrate single-crystal hybrid perovskites into electronics, enabling flexible devices with reduced manufacturing costs. The advance opens new research avenues for applications in solar cells, LEDs, and photodetectors.
SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 18, 2018
Scientists discovered modifications in a sodium transporter gene, HKT1;1, which enable plants to adapt to varying soil salinity. The study used genomic analysis and sequencing techniques to reveal genetic variations that improve osmotic adjustment and prevent salt toxicity.
SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 18, 2018
Researchers found that tilled fields had smaller ant nests, which consume fewer weed seeds, while no-till fields had more evenly distributed ant nests. This suggests that preserving ant colonies by reducing tillage could benefit farmers in managing weeds.
New research finds that ocean acidification from carbon emissions can alter coho salmon's processing and response to smells, affecting their ability to detect predators and navigate. This study highlights the potential consequences of climate change on salmon populations.
SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateDec 18, 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.
A study published in Ecology Letters found that edge populations of plants, such as yellow rattle, are better suited to surviving climate change. These populations have adapted to high-elevation summers by flowering earlier, allowing them to thrive in areas where lower elevation populations fail.
SourceMcGill University·JournalEcology Letters·DateDec 18, 2018
The discovery of a vessel with an estimated 500 maize weevils offers insights into the cultivation and distribution of chestnuts, food in the Jomon era, and the spirituality of ancient Japanese people. Researchers found that maize weevils were a dominant pest in stored rice and grains during this period.
A UBC-Western study found that respectful, inclusive practices in primary care clinics can improve the health of marginalized individuals. Researchers developed modules to promote equity-oriented care and interviewed 395 individuals, finding reduced pain, depression, and trauma symptoms.
SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalMilbank Quarterly·DateDec 18, 2018
A new therapy has shown 'very promising' initial results in improving the sight of people with Leber congenital amaurosis type 10 (LCA10), a severe inherited retinal disease. The therapy, QR-110, was injected into one eye and left untreated in the other, resulting in improved vision and restored levels of normal CEP290 protein in cells.
SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Medicine·DateDec 18, 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.
A SLU researcher suggests focusing on high-risk tuberculosis patients to improve treatment completion rates and accelerate the US goal of eliminating the disease. By identifying latent patients at highest risk of active infection, doctors can better communicate the importance of completing treatment regimens.
SourceSaint Louis University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 18, 2018
Researchers identified optimal recipients for split liver transplants, including children weighing under 10 kilograms and those with rare diseases. Split liver transplants were found to have similar outcomes as whole liver transplants when adjusting for variables such as donor age and recipient health.
SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalLiver Transplantation·DateDec 18, 2018
Researchers from Osaka University developed a large-scale flexible thermoelectric generator module with high mechanical reliability and efficient power generation. The module achieved improved efficiency in recovering waste heat from curved heat sources, enhancing its mechanical reliability.
SourceOsaka University·JournalAdvanced Materials Technologies·DateDec 18, 2018
A year-long field study examined the effects of Hurricane Maria on tropical dry forests in Puerto Rico, revealing that trees adjust key characteristics of their newly grown leaves to compensate for damage. The study found that 11 of 13 species increased CO2 intake and changed leaf shape to efficiently extract gas from the atmosphere.
A team of climate researchers reviewed existing data and concluded there has never been a statistically significant 'pause' in global warming. The studies, published in Environmental Research Letters, reassessed the data and put it into historical context to find no evidence for a divergence between model projections and observations.
SourceIOP Publishing·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateDec 18, 2018
A recent study published in JAMA found that opioids provide only modest benefits for patients with chronic non-cancer pain. The research suggests that while opioids may help alleviate symptoms, their use comes with a high risk of side effects and addiction.
A recent study published in American Political Science Review found that people's policy positions shift when informed of their party leader's stance on a controversial issue. Researchers used President Trump's statements to test the effect of party loyalty versus policy loyalty.
SourceBrigham Young University·JournalAmerican Political Science Review·DateDec 18, 2018
A University at Buffalo team discovered that activation of PRRX1 induces pathological quiescence, rendering adult stem cells incapable of producing myelin-forming oligodendrocytes. This finding presents a novel approach to developing treatments for multiple sclerosis and other inflammatory diseases by blocking pathological quiescence.
SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalCell Reports·DateDec 18, 2018