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Science News for December 5, 2018


Report reveals link between air pollution and increased risk for miscarriage

Researchers at University of Utah Health found a 16 percent increased risk of miscarriage for women exposed to elevated air pollution levels, particularly nitrogen dioxide. The study suggests air quality is associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes and highlights the need for constructive solutions.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalFertility and Sterility·DateDec 5, 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.

From college-ready to student-ready, new math initiative seeks change

The Launch Years initiative, supported by a $6.68 million grant, seeks to address barriers in math progress between high school and college. It rethinks current structures and policies to create new pathways for more students, including first-generation college students and those from low-income families, to thrive in college.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·DateDec 5, 2018

Turning climate change from a 'tragedy of the commons' to positive action

A new paper argues that promoting climate change as a moral issue can help solve the problem, rather than relying solely on scientific arguments. Governments and policymakers must appeal to a range of values, including fairness, duty, and patriotism, to make progress in addressing climate change.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalGlobal Environmental Change·DateDec 5, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Atmospheric scientists find causes of firenado in deadly Carr Fire

Researchers found that a combination of climate and weather factors, including a pyro-cumulonimbus cloud, led to the formation of a firenado in the Carr Fire. The vortex was spinning with the power of a class three tornado and contributed to the fire's rapid spread.

SourceUniversity of Nevada, Reno·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateDec 5, 2018

New PET tracer identified for imaging Tau in Alzheimer's disease patients

A new second-generation positron emission tomography (PET) tracer has been identified for imaging tau pathology in Alzheimer's disease patients. The tracer, 18F-RO-948, showed promising results in a human evaluation study, outperforming other novel tau-specific radiopharmaceuticals.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateDec 5, 2018

Friend or foe? Brain area that controls social memory also triggers aggression

Researchers have identified a brain region that controls both social memory and aggression, revealing a complex link between the two behaviors. The discovery sheds light on psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia, where altered CA2 function may contribute to abnormal social behaviors.

SourceThe Zuckerman Institute at Columbia University·JournalNature·DateDec 5, 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.

Cannabis-based compound may reduce seizures in children with epilepsy

A recent analysis of published studies suggests that cannabidiol, a non-psychoactive cannabinoid, can reduce seizures in children with severe forms of epilepsy. The median frequency of monthly seizures decreased with cannabidiol treatment, with many participants experiencing a 50% or greater reduction.

SourceWiley·JournalEpilepsia·DateDec 5, 2018

Mantle neon illuminates Earth's formation

Researchers used neon isotopes to study Earth's mantle formation, finding evidence of rapid early planet formation and delivery of vital compounds. The findings support the idea that a planet must reach a certain size before absorbing these ingredients, which is consistent with observations of other solar systems.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalNature·DateDec 5, 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.

Common antidepressant does not aid stroke recovery, study finds

A recent study published in The Lancet found that fluoxetine, a common antidepressant, does not improve physical ability or reduce disability after stroke. However, researchers did note a small increase in bone fractures among those taking the medication.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalThe Lancet·DateDec 5, 2018

A banner year for pharma

In 2018, the biotech industry saw significant investment from venture capital firms and a surge in initial public offerings. Promising developments include the approval of the first RNA interference drug, Onpattro, for treating rare genetic disorders, as well as advancements in CRISPR technology and cannabis-based therapeutics.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateDec 5, 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.

COSINE-100 experiment investigates dark matter mystery

The COSINE-100 experiment has reported no excess of signal in its data, putting DAMA's annual modulation signal at odds with other experiments. The researchers will need several years of data to fully confirm or refute the claim.

SourceYale University·JournalNature·DateDec 5, 2018

Study reveals sleep problems in young adult students

Sleep problems are prevalent and increasing among young adult students, with women experiencing a higher prevalence of insomnia. The study suggests that sleep issues warrant attention as a public health concern in this population.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Sleep Research·DateDec 5, 2018

Wireless, battery-free sensors monitor skin exposure to solar radiation

Researchers have developed wireless, battery-free sensors that monitor skin exposure to solar radiation in real-time, providing a flexible method to track UV light. The devices overcome existing drawbacks such as limited battery life, allowing for broader use in outdoor activities and optimizing light-based treatments for skin conditions.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateDec 5, 2018

New attack could make website security captchas obsolete

Researchers have created a new artificial intelligence that can effectively defeat captcha security systems used by most popular websites. The algorithm, based on deep learning methods, requires only 500 genuine captchas to train, making it highly efficient and able to launch attacks with low effort.

SourceLancaster University·DateDec 5, 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.

UBC economist proposes solution to Vancouver's affordability crisis

A new model for calculating property tax could help combat Vancouver's housing affordability problem by transferring tax burden from owners to renters. The proposal aims to raise property taxes and lower income and sales taxes, stimulating the economy and making it easier for workers to afford housing.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalCanadian Tax Journal/Revue fiscale canadienne·DateDec 5, 2018

Scientists design way to track steps of cells' development

Researchers at WashU Medicine have designed a 'flight data recorder' for developing cells, revealing the paths they take as they progress from one type to another. This tool has potential to boost regenerative medicine by guiding skin cells into new liver cells and may also be applied in cancer research.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNature·DateDec 5, 2018

Guiding the smart growth of artificial intelligence

A new paper examines the rationale behind the 'Barcelona Declaration' for responsible AI development and usage in Europe, focusing on safety, reliability, and ethics issues. The declaration aims to integrate best practices proactively as part of the design process.

SourceIOS Press·JournalAI Communications·DateDec 5, 2018

Global carbon dioxide emissions rise even as coal wanes and renewables boom

Global fossil fuel emissions are projected to reach a record high of over 37 billion tons in 2018, driven by growing energy demand and non-fossil source emissions. Renewables have largely come online as add-ons to fossil fuels, but more needs to be done for them to displace fossil fuels.

SourceStanford's School of Earth, Energy & Environmental Sciences·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateDec 5, 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.

Adding new channels to the brain remote control

Researchers have developed new tools for controlling specific cells in the brain using light, enabling the study of individual neurons within complex networks. The new protein pores allow for switching neurons on or off using light, opening up new possibilities for probing brain function.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Neuroscience·DateDec 5, 2018

A molecular look at nascent HDL formation

Researchers at Boston University have made significant progress in understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying HDL formation. They discovered a crucial interaction between apolipoprotein A-I and ABCA1 proteins, which enables the formation of nascent HDL particles.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalJournal of Lipid Research·DateDec 5, 2018

OU study explores sexuality & gender gaps in political perspectives among college students

A new study by University of Oklahoma sociologist Meredith Worthen reveals clear 'sexuality gap' between exclusive heterosexuals and others, as well as gender gaps among mostly heterosexual and lesbian, gay, and bisexual students. The research suggests that liberal attitudes are more common among LGB individuals, particularly women.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalSexuality Research and Social Policy·DateDec 5, 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.

Is our nation's water supply disrupting the human endocrine system?

Studies found that at least one hormone or pharmaceutical contaminant was present in untreated groundwater at 6% of sites, with higher exposure risks for individuals using domestic wells. The presence of chemicals also threatens ecosystems, particularly through stormwater management practices.

SourceSociety for Risk Analysis·DateDec 5, 2018

Learning from mistakes

A Caltech-led team of researchers has identified individual neurons that monitor our behavior, catching errors and correcting them quickly. The study provides rare recordings of these neurons, which are involved in error monitoring and have implications for psychiatric diseases like obsessive-compulsive disorder.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalNeuron·DateDec 5, 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.

Classifying brain microglia: Which are good and which are bad?

Researchers have identified nine distinct groups of microglia, including some that appear only in embryonic or newborn stages, and others that are involved in myelination. These findings may help uncover new roles for microglia in disease and development, and could lead to the development of therapies targeting specific subpopulations.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalImmunity·DateDec 5, 2018

Risk factors for falling are different in older men versus older women

A study of 3,112 community-dwelling adults aged 60+ found distinct risk factors for falls in men and women. Injurious falls were more commonly associated with low blood pressure and balance issues in men, while underweight and cognitive impairment were key risks for women.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateDec 5, 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.

229 new species described by the California Academy of Sciences in 2018

The California Academy of Sciences has added 229 new plant and animal species to the family tree, including 120 wasps, 34 sea slugs, and seven flowering plants. These discoveries were made over five continents and three oceans, highlighting the vast and dynamic planet's unexplored places.

SourceCalifornia Academy of Sciences·JournalZooKeys·DateDec 5, 2018

Being employed puts your health at risk

The symposium presentation explores current topics in occupational risk analysis, including chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) and dermal contact with solid metals. Studies have found a lifetime excess risk of CTE in NFL players to be unacceptably high, highlighting the need for regulations.

SourceSociety for Risk Analysis·DateDec 5, 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.

Stress from using electronic health records is linked to physician burnout

Researchers found that EHR-related stress is associated with burnout among physicians, particularly in primary care specialties. Primary care doctors like pediatricians, family medicine physicians, and general internists report excessive time spent on documentation and frustrating user interfaces.

SourceBrown University·JournalJournal of the American Medical Informatics Association·DateDec 5, 2018

Duration of infertility in men may affect sperm count

A study of 1644 infertile men found that longer durations of infertility were associated with lower sperm counts and impaired sperm parameters. Older age and higher body mass index were also linked to prolonged infertility.

SourceWiley·JournalBJU International·DateDec 5, 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.

New insights in rust resistance in wheat

Researchers from Aarhus University have made significant breakthroughs in understanding the mechanisms of yellow rust resistance in wheat. The study found that Yr15 gene produces defence responses early in infection, providing a crucial piece of information for developing disease-resistant varieties.

SourceAarhus University·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 5, 2018

30 years of experimental evolution results in a new sex chromosome

Researchers at the University of Konstanz have found a novel genomic mechanism for sex determination in swordtail fish, resulting from decades-long hybridisation experiments. The study reveals that introgression and selection of pigmentation phenotypes contribute to the rapid evolution of a new sex chromosome.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 5, 2018

Artificial synapses made from nanowires

Scientists have created a memristive element made from nanowires that functions similarly to biological nerve cells, storing and processing information in parallel. The discovery offers promising advantages for bioinspired computers, which can work decentralised with multiple processors connected by networks.

SourceForschungszentrum Juelich·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 5, 2018

Medullary bone found in Cretaceous birds

A team of scientists has found medullary bone in a Cretaceous bird fossil, providing the first occurrence of this tissue outside of modern birds. The discovery links birds and dinosaurs, challenging previous assumptions about their relationship.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 5, 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.

Uranium in mine dust could dissolve in human lungs

A new study found that uranium in mine dust can dissolve in simulated lung fluids and bloodstream, increasing the risk of disease. The researchers tested dust samples from five sites near uranium mines in New Mexico, discovering that mineral composition affects solubility.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·DateDec 5, 2018

Write with heat, cool and then repeat with rewritable paper

Researchers create long-lasting rewritable paper by layering blue dye and black toner, which remain legible for more than six months. The material can be reset by cooling it down to 14 F, allowing for over 100 reuse cycles.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateDec 5, 2018

Cell phones without annual plans offer limited help to homeless people

A UC San Francisco study found that homeless older adults often have limited access to stable phone numbers, leading to increased stress and social isolation. The lack of two-way communication also contributes to high emergency department usage and inadequate healthcare services.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·DateDec 5, 2018

Without Dna2, genes can jump into DNA breaks

A study by Baylor College of Medicine researchers found that when Dna2 is absent, small DNA fragments insert themselves into chromosome breaks, leading to genomic instability. This mechanism may contribute to cancer development and other cellular conditions.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalNature·DateDec 5, 2018

Science: High pressure orders electrons

High-pressure induced long-range charge order competing with superconductivity has been found in a high-temperature cuprate superconductor. The study provides new insights into the behavior of correlated electrons and mechanisms yielding to high-temperature superconductivity.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalScience·DateDec 5, 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.

New study uncovers why Rift Valley fever is catastrophic to developing fetuses

A new study has found that Rift Valley fever virus can cause high rates of stillbirth in pregnant rats and human tissue, with the virus evading the mother-child barrier more efficiently than other vertically transmitted viruses. The research aims to develop vaccines to prevent the virus from causing miscarriage and birth defects.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 5, 2018

Narcissists less likely to support democracy

Research suggests that people with narcissistic tendencies are more likely to reject democratic institutions, preferring strong leadership or authoritarian rule. In contrast, those with a positive self-view and high levels of trust in others tend to support democracy more strongly.

SourceUniversity of Kent·JournalBritish Journal of Social Psychology·DateDec 5, 2018

Wildfire ash could trap mercury

Researchers found that burned forest material can sequester mercury, preventing its release into waterways. Black ash from low-intensity burns contained similar amounts of mercury as unburned vegetation and white ash from high-intensity burns had higher levels in a non-reactive form.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateDec 5, 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.

Recycle your old mobile phone to save gorilla populations

A study published in PLOS ONE found that recycling old mobile phones can recover valuable metals, such as gold and coltan, used in their construction. This reduces the incentive to mine gorilla habitats for these minerals, helping to save the species from extinction.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 5, 2018

New recommendations for the conduct of economic evaluations in osteoporosis

The International Osteoporosis Foundation and the European Society for Clinical and Economic Aspects of Osteoporosis, Osteoarthritis and Musculoskeletal Diseases established recommendations for economic evaluations in osteoporosis. These guidelines aim to improve transparency and methodologic standards, promoting high-quality methodolo...

SourceInternational Osteoporosis Foundation·JournalOsteoporosis International·DateDec 5, 2018

DF-PGT, now possible through massive sequencing techniques

A research team from Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona develops a new Double Factor Preimplantation Genetic Testing (DF-PGT) strategy using massive sequencing techniques. This allows for simultaneous diagnosis of genetic mutations and chromosomal alterations, increasing the security of the diagnosis and the viability of embryos.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 5, 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.

Pollution: New ammonia emission sources detected from space

Researchers have created a global map of atmospheric ammonia distribution using satellite data from 2008 to 2016. The study identified over 200 new sources, including sites of intensive livestock production and industrial activity, which were previously underestimated.

SourceCNRS·JournalNature·DateDec 5, 2018

Distinguishing resistance from resilience to prolong antibiotic potency

A study by Duke University researchers shows that pathogen responses to first-line antibiotics can be distinguished, allowing for more effective treatment strategies. The researchers developed a method to quantify resistance and resilience, enabling clinicians to prescribe targeted dosing regimens.

SourceDuke University·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 5, 2018

Bringing La Buvette d'Evian back to life

The EPFL study found that La Buvette combines several of Prouvé's innovations, including steel 'crutches', an unorthodox material combination, and innovative roof design. The researchers suggest renovating the site into a seasonal exhibition space with a focus on its water element.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·DateDec 5, 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.

Assessing India's health with a single question

A study by researchers from UNIGE and Calcutta examines the reliability of a self-assessment question for evaluating health status in middle-income countries. The team found that the simple question provided a sound understanding of India's population health, with better variance captured compared to Switzerland.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalBMJ Global Health·DateDec 5, 2018

Greenland ice sheet melt 'off the charts' compared with past four centuries

Research shows Greenland's surface melting has increased dramatically since the mid-19th century, with a 50% increase in total ice sheet meltwater runoff versus the start of the industrial era. This study provides evidence that climate change is driving unprecedented rates of ice sheet melting, which could accelerate sea level rise.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalNature·DateDec 5, 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.

A microbe's membrane helps it survive extreme environments

Stanford researchers discovered a protective lipid-linked cellular membrane in archaea, allowing them to thrive in highly acidic habitats. The discovery could provide new evidence about the evolution of life on Earth and shed light on molecular fossils.

SourceStanford's School of Earth, Energy & Environmental Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 5, 2018

'Sun in a box' would store renewable energy for the grid

Researchers propose new storage system to deliver electricity on demand using molten silicon and high-temperature pump, offering cost-effective alternative to pumped hydroelectric storage. The system could be paired with existing renewable energy systems to capture excess electricity during the day and store it for later use.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateDec 5, 2018

Information from citizens could improve flood modelling

A new study uses citizen science to enhance flood forecasting by integrating water level data into models. The Hydrological Alert Model with Participatory Basis (HAMPB) model has shown promising results in improving forecast accuracy.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Flood Risk Management·DateDec 5, 2018

Neighborhoods with more green space may mean less heart disease

Research found that living in areas with dense vegetation is associated with lower stress levels, better blood vessel health, and improved cardiovascular function. The study's findings suggest that increasing green spaces in neighborhoods could be a significant public health intervention for reducing heart disease risk.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateDec 5, 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.

Study solves puzzle of snail and slug feeding preferences

A study by the University of Plymouth found that snails are attracted to seedlings based on their volatile scent preferences, while those with repellent chemicals avoid damage. This discovery provides insights into the complex interactions between slugs and snails in natural habitats.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalAnnals of Botany·DateDec 5, 2018

Type 2 diabetes: A therapeutic avenue is emerging

Researchers have discovered a new therapeutic avenue for treating type 2 diabetes by targeting the interaction between hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL) and a transcription factor responsible for fatty acid synthesis. Decreasing HSL expression leads to improved insulin sensitivity, which may help prevent or manage the disease.

SourceINSERM (Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale)·JournalNature Metabolism·DateDec 5, 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.

DNA damage leads to genetic diseases and cancer

Scientists discovered that DNA damage, not just errors in DNA doubling, causes many genetic mutations. This challenge traditional views on mutagenesis and its role in hereditary diseases and cancer.

SourceAKSON Russian Science Communication Association·JournalNature Genetics·DateDec 5, 2018

Revolutionary technology pinpoints biopsies to detect prostate cancer

A new medical software system, SmartTarget, enhances prostate cancer detection by overlaying MRI scans onto ultrasound images, guiding surgeons during biopsies. The technology has shown that combining both techniques can detect clinically relevant cancers missed with current methods.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalEuropean Urology·DateDec 5, 2018

NUS engineers invent groundbreaking spin-based memory device

Researchers have developed a novel ferrimagnetic spintronic memory device, outperforming traditional ferromagnet-based memories in terms of stability and efficiency. The new technology has the potential to accelerate the growth of the spintronic industry.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalNature Materials·DateDec 5, 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.

Strong growth in global CO2 emissions expected for 2018

Global CO2 emissions are expected to reach 37.1 billion tonnes in 2018, with a solid growth in coal use for the second year in a row and sustained growth in oil and gas use. Emissions need to peak and rapidly decrease to address climate change.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalNature·DateDec 5, 2018

Peace, not war, responsible for deforestation in armed conflict zones

Rates of deforestation in war zones increase dramatically once peace is declared, according to a University of Waterloo study. Forests and jungles provide ecosystem services like carbon sequestration and food provision, which are hindered by deforestation after conflict ends.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalLand Use Policy·DateDec 5, 2018

Newly identified T cells could play a role in cancer and other diseases

Researchers have identified a new type of T cell called phospholipid-reactive T cells that recognize phospholipids, which can stimulate them or prevent glycolipids from reaching the surface of cells. This balance is crucial for maintaining homeostasis in the immune system.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalEuropean Journal of Immunology·DateDec 5, 2018

How the brain hears and fears

Scientists at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory found that brain cells in mice associate sounds with emotions through experience and learning. The amygdala, a key brain region, shows specific patterns of neuron activity when animals are trained to fear or anticipate rewards.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 5, 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.

Paving the way for more efficient hydrogen cars

Scientists have used metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) to set a new record for hydrogen storage capacity under normal operating conditions. The researchers found that a MOF called Ni2(m-dobdc) had the highest hydrogen-storage capacity, with 11.9 g of fuel per liter of MOF crystal.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemistry of Materials·DateDec 5, 2018

Breakthrough in blood vessel engineering

A team at the University of Delaware has pioneered methods to grow a self-assembling, functional network of blood vessels. The system works across centimeter scales, necessary for functional tissue replacement, and could someday be utilized for tissue and organ transplantation into humans.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalBiomaterials·DateDec 5, 2018

COSINE-100 experiment investigates dark matter mystery

The COSINE-100 experiment has released its first results, confirming the absence of a dark matter signal in the data. The study challenges the DAMA claim as a WIMP signal, significantly challenging the traditional Standard Halo Model for dark matter.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature·DateDec 5, 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.

Infections during childhood increase the risk of mental disorders

A new study from iPSYCH shows that childhood infections increase the risk of mental disorders, with high temperatures and hospital admissions being particularly associated. The study found an 84% increased risk of mental disorders in children who were hospitalized for infections.

SourceAarhus University·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateDec 5, 2018

Possible alterations in the DNA involved in cancer

A study published in Cell Reports reveals the role of protein PIF1 in repairing G-quadruplex DNA structures, which can impede DNA repair mechanisms. The discovery sheds light on potential therapeutic options for cancer treatment and could improve patient outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Seville·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 5, 2018

Modeling the microbiome

Researchers analyzed the interactions between five core species of bacteria found in the fly gut, revealing a nuanced tradeoff between lifespan and fecundity. The study suggests that the presence or absence of individual species influences the host's fitness, and that the microbiome's influence cannot be solely attributed to its parts.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 5, 2018

Dirty air now could harm hearts of offspring later

Researchers at Ohio State University found that mice exposed to polluted air before conception had heart problems and impaired function in their offspring. The study suggests that pollution-related cardiovascular disease may start even before conception.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateDec 5, 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.

Whole-brain imaging of mice during behavior

Researchers developed high-resolution functional ultrasound imaging to study brain activity in awake and behaving mice. They found that out of 181 consistently identified brain regions, 87 were modulated during the optokinetic reflex, a stabilizing eye movement response.

SourceInstitute of Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology Basel·JournalNeuron·DateDec 5, 2018

Molecular adlayer produced by dissolving water-insoluble nanographene in water

Researchers from Kumamoto University and Tokyo Institute of Technology developed a method to dissolve water-insoluble nanographene in water using molecular containers. The method successfully produced a highly ordered 2D molecular adlayer on a gold substrate, revealing its potential for next-generation functional nanomaterials.

SourceKumamoto University·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateDec 5, 2018

CEASE program increases smoking cessation assistance provided to breastfeeding mothers

A new study by MassGeneral Hospital for Children finds that breastfeeding mothers are more likely to quit smoking when they have access to evidence-based assistance. The CEASE program, which trains pediatric office staff to screen and support smoking families, provides nicotine replacement prescriptions and referrals to state quitlines.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalNicotine & Tobacco Research·DateDec 5, 2018

Study examines effects of different opioids on driving performance

A recent study found that opioids like methadone and buprenorphine can impair cognitive tasks and increase sleepiness, with four participants stopping their tests due to drowsiness. The study's results indicate that patients should be informed about the potential driving impairment caused by these medications.

SourceWiley·JournalBritish Journal of Clinical Pharmacology·DateDec 5, 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 advance biomass transformation process

Scientists developed a strategy to transform 70% of carbon in ABE fermentation mixture to 4-heptanone with high selectivity using tin-doped ceria. The catalyst achieves excellent performance despite the presence of water, which is detrimental to most catalysts.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 5, 2018

Breast cancer patients who take heart drug with trastuzumab have less heart damage

A recent study presented at EuroEcho-Imaging 2018 suggests that breast cancer patients who take the beta-blocker carvedilol together with trastuzumab have better-preserved left ventricular function compared to those who take trastuzumab alone. This may indicate that carvedilol can help prevent heart damage caused by trastuzumab treatment.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateDec 5, 2018

A new therapeutic target for metastatic and resistant prostate cancers

Researchers have identified NSD2 as a new vulnerability in aggressive, metastatic prostate cancers that have become resistant to hormonal therapies. The study suggests a combined therapeutic approach using an NSD2 inhibitor drug with conventional antiandrogenic drugs to re-sensitize resistant tumors.

SourceIDIBELL-Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 5, 2018

Study: Tuberculosis survives by using host system against itself

Scientists discovered Mycobacterium tuberculosis releases RNA into infected cells, stimulating interferon beta production to support pathogen growth. Mice lacking key protein required for responding to foreign RNA were better able to control MTB infection.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateDec 5, 2018

Sea invertebrate sheds light on evolution of human blood, immune systems

Researchers have found that Botryllus schlosseri, a marine invertebrate, has a blood-forming system with uncanny similarities to humans. This discovery may provide a way to improve immune function and find new tools for biological discovery. The study also reveals parallels between the blood systems in Botryllus and mammals.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalNature·DateDec 5, 2018

Wind power vulnerable to climate change in India

A new study found that warming waters in the Indian Ocean are causing a decline in wind power potential in India, with western regions experiencing the steepest decrease. The research suggests that investing in wind turbines in areas with stronger monsoon winds can help minimize the impact of climate change.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 5, 2018

People and plants: Working together for the planet

The new journal explores the unbreakable bond between people and plants, highlighting its impact on societies, cultures, and ecosystems. It aims to publish emerging plant science with societal relevance, covering six themes: plant conservation, genomics applications, diversity, global change, natural assets, and their interconnections.

SourceNew Phytologist Foundation·DateDec 5, 2018

Widespread decrease in wind energy resources found over the Northern Hemisphere

A new study reveals a significant decline in wind energy resources over the Northern Hemisphere, with 30-80% of stations losing wind power potential since 1979. Climate models are found to be inadequate in simulating long-term wind energy changes, underscoring the need for careful consideration when using GCM-based projections.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalEnergy·DateDec 5, 2018

Rethinking the history related to indigenous sites in northeast North America

Scientists used radiocarbon dating to re-evaluate the history of key indigenous sites in Canada, finding that European trade goods were not reliable chronological markers. The study suggests that notable 'contact-era' events may need to be revaluated, as previously dated sites now date 50-100 years later than assumed.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 5, 2018

UC San Diego researchers develop sensors to detect and measure cancer's ability to spread

Researchers have engineered sensors to monitor multiple signaling pathways driving tumor metastasis, enabling the prediction of a tumor cell's potential to spread. The development of Fluorescence Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET) biosensors has the potential to transform cancer cell biology and inform personalized treatment strategies.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournaliScience·DateDec 5, 2018

Using graphene to detect ALS, other neurodegenerative diseases

Researchers at University of Illinois Chicago used graphene to identify cerebrospinal fluid from patients with ALS, multiple sclerosis, or no neurodegenerative disease. The study found unique changes in graphene's vibrational characteristics depending on the patient's condition.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateDec 5, 2018

Extreme ethnic inequalities in the care system

Research reveals extreme ethnic inequalities in the care system, with disparities affecting children from minority ethnic groups. The study found that 'White British' children are ten times more likely to be in care than 'Asian Indian' children, and 'Black Caribbean' children are 20 times more likely.

SourceUniversity of Huddersfield·JournalChildren and Youth Services Review·DateDec 5, 2018

Multifunctional dream ceramic matrix composites are born!

Researchers created AI2O3/Ti composites with improved fracture toughness, electrical conductivity, and photocatalytic ability through percolation structure and chemical treatment. The composites also showed machinability like metals and antibacterial properties.

SourceOsaka University·JournalJournal of the Ceramic Society of Japan·DateDec 5, 2018

Monitoring species: Are we looking long enough?

Conservation efforts rely heavily on estimates of animal populations, but monitoring periods are often short due to funding cycles and experimental time frames. Research by Easton R. White suggests that 72% of species require at least 10 years of continuous monitoring for high statistical power.

SourceAmerican Institute of Biological Sciences·JournalBioScience·DateDec 5, 2018

Arc welding fume is detrimental to human health

Researchers at Far Eastern Federal University found that arc welding produces toxic nanoparticles in the air, which can be inhaled through the respiratory system. The particles contain metal oxidation products, particularly those with diameters under 1 nanometer, and can translocate to the central nervous system.

SourceFar Eastern Federal University·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 5, 2018

Small molecules come into focus

Scientists at Harvard University and Brigham and Women's Hospital developed a new immunoassay technique that measures extremely low concentrations of small molecules using single-molecule detection. The method was tested on two important human body molecules, cortisol and PGE2, achieving up to 50 times greater sensitivity than conventi...

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateDec 5, 2018

Can rice filter water from ag fields?

Researchers have discovered that rice plants can be used to clean runoff from farms before it enters waterways, capturing pesticides and reducing their presence in rivers and streams. The study found that levels of three common pesticides dropped by as much as 97% in fields where rice was planted.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalJournal of Environmental Quality·DateDec 5, 2018

Reflecting antiferromagnetic arrangements

A team demonstrated an x-ray imaging technique that can image antiphase magnetic domains in antiferromagnets, a key step towards controlling their magnetic structure. This could lead to the development of smaller, faster, and more robust electronics using spintronics.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 5, 2018