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Science News for December 6, 2018


How do schools address self-harm in adolescents?

A study found that only 53% of UK schools have received staff training on self-harm, highlighting the need for comprehensive training to support students. Despite this, many schools see themselves as a site for prevention and intervention activities, indicating a positive approach to addressing adolescent self-harm.

SourceWiley·JournalChild and Adolescent Mental Health·DateDec 6, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

VCU researchers test effectiveness of anti-opioid vaccine

Researchers at VCU are testing a vaccine that blocks heroin and fentanyl effects in patients with opioid use disorder. The vaccine prompts the immune system to generate anti-opioid antibodies, preventing drug molecules from crossing the blood brain barrier.

SourceVirginia Commonwealth University·JournalTrends in Pharmacological Sciences·DateDec 6, 2018

Information on reproductive health outcomes lacking in Catholic hospitals

Researchers found that Catholic health care facilities often limit common women's health services like contraception and sterilization, and may only offer pills as a contraceptive method. The study highlights the need for further exploration of how institutional restrictions impact patient outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateDec 6, 2018

A mechanistic approach to neuroblastoma prognosis and risk

A new study identifies key molecular features that predict clinical outcomes in neuroblastoma patients. The research suggests a molecular classification scheme to select the best treatment for each patient, with tumors lacking telomere maintenance mechanisms considered low-risk and those with these features deemed higher-risk.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateDec 6, 2018

Putting the brakes on tumor stealth

Scientists at Monash University have identified a new immune brake called CD96 that enables tumors to evade the immune system. Blocking this receptor may lead to more effective cancer treatments. The research has significant implications for cancer immunotherapy.

SourceMonash University·JournalStructure·DateDec 6, 2018
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Fighting smog supports solar power

A study by ETH Zurich researchers found that clean air would increase solar radiation nationwide, allowing for a one-tenth increase in electricity production. This could lead to additional electricity generation of 85-158 terawatt hours per year, generating significant revenue for the Chinese electricity industry.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 6, 2018
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Predicting the transmission of rare, genetically based diseases

A McGill-led research team has developed a computational process to track the transmission histories of rare genetic diseases, tracing CAID back to two European founding families in 17th century Quebec. The researchers hope to extend their search techniques to more common genetically based diseases and identify new genetic variants.

SourceMcGill University·JournalJournal of Human Genetics·DateDec 6, 2018

Simple steps to climate-proof farms have big potential upside for tropical farmers

A study in Central America, Africa, and Asia finds that implementing simple climate-resilient strategies can increase yields, benefit the environment, and increase farmer income. The research proposes site-specific techniques, such as crop rotation and organic fertilization, which have estimated rates of return ranging from 17% to 590%.

SourceThe Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 6, 2018

Link between newborns with vitamin D deficiency and schizophrenia confirmed

Researchers from Aarhus University and the University of Queensland found that newborns with vitamin D deficiency had a 44% increased risk of being diagnosed with schizophrenia as adults. The study suggests that ensuring pregnant women have adequate levels of vitamin D may result in the prevention of some schizophrenia cases.

SourceAarhus University·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 6, 2018
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Hazelnuts improve older adults' micronutrient levels

A study by Oregon State University found that consuming hazelnuts daily for 16 weeks improved magnesium levels and reduced low-density lipoproteins (LDL) in older adults. Urinary levels of a vitamin E breakdown product also increased, indicating an improvement in overall nutritional status.

SourceOregon State University·JournalJournal of Nutrition·DateDec 6, 2018

UK consortium to combat serious threat to plant health

A UK-wide consortium led by the John Innes Centre aims to enhance surveillance and response to Xylella fastidiosa, a devastating bacterial plant pathogen. The £4.85m BRIGIT programme will improve diagnosis and detection methods, identify potential factors for its spread, and prepare to minimize its impact on the UK.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·DateDec 6, 2018

Interventions in dog populations could reduce rabies in rural China

A study found that interventions in dog populations could significantly reduce rabies transmission in rural China. The research analyzed genomic and epidemiological data from a re-emerging rabies outbreak in Yunnan, China, and estimated transmission rates between dogs and humans.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateDec 6, 2018
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Interactive size control of catalyst nanoparticles

Researchers developed a novel method to adjust catalyst nanoparticle size during continuous flow, optimizing chemical reactions and reducing testing time. The technique improved the performance of metal-carrier catalysts, producing desired compounds with specific properties.

SourceInstitute of Physical Chemistry of the Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalChemCatChem·DateDec 6, 2018

A major feat: room temperature electrochemical cycling of a fluoride-ion battery

Researchers developed a method for creating a fluoride-ion electrochemical cell capable of operating at room temperature using a chemically stable liquid fluoride-conducting electrolyte. The new study presents a breakthrough in achieving low-temperature operating FIBs, with potential applications in high-energy-density batteries.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateDec 6, 2018
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Helium exoplanet inflated like a balloon, research shows

Researchers have detected helium escaping from the atmosphere of HAT-P-11b, a planet equivalent in size to Neptune, revealing an extended cloud that is inflating the planet like a balloon. The study provides new insights into the extreme atmospheric conditions found around the hottest exoplanets.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalScience·DateDec 6, 2018

Hot water and hypoxia: 'The Great Dying's' greatest killers

A new study has found that increased marine temperatures and reduced oxygen availability led to the extinction of nearly 96% of ancient ocean life during the catastrophic end-Permian mass extinction event. Tropical marine animals were more resilient to these changes, highlighting a potential pattern for future extinction events.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateDec 6, 2018

Fog computing: like cloud computing, but closer to you

Researchers at the University of Arizona are developing fog computing to address high-speed data demands in applications like telemedicine and smart transportation. By moving data processing closer to users, fog computing reduces latency and enables real-time decision-making.

SourceUniversity of Arizona College of Engineering·DateDec 6, 2018

Targeted cognitive training benefits patients with severe schizophrenia

Researchers found that targeted cognitive training improved verbal learning and auditory perception scores in patients with severe schizophrenia. The treatment, which used computerized brain games to target specific neural pathways, was effective regardless of age, clinical symptoms, or medication duration.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalSchizophrenia Research·DateDec 6, 2018
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

New traffic rules in 'Graphene City'

Researchers at Penn State have developed a system to manipulate electrons based on their energy and momentum, enabling controlled partitioning of electron flow. This technology could potentially be used to create 'color-coded' roads for electrons, revolutionizing the field of electronics.

SourcePenn State·JournalScience·DateDec 6, 2018

Scientists cut main heart disease risk locus out of DNA by genome editing

Researchers precisely cut a widespread DNA region from the genome using genome editing, revealing its role in cardiovascular disease. The 9p21.3 haplotype causes abnormalities in vascular smooth muscle cells, leading to heart attacks and stroke. This breakthrough may lead to new treatments for millions worldwide.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalCell·DateDec 6, 2018

Hysterectomy linked to memory deficit in an animal model

Researchers found that hysterectomy in rats with intact ovaries led to a memory deficit, suggesting the uterus may have functions beyond reproduction. The study tested rats with different types of menopause surgical interventions and found that only those with just the uterus removed had a negative effect on working memory.

SourceArizona State University·JournalEndocrinology·DateDec 6, 2018

More patient family-provider communication could mean fewer errors

Research from Boston Children's Hospital finds that engaging families in hospital communication can significantly reduce harmful medical errors. The intervention, Patient and Family Centered I-PASS, improves patient experience while maintaining safety and efficiency.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalThe BMJ·DateDec 6, 2018
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Researchers discover new disease with 'Bubble Boy' roots

A team of researchers from the RI-MUHC discovered a new human disease called combined immunoficiency (CID) and its genetic cause ICOSLG. The disease is characterized by a weakened immune system, making patients susceptible to recurrent life-threatening infections.

SourceMcGill University Health Centre·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateDec 6, 2018

Houston Methodist launches real-time flu tracker website

The website tracks flu cases in Houston's eight-hospital system, offering real-time data on influenza A, B, RSV, and other pathogens. This tool helps physicians make informed decisions by providing timely information, often just hours or days before CDC data becomes available.

SourceHouston Methodist·JournalOpen Forum Infectious Diseases·DateDec 6, 2018
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Study among first to describe work environments for nurses in Mexico

A study of Mexican nurses found that most have a positive perspective on their workplaces, but also face understaffing and lack of support. The research highlights the importance of improving nursing workforce factors to influence patient outcomes and work environment quality.

SourceNew York University·JournalHispanic Health Care International·DateDec 6, 2018

High-temperature electronics? That's hot

Researchers at Purdue University have created a new organic plastic material that can reliably conduct electricity in up to 220 degrees Celsius, stable across a wide temperature range. This breakthrough technology has the potential to improve applications such as sensors and solar cells in extreme temperatures.

SourcePurdue University·JournalScience·DateDec 6, 2018

Agricultural waste drives us closer to greener transport

Researchers developed a biodegradable and renewable composite material from date palm fibre biomass, showing increased tensile strength and improved impact resistance. The material has the potential to reduce fuel consumption and C0<sub>2</sub> emissions in vehicles.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalIndustrial Crops and Products·DateDec 6, 2018

Cardiac rehabilitation linked to improved sexual functioning and frequency

A systematic review of literature found that cardiac rehabilitation attendance is associated with improved sexual function and sexual frequency in patients with cardiovascular disease. The study highlights the need for further investigation into the effectiveness of sexual counseling interventions to improve sexual health outcomes.

SourceElsevier·JournalCanadian Journal of Cardiology·DateDec 6, 2018
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Developing new materials for the fusion reactor

Researchers have successfully developed a new vanadium alloy that is strong at high temperatures and can be used in the manufacturing of the fusion reactor blanket. The alloy, composed of 92% vanadium, has improved ductility due to high purity production methods, making it suitable for welding and machining without breaking.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·DateDec 6, 2018

A 3D imaging technique unlocks properties of perovskite crystals

Researchers have developed a novel 3D imaging technique called COBRA that visualizes the atomic and electron density structure of complex perovskite crystal structures. This breakthrough enables the study of materials with unique properties, such as ferroelectricity and superconductivity.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 6, 2018
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Blood test for tau, Alzheimer's disease under development

Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital have developed a blood test that detects different populations of tau fragments, which are specifically elevated in Alzheimer's disease. The test has shown promise in initial studies with high diagnostic sensitivity and specificity, but further validation is needed to confirm its effectiveness.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·DateDec 6, 2018

New ways to look at protein-RNA networks

Scientists at DKFZ developed XRNAX to analyze interactions between all RNA classes with cellular proteins. The new method identifies hundreds of previously unknown protein-RNA bindings and sheds light on diseases including cancer, ALS, and viral infections.

SourceGerman Cancer Research Center (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ)·JournalCell·DateDec 6, 2018

Silicosis is on the rise, but is there a therapeutic target?

A study published in Nature Communications identifies extracellular DNA degradation as a key mechanism of lung inflammation induced by silica exposure. Treatment with DNase I may prevent silica-induced lung inflammation, suggesting a new therapeutic target for silicosis.

SourceCNRS·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 6, 2018

Why Tehran is sinking dangerously

A recent study found that Tehran is experiencing rapid land subsidence due to groundwater depletion and exploitation. The city's surface has sunk by several meters, posing significant environmental concerns, including cracks in building walls and crevices in the ground.

SourceGFZ GeoForschungsZentrum Potsdam, Helmholtz Centre·JournalRemote Sensing of Environment·DateDec 6, 2018
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Unknown treasure trove of planets found hiding in dust

A recent study found that 40% of protoplanetary disks surrounding young stars in the Taurus region have ring structures suggesting nascent planets. These findings coincide with exoplanet statistics, supporting the idea that super-Earths and Neptunes are the most common type of planets.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·DateDec 6, 2018

Hysterectomy may be linked to brain function

A recent rat study published in the Endocrine Society's journal found that hysterectomy can cause short-term memory loss in rats. Removing the ovaries alongside the uterus did not result in a similar impairment, suggesting a unique negative effect of hysterectomy on brain function.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalEndocrinology·DateDec 6, 2018

Statins overprescribed for primary prevention

A comprehensive statistical modeling study found that statins are recommended far too often, with the benefits outweighing the harms only in people with a high risk of cardiovascular disease. The researchers recommend discussing individual risk and side effects with doctors before taking statins as a preventive measure.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateDec 6, 2018
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Glutamate receptor affects the development of brain cells after birth

Researchers at Ruhr-University Bochum discovered that kainate receptors affect the development of brain cells immediately after birth, causing increased activity and dendrite growth. The discovery sheds light on the role of glutamate receptors in early maturation of nerve cells.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalMolecular Neurobiology·DateDec 6, 2018
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Obesity intervention needed before pregnancy

A large study found that taking metformin reduced weekly pregnancy weight gain, but did not improve other pregnancy outcomes. The research supports the need for pre-pregnancy dietary and lifestyle interventions to break the cycle of intergenerational obesity.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·DateDec 6, 2018

Kidneys from deceased donors with acute kidney injury suitable for transplant

A national study suggests that kidneys from deceased donors with acute kidney injury have the same success rates as non-injured kidneys, and may be a valuable resource for patients in need of transplantation. The study found no significant differences in organ rejection rates or recipient outcomes between AKI and non-AKI kidneys.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalKidney International·DateDec 6, 2018

Missing the forest for the trees: An unexpected picture of New York City forests

A study by Yale scientists reveals that native species dominate New York City's natural areas, containing over 5 million trees, rather than just street trees. This finding highlights the need for conservation policies and management strategies focused on these spaces to manage biodiversity and ecosystem services.

SourceYale School of the Environment·JournalEcological Applications·DateDec 6, 2018
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Study explains how geckos gracefully gallop on water

A new study reveals geckos use a unique combination of slapping, surface tension, and their superhydrophobic skin to scurry across the water's surface. This behavior is ideal for developing robots that can mimic the animal's aquatic agility in search and rescue missions.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateDec 6, 2018

Three quarters of a Quebec population fall short of healthy eating guidelines

A recent study published in the Canadian Journal of Cardiology found that more than three quarters of French-speaking adults in Quebec fall short of meeting Canada's dietary guidelines. The study suggests that stronger public health policies are needed to support healthier dietary habits and reduce chronic disease risk.

SourceElsevier·JournalCanadian Journal of Cardiology·DateDec 6, 2018
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Watch how geckos run across water

Researchers discovered geckos' unique locomotion method, combining leg slapping, skin surface tension, and tail propulsion. The findings could inspire rapid swimming robots for search and rescue operations.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateDec 6, 2018

Elevated hormone flags liver problems in mice with methylmalonic acidemia

Researchers have discovered a hormone, fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21), is extremely elevated in mice with liver disease mimicking methylmalonic acidemia. FGF21 levels can predict liver severity and inform treatment decisions. The study may also shed light on common disorders like fatty liver disease and obesity.

SourceNIH/National Human Genome Research Institute·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 6, 2018

Protecting cell powerhouse paves way to better treatment of acute kidney injury

Researchers identified microRNA-668 as a key player in protecting kidney cells from damage caused by acute kidney injury. By upregulating this microRNA, the protective pathway can prevent most of the damage and allow cells to function ideally until blood and oxygen are restored.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 6, 2018
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Link between neonatal vitamin D deficiency and schizophrenia confirmed

A study by researchers at the University of Queensland found that newborns with vitamin D deficiency had a 44% increased risk of being diagnosed with schizophrenia as adults. Ensuring pregnant women have adequate levels of vitamin D may result in the prevention of some schizophrenia cases.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 6, 2018

New molecular tool identifies sugar-protein attachments

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine developed EXoO, a new molecular tool that decodes where specific sugars are attached to proteins. The study successfully identified new markers for cancers and other diseases by mapping O-glycan sites on human blood, tumors, and immune cells.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalMolecular Systems Biology·DateDec 6, 2018

An exoplanet inflated like a balloon

Researchers from UNIGE have detected helium in the atmosphere of an exoplanet, HAT-P-11b, which is swollen like a balloon due to stellar radiation. The discovery was made using the Carmenes spectrograph on a 4-metre telescope, and supported by numerical simulations that track the trajectory of helium atoms.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalScience·DateDec 6, 2018

Drawing is better than writing for memory retention

Researchers at the University of Waterloo found that drawing enhances memory retention in older adults more than traditional study methods. Drawing's unique combination of visual, spatial, verbal, semantic, and motoric representations led to better recall in both young people and senior citizens.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalExperimental Aging Research·DateDec 6, 2018
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Pot withdrawal eased for dependent users

A new drug has been shown to reduce cannabis withdrawal symptoms and increase abstinence in those trying to quit, according to a Yale-led study. The medication works by inhibiting the enzyme that degrades anandamide, a brain chemical that acts on brain cannabis receptors.

SourceYale University·JournalThe Lancet Psychiatry·DateDec 6, 2018

Parrot genome analysis reveals insights into longevity, cognition

The study identifies genes associated with longevity in parrots, including telomerase, which may also play a role in human aging. The researchers also found parrot-specific gene-regulating regions near neural development genes linked to human cognition.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateDec 6, 2018

WSU researchers create 3D-printed glucose biosensors

Researchers at WSU have developed a 3D-printed glucose biosensor that outperforms traditional methods in terms of stability and sensitivity. The new technology uses direct-ink-writing and reduces waste, making it more cost-effective and customizable for individual patients.

SourceWashington State University·JournalAnalytica Chimica Acta·DateDec 6, 2018
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Profiling a killer in warm blood

Researchers at the Weizmann Institute of Science have created a new method to sequence individual cells from patient blood or bone marrow, capturing specific gene programs active in each cell. This allows for more precise diagnosis and treatment of multiple myeloma by identifying unique genetic blueprints for each patient.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalNature Medicine·DateDec 6, 2018

Scientists to produce anti-cancer drugs in yeast

A new EU Horizon 2020 project aims to produce therapeutic substances in baker's yeast, providing an eco-friendly alternative to traditional methods. Researchers will map the biosynthetic pathways of Indian snakeroot to create a sustainable production route.

SourceTechnical University of Denmark·DateDec 6, 2018

The FASEB Journal: Mice display altered immune system following spaceflight

Researchers found that mice exposed to weightlessness during a 30-day spaceflight displayed altered immune systems, with impaired B lymphocyte production and persistent effects after return to Earth. The study suggests potential concerns for astronauts' health and highlights the need for countermeasures.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateDec 6, 2018

Axillary RT and lymph node surgery yielded comparable outcomes for patients with breast cancer

Patients with early-stage breast cancer who had a positive sentinel lymph node biopsy showed comparable 10-year recurrence and survival rates following axillary radiotherapy or axillary lymph node dissection. The study also found that axillary radiotherapy was associated with significantly less lymphedema, a common side effect of surgery.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·DateDec 6, 2018
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

A new molecular player involved in T cell activation

Researchers at Tokyo Institute of Technology discover CLIP-170's critical role in T cell activation by relocating the microtubule-organizing center (MTOC) to the cell surface. This process is essential for immune response initiation and could lead to improved cancer immunotherapy.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 6, 2018

Scientists discover possible mantle mineral

A new high-pressure mineral, Maohokite, has been discovered and found to contain Fe3+, replacing the previously believed Fe2+, in the Earth's lower mantle. This discovery was made by researchers at the Chinese Academy of Sciences and published in Meteoritics & Planetary Science.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalMeteoritics and Planetary Science·DateDec 6, 2018

Deprescribing can be valuable tool in managing polypharmacy, experts say

Researchers explore deprescribing as a solution to polypharmacy, highlighting factors contributing to its prevalence in older adults. The study identifies complex healthcare delivery issues, co-morbidities, and marginalization of patients as key contributors.

SourceThe Gerontological Society of America·JournalPublic Policy & Aging Report·DateDec 6, 2018
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Industrial fisheries are starving seabirds all around the world

Global seabird food consumption decreased by 13 million tonnes between 1970 and 2010, while fisheries increased their catches of prey species. Seabirds are facing extinction due to unfair competition with massive vessels for food, entanglement in fishing gears, and plastic waste.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalCurrent Biology·DateDec 6, 2018

Eliminating the latent reservoir of HIV

Researchers discovered a way to manipulate the Tat gene circuit to activate latent HIV in cells, making them susceptible to immune system destruction or drug therapies. This could lead to a cure for HIV by targeting the latent reservoir.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 6, 2018

Key to lifelong heart health is childhood intervention

A review paper highlights the importance of infusing heart-healthy behaviors into all aspects of children's lives, starting from early childhood. The authors suggest that modifiable risk factors in children can be prevented by educating on healthy habits early in life, leading to similar health outcomes as those who were never unhealthy.

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

Hybrid prevalence estimation: Method to improve intervention coverage estimations

A new method for estimating health data accuracy combines HIS data with probability surveys to provide a more accurate assessment of an intervention's coverage. This allows for better planning and management of health systems and policies, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.

SourceLiverpool School of Tropical Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 6, 2018

New approach helps mitigating the effect of climate change on sea turtles

A new study published in Scientific Reports presents a conservation mitigation matrix for mitigating the impacts of climate warming on sea turtle nesting success. The research team found that simple measures such as shading with palm leaves and relocating nests can effectively prevent female-only turtle populations.

SourceSwansea University·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 6, 2018
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

An exoplanet loses its atmosphere in the form of a tail

The giant exoplanet WASP-69b carries a comet-like tail made of helium particles escaping its gravitational field propelled by ultraviolet radiation from its star. The team analyzed the planet's atmosphere using the CARMENES instrument, revealing a stronger and longer-lasting dimming of starlight in a region where helium gas absorbs light.

SourceInstituto de Astrofísica de Canarias (IAC)·JournalScience·DateDec 6, 2018
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Disability among India's elderly much higher than census estimates

A new study finds that 9m elderly men and 14m elderly women in India suffer from disabilities, with diabetes having the highest correlation to disability. The researchers suggest that acting in a timely way to address chronic morbidity can help minimize the burden of disability.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalBMC Geriatrics·DateDec 6, 2018

Focusing on the negative is good when it comes to batteries

Researchers have developed a new way of making rechargeable fluoride batteries that work at room temperature, potentially increasing battery lifespans up to eight times longer. The breakthrough uses liquid components and a specially designed electrolyte, allowing for more efficient energy storage and release.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateDec 6, 2018
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Researchers investigate why older people read more slowly

A study investigated whether older people's slower reading speed is due to 'strategic' reasons or if it's inevitable. The researchers found that older participants' reading speed didn't decrease when their reading speed was externally increased, suggesting that the age-related slowdown may be necessary for understanding text.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalPsychology and Aging·DateDec 6, 2018

What does expanded Medicaid mean for the health & work lives of enrollees? A lot

A new study by Michigan Medicine found that nearly half of people covered by expanded Medicaid felt their physical health improved, while more than a third reported improvements in mental or dental health. Enrollees who were employed also reported better job performance and had easier times looking for jobs.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateDec 6, 2018
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Mom, I can't recognize your face from profile view!

Babies younger than 6 months fail to recognize their mothers' faces when watching mobile phones, but improve face recognition at around 5.5 months through increased brain activity in response to profile views. Longitudinal testing of 14 babies from 3-8 months old provided key insights into developmental changes in face recognition skills.

SourceChuo University·JournalNeuroImage·DateDec 6, 2018

Visualizing vitals through video

A mobile application will register natural head and body movements, distinguish between different skin tones and lighting conditions, and capture vital signs such as pulse rate. The project aims to expand beyond a 'wellness app' classification by the FDA, to an FDA-approved tool that can be used globally.

SourcePenn State·DateDec 6, 2018

Scientists enter unexplored territory in superconductivity search

Researchers use newly connected tools to map out previously inaccessible details of a high-temperature superconductor's phase diagram. The study reveals interesting characteristics on the 'far side' of the dome, including simpler quirkiness that disappears on the overdoped far side.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 6, 2018

'Hangxiety' higher in shy people

New research shows that shy individuals are more prone to 'hangxiety' - anxiety during a hangover - compared to extroverts. This study found a significant increase in anxiety levels among shy drinkers, suggesting a potential rebound effect after a night of drinking.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalPersonality and Individual Differences·DateDec 6, 2018

AlphaZero AI teaches itself to beat humans at their own complex games

Researchers developed AlphaZero, a generalized game-playing program that can learn any game through self-play reinforcement learning. The system mastered complex games like chess, shogi and Go within hours of self-learning and outperformed state-of-the-art AI programs.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateDec 6, 2018