Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for July 12, 2018


Finding the proteins that unpack DNA

Researchers developed a high-throughput method to screen and categorize transcription factors based on their ability to displace nucleosomes. The study identified both new and previously known nucleosome-displacing factors, which tend to be highly abundant in the nucleus and bind tightly to DNA.

SourcePenn State·JournalMolecular Cell·DateJul 12, 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.

MAGIC telescopes trace origin of a rare cosmic neutrino

Astrophysicists have localized a high-energy cosmic neutrino originating outside the Milky Way to a blazar in the Orion constellation using MAGIC telescopes and IceCube detector. The observation provides insight into the origin of cosmic rays, which are believed to be accelerated by protons in the blazar's jets.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Physics·JournalScience·DateJul 12, 2018

Putting gas under pressure

Researchers at KAUST have discovered that gas flames are more unstable at high pressures, which can lead to increased noise and pollution emissions. The study found that pressure fluctuations can cause thermoacoustic instability in gas turbines, potentially leading to damage or explosion.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalCombustion and Flame·DateJul 12, 2018

Why baby's sex may influence risk of pregnancy-related complicatations

Studies of over 4,000 mothers found that male and female babies have different genetic profiles in their placentas, which affect the levels of spermine metabolites. Higher levels of a specific form of spermine were associated with increased risks of pre-eclampsia and poor fetal growth.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalJCI Insight·DateJul 12, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New control of cell division discovered

A class of enzymes, DYRK3, has been found to promote mixing of phases in cells during division, ensuring correct distribution of genetic material, organelles, and cell contents. This process is crucial for preventing errors like those seen in cancer and neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature·DateJul 12, 2018

Scientists on Twitter: Preaching to the choir or singing from the rooftops?

A study by Isabelle Côté and Emily Darling found that scientists with fewer than 1,000 followers primarily reach other scientists, while those with more followers have a broader range of non-scientific followers. This suggests that Twitter can be an effective tool for increasing scientific outreach, but its impact depends on various fa...

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalFACETS·DateJul 12, 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.

Study forecasts growth rates of loblolly pine trees

Researchers at Virginia Tech used ecological forecasting to predict future growth rates of loblolly pine trees, showing a potential 30% increase in productivity by the middle of the century. The study focused on planted loblolly pine plantations in the Southeastern United States and highlighted uncertainties depending on specific regions.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalEcological Applications·DateJul 12, 2018

Algae have land genes

Research on freshwater algae Chara braunii reveals ancient genetic traits associated with plant adaptation, including the stress hormone abscisic acid and electrical signal transmission. These findings provide insights into the evolutionary origins of land-dwelling plants.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalCell·DateJul 12, 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.

A gene required for addictive behavior

Researchers found that mice lacking the Maged1 gene are unresponsive to cocaine and show diminished dopamine release, highlighting its role in addictive behavior. The study provides new insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying drug addiction.

SourceEMBO·JournalEMBO Reports·DateJul 12, 2018

Research finds new molecular structures in boron-based nanoclusters

Researchers have found that boron-based nanoclusters exhibit highly stable and symmetric structures with interesting magnetic properties, making them potential molecular magnets or assembled into magnetic nanowires. The study also sheds light on the structure and chemical bonding of bulk boron lanthanides.

SourceBrown University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 12, 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.

Leading experts in diabetes, metabolism and biomedical engineering discuss precision medicine

International Conference on Engineering Biomedical Breakthroughs brings together bioengineers, diabetes researchers and scientists to share cutting-edge concepts for biomedical discovery. The conference focused on advanced biomedical imaging, bioinformatics and bioengineering tools to inform future noninvasive diagnostics.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·DateJul 12, 2018

Study shows biomarker panel boosts lung cancer risk assessment for smokers

A new biomarker blood test improves lung cancer risk assessment over existing guidelines, capturing risk for people who have ever smoked. The test achieved superior sensitivity and accuracy compared to guidelines for screening approved by the USPSTF for heavy smokers.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateJul 12, 2018

Study: Obesity alone does not increase risk of death

A recent study published in Clinical Obesity found that individuals with metabolic healthy obesity, but no other risk factors, do not have an increased rate of mortality. The study followed over 54,000 participants and contradicts current weight management guidelines.

SourceYork University·JournalClinical Obesity·DateJul 12, 2018

Wearable device can predict older adults' risk of falling

A study by the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign found that a wearable device can accurately predict the risk of falls in older adults. The device uses motion sensors to measure walking patterns and combines this data with an individual's fall history to determine future risk. This prediction could enable preventative measures...

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·DateJul 12, 2018

First machine learning method capable of accurate extrapolation

Scientists developed a new machine learning method that can make accurate predictions for all possible conditions governed by the same physical dynamics. The method provides simple and interpretable descriptions of underlying physics, allowing for safer robot operation.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·DateJul 12, 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.

The VIPs of the nervous system

Scientists at Washington University discovered that activating only 10% of VIP neurons can rapidly shift a mouse's daily schedule. The study suggests that VIP neurons produce vasoactive intestinal polypeptide, an essential compound for synchronizing daily rhythms.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalNeuron·DateJul 12, 2018

Treatment prevents symptoms of schizophrenia in tests with rats

Researchers found that sodium nitroprusside prevented behavioral alterations associated with schizophrenia in rats, suggesting a potential preventive treatment for young people at risk. The study used an animal model that mimics the condition in children and adolescents considered at risk for development of the disease in adulthood.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalCNS Neuroscience & Therapeutics·DateJul 12, 2018

Researchers turn exercise into a game and see encouraging results

A team of researchers at the University of Iowa designed a web-based game called MapTrek that motivates people to get up and exercise more. The study found that participants who played the game increased their daily steps by about 2,200 per day, which is close to walking one mile.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateJul 12, 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.

Mapping species range shifts under recent climatic changes

Marine species in the eastern Bering Sea are trailing behind climate change, potentially increasing their vulnerability to future fluctuations. The study highlights the importance of incorporating species-specific sensitivity to climate variation when predicting rates of range shifts.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalDiversity and Distributions·DateJul 12, 2018

Voters do not always walk the talk when it comes to infidelity

An analysis of Ashley Madison user data found that conservative voters were more likely to use an adultery dating website, while liberal Democrats were least likely. The study, published in Springer's Archives of Sexual Behavior, suggests a discrepancy between reported and actual behavior on sexual matters.

SourceSpringer·JournalArchives of Sexual Behavior·DateJul 12, 2018

Study highlights genetic risk of heart failure

A new population study in Sweden has found that genetic heritage is the dominant factor when it comes to heart failure in families. The study, led by Magnus Lindgren, found a 45% higher risk of heart failure in adoptees with at least one biological parent suffering from the condition.

SourceLund University·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateJul 12, 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.

Why internal scars won't stop growing

A new Northwestern Medicine study identified a trigger for some fibrotic diseases and an experimental compound to treat it. The compound, T53, reversed abnormality in three different mouse models of fibrosis, suggesting a novel approach to treat the disease.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJCI Insight·DateJul 12, 2018

Parental chromosomes kept apart during embryo's first division

Scientists have discovered that mammalian embryos use two spindles to keep parental chromosomes separate during the first cell division. This finding may help explain high error rates in early developmental stages and has potential implications for human infertility treatment.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalScience·DateJul 12, 2018

Blazar accelerates cosmic neutrinos to highest energies

Researchers from Technical University of Munich have determined the cosmic origin of highest-energy neutrinos, finding they emanate from a galaxy four billion light-years away. The team used open access archive data and specialized software to rule out other origins, confirming blazar TXS 0506+056 as the source.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJul 12, 2018

How gold nanoparticles could improve solar energy storage

Researchers at Rutgers University have developed star-shaped gold nanoparticles that can produce hydrogen from water over four times more efficiently than other methods. The breakthrough uses visible and infrared light to excite electrons in the gold nanoparticles, which then catalyze the reaction.

SourceRutgers University·JournalChem·DateJul 12, 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.

Subaru Telescope helps pinpoint origin of ultra-high energy neutrino

An international team identified the source object of an ultra-high energy neutrino using the Subaru Telescope and OISTER network in collaboration with the IceCube experiment. The source, TXS 0506+056, is a blazer emitting radiation as it spirals into a supermassive black hole.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalScience·DateJul 12, 2018

Rice plants evolve to adapt to flooding

Researchers at Tohoku University have identified a key gene responsible for deepwater rice's ability to thrive in flood conditions. The SD1 gene enables the plant to increase its height and accumulate ethylene, allowing it to ride out lengthy floods.

SourceTohoku University·JournalScience·DateJul 12, 2018

Light receptors determine the behavior of flashlight fish

Researchers found two opsin variants in the retina of flashlight fish, activated by low-intensity blue light, which influences behavioral responses. The study suggests that bioluminescence is processed and used to adjust behavior in this species.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 12, 2018

Study estimates eyeglass use by Medicare patients

A new study estimates that 92% of Medicare beneficiaries aged 65 and older use eyeglasses for distance or near vision correction. Researchers found sociodemographic differences between those who used eyeglasses, shedding light on potential implications of policy changes regarding eyeglass coverage.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateJul 12, 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.

Hospitals may take too much of the blame for unplanned readmissions

A new study reveals that hospitals have limited control over late readmissions, which are often caused by patient access issues and end-of-life concerns. The findings suggest a need for improved coordination between hospitals and outpatient clinics to prevent readmissions.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJul 12, 2018

New study finds 93 million people vulnerable to death from snakebites

A new study by the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation identifies communities at risk of dying from snakebites. The analysis reveals regions and nations with limited access to treatment and healthcare, highlighting the need for greater measures to support countries in implementing snakebite prevention and treatment programs.

SourceInstitute for Health Metrics and Evaluation·JournalThe Lancet·DateJul 12, 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.

Genetic adaptation allows rice to survive long-term flooding

A new study identifies the SD1 gene as responsible for the deepwater rice adaptation, which enables plants to rapidly grow taller to keep above floodwaters. This discovery highlights the intrinsic complexity of plant adaptation strategies and could offer solutions for breeding modern rice varieties to cope with climate change.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJul 12, 2018

New technologies for producing medical therapeutic proteins

Researchers at Lobachevsky University developed a new method for producing medical therapeutic proteins by eliminating SlyD/SlyX genes in E. coli strains, reducing contamination and increasing purification efficiency. The approach enables the production of a wide range of prokaryotic and eukaryotic proteins in a pure form.

SourceLobachevsky University·JournalBiochemical and Biophysical Research Communications·DateJul 12, 2018

A blazar is a source of high-energy neutrinos

Researchers discovered a blazar, TXS 0506+056, producing high-energy neutrinos in multiple bursts, confirming the source of previously detected astrophysical neutrinos. The 'flaring state' observations were made when the neutrino signal arrived in September 2017, with bright emission across multiple wavelengths.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJul 12, 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.

Moving fish farms enables seagrass meadows to thrive, study shows

New research found that moving fish farms away from seagrass meadows can boost their growth and health. The study, led by the University of Plymouth, showed that seagrass limits increased at a rate of 1.2-9cm per year in areas with reduced fish farming impact.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalMarine Environmental Research·DateJul 12, 2018

Massive genome havoc in breast cancer is revealed

Scientists at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory have published a detailed map of structural variations in breast cancer cells, revealing 20,000 genetic errors that disrupt cell growth and cause cancer's hallmark. The study sheds light on how cancer cells rapidly evolve and provides valuable insights for future research and clinical practice.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenome Research·DateJul 12, 2018

VERITAS supplies critical piece to neutrino discovery puzzle

The VERITAS array confirmed detection of gamma rays from a supermassive black hole, potentially the first astrophysical source of high-energy cosmic neutrinos. This discovery may shed light on the acceleration mechanisms that create cosmic rays.

SourceCenter for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateJul 12, 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.

Graphene could be key to controlling water evaporation

Researchers discovered graphene's 'transparency' in controlling water evaporation by adjusting wetting angles. The coating accelerates evaporation on hydrophobic surfaces and suppresses it on hydrophilic ones, leading to changes in the evaporation rate.

SourceIOP Publishing·Journal2D Materials·DateJul 12, 2018

LGBQ teens more likely than peers to use dangerous drugs

A new study found that LGBQ teens are more likely to use dangerous substances, including heroin, hallucinogens, and methamphetamines. The survey also showed elevated risks for alcohol, cigarettes, and marijuana use among LGBQ teens compared to their heterosexual peers.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateJul 12, 2018

New species may arise from rapid mitochondrial evolution

A recent study sequenced the genome of a Pacific tidepool crustacean and found that mitochondrial genes differ widely between populations. Hybrid offspring suffer from lowered fitness due to incompatibility. The research suggests that rapid mitochondrial evolution may be an early stage of one species becoming multiple species.

SourceOregon State University·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateJul 12, 2018

Imaging technique illuminates immune status of monkeys with HIV-like virus

Researchers developed an imaging technique to assess immune system changes in monkeys infected with a simian form of HIV. The study revealed that CD4+ T-cell levels in tissues vary from blood levels, challenging the notion of the gut as a major target for SIV infection.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalJCI Insight·DateJul 12, 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.

Speaking up for patient safety

A new study reveals that patients and families are often uncomfortable speaking up about care concerns in ICU settings, with hesitation being the most common reason. The findings highlight the need for explicit support to enable patients and families to voice their concerns, leading to improved patient safety.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·DateJul 12, 2018

Antioxidant benefits of sleep

Researchers found that short-sleeping fruit fly mutants are sensitive to acute oxidative stress, supporting the idea that sleep defends against oxidative damage. The study suggests a bi-directional relationship between sleep and oxidative stress, with sleep helping to reduce oxidative stress and vice versa.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJul 12, 2018

Intensive care patients' muscles unable to use fats for energy

A new study found that intensive care patients are unable to effectively use fats for energy, contributing to significant muscle loss. This inability is likely due to widespread muscle inflammation in the early days of intensive care, making nutrition and exercise programmes less effective.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalThorax·DateJul 12, 2018

Texas A&M professor researching mobile applications security

Dr. Guofei Gu's research team analyzed 10,000 mobile apps and found widespread inconsistencies in web API implementations that can lead to attacks compromising user security and privacy. The WARDroid framework uses static analysis and HTTP request monitoring to identify vulnerabilities.

SourceTexas A&M University·DateJul 12, 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.

CHOP researchers develop easy-to-implement predictive screening tool for retinopathy

Researchers at CHOP developed a new method to determine which premature infants should be screened for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), which leads to blindness in 400-600 US infants each year. The criteria were highly sensitive and accurate, reducing the number of premature infants who would require examinations by 30.3%.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateJul 12, 2018

Study finds room for improvement in South Korea's polluted river basin

A new study by Portland State University found that higher-than-acceptable levels of pollutants remain in urbanized regions of South Korea's Han River basin, particularly in suburban areas. The research suggests that land management practices, such as afforestation and conservation, can help improve water quality.

SourcePortland State University·JournalJournal of Hydrology·DateJul 12, 2018

5,300-year-old Iceman's last meal reveals remarkably high-fat diet

Researchers analyzed the stomach contents of the world's oldest naturally preserved ice mummy and found a remarkably high proportion of fat in his diet. The analysis also revealed wild meat from ibex and red deer, cereals, and traces of toxic bracken, providing insights into ancient dietary habits and food preparation.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJul 12, 2018

Could gravitational waves reveal how fast our universe is expanding?

Researchers propose using gravitational waves to estimate the Hubble constant and measure the rate of the expanding universe. By detecting gravitational waves from rare black hole-neutron star binary systems, scientists can obtain an independent and precise measurement of their distance and velocity.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJul 12, 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.

International collaboration finds land plant genes in ancient aquatic alga

An international collaboration sequenced and analyzed the genome of Chara braunii, a freshwater green alga closely related to land plants. The study identified key genes that originated in a common ancestor shared by Chara and land plants, revealing that some important plant functions evolved before land plants existed.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalCell·DateJul 12, 2018

360 dust analysis at IUPUI offers free test of household dust contaminants

The IUPUI 360 Dust Analysis project offers free testing of household dust contaminants, including lead and chromium, which can be tracked inside or blown in from outside. Participants receive detailed information about their dust and suggestions to mitigate any health risks.

SourceIndiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis School of Science·DateJul 12, 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.

Mystery of the Basel papyrus solved

Researchers from the University of Basel discovered a 2,000-year-old medical document from late antiquity with an unknown text from Roman physician Galen. The Basel papyrus collection comprises five languages and was likely written by Galen.

SourceUniversity of Basel·DateJul 12, 2018

VERITAS supplies critical piece to neutrino discovery puzzle

The VERITAS array has confirmed the detection of high-energy gamma rays from a supermassive black hole located in a distant galaxy, TXS 0506+056. This detection is significant as it provides evidence that nearby and faraway galaxies with supermassive blackholes at their centers are actively creating high-energy cosmic rays.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalScience·DateJul 12, 2018

New model quantifies communities' vulnerability to the spread of fire

Researchers at Colorado State University have developed a new model that quantifies the vulnerability of communities to fire spread. The AGNI-NAR model assesses the risk of fires spreading to homes and groups of homes, providing practical guidance for urban planners and emergency managers.

SourceColorado State University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 12, 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.

Chemicals associated with oxidative stress may be essential to development

A recent study suggests that some level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) may be essential to health and development, contrary to the common assumption that they are harmful. The research, led by Purdue University's Daniel Suter, found that inhibiting an enzyme producing ROS in zebrafish embryos resulted in developmental complications.

SourcePurdue University·DateJul 12, 2018

Melting triggers melting

A recent study reveals that a massive influx of freshwater into the North Atlantic led to intensive glacier melting in the North Pacific, thousands of kilometers away. This process highlights the alarming consequences of modern ocean warming on polar ice sheets and sea level rise.

SourceAlfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research·JournalNature·DateJul 12, 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.

Machine learning helps to predict the treatment outcomes of schizophrenia

Researchers at the University of Alberta developed a machine-learning algorithm to analyze brain function images and predict schizophrenia diagnosis with 78% accuracy. The model also identified patients who would respond positively to antipsychotic treatment risperidone with 82% accuracy.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateJul 12, 2018

Brain function partly replicated by nanomaterials

Scientists developed a neural network device using nanomaterials, generating spontaneous spikes similar to nerve impulses of neurons. The researchers replicated brain function by utilizing molecular junctions and negative differential resistance.

SourceOsaka University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 12, 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.

In search of dark matter

A team of scientists, including a UC Riverside physicist, has imposed conditions on how dark matter interacts with ordinary matter. The study sets constraints that can aid in detecting the elusive dark matter particle and better understand its fundamental properties.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJul 12, 2018

Quantum dot white LEDs achieve record efficiency

Researchers have developed nanomaterial-based white LEDs with a record luminous efficiency of 105 lumens per watt, promising a promising energy-efficient lighting source for homes and offices. The new LEDs use commercially available blue LEDs combined with flexible lenses filled with quantum dots to create white light.

SourceOptica·JournalOptica·DateJul 12, 2018

Solved protein puzzle opens door to new design for cancer drugs

Researchers at Oregon State University solved a longstanding puzzle concerning kinesins, tiny motors that interact with microtubules inside cells. By altering the design of these motor proteins, scientists can develop new cancer therapies by targeting specific waist regions.

SourceOregon State University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJul 12, 2018

Concussion may bring greater risks for athletes with ADHD

A study of NCAA Division I college athletes found that those with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) were more susceptible to experiencing symptoms of depression and anxiety following a concussion. Athletes with ADHD and a history of concussion had significantly higher scores on tests measuring anxiety and depression.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·DateJul 12, 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.

Scientists find evidence of far-distant neutrino source

An international team of scientists has found evidence of a far-distant source of high-energy particles called neutrinos, an energetic galaxy about 4 billion light years from Earth. The discovery was made using the IceCube Neutrino Observatory and confirms that this galaxy is a cosmic ray accelerator.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalScience·DateJul 12, 2018

UC Riverside psychologist receives high honor from NAACP

Carolyn B. Murray, a professor of psychology at UCR, has been awarded the 2018 Dr. William Montague Cobb award for her research and activism addressing health disparities in African American communities. She will receive the honor on July 16 at the Annual NAACP Convention.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateJul 12, 2018

NASA sees ex-Tropical Cyclone Beryl's remnants fighting for survival

The remnants of former Tropical Storm Beryl are still affecting the Bahamas before moving northeastward, with a low chance of re-formation over the next two days. Environmental conditions may favor some development by the weekend as the system interacts with a strong upper-level trough.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 12, 2018
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

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

NASA's GPM satellite examined Tropical Storm Chris' power

The Global Precipitation Measurement mission observed intense bands of precipitation wrapping around the eastern side of intensifying tropical storm Chris. Rainfall rates reached over 123 mm per hour in strong convective storms east of Chris' forming eye.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 12, 2018

The more you smoke, the greater your risk of a heart rhythm disorder

A study published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology found a strong dose-response relationship between smoking and atrial fibrillation. Smoking five to ten cigarettes per day increased the risk by 9% to 32%, respectively. Quitting smoking can significantly reduce this risk, with former smokers experiencing a lower risk th...

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Journal of Preventive Cardiology·DateJul 12, 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.

New perspective on tumor genome evolution

Researchers developed a method to detect genes under selection and found essential cancer genes and immune-exposed protein regions under significant negative selection. This challenges the exclusive role of positive selection in cancer evolution.

SourceCenter for Genomic Regulation·JournalGenome Biology·DateJul 12, 2018

Controlling the manufacture of stable aerogels

Researchers at Kyoto University have developed a new approach to create soft, porous materials with controlled porosity. By controlling the self-assembly of molecules, they were able to form an ultralight aerogel with permanent porosity, opening up potential applications in building insulation, energy storage and aerospace technologies.

SourceKyoto University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 12, 2018

UCLA researchers discover gene that controls bone-to-fat ratio in bone marrow

Researchers found that the PGC-1α gene controls the equilibrium of bone and fat in bone marrow and affects how stem cells differentiate into bone or fat cells. Increasing PGC-1α expression may slow down bone loss and decrease bone marrow fat, suggesting a protective role in maintaining the bone-to-fat balance.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateJul 12, 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.

Scientists ID protein exploited by virus ravaging West Africa

A research team has identified DDX3, a protein involved in RNA metabolism, as a key factor promoting arenavirus multiplication. The study may pave the way to new therapeutic treatments for arenaviruses and hemorrhagic fever, which currently have no effective treatment.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateJul 12, 2018

Bioengineers create pathway to personalized medicine

Researchers have developed a groundbreaking method for producing complex proteins, known as glycoproteins, in a cell-free system. This innovation has the potential to revolutionize personalized medicine by allowing for rapid and sustainable production of tailored protein medicines. The new approach uses a simplified reaction scheme tha...

SourceCornell University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 12, 2018

About half of parents use cell phones while driving with young children in the car

A new study from Children's Hospital of Philadelphia found that about half of parents talked on a cell phone while driving with their children between ages 4 and 10. The study also identified correlations between cell phone use and other risky driving behaviors, such as not wearing a seat belt or driving under the influence. Researcher...

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·DateJul 12, 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.

Neutrino observation points to one source of high-energy cosmic rays

Researchers using NSF's IceCube Neutrino Observatory data confirmed a single neutrino's origin as a previously known blazar, providing the first definitive evidence of proton acceleration by black holes. This discovery sheds light on cosmic ray origins and supports multi-messenger astronomy.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalScience·DateJul 12, 2018

Ant soldiers don't need big brains

A study published in BMC Zoology found that ant soldiers have smaller brain sizes than workers despite being larger, as their tasks place less cognitive demand. This suggests that investment in brain development may be reduced for individuals with simpler behaviors.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Zoology·DateJul 12, 2018

Turbulence is good for the blood

A Kyoto University study reveals that turbulence enhances platelet generation in the blood, potentially resolving global shortages of these cells. The discovery could enable mass production of platelets using iPS cell technology.

SourceKyoto University·JournalCell·DateJul 12, 2018

New method reveals how well cancer drugs hit their targets

Researchers developed a technique to measure drug-target engagement in individual cancer cells, revealing variation in effectiveness between cells within a tumour. The findings could help clinicians choose the best course and delivery of treatment for cancer patients, improving treatment outcomes.

SourceThe Francis Crick Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 12, 2018

WSU researchers use coal waste to create sustainable concrete

Researchers at Washington State University have developed a strong, durable concrete that uses fly ash as a binder and eliminates the use of environmentally intensive cement. This new concrete reduces energy demand and greenhouse emissions by utilizing coal waste and significantly lowering its environmental impact.

SourceWashington State University·JournalFuel·DateJul 12, 2018

Headers may cause balance issues

A new University of Delaware study examines the effect of repetitive head impacts on balance. The researchers found that players who headed the ball more frequently experienced subtle balance problems when tested with vestibular stimulation.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·DateJul 12, 2018

IceCube neutrinos point to long-sought cosmic ray accelerator

The discovery provides evidence for a known blazar as a source of high-energy neutrinos detected by the National Science Foundation-supported IceCube observatory. The observations resolve a century-old mystery about what creates and launches cosmic rays, which are highly energetic particles that continuously rain down on Earth from space.

SourceWisconsin IceCube Particle Astrophysics Center (WIPAC), University of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalScience·DateJul 12, 2018

Ferroelectric perovskites go organic

Researchers have developed a family of metal-free ferroelectric perovskites offering non-toxic and mechanically flexible properties for future soft robotic and biomedical devices. One organic compound exhibits ferroelectric traits similar to inorganic BTO, enabling environmentally friendly applications.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJul 12, 2018

Breakthrough in the search for cosmic particle accelerators

A breakthrough in the search for cosmic particle accelerators has been made by tracing a single neutrino back to a galaxy over three billion light years away. The discovery was made using an internationally organized astronomical dragnet and confirms that high-energy cosmic rays are produced in cosmic particle accelerators.

SourceDeutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY·JournalScience·DateJul 12, 2018

Study reveals opioid patients face multiple barriers to treatment

A new study by Vanderbilt University found that opioid treatment programs in Appalachian states have limited capacity, with only 50% accepting insurance. Pregnant women are particularly excluded, with shorter wait times only when accepted to treatment programs.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalSubstance Abuse·DateJul 12, 2018

More studies needed to determine impact of air pollution on gynecologic health

Recent studies suggest a potential relationship between air pollution and infertility, menstrual irregularity, uterine fibroids, and endometriosis. Researchers emphasize the need for further exploration of these findings to support policy guidelines on air pollution and human health.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalCurrent Epidemiology Reports·DateJul 12, 2018

Can ultrashort electron flashes help harvest nuclear energy?

Researchers have developed a theory to create electron flashes within zeptosecond timeframes, potentially increasing nuclear reaction energy yield. This breakthrough could advance fields like spectroscopy and quantum information processing.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 12, 2018

Time invested in the past dictates our willingness to wait for future rewards

A new study in mice, rats, and humans reveals that longer waiting periods for rewards strengthen a sunk cost bias, causing individuals to be less willing to give up pursuit of the reward. The researchers discuss three possible explanations for this phenomenon, which may help improve decision-making.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJul 12, 2018

Study finds potential link between alcohol and death rates

A study published in Clinical Nutrition found that heavy drinking causes uncontrolled iron absorption, leading to health issues like heart attacks and liver disease. Iron loading was significantly higher in drinkers than non-drinkers, predicting increased mortality rates.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalClinical Nutrition·DateJul 12, 2018

Guardian of the cell

Researchers identify structural and functional differences in human cGAS that set it apart from other mammals, enabling its unique immune-sensing capabilities. The discovery informs the design of precision cancer therapies by targeting the protein's specific structural features.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalCell·DateJul 12, 2018

Citizen science supports tick-borne disease research

A nationwide investigation utilizing citizen science highlights the value of public participation in tick-borne disease research. The study found ticks capable of carrying Lyme and other diseases in 83 counties where they had not been previously recorded.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 12, 2018

An orange a day keeps macular degeneration away: 15-year study

A 15-year study found that people who eat at least one serving of oranges daily have a 60% reduced risk of developing late macular degeneration. Flavonoids in oranges appear to help prevent against the eye disease.

SourceWestmead Institute for Medical Research·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateJul 12, 2018

Blazar accelerates cosmic neutrinos to highest energies

A research group led by IceCube scientist Elisa Resconi provides evidence that the particles detected by the IceCube neutrino telescope originate from a galaxy four billion light-years away. The team used open access archive data to examine a 1.33-degree sky region around the position of the high-energy neutrino, and found only one bla...

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalScience·DateJul 12, 2018

IceCube neutrinos point to long-sought cosmic ray accelerator

Researchers at UMD developed an alert system that enabled telescopes worldwide to pinpoint the source of high-energy cosmic neutrinos. The evidence points to a supermassive black hole, dubbed a blazar, as the most likely accelerator of these particles.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalScience·DateJul 12, 2018

Geological records reveal sea-level rise threatens UK salt marshes, study says

An international study estimates that rising sea levels will endanger UK salt marshes by 2100, with southern and eastern England facing a high risk of loss by 2040. The study uses geological records to predict the vulnerability of these ecosystems, highlighting the urgent need for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

SourceRutgers University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 12, 2018

A gene required for addictive behavior

A study published in EMBO Reports reveals that the Maged1 gene plays a key role in controlling addictive behavior. Researchers found that mice lacking the gene are unresponsive to cocaine and exhibit reduced dopamine release, indicating a promising new entry point for understanding drug addiction mechanisms.

SourceUniversité libre de Bruxelles·JournalEMBO Reports·DateJul 12, 2018

Novel therapy delays muscle atrophy in Lou Gehrig's disease model

Researchers found that supplementing mitofusion 2 protein could prevent nerve degeneration, muscle atrophy, and paralysis in a mouse model of Lou Gehrig's disease. The study suggests this approach may be a novel therapeutic strategy for the disease.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalCell Metabolism·DateJul 12, 2018