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Science News for July 18, 2018


In rats, perinatal exposure to phthalates impairs brain structure and function

Perinatal exposure to phthalates impairs the development of rats' brains, leading to reduced neurons and synapses. The study also shows deficits in cognitive flexibility, suggesting potential negative effects on behavior. Researchers used environmentally relevant phthalate concentrations to simulate human exposures.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·DateJul 18, 2018

Asian-Americans face barriers to healthy aging

A Rutgers study explores the wellbeing of aging Asian-Americans, finding that social activity, family connections, and cultural values are essential to improving health and lowering depression. The research challenges the 'model minority myth' and highlights the need for culturally sensitive healthcare approaches.

SourceRutgers University·JournalGerontology and Geriatric Medicine·DateJul 18, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Study finds melanoma biomarkers predicting checkpoint blocker response

Researchers at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute found biomarkers in melanoma that can help tailor immunotherapy treatments. The study suggests that some patients with advanced melanoma may not benefit from combination therapy, but could do well with single-agent treatment.

SourceDana-Farber Cancer Institute·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJul 18, 2018

A carcinogen at the gym

New research reveals that gyms with tanning beds target people at higher risk of skin cancer, increasing the likelihood of addictive behavior. People who tan in gyms tend to be heavier tanners and more likely to experience addiction.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·DateJul 18, 2018
GoPro HERO13 Black

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

Quick soil test aims to determine nitrogen need

A new quick soil test aims to determine nitrogen need by measuring protein presence. This method has the potential to reduce fertilizer waste and mitigate environmental problems associated with excessive nitrogen use.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalAgricultural & Environmental Letters·DateJul 18, 2018

China's livestock transition: Driving forces, impacts, and consequences

China's livestock population tripled between 1980 and 2010, driven by demand and wealth, but also facilitated by subsidies and weak regulations. The transition has significant domestic and global impacts, including increased animal feed imports, GHG emissions, and nitrogen losses.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 18, 2018
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

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

Poor air quality does not offset exercise's heart benefits

New research from the American Heart Association found that regular physical activity can reduce the risk of first and recurrent heart attacks, even in areas with moderate-to-high levels of traffic pollution. Moderate cycling for four or more hours per week cut the risk of recurrent heart attack by 31 percent.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateJul 18, 2018

Molecular culprits of protein aggregation in ALS and FTLD

Researchers have identified two protein domains that mediate toxicity in ALS and FTLD, revealing a key role for stress granules in disease progression. The study provides new insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying these neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalCell Reports·DateJul 18, 2018
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

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

Sugar improves memory in over-60s, helping them work smarter

Researchers found that increasing blood sugar levels improves memory and mood in older adults, making them more motivated to perform difficult tasks. This study suggests that short-term energy availability may be an important factor in older adults' motivation, leading to better cognitive engagement and confidence.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalPsychology and Aging·DateJul 18, 2018

Depression-induced inflammation during pregnancy may impact newborns

Research finds that babies born to mothers with depression in pregnancy show altered behavior and biological changes, linked to depression-induced inflammation. These changes may contribute to a higher risk of depression in children born to depressed mothers as adults.

SourceKing's College London·JournalPsychoneuroendocrinology·DateJul 18, 2018

'Nowcasting' beach water quality

Researchers have identified simpler computer models that can accurately predict current beach conditions from past data, enabling faster and more reliable detection of fecal microbes. The new approach combines wavelet transform and artificial neural network analysis, requiring only bacterial data from the past, with no additional inputs.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJul 18, 2018

Materials processing tricks enable engineers to create new laser material

Researchers at the University of California - San Diego have developed a new laser material that combines high power density, ultra-short pulses, and superior thermal shock resistance. The material is achieved through a novel materials processing strategy that dissolves high concentrations of neodymium ions into alumina crystals.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateJul 18, 2018
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

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

Gut's 'taste buds' help school the immune system in the thymus

Researchers at UCSF discovered thymic tuft cells play key role in preventing autoimmunity by displaying proteins to train T cells, similar to gut sensory cells. The finding could lead to better understanding of autoimmune diseases and potentially regulate thymus function.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature·DateJul 18, 2018

Lake bed reveals details about ancient Earth

Researchers found anomalous oxygen isotopes in an ancient Canadian lake bed, hinting at life on ancient Earth's surface. The study provides evidence of a lower gross primary production during the Proterozoic eon, shedding light on the evolution of life on Earth.

SourceRice University·JournalNature·DateJul 18, 2018
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

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

Barley heads east

A new study reveals the ancient migration routes of barley cultivation across Eurasia, with distinct routes for different types of barley populations. The research uses genetic analysis of living crops to track the spread of barley, which was domesticated around 10,500 years ago in the Near East.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 18, 2018

Pregnancy history may be tied to Alzheimer's disease

A study found that women with a history of pregnancy, particularly those giving birth to five or more children, may be at higher risk for developing Alzheimer's disease. Incomplete pregnancies were also shown to reduce the likelihood of Alzheimer's development.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateJul 18, 2018

P38 alpha: The switch controlling obesity and diabetes

Researchers have identified P38 alpha as a crucial protein in activating brown fat cells to burn excess fat and eliminate the risk of obesity and related diseases. The study found that mice genetically modified to lack P38 alpha were protected against obesity, diabetes, and fatty liver disease.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P.)·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJul 18, 2018
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

More category 5 hurricanes forecasted by scientists

Researchers at Chapman University found that African dust storms can contribute to the development of larger, more powerful hurricanes like Hurricane Sandy. The study, published in IEEE Journal of Selected Topics in Applied Earth Observations and Remote Sensing, aims to improve forecasting for extreme weather events.

SourceChapman University·JournalIEEE Journal of Selected Topics in Applied Earth Observations and Remote Sensing·DateJul 18, 2018

Beef jerky and other processed meats associated with manic episodes

Researchers found a significant association between cured meat consumption and mania, suggesting nitrates may contribute to the abnormal mood state. The study, published in Molecular Psychiatry, analyzed data from over 1,000 individuals with and without psychiatric disorders.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateJul 18, 2018
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

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

Research identifies new breast cancer therapeutic target

Researchers at Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center have identified miR-27b, a microRNA, as a potential therapeutic target for breast cancer treatment. The study found that suppressing miR-27b enhances the expression of PDHX, a protein involved in cell metabolism, which helps suppress tumor progression.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalMolecular Cancer·DateJul 18, 2018

Autism risk determined by health of mom's gut, UVA research reveals

Researchers found that a mother's microbiome determines the risk of autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders in her offspring. By manipulating the microbiome through diet or probiotics, it may be possible to prevent autism-like disorders.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalThe Journal of Immunology·DateJul 18, 2018
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

CT scans may increase the risk of brain cancer

A study found that CT scans may increase brain tumor risk in children, with dose-response relationships observed between radiation exposure and tumor incidence. The researchers caution that careful justification and optimization of pediatric CT scans are essential to minimize risks.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateJul 18, 2018

ASHG honors Jan M. Friedman with Arno Motulsky-Barton Childs Award

Jan M. Friedman, a Professor of Medical Genetics at the University of British Columbia, is receiving the Arno Motulsky-Barton Childs Award for his exceptional contributions to human genetics education globally. He has produced influential work on clinical genetics education and has led efforts to increase its presence in medical schools.

SourceAmerican Society of Human Genetics·DateJul 18, 2018

Compound identified that protects against neurodegeneration

Researchers identified a new compound called MPS that is over 100 times more potent than the existing drug ethosuximide in reducing neurodegeneration in nematode worms. This discovery may enable novel treatments for human neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalNeurobiology of Disease·DateJul 18, 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.

Fatty liver disease pandemic needs 'gold standard' human-relevant research

A Belgian study emphasizes the need for human-based tools in treating non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), a chronic liver disease impacting millions globally. The study proposes a roadmap to better understand NASH's biological mechanisms, crucial for developing effective treatments.

SourceHumane Society International·JournalPharmacological Research·DateJul 18, 2018

In the ocean's twilight zone, tiny organisms may have giant effect on Earth's carbon cycle

A new study by Florida State University researchers has found that tiny phaeodarian organisms in the ocean's twilight zone are consuming up to 20% of sinking, carbon-rich particles before they reach the deep ocean. This discovery suggests a significant impact on Earth's carbon cycle and challenges current climate dynamics.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalLimnology and Oceanography·DateJul 18, 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.

Light-controlled polymers can switch between sturdy and soft

Researchers at MIT have designed a polymer material that can change its structure in response to different wavelengths of light, converting from rigid to softer and self-healing states. The material, composed of polymers attached to a light-sensitive molecule, can reversibly switch between two different topological states.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateJul 18, 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.

Dry casks take the heat

Sandia National Laboratories has built a scaled test assembly to mimic a dry cask storage container for spent nuclear fuel. The team is providing new data on how fuel temperatures change during storage and affect the integrity of the metal cladding surrounding the spent fuel.

SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·DateJul 18, 2018

Study finds climate determines shapes of river basins

Researchers found that climate plays a significant role in shaping river basins, with dry climates resulting in long and thin basins regardless of size. In contrast, larger humid basins are longer and thinner, while smaller humid basins are wider and shorter.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateJul 18, 2018

Identified RNA molecules that regulate action of male hormone in prostate cancer

A study has identified 600 novel long noncoding RNA molecules that regulate the effects of androgens and androgen receptors on gene expression in prostate tumors. These lncRNAs are powerful regulators of gene expression and interact with and magnify the effect of regulatory proteins, suggesting a new target for treatment.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalFrontiers in Genetics·DateJul 18, 2018

AI technology could help protect water supplies

Researchers have developed an AI system that can identify and quantify cyanobacteria in water samples in about one to two hours, reducing the need for expensive lab tests. This tool could provide early warnings of problems, helping to ensure safe drinking water and preventing public health issues.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 18, 2018

For Mexican immigrants, politics is a family affair

A recent study by SF State University's Marcela García-Castañon examines the role spousal relationships play in forming political identities among Mexican immigrants. García-Castañon found that spouses share information and help each other grasp nuances, paving the way for taking action.

SourceSan Francisco State University·JournalNew Political Science·DateJul 18, 2018
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

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

Warming rivers make marked contribution to global greenhouse gas levels

A new study reveals that warming streams and rivers can significantly increase greenhouse gas emissions, particularly in agricultural lowland areas. The research highlights the need for land management strategies to reduce sediment rich in organic matter content and decrease groundwater abstraction.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 18, 2018

HIV infection doubles risk of heart disease, global study finds

A global study found that people infected with HIV are twice as likely to suffer from heart disease, with the greatest impact in sub-Saharan Africa and Asia Pacific regions. The study highlights the need for targeted treatments to maximize resources in countries with limited healthcare funding.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalCirculation·DateJul 18, 2018
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

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

Cannabinoids may have a vast array of anti-cancer effects

A review of cannabinoids suggests they can stop cancer cells from dividing and invading normal tissue. Cannabinoids may also enhance the immune response against tumor growth and spread, providing potential new treatment options for cancer patients.

SourceWiley·JournalBritish Journal of Pharmacology·DateJul 18, 2018

Link found between bitter-taste sensitivity and cancer risk

Researchers found that older women with high bitter-taste sensitivity had a significantly higher cancer risk, despite not consuming fewer vegetables. The study suggests that the relationship between bitter-taste sensitivity and cancer may relate more to overall diet quality than just vegetable consumption.

SourcePenn State·JournalEuropean Journal of Nutrition·DateJul 18, 2018

New retinal ganglion cell subtypes emerge from single-cell RNA sequencing

A team of researchers has identified 40 new subtypes of retinal ganglion cells, shedding light on the molecular differences that distinguish them. The study, published in Nature Communications, provides a detailed census of RGCs and demonstrates the importance of single-cell RNA sequencing in understanding cell type identity.

SourceJackson Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 18, 2018

Research brief: UMN researchers develop DIY field imaging system

Researchers have developed a low-cost, open-source field imaging system that enables real-time tracking of plant movement and lodging resistance. The system uses commercial hardware and electronics to capture high-quality videos of plant movement under windy conditions.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalHardwareX·DateJul 18, 2018
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

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

Scientists lack vital knowledge on rapid Arctic climate change

A comprehensive review study found that only two research stations account for 30% of cited studies in the Arctic region. The researchers highlight under-sampling of rapidly warming sites, particularly in the Canadian high-Arctic archipelago and Russia's Arctic coastline.

SourceLund University·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateJul 18, 2018

Origami-inspired device helps marine biologists study aliens

Researchers at Harvard University have developed an origami-inspired device, RAD, that can capture delicate sea creatures like jellyfish, squid, and octopuses without harming them. The device uses a folding polyhedral enclosure to trap organisms, allowing scientists to collect data and then release them unharmed.

SourceThe City University of New York·JournalScience Robotics·DateJul 18, 2018

Prolonged opioid use before knee or hip replacement surgery increases risk of poor outcomes

A study published in The Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery found that patients taking prescription opioids for more than 60 days before total knee or hip replacement surgery are at higher risk of hospital readmission and repeat joint-replacement surgery. Prolonged opioid use was associated with an increased risk of both adverse outcomes,...

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateJul 18, 2018
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

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

UM professor studies complexities of biodiversity, disease transmission

A University of Montana researcher found that species diversity can have both a dilution effect and an amplification effect on disease transmission. In areas with more diverse rodent communities, hantavirus prevalence among deer mice decreases, but as rodent species diversity increases, infection spreads faster

SourceThe University of Montana·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 18, 2018

A safe and effective way to whiten teeth

Researchers have developed a new, less destructive teeth whitening method using blue light-activated nanoparticles. The treatment showed similar whitening levels to hydrogen peroxide-based agents without enamel damage or cytotoxicity. Additionally, the therapy demonstrated antibacterial activity against certain bacteria.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Biomaterials Science & Engineering·DateJul 18, 2018
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

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

Social Impact Bonds have a role but are no panacea for public service reform

A new study by the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine found that Social Impact Bonds (SIBs) have a role in developing outcome-based contracting but are not a panacea for public service reform. SIBs were shown to be effective in providing personalized support and flexibility, but their impact on cost savings is limited.

SourceLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine·DateJul 18, 2018

Water may be key to understanding sweetness

A study by Maria Antonietta Ricci and colleagues found that fructose forms the shortest and strongest hydrogen bonds with water, allowing it to bind more snugly with protein receptors. This interaction enables greater stimulation and perception of sweetness. Mannose, on the other hand, forms longer and weaker hydrogen bonds with water.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·DateJul 18, 2018

Study results may lead to improved diagnostics for breast cancer

Researchers analyzed protein and RNA from routine breast cancer tests to distinguish between cancer and benign lesions, yielding 100% accurate results. This method may also aid in subtyping breast cancer, determining therapy options, and monitoring disease progression.

SourceWiley·JournalMolecular Oncology·DateJul 18, 2018

Princeton's McComas will lead IMAP, a NASA mission to study the heliosphere

The Interstellar Mapping and Acceleration Probe (IMAP) mission will investigate the heliosphere, surrounding our solar system, and collect data on particle acceleration and interaction with interstellar medium. The $492-million mission includes 10 instruments to resolve scientific questions about the solar wind and cosmic rays.

SourcePrinceton University·DateJul 18, 2018
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

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

Secular countries can expect future economic growth, confirms new study

A new study published in Science Advances has shown that a decline in religion is linked to a country's future economic prosperity. Secularisation precedes economic development, but only when accompanied by tolerance for individual rights like abortion, divorce, and homosexuality.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 18, 2018

Doing school differently

The not-school movement is an alternative approach to education that recognizes individual learning needs and talents, providing options for students who struggle in traditional school environments. This movement emphasizes the importance of creativity, innovation, and real-world experience in education.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·DateJul 18, 2018
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

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

Splitting water: Nanoscale imaging yields key insights

Berkeley Lab researchers have pioneered a nanoscale imaging technique to understand how local properties affect a material's macroscopic performance in water splitting. The study reveals heterogeneity in charge utilization, which may account for the material's efficiency.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 18, 2018

Timing of dinner may affect breast and prostate cancer risk

A new study found that eating an early supper and having a long interval between the last meal and sleep are associated with lower breast and prostate cancer risks. Participants who had supper before 9pm or slept 2 or more hours after supper had a reduced risk of developing these cancers.

SourceWiley·JournalInternational Journal of Cancer·DateJul 18, 2018
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

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

Lowering hospitals' Medicare costs proves difficult

A new study found that a bundled-payment system did not lower Medicare costs for patients hospitalized for serious medical conditions. Despite providing financial incentives, hospitals saw no significant reductions in costs, with average costs remaining largely unchanged.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJul 18, 2018

An underwater pokéball for capturing sea creatures

Researchers at Harvard University's Wyss Institute develop a novel, folding polyhedron sampler that safely traps soft-bodied sea creatures like jellyfish and squid. The RAD sampler uses a simple, modular design to capture organisms in their natural habitats without harm.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalScience Robotics·DateJul 18, 2018

Money talks when trying to influence climate change legislation

A new analysis reveals that lobbyists spent over $2 billion on influencing climate-related legislation in the US Congress between 2000 and 2016. The electrical utilities sector and fossil fuel companies dominated climate lobbying efforts, with spending peaking at $362 million in 2009.

SourceSpringer·JournalClimatic Change·DateJul 18, 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.

Artery hardening and thickness not affected by stopping hormone therapy

A new study, based on a subgroup of KEEPS participants, found no effects of hormone therapy cessation on carotid artery intima-media thickness. The results support the use of hormone therapy for menopause symptom relief or bone loss prevention, with potential benefits on heart disease reduction.

SourceThe Menopause Society·JournalMenopause·DateJul 18, 2018

Novel botulinum toxin compound relieves chronic pain

A modified botulinum toxin compound Derm-BOT successfully targets and silences pain signals from neurons in the spinal cord of mice, providing long-lasting pain relief. The compound is non-toxic, safe to manufacture, and avoids adverse effects associated with opioids.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJul 18, 2018

Scientists uncover DNA 'shield' withcrucial roles in normal cell division

A team of researchers has uncovered a new protein complex called Shieldin that plays a critical role in normal cell division and cancer treatment. The complex shields broken DNA ends and controls the type of DNA repair system used by cells, making it vulnerable to targeting by PARP inhibitors and platinum-based chemotherapies.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalNature·DateJul 18, 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.

NASA's new mini satellite will study Milky Way's halo

HaloSat mission aims to search for the universe's missing matter by studying X-rays from hot gas surrounding the Milky Way galaxy. The satellite will help determine if the diffuse galactic halo is shaped more like a fried egg or a sphere, which will impact our understanding of the universe's mass and composition.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 18, 2018

Discovering structure in the outer corona

A team of scientists led by Craig DeForest used advanced algorithms and data-cleaning techniques to analyze images taken by NASA's STEREO spacecraft. They discovered fine-grained structures in the outer corona, which is the source of the solar wind. The study provides new insights into the Sun's million-degree atmosphere.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 18, 2018

Bacterial armor could be a new target for antibiotics

Researchers have discovered that the outer membrane of bacteria like E. coli can act as a strong physical barrier protecting the cell, making it a potential target for new antibacterial drugs. This finding suggests a new approach to fighting infections in roughly half of all bacterial species.

SourceStanford University·JournalNature·DateJul 18, 2018
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

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

Innate stress

A study found that the monoamine oxidase A gene is linked to self-assessed well-being and stress levels among men. The researchers suggest that genetics can influence social phenomena, and this connection may be significant for understanding human behavior.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalRussian Journal of Genetics·DateJul 18, 2018

Allergies: Mugwort pollen as main source of airborne endotoxins

A recent study by TUM and HMGU researchers found that mugwort pollen is the primary vector for bacteria, releasing endotoxins that trigger severe respiratory problems in asthma sufferers. The research team discovered a clear correlation between mugwort pollen and bacterial toxins in both urban and Alpine regions.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateJul 18, 2018
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

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

Sunscreen reduces melanoma risk by 40 per cent in young people

A world-first study found that regular sunscreen users in childhood reduced their risk of developing melanoma by 40 percent. The study analyzed data from nearly 1700 people and showed that sunscreen use was protective against melanoma in young people under 40 years old.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalJAMA Dermatology·DateJul 18, 2018

Neurons can carry more than one signal at a time

Researchers from Duke University found that single neurons can switch between encoding information for two different sounds, suggesting a potential explanation for how the brain processes complex information. The study's results may also shed light on perceptual and cognitive limitations.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 18, 2018

Alcohol-related cirrhosis deaths skyrocket in young adults

A new study reveals a significant increase in liver deaths due to cirrhosis among young adults, with the highest fatalities among whites, American Indians, and Hispanics. The rise is attributed entirely to alcohol-related liver disease, highlighting the need for prevention strategies such as taxes on alcohol and reducing marketing.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalThe BMJ·DateJul 18, 2018

Traditional Tibetan medicine exposes people and environment to high mercury levels

Researchers have found that traditional Tibetan medicine (TTM) contains high levels of mercury and methylmercury, with Tibetans exposed to 34-fold higher daily intake than in regions specializing in mercury mining. This exposure results in the release of significant amounts of total mercury into municipal sewage and the environment.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJul 18, 2018

'Greener' ways to color clothes

The textile industry is exploring alternative coloring methods that minimize environmental impact, with companies developing dyes that require less water and energy. Innovative approaches like inkjet printing and microbial fermentation are being tested to create more sustainable fashion.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateJul 18, 2018
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

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

Solar thermal energy will help China cut costs of climate action

A recent study suggests that Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) can be the key to China meeting its climate commitments. CSP can store energy relatively inexpensively and dispatch it day or night, making it a more cost-effective option than traditional renewable energy sources like wind power and PV. The study found that substituting CSP f...

SourceSolarPACES·JournalApplied Energy·DateJul 18, 2018

Erasing the memory of T cells could reverse vitiligo symptoms

Researchers found targeting resident memory T cells restores pigmentation in mouse model of vitiligo, offering potential new treatment. Current treatments can restore color but depigmentation recurs in up to 40% of cases.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJul 18, 2018

Proteomics studies on the basic biology of Alzheimer's, cancer and listeriosis

Researchers used proteomics to study the basic biology of Alzheimer's disease, cancer, and listeriosis. They found that BACE1 inhibition increases amyloid precursor protein and other substrates in Alzheimer's, while butyrate activates mitochondrial oxidation and suppresses tumor growth in colorectal cancer cells.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalMolecular & Cellular Proteomics·DateJul 18, 2018

Study reveals benefits of yoga for pregnant women

A new study reveals that practicing yoga during pregnancy activates the parasympathetic nervous system, leading to improved sleep quality and reduced stress levels. The research also found a decrease in alpha-amylase levels, indicating a reduction in stress response.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Research·DateJul 18, 2018

Fish consumption may prolong life

A large study found that consuming fish was associated with a reduced risk of mortality from all causes, as well as specific chronic diseases like cardiovascular disease, cancer, respiratory disease, and Alzheimer's. Higher intake of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids also showed significant protective effects.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Internal Medicine·DateJul 18, 2018

Experts address ways to support latest science education standards

A new article in Journal of Research Science Teaching addresses ways to enact Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) in diverse educational systems, particularly those with resource constraints. The Carbon TIME project is presented as a design-based implementation research approach that supports enactment of NGSS.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Research in Science Teaching·DateJul 18, 2018

Cities as study proxies for climate change

Research reviewed by North Carolina State University suggests that cities display predicted effects of climate change, including urban heat islands and drought rates. Urban areas can show how plants and animals respond to changes in climate over long stretches of time, providing insights into potential future effects.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·DateJul 18, 2018

Overuse of antibiotics not what the doctor ordered

A global study reveals 62% of antibiotics sold without prescription in community pharmacies worldwide, posing a significant risk to the development and spread of antibiotic resistance. The study highlights the urgent need for better enforcement of laws regulating antibiotic sales.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalJournal of Infection·DateJul 18, 2018