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Science News for July 30, 2018


New model reveals rips in Earth's mantle layer below southern Tibet

A new model provides the clearest picture yet of the geology below the Tibetan Plateau, revealing tears in the Indian upper mantle layer. The research suggests that these tears are responsible for earthquakes in the region, shedding light on the complex geological processes at play.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 30, 2018

Largest king penguin colony has shrunk nearly 90 percent

The largest king penguin colony on Île aux Cochons has plummeted in size by nearly 90%, with researchers attributing the decline to climate change and vegetation encroachment. Satellite images reveal that the colony's population began declining in the late 1990s, coinciding with a major climatic event related to El Niño.

SourceCNRS·JournalAntarctic Science·DateJul 30, 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.

What keeps the brain awake

A subset of dopaminergic neurons are inhibited during the day by light-responsive neuropeptide Pigment Dispersing Factor (PDF) and its receptor (PDFR), promoting wakefulness. High daytime levels of PDF increase daytime sleep, while reducing PDFR expression decreases daytime sleep.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·JournaleNeuro·DateJul 30, 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.

Individual silver nanoparticles observed in real time

Researchers at Ruhr-University Bochum have created a new technique to study the chemical reactions of individual silver nanoparticles in real-time. They found that under certain conditions, these particles transform into poorly soluble silver chloride, which can be toxic for many organisms.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJul 30, 2018

Research solves a 160-year-old mystery about the origin of skeletons

Researchers have solved a 160-year-old mystery about the origin of vertebrates' skeletons by studying ancient fossils. They found that heterostracan skeletons were made from a unique tissue called aspidin, which is later revealed to be bone-like in structure.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateJul 30, 2018

Advancing the search for antibodies to treat Alzheimer's disease

Researchers have highlighted the importance of testing and targeting different forms of Aβ protein, which can take various shapes including monomers and twisted tangles. Two new studies found that certain forms of Aβ are more toxic than others, and developed a screening test to identify potential therapeutics.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 30, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Harry Noller to receive 2019 BPS Ignacio Tinoco Award

Harry Noller receives 2019 BPS Ignacio Tinoco Award for his pioneering studies on the structure, dynamics, and function of the ribosome. He is recognized for promoting an inclusive and collaborative research environment that positively impacts his community.

SourceBiophysical Society·DateJul 30, 2018

Why bariatric surgery wait times have nearly doubled in 10 years

A new study published in Annals of Surgery found that bariatric surgery wait times in the US have increased significantly over the past decade, with eligible patients often facing longer waits. The delay is largely attributed to insurers requiring patients to lose weight before surgery, which can deter some individuals from pursuing th...

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalAnnals of Surgery·DateJul 30, 2018

Peste des petits ruminants: a model for use in eradicating the disease

Researchers developed a dynamic model to simulate virus spread and conducted a national serological study to assess transmission levels and vaccine coverage required. The results suggest that certain pastoral production systems act as virus reservoirs, emphasizing the need for adapted vaccination strategies in high-risk populations.

SourceCirad·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 30, 2018

Pungent-tasting substance in ginger reduces bad breath

A study found that ginger's 6-gingerol increases the enzyme sulfhydryl oxidase 1 in saliva, breaking down malodorous sulfur-containing compounds and reducing bad breath. Citric acid, on the other hand, makes people less sensitive to salt by increasing sodium ion content in saliva.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateJul 30, 2018

Evolution of acid-sensing ion channels

The study reveals that acid-sensing ion channels (ASICs) have a long evolutionary history, dating back over 600 million years. ASICs are now found in various invertebrates, including sea urchins, starfish, and tunicates.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 30, 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.

Study suggests journalists must take care in reporting on suicide

A large study examining media reporting of suicide found significant associations between reporting details and suicide deaths, highlighting the need for responsible reporting. The study suggests that including crisis resources among recommendations can have a positive impact on vulnerable individuals.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJul 30, 2018

Scientists discover a dynamic cellular defense against breast cancer invasion

Researchers have found that the cell layer surrounding breast milk ducts acts as an active defense mechanism to prevent cancer cells from spreading, grabbing stray cells and pulling them back in up to 92% of the time. This discovery challenges previous assumptions about the myoepithelial layer's role in cancer invasion.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateJul 30, 2018

New approach to terpene syntheses

Chemists at the University of Basel have developed a novel synthesis method for terpenes that uses molecular capsules to mimic nature. The method significantly reduces the number of steps and improves yield in the synthesis process.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalNature Catalysis·DateJul 30, 2018

Brain game doesn't offer brain gain

Researchers debunk claims that brain training games improve working memory and cognitive skills, finding no transfer between trained and untrained tasks. The study's findings support previous research showing that getting good at one game does not enhance IQ or working memory.

SourceUniversity of Western Ontario·JournalNeuropsychologia·DateJul 30, 2018

Sequencing a malaria mosquito's motherline

Researchers have sequenced the first complete mitochondrial genome of Anopheles funestus, a major malaria vector in sub-Saharan Africa. The study reveals significant genetic diversity and ancient lineage differences that could inform new strategies to prevent malaria transmission.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 30, 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.

Elizabeth Rhoades to receive 2019 BPS Michael and Kate Barany Award

Elizabeth Rhoades, Associate Professor at the University of Pennsylvania, has been awarded the 2019 Michael and Kate Bárány Award for her outstanding work on structure-function relations in disordered systems. The award recognizes her innovative use of single-molecule tools to gain insights into conformational landscapes.

SourceBiophysical Society·DateJul 30, 2018

NASA sees Tropical Depression Jongdari stretched out

Tropical Depression Jongdari has been stretched out by wind shear, according to NASA's Aqua satellite image captured on July 30. The storm is expected to re-strengthen into a tropical storm and make landfall near Shanghai on August 2.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 30, 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 took another step towards creating an HIV vaccine

A research group led by Professor Andrei Kozlov has identified a key genetic bottleneck effect that could help design an HIV vaccine. By analyzing blood samples from injecting drug users with early stages of HIV infection, scientists discovered that all viruses share a common ancestor.

SourcePeter the Great Saint-Petersburg Polytechnic University·JournalAIDS Research and Human Retroviruses·DateJul 30, 2018

How time affects learning

A human study found that short training sessions spaced out over weeks improved retention of arbitrary associations, unlike a single 20-minute session. Neuroimaging data showed increased brain engagement in learning-related regions.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateJul 30, 2018

Injectable trace minerals improve oxidative stress after aflatoxin challenge in dairy cows

A new study found that injectable trace minerals alleviate inflammation and oxidative stress in lactating Holstein cows exposed to aflatoxin. The researchers discovered that the minerals increased liver concentrations of selenium and iron and boosted serum glutathione peroxidase activity.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Dairy Science·DateJul 30, 2018

Plate tectonics not needed to sustain life

A computer model of a planet's lifecycle reveals stagnant lid planets can sustain liquid water and potentially life for billions of years. The presence and amount of heat-producing elements are key indicators of habitability, according to Penn State researchers.

SourcePenn State·JournalAstrobiology·DateJul 30, 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.

Memory-processing unit could bring memristors to the masses

Researchers have developed a memory-processing unit using memristors, which can perform numerical calculations in parallel, reducing the need for manual multiplication and summation. This innovation has potential applications in machine learning, artificial intelligence, and simulations for weather forecasting.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNature·DateJul 30, 2018

'Smart' machine components alert users to damage and wear

Researchers at UConn and UTRC developed 'smart' machine components that alert users to damage and wear using advanced additive manufacturing technology. The components use semisolid metal ink to create conductive silver filament lines that act as wear sensors, detecting damage in real-time.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalAdditive Manufacturing·DateJul 30, 2018

UH researchers report new understanding of deep earthquakes

Researchers from the University of Houston have reported a new understanding of deep earthquakes, finding they are hosted in anisotropic rocks. This discovery explains why deep earthquakes radiate seismic energy differently than shallow ones, offering insights into the causes of these events.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJul 30, 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.

Better way found to determine the integrity of metals

A new AI model developed by researchers at the University of Waterloo can accurately detect atomic structures in metals, leading to greater confidence in determining their integrity. The system uses deep learning and generates images of defects to produce a highly effective algorithm for identifying various types of crystal structures.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 30, 2018

Study shows how Oropouche virus replicates in human cells

Researchers describe how Oropouche virus replicates in human cells by hijacking the Golgi complex, a process that could lead to novel targets for preventing infection. The study provides new insights into the replication mechanisms of emerging viruses.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateJul 30, 2018

Lasers write better anodes

Researchers at KAUST have developed a laser-based process to create three-dimensional hard carbon anodes with improved conductivity and capacity for sodium-ion batteries. This breakthrough enables the mass production of high-performance anodes, paving the way for widespread adoption of sodium-ion batteries in energy storage applications.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·DateJul 30, 2018

MSU-based physicists studied complex magnetism in a rare earth compound

Physicists applied high pressure to create polycrystal samples of dysprosium germanide, revealing a charge-density wave phenomenon. The wave influences crystal lattice distortions and magnetic ordering, leading to an anti-ferromagnetic order at lower temperatures.

SourceLomonosov Moscow State University·JournalJournal of Alloys and Compounds·DateJul 30, 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.

How do young people feel about guns, gun regulation in US?

A study of youth opinions on guns and regulation found that most young people support stricter gun control laws to prevent mass shootings. The majority of survey respondents believed that these laws could help reduce the frequency and severity of such incidents.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateJul 30, 2018

Jeff Gelles to receive 2019 BPS Kazuhito Kinosita Award in Single-Molecule

Jeff Gelles to receive 2019 BPS Kazuhito Kinosita Award in Single-Molecule Biophysics, recognizing his exceptional contributions to single-molecule studies and cross-disciplinary research. The award aims to promote further developments in the field, advancing an appreciation of single-molecule biophysics among scientists.

SourceBiophysical Society·DateJul 30, 2018

Madagascar's lemurs use millipedes for their tummy troubles

Researchers observed red-fronted lemurs in Madagascar chewing on millipedes to rid themselves of intestinal parasites. The animals then rubbed the area around their genitals, anuses, and tails with the chomped millipedes to treat conditions like itching and weight loss.

SourceSpringer·JournalPrimates·DateJul 30, 2018

Vanderbilt team finds potent antibodies against three Ebola viruses

Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center have isolated two potent monoclonal antibodies that efficiently neutralized the Zaire, Sudan, and Bundibugyo ebolaviruses. These antibodies also showed protection against infection in animal models, offering a promising lead for the development of injectable antibody treatments.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalImmunity·DateJul 30, 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.

Extreme conditions in semiconductors

Researchers from the Universities of Konstanz and Paderborn have successfully demonstrated Wannier-Stark localization in a high-purity gallium arsenide crystal. This state results in drastic changes to the electronic structure of the crystal, leading to extreme optical nonlinearity and potential chemical reactivity.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 30, 2018

The heritability of anxiety

A study of hundreds of related monkeys found individual differences in brain connectivity associated with anxious temperament. Functional connectivity within the extended amygdala is heritable and linked to early-life anxiety risk.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateJul 30, 2018

Supercomputing the 'how' of chemical reactions

The Atesins used supercomputers at the Texas Advanced Computing Center to study organometallic compounds and understand the structure of a palladium catalyst. Their research revealed that the most stable form of the molecule is chair-shaped, and repulsion between this conformation and the substrate dictates the final product.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·JournalComputational and Theoretical Chemistry·DateJul 30, 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.

Pair of colliding stars spill radioactive molecules into space

Astronomers discover rare radioactive molecule 26AlF in debris of ancient stellar merger CK Vul, revealing insights into star formation and galactic evolution. The detection marks the first time this isotope has been found outside our solar system.

SourceNational Radio Astronomy Observatory·JournalNature Astronomy·DateJul 30, 2018

What were consequences of 2013 measles outbreak in New York?

A 2013 measles outbreak in New York City resulted in 58 confirmed cases, with most unvaccinated individuals affected. The outbreak, triggered by an unvaccinated adolescent's return from London, required a significant public health response, including nearly $400,000 and over 10,000 personnel hours.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateJul 30, 2018

Being overweight may change young adults' heart structure, function

Research suggests that higher body mass index (BMI) can cause changes in the heart's structure and function in young adults, including thicker vessel walls and increased blood pressure. The study used genetic analysis to uncover evidence of a causal link between BMI and cardiovascular measurements.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateJul 30, 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.

Poor mental health days may cost the economy billions of dollars

A study by Penn State researchers found that poor mental health days can lead to a 1.84% drop in per capita real income growth rate, resulting in $53 billion less total income each year. Investing in mental health resources may help mitigate these effects, particularly in rural counties with limited access to services.

SourcePenn State·JournalReview of Regional Studies·DateJul 30, 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.

Mantle tearing under the Tibetan Plateau

The study identifies at least three tears in the Indian mantle lithosphere underthrusting the Himalayas. This model explains patterns of crustal deformation and east-west extension in southern Tibet, providing insights into the region's seismic activity.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 30, 2018

UB psychologist proposes whales use song as sonar

Humpback whale songs may be used for echolocation, allowing singers to analyze their surroundings and locate other whales. This challenges the long-held assumption that whale songs are primarily used for reproductive purposes, instead suggesting a more complex cognitive process at play.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalFrontiers in Physiology·DateJul 30, 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.

Study reveals the Great Pyramid of Giza can focus electromagnetic energy

Scientists from ITMO University discovered that the Great Pyramid can concentrate electromagnetic energy in its internal chambers and base. The research used numerical modeling and analytical methods to predict this phenomenon, which could lead to the development of nanoparticles for sensors and solar cells.

SourceITMO University·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateJul 30, 2018

Cannabidiol prevents nausea in rats

Research published in eNeuro suggests that cannabidiol can prevent nausea in rats by increasing serotonin levels in the brain. The findings implicate the endocannabinoid system and its role in regulating nausea, opening up new therapeutic opportunities.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·JournaleNeuro·DateJul 30, 2018

New electrocatalyst developed for ORR

A team of researchers from Beihang University has fabricated a new type of nonprecious metal-based electrocatalyst, VNQD-NG, for oxygen reduction reaction. The material exhibits high electrocatalytic activity, long durability, and high selectivity for ORR.

SourceWorld Scientific·JournalNANO·DateJul 30, 2018

Gene therapy restores sense of smell in mice

Researchers developed a gene therapy that restored function to the olfactory system in genetically modified mice. The therapy increased cilia and sensory neuron responses, leading to restored connections between neurons and behaviors in odor-guided tasks.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateJul 30, 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.

Research identifies key weakness in modern computer vision systems

Computer vision algorithms have made significant progress in tasks such as object identification and categorization. However, they struggle with determining whether two objects in an image are the same or different. Researchers at Brown University found that this limitation stems from the inability of these algorithms to individuate ob...

SourceBrown University·DateJul 30, 2018

Nano-optic endoscope sees deep into tissue at high resolution

Researchers have developed a new class of endoscopic imaging catheters that overcome the limitations of current systems, achieving higher resolution and functionality. The nano-optic endoscope incorporates metalenses into its design, enabling high-resolution imaging at extended depth of focus without complex optical components.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature Photonics·DateJul 30, 2018

Blue crystals in meteorites show that our sun went through the 'terrible twos'

A new study in Nature Astronomy finds that ancient blue crystals trapped in meteorites show evidence of the early Sun's intense activity, including more eruptions and a stronger stream of charged particles. The crystals, formed over 4.5 billion years ago, preserved chemical records of the young Sun's interactions with its surroundings.

SourceField Museum·JournalNature Astronomy·DateJul 30, 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.

Video recordings spotlight poor communication between nurses and doctors

A pilot study by University of Michigan researchers revealed that poor communication between nurses and doctors is a primary cause of patient care mistakes. Nurses often communicate indirectly, which confuses physicians, and the hospital hierarchy puts nurses at a power disadvantage, making them afraid to speak the truth.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·DateJul 30, 2018

Early metal use and cremation in southeastern United States

Archaeological findings reveal copper band and cremated remains at a burial site in coastal Georgia, dating back to the Late Archaic Period. The copper originated from the Great Lakes region, indicating long-distance cultural exchange among indigenous groups.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 30, 2018

Climate taxes on agriculture could lead to more food insecurity than climate change itself

A new IIASA-led research suggests that climate mitigation schemes in agriculture could lead to more widespread hunger and food insecurity than the direct impacts of climate change. The study highlights the need for smarter, inclusive policies that prioritize development goals alongside emissions reduction.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalNature Climate Change·DateJul 30, 2018

DNA repair after CRISPR cutting not at all what people thought

Researchers discovered that the Fanconi anemia DNA repair pathway plays a crucial role in fixing CRISPR breaks and increasing the efficiency of homology-directed repair. This new understanding could help boost CRISPR-Cas9 editing's success rates, particularly for treating diseases like sickle cell anemia.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNature Genetics·DateJul 30, 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.

Do bacteria ever go extinct? New research says yes, bigtime

A recent study published in Nature Ecology and Evolution found that bacteria undergo substantial extinctions over time, with estimates suggesting between 45,000 to 95,000 bacterial lineages going extinct in the last million years alone. This contradicts widely held scientific thinking that microbe taxa rarely die off.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateJul 30, 2018

Magnetic nanoparticles deliver chemotherapy to difficult-to-reach spinal tumors

Researchers have developed a novel delivery system using magnetic nanoparticles to target chemotherapy drugs to spinal cord tumors, which are difficult to reach due to the blood-brain barrier. This approach shows promise in treating intramedullary spinal cord tumors with improved survival rates and reduced side effects.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 30, 2018

Targeting gene mutations to treat ovarian cancers

Researchers have discovered that women with low-grade serous ovarian cancer and a BRAF gene mutation experience excellent responses to BRAF inhibitor treatments. This finding is encouraging for patients who may not respond to conventional chemotherapy.

SourceWestmead Institute for Medical Research·JournalJCO Precision Oncology·DateJul 30, 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.

A reliable, easy-to-use mouse model for investigating bone metastasis

A new mouse model has been developed to study bone metastasis, allowing researchers to inject a large number of cancer cells without causing death. The model enables the detection of bone metastasis in the hind limbs with high efficiency and provides insights into cancer cell dormancy and reactivation.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 30, 2018

New process in root development discovered

Researchers at IST Austria have identified the signal and receptor that coordinate root cap loss and regrowth. The team discovered a small peptide called IDL1 that diffuses through the root tip and is perceived by cells in the root apical meristem, enabling communication between outer and inner root cap cells.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalNature Plants·DateJul 30, 2018

Harnessing hair loss gene could improve cancer immunotherapy

Researchers found a gene that recruits immune cells in alopecia areata, an autoimmune disease causing hair loss. They discovered this gene is turned off in various cancers, protecting them from the immune system. By turning it back on, tumors can be made vulnerable to immunotherapy.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalCell Systems·DateJul 30, 2018

Great tit birds have as much impulse control as chimpanzees

In a recent study, biologists found that great tits possess remarkable impulse control, beating 80% of attempts to access food in a test. This cognitive ability surpasses many other animals and is comparable to intelligent species like ravens and chimpanzees.

SourceLund University·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateJul 30, 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.

Estrogen and HIV latency

Researchers found that estrogen receptor modulators increase the effectiveness of HIV latency reversal therapies. Exposure to estrogen limits the emergence of HIV from latency, suggesting a potential factor in future eradication therapies.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 30, 2018

A brain injury diagnosed with a single drop of blood

Researchers from UNIGE have developed a portable device called TBIcheck that analyzes proteins in the blood to diagnose mild traumatic brain injury. The device can detect four biomarkers associated with brain injuries, including H-FABP, Interleukin-10, S100B, and GFAP.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 30, 2018

Why BACE inhibitors may be failing Alzheimer's trials

BACE inhibitors may fail Alzheimer's trials due to impaired differentiation of newborn cells, according to a study published in eNeuro. The research suggests that partial BACE inhibition could represent an alternative strategy for reducing AD pathology while maintaining adult neurogenesis.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·JournaleNeuro·DateJul 30, 2018

Yves De Koninck to receive 2019 BPS Emily Gray Award

The Biophysical Society named Yves De Koninck its 2019 Emily M. Gray Award winner for his work in developing transdisciplinary training initiatives in neurophysics and neurophotonics. The award recognizes his dedication to mentoring the next generation of scientists.

SourceBiophysical Society·DateJul 30, 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.

Australia facing increased intense rain storms

A landmark study by Newcastle University researchers finds that heavy, short rain storms are intensifying rapidly in Australia, leading to increased flash flood and urban flooding risks. The study, published in Nature Climate Change, shows that these extreme events are substantially larger than expected under climate change.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalNature Climate Change·DateJul 30, 2018

ASU research finds silicon-based, tandem photovoltaic modules can compete in solar market

New solar energy research from Arizona State University demonstrates that silicon-based tandem photovoltaic modules can become increasingly attractive in the US market, with potential to reduce costs and increase efficiency. The study found that 32% efficient anticipated tandem modules can cost more than three times that of projected 2...

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature Energy·DateJul 30, 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.

Lack of a single molecule may indicate severe and treatment-resistant depression

Researchers found that patients with severe depression have decreased levels of acetyl-L-carnitine in their blood, which may indicate a specific subtype of depression. The study suggests that LAC screening could be used as an effective biomarker for diagnosing treatment-resistant depression.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 30, 2018

3D printing the next generation of batteries

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have developed a new 3D printing method that creates porous microlattice structures in battery electrodes, resulting in fourfold increase in specific capacity and twofold increase in areal capacity. The technology has potential applications in consumer electronics, medical devices, aerospace, a...

SourceCollege of Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University·JournalAdditive Manufacturing·DateJul 30, 2018

In a Weyl thermopile

Physicists at the University of Tokyo have discovered a new method to generate electricity in special materials called Weyl magnets, exploiting temperature gradients. This could lead to the creation of low-power, low-maintenance electronic devices.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature Physics·DateJul 30, 2018

Trapping light that doesn't bounce off track for faster electronics

A new protective metamaterial 'cladding' prevents light from leaking out of curvy pathways in computer chips, allowing for more efficient processing. This breakthrough enables the integration of photonic with electric circuitry, increasing communication speed and reducing power consumption.

SourcePurdue University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 30, 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: Student loans hamper wealth accumulation among black, Hispanic adults

A new study suggests that student loans hinder wealth accumulation among black and Hispanic adults. By age 30, these individuals had significantly lower net worth ($36,000) and financial assets ($11,780), compared to their peers without debt. The study highlights the importance of college education in building wealth among minority you...

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalChildren and Youth Services Review·DateJul 30, 2018

Parker Solar Probe and the birth of the solar wind

The Parker Solar Probe will directly sample solar particles and magnetic fields to resolve the origin and acceleration of the solar wind. It aims to understand how the solar wind is accelerated to speeds of up to 1.8 million miles per hour.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 30, 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.

Juli Feigon to receive 2019 BPS Founders Award

Juli Feigon, Distinguished Professor at UCLA, receives the 2019 BPS Founders Award for her pioneering work in NMR structural biology. She has made significant contributions to understanding the conformational variability of DNA and RNA, as well as the structure and function of telomerase complexes.

SourceBiophysical Society·DateJul 30, 2018

Diversity and education influence India's population growth

A new study suggests that incorporating regional differences into population projection models in India can significantly impact projected population growth. The research highlights the importance of considering education level, which is associated with lower fertility rates, in determining population projections.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 30, 2018

SNMMI Technologist Section announces 2018 award winners

The Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging's Technologist Section recognized contributions from April Mann, Cybil Nielsen, Cheryl Rickley, and Lynne Roy for their dedication to advancing nuclear medicine technology. The awards highlight the impact of these individuals on education, advocacy, and service in the field.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·DateJul 30, 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 increase in Southern Ocean upwelling may explain the Holocene CO2 rise

The study found that increased nutrient supply in the Southern Ocean during the Holocene era likely contributed to the 20 ppm increase in atmospheric CO2, preventing cooling and facilitating human civilization development. The ocean's 'biological pump' weakened due to enhanced upwelling, allowing CO2 to escape into the atmosphere.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemistry·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJul 30, 2018

Natural habitat can help farmers control pests, but not always a win-win

A study found that natural habitat surrounding farm fields is not always effective in controlling pests, with benefits varying widely across the globe. The analysis, published in PNAS, compiled data from over 6,700 sites in 31 countries, revealing no one-size-fits-all recommendations for farmers.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 30, 2018

Researchers reveal hidden rules of genetics for how life on Earth began

Researchers from University of North Carolina and University of Auckland have made a significant advance in resolving the mystery of genetic translation. Their analysis reveals previously hidden rules by which key translational molecules interact, suggesting that simpler ancestors of these molecules worked together at the dawn of life.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateJul 30, 2018

Songi Han to receive 2019 BPS Innovation Award

Songi Han is recognized for her inventions of solid-state and time-domain-capable dynamic nuclear polarization instrumentation, advancing fundamental understanding of surface water properties in biological materials. Her work characterizes surface water in soft materials, contributing to our knowledge of biological hydration.

SourceBiophysical Society·DateJul 30, 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.

Looking inside the lithium battery's black box

Researchers at Columbia University have used Stimulated Raman Scattering microscopy to directly observe ion transport in electrolytes for the first time. They discovered a lithium deposition process with three stages: no depletion, partial depletion, and full depletion of lithium ions. The study also found a feedback mechanism between ...

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 30, 2018

Researchers in China link dangerous foodborne pathogen to centipedes

Researchers detected the Angiostrongylus cantonensis parasite in two patients in a Chinese hospital who consumed raw wild centipedes, linking it to foodborne illnesses. The parasite can cause meningitis, paralysis, and death, and has been found in snails, giant African land snails, and other regions.

SourceBurness·JournalAmerican Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene·DateJul 30, 2018

New ways to assess drug benefits can help cut health care costs

Researchers have developed a new method called matching-adjusted indirect comparison (MAIC) to compare the effectiveness of drugs with limited data, enabling more accurate reimbursement decisions. By analyzing patient characteristics, MAIC provides unbiased estimates of treatment effects, helping to optimize resource allocation.

SourceAmerican Statistical Association·DateJul 30, 2018

Acetyl-L-carnitine deficiency and major depressive disorder

Individuals with MDD have lower LAC levels than healthy controls, increasing with disease severity and age of onset. Patients with low LAC levels often do not respond to standard antidepressant medications, suggesting LAC may aid in diagnosing severe, trauma-associated depression.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 30, 2018

Depression linked to low blood levels of acetyl-L-carnitine

A study found people with depression have lower blood levels of acetyl-L-carnitine than healthy individuals. The findings suggest a potential new class of antidepressants could be developed to treat severe or treatment-resistant depression.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 30, 2018