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Science News for July 5, 2018


Stopping a tiny -- and deadly -- fly in its tracks

Researchers have developed a novel technique using genetically-encoded glucose biosensors to monitor Trypanosoma brucei parasite metabolism and identify molecules that disrupt glucose levels. This could lead to the development of therapeutics for African sleeping sickness, a disease causing fatal results in sub-Saharan Africa.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateJul 5, 2018

NASA finds one small area of strong storms in Tropical Storm Fabio

NASA's Aqua satellite detected a small area of strong thunderstorms in Tropical Storm Fabio, which has the potential to generate very heavy rainfall. The storm's convective structure has continued to degrade, leading to decreased winds and a forecasted weakening into a remnant low.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 5, 2018

Inferior vena cava filter trends over 2 decades

IVC filter placement and retrieval procedures declined over the last decade, with a notable shift towards radiologists and cardiologists performing placements in hospital outpatient settings. Retrieval rates increased but remained less than 15% across all specialties.

SourceHarvey L. Neiman Health Policy Institute·JournalJournal of the American College of Radiology·DateJul 5, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New world record for direct solar water-splitting efficiency

Researchers have achieved a direct solar water-splitting efficiency of 19.3%, surpassing the theoretical maximum of 23%. The innovation lies in a tandem cell made of III-V semiconductors and a crystalline titanium dioxide layer, which improves anti-reflection properties and enhances catalyst activity.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalACS Energy Letters·DateJul 5, 2018

Texas A&M AgriLife study shows BPA risk factor for inflammatory bowel disease

A recent Texas A&M AgriLife study reveals that dietary exposure to bisphenol-A (BPA) can increase mortality and worsen symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Researchers found BPA altered gut microbial amino acid metabolism, leading to increased inflammation and reduced compound production related to serotonin breakdown.

SourceTexas A&M AgriLife Communications·JournalSAGE Open·DateJul 5, 2018

Detecting esophageal cancer cells

Researchers at the University of Texas at Arlington have developed a new nanoparticle-based platform that can simultaneously image and treat esophageal cancer cells. The platform uses near-infrared fluorescence for better tissue imaging and tumor targeting properties, making it easier to detect and guide surgeons in removing tumors.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 5, 2018
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

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

A bird's eye view of the Arctic

Researchers from CIRES and NOAA are utilizing drones and tethered balloons to collect weather data in the Arctic, filling critical gaps in atmospheric measurements. These unmanned technologies provide a comprehensive understanding of the region's lower atmosphere, enabling more accurate weather and climate forecasts.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalBulletin of the American Meteorological Society·DateJul 5, 2018

FSU research: Zika suppresses virus-fighting cells

Researchers found that Zika virus has a unique ability to ferry the virus throughout the body using macrophage cells, allowing it to bypass natural barriers. This discovery could lead to the development of effective countermeasures to protect people from the virus's devastating effects.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateJul 5, 2018

New wasp species with a giant stinger discovered in Amazonia

A new parasitoid wasp species, Clistopyga crassicaudata, has been discovered in the Amazon with an exceptionally large stinger used for both laying eggs and injecting venom. The species belongs to a rare genus specializing in laying eggs into spiders or spider egg-sacs.

SourceUniversity of Turku·JournalZootaxa·DateJul 5, 2018
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

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

The rising price of Medicare Part D's 10 most costly medications

The cost of Medicare Part D's 10 most expensive medications increased by 32% between 2011 and 2015, with some drugs costing over $90,000 for a full treatment. The number of patients using these medications also declined by 32%, from 12.9 million to 8.8 million.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateJul 5, 2018

Ames Laboratory to lead new Center for Advancement of Topological Semimetals

The Center for the Advancement of Topological Semimetals (CATS) will bring together researchers from top institutions to explore the potential impact of topological semimetals in mid-infrared photodetection and spintronics. The center will train young researchers to lead the discovery and development of quantum properties of matter.

SourceDOE/Ames National Laboratory·DateJul 5, 2018
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

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

A molecular label: traceability for medical implants

Researchers have developed a molecular labeling method using polymers to identify biomedical implants, even after prolonged periods inside the living being. The technique uses mass spectrometry to decode the 'code' of the labels, enabling unambiguous identification and potential extension to other healthcare materials.

SourceCNRS·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJul 5, 2018

Abdominal obesity linked to lower urinary tract symptoms

A recent study found that men with central obesity were at higher risk for lower urinary tract symptoms, characterized by worsened straining and weak stream. The study also revealed a strong association between increased waist-to-hip ratio and these symptoms.

SourceWiley·JournalLUTS Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms·DateJul 5, 2018

An aggressor is not necessarily a bully -- and the distinction matters

Researchers found relational aggression, not relational bullying, associated with increases in victimization in early childhood studies. The findings suggest a need to differentiate between the two behaviors in interventions aimed at general aggression.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalJournal of Child and Family Studies·DateJul 5, 2018

Age and education affect job changes, study finds

A study by University of East Anglia and ETH Zurich found that age and education play a significant role in career mobility. Younger employees with higher levels of education are more likely to switch organisations, industries, and occupations. In contrast, openness to new experiences is not a key factor in job changes.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalEuropean Journal of Work and Organizational Psychology·DateJul 5, 2018
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

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

Content of illicit cannabis extracts used to treat children with epilepsy revealed

A pioneering study found that Australian parents who turned to medicinal cannabis for children with epilepsy overwhelmingly considered the extracts effective. Contrary to parental expectations, most extracts contained low doses of cannabidiol (CBD), a key therapeutic element commonly used in clinical trials. The research revealed the l...

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 5, 2018
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

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

Prostate cancer ultrasound treatment as effective as surgery or radiotherapy

A new study published in European Urology found that high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) treatment is as effective as surgery or radiotherapy in treating prostate cancer, with lower risks of side effects. After five years, the cancer survival rate from HIFU was 100%, comparable to surgery and radiotherapy.

SourceImperial College London·JournalEuropean Urology·DateJul 5, 2018

Researchers upend conventional wisdom on thermal conductivity

A UH-led team has reported synthesizing a crystal grown from boron and arsenic elements with far higher thermal conductivity than any other semiconductors and metals. The discovery could address technological challenges in cooling electronic devices, which is crucial for high power density electronics.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalScience·DateJul 5, 2018

Training in musical improvisation may teach your brain to think differently

Skilled improvisers outperform non-improvisers in distinguishing between easy-to-substitute chords, with their brains showing distinct electrical activity. Improvisational practice reinforces how the brain represents different musical structures, suggesting a scientific basis for creativity.

SourceColumbia University·JournalPsychology of Music·DateJul 5, 2018
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

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

Young athletes' ACL injury risk increases with fatigue, new research shows

A new study reveals that young athletes who experience fatigue are more likely to suffer from Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injuries. The research found that athletes demonstrating high levels of fatigue had a significantly increased risk of ACL injury compared to those without fatigue.

SourceAmerican Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine·DateJul 5, 2018

New research detects brain cell that improves learning

Researchers have discovered a specific brain neuron with a central role in learning and improving memory formation. The study found that activating this brain cell improved memory function, while overactivating it led to impaired learning and memory.

SourceUppsala University·JournalNeuron·DateJul 5, 2018

Study examines alcohol's effects on sexual aggression

A study found that intoxicated men are more likely to persist with pursuing sex despite a woman's refusal, leading to hostile comments. Alcohol consumption also increases the number of times participants engage in non-consensual activities.

SourceWiley·JournalAggressive Behavior·DateJul 5, 2018
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

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

Jupiter's moons create uniquely patterned aurora on the gas giant planet

New images from the Juno spacecraft reveal that Jupiter's moons Io and Ganymede cast multiple, double-wingshaped auroral footprints on their parent planet. These large lunar bodies decorate the atmosphere with unusual patterns, previously seen as a bright spot footprint of each nearby moon.

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

Ex-smokers crave lost identity, study shows

A new study suggests that ex-smokers often relapse due to a desire to recapture their lost social identity. The research found that quitting smoking can be a 'loss' for some individuals, leading them to struggle with feelings of guilt and shame upon regaining their identity as non-smokers.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalJournal of Substance Use·DateJul 5, 2018

What does global climate have to do with erosion rates?

A team of researchers re-examined 30 locations with reported accelerated erosion after glacial-interglacial cycles and found that nearly all proposed links to global climate could not be confirmed. Climate-induced accelerations were recorded only in three cases, driven by localized glacial-valley incision.

SourceGFZ GeoForschungsZentrum Potsdam, Helmholtz Centre·JournalNature·DateJul 5, 2018
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

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

Older patients with knee pain may benefit from allograft transplant technique

Researchers found that older patients (over 40) with knee pain can benefit from osteochondral allograft transplantation, showing significant improvement in knee function and daily activities. This novel approach offers an alternative to traditional treatments for cartilage disorders in active individuals.

SourceAmerican Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine·DateJul 5, 2018

Cost-effectiveness study of risk-based screenings for breast cancer

A cost-effectiveness study analyzed risk-based breast cancer screening programs versus standard age-based screening, evaluating their impact on healthcare resources and patient outcomes. The study found that risk-based screening programs can be more cost-effective than traditional age-based programs for certain populations in the UK.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateJul 5, 2018

Scientists teach the neural network to carry out video facial recognition -- using a single photo

Researchers at the Higher School of Economics have developed a new method for recognizing people on video using only one photo, achieving higher recognition accuracy compared to existing methods. The algorithm uses information on how reference photos are related to correct errors in video frame recognition.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalExpert Systems with Applications·DateJul 5, 2018
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

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

Neuronal 'barcodes' shape complex networks in the brain

Researchers discovered a molecular code that determines synapse formation and function in the brain. Three adhesion molecules precisely define how connections between neurons are made, shedding light on autism and schizophrenia. This finding could lead to better understanding of brain disorders and potential new therapies.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalNeuron·DateJul 5, 2018

Implanting diamonds with flaws offers key technology for quantum communications

Princeton researchers successfully implant diamonds with silicon vacancies to create a quantum repeater, enabling the transmission of fragile quantum information over long distances. This breakthrough could lead to ultra-secure communication networks and new quantum computers solving complex problems.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalScience·DateJul 5, 2018

Ancient dog cancer still around today after 10,000 years

Researchers found a cancerous tumor that has been present in modern American dogs for thousands of years, tracing it back to ancient dog populations that arrived with early humans. The study suggests catastrophic events may have led to the sudden disappearance of these early canines.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalScience·DateJul 5, 2018
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

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

£2 million awarded to fight disease in East Africa

The University of Warwick has been awarded £2 million to develop genomics and modeling tools to combat viral diseases in East Africa. The project will engage health authorities, institutes, and researchers in the region to identify priority questions and link output to policy.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·DateJul 5, 2018

MCG students selected to participate in yearlong NIH research program

Two MCG students, Saadia Hasan and Deeti Pithadia, have been selected to participate in the National Institutes of Health's Medical Research Scholars Program. The program allows them to conduct basic, clinical or translational research while pursuing their medical degrees.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·DateJul 5, 2018
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

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

Data-sharing website may speed the response to new illegal drugs

The NPS Data Hub allows experts to collaborate and share data on new drug variants, enabling faster identification of emerging threats. By facilitating real-time discussion and collaboration, the Data Hub aims to shorten the time lag between discovery of a new drug and its distribution in law enforcement databases.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalForensic Chemistry·DateJul 5, 2018

Cultural practices may cause dermatologic side effects and complications

Boston University researchers identified risks associated with various cultural practices, including acupuncture, cupping, and moxibustion. Dermatologists need to be aware of these potential complications to provide effective care across diverse cultures.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Dermatology·DateJul 5, 2018

Complex brain circuitry revealed using new single-cell sequencing technology

Researchers at TGen and Circuit Therapeutics have developed new methods to examine medium spiny neurons in the striatum, a structure crucial for movement, decision-making, and action initiation. They identified Chrm4 as a potential therapeutic drug target, shedding light on how MSN cells contribute to neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceThe Translational Genomics Research Institute·JournalFrontiers in Cellular Neuroscience·DateJul 5, 2018
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

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

Expansion of agricultural land reduces CO2 absorption

Changes in land use significantly impact CO2 storage in vegetation and atmospheric concentration. Deforestation can lead to reduced capacity for plants and soil to absorb CO2.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateJul 5, 2018

NASA's Terra satellite apots second Atlantic Tropical Depression

Tropical Depression Two formed in the Central Atlantic Ocean on July 5, 2018, with maximum sustained winds of near 35 mph. The system is forecast to potentially strengthen into a tropical storm and then degenerate into an open trough east of the Lesser Antilles over the weekend.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 5, 2018

Study examines salmon poisoning disease in grizzly bears

A new study examines the impact of salmon poisoning disease on grizzly bears in the North Cascades and central Idaho. The research suggests that using bears with no history of salmon consumption may not be effective due to their sensitivity to the disease, complicating recovery plans.

SourceWiley·JournalThe Journal of Wildlife Management·DateJul 5, 2018

Potential new drug for two life-threatening diseases

Researchers at Cardiff University have developed a potential new treatment for schistosomiasis and fascioliasis, two devastating tropical diseases. The goji berry-derived drug compound shows promise in combating the parasites that cause these conditions.

SourceCardiff University·JournalEuropean Journal of Medicinal Chemistry·DateJul 5, 2018

'Molecular movie' captures chemical reaction on atomic scale

A team of physicists has captured the behavior of a five-atom molecule's atomic nuclei and chemical bonds in response to a laser, revealing the clearest glimpse yet of a photochemical reaction. The study marks a significant advancement in understanding these light-fueled molecular transformations.

SourceUniversity of Nebraska-Lincoln·JournalScience·DateJul 5, 2018
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Opioid epidemic responses overlook gender

Current opioid epidemic responses neglect to account for gender-specific factors, including pain sensitivity and treatment outcomes. Women are disproportionately affected by opioid addiction, with increased risk of overdose deaths and limited access to effective treatment options.

SourceYale University·JournalThe Lancet·DateJul 5, 2018

UV narrow-band photodetector based on indium oxide nanocrystals

Researchers from Russia and India have developed a narrow-band UV photodetector based on indium oxide nanocrystals embedded in aluminum oxide. The device shows record values of responsivity and external quantum efficiency, making it suitable for applications such as fluorescence detection and UV phototherapy.

SourceLobachevsky University·JournalNanotechnology·DateJul 5, 2018

Genetic trails of the New World's oldest dogs and Near East goat domestication

A genetic study uncovers that pre-contact American dogs originated from Siberian ancestors, not native wolves, and were introduced to the region through Beringia. Meanwhile, ancient goat domestication in the Near East involved multiple wild sources and selective breeding for traits like color.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJul 5, 2018
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

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

Spiders go ballooning on electric fields

Scientists from the University of Bristol have discovered that spiders can become airborne in the absence of wind when subjected to electric fields, defying current theories on aerodynamic drag. The researchers believe that electric fields trigger ballooning and provide lift, revolutionizing our understanding of spider dispersal.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJul 5, 2018

Immunotherapy for deadly bacteria shows early promise

Researchers at Lehigh University have designed a small-molecule compound to decorate the surface of Gram-negative bacteria and trigger an immunological response. The compound targets pathogenic bacteria in two distinct ways, generating a promising lead for immunotherapeutic agents against deadly, antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

SourceLehigh University·JournalCell Chemical Biology·DateJul 5, 2018
GoPro HERO13 Black

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

Machine learning to assist in building muscle

Researchers developed a deep-learning model to predict biological age of muscles and estimate the importance of genetic and epigenetic factors driving muscle aging. The study identified tissue-specific biomarkers of aging, which can be used to track the effectiveness of interventions.

SourceInSilico Medicine·JournalFrontiers in Genetics·DateJul 5, 2018

How to start a nanomotor?

A research team at TUM has reconstructed the protein complex responsible for transport within cilia, crucial for cellular movement and organ development. The study reveals a minimal combination of four proteins that start the engine of intraflagellar transport.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature·DateJul 5, 2018

Synthesis of tetrapeptides and screening of their antioxidant properties

Researchers synthesized tetrapeptide PAGY and its analogues using solid phase peptide synthesis, screening their antioxidant properties. The results showed that PSGY exhibited the highest DPPH inhibition activity, while modifications in amino acid sequences increased or decreased antioxidant activity.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCurrent Bioactive Compounds·DateJul 5, 2018

Spleen microbes of wild animals change with tick-borne illness

Researchers discovered that Anaplasma bacteria alter the microbiota of mouse and shrew spleens, changing bacterial compositions. The study highlights wild animals as potential reservoirs for tick-borne diseases with public health importance.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateJul 5, 2018
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

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

Vitamin D deficiency affects many pregnant women

A major study found that one in three pregnant women in Norway has a vitamin D deficiency at the end of their pregnancy. Low levels can affect bone health and increase the risk of asthma in children. The study suggests that small measures, such as taking supplements and eating fish, can have positive effects on vitamin D levels.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 5, 2018
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

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

Abnormal branched-chain amino acid breakdown may raise diabetes risk

A study suggests that abnormal metabolism of three essential amino acids may contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes in women who have a history of gestational diabetes. Women with a history of gestational diabetes had higher levels of branched-chain amino acids in their blood, regardless of their dietary intake.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalClinical Chemistry·DateJul 5, 2018

NNSA awards $10 million center grant to Texas A&M-led consortium

A Texas A&M University-led consortium has been awarded a five-year, $10 million grant to establish the Center for Excellence in Nuclear Training And University-based Research (CENTAUR). The center aims to develop next-generation leaders in low-energy nuclear science. CENTAUR will pursue basic research using accelerators at various inst...

SourceTexas A&M University·DateJul 5, 2018
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

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

Oxygen therapy could help combat dementia in individuals with lung disease

Research suggests that oxygen therapy can improve the function of blood vessels in the brains of individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a common cause of dementia. This study found that delivering additional oxygen increased blood flow and oxygen delivery to the brain, matching its demands during activity.

SourceThe Physiological Society·JournalExperimental Physiology·DateJul 5, 2018
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

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

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-NOAA's Suomi NPP sees Typhoon Maria affecting Guam

Typhoon Maria brought heavy rain to Guam, with the National Weather Service issuing a Flash Flood Watch and Small Craft Advisory. The storm is forecast to continue intensifying over the next 24 hours, posing a threat of excessive rainfall and flash flooding.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 5, 2018

Researchers detect Higgs boson coupling with top quark

The Higgs boson-top quark coupling has been observed at the LHC, confirming theoretical predictions of the Standard Model. The detection was made possible by an increase in the collider's energy, allowing for the distinction between two points as small as 10-18 m apart.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJul 5, 2018

High-power electronics keep their cool with new heat-conducting crystals

Researchers at the University of Illinois and Texas have optimized boron arsenide crystal growth to create materials with excellent thermal properties. The new material can effectively dissipate heat, outperforming existing heat spreaders three times over.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalScience·DateJul 5, 2018
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

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

Exposure of hummingbirds and bumble bees to pesticides

Researchers detected pesticides in hummingbird cloacal fluid and fecal pellets, as well as in bumble bee pollen and blueberry flowers. The findings suggest pesticide exposure may impact the health and ecosystem services of these pollinators

SourceWiley·JournalEnvironmental Toxicology and Chemistry·DateJul 5, 2018

Bacteria-powered solar cell converts light to energy, even under overcast skies

Researchers at the University of British Columbia have developed a cheap and sustainable way to build solar cells using bacteria that convert light to energy. The cell generated a current stronger than any previously recorded and worked efficiently in dim light, offering a promising solution for regions with frequent overcast skies.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalSmall·DateJul 5, 2018

Hungry? A newly discovered neural circuit may be the cause

A newly discovered neural circuit in mice regulates feeding behavior, with SST neurons playing a central role. The study reveals that activating these neurons increases eating behavior, while inhibiting them reduces it.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJul 5, 2018
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

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

Non-opioid drug relieves pain in mice, targets immune cells

Researchers have found a non-opioid drug that targets immune cells to relieve pain, providing an alternative to addictive opioid drugs. The investigational drug, EMA401, inhibits the angiotensin II type 2 receptor on macrophages, leading to pain signal transmission.

SourceWashU Medicine·DateJul 5, 2018

Gonorrhea researchers identify novel route to vaccine, new antibiotic

Gonorrhea researchers have identified a novel protein that powers the virulence of the bacteria causing gonorrhea, opening the possibility of a new target for antibiotics. The discovery could lead to the development of a vaccine and improved treatment options for the highly damaging disease.

SourceOregon State University·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateJul 5, 2018

'Skinny fat' in older adults may predict dementia, Alzheimer's risk

A new study found that 'skinny fat,' a combination of low muscle mass and high fat mass, may predict cognitive decline in older adults. Sarcopenic obesity was associated with the lowest performance on global cognition tests, followed by sarcopenia alone and then obesity alone.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalClinical Interventions in Aging·DateJul 5, 2018

The tricks to playing extra time in the World Cup

A study by University of Huddersfield researchers suggests that carbohydrate gels and caffeine-infused chewing gum can help teams perform better in extra time. The five-minute window before extra time begins is crucial, but teams may also need to develop better nutritional strategies.

SourceUniversity of Huddersfield·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·DateJul 5, 2018
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Researchers develop gene therapy method to target kidney cells

Researchers have successfully used viral vectors to deliver genetic material to kidney cells, paving the way for new treatments for chronic kidney disease. The discovery could lead to gene therapies that slow or reverse the growth of cells contributing to CKD.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateJul 5, 2018

High rate of nearsightedness among children in China

Researchers found a significant rise in myopia rates among Chinese schoolchildren, with some studies suggesting an annual incidence rate of up to 30%. This could be attributed to increased screen time and sedentary lifestyles, prompting recommendations for outdoor playtime and other interventions.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateJul 5, 2018

Urban greenways can reduce neighborhood carbon emissions

A new study by UBC researchers reveals that urban greenways can significantly reduce daily car travel distances and resulting carbon emissions. Participants living within 300 meters of Vancouver's Comox-Helmcken Greenway showed an 18% decrease in car travel, while those farther away experienced increased motorized travel.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalTransportation Research Part D Transport and Environment·DateJul 5, 2018
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Progress in addressing a severe skin disease that affects dogs and humans

A new study led by University of Pennsylvania researchers has discovered the underlying factors causing ichthyosis, a skin barrier disorder that leads to thick layers of scales. The team developed a topical therapy using a lotion that restored the skin's natural lipid envelope, improving symptoms in affected dogs.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateJul 5, 2018

'Blind' Cheetah 3 robot can climb stairs littered with obstacles

The Cheetah 3 robot can navigate staircases littered with debris and recover its balance when yanked or shoved, thanks to two new algorithms developed by MIT engineers. The contact detection algorithm helps the robot determine the best time for a leg to switch from swinging in the air to stepping on the ground.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateJul 5, 2018

Photonic capsules for injectable laser resonators

The KAIST research group created photonic capsules that can be injected into any target volume, exhibiting omnidirectional laser emissions. The capsules contain cholesteric liquid crystals (CLCs) with helical nanostructures, which reflect circularly-polarized light and enable wavelength-tunable lasing.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 5, 2018

Investigative report on FDA advisory panels from Science's news department

Investigative report finds 40 physician advisors took over $10,000 from drug makers after reviewing drugs, while 26 received more than $100,000 in post-hoc earnings. The FDA's honor system for disclosing financial interests may be ineffective in detecting conflicts of interest.

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

Gene therapy method developed to target damaged kidney cells

Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine have developed a gene therapy method to target damaged kidney cells, which could lead to improved treatment for chronic kidney disease. The approach uses adeno-associated virus (AAV) to deliver genetic material to targeted cells, showing promise in slowing or reversing cell damage.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateJul 5, 2018

Study finds new brain pathway for escaping predators

A recent study by University of Queensland researchers has uncovered a new brain pathway that enables zebrafish to detect and respond to visual threats from predators. The findings reveal that the thalamus plays a crucial role in processing visual information, which is then transmitted to other parts of the brain for escape responses.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNeuron·DateJul 5, 2018

Scientists develop highly sensitive molecular optical pressure sensor

Researchers have created a water-soluble molecule that can measure pressure in solution, offering new possibilities for materials sciences, catalysis, and other fields. The molecular ruby-based system shows promising results with high sensitivity, outperforming traditional gemstone ruby measurements.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJul 5, 2018

When spiders balloon through the air, it's (literally) electric

Researchers discovered that spiders can detect and respond to electric fields, which provide lift and trigger ballooning behavior. The study suggests that variation in atmospheric electric fields may explain dispersal patterns in spiders and other animals.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJul 5, 2018

Biomarker for salt sensitivity of blood pressure discovered

A genetic marker associated with salt sensitivity in blood pressure has been discovered, which could lead to a simple diagnostic test. The finding is relevant given that nearly all US adults exceed the recommended daily salt intake and is linked to increased cardiovascular risk.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalPhysiological Genomics·DateJul 5, 2018