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Science News for June 12, 2018


Breathing better may be an added benefit of biodiversity

A study of nearly 50,000 New Zealand children found that greener neighborhoods are less likely to develop asthma, while low plant diversity is associated with a higher risk. Biodiversity conservation may provide concrete health benefits beyond its ecological significance.

SourceUSDA Forest Service - Pacific Northwest Research Station·JournalNature Plants·DateJun 12, 2018

Research provides insights on World War II naval battle site

A new study provides detailed 3D models of the USS Emmons, a US Navy destroyer that sank in 1945. The mapping technique using multibeam echosounding and photogrammetry will aid in preserving this World War II battle site for future research and education.

SourceWiley·JournalThe International Journal of Nautical Archaeology·DateJun 12, 2018

Sleeping too much or not enough may have bad effects on health

A large Korean study found that sleeping fewer than six hours a day is associated with an increased risk of metabolic syndrome and its components, including higher waist circumference and triglycerides. The study also showed a potential gender difference, with long sleep linked to metabolic syndrome in women and short sleep in men.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Public Health·DateJun 12, 2018
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

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

On-site pathology testing in remote Australia benefits patients and cuts costs

The study found that on-site pathology testing reduced the need for medical evacuations by up to 35%, resulting in estimated total cost savings of $21.75 million per year. This technology enabled early diagnosis, treatment, and evacuation for critically ill patients in remote communities.

SourceEmergency Medicine Foundation (Australia)·JournalClinicoEconomics and Outcomes Research·DateJun 12, 2018

Study: Today's dads are engaging more with their kids

A majority of fathers today spend more time with their children and provide more care than ever before. The study found that fathers who exhibit negative aspects of traditional masculinity are less involved with their children. To be a better father, men should not be afraid to show and feel their feelings.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalJournal of Marriage and Family·DateJun 12, 2018

Carrying standby antibiotics encourages travelers to careless antibiotic use

A study found that travellers carrying standby antibiotics are more likely to use them for mild and moderate diarrhoea, contributing to antimicrobial resistance. The study identified factors increasing antibiotic use among travellers, including carriage of stand-by antibiotics, vomiting, and contact with local healthcare.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalTravel Medicine and Infectious Disease·DateJun 12, 2018

OU meteorologists studying Arctic atmospheric barriers

Researchers at the University of Oklahoma are investigating tropopause polar vortices, which limit predictability in the Arctic. The team aims to develop new models and strategies to better understand TPVs and their impact on weather events.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·DateJun 12, 2018
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

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

103rd ESA Annual Meeting: Preview and highlights

The ESA Annual Meeting explores how extreme events challenge populations, communities, and ecosystems, as well as human health and living conditions. The meeting delves into topics such as pastoralism in the 21st century, drought resilience and recovery, and coastal ecological resilience and climate change adaptation.

SourceEcological Society of America·DateJun 12, 2018

Block play could improve your child's math skills, executive functioning

A new study by Purdue University researchers found that semi-structured block play can improve math skills such as numeracy and shape recognition. Additionally, the intervention also enhanced two indicators of executive functioning, including cognitive flexibility and global executive functioning.

SourcePurdue University·JournalEarly Childhood Research Quarterly·DateJun 12, 2018

Children with kidney disease show blood flow changes in brain

A study published in Radiology found that children with chronic kidney disease exhibit increased cerebral blood flow compared to healthy controls. This may indicate compensatory hyperactivity or disturbances in blood flow regulation, potentially leading to white matter injury and cognitive problems.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateJun 12, 2018

The true power of the solar wind

Researchers from TU Wien discovered that solar wind particles can cause drastic effects on rock surfaces, leading to an 'exosphere' of shattered atoms. The findings are crucial for the ESA mission BepiColombo, which aims to study Mercury's composition using this exosphere.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalIcarus·DateJun 12, 2018
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

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

Potential new treatment for drug addiction relapse revealed

Researchers have discovered a novel mechanism for combating drug addiction relapse, focusing on the brain's cholinergic system and its role in memory. Using an animal model, they found that a specific blocker of the alpha7 nicotinic receptor impaired relapse to morphine seeking behavior.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalAddiction Biology·DateJun 12, 2018

NASA finds heavy rainmaking thunderstorms in Hurricane Bud

NASA's Aqua satellite captures infrared data on Hurricane Bud, revealing very high and towering thunderstorms near land. The storms have cold cloud top temperatures of minus 80 degrees Fahrenheit, indicating strong uplift and potential for heavy rain.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJun 12, 2018

Cancer: More targeted use of immunotherapy

A new method for predicting treatment success in cancer patients using immunotherapy has been discovered. This method relies on a protein called PD-1, which is found on the surface of human immune cells and allows them to detect tumors more effectively.

SourceSwiss National Science Foundation (SNSF)·JournalNature Medicine·DateJun 12, 2018

Multiple lasers could be replaced by a single microcomb

A team of researchers at Chalmers University of Technology and Purdue University has developed a microcomb that can replace dozens of high-performance lasers, enabling faster and more power-efficient optical communication links. The technology uses a tiny optical cavity to generate sharp frequency lines, which have unique properties th...

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 12, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

First influenza-specific neuraminidase test kit for flu vaccines

The VaxArray NA reagent kit provides a standardized method for assessing neuraminidase in influenza vaccines, enabling manufacturers to meet current regulatory requirements and prepare for future trends. This breakthrough tool is expected to serve as an important new asset in the push for a more broadly protective or 'universal' flu va...

SourceInDevR, Inc.·DateJun 12, 2018

Alzheimer's disease: How amyloid aggregates alter neuronal function

Amyloid peptides prevent CamKII from participating in synaptic plasticity, leading to synapse loss and cognitive deficiencies. Researchers aim to understand the molecular mechanism behind amyloid aggregate interactions with CamKII to develop potential treatments for early Alzheimer's disease.

SourceCNRS·JournalCell Reports·DateJun 12, 2018
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

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

Study links content of service members' art to their trauma levels

A new study found that military service members who depicted psychological injuries in their artwork had more acute post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms than those who used symbols of their military units. The research team linked themes in masks made by active service members to measures of depression, anxiety, and PTSD.

SourceDrexel University·JournalBMJ Open·DateJun 12, 2018
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

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

A new kind of vaccine based on spider silk

Researchers have developed a novel technique using spider silk microparticles to deliver vaccines directly to immune cells, increasing T lymphocyte responses. This method shows promise in strengthening vaccine efficacy, especially for cancer and infectious diseases.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalBiomaterials·DateJun 12, 2018
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

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

Urban violence can hurt test scores even for kids who don't experience it

A new study by Johns Hopkins University found that children attending school with peers from violent neighborhoods score as much as 10% lower on standardized math and reading tests. Exposure to neighborhood violence has a significant impact on an entire school's functioning, affecting not only students but also their classmates.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalSociology of Education·DateJun 12, 2018

Finally, hope for a syphilis vaccine

Syphilis researchers have identified exterior proteins on the bacteria that could serve as vaccine targets, marking a breakthrough in the development of a potential vaccine. The discovery was made by UConn Health researchers using computer modeling and testing techniques.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalmBio·DateJun 12, 2018

Immune response associated with inflammation and joint damage in rheumatoid arthritis

A new study from Uppsala University reveals that a wide range of anti-citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPA) in immune complexes from the joints can cause local inflammation and drive joint damage in rheumatoid arthritis. This finding supports the suspicion that ACPAs are pathogenic by forming immune complexes in the joints.

SourceUppsala University·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateJun 12, 2018
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

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

Smoking and diabetes linked to brain calcifications

A study published in Radiology found that people who smoke or have diabetes are at increased risk of calcifications in the hippocampus, a region crucial for memory. The study suggests a link between smoking and diabetes and an increased risk of brain calcifications.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateJun 12, 2018

Nation's largest, most comprehensive indoor chemistry study now underway

The HOMEChem field experiment is analyzing chemical interactions in indoor environments, exploring sources of oxidants, organic compounds, and reactive nitrogen species. The month-long project uses advanced instruments to detect chemicals in real-time, providing insights into the complex chemistry of indoor environments.

SourceAlfred P. Sloan Foundation·DateJun 12, 2018

Discovery shines light on the mystery of cell death in MS

Researchers have identified pyroptosis, a type of programmed cell death associated with inflammation, as a key mechanism in multiple sclerosis. The discovery of the process and its link to brain cells has led to the development of a potential new treatment using an anti-inflammatory drug.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 12, 2018

More of the Chinese population will be exposed to heat waves

A recent study by Prof. Xuejie Gao and colleagues found that China's population will experience a six-fold increase in very hot days by the end of the 21st century, affecting over 0.2 billion people with no exposure to cooling. The region from Yangtze River valley to North China will see the largest increase in thermal stress.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAtmospheric and Oceanic Science Letters·DateJun 12, 2018
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

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

Psychedelic drugs, ketamine change structure of neurons

A study by University of California - Davis researchers finds that psychedelic drugs increase dendritic branches and spines, promoting neural plasticity. This structural change mirrors the effects of ketamine, a treatment-resistant antidepressant.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalCell Reports·DateJun 12, 2018

Bacterial enzymes: The biological role of europium

Researchers have identified a europium-containing enzyme in Methylacidiphilum fumariolicum SolV, which is essential for the bacterium's growth and catalyzes methanol conversion. The study reveals that the type of rare earth element bound affects enzyme activity.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalChemBioChem·DateJun 12, 2018
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Protective mechanism against atherosclerosis discovered

Researchers at CeMM Research Center discovered a protective mechanism against atherosclerosis when targeting the molecule BAFF. The study found that blocking BAFF receptors actually increased plaque size, revealing an unexpected role for BAFF in reducing atherosclerosis risk.

SourceCeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences·JournalCirculation·DateJun 12, 2018

Childhood vaccination exemptions rise in parts of the US

Childhood vaccination exemptions are increasing in parts of the US, with higher rates linked to lower MMR vaccination coverage. The authors highlight a need for stricter legislative action to protect children from highly infectious diseases.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJun 12, 2018

How stem cells move

Researchers from Newcastle University discovered that human embryonic stem cells travel back and forth in a line, revealing subtle patterns to their movement. This finding has important implications for the development of computer models to predict and control stem cell evolution.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalPhysical Biology·DateJun 12, 2018

One-third of US adults may unknowingly use medications that can cause depression

A study found that over 200 commonly used prescription drugs have depression or suicide listed as potential side effects, with concurrent use increasing the risk of depressive symptoms. The researchers suggest updating drug safety software and evaluating medication use in depression screening tools to minimize the impact of depression.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalJAMA·DateJun 12, 2018
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Video conferencing helps PCPs improve liver disease care, survival rates

A new study finds that video consultations between primary care physicians and specialists improve liver disease care and increase patient survival rates. Patients who participated in these consultations had a 54% higher survival rate compared to those without access to virtual consultations.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalHepatology·DateJun 12, 2018

Threatened whales and dolphins recognize predatory killer whales from their alarming calls

Researchers discovered that pilot whales and Risso's dolphins can recognize the alarming calls of killer whales, leading to evasive actions such as fleeing. The team found unique features in the distressing calls that are not present in other whale species or human screams, suggesting a warning system for potential victims.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateJun 12, 2018
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

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

Boring down on boron

Researchers investigated how boron evaporates in seawater to produce higher-quality drinking and irrigation water. They found that both multi-stage flash and air-gap membrane distillation technologies were effective in reducing boron concentrations below the Saudi standard of 0.5mg/l.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalJournal of Hazardous Materials·DateJun 12, 2018

How can patients be protected from post-surgery opioid addiction?

A recent study found that up to seven percent of patients develop a persistent habit after being prescribed opioids following surgery. To address this issue, experts recommend enhanced care coordination between surgeons and primary care physicians to identify patients at risk of developing opioid addiction.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateJun 12, 2018
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

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

CREDO: You too can help unveil the deepest puzzles of the universe

The CREDO Detector app allows users to contribute to the largest particle detector in history, exploring fundamental physics questions like dark matter and spacetime nature. By registering and initiating particle detection, users can gain co-authorship and membership in the international collaboration.

SourceThe Henryk Niewodniczanski Institute of Nuclear Physics Polish Academy of Sciences·DateJun 12, 2018

Beyond the 'Reading Wars': How the science of reading can improve literacy

A new report synthesizes findings from over 300 research studies to emphasize the importance of teaching phonics in establishing fundamental reading skills in early childhood. The review provides concrete recommendations for drawing on this evidence base in the classroom to support more children becoming confident, skilled readers.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science in the Public Interest·DateJun 12, 2018

Troves from a search for new biomarkers: blood-borne RNA

Researchers at Rockefeller University have devised an improved method for isolating and identifying tiny fragments of RNA in human blood products, establishing extracellular RNA as a potentially reliable class of biomarkers. The new approach has been successfully tested on 312 blood samples from healthy subjects, confirming the stabili...

SourceRockefeller University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 12, 2018

Robots learn by checking in on team members

KAUST researchers create a distributed architecture allowing drones to coordinate based on local information and peer-to-peer communications. The algorithm enables rapid reaction times without excessive computation, making it effective in real-time applications.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalIEEE Robotics and Automation Letters·DateJun 12, 2018
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Kessler Foundation awarded four grants by NJ Commission on Spinal Cord Research

The New Jersey Commission on Spinal Cord Injury Research has awarded four grants to Kessler Foundation scientists to study learning deficits, cognitive assessments, neuropathic pain, and brain activity during exoskeleton-assisted walking. These $1.5 million grants aim to improve rehabilitative care for individuals with spinal cord injury.

SourceKessler Foundation·DateJun 12, 2018

Living with the stigma of diabetes

A study by McGill University Health Centre found that two-thirds of teenagers and young adults with type 1 diabetes experience stigma, which can lead to neglecting treatment and severe hypoglycemia. The study also highlights the need for social support and resiliency programs to help individuals manage their condition.

SourceMcGill University Health Centre·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·DateJun 12, 2018

Structural biology: Until the last cut

Late-stage assembly intermediates of the human small ribosomal subunit have been structurally characterized, revealing detailed insights into their maturation principles. The findings suggest that the assembly sequence is controlled by biogenesis factors and involves several defined steps.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature·DateJun 12, 2018
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

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

Frequent use of the ER fell after the Affordable Care Act

A new study found that after the Affordable Care Act's expansion, Medicaid and uninsured patients had improved access to health services outside of emergency departments, leading to a decline in frequent ED use. Frequent ED users were responsible for 30.7% of visits before the legislation and 31.6% after coverage was expanded.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalHealth Affairs·DateJun 12, 2018

Claiming credit for cyberattacks

The study finds that both state and non-state actors face similar decisions when it comes to claiming credit for cyberattacks, but their strategies diverge due to different optics. The researchers highlight the importance of understanding how attackers' motives and identity can be revealed through credit claims.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalJournal of Global Security Studies·DateJun 12, 2018
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

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

Getting to the heart of congenital cardiac defects

A study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences reveals how gene defects lead to congenital heart defects. The researchers found that the absence of the CHD4 protein allows for the production of abnormal, 'hybrid' muscle cells that cannot pump blood efficiently.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 12, 2018

Core electron topologies in chemical bonding

A new benchmark quantum chemical calculation reveals a qualitative difference in the topologies of core electron orbitals between organic molecules and their silicon analogues. This discovery suggests that core electrons play a more significant role than previously thought, particularly in unsaturated compounds.

SourceYokohama National University·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJun 12, 2018
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

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

Multilingual students have improved in academic achievement since 2003

A new study by New York University's Steinhardt School of Culture, Education and Human Development finds that multilingual students have made remarkable progress in reading and math scores since 2003. The research debunks the common myth that these students have made little academic progress in recent years.

SourceNew York University·JournalEducational Researcher·DateJun 12, 2018
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

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

Binging, purging and fasting more common in overweight, obese young adults

A new study from UCSF found that overweight and obese young adults are more likely to engage in disordered eating behaviors, such as bingeing and purging. The study also found associations between disordered eating and race and sexual orientation, with Asian/Pacific Islanders and homosexual individuals at increased risk.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateJun 12, 2018

New technology has bright prospects for understanding plant biodiversity

University of Alberta biologists developed a new imaging technology to study plant diversity and evolutionary history using light spectroscopy. The method allows for quick assessment of biodiversity changes over large landscapes, providing a practical tool for addressing ecosystem function and climate change.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateJun 12, 2018

AI senses people's pose through walls

A team from MIT's CSAIL has developed a system that uses artificial intelligence to analyze radio signals bouncing off people's bodies, allowing for dynamic stick figures to be created of their postures and movements. This technology could monitor diseases like Parkinson's and MS, as well as provide security for elderly people.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology, CSAIL·DateJun 12, 2018
GoPro HERO13 Black

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

Physiological benefits may be experienced by veterans with PTSD who use service dogs

A new study published in Psychoneuroendocrinology found that veterans with PTSD who use service dogs exhibit higher cortisol awakening response and area under the curve compared to those on the waitlist. This suggests potential physiological benefits from having a service dog, including reduced stress levels and improved sleep quality.

SourcePurdue University·JournalPsychoneuroendocrinology·DateJun 12, 2018

Composition of complex sugars in breast milk may prevent future food allergies

Researchers found that a specific composition of human oligosaccharides in breast milk was associated with lower rates of food sensitization in one-year-old infants. The study's findings highlight the potential health benefits of human milk oligosaccharides and underscore their role in preventing future allergic disease.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalAllergy·DateJun 12, 2018
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

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

Inequality: My unfair disadvantage, not your unearned privilege

A new study from Duke University's Fuqua School of Business found that how inequity is presented can influence individuals' willingness to rectify it. Participants were more likely to give up part of a bonus when told a specific black colleague was unfairly disadvantaged, rather than being told they had an unfair advantage.

SourceDuke University·JournalJournal of Experimental Social Psychology·DateJun 12, 2018
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

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

International collaboration studies the predictability of earthquakes

A global collaboration, CSEP, has been studying earthquake forecast models to assess their performance and predict future seismic activity. The experiments have shed light on the predictability of earthquakes, with some models proving useful for real-time warnings during major earthquakes.

SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalSeismological Research Letters·DateJun 12, 2018

Researchers map the genome of testicular cancer

A collaborative effort has discovered molecular features of testicular germ cell cancers, identifying potential mutations and other molecular changes. The study found signs of duplicated DNA and defects in DNA methylation, which could inform future efforts to improve treatment decisions and help monitor patients for cancer recurrence.

SourceUNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center·JournalCell Reports·DateJun 12, 2018

New GAIA data reveals mergers in Milky Way

Researchers found relics of merger events in the Milky Way halo using Gaia Data Release 2. Five small clusters and a large 'blob' of stars indicate massive and smaller merger events shaped the galaxy. This study provides insights into the Milky Way's evolution, with further analysis to reveal more about its formation.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateJun 12, 2018

New optical sensor can determine if molecules are left or right 'handed'

A University of Central Florida team has designed a nanostructured optical sensor that can efficiently detect molecular chirality, a property defining biochemical properties. This technology has the potential to identify chiral drugs and proteins with high accuracy, revolutionizing drug development and understanding diseases.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJun 12, 2018

David vs. Goliath: How a small molecule can defeat asthma attacks

Researchers develop novel small molecule, PM-43I, that specifically targets STAT6 pathway, reversing preexisting allergic airway disease in mice. This breakthrough approach offers unique advantages over monoclonal antibodies, with potential benefits for patients who may not need steroid treatments.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJun 12, 2018
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

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

Graphene carpets: So neurons communicate better

Researchers at SISSA observed an increase in nerve cell activity on graphene carpets, attributed to ion 'trapping' that modulates its composition. This phenomenon enhances neuronal excitability, with specific effects depending on the graphene's support material.

SourceScuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJun 12, 2018

Scientists unravel molecular mechanisms of Parkinson's disease

A study published in Nature Communications has revealed how alpha-synuclein protein clumps cause neurons to die by damaging mitochondria and triggering a channel that leads to cell swelling and bursting. The findings were replicated in human brain cells generated from patient skin cells, providing valuable insights into neurodegeneration.

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

Novel system mimics focus activity of the human eye

Researchers have developed Autofocals, a system that automatically corrects presbyopia by mimicking the natural accommodation response of the eye. Users experienced better visual acuity at nearer distances compared to monovision and progressive lenses methods.

SourceAssociation for Computing Machinery·DateJun 12, 2018

Sea urchins see with their feet

Researchers at Lund University have found that sea urchins can perceive objects within a limited range of sizes, up to 30-70 degrees around them. This ability is sufficient for the animal's basic needs and behavior, despite having poor eyesight compared to humans.

SourceLund University·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateJun 12, 2018
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

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