Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for November 1, 2018


Dangerous blood pressure caused by specific signalling in the brain

Researchers at Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute found that specific brain signaling promotes heart disease by altering bone marrow stem cells, leading to atherosclerosis. The study highlights the importance of managing stress, anxiety, and pain in controlling this form of hypertension.

SourceBaker Heart and Diabetes Institute·JournalHaematologica·DateNov 1, 2018

Road to cell death more clearly identified for Parkinson's disease

A study published in Science identifies Parthanatos as a key driver of nerve cell degradation in Parkinson's disease. The researchers found that blocking a protein called PARP1 can rescue cells from death, suggesting new targets for drugs to interrupt the disease progression.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalScience·DateNov 1, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

'Cryptic' interactions drive biodiversity decline near the edge of forest fragments

A Yale-led study finds that fragmentation weakens impact of fungal pathogens and insect herbivores, enabling some tree species to thrive near edges. Researchers tested the effect of natural enemies on seedling diversity in fragmented forests, finding that suppression of these enemies led to biodiversity decline.

SourceYale School of the Environment·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 1, 2018

Bioluminescent substance discovered in Brazilian cave worm larva

Researchers identified luciferin in a non-luminescent Brazilian cave worm larva, sparking interest in its potential biochemical functions. The discovery is the first of its kind in the Neotropics and opens up new avenues for research on the molecule's applications in biotechnology, medicine, and pharmaceuticals.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalPhotochemical & Photobiological Sciences·DateNov 1, 2018

Barn swallows may indeed have evolved alongside humans

Researchers found that barn swallow subspecies evolved independently of humans but in sync with human expansion and settlement, suggesting a significant link between the two species. The study suggests a 'founder event' where swallows rapidly expanded into new environments alongside humans.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateNov 1, 2018

Insurance-related disparities in timely access to gold standard dialysis procedure

Patients with newly diagnosed kidney failure may experience delays in accessing preferred dialysis methods due to lack of insurance coverage. Uninsured patients were less likely to use arteriovenous fistulas or grafts and had a higher risk of dialysis-related infections compared to those with Medicare or Medicaid.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateNov 1, 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.

Zebrafish larvae help in search for appetite suppressants

Researchers have developed a novel testing system using zebrafish larvae to filter out substances with unwanted side effects. They found over 500 substances that modulated appetite, with most having specific effects without interfering with known systems.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 1, 2018

Reef RangerBot becomes 'LarvalBot' to spread coral babies

Scientists are using a QUT-developed robot, transformed into LarvalBot, to deliver baby coral larvae onto targeted reefs as part of coral restoration efforts. The technique, known as larval restoration, has the potential to revolutionize coral restoration on reefs worldwide.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·DateNov 1, 2018

Army scientist seeks enhanced soldier systems through quantum research

Researchers at the U.S. Army Research Laboratory have created a topological quantum light source that can guide light around its edge, shielding it from disruptions. This breakthrough has the potential to enable more secure communications and enhanced sensing capabilities for soldiers.

SourceU.S. Army Research Laboratory·JournalNature·DateNov 1, 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.

Cancer drug insight tactic could spell double trouble for tumors

Researchers identified potential cancer drugs that disrupt normal chromosome division in cancer cells and induce errors when dividing DNA, posing double trouble for tumor growth. This new approach could inform the development of more effective therapies targeting various types of cancers.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalCancer Research·DateNov 1, 2018

New study finds unique immunity genes in one widespread coral species

A recent study has identified unique immune genes in the Pocillopora damicornis coral species, which may help explain its ability to survive environmental stressors. The research found that this coral species has a more robust immune system than previously thought, with many diverse immunity genes.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 1, 2018

People link body shapes with personality traits

A study published in Psychological Science found that people infer a wide range of personality traits from physical body features. Heavier bodies were associated with negative traits, while lighter bodies had more positive traits. The researchers developed 140 realistic body models to analyze these associations.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateNov 1, 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.

NASA pushes exploration of oceans in our solar system

The NASA Astrobiology Program has awarded a $7 million grant to the Oceans Across Space and Time (OAST) alliance to search for life in present and past oceans on Mars, Jupiter's moon Europa, and Saturn's moon Enceladus. The team aims to develop technologies that can detect signs of life in various environments.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·DateNov 1, 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.

Take a lot of sick days? Who you know and where you live might be partly to blame

New research found that accessing high-status social contacts can have a negative impact on health, particularly in societies with high economic inequality. In the US and China, being connected to higher-status individuals led to more health disruptions, unlike in Taiwan where low inequality led to healthier outcomes.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·DateNov 1, 2018

Making collective sense of brainwaves

KAUST researchers develop efficient method for collective estimation of brain signal spectral densities, enabling detection of correlations among brain regions. The approach uses clustering to reduce data dimensionality and visualizes similarity among time series.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalStatistics in Medicine·DateNov 1, 2018

How sheep grazing affects the Norwegian mountains

Researchers found that sheep grazing had a significant impact on the biomass of heath communities, but not on meadow or shrub landscapes. The study suggests that heath is the most attractive pastureland for sheep, leading to increased growth and nutrient input through defecation.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalBMC Ecology·DateNov 1, 2018

Breakthrough in childhood brain cancer

Scientists at Newcastle University have made a significant discovery in treating childhood brain cancer, identifying a chromosome signature that can predict patient outcomes and tailor treatment to individual needs. This breakthrough aims to reduce toxicity and side effects while maintaining cure rates.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·DateNov 1, 2018

Politics in times of floating voters

The ORA project investigates the connection between citizens and parliament, essential for democracy. The team, led by Professor Thomas Zittel, will analyze legislators' behaviors to understand if geographic ties offer an alternative to collective representation by political parties.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·DateNov 1, 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.

Researchers solve the mystery of the bird from Atlantis

A new study by Lund University researchers has found that the Inaccessible Island rail, also known as Atlantisia, flew to its island habitat from South America around 1.5 million years ago. This discovery contradicts a previous theory suggesting the bird's inability to fly was an ancient trait.

SourceLund University·JournalMolecular Phylogenetics and Evolution·DateNov 1, 2018

The FASEB Journal: Young plasma restores aged livers

A recent study found that young plasma has a protective effect on liver damage caused by ischemia reperfusion injury in experimental animals. The study's results demonstrate the therapeutic potential of blood from young animals to prevent age-related phenomena.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateNov 1, 2018

Study: Impact of mercury-controlling policies shrinks with every five-year delay

A new MIT study finds that every five-year delay in reducing mercury emissions results in a 14% decrease in the effectiveness of policy measures, with remote regions suffering most. The researchers used modeling to estimate legacy emissions and found that delays lead to an accumulation of toxic mercury in the environment.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateNov 1, 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.

Workers without paid sick leave endure significant financial worries

A study by researchers at Florida Atlantic University and Cleveland State University found a positive association between not having paid sick leave and reporting financial worry. Workers without paid sick leave were more likely to worry about short-term financial issues like housing expenses, as well as long-term financial issues such...

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalJournal of Social Service Research·DateNov 1, 2018

Farmers market vendors need training to improve food-safety practices

A study by Penn State researchers highlights inadequate food safety practices among farmers market vendors, with key areas of concern including hand washing, personal hygiene, and cross-contamination. The researchers recommend a tailored training program to address these issues and ensure safe food sales in Pennsylvania.

SourcePenn State·JournalFood Protection Trends·DateNov 1, 2018

New research suggests the imaginary worlds of children reflect positive creativity

A two-part study by University of Oregon psychologist Marjorie Taylor found that 17% of children aged 8-12 create complex imaginary worlds, reflecting positive creativity, strong storytelling skills, and social connections. These 'paracosms' were often shared with friends, suggesting a social aspect to this childhood phenomenon.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalChild Development·DateNov 1, 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.

To fight email scammers, take a different view. Literally.

A new visual analytics tool, Beagle, is being used by law enforcement agencies to trace email scammer networks and highlight critical links. Developed with data security company Agari, Beagle dramatically speeds up forensic email investigations.

SourceNYU Tandon School of Engineering·JournalIEEE Transactions on Visualization and Computer Graphics·DateNov 1, 2018

New open access database for medieval literature

Norse World is a new digital resource providing an index of foreign place names in Swedish and Danish literature from the Middle Ages. The tool enables researchers to study perceptions of the surrounding world in Medieval Scandinavian literature, exploring concepts of spatiality and gender.

SourceUppsala University·DateNov 1, 2018

Fishing for new leads in a rare melanoma

Zebrafish models have been developed to study the intricate molecular pathways underlying mucosal melanomas. The research identified a previously unrecognized tumor suppressor, SPRED1, and its interplay with oncogene KIT. These findings hold promise for developing precision cancer therapies for this rare and aggressive form of melanoma.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalScience·DateNov 1, 2018

Children who experience violence early in life develop faster

A study published in Biological Psychiatry found that exposure to early life violence accelerates biological aging, including pubertal development, while deprivation-related adversity leads to delayed pubertal development. Children who experienced violence showed signs of accelerated epigenetic aging and increased symptoms of depression.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateNov 1, 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.

Yangtze dams put endangered sturgeon's future in doubt

Researchers found that the Yangtze dams have reduced the distance of Chinese sturgeon migration by 1,175 kilometers, leading to delayed maturity and a decline in breeding activity. The environmental capacity of the spawning ground has also been reduced, contributing to the ongoing decline of the species.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateNov 1, 2018

Argonne named 'Historic Site' for work of famed physicist

Maria Goeppert Mayer's groundbreaking nuclear physics research at Argonne earned the lab a historic physics site designation. The 'shell' model of the atomic nucleus she developed remains the basis for modern understanding of nuclear structure.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·DateNov 1, 2018

We all want 'healthy aging,' but what is it, really? New report looks for answers

The American Geriatrics Society defines 'healthy aging' as a broader, person-centered concept that prioritizes physical, mental, and social needs. The new definition emphasizes a lifespan approach to care, age-friendly concepts, and community engagement to promote health, safety, and independence in older adults.

SourceAmerican Geriatrics Society·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateNov 1, 2018

How cancer-causing papillomaviruses evolved

Researchers discovered that cancer-causing papillomaviruses diverged from their common ancestors half a million years ago, coinciding with the split between Neanderthals and modern humans. The viruses adapted to specific host ecosystems and then coevolved with primates for at least 40 million years.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateNov 1, 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.

A shortcut in the global sulfur cycle

Chemists at Friedrich Schiller University Jena have discovered a previously unknown metabolic pathway in plankton that produces a key compound in the global sulfur cycle. This finding provides valuable information about the earth's sulfur cycle and has important implications for atmospheric and climatic models.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalNature·DateNov 1, 2018

Research: heat-resistant enzymes could produce more cost-effective drugs

A new study suggests that heat-resistant enzymes like Cytochrome P450 can be designed for better and more cost-effective drug production. The enzyme's flexibility at high temperatures may lead to improved drugs for humans, producing them en masse and making them more cost-effective.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee at Knoxville·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 1, 2018

People with Internet addiction react the worst when WiFi fails

A study found that individuals with fear of missing out, internet addiction, and certain personality traits exhibit more extreme reactions to digital technology failures. People who are more neurotic and extroverted tend to have the most maladaptive responses when their devices stop working.

SourceElsevier·JournalHeliyon·DateNov 1, 2018

Cocaine-fentanyl overdoses underscore need for more 'test strips' and rapid response

A recent cluster of cocaine-fentanyl overdoses highlights the need for more readily available testing strips to identify fentanyl in patients. The outbreak prompted a coordinated public health response, including law enforcement investigation and education of residents on the dangers of fentanyl.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 1, 2018

Concurrent chemo-radiotherapy should be a treatment option for elderly patients with LS-S

A study published in the Journal of Thoracic Oncology found that elderly patients with limited-stage small cell lung cancer (LS-SCLC) can benefit from concurrent chemo-radiotherapy, similar to younger patients. The analysis showed comparable survival rates and toxicity between older and younger groups, providing robust evidence for tre...

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateNov 1, 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.

New study takes first step toward treating endometriosis

Researchers at Northwestern Medicine have successfully reprogrammed induced pluripotent stem cells into healthy uterine cells for potential treatment of endometriosis. The study marks a significant step towards treating the painful and persistent gynecological disease, which affects approximately 10% of women worldwide.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateNov 1, 2018

'Robust' corals primed to resist coral bleaching

A recent study revealed that robust reef-building corals possess a unique capacity to generate an essential amino acid, which may make them less susceptible to global warming-induced coral bleaching. This advantage allows robust corals to repair tissue and grow new tissue more efficiently than complex corals.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·JournalGenome Biology·DateNov 1, 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.

Updated European guidance for the diagnosis and management of osteoporosis in women

The new guidelines review and update the 2013 European guidance for diagnosing and managing osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. Key findings include the importance of evaluating bone microstructure and using FRAX tools in fracture risk assessment, as well as the need for long-term dietary intakes and monitoring drug treatment.

SourceInternational Osteoporosis Foundation·JournalOsteoporosis International·DateNov 1, 2018

Making a map of the brain

Researchers have created a groundbreaking cellular atlas of the brain, revealing over 70 different types of neurons, their locations, and functions. This breakthrough technology allows for unprecedented insights into brain organization and behavior.

SourceHarvard University·JournalScience·DateNov 1, 2018

Twenty years on, measuring the impact of human stem cells

The discovery of human embryonic stem cells in 1998 revolutionized regenerative medicine, with 29 clinical trials underway globally. The field has grown exponentially, enabling large-scale production of pure cells for research, and nearly $1.43 billion spent on NIH stem cell research over the past 20 years.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateNov 1, 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.

Glutamine metabolism affects T cell signaling and function

Researchers discovered that a drug inhibiting glutamine metabolism improves certain immune cells' function while suppressing others. Inhibiting glutaminase activity protects against inflammation and disease in mouse models of various conditions.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalCell·DateNov 1, 2018

New quantum criticality discovered in superconductivity

Scientists at Ames Laboratory have discovered a new quantum criticality in a superconducting material, exhibiting a hedgehog spin-vortex crystal antiferromagnetic state without nematic transitions. This finding suggests that spin fluctuations are the primary driver of superconductivity.

SourceDOE/Ames National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateNov 1, 2018

SQZ cell engineering technology shows key advantages for developing cell therapies

The SQZ Biotechnologies platform has been shown to preserve key biological functions essential for cell therapies, unlike electroporation technology. This study highlights the superiority of SQZ in delivering target-specific immune responses and enabling scalable cell therapy development.

SourceLifeSci Public Relations·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 1, 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.

Your showerhead slime is alive

Researchers found Mycobacterium bacteria thriving in US showerheads, particularly in areas with high rates of lung disease. The study also revealed geographic patterns and material-specific influences on bacterial growth.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalmBio·DateNov 1, 2018

Study buckles down on child car seat use in ride-share vehicles

A new study by Virginia Tech Transportation Institute (VTTI) analyzed child restraint laws nationwide and found that 34 states exempt taxis and for-hire vehicles from child restraint requirements. The study also revealed that up to half of parents report not providing appropriate child safety seats while riding in ride-share vehicles, ...

SourceVirginia Tech·DateNov 1, 2018

New tech delivers high-tech film that blocks electromagnetic interference

Researchers have developed flexible, semi-transparent films that block electromagnetic interference while allowing light to pass through. The films, made from a combination of carbon nanotubes and MXene, demonstrate high strength, flexibility, and conductivity, making them suitable for use in devices with display screens.

SourceNYU Tandon School of Engineering·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateNov 1, 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.

Immigration to the United States changes a person's microbiome

Researchers found that immigrants quickly lose native microbes and acquire alien microbes more common in European-American people, resulting in a loss of gut microbiota diversity. This Westernization is associated with greater obesity and is compounded across generations.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateNov 1, 2018

How invading jumping genes are thwarted

Researchers found that reproductive stem cells boost production of non-coding RNA elements to suppress jumping gene activity and activate DNA repair processes, enabling normal egg development. Temperature influences sterility in fruit flies, with a specific temperature range controlling jumping gene invasion intensity.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateNov 1, 2018

NASA's GPM examines weaker Tropical Storm Yutu's rainfall

Tropical Storm Yutu produced heavy rainfall over Luzon in the Philippines, but analysis from NASA's Global Precipitation Measurement mission showed little rainfall near its center of circulation. Heavy rainfall was found in powerful storms northwest and southeast of Yutu's center, with rates exceeding 183 mm/hour.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 1, 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.

NIH BRAIN Initiative debuts cell census of mouse motor cortex -- for starters

The NIH BRAIN Initiative Cell Census Network has released its first data set, featuring the molecular identities of over 1.3 million mouse brain cells and anatomical data from 300 brains. This comprehensive characterization aims to integrate molecular, anatomical, and functional data on cell types in mice, humans, and non-human primates.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Mental Health·JournalScience·DateNov 1, 2018

Russian Foundation for Basic Research supports new studies

The Russian Foundation for Basic Research is supporting research projects in various fields, including electrochemistry, photonics, and archaeology, through grants of up to 20 million rubles per year. Established researchers will receive funding for their interdisciplinary fundamental research projects.

SourceUral Federal University·DateNov 1, 2018

Pessimism around youth suicide prevention approaches is unfounded, study shows

A comprehensive Australian study examined the global impact of suicide prevention approaches in young people and found that youth-specific interventions can be effective in reducing self-harm and suicidal thinking. The study highlights the importance of investing in evidence-based interventions and identifying gaps in current approaches.

SourceOrygen·JournalThe Lancet·DateNov 1, 2018

To ward off fatty liver, breast is best for mom

Researchers discovered that breastfeeding for over six months lowers the risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in mothers. Women who breastfed one or more children for longer periods had a lower risk compared to those who did not breastfeed or breastfed for under one month.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJournal of Hepatology·DateNov 1, 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.

Searching in soil, scientists find a new way to combat tuberculosis

Researchers found kanglemycins, a group of natural antibiotics similar to rifamycin, which can target mutated RNAPs. These antibiotics may have emerged as a result of evolutionary pressures in nature, providing a potential solution to the rising problem of antibiotic resistance.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 1, 2018

New study to decode what makes people immune to influenza

A groundbreaking new study aims to understand the human immune system's response to influenza by analyzing gene regulation, microbiome influence, and other factors. Researchers will take comprehensive measurements from healthy participants who receive a standard influenza vaccination.

SourceHuman Immunome Project·DateNov 1, 2018

Atomic path from insulator to metal messier than thought

Scientists have studied vanadium dioxide's ultrafast phase transition, revealing that atomic motions are unpredictable and occur independently of each other. This discovery lays the groundwork for advances in computer hardware and could lead to breakthroughs in controlling material behavior.

SourceDuke University·JournalScience·DateNov 1, 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.

'Posture cells' encode 3D body position in the brain

Researchers discovered that the brain's 'posture cells' can predict an animal's position in three-dimensional space. These neurons, found in the posterior parietal cortex (PPC) and frontal motor cortex (M2), encode body posture and spatial awareness in mice.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateNov 1, 2018

'Predicting' the origins of mysterious outbreaks using viral RNA

Using a dataset of over 500 single-stranded RNA viruses, researchers developed a model that can predict animal reservoirs and arthropod vectors directly from viral genome sequences. This approach enables faster evaluation than existing methods, which often require years, and could aid in rapid response to emerging infectious diseases.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateNov 1, 2018

Diabetes medications may reduce Alzheimer's disease severity

Researchers found that people with Alzheimer's disease who were treated with diabetes drugs showed fewer markers of the disease, including abnormal microvasculature and gene expressions. The study suggests targeting the brain's capillary system could have beneficial effects in Alzheimer's patients, opening opportunities for new therapies.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 1, 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.

New images show serotonin activating its receptor for first time

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine used high-tech microscopes to view serotonin activating its receptor for the first time. The study highlights distinct conformations of the receptor that could lead to more precise drugs targeting specific regions or functions of serotonin receptors.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalNature·DateNov 1, 2018

Seeing cell membranes in a new light

Researchers have long believed cell membranes act like a viscous liquid, but a new study suggests they are closer to a semi-solid like Jell-O. The discovery was made by Harvard University scientists who used fluorescent protein and mechanical actuators to measure membrane tension.

SourceHarvard University·JournalCell·DateNov 1, 2018

Llama-derived antibodies provide universal flu protection

Researchers have generated a new anti-flu antibody that offers long-lasting protection from various influenza viruses. The approach shows promise as a preventative measure for vulnerable populations like the elderly or immunocompromised.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateNov 1, 2018

Improving additive manufacturing for space missions

QuesTek and Pitt engineering researchers will utilize new computer modeling and optimization techniques to enable faster adoption of additive manufacturing in various NASA missions. They aim to improve the quality and structural integrity of components with reduced costs.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·DateNov 1, 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.

MDM2 inhibitors could be promising new treatment for uveitis

Uveitis, a serious eye disease, affects 200,000 people in the US and can lead to irreversible blindness. MDM2 inhibitors have been found to inhibit ocular inflammation, suggesting a new treatment option with reduced systemic side effects.

SourceUniversity of North Texas Health Science Center·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateNov 1, 2018

Zika circulates among wild animals in the Americas, making eradication nearly impossible

Researchers have found that wild monkeys in the Americas are transmitting the Zika virus to humans via mosquitoes, changing our understanding of the ecology and transmission of Zika virus in the region. This natural transmission cycle involving local mosquitoes and wild primates makes complete eradication of the virus highly unlikely.

SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 1, 2018

Experts call for a targeted approach to cancer prevention

A new study suggests that policymakers should consider the socioeconomic circumstances of an area when establishing early intervention initiatives. The research found a link between economic growth and cancer incidence, with poorer people having a greater likelihood of developing certain types of cancer.

SourceUniversity of Stirling·JournalInternational Journal of Healthcare Policy·DateNov 1, 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.

Story tips from the Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory, November 2018

The study found that coordinated CAVs can stabilize traffic flow, reduce fuel use by more than 40 percent, and improve travel time. The team's results also explored the potential of CAVs to indirectly influence human-driven cars' performance. Additionally, researchers at ORNL studied neutron-rich nuclei, improving understanding of nucl...

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalIEEE Transactions on Intelligent Vehicles·DateNov 1, 2018

Quit rates are low and not increasing among cigarette smokers with mental health problems

A new study found that individuals with serious psychological distress (SPD) are half as likely to quit smoking as those without the condition. The researchers suggest that disparities in smoking rates between those with and without mental health problems may be contributing to these low quit rates.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalNicotine & Tobacco Research·DateNov 1, 2018

Watching whales from space

Researchers have successfully detected and described four whale species using detailed satellite imagery, providing a cost-effective method for monitoring population changes and behavior. The study identifies key inaccessible whale populations that can benefit from satellite-based tracking.

SourceBritish Antarctic Survey·JournalMarine Mammal Science·DateNov 1, 2018

Anti-convulsant drug significantly reduced major depression symptoms

Researchers found that ezogabine, an FDA-approved anti-seizure medication, significantly reduced depressive symptoms in patients with Major Depressive Disorder. The study showed a 45% reduction in depression and improved resilience after treatment.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateNov 1, 2018

Novel antibacterial drugs developed at University of Eastern Finland

Researchers at the University of Eastern Finland have developed novel antibacterial compounds targeting LsrK kinase, a key player in bacterial quorum sensing. The identified LsrK inhibitors have shown micromolar activity and will be further optimized to improve understanding of inhibition of LsrK in the AI-2 pathway.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalChemMedChem·DateNov 1, 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.

Where water goes after fracking is tied to earthquake risk

A new study by the University of Texas at Austin found that where produced water is stored underground increases earthquake risk. The research identified factors that can help reduce seismicity, including managing injection rates and regional volumes.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalSeismological Research Letters·DateNov 1, 2018

UH grad student earns NASA fellowship for climate modeling

A University of Houston graduate student has received a NASA fellowship to incorporate predictions of biogenic volatile organic compounds from vegetation into a climate model. The project aims to better understand the impact of extreme drought on emissions and atmospheric composition.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateNov 1, 2018

The Lancet Oncology: For new HPV DNA test, study finds there may be little benefit in screening women aged 55 with a negative test

A new modeling study suggests that older women who test negative for human papillomavirus (HPV) with a DNA test may be at low risk of cervical cancer and could safely stop screening. However, regular cytology screening up to age 75 can still prevent cancers and is recommended for countries using HPV testing.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·DateNov 1, 2018

Composite Materials special issue

The special issue explores composite materials' potential for sustainable applications, including biodegradable composites for packaging and recycling of plastic waste.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateNov 1, 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.

Children account for almost half of sport injury-related A&E attendances

New research published by the Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine highlights the high burden of sport-related injuries among children and adolescents. The study found that almost half of sport injury-related emergency department attendances involved children under the age of 19, with fractures being the most common type of injury.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of the Royal Society of Medicine·DateNov 1, 2018

Fear of disloyalty drives bias against bicultural immigrants

Researchers at Yale University found that majority-group members hold negative views of minority-group individuals with dual identities due to perceived disloyalty. However, this bias can be mitigated when minority-group members demonstrate loyalty to the majority group.

SourceYale University·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateNov 1, 2018