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Science News for November 13, 2018


Vapers do not undermine desire to quit smoking

A recent study by University College London found that smokers who regularly spend time with vapers are more likely to try quitting smoking. The study discovered no evidence that vaping discourages smokers from quitting, alleviating concerns about the public health impact of e-cigarettes.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalBMC Medicine·DateNov 13, 2018

Football coaches between victories, defeats and emotions

Researchers found that coaches with optimal emotional control improve team performance, while those with poor emotional management struggle. Coaches who manage their emotions well are more balanced and self-confident, leading to better communication and focus.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalSports·DateNov 13, 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 blood-based biomarker in response to the treatment of the most aggressive prostate cancer

A study led by CNIO has defined a blood-based biomarker that can determine the most effective treatment for castration-resistant prostate cancer patients. The biomarker, which analyzes the presence of a specific gene in circulating tumour DNA, shows promise for improved survival rates and personalized therapy.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalEuropean Urology·DateNov 13, 2018

Scientists shed light on semiconductor degradation mechanism

Researchers at Nagoya Institute of Technology have gained new insights into the mechanisms behind semiconductor degradation in 4H-SiC material, a popular alternative to standard materials. They discovered that specific types of atomic deformation lead to faster carrier recombination and device degradation.

SourceNagoya Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateNov 13, 2018

Diabetic foot ulcers heal quickly with nitric oxide technology

Researchers at Michigan Technological University are developing nitric oxide-laden bandages that adjust chemical release depending on cell conditions. The goal is to create a more nuanced way to recover wound function and reduce the healing time of diabetic foot ulcers.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalMedical Sciences·DateNov 13, 2018

Why your number of romantic partners mirrors your mother

Researchers found that people with mothers who had multiple partners tend to have more romantic partners themselves, possibly due to inherited relationship skills or traits. The study controlled for economic factors but found no significant impact on the mother-child link.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 13, 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.

Violent crime rates rise in warmer winters

A CU Boulder study found a surprisingly strong correlation between warmer winters and higher violent crime rates in the US. The research used powerful climate analysis techniques to investigate year-to-year fluctuations in climate and crime rates, revealing a strong relationship between temperature and crime in winter months.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalGeoHealth·DateNov 13, 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.

DNA structure impacts rate and accuracy of DNA synthesis

Researchers found that certain DNA structures, like G-quadruplexes, can slow down or speed up DNA synthesis, affecting error rates. Non-B DNA regions with specific motifs were associated with increased sequencing errors and human disease susceptibility.

SourcePenn State·JournalGenome Research·DateNov 13, 2018

Julie Pfeiffer awarded for groundbreaking work on viruses and bacteria

Julie Pfeiffer's groundbreaking research has redefined how we think about life-threatening viral infections, discovering new ways bacteria affect virus infection. Her work shows antibiotics can have antiviral effects, driving research into new treatments for viruses.

SourceTexas Academy of Medicine, Engineering, Science & Technology·DateNov 13, 2018

Weightlifting is good for your heart and it doesn't take much

A new study from Iowa State University found that weightlifting for less than an hour a week can reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke by 40 to 70 percent. The research suggests that strength training alone is enough to lower this risk, independent of running, walking, or other aerobic activity.

SourceIowa State University·JournalMedicine & Science in Sports & Exercise·DateNov 13, 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.

UTA researchers find cheaper, less energy-intensive way to purify ethylene

Researchers at UTA have filed a patent application for a new copper compound that can efficiently separate ethylene from ethane, reducing energy consumption and capital investment. This technology has the potential to significantly reduce environmental impact and lower costs associated with producing plastics.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateNov 13, 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.

Moths and magnets could save lives

Researchers at Rice University have developed a new technology that uses a moth-infecting virus and nanomagnets to deliver CRISPR/Cas9 payloads for gene editing. The therapy has the potential to treat genetic diseases such as sickle cell, muscular dystrophy, and cystic fibrosis.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateNov 13, 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.

Stretchy solar cells a step closer

Rice University engineers have developed flexible organic photovoltaics with improved mechanical properties, enabling them to withstand strains of up to 20%. The new material retains its efficiency and gains flexibility by incorporating a network of elastic additives.

SourceRice University·JournalChemistry of Materials·DateNov 13, 2018

Overlooked trends in annual precipitation reveal underestimated risks worldwide

A reanalysis of worldwide annual precipitation trends reveals overlooked risks to human and environmental systems, affecting nearly 40% of the global population and 44% of land areas. The study highlights significant regional variations in precipitation risk and variability, emphasizing the need for more accurate risk assessments.

SourceUniversity of Maine·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 13, 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.

NASA-NOAA Satellite finds a large Tropical Cyclone Gaja

Tropical Cyclone Gaja formed on November 10 and strengthened into a tropical storm with maximum sustained winds near 40 mph. The satellite imagery showed an elongated storm with disorganized rain bands and fragmented convection patterns, moving west-southwest towards southern India.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 13, 2018

Chinese satellites provide advanced solutions to modeling small particles

Researchers from China used Fengyun-3A satellite data to develop a more accurate model for predicting aerosol mass. The team's method improved the accuracy of climate predictions by combining satellite observations with ground-based data.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateNov 13, 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.

If your diet fails, try again; your heart will thank you

A new study published in the journal Nutrients found that diet fluctuations can lead to a rollercoaster of risk factors for cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Repeated attempts at adopting a healthy eating pattern can have benefits, with significant improvements in blood pressure and cholesterol levels seen after just a few weeks.

SourcePurdue University·JournalNutrients·DateNov 13, 2018

Structure of fossil-fuel source rocks is finally decoded

Researchers at MIT and partners have created detailed 3D images of kerogen's internal structure, improving predictions of oil and gas recovery. The study reveals that mature kerogen has smaller pores connected by a network allowing for easier extraction.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 13, 2018

NIH scientists illuminate causes of hepatitis b virus-associated acute liver failure

Researchers found that hepatitis B virus (HBV)-associated acute liver failure results from an uncommon encounter between a highly mutated HBV variant and an unusual immune response in the patient's liver. By analyzing liver samples, they discovered new mechanisms about the disease, providing insights into its development.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 13, 2018

The illusion of multitasking boosts performance

Researchers found that participants who believed they were multitasking transcribed more words per second and scored better on comprehension quizzes. The study suggests that our perception of multitasking can influence how well we engage with tasks.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateNov 13, 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.

Study examines opioid use among Massachusetts adolescents, trends in opioid prescriptions

A recent study in Massachusetts found that adolescent females have a higher rate of non-fatal opioid overdoses compared to males, while receiving insufficient medication for post-overdose treatment. The analysis of public data from 2012 to 2014 revealed that only 8% of adolescents were prescribed medications like methadone or buprenorp...

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence·DateNov 13, 2018

2018 ESMO Immuno-Oncology Award goes to Cornelis Melief

Cornelis Melief is recognized for his life's work in studying the interactions of the immune system with cancer, leading to the development of new therapeutic cancer vaccine strategies. His research has shown clinical effectiveness in treating patients with pre-malignant lesions caused by HPV type 16.

SourceEuropean Society for Medical Oncology·DateNov 13, 2018

Neural nets supplant marker genes in analyzing single cell RNA sequencing

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have developed a new method that uses neural networks to analyze single cell RNA sequencing data, identifying key genes and cell subtypes. This approach enables the analysis of all cell types, providing a method for comparative analysis.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 13, 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.

Visualizing 'unfurling' microtubule growth

Microtubules form scaffolding for cell movement and division. Researchers at UC Davis discovered the mechanism behind their assembly, using an animation to illustrate TOG domains driving tubulin polymerization.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·DateNov 13, 2018

Rare fossil bird deepens mystery of avian extinctions

A newly discovered fossil from a 75-million-year-old bird reveals that enantiornithines were as advanced as modern birds in terms of flight. The fossil's unique features, including a deeper keeled breast bone and V-shaped wishbone, suggest a stronger and more agile wing structure.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalPeerJ·DateNov 13, 2018

The unintended consequences of dams and reservoirs

A new study reveals that dams and reservoirs can have unintended consequences, including exacerbating droughts and water shortages. The research team found that increasing storage capacity can lead to a vicious cycle of higher demand and decreased sustainability.

SourceUppsala University·JournalNature Sustainability·DateNov 13, 2018

Immunity connects gut bacteria and aging

A study published in Immunity found that the gut bacterium Lactobacillus plantarum produces excessive lactic acid when its receptor protein PGRP-SD is disrupted, leading to oxidative stress and accelerated aging. Increasing PGRP-SD levels prevents this effect and extends lifespan.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalImmunity·DateNov 13, 2018
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

How can hospitals keep doctors positively engaged with their work?

A scoping review of 15 studies on hospital physician engagement found that young, experienced, and single physicians were more engaged. Personal attributes like resiliency, self-efficacy, and optimism, as well as work-related factors such as quality of work life and job resources, also linked to higher engagement.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalMedical Care·DateNov 13, 2018

Angiotensin receptor blockers normalize sodium excretion

A study found that angiotensin receptor blockers improve sodium excretion in healthy black individuals who tend to retain more salt under stress. This could lead to a better treatment strategy for those with high blood pressure, particularly blacks who are often disproportionately affected.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalEthnicity & Disease·DateNov 13, 2018

Southwest Research Institute's Terrence Alger awarded for engine innovations

Terrence F. Alger II, a leading researcher at Southwest Research Institute, has been awarded the 2019 Edith and Peter O'Donnell Award in Technology Innovation for his groundbreaking work on vehicle engines. His Dedicated Exhaust Gas Recirculation technology improves fuel economy by up to 15% while reducing engine-out emissions.

SourceTexas Academy of Medicine, Engineering, Science & Technology·DateNov 13, 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.

AFAR 2018 Scientific Awards of Distinction

David A. Sinclair and Laura Niedernhofer received the Irving S. Wright Award of Distinction and Vincent Cristofalo Rising Star Award in Aging Research, respectively, for their groundbreaking work on age-related processes and DNA damage. The awards recognize their contributions to advancing the field of aging research.

SourceAmerican Federation for Aging Research·DateNov 13, 2018

First microarrayed 3D neuronal culture platform developed

A new device has been developed to perform high-throughput 3D chemotactic assays, revealing diversity and complexity in the chemotactic regulation of neuronal development by various guidance molecules. The platform uses a hydrogel-based microfluidic system to test hundreds of suspended microscale hydrogel cylinders with distinct gradie...

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 13, 2018

Novel mechanism of immune activation in HIV-exposed, seronegative people who inject drugs

Researchers at The Wistar Institute found that the S100A14 protein is expressed at higher levels in these individuals than control donors, activating natural killer cells to defend against HIV. This discovery may lead to novel approaches for prevention of HIV infection by manipulating host immune defense.

SourceThe Wistar Institute·JournalJAIDS Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes·DateNov 13, 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.

Suicide risk increases in teens who knew murder victims

A new study found that nearly half of black teenagers surveyed reported losing a friend or family member to murder, associated with higher suicide attempts. The research highlights the ripple effects of traumatic loss on young people and communities.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·DateNov 13, 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.

Study finds that in treating obesity, one size does not fit all

Researchers found four groups of patients with unique characteristics, including disordered eating behaviors and varying levels of glucose in their blood. The study suggests personalized approaches to treating obesity may be more effective, as one-size-fits-all treatments may not work for all individuals.

SourceBrown University·JournalObesity·DateNov 13, 2018

ID specialist input improves outcomes for outpatient parenteral antimicrobial therapy

The Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) has released new guidelines for outpatient parenteral antimicrobial therapy (OPAT), emphasizing the importance of review by an infectious diseases specialist before starting treatment. Regular monitoring and blood tests are also recommended to ensure patient safety.

SourceInfectious Diseases Society of America·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateNov 13, 2018

Social relationships more important than hard evidence in partisan politics

A Dartmouth study finds that social relationships and pressure to conform to group opinions play a significant role in shaping political beliefs, often ignoring essential information. The research provides insight into the formation of extreme partisan groups and their evolution into echo chambers.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateNov 13, 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.

Wishes help keep pediatric patients out of the hospital

A recent study published in Pediatric Research found that children who received wishes were 2.5 times more likely to have fewer unplanned hospital admissions and 1.9 times less likely to use the emergency department. This led to a decline in healthcare costs, even after accounting for the average cost of the wish.

SourceNationwide Children's Hospital·JournalPediatric Research·DateNov 13, 2018

Amazon turtle populations recovering well thanks to local action

Local protection efforts have led to a significant recovery of Giant South American Turtle populations, with over nine times more turtles hatching on protected beaches compared to the 1970s. Other species, such as birds and fish, are also thriving in these areas.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalNature Sustainability·DateNov 13, 2018

Solving the mystery of NPM1 in acute myeloid leukemia

A team of researchers developed new strategies to exploit CRISPR technology to target the mutant form of protein NPM1, which is associated with acute myeloid leukemia. By blocking the export of mutant NPM1 from the nucleus, they were able to inhibit leukemic cell growth and induce differentiation or death in cancerous cells.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalCancer Cell·DateNov 13, 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.

Obesity and food restrictions proven to be associated with less food enjoyment

Adolescents with obesity experience decreased pleasure from eating, while those with healthy food relationships show increased enjoyment, highlighting the importance of making food a positive experience. Healthy eating habits may serve as a protective factor against eating and weight-related disorders.

SourceUniversity of Granada·JournalFood Quality and Preference·DateNov 13, 2018

Most complete enantiornithine bird fossil from North America

The newly described fossil, Mirarce eatoni, is the most complete enantiornithine bird skeleton found in North America, providing insights into the evolution of flight. Its unique features, including quill knobs and a deeper keel on its sternum, indicate that it was a strong flier.

SourcePeerJ·JournalPeerJ·DateNov 13, 2018

Brain changes found in self-injuring teen girls

A new study found that teenage girls who engage in serious forms of self-harm show brain features similar to those seen in adults with borderline personality disorder. The research highlights the need for prevention and early intervention in those at high risk of suicide.

SourceOhio State University·JournalDevelopment and Psychopathology·DateNov 13, 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.

Doubly-excited electrons reach new energy states

Physicists have characterised higher energy levels reached by electrons in resonance with positronium ions, a complex three-particle system. The new model provides guidance for experimentalists to observe these resonant structures, potentially leading to breakthroughs in atomic and nuclear physics.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal D·DateNov 13, 2018

Pain can be a self-fulfilling prophecy

A new brain imaging study found that when subjects expect more heat, brain regions involved in threat and fear are more activated, leading to increased pain perception. The study also showed that positive expectations can have the opposite effects, suggesting a potential link between negative expectations and chronic pain.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateNov 13, 2018

Understanding congenital heart defects to prevent them

A team of researchers, led by UH professor Kirill Larin, is investigating the relationship between mechanical factors and genetic pathways in embryonic heart development. Understanding this connection can help prevent congenital heart defects, which claim one out of every 100 baby lives in the US.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateNov 13, 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.

The first cave-dwelling centipede from southern China

Scientists have recorded the first cave-dwelling centipede from southern China, a species that had been hiding away from biologists. The new cavedweller, Australobius tracheoperspicuus, is tiny and has pale yellow-brownish color with no eyes.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalZooKeys·DateNov 13, 2018

Surrey academic receives award for preserving endangered languages

University of Surrey academic Dr Mike Franjieh has been recognized for preserving two endangered languages on the South Pacific island of Ambrym in Vanuatu. His research has created usable spelling systems and recorded cultural practices, benefiting community members and future generations.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·DateNov 13, 2018

Arts research transforms Finnish society

The ArtsEqual project in Finland examines how arts can meet social challenges, promoting equality and inclusivity. Research-based policy briefs have informed decision-making, leading to concrete results in local curriculum planning and regional action plans.

SourceUniversity of the Arts Helsinki·DateNov 13, 2018

Simulation versus observation

A study suggests that up to 40-50% of Arctic sea ice loss over the last three decades is due to unknown internal drivers, such as tropical effects. This discrepancy challenges the consensus among climate scientists who attribute it to flawed modeling.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNature Geoscience·DateNov 13, 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.

Back-to-the-future plants give climate change insights

Researchers used outdoor labs to test plant responses to future climate change, finding that some crops may grow more under rising CO2 levels. However, drought and heat can limit growth, leading to a trade-off between positive and negative impacts.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateNov 13, 2018

So, you think you're good at remembering faces, but terrible with names?

A new study from the University of York found that humans are more accurate at recalling names than recognizing faces, a finding that challenges our everyday experiences. Participants scored higher in remembering names (up to 83%) compared to faces (as little as 64%), especially in unfamiliar situations.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalQuarterly Journal of Experimental Psychology·DateNov 13, 2018

Health costs of ageism calculated at $63 billion annually, study finds

A new study by Yale University estimates that ageism costs the US healthcare system $63 billion annually, affecting conditions like cardiovascular disease and mental disorders. The study found that 17.04 million cases of these conditions were linked to ageism among those aged 60 and older.

SourceYale University·JournalThe Gerontologist·DateNov 13, 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.

Rising sea levels may build, rather than destroy, coral reef islands

New research suggests that rising global sea levels and high-energy wave events could actually build, rather than destroy, coral reef islands like the Maldives. This is possible if the coral reef remains healthy to provide building material, but threatens island infrastructure with devastating consequences.

SourceNorthumbria University·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateNov 13, 2018

NUS researchers offer solution in fight against fake graphene

A lack of production standards in the graphene market has led to inferior products being sold as high-grade. NUS researchers developed a reliable method for testing graphene quality, finding that most samples contained less than 10% real graphene flakes.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateNov 13, 2018

WPI and Albany Medical College developing robotic system to treat brain tumors

The new robotic system uses a thin probe inserted into the brain through a small hole drilled in the skull to deliver high-intensity ultrasound energy lethal to tumors while minimizing damage to surrounding brain tissue. Real-time MRI-based thermal imaging provides feedback on dose delivery, ensuring precise control and safety.

SourceWorcester Polytechnic Institute·DateNov 13, 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.

Penn Study shows regular behavioral counseling leads to clinically significant weight loss

A new Penn Medicine study found that intensive behavioral therapy (IBT) is effective in achieving clinically significant weight loss in adults with obesity, with participants losing an average of 6.1% of their initial body weight at one year. The study also showed improvements in blood pressure and cardiovascular risk factors.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalObesity·DateNov 13, 2018

UH Physicist Zhifeng Ren receives Humboldt Prize

Physicist Zhifeng Ren, director of the Texas Center for Superconductivity at the University of Houston, has received a research award from the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation to collaborate with German researchers. He will focus on new fabrication techniques and thermoelectric materials to improve clean energy conversion.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateNov 13, 2018

Affordable health care means better access to diabetes prevention, management

A study by OHSU researchers found that patients with diabetes or prediabetes in states with Medicaid expansion programs had better access to healthcare services, including preventive screenings and medication. This increase was particularly notable for patients with lower socioeconomic status.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalThe Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine·DateNov 13, 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.

Probiotics increase bone volume in healthy mice

A study published in Immunity found that Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG supplementation increased bone formation in female mice by stimulating the growth of butyrate-producing gut bacteria. This activation led to the expansion of regulatory T cells, which secrete a protein called Wnt10b, critical for bone development.

SourceCell Press·JournalImmunity·DateNov 13, 2018

Emotional intelligence: A new criterion for hiring?

Researchers at UNIGE and UNIBE developed an emotional intelligence test to measure skills in work environments. The test, called the Geneva Emotional Competence Test (GECO), evaluates understanding emotions, recognizing emotions, regulating one's own emotions, and managing other people's emotions.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalJournal of Applied Psychology·DateNov 13, 2018

Being overweight likely to cause depression, even without health complications

A large-scale genomic analysis has found that being overweight causes depression, even in the absence of other health problems. The study, published in International Journal of Epidemiology, suggests that the psychological impact of being overweight is a key driver of depression, rather than associated illnesses.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalInternational Journal of Epidemiology·DateNov 13, 2018

Carbon emissions will start to dictate stock prices

A new study by University of Waterloo researchers finds that high carbon emissions can lead to stock price depreciation and asset devaluation. Companies in emission-intensive sectors may experience fundamental devaluations in their stocks within 10 years, due to stricter environmental regulations and climate change risks.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalJournal of Sustainable Finance & Investment·DateNov 13, 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.

Carbon goes with the flow

A recent study by Michigan State University found that floods significantly transport large amounts of organic carbon through ecosystems, contrary to the traditional view of the carbon cycle as vertical. The research analyzed over 1,000 watersheds across the US and found that wetlands play a crucial role in storing and releasing carbon.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateNov 13, 2018

Fish recognize their prey by electric colors

Elephantnose fish recognize their prey by electric colors, using two types of receptors to determine intensity and shape. They can distinguish between living and dead objects and even recognize specific food sources like mosquito larvae with considerable accuracy.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalCurrent Biology·DateNov 13, 2018

Pancreatic cancer's addiction could be its end

Researchers identified TP63 as the culprit behind aggressive pancreatic cancer's addictive behavior. Suppressing its activity could lead to a tumor's demise. The study aims to understand why TP63 gets active in some patients' pancreas, with the goal of developing a treatment to improve their survival.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalCell Reports·DateNov 13, 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.

NASA analyzed Tropical Cyclone Alcide's rainfall before dissipation

The Global Precipitation Measurement mission provided detailed insights into Tropical Cyclone Alcide's heavy rainfall, revealing convective storms dropping rain at rates of over 255 mm/h. The satellite data showed the most powerful storms were located in the western eye wall, reaching heights above 16 km.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 13, 2018

Blocking 'secondary cataracts'

Researchers are exploring ways to prevent secondary cataracts, a condition that occurs when scar tissue forms in the eye after surgery. Melinda Duncan's team has made several discoveries, including molecules critical for forming PCO scar tissue, and is working on a drug to block this potentially blinding condition.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalInvestigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science·DateNov 13, 2018

Stealth-cap technology for light-emitting nanoparticles

Researchers developed stealth-cap technology to increase stability and biocompatibility of light-transducing nanoparticles. The new nanoparticles are water-soluble, stable in complex body fluids, and can store medications like cancer drugs.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateNov 13, 2018

Studies examine availability of opioid-overdose antidote at pharmacies

Two studies found that fewer than 25% of California retail pharmacies dispense naloxone without a physician's prescription, and 69% of Texas chain pharmacies reported having the medication in stock. The studies aimed to assess naloxone accessibility after legislation allowed pharmacists to provide the antidote without a prescription.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateNov 13, 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.

Pressure helps to make better Li-ion batteries

Scientists have discovered a new strategy to enhance the conductivity of lithium titanium oxide (LTO) anode materials for Li-ion batteries. By applying high pressure, LTO can transform into an amorphous phase that displays better conductivity. The findings provide insight into the relationship between structure and conducting properties.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateNov 13, 2018

Detecting light in a different dimension

Scientists improved graphene's response to light by 600% using self-assembling wire-like nanostructures. The new design enhances light absorption and charge transfer, enabling faster detection of low-level light in various applications.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalACS Photonics·DateNov 13, 2018

The dawn of a new era for genebanks

A world collection of over 22,000 barley varieties has been characterised at the molecular level, enabling effective use of genebank collections in research and breeding. The dataset guides the identification of duplicate samples and provides insights into global barley diversity.

SourceGerman Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig·JournalNature Genetics·DateNov 13, 2018

Synthetic DNA-delivered antibodies protect against Ebola in preclinical studies

Scientists at The Wistar Institute have successfully engineered novel DNA-encoded monoclonal antibodies targeting Zaire Ebolavirus, which offered complete and long-term protection against lethal virus challenges. The study provides a simple, rapid, and reproducible approach for immunization and evaluation of antibody efficacy.

SourceThe Wistar Institute·JournalCell Reports·DateNov 13, 2018

Climate change damaging male fertility

New research from the University of East Anglia reveals that heatwaves can halve male reproductive fitness, reducing offspring production by three-quarters. The study found that heatwaves also damage inseminated sperm within female reproductive tracts, leading to reduced fertility and population viability.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 13, 2018

Your heart hates air pollution; portable filters could help

Researchers found that using low-cost portable air purifiers at home significantly lowered urban seniors' fine particulate matter exposure and blood pressure. The study showed a 40% reduction in air pollutant exposure and an average of 3.4 mm Hg decrease in systolic blood pressure.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateNov 13, 2018

Identification of mechanisms of pesticide resistance in cattle ticks

A study in Scientific Reports identifies mechanisms of pesticide resistance in cattle ticks, which contribute to significant economic losses. The study reveals that the ticks' ability to detoxify toxicants, including ivermectin, is a key factor in their resistance.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 13, 2018

USPSTF recommendation statement on screening and behavioral counseling interventions to reduce unhealthy alcohol use in adolescents and adults

The USPSTF recommends screening adults 18 and older for unhealthy alcohol use in primary care settings. Brief behavioral counseling interventions can also help reduce hazardous drinking. In contrast, the evidence is insufficient regarding screening in adolescents 12-17. The goal is to prevent premature death and birth defects related t...

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateNov 13, 2018

Mathematical understanding of Bell nonlocality and quantum steering

Bell nonlocality and EPR steering are characterized using strict definitions, establishing a foundation for defining metric functions of Bell locality and EPR steering. The study generalizes previous results and provides sufficient conditions for determining the quantum state's EPR steerability.

SourceScience China Press·DateNov 13, 2018

New scheduling system could help reduce flight delays

Researchers developed a new scheduling system that considers the actual cost of delayed passengers, including missed connections and rebooking costs. The system reduced delay costs by up to 6.4% and minimized flight delays by 8.6-65.4%.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalJournal of Air Transport Management·DateNov 13, 2018

Purple bacteria 'batteries' turn sewage into clean energy

Researchers have discovered a way to harness the power of purple phototrophic bacteria to recover valuable biofuels from organic waste in wastewater treatment plants. By using an electric current to optimize metabolic output, they can generate hydrogen gas with near-100% carbon recovery and minimal CO2 emissions.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Energy Research·DateNov 13, 2018

Increasing CD and microchip capacity 100-fold

The new material allows for more data to be stored on CDs and microchips, with potential applications in high-density memories and devices that mimic human brains. It also addresses a problem called drift, which affects current materials' stability.

SourceUniversity of Arizona College of Engineering·DateNov 13, 2018