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Science News for November 27, 2018


Discovery of the first common genetic risk factors for ADHD

A global team of researchers has identified 12 genomic regions associated with ADHD, suggesting a significant role in brain-related processes. The study found that diagnosed ADHD shares much of the same genetic background as traits of ADHD in the general population, at a correlation rate of around 97%.

SourceCardiff University·JournalNature Genetics·DateNov 27, 2018

Touch can produce detailed, lasting memories

A study published in Psychological Science found that exploring objects through touch generates durable memories, even when participants don't intend to memorize details. Participants recalled objects with high accuracy after just one week, challenging existing cognitive and neural models of memory storage.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateNov 27, 2018

Solving a 75-year-old mystery might provide a new source of farm fertilizer

Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology have confirmed the existence of a long-hypothesized interaction between nitrogen and titanium dioxide in the presence of light. This catalytic reaction could provide a new source of farm fertilizer, reducing costs for farmers in developing nations.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateNov 27, 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.

Freeze-dried polio vaccine could spell end of disease

Researchers at USC have developed a freeze-dried polio vaccine that retains potency through rehydration, providing full protection against the polio virus. The breakthrough could bring an end to this longtime foe in countries where vaccination rates are spotty.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalmBio·DateNov 27, 2018

On the trail of rare genetic disease, scientists uncover key immune regulator

Researchers at Scripps Research have identified a crucial immune system-regulating protein called ABHD12, which is linked to a rare genetic disease featuring brain and nerve problems. The study suggests that targeting ABHD12 may offer new avenues for treating cancers and chronic viral infections.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateNov 27, 2018

First calf born following IVF embryo breakthrough

University of Kent researchers have successfully used IVF embryo breakthrough technology to screen for genetic merit and chromosome disorders in cattle. This innovative approach allows for earlier decision-making on the quality of breeding stock and more efficient delivery of genetically screened embryos to farms.

SourceUniversity of Kent·JournalTheriogenology·DateNov 27, 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.

Advanced imaging technology measures magnetite levels in the living brain

Researchers have used magnetoencephalography to measure magnetite levels in the human brain, which could lead to new studies on its role in neurodegenerative diseases. The study found greater accumulation of magnetite in the brains of older individuals, primarily in the hippocampus.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalHuman Brain Mapping·DateNov 27, 2018

Oxygen could have been available to life as early as 3.5 billion years ago

Research suggests that oxygenic photosynthesis could have occurred at least one billion years before the emergence of cyanobacteria, a key factor in increasing atmospheric oxygen levels. This finding has significant implications for our understanding of the origins of complex life and its potential evolution on other planets.

SourceImperial College London·JournalGeobiology·DateNov 27, 2018

Predators drive Nemo's relationship with an unlikely friend

A University of Queensland and Deakin University-led study reveals that predators drive the evolution of cooperative relationships between species like clownfish and anemones. The research found that fish-anemone mutualisms have evolved at least 55 times across 16 fish families over the past 60 million years.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalEcology Letters·DateNov 27, 2018

Wriggly, squiffy, lummox, and boobs: What makes some words funny?

A University of Alberta study found that two types of word predictors determine funniness: form predictors measure word sound and writing similarity, while semantic predictors relate to emotions and categories like sex and bodily functions.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalJournal of Experimental Psychology·DateNov 27, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

British Journal of Cancer press notice

Researchers have discovered that dasatinib sensitizes triple negative breast cancer cells to chemotherapy by targeting breast cancer stem cells. Additionally, a systematic review and meta-analysis found an increased risk of second cancers at sites associated with HPV after a prior HPV-associated malignancy.

SourceCancer Research UK·JournalBritish Journal of Cancer·DateNov 27, 2018

Stigma impairs cognition in men living with HIV

A recent study found a direct link between the amount of stigma men with HIV report experiencing and their scores on cognitive tests, measuring abilities like memory and attention. The researchers suggest that addressing stigma may address cognitive impairment in this population by reducing anxiety and depression.

SourceMcGill University·JournalJAIDS Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes·DateNov 27, 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.

Shedding a new light on optical trapping and tweezing

Wits physicists have developed a new device for manipulating and moving tiny objects, such as single cells in a human body or tiny particles in small volume chemistry, using the full beam of laser light. The device uses vector holographic trapping and tweezing to control and manipulate minute objects with high precision.

SourceUniversity of the Witwatersrand·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 27, 2018

Electrical stimulation in the nose induces sense of smell in human subjects

Physicians at Massachusetts Eye and Ear successfully induced a sense of smell in human subjects by stimulating nerves in the olfactory bulb. The breakthrough opens doors for developing implant technology to restore smell in those who have lost it, with potential applications in treating anosmia.

SourceMass Eye and Ear·JournalInternational Forum of Allergy & Rhinology·DateNov 27, 2018

How water fleas detect predators

Researchers at Ruhr-University Bochum discovered that water fleas detect predator presence through a cocktail of signalling molecules secreted by Chaoborus larvae during digestion. The fleas respond by growing defensive features such as neckteeth and spines, making them harder to consume.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateNov 27, 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.

Fitbits go the distance in running study

A study by La Trobe University found that Fitbits have good-to-excellent reliability for measuring running speeds between 8-14kms/h. The accuracy of the device was also confirmed in a slow motion visual count, with a difference of less than one per cent.

SourceLa Trobe University·JournalInternational Journal of Sports Physical Therapy·DateNov 27, 2018

'Dancing' hyperon in pear-shaped hypernuclei

The study of 'dancing' hyperons in pear-shaped hypernuclei reveals unique behaviors and new insights into fundamental interactions. Researchers found that the hyperon's spatial distribution has a spherical symmetry when occupying the lowest-energy state, shrinking nuclear size and decreasing quadrupole deformation.

SourceScience China Press·DateNov 27, 2018

The warm and loving tegu lizard becomes a genetic resource

The tegu lizard's genome has been sequenced to an unprecedented level of quality, revealing its ability to regulate its body temperature and potentially threatening native species. The high-quality genome assembly will aid scientists in studying other lizards and snakes, shedding light on their evolutionary history.

SourceGigaScience·JournalGigaScience·DateNov 27, 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.

First ancient DNA from mainland Finland reveals origins of Siberian ancestry in region

The study found the earliest evidence of Siberian ancestry in Fennoscandia in a population inhabiting the Kola Peninsula, Russia, dating to around 4,000 years ago. Ancient DNA from Finland reveals that people genetically similar to present-day Saami people inhabited areas in much more southern parts of Finland than the Saami today.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Geoanthropology·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 27, 2018

Threatened tropical coral reefs form complex, ancient associations with bacteria

A team of researchers has conducted a comprehensive survey of healthy corals, revealing that coral bacteria form complex associations with different sections of the coral body. The study found that distinct microbial communities exist in each tissue type, with the hard skeleton containing the greatest diversity of bacteria.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 27, 2018

Researchers discover clues to brain changes in depression

Scientists at the University of Maryland School of Medicine discovered changes in brain activity linked to the brain's reward memory response in depression. The research found that the strength of signals between two brain regions is critical for processing rewarding stimuli.

SourceUniversity of Maryland School of Medicine·JournalNature·DateNov 27, 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.

Discovery opens new opportunities to slow or reverse MS

Mature oligodendrocytes have been found to be capable of remyelinating damaged axons, suggesting a potential new target for treating multiple sclerosis. This discovery opens up new avenues for slowing or reversing the disease by promoting the activity of these cells.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 27, 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.

Not just a pretty face: Botulinum toxin shows promise in trials to reduce post-operative atrial fibrillation (POAF) in cardiac surgery patients

Two clinical trials using botulinum toxin injections to suppress post-operative atrial fibrillation (POAF) showed promising results. Patients who received BTX injections during surgery had a sustained reduction in POAF incidence and overall burden over three years, accompanied by reduced hospitalization needs.

SourceElsevier·JournalHeart Rhythm·DateNov 27, 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.

Music supports the auditory skills of hearing-impaired children

A study published in Music Perception reveals that children with hearing impairments who engage in regular music activities exhibit better speech perception in noisy conditions. The results suggest that parental singing and daily musical engagement are crucial for developing communication skills.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalMusic Perception An Interdisciplinary Journal·DateNov 27, 2018

Keep it complex: Study shows that previous research oversimplified Schizophrenia symptoms

A recent study published in JAMA Psychiatry proposes a new classification system for the negative symptoms of schizophrenia, moving away from the oversimplified two-category approach. This shift aims to improve treatment outcomes by providing more precise measures of symptom severity and guiding the development of targeted therapies.

SourceUniversity of Nevada, Las Vegas·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateNov 27, 2018

Pulsed radiofrequency relieves acute back pain and sciatica

A study found that pulsed radiofrequency (pRF) is an effective treatment option for patients with acute lower back pain from lumbar disk herniation. pRF was superior to steroid injections in reducing inflammation and symptoms, resulting in faster pain relief and improved quality of life.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateNov 27, 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.

Lipid that aids normal skin turnover may help psoriasis

Researchers have discovered a lipid called phosphatidylglycerol (PG) that may help restore healthy skin turnover in people with psoriasis. PG reduced inflammation and raised skin lesions when applied topically to a mouse model of psoriasis, suggesting it could be a new treatment option.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalJournal of Investigative Dermatology·DateNov 27, 2018

Automated technique for anime colorization using deep learning

Japanese researchers have developed a technique for automatic anime colorization using deep learning, which is based on recent advances in machine learning approaches. The technique uses a combination of image segmentation and voting techniques to refine the colorization result.

SourceNara Institute of Science and Technology·DateNov 27, 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.

How antibiotics help spread resistance

Researchers found that certain antibiotics can alter the way bacteria divide and interact with each other, leading to increased competence and the spread of antibiotic-resistant genes. Biofilms play a crucial role in this process, allowing cells to secrete higher concentrations of a peptide that triggers quorum sensing.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalCell Reports·DateNov 27, 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.

Newly discovered wasp turns social spiders into zombies

Researchers discovered a newly found species of wasp transforming social spiders into zombie-like drones, abandoning their colonies. The wasps' parasitic relationship involves injecting hormones to alter the spider's behavior, making it leave its nest and spin new structures.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalEcological Entomology·DateNov 27, 2018

Using fine-tuning for record-breaking performance

Scientists at FAU have developed a new organic molecule that absorbs more light than fullerenes and is very durable. The hybrid printed photovoltaics achieved a certified power conversion efficiency of 12.25%, setting a new record for solution-based organic single-junction solar cells.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalNature Energy·DateNov 27, 2018

Researchers aim to prevent medical imaging cyberattacks

Researchers from Ben-Gurion University of the Negev developed a system to monitor outgoing commands from CT equipment, detecting anomalies and alerting operators before execution. A second study looked at the potential to tamper with mammogram results using AI-powered image manipulation.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateNov 27, 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.

New concept for tractor beam from Star Wars developed

Researchers at ITMO University propose a new approach to creating tractor beams using hyperbolic metasurfaces, which can capture particles and cells. The study shows that these materials have the potential for practical applications in experiments and traps.

SourceITMO University·JournalACS Photonics·DateNov 27, 2018

Trial of investigational Ebola treatments begins in Democratic Republic of the Congo

A randomized, controlled trial is enrolling patients with confirmed Ebola virus disease in the Democratic Republic of Congo to compare mortality among those receiving three investigational drugs with a control group. The trial aims to establish the safety and efficacy of these treatments in a comprehensive response to combat Ebola.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·DateNov 27, 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.

Biologists discover an unusual hallmark of aging in neurons

Researchers at MIT found a mysterious RNA buildup in neurons that increases with age, reducing protein production and potentially contributing to neurodegenerative diseases. The discovery was made using a novel technique that allowed them to isolate and sequence messenger RNA from specific types of cells.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalCell Reports·DateNov 27, 2018

Telemedicine use increases but still uncommon

Annual telemedicine visits increased from 0.02 to 6.57 per 1,000 members between 2005-2017, with growth accelerating after 2015. Most users resided in urban areas, a trend contrasting with the emphasis on expanding telemedicine access in rural regions.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateNov 27, 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.

Study explains waterhemp's metabolic resistance to topramezone

A new study reveals waterhemp's unique detoxification pathway for topramezone, making chemical control difficult. The finding suggests that the weed uses a different mechanism than corn, rendering current herbicides ineffective.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalFrontiers in Plant Science·DateNov 27, 2018

AI system may accelerate search for cancer discoveries

The LION LBD AI system is designed to assist scientists in the search for cancer-related discoveries by analyzing tens of millions of publications. By identifying indirect associations between entities, it can help researchers make new connections and discover potential links that may have been overlooked.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalBioinformatics·DateNov 27, 2018

Lobachevsky University scientists obtain a hexagonal modification of silicon

Researchers at Lobachevsky University have synthesized a hexagonal modification of silicon with enhanced optical properties, which can be used in optoelectronic integrated circuits. The material was created using ion implantation and exhibits an associated emission band in the infrared region.

SourceLobachevsky University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateNov 27, 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.

Early detection of epilepsy in children possible with deep learning computer science technique

Researchers developed a novel classification method combining brain imaging data from MRI and fMRI to recognize patients with benign epilepsy with centrotemporal spikes. This approach improved diagnosis accuracy, enabling early detection and treatment, which leads to better health outcomes for children. The study used a dataset of 40 B...

SourceGeorgia State University·JournalIET Computer Vision·DateNov 27, 2018

Microplastics pollution in Falklands as high as UK

A new study has discovered high levels of microplastic contamination in the Falkland Islands and Ascension Island, with some areas showing comparable levels to those around the UK. The research highlights the need for standardized monitoring methods to address this growing environmental concern.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalMarine Pollution Bulletin·DateNov 27, 2018

Endurance but not resistance training has anti-aging effects

A recent study published by the European Society of Cardiology found that endurance training but not resistance training slows or reverses cellular aging. Telomerase activity and telomere length increased in volunteers who underwent endurance and high-intensity training, suggesting a potential mechanism for healthy aging.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateNov 27, 2018

Newfound mechanism may yield ways to counter mistaken immune attack on body

A recent study discovered a genetic regulatory mechanism that controls the production of interferon beta, which causes inflammation and activates immune cells. Interfering with specific enzymes involved in RNA methylation may represent a new approach to treating autoimmune diseases.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalGenes & Development·DateNov 27, 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.

Veterans study points to suicide risk from multiple brain injuries

A new Veterans Affairs study found that Iraq and Afghanistan veterans with a history of repeated traumatic brain injuries are at much greater risk for recent suicidal ideation compared to those with one TBI or none. The researchers identified poor sleep quality and depression as key risk factors for suicidal thinking.

SourceVeterans Affairs Research Communications·JournalPsychological Services·DateNov 27, 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.

ASH releases new clinical practice guidelines for venous thromboembolism

The American Society of Hematology has released new clinical practice guidelines for venous thromboembolism, covering evidence-based recommendations for prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. The guidelines aim to improve care for patients with blood clots, addressing current uncertainties and variations in clinical practice.

SourceAmerican Society of Hematology·JournalBlood Advances·DateNov 27, 2018

Seven UC San Diego professors named AAAS Fellows

Seven researchers from the University of California, San Diego have been recognized as AAAS Fellows for their groundbreaking work in various fields. Robert Continetti was honored for his novel studies on molecular reaction dynamics, while Farhat Beg received recognition for his contributions to high energy density science.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateNov 27, 2018

Hacking the aging code: Big data to the rescue

Researchers use big data from medical studies and large biobanks to develop models predicting biological age, aging rate, and potential targets for future anti-aging therapies. The approach also led to the identification of wearable-based biomarkers of aging and frailty.

SourceGero·JournalFrontiers in Genetics·DateNov 27, 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.

Home videos of children can be scored to diagnose autism, Stanford study says

A new study from Stanford University School of Medicine has developed a method to diagnose autism in children using short home videos, expanding on previous feasibility studies. The researchers employed machine learning to determine relevant behavioral features and devised an algorithm to provide an overall diagnostic score.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateNov 27, 2018

Pre-pregnancy health coverage climbs after Medicaid expansion

After Medicaid expansion, low-income women in expansion states saw significant increases in preconception health coverage, rising from 43% to 57%. This led to improved access to preconception care and reduced pregnancy risks.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateNov 27, 2018

Putting hybrid-electric aircraft performance to the test

Researchers created a flight-performance simulator to test the performance of a hybrid-electric drivetrain on a Tecnam P2006T aircraft. The study found that a parallel hybrid architecture can lead to substantial improvements in fuel efficiency, particularly for short-range missions.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalJournal of Aircraft·DateNov 27, 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.

Why small size matters: Tiny mitochondria stimulate brain cell connections

Researchers discovered that small, spherical mitochondria inside brain cells help neurons grow and form proper connections. This unique shape is tied to the neuron's shape and allows for optimal calcium uptake, driving healthy axonal growth and cellular communication.

SourceThe Zuckerman Institute at Columbia University·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 27, 2018

UA researchers help discover genetic factor that can help or hurt risk for heart disease

A team of UA researchers discovered a previously unknown genetic effect that can raise or reduce the risk of coronary artery disease or ischemic stroke. People with the beneficial version of the genetic factor have less inflammatory cells lining their blood vessels, making them more resistant to building up plaque.

SourceUniversity of Arizona Health Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 27, 2018

Is your office messy? If so, you may be seen as uncaring, neurotic

Participants in three experiments rated researchers with messy offices as less conscientious, agreeable, and less neurotic than those with clean offices. The findings suggest that perceived disorganization can impact how others treat individuals in personal and professional settings.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalPersonality and Individual Differences·DateNov 27, 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.

Why screen time can disrupt sleep

Salk scientists discovered that melanopsin cells, responsible for regulating consciousness and sleep, respond to prolonged illumination, but can become desensitized. The study may lead to new treatments for migraines, insomnia, jet lag and circadian rhythm disorders.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalCell Reports·DateNov 27, 2018

Photonic radiation sensors survive huge doses undamaged

Researchers at NIST discovered that oxide-coated silicon photonic devices can withstand up to 1 million gray of radiation exposure, making them suitable for measuring radiation dose in medical and industrial applications. This breakthrough could lead to the development of precise radiation sensors for medical imaging and therapy.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 27, 2018