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Science News for November 8, 2018


Most complete study on Europe's greatest Hadrosaur site published

A recent study published in PLOS ONE provides the most comprehensive analysis of a Hadrosaur bone bed in Europe, shedding light on the lives of these ancient herbivores. The research reveals that young individuals were more abundant than adults, suggesting a natural population dynamic.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 8, 2018

Online labor platforms offer growing alternative to traditional offshoring

The study reveals that online labor platforms provide companies with a simple and cheap mechanism to hire knowledge workers in lower-income countries. Workers from emerging economies can earn more and have more predictable work hours through these platforms, but their income can be less stable.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalJournal of Management·DateNov 8, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Creating better devices: The etch stops here

A team of scientists and engineers at the University of Illinois has developed a new technique for creating nanoscale-size electromechanical devices by using graphene as an etch stop. This allows for precise patterning of two-dimensional structures, enabling the creation of complex devices with improved performance.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 8, 2018

Aging a flock of stars in the Wild Duck Cluster

Researchers found that the Wild Duck Cluster's stars are older than initially thought due to their rotational periods, which affect their hydrogen core mixing and lifetime. This discovery sheds light on how stars form and evolve, challenging previous assumptions about open clusters.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalNature Astronomy·DateNov 8, 2018

New UMBC research suggests global reforestation efforts need to take the long view

A new study by UMBC researchers highlights the importance of taking a long-term approach to reforestation efforts. Secondary forest patches are often quickly re-cleared, but their full benefits don't kick in until they're decades old. The study found that large patches and those alongside rivers were less likely to be re-cleared.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Baltimore County·JournalConservation Letters·DateNov 8, 2018

Trash more treasured with new conversion method

Researchers at the University of South Florida have developed a groundbreaking process that converts biogas from landfills into liquid diesel fuel, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional fossil fuels. This innovative method has the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and increase energy independence.

SourceUniversity of South Florida·DateNov 8, 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.

Unique study shows how bats maneuver

Researchers at Lund University have made a groundbreaking discovery about bat flight techniques, revealing that they turn on the upstroke of their wings to navigate. This new understanding has significant implications for the development of next-generation drones.

SourceLund University·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateNov 8, 2018

Columbia-led team receives $16.75 million from BRAIN Initiative

A Columbia-led team has been awarded $16.75 million from the BRAIN Initiative to study the primary visual cortex, a region crucial for making sense of visual information. The five-year project aims to bridge the gap in knowledge between theoretical and experimental neuroscience.

SourceThe Zuckerman Institute at Columbia University·DateNov 8, 2018

Ancient child's tooth reveals picture of Alaska's early inhabitants

A 9,000-year-old child's tooth has revealed insights into Alaska's ancient people, their genetic makeup and diets. The tooth, linked to the Ancient Beringian lineage, indicates that these groups remained in Alaska for thousands of years after migrating across the Bering Land Bridge.

SourceUniversity of Alaska Fairbanks·JournalScience·DateNov 8, 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.

Conversion 'therapy' begins at home

A study by the Family Acceptance Project found that LGBT young people experiencing conversion therapy report higher levels of depression, suicidal behavior, and lower self-esteem. Parents serve as gatekeepers for both home-based and external conversion interventions.

SourceSan Francisco State University·JournalJournal of Homosexuality·DateNov 8, 2018

High-performance solar cells: Physicists grow stable perovskite layers

Researchers at Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg develop a method to produce stable perovskite layers, which could lead to high-performance solar cells. The approach uses an industry-wide process to control layer growth, resulting in homogenous and controlled crystals that can withstand elevated temperatures.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·DateNov 8, 2018

Flipped classroom enhances learning outcomes in medical certificate education

A new study from the University of Eastern Finland found that flipped classroom teaching improved medical certificate writing skills compared to traditional lectures. The research involved 40 students from each group and showed a significant difference in scores, with flipped classroom students scoring better on average.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalBMC Medical Education·DateNov 8, 2018

Tropical Cyclone Alcide's rainfall observed by GPM Satellite

Tropical cyclone Alcide formed in the South Indian Ocean northeast of Madagascar, prompting NASA's Global Precipitation Measurement mission to analyze its rainfall. GPM's data revealed strong convective storms dropping rain at a rate of over 44 mm/hour, with measurements of precipitation heights made possible by DPR Ku Band radar.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 8, 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.

Moving the motivation meter

Two novel drugs have been found to restore normal behavior in rats lacking motivation by stimulating a build-up of dopamine in the synapses. This discovery holds promise for treating apathy and fatigue in humans, particularly those suffering from depression or caused by chronic diseases.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·DateNov 8, 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.

Broad genome analysis shows yeasts evolving by subtraction

Researchers sequenced and compared the genomes of 332 yeast species, revealing an extensive picture of their evolution over hundreds of millions of years. The study suggests that yeasts evolved through reductive evolution, losing traits to specialize in specific food sources, with modern yeasts having narrower appetites.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalCell·DateNov 8, 2018

Neurons that fire together, don't always wire together

A study published in Neuron demonstrates that neurons with the same projection target are more likely to connect with each other, despite being neighbors. This 'exclusion' principle of connectivity highlights a new rule of connectivity in the neocortex.

SourceSainsbury Wellcome Centre·JournalNeuron·DateNov 8, 2018

New decision support tool improves discharge outcomes

A new decision support tool, DIRECT CDS, has been developed to optimize post-acute care (PAC) referrals and improve patient outcomes. The algorithm helps clinicians identify patients most in need of PAC and suggests the level of care required.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Nursing·JournalJournal of the American Medical Directors Association·DateNov 8, 2018

Healing kidneys with nanotechnology

A new method for treating and preventing acute kidney injury (AKI) has been developed using tiny, self-assembling forms of DNA origami nanostructures. These nanostructures were shown to protect the kidneys from harm as effectively as the leading drug therapy and alleviate symptoms of AKI.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateNov 8, 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.

Amazon forests failing to keep up with climate change

The Amazon forest is failing to keep up with the effects of climate change, with more drought-resistant tree species outcompeting vulnerable ones. As a result, biodiversity is at risk, and existing intact rainforests need to be protected from deforestation.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateNov 8, 2018

UCLA researchers and partners work with sushi restaurants to reduce seafood fraud

Researchers and students from UCLA monitor seafood purchases from Los Angeles restaurants, extracting DNA to distinguish between fish species. They find that sushi mislabeling is pervasive, but intentional fraud is less common, with some restaurants already implementing changes based on their findings.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateNov 8, 2018

CWRU-Led study triggers change in WHO treatment guidelines for lymphatic filariasis

A CWRU-led study shows a single dose of the new triple-drug therapy is significantly more effective at killing microscopic larval worms in people diagnosed with lymphatic filariasis. This finding has led to changes in WHO treatment guidelines, offering promise for eliminating this disease from global health threats.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 8, 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.

Link between autoimmune, heart disease explained in mice

Studies in mice with psoriasis-like conditions found that stiff blood vessel walls trapped cholesterol, promoting plaques and increasing cardiovascular risk. Neutralizing a specific immune cell type reduced collagen density and cholesterol deposits, suggesting a preventable link between autoimmune diseases and heart disease.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalCell Metabolism·DateNov 8, 2018

UK scientists opening up access to science through DIY equipment

Spikeling, a low-cost DIY kit, simulates how nerve cells in the brain compute information, allowing for hands-on learning of neuroscience. The kit's open design and free availability aim to level the playing field in global science education, making complex concepts accessible to students worldwide.

SourceUniversity of Sussex·JournalPLOS Biology·DateNov 8, 2018

Mark your calendar: All infectious diseases are seasonal

Research suggests that all infectious diseases follow a seasonal cycle, with outbreaks occurring at specific times of the year. Seasonality is driven by environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and vector-borne diseases like Zika, which is influenced by mosquito proliferation in algae-filled waterbodies.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateNov 8, 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.

Re-inventing the hook

Researchers found orangutans spontaneously manufactured hook tools out of straight wire, solving a complex problem that eludes young human children. The apes' innovation abilities were tested using a hook-bending task, where they successfully bent and unbent wires to retrieve rewards.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 8, 2018

Molecular inhibition gets cells on the move

A team of researchers at Osaka University has identified the molecular mechanism that enables cells to move in a specific direction. By analyzing the interaction between PTEN and PIP3 molecules, they found that these molecules mutually suppress each other, preventing cells from forming pseudopodia at different ends.

SourceOsaka University·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 8, 2018

Some of retina's light-sensing cells may have ancient roots

Scientists have discovered that some retina cells may be using an ancient light-sensing mechanism, which suggests a possible connection to the earliest photoreceptors. This finding was made in mice and has implications for understanding vision and its relationship to other biological processes.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalCell·DateNov 8, 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.

Automated detection of sleep states from olfactory brain waves

Researchers create an algorithm that accurately classifies mouse vigilance states into wake, REM sleep, and non-REM sleep based on local brain activity in the olfactory bulb. The study has potential applications in medical and clinical fields, including surgical anesthesia and sleep disorders.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateNov 8, 2018

A newly discovered, naturally low-caffeine tea plant

Scientists have identified a wild tea plant in China that contains virtually no caffeine and may provide the health benefits of regular brewed teas. The newly discovered plant, known as hongyacha, was found to contain several potentially health-promoting compounds not found in regular tea.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateNov 8, 2018

Failing heart cells trigger self-protection mechanism

Researchers discovered a self-protection mechanism in failing heart cells that triggers the regulation of genes promoting heart failure. The study reveals that one fragment of the protein junctophilin-2 protects against damage by traveling to the cell nuclei.

SourceUniversity of Iowa Health Care·JournalScience·DateNov 8, 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.

How many calories do you burn? It depends on time of day

Researchers discovered that people burn 10% more calories at rest in the late afternoon and early evening compared to the early morning hours. This finding highlights the importance of the circadian clock in regulating metabolism.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateNov 8, 2018

Exploiting epigenetic variation for plant breeding

Scientists demonstrate that epigenetic variation in plants can be selected for and passed on through generations, enabling quick adaptation to environmental changes. This discovery opens new opportunities for crop breeding and could help plants thrive in a changing climate.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 8, 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.

What do metastatic cancer cells have in common with sharks?

Researchers have discovered that metastatic cancer cells follow a Lévy walk movement pattern, like sharks searching for food, which aids in their rapid spread and direction. The team was able to reprogram this behavior using chemical inhibitors, changing it back to more typical diffusive motion

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 8, 2018

Study demonstrates that long-term follow up in a trauma patient population is achievable

A recent study published in Academic Emergency Medicine demonstrated that long-term follow-up in a trauma patient population is feasible. The study used established contact strategies and various interview locations to track hard-to-reach populations. Researchers suggest exploring newer methods of contacting participants through techno...

SourceSociety for Academic Emergency Medicine·JournalAcademic Emergency Medicine·DateNov 8, 2018

Men focused on muscle building struggle with binge drinking and other problems

A new study from NTNU and Harvard University reveals that young men who strive for an unattainable muscular body are at risk of depression, weekend binge drinking, and disordered eating. The study also shows that over one-third of young men have been on a diet in the past year, unrelated to obesity.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalInternational Journal of Eating Disorders·DateNov 8, 2018

Social media use increases depression and loneliness

A University of Pennsylvania study found that limiting time on Facebook, Snapchat, and Instagram leads to significant decreases in depression and loneliness. The researchers connected social media usage with decreased well-being through objective data tracking iPhone battery screens.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalJournal of Social and Clinical Psychology·DateNov 8, 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.

See-through film rejects 70 percent of incoming solar heat

Researchers at MIT have developed a heat-rejecting film that can be applied to windows to reflect up to 70% of the sun's incoming heat. This innovative material could significantly reduce air conditioning costs and energy consumption, particularly in hot cities like Hong Kong.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJoule·DateNov 8, 2018

Can't sleep? Fruit flies and energy drinks offer new clues

A new study has discovered a mechanism for regulating sleep in fruit flies that involves glial cells and an ingredient commonly found in energy drinks like Red Bull. The researchers found that the gene Eaat2 promotes wakefulness by limiting the length and intensity of sleep periods.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateNov 8, 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.

Decline in shorebirds linked to climate change, experts warn

A study analyzing population data over 70 years found that climate change is responsible for a substantial decline in shorebird populations. Rates of daily nest predation have increased threefold in the Arctic and doubled in the North Temperate Zone, leading to devastating effects on population numbers.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalScience·DateNov 8, 2018

A buzz-worthy surprise during the total solar eclipse

During the 2017 total solar eclipse, researchers captured a surprising phenomenon: bees stopped buzzing as Earth fell into complete darkness. The study, led by Candace Galen at the University of Missouri, found that bees did not use the unusual darkness as a cue for night and instead flew during periods of reduced light.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalAnnals of the Entomological Society of America·DateNov 8, 2018

Blue light can reduce blood pressure

Exposure to whole-body blue light significantly reduces systolic blood pressure by almost 8 mmHg, similar to blood pressure lowering drugs. Blue light also improves other cardiovascular risk markers such as arterial stiffness and increased blood vessel relaxation.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalEuropean Journal of Preventive Cardiology·DateNov 8, 2018

Bees on the brink

A new study led by James Crall at Harvard University found that exposure to neonicotinoid pesticides has profound effects on a host of social behaviors in bees, including reduced nursing of larvae and decreased social interaction. The study also showed that pesticides impair bees' ability to regulate temperatures inside the nest.

SourceHarvard University·JournalScience·DateNov 8, 2018

Don't stare! Monkey gaze study shows dopamine's role in response inhibition

Researchers at University of Tsukuba found that dopamine neurons are key to inhibiting preplanned actions in monkeys, suggesting a possible mechanism for treating diseases with impaired inhibition. The study used gaze fixation experiments to train monkeys to redirect their attention and measure neuronal activity.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalNeuron·DateNov 8, 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.

Species' longevity depends on brain cell numbers

Researchers found that brain cell numbers, not body size or metabolic rate, are the key factors determining maximal longevity in animals. The study suggests that a higher number of cortical neurons leads to longer lifespans and better adaptability.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Comparative Neurology·DateNov 8, 2018

When low-income families can meet their basic needs, children are healthier

Research from Children's HealthWatch highlights the importance of access to and effectiveness of programs enabling low-income families to afford basic needs like food, shelter, and medical care. The study found that living in a hardship-free family was associated with good overall health for children and caregivers.

SourceBoston Medical Center·DateNov 8, 2018

Rutgers awarded $4.2 million to improve mental health services

Rutgers is creating a regional Mental Health Technology Transfer Center to train mental health practitioners and support the implementation of evidence-based research. The center will focus on increasing access to treatment, prevention, and recovery services for underserved populations.

SourceRutgers University·DateNov 8, 2018

ThyroSeq test helps patients avoid unnecessary diagnostic thyroid surgery, study shows

A genetic test called ThyroSeq has been shown to reliably distinguish between benign and cancerous thyroid nodules using a small sample of cells. The test correctly identified cancerous nodules as positive 94% of the time and detected benign nodules as negative 82% of the time, preventing unnecessary diagnostic surgeries.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateNov 8, 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.

Navigating our thoughts: Fundamental principles of thinking

Researchers suggest that humans think using their brain's navigation system, storing information in cognitive spaces. This theory combines evidence from place and grid cells, allowing the formation of mental maps of surroundings and reactivated during later visits.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences·JournalScience·DateNov 8, 2018

Multiple sclerosis: Accumulation of B cells triggers nervous system damage

A recent study published in Nature Immunology found that B cell accumulation triggers nervous system damage in MS patients. The presence of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) regulates the number of B cells, and their absence leads to inflammation and tissue damage.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature Immunology·DateNov 8, 2018

Cranking up the power setting may help some who use prosthetics

A study by Hwan Choi and colleagues found that powered ankle prosthetics can reduce metabolic costs for individuals with transtibial amputations. By adjusting the power setting, users can improve their walking ability and increase activity levels, reducing the risk of health consequences such as diabetes and cardiac disease.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 8, 2018

Investigational urate elevation does not appear to raise hypertension risk

A recent study from Massachusetts General Hospital found no association between urate manipulation and blood pressure, suggesting that treating neurodegenerative disorders with elevated urate levels may not increase the risk of hypertension. The study used phase 2 clinical trial results and animal model studies to support its findings.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalEBioMedicine·DateNov 8, 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.

The Lancet: Latest global disease estimates, combined with health worker shortfall, show that global progress in health is not inevitable

The Global Burden of Disease study reveals that global mortality rates for adults stagnated or worsened in some countries in 2017, with fertility rates declining globally. The report also highlights a shortage of healthcare workers, with half of countries facing a shortfall and only 41 having sufficient physicians to serve their popula...

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·DateNov 8, 2018

Catalyzing CO2

Researchers at Harvard University have developed a new system that captures CO2 from power plants and heavy industry, converting it into industrial fuels with high efficiency. The improved system uses renewable electricity to reduce carbon dioxide into carbon monoxide, addressing the two main challenges of cost and scalability.

SourceHarvard University·JournalJoule·DateNov 8, 2018

Unlocking the secrets of metal-insulator transitions

Researchers used XPCS to study magnetite's electrical conductivity transition from insulator to metallic, finding it occurs in two steps. The technique revealed that the fast phase is one step and the slowing down is the second step, suggesting that metallic and insulating properties coexist during the phase change.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateNov 8, 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.

Combination chemotherapy and immunotherapy effective in Phase II leukemia study

A Phase II study found a combination of azacitidine and nivolumab therapy resulted in a 33% overall response rate and 22% complete remission rate for patients with relapsed/refractory acute myeloid leukemia. The drug combination was particularly effective in patients who had not previously received hypomethylating agents, with an overa...

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalCancer Discovery·DateNov 8, 2018

How do peptides penetrate cells? Two sides of the same coin

Scientists at IOCB Prague have discovered a previously unknown passive mechanism by which positively charged short peptides can penetrate cells. This process is based on membrane fusion induced by the transported peptides and shares the same mechanistic basis as known processes in neurons during nerve impulses.

SourceInstitute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences (IOCB Prague)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 8, 2018

Grants aim to give veterans better access to cancer trials

The SWOG Cancer Research Network and The Hope Foundation for Cancer Research provide grant support to U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs medical centers to enroll veterans in cancer clinical trials. This program aims to create a sustainable national network of sites offering new treatment options through clinical trials.

SourceSWOG·DateNov 8, 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.

We now know how RNA molecules are organized in cells

A team of Université de Montreal researchers has visualized RNA molecule organization in cells using super-resolution microscopy. They found that messenger RNAs exist in multiple configurations, contradicting the long-standing model of a stable closed-loop conformation.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalMolecular Cell·DateNov 8, 2018

New tool to predict which plants will become invasive

A new research from the University of Vermont provides insight to help predict which plants are likely to become invasive in a particular community. Plant height can be a competitive advantage for non-native plants, enabling them to outcompete native plants and spread more aggressively.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 8, 2018

New ranking method could help hotels to maximize their revenue

Researchers have developed a new method to rank hotels more accurately, providing insights on areas that matter most to customers. The study found that facilities and staff are key factors in maximizing revenue for hotels.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalInternational Journal of Hospitality Management·DateNov 8, 2018

Genetic 'whodunnit' for cancer gene solved

Researchers at the Salk Institute found that late-stage cancers trigger AMPK's cellular recycling signal to cannibalize cell pieces, supplying large lung tumors with nutrients. Blocking AMPK in some conditions may stop advanced tumor growth.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalCell Metabolism·DateNov 8, 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.

Traditional glaucoma test can miss severity of disease

A new study published in JAMA Ophthalmology found that traditional glaucoma tests often underestimate the severity of central vision loss. Researchers developed a finer visual field test to assess macular damage and found it can improve diagnosis at no extra cost.

SourceColumbia University·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateNov 8, 2018

Researchers simplify tiny structures' construction drip by drip

Princeton researchers have created a way to construct tiny structures, such as soft lenses for smartphones, using a simple method that doesn't require special equipment. The technique uses a liquid film and lasers to create precise patterns of droplets, resulting in uniform hexagonal structures.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 8, 2018

Replaying the tape of life: Is it possible?

A review explores the complexity of evolution's predictability, revealing a mix of contingency and determinism in evolutionary change. The study analyzed various empirical studies to characterize repeatability and contingency in evolution, finding that there is no easy answer to whether history affects the repeatability of evolution.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalScience·DateNov 8, 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.

Gene signature discovery may predict response to immune therapy

Researchers have discovered a gene signature biomarker that can predict which patients will respond to immune therapy based on the extracellular matrix's stiffness around cancer cells. The study suggests that stiffening of the ECM barrier may physically block the immune system.

SourceUniversity Health Network·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 8, 2018

Climate change flips the global pattern of shorebird nest predation

Climate change has led to a significant increase in nest predation rates among shorebirds worldwide, with Arctic regions experiencing higher rates than the tropics. This shift reverses the historical latitudinal gradient of predation, posing a critical threat to global shorebird populations.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateNov 8, 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.

Powerful method probes small-molecule structures

Researchers have developed a faster and simpler technique to analyze the structures of small molecules, reducing the time needed for X-ray crystallography. This new method, microcrystal-electron diffraction (MicroED), allows scientists to study small-molecule structures at high resolution in under 30 minutes.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Central Science·DateNov 8, 2018

Why modest goals are so appealing

Research led by INSEAD marketing professors found that people prefer small incremental goals over maintenance goals, even when there is no gap between the starting point and desired state. The brain's negativity bias plays a significant role in this preference, making modest attainment goals more appealing.

SourceINSEAD·JournalOrganizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes·DateNov 8, 2018

UK wine-making areas to rival Champagne revealed

Researchers have identified nearly 35,000 hectares of prime viticultural land in the UK, particularly in Kent, Sussex, and East Anglia, suitable for new and expanding vineyards. The areas found to be ideal for vineyard investment are drier, warmer, and more stable than established locations.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalJournal of Land Use Science·DateNov 8, 2018

Harvard University receives transformational gift for Harvard Medical School

The $200-million commitment from the Blavatnik Family Foundation will fund fundamental curiosity-driven research, therapeutics initiatives, and cross-disciplinary collaborations. This transformational gift aims to propel Harvard Medical School toward solving pressing health challenges through innovative therapies and treatments.

SourceHarvard Medical School·DateNov 8, 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.

Biodiversity draws the ecotourism crowd

Research at Michigan State University found that better biodiversity leads to more tourists visiting protected areas. A 1% increase in biodiversity results in a 0.87% increase in annual visitors. Strategic management and local community participation can enhance economic development and livelihood benefits.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalEcosystem Services·DateNov 8, 2018

Metallic nanocatalysts imitate the structure of enzymes

A team of researchers has successfully replicated the internal channel structures of natural enzymes in metallic nanoparticles, resulting in three times greater catalytic activity. The study focused on the oxygen reduction reaction and found that active centers within the channels enhanced reaction efficiency.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateNov 8, 2018

EEG identifies brain signal that correlates with depression and anxiety

Researchers identified a unique frequency of brainwaves associated with communication between the amygdala and hippocampus, which correlates with worsening mood related to depression and anxiety. The study used intracranial EEG to measure brainwave activity in epilepsy patients and found fluctuations in electrical activity at a specifi...

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateNov 8, 2018

Novel strategy appears to protect retina when disease reduces oxygen

Scientists discover enzyme arginase 1 plays protective role in retinal health by suppressing inflammation and promoting recovery. Administering pegylated arginase 1 reduces inflammation and subsequent damage following reperfusion injury, offering potential new treatment for neurovascular injury.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalCell Death and Disease·DateNov 8, 2018

Can stimulating the brain treat chronic pain?

Researchers successfully targeted and enhanced alpha oscillations in the somatosensory cortex, resulting in significant decreases in symptoms associated with chronic lower back pain. The study suggests that non-invasive treatment strategies like transcranial alternating current stimulation may one day be used to treat chronic pain.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalJournal of Pain·DateNov 8, 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.

Patients with untreated hearing loss incur higher health care costs over time

A new study reveals that patients with untreated hearing loss incur significantly higher total health care costs over time, totaling $22,434 per person over a decade. The study found that older adults with untreated hearing loss generated nearly 46% more in total health care costs compared to those without hearing loss.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·DateNov 8, 2018

Embryos remember the chemicals that they encounter

Researchers discover that embryonic cells retain a memory of chemical signals they encounter during development. Exposure to WNT and Activin signaling is necessary for differentiation, and cells can remember previous exposure to these signals, even if the signal is absent at the time of treatment.

SourceRockefeller University·DateNov 8, 2018

Ancient DNA evidence reveals two unknown migrations from North to South America

A study of ancient DNA from 49 individuals in Belize, Brazil, and the Central Andes reveals that most Central and South American ancestry originated from at least three different streams of people entering from North America. The research also detected two previously undocumented genetic exchanges between North and South America.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateNov 8, 2018

Double whammy for grieving spouses with sleep problems

A new study from Northwestern University finds that grieving spouses with sleep problems have a two-to-three times higher risk of chronic immune activation and increased inflammation, making them more susceptible to heart disease or cancer. Cognitive behavioral therapy is highly effective in treating sleep disturbances, and physicians ...

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalPsychosomatic Medicine·DateNov 8, 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.

EPSRC announces £8 million capital awards to support early career researchers

The EPSRC has announced a £8 million capital investment in research equipment for 36 UK universities, supporting Early Career Researchers and enhancing their career development prospects. The institutions will use the funds to acquire specific equipment, host internal competitions, or invest in targeted groups or individuals.

SourceEngineering and Physical Sciences Research Council·DateNov 8, 2018

Biomimetics: The chemical tricks of our blood

Researchers have created phthalocyanines with a ring structure resembling that of hemoglobin or chlorophyll, which can be switched into different states with green light, affecting their chemical behavior. This discovery opens up new avenues for biomimetics and the development of novel molecules optimized for nature-specific applications.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 8, 2018

Factors affecting turbulence scaling

Researchers investigate turbulence scaling in fluids at critical points, finding anisotropy and compressibility impact scaling behavior. Four types of scaling regimes identified, with anisotropy key to determining emerging behavior.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal B·DateNov 8, 2018

Ragweed may expand its range northward with climate change

A predictive model suggests common ragweed will expand its range into major northeast metro areas due to climate change, affecting millions with hay fever and asthma. The study found potential expansion at the northern margins of its current distribution, particularly in the northeast U.S.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 8, 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.

Eye contact reduces lying

A study from the University of Tampere found that direct eye contact with someone can reduce subsequent lying. In an interactive experiment, participants played a lying game on a computer against another person, with the opponent's gaze being either direct or downward towards their screen.

SourceTampere University·JournalConsciousness and Cognition·DateNov 8, 2018

Baby 'boom' and 'bust': Nations' rates of childbirth vary significantly

The study found that 104 countries have high fertility rates, while 91 countries have low rates, posing challenges for meeting UN goals on deaths from non-communicable diseases and suicide. The global population is projected to continue growing despite declining total fertility rates.

SourceInstitute for Health Metrics and Evaluation·JournalThe Lancet·DateNov 8, 2018

Using mice, Duke researchers identify how allergic shock occurs so quickly

Researchers used mouse models to track the immune cell triggering during anaphylactic shock, revealing a previously unknown mechanism in which dendritic cells mine blood vessels for allergens and rapidly deliver them to mast cells. This finding opens innovative lines of attack against deadly allergic reactions.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalScience·DateNov 8, 2018

A major role for a small organ in the immune response during pregnancy

Researchers found that the thymus, a small organ near the heart, maintains its output of T cells during pregnancy, which is essential for protecting against infection while tolerating the fetus. The study's findings may have implications for understanding autoimmune diseases like multiple sclerosis.

SourceLinköping University·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateNov 8, 2018

Study tracks severe bleaching events on a Pacific coral reef over past century

Researchers have discovered a history of bleaching on a coral reef in the central Pacific, which has survived extreme heatwaves due to currents that bring cold, nutrient-rich water. The reef's ability to recover after severe bleaching events is crucial for understanding how other reefs may grow back in the future.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalCommunications Biology·DateNov 8, 2018

A burst of 'synchronous' light

Researchers at Empa and ETH Zurich have developed a novel quantum light source by arranging perovskite quantum dots into a three-dimensional superlattice. This enables the coherent collective emission of photons, creating ultrafast and bright superfluorescence.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalNature·DateNov 8, 2018

New magnetically controlled thrombolytic successfully passed preclinical testing

A new anti-thrombosis drug based on magnetite nanoparticles has been developed by ITMO University researchers. The drug successfully passed preclinical testing, showing a 20 times shorter clot dissolution time and a lower minimum dose required to achieve the therapeutic effect compared to traditional medications.

SourceITMO University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateNov 8, 2018

Top 10 chemistry start-ups

These start-ups are using chemistry to fight disease, control agricultural pests, and make safer lithium-ion batteries. The selected companies have ignited investor interest with their groundbreaking ideas.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateNov 8, 2018

Pilot study suggests pedal desks could address health risks of sedentary workplace

A recent pilot study by kinesiologists at UMass Amherst found that pedaling while working improved insulin responses to a test meal, with lower insulin levels observed when using a pedal desk compared to a standard desk. The study suggests that pedal desks could be a feasible solution for sedentary work environments.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalMedicine & Science in Sports & Exercise·DateNov 8, 2018

Breast milk & babies' saliva shape oral microbiome

New research reveals that breastmilk and saliva interact to regulate the oral microbiome of newborn babies, boosting innate immunity. The combination releases antibacterial compounds that inhibit the growth of both harmless and harmful microorganisms.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 8, 2018

Self-assembling protein filaments designed and built from scratch

Researchers designed proteins that snap together spontaneously to form long, helical structures, mimicking natural protein filaments. The creation of these self-assembling filaments could lead to the development of new materials, including fibers stronger than spider silk and nano-scale wire circuitry.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalScience·DateNov 8, 2018

Revealing the inner working of magnetic materials

Researchers have developed a new method to calculate the behavior of chromium nitride, a magnetic material used in industry and thermoelectric systems. The study found that spin-lattice coupling causes an anomalous shortening of phonon lifetime, leading to poor heat conductivity.

SourceLinköping University·DateNov 8, 2018

Ancient DNA reveals the complex genetic prehistory of the Americas

A comprehensive study of ancient American genomes suggests a highly complex peopling of the continent, with rapid and uneven expansion of populations. The analysis identifies new genetic groups and reveals adaptations to high-altitude environments in South America.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateNov 8, 2018

Cell behavior, once shrouded in mystery, is revealed in new light

University of Missouri researchers have developed a new microscope that allows them to observe individual proteins in an unfrozen sample. This breakthrough enables scientists to predict how cells will behave when new components are introduced, which could lead to the creation of more effective drugs with fewer side effects.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 8, 2018

One in 5 homicides of children 2 to 14 years of age is related to intimate partner violence

A new study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine found that one in five child homicides may be related to intimate partner violence. The research reveals significant discrepancies between reported data and actual cases, highlighting the need for improved reporting and prevention strategies to save children's lives.

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateNov 8, 2018

Watch a 3D-engineered human heart tissue beat

Scientists have created a model of the upper chambers of the heart using 3D-engineered human heart tissue, which can serve as a tool for evaluating disease mechanisms and testing new drugs. The tissue is derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells and responds to atrial-selective drugs.

SourceCell Press·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateNov 8, 2018

Culture may explain why brains have become bigger

A study published in PLOS Computational Biology suggests that human brain size increased significantly due to cultural factors and information availability. The cumulative cultural brain hypothesis proposes that brains expand to store and manage more information, co-evolving with group size, learning strategies, and life history.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateNov 8, 2018

What could cause the Mississippi Bight to become hypoxic?

The Mississippi Bight region is expected to expand its low dissolved oxygen zones due to human impacts. Satellite data and field observations suggest the eastern delta region is similarly affected by river discharge.

SourceDauphin Island Sea Lab·JournalContinental Shelf Research·DateNov 8, 2018

Waking sleeping plants with plasmas

A team of Saudi Arabian scientists has discovered a way to control dormancy in grapes and other fruiting plants by subjecting them to high-tech plasmas. This method may help extend the cultivation of temperate zone crops to milder climates, mitigating problems caused by global warming.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·DateNov 8, 2018

Brain activity pattern may be early sign of schizophrenia

Neuroscientists have identified a brain activity pattern that could predict the onset of schizophrenia. The study found abnormal connections in patients who later developed psychosis, which may help diagnose the disease earlier. Researchers are now exploring early interventions to combat symptoms and prevent psychiatric disorders.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateNov 8, 2018

History of early settlement and survival in Andean highlands revealed by ancient genomes

Researchers uncovered genetic adaptations in ancient Andeans, including cardiovascular modifications and a starch-digesting enzyme variant, allowing them to thrive in the harsh environment. The study suggests that these adaptations enabled highlanders to survive European contact with less population decline than lowlanders.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 8, 2018

UCI scientists simplify and accelerate directed evolution bioengineering method

Researchers have developed a new technique that accelerates and simplifies the directed evolution bioengineering method, allowing for rapid mutation and evolution of genes in yeast cells. This breakthrough enables scientists to perform multiple evolutionary cycles continuously, leading to faster discovery of new proteins and enzymes.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalCell·DateNov 8, 2018

Gatekeeper for poison capsule

A team of researchers has fully unveiled the sophisticated mechanism of bacterial toxins, including the Tc toxin complex used by the plague bacterium and other germs. The study reveals a molecular gatekeeper that controls the poison's exit, offering new insights for developing innovative therapies to combat bacterial infections.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·DateNov 8, 2018

Brain signature of depressed mood unveiled in new study

A new study has identified a common pattern of brain activity linked to feelings of low mood and anxiety, particularly in individuals with a tendency towards depression. The findings could serve as a biomarker for developing new therapies to treat mood disorders.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalCell·DateNov 8, 2018

Success in art may depend on breaking into high-prestige networks

A new study reveals that early access to high-prestige networks is key to an artist's success, with quality determined by display venues and art history ties rather than work itself. Researchers found a dense community of European and North American institutions exchanging artworks within their own high-prestige circles.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateNov 8, 2018

A new lens for microscopy has been developed

Physicists at Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University developed a mini transfocator, a variable focus lens for compact and mobile optical systems. The new design offers submicron resolution and is ideal for studying biological samples under extreme conditions.

SourceImmanuel Kant Baltic Federal University·JournalMicroscopy and Microanalysis·DateNov 8, 2018

Extending the life of low-cost, compact, lightweight batteries

Researchers at MIT have developed a new system to extend the shelf life of single-use metal-air batteries by introducing an oil barrier that protects the aluminum electrode from corrosion. The design has shown a thousandfold improvement in energy loss, enabling batteries to last up to 24 days without degradation.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateNov 8, 2018

Anopheles mosquitoes could spread Mayaro virus in US, other diverse regions

A new study reveals that Anopheles mosquitoes, including species found in the US, can carry and transmit Mayaro virus, which causes fever, joint aches, and other symptoms. The researchers tested six mosquito species and found that all four Anopheles species were competent laboratory vectors of the virus.

SourcePenn State·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateNov 8, 2018

Otago study calls for sugar tax

A New Zealand study suggests that sugary drinks contribute to an obesogenic environment, leading people to make unhealthy food choices. The researchers recommend implementing a sugar tax to encourage industry reformulation and individual responsibility for healthy consumption.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalPeerJ·DateNov 8, 2018

Spacetime -- a creation of well-known actors?

Some physicists argue that spacetime may emerge from processes closer to reality, such as quarks and hadrons. The concept of spacetime has puzzled humanity for millennia, with some theories suggesting it's a dynamic creation while others propose it's an absolute arena for events.

SourceThe Henryk Niewodniczanski Institute of Nuclear Physics Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalFoundations of Science·DateNov 8, 2018

One million years of precipitation history of the monsoon reconstructed

Scientists have reconstructed the monsoon's precipitation history over the past 1 million years using sediment cores from the eastern Indian Ocean. The results show that the monsoon was weaker during peak ice ages and strongest during interglacial warm periods, with fluctuations in the Earth's axis inclination playing a subordinate role.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel (GEOMAR)·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 8, 2018

Yellowstone streams recovering thanks to wolf reintroduction

Research by Oregon State University scientists shows that large terrestrial carnivores can lead to improved stream structure and function in Yellowstone National Park. The return of wolves and cougars has resulted in increased willow height, canopy cover, and stream-bank stabilization, indicating a recovering riparian/aquatic ecosystem.

SourceOregon State University·JournalEcohydrology·DateNov 8, 2018

Florida monarch butterfly populations have dropped 80 percent since 2005

The study found that monarch caterpillars and butterflies have declined by 80 percent since 2005 in North Central Florida, mirroring the decline in Mexico. The researchers blame shrinking native milkweed populations and glyphosate use in agricultural fields for the decline.

SourceFlorida Museum of Natural History·JournalJournal of Natural History·DateNov 8, 2018

Explaining happiness

A study by researchers at the National Research University Higher School of Economics found that people tend to attribute their happiness to internal factors such as personality traits and control over their lives. However, when they are unhappy, they often blame external factors outside of their control.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalThe Journal of Positive Psychology·DateNov 8, 2018