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Science News for November 9, 2018


Sequencing pollen DNA to discover insect migratory routes

A new study reveals that insects can transport pollen from one continent to another, enabling the mixing of plant species across vast distances. By analyzing the DNA sequences in this pollen, researchers were able to identify 157 species of plants from Africa and Europe.

SourceBritish Ecological Society·JournalMolecular Ecology Resources·DateNov 9, 2018

Leading researchers call for a ban on widely used insecticides

Leading researchers urge government intervention to phase out organophosphates, citing evidence of lower IQs and difficulties with learning in children exposed prenatally. The review calls for reduced exposures through monitoring, education, and alternative pest-control measures.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateNov 9, 2018

The whole tooth: New method to find biological sex from a single tooth

A team of researchers at UC Davis has developed a new method to estimate the biological sex of human skeletal remains based on protein traces from teeth. This method uses sensitive mass spectrometry to measure proteins and can be used alongside existing techniques.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalJournal of Archaeological Science·DateNov 9, 2018

Nano-scale process may speed arrival of cheaper hi-tech products

Researchers at the University of Edinburgh developed a cost-effective method to create high-performance energy devices and diagnostic tests using nanoparticles. The electrospinning technique, which produces nanofibres with high surface area, has been successfully tested in fuel cell applications.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 9, 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.

Elagolix reduces menstrual bleeding from most common uterine tumors

A new oral drug significantly reduced menstrual bleeding in over 90% of premenopausal women with fibroid tumors. Elagolix also prevented estrogen-deficiency induced side effects like hot flashes and bone loss when prescribed with hormone therapy.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateNov 9, 2018

Researchers study one million years of precipitation to gain new insights into South Asian monsoon

A new study analyzing one million years of precipitation history has found that the South Asian Monsoon is more complex than previously thought. The research team discovered that warming in the southern hemisphere and moisture transport across the equator play a crucial role in the monsoon's wind and precipitation patterns.

SourceGeorgia State University·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 9, 2018

Big data used to predict the future

By eliminating redundant data, researchers have developed a technique that reduces the amount of information needed for accurate predictions. This approach has been successfully applied to various applications, including soil quality prediction, healthcare, and environmental studies.

SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalIntegrated Computer-Aided Engineering·DateNov 9, 2018

Fully identified: The pathway of protons

Researchers at Ruhr-University Bochum have identified the proton transfer pathway in [FeFe]-hydrogenases, a crucial step for efficient hydrogen production. The study reveals that amino acids with no function can shut down hydrogenase activity, and provides valuable insights into the molecular mechanism of proton transfer.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 9, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Possible treatment for rare polio-like illness shows no benefit

A new study published in Neurology found that the antidepressant fluoxetine showed no benefit in treating acute flaccid myelitis, a rare condition causing paralysis in children. Researchers analyzed data from 56 children with the illness and found no improvement in muscle strength among those who received fluoxetine.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateNov 9, 2018

Slow death of nearby galaxy

Researchers have observed a powerful outflow of hydrogen gas from the Small Magellanic Cloud, indicating it may eventually stop forming new stars. The discovery provides insight into the evolution of galaxies and the potential source of gas for the enormous Magellanic Stream surrounding the Milky Way.

SourceCSIRO Australia·JournalNature Astronomy·DateNov 9, 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.

Yelp reviews reveal strengths and weaknesses of emergency departments and urgent care

A study analyzed over 100,000 Yelp reviews to identify key themes in emergency department and urgent care center ratings. Emergency departments received high marks for bedside manner but low marks for speed of care, while urgent care centers excelled in ease of prescription refills but struggled with patient confidence.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalAnnals of Emergency Medicine·DateNov 9, 2018

Graphene on the way to superconductivity

Researchers have identified a flat band area in graphene that is a prerequisite for superconductivity, but requires further assistance to achieve. The discovery uses high-resolution angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy (ARPES) and could lead to controlled band structure manipulation.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 9, 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.

Psychological science can make your meetings better

Meetings can provide creative thinking, problem-solving, and idea generation when done correctly. Researchers recommend preparing for meeting success, using technology to analyze behaviors, and improving post-meeting follow-up to enhance team outcomes.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalCurrent Directions in Psychological Science·DateNov 9, 2018

Tommorow's population will be larger, heavier and eat more

The world's population is expected to be larger, heavier and eat more by 2050 due to population growth and changes in eating habits. According to researchers, an average adult today requires 6.1% more energy than in 1975, leading to increased food demand.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalSustainability·DateNov 9, 2018

Freshwater turtles navigate using the sun

A recent study published in Springer's journal Behavioral Ecology and Sociobiology found that freshwater turtle hatchlings use the sun as their primary navigational cue. When released into a circular field arena with simulated daylight six hours earlier than usual, the turtles shifted their course by approximately 90 degrees.

SourceSpringer·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateNov 9, 2018

Grief linked to sleep disturbances that can be bad for the heart

A study published in Psychosomatic Medicine found that recent bereavement is associated with increased levels of inflammation and cardiovascular illness risk. Sleep disturbances exacerbated the negative effects of grief, highlighting the importance of addressing sleep issues in post-loss health interventions.

SourceRice University·JournalPsychosomatic Medicine·DateNov 9, 2018

Hidden estrogen receptors in the breast epithelium

Scientists at EPFL have found that half of luminal epithelial breast cells express estrogen receptor at low levels, affecting cell function and cancer development. The estrogen receptor plays a biphasic role in breast cell growth and inhibition during pregnancy.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 9, 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.

Small populations of normal cells affect immunity in patients with XLP1

Researchers discovered small populations of T cells expressing functional SAP at normal levels in patients with XLP1, potentially modifying disease severity. This finding suggests gene therapy or adoptive cellular therapy could be effective treatments for the disease.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateNov 9, 2018

ESCMID defines generic competencies in antimicrobial prescribing and stewardship

A new set of generic competencies has been established by ESCMID to guide healthcare professionals in using antibiotics responsibly. The competencies cover three main areas: antimicrobial prescribing, diagnosing infections, and stewardship. This framework aims to harmonize approaches to antibiotic use across Europe.

SourceEuropean Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases·JournalClinical Microbiology and Infection·DateNov 9, 2018

A new path through the looking-glass

Scientists have proposed an innovative method to create custom-made mirror molecules for analysis by inducing rotationally-induced chirality in symmetric-top molecules. This technique could enhance insight into the workings of nature and pave the way for new materials and methods.

SourceDeutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateNov 9, 2018

How much debris is lying on glaciers?

Researchers analyzed mountain glaciers using satellite imagery and found that 4.4% of the glacier surface is covered in debris, with uneven distribution towards poles and steep mountain regions. The study provides a basis for future modeling of debris impact on ice and can inform monitoring efforts to mitigate effects on water resources.

SourceGFZ GeoForschungsZentrum Potsdam, Helmholtz Centre·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateNov 9, 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.

Cellphone technology developed to detect HIV

A portable and affordable mobile diagnostic tool utilizing nanotechnology can detect HIV viruses from a single drop of blood. The device offers high detection precision and is suitable for individuals with limited access to medical care.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 9, 2018

A two-atom quantum duet

Scientists at Institute for Basic Science achieved a breakthrough in shielding quantum properties by packing two atoms together, protecting fragile states 20 times longer than one atom. This development enables the exploration of single atoms as quantum bits for future information processing.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 9, 2018

New study points to strategies to reduce maternal death

A new study by researchers at ICES and St. Michael's Hospital found that women with one severe maternal mortality (SMM) condition were 20 times more likely to die than those without any SMM conditions, with risks increasing exponentially with the number of SMM conditions.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateNov 9, 2018

Ancient human population histories revealed in Central and South America

Researchers uncovered unprecedented details about the ancestry of people in Central and South America, revealing a key link between Clovis culture-associated individuals and the oldest inhabitants of Chile, Brazil, and Belize. A continent-wide population replacement began at least 9,000 years ago, reshaping how researchers view Early H...

SourceUniversity of New Mexico·JournalCell·DateNov 9, 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.

How to produce fluorescent nanoparticles for medical applications in a nuclear reactor

Scientists developed a new method to produce nanodiamonds and silicon carbide with defined defects, utilizing neutron irradiation in nuclear reactors. This approach enables the efficient production of rare nanomaterials for medical applications, including cancer diagnostics.

SourceInstitute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences (IOCB Prague)·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 9, 2018

Jefferson Lab-affiliated researchers honored as APS Fellows

Four Jefferson Lab-affiliated scientists have been elected as Fellow of the American Physical Society, a prestigious honor recognizing their significant contributions to nuclear physics. Cynthia Keppel's fellowship honors her broad impact in fundamental nuclear science and applications of nuclear technology.

SourceDOE/Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility·DateNov 9, 2018

Alzheimer's and cardiovascular disease share common genetics in some patients

Researchers found shared genetic factors between Alzheimer's disease and high blood lipid levels, suggesting potential for early diagnosis and targeted therapies. The study analyzed 1.5 million individuals and identified specific DNA variants that increase the risk of developing both conditions.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalActa Neuropathologica·DateNov 9, 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.

Beaches at risk due to the increase in atmospheric CO2

A study has found that rising atmospheric CO2 levels could disrupt the sedimentary balance of beach-dune systems, leading to erosion and increased flooding risks. The research suggests that by 2100, sediment accumulation at the base of Mediterranean dunes could fall by 31%, putting beaches like San Giovanni in Sardinia at risk.

SourceUniversità Ca' Foscari Venezia·JournalClimatic Change·DateNov 9, 2018

Transmission of antibiotic resistant E. coli mapped in wild giraffe social networks

A study published in Applied and Environmental Microbiology found that antibiotic-resistant E. coli bacteria in wild giraffes most likely come from anthropogenic sources. The research suggests that young giraffes are more likely to harbor resistant bacteria, potentially due to competition between strains.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateNov 9, 2018

Nursing science could help reduce firearm violence and its impact

A University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing article highlights how nurses understand factors leading to firearm violence and investigate ways to prevent it. The research identifies priority areas for nursing science to address this public health problem.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Nursing·JournalJournal of Nursing Scholarship·DateNov 9, 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.

A leap into quantum technology

The Q.Link.X project funds a quantum repeater development to overcome transmission link limitations in optical fiber-based quantum communication, aiming for distances of up to ten or 100 kilometers.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·DateNov 9, 2018

Scientists capture the sound of sunrise on Mars

Researchers transformed a Martian sunrise photo into a two-minute piece of music, with quiet harmonies and brighter sounds created by the sun disk. The work showcases image sonification's potential in analyzing planet surfaces and atmospheres, as well as health science applications.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·DateNov 9, 2018

Excessive posting of selfies is associated with increase in narcissism

A new study found that individuals who excessively post selfies on social media exhibit a significant increase in narcissistic traits, including grandiose exhibitionism and entitlement. This effect is particularly pronounced among those who primarily use visual platforms like Facebook.

SourceSwansea University·JournalThe Open Psychology Journal·DateNov 9, 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.

Pollution in cities damaging insects and ecosystems

A study by the University of Sheffield reveals that high levels of nitrogen dioxide pollution damage plant defenses, leading to poor growth in herbivorous insects. The research suggests that urban green spaces play a modest role in removing pollutants from the air.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 9, 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.

Nature-inspired crystal structure predictor

Researchers from Skoltech, MIPT and Samara State Technical University improved the evolutionary crystal structure prediction algorithm USPEX, generating initial structures 3 times faster, thanks to a novel random structure generator based on topological types of crystal structures.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalComputer Physics Communications·DateNov 9, 2018

Ready for a close-up: The science behind face massage rollers

A study published in Complementary Therapies in Medicine found that face massage rollers increased facial skin blood flow by up to 25% after just five minutes. Long-term use also improved the vasodilatory response, suggesting a potential mechanism behind its benefits.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalComplementary Therapies in Medicine·DateNov 9, 2018

Improving city parks may be one path to help make residents more active

Researchers found that small ParkScore improvements lead to increased physical exercise among residents, with cities like Minneapolis and San Francisco ranking high. The study suggests that investing in park infrastructure can positively impact public health, with a collective effect of improved fitness and well-being.

SourcePenn State·JournalPreventing Chronic Disease·DateNov 9, 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.

Experts find that stone tools connected communities

Experts analyzed stone tools from the Klipdrift Shelter and Diepkloof Rock Shelter, finding similarities between them. The findings suggest a networked interaction between distant communities during the Middle Stone Age.

SourceUniversity of the Witwatersrand·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 9, 2018

Making wind farms more efficient

Researchers have developed a new approach to design more efficient wind farms by incorporating factors such as wind speed, turbine spacing, and land size. The algorithm uses biogeographical-based optimization to minimize computational cost while maximizing efficiency.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Cleaner Production·DateNov 9, 2018

A toast to the proteins in dinosaur bones

Researchers at Yale University discovered chemicals that preserve dinosaur soft tissues under specific conditions, such as oxidative environments. These preserved structures are comparable to Advanced Glycoxidation and Lipoxidation end products (AGEs and ALEs), which are resistant to decay and degradation.

SourceYale University·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 9, 2018

Hypertonic saline may help babies with cystic fibrosis breathe better

A new study found that hypertonic saline improved lung function and weight gain in infants with cystic fibrosis. The treatment, which was safe from diagnosis onwards, also showed promise for preventing the progression of lung disease.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateNov 9, 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.

Surgical home program for spinal fusion achieves long term success

A new surgical home pathway for spinal fusion surgery reduces opioid pain medication need and shortens hospital stays, achieving sustainable benefits over two-and-a-half years. The study, published in the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery, demonstrates improved care value and patient outcomes.

SourceChildren's National Hospital·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateNov 9, 2018

The new face of South American people

A comprehensive study confirms the existence of a single ancestral population for all Amerindian ethnic groups, contrary to traditional theories linking Africa or Australasia. The study reveals that the Lagoa Santa people were descendants of Clovis culture migrants from North America.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalCell·DateNov 9, 2018

Intense tests reveal elusive, complex form of common element

Researchers create crystallized version of nitrogen by subjecting it to extreme pressures and temperatures, revealing a complex structure made up of dozens of molecules. The study resolves speculation on the structure of ι-N2, known as nitrogen's elusive form discovered 15 years ago.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 9, 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.

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.

NUS study: Mangroves can help countries mitigate their carbon emissions

A NUS study found that mangroves can capture more carbon than tropical rainforests, making them a key solution to reduce fossil fuel emissions. Coastal ecosystems like mangroves can store organic carbon in water-saturated soil, effectively mitigating climate change.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalBiology Letters·DateNov 9, 2018

UMass Amherst study demonstrates 'tunability' of a molecular chaperone

Researchers found significant differences between bacterial and eukaryotic Hsp70s, including variations in binding interfaces and cycles of domain docking and undocking. These findings suggest that eukaryotic Hsp70s have evolved to be more flexible and efficient in their function.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 9, 2018