Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for October 15, 2018


Sound, vibration recognition boost context-aware computing

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University developed two approaches to improve smart devices' understanding of their environment: Ubicoustics, which uses microphone-based sound recognition, and Vibrosight, a vibration-detection system using laser vibrometry. These methods enhance context-aware computing capabilities.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·DateOct 15, 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.

The state of the early universe: The beginning was fluid

Researchers at the Niels Bohr Institute have obtained new results using Xenon-ions in the LHC, recreating the initial conditions of the universe at extremely high temperatures. The experiments reveal that the primordial matter behaves like a liquid, with quarks and gluons being quasi-free, challenging theoretical models.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalPhysics Letters B·DateOct 15, 2018

How beetle larvae thrive on carrion

Researchers found that burying beetles use their gut symbionts to transform decaying carcasses into nutritious nurseries for their young, promoting larval growth and development. The symbionts suppress the growth of microbial pathogens and toxic substances, allowing the larvae to thrive.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 15, 2018

NASA finds Tropical Storm Tara affecting Western Mexico

Tropical Storm Tara formed on Oct. 14 over the eastern Pacific, moving west-northwest towards Mexico's Michoacan and Jalisco states. The storm is expected to slow down, strengthening in the next few days with maximum sustained winds near 45 mph.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateOct 15, 2018

Attacking RNA with small-molecule drugs

Researchers at Yale University have made significant breakthroughs in targeting RNA with small-molecule drugs, identifying unique pockets within self-splicing ribozymes found in fungi. This discovery opens up new avenues for treating fungal infections and drug-resistant bacteria.

SourceYale University·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateOct 15, 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.

Early sleep loss accelerates Alzheimer's pathology in mice

A study of male and female mice found that chronic short sleep and chronic fragmentation of sleep accelerate Alzheimer's disease-related tau pathology. Healthy sleep habits during adolescence and early adulthood may help prevent progression of neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateOct 15, 2018

Cellular 'tuning mechanism' builds elegant eyes

Researchers at OIST Graduate University have discovered a molecular 'tuning mechanism' that helps control eye lens development in zebrafish. By studying the impact of a mutated gene, they found that a signaling pathway called TGF-ß became enhanced, leading to abnormal lens development.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalDevelopment·DateOct 15, 2018

Physics: Not everything is where it seems to be

Physicists at University of Innsbruck and TU Wien demonstrate that elliptical polarization causes a spiral shape in light wavefronts, leading to a distorted image of actual structures. This systematic error can affect biomedical research, super-resolution microscopy, and even astronomical object position estimation.

SourceUniversity of Innsbruck·JournalNature Physics·DateOct 15, 2018

Blood test biopsy for kids with brain tumors is simple, safe way to see if treatment is working

A new blood test offers a safer approach than surgical biopsies and allows doctors to monitor treatment effectiveness even before changes are identified on scans. The study found that circulating tumor DNA in the blood or cerebrospinal fluid can reveal a driver mutation in 42 of 48 patients, indicating the tumor's genetic signature.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateOct 15, 2018

New model helps define optimal temperature and pressure to forge nanoscale diamonds

Researchers developed a computer model that simulates the conditions of explosions on short time scales. The new results reveal that a delicate balance of temperature and pressure is necessary for nanodiamonds to form. This study uses atomic-level simulations to provide insights into the formation process.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateOct 15, 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.

Announcing the discovery of an atomic electronic simulator

Researchers at the University of Alberta and Quantum Silicon Inc. have developed an atomic ultra-efficient electronics technology, enabling bespoke atomic patterns to control electrons. This innovation simulates neural networks, potentially training AI models more rapidly and accurately.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateOct 15, 2018

Discovery of a simplest mechanism for color detection

Researchers from Osaka City University found a single kind of opsin in a photoreceptor cell achieves UV and visible light discrimination in the fish pineal organ. This discovery challenges the long-held belief that multiple kinds of color opsins are required for color detection.

SourceOsaka City University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 15, 2018

How communication among cells affects development of multicellular tissue

A study published in Nature Communications sheds light on how intercellular communication influences the differentiation of embryonic stem cells. Researchers discovered a potential mechanism to control the rate of differentiation without affecting the overall patterning of resulting multicellular tissues.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 15, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Invention of ionic decision-maker capable of self-learning

Researchers at NIMS Japan developed an ionic device that can make decisions quickly and adapt to changing situations without relying on computer memory. The technology has the potential to develop novel AI systems processing analog information using hardware, addressing issues with current digital-based systems.

SourceNational Institute for Materials Science, Japan·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 15, 2018

Function of neutrophils during tumor progression unraveled

Neutrophils isolated from bone marrow of mouse models and patients with early stage tumors exhibit increased spontaneous migration to tissues and promote tumor cell seeding. These neutrophils lack immunosuppressive characteristics, but display potent ability to spontaneously migrate and facilitate metastasis.

SourceThe Wistar Institute·JournalNature Immunology·DateOct 15, 2018

Aging and vitamins

Scientists identify 10 compounds that protect against age-related diseases by safeguarding proteins from damage. These compounds, known as putative longevity vitamins, may help prolong healthy aging and prevent the acceleration of insidious diseases associated with vitamin deficiencies.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 15, 2018

If cannabis use increases after legalization, government must alter the act

If cannabis use increases after legalization, the Canadian government should alter its act to prevent negative health effects, according to an editorial. The Government of Canada must be vigilant in tracking cannabis usage and provide adequate funding for research into harms.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateOct 15, 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.

Blue phosphorus -- mapped and measured for the first time

Blue phosphorus has been successfully mapped and measured by a team from HZB around Evangelos Golias, revealing a unique honeycomb structure and large semiconducting band gap of seven times larger than black phosphorus. The material's properties are influenced by the substrate, making it an essential parameter for optoelectronic applic...

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalNano Letters·DateOct 15, 2018

Oldest evidence for animals found by UCR researchers

Researchers at UCR discovered the oldest clue yet of animal life, found in molecular fossils of sponges that lived on ancient ocean floors. The discovery pushes back the known history of animal life by 100 million years.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateOct 15, 2018

Perovskites -- materials of the future in optical communication

Researchers have developed inorganic perovskite-based photodetectors that transfer both text and music, offering a promising material for future rapid optical communication. The new materials have rapid response times, are simple to manufacture, and are extremely stable.

SourceLinköping University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateOct 15, 2018

Scientists find missing piece in glacier melt predictions

Researchers found evidence of liquid water stored within solid ice in Store Glacier, which may explain complex flow behavior and improve predictions of sea-level rise. The discovery uses new data analysis techniques to reveal the presence of meltwater from surface melting that gets trapped in glacier ice.

SourceStanford's School of Earth, Energy & Environmental Sciences·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateOct 15, 2018

Arsenic for electronics

Scientists have successfully modified arsenene with chloromethylene groups, improving its semiconducting properties. The modified material exhibits strong luminescence and electronic properties, making it attractive for optoelectronic applications.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateOct 15, 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.

People donate more when they sense they are being watched

A field study found that exposure to eyes increases donations by an average of $0.01 per patron, with a significant increase of $12 per week. The presence of eyes enhances people's reputational concern and motivates self-presentational behaviors.

SourceSpringer·JournalHuman Nature·DateOct 15, 2018

Kids' sleep may suffer from moms' tight work schedules

Researchers found that when mothers reported less flexibility in their work schedules, their children got less sleep. However, consistent bedtimes may be the key to offsetting damage done by tight work schedules. Employers can create policies to give employees more flexibility, which could help promote sleep health from childhood.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Child and Family Studies·DateOct 15, 2018

Reusable software for high performance computing

Sunita Chandrasekaran is designing frameworks to adapt code to increasingly powerful systems, focusing on complex patterns like wavefronts. She aims to improve performance and portability while keeping scientists in mind, enabling them to concentrate on science rather than software.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·DateOct 15, 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.

Arctic sea ice decline driving ocean phytoplankton farther north

New research reveals Arctic phytoplankton blooms are expanding northward at a rate of 1 degree of latitude per decade. The decline in sea ice creates open water areas where phytoplankton can thrive, leading to increased primary productivity and potential changes to the food web.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateOct 15, 2018

The tightest non-aminoglycoside ligand for the bacterial ribosomal RNA A-site

Researchers at Tohoku University have developed a novel small ligand, ATMND-C2-NH2, with the tightest binding affinity for the bacterial A-site among non-aminoglycoside ligands. The discovery has significant implications for the development of new antibiotics with reduced toxicity and resistance

SourceTohoku University·JournalChemistry - A European Journal·DateOct 15, 2018

Beta blockers safe for use in early pregnancy

Researchers studied 3.6 million pregnancies and found beta-blockers not associated with a large increase in cardiac or general birth defects. The risk estimates were generally consistent across Nordic and US data.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateOct 15, 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.

Ultra-light gloves let users 'touch' virtual objects

A new ultra-light haptic glove enables users to interact with virtual objects in a highly realistic way, generating forces of up to 40 Newtons. The device has potential applications in gaming, healthcare and augmented reality.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·DateOct 15, 2018

Hurricane Michael's heavy rainfall measured by NASA

Heavy rainfall totals over 20 inches were estimated in less than a week along Hurricane Michael's track, with the heaviest accumulation occurring off the Yucatan Peninsula. IMERG data revealed frequent rainfall totals greater than 10 inches along the storm's path from October 7 to 12, 2018.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateOct 15, 2018

Beetle microbiome turns carcass into nursery

A study reveals that bacteria associated with a carrion-eating beetle help slow carcass decomposition and support the growth of beetle larvae. The beetles' microbial flora facilitate the preservation of carcasses by outcompeting microbes associated with decomposition.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 15, 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.

When light, not heat, causes melting

Scientists observed a material's phase change when triggered by ultrafast laser light instead of temperature change. The process generates topological defects and affects electron dynamics. Researchers can potentially use this phenomenon for data storage systems using controlled light pulses.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Physics·DateOct 15, 2018

New immunotherapy targeting blood-clotting protein

Scientists have developed an antibody that blocks the inflammatory and oxidative activity of fibrin, a blood protein that contributes to neurodegeneration in the brain. The treatment has shown promise in reducing inflammation and neurodegeneration in both mouse models of multiple sclerosis and Alzheimer's disease.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalNature Immunology·DateOct 15, 2018

Memristive device as an active synapse

Researchers from Lobachevsky University have developed a memristive device that mimics the behavior of synapses in biological neurons. The device uses pulse signals to create a simulated connection between neuron-like generators, demonstrating reproducible bipolar switching between low and high resistance states.

SourceLobachevsky University·DateOct 15, 2018

The easy way may not be the best

A new study reveals that cells take an approach of 'purposeful inefficiency' in responding to diseases, offering new pathways for understanding and treating conditions like cancer and Parkinson's. The research team discovered surprising genetic responses to misfolded proteins, including increased protein production and wasteful processes.

SourceNew York University·DateOct 15, 2018

Tracking the movement of the tropics 800 years into the past

Researchers used tree rings to track the northern boundary of the tropics from 1203 to 2003, finding that periods of expansion coincided with severe droughts. The study suggests climate change was a contributing factor to these societal disruptions.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalNature Geoscience·DateOct 15, 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.

Teenaged girls did not engage in riskier sexual behavior after HPV vaccination introduced in school

Researchers analyzed data from a province-wide survey of over 300,000 girls and found no correlation between HPV vaccination and increased risky sexual behaviors. The percentage of girls reporting ever having sex decreased, while the proportion engaging in intercourse before age 14 declined and condom use increased.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateOct 15, 2018

Continuous blood pressure monitoring

Researchers have developed an analytical model linking blood pressure to pulse wave velocity, validated by human participant experiments. This method could enable future development of continuous blood pressure monitoring systems.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 15, 2018

Scientists discover new properties of uranium compounds

Researchers predict and experimentally identify new uranium hydrides that exhibit superconductivity, including UH7 which displays superconducting capability at -219° C. High pressure produces an unexpectedly rich collection of these compounds, many of which do not fit classical chemistry.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 15, 2018

How common are tobacco, marijuana use in hip-hop music videos?

Leading hip-hop music videos over five years featured tobacco and marijuana use, with combustible products appearing most frequently. The study's findings highlight the genre's influence on youth behavior and contribute to growing public health concerns.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateOct 15, 2018

Ketamine is a safe, effective alternative to opioids in treating acute pain in the ED

A study published in Academic Emergency Medicine suggests that intravenous, low-dose ketamine is as effective as intravenous morphine in controlling acute pain in adults in the emergency department. The findings indicate that ketamine can be considered as an alternative to opioids for ED short-term pain control.

SourceSociety for Academic Emergency Medicine·JournalAcademic Emergency Medicine·DateOct 15, 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.

High-performance flexible transparent force touch sensor for wearable devices

Researchers at KAIST have developed a high-performance flexible transparent force touch sensor that overcomes traditional limitations in sensing performance. The sensor features high sensitivity, transparency, bending insensitivity, and manufacturability, making it suitable for industrial-grade applications.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateOct 15, 2018

Simply eyeballing patients may trump formal assessment for prioritizing seriously ill

A recent study published in the Emergency Medicine Journal found that simply eyeballing patients may be more effective than using a formal structured assessment to prioritize those who are the sickest. The researchers compared the triage decisions made by experienced nurses and phlebotomists with medical students, finding that basic cl...

SourceBMJ Group·JournalEmergency Medicine Journal·DateOct 15, 2018

Use of tobacco & marijuana products frequently featured in hip-hop music videos

A study found that 40-50% of leading hip-hop music videos from 2013-2017 contained tobacco and marijuana use, with brand placement increasing with song popularity. The prevalence of combustible or electronic use rose with songs' popularity, particularly among young people.

SourceThe Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy & Clinical Practice·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateOct 15, 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.

Biological diversity in tropical rain forests

A 10-year remote sensing analysis reveals that rare canopy trees are more likely to increase in population size than common ones, supporting the Janzen-Connell hypothesis. However, constraints on population growth do not stabilize the tree population, leading to increased size over time.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 15, 2018

Big award enables study of small surfaces

Matt Jones will use the grant to develop techniques in liquid cell transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to view chemical processes in real time at the atomic scale. He aims to capture video of nanocrystal synthesis, protein biofouling and catalysis itself.

SourceRice University·DateOct 15, 2018

Study exposes security vulnerabilities in terahertz data links

A new study reveals that terahertz data links are not as secure as previously thought, and can be intercepted by clever eavesdroppers. Researchers found ways to steal signals without being detected, even with directional beams, by using objects like metal plates or cylinders to scatter the signal.

SourceBrown University·JournalNature·DateOct 15, 2018

Bioavailable iron in glacial dust

Bioavailable iron in glacial dust supports phytoplankton growth and enhances climate feedback by removing carbon dioxide. During glacial periods, 25-45% of iron is bioavailable, whereas interglacial periods have only 5-10%.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 15, 2018

Earl Miller wins George A. Miller Prize in Cognitive Neuroscience

Earl Miller, a renowned expert in working memory, has developed a new model known as Working Memory 2.0, which recognizes the interplay between two distinct rhythms in the cortex. The Cognitive Neuroscience Society awarded Miller the prize for his groundbreaking research with potential to revolutionize the field.

SourcePicower Institute at MIT·DateOct 15, 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.

Study reveals how climate change could cause global beer shortages

A new study warns that climate change could lead to significant decreases in global beer consumption, ranging from 4% to 16%, and price increases by 15%. The research suggests that countries with smaller beer consumption would face larger reductions, while those where beer is currently expensive may not be affected as much.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalNature Plants·DateOct 15, 2018

'Universal' blood test for earlier diagnosis of cancer moves closer to market

Researchers at the University of Bradford have developed a universal blood test that can detect cancer in patients under suspicion of the disease with high accuracy. The test measures DNA damage caused by ultraviolet light and uses Artificial Intelligence to analyze thousands of cells, improving predictability beyond 93%.

SourceUniversity of Bradford·JournalFASEB BioAdvances·DateOct 15, 2018

Feminine leadership traits: Nice but expendable frills?

A new study exploring the tradeoff between masculine and feminine leadership traits reveals that women internalize a stereotypically masculine view of leadership. The research, published in Frontiers in Psychology, suggests that women may feel disadvantaged compared to male leaders if they adopt traditionally feminine styles.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateOct 15, 2018

Study reveals best use of wildflowers to benefit crops on farms

A Cornell University study found that wildflower strips on farms boost strawberry yields when surrounded by the right mix of natural habitat and agricultural land. The optimal range for pollinator attraction is between 25 to 55 percent surrounding natural landscapes, where wildflowers also draw more beneficial insects.

SourceCornell University·DateOct 15, 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.

Immune health maintained by meticulously ordered DNA

Pax5 helps maintain immune health by efficiently organizing genetic information in immune cells. The protein's organization skills are crucial for cells to access specific instructions and function properly, with disruptions linked to increased cancer risk.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalNature Immunology·DateOct 15, 2018

Alcohol disorder screening tests fail in weight-loss surgery patients

A study found that Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery patients experience higher peak alcohol concentrations and slower alcohol elimination compared to pre-surgery. This suggests a steady increase in alcohol consumption among post-surgery patients, highlighting the need for improved screening tools.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalAnnals of Surgery·DateOct 15, 2018

USC analysis solves puzzle of poor cancer prognosis in young Americans

Researchers at USC and the Los Angeles Cancer Surveillance Program found that 15- to 39-year-olds have the best survival rate among any age group for many years. The analysis adjusted for Kaposi's sarcoma and lymphomas, which were linked to the HIV/AIDS epidemic in the US.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateOct 15, 2018

RIT researchers use deep learning to help preserve the Seneca language

RIT researchers are building an automatic speech recognition application using deep learning to document and transcribe the traditional Seneca language. The project aims to support other rare or vanishing languages as well. The team has collected over 50 hours of recorded material and achieved promising results.

SourceRochester Institute of Technology·DateOct 15, 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.

Mammals cannot evolve fast enough to escape current extinction crisis

A new study reveals that mammals cannot evolve fast enough to escape the current extinction crisis, threatening the loss of unique ecological functions and evolutionary history. Conservation efforts must be improved to prevent further extinctions, with some species facing high risks of disappearing within 50 years.

SourceAarhus University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 15, 2018

New interactive scenario explorer for 1.5 degrees C pathways

The new interactive scenario explorer provides a curated set of 414 climate scenarios developed by over a dozen research teams worldwide. The tool facilitates better understanding of synergies and trade-offs between climate change mitigation and sustainable development, and is freely accessible to the public.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalNature Climate Change·DateOct 15, 2018

Cumulative sub-concussive impacts in a single season of youth football

Researchers followed 112 youth football players over a season, finding no association between cumulative head impacts and worsening performance on neurocognitive tests. Younger age and ADHD history predicted some score changes, while anxiety and depression were linked to symptom reporting.

SourceNationwide Children's Hospital·JournalJournal of Head Trauma Rehabilitation·DateOct 15, 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.

Depression and Facebook posts

Researchers analyzed Facebook status histories and electronic medical records of 683 patients to identify correlations between post language and depression. They found that language indicating sadness, loneliness, hostility, self-reference, and rumination were associated with a higher risk of depression.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 15, 2018

NASA sees remnants of Post-Tropical Cyclone Leslie over Spain

Post-tropical cyclone Leslie made landfall in Portugal, causing power outages and heavy rainfall, with the storm's remnants later affecting southern Spain and western Italy. NASA's Suomi NPP satellite captured images of the disorganized low-pressure system, which was visible over the Iberian Peninsula.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateOct 15, 2018

Biomaterials with 'Frankenstein proteins' help heal tissue

Researchers have created biomaterials that combine ordered and disordered segments to form a stable, porous scaffold that promotes cell growth and vascularization. The material's unique properties enable it to integrate into tissue with minimal inflammation and hold its volume well.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Materials·DateOct 15, 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.

Don't sweat the sweet stuff

The study found that sweet and bitter tastes were quickly detected but took longer to be identified, while salty and sour tastes were vice versa. The researchers also discovered that participants' ratings of pleasantness influenced processing speed for sweet and bitter tastes.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·JournaleNeuro·DateOct 15, 2018

Cancer survivors at risk for heart failure during, after pregnancy

Young women previously treated for cancer with cardiotoxic treatments are more likely to develop clinical congestive heart failure (CHF) during and after pregnancy. According to the study, there's approximately a 1 in 3 chance of developing CHF for women who have been exposed to cardiotoxic treatments and had prior cardiotoxicity.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateOct 15, 2018

Young innovators

Day's research develops layer-by-layer assembled nanoshells to deliver tumor suppressor miR-34a into cells, reducing cancer cell growth. Gleghorn discovers TRPV4 regulates airway development in fetal lungs, potentially leading to new therapeutic targets for bronchopulmonary dysplasia.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalCellular and Molecular Bioengineering·DateOct 15, 2018

Unravelling the genetics of fungal fratricide

The study found that the selfish genes were unrelated to each other and use different mechanisms to kill sibling spores, suggesting they may be more common than previously thought. The discovery provides new insights into the genetics of fungal fratricide and has implications for understanding evolutionary patterns.

SourceUppsala University·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 15, 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.

Molecular atlas of postnatal mouse heart development

Researchers analyzed postnatal mouse hearts to understand regenerative capacity and biochemical processes affected by myocardial infarction (MI). Key findings include novel changes in metabolism, such as temporal regulation of mevalonate and ketone body metabolism.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateOct 15, 2018

Flexible fertilizer regulations could reduce pollution, save billions

A new study suggests that requiring manufacturers to sell nitrogen fertilizers with efficient compounds could reduce air and water pollution from nitrogen use by 16 percent. This approach could earn farmers millions of dollars through higher crop yields and reduce total costs of nitrogen pollution up to $5-7 billion.

SourcePrinceton School of Public and International Affairs·JournalNature Sustainability·DateOct 15, 2018

Global warming will have us crying in what's left of our beer

Climate change will lead to declines in barley yields, resulting in price surges and reduced availability of beer worldwide. The study projects a decline of 16% in beer supply during severe climate events, affecting hundreds of millions of people.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalNature Plants·DateOct 15, 2018

Herpesvirus and multiple sclerosis

Researchers discovered that herpesvirus 6 infection before inducing EAE significantly accelerated the disease's progression in marmosets. This finding supports the hypothesis that viral infections can increase susceptibility to autoimmunity by triggering a heightened immune state.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 15, 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.

Polio: Environmental monitoring will be key as world reaches global eradication

Researchers highlight importance of environmental surveillance in detecting silent polio transmission, which can lead to paralytic cases if left undetected. The study found that a substantial proportion of children under 10 were likely infected during the 2013 silent polio outbreak in Israel.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 15, 2018

Loss and recovery of mammal diversity

The study calculates mammalian phylogenetic diversity loss due to extinctions since the Last Interglacial. Global losses exceed expected random extinctions, with recovery estimated at 3-5 million years for PD lost during this period.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 15, 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.

Memory-aided identification of false beliefs

Researchers found that 3-year-old children could retroactively combine memories with new information to spot false beliefs, a skill developing episodic memory. In contrast, 18-month-olds were unable to do so but could identify false beliefs in others, suggesting the role of episodic memory in monitoring other's belief states

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 15, 2018

New study answers old questions about why tropical forests are so ecologically diverse

Researchers found that tropical tree populations increase mainly in locations where the tree is rare, suggesting a 'negative feedback' mechanism that regulates population growth. This phenomenon could explain the high ecological diversity of tropical forests, with more species living in a smaller area than in North America combined.

SourceBrown University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 15, 2018

Swishing tails guard against voracious insects with curtain of breeze

Researchers discovered that animals swish their tails to generate a curtain of breeze that wafts insects away. The study found that the animals were swinging their tails three times faster and using 27 times more energy than expected, but still only intercepted one insect every 90 seconds.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateOct 15, 2018

Eating with your eyes: Virtual reality can alter taste

A recent study by Cornell University found that virtual reality can significantly alter the perceived pungency of blue cheese when eaten in different environments. The researchers used a sensory booth, park bench, and cow barn to test how surroundings affect food perception.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Food Science·DateOct 15, 2018

Vitamin B1 and bacterioplankton

Bacterioplankton's reliance on vitamin B1 and its precursors has been found to be more significant than previously thought. This study highlights the crucial role of exogenous nutrient availability in supporting growth and nutrient cycling in aquatic ecosystems.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 15, 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.

Costs of Medicare diabetes prevention program may exceed reimbursements

A study found that Medicare Diabetes Prevention Program (MDPP) costs may be higher than expected reimbursements, potentially limiting access to recommended services for minority and low-income patients. The program aims to prevent diabetes in Medicare beneficiaries, but insufficient reimbursement may deter healthcare providers.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalMedical Care·DateOct 15, 2018

Analyzing half a million mouse decisions

Researchers analyzed over 500,000 mouse decisions to identify a brain region supporting a decision-making strategy similar to nonhuman primates. This discovery paves the way for manipulating this circuit using advanced techniques.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateOct 15, 2018

Cesarean birth and brain development

Researchers found that vaginal births reduce cell death in brain regions, while C-sections lead to increased ultrasonic vocalizations and altered hormone expression at weaning. Cesarean-born mice also had greater body weight.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 15, 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.

Scientists create synthetic prototissue capable of synchronized beating

Researchers develop chemically programmed synthetic cells that can communicate and interact with each other in a highly coordinated way, forming self-supporting artificial tissue spheroids. The artificial tissues undergo sustained beat-like oscillations in size, allowing for modulated amplitude of beating and control of chemical signals.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNature Materials·DateOct 15, 2018

Men in leadership gain from psychopathic behavior, women punished

A new study published in the Journal of Applied Psychology finds that psychopathic tendencies can help men rise through management ranks, but have a negative impact on women's leadership prospects. The researchers suggest that this double standard may be due to societal expectations and gender norms.

SourceUniversity of Alabama in Tuscaloosa·JournalApplied Psychology·DateOct 15, 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.

When ignoring your spouse can help your relationship

Research found that low-income couples who withdraw from their spouse's demands experience stable relationship satisfaction, while wealthier couples face declining relationship satisfaction. Conversely, high-income couples' relationship dissatisfaction increases when they do not exhibit strong withdrawal behaviors.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateOct 15, 2018

Us vs. them: Understanding the neurobiology of stereotypes

Recent studies use non-invasive brain stimulation to investigate the neurobiology underlying implicit biases, revealing potential for behavioral interventions to reduce stereotyping. The technique has shown promise in modulating brain activity linked to social behaviors and attitudes.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalTrends in Cognitive Sciences·DateOct 15, 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.

Scientists chase mystery of how dogs process words

Researchers found that dogs have a rudimentary neural representation of meaning for words they have been taught, differentiating between familiar and unfamiliar words. The study suggests dogs may not always understand the literal meaning of words but can infer their intended context.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalFrontiers in Neuroscience·DateOct 15, 2018

Professor Karen Kasza wins Packard Fellowship

Karen Kasza, a researcher at Columbia Engineering, has won a Packard Fellowship for her work on understanding tissue development and morphology. Her lab aims to use novel approaches to engineer functional tissues for medical applications.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·DateOct 15, 2018

Extensive trade in fish between Egypt and Canaan already 3,500 years ago

Researchers discovered that the Gilthead sea bream was extensively traded from Egypt to Canaan over 2,000 years, with the majority coming from a hypersaline waterbody like the Bardawil lagoon. This ancient trade indicates an early form of commercial fish exploitation.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 15, 2018

Study points to possible new therapy for hearing loss

Researchers have identified a potential new approach to restore hearing loss by activating the EGF receptor signaling pathway in cochlear support cells. The study found that this pathway can trigger cell proliferation and regeneration of sensory hair cells, which may lead to improved hearing restoration.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalEuropean Journal of Neuroscience·DateOct 15, 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.

Getting a longer heads-up on El Niño

Researchers at Pohang University of Science and Technology have found a way to predict El Niño conditions up to 17 months in advance. Changes in Atlantic Ocean sea surface temperatures can trigger La Niña, which affects global weather patterns.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 15, 2018

Most people don't know the difference between OCD and OCPD

A recent study from Binghamton University found that the general public struggles to differentiate between obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) and obsessive-compulsive personality disorder (OCPD). Researchers analyzed phone interviews with hundreds of participants, revealing that those with higher education levels were more likely to r...

SourceBinghamton University·JournalCommunity Mental Health Journal·DateOct 15, 2018

Alcohol-related liver disease patients need more care, study finds

Research shows ALD patients have worse outcomes in intensive care unit (ICU) with lower survival rates and higher risk of emergency hospital admissions. The study emphasizes the need for better community services for alcohol addiction and management of long-term conditions.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalCritical Care Medicine·DateOct 15, 2018

HIV-positive infants are at high risk for acquiring congenital cytomegalovirus infection

Researchers found that HIV-infected infants were four times more likely to acquire congenital CMV infection compared to uninfected counterparts. Infants born to HIV-positive mothers had high rates of congenital CMV, with a sixfold greater chance of acquiring the virus during pregnancy.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalThe Pediatric Infectious Disease Journal·DateOct 15, 2018

Scientists found common genes in different peoples of the Ural language family

Researchers analyzed genetic data from 15 Ural-speaking populations and found a small genetic component in common among most populations, suggesting a shared history of origins in Western Siberia. The study also revealed that geography plays a significant role in shaping the gene pool of Ural-speaking populations.

SourceAKSON Russian Science Communication Association·JournalGenome Biology·DateOct 15, 2018

Researchers identify a new way to determine whether metastatic cancer cells in breast cancer patients are dormant or soon to turn deadly

Researchers at Mount Sinai have discovered a new way to determine whether breast cancer cells are dormant or soon to turn deadly. Patients with high levels of the NR2F1 protein in their bone marrow are less likely to develop metastatic cancer, allowing for more targeted treatment and improved survival rates.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalBreast Cancer Research·DateOct 15, 2018

PPR virus poses threat to conservation

The PPR virus poses a significant threat to conservation efforts, with mass mortality events in critically endangered species like the Mongolian saiga. This highlights the urgent need for explicit inclusion of wildlife protection in the global eradication campaign.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalScience·DateOct 15, 2018

Energy harvesting and innovative inputs highlight tech show gadgetry

Dartmouth's research projects demonstrate innovative thinking and technical skills essential for developing next-gen wearables. The lab developed a battery-free energy harvester, a novel conductive system for smartwatches, and self-powered gesture recognition using ambient light to power devices.

SourceDartmouth College·DateOct 15, 2018

Increasing vigorous exercise decreases risk of type two diabetes, cardiovascular disease in childhood

A two-year study of primary school children found that increasing vigorous exercise reduces the accumulation of risk factors for type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. In contrast, sedentary behaviour increases risk factors. The findings support the role of physical activity in preventing chronic diseases in childhood.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalScandinavian Journal of Medicine and Science in Sports·DateOct 15, 2018

Older people who self-harm at highest risk of suicide, finds study

A new study found that older people who harm themselves are 20 times more likely to die an unnatural death and 145 times more likely to die by suicide than peers. Only 12% had prior mental health service referrals, highlighting the need for early intervention.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalThe Lancet Psychiatry·DateOct 15, 2018

High entropy alloys hold the key to studying dislocation avalanches in metals

A team from the University of Illinois has developed a new material and technique to study dislocation avalanches in metals. By observing how dislocations interact at the nanoscale, researchers gained insights into the mechanism behind catastrophic failure, which can aid in developing stronger materials.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalCommunications Physics·DateOct 15, 2018

Neck device shows promise in protecting the brain of female soccer players

A new study suggests that a neck collar may help protect the brain of female high school soccer players from cumulative head impact exposure. The Q-Collar, designed to increase brain blood volume during collisions, showed no significant white matter changes in those who wore it.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·DateOct 15, 2018

Many cases of dementia may arise from non-inherited DNA 'spelling mistakes'

A team of scientists discovered that spontaneous genetic errors in brain cells could lead to neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. These 'somatic mutations' are thought to arise during embryonic development, contributing to the roots of dementia in people without a family history.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 15, 2018

Linguistic red flags from Facebook posts can predict future depression diagnoses

Researchers developed an algorithm that accurately predicts depression based on social media data, including mentions of hostility and loneliness. The study analyzed Facebook posts from over 1,200 people with depression diagnoses and found a strong correlation between certain language markers and future diagnoses.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 15, 2018

Study finds potential benefits of wildlife-livestock coexistence in East Africa

Researchers found that integrating livestock and wildlife on the same lands can reduce tick abundance, enhance biodiversity, and increase revenue for local farmers. The practice of regularly spraying cattle with acaricides also played a key role in reducing ticks and associated diseases.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Sustainability·DateOct 15, 2018

Sea snail shells dissolve in increasingly acidified oceans, study shows

Researchers found sea snail shells were on average a third smaller and showed visible deterioration under predicted future CO2 levels, impacting thickness, density, and structure. The corrosive effects of ocean acidification threaten the survival of calcified animals like shellfish, which are crucial to coastal marine communities.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·DateOct 15, 2018

Two degrees decimated Puerto Rico's insect populations

Climate-driven crash in arthropod populations has significant implications for rainforest ecosystems and biodiversity. The study found that insect biomass declined by up to 60-fold between 1976 and 2013, leading to a major bottom-up trophic cascade.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 15, 2018

Marker may help target treatments for Crohn's patients

Researchers pinpointed microRNA-31 as a predictive indicator of clinical outcome and functional relevance in driving the disease. The study uses an artificial gut to culture human biopsy samples and track molecular abundance, offering a personalized testing platform for therapeutic agents.

SourceCornell University·JournalJCI Insight·DateOct 15, 2018

Technique quickly identifies extreme event statistics

A machine-learning model provides risk assessment for complex nonlinear systems, identifying the types of extreme events likely to occur. The technique simulates wave forces and stresses on structures, offering a faster and more accurate risk assessment than traditional methods.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 15, 2018

Argonne to advance high performance computing in manufacturing

The High Performance Computing for Manufacturing (HPC4Mfg) Program aims to optimize production processes, enhance product quality and speed up design and testing cycles using supercomputers. Argonne researchers will work with industry partners and scientists at the ALCF to develop advanced manufacturing technologies.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·DateOct 15, 2018