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Science News for October 17, 2018


Exposure to malaria before birth may boost childhood immunity

Exposure to malaria during pregnancy can trigger an immune response in the fetus, leading to higher levels of memory T cells and reduced clinical malaria incidence in childhood. Infants born to mothers with placental malaria have a lower risk of contracting malaria as children.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateOct 17, 2018

Blue crab baby sizes and shapes influence their survival

A Rutgers study reveals that the body structures of blue crab larvae significantly impact their ability to survive. Contrary to an initial assumption, the study found no correlation between a mother's size and her offspring's larval characteristics.

SourceRutgers University·JournalBiological Bulletin·DateOct 17, 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.

Moss rapidly detects, tracks air pollutants in real time

Scientists have found a simple way to detect air pollutants like sulfur dioxide in real time by analyzing changes in moss leaves. Moss can regenerate its chemical sensing capacity, making it a sustainable natural plant sensor for rapidly alerting authorities to potential dangers.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateOct 17, 2018

Novel antidepressant may improve sleep in patients with depression

A novel antidepressant, vortioxetine, has been shown to improve subjective sleep quality and daytime sleepiness in patients with major depressive disorder. The treatment's multimodal effect on serotonin transport and reuptake may have important clinical implications for addressing sleep problems in depression.

SourceWiley·JournalBritish Journal of Clinical Pharmacology·DateOct 17, 2018

Texas Biomed scientists researching Ebola-malaria connection

Researchers aim to understand how malarial infections impact people exposed to Ebola virus, with a goal of developing tailored therapeutics for co-infection cases. The study will assess molecular impacts using an animal model and may involve testing in nonhuman primates.

SourceTexas Biomedical Research Institute·DateOct 17, 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.

Societies can remain distinct despite migration

A new study by the University of Exeter suggests that acculturation rates are strong enough to maintain cultural traditions in the face of migration, preserving differences between societies. The research found that even low levels of conformist acculturation can help preserve distinct cultural variations.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 17, 2018

Study challenges concerns around imported farmed shrimp

Researchers from the University of Stirling used European Union data to assess the risk of imported farmed shrimp, finding it to be comparable to other seafood products. The study analyzed 18 years of data and found that consumers would need to eat over 300g of shrimp per day to exceed safe limits for antimicrobials.

SourceUniversity of Stirling·JournalAquaculture·DateOct 17, 2018

Attending the 'best' high school may yield benefits and risks for students

A recent study found that attending socioeconomically advantaged high schools tends to lead to higher educational attainment, income, and occupational prestige, while attending high-achievement schools can harm students' career prospects. Researchers hope to identify teacher-related factors that can buffer against these negative effects.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateOct 17, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Cancer blood test trialed to prevent unnecessary chemotherapy

A new blood test that detects circulating tumour DNA is being tested to determine if cancer patients need chemotherapy after surgery. The trial aims to identify high-risk patients who may benefit from aggressive treatment and low-risk patients who can avoid chemotherapy.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·DateOct 17, 2018

Arctic greening thaws permafrost, boosts runoff

A new study found that Arctic shrubs can lead to significant degradation of the permafrost layer, creating pathways for increased water and carbon flow. The interactions between shrubs and snow are driving increases in discharges of fresh water into rivers, lakes, and oceans.

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateOct 17, 2018

Massive organism is crashing on our watch

The Pando aspen clone, widely considered the world's largest single organism, is in grave need of forest triage. The study reveals that early protection from fencing showed great promise in abating browser impacts, but follow-up fencing efforts are currently failing.

SourceS.J. & Jessie E. Quinney College of Natural Resources, Utah State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 17, 2018

3D-printed lithium-ion batteries

A new method for 3D printing lithium-ion batteries has been developed, overcoming the limitation of commercially available battery shapes. The researchers increased the battery's ionic conductivity by infusing polymers with an electrolyte solution and boosting electrical conductivity using graphene or multi-walled carbon nanotubes.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Energy Materials·DateOct 17, 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.

Climate stress will make cities more vulnerable

A University of Sydney research team found that Angkor's massive population fall was caused by external climate stress and overloaded infrastructure. The study highlights the importance of building resilience into modern urban networks to mitigate catastrophic failures.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 17, 2018

Study documents paternal transmission of epigenetic memory via sperm

Researchers at UC Santa Cruz have discovered that sperm retain epigenetic marks important for the development of the germ line in offspring. This study provides evidence that the life experience of a father can affect the health of his descendants, highlighting the importance of epigenetic information carried by sperm.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 17, 2018

Childhood abuse linked to increased arthritis risk in adulthood

A survey-based study of 21,889 adults found that severe childhood physical abuse and frequent intimate partner violence exposure increased the risk of arthritis. The study suggests potentially enduring immune and metabolic abnormalities caused by childhood abuse may play a role in the development of arthritis.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateOct 17, 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.

Bone cell response to mechanical force is balance of injury and repair

A recent study published in eLife reveals that bone cells adapt to mechanical forces by releasing energy-rich ATP and repairing damaged membranes. The researchers found that membrane injury causes ATP release, but rapid membrane repair controlled by calcium- and PKC-dependent vesicles limits the total amount of ATP spilled.

SourceeLife·DateOct 17, 2018

Double dust ring test could spot migrating planets

A team led by Dr Farzana Meru of the University of Warwick has developed a way to detect planet migration in protoplanetary discs using ALMA observations. By analyzing the particle size in two dust rings, astronomers can determine if a planet is migrating within the disc.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateOct 17, 2018

Eliminating emissions in India and China could add years to people's lives

Researchers found that replacing coal-fired powerplants with clean energy could save an estimated annual 15 million years of life in China and 11 million years of life in India. The study used state-of-the-art atmospheric chemistry modeling to calculate province-specific changes in mortality and life expectancy due to power generation.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalEnvironment International·DateOct 17, 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.

Dandelion seeds reveal newly discovered form of natural flight

Researchers from the University of Edinburgh have discovered a novel form of air bubble that enhances the drag on dandelion seeds, allowing them to travel great distances without power consumption. This breakthrough could inspire the development of small-scale drones for remote sensing or air pollution monitoring.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalNature·DateOct 17, 2018

New study sets a size limit for undiscovered subatomic particles

Researchers from Yale, Harvard, and Northwestern University found that many theorized heavy particles may not exist, contradicting the Standard Model. The study's results suggest a smaller electron EDM, challenging alternative theories like supersymmetry and grand unified theories.

SourceYale University·JournalNature·DateOct 17, 2018

Astronomers find a cosmic Titan in the early universe

An international team of astronomers has discovered a massive galaxy proto-supercluster, Hyperion, in the early universe, just two billion years after the Big Bang. The supercluster has a complex structure with at least seven high-density regions connected by filaments of galaxies.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·DateOct 17, 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.

New study supports survival of microbes and organic compounds in space

A recent study published in Astrobiology found that microbes and organic compounds can survive for a year in space, suggesting interplanetary migration is possible. The Tanpopo mission exposed Deinococcus aetherius to space conditions, measuring key factors like temperature and radiation.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalAstrobiology·DateOct 17, 2018

UC researcher fighting breast cancer with light therapy

A University of Cincinnati researcher is working on a new light therapy that uses ultraviolet light to activate light-sensitive drugs, selectively targeting cancer cells while sparing healthy stem cells. This approach has the potential to be more effective and safer than current treatments.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateOct 17, 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.

UNH researchers say winter ticks killing moose at alarming rate

Researchers at UNH found a high infestation of winter ticks on 179 radio-marked moose calves, causing emaciation and severe metabolic imbalance leading to 125 calf deaths over three years. Most adult moose survived but were severely compromised.

SourceUniversity of New Hampshire·JournalCanadian Journal of Zoology·DateOct 17, 2018

Adolescent THC exposure alters neurons/gene networks associated with psychosis risk

Young adults exposed to cannabis during adolescence show altered brain structure and gene expression related to psychosis risk. The study suggests that adolescent cannabis use can induce long-term changes in brain cells and gene networks, potentially increasing psychiatric vulnerability.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateOct 17, 2018

Study: US tornado frequency shifting eastward from Great Plains

A new study finds that US tornado frequency has increased in the Midwest and Southeast over the past four decades, closing the gap with traditional Tornado Alley. The trend is significant for understanding future tornado exposure and damage.

SourceNorthern Illinois University·Journalnpj Climate and Atmospheric Science·DateOct 17, 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.

Global experts gather in Montreal for opening of 11th World Stroke Congress

The 11th World Stroke Congress brought together leading international experts to discuss various aspects of stroke care. A Canadian study found that while access to stroke rehabilitation improved, provincial and regional differences persist, with bed capacity hindering prompt access. Another study analyzed gender differences in accessi...

SourceHeart and Stroke Foundation of Canada·DateOct 17, 2018

A 150-year-old drug might improve radiation therapy for cancer

Researchers at Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center found that papaverine inhibits mitochondrial respiration and sensitizes model tumors to radiation. The study suggests that modifying the papaverine molecule could lead to a new class of radiosensitizing drugs with fewer side effects.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 17, 2018

Bursting the clouds for better communication

Researchers at UNIGE have developed a laser that can create a temporary hole in clouds to transmit data, overcoming the limitations of radio frequency signals. This technology has the potential to enable global implementation by 2025.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalOptica·DateOct 17, 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.

UC researchers recommend universal screening to tackle rise in Hepatitis C

Researchers at the University of Cincinnati recommend universal screening for all adults due to the rise in hepatitis C cases among younger patients. The new strategy is cost-effective and aims to prevent long-term health problems such as liver cancer and cirrhosis.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalClinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology·DateOct 17, 2018

Probiotics and antibiotics create a killer combination

A new study by MIT researchers shows that combining antibiotic drugs with probiotics can eradicate two strains of drug-resistant bacteria that infect wounds. The probiotic bacteria were encapsulated in a protective shell of alginate to prevent them from being killed by the antibiotics.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateOct 17, 2018

Nutrition has a greater impact on bone strength than exercise

Researchers at University of Michigan discovered that a mineral-supplemented diet has a greater impact on bone mass and strength than exercise. The mice retained bone strength gains even after the exercise stopped, highlighting the long-term benefits of nutrition over exercise.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 17, 2018

Does weight loss before surgery provide benefits?

A recent analysis of published studies found that preoperative weight loss interventions do not significantly reduce post-surgical risks in obese patients. Lifestyle changes leading to modest weight loss have been shown to be ineffective in reducing morbidity and mortality during and after surgery.

SourceWiley·JournalBJS·DateOct 17, 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.

Researchers identify new approach for controlling dengue fever and Zika virus

Researchers at UC Riverside successfully used CRISPR-Cas9 to disrupt serotonin receptor Aa5HT2B in mosquitoes, reducing body size, lifespan, egg development, and fat accumulation. This breakthrough offers a novel approach for controlling mosquito populations and diseases they carry.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 17, 2018

Social media buffers depression among older adults with pain

A University of Michigan study found that social media can help reduce the risk of depression in older adults with pain. The researchers used data from a nationally representative survey and discovered that social media use preserves cognitive function and psychological well-being in this population.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalThe Journals of Gerontology Series B·DateOct 17, 2018

Omega 3 fatty acids found in seafood linked to healthy aging

A US study found that higher blood levels of omega 3 fatty acids from seafood are associated with a lower risk of unhealthy ageing, defined as survival free of major chronic diseases and without mental or physical dysfunction. Participants who consumed more seafood-derived EPA had a 24% lower risk of unhealthy ageing.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateOct 17, 2018

OHSU-led effort results in largest cancer dataset of its kind

A study led by OHSU has published the largest cancer dataset of its kind, involving hundreds of patient samples and revealing new insights into acute myeloid leukemia (AML). The dataset may help researchers and physicians solve specific questions about AML treatment options.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalNature·DateOct 17, 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.

A role for circadian enhancers to prevent myocardial injury in the perioperative setting

Researchers discovered that midazolam, a commonly used anesthetic, alters cardiac circadian biology and increases susceptibility to myocardial ischemia. Targeting the circadian rhythm protein Period 2 (PER2) with nobiletin, a flavonoid found in citrus peels, provides significant cardioprotection against MI in a mouse model.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCurrent Pharmaceutical Design·DateOct 17, 2018

Pupil's brain recognizes the perfect teacher

Researchers discovered that young male zebra finches activate connections between their social brain and song cortex when near a singing tutor, indicating the ideal teacher. The study found that this connection is essential for juvenile birds to copy and learn songs from suitable tutors.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature·DateOct 17, 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.

Substantial changes in air pollution across China during 2015 to 2017

A study by the University of Leeds reveals a 20% decrease in particulate pollution concentrations across China between 2015 and 2017. Concentrations of fine particulates fell by 7.2% per year, while those of sulphur dioxide decreased by 10.3%. However, ozone concentrations increased by 5% over the same period.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateOct 17, 2018

NASA catches the scattered remains of former Tropical Storm Tara

NASA's Aqua satellite captured infrared data on the remnants of Tropical Storm Tara, which had weakened to maximum sustained winds near 35 mph. The storm produced scattered thunderstorms with cloud top temperatures as cold as -63 degrees Fahrenheit, posing a threat of life-threatening flash floods and mudslides in Mexico.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateOct 17, 2018

Breastfeeding protects infants from antibiotic-resistant bacteria

Infants who were breastfed for at least six months had a smaller number of resistant bacteria in their gut than babies who were breastfed for a shorter period. Antibiotic treatment of mothers during delivery increased the amount of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in the infant gut.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 17, 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.

Wringing water from the air

Scientists are working on technologies to collect water from the air, which could help alleviate global water shortages. Researchers have developed various approaches, including fog-harvesting systems and liquid desiccants, that can reduce costs and scale up production.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateOct 17, 2018

Pre-eclampsia linked to an increased risk of dementia later in life

A large study published in The BMJ found that pre-eclampsia is associated with an increased risk of later dementia, particularly vascular dementia. Women with a history of pre-eclampsia were more than three times as likely to develop vascular dementia compared to those without the condition.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateOct 17, 2018

New imaging tool captures how sound moves through the chinchilla ear

Researchers developed an OCT-based imaging tool to visualize how sound-induced vibrations travel through the ear. The technology provides new insight into hearing and could inform diagnosis and treatment of hearing problems. The instrument measures tiny vibrations within the ear, allowing for precise measurements at over 10,000 points.

SourceOptica·JournalBiomedical Optics Express·DateOct 17, 2018

Picture perfect: Researchers gain clearest ever image of Ebola virus protein

Scientists have imaged the Ebola virus protein structure at near-atomic resolution, revealing a complex with individual RNA nucleotides and amino-acid side chains. This clarity may help find targets for antiviral drugs, one step closer to understanding how the whole virus works.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalNature·DateOct 17, 2018

Wind farms and reducing hurricane precipitation

A recent study published in Environmental Research Letters found that large-scale offshore wind farms can decrease hurricane precipitation onshore locations, while increasing it in offshore areas. The research used Hurricane Harvey as an example, showing a 30% reduction in precipitation inland due to the presence of wind farms.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateOct 17, 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.

Simple test may help predict long-term outcome after stroke

A simple test taken within a week of a stroke can predict long-term outcomes, including impaired thinking skills and daily task completion. The study found that those with thinking problems had a seven times higher mortality rate and 42% had problems completing daily activities three years after the stroke.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateOct 17, 2018

Are microplastics in the environment truly harmful?

Researchers found significant gaps in understanding microplastic effects, with concentrations detected being orders of magnitude lower than those affecting organisms in lab tests. The study highlights a need for more environmentally realistic studies and better monitoring of specific environmental regions.

SourceWiley·JournalEnvironmental Toxicology and Chemistry·DateOct 17, 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.

Letting the sunshine in may kill dust-dwelling bacteria

Researchers found that up to 12% of bacteria on average were alive and able to reproduce in dark rooms. In contrast, only 6.8% of bacteria exposed to daylight and 6.1% of those exposed to UV light remained viable. This suggests that daylight can reduce the risk of dust-borne infections by killing dust-dwelling bacteria.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalMicrobiome·DateOct 17, 2018

A curious branch of plankton evolution

A study of Truncorotalia fossils found rapid shell shape changes 5.1 million years ago, potentially observing quantum evolution at a species level. This challenges previous theories of gradual evolution in planktonic forams.

SourceCell Press·JournaliScience·DateOct 17, 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.

Virtual reality may encourage empathic behavior

A study published in PLOS ONE found that virtual reality systems can aid perspective-taking and foster empathy, leading to more altruistic behaviors. Participants who used VR reported higher levels of empathy and were more likely to sign petitions supporting homeless populations.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 17, 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.

Vast leukemia dataset could help researchers match therapies to patients

Researchers have released a massive dataset detailing molecular makeup of tumor cells from over 500 AML patients, enabling rapid advancement in clinical trials. The dataset includes how individual patients' cells responded to various drugs, providing insights into targeted therapies for specific subsets of AML cells.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalNature·DateOct 17, 2018

Electrical enhancement: Engineers speed up electrons in semiconductors

Researchers from Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology have sped up electron movement in organic semiconductor films by two to three orders of magnitude. By introducing polystyrene, they found enhanced hole mobility, a critical factor for developing more efficient solar devices.

SourceTokyo University of Agriculture and Technology·JournalMacromolecular Chemistry and Physics·DateOct 17, 2018

WHO-endorsed tests fail to detect outbreak of MDR tuberculosis in South Africa

A recent outbreak of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) in South Africa remains undetected for five years due to the failure of WHO-endorsed diagnostic tests. Researchers discovered two strains with a specific DNA mutation associated with resistance to Rifampicin, which were not detected by commercial tests.

SourceKU Leuven·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateOct 17, 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.

Researcher: Independence tests should ask more of seniors

A UCR psychologist argues that low expectations set by ADL and IADL questionnaires may contribute to cognitive decline in healthy older adults. Wu advocates expanding the range of functional independence to include new skills and adaptability, potentially leading to greater long-term independence.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalThe Gerontologist·DateOct 17, 2018

How drug-resistant TB evolved and spread globally

A new study reveals that Lineage 4 TB emerged in Europe around 1,000 years ago and spread globally with European explorers and colonialists. The study found that drug-resistant strains of Lineage 4 TB have hardly spread beyond their country of origin, suggesting a regional challenge to control.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 17, 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.

New method uses just a drop of blood to monitor lung cancer treatment

Researchers from Osaka University have devised a simple method to test the impact of nivolumab on critical immune cells in patients with lung cancer. The novel approach measures how nivolumab binds to PD-1 on T-cells, providing information needed to monitor treatment more effectively and optimize treatment choices.

SourceOsaka University·JournalJCI Insight·DateOct 17, 2018

Taking steps toward a wearable artificial kidney

Researchers have created a nanomaterial called MXene that can capture urea from dialysis waste, paving the way for a more comfortable and effective artificial kidney. The material is lightweight, safe, and can hold onto urea even at body temperature.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Nano·DateOct 17, 2018

World Heritage Sites threatened by rising sea levels

A Kiel-based study reveals that 49 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Mediterranean are at risk due to sea-level rise and storm surges. The sites face increased flood risk of up to 50% and erosion risk of up to 13% by 2100, according to a spatial database and model simulations.

SourceKiel University·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 17, 2018

Penetrating the soil's surface with radar

Ground penetrating radar can accurately estimate soil water content by analyzing the strength of early time signals. This technology allows for quick measurement across large field sites, enabling farmers to optimize water usage and test irrigation system efficiency.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalVadose Zone Journal·DateOct 17, 2018

Unprecedented look at electron brings us closer to understanding the universe

Researchers at Northwestern University have confirmed that an electron's charge is perfectly spherical, strengthening the Standard Model of particle physics. The study excluded alternative models that predicted the electron's shape would be asymmetrically squished, potentially revealing unknown heavy particles.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature·DateOct 17, 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.

Grant to fund video game that will help children with ADHD

A $1.38 million grant from the US Department of Education will fund a three-year project to develop a video game designed to help kids with ADHD learn academic skills and better succeed in school. The project aims to provide a cost-effective means to educate students with ADHD, who require more counseling and disciplinary action.

SourceOhio University·DateOct 17, 2018

Taking their vitamins

New research from North Carolina State University and the University of Copenhagen finds that most bacterioplankton are B1 auxotrophs, meaning they have to glean the vitamin or pieces of it from their environment. The study also reveals fluctuations in genes responsible for making and/or using environmental B1 and precursors over time.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 17, 2018

School students identify sounds caused by solar storm

A team of school students from Eltham Hill School successfully identified ultra-low frequency sounds caused by a solar storm in the Earth's magnetic shield. The study made data audible for exploration, revealing new patterns and commonality among these waves.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalSpace Weather·DateOct 17, 2018

How does brain structure influence performance on language tasks?

A new study using computational models shows promise in understanding how brain structure impacts performance on language-related tasks. The research found relationships between brain characteristics and task speed, potentially leading to advancements in treating diseases and enhancing human performance.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateOct 17, 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.

Many infertile men have undiagnosed prediabetes

A recent study of 744 infertile men found that 15.4% had undiagnosed prediabetes, with factors including older age and high follicle stimulating hormone levels linked to the condition. The study suggests that infertility in men may be associated with impaired glucose metabolism.

SourceWiley·JournalBJU International·DateOct 17, 2018

Scientists find unusual behavior in topological material

Researchers identify CoNb3S6 as a topological material exhibiting an extremely large anomalous Hall effect due to its unique electronic structure. The discovery opens doors for advances in materials science and potential electronic applications.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 17, 2018

Supermassive black holes and supercomputers

Researchers used supercomputers to simulate early universe, revealing formation of first stars and galaxies. Metal-enriched gas enabled rapid star formation, leading to smaller, more numerous stars and galaxy evolution.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Astronomy and Space Sciences·DateOct 17, 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.

Just the right dose: antiepileptic drug clearance changes during pregnancy

A new study found that antiepileptic drug clearance significantly changes by the first trimester for one commonly used medication and by the second trimester for two others. The findings have implications for adjusting medication doses during pregnancy to keep women with epilepsy seizure-free and safe.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNeurology·DateOct 17, 2018

Study examines aspects of conscientious objection among nurses

A study of eight Ontario nurses reveals that making conscientious objections to ethically-relevant policies requires concrete supports and protection in healthcare settings. The researchers emphasize the need for routine conversations about conscience and conscientious objection to respect human rights and promote ethical practice.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Advanced Nursing·DateOct 17, 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.

The impact of microplastics on the environment unclear, study suggests

A review of 320 global studies found a large mismatch in microplastic types measured in the environment and those tested for effects in laboratories. The study highlights the need for better quality monitoring and environmentally realistic effects studies to understand the impact of microplastics on the environment.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalEnvironmental Toxicology and Chemistry·DateOct 17, 2018

Arctic ice sets speed limit for major ocean current

The Beaufort Gyre's speed is controlled by the Arctic ice cover, which acts as a natural governor to slow down the gyre. As the Arctic ice melts, the gyre speeds up, gathering more fresh water from the Arctic's river runoff and melting ice.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateOct 17, 2018

Going to bed with your ex might not be as bad you think

A study published in Archives of Sexual Behavior found that having sex with an ex does not necessarily hinder breakup recovery. In fact, those who continued to pine after their ex-partner more often sought out sexual activity as a way to foster closeness and connection.

SourceSpringer·JournalArchives of Sexual Behavior·DateOct 17, 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.

Engineered enzyme eliminates nicotine addiction in preclinical tests

Researchers test engineered NicA2-J1 enzyme, breaking down nicotine before it reaches brain, reversing signs of nicotine dependence and reducing relapse rates. The treatment shows promise in preclinical tests, potentially offering a new smoking-cessation treatment option.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 17, 2018

Hormone alters male brain networks to enhance sexual and emotional function

A new study by Imperial College London reveals that kisspeptin, the master regulator of reproduction, affects brain activity in healthy volunteers, leading to decreased sexual aversion and increased brain activity associated with sexual arousal. The hormone also boosts networks involved in mood and depression.

SourceImperial College London·JournalJCI Insight·DateOct 17, 2018

Genomic analysis offers insight into 2018 Nigeria Lassa fever outbreak

A genomic analysis of Lassa virus genomes from patients in Nigeria found that the surge in cases in 2018 was not driven by a single dominant virus strain. The study suggests that human-to-human transmission may be rare, with evidence pointing to multiple independent zoonotic transmissions through contact with rodent feces or urine.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateOct 17, 2018

Selfish people have fewer children and earn less money

A study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found that unselfish individuals have more children and higher salaries than their selfish counterparts. The researchers examined data from four major studies on Americans and Europeans, concluding that generosity is associated with greater economic success.

SourceStockholm University·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateOct 17, 2018