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Science News for October 30, 2018


Flexible, stable and potent against cancer

Scientists have developed novel conjugates made from antibodies and a kinesin spindle protein inhibitor, showing high effectiveness in vitro and tumor models. The linker between components allows for tuning the activity of the cytostatic drug, reducing side effects in cancer treatment.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateOct 30, 2018

These new techniques expose your browsing history to attackers

Researchers have discovered four new ways to 'history sniffing' attacks, which can profile a user's online activity in seconds and work across recent web browsers. The attacks can be used by hackers to learn which websites users have visited, and could also be deployed by legitimate companies for marketing and advertising purposes.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateOct 30, 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.

Russian scientists obtain new results in the study of inorganic pigments with apatite structure

Researchers at Lobachevsky University have synthesized a high-purity sample of barium hypomanganate chloride and characterized its crystal structure and chemical environment. The study has stabilized the degree of manganese oxidation and measured its isobaric heat capacity, revealing anomalous behavior below 15K.

SourceLobachevsky University·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Thermodynamics·DateOct 30, 2018

Advertising in kids' apps more prevalent than parents may realize

A new study found that 95% of kids' apps contain at least one form of advertising, including pop-up ads, persuasive characters, and overt banner ads. The study highlights concerns about digital disparities and the potential negative impact of commercial influences on children's play and creativity.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics·DateOct 30, 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.

Tiny light detectors work like gecko ears

Researchers at Stanford University have developed a system that uses tiny detectors to map the angle of incoming light waves, inspired by the unique structure of geckos' ears. This technology could support advances in lens-less cameras, augmented reality, and robotic vision.

SourceStanford University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateOct 30, 2018

Gender inequality could be driving the deaths of girls under 5

A study by Queen Mary University of London reveals that countries with higher levels of gender inequality have a disproportionate number of female child deaths. Girls in these societies face unequal access to healthcare and are more likely to be at risk of mortality due to their sex.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalBMJ Global Health·DateOct 30, 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.

UMN Medical School researchers contribute to important neurological discovery

Researchers used calcium imaging techniques to visualize spontaneous activity patterns in the mature visual cortex, finding precise organizational networks in the cerebral cortex much earlier than previously thought. These networks predict future brain function and are critical for processing complex sensory input.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota Medical School·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateOct 30, 2018

Flood of genome data hinders efforts to ID bacteria

A recent study published in Genome Biology found that the rapid growth of genomic databases is affecting the accuracy of bacterial species identification. The research, led by Rice University scientist Todd Treangen, reveals that the imbalance in database coverage hinders the ability to quickly identify pathogens.

SourceRice University·JournalGenome Biology·DateOct 30, 2018

Tests show integrated quantum chip operations possible

An Australian research team has experimentally realised a crucial combination of two fundamental quantum techniques on a silicon chip, confirming the promise of silicon for quantum computing. The integrated design combines single-spin addressability and a qubit read-out process vital for quantum error correction.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 30, 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 silence acts as a mirror

A study by the Society for Consumer Psychology reveals that people generally assume silent group members share their own opinions, even when outnumbered. This 'mirror effect' could lead leaders to misinterpret group consensus and quiet individuals to inaccurately agree with dominant views.

SourceSociety for Consumer Psychology·JournalJournal of Consumer Psychology·DateOct 30, 2018

Giant flightless birds were nocturnal and possibly blind

Research led by the University of Texas at Austin found that giant flightless birds had tiny brains processing vision, indicating a nocturnal lifestyle. The findings also revealed differences in olfactory bulbs between species, suggesting distinct habitats.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·DateOct 30, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

NSF awards two grants for polymer research

Researchers at Virginia Tech aim to create new ways to use renewably sourced plant and wood polymers to tackle long-standing challenges in medical drug solubility. The project focuses on designing biodegradable polymers that can help orally administered drugs reach the bloodstream effectively.

SourceVirginia Tech·DateOct 30, 2018

Research may shed light on controlling catastrophic disease of bats

Researchers aim to combat white-nose syndrome, a deadly fungus affecting bat populations, by exploring the use of ultra-violet light to clean cave environments. The study, funded by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, could potentially enhance bat survival rates, supporting critical ecosystem services.

SourceUSDA Forest Service - Northern Research Station·DateOct 30, 2018

An end to arachnophobia 'just a heartbeat away'

A new study found that exposing people with phobias to their fear at the exact time of their heartbeats significantly reduces phobia severity. Researchers combined computerized therapy with online heart rhythm measurements to treat patients with spider phobia, showing improved anxiety levels and reduced physiological responses.

SourceUniversity of Sussex·JournalPsychosomatic Medicine·DateOct 30, 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.

UC researchers developing test for early breast lesions

Researchers at the University of Cincinnati have developed a molecular diagnostic test that can assess breast cancer risk based on Osteopontin variants. The test helps patients and doctors make informed decisions about treatment options, weighing aggressive intervention against waiting for potential progression.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalBritish Journal of Cancer·DateOct 30, 2018

Laser technique may open door to more efficient clean fuels

Researchers at the University of Liverpool have developed a laser-based spectroscopy technique to study CO2 reduction in-situ. This method provides critical insights into electrochemical pathways, enabling better understanding of electrocatalysts. The breakthrough could lead to more efficient clean fuel technologies.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalNature Catalysis·DateOct 30, 2018

Solving a 100-year mystery in blood pressure research

A new Scripps Research study reveals how specialized neurons detect changes in blood pressure and maintain cardiovascular homeostasis. The researchers identified two proteins, PIEZO1 and PIEZO2, that play a crucial role in the baroreceptor reflex, which has significant implications for treating drug-resistant hypertension.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalScience·DateOct 30, 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.

Researchers have assembled Eurasian perch genome

Researchers have sequenced the Eurasian perch genome, which is three times smaller than the human genome yet contains over 23,000 genes. The study reveals the genetic mechanisms behind the species' ability to adapt to extreme environmental conditions and its significant impact on methane cycle in lakes.

SourceEstonian Research Council·DateOct 30, 2018

NASA researchers teach machines to 'see'

Researchers at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center are developing machine learning algorithms to analyze petabytes of data, extract new patterns and correlations, and improve science discoveries. The technology also helps monitor spacecraft health, prevent catastrophic failures, and assist engineers in designing new missions.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateOct 30, 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.

Discovery of Zika virus in monkeys suggests disease may also have wild cycle

A study published in Scientific Reports found Zika virus in dead monkeys in Brazil, indicating a potential sylvatic transmission cycle. The infected animals were more vulnerable to attack by humans, highlighting the need for further research on the role of wild animals in maintaining the urban cycle of Zika.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 30, 2018

Giant killers

A long-term study found that frequent disturbances outweigh severe ones in structuring kelp forest biodiversity. Annual disruptions led to a doubling of smaller plants and 30-61% fewer fish and shellfish, highlighting the importance of resilience over severity.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalEcology·DateOct 30, 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.

A new environment for repairing eyes

Researchers at the University of Houston have developed a new environment for repairing eyes using hyaluronic acid. By creating an ideal substrate layer with high concentrations of hyaluronic acid, they aim to improve the treatment of patients with limbal stem cell deficiency, which can lead to opaque corneas.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateOct 30, 2018

Halloween associated with increased risk of pedestrian fatalities

New research finds that Halloween is linked to higher rates of pedestrian traffic fatalities, particularly among young children. The study, which analyzed data from 1975-2016, revealed an average of four additional pedestrian deaths per year during Halloween, with the greatest risk among children aged 4-8.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateOct 30, 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.

One month of abstinence from cannabis improves memory in adolescents, young adults

A study found that one month of abstinence from cannabis improved memory functions among adolescents and young adults, including the ability to learn and recall new information. Cognitive improvement occurred largely during the first week of abstinence, suggesting that abstaining from cannabis helps young people learn efficiently.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJournal of Clinical Psychiatry·DateOct 30, 2018

Research uncovers key differences in brains of women and men with schizophrenia

Researchers found that females without schizophrenia used more complex brain regions to identify others' mental states, while men used less complex regions. Both groups with schizophrenia showed reduced complexity in brain processing, suggesting a potential link between olfaction and emotional processing.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalSocial Neuroscience·DateOct 30, 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.

Droplet Digital PCR enables precise detection and quantification of a promoter mutation prevalent in many cancer types

A recent study published online demonstrated that Droplet Digital PCR technology can detect and quantify rare mutations in the TERT promoter region with high sensitivity. The assays detected the mutation in 78% of samples and yielded no false positives, showing its potential as a biomarker for diagnosing and monitoring patients.

SourceCG Life·JournalJournal of Molecular Diagnostics·DateOct 30, 2018

Advertising in mobile apps for young children -- Study raises concerns about frequency and content

A study found that nearly all smartphone and tablet apps targeted at toddlers and preschoolers have commercial content, using distracting features and potentially manipulative approaches. The research suggests that designers and app stores could take steps to develop higher-quality apps for children.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics·DateOct 30, 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.

Researchers identify three shades of blue

Scientists have identified three sub-types of depression using brain imaging, including one that is unresponsive to commonly prescribed serotonin boosting drugs. The study found that childhood trauma and functional connectivity patterns in the brain play a crucial role in determining treatment effectiveness.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 30, 2018

New and better marker for assessing patients after cardiac arrest

Researchers have discovered a new and better marker, Neurofilament light (NFL), to assess the degree of brain damage after cardiac arrest. This biomarker shows promise in identifying patients with severe brain damage and could lead to more efficient healthcare decisions.

SourceLund University·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateOct 30, 2018

Scientists call for unified standards in 3D genome and epigenetic data

Leading scientists propose guidelines for shared standardized validation of 4D nucleome data sets and models to address rapid development of methods and increasing complexity of data. The initiative aims to ensure proper characterization, validation, and sharing of information, enhancing our understanding of genome dynamics.

SourceCenter for Genomic Regulation·JournalNature Genetics·DateOct 30, 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.

Effective treatments for urticarial vasculitis

Researchers found corticosteroids, biologics, and immunosuppressive agents to be effective for treating urticarial vasculitis. Antihistamines and other anti-inflammatory drugs were ineffective, contrary to common practice.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateOct 30, 2018

Dopamine drives early addiction to heroin

Scientists have made a major advance in understanding how heroin addiction develops by studying the brain circuits that lead to its powerful addictive effects. The discovery of dopamine neurons' role in reinforcing heroin's effects could help refine addiction treatment and develop less addictive painkillers.

SourceeLife·DateOct 30, 2018

Tiny beetle trapped in amber might show how landmasses shifted

A new species of insect, Propiestus archaicus, found in Burmese amber is a relative of modern flat rove beetles that lived under tree bark. The beetle's flattened body and short legs suggest it was adapted to life in the Late Cretaceous era, helping scientists understand how continents shifted millions of years ago.

SourceField Museum·JournalJournal of Systematic Palaeontology·DateOct 30, 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.

Why polarized politicians can represent citizens best

A new study published in The Journal of Politics found that enacting campaign finance reform to reduce polarization would likely degrade representation quality. Citizens tend to prefer representatives with matching issue views, regardless of ideology.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalThe Journal of Politics·DateOct 30, 2018

Antibiotic resistance increases relapse in urinary tract infections

Patients with drug-resistant urinary tract infections are more likely to experience worse clinical outcomes and relapses within a week. The study highlights the importance of close follow-up and proper antibiotic treatment to curb antibiotic resistance.

SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateOct 30, 2018

Lifespan and sexual maturity depends on your brain more than your body

Research by Suzana Herculano-Houzel reveals that brain neurons play a crucial role in determining human lifespan and sexual maturity. The study found that the number of neurons in the cerebral cortex predicts around 75% of longevity variation across species, contradicting previous assumptions about human uniqueness.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalJournal of Comparative Neurology·DateOct 30, 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.

Do psychiatric symptoms remain stable over time? New reviews

New reviews on symptom stability over time for bipolar disorder and psychotic disorders highlight the importance of diagnostic accuracy for prognosis and treatment. Diagnostic instability is associated with factors such as extreme age, female sex, and substance abuse, emphasizing the need for enhanced tools to quantify risk.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalHarvard Review of Psychiatry·DateOct 30, 2018

Preventing sudden cardiac death with genome editing

Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine have successfully used genome editing to correct a genetic mutation causing a rare and deadly heart condition. The study uses CRISPR/Cas9 technology to selectively disrupt the disease-causing gene, reducing arrhythmia symptoms in mice. This breakthrough could lead to a permanent treatment for p...

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalCirculation Research·DateOct 30, 2018

Fermented dairy products may protect against heart attack

A Finnish study found that consuming high amounts of fermented dairy products can lower the risk of coronary heart disease by 26%. Fermented dairy products, such as cheese and yoghurt, were associated with improved blood lipid profiles and reduced heart disease risk.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalBritish Journal Of Nutrition·DateOct 30, 2018

AAFP releases new how to feed a cat consensus statement to the veterinary community

The American Association of Feline Practitioners has released a consensus statement on feline feeding programs, highlighting the importance of allowing normal feeding behaviors such as hunting and foraging to occur in the home environment. This can help alleviate or prevent stress-related issues like cystitis and obesity.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of Feline Medicine and Surgery·DateOct 30, 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.

UT Austin selected for new nationwide high-intensity laser network

The University of Texas at Austin will be a key player in LaserNetUS, a new national network of institutions operating high-intensity lasers. UT Austin's Texas Petawatt Laser will collaborate with leading optical and plasma physics scientists from around the US to advance research.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·DateOct 30, 2018

Scientific breakthrough: Promising new target for immunotherapy

A new molecule called TIM-3 has been identified as a potential target for immunotherapy treatments in patients with cancer and other diseases. The protein plays a key role in regulating the immune response, and its suppression or inactivity can lead to uncontrollable T cell activation and the development of rare forms of lymphoma.

SourceMcGill University Health Centre·JournalNature Genetics·DateOct 30, 2018

Body mass index associated with deaths from most causes

Research suggests a BMI of 21-25kg/m2 is associated with the lowest risk of dying from cancer and heart disease. The study found that underweight individuals were more likely to die from various causes, including cardiovascular disease, respiratory disease, and dementia.

SourceLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·DateOct 30, 2018

Research on clots could make pancreatic cancer more treatable

Researchers are investigating the link between blood clots and pancreatic tumors, which could lead to more effective treatments for patients with pancreatic cancer. The study aims to understand how blood clots form and contribute to tumor growth, potentially leading to new therapeutic approaches.

SourcePurdue University·DateOct 30, 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.

How people perceive cities and suburbs is not merely a matter of boundary lines

A new study suggests that individual perceptions of safety and school quality play critical roles in how people define their communities. Researchers found that zip code remains the biggest predictor, but other factors have predictive power, especially for whites and Hispanics. The findings highlight the importance of considering lived...

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalCity and Community·DateOct 30, 2018

Balloon measurements reveal dust particle properties in free troposphere over desert

The study used balloon-borne measurements to investigate dust particles in the free troposphere over a Chinese desert region. The findings suggest that mineral particles from desert areas have a local influence and are transported long distances, with coarse-mode particles dominating the size distribution.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAtmospheric and Oceanic Science Letters·DateOct 30, 2018

How plants cope with stress

Researchers found that a specific mark on RNA molecules protects them from degradation under stressful conditions, enabling plants to more effectively respond to drought and salt stress. This mechanism could be manipulated to develop more resilient crop varieties.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalCell Reports·DateOct 30, 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.

Next generation of watch springs

Researchers at Empa develop high-performance watch springs through electroplating, enabling improved accuracy and long-term stability. The team's goal is to master the process of miniaturization and understand its effects on material properties.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalAdvanced Materials Technologies·DateOct 30, 2018

Facial Asymmetry Increases with Age

A study published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery found that facial asymmetry increases steadily with aging, especially in the lower two-thirds of the face. Researchers used 3D photogrammetry to measure facial symmetry in 191 volunteers, ranging from four months to 88 years old.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery·DateOct 30, 2018

Tianhe-2 supercomputer works out the criterion for quantum supremacy

A world-first criterion for quantum supremacy has been established using the Tianhe-2 supercomputer, demonstrating a significant advantage over classical computing in boson sampling tasks. The research sets the stage for future quantum computing advancements and paves the way for experimental implementation of quantum devices.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateOct 30, 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.

High stability of the hepatitis B virus

The hepatitis B virus is highly stable at room temperature and can withstand temperatures of four degrees centigrade for nine months. Disinfectants are effective against the virus when applied undiluted, but their effectiveness decreases with dilution.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateOct 30, 2018

Researchers teach 'machines' to detect Medicare fraud

Researchers from Florida Atlantic University developed a machine learning model that detects Medicare fraud with high accuracy. By analyzing large datasets from Medicare Part B, they identified a unique process to map fraudulent providers, achieving a statistically significant detection rate.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalHealth Information Science and Systems·DateOct 30, 2018

Vitamin D levels in the blood linked to cardiorespiratory fitness

A study published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology found that higher vitamin D levels are associated with better exercise capacity and cardiorespiratory fitness. Participants with higher vitamin D levels had a 4.3-fold higher fitness level compared to those with lower levels.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Journal of Preventive Cardiology·DateOct 30, 2018

Bigger brains associated with greater cancer risk

Research by Norwegian University of Science and Technology found that individuals with larger brains are more likely to develop brain tumors. The study, which analyzed data from over 1,000 participants, revealed a statistically significant association between brain size and increased cancer risk.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalNeuro-Oncology·DateOct 30, 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.

Making a transparent flexible material of silk and nanotubes

The University of Pittsburgh engineers have created a transparent flexible material by combining silk fibroins with carbon nanotubes, exhibiting desirable optical mechanical and chemical properties. This breakthrough has potential applications in wearable and implantable electronic devices, as well as sensors for biomedical use.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalACS Applied Nano Materials·DateOct 30, 2018

How some heart cells cope with high blood pressure

Researchers have identified distinct differences between heart muscle cells that fail and those that adapt to high blood pressure. Cells that adapted were thicker, needed more energy, and could keep the heart beating, while failing cells became stretched out and weak.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 30, 2018

Becoming more sensitive to pain increases the risk of knee pain not going away

A new study from Université de Montréal finds that increased pain sensitivity is a key risk factor for persistent knee pain in osteoarthritis. The research identified four subgroups characterized by varying degrees of pain sensitization, with the highest degree linked to the greatest risk of developing persistent knee pain.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalArthritis & Rheumatology·DateOct 30, 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.

Single protein controls thousands of genes essential for sperm development

A new study has discovered a single protein called Dazl that regulates a network of genes essential for developing sperm to replicate and survive. This finding could lay the groundwork for future research into therapies for infertile men, offering insights into molecular events that ensure survival of germ cells.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalCell Reports·DateOct 30, 2018

The Mincle receptor provides protective immunity against Group A Streptococcus

A study published in PNAS found that the Mincle receptor initiates an antibacterial response to Group A Streptococcus upon recognition of MGDG, an anchor of lipoteichoic acid. The receptor plays a critical role in the immune response to GAS and may provide a therapeutic option by increasing antibacterial immunity.

SourceOsaka University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 30, 2018

University of Miami Miller School of Medicine -- managing common ankle fractures

The article discusses the challenges in managing common ankle fractures, particularly those above and below the level of the syndesmosis. Researchers recommend assessing medial clear space on radiographs and patient pain ratings to guide management. They also emphasize the importance of dynamic imaging with stress radiographs to detect...

SourceUniversity of Miami Miller School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateOct 30, 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.

Distilling a solution for fracking wastewater

Researchers at University of Pittsburgh's Swanson School of Engineering have developed a new method to treat hydrofracturing wastewater by leveraging waste heat from drilling sites. The membrane distillation technology reduces the need for fresh water and produces high-quality water suitable for agriculture, industry, and other uses.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·DateOct 30, 2018

Are we immune to the CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing scissors?

Researchers have found that CRISPR-Cas9 generates a strong immune response in humans, with T cells reacting to the Cas9 protein in almost all healthy subjects. However, the study also highlights the need for new solutions to prevent dangerous immune reactions, particularly for genetic diseases requiring in vivo modifications.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalNature Medicine·DateOct 30, 2018

The 10-foot-tall microscopes helping combat world's worst diseases

Scientists at the University of Leeds have used powerful microscopy techniques to reveal the structure of amyloid proteins, a build-up of abnormal proteins that causes disease. The research has provided significant insights into how these proteins form aggregates and contribute to disease, paving the way for potential treatments.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 30, 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.

A 31-year global diurnal sea surface temperature dataset

A new ocean mixed layer model reproduces a more realistic sea surface temperature (SST) diurnal cycle than existing models. The 31-year global diurnal sea surface temperature dataset reveals significant seasonal and interannual variations of SST, with potential implications for ENSO prediction.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateOct 30, 2018

The science of studying the effects of extraordinary beliefs on consumer behavior

The study explores the implications of applying utilitarian, deontological, and virtue ethical standards to superstition in the marketplace. It highlights the need for researchers to clearly state the rationality of consumers' behaviors and assess their irrationality to promote consumer well-being.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of the Association for Consumer Research·DateOct 30, 2018

Research sheds light on conspiracy theory elements

Conspiracy theorists on Reddit discuss recurring elements such as Big Pharma, US elections, and government corruption. The study found that narrative-motifs expose commonalities between multiple conspiracy theories, even when referring to different events or circumstances.

SourceVirginia Tech·DateOct 30, 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.