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Science News for September 13, 2018


Dr. Annick Bricaud selected as 2018 recipient of the Jerlov Award

Dr. Annick Bricaud received the 2018 Jerlov Award for her pioneering work in ocean optics, covering experimental and theoretical studies on seawater optical properties. Her research has been widely cited with over 11,400 citations, and she is a pioneer among female researchers in optical oceanography.

SourceThe Oceanography Society·DateSep 13, 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.

Dietary fiber reduces brain inflammation during aging

A new study from the University of Illinois found that dietary fiber can reduce brain inflammation in old mice, leading to improved memory and reduced cognitive decline. The researchers discovered that high-fiber diets elevated butyrate levels in the blood, which had anti-inflammatory properties on microglia.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalFrontiers in Immunology·DateSep 13, 2018

Testosterone replacement therapy may slow the progression of COPD

Researchers at The University of Texas Medical Branch found that testosterone replacement therapy reduces respiratory hospitalizations in middle-aged and older men with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This suggests that testosterone replacement therapy may slow the progression of COPD in these individuals.

SourceSAGE·JournalChronic Respiratory Disease·DateSep 13, 2018

Malicious brain cell identified

Researchers at Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute have identified a previously unknown astrocyte subpopulation that plays a key role in driving brain inflammation. The newly discovered 'ieAstrocytes' are activated early in neuroinflammatory diseases, such as multiple sclerosis and Alzheimer's disease.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournaleNeuro·DateSep 13, 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.

Study sheds light on why the US and China don't see eye-to-eye on e-commerce

A new study by Singapore Management University finds that the US and China have distinct stances on e-commerce regulation, with the US prioritizing digital barriers and China focusing on traditional trade barriers. The study suggests that policy makers should look for areas of common interest to bring down trade barriers.

SourceSingapore Management University·JournalJournal of International Economic Law·DateSep 13, 2018

Disrupting genetic processes reverses aging in human cells

A study led by the University of Exeter Medical School found that disrupting genes and pathways regulating splicing factors can reverse signs of aging in cells. Disrupting ERK and AKT pathways reduced senescent cells, increasing splicing factors and leading to cellular rejuvenation.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateSep 13, 2018

Scientists design new metabolic technology to open scientific data for everyone

A new cloud-based analysis platform allows scientists to quantify molecules from biological samples and share their results publicly. The platform enables faster research and increased precision by identifying key fragments of molecules, benefiting fields like environmental sciences, pharmaceuticals, and sports medicine.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalNature Methods·DateSep 13, 2018

Calorie counts on restaurant menus have customers ordering less

A recent study by Cornell University found that customers who saw calorie counts on restaurant menus ordered meals with 45 calories less than those without calorie information. Customers also valued the nutrition information and supported future implementation of calorie labels.

SourceCornell University·DateSep 13, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

One in three college freshmen worldwide reports mental health disorder

A study by the American Psychological Association found that 35% of students from 19 colleges in eight countries reported symptoms consistent with at least one mental health disorder. Major depressive disorder was the most common, followed by generalized anxiety disorder.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Abnormal Psychology·DateSep 13, 2018

Warm with a chance of birds: Forecasting avian migrations

A new forecasting model uses Next-Generation Radar data to capture migratory patterns of birds with high spatial accuracy, explaining up to 81% of variation in migration timing and intensity across the U.S. The model can forecast movements up to a week ahead and estimate total bird numbers making the journey.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateSep 13, 2018

New knowledge on the condition of cull sows prior to transportation to the abattoir

Researchers from Aarhus University conducted a study on the clinical condition of cull sows prior to transportation to slaughter. The results show that a significant portion of sows had various injuries and disabilities, including wounds, superficial skin lesions, and udder lesions, highlighting the need for improved animal welfare in ...

SourceAarhus University·JournalTranslational Animal Science·DateSep 13, 2018

Diagnosing and treating resistant hypertension

Resistant hypertension affects 12-15% of patients with high blood pressure, who require three or more medications to control it. Improving lifestyle factors such as diet, physical activity, and weight can lower blood pressure.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalHYPERTENSION·DateSep 13, 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.

Computer avatars play a part in dementia detection

A new system using computer avatars detects dementia with high accuracy by analyzing speech and language patterns of elderly individuals. The technology has the potential to encourage early diagnosis through daily conversations with avatars.

SourceOsaka University·JournalIEEE Journal of Translational Engineering in Health and Medicine·DateSep 13, 2018

FEFU young scientists are developing new materials for laser equipment

The researchers are developing new materials based on 'laser ceramic - thermoelectric' heterostructures to improve the performance characteristics of final materials in several ways. They aim to create a structure where SrTiO3 and TiO2 grains are located in a 'checkerboard' order throughout all the volume of the material.

SourceFar Eastern Federal University·DateSep 13, 2018

Study details incidence & timing of immunotherapy-related fatalities

Researchers found that while severe reactions can occur, the risks are low compared to common cancer treatments. The study identified a peak timing for fatal toxicities within 15-40 days after treatment initiation, depending on the type of immune checkpoint inhibitor.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateSep 13, 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.

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.

The art of storytelling: researchers explore why we relate to characters

A new study published in the Journal of Cognitive Neuroscience suggests that our brains prioritize character development when listening to or viewing a story. This study used fMRI scans to examine how participants conveyed narrative ideas through different forms of expression, such as speech, gestures, and drawings.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalJournal of Cognitive Neuroscience·DateSep 13, 2018

Social class determines how the unemployed talk about food insecurity

Researchers found that people from lower classes describe food as a means of survival, while those in the middle class use language to obscure their struggles. In contrast, those in the upper class view food as a networking tool, rarely considering its physical necessity.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalCommunication Monographs·DateSep 13, 2018

Researchers managed to prevent the disappearing of quantum information

Researchers at University of Turku and University of Science and Technology of China have successfully controlled the flow of quantum information into the environment, preventing its disappearance. This breakthrough has significant implications for basic research and the development of quantum technologies.

SourceUniversity of Turku·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 13, 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.

UTA researcher creates hydrogels capable of complex movement

Kyungsuk Yum and his doctoral student Amirali Nojoomi developed a process to program 2-D hydrogels for space- and time-controlled swelling and shrinking, enabling the formation of complex 3-D shapes and motions. The technology has potential applications in bioinspired soft robotics and artificial muscles.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 13, 2018

New genetics tool helps answer evolutionary questions

Researchers at Michigan State University have developed a new genetics tool called conStruct to analyze large datasets of genetic variation. The tool helps identify patterns of relatedness among individuals and populations, overcoming previous statistical challenges.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalGenetics·DateSep 13, 2018

One foot in the grave for pheasants that favor a side

A new study found that young pheasants who strongly favored using their left or right leg to step over a barrier died at a significantly lower rate than those with weaker preferences. The research suggests that favouring one side of the body may bring advantages, but also explains why low levels of 'footedness' exist among pheasants.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 13, 2018

Laser sintering optimized for printed electronics

Researchers have developed a more efficient method for laying down thin-film circuitry using copper nanoparticle ink with green laser light. The study found that optimal settings for laser power and scanning speed can enhance conductivity, while sintering reduces film thickness by up to 74%.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAIP Advances·DateSep 13, 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.

High-resolution genomic map gives scientists unprecedented view of brain development

Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital created a massive database of gene activity in individual cells during embryonic development and after birth, enabling scientists to trace specific developmental trajectories in the cerebellum. The analysis will aid understanding of brain development and provide a foundation for unde...

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 13, 2018

A very special protein synthesis machinery

A team of scientists has discovered the atomic-resolution structure of a specialized ribosome in Trypanosomes, a parasitic disease-causing organism. The study reveals that these ribosomes are composed primarily of proteins, unlike other ribosomes which are dominated by RNA.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience·DateSep 13, 2018

NASA-NOAA satellite finds Barijat crossing Gulf of Tonkin

The NASA-NOAA satellite detected Tropical Cyclone Barijat crossing the Gulf of Tonkin, weakening significantly due to wind shear. The storm's rotation was skewed by winds at different altitudes, causing it to dissipate quickly after landfall in Vietnam.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 13, 2018

The next phase: Using neural networks to identify gas-phase molecules

Scientists at Argonne National Laboratory have developed a new method using neural networks to identify the structural signatures of molecular gases. This breakthrough enables researchers to accurately sense unidentified chemicals or scan samples for impurities in a much smaller period of time.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateSep 13, 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.

Regret is a gambler's curse, neuroscientists say

A UC Berkeley study reveals the brain's orbitofrontal cortex replays and revisits nearly every feature of previous decisions after placing a bet. The researchers found that gamblers' regret from losing or not betting more is the main driver of activity in this region.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 13, 2018

NASA sees Hurricane Helene decoupled by wind shear

Hurricane Helene is decoupling from wind shear due to southwesterly vertical wind shear, pushing the bulk of the storm away from its rotating center. The NHC expects wind shear to increase on Sept 13, potentially weakening the storm further.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 13, 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.

Novel flying robot mimics rapid insect flight

Researchers developed an autonomous, free-flying robot that mimics fruit flies' aggressive escape manoeuvres, demonstrating exceptional flight qualities and power efficiency. The DelFly Nimble has a top speed of 25 km/h and can perform agile maneuvers, making it suitable for future applications in drone technology.

SourceDelft University of Technology·JournalScience·DateSep 13, 2018

How skin begins: New research could improve skin grafts, and more

Researchers at the University of Colorado Boulder have discovered a critical mechanism in skin development, shedding light on genetic roots of birth defects like cleft palate. The study sheds new light on how p63 regulates key signaling pathways involved in hair follicle and sweat gland formation.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateSep 13, 2018

Trees reveal the evolution of environmental pollution

Researchers analyzed Tipuana tree rings and bark to measure environmental pollution levels, finding reduced levels of cadmium, copper, nickel, and lead over the past three decades. The study suggests a correlation with declining gasoline emissions in Brazil.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·DateSep 13, 2018

Certain environmental pollutants may contribute to poor kidney health

Exposure to PFAS has been linked to worse kidney function and other signs of kidney damage in studies analyzing all relevant research. The analysis points to the need for further research on the effects of PFAS on kidney health.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateSep 13, 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.

Hemidystrophic thorax mimicking scoliosis

A new form of Chest Wall Deformity has been discovered in patients with mild scoliosis and without it, characterized by rib humps mimicking scoliosis. Long-term observations are necessary to draw a final conclusion on prognosis.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalThe Open Orthopaedics Journal·DateSep 13, 2018

Open insulin, 'DIY bio' and the future of pharma

The DIY bio movement is disrupting the pharmaceutical industry with open-source protocols for manufacturing off-patent insulin, increasing competition and potentially making life-saving medicine more affordable. The Open Insulin Project, a case study, aims to develop and release an open-source protocol for manufacturing insulin.

SourceColorado State University·JournalTrends in Biotechnology·DateSep 13, 2018

Study: Kidney stones have distinct geological histories

A new study reveals that kidney stones are built up in calcium-rich layers resembling mineralizations in nature. The research found that the stones partially dissolve and regrow again and again as they form, contradicting the widely held notion that they never dissolve.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 13, 2018

Busting bitter, saving lives

A new collaboration grant will support development of next-generation screening technologies to identify bitter taste blockers. The goal is to advance human health by improving the taste and acceptability of nutritious plant-based foods.

SourceMonell Chemical Senses Center·DateSep 13, 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.

Helping computers fill in the gaps between video frames

Researchers at MIT develop Temporal Relation Network (TRN) module to help CNNs recognize activities by observing key frames. The module achieves top accuracy of 95% in activity recognition on Jester dataset, outperforming existing models.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateSep 13, 2018

Enhanced 3D imaging poised to advance treatments for brain diseases

PySight improves rapid 2D and 3D imaging of the brain with high spatiotemporal resolution, enabling scientists to better understand brain dynamics and discover new treatments. The open-source software integrates with state-of-the-art hardware, overcoming technical barriers to continuous 3D imaging.

SourceOptica·JournalOptica·DateSep 13, 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.

Designer enzyme conquers sulfite reduction, a bottleneck in environmental cleanup

Researchers have developed a synthetic enzyme that reduces sulfite to sulfide, a notoriously complex multistep chemical reaction. The new enzyme's design focused on functionality rather than structure, accounting for previously thought secondary interactions that proved crucial to its activity.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalScience·DateSep 13, 2018

UMass Amherst leads team in first sequencing of Canada lynx genome

Scientists at UMass Amherst have published the first-ever whole genome of the Canada lynx, a key conservation tool for studying evolution, disease, genetics and habitat connectivity. The release provides critical information on genetic health, demographic history and adaptive variation to inform wildlife management and policy decisions.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·DateSep 13, 2018

NASA finds subtropical storm Joyce disorganized, wandering

Subtropical Storm Joyce is disorganized and wandering in the north central Atlantic Ocean, according to NASA satellite imagery. The system's patchy development of thunderstorms indicates a lack of organization, which may lead to heavy rain generation.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 13, 2018

Junior investigators successfully compete for extra NIH grants

A study published in PLOS ONE found that early-career scientists who received first-time NIH grants are successful in obtaining subsequent funding. These researchers consistently submitted more applications per year, renewal applications, and to multiple NIH Institutes. They also demonstrated better grant writing skills and project scope.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 13, 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.

Leptospirosis strains identified in Uruguay cattle

Researchers identified 40 different Leptospira strains in Uruguay cattle, including rare isolates and serotypes matching those found in human leptospirosis patients. The discovery highlights the need for improved diagnostic tools and vaccination strategies to mitigate the risk of human infection.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateSep 13, 2018

Suspending young students risks future success in school

A study by the University of Michigan and Louisiana State University found that early suspensions can lead to a negative trajectory in academic life, particularly for boys. The researchers suggest that this phenomenon is linked to factors such as aggression, parental involvement, and implicit racial biases.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalChildren and Youth Services Review·DateSep 13, 2018

VLBA measures asteroid's characteristics

Astronomers used the VLBA to study the effects on radio waves coming from a distant galaxy when an asteroid passed in front of it. They measured the size and shape of the asteroid, improving the accuracy of its orbital path calculation.

SourceNational Radio Astronomy Observatory·DateSep 13, 2018

The irresistible CCL17

Researchers at the University of Bonn have found that CCL17 influences signal transmission in the brain and may be linked to autism. The chemokine is mainly produced by neurons in the hippocampus, a structure involved in tasks such as orientation and memory formation.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalGlia·DateSep 13, 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.

Out of control means off the menu

A recent study reveals that global shark catches have more than doubled since 1960, threatening almost 60% of shark species. The Hong Kong-based research highlights the need for consumers to reject shark fin products, which are often sourced from unsustainable and illegal fisheries.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalMarine Policy·DateSep 13, 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.

Creating a continental bird migration forecast

A new study uses weather forecasts and machine learning to predict bird migration across the United States, explaining 80% of variation in intensity. This tool helps reduce human-made threats during the migration journey, crucial for conserving migratory birds.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalScience·DateSep 13, 2018

New map of daily light integrals generated from updated data

A new map of daily light integrals has been created by the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture, providing guidance for greenhouse managers on local light regimes and supplemental lighting requirements. The updated maps use recent solar radiation data from 1998 to 2012, offering higher resolution and more precise data.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture·JournalJournal of the American Society for Horticultural Science·DateSep 13, 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.

FSU researchers: Most fire in Florida goes undetected

A new study from FSU researchers indicates that common satellite imaging technologies have underestimated the number of fires in Florida. Strategically prescribed burns are proving effective against wildfires, while fire experts' reliance on faulty data may be flawed. The study found that only 25% of burned area is detected by satellites.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateSep 13, 2018

Famous theory of the living Earth upgraded to 'Gaia 2.0'

Researchers propose a new perspective on the Gaia hypothesis, integrating human consciousness into the planet's self-regulation system. This 'Gaia 2.0' framework suggests that humans can deliberately limit their impacts on the environment through conscious choice and technological advancements.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalScience·DateSep 13, 2018

A new frame for the sky

The International Astronomical Union has adopted the new ICRF-3 reference frame with global validity since January 2019. It provides improved precision for positioning systems like GPS and space probes, enabling accurate navigation in the sky and on Earth's surface.

SourceGFZ GeoForschungsZentrum Potsdam, Helmholtz Centre·DateSep 13, 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.

Newspaper reporting of NHS Cancer Drugs Fund misleading

An analysis of UK newspaper reporting on the NHS Cancer Drugs Fund found mostly positive but uncritical stories, potentially misleading the public about the fund's benefits. The study suggests that media coverage contributed to a strong perception that expensive new medicines are the best way to help cancer patients.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of the Royal Society of Medicine·DateSep 13, 2018

Building a safer heart pump

Researchers at Penn State are developing a new generation of blood pumps that use computational methods to predict clot formation and design safer devices. This could enable earlier intervention for patients with congestive heart failure, reducing recovery time and improving outcomes.

SourcePenn State·DateSep 13, 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.

New means to fight 'un-killable' bacteria in healthcare settings

Researchers at the McGill University Health Centre have identified a new cellular target that can weaken P. aeruginosa, a bacterium responsible for thousands of deaths in cystic fibrosis patients. The discovery could lead to more effective antibiotics and improve treatment outcomes for these patients.

SourceMcGill University Health Centre·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 13, 2018

New study finds HIV outbreak in Indiana could have been prevented

A new study by Yale University suggests that the HIV outbreak in Scott County, Indiana, could have been drastically reduced if state officials had acted sooner on warnings. The study provides quantitative evidence that the number of undiagnosed HIV infections had already fallen substantially before a public health emergency was declared.

SourceYale University·JournalThe Lancet HIV·DateSep 13, 2018

Blazes of light reveal how plants signal danger long distances

Researchers discover that glutamate activates a wave of calcium in plant tissues, triggering a defense response. The study uses fluorescent imaging to visualize the calcium signaling system, showing that it moves quickly through the plant to prepare distant tissues for future threats.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalScience·DateSep 13, 2018

Flappy robot mimics the aerial acrobatics of agile flying insects

Researchers developed an autonomous flapping-wing robot to study demanding insect flight tasks like takeoff, landing and evasive maneuvers. The robot accurately replicated fruit fly's rapid banked turns using a passive approach to control the maneuver dynamics.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateSep 13, 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.

Anti-inflammatory diet linked to reduced risk of early death

A recent study published in Journal of Internal Medicine found that adhering to an anti-inflammatory diet was associated with lower risks of dying from any cause, cardiovascular causes, and cancer. Participants who closely followed the diet had an 18% lower risk of all-cause mortality compared to those who followed it to a lesser degree.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Internal Medicine·DateSep 13, 2018

Conservation dairy farming could help Pennsylvania meet Chesapeake target

Researchers found that simulated conservation dairy-farming systems in Pennsylvania's Spring Creek watershed reduced nutrient and sediment losses, improving water quality. By growing all their own feed and forage, using no-till planting and manure injection, these farms achieved significant pollution reductions.

SourcePenn State·JournalAgricultural Systems·DateSep 13, 2018

Eyes have a natural version of night vision

In low light, retinal cells sensitive to upward movement change their behavior, firing on detecting any kind of movement. This adaptability helps the brain sense movement and may aid in designing implantable retinal prosthetics.

SourceDuke University·JournalNeuron·DateSep 13, 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.

The Lancet Psychiatry: ADHD medication use is increasing but some patients in some countries are still not receiving the treatment they need

The study found that prescription rates for ADHD medications are still lower than diagnosis rates worldwide, highlighting disparities in clinical approaches to treating the condition. In contrast, regions like North America have higher medication use rates, but also face concerns of overdiagnosis and overmedication.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Psychiatry·DateSep 13, 2018

How a virus destabilizes the genome

A new study reveals how KSHV protein LANA drives chromosomal instability, promoting cell proliferation and aneuploidy. The findings identify NNLS as a promising target for antiviral therapies.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateSep 13, 2018

NASA satellite analyzes powerful super Typhoon Mangkhut

NASA's Aqua satellite revealed a large eye surrounded by powerful storms in Typhoon Mangkhut, which could generate heavy rainfall due to cloud top temperatures as cold as minus 80F. The storm made landfall along the northeast coast of Luzon, Philippines on Sept. 14, with warnings already in effect.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 13, 2018

Clinical early warning scores: New clinical tools in evolution

The article discusses clinical early warning scores as new clinical tools to predict future clinical deterioration, particularly related to sepsis. It provides a critical review of the state-of-the-art in early warning algorithms and suggests further research initiatives.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalThe Open Anesthesia Journal·DateSep 13, 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 use bear saliva to rapidly test for antibiotics

Researchers have developed a super-fast screening technology that uses bacteria in bear saliva to discover new treatments for antibiotics. They found a beneficial strain of bacteria that produces a previously known antibiotic, amicoumacin, effective against MRSA.

SourceRutgers University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 13, 2018

NASA sees Tropical Depression Olivia's strength waning

Tropical Depression Olivia's cloud top temperatures reached -70F (-56.6C), capable of generating heavy rainfall and life-threatening flash flooding. The depression is expected to weaken further by Friday, becoming a post-tropical remnant low.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 13, 2018

Appetite for shark fin soup drives massive shark population decline

The study found that shark catches have increased by more than double since six decades ago, leading to almost 60% of shark species being threatened. Sustainable fishing practices are challenging to enforce in the high seas, particularly in unmanaged fisheries of less economically developed countries.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalMarine Policy·DateSep 13, 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.

Tiny camera lens may help link quantum computers to network

A tiny camera lens invented by ANU researchers may enable fast and reliable transfer of quantum information between quantum computers and an optical fibre network. The device uses a metasurface that controls light with functionalities outperforming traditional systems.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalScience·DateSep 13, 2018

Mixed chemicals in beauty products may harm women's hormones

A new study by George Mason University researchers found links between chemicals used in personal care products and changes in reproductive hormones. The study, which analyzed 509 urine samples from 143 women aged 18-44, suggests that even low-level exposure to mixtures of chemicals may affect reproductive hormone levels.

SourceGeorge Mason University·JournalEnvironment International·DateSep 13, 2018

A potential new way to treat some of the most common blinding diseases

A study found that inhibiting atypical protein kinase C reduces increased vessel permeability and blocks inflammation, potentially helping protect vision in patients with eye diseases. The therapy has therapeutic potential for diabetic retinopathy, uveitis, and retinal vein and artery occlusions.

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateSep 13, 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.