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Science News for September 20, 2018


Synthetic organelle shows how tiny puddle-organs in our cells work

A synthetic organelle created in a lab modelled membraneless organelles found to drive efficient sugar processing by balancing substrate and enzyme interactions. Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology used this setup to explore cellular biochemistry, discovering unexpected nuances in organelle chemistry.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateSep 20, 2018

A behavioral intervention for cancer patients that works

Researchers found that a program designed to reduce stress in cancer patients can be taught to therapists across the country and effectively improves mood. The study involved 15 sites and 158 patients with various types of cancer, showing significant improvement on measures of mood and physical activity.

SourceOhio State University·JournalAmerican Psychologist·DateSep 20, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Black women more likely to skip crucial breast cancer treatments

A new study reveals that black women are more likely to skip hormone therapy treatments for breast cancer, with barriers including cost, side effects, and difficulty adhering to treatment plans. The study highlights the need for culturally competent behavioral interventions to improve outcomes for all women with breast cancer.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateSep 20, 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.

Scientists reveal the hidden costs of cobalt mining in DR Congo

A new study by KU Leuven reveals the hidden costs of cobalt mining in the Democratic Republic of Congo, including high levels of cobalt in children's urine and increased DNA damage. The research highlights the need for sustainable cobalt mining practices to mitigate environmental and health impacts.

SourceKU Leuven·JournalNature Sustainability·DateSep 20, 2018

Reducing false positives in credit card fraud detection

A new MIT model has been developed to reduce false positives in credit card fraud detection, achieving a 54% reduction in incorrect flagging of legitimate transactions. By extracting more than 200 detailed features for each individual transaction, the model can better pinpoint unusual spending habits and improve accuracy.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateSep 20, 2018

Investigational steroid mirrors prednisone's benefits while taming its side effects

A new investigational steroid called vamorolone has been found to replicate the benefits of prednisone while reducing its side effects, offering hope for patients with chronic inflammatory diseases. The study identifies nine potential biomarkers for inflammatory diseases that could serve as a fingerprint for chronic inflammation.

SourceChildren's National Hospital·JournalPhysiological Genomics·DateSep 20, 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.

Can a common heart condition cause sudden death?

Researchers developed a microtissue model of the heart to study how environmental stress affects normal and abnormal heart tissue. The study found that mutant cells contracted abnormally and arrhythmically under stress, similar to HCM patients.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateSep 20, 2018

Spray coated tactile sensor on a 3D surface for robotic skin

A KAIST research team has reported a stretchable pressure insensitive strain sensor by using an all solution-based process. The new electronic skin can distinguish mechanical stimuli analogous to human skin and can be uniformly coated on 3-dimensional surfaces.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalACS Nano·DateSep 20, 2018

What makes a mammal a mammal? Our spine, say scientists

A new study led by Harvard University researchers finds that mammal spines have gained new regions during evolution, which enabled them to adapt to different environments. The research challenges the long-held idea that mammal-specific characteristics emerged from a single ancestral blueprint.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalScience·DateSep 20, 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.

American girls read and write better than boys

Research by American Psychological Association reveals that girls exhibit better reading and writing ability than boys as early as the fourth grade. The achievement gap widens further with age, particularly for writing tasks. Experts attribute this to factors such as peer pressure, learning disabilities, and differences in brain function.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalAmerican Psychologist·DateSep 20, 2018

Festschrift dedicated to Mathilde Krim includes scientific research by Krim fellows

A special Festschrift dedicated to Dr. Mathilde Krim celebrates her life and medical career, featuring articles on HIV research and a range of scientific studies contributed by the Krim Fellows. The issue highlights key findings on CD4-HIV-1 envelope interactions and the complex role of immunoglobulin A in HIV, among other topics.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalAIDS Research and Human Retroviruses·DateSep 20, 2018

ACA health insurance ads targeted younger, healthier consumers from 2013 to 2016

A study analyzed TV ads for ACA health insurance plans, finding a shift towards targeting younger, healthier individuals and emphasizing financial assistance, as well as a decline in mentions of 'ObamaCare' or 'Affordable Care Act'. The researchers suggest this trend may be related to low public understanding of the law.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·DateSep 20, 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.

Matter falling into a black hole at 30 percent of the speed of light

Researchers have detected matter falling directly into a black hole for the first time, with gas spiraling in at 30% of the speed of light. The discovery sheds light on chaotic accretion and its implications for supermassive black holes.

SourceRoyal Astronomical Society·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateSep 20, 2018

New way to target advanced breast cancers

Researchers have identified a link between inflammation and cancer growth in HER2-negative breast cancers, revealing anakinra as a potential treatment target. Anakinra, an existing anti-inflammatory drug, reduces gene expression of IL1b and other cytokines, improving symptoms and quality of life for some patients.

SourceJackson Laboratory·JournalCancer Research·DateSep 20, 2018

Surprise finding uncovers balancing act between birth defects and cancer

Subtle changes in protein regulation can cause severe face and brain developmental abnormalities, highlighting the importance of striking a healthy balance between too little and too much cell death. The study suggests that excessive or inadequate cell death during embryonic development can lead to devastating birth defects or cancer.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalCell Reports·DateSep 20, 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.

Simulations enable 'choose-your-own-adventure' stereochemistry

Researchers use computer models to predict how molecules will behave in certain reactions, controlling the emergence of specific products with desired stereochemical structures. This breakthrough enables chemists to design additives that can select the right product outcomes, revealing new insights into chemical processes.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalScience·DateSep 20, 2018

NASA created rainfall analysis for super Typhoon Mangkhut

NASA used data from Super Typhoon Mangkhut to create a detailed map of the typhoon's rainfall. The analysis revealed heavy precipitation totals, including areas with over 700 mm of rain, and showed the storm's path through the western Pacific Ocean.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 20, 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.

Test could detect patients at risk from lethal fungal spores

Scientists have discovered a genetic mutation that increases the amount of dangerous fungal spores in the lungs, making people more susceptible to Aspergillus infections. A new test could detect this mutation and screen patients at risk from lethal fungal spores.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 20, 2018

Fish-rich diets may boost babies' brain development

Research suggests that consuming fatty fish during pregnancy can enhance babies' brain function and visual development. The study analyzed 56 mothers and their children, finding that those who ate fish three or more times a week had better test results for visual functioning and maturational changes.

SourceSpringer·JournalPediatric Research·DateSep 20, 2018

Quick and not-so-dirty: A rapid nano-filter for clean water

Researchers at RMIT University and UNSW have developed a rapid nano-filter that can clean dirty water up to 100 times faster than current technology. The filter harnesses naturally occurring nano-structures on liquid metals, making it sustainable, environmentally-friendly, scalable, and low-cost.

SourceRMIT University·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateSep 20, 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.

Cancer immunotherapy might benefit from previously overlooked immune players

A recent study found that CD4+ T cell's binding partner, MHC-II, plays a significant role in emerging tumors, suggesting new avenues for improving cancer immunotherapies. The researchers also discovered no correlation between MHC-II's ability to recognize antigens and the age at which patients were diagnosed with cancer.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalCell·DateSep 20, 2018

Few hatchery brook trout genes present in Pennsylvania watershed wild fish

Researchers genotyped 2,000 brook trout in Pennsylvania's Loyalsock Creek watershed and found that over 93% were of genetically wild origin. The study suggests that hatchery-raised brook trout have low fitness and survival rates due to high mortality, making it difficult for them to introduce their genes into the wild population.

SourcePenn State·JournalEvolutionary Applications·DateSep 20, 2018

Intestines modify their cellular structure in response to diet

The study found that dietary cholesterol alters cellular programming, promoting hormone-producing cells and nutrient-handling cells. Low nutrient availability triggers changes in intestinal structure and metabolism with long-term effects on metabolic health.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateSep 20, 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.

MDMA (a.k.a. ecstasy) makes octopuses more social too

Researchers found that octopuses, which are typically solitary and asocial, become more interested in interacting with each other when under the influence of MDMA. The study suggests that common molecular pathways enable serotonin to encode social behaviors in both humans and octopuses.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 20, 2018

What's eating these endangered orchids?

A species of seed-feeding fly is critically damaging orchid seeds, threatening their reproduction. The fly reduces seed production by over 95% in five species, putting already-endangered orchids at risk.

SourceKobe University·JournalEcology·DateSep 20, 2018

In depression the brain region for stress control is larger

Researchers at the Max Planck Institute discovered that individuals with depression have a larger left hypothalamus than those without the disorder. The study found a correlation between the severity of depression and the size of the brain region, but no effect from medication.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences·JournalActa Psychiatrica Scandinavica·DateSep 20, 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.

Mediterranean-style diet may lower women's stroke risk

A new study led by the University of East Anglia found that following a Mediterranean-style diet high in fish, fruits, and nuts, and low in meat and dairy, may reduce stroke risk in women over 40, with a 22% reduction in risk compared to men who showed no significant reduction.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalStroke·DateSep 20, 2018

Like our sun, other stars spin faster at the equator than at the poles

Researchers used Kepler spacecraft to monitor stellar oscillations of 40 Sun-like stars, finding signs of differential rotation in some. The equators spin nearly twice as fast as mid-latitudes in the strongest signals, posing a challenge to existing theories.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateSep 20, 2018

Gut fungus exacerbates asthma in antibiotic-treated mice

A non-pathogenic fungus can expand in the intestines of antibiotic-treated mice and enhance the severity of allergic airways disease. The study suggests that alterations in gut microbiota induced by intestinal fungi might be a previously unrecognized but potentially important risk factor for patients with asthma.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateSep 20, 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.

Basking sharks can jump as high and as fast as great whites

A new study reveals that basking sharks can accelerate to over 90 degrees in just nine seconds, clearing the water at nearly 5.1m/s and reaching a height of 1.2m above the surface. The finding showcases the surprising speed of these gentle giants, dispelling their reputation as slow swimmers.

SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalBiology Letters·DateSep 20, 2018

Putting underused smart devices to work

Researchers at IMDEA Networks Institute are exploring a novel 'DisCoEdge' system to optimize device usage and create new services. The system aims to spread heavy computational tasks and large storage over simple devices, enabling novel applications like cooperative data sharing and corporate storage systems.

SourceIMDEA Networks Institute·DateSep 20, 2018

Analysis of global fossils informs evolution of mammalian spine

Researchers analyzed fossilized backbones and reconstructions to better understand the evolution of mammals' distinct spinal regions. The study found that forelimb reorganization played a crucial role in driving regionalization across the spine, leading to the varied forms of modern mammals.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateSep 20, 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.

Preventing a dengue outbreak at the 2020 Summer Olympics

Researchers identified 20 critical points for disease detection, assessment, and patient communication to strengthen Japan's preparedness plans. Gaps in current controls, including missed cases at accommodations and communication failures, were highlighted.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateSep 20, 2018

Climate change modifies the composition of reefs

A recent study found that climate change is causing a shift in reef composition, with gorgonians taking the place of declining coral species in some regions. The research suggests that gorgonians are better adapted to changing conditions due to their flexible trophic structure.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 20, 2018

Study documents poor mental and physical health in rural borderland community members

A study on inequalities and health among foreign-born Latinos in rural borderland communities found that population is vulnerable to high stress negatively impacting mental and physical health. Historical factors such as oppression of farm labor and current practices like racial profiling contribute to low social status, employment ins...

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·DateSep 20, 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.

Plug-and-play technology automates chemical synthesis

MIT researchers have developed a plug-and-play technology that automates chemical synthesis, allowing chemists to focus on analytical and creative aspects of their research. The system can optimize reactions in a single day, cutting weeks or months of optimization time.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateSep 20, 2018

Even the best healthcare facilities can do more to prevent infections

A recent review of 144 studies found that multifaceted infection control strategies can reduce healthcare-associated infections by 35-55%. Despite advancements in medical innovations, improvements are still possible, especially in high-income countries and institutions with standard-of-care measures.

SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateSep 20, 2018

New research finds annual well visit increases likelihood of preventive services

A new study published in Preventive Medicine found that annual wellness visits significantly increase the delivery of preventive services among the elderly population. The research revealed that participants with an AWV were more likely to undergo screenings for prostate cancer, influenza vaccine, and other recommended services.

SourceHarvey L. Neiman Health Policy Institute·JournalPreventive Medicine·DateSep 20, 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.

Smart pills dumb down medical care, experts warn

Researchers at University of Illinois Chicago caution against adopting smart pill technology due to concerns over patient privacy and consent. The technology, which tracks drug regimen compliance, may not improve patients' lives as promised.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalThe American Journal of Bioethics·DateSep 20, 2018

Manganese plays a key role in bacterial infection

Enterococcus faecalis relies on manganese acquisition systems for virulence, which are essential for growth in manganese-restricted environments. Inactivating these transporters led to a loss of virulence in animal models, making them promising targets for new antimicrobial therapies.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateSep 20, 2018

Fatty acids can slow down an overheated immune system

Researchers from Aarhus University have discovered a new type of fatty acid that can slow down the overactive STING protein, which is normally an important part of our immune system. This breakthrough has opened a new path to developing effective treatments for autoimmune diseases such as Lupus and SAVI.

SourceAarhus University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 20, 2018

Study: Widely used nonprofit efficiency tool doesn't work

A recent study from North Carolina State University found that the overhead ratio, a widely used metric for assessing nonprofit efficiency, is actually negatively correlated with efficiency. The researchers used data from Habitat for Humanity affiliates and two established efficiency analysis tools to demonstrate this problem.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNonprofit Management and Leadership·DateSep 20, 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.

What can salad dressing tell us about cancer? Think oil and vinegar

Scientists at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital have discovered a connection between the process that causes oil and vinegar to separate in salad dressing and solid tumors like prostate and breast cancer. The study found mutations in the tumor suppressor gene SPOP contribute to cancer by disrupting liquid-liquid phase separation, l...

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalMolecular Cell·DateSep 20, 2018

Molecular fossils confirm Dickinsonia as one of Earth's earliest animals

Researchers have identified biomarkers in Dickinsonia fossils, confirming it as an early animal and challenging previous interpretations. The findings suggest complex organisms emerged over 542 million years ago, paving the way for the Cambrian explosion of life.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateSep 20, 2018

Boosting emotional intelligence in physicians can protect against burnout

A Loyola Medicine study shows that an educational curriculum for physicians improves their emotional intelligence, stress management, and overall wellness. The study suggests that teaching emotional intelligence skills may improve stress management, promote wellness, and prevent burnout in resident physicians.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalAdvances in Medical Education and Practice·DateSep 20, 2018

Fat from 558 million years ago reveals earliest known animal

Scientists have discovered molecules of fat in an ancient fossil, confirming that animals existed on Earth 558 million years ago. The discovery of the strange creature Dickinsonia, which grew up to 1.4 meters in length, reveals a long-standing mystery about its true identity.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalScience·DateSep 20, 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.

Coastal wetlands will survive rising seas, but only if we let them

A global study predicts that coastal wetlands will increase in area as sea levels rise, but only if humans preserve room for them to migrate inland. The researchers found a key threshold of 20 people per square kilometer, and suggest using 'natural and nature-based features' to expand accommodation space.

SourceVirginia Institute of Marine Science·JournalNature·DateSep 20, 2018

TINY cancer detection device proves effective in Uganda testing

Researchers developed a handheld, portable device that can detect Kaposi sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) with 94% accuracy in resource-limited settings. The Tiny Isothermal Nucleic acid quantification sYstem (TINY) generates results in under 2.5 hours, enabling early detection and better outcomes.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateSep 20, 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.

Mathematics meets biology to uncover unexpected biorhythms

A novel mathematical approach has uncovered 12-hour cycles of genetic activity in animal cells, independent of 24-hour circadian rhythms. Laboratory experiments confirm the existence and independence of these cycles, which have significant implications for understanding gene functions over time and their influence on health and disease.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 20, 2018

In cardiac injury, the NSAID carprofen causes dysfunction of the immune system

Researchers found that carprofen pretreatment before experimental heart attack in mice impairs the resolution of acute inflammation after cardiac injury. This leads to a non-resolving inflammation characterized by an amplified CD47 marker on neutrophils, which resists clearance and triggers more inflammatory responses.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalJournal of Leukocyte Biology·DateSep 20, 2018

Scientists solve the golden puzzle of calaverite

Researchers from Russia and Germany uncover a new gold compound, AuTe2, with incommensurate modulation in its crystal lattice. This discovery solves the long-standing mystery of calaverite's crystal structure, providing insights into its electronic spectra and superconducting capability.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 20, 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.

Study: Commitment to democratic values predict climate change concern

A recent study by Georgia State University faculty found that commitment to democratic values is the strongest predictor of climate change concern worldwide. In contrast, party identification plays a more significant role in Western democracies, particularly in the US.

SourceGeorgia State University·JournalEnvironmental Politics·DateSep 20, 2018

'Gut sense' is hardwired, not hormonal

Scientists have discovered a neural superhighway that enables rapid communication between the gut and brain, contradicting decades of research on hormonal transmission. This breakthrough has profound implications for our understanding of appetite and other gut-related disorders.

SourceDuke University·JournalScience·DateSep 20, 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.

Smartphone, M.D.

A new cell phone app and lab kit enable a smartphone to identify bacteria from patients anywhere in the world, leading to faster recovery and lower treatment costs for patients. The test uses a smartphone's camera to measure a chemical reaction and determines a diagnosis in about an hour.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalEBioMedicine·DateSep 20, 2018

Mediterranean-style diet may lower women's stroke risk

A new study published by the American Heart Association found that adhering to a Mediterranean-style diet can reduce the risk of stroke in women over 40. The researchers discovered that this benefit is especially pronounced among women who follow a Mediterranean diet, with a 22% reduced risk compared to those who do not.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateSep 20, 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.

Full, but still feasting: Mouse study reveals how urge to eat overpowers a signal to stop

A new study explores why people keep eating despite feeling full, showing that two tiny clusters of cells battle for control and the opioid system gets involved. Researchers found that stimulating POMC neurons decreases appetite, while AgRP neurons drive eating when both are activated.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 20, 2018

Researchers identify human skeletal stem cells

Human skeletal stem cells have been isolated from fetal and adult bones, providing a breakthrough in understanding the molecular diagnosis and treatment of skeletal diseases. The discovery enables researchers to create a detailed lineage map of stem-cell-mediated formation of skeletal tissues in humans.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateSep 20, 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.

Affordable Care Act: Study finds surprising gaps in HIV care providers' knowledge

A new study found that over a quarter of HIV medical providers surveyed couldn't say whether their state had expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act. Providers in states that expanded Medicaid were more likely to believe the law would improve HIV outcomes, but all providers agreed it would improve overall healthcare outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateSep 20, 2018

Extra Arctic observations can improve predictability of tropical cyclones

Adding Arctic weather observations can help predict tropical cyclones' tracks and intensity more accurately, reducing extreme weather event risks. The study used radiosonde data from the Arctic to forecast three tropical cyclones, showing improved predictability with additional observations.

SourceResearch Organization of Information and Systems·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 20, 2018

Scientists quantify the vast and valuable finds stored on museum shelves

Researchers estimate only 3-4% of recorded fossil locations are documented in published literature, highlighting the need for museums to invest in digital preservation. The EPICC database compiles marine invertebrate fossils from the eastern Pacific, providing a vast resource for scientists.

SourceCalifornia Academy of Sciences·JournalBiology Letters·DateSep 20, 2018

Gut branches of vagus nerve essential components of brain's reward and motivation system

Researchers have identified a novel gut-brain neural circuit establishing the vagus nerve as essential for regulating reward and motivation. The study reveals that stimulating the right branch of the vagus nerve can excite reward neurons in the brain, offering potential targets for therapy for eating and emotional disorders.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalCell·DateSep 20, 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.

Decoding the structure of an RNA-based CRISPR system

Researchers at the Salk Institute have discovered the molecular structure of CRISPR-Cas13d, a promising enzyme for emerging RNA-editing technology. This breakthrough enables scientists to visualize how the enzyme guides and targets RNA, paving the way for new strategies to treat RNA-based diseases.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalCell·DateSep 20, 2018

NASA balloon mission captures electric blue clouds

A recent NASA long-duration balloon mission captured high-resolution images of noctilucent clouds, revealing processes leading to turbulence. The mission aims to improve weather forecasting models by understanding the causes and effects of atmospheric gravity waves.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 20, 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.

Talking with the doctor makes it easier to deal with grief and bereavement

Researchers at Aarhus University found that patients who received talk therapy shortly after a relative's death had a lower risk of suicide and psychiatric illness. The study, which analyzed health data from over 200,000 Danes, suggests that early intervention can prevent serious psychiatric events.

SourceAarhus University·JournalClinical Epidemiology·DateSep 20, 2018

Drug overdose epidemic has been growing exponentially for decades

A University of Pittsburgh analysis found death rates from drug overdoses have been growing exponentially for at least 15 years, suggesting a long-term process driving the epidemic. The study suggests that prevention efforts must address deeper factors beyond specific drugs to be successful.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalScience·DateSep 20, 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.

Cheng wins Midwest Energy News' 40 Under 40 Award

Lei Cheng, an assistant chemist at Argonne National Laboratory, receives the Midwest Energy News' 40 Under 40 Award for her work on developing next-generation batteries for a cleaner energy future. Her computer simulations allow for efficient selection and synthesis of battery materials.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·DateSep 20, 2018

A one-way street for salt

Researchers have discovered the molecular mechanism behind quinoa's ability to store salt in its bladder cells, allowing it to thrive in saline soils. This unique adaptation enables quinoa to transfer excess salt to final storage sites without harming the plant.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 20, 2018

Research proves South East Asian population boom 4,000 years ago

A new study has revealed a significant rapid increase in growth across populations in Thailand, China and Vietnam 4,000 years ago. The researchers used human skeletal remains to measure prehistoric population growth and found a second subsequent rise in the Iron Age.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalJournal of Archaeological Science·DateSep 20, 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.

After EMR implementation, surgeons spend less time interacting with patients

A study by Daniel J. Scott and colleagues found that surgeons spent significantly less time interacting with patients (10.03 minutes) after implementing an electronic medical records system. Despite initial increases in labor costs, the time spent on documentation persisted, leading to a negative trade-off for patient care.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateSep 20, 2018

Breaking down backbones

Researchers found that mammal backbones gained distinct regions during evolution, enabling adaptation to various lifestyles such as running, flying, and digging. The study analyzed fossil records and living animals' vertebrae, challenging the notion of specialization in early land animals.

SourceHarvard University·JournalScience·DateSep 20, 2018

Researchers identify a new cause of childhood mitochondrial disease

Researchers have identified four children with inherited mutations in NDUFA6, a building block of complex I, leading to mitochondrial diseases. The discovery paves the way for earlier diagnosis and potential prevention of this devastating condition.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateSep 20, 2018

Scientists grow human esophagus in lab

Researchers at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center successfully grew human esophageal organoids using pluripotent stem cells, enabling the study of diseases like esophageal cancer and gastroesophageal reflux disease. The bioengineered tissues were compared to patient biopsies and showed striking similarities in composition.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateSep 20, 2018

To improve auto coatings, new tests do more than scratch the surface

Researchers developed a new suite of tests to simulate scratching processes on automobile clearcoats, providing valuable data on vulnerability, fracture resistance, and resilience. The tests aim to create more scratch-resistant and resilient coatings that meet consumer and industrial demands.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalProgress in Organic Coatings·DateSep 20, 2018

The extirpation of species outside protected areas

A study found up to 13 galliform species populations have been extirpated outside protected areas in Sundaland, a region with high biodiversity but biologically degraded landscapes. The researchers argue that effective management of protected areas and connectivity between habitats are crucial for long-term conservation.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalConservation Letters·DateSep 20, 2018

Nerve cells in the human brain can 'count'

Researchers at Universities of Bonn and Tübingen demonstrate that human neurons fire mainly for specific quantities, such as three or four points. The study also shows how we learn to handle number symbols in comparison to quantities, with digit neurons responding differently from quantity neurons.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalNeuron·DateSep 20, 2018

Seismic research cruise provides new data on US Atlantic margin gas hydrates

Data from the U.S. Geological Survey's Mid-Atlantic Resource Imaging Experiment (MATRIX) provides new insights into gas hydrate features and structures below the seafloor. The research cruise acquires over 2,000 kilometers of marine seismic data, revealing shallow gas deposits and structural features beneath methane seeps.

SourceU.S. Geological Survey·DateSep 20, 2018

A new approach towards developing a vaccine against vivax malaria

A new study identifies 360 proteins in human reticulocyte exosomes that may work as a vaccine against vivax malaria. The findings support further studies on using reticulocyte exosomes and HuRex as a potential vaccine delivery platform.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 20, 2018

Sample size matters in multisensory integration studies

Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine found that smaller sample sizes can greatly exaggerate the magnitude of group differences in multisensory integration studies. Studies with sample sizes of 20 or less are more likely to produce inflated results, which can lead to incorrect conclusions and potential failures in therapy development.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 20, 2018