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Science News for September 24, 2018


Urbanization is cutting off life support to NYC's wetlands

A recent study found that urbanization is weakening the shoreline of New York City's Jamaica Bay wetlands, causing erosion and loss of vital mineral sediment. The marshes are being drained of essential sediments, leading to their gradual but dramatic disintegration.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 24, 2018

Boston College launches Global Observatory on Pollution and Health

The observatory will collaborate with the Center for Climate, Health and the Global Environment at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health to study the impact of pollution on children's health, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and brain function in children. The Observatory aims to mobilize society to see pollution as a serious threat...

SourceBoston College·DateSep 24, 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.

The taller you are, the more likely you may develop varicose veins

A study published in Circulation Journal found that increased height increases the risk of developing varicose veins, as well as genes that determine height influencing the development of the condition. Researchers also discovered a strong genetic correlation between deep vein thrombosis and varicose veins.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateSep 24, 2018

Lancaster professor to research how genes affect quitting smoking

A $929,475 project aims to understand genetic variation and its role in optimizing smoking cessation treatment choice using data from nine existing clinical trials. The research will provide unparalleled precision medicine to improve the prediction of who is more likely to quit smoking based on their genetics.

SourceLancaster University·DateSep 24, 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.

A turbo boost for materials science

A team from Lehigh University and UC Berkeley is developing an efficient Bayesian-guided computational framework to guide the search for new materials. This approach leverages deep learning neural networks to accelerate traditional physics-based simulation methods, enabling researchers to explore previously computationally intractable ...

SourceLehigh University·DateSep 24, 2018

Birds reinvent voice box in novel evolutionary twist

Researchers discover birds evolved a new vocal organ, syrinx, instead of modifying an existing one. The syrinx raises questions about changes in bird vocalization over time and sheds light on mechanisms driving new structure development.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 24, 2018

To dispel myths, redirect the belief, study says

Researchers found that listening to a speaker repeat a belief increases its believability, especially for those with existing beliefs. However, hearing accurate information overrides myths for those on the fence. The study's findings have potential implications for policymakers seeking to correct misinformation in vulnerable communities.

SourcePrinceton School of Public and International Affairs·JournalCognition·DateSep 24, 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.

WSU to HEAL the state's rural biomedical career shortage

Washington State University has been awarded a five-year grant to increase the number and diversity of students from rural Washington who enter biomedical careers. The project, called HEAL, uses art-based learning to engage underrepresented communities in STEM education.

SourceWashington State University·DateSep 24, 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.

Birds' voiceboxes are odd ducks

A study examining the windpipes of birds, crocodiles, salamanders, mice, and cats found deep similarities in the presence of a reinforced airway structure, suggesting that the syrinx may have evolved for structural support. This challenges the long-held assumption that the syrinx is an evolutionary odd duck.

SourceField Museum·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 24, 2018

Protein produced in gut could stave off deadly bone marrow transplant complication

Researchers at Mount Sinai discover that an antimicrobial protein in the gut can prevent graft-versus-host-disease, a common and lethal side effect of bone marrow transplants. The protein, REG3α, may lead to new treatments for inflammatory bowel disease and other GI illnesses.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 24, 2018

Four extremely young asteroid families identified

Researchers affiliated with São Paulo State University have identified four extremely young asteroid families using a numerical simulation method. The newly discovered families are estimated to be less than 7 million years old and were dated using the backward integration method, which is precise for young families.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateSep 24, 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.

Breakthrough in blending metals

Researchers at Tokyo Institute of Technology have developed a method to synthesize multimetallic clusters with precise control of size and composition, opening up new possibilities for advanced functional materials. The team successfully formed clusters composed of up to six metal elements, including platinum.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 24, 2018

How fruits got their eye-catching colors

New evidence supports the idea that fruits develop eye-catching colors to attract animal dispersers. Fruits eaten by mammals have higher reflectance in the green spectrum, while those dispersed by birds reflect more in the red. The study also found a link between fruit color and environmental factors such as UV light.

SourceDuke University·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 24, 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.

DNA analysis reveals evidence of ancient pathogen

Researchers analyzed ancient DNA from a human skeleton in Scandinavia to determine the genomic blueprint of the louse-borne relapsing fever pathogen Borrelia recurrentis. The study found that the ancient strain had fewer genes for antigenic variation and retained a regulatory gene, suggesting reductive evolution.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 24, 2018

New AGS-NIA conference report explores links between senses and cognitive health

Experts discuss the connection between impaired vision, hearing, and cognition, highlighting the need to understand their inter-related processes and develop new tools to measure sensory and cognitive impairments. The report outlines important priorities for future scholarship and clinical practice to address these health concerns.

SourceAmerican Geriatrics Society·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateSep 24, 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.

Overweight pregnant women can safely cut calories, restrict weight gain

A Northwestern University study shows that obese and overweight pregnant women can safely restrict weight gain through healthy diet and lifestyle habits guided by a smartphone app. This approach resulted in normal birth weights and reduced the risk of gestational diabetes, hypertension, and preeclampsia.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateSep 24, 2018

Breakthrough in designing a better Salmonella vaccine

Researchers discovered that non-circulating memory T cells offer optimal protection against Salmonella infection, leading to the development of more effective and safe vaccines. The study's findings have significant implications for addressing enteric fever and invasive non-typhoidal Salmonellosis in resource-poor communities.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 24, 2018

Parasite makes quick exit when researchers remove the handbrake

Melbourne researchers have discovered a way to halt the invasion of the toxoplasmosis-causing parasite into cells, depriving it of a key factor necessary for its growth. This breakthrough could lead to a vaccine or treatment for Toxoplasmosis and shed light on general processes involved in other diseases caused by related parasites.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalPLOS Biology·DateSep 24, 2018

Rice U. study sheds light on -- and through -- 2D materials

Scientists created a comprehensive guide to the optical properties of 2D materials, enabling the design of smaller devices and polarizing filters. The research revealed surprising optical signatures in each material, with some absorbing or reflecting specific wavelengths of light.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Nano·DateSep 24, 2018

Why it doesn't get dark when you blink

Researchers identify medial prefrontal cortex as key player in perceptual memory, allowing for stable perception of environment despite intermittent blinks. This finding has implications for understanding interaction between perception and memory, and may also shed light on confidence in one's own perception.

SourceDeutsches Primatenzentrum (DPZ)/German Primate Center·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 24, 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.

Research forecasts US among top nations to suffer economic damage from climate change

A new study estimates that the US is expected to suffer significant economic damage from climate change, with losses of around $50 per ton of carbon emissions. The study reveals that the US will pay approximately $250 billion annually due to its high level of CO2 emissions, outpacing other major economies like India and Saudi Arabia.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Climate Change·DateSep 24, 2018

Antiviral protein links gut microbiota and allergies

A study in mice revealed that MAVS deficiency leads to altered gut microbiota, increased intestinal permeability, and susceptibility to allergic contact dermatitis. The findings suggest a causal relationship between the gut microbiome and allergies.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 24, 2018

Mild exercise and memory

Research found that short periods of light exercise boost functional connectivity in the hippocampus, a region critical for memory processing. Participants showed improved memory performance after exercise, with increased connectivity correlating to better results.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 24, 2018

Does our environment affect the genes in our brains?

Researchers found that epigenetic changes in genes related to dopamine neurotransmission are associated with lower IQ test results. The study suggests environmentally-induced gene activity plays a significant role in intelligence.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalTranslational Psychiatry·DateSep 24, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Expanding CEO-to-worker pay gap bad for business

A study by University of California, Berkeley found that wider CEO-to-worker pay gaps lead to negative perceptions among employees and consumers. The study suggests a visceral disapproval of businesses whose profits fail to trickle down the corporate ladder.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalJournal of Experimental Social Psychology·DateSep 24, 2018

National parks bear the brunt of climate change

Climate change is already affecting US national parks, with temperatures increasing twice as fast as the rest of the country. Without action, small mammals and plants may be driven to extinction by the end of the century. Reducing emissions could limit temperature increases in national parks.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateSep 24, 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.

Sex in plants requires thrust

Scientists discovered that pollen tubes exert forces similar to car tire pressure as they navigate through plant tissue to fertilize eggs. The research found that cells can 'feel' and respond to physical resistance in their environment, leading to changes in growth patterns.

SourceMcGill University·JournalTECHNOLOGY·DateSep 24, 2018

LGBT community has poorer health outcomes, assessment finds

The local LGBT community reports twice the number of poor mental health days as the general population, with transgender individuals experiencing even more days. The study found that minority stress, stigma, and lack of access to healthcare contribute to these poorer health outcomes.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalJournal of Homosexuality·DateSep 24, 2018

Results from the ReCre8 trial reported at TCT 2018

The ReCre8 trial found that a novel polymer-free amphilimus-eluting stent was clinically safe and effective, comparable to a durable polymer zotarolimus-eluting stent. The study showed that one-month DAPT in troponin-negative patients may be safe regarding stent thrombosis.

SourceCardiovascular Research Foundation·DateSep 24, 2018

Study shows invasive lung cancer surgery can lead to long-term opioid use

A study published in JAMA Oncology found that patients treated with more-invasive surgical techniques for early-stage lung cancer were more likely to become chronic opioid users. In contrast, those who underwent minimally invasive VATS surgery were less likely to fill opioid prescriptions after surgery and in the long term.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateSep 24, 2018

Exploring the effects of integrative health in cancer

A Special Focus Issue on Integrative Oncology investigates complementary and integrative medicine in multiple age groups, nations, and special populations. Research articles and commentaries discuss the options and effectiveness of nutritional strategies, aromatherapy, massage, and self-care toolkits for cancer patients.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalThe Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine·DateSep 24, 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.

A new way to count qubits

Researchers have created a new method for measuring the state of qubits, a crucial step towards building powerful quantum computers. This breakthrough could lead to significant advancements in fields like pharmaceutical development and cryptography.

SourceSyracuse University·JournalScience·DateSep 24, 2018

Some female termites can reproduce without males

Researchers discovered termite populations with all-female colonies that can successfully reproduce and maintain social order without males. Queens in these colonies had empty spermathecae, indicating no fertilization of eggs.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Biology·DateSep 24, 2018

Small modulator for big data

Researchers from Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences have developed a new method to fabricate and design integrated, on-chip modulators 100 times smaller and 20 times more efficient than current lithium niobite (LN) modulators

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature·DateSep 24, 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.

Herbicides as drug-leads for fungal infections

Researchers found that certain commercial herbicides can inhibit the growth of human fungal pathogens like Candida albicans and Cryptococcus neoformans. The herbicides showed synergy with itraconazole to enhance antifungal activity.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 24, 2018

Common weed killer linked to bee deaths

A new study from the University of Texas at Austin finds that exposure to glyphosate, a common weed killer, reduces healthy gut microbiota in honey bees and makes them more vulnerable to infection. This compromise can lead to bee deaths, particularly when exposed to opportunistic pathogens.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 24, 2018

Height may be risk factor for varicose veins, Stanford-led study finds

A Stanford-led study found a link between height and varicose veins, identifying 30 genes linked to the condition and suggesting that genetic markers of height may predict disease. The researchers used machine learning combined with epidemiological methods to examine genomic data on over 400,000 people.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalCirculation·DateSep 24, 2018

Desert ants develop memory of food-associated odors

Research reveals that desert ants can learn and retain up to 14 distinct food-associated odors, a crucial adaptation for navigating diverse food sources. This memory lasts for up to 26 days in nearly half of the ants tested, outlasting their average life expectancy.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 24, 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.

History of New York City marshes

Researchers reconstructed three centuries of sedimentation history for NYC marshes, finding a significant decrease in inorganic mineral sediments since the 19th century. This reduction weakens marsh structures, suggesting future preservation will require adding mineral sediment to dredged basins and the marshes themselves.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 24, 2018

Overlooked signal in MRI scans reflects amount, kind of brain cells

Researchers developed a new MRI technique that analyzes overlooked data to reveal brain cell density and connectivity. This may aid in diagnosing brain conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis, traumatic brain injury, and autism.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 24, 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.

Why are data ethics so challenging in a changing world?

The article discusses the complexity of data ethics, emphasizing personal data ownership, consent, trustworthiness, and privacy. Researchers aim to strike a balance between harnessing data's potential benefits and mitigating its risks.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalBig Data·DateSep 24, 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.

Ancient retrovirus and intravenous drug use

A study found that a fragment of an ancient retrovirus, HK2, is more frequently integrated in the genes of people who contracted HIV through IV drug use. This suggests that HK2 may contribute to dopaminergic manipulation and be an underappreciated pathogenic burden.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 24, 2018

Renewed project could protect environment for millennia

The project, which began in 2014 with $5.25 million, aims to ensure safe disposal of nuclear waste for thousands or hundreds of thousands of years. Researchers are using multidisciplinary approaches to study the movement of radionuclides through soil and groundwater.

SourceClemson University·DateSep 24, 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.

How Earth sheds heat into space

Researchers from MIT's EAPS department found a linear relationship between the Earth's surface temperature and its outgoing heat, which may break down at higher temperatures. The study suggests that water vapor feedback is responsible for this relationship, and it could help climate scientists model the effects of climate change.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 24, 2018

Effect of glyphosate on honey bee gut

The herbicide glyphosate reduces abundances of dominant gut microbiota species in exposed bees, making them more susceptible to pathogens. Bees with impaired gut microomes are more likely to die when exposed to opportunistic pathogens.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 24, 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.

Shen leads team seeking to improve quantum computation

A team of scientists, led by Dr. Shen, is working on developing a two-photon controlled-phase logic gate, an essential building block for optical quantum information. The team aims to overcome the difficulty in manipulating photons and create a fundamental component for photonic quantum computation.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·DateSep 24, 2018

How common are traumatic brain injuries in children?

The study analyzed national survey data to estimate lifetime TBI in children and found that such injuries send children to emergency departments and carry risk for long-term adverse outcomes. Parents reported diagnoses, which may lead to underestimation of TBI prevalence.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateSep 24, 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.

Scientists search for coral's new home

Researchers are creating artificial structures to mimic natural surfaces for coral larvae to settle on. By understanding the interactions between larvae and materials, they aim to increase reef regeneration rates and combat coral bleaching. The project combines engineering and biological expertise to tackle this critical issue.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·DateSep 24, 2018

Take a step back from yourself to better realize the benefits of awe

Researchers found that spontaneous self-distancing predicts whether awe has a positive or negative effect on people. Awe can lead to a sense of smallness, making obstacles seem insignificant, but also a perception of capabilities as insignificant, making stressors unmanageable.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalJournal of Experimental Psychology·DateSep 24, 2018

Results from the OAC-ALONE trial reported at TCT 2018 and published in Circulation

The OAC-ALONE study found that oral anticoagulation (OAC) alone did not provide non-inferiority to combined OAC and antiplatelet therapy in patients with atrial fibrillation and stable coronary artery disease beyond one year after stent implantation. The study also found higher rates of major bleeding with OAC alone.

SourceCardiovascular Research Foundation·JournalCirculation·DateSep 24, 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.

Advanced animal society thrives without males

Researchers at the University of Sydney discovered six termite populations in Japan that lacked males, yet still reproduced. These findings suggest asexual reproduction may be essential for some advanced animal populations to adapt to new environments.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalBMC Biology·DateSep 24, 2018

Asian-Americans more likely to be hired to lead troubled companies

Researchers found that Asian-Americans were appointed two-and-a-half times as often during a company's decline than when it was successful. This may be due to stereotypes of Asian-Americans being self-sacrificing, which can lead to longer working hours or giving up bonuses.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Applied Psychology·DateSep 24, 2018

Children whose mothers use marijuana are more likely to try it at younger age

A study from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found that children whose mothers use marijuana during their first 12 years are more likely to start using cannabis earlier than children of non-users. This relationship holds even after controlling for social environmental factors, suggesting a potential risk factor for early init...

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateSep 24, 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.

Violence in pre-Columbian Panama exaggerated, new study shows

A new evaluation of Panama's Playa Venado site reveals no signs of trauma at or near time of death, contradicting earlier interpretations of violent death. The burial site likely tells a more culturally nuanced story, with adults buried next to urns containing children and evidence of adult kinship practices.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalLatin American Antiquity·DateSep 24, 2018

Photosynthesis discovery could help next-gen biotechnologies

Researchers have purified and visualized the Cyclic Electron Flow supercomplex, a critical part of photosynthetic machinery, to advance solar-powered microalgae-based biotechnologies. This discovery provides new insights into how plants capture and store solar energy at the molecular level.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 24, 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.

Ready-to-use recipe for turning plant waste into gasoline

Bioscience engineers at KU Leuven have created a roadmap for producing cellulose gasoline, a second-generation biofuel, by converting plant waste into hydrocarbon chains. The process involves adding cellulose to the petroleum refining process, resulting in a strongly bio-sourced gasoline.

SourceKU Leuven·JournalNature Energy·DateSep 24, 2018

'Ground coffee' with soil perks in Brazil

Researchers in Brazil develop an effective method to minimize lost coffee berries during mechanical harvesting, reducing soil compaction and improving profit margins. The study suggests using a subsoiler followed by a crusher as the most cost-effective solution.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalAgronomy Journal·DateSep 24, 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.

Dinosaur-like forms in early bird shoulders

Researchers discover Jinguofortis perplexus, a Pygostylia species with both bird-like and dinosaur-like features, providing insight into the evolution of modern birds. The study highlights the role of developmental plasticity in shaping the avian shoulder girdle.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 24, 2018

Children whose mothers use marijuana may try it at a younger age

A new study from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found that children whose mothers use marijuana are more likely to start using the drug themselves an average of two years earlier. This can lead to negative consequences such as impairments in concentration and decision-making, increased impulsivity, and reductions in IQ.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateSep 24, 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.

Earthquake risk estimation

Researchers developed a method to estimate seismic risk by modeling various earthquake scenarios and identifying common impacts. The study suggests that most scenarios produce lower impacts than the worst-case scenario, with urban areas posing less risk than rural western Nepal.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 24, 2018

Older adults with a 'fall prevention plan' less likely to end up in hospital

A new study published in The Gerontologist found that older adults with a 'fall plan of care' are less likely to suffer fall-related hospitalizations. This initiative, which includes screening for fall risk, assessing modifiable risk factors, and prescribing evidence-based interventions, was shown to reduce hospitalizations by 0.6 times.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalThe Gerontologist·DateSep 24, 2018

Know someone sick? Your own smell might give it away

A new study from the Monell Chemical Senses Center reveals that healthy animals' bodily odors change when they are near sick animals, potentially impacting social contacts and disease spread. The findings suggest that exposure to sickness-related odors can trigger protective responses in others.

SourceMonell Chemical Senses Center·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 24, 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.

DNA islands effective as 'anti-bacterial drones'

A new study finds that DNA islands can be engineered to disable Staphylococcus aureus bacteria, which are often resistant to antibiotics. The 'drone-like' vehicles deliver genetic payloads to bacterial populations, killing the bacteria and rescuing treated animals.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateSep 24, 2018

Chinese Cretaceous fossil highlights avian evolution

A newly discovered extinct bird species, Jinguofortis perplexus, sheds light on early flight development and evolutionary variation. The fossil's unique traits, including a fused shoulder girdle, suggest different flying styles during the Cretaceous period.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 24, 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.

Weathering of early Earth rocks

Researchers analyzed silicon and oxygen isotopes in zircon crystals to infer the presence of sedimentary rocks, such as cherts or banded iron formations, on early Earth. The findings suggest that these rocks may have existed over 4 billion years ago, providing a window into the planet's primordial chemistry.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 24, 2018

How nature, nurture shape the sleeping brain

A study of teenage twins reveals that both genetic and environmental factors shape brain activity during sleep. The findings suggest that frontal regions are under stronger environmental control, while regions towards the back of the brain are more influenced by genetics.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateSep 24, 2018

Reprocessing cultural heritage

A project at St. Pölten University of Applied Sciences combines traditional woodworking techniques with innovative cinematic forms of communication to create documentary-style tutorials. The project, funded by the Federal Ministry of Education, Science and Research, aims to preserve traditional crafts for future generations.

SourceSt. Poelten University of Applied Sciences·DateSep 24, 2018

Children found capable of using the 'wisdom of crowds'

Research led by the University of Bristol found that children aged 11-19 can effectively use collective intelligence to make group decisions, revealing a geometric mean rule-of-thumb approach. The study revealed that pupils used their original guesses to come to a final consensus, even in cases of disagreement.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 24, 2018

High-carbohydrates diet lead to weight loss, according to new study

A new study found that a high-carbohydrate diet led to significant weight loss and improvements in insulin function in overweight individuals. The plant-based diet group consumed whole, complex carbohydrates from fruits, vegetables, and legumes, leading to reduced body mass index, body weight, and fat mass.

SourcePhysicians Committee for Responsible Medicine·JournalNutrients·DateSep 24, 2018

Establishing metastasis

Scientists at the Medical University of South Carolina discovered that over-expression of VRK1 actually slows down cancer cell migration and invasion, but enables cells to form colonies under 3D conditions. High levels of VRK1 are associated with aggressive breast cancers and poor prognoses in patients with metastatic breast cancer.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 24, 2018

A fracture anywhere reduces bone density everywhere

New studies from UC Davis Health reveal that fractures lead to bone density losses throughout the body, particularly around the time of fracture and in bones far from the site of injury. The research also identifies age-related recovery differences, with younger mice regaining pre-fracture bone mineral density levels.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalOsteoporosis International·DateSep 24, 2018

Crowd counting through walls with WiFi

UCSB researchers propose a new method for estimating the number of people in a room based on WiFi signal strength measurements. The technique, which uses received signal power to estimate occupant numbers, has shown high accuracy in experiments with up to 20 people and various wall properties.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·DateSep 24, 2018

Alarmingly low awareness of urology across Europe

A survey of over 2,500 respondents found low awareness of urological conditions, particularly among men. Men are less knowledgeable about urological symptoms than women, and many do not take early signs seriously, leading to delayed diagnosis and potentially life-threatening consequences.

SourceEuropean Association of Urology·DateSep 24, 2018

Halting Parkinson's disease-related neurodegeneration

Researchers identified SynuClean-D as a potential therapeutic for neurodegeneration, which disrupts amyloid fibrils and inhibits alpha-synuclein aggregation. The compound reversed degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in animal models, offering hope for halting Parkinson's disease-related neurodegeneration.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 24, 2018

North Korea's 2017 bomb test set off later earthquakes, new analysis finds

Scientists discovered that a North Korean nuclear bomb test in 2017 set off aftershocks over eight months, providing insight into the physics of nuclear explosions and how natural earthquakes can be triggered. The analysis used new methods to pinpoint the locations of the quakes with greater precision, revealing a hidden fracture.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalSeismological Research Letters·DateSep 24, 2018

How a molecular signal helps plant cells decide when to make oil

Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory identified a key molecular signal that helps plant cells decide when to produce oil. The study found that trehalose 6-phosphate interacts with the sugar-sensing complex, inhibiting the shutdown of oil production and leading to increased oil synthesis.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateSep 24, 2018

Mosquitoes that can carry malaria eliminated in lab experiments

A team from Imperial College London used gene drive to completely block the reproductive capacity of malaria-carrying mosquitoes, Anopheles gambiae. The technology successfully transmitted genetic modifications that caused female infertility and population collapse.

SourceImperial College London·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateSep 24, 2018

Burst of morning gene activity tells plants when to flower

A team of researchers discovered that flowering plants exhibit a morning peak of gene activity, contrary to the previously established evening peak theory. The study, conducted in natural environments, suggests that artificial growing conditions used in labs may have influenced earlier findings.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalNature Plants·DateSep 24, 2018

Desert ants have an amazing odor memory

Researchers found that desert ants can learn multiple food odors in a short time and retain them throughout their lives. In contrast, they require repeated exposure to learn a single nest odor and may forget it quickly after removal from the nest. These findings suggest different memory processes for food and nest-related cues.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 24, 2018

Physical activity necessary to maintain heart-healthy lifestyle

A systematic review of 25 studies found physical activity significantly reduces heart disease risk by 40%, with moderate-intensity exercise lowering systolic blood pressure by up to 15mmHg. Replacing sedentary behaviors with daily activities can also lower all-cause mortality.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateSep 24, 2018

New earthquake risk model could better inform disaster planning

Researchers developed a new seismic risk modeling approach to assess earthquake impacts and identify common hazards across multiple scenarios. The 'ensemble modeling' method provides critical information on likelihood and probable scale of future earthquakes' impacts, enabling targeted disaster mitigation resources distribution.

SourceDurham University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 24, 2018