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Science News for September 26, 2018


Improving kidney function in older populations

A study by Mohammad Asghar seeks to understand age-related kidney function impairment and identify targets for drug interventions. The researcher believes that mitochondrial respiration plays a critical role in maintaining normal kidney function.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateSep 26, 2018

Elusive stem cells could help repair damaged blood vessels

A unique source of stem cells in blood helps build blood vessels in embryos, contradicting previous theories. This finding brings scientists closer to using stem cells to repair damaged blood vessels and treat heart and circulatory diseases.

SourceBritish Heart Foundation·JournalNature·DateSep 26, 2018

Heavy metal acts as heavy artillery against bacterial infections

Researchers found gallium effective in curbing bacterial growth in mice and patients with cystic fibrosis or chronic lung infections, including those infected with Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Gallium's slow development of resistance makes it a potential alternative to standard antibiotics.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateSep 26, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Fecal microbiota transplantation helps restore beneficial bacteria in cancer patients

Researchers found that autologous fecal microbiota transplantation (auto-FMT) restored beneficial gut bacteria to near baseline levels within days, mitigating the effects of intense antibiotic treatment. This approach may prove a simple way to quickly restore a healthy microbiome following intensive antimicrobial therapy.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateSep 26, 2018

Berkeley evolutionary biologist wins Milner Centre Prize

Dr Alison Feder's innovative work on HIV's high mutation rates and large population sizes has been recognized with the inaugural Milner Prize. Her research explores how drug resistance evolution affects patient dynamics, shedding light on the complex interactions between viruses and their hosts.

SourceUniversity of Bath·DateSep 26, 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.

Shaking the swarm

Bees exhibit unique behavior when exposed to external loads, such as wind and rain. By analyzing their responses, researchers have gained insight into the collective problem-solving mechanisms of living systems.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature Physics·DateSep 26, 2018

Researchers add surprising finds to the fossil record

Researchers discovered a new fossil that shows large angiosperm trees grew in North America by the Turonian age, dating back nearly 15 million years earlier than previously thought. This find provides more detail to our understanding of the landscape during this period and sheds light on the evolution of flowering plants.

SourceAdelphi University·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 26, 2018

Wearable defibrillator lowers sudden cardiac death, but only when you wear it

A UCSF-led study found that wearable cardioverter defibrillators lower mortality among patients who wear them consistently, but do not significantly reduce sudden cardiac death. The devices were more effective in reducing overall mortality, with a 35.5% lower risk of death compared to those who did not wear the device.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateSep 26, 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.

Baltimore liquor stores linked more to violent crime than bars and restaurants

A Baltimore study found that liquor stores have a stronger association with violent crimes, including homicides and aggravated assaults, compared to bars and restaurants. The researchers found that low-income neighborhoods have higher access to liquor stores and beer wine stores, which are linked to increased violence

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·DateSep 26, 2018

DEET scrambles worms' sense of smell

Researchers found that DEET interferes with Caenorhabditis elegans' neural circuitry, jumbling their response to certain odors. This knowledge could help develop more effective DEET alternatives.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalNature·DateSep 26, 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.

Instrument boosts analysis of small, extremely dark materials

Researchers developed a new spectro-gonio radiometer called SHADOWS to analyze light reflected from very small or extremely dark materials. The instrument can probe samples measuring less than one millimeter cubed and provide information on physical and chemical properties.

SourceOptica·JournalApplied Optics·DateSep 26, 2018

Carnegie Mellon will help build 3D cellular map of human body

The Human BioMolecular Atlas Program (HuBMAP) aims to create a 3D map of the human body showcasing how tissues differ on a cellular level. This will provide scientists with a deeper understanding of tissue organization, growth, and function, ultimately leading to disease prevention.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·DateSep 26, 2018

Spheres can make concrete leaner, greener

Researchers create spheres that can be made at low cost and promise to mitigate the energy-intensive techniques now used to make cement. The spheres are suitable for various applications, including bone-tissue engineering, insulation, ceramic, and composite materials.

SourceRice University·JournalLangmuir·DateSep 26, 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.

Photonic chips harness sound waves to speed up local networks

Researchers at the University of Sydney have developed a chip-based technique that uses acoustic noise to increase signal capacity and processing speed in local networks. The new technology harnesses stimulated Brillouin scattering to extract and regenerate electronic signals, promising to reduce latency in high-speed services such as ...

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalOptica·DateSep 26, 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.

New protocol for measuring background levels of drugs in crime labs

Scientists at NIST and Maryland State Police Forensic Sciences Division developed a protocol to measure background drug levels, which can affect test results. The study found detectable amounts of 13 substances, including fentanyl, on various surfaces, highlighting the need for regular cleaning and increased sensitivity in labs.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalForensic Chemistry·DateSep 26, 2018

Efficient generation of high-density plasma enabled by high magnetic field

Researchers at Osaka University developed a new method to efficiently heat plasma using high magnetic fields and relativistic electron beams. By guiding the beam along magnetic field lines, they achieved higher energy coupling rates than previous methods, making this approach more suitable for controlled nuclear fusion.

SourceOsaka University·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 26, 2018

Otago discovery links DNA-packaging proteins and cancer development

Scientists have solved the structure of two proteins that control DNA packaging, potentially providing insights into why some people are at risk of developing specific cancers. The findings also shed light on how these proteins' mutations contribute to various types of cancer, including mesothelioma and leukemia.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 26, 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.

Both halves of NASA's Webb Telescope successfully communicate

The James Webb Space Telescope has successfully connected its two halves, enabling them to communicate like they will in flight. This test was a significant step forward for the program and provided an opportunity for engineers to fix any issues before launch.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 26, 2018

Alcohol use in patients with chronic liver disease

Alcohol consumption is common among patients with liver disease, associated with poor outcomes. The authors advocate for expanded treatment of alcohol use disorder in everyday clinical practice, including patients with advanced liver disease.

SourceBoston Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateSep 26, 2018

Bad habits in childhood may lead to an 'unhealthy' balance of gut bacteria

A study suggests that childhood habits, including diet and physical activity, can shape the gut microbiota of teenagers, which may contribute to developing conditions like diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Healthy lifestyle habits during childhood appear to promote a balanced gut microbiota in late adolescence.

SourceEuropean Society for Paediatric Endocrinology·DateSep 26, 2018

Is that selfie edited? Why it may matter for women viewers

A new study found that when women believed that selfies of thin and sexualized women had been edited, viewing these images had less negative impact on one aspect of their mental health. The study also found that participants judged women negatively for sharing edited pictures of themselves online.

SourceOhio State University·JournalBody Image·DateSep 26, 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.

Microplastics found deep in sand where turtles nest

Researchers from the University of Exeter discovered microplastics at depths of up to 60cm on beaches used by green turtles and loggerheads in Cyprus. The study found high levels of microplastics, which could alter conditions at hatching sites and impact turtle breeding.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalMarine Pollution Bulletin·DateSep 26, 2018

Milk protein shown to alleviate chemotherapy side effects

Researchers found that daily lactoferrin supplementation can change salivary protein profiles in cancer patients, protecting their taste buds and odor perception. This could help patients recover from chemotherapy with improved nutrition and quality of life.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalFood & Function·DateSep 26, 2018

The notorious luminous blue variable star

Three-dimensional simulations of the luminous blue variable star have revealed the physical forces behind its wild variations in brightness and spectrum. The simulations show that convection plays a key role in triggering outbursts, with helium opacity being a crucial factor.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNature·DateSep 26, 2018
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

A study using Drosophila sheds light on the metastatic behavior of human tumors

A study using Drosophila has demonstrated that chromosomal instability promotes invasive behavior in epithelial cells, activating key signaling pathways. The researchers identified the oncogene Fos and tumour suppressor Capicua as crucial players in this process, paving the way for future treatments.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateSep 26, 2018

Is student debt keeping Americans away from marriage?

Research shows that modern couples are delaying marriage to focus on paying off student loans and saving. The study highlights how attitudes towards marriage, living together, and debt have changed over two generations, suggesting that debt is becoming a barrier to marriage.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of Family and Economic Issues·DateSep 26, 2018

New allergy vaccine for hay fever shows promising results

Researchers from the University of Copenhagen have developed a new vaccine for hay fever that targets specific sugar molecules to improve vaccination efficacy. The vaccine has been tested on mice and in vitro tests, showing potential for increased effectiveness and reduced treatment time.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateSep 26, 2018

Compound improves social interaction in autism mouse model

Scientists have discovered a compound that promotes social interaction among laboratory mice with autistic traits, offering new hope for treating autism. The finding builds on previous research showing oxytocin's potential benefits and develops a drug candidate to overcome its limitations.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Medicinal Chemistry·DateSep 26, 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.

Urine liquid biopsies could help monitor bladder cancer treatment

A new study by Cancer Research UK has found that immune cells in urine samples can accurately reflect the tumor environment, offering a non-invasive window into bladder cancer. This discovery could help monitor response to immunotherapy and identify patients most likely to benefit from treatment.

SourceCancer Research UK·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateSep 26, 2018

Rare genetic disorders more complex than thought

A new study reveals that common genetic variants can affect the risk of rare developmental disorders, changing our understanding of their causes. The research found that these variants can contribute to a range of conditions, including autism and schizophrenia.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalNature·DateSep 26, 2018

Did key building blocks for life come from deep space?

Researchers at University of Hawaii at Manoa discovered that phosphates, a key element in life's building blocks, were generated in outer space and delivered to early Earth via meteorites or comets. This breakthrough suggests that the origins of life on Earth may have been influenced by extraterrestrial materials.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 26, 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.

Olfactory cells may act as 'Trojan horse,' carry anticancer therapy to deadly brain tumors

Researchers genetically engineered olfactory ensheathing cells to carry an anticancer drug, reducing tumor growth and improving survival in a mouse model. The treatment delivered the medication directly to glioblastoma cells while sparing healthy tissue, leading to a significant reduction in tumor size and prolonged survival.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateSep 26, 2018

Scientists unlock secret of how the brain encodes speech

Researchers discovered how the brain encodes speech production, finding that it controls both goals (speech sounds) and individual movements (lip, tongue, and larynx movements). This breakthrough aims to develop better brain machine interfaces to decode speech for paralyzed individuals.

SourceNorthwestern University·DateSep 26, 2018

Canadian clinics are marketing unproven stem cell treatments

A new study examines Canadian clinics marketing unproven stem cell treatments, highlighting regulatory gaps and potential risks to patients. The majority of marketed treatments target orthopedic and musculoskeletal conditions, with some companies advertising for a wide range of disorders.

SourceFuture Science Group·JournalRegenerative Medicine·DateSep 26, 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.

Dental research shows that smoking weakens immune systems

A study published in the Journal of Endodontics found that smoking damages the pulp inside teeth, reducing their ability to fight illness and disease. This increases the risk of gum disease and delayed healing, with smokers nearly twice as likely to require a root canal as non-smokers.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalJournal of Endodontics·DateSep 26, 2018

More persistent weather patterns in US linked to Arctic warming

A Rutgers-led study suggests that rapid Arctic warming is causing persistent dry and wet spells, leading to extreme weather events like droughts, heat waves, and storms. The frequency of these long-duration weather conditions has increased over recent decades.

SourceRutgers University·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateSep 26, 2018

Elusive origin of stellar geysers revealed by 3D simulations

Astrophysicists use 3D simulations to explain how luminous blue variables launch material into space through intense light and turbulent motion. The study sheds light on the violent mood swings of rare, massive stars that can shed billions of metric tons of material annually.

SourceSimons Foundation·JournalNature·DateSep 26, 2018

Researchers create smartphone system to test for lead in water

Researchers have created a low-cost smartphone system using nano-colorimetry and dark-field microscopy to detect lead in tap water. The system can identify concentrations as low as 5 parts per billion, posing a significant risk to health, especially for young children.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateSep 26, 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.

VLA discovers powerful jet coming from 'wrong' kind of star

Astronomers detected a fast-moving jet from a neutron star with a strong magnetic field, challenging the long-held idea that magnetic fields prevent jets from forming. The discovery was made using the VLA, which revealed radio waves produced by the jet, characteristic of other jet-producing systems.

SourceNational Radio Astronomy Observatory·JournalNature·DateSep 26, 2018

Moffitt researcher awarded World Molecular Imaging Society gold medal

Dr. Robert Gillies, chair of Cancer Physiology and Radiology Research at Moffitt Cancer Center, receives the World Molecular Imaging Society's Gold Medal Award for his lifetime research in molecular imaging. His work focuses on understanding cancers as complex systems, leading to new cancer treatment options.

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·DateSep 26, 2018

Bees' medicine chest should include sunflower pollen, UMass Amherst study suggests

A new UMass Amherst study found that eating sunflower pollen dramatically reduced a protozoan pathogen infection in bumble bees. The researchers also discovered that incorporating sunflowers into pollinator gardens could provide a simple solution to improve the health of economically and ecologically important pollinators.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 26, 2018

GW launches program to address regional health care workforce needs

The GW Health Careers Opportunity Program aims to create a more diverse health care workforce by introducing high school students to a health sciences-focused curriculum. The program addresses regional disparities in healthcare access and outcomes through partnerships with public schools, community colleges, and healthcare employers.

SourceGeorge Washington University·DateSep 26, 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.

Your Facebook friends don't mean it, but they're likely hurting you daily

Research from University at Buffalo suggests that unintentional social exclusion on Facebook and other social media sites can hinder thought processes, leading to negative emotions and increased susceptibility to advertising messages. The study's findings highlight the importance of critical thinking when interacting with these platforms.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalSocial Science Computer Review·DateSep 26, 2018

Bariatric surgery linked to safer childbirth for the mother

An observational study by researchers at Karolinska Institutet in Sweden found that bariatric surgery is associated with fewer complications during childbirth, including reduced risk of post-term delivery or uterine inertia. The study compared deliveries in women who had undergone weight loss after bariatric surgery to those who did not.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateSep 26, 2018

Researchers evaluate controversial treatment for Parkinson's disease psychosis

Researchers evaluated the safety of pimavanserin for treating Parkinson's disease psychosis, finding a lower mortality risk compared to quetiapine or combination therapy. The study provides reassurance for clinicians and families but highlights the need for further research on disease severity and cause of death.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNeurology·DateSep 26, 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.

Taller plants moving into Arctic because of climate change

New research reveals Arctic plant height increased by 20-60% over 30 years, with non-native species like vernal sweetgrass spreading into the region. Soil moisture plays a crucial role in changing plant traits, contrary to previous climate change models.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalNature·DateSep 26, 2018

Combination HIV antibody infusions safely maintain viral suppression in select individuals

Researchers found that a combination of multiple antibodies targeting distinct regions of HIV can suppress the virus and prevent resistance. In a pilot clinical trial, participants who received infusions of broadly neutralizing antibodies maintained viral suppression for over 15 weeks after stopping antiretroviral therapy.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNature·DateSep 26, 2018

Manta rays could teach us a thing or two about effective filtration

Researchers studied manta ray filtration using physical modeling and CFD, discovering a novel non-clogging mechanism that resists clogging. The 'ricochet' separation process allows water to pass through while tiny particles are eaten, promising applications for industrial wastewater treatment and reducing microplastic pollution.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 26, 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.

Contactless water quality control with the use of spectroscopy

Researchers developed a theory of relaxation in hexagonal ice, which can indicate water purity and quality through dielectric polarization changes. The study used spectroscopy to analyze ice under different temperatures, revealing non-Arrhenius behavior.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalPhysical Chemistry Chemical Physics·DateSep 26, 2018

Protecting probiotics from the stomach

Researchers have created a stable encapsulation system using cellulose and alginate to protect probiotics from stomach acid, allowing them to survive until reaching the intestine. This breakthrough may lead to more effective treatments for conditions like diarrhea and inflammatory bowel disease.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·DateSep 26, 2018

Leaders may create ineffective cultures because they are stuck in the past, study shows

Researchers from the University of Toronto found that leaders tend to transfer their past cultural experience to new groups, creating ineffective cultures. This 'cultural transfer perspective' highlights the need for leaders to disconnect from their past experiences and analyze current circumstances to create effective cultures.

SourceUniversity of Toronto, Rotman School of Management·JournalAcademy of Management Journal·DateSep 26, 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.

Interpreting new findings of methane on Mars

The presence of methane on Mars presents novel challenges to explain its formation and implications for potential life on the planet. Researchers recommend further studies to clarify geochemical processes and sources of methane.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalAstrobiology·DateSep 26, 2018

Army scientists discover mathematics of brain waves

Researchers create a new model for collective behavior within the brain, bridging the gap between EEG waves and random fluctuations. The technique has potential to reduce stress and onset of conditions like PTSD in military personnel.

SourceU.S. Army Research Laboratory·JournalFrontiers in Physiology·DateSep 26, 2018

Study: Damaged liver cells undergo reprogramming to regenerate

Researchers at the University of Illinois have discovered how damaged liver cells repair themselves by reprogramming into an early stage of postnatal organ development. The findings reveal that injured liver cells undergo partial reprogramming, which is regulated by a specific RNA-binding protein called ESRP2.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateSep 26, 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.

UVA discovers link between cold severity, bacteria living in your nose

Researchers found a correlation between the type and severity of cold symptoms and the mix of bacteria living inside the nose. Six different patterns of nasal microbiomes were identified, each associated with differences in symptom severity and viral load. Probiotics did not have an impact on cold symptoms or nasal microbiomes.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 26, 2018

The origins of the High Plains landscape

The High Plains landscape was formed 20 million years ago through geological uplift and erosion, resulting in a unique ecosystem with hundreds of thousands of ephemeral lakes. These lakes provide crucial breeding and wintering habitats for millions of birds and recharge the Ogallala aquifer, North America's largest groundwater reservoir.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature·DateSep 26, 2018

Hit 'em where they eat: Stealth drug fights resistant bacteria

Researchers have discovered a new approach to combat antibiotic-resistant bacteria by tricking them into taking up a molecule that causes harm. Gallium, a metal similar to iron, is used as a Trojan horse to disrupt bacterial nutrition and shut down essential processes.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateSep 26, 2018

Predictable, preventable and deadly: Carbon monoxide poisonings after storms

After severe weather events, households may use generators, leading to carbon monoxide (CO) poisonings. CO is a silent killer with no odor or taste, caused by malfunctioning appliances, and can cause coma, heart attack, and death. Regular appliance checks and generator usage precautions can prevent CO poisoning.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateSep 26, 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.

Giddy up: help for plump ponies is fast on its way

QUT researchers have discovered a drug that prevents laminitis in ponies with equine metabolic syndrome. The drug, velagliflozin, works by causing the kidneys to excrete more glucose in the urine, taking pressure off the pancreas and lowering insulin levels.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 26, 2018

Sunflower pollen has medicinal, protective effects on bees

A study by North Carolina State University found that sunflower pollen reduces infection rates in bees and improves colony health. However, it also had a deleterious effect on honey bees, leading to higher mortality rates compared to other diets.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 26, 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.

Plate tectonics may have been active on Earth since the very beginning

A new study published in Earth and Planetary Science Letters proposes that plate tectonics could have started as early as the planet's formation. Researchers analyzed noble gas isotopes Helium-3 and Neon-22 to establish a timeline of Earth's tectonic plate cycling, providing insight into the planet's earliest conditions.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee at Knoxville·JournalEarth and Planetary Science Letters·DateSep 26, 2018

By Jove! Methane's effects on sunlight vary by region

Scientists discovered that methane absorption is 10 times stronger over desert regions like the Sahara Desert and Arabian Peninsula than elsewhere on Earth. Cloud cover also enhances methane radiative forcing, with increased forcing found over oceanic stratus cloud decks and the Intertropical Convergence Zone near the equator.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 26, 2018

Big increase in economic costs if cuts in greenhouse gas emissions are delayed

A new analysis warns that delaying efforts to cut greenhouse gas emissions could result in substantial economic costs, potentially exceeding the benefits of limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees. The study suggests that the remaining carbon budget for this goal is very small, requiring unprecedented scale and significant investment.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalAnnual Review of Environment and Resources·DateSep 26, 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.

The whole day matters for cognitive development in children

A new study from CHEO Research Institute found that children aged nine and 10 who meet Canadian 24-hour Movement Guidelines for physical activity, screen time, and sleep time have superior global cognition. The results suggest a positive relationship among childhood global cognition, future academic success, and lower all-cause mortality.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute·JournalThe Lancet Child & Adolescent Health·DateSep 26, 2018

'Paintable' chemotherapy shrinks skin tumors in mice

Researchers have developed a gel-based chemotherapy that can shrink melanoma skin tumors in mice by penetrating deep into the skin. The gel, called transfersome, was found to slow tumor growth when applied daily and administered intravenously every other day, with results showing a significant reduction in tumor size.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Nano·DateSep 26, 2018

Neutron star jets shoot down theory

Researchers observed a strongly magnetized accreting X-ray pulsar using the Karl G. Jansky Very Large Array and NASA's Swift space telescope. The discovery reveals a new class of jet-producing sources, contradicting previous expectations about strong magnetic fields.

SourceInternational Centre for Radio Astronomy Research·JournalNature·DateSep 26, 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.

NIAID releases strategic plan to address tuberculosis research

The NIAID Strategic Plan for Tuberculosis Research prioritizes expanding fundamental knowledge of TB by using modern tools to better understand the disease. The plan also focuses on developing rapidly accurate inexpensive point-of-care tests for different forms of TB, as well as identifying host and microbial biomarkers.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalJAMA·DateSep 26, 2018

Understanding antibiotic resistance in patients with cystic fibrosis

Researchers found that multidrug-resistant bacteria in CF patients' airways are associated with lower microbial diversity and more aggressive disease. The study suggests that judicious use of antibiotics is crucial to help patients live longer, but new methods can help target infectious bacteria selectively.

SourceChildren's National Hospital·JournalHeliyon·DateSep 26, 2018

In clinical trials, new antibody therapy controls HIV for months after treatment

Researchers have developed a novel immunotherapy that can suppress HIV for months at a time, using a combination of two anti-HIV antibodies. The treatment, called broadly neutralizing antibodies (bNAbs), has shown promising results in clinical trials, with some patients experiencing sustained viral suppression for over four months.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalNature·DateSep 26, 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.

Tracking hydrogen movement using subatomic particles

A Japanese collaboration has successfully tracked hydrogen movement in solids using negative muons, a technique that could aid the development of hydrogen storage materials. By detecting local nuclear magnetic fields, researchers were able to study the dynamics of light elements in a solid from the fixed point of the nucleus.

SourceOsaka University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateSep 26, 2018

Clear the air

A University of Utah engineering study shows that smart controllers for home heating and cooling systems can clean pollution with minimal additional energy costs. The 'SmartAir' setting, which turns on the HVAC fan based on both temperature and air quality, cleaned the air almost as well as continuous operation but used 58% less energy.

SourceUniversity of Utah·DateSep 26, 2018

Bureau of Reclamation funds Upper Missouri River pallid sturgeon study

The Bureau of Reclamation is supporting a six-year study to assess the impact of its projects on endangered pallid sturgeon in the upper Missouri River. The study aims to preserve the species and potentially lead to its downlisting, with data gathering focused on reproduction conditions and habitat analysis.

SourceBureau of Reclamation·DateSep 26, 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.

Being older helps skin heal with less scarring, and now researchers know why

A study by University of Pennsylvania researchers identified a rare example where being older improves tissue function, leading to reduced scar formation. The key factor is a compound called stromal cell-derived-factor-1 (SDF1), which is secreted in the bloodstream and is more abundant in younger individuals.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalCell Reports·DateSep 26, 2018

New plants on the block: Taller species are taking over in a warming Arctic

A study by researchers from Germany found that taller plant species have taken over the Arctic tundra in recent decades, with a significant increase in plant height observed over the past three decades. Climate warming is believed to be the underlying cause of this shift.

SourceGerman Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig·JournalNature·DateSep 26, 2018

Plant genetic resources ensure ag's future

The importance of plant genetic resources cannot be overstated, as they provide the building blocks for crop breeding and research. Crop wild relatives, in particular, offer valuable traits like drought tolerance that can help ensure global food security.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalCrop Science·DateSep 26, 2018

Limiting children's recreational screen time to less than 2 hours a day linked to better cognition

An observational study of over 4,500 US children aged 8-11 found that limiting recreational screen time to less than two hours a day is associated with improved cognition. Half of the children met only one guideline, while those who met all three (sleep, screen time, and physical activity) had better cognitive development.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Child & Adolescent Health·DateSep 26, 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.

Tiger mosquitoes are capable of transmitting yellow fever

A recent study by scientists at the Institut Pasteur has demonstrated that tiger mosquitoes (Aedes albopictus) can transmit the yellow fever virus. The research found that the virus can adapt to this species, which is widely present in urban and forest areas, posing a major public health threat.

SourceInstitut Pasteur·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 26, 2018

Study shows importance of personal social networks on neurological outcomes

A study by Brigham and Women's Hospital researchers found that people's social networks have a strong association with their reported neurological disability. The team developed a social network assessment tool, which found that unhealthy habits of those around an individual can significantly impact their health outcomes.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 26, 2018

Researchers map susceptibility to man-made earthquakes

Researchers developed a model to forecast man-made earthquake activity in Oklahoma and Kansas, incorporating earthquake physics and wastewater injection data. The model predicts a 32% probability of potentially damaging earthquakes in 2018, decreasing to 19% by 2020.

SourceStanford's School of Earth, Energy & Environmental Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 26, 2018

Beyond skin deep: understanding disparities in dermatology services

A new study found significant disparities in the use of outpatient dermatology services among different ethnic groups and socioeconomic statuses. Patients with lower incomes and education levels were less likely to receive care, while those with higher incomes and education levels had better access to specialized services.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalJAMA Dermatology·DateSep 26, 2018

Quantum science funding flows into Argonne

The U.S. Department of Energy's Argonne National Laboratory will receive over $11 million in funding for four major projects focused on quantum information science. These studies aim to develop new computing and sensing technologies, including the creation and manipulation of quantum bits and the study of quantum entanglement.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·DateSep 26, 2018

Psychologists define the 'dark core of personality'

Research reveals that all dark personality traits can be traced back to a single tendency: placing one's own goals and interests over others. The D-factor is the general tendency to maximize utility while disregarding disutility for others.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalPsychological Review·DateSep 26, 2018

Science learns from its mistakes too

A mathematical model by BfR reveals that publishing all studies, regardless of results, accelerates knowledge acquisition and reduces unnecessary follow-up studies. Using more test animals in a single experiment increases the likelihood of achieving correct and reproducible results.

SourceBfR Federal Institute for Risk Assessment·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 26, 2018

A mechanism of color pattern formation in ladybird beetles

A study on Asian ladybird beetles reveals a single gene, pannier, that regulates diverse color patterns. The gene's expression affects black and red pigmentation in the forewing, driving morphological evolution.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 26, 2018

Researchers discover molecule involved in the repair of liver wounds

A new study reveals that CD26/DPP-4 is a key player in the regeneration of acute liver wounds and may serve as a valuable biomarker for detecting hepatic disease. The molecule's enzymatic activity was shown to increase with reduced liver immune cell population, suggesting its potential use in non-invasive diagnosis.

SourceInstituto Gulbenkian de Ciencia·JournalHepatology Communications·DateSep 26, 2018

UM researcher lands $1.5 million grant to study small-farmer land use

A UM Associate Professor is awarded a $1.45 million grant to study interactions between climate, water availability and land-use decisions made by small farmers in the US and Brazil. The research aims to understand the dynamic feedbacks between production choices, regional climate and water variability.

SourceThe University of Montana·DateSep 26, 2018

A self-powered heart monitor taped to the skin

Researchers at RIKEN developed a self-powered heart monitor that can be taped to the skin, utilizing sunlight as a power source. The device achieves high photo-conversion efficiency and demonstrates accurate heartbeat detection in both rats and humans under various lighting conditions.

SourceRIKEN·JournalNature·DateSep 26, 2018

Study demonstrates new mechanism for developing electronic devices

Researchers at OIST have discovered a new method to manipulate electrons on the nanometer scale using light. By inducing electric fields on material surfaces, they can control electron flow within specific areas, potentially leading to faster and better functioning devices.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 26, 2018