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Science News for September 6, 2018


Galactic 'wind' stifling star formation is most distant yet seen

For the first time, researchers have observed a powerful 'galactic wind' of molecules in a galaxy 12 billion light-years away, providing insights into how early galaxies regulated their growth. The wind was detected in a galaxy called SPT2319-55, which is more than 1 billion years old.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalScience·DateSep 6, 2018

Study examines pros and cons of hydropower

A new study reveals that hydropower relicensing often overlooks key issues, such as restoring natural river conditions without significant economic penalties. The research highlights opportunities to reduce negative impacts while considering the carbon-emissions cost of reduced hydropower.

SourceWiley·JournalRiver Research and Applications·DateSep 6, 2018

A first step toward cracking the genetics of strabismus

A rare genetic variant in an intron of the WRB gene, located on chromosome 21, has been identified as a potential contributor to common childhood strabismus. The study involved 1,200 US patients and found that patients with this variant were more likely to have inherited it from their father.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalInvestigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science·DateSep 6, 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.

What Anglo Saxon teeth can tell us about modern health

Researchers from the University of Bradford analyzed Anglo Saxon children's milk teeth to identify modern children at risk for conditions like diabetes and heart disease. The study found that teeth provide a more reliable indicator of diet and health than bones, revealing biomarkers for stress in early life.

SourceUniversity of Bradford·JournalAmerican Journal of Physical Anthropology·DateSep 6, 2018

Rapid weight gain during infancy possible risk factor for later obesity in kids with autism

A new study from the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing found that rapid weight gain during infancy may be a risk factor for later obesity in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Mothers who experienced pre-pregnancy overweight or obesity were more likely to have a child with overweight or obesity at ages 2-5.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Nursing·JournalAutism·DateSep 6, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Researchers use silicon nanoparticles for enhancing solar cells efficiency

Scientists at ITMO University have developed a new material using silicon nanoparticles to improve perovskite solar cells' efficiency. The nanoparticles trap light of various wavelengths near the cell's active layer, maintaining stability and increasing absorption. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient and stable solar cells.

SourceITMO University·JournalAdvanced Optical Materials·DateSep 6, 2018

Could AI robots develop prejudice on their own?

Computer simulations show that autonomous machines can form prejudicial groups by copying each other's behavior, indicating a non-human phenomenon of discrimination. The findings suggest that AI developments could inadvertently perpetuate prejudice, highlighting the need for awareness and responsible AI design.

SourceCardiff University·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 6, 2018

Smoking linked to higher dementia risk

A nationwide health claims analysis from Korea found smoking increases dementia risk, while quitting reduces it by up to 32%. Long-term quitters had a 14% lower risk of dementia compared to continual smokers, while never smokers had an 18% reduced risk for Alzheimer's disease.

SourceWiley·JournalAnnals of Clinical and Translational Neurology·DateSep 6, 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.

New diagnostic tool for complex cancer cases

Researchers created a new diagnostic tool using advanced analyses to identify tumors with unknown origins. The tool helped diagnose a metastasis of melanoma residing in the lung, leading to effective treatment with BRAF inhibitors.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalJCO Precision Oncology·DateSep 6, 2018

Understanding family involvement in Chinese immigrant women's health and healthcare

A study by Northwestern University researchers explored the attitudes and beliefs of Chinese immigrant women regarding their children's and spouse's involvement in their health and healthcare. The findings suggest opportunities for culturally tailored interventions to improve these women's health outcomes.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalHealth Equity·DateSep 6, 2018

How ungulates learn to surf the 'green waves' of forage

Researchers found that migratory ungulates develop and persist migration behaviors through social learning of local knowledge. Reintroduced populations showed better green-surfing ability over time, demonstrating the importance of cultural transmission in these nomadic mammals.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateSep 6, 2018

Study: Adding power choices reduces cost and risk of carbon-free electricity

A new study by MIT researchers reveals that using a mix of fuel-saving, flexible, and highly reliable sources is key to building a cost-effective and reliable zero-carbon electricity system. The study found that pairing low-carbon sources with steady carbon-free resources can reduce costs by up to 62% compared to relying on wind, solar...

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJoule·DateSep 6, 2018

Synthetic DNA vaccine effective against influenza A virus subtype

A synthetic DNA vaccine has been shown to produce broad immune responses against diverse H3N2 viruses, which have led to high morbidity and mortality in recent years. The vaccine was found to be more effective than traditional vaccines in protecting mice from lethal influenza A infection.

SourceThe Wistar Institute·JournalHuman Gene Therapy·DateSep 6, 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.

Predict the onset and course of Huntington's disease

A research team at Max Delbrück Center identified tiny huntingtin protein fibers that precede larger deposits in Huntington's disease, enabling prediction of disease onset months in advance. These findings hold promise for diagnosis and potential new treatments by testing pharmaceutical substances against the fibers' harmful activity.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalMolecular Cell·DateSep 6, 2018

Visceral leishmaniasis on the rise in Brazil, study finds

The incidence of visceral leishmaniasis increased by 52.9% in Brazil between 1990 and 2016, while the disability-adjusted life years increased by 83.6%. Regional variations were observed, with rates rising in the Northeast and Southeast but decreasing in the Northern states.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateSep 6, 2018

Patient-friendly and accurate

Researchers developed an imaging signature to detect subclinical cardiac injury in lupus patients, revealing inflammation as the underlying pathophysiological mechanism. The new diagnostic method using cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) improves detection and monitoring of heart involvement without radiation or contrast agents.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateSep 6, 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.

Invasive pines fueled 2017 fires in Knysna, South Africa

A recent study found that invasive pine trees significantly increased the severity of the 2017 Knysna wildfires by trebling fuel loads. The study also showed that climate change exacerbated the fire's impact due to a prolonged drought period, and warned that similar conditions will occur again in the future.

SourceStellenbosch University·JournalFire Ecology·DateSep 6, 2018

US housing subsidy may improve adolescent girls' binge drinking but worsen boys'

A US housing subsidy program may reduce adolescent girls' binge drinking but worsen boys'. The study analyzed 2829 adolescents and found a harmful effect of treatment on boys' binge drinking. The reasons for the gender difference are unclear, but further research is needed to uncover the exact mechanisms.

SourceSociety for the Study of Addiction·JournalAddiction·DateSep 6, 2018

Longer daily fasting times improve health and longevity in mice

A new study found that longer daily fasting times improved health and longevity in male mice, with benefits seen across different diets and calorie consumption levels. The researchers also discovered that extended fasting periods enabled repair and maintenance mechanisms, which may help prevent age-related metabolic disorders.

SourceNIH/National Institute on Aging·JournalCell Metabolism·DateSep 6, 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.

Why leaf-eating Asian monkeys do not have a sweet tooth

A genetic study reveals that Asian colobine monkeys have a poor sense of taste, particularly in regards to natural sugars. This is attributed to their diet consisting mainly of leaves, which are easily digestible and fibre-rich, rather than energy-rich fruits containing simple sugars.

SourceSpringer·JournalPrimates·DateSep 6, 2018

Building a better brain-in-a-dish, faster and cheaper

UC San Diego researchers develop rapid and cost-effective method to create human cortical organoids directly from primary cells. The new protocol enables large-scale production of brain organoids, which can be used to better understand human brain function and develop treatments for neurological disorders.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalStem Cells and Development·DateSep 6, 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.

Protection for the ozone layer: sugar molecules bind harmful CFCs

Scientists at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz and Aschaffenburg University of Applied Sciences have made a breakthrough in binding the highly ozone-depleting chlorofluorocarbon Freon 11. They discovered that modified cyclic sugar molecules can effectively adsorb and detect Freon 11, preventing its release into the atmosphere.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalGlobal Challenges·DateSep 6, 2018

Conditional release programs often work for criminally insane

Researchers found that conditional release programs often work for individuals found not guilty by reason of insanity, with 66% maintaining their release and only 1 out of 81 having a new non-violent offense. The HCR-20 tool, commonly used to assess violence risk, was also found to be less effective in predicting recidivism.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalLaw and Human Behavior·DateSep 6, 2018

Bio-inspired materials decrease drag for liquids

Researchers from KAUST developed nature-inspired surfaces that decrease frictional drag at the liquid-pipe interface without chemical coatings. The microtextured surfaces, mimicking springtail skins, sustain trapped air for extended periods, reducing surface drag and enhancing oil- and water-repellent properties.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Climate Change·DateSep 6, 2018

New €10 million Parkinson's study

A new €10 million Parkinson's study will implement an integrated care model designed specifically for people with Parkinson's disease across two health hubs in Bath, UK and Nijmegen, Netherlands. The project aims to bridge the gap between fragmented care providers and deliver proactive and integrated care to patients.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·DateSep 6, 2018

Gender identities disrupted -- and reinforced

The study analyzed the ways children's gender narratives reinforce or disrupt gender inequality, revealing two master narratives that emphasize differences between boys and girls. Alternative narratives, including incongruent and counternarrative types, challenged these dominant stories, with some children explicitly questioning and re...

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalChild Development·DateSep 6, 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.

Children with food insecurity at risk for high blood pressure

A recent study presented at the American Heart Association's Joint Hypertension Scientific Sessions found that children with food insecurity are more likely to have high blood pressure. The researchers analyzed data from over 7,000 children and found that nearly one-fifth had food insecurity, while more than 12% had high blood pressure.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateSep 6, 2018

Bird bacteria study reveals evolutionary arms race

A recent study has found that birds develop resistance to bacterial infections, which in turn leads to the evolution of more potent pathogens. This host-pathogen coevolution process plays a key role in shaping species' defenses and highlights the importance of understanding emerging infectious diseases.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 6, 2018

Researchers model tree species distributions in Amazonia

The study uses Landsat and Aster satellites to identify ecologically relevant environmental and biotic variation, and machine learning algorithms predict species distributions. The findings provide important information for forest management and conservation in the Peruvian lowland Amazonia.

SourceUniversity of Turku·JournalBiotropica·DateSep 6, 2018

Satellites tracking the rainfall from Tropical Depression Gordon

Tropical Depression Gordon is expected to produce significant rainfall accumulations of 3-7 inches in northwest Mississippi and Arkansas, potentially causing local flooding. The depression is moving west-northwest at 8 mph, with little change in strength forecast over the next 48 hours.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 6, 2018

Single-dose drug can shorten flu symptoms by about a day, studies suggest

A new influenza drug, baloxavir marboxil, has been shown to significantly shorten the duration of flu symptoms in teens and adults, clearing virus more quickly than placebo. The drug's antiviral potency was found to be similar to that of a five-day course of oseltamivir, but with greater effectiveness and no significant side effects.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateSep 6, 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.

Researchers study how a hormone helps plants build leaves' ventilation system

The researchers found that a hormone called cytokinin coordinates the number of stomata in plants, which can be increased or decreased through gene editing technology. This discovery suggests opportunities for engineering plants to adapt to climate change and fine-tunes the process by which plants regulate stomatal development.

SourceStanford University·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateSep 6, 2018

Jet-air dryers should not be used in hospital toilets

Researchers found that jet-air dryers contaminated toilet floors, sinks, and surfaces with bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus and enterococci. The study suggests that paper towels are a safer alternative for hand drying in hospitals.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalJournal of Hospital Infection·DateSep 6, 2018

New biomarker panel could accelerate autism diagnoses

A new biomarker panel identified in a large metabolomic study could accelerate autism diagnoses, detecting around 17 percent of children with ASD. The panel analyzes amino acid metabolism and shows promise for developing an ASD biomarker test.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateSep 6, 2018

Antibacterial polymers

Researchers have synthesized a phosphonium polymer that exhibits extraordinary antibacterial activity despite lacking hydrophobic alkyl chains. The polymer's hydrophilic nature and balanced display of positive charges played a crucial role in its effectiveness.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateSep 6, 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.

Driver gene heterogeneity is minimal among untreated metastases

A new study analyzing 76 untreated metastases from 20 patients found that different metastatic lesions share the same driver gene mutations. The findings suggest that a biopsy of a single metastatic lesion could provide sufficient information for treatment decisions.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateSep 6, 2018

Stray proteins cause genetic disorders

A study led by Professor Matthias Selbach found that minute changes in Glut1 protein structure can lead to severe cellular disturbances, causing genetic disorders. The research identified a mechanism where flexible regions of proteins interact with other molecules, disrupting cellular processes and leading to disease.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalCell·DateSep 6, 2018

Telehealth helps promote safe antibiotic prescribing practices in remote healthcare

A pilot project found that telehealth videoconferencing increased awareness of antibiotic stewardship principles and helped facilities implement more than two-thirds of recommendations. This study demonstrates how technology can provide access to expert knowledge and practices for smaller facilities.

SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateSep 6, 2018

Do you know why and how you forget passwords?

Researchers discovered that people tend to forget passwords less frequently when they are used more often, according to a Rutgers University-led study. The study's findings suggest that password systems could be designed to encourage users to log in regularly, improving password retention.

SourceRutgers University·DateSep 6, 2018

What's all the 'excitement' about flight?

A recent study from Prof. Gaiti Hasan's lab has identified the FMRFa receptor as a crucial molecule in sustaining flight in fruit flies for long periods of time. The receptor is part of a class of proteins known as GPCRs, which help convert extracellular messages into cellular responses.

SourceNational Centre for Biological Sciences·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateSep 6, 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.

Doris Duke Charitable Foundation awards grant to Critical Path Institute

The Doris Duke Charitable Foundation has awarded a grant to the Critical Path Institute (C-Path) to accelerate the development of therapies for sickle cell disease. C-Path will plan a consortium of stakeholders to identify and work collaboratively on jointly beneficial drug development tools and novel methodologies.

SourceCritical Path Institute (C-Path)·DateSep 6, 2018

California's large minority population drives state's relatively low death rate

A study by UCLA researchers found that California's minority population contributes to the state's relatively low death rate, despite high poverty and lack of insurance rates. The state's death rate from all causes was 619.1 per 100,000 population in 2016, lower than the national average.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalHealth Affairs·DateSep 6, 2018

Pushing 'print' on large-scale piezoelectric materials

Researchers developed a simple, inexpensive technique to create large-scale sheets of two-dimensional piezoelectric material, allowing integration onto silicon chips and expansion into surface manufacturing. The method enables the production of free-standing GaPO4 nanosheets for piezo-sensors and energy harvesting applications.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence in Future Low-Energy Electronics Technologies·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 6, 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.

Human gut study questions probiotic health benefits

A new study challenges the effectiveness of probiotics in boosting digestive health. Researchers found that many people's gut tracts prevent standard probiotics from successfully colonizing them. Additionally, taking probiotics after antibiotics may delay the return of normal gut bacteria and gene expression.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateSep 6, 2018

Virginia Tech researcher to study the effects of drying streams

A new grant will support research on intermittent, or not continuously flowing, streams across the southern United States. The project aims to understand how climate and biological factors affect stream ecosystems when they dry, and develop a large-scale framework to analyze environmental changes.

SourceVirginia Tech·DateSep 6, 2018

How attention orchestrates groups of nerve cells to enrich the brain's symphony

Researchers from the German Primate Center found that visual attention desynchronizes nerve cell activity, enabling more complex information processing. This insight may provide evidence for mechanisms underlying ADHD and autism, and sheds light on how the brain processes stimuli.

SourceDeutsches Primatenzentrum (DPZ)/German Primate Center·JournalBMC Biology·DateSep 6, 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.

Bee venom may help treat eczema

Researchers found that bee venom and melittin suppress inflammation in atopic dermatitis by regulating T helper cell differentiation. The study suggests bee venom may be an effective treatment for eczema, potentially alleviating inflammatory skin diseases.

SourceWiley·JournalBritish Journal of Pharmacology·DateSep 6, 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.

Renewable energy sources: All-in-one light-driven water splitting

Researchers at LMU and Würzburg have successfully demonstrated the complete splitting of water into hydrogen fuel and oxygen using an all-in-one catalytic system. The new system, which mimics biological photosynthesis, enables the efficient generation of oxygen while minimizing damage to the nanorods.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature Energy·DateSep 6, 2018

How our immune system detects broken DNA

Skin cells can detect damaged DNA in the absence of infection and trigger an immune response similar to that observed during viral infections. This discovery could lead to new cancer treatments and preventive measures against skin cancers.

SourceLancaster University·JournalMolecular Cell·DateSep 6, 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.

Risk gene for alzheimer may aggravate neurological effects of air pollution in children

A new study found that children carrying the ε4 variant of the APOE gene may experience adverse effects from traffic-related air pollution, including higher behaviour problem scores and slower attention capacity. The findings suggest that this genetic variant could exacerbate air pollution's impact on neurodevelopment.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateSep 6, 2018

Robat uses sound to navigate and map a novel environment

A fully autonomous robot, Robat, utilizes a bat-like approach by emitting sound and analyzing echoes to create a detailed map of its surroundings. It successfully navigates through a new outdoor environment and classifies objects using an artificial neural network.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateSep 6, 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.

'Robat' uses sound to navigate and map unique environments

The 'Robat' uses echolocation to navigate novel environments by emitting sound and analyzing the returning echoes to generate a map of space. It is equipped with an ultrasonic speaker and two microphones that classify borders and shapes of objects encountered, avoiding obstacles.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateSep 6, 2018

Fierce winds quench wildfire-like starbirth in far-flung galaxy

Astronomers have detected the most-distant galactic 'wind' of molecules ever observed, seen when the universe was one billion years old. The galaxy SPT2319-55, 12 billion light-years away, shows a powerful outflow of hydroxyl (OH) molecules, which could help regulate starbirth and galaxy growth.

SourceNational Radio Astronomy Observatory·JournalScience·DateSep 6, 2018

Unnecessary medicine use in patients with lung cancer at the end of life

A new study analyzed data from two UK and US centers to find that patients with advanced lung cancer often receive multiple medications that may not be beneficial. On average, these patients were prescribed 1.9-2.6 preventative medications at admission and discharge. The authors suggest developing an intervention to reduce inappropriat...

SourceWiley·JournalBritish Journal of Clinical Pharmacology·DateSep 6, 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.

Short chromosome tips linked to lower physical function in the elderly

A new study published in Frontiers finds that short chromosome tips (telomeres) are an independent risk factor for age-related functional decline. Participants with the shortest telomeres were more likely to have reduced physical function, regardless of geographical location, age, sex, or weight.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Physiology·DateSep 6, 2018

Artificial synaptic device simulating the function of human brain

Researchers at DGIST developed an artificial synaptic device that simulates the human brain's memory function. The device uses tantalum oxide to mimic synapses and has overcome durability limitations of current devices. It can store multiple values, reducing power consumption by over one-thousandth compared to digital signals.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateSep 6, 2018

Global warming: Worrying lessons from the past

A study by researchers from UNIGE reveals that global warming 56 million years ago had a more significant impact on the environment than currently thought, with floods increasing by a factor of eight and landscapes transforming into arid plains.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 6, 2018

Opioid prescribing after rhinoplasty

A review of 173 rhinoplasty patients found that most received opioid prescriptions, averaging 28 pills per patient, yet experienced less pain than expected. The study's results highlight the need for more research on optimal postoperative pain management from rhinoplasty

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Facial Plastic Surgery·DateSep 6, 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.

Researchers identify marker for novel asthma treatments

Researchers have discovered a marker that can help identify patients with severe asthma who are likely to respond well to new treatments. The marker targets inflammatory cells called eosinophils, which play a key role in the condition.

SourceRCSI·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateSep 6, 2018

Scientists test new cancer vaccine against melanoma

Researchers developed a new cancer vaccine that boosts the immune system's ability to fight cancers, suggesting increased chances of recovery in cases where drug therapy alone is not working. The vaccine, called Diprovocim, was shown to produce a complete response in treating melanoma and preventing recurrence.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 6, 2018

Marijuana use continues to grow among baby boomers

A study by NYU School of Medicine and the Center for Drug Use and HIV/HCV Research found that marijuana use is becoming more prevalent among middle-aged and older adults, with 9% of adults aged 50-64 and nearly 3% of adults 65+ reporting use in the past year. This trend suggests a significant increase in marijuana use over the past dec...

SourceNew York University·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence·DateSep 6, 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.

UCLA-led team develops novel system to track brain chemicals

Researchers at UCLA have developed a new method for tracking brain chemicals, including neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine. The system uses tiny artificial receptors paired with semiconductor devices that can function in living tissue.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalScience·DateSep 6, 2018

No 'changing room moment' for men as they age

Research found men aged 58-85 were more accepting of their outfits as they aged, unlike women who perceive a 'cut-off point' for certain items. Men also had strong negative reactions to clothing that marked a decline in masculinity, such as elasticated trousers.

SourceUniversity of Kent·JournalAgeing and Society·DateSep 6, 2018

Unravelling the reasons why mass extinctions occur

A team of scientists from the University of Leicester has explored the long-standing mystery of mass extinctions, revealing that abrupt transitions can occur due to 'ghost attractors' and 'crawl-bys'. This knowledge could help predict upcoming ecological catastrophes and inform efficient management.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalScience·DateSep 6, 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.

Scanning thousands of molecules against an elusive cancer target

Researchers at NCATS developed a new system to accelerate the discovery of chemical compounds that inhibit NSD2, an enzyme implicated in multiple cancers. The team tested over 16,000 compounds and identified 44 promising inhibitors.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateSep 6, 2018

Would global warming increase childhood viral infection rates?

A review of published studies suggests a positive relationship between hand, foot, and mouth disease and temperature and humidity. Global warming may impact HFMD transmission throughout the year, with potential consequences for public health.

SourceWiley·JournalInternational Journal of Dermatology·DateSep 6, 2018

Large wind and solar farms in the Sahara would increase heat, rain, vegetation

A new climate-modeling study finds that large wind and solar farms in the Sahara Desert and neighboring Sahel would increase local temperature, precipitation and vegetation. The effects are likely to benefit the region, with increased rainfall leading to a positive feedback loop of vegetation growth.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalScience·DateSep 6, 2018

An inside look at probiotics

Researchers found that probiotics' effects on humans and microbiomes vary greatly from person to person. Personalized treatment was shown to have significant benefits in addressing adverse side effects of antibiotics. The study's results suggest a tailored approach to probiotic use, potentially leading to improved health outcomes.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalCell·DateSep 6, 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.

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.

Mysterious 'lunar swirls' point to moon's volcanic, magnetic past

Researchers from Rutgers University discovered that lunar swirls are produced by strongly magnetized lava flows, challenging the existing understanding of the moon's geology. The study provides new insights into the moon's ancient volcanic activity and internally generated magnetic field.

SourceRutgers University·DateSep 6, 2018

Category three Hurricane Norman expands its area of strength

Hurricane Norman's stronger storms have expanded beyond its center, with cloud top temperatures reaching minus 70 degrees Fahrenheit, capable of generating heavy rainfall. The storm is forecast to pass 200-300 miles northeast of the main Hawaiian Islands, bringing large and potentially dangerous surf.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 6, 2018

Researchers correlate spinal muscular atrophy disease expression with haplotypes

A natural history study provides the first comprehensive clinical description of spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) within Amish and Mennonite communities, correlating haplotypes and SMN2 copy number with disease severity. The study reveals differences in disease expression and survival between genotypes with varying numbers of SMN2 copies.

SourceClinic for Special Children·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 6, 2018

Not too wet, not too dry: plasma-treated fuel cell gets it just right

Researchers at the University of British Columbia have developed a plasma treatment method that modifies electrode surfaces to facilitate efficient water transport in fuel cells. This innovation enables fuel cells to operate effectively without excessive moisture, improving overall performance and energy conversion rates.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalApplied Surface Science·DateSep 6, 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.

Experiment obtains entanglement of six light waves with a single laser

Researchers at the University of São Paulo's Physics Institute have successfully entangled six light waves using an optical parametric oscillator. This achievement could lead to faster processing speeds and improve the feasibility of quantum computing by enabling the creation of systems with multiple entangled components.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateSep 6, 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.

Ovarian cancer: Quick steps to widespread disease

Researchers found that rapidly spreading ovarian cancer cells recruit CAFs to accelerate cancer proliferation and spread by enhancing energy sources. Blocking glycogen mobilization could be a therapeutic strategy for reducing tumor dissemination.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalCell Metabolism·DateSep 6, 2018

Greener neighborhoods may be good for children's brains

Research suggests that living in greener neighborhoods can positively impact children's cognitive functioning, particularly in spatial working memory and mathematics performance. A study of 4758 English children found a strong association between neighborhood greenspace and improved spatial working memory.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Educational Psychology·DateSep 6, 2018

NASA's GPM peers under the clouds of Hurricane Florence

The GPM core satellite revealed heavy rainfall rates of 50 mm/h near the eye of Hurricane Florence, with storms producing rain at a rate of 2 inches per hour. The satellite also provided estimates of storm heights using data from geostationary satellites and radar.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 6, 2018

NASA adds up heavy rains from Typhoon Jebi

Typhoon Jebi's rainfall affected Shikoku and most of Honshu's south central coastal regions, with estimated amounts over a one-week period ranging from 100 mm (~4 inches) or more. The storm caused significant flooding, including at Kansai International Airport near Osaka, resulting in fatalities and injuries.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 6, 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.

Adaptable lizards illustrate key evolutionary process proposed a century ago

Scientists have documented how individual side-blotched lizards can change colors to become darker on lava; they identified genes that regulate coloration and found genetic changes in the population adapted to the lava flow. These findings provide a detailed example of the Baldwin effect occurring in a wild population.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 6, 2018

New insights into what drives organ transplant rejection

Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital identified CD103+ dendritic cells as a major trigger of skin graft rejection, but found that pre-treating organs with an anti-inflammatory protein can mitigate this effect. This new strategy could offer benefits for organ transplantation, including face transplants.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 6, 2018

Common pesticide inhibits brain development in frogs

Research published in Environmental Toxicology & Chemistry reveals that chlorpyifos inhibits brain development in Northern Leopard tadpoles. The study demonstrates the impact of organophosphorous pesticides on vertebrate neurodevelopment, even at low concentrations.

SourceWiley·JournalEnvironmental Toxicology and Chemistry·DateSep 6, 2018

Volcano under ice sheet suggests thickening of West Antarctic ice is short-term

A study by University of Washington researchers has discovered a new clue to the behavior of a region in West Antarctica, where a volcano under the ice sheet is leaving an almost 6,000-year record of glacier motion. The data suggests that the current thickening trend may be short-term and not indicative of long-term changes.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalThe Cryosphere·DateSep 6, 2018

Complete makeover in fight of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis

A new international collaborative study led by Dr. Dick Menzies found that new TB drugs achieve excellent results in treating MDR-TB, demonstrating consistently better cure rates and reduced mortality compared to currently used treatments. The study prompted a complete overhaul of worldwide guidelines for MDR-TB treatment.

SourceMcGill University Health Centre·JournalThe Lancet·DateSep 6, 2018

More daytime sleepiness, more Alzheimer's disease?

A study found that daytime sleepiness is associated with an increased risk of brain deposits of beta amyloid, a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease. Participants who reported excessive daytime sleepiness were nearly three times more likely to develop beta-amyloid deposition in their brains years later.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalSLEEP·DateSep 6, 2018

A new theory for phantom limb pain points the way to more effective treatment

A new theory by Max Ortiz Catalan suggests that phantom limb pain results from neural entanglement between the missing limb's circuitry and pain perception networks. The 'stochastic entanglement' hypothesis explains how a novel treatment, Phantom Motor Execution (PME), can help alleviate pain by reactivating dormant brain areas.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalFrontiers in Neurology·DateSep 6, 2018

Stress wracks worm nerves, leaving lasting memories

A recent study published in Nature found that stress caused by starvation before sexual maturation can prevent normal changes in the wiring patterns of key neuronal circuits in male worms. As a result, adult male worms act immaturely during behaviors controlled by these circuits. The study suggests that environmental stress can permane...

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournalNature·DateSep 6, 2018

Cracking the code to soot formation

Researchers have solved the long-standing mystery of soot formation, revealing that resonance-stabilized radicals play a key role in its creation. This breakthrough could help reduce soot's detrimental effects on human health and the environment.

SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·JournalScience·DateSep 6, 2018

A cyborg cockroach could someday save your life

Researchers at UConn have created a tiny neuro-controller that can precisely control the movement of cyborg cockroaches. The system, which includes an inertial measurement unit and real-time feedback, enables operators to steer the insect in desired directions.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·DateSep 6, 2018

We need to talk about sexuality after stroke

A new study found that stroke survivors struggle to discuss their sexuality and intimacy with healthcare professionals, who rarely address the topic during rehabilitation. The review highlights the importance of proper support from health and rehabilitation professionals to address these issues.

SourceSAGE·JournalClinical Rehabilitation·DateSep 6, 2018

Is the key to sparking climate action a game?

A new study published in PLOS ONE found that a role-playing game called World Climate increases motivation to combat climate change by 81%, even among Americans who support free market policies. The game simulates UN climate talks and provides immediate feedback on the expected climate impacts of participants' decisions.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Lowell·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 6, 2018