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Science News for August 1, 2019


'Wildling' mice could help translate results in animal models to results in humans

Researchers developed a new mouse model called 'wildling,' which acquired microbes and pathogens from wild mice while maintaining laboratory genetics. The study found that wildlings mirrored human immune responses, were stable in their microbiota, and predicted human immune responses with accuracy.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases·JournalScience·DateAug 1, 2019

Unmasking the hidden burden of tuberculosis in Mozambique

A post-mortem study in a Mozambican hospital reveals that tuberculosis (TB) cases were often missed by clinicians and traditional autopsy methods. The study found that 28% of patients had the disease at the time of death, with a higher prevalence among HIV-positive adults.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalEuropean Respiratory Journal·DateAug 1, 2019
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.

Middle-school Latino children report more depressive symptoms after family member arrested

A study found that Latino seventh graders who experienced an immigration-related arrest of a family member reported more severe levels of depression. The level of depressive symptoms increased further when a student had one or both undocumented parents. Researchers stress the need for school counselors, teachers, and administrators to ...

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalCultural Diversity & Ethnic Minority Psychology·DateAug 1, 2019

Black male educators sound alarm regarding lack of diversity in P-12 classrooms

A white paper from University of Phoenix and NNSTOY highlights the critical need to increase Black male educator representation to improve student learning. The shortage has negative implications for culturally and academically enriched education, leading to lower dropout rates, improved test scores, and a more positive view of schooling.

SourceUniversity of Phoenix·DateAug 1, 2019

Microbiome diversity builds a better mouse model

A new study created lab mice by implanting embryos from laboratory animals into wild mice, resulting in a model that accurately predicts human response to drugs. This novel approach has the potential to improve translational research value for immunology, potentially preventing failed clinical trials.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 1, 2019
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.

'Fake news,' diminishing media trust and the role of social media

A study by University of Houston researchers found that people in sub-Saharan Africa perceive exposure to disinformation is high, while trust in national media and social media is low. This lack of trust can lead to uninformed choices and decreased ability to make good judgments.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalAfrican Journalism Studies·DateAug 1, 2019

3D printing new parts for our broken hearts

Researchers have developed a new 3D bioprinting technique using rapid changes in pH to create complex collagen-based cardiac structures. The method, called FRESH v2.0, can print tissue architectures up to 10 micrometers resolution and accurately reproduce patient-specific anatomical structures.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 1, 2019

New blood test can detect rejection by antibodies after kidney transplant

Researchers at KU Leuven have developed a non-invasive biomarker for detecting kidney transplant rejection symptoms after a transplant due to antibody-mediated rejection. The new blood test can identify patients with rejection symptoms earlier and more accurately than current methods, which often rely on invasive biopsies.

SourceKU Leuven·JournalEBioMedicine·DateAug 1, 2019
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

A novel graphene-matrix-assisted stabilization method will help unique 2D materials to become a part

Researchers from Russia and Japan have developed a new stabilization method for unique 2D copper oxide materials using graphene, allowing them to exhibit stable rectangular atomic structures. This breakthrough has significant implications for the development of spintronics devices, as these materials show promise in this field.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry C·DateAug 1, 2019

Light for the nanoworld

Researchers have developed a new method to create quantum light sources in atomically thin material layers, which will pave the way for optical circuits and potentially lead to applications such as quantum sensors, transistors, and secure encryption technologies.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 1, 2019

How little we know: Experts document the lack of research on youth firearm injury

A review of 33 years' worth of medical studies reveals key areas for new research to explore. The study found that only a few hundred studies have been published on the topic, many with methodological flaws. Experts recommend more research on larger samples, school- and family-level risk factors, and protective factors.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of Behavioral Medicine·DateAug 1, 2019
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.

Human genetic diversity of South America reveals complex history of Amazonia

A new study explores genetic roots of 26 populations from diverse regions and cultures of western South America and Mexico, revealing long-distance connections between speakers of the same language. Genetic analysis also found a distinct ancestry component in Amazonia present at high frequency in populations from Ecuador and Colombia.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Geoanthropology·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateAug 1, 2019

Sustained police effort explains higher arrests for gun murders

A new study by Duke and Northeastern universities reveals that sustained police efforts lead to higher arrest rates for gun murders compared to nonfatal shootings. The researchers found that persistence in investigating fatal cases results in more arrests due to increased resources and cooperation from witnesses.

SourceDuke University·JournalCriminology & Public Policy·DateAug 1, 2019
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.

Cheater, cheater: Human Behavior Lab studies cheating as innate trait

The study found that individuals are more likely to cheat due to their personal propensity rather than external factors. In the experiment, participants showed no significant change in cheating behavior during periods of scarcity or abundance.

SourceTexas A&M AgriLife Communications·JournalJournal of Economic Behavior & Organization·DateAug 1, 2019

Low level exposure to air pollution is harmful, mouse model shows

Researchers found that even low levels of traffic-related air pollution can cause inflammation and mitochondrial damage in the lungs of mice. The study's results suggest that people living alongside major traffic corridors should be aware of potential respiratory health risks.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·DateAug 1, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Ancient plankton help researchers predict near-future climate

A new study uses ancient plankton fossils to infer temperature data from the Pliocene era, a geological epoch with CO2 levels similar to today's. The findings resolve discrepancies between climate models and other proxy temperature measurements, showing that the Pliocene is a good analog for future climate predictions.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateAug 1, 2019

Bats use leaves as mirrors to find prey in the dark

Researchers found that bats can distinguish insect from leaf by approaching at optimal angles, exploiting echo reflection on leaves. The study has implications for predator-prey interactions and echolocation.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 1, 2019

Police officers' exposure to peers accused of misconduct shapes their subsequent behavior

A Northwestern University study found that police officers who had colleagues previously named in use-of-force complaints were more likely to be named in subsequent complaints. The researchers recommend police departments consider the impact of assigning officers with histories of using excessive force on other officers' behavior.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalCriminology & Public Policy·DateAug 1, 2019

Experimental treatment slows prion disease, extends life of mice

Scientists have developed an experimental treatment using antisense oligonucleotides that slows the progression of scrapie, a degenerative central nervous disease caused by prions, in laboratory mice. Mice treated with the treatment lived 81% longer than untreated mice, with median survival times of up to 250 days.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalJCI Insight·DateAug 1, 2019
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.

Scientists crack the code to improve stress tolerance in plants

Researchers have discovered a novel epigenetic regulation mechanism that improves DNA damage response in plants, enabling them to withstand environmental stresses. The study reveals the role of histone demethylase LDL1 in suppressing RAD54's interaction with chromatin at damaged sites.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalPLANT PHYSIOLOGY·DateAug 1, 2019

Story tips from the Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory, August 2019

The Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory has developed dynamic vision sensors that can interpret live information in real-time, revolutionizing robotics and autonomous vehicle sensing. Additionally, researchers are using additive manufacturing techniques to unlock new potential in tungsten for fusion energy, while also ...

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateAug 1, 2019

Study assesses outcomes for meth users with burn injures

Researchers found that meth-positive patients suffered worse injuries and longer hospital stays, but were more likely to leave against medical advice. The study suggests a need for additional resources and support for these patients to ensure successful recovery.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalJournal of Burn Care & Research·DateAug 1, 2019

Pre-life building blocks spontaneously align in evolutionary experiment

Researchers found that amino acids linked up spontaneously into neat segments under conditions mimicking pre-life Earth. The preference for biological amino acids over non-biological counterparts suggests that early life may have selected a subset of building blocks based on their chemical properties.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 1, 2019
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.

Slip layer dynamics reveal why some fluids flow faster than expected

Researchers used a novel super-resolution microscopy technique to directly observe depletion layers in polymer solutions flowing through microchannels. The study found that changes to the depletion layer dimension occurred at unexpectedly low flow rates, and hydrodynamic lift forces played a key role in this phenomenon.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 1, 2019

Is your supercomputer stumped? There may be a quantum solution

A Berkeley Lab-led team used quantum annealing to solve a tough math problem that stumps even the world's most powerful supercomputers. The algorithm can evaluate multiple variables simultaneously and return the correct solution, potentially revolutionizing fields like systems engineering and operations research.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 1, 2019

Anaemic star carries the mark of its ancient ancestor

A newly discovered ancient star contains a record-low amount of iron, hinting at the nature of the first stars in the Universe. The ultra-metal-poor red giant star has iron levels 1.5 million times lower than that of the Sun.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for All Sky Astrophysics in 3D (ASTRO 3D)·DateAug 1, 2019

Knockout mice are guide to new genes for eye and skin disorders

A team of researchers has identified dozens of genetic mutations linked to rare eye and skin disorders in knockout mice. These discoveries may help clinicians identify equivalent genes in human patients with no known genetic cause.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 1, 2019
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.

US infrastructure unprepared for increasing frequency of extreme storms

A new study finds that US water management systems use outdated design guidelines, leading to more frequent and severe flooding. The researchers analyzed data from over 900 weather stations and found that extreme rainstorms are happening 85% more often in the eastern US than in 1950.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateAug 1, 2019

New approach could make HVAC heat exchangers five times better

Researchers discovered that adding an organic solvent to common water-based turbulent heat exchange systems can boost their capacity to move heat by 500%. This approach achieves 10 times more improvement than other methods, revolutionizing heat exchange in HVAC and large-scale applications. The additive is non-corrosive, non-flammable,...

SourceBrown University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 1, 2019
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.

Largest ever study finds links in epilepsy genes

A massive study involving 17,606 participants has identified rare genetic variations associated with a higher risk of epilepsy. The research found that both severe and less severe forms of the disease share similar genetic features, paving the way for more targeted treatments.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateAug 1, 2019
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.

Mapping the Milky Way in three dimensions

Researchers have charted the Milky Way in three dimensions using thousands of pulsating stars, revealing a warped and twisted stellar disc. The new map provides a broad view of our place among the stars and constrains the previously observed shape of the Galaxy's disk.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 1, 2019
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.

A scientific approach to recreate metabolic evolution in plants

Researchers at Chiba University successfully recreated the metabolic evolution of plants producing alkaloids by inserting a gene into a model plant. This method identifies newly generated substances, including cadaverine, 5-aminopentanal, and δ-valerolactam, which can be used to produce new compounds for drug industries.

SourceChiba University·JournalThe Plant Journal·DateAug 1, 2019

Toxic chemicals hindering the recovery of Britain's rivers

A recent study by Cardiff University and others found that Welsh rivers in urban locations have damaged food chains and fewer species of invertebrates compared to rural rivers. Persistent industrial pollutants like PCBs and PBDEs may be responsible for these effects, persisting despite being phased out.

SourceCardiff University·JournalWater Research·DateAug 1, 2019

Fear of more dangerous second Zika, dengue infections unfounded in monkeys

A study of 21 macaque monkeys found that primary and secondary infections with Zika virus did not amplify symptoms, contradicting previous tissue culture and mouse findings. The study suggests that combining a Zika vaccine with a dengue vaccine may be necessary to prevent enhancement of either virus.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateAug 1, 2019

Research cruise explores carbon cycle in deep ocean in Atlantic

A University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science-led research cruise is exploring the marine carbon cycle in the deep Atlantic Ocean. Scientists are analyzing bacterial diversity and function to better understand how cyanobacteria contribute to the process.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Center for Environmental Science·DateAug 1, 2019
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.

Peering into the soul of the immune system to better fight disease

Researchers discovered T follicular helper cells in blood can reveal immune system events in distant parts of the body. The 'periscope' approach enables a snapshot of whole-body immunity from blood samples, paving the way for personalized treatment plans.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 1, 2019

From Japanese basket weaving art to nanotechnology with ion beams

Scientists at the University of Vienna have developed a method to produce ultradense arrays of magnetic quanta in high-temperature superconductors, inspired by traditional Japanese basket weaving art. The research uses a helium-ion microscope to create complex periodic arrangements with dense defect structures, which can be used to stu...

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalACS Applied Nano Materials·DateAug 1, 2019

Satellite shows Tropical Storm Flossie holding up

Satellite imagery shows Tropical Storm Flossie maintaining its structure with little change from July 31 to August 1. The storm is expected to cross into the central Pacific basin late Friday or early Saturday and begin slowly weakening on Saturday.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 1, 2019
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.

Supercomputing improves biomass fuel conversion

Researchers used supercomputing and nano-imaging to reveal how a 'lignin-first' approach can facilitate the efficient breakdown of plant biomass. The study found that pretreating plant biomass with specific co-solvents, such as tetrahydrofuran and water, can help break down lignin and increase enzyme access to cellulose.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateAug 1, 2019

Veterans with traumatic brain injuries have higher suicide risk

A study of over 1.4 million military veterans found that those with moderate or severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) are more likely to die by suicide, with a significant increase in firearm use as a means of suicide. The researchers emphasize the importance of screening for lifetime history of TBI to prevent future deaths by suicide.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJournal of Head Trauma Rehabilitation·DateAug 1, 2019

From greenhouse gas to fuel

A novel catalysis system reduces carbon dioxide to methane in a single step, eliminating intermediate steps. The system uses copper and nanostructured silver surfaces, yielding higher methane concentrations than copper-only systems.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 1, 2019
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

3D printing the human heart

A team of researchers from Carnegie Mellon University has developed a new technique to 3D bioprint tissue scaffolds out of collagen, allowing them to overcome challenges associated with existing methods and achieve unprecedented resolution and fidelity. The technique, known as Freeform Reversible Embedding of Suspended Hydrogels (FRESH...

SourceCollege of Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University·JournalScience·DateAug 1, 2019

Strong evidence for causal link between obesity and multiple diseases

A new study has established the strongest evidence yet of a causal relationship between obesity and various serious conditions. The research analyzed data from the UK Biobank to assess associations between body mass index (BMI) and disease outcomes in 337,536 people.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalThe Lancet Digital Health·DateAug 1, 2019

Storytelling bots learn to punch up their last lines

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University developed a model for generating story endings that are both relevant and diverse. The algorithm incorporates key words from the early part of the story and rewards rare word usage to create interesting endings.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·DateAug 1, 2019

System to image the human eye corrects for chromatic aberrations

A new imaging system cancels chromatic optical aberrations in individual eyes, allowing for precise assessment of vision and eye health. The technology provides the first objective measurement of longitudinal chromatic aberrations (LCA), which could lead to insights into visual halos, glare, and color perception.

SourceOptica·JournalOptica·DateAug 1, 2019
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.

Promising new solar-powered path to hydrogen fuel production

A team of engineers at Lehigh University has successfully created a catalyst that uses sunlight to split water molecules, producing hydrogen. This process is performed at room temperature and under ambient pressure, making it a promising route towards a renewable energy-based economy.

SourceLehigh University·JournalGreen Chemistry·DateAug 1, 2019

The curious tale of the cancer 'parasite' that sailed the seas

A contagious canine cancer has been found to have originated around 6,000 years ago in Asia and spread globally through maritime activities. The cancer's evolution has revealed unique signatures left by carcinogens, including exposure to UV light, which is also linked to human cancers.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalScience·DateAug 1, 2019

The drug combination effective against bovine leukemia

Scientists have successfully reduced bovine leukemia virus levels in cows by combining an immune checkpoint inhibitor with an enzyme inhibitor, showing promise for controlling other diseases in cattle. The treatment also demonstrated antiviral effects in BLV-infected animals with high viral loads.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalThe Journal of Immunology·DateAug 1, 2019
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.

Can a combination immune therapy reduce genital herpes outbreaks?

Researchers at Yale University have developed a promising combination immune therapy to dramatically reduce the recurrence of genital herpes. The prime-and-pull strategy involves a vaccine and medicated cream that work together to block the virus from spreading.

SourceYale University·Journalnpj Vaccines·DateAug 1, 2019

Study compares HIV, cancer treatments, outcomes in older patients

Researchers compared outcomes in patients with and without HIV who received stage-appropriate cancer treatment after a cancer diagnosis at age 65. The study found no significant difference in overall survival between the two groups, suggesting that age alone may not be a determining factor in cancer treatment outcomes.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateAug 1, 2019
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.

BU study: Youth empowerment program can prevent childhood obesity

A new pilot study led by Boston University School of Public Health found that a youth empowerment program targeting one dietary behavior - replacing sugar-sweetened beverages with water - could prevent obesity risk among youths. The program, which had Worchester youths create their own narratives about reducing sugary drink consumption...

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalInternational Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity·DateAug 1, 2019

'Voltron' imaging tool captures brain cell action in living animals

Researchers have developed a powerful new brain imaging tool called Voltron, which lets them track neuron activity in living animals more precisely and for longer periods than before. Voltron uses an ultra-bright synthetic dye and a specially engineered protein to detect neural signals throughout the brain.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalScience·DateAug 1, 2019

Russian scientists studied the effect of mutations of Alzheimer's disease

Researchers from Peter the Great Saint-Petersburg Polytechnic University found a substance that reduces the negative effect of mutations in genes related to neuronal contact formation. The discovery suggests promising compounds for anti-Alzheimer's drugs.

SourcePeter the Great Saint-Petersburg Polytechnic University·JournalNeuroscience·DateAug 1, 2019

County board of supervisors approves $170 million five-year annual funding for patient care and physician medical education at LAC+USC Medical Center

The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors approved a five-year, $170 million annual funding agreement to provide patient care services and physician medical education at LAC+USC Medical Center. This historic partnership continues the institution's commitment to providing superior medical care to the Los Angeles County community.

SourceUniversity of Southern California - Health Sciences·DateAug 1, 2019
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.

Discovery of distinct lung cancer pathways may lead to more targeted treatments

Researchers at Mayo Clinic have identified two distinct pathways for lung adenocarcinoma development, which can inform treatment strategies and predict patient response. The study's findings suggest that targeting specific pathways may provide alternative treatment options for patients with limited response to traditional therapies.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalCancer Cell·DateAug 1, 2019

Study casts doubt on evidence for 'gold standard' psychological treatments

A new study questions the statistical evidence underpinning therapies designated as 'Empirically Supported Treatments,' finding that only a small number have strong underlying evidence. The researchers assessed 78 ESTs with low power and replicability estimates, highlighting the need for broad-scale reassessment of psychotherapies.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalJournal of Abnormal Psychology·DateAug 1, 2019

ATS publishes clinical guideline on obesity hypoventilation syndrome

The American Thoracic Society has published a clinical guideline on the evaluation and management of obesity hypoventilation syndrome (OHS), a breathing disorder affecting obese individuals. The guideline aims to improve early recognition and effective treatment, reducing morbidity and mortality.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateAug 1, 2019
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Self-sterilizing polymer proves effective against drug-resistant pathogens

Researchers developed an elastic polymer with broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties, effectively killing viruses and drug-resistant bacteria. The polymer's unique molecular architecture attracts water to kill microbes within five minutes, making it a potential solution for hospital-acquired infections.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalMaterials Horizons·DateAug 1, 2019

Improving outcomes for sepsis patients

A national study found that combining early home health nursing with at least one outpatient physician visit after hospital discharge reduces the risk of 30-day hospital readmission for sepsis patients. The intervention facilitates coordinated care planning and early surveillance, resulting in improved outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Nursing·JournalMedical Care·DateAug 1, 2019

New computational method could advance precision medicine

Scientists have developed a new computational method that reveals genetic patterns in individual cells, enabling the diagnosis of specific genetic defects and potentially rectifying them with CRISPR. This breakthrough advances precision medicine by providing personalized treatment options for patients with unexplained infertility.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·DateAug 1, 2019

Turtle embryos play a role in determining their own sex

Researchers found that turtle embryos can move around to find optimal temperatures, influencing their own sex determination. This behavior may help turtles buffer the effects of climate change by producing a balanced sex ratio.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 1, 2019
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.

Heterophase nanostructures contributing to efficient catalysis

Researchers have developed amorphous/crystalline heterophase PdCu nanosheets with high chemoselectivity and catalytic activity. The phase transformation behavior of these nanosheets affects their properties, leading to improved catalysis in hydrogenation reactions.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateAug 1, 2019

Argonne-led center receives award for pivotal discovery in battery technology

The Argonne-led Center for Electrochemical Energy Science has developed two new electrode technologies that use graphene to improve lithium-ion battery properties. These advancements have led to increased power, lifetime, and safety, as well as the ability to function at low temperatures, critical for electric vehicles in cold regions.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·DateAug 1, 2019

Treatment for liver disorder in pregnancy ineffective, finds new study

A new study has found that ursodeoxycholic acid, the current recommended treatment for intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy, is ineffective in preventing preterm birth and stillbirth. The trial of 605 pregnant women with ICP found no meaningful improvement in outcomes with the drug.

SourceKing's College London·JournalThe Lancet·DateAug 1, 2019
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.

Study examines direct-to-consumer stem cell clinics in 6 Southwestern states

The study found that orthopedic, inflammatory, and pain conditions are the main types of medical conditions treated with stem cells at direct-to-consumer stem cell clinics in the Southwest. The researchers also identified differences in the degree to which listed expertise matches the medical conditions treated with stem cells.

SourceCell Press·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateAug 1, 2019

Hubble uncovers a 'heavy metal' exoplanet shaped like a football

The study reveals that hot Jupiter WASP-121b is losing its hydrogen and helium atmosphere due to strong gravity, allowing heavier elements like magnesium and iron to escape. The observations provide insights into the planet's extreme environment and its potential for hosting life.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 1, 2019

EU agriculture not viable for the future

Researchers analyze EU Commission's Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) reform proposals and find they do not reflect public demand for sustainable agriculture or environmental goals. The CAP has the potential to support multiple UN Sustainable Development Goals but currently only contributes to two of them.

SourceGerman Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig·JournalScience·DateAug 1, 2019
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.

Autopsies reveal how meth hurts the heart

Autopsies reveal that meth users have increased deposits of collagen in the heart muscle, leading to irreversible damage and an enlarged heart. The study suggests that monitoring heart function is crucial for early detection and prevention of further deterioration.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateAug 1, 2019

Levels of 'ugly cholesterol' in the blood are much higher than previously imagined

Research from the University of Copenhagen found that remnant particle cholesterol in the blood is constantly increasing and often remains at a high level for life. Maintaining a normal body weight is key to reducing remnant cholesterol and triglycerides, according to experts.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalAtherosclerosis·DateAug 1, 2019

Drop of ancient seawater rewrites Earth's history

A team of scientists used a microscopic drop of ancient seawater to show that plate tectonics on Earth began 3.3 billion years ago, 600 million years before the previous estimate. This discovery provides insight into the first stages of plate tectonics and the start of stable continental crust.

SourceUniversity of the Witwatersrand·JournalNature·DateAug 1, 2019

Priority rule for organ donors could have unintended consequences

A recent study from the University of Texas at Austin suggests that a priority rule for organ donors could lead to a decline in the quality of donated organs. The researchers propose a solution of a 'freeze period' to ensure a higher organ supply without compromising quality.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalManagement Science·DateAug 1, 2019
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.

Using organisms to decontaminate soil

A German university-led research project is investigating and testing biological methods for remediating soils contaminated with metal. The goal is to find the best combination of fungi and trees to convert heavy metals into biominerals or remove them from the soil.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·DateAug 1, 2019
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.

How roads can help cool sizzling cities

A Rutgers-led study shows that permeable concrete pavement can reduce pavement temperature by up to 30% and reflect more heat than asphalt pavement. The design improves with high thermal conductivity, further reducing heat output.

SourceRutgers University·JournalJournal of Cleaner Production·DateAug 1, 2019

Barn owls may hold key to navigation and location

Researchers recreated barn owl brain circuitry in electronics, mimicking the ability to locate prey using sound to within one to two degrees. The electronic circuit can supersede the owl's precision by orders of magnitude and may lead to more accurate and energy-efficient navigation devices.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 1, 2019

Experimental respiratory syncytial virus vaccine prompts antibody surge

A novel RSV vaccine candidate, DS-Cav1, has shown early promise in a Phase 1 clinical trial, prompting large increases in RSV-neutralizing antibodies. The vaccine induced a sevenfold increase in neutralizing antibody levels after a single dose of 50 μg and a 12-fold surge with a dose of 150 μg.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalScience·DateAug 1, 2019

How microorganisms protect themselves against free radicals

Researchers discovered a new mechanism by which microorganisms protect themselves against highly reactive molecules known as free radicals. By accumulating lysine and altering their metabolism, yeast cells can produce antioxidant glutathione, increasing their resistance to cell damage.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalNature·DateAug 1, 2019

Cancer without end? Discovery yields fresh insights

Researchers have identified a contagious form of cancer in dogs, known as CTVT, which has persisted for thousands of years. The study reveals that cancer cells can evolve and stabilize over time, offering new insights into human cancer development and treatment.

SourceArizona State University·JournalScience·DateAug 1, 2019

Key to North Texas' future? Making the watershed sustainable

A workshop at the University of Texas at Arlington aims to develop a holistic approach to urban watershed management in North Texas. The event will bring together experts from various disciplines to discuss the environmental impacts of infrastructure, climate change, and economic growth on the Trinity River Watershed.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateAug 1, 2019