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Science News for August 19, 2019


Global change is triggering an identity switch in grasslands

A new study found that global change is triggering a significant shift in grassland plant species, with many plots experiencing drastic changes despite minimal changes in total species count. This shift could impact the critical services provided by grasslands, including carbon storage and food production.

SourceSmithsonian·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 19, 2019

5 cool technologies your tax dollars are funding

Recent advances in biomedical imaging and bioengineering funded by the NIH include a non-invasive blood glucose monitoring device and a skin patch that monitors blood pressure continuously. Additionally, researchers have developed painless laser scans for breast cancer screening and prosthetic hands with sensory feedback.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Biomedical Imaging & Bioengineering·DateAug 19, 2019

Global change and plant community composition

Grassland plant communities exhibit delayed responses to global change drivers like nutrient pollution, drought, and climate warming. The number of applied anthropogenic factors increases the likelihood of community response.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 19, 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.

Numerical estimation and visual fixation

A study of 27 people found that numerical estimation relies on accumulating quantities across multiple visual fixations. This challenges the long-held assumption that approximate numerical estimation occurs rapidly and in parallel.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 19, 2019

Lipophilic statins associated with significantly reduced liver cancer incidence and mortality

A nationwide cohort study found that lipophilic statin use was associated with significantly lower risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) incident, all-cause death, and liver-related death. The benefits were dose and duration-dependent, with the greatest reduction in HCC risk occurring after at least 600 cumulative defined daily doses.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateAug 19, 2019

Religion associated with HPV vaccination rate for college women

A new study found that 25% of female college students between 18-26 years old have not been vaccinated for HPV, with 70% identifying with a particular religious faith. College students are advised to educate themselves on the importance of HPV vaccination despite their parents' previous opposition.

SourceUniversity of South Florida·JournalJournal of Religion and Health·DateAug 19, 2019

Peer influence, social networks might be leveraged to aid gun violence reduction efforts

A Northwestern University study found that the Violence Reduction Strategy (VRS) program reduced gunshot victimization among participants by 3.2 percentage points, with spillover effects reducing victimization among their peers by 1.5 percentage points. These findings suggest that social networks can be leveraged to enhance gun violenc...

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateAug 19, 2019

New clues on stem cell transplant rejection revealed in study

Scientists found that mutations in mitochondrial DNA can induce an immune response, leading to the rejection of stem cell transplants. The study used hybrid stem cells with nuclear and mitochondrial DNA from different sources and showed that even a single mitochondrial mutation can trigger an immune response.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateAug 19, 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.

A novel T-cell subset associated with type 1 diabetes

A recent study at University of Eastern Finland discovered a novel T-cell subset, peripheral helper T cells, associated with the onset of type 1 diabetes. These cells were found to be more frequent in children who later developed the disease and those with autoantibodies indicating genetic risk.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalDiabetologia·DateAug 19, 2019

Reassessing nuclear safety

A recent study reassesses nuclear safety by prioritizing both objective and subjective risks, aiming to reduce psychological and physical trauma. The guidelines advocate for improved system resilience and shift towards systems-thinking in risk assessment.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 19, 2019

Comparing your house to your neighbors' can lead to dissatisfaction

A new study by Iowa State University researcher Daniel Kuhlmann found that people are more likely to be dissatisfied with their homes if they are smaller than their neighbors'. This phenomenon, known as positional housing concerns, suggests that people's perceptions of their own homes are influenced by the size of their neighbors' houses.

SourceIowa State University·JournalHousing Studies·DateAug 19, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Scientists uncover mystery of DNA methylation

Researchers at Technical University of Denmark have developed a method to quickly couple enzymes with specific methylation patterns, revealing which enzymes are responsible for certain patterns. This discovery holds great promise for improving DNA transformation and introducing foreign DNA into host organisms.

SourceTechnical University of Denmark·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 19, 2019

Physical activity in adolescence and later life reduces the risk of colorectal adenoma

A study analyzing data from almost 30,000 nurses found that physical activity in adolescence and later life cumulatively reduce the risk of advanced adenomatous polyps, a precursor to colorectal cancer. The study showed that adequate physical activity in both adolescence and adulthood reduces the risk by 39%.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalBritish Journal of Cancer·DateAug 19, 2019

Chinese Americans face increased risk of elder abuse, Rutgers studies find

A new Rutgers study reveals that Chinese Americans are disproportionately affected by elder abuse, with a history of child abuse increasing the risk of intimate partner violence and psychological abuse. The research highlights the need for culturally customized care to interrupt the cycle of violence affecting older minorities.

SourceRutgers University·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateAug 19, 2019

Lab-on-a-chip drives search for new drugs to prevent blood clots

A tiny lab-on-a-chip can screen hundreds of drug compounds in just a few hours, revealing their effect on blood and quickly identifying those with potential clinical use. The technology accelerates the discovery and development of new anti-clotting therapies, potentially improving heart attack and stroke prevention.

SourceRMIT University·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateAug 19, 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.

New lipid signaling target may improve T cell immunotherapy

Researchers have identified a new lipid signaling pathway that regulates T cell function and differentiation, leading to improved T cell-mediated immunotherapy against cancer cells. By depleting SphK1, the pathway inhibits Treg differentiation and promotes a Tcm phenotype, reducing tumor size and mortality in preclinical models.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalCell Reports·DateAug 19, 2019

New study offers roadmap for detecting changes in the ocean due to climate change

A new study published in Nature Climate Change offers a roadmap for detecting changes in the ocean due to climate change. The research found that sea temperature rise and ocean acidification have already emerged, while other impacts such as changes in ocean microbes will take several decades to a century to appear.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalNature Climate Change·DateAug 19, 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.

Mississippi River diversions: Driving land gain or land loss?

A new study finds that Mississippi River diversions lead to more land loss rather than gain due to increased nutrient availability and flooding. The research suggests that the $5 billion planned future diversions may do more harm than good through unintended consequences.

SourceLouisiana State University·JournalRestoration Ecology·DateAug 19, 2019

Binge drinking may be more damaging to women

A recent study published in the Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics found that female rats who binge drink experience more severe liver injury than male rats. The research discovered nearly four times as much fatty build-up in the livers of female rats, triggering additional inflammation and damage.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics·DateAug 19, 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.

National livestock movement bans may prove economically damaging

A recent study by the University of Warwick suggests that national livestock movement bans may be economically damaging in controlling Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) and bluetongue virus (BTV). The researchers propose that a more localized movement ban could achieve similar disease control outcomes with lower economic costs.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalNature Sustainability·DateAug 19, 2019

A second planet in the Beta Pictoris system

A team of astronomers has discovered a second giant planet, β Pictoris c, in the Beta Pictoris system. The exoplanet has a mass nine times that of Jupiter and completes its orbit in approximately 1,200 days. This detection marks the first time a planet has been found around a star like β Pictoris using the radial velocity method.

SourceCNRS·JournalNature Astronomy·DateAug 19, 2019

How NASA is becoming more business friendly

NASA has implemented three initiatives to make it easier for small businesses to collaborate with the agency, including an annual Request for Information and Industry Day events. These efforts aim to increase commercialization of innovations and improve collaboration between NASA and the small business community.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalAstrobiology·DateAug 19, 2019

Are attitudes contagious?

A Northwestern University study found that people acquire attitudes toward individuals based on nonverbal signals, including implicit biases. The researchers discovered that participants attributed their negative attitudes to the target's behavior rather than the observer's actions, highlighting the importance of considering the role o...

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateAug 19, 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.

Optic nerve stimulation to aid the blind

Scientists have developed a new type of intraneural electrode called OpticSELINE, which stimulates the optic nerve and sends messages directly to the brain. This innovative approach bypasses the eyeball entirely, offering a promising solution for restoring sensory function in the blind.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateAug 19, 2019

Study examines maternal exposure to fluoride in pregnancy, kids' IQ scores

An observational study found a significant association between maternal urinary fluoride concentrations and lower IQ scores measured in children aged 3-4. Maternal exposure to 1-mg/L of fluoride was associated with a 4.5-point lower IQ score in boys, while a higher intake of fluoride was linked to a 3.7 point lower IQ score among both ...

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateAug 19, 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.

Microgravity changes brain connectivity

A study found that microgravity impacts brain connectivity in cosmonauts, changing sensorimotor functions like movement and body position perception. The brain develops an auxiliary system relying on visual and tactile feedback to compensate for limited vestibular input.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalFrontiers in Physiology·DateAug 19, 2019

Targeting cell division in pancreatic cancer

Researchers found that abemaciclib, a chemotherapeutic agent effective in breast cancer, has synergy when combined with HuR and YAP1 inhibitors to inhibit cell growth. The study suggests new targets for improving the efficacy of this drug and overcoming drug resistance in pancreatic cancer.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalMolecular Cancer Research·DateAug 19, 2019

Regulating blood supply to limbs improves stroke recovery

Researchers found that remote ischemic limb conditioning increased inflammatory cells in circulation, reducing brain tissue damage and swelling while improving motor function. The technique has potential for treating strokes of varying severity, offering hope for improved recovery outcomes.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateAug 19, 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.

Study analyzes outcomes of dual antiplatelet therapy after minor stroke or TIA

The study analyzed combined patient-level data from two randomized clinical trials to examine the effectiveness of dual antiplatelet therapy in patients who experienced a minor stroke or transient ischemic attack. The results indicate that treatment with clopidogrel and aspirin can improve outcomes for these patients.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateAug 19, 2019

Blocking inflammatory pathway key to preventing brain metastasis from melanoma

Researchers at Tel Aviv University discovered that tumor cells 'hijack' an inflammatory pathway in the brain to spread melanoma, and blocking this pathway could prevent brain metastases. The study found that inhibiting the expression of a specific receptor on melanoma cells significantly inhibited the development of brain metastases.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalCell Reports·DateAug 19, 2019

ACP releases paper on methods for managing conflicts of interests in clinical guidelines

The American College of Physicians (ACP) has developed a rigorous process for disclosing interests and managing conflicts of interest to ensure transparency, proportionality, and consistency in clinical guideline development. The process applies to all individuals involved in ACP's clinical guidelines and guidance statements.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateAug 19, 2019

Circulation of water in deep Earth's interior

Scientists have made a groundbreaking discovery about the deep Earth's interior, determining the phase boundary for the transportation of water. The new phase H MgSiO4H2 has been identified and its decomposition process explained, shedding light on the complex geodynamics at play.

SourceEhime University·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateAug 19, 2019

Black hole holograms

Japanese researchers propose a novel holographic framework to simulate black holes with a laboratory experiment. This setup can provide insight into the fundamental laws governing the cosmos at both tiny and vast scales.

SourceOsaka University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 19, 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.

Research shows TCOM and osteopathic approach making a difference

A 2 ½-year study found that osteopathic physicians' empathetic approach reduces pain catastrophizing and disability among patients with chronic pain. Osteopathic physicians are also less likely to prescribe opioids, aligning with CDC guidelines.

SourceUniversity of North Texas Health Science Center·JournalThe Journal of the American Osteopathic Association·DateAug 19, 2019

Bone particles in blood

Researchers have discovered bone-like particles in the peripheral circulation of individuals with advancing age, which may lead to vascular calcification and restricted blood flow. These particles are potentially more dangerous due to their sharp edges and could contribute to diseases such as heart attack and stroke.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalMicrocirculation·DateAug 19, 2019

AJR publishes gender affirmation surgery primer for radiologists

The article provides a comprehensive overview of gender affirmation surgical therapies encountered in diagnostic imaging. It defines normal postsurgical anatomy and describes select complications using a multidisciplinary, multimodality approach. Key findings include the importance of regular prostate cancer screening for trans-female ...

SourceAmerican Roentgen Ray Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·DateAug 19, 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.

Lithium fluoride crystals 'see' heavy ions with high energies

Researchers have found that lithium fluoride crystals can detect tracks of heavy ions with high energies, including iron. The crystals work like photographic film and can accurately reproduce the path of a particle.

SourceThe Henryk Niewodniczanski Institute of Nuclear Physics Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalJournal of Luminescence·DateAug 19, 2019

Wired for sound: A third wave emerges in integrated circuits

Researchers have developed a new generation of integrated circuits that utilize the interaction between light and sound to revolutionize 5G networks, sensor systems, satellite communication, radar systems, and radio astronomy. This third-wave technology offers immense technological applications and opportunities for pure scientific inv...

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalNature Photonics·DateAug 19, 2019

How coastal mud holds the key to climate cooling gas

New research reveals that bacteria in coastal mud produce vast amounts of dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP), a climate-cooling gas. This finding challenges the long-held assumption that DMSP is mainly produced by photosynthetic algae in ocean surface waters.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalNature Microbiology·DateAug 19, 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.

Kickstarting solutions

The Stanford Woods Institute has awarded grants totaling $16 million to support research projects addressing major environmental challenges. These interdisciplinary initiatives aim to combat air pollution, mine wastewater for valuable resources, reduce food waste, and investigate the causes of chronic kidney disease.

SourceStanford University·DateAug 19, 2019

These migratory birds will risk their lives for a good nap

Researchers found that migratory songbirds sleep differently depending on their condition, trading off safety for lower energy expenditure. Birds in poor condition sleep with their head tucked in, while those in good condition keep their head facing forward, exposing them to a higher predation risk.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 19, 2019

Drawing inspiration from natural marvels to make new materials

UD researchers create a network of synthetic materials mimicking the mechanical gradient of a bristle worm's jaw system, governing its mechanical properties through metal coordination chemistry. This breakthrough enables the development of new materials for various applications, including soft robotics and medical devices.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalEuropean Polymer Journal·DateAug 19, 2019

When a diseased liver disrupts the brain

Researchers have discovered that chronic liver diseases can cause cerebral molecular disturbances as early as two weeks after liver malfunction, even without physical symptoms. The study found two new molecules involved in the disease process: creatine and vitamin C.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalJournal of Hepatology·DateAug 19, 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.

Lighting up proteins with Immuno-SABER

A team at Harvard's Wyss Institute developed Immuno-SABER, a DNA-based signal amplification method that allows for the multiplexed visualization of many proteins in single cells. The approach enables independent tuning of signal intensity and simultaneous detection of multiple proteins with high sensitivity and speed.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateAug 19, 2019

Innovative valve train saves 20% fuel

The new electrohydraulic valve train achieves significantly lower energy requirements and flexible gas exchange, adapting to changing fuel properties and enabling easier implementation of renewable fuels. The system also features an oil-free cylinder head, utilizing a water-glycol mixture for fast-switching hydraulic systems.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalMTZ worldwide·DateAug 19, 2019

Melanin variation among species through time

The study found that melanosome size and geometry vary between species and organs within a species. Melanosomes from fossils differ significantly in size, geometry, and chemistry depending on body region, suggesting a role for melanosomes in metal metabolism and providing new insights into extinct vertebrate anatomy.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 19, 2019

New tool makes web browsing easier for the visually impaired

Researchers developed VERSE, a voice assistant that merges screen reader capabilities with virtual assistants, enabling free-form web searches and enhanced navigation. The tool allows users to access articles, news, and related searches, and navigate through words, sentences, or paragraphs with ease.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·DateAug 19, 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.

Montana examines best practices for wildfire adaptation and resilience

A recent paper by Montana State University researchers highlights the need for communities to adapt and transform themselves to be more resilient to wildfires. The authors argue that current approaches are not working, especially as fire seasons get warmer and longer.

SourceMontana State University·JournalNature Sustainability·DateAug 19, 2019

Spinning lightwaves on a one-way street

Researchers at Purdue University have successfully created a quantum spin wave for light that only flows in one direction. This breakthrough has significant implications for future nanotechnologies, enabling information to be transmitted securely and efficiently.

SourceDe Gruyter·JournalNanophotonics·DateAug 19, 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.

Case studies suggest that 'red flag' laws play a role in preventing mass shootings

A new study examines the effectiveness of extreme risk protection orders (ERPOs), also known as 'red flag' laws, in preventing mass shootings. The research analyzed 21 cases and found that ERPOs had prevented all threatened shootings, with no other homicides or suicides by persons subject to the orders.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateAug 19, 2019

Police less proactive after negative public scrutiny, study says

A new study found that police officers become less proactive when they perceive negative public scrutiny, even if they are motivated to help people. The researchers surveyed 183 police officers and 238 firefighters across the southern US, finding a significant link between perceived public understanding and officer proactivity.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalOrganizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes·DateAug 19, 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.

Towards an 'orrery' for quantum gauge theory

Researchers have made substantial progress in engineering quantized gauge fields coupled to ultracold matter, a versatile platform for tackling complex problems in physics. By controlling the Peierls phase, neutral atoms can mimic charged particles moving in magnetic fields.

SourceETH Zurich Department of Physics·JournalNature Physics·DateAug 19, 2019

University of Michigan study indicates negative outcomes for Native American children who are spanked

A new University of Michigan study found that spanking is harmful for all three racial groups, despite cultural differences. Spanking at age 1 predicts child behavior issues at age 3, leading to more spanking at age 5. The study's findings highlight the need for discipline alternatives to spanking in Native American communities.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalJournal of Interpersonal Violence·DateAug 19, 2019

Glacial meltwater consumes carbon dioxide

Researchers discovered that glacial meltwaters in Canada are a net carbon dioxide sink due to consumption of CO2 in mineral weathering. This finding suggests that glacial meltwaters globally may also act as unrecognized sinks of atmospheric carbon dioxide.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 19, 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.

Uncertainty in emissions estimates in the spotlight

Researchers investigated uncertainty in greenhouse gas emissions estimates, highlighting seven key issues that dominate current understanding. They emphasized the need for a holistic systems view and communicating uncertainties to policymakers and the public.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalMitigation and Adaptation Strategies for Global Change·DateAug 19, 2019

How ergonomic is your warehouse job? Soon, an app might be able to tell you

Researchers at the University of Washington have developed an algorithm that can monitor factory and warehouse workers' behavior in real-time, providing risk scores and suggestions for improving ergonomics. The app will alert workers to high-risk actions and provide feedback on how to modify their behaviors.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalIEEE Robotics and Automation Letters·DateAug 19, 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.

Practice, task performance, and age

A large-scale study of online task-switching game users reveals that practice enhances relevant task activation time, yet has little effect on deactivation time. Older adults benefit from extensive practice, with improved performance comparable to younger individuals.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 19, 2019

Variation in the shape of speech organs influences language evolution

Research at Max Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics found that slight variations in vocal tract anatomy impact vowel pronunciation, while cultural transmission amplifies these differences. This study sheds light on individual variation in speech and its role in shaping languages.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateAug 19, 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.

Lab-based dark energy experiment narrows search options for elusive force

Researchers at Imperial College London and the University of Nottingham have tested the possibility of a fifth force acting on single atoms, finding no evidence for its existence. This rules out popular theories of dark energy that modify the theory of gravity, leaving fewer places to search for the elusive force.

SourceImperial College London·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 19, 2019

Insomnia tied to higher risk of heart disease and stroke

Research reveals insomnia is tied to a higher risk of coronary artery disease, heart failure, and ischemic stroke. Genetic variants for insomnia were found to be associated with significantly higher odds of these conditions, emphasizing the importance of addressing sleep disorders.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalCirculation·DateAug 19, 2019

Brain representation of written words

A study with 24 participants aged 18-30 used fMRI scans to map brain areas involved in reading written words in two artificial alphabets. The results showed a hierarchy of brain regions, with posterior regions encoding letter position within words and left mid-to-anterior regions processing phonological and semantic information.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 19, 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.

Football scores a health hat-trick for 55- to 70-year-old women with prediabetes

A new study from the University of Southern Denmark shows that football is a surprisingly efficient type of physical training for female prediabetes patients, resulting in broad-spectrum improvements in cardiovascular, metabolic and musculoskeletal fitness. The exercise intensity and effects were similar in women and men, with impressi...

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark Faculty of Health Sciences·JournalEuropean Journal of Applied Physiology·DateAug 19, 2019

Increased risk of psychiatric disorders in children with IBD

A new study from Karolinska Institutet in Sweden reveals that children with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) are at a higher risk of developing psychiatric disorders. The study found that approximately 17% of children with IBD were given a psychiatric diagnosis, compared to 12% of healthy children and 10% of siblings.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateAug 19, 2019

Increasing blood pressure medications at hospital discharge may pose serious risk

A study by UCSF researchers found that intensifying antihypertensives at hospital discharge may increase falls, fainting and acute kidney injury without long-term benefits. Patients who received intensified medications had a higher risk of readmission and medication-related serious adverse events within 30 days.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateAug 19, 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.

Researchers find hurricanes drive the evolution of more aggressive spiders

Researchers at McMaster University found that extreme weather events like hurricanes can drive the evolution of more aggressive spiders in storm-prone regions. Colonies with more aggressive foraging responses produce more egg cases and have more spiderlings survive into early winter after tropical cyclones.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateAug 19, 2019

Facts and stories: Great stories undermine strong facts

Stories undermine strong facts by disrupting people's ability to process information in an elaborated manner. When facts are weak, stories embedded within them lead to greater persuasion than facts alone, but when facts are strong, the opposite effect occurs.

SourceSociety for Personality and Social Psychology·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateAug 19, 2019

Burning invasive western juniper maintains sagebrush dominance longer

A study published in Ecology and Evolution found that prescribed burns of invasive western juniper increase the time native mountain sagebrush remains dominant by 44 percent compared to cutting juniper back. This approach can provide better long-term habitat for endangered sage-grouse.

SourceUS Department of Agriculture - Agricultural Research Service·JournalEcology and Evolution·DateAug 19, 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.

Single event or epidemic?

Long-term data analysis reveals non-infected regions have a higher risk of infection due to seasonal changes in movement patterns. The study emphasizes the importance of focusing on specific individuals, seasons and areas to prevent future outbreaks.

SourceForschungsverbund Berlin·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·DateAug 19, 2019

Facial recognition technique could improve hail forecasts

Scientists trained a deep learning model to recognize features of individual storms that affect hail formation and size, improving prediction accuracy by up to 10%. The study highlights the importance of considering a storm's entire structure in hail forecasting.

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·JournalMonthly Weather Review·DateAug 19, 2019

Genetic risk is associated with differences in gut microbiome

A recent study published in Nature Communications found that children with high genetic risk of developing type 1 diabetes have distinct gut microbiomes compared to those with low risk. The research suggests a link between genetic predisposition and environmental factors, highlighting the importance of the gut flora in autoimmune disea...

SourceLinköping University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 19, 2019

The substance found in brown coal can help combat viruses

Scientists from Skoltech identified substances with antiviral activity in humic substances extracted from brown coal, highlighting the potential of natural compounds for creating new drugs. The study's results show that flavonoids and polyphenols may be responsible for virucidal activity.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 19, 2019

NIH study in mice identifies type of brain cell involved in stuttering

A recent NIH study using a mouse model of stuttering identified the loss of astrocytes as a critical brain cell type involved in the disorder. The research found that this loss was most prominent in the corpus callosum, a part of the brain that bridges the two hemispheres. This discovery could lead to novel interventions for stuttering...

SourceNIH/National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 19, 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.

Skeleton formation in early animals

Researchers discovered that crystallization by particle attachment (CPA) is a common skeletal formation mechanism among diverse animal taxa. This structure was found in some of the oldest known calcium carbonate skeleton fossils, dating back 500 million years or older.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 19, 2019

Personality traits and entrepreneurship

A study surveyed 1,334 entrepreneurs and startup employees, finding that entrepreneurs exhibit high affinity for financial risk and self-efficacy. Inventor employees rated themselves lowest, while CEO/leaders fell in the middle, with high-risk tolerance predicting participation in a $2,000 gift card drawing.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 19, 2019

A laser-driven programmable non-contact transfer printing technique

Researchers developed a novel laser-driven programmable non-contact transfer printing technique that eliminates temperature increases and enables precise assembly of micro-scale objects. This innovation opens up engineering opportunities in flexible electronics, paper-based electronics, bio-integrated electronics, and MicroLED displays.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateAug 19, 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.

Traumas change perception in the long term

Traumatized individuals exhibit altered brain activity in response to touch stimuli, leading to a greater social distance towards strangers. The study suggests potential therapeutic avenues for retraining stimulus processing.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateAug 19, 2019

Potential treatments for citrus greening

Researchers at Stanford University have discovered a potential treatment for citrus greening, a devastating disease affecting the US citrus industry. By studying a symbiotic bacterium, they found 130 compounds that can inhibit the spread of the disease without harming beneficial bacteria.

SourceStanford University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 19, 2019

Microorganisms build the best fuel efficient hydrogen cells

Researchers at Nara Institute of Science and Technology discovered the proton transfer pathway in nickel-iron hydrogenase, crucial for microorganism energy production. The study provides insights into designing biofuel technologies using nature's model.

SourceNara Institute of Science and Technology·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateAug 19, 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.

Plant size and island habitats

Researchers tested the 'island rule' on plant species colonizing islands in the Southwest Pacific and found that their stature and leaf area followed the rule. However, plant seed size did not conform to the rule, suggesting a more nuanced relationship between island habitats and organismal traits.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 19, 2019

The curious history of the rise and fall of twin beds

Twin beds were initially adopted for their supposed health benefits in the late 19th century, later becoming a symbol of modernity among middle-class couples. Despite this, their popularity waned by the 1960s as attitudes towards intimacy and hygiene shifted.

SourceLancaster University·DateAug 19, 2019

Abiotic methane in fluid inclusions

Researchers discovered abiotic methane in fluid inclusions worldwide, potentially as a major source of methane on Earth. The finding suggests that micro-inclusions may also provide hydrogen and methane elsewhere in the Solar System.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 19, 2019

Common origin identified could bring tooth regeneration potential closer

Researchers have discovered a common origin shared by teeth and taste buds in fish with regenerative abilities. This finding holds potential for bioengineering and dental therapeutics as it suggests that oral organs can be manipulated to express characteristics of different tissue types.

SourceKing's College London·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 19, 2019

Brookhaven completes LSST's digital sensor array

Brookhaven National Laboratory has completed a 3.2 gigapixel digital sensor array for the LSST camera, enabling the capture of the most complete images of our universe. The team successfully built and shipped the final raft to SLAC, marking the end of a 16-year project.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·DateAug 19, 2019

Challenging the totipotency of a zygote

Researchers propose a revised alternative model of mammalian cellular totipotency, highlighting the distinction between genetic and epigenetic aspects. The study's findings suggest that while zygotes are genetically totipotent, they lack epigenetic totipotency and can reprogram to a totipotent state.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalStem Cells and Development·DateAug 19, 2019

SwRI scientists co-author Edwards Aquifer memoir

The book, titled "The Edwards Aquifer: The Past, Present and Future of a Vital Water Resource", compiles research on the aquifer's characterization, hydrogeologic structure, and effects of climate and urbanization. Understanding the aquifer's limitations is key to preserving the resource for future generations.

SourceSouthwest Research Institute·DateAug 19, 2019

Need a mental break? Avoid your cellphone, Rutgers researchers say

Using a cellphone to take a break during mentally challenging tasks depletes the brain and impairs performance. Participants who took phone breaks completed puzzles more slowly and accurately than those with no breaks or those taking paper breaks.

SourceRutgers University·JournalJournal of Behavioral Addictions·DateAug 19, 2019

Birch tar production and Neanderthal technology

Neanderthals produced birch tar as a simple, sticky substance for tool attachment. The method involves burning birch bark next to river cobbles in an oxygenated environment, yielding a useable amount of tar within hours.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 19, 2019

Antacid helps tuberculosis bacteria to survive

Researchers discovered Mycobacterium tuberculosis produces a unique type of antacid that prevents phagosomes from fusing with lysosomes, allowing the bacteria to survive. The mechanism involves the production of 1-tuberculosinyladenosine, an acid that reduces acidity and hinders immune cell digestion.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateAug 19, 2019