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Science News for August 22, 2019


Switching on the Atlantic heat pump

Researchers found that a dramatic increase in North Atlantic salinity caused the Arctic-Atlantic gateway to close, preventing ocean-sinking and kickstarting the modern circulation. The study suggests that changes in the Atlantic conveyor belt could dramatically alter Europe's climate in a future warm world.

SourceStockholm University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 22, 2019

High diversity of harvestmen in Atlantic Rainforest and ancient geological events

The study found that ancient geological events, such as mountain range uplift and river formation, drove the emergence of new species of harvestmen in the southern portion of the Atlantic Rainforest. This discovery challenges the assumption that climate fluctuations are the primary cause of high biodiversity in this biome.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalMolecular Phylogenetics and Evolution·DateAug 22, 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.

Research details impact of energy development on deer habitat use

A study by University of Wyoming scientists found that energy development leads to a significant loss of deer forage due to human disturbance, with indirect losses exceeding direct habitat loss. Deer favor areas with high sagebrush growth but avoid areas near oil and gas infrastructure, resulting in a 10.5% decrease in forage use.

SourceUniversity of Wyoming·JournalEcological Applications·DateAug 22, 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.

Experiments illuminate key component of plants' immune systems

A team of biologists has shed new light on a crucial aspect of the plant immune response, revealing how plant resistance proteins trigger localized cell death. By understanding this mechanism, scientists may develop strategies for engineering disease-resistant crops.

SourceColorado State University·JournalScience·DateAug 22, 2019

Discovery of 'hidden' outbreak hints that Zika virus can spread silently

A genomics study reveals an undetected Zika outbreak in Cuba in 2017, which peaked around the same time international health agencies thought the epidemic was nearing its end. The study uses genomic sequencing and travel patterns to reconstruct virus ancestry and outbreak dynamics, providing insights into how viruses can spread silently.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalCell·DateAug 22, 2019

Preventing tumor metastasis

Scientists at the Paul Scherrer Institute deciphered the structure of CCR7 receptor, which plays a crucial role in cancer cell migration. They identified an artificial molecule that blocks this receptor, preventing signaling protein from triggering a chain reaction leading to cell migration.

SourcePaul Scherrer Institute·JournalCell·DateAug 22, 2019

E-cigs can trigger same lung changes seen in smokers, emphysema

A new UNC School of Medicine study found elevated levels of protease enzymes in e-cigarette users' lungs, similar to those seen in smokers with emphysema. Nicotine is believed to be the cause of this reaction, which could lead to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and shortness of breath.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateAug 22, 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.

The Paleozoic diet: Why animals eat what they eat

A study published in Evolution Letters reveals that many carnivorous species share a common ancestor dating back 800 million years, while herbivory is more recent. The research suggests that animals tend to adopt the same dietary category as their closely related species, implying that switching diets may not be easy.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalEvolution Letters·DateAug 22, 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.

NASA finds Tropical Depression Bailu forms east of Philippines

Tropical Depression Bailu forms in Northwestern Pacific Ocean, located about 674 nautical miles south-southwest of Kadena Air Base, Okinawa, Japan. The storm is moving northwest with maximum sustained winds near 30 knots (34.5 mph/55.5 kph) and expected to make landfall in Taiwan and then southeastern China.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 22, 2019

Training teams for timely NICU evacuation

Children's National Hospital's NICU staff underwent evacuation simulation training to improve their skills and knowledge. The training, which included hands-on practice with mannequins and equipment, resulted in significant improvements in evacuation times and staff confidence.

SourceChildren's National Hospital·JournalThe Journal of Perinatal & Neonatal Nursing·DateAug 22, 2019

Images from the surface of asteroid Ryugu yield clues to its composition

Images taken by Hayabusa2's lander on Ryugu's surface show rocks bearing similarities to primitive meteorites called carbonaceous chondrites, supporting theories that the asteroid formed during a cataclysmic event. The findings also reveal an unusual lack of fine particles or dust on the surface.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 22, 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.

Researchers discover cause of asthmatic lung spasms

By creating a microdevice that mimics the behavior of human airways, researchers have discovered how muscle contraction in the airway causes breathing difficulties in people with asthma. This breakthrough could lead to new treatment strategies for respiratory diseases.

SourceRutgers University·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateAug 22, 2019

Detecting hydrothermal vents in volcanic lakes

Researchers use integrated exploration tools to detect multiple hydrothermal feed zones in Lake Ngozi, Tanzania, by combining bathymetry, thermal mapping and gas emission measurements. The approach provides spatial information on the location of hydrothermal vents, their abundance and current state of activity.

SourceGFZ GeoForschungsZentrum Potsdam, Helmholtz Centre·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 22, 2019

Here's how early humans evaded immunodeficiency viruses

A study using cryoEM revealed the structural effect of a human mutation that made us immune to simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV). The mutation disrupted the ability of an SIV protein to bind human proteins, giving humans a grace period of tens to hundreds of thousands of years without the disease. This finding could provide clues for...

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateAug 22, 2019

Health care workers unprepared for magnitude of climate change

Chronic kidney disease, linked to heat exposure and dehydration, is expected to surge globally as temperatures rise. Climate change also threatens to increase cardiovascular disease, Lyme disease, and other illnesses in vulnerable communities.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateAug 22, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Tracing the evolution of vision

Researchers find that opsin proteins and retinal enzymes have independent biological functions beyond vision, including hearing. This discovery challenges current understanding of eye evolution and highlights the importance of molecular components in multiple sensory pathways.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 22, 2019

Moffitt researchers develop model to personalize radiation treatment

Researchers at Moffitt Cancer Center have developed a model called GARD that uses genomic data to predict the risk of local tumor recurrence and optimize radiation doses for breast cancer patients. The study found that a personalized approach to radiation therapy can reduce overdosing certain patients and improve treatment outcomes.

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalEBioMedicine·DateAug 22, 2019

Anxiety among patient factors linked to more opioid use after surgery

Research from Michigan Medicine identified anxiety as a key factor linked to more opioid use after surgery. The study also found younger age, non-white race, and sleep disturbance to be associated with increased opioid consumption. Clinicians may target these factors to personalize pain management and reduce opioid misuse.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalAnnals of Surgery·DateAug 22, 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.

September's SLAS Discovery issue now available

Quantifying physicochemical properties is crucial for understanding drug interactions and mechanisms. The article highlights the importance of using contemporary methods to improve subpar testing outcomes, enabling better structure-property relationships and accelerated predictive models.

SourceSLAS (Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening)·JournalSLAS DISCOVERY·DateAug 22, 2019

New method classifies brain cells based on electrical signals

Researchers at MIT's Picower Institute have developed a new way to classify brain cells based on electrical signals. By analyzing data from nearly 2,500 neurons, they identified four distinct classes of cells with different properties and functions in various regions of the brain.

SourcePicower Institute at MIT·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 22, 2019

New tool mines scientific texts for fusion protein facts

A new tool called ProtFus screens scientific literature to validate predictions about fusion protein activity, which can help improve personalized cancer treatment. The tool identified 2,908 interactions across 18 cancer types, aiding in the study of alterations of protein networks for individual patients.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateAug 22, 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.

Slow electrons to combat cancer

Ion beams use ions to create complex atomic effects, releasing slow electrons that destroy DNA of cancer cells. Researchers at TU Wien discovered interatomic Coulombic decay, a previously little-observed effect, plays a pivotal role in this context.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·DateAug 22, 2019

Researchers find genetic links to child obesity across diverse ethnic groups

A large-scale study has identified a robust new signal and fine-mapped previously reported genetic variants associated with childhood obesity. The findings suggest that genetic influences on obesity operate across the lifespan and provide valuable insights into potential treatments.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalHuman Molecular Genetics·DateAug 22, 2019

Media Alert: New Articles in The CRISPR Journal

The CRISPR Journal has published new articles on iCas9, a tool that enables precise gene editing without DNA breakage. Researchers also developed BEAT, a computational program to quantify base editing outcomes. Additionally, the journal reported on identifying genetic vulnerabilities in cancer cells via CRISPR-Cas9.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalThe CRISPR Journal·DateAug 22, 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.

Researchers discover how the sun damages our skin

Researchers found that UV radiation damages skin by weakening cell bonds, leading to structural degradation and increased tissue fragility. The study suggests using sunscreen to protect not only against skin cancer but also to maintain skin health and prevent infections.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalJournal of the Mechanical Behavior of Biomedical Materials·DateAug 22, 2019

Revealing the molecular engine that drives pancreatic cancer provides ways to turn it off

A team of researchers at Georgetown University Medical Center has identified a chain of molecules critical for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) growth and survival. Inhibiting this 'Yap' biological network may effectively regress early-stage PDAC, and pairing it with other drugs could halt more advanced stage tumors.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateAug 22, 2019

Cracking a decades-old test, researchers bolster case for quantum mechanics

Researchers have demonstrated a loophole-free Bell test with the measurement settings determined by remote cosmic photons, verifying the completeness of quantum mechanics with high-confidence probability. The experiment closed loopholes that had long confounded tests of quantum mechanics, providing new evidence of quantum interactions.

SourceOptica·DateAug 22, 2019

Switching electron properties on and off individually

Researchers at TU Wien have successfully disentangled the interplay of several electron properties in complex materials. By influencing different characteristics separately, they have uncovered a system where order can be switched on and off individually in relation to two closely interwoven degrees of freedom.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 22, 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.

Computer model could help test new sickle cell drugs

A team of Brown University researchers developed a new computer model to simulate the way red blood cells become misshapen in sickle cell disease. The model can be used to quickly and inexpensively pre-screen new drug candidates, potentially identifying promising treatments for the genetic disorder that affects millions worldwide.

SourceBrown University·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 22, 2019

Scratching the surface of how your brain senses an itch

Researchers have identified a specialized pathway in the spinal cord that transmits mechanical itch signals to the brain. The study, published in Cell Reports, reveals that a specific population of neurons, known as Y1 spinal neurons, play a key role in transmitting these signals.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalCell Reports·DateAug 22, 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.

Nano-thermometer takes temperature inside cells

Researchers developed a fluorescent nano-thermometer that can detect temperature changes inside single cells by monitoring the light-emitting properties of molecular motors. The technique could be useful for identifying cancer cells and measuring the effects of tumor ablation therapy.

SourceRice University·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry B·DateAug 22, 2019

What's killing sea otters? Scientists pinpoint parasite strain

A study from the University of California, Davis, identifies the specific strains of Toxoplasma gondii killing southern sea otters as connected to a bobcat and domestic cats from nearby watersheds. The researchers found that infectious agents can spread from cat feces on land to the sea, harming marine wildlife.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·DateAug 22, 2019

'Malaria cell atlas' reveals gene clusters, possible drug targets

Researchers have created the first high-resolution atlas of malaria parasite gene expression, revealing new insights into gene function and regulation. The Malaria Cell Atlas provides potential targets for future treatments and a better understanding of the spread of drug resistance.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 22, 2019

Study: Climate change could pose danger for Muslim pilgrimage

A new study finds that climate change could make the Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia unsafe for participants due to extreme heat and humidity. The study warns that even with mitigation measures, conditions will become harsher and more dangerous, potentially leading to health problems and fatalities.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateAug 22, 2019

Conflicting consequences of climate change for Arctic nesting geese

Researchers found that climate change has a net zero effect on Svalbard barnacle goose populations, with benefits from warmer springs offset by increased predation. Warmer winters also led to increased egg production and gosling survival, benefiting both geese and predators like Arctic foxes.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateAug 22, 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.

Where are new stars born? NASA's Webb Telescope will investigate

The TEMPLATES team will study four galaxies using gravitational lensing to magnify light and gain insights into star formation. They aim to measure star-formation rates, map galaxy distributions, compare young and old stellar populations, and reveal how galaxies grow over time.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 22, 2019

New insights: Improving function, independence and quality of life of individuals with cerebral palsy

This special issue in the Journal of Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine highlights the importance of multidisciplinary care in managing cerebral palsy. The articles cover various topics, including scoliosis care, goal setting, exercise programs and nutritional care, to improve outcomes for individuals with CP.

SourceIOS Press·JournalJournal of Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine·DateAug 22, 2019

Cell suicide could hold key for brain health and food security

Researchers have discovered common ways human and plant cells bring about cell suicide, which may lead to new treatments for neurodegenerative diseases. The study found that a particular protein plays a crucial role in the breakdown of brain cells across different diseases, paving the way for potential drugs.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalScience·DateAug 22, 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.

Storms on Jupiter are disturbing the planet's colorful belts

Research reveals that storm clouds on Jupiter affect the planet's white zones and colorful belts, changing their flow and even altering their colors. The study tracked the effects of these storms using coordinated observations from six telescopes and NASA's Hubble Space Telescope.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·DateAug 22, 2019

Climate change will alter waves along half the world's coast

Research finds that a warming planet will alter ocean waves along more than 50% of the world's coastlines, leading to significant implications for coastal flooding and erosion. The study projects changes in wave patterns under different climate scenarios, with some areas experiencing increases in mean wave heights and others decreases.

SourceNational Oceanography Centre, UK·JournalNature Climate Change·DateAug 22, 2019

What do criminal justice risk assessments actually assess?

Research from Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health finds that exposure to the criminal justice system increases certain risk factors, including antisocial attitudes and behaviors. This challenges the use of risk assessments for predicting recidivism in individuals without prior system exposure.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalLaw and Human Behavior·DateAug 22, 2019

Map of malaria behavior set to revolutionize research

Researchers have created a detailed map of individual malaria parasite behavior, giving the highest resolution view of malaria parasite gene expression to date. The Malaria Cell Atlas presents possible targets for developing antimalarial drugs, vaccines, and transmission blocking strategies.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalScience·DateAug 22, 2019

Structure of protein nano turbine revealed

Researchers have determined the first atomic structure of the V/A-ATPase family, a key energy machine in cells. The enzyme's structure reveals a turbine-like structure with two or three peripheral stalks and additional connecting protein subunits, enabling greater plasticity and flexibility in its rotation mechanism.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalScience·DateAug 22, 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.

How red-eared invaders are hurting California's native turtles

Scientists removed nearly 200 invasive red-eared sliders from a UC Davis Arboretum waterway to observe the impact on native western pond turtles. The study found that without competition, native turtles gain significant weight and improve health.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalPeerJ·DateAug 22, 2019

Materials scientists build a synthetic system with compartments like real cells

Researchers develop synthetic compartmentalization system that mimics biological functions, allowing for controlled chemical reactions and separation of materials. The system uses electrical charge to regulate the flow of materials and can be used in various applications such as drug delivery, wound treatment, and water purification.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalChem·DateAug 22, 2019

NASA's Aqua satellite finds a weaker Chantal, now a depression

NASA's Aqua satellite detected a weakened Tropical Storm Chantal, now classified as a depression, with strongest storms shifted to the northeast of the center. The storm is moving eastward at 17 mph and is forecast to slow down and make a clockwise loop through the weekend.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 22, 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.

Living cells engineered to be computing and recording devices

Researchers have developed a new technology that uses DNA for information processing and storage in living cells. The DOMINO system enables the deep interrogation of biology and can execute cascades of DNA writing events in response to biological signals.

SourceCell Press·JournalMolecular Cell·DateAug 22, 2019

Yale researchers detect unreported Zika outbreak

Researchers detected a large unreported Zika outbreak in Cuba during 2017, using virus genomics and travel patterns to identify the outbreak. The study suggests that effective mosquito control campaigns can delay outbreaks, emphasizing the need for alternative detection methods when local case reporting is limited.

SourceYale University·JournalCell·DateAug 22, 2019

The case for strategic and managed retreat in the face of climate change

Researchers propose a new approach to climate change adaptation, focusing on strategic and managed retreat in vulnerable areas. This approach aims to maximize social, economic, and environmental benefits by integrating retreat into broader development goals.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 22, 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.

Yet another way dogs help the military; aeromedical patient evacuations

A study by Florida Atlantic University demonstrates the feasibility and efficacy of animal-assisted interventions in reducing stress among military patients undergoing aeromedical evacuation. The results show significant decreases in cortisol levels and improvements in immunoglobulin A levels.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalStress and Health·DateAug 22, 2019

Maximum mass of lightest neutrino revealed using astronomical big data

A team of researchers used innovative approaches to calculate the mass of neutrinos, setting an upper limit for the lightest species for the first time. They combined data from various sources, including galaxy observations and particle accelerator experiments, to arrive at a maximum possible mass of 0.086 eV.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 22, 2019

Quantum gravity's tangled time

Researchers have successfully described what happens when a massive object is placed in a quantum superposition state near clocks, defying classical descriptions. This discovery reveals that quantum time order can arise, leading to new physical effects and potential applications for quantum technologies.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 22, 2019

Temperatures of 800 billion degrees in the cosmic kitchen

The HADES experiment simulates electromagnetic radiation from colliding neutron stars, revealing temperatures of 800 billion degrees Celsius. The research provides insight into the cosmic kitchen for heavy nuclei fusion.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature Physics·DateAug 22, 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.

Biomaterials smarten up with CRISPR

Researchers at Harvard's Wyss Institute develop CRISPR-responsive smart materials that can release bound cargo, change structures, or regulate electric circuits. These materials have potential for novel theranostic strategies, point-of-care diagnostics, and regional monitoring of epidemic outbreaks.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalScience·DateAug 22, 2019

High-precision technique stores cellular 'memory' in DNA

Using a new technique called DOMINO, MIT researchers can store and record complex 'memories' in the DNA of living cells. The system allows for precise editing of DNA bases to encode information, enabling scalable and defined memory systems similar to silicon-based computers.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalMolecular Cell·DateAug 22, 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.

Satellite sees Eastern Pacific Depression 10E form

Tropical Depression 10E has formed in the Eastern Pacific Ocean, with NASA's GOES-West satellite capturing its formation near latitude 15.4 degrees north and longitude 107.3 degrees west. The depression is expected to strengthen over the next couple of days, potentially becoming a tropical storm by tonight and a hurricane by Friday.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 22, 2019

'100-year' floods will happen every 1 to 30 years, according to new flood maps

Researchers at Princeton University have created new maps that predict coastal flooding for every county on the Eastern and Gulf Coasts. The study finds that 100-year floods could become annual occurrences in Northern coastal towns, primarily due to sea level rise. In more southern latitudes, storms are expected to increase in strength...

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 22, 2019

Dyslexia could affect pass rates in UK GP clinical skills exam

A new study found that trainee doctors with dyslexia are less likely to pass the UK GP clinical skills exam, especially if they declare it after failing at least once. The research highlights the need for further investigation into the challenges faced by candidates with dyslexia and potential solutions to support them.

SourceUniversity of Lincoln·JournalMedical Education·DateAug 22, 2019

Genetic diversity couldn't save Darwin's finches

Researchers at the University of Cincinnati discovered that six out of eight extinct Galapagos finch populations had higher genetic diversity than their surviving counterparts. This finding suggests that genetic diversity may not be a reliable predictor of extinction risk for mobile species like finches.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalConservation Genetics·DateAug 22, 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.

Microbiology: Atacama Desert microbes may hold clues to life on Mars

A study in the Atacama Desert found that microbial life can be transported across the hyperarid environment using wind-driven dust particles. This suggests that potential microbial life on Mars may spread similarly, with implications for future research and exploration.

SourceScientific Reports·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 22, 2019

Scurrying roaches help researchers steady staggering robots

Biomechanics researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology used cockroaches' sprints to develop a method for assessing and improving robot locomotion. The new approach focuses on phase-coupling oscillations, allowing it to work with both insect and robotic systems.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 22, 2019

Water availability determines carbon uptake under climate warming: study

A recent study found that water availability in soil determines the direction of carbon-climate feedback, with land carbon uptake increasing below optimal moisture levels and decreasing above them. This discovery provides new insights into the complex relationships between climate change, ecosystem dynamics, and water availability.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 22, 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.

Rising summer heat could soon endanger travelers on annual Muslim pilgrimage

A new study projects that future summers in Saudi Arabia will reach extreme danger heat-stress threshold, posing a significant threat to pilgrims. Climate change mitigation initiatives can help reduce the frequency of such events, but adaptations are still necessary to ensure safe Hajj.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateAug 22, 2019

Brain finds order amidst chaos

Researchers found that individual cortical neurons cannot find order amidst chaotic signals, but the brain averages many neurons' activity for certainty. External inputs can briefly switch networks to a regime of highly reliable spiking, allowing the brain to overcome noise and chaos.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 22, 2019

Clean air for a sustainable future

A new research project, Clean Air for a Sustainable Future, aims to develop a concept to achieve significant reduction in soot concentration. The project brings together environmental, social, and health scientists with NGOs, politicians, and affected citizens to find solutions.

SourceLeibniz Institute for Tropospheric Research (TROPOS)·DateAug 22, 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.

Heavy drinking and HIV don't mix

Researchers found that heavy alcohol consumption is associated with altered immune function among people living with HIV, leading to higher levels of biomarkers linked to mortality. The study highlights the potential harms of heavy drinking on people with HIV and emphasizes the need for further research.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 22, 2019

Visualizing strong magnetic fields with neutrons

Researchers at PSI have developed a new method to precisely measure strong magnetic fields using polarized neutrons. This allows them to visualize and quantify inhomogeneous and anisotropic magnetic fields, with applications in alternators, MRI systems, and other devices.

SourcePaul Scherrer Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 22, 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.

New report finds 100% juice helps improve children's diet quality

A new report by pediatrician Dr. Robert D. Murray supports the inclusion of 100% juice in a healthy diet, citing positive attributes such as retaining key nutrients and bioactives. The study also found that consuming both whole fruit and juice is essential for meeting daily-recommended fruit servings and improving overall diet quality.

SourceKellen Communications - NY·JournalJournal of the American College of Nutrition·DateAug 22, 2019

How our genes and environment influence BMI and height

Researchers discovered that genetic variations influencing body mass index (BMI) are sensitive to environmental conditions, while those affecting human height are stable across environments. This finding could help determine whether specific traits are influenced by genetics or environment.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 22, 2019

The case for retreat in the battle against climate change

Experts propose carefully planned retreat as a tool to achieve societal goals like community revitalization, equity, and sustainability. The approach acknowledges challenges but aims to prepare for long-term adaptation by limiting development in at-risk areas.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalScience·DateAug 22, 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.

Early life on Earth limited by enzyme

A study proposes that the nitrogenase enzyme, essential for photosynthesis, blocked its own activity at 2% atmospheric oxygen levels, stabilizing oxygen levels for nearly two billion years. This negative feedback loop prevented further oxygen production and explains why oxygen levels rose to today's levels.

SourceUniversity College London·DateAug 22, 2019

Systemic failures in public health system led to deaths in elderly patients

A leading public health expert warns of systemic failures in the public health system that led to the deaths of 17 elderly patients. The expert draws parallels with two major incidents in the mid-1980s, highlighting the need for strengthened public health and better links between the NHS and local government.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of the Royal Society of Medicine·DateAug 22, 2019

Bacterial sex drives evolution of microbes to conquer and colonize the gut

A pioneer study published in PNAS reveals that bacterial sex plays a pivotal role in the evolution of the mammalian microbiome. Horizontal gene transfer, facilitated by temperate bacteriophages, is the primary mechanism driving bacterial evolution in a healthy gut.

SourceInstituto Gulbenkian de Ciencia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 22, 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.

CRISPR-responsive hydrogel system offers programmable approach to smart biomaterials

Researchers developed a CRISPR-responsive hydrogel system that can be programmed to release compounds, nanoparticles, or live cells in response to specific DNA targets. The system's sensitivity and versatility make it suitable for various biomedical applications, including tissue engineering, bio-electronics, and biosensing.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 22, 2019

The case for managed retreat

Managed retreat can achieve societal goals like community revitalization, equity, and sustainability. However, barriers include financial constraints and psychological issues, which must be addressed through strategic planning and social programs. Implementing equitable relocation policies is crucial to ensure the most vulnerable house...

SourceStanford University·JournalScience·DateAug 22, 2019

Super-powered immune cells

Researchers are conducting a phase 1 clinical trial using CAR-T cells, which have been shown to attack and kill cancers. The goal is to learn more about how these super-powered immune cells interact with solid tumors to develop effective treatments for various types of cancer.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·DateAug 22, 2019

WPI mathematician is helping NASA spacecraft travel faster and farther

A WPI mathematician is working on a project to develop methods to detect flaws in carbon nanotube materials used in composite rocket fuel tanks. He has developed an algorithm that increases the resolution of density scanning systems nine times, enabling more accurate images of the material's uniformity.

SourceWorcester Polytechnic Institute·DateAug 22, 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.

Shocking rate of plant extinctions in South Africa

According to a study published in Current Biology, 79 plants have been confirmed extinct from South Africa's three biodiversity hotspots since 1700, representing 45.4% of all known plant extinctions from 10 world hotspots. The main drivers for these extinctions are agriculture, urbanisation, and invasive species.

SourceStellenbosch University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 22, 2019

Lower levels of dietary vitamins and antioxidants are linked to frailty in older adults

Researchers from Trinity College Dublin found that lower levels of specific vitamins and antioxidants are consistently associated with frailty in older adults. The study also suggests that micronutrient insufficiencies may act as an easily modified marker for frailty, offering new potential treatments.

SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalJournal of the American Medical Directors Association·DateAug 22, 2019

In a quantum future, which starship destroys the other?

Researchers have discovered that particles and even time itself can exist in a state of superposition, blurring the lines between cause and effect. This phenomenon has significant implications for quantum computing, potentially leading to breakthroughs in operations performance.

SourceStevens Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 22, 2019

Ludwig study identifies an Achilles heel of many types of cancer

A Ludwig Cancer Research study reveals that MYC-driven cancers rely heavily on fatty acid synthesis and can be targeted for treatment. The research provides concrete information for the development of new therapies for a broad spectrum of malignancies.

SourceLudwig Institute for Cancer Research·JournalCell Metabolism·DateAug 22, 2019