Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for August 29, 2019


Pancreas on a chip

Researchers have developed an 'Islet-on-a-Chip' device that integrates organ-on-a-chip and stem-cell technologies to screen insulin-producing cells, test insulin-stimulating compounds, and study the fundamental biology of diabetes. The device makes it easier to monitor islet function and study cell therapies for diabetes.

SourceHarvard University·JournalLab on a Chip·DateAug 29, 2019

ASU/MCC form collaborative USDA urban-agriculture nexus project

The ASU/MCC project aims to develop an experiential learning course, fund master's-level students, and engage the community in addressing challenges at the urban-agriculture nexus. Students will conduct research on topics such as urban agriculture production systems and food safety.

SourceArizona State University·DateAug 29, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Marathoners, take your marks...and fluid and salt!

A new study suggests that marathon runners are at risk of acute kidney injury (AKI) due to fluid and salt losses, rather than core body temperature. Researchers found that managing fluid volume and salt losses with a personalized regimen during training may help reduce the incidence of AKI.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateAug 29, 2019

Warnings on individual cigarettes could reduce smoking

A new study suggests that individual cigarette warnings could be an effective way to discourage smoking among young people and non-smokers. The innovative approach would make health messages more visible and prolonged throughout the consumption experience.

SourceUniversity of Stirling·JournalAddiction Research & Theory·DateAug 29, 2019

Crouching lion, hidden giraffe

Research reveals that giraffes with calves prioritize predator avoidance over food in areas with high lion populations. Human presence also plays a role, with giraffes seeking safety near traditional pastoralist compounds.

SourcePenn State·JournalOecologia·DateAug 29, 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.

Delivering immunotherapy directly to brain tumors

Scientists developed a novel nanotechnology-based approach that successfully delivered checkpoint inhibitors directly to brain tumors, triggering a local immune response and inducing tumor cell death. The treatment has shown promising results in laboratory mice, providing hope for longer survival rates for patients with glioblastoma

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 29, 2019

People's initial immune response to dengue fever analyzed

A study published in Nature Communications reveals that natural killer cells are robustly activated and primed for skin-homing during acute dengue virus infection. This activation had completely disappeared after about two months, providing new insights into the immune system's response to viral infections.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 29, 2019

Providing a solution to the worst-ever prediction in physics

Physicist Lucas Lombriser proposes a new mathematical manipulation of general relativity equations to harmonize theory and observation on the cosmological constant. Theoretical value is 0.704%, close to the best experimental estimate, resolving a 10121-year discrepancy.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalPhysics Letters B·DateAug 29, 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.

Overcome the bottleneck of solid electrolytes for Li batteries

Researchers propose atom-to-atom strategy to address electrode-electrolyte contact issue in solid-state Li batteries. By creating epitaxial interfaces, they achieve intimate contact between solid electrolytes and electrodes, resulting in improved rate performances and energy density.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalMatter·DateAug 29, 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.

Blue Brain finds how neurons in the mouse neocortex form billions of synaptic connections

The Blue Brain researchers have generated statistical instances of the micro-connectome of 10 million neurons, a model spanning five orders of magnitude and containing 88 billion synaptic connections. This model reveals a surprisingly complex structure at cellular resolution, tying together neurons in different regions and at opposite ...

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 29, 2019

Better chemistry through tiny antennae

Researchers at The University of Tokyo have developed a method to actively break chemical bonds using tiny antennae created by infrared lasers. This technique enables selective control over chemical reactions, increasing yields while minimizing unwanted side products.

SourceInstitute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 29, 2019

Entanglement sent over 50 km of optical fiber

Researchers at the University of Innsbruck have successfully transferred quantum entanglement between matter and light over 50 kilometers using fiber optic cables. This achievement paves the way for building inter-city quantum networks, which could enable secure communication and distributed sensor networks.

SourceUniversity of Innsbruck·Journalnpj Quantum Information·DateAug 29, 2019

Extreme mangrove corals found on the Great Barrier Reef

Scientists have found 34 species of coral thriving in mangrove lagoons on the Great Barrier Reef, providing novel information on mechanisms supporting coral resilience to climate change and pollution. The corals have adapted to extreme low pH, low oxygen, and variable temperatures, but at a cost: reduced calcification rates.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalMarine Ecology Progress Series·DateAug 29, 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.

Science to reveal how long highway construction should actually take

A Purdue University team is developing sensors to track concrete strength development in real time, allowing for more precise data on when traffic can use new concrete pavement. This technology has the potential to save millions of dollars each year and reduce traffic by providing engineers with accurate information on concrete maturity.

SourcePurdue University·DateAug 29, 2019

Researchers describe a key protein for Epstein-Barr virus infection

Scientists have discovered a key protein structure that could lead to the development of treatments for Epstein-Barr virus infections. The portal protein plays a crucial role in the virus's DNA entry and exit mechanisms, and understanding its structure may enable the design of virus-specific inhibitors.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 29, 2019

Mechanism of epilepsy causing membrane protein is discovered

A team led by Dr. Lim Hyun-Ho identified a new structure and mechanism of a membrane protein that causes epilepsy and muscle problems. The study reveals four different structures in the ion exchange process for a single CLC protein, expanding our understanding of this protein's functions.

SourceKorea Brain Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 29, 2019

New $27 million grant to focus on the future of biomanufacturing

The project, 'Accelerated Innovation in Manufacturing Biologics (AIM-Bio)', aims to develop new manufacturing processes and train a generation of scientists and engineers. NC State will collaborate with DTU to establish nine research projects focusing on technologies critical to biopharmaceutical manufacturing.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·DateAug 29, 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.

Immortalized blood cell lines enable new studies of malaria invasion

Researchers at the University of Bristol have established a new model system using red blood cells grown in the laboratory to study malaria parasite invasion. They used CRISPR-Cas9 to edit the genome of immature cells, removing a protein critical for invasion and showing that reticulocytes generated from this edited line were completel...

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 29, 2019

Lab-on-a-chip may help identify new treatments for liver disease

Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital developed a lab-on-a-chip platform to study non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) progression. The platform allows for detailed studies of NAFLD's effects on liver cells and evaluates the potential of investigational drugs.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalLab on a Chip·DateAug 29, 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.

Synthesis of UV absorbers from cashew nut shell liquid

A team of researchers successfully synthesized organic UV filters from cashew nut shell liquid, reducing reliance on petroleum-based chemicals. The process showcases the potential of xylochemistry for sustainable chemical synthesis.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalEuropean Journal of Organic Chemistry·DateAug 29, 2019

Arthritis-causing virus hides in body for months after infection

Researchers have developed a way to detect cells infected with chikungunya virus that survive the infection, shedding light on the cause of chronic viral arthritis. The study found that the virus can persist in muscle and connective tissue cells for up to 114 days after infection.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateAug 29, 2019

No genome signature predicts same-sex sexual behavior, GWAS study finds

A recent genome-wide association study involving over 470,000 participants found no meaningful link between genetic variants and same-sex sexual behavior. Instead, thousands of genetic variants with small effects contribute to individual differences in predisposition to the trait.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 29, 2019

Psychosensory electronic skin technology for future AI and humanoid development

A team of researchers from DGIST developed a psychosensory electronic skin technology that can detect pain and temperature sensations like humans. The technology uses zinc oxide nano-wire technology to measure pressure and temperature simultaneously, and can be applied to various tactile systems.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalSoft Robotics·DateAug 29, 2019

UNT Health Science Center receives grant to improve care for older adults

The UNT Health Science Center has been awarded a $3.75 million federal grant to expand its WE HAIL geriatric training program, which aims to prepare healthcare professionals to treat older adults with unique and complex needs. The program, already recognized for its success in serving older Texans, will now be expanded to include addit...

SourceUniversity of North Texas Health Science Center·DateAug 29, 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.

Convection-permitting models better depict the heavy rainfall events in 2016 eastern China flooding

A recent study using convection-permitting models showed improved accuracy in simulating heavy rainfall events in the Yangtze River Basin. The models were found to better reproduce the spatial distribution of precipitation and smaller-scale disturbances, reducing biases compared to global models.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalQuarterly Journal of the Royal Meteorological Society·DateAug 29, 2019

Engineers demonstrate key step in robotic disassembly

Engineers have designed a robotic system to automate the disassembly of component parts, a key task in remanufacturing. The new process can reduce energy and raw materials usage by up to 90% and CO2 emissions by over 80%.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateAug 29, 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.

This protein is how creatures sense cold, researchers discover

Researchers have identified a receptor protein that can detect extreme cold temperatures in creatures. The study found that the glr-3 gene, responsible for making the GLR-3 receptor protein, is required for worms to sense cold temperatures and is evolutionarily conserved across species.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalCell·DateAug 29, 2019

New UN high-seas treaty must close gaps in biodiversity governance

A new UN high-seas treaty could effectively manage all fish species in international waters if it includes measures to address non-targeted species. The proposed treaty must close gaps in biodiversity governance to protect over 95% of deep ocean fish species that currently have no assessments.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateAug 29, 2019

Theory reveals the nature of crystals defects (of silicon carbide)

Researchers developed a new model to study complex defects in silicon carbide crystals, explaining their characteristics on an atomic scale. The work provides a qualitative understanding of the impact of edge dislocations on material properties.

SourceThe Henryk Niewodniczanski Institute of Nuclear Physics Polish Academy of Sciences·DateAug 29, 2019

Cell-free DNA detects pathogens and quantifies damage

A new assay uses cell-free DNA to identify viruses and bacteria in the human body while also quantifying injuries to organs. This test is simple, fast, low-cost, and generalizable enough to identify thousands of pathogens, making it a major step towards personalizing therapy and making organ transplantation safer.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 29, 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.

Changes in ice volume control seabed methane emissions

Researchers link changing ice volumes to deep-sea methane release, revealing three episodes of methane emission over the past 160,000 years. The findings suggest that ice sheet movements activated faults, releasing methane from the seabed.

SourceUiT The Arctic University of Norway·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 29, 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.

UTIA student wins national scholarship from The Wilderness Society

Cristina Watkins, a UTIA doctoral student, has won a national scholarship to study the connection between wilderness areas and diverse societies. Her research focuses on socio-demographic groups' values of wilderness areas and creating accessible opportunities for minority groups in outdoor recreation.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture·DateAug 29, 2019

A new way to measure how water moves

Researchers developed a new method to measure pore structure and water flow in soil, providing more accurate estimates of contaminant movement. This approach has implications for efficient resource use and understanding environmental toxins.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalWater Resources Research·DateAug 29, 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.

Nanostructured material with potential for use in catalyzers

A Brazilian research group, supported by FAPESP, has developed a nanostructured titanium oxide material through electrospinning and atomic layer deposition. The material exhibits high surface area and reacts with UV light to degrade organic matter.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalMaterials Today·DateAug 29, 2019

New funding awarded to two early career scientists

Two Argonne scientists, Ahmet Uysal and Kibaek Kim, have been awarded Early Career Research Program funding to tackle complex challenges in water separation and electric grid modernization. Their research programs will utilize cutting-edge technologies and facilities at Argonne National Laboratory.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·DateAug 29, 2019

The 'inflammation' of opioid use

New research reveals a strong correlation between opioid use, brain inflammation, and negative emotional states during withdrawal. The study found that inflammation in the gut and central amygdala may contribute to the severity of withdrawal symptoms.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalFrontiers in Neuroscience·DateAug 29, 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.

Bacteria feeding on Arctic algae blooms can seed clouds

New research reveals that bacteria from Arctic algae blooms can travel to the atmosphere and seed clouds, impacting global weather patterns. The particles help accelerate ice crystal formation, influencing climate and precipitation patterns.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateAug 29, 2019

Biochar: A better start to rain forest restoration

Researchers at Wake Forest University's Center for Amazonian Scientific Innovation found that biochar combined with fertilizer significantly improved height and diameter growth of tree seedlings. The treatment also increased the number of leaves developed by the seedlings.

SourceWake Forest University·JournalForests·DateAug 29, 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.

Drug resistance signature discovered in Crohn's disease

Researchers at The Mount Sinai Hospital have identified a unique cell signature associated with drug resistance in Crohn's disease patients. This discovery may enable the development of personalized treatment plans and improved patient outcomes.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalCell·DateAug 29, 2019

Researchers demonstrate first all-metamaterial optical gas sensor

The new sensor uses metamaterials to eliminate the need for a dielectric filter, reducing size and energy consumption. It can detect gas concentrations with high sensitivity, using less energy than commercial systems, making it ideal for automotive, consumer electronics, and medical applications.

SourceOptica·DateAug 29, 2019

White matter affects how people respond to brain stimulation therapy

Researchers found that patients with more connected white matter in targeted brain regions respond better to non-invasive electrical brain stimulation, suggesting a potential breakthrough in personalizing the therapy. The study also showed partial reversal of abnormalities in brain activity caused by traumatic brain injury.

SourceImperial College London·JournalBrain·DateAug 29, 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.

New science blooms after star researchers die, study finds

A new study reveals that the deaths of prominent life scientists are followed by an increase in highly cited research by newcomers, with papers by these researchers receiving more citations than those of established scientists.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalAmerican Economic Review·DateAug 29, 2019

University of Alberta researchers discover new biomarker for rare autoimmune disease

University of Alberta researchers have identified a unique biological marker that can predict the course of myasthenia gravis and develop personalized treatment plans. The biomarker, composed of 12 metabolites exclusive to patients with myasthenia gravis, enables early diagnosis and more effective management of the disease.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalMetabolomics·DateAug 29, 2019

MIT's fleet of autonomous boats can now shapeshift

Researchers at MIT have developed a new algorithm that enables the 'roboats' to smoothly reshape themselves as efficiently as possible. The system, designed for Amsterdam's canals, allows groups of linked roboat units to unlatch from one another and reattach to form various structures, such as bridges and stages.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateAug 29, 2019

Lower risk for heart failure with new type 2 diabetes drug

A new study published in The BMJ found that SGLT2 inhibitors, commonly used for type 2 diabetes, reduce the risk of heart failure by 34% compared to another type of diabetes drug. The study also showed a 20% lower risk of death among patients taking SGLT2 inhibitors.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalThe BMJ·DateAug 29, 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.

Family perceptions of end-of-life care for patients with advanced kidney disease

Bereaved family members rate end-of-life care higher for patients who received palliative and hospice care, rather than intensive patterns of life extension. Patients treated with dialysis have more aggressive end-of-life care, which is associated with lower quality ratings.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateAug 29, 2019

Human developmental clock mimicked in a dish

Researchers create a 'clock in a dish' to study human developmental timing, replicating a genetic mutation linked to spondylocostal dysotosis. This breakthrough provides insight into the hard-wired timing within cells and may accelerate cell development for clinical benefit.

SourceMorgridge Institute for Research·JournalCell Reports·DateAug 29, 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.

Gut microbiota linked to organ damage in patients with sepsis

Researchers found altered gut microbiota in sepsis patients, leading to more severe liver damage in mice. The study suggests that transplantation of healthy feces may help treat sepsis in intensive care units.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateAug 29, 2019

DGIST Successfully defined the identity and dynamics of adult gastric isthmus stem cells

Scientists have identified two types of gastric isthmus stem cells with different roles and characteristics in the upper and lower glands. The discovery was made through a joint research project involving South Korea, Austria, and the UK, using advanced techniques such as single-cell transcriptional analysis.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateAug 29, 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.

Global warming may diminish plant genetic variety in Central Europe

A new study published in Nature found that only a few individuals of the thale cress plant have adapted to extreme climate conditions, suggesting a potential collapse of species genetic diversity in Central Europe. This could lead to reduced plant populations unable to survive due to changing precipitation and temperature patterns.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·DateAug 29, 2019

Lack of oxygen doesn't kill infant brain cells, as previously thought

Research published in Journal of Neuroscience shows brief periods of hypoxia persistently disrupt the hippocampus, vital for learning and memory, but brain cells do not die as previously thought. Instead, cells fail to mature normally, reducing long-term potentiation, a cellular basis of learning.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·DateAug 29, 2019

Closing the gap -- a two-tier mechanism for epithelial barrier

Epithelial cells lack claudins but maintain barrier against large molecules via JAM-A; removal of JAM-A disrupts barrier, expanding space between cells. The study challenges traditional views on tight junctions and epithelial barriers.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateAug 29, 2019

'Charismatic carbon'

A study found that seaweed aquaculture has huge potential for carbon sequestration, with suitable area sufficient to render the entire global aquaculture industry carbon neutral. However, farming seaweed alone won't balance emissions from global food production due to cost and growth constraints.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 29, 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 unique conducting state under UV-irradiation

Researchers at Ehime University discovered a molecular insulating crystal that reversibly exhibits metal-like conducting behavior under UV-irradiation. This unique property indicates the existence of other photoexcited states of matter with novel properties.

SourceEhime University·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry C·DateAug 29, 2019

Scientists explore aged paint in microscopic detail to inform preservation efforts

Researchers used X-ray imaging and nanoscale techniques to analyze the chemical processes involved in aging oil paints. The study found that metal soaps can cause deterioration in artworks, particularly those composed of oil paints. The findings have implications for art conservation and potential solutions to prevent further damage.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateAug 29, 2019

Parenting stress may affect mother's and child's ability to tune in to each other

A study found that mothers with higher levels of parenting stress have reduced brain activity synchronization with their children in the prefrontal cortex, a region linked to understanding others' point of view. This suggests that excessive parenting stress can weaken mother-child communication and relationships.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 29, 2019

Getting to the root of how plants tolerate too much iron

Scientists have identified a major genetic regulator of iron tolerance, called GSNOR, which enables plants to grow in environments with high iron levels. The discovery could lead to crop species that thrive in soils with excess iron, improving food security and yields.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 29, 2019

What a Virginia wildflower can tell us about climate change

Researchers found that American bellflowers' colonization of new areas led to beneficial adaptations, such as self-fertilization, but also detrimental mutations reducing overall vigor. This study draws attention to climate change's potential legacies and the inherent perils of species expansion.

SourceUniversity of Virginia·JournalEvolution Letters·DateAug 29, 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.

Searching for dangerous gut bacteria

A new Emmy-Noether Independent Junior Research Group is exploring the mechanisms behind certain bacteria causing disease in some people but not others. The team aims to develop strategies for preventing symptoms and restoring gut health.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·DateAug 29, 2019

Study discovers abnormal expression of genes in psychopathy

A new study reveals that psychopathic violent offenders exhibit abnormal expression of genes and immune-response-related molecular pathways, which have also been linked to autism. The findings suggest that targeting the opioid system could be a feasible treatment approach for psychopathy.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateAug 29, 2019

Ancient civilizations were already messing up the planet

A massive collaborative study reveals that early humans globally altered their environments as far back as 10,000 years ago. The study found widespread land use changes, including deforestation and invasive farming, starting around 3,000 years ago.

SourceField Museum·JournalScience·DateAug 29, 2019

Friendships factor into start-up success (and failure)

Research at Cass Business School found that entrepreneurial groups with strong friendship bonds are more likely to persist with a failing venture and escalate financial commitment. The study suggests that understanding team emotions is crucial for best decision making in start-ups.

SourceCity St George’s, University of London·JournalStrategic Management Journal·DateAug 29, 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.

Hints of a volcanically active exomoon

Researchers at the University of Bern discover hints of a volcanically active exomoon, or exo-Io, orbiting the hot giant planet WASP-49b. The presence of sodium gas at an anomalously high-altitude suggests the existence of a small rocky moon that could be responsible for the observed phenomenon.

SourceUniversity of Bern·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·DateAug 29, 2019

A protective factor against Alzheimer's disease?

Researchers discovered that higher levels of TREM2 protein in cerebrospinal fluid are associated with improved prognosis and reduced cognitive decline in Alzheimer's patients. The study suggests that TREM2 may play a key role in regulating the brain's protective immune response, offering new therapeutic strategies.

SourceDZNE - German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateAug 29, 2019

How visceral leishmaniasis spread through central-Southern Brazil

Visceral leishmaniasis has expanded to Central-Southern Brazil through three dispersion routes: Bolivia-Brazil gas pipeline, Paraguay, and western Santa Catarina State. The study highlights the lack of joint policies with neighboring countries as a risk factor for disease spread.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateAug 29, 2019

Cracking the code of a brain cancer that keeps coming back

Scientists used single-cell transcriptomics to map cell types and molecular cascades driving medulloblastoma growth. They discovered new treatment targets, including the HIPPO-YAP/TAZ pathway, which can be targeted with an FDA-approved cancer drug.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalCancer Cell·DateAug 29, 2019

Biological 'Rosetta Stone' brings scientists closer to deciphering how the body is built

Researchers from Columbia University and the Spanish National Research Council have discovered a method to systematically identify the role of each Hox gene in a developing fruit fly. This breakthrough offers a new path forward for decoding the underlying genetic mechanisms that guide growth and development, aging, and disease.

SourceThe Zuckerman Institute at Columbia University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 29, 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.

Biophysics: The art of worming through tight spaces

Researchers at Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München use computer simulations to study the invasion of epithelial cells and bacterial biofilms into confined microspaces. They discover three distinct modes of invasion based on the level of motile activity, which can lead to clusters of cells detaching and 'worming' through narrow gaps.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalSoft Matter·DateAug 29, 2019

Flathead Bio Station researcher helps uncover ocean iron level mystery

Researchers discovered that Asian dust brings nutrients to the ocean, affecting plankton growth and nutrient availability. The study confirms how tightly coupled plankton biology is to iron supply from the atmosphere, highlighting the need for considering atmospheric and ocean circulation variability in forecasting climate change impacts.

SourceThe University of Montana·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 29, 2019

Detailed map shows how viruses infect humans

Biologists at Columbia University created a detailed map of protein-protein interactions between human-infecting viruses and infected cells. The study revealed insights into Zika virus infection and HPV's role in cancer, with potential implications for diagnostics and vaccine development.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalCell·DateAug 29, 2019

Negative interest rate policies are backfiring -- new research

Research from the University of Bath finds that negative interest rate policies are backfiring, curbing loan growth and damaging banking profits. Bank margins were being squeezed, eroding capital bases and limiting credit growth, thereby stifling domestic demand.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalJournal of Banking & Finance·DateAug 29, 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.

New method could help assess a worker's situational awareness while multitasking

Researchers developed a new method to evaluate a worker's situational awareness while multitasking by analyzing their eye movement patterns. The study found that employees with poor situational awareness spend more time searching for solutions, increasing the risk of mistakes and accidents.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalInternational Journal of Industrial Ergonomics·DateAug 29, 2019

The Lancet: New analyses of the worldwide epidemiological evidence demonstrate link between different forms of menopausal hormone therapy and breast cancer incidence, and find that some risk persists for many years

A new study analyzing worldwide epidemiological evidence finds a significant association between menopausal hormone therapy and breast cancer incidence. The research indicates that the risks are greater for users of oestrogen-progestagen hormone therapy than for oestrogen-only hormone therapy.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·DateAug 29, 2019

Brain waves detected in mini-brains grown in a dish

Scientists have successfully grown miniature brains from stem cells that exhibit functional neural networks and produce brain waves resembling those of preterm babies. The study marks a significant breakthrough in understanding human brain development and may lead to new insights into diseases such as autism, epilepsy, and schizophrenia.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateAug 29, 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.

A global assessment of Earth's early anthropogenic transformation

A global archaeological assessment reveals that prehistoric humans had a substantial impact on Earth's landscapes by 3,000 years ago. The 'big-data' approach to understanding human legacy on Earth suggests an early and widespread effect of human activity on the environment.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 29, 2019

How chikungunya virus may cause chronic joint pain

Researchers developed a reporter system to permanently mark cells infected with chikungunya virus, revealing that marked cells containing most of the persistent RNA can survive for at least 112 days. Treatment with an antibody reduces the number of marked cells in muscle and skin.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateAug 29, 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.

Most-comprehensive analysis of fentanyl crisis urges innovative action

A RAND Corporation study highlights the need for innovative approaches to address the fentanyl crisis, which has worsened dramatically with tens of thousands of deaths annually. The study suggests that supply disruption, creative supply-side strategies, and increased access to novel treatments are crucial in reversing the tide.

SourceRAND Corporation·DateAug 29, 2019

Maleness-on-the-Y: A novel male sex determiner in major fruit fly pests

Scientists have identified a Y-chromosome linked gene called Maleness-on-the-Y that determines male sex in several major fruit fly pests. The discovery could lead to the development of more effective genetic control strategies for these destructive agricultural pests.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 29, 2019

Review: Post opioid-overdose interventions emerge in US

Post-opioid overdose interventions are emerging in the US to provide support to survivors and reduce future overdose risk. The interventions often involve collaboration between emergency departments, law enforcement, and public health departments.

SourceBoston Medical Center·JournalPreventive Medicine·DateAug 29, 2019

Evolution: Ancient teeth shed light on Miocene 'mouse' migration

A new species of prehistoric murine has been identified from fossils in Lebanon, providing the first physical evidence of initial Asian-African mouse dispersal. The findings suggest that Progonomys manolo is one of the earliest representatives of Progonomys, which spread out of southern Asia 16 million years ago.

SourceScientific Reports·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 29, 2019

Christian church supports international students, new research reveals

Research reveals that Christian churches can provide essential support to Chinese international students in the US, addressing cultural shock, language barriers, and academic challenges. The 'Chinese Home Church' community offers a welcoming environment for students to share their experiences and emotions.

SourcePenn State·JournalSocial Sciences·DateAug 29, 2019

Gene therapy reduces obesity and reverses type 2 diabetes in mice

A new gene therapy has been developed to specifically reduce fat tissue and reverse obesity-related metabolic disease in obese mice by targeting a fatty acid metabolism gene. The therapy resulted in a 20% reduction of body weight and improved insulin resistance and inflammation after just six weeks of treatment.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press·JournalGenome Research·DateAug 29, 2019