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Science News for August 7, 2019


Calcium: Good for bones, good for cultural conservation

Researchers developed a calcium-based conservation treatment that enhances hydrophobicity, reduces cracking and improves surface adhesion on various building materials. The treatment, inspired by natural structures like bone and kidney stones, provides improved acid resistance and minimal color effect.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Nano Materials·DateAug 7, 2019

Optimistic people sleep better, longer, study finds

A study of over 3,500 participants aged 32-51 found significant associations between optimism and various characteristics of self-reported sleep. Optimists were more likely to report very good sleep quality and adequate sleep duration. The research suggests that positivity may buffer the effects of stress by promoting adaptive coping.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalBehavioral Medicine·DateAug 7, 2019

NIH funding spurs expansion of clinical and translational research in Texas

The University of Texas System, along with Rice University, is partnering to expand clinical and translational research in Texas, producing better health outcomes for those in Texas and across the nation. The expansion will focus on clinical studies designed to improve medical outcomes for underrepresented populations.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·DateAug 7, 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.

Fear of predators causes PTSD-like changes in brains of wild animals

A new study by Western University demonstrates that fear of predators can leave long-lasting traces in the neural circuitry of wild animals and induce enduringly fearful behaviour. The findings support the notion that PTSD is not unnatural and have important implications for biomedical researchers, mental health clinicians, and ecologi...

SourceUniversity of Western Ontario·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 7, 2019

Dark matter may be older than the big bang, study suggests

A new Johns Hopkins University study proposes that dark matter may have originated before the Big Bang, citing a connection between particle physics and astronomy. The research suggests that dark matter's existence could be revealed through its gravitational effects on galaxy distributions.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 7, 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.

New synthesis method opens up possibilities for organic electronics

Researchers at Tokyo Institute of Technology have developed a new synthesis method for producing high-performance n-type semiconducting polymers using the DArP method. The resulting polymers, P1 and P2, exhibit significant improvements in electron mobility and stability compared to existing materials.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateAug 7, 2019

Designing a light-trapping, color-converting crystal

Researchers at Stanford University have designed a crystal structure that can trap and convert both infrared and green laser light, significantly improving the efficiency of this process. The device, which is microscopic in size, has the potential to greatly benefit technologies in telecommunications, computing, and laser-based equipment.

SourceStanford University·JournalOptica·DateAug 7, 2019

Right or left, Americans value hard work to achieve success

A recent study found that people on both sides of the political spectrum value proportionality in achieving success, with liberals caring more about equity and conservatives valuing proportionality. The researchers aimed to understand the moral foundations behind political partisanship and how it influences policy support.

SourceCornell University·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·DateAug 7, 2019

Lung lining fluid key to elderly susceptibility to tuberculosis disease

Researchers found that lung lining fluid from older adults is more prone to dysfunction, allowing bacteria to infect and grow within macrophages. The study suggests that interventions targeting the lung mucosa's oxidative status may help make elderly individuals more resistant to respiratory infections.

SourceTexas Biomedical Research Institute·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateAug 7, 2019

Researchers identify key proteins for the repair of nerve fibers

Scientists at DZNE have identified a group of proteins that help regenerate damaged nerve cells, potentially leading to new treatments for spinal cord injuries. These proteins, part of the 'cofilin/ADF' family, drive growth and regeneration in both young and adult neurons.

SourceDZNE - German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases·JournalNeuron·DateAug 7, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Outbursts of hot wind detected close to black hole

An international team detected a very hot, dense outflowing wind close to a black hole at least 25,000 light-years from Earth. The gas was emitted in bursts that repeated every 8 minutes, revealing unprecedented behavior around a black hole.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateAug 7, 2019

News from Annals of Internal Medicine: Organizations urge immediate action to prevent firearm-relate

The American College of Physicians, along with leading physician and public health organizations, calls for policies to reduce firearms-related injuries and deaths. Comprehensive criminal background checks, research into the causes of firearm violence, and improved access to mental health care are recommended.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateAug 7, 2019

Looking out for the little guys

Researchers found high genetic diversity within and between baitfish assemblages from different locations around Bermuda. The study suggests that the island's baitfish species are highly mixed populations with limited gene flow to other regions.

SourceBermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences·JournalPeerJ·DateAug 7, 2019

Geneticists unlock the secret of mutant flies' longevity

Researchers identified 239 genes with altered activity in long-living fruit fly strains, including those involved in metabolism. The mutation triggers a global alteration of metabolism, affecting carbohydrate, lipid, and nucleotide metabolism, as well as immune response genes.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 7, 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.

Surgical planning for head and neck cancer benefits from FDG-PET/CT

A new study published in The Journal of Clinical Oncology found that FDG-PET/CT imaging achieved true negatives in 94% of patients, suggesting its potential to assist clinicians in deciding on the best therapy for clinically N0 necks. This could lead to prevented patient morbidity and cost savings.

SourceECOG-ACRIN Cancer Research Group·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateAug 7, 2019

New 'liquid biopsy' blood test improves breast cancer diagnostics

A new 'liquid biopsy' blood test called TARDIS detects circulating tumor DNA in patient blood, enabling precise monitoring of disease progression and response to treatment. The test's high sensitivity could help plan surgical resection and radiation therapy after pre-operative therapy.

SourceThe Translational Genomics Research Institute·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateAug 7, 2019

The surprising merit of giant clam feces

Researchers at Hiroshima University discovered that giant clam feces contain symbiotic algae zooxanthellae, which can be transferred to juvenile clams and establish a symbiotic relationship. This finding may help solve the mystery of how coral reefs acquire these essential algae.

SourceHiroshima University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 7, 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.

Study in Taiwan examines association of ADHD, causes of death

A nationwide study in Taiwan found that attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) may be associated with a higher risk of death from injury causes. The study, which included nearly 276,000 patients with ADHD and nearly 2 million individuals without, found no increased risk of natural-cause death between the two groups.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateAug 7, 2019

A long time ago, galaxies far, far away

Astronomers have found a treasure trove of previously unknown ancient massive galaxies, defying current models of the universe. These galaxies are connected to supermassive black holes and dark matter, providing new insights into cosmic evolution.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature·DateAug 7, 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.

Internet can be valuable tool for people with undiagnosed rare disorders

Researchers found that self-diagnosis using the internet can lead to successful diagnoses of rare inherited conditions like autosomal dominant tubulointerstitial kidney disease (ADTKD). The study received over 665 referrals from 1996 to 2017, with positive genetic testing results in 27% of cases.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalGenetics in Medicine·DateAug 7, 2019

Earth's last magnetic field reversal took far longer than once thought

Scientists have discovered that Earth's magnetic field reversal took at least 22,000 years to complete, contradicting previous estimates of up to 9,000 years. The new analysis provides a detailed look at the turbulent time when the field weakened and partially shifted before finally reversing.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 7, 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.

Researchers develop method to automatically estimate rooftop solar potential

A team of researchers from UMass Amherst has developed a data-driven approach called DeepRoof that uses machine learning techniques and satellite images to identify rooftops with high solar potential, achieving accuracy of 91%. This method can speed up the process of rooftop installations by analyzing satellite images of entire cities.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·DateAug 7, 2019

USC researchers awarded $12.5 million grant for craniofacial research

The project aims to advance research by creating a resource for researchers around the globe to access data on craniofacial development and dysmorphologies. Craniofacial conditions affect approximately 600,000 people in the US, with cleft lip and palate being amongst the most common birth defects.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·DateAug 7, 2019

Astronomers reveal true colors of evolving galactic beasts

Researchers at Durham University have spotted a brief transition phase in the development of quasars, challenging conventional views on red quasar color. The team believes this phase is caused by a violent ejection of energy from supermassive black holes, blowing away dust and gas to reveal blue quasars.

SourceDurham University·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateAug 7, 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.

Researchers to study physics of underwater walking

The project aims to determine the forces that dictate underwater walking, shedding light on the colonization of land by animals. By studying Spanish ribbed newts, researchers hope to gain insight into the biomechanics of animal movement.

SourceUniversity of Akron·DateAug 7, 2019

Study evaluates effects of noninvasive neuromodulation used to treat obesity

A clinical trial published in Appetite found that transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) can reduce or increase appetite depending on a patient's genetic profile. The study used a current of 2 milliamperes and 17 thirty-minute sessions over a month, with participants monitored for six months.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalAppetite·DateAug 7, 2019

Where in the universe can you find a black hole nursery?

A new study suggests that stellar collapse causes instabilities, preventing the formation of heavier black holes. The researchers propose that nuclear star clusters might act as 'black-hole nurseries', providing an ideal environment for generating generations of black holes.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalPhysical Review D·DateAug 7, 2019

Study finds fish preserve DNA 'memories' far better than humans

Researchers found that fish preserve 'DNA methylation' memories between generations, unlike humans where this is almost entirely erased. This discovery opens up new avenues for studying intergenerational memory transfer through DNA methylation.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 7, 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.

Designing a better low-fat potato chip

A new technique developed by researchers allows for the creation of tastier low-fat potato chips by analyzing physical characteristics. The method, called in vitro oral processing, measures chip properties from first bite to swallow, enabling food scientists to link physical measurements with sensory perceptions.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateAug 7, 2019

Medication in the environment affects feeding behavior of fish

A new study found that prescription medication Escitalopram can inhibit fish foraging and eating behavior, particularly in males. The inhibitory effect was more pronounced in males than females, highlighting a sex-based difference in aquatic wildlife response to environmental pollutants.

SourceWiley·JournalEnvironmental Toxicology and Chemistry·DateAug 7, 2019

Personalized assay surpasses limits for detecting tumor DNA in breast cancer patients

Scientists have developed a personalized platform called TARDIS that accurately detects circulating tumor DNA and signs of residual disease in breast cancer patients. The assay demonstrated a significant improvement in sensitivity, enabling earlier detection of tumors and monitoring patient response to chemotherapy.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateAug 7, 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.

Cover crops, compost and carbon

A long-term study in California's Salinas Valley found that annual cover cropping significantly benefits soil health, while organic matter from compost has relatively small effects. The research suggests innovative strategies to increase cover cropping adoption, improving soil quality and sustainability.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalSoil Science Society of America Journal·DateAug 7, 2019

Funded by FDA, C-Path and NORD to launch rare disease data analytics platform

The Rare Disease Cures Accelerator-Data and Analytics Platform (RDCA-DAP) aims to reduce barriers for rare disease treatment development. The platform will provide a centralized infrastructure to support accelerated therapy development, leveraging integrated data from various sources and advanced analytics expertise.

SourceCritical Path Institute (C-Path)·DateAug 7, 2019

Home births as safe as hospital births: International study

A large international study published in EClinicalMedicine journal reveals that home births have no increased risk of baby's perinatal or neonatal death compared to hospital births. The study analyzed data from over 500,000 intended home births and similar numbers of hospital births in eight countries.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalEClinicalMedicine·DateAug 7, 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.

Climate change likely to increase human exposure to toxic methylmercury

Researchers found that warming oceans are driving up methylmercury levels in fish due to increased energy consumption and changing diets. As sea temperatures rise, fish use more energy to swim, requiring them to consume more calories, which can lead to higher mercury levels.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature·DateAug 7, 2019

33% of new childhood asthma cases in Europe attributable to air pollution

A study published by the Barcelona Institute for Global Health found that air pollution from particulate matter (PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and black carbon is responsible for 33% of new childhood asthma cases in Europe, highlighting the need to update WHO air quality guidelines to better protect children's health.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalEuropean Respiratory Journal·DateAug 7, 2019

Erectile dysfunction associated with lower work productivity in men

A study of over 52,000 men from eight countries found erectile dysfunction (ED) to be associated with increased absenteeism and reduced work productivity. Men with ED reported higher rates of staying home from work and working while sick compared to those without ED.

SourceWiley·JournalInternational Journal of Clinical Practice·DateAug 7, 2019

Groundwater resources in Africa resilient to climate change

A new study led by UCL and Cardiff University finds that groundwater replenishment depends on heavy rainfalls and flood events amplified by climate change. This knowledge can inform strategies to enhance groundwater supplies in drylands, where it is often the only lasting source of freshwater.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature·DateAug 7, 2019

Study examines characteristics of older adults with moderately severe dementia

A study found that older adults with moderately severe dementia living at home have worse health and more symptoms than those in residential care or nursing facilities. The research highlights the need for better understanding and addressing geriatric palliative care needs of people with dementia wherever they live.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateAug 7, 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.

Good heart health at age 50 linked to lower dementia risk later in life

A new study found that good cardiovascular health at age 50 is associated with a lower risk of dementia later in life. Researchers used the Life Simple 7 cardiovascular health score as a tool for preventing dementia, and their findings support public health policies to improve midlife cardiovascular health.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateAug 7, 2019

New data indicate rise in opioid use for migraine treatment

According to the OVERCOME study, nearly a quarter of people with frequent headaches use opioids to treat their migraines. Clinical guidelines discourage opioid use for migraine symptoms except in rare cases, highlighting concerns about its potential risks and effectiveness.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·DateAug 7, 2019

Substituting poultry for red meat may reduce breast cancer risk

A recent study found that increasing consumption of red meat was associated with a higher risk of invasive breast cancer, while consuming poultry was linked to decreased risk. Substituting poultry for red meat may be a simple way to reduce breast cancer incidence.

SourceWiley·JournalInternational Journal of Cancer·DateAug 7, 2019

Quantum momentum

Researchers developed a new quantum-mechanical model to measure momentum of particles using a classical concept: time-of-flight. They achieved precise calculations by estimating probabilistic positions and distances between pointers coupled to moving wave packets.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal D·DateAug 7, 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 insights into the origin of life

Researchers have demonstrated that energetic interactions between hydrogen cyanide and water can form precursors to RNA and proteins. The study provides new potential pathways for the formation of life's building blocks, without requiring high-energy photons or metal catalysts.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Central Science·DateAug 7, 2019

Blue sharks use eddies for fast track to food

Researchers tracked blue sharks using satellite tags and found they spent most of their days diving into warm-water eddies to forage for small fish and squid. The study suggests blue sharks prefer warm-water eddies due to their inability to regulate body temperature, shedding light on their unique feeding behavior

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 7, 2019

Cibio knocks out cystic fibrosis

Researchers at the University of Trento have developed a genome editing strategy to permanently correct two types of mutations that cause cystic fibrosis. The 'SpliceFix' technique uses Crispr-Cas to edit patient-derived organoids, showing high precision and efficacy.

SourceUniversità di Trento·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 7, 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.

Persistent inflammation in sepsis survivors linked to higher mortality rates

Sepsis survivors are at higher risk for major health problems and death due to persistent inflammation, according to a study published in JAMA Network Open. The researchers found that nearly all patients with sepsis have increased inflammation during hospitalization, but this inflammation often persists long after discharge.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateAug 7, 2019

Fast-food availability near commute route linked to BMI

A new study published in PLOS ONE examines the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and multiple food environments. The research found that a greater number of fast-food restaurants near commute routes is associated with higher BMI.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 7, 2019

Tropical Storm Krosa gets a comma shape

Tropical Storm Krosa developed a 'comma shape' signature from thunderstorms feeding into the low-level center. The storm's maximum sustained winds reached near 60 knots, strengthening as it moved north-northwest towards Japan.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 7, 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.

ALMA dives into black hole's 'sphere of influence'

Researchers using ALMA observe a swirling disk of cold interstellar gas rotating around a supermassive black hole, NGC 3258. The study provides an unprecedented close-up view of the disk's rotation, allowing for the determination of the black hole's mass as 2.25 billion solar masses.

SourceNational Radio Astronomy Observatory·DateAug 7, 2019

Entropy explains RNA diffusion rates in cells

Researchers have discovered exponential patterns in RNA diffusion rates within cells, displaying the highest possible degree of disorder or entropy. This pattern is linked to small-scale diffusive behaviors and can be compared to thermodynamic behaviors in larger systems.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal B·DateAug 7, 2019

Gene mutation combo linked to common cancer in women

Researchers have identified a combination of gene mutations that are frequently found together in endometrial cancer and endometriosis-associated ovarian cancer. The ARID1A and PIK3CA genes' mutations can lead to uncontrolled cell growth, increasing the risk of cancer.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 7, 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.

Enhanced glow

Researchers developed a novel method to directly detect circulating tumor cells in blood samples without enrichment, using lanthanide ions released from nanoparticles. The technique was tested on cancer patients' blood samples, correctly identifying 14 out of 15 cases with strong correlation to cancer stage.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateAug 7, 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.

A marine microbe could play increasingly important role in regulating climate

A USC-led study reveals that marine microbes containing rhodopsins are more abundant than thought and can capture more light energy than chlorophylls. This shift in microbial communities may result in less carbon fixation in the ocean, potentially leading to increased CO2 levels and faster warming.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 7, 2019

Liberals and conservatives have different views on equity, but share 'protestant work ethic'

A new study reveals that people on the political left (Democrats and liberals) prioritize equity over proportionality, while those on the right (Republicans and conservatives) focus more on effort. The research also finds a shared concern for meritocracy and the 'Protestant work ethic' across both groups.

SourceSociety for Personality and Social Psychology·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·DateAug 7, 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.

Scientists reveal key insights into emerging water purification technology

Researchers from CSU have discovered that conventional hydrophobic membranes create a larger liquid-vapor interfacial area, increasing evaporation and efficiency. This tradeoff between hydrophobic vs. omniphobic membranes offers new information into why certain membrane designs work better than others in membrane distillation.

SourceColorado State University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 7, 2019

New research provides better way to gauge pain in mice

New research provides a more accurate way to measure pain in mice using slow-motion video and artificial intelligence. The 'mouse pain scale' assesses the degree of pain, increasing confidence in therapeutic effectiveness in humans.

SourceRutgers University·JournalCell Reports·DateAug 7, 2019

Eating more plant-based foods may be linked to better heart health

Researchers analyzed food intake data from over 10,000 middle-aged adults and found a strong link between plant-based diets and lower cardiovascular disease risks. People who ate more plant-based foods had a 16% lower risk of cardiovascular disease and a 32% lower risk of dying from any cause.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateAug 7, 2019

FAU partners with USDA to boost domestic production of farm-raised fish

Scientists from FAU's Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute are developing novel technologies to supply warm water marine fish seedstocks, addressing the US's struggling aquaculture industry. The partnership aims to increase domestic production, reduce waste, disease risks, and feed inefficiencies.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·DateAug 7, 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.

Philippines on alert with Typhoon Lekima

NASA's Aqua satellite captured a clear image of Typhoon Lekima, showing a tight band of powerful thunderstorms surrounding its central eye. The storm is expected to strengthen into a Category 4 hurricane, making landfall near Shanghai around August 12.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 7, 2019

Forgotten immune cells protective in mouse model of multiple sclerosis

A new Stanford study found that stimulating a protective immune cell class, CD8 T cells, may reduce autoimmune disease severity. In a mouse model of multiple sclerosis, injecting mice with peptides recognized by these cells reduced disease severity and killed disease-causing immune cells.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalNature·DateAug 7, 2019

Wearable motion sensors could save unborn babies

Developed by Stevens Institute of Technology researchers, wearable motion sensors can record vibrations sent through a mother's abdomen when her baby's heart beats or squirms. These non-invasive devices could reduce stillbirths worldwide and provide vital insights into fetal health.

SourceStevens Institute of Technology·JournalIEEE Sensors Journal·DateAug 7, 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.

Opioid use and misuse 3 months after ED visit for acute pain

A study found that 9% of patients with acute pain conditions continued opioid use 3 months after discharge from the emergency department. Most patients used opioids to manage initial or new pain, not misuse. The study highlights the need for non-narcotic methods to treat acute pain and further research on chronic pain mechanisms.

SourceSociety for Academic Emergency Medicine·JournalAcademic Emergency Medicine·DateAug 7, 2019

Adults with cerebral palsy at increased risk for mental health conditions

A new study published in Annals of Internal Medicine highlights the need for increased awareness of mental health disorders among adults with cerebral palsy. The research team found that adults with cerebral palsy have a higher age-standardized prevalence of mental health disorders compared to those without the condition.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateAug 7, 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.

Brain stimulation for PTSD patients

Researchers at the University of Houston have developed a new brain stimulation technique for PTSD patients, utilizing skin conductance to provide personalized treatment. The approach aims to improve treatment outcomes for individuals with neuropsychiatric disorders, including those with Parkinson's disease and essential tremor.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalFrontiers in Neuroscience·DateAug 7, 2019

Nanosecond pulsed electric fields activate immune cells

Researchers from Kumamoto University found that nsPEFs can stimulate immune cells to respond as if they were being stimulated by bacteria. This was achieved through the release of chromosomal DNA and histone citrullination in neutrophils, similar to the process occurring when neutrophils are exposed to bacteria.

SourceKumamoto University·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 7, 2019

Gold glue really does bond nanocages 'contradicting' logic

Researchers have successfully created molecular nanocages with unprecedented properties using gold atoms as a binding agent. The gold-bonded cages exhibit chemical and thermal stability while being sensitive to acidity, making them ideal for biomedical applications such as targeted drug delivery.

SourceThe Henryk Niewodniczanski Institute of Nuclear Physics Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalNature·DateAug 7, 2019

Study examines cannabis' effects on brain neurochemistry

A new study found a blunted response to stress-induced dopamine signaling in the brains of individuals at high risk for psychosis who regularly use cannabis. The research highlights the need for further investigation into the impact of cannabis on brain neurochemistry, particularly among populations at risk for psychosis.

SourceWiley·JournalAddiction Biology·DateAug 7, 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.

Fighting a mighty weed

Scientists are racing to find solutions as Palmer amaranth develops resistance to multiple herbicides, outcompeting crops for resources. The weed's ability to thrive and produce new generations of resistant plants poses significant threats to crop yields.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateAug 7, 2019

Observation-driven research to inform better groundwater management policies

A new study reveals that higher rainfall does not necessarily equate to higher groundwater recharge, and that aridity and episodicity play a crucial role in determining groundwater replenishment. The research also finds that some sub-Saharan African countries are experiencing declining groundwater levels due to drying climate trends.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalNature·DateAug 7, 2019

BU researchers: 'Set' of gun laws needed to reduce gun violence

A Boston University study finds that laws restricting who can have a gun are most effective in reducing firearm homicides, with different laws more effective in urban and suburban/rural areas. Universal background checks and stringent concealed carry laws show promise in reducing urban and suburban/rural rates.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalThe Journal of Rural Health·DateAug 7, 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.

Spinning towards robust microwave generation on the nano scale

Spin-torque oscillators, used to generate microwaves, are unstable when connected in series due to random fluctuations that can suppress or destroy the oscillations. The new study suggests alternative methods for robust microwave generation on the macro scale.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal B·DateAug 7, 2019

Cancer in the oldest old: The fastest growing age group in the US

Adults aged 85 years and older account for the fastest-growing age group in the US, with higher cancer incidence rates but lower screening and treatment rates. The most common cancers among this population are lung, breast, prostate, and colorectum, but late-stage diagnosis and poorer survival outcomes are also reported.

SourceAmerican Cancer Society·DateAug 7, 2019

Sorting out who needs a pill sorter

A new study has found that pharmacies are giving out twice as many pill organisers as ten years ago, which can cause harm to some patients. The research team developed guidelines for healthcare teams to identify patients who may benefit from using a pill organiser or alternative solutions.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalResearch in Social and Administrative Pharmacy·DateAug 7, 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.

Physicians call for an end to conversion therapy

Conversion therapy practices cause significant harm, including depression, suicidal thoughts, and economic burdens. Physicians advocate for education reform to better identify patients who underwent or may be undergoing conversion therapy.

SourceBoston Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateAug 7, 2019

Marijuana legalization reduces opioid deaths

A new study published in Economic Inquiry reveals that marijuana access leads to significant reductions in opioid-related deaths. The research found a decrease of 20-35% in annual opioid mortality rates following recreational marijuana legalization in the US.

SourceWiley·JournalEconomic Inquiry·DateAug 7, 2019

Air pollution cuts are saving lives in New York state

A new study found that lower air pollution levels in New York State led to a 67% decrease in premature deaths between 2002 and 2012. Long-term exposure to PM2.5 is linked to respiratory and cardiovascular problems.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateAug 7, 2019