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Science News for August 8, 2019


Teens feel pressured to get pregnant

A new study found that nearly one in eight female adolescents between ages 14 and 19 experienced reproductive coercion, a form of abuse where a woman is pressured to become pregnant against her wishes. The study also highlights the need for clinicians to understand how to spot relationship abuse in younger patients.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateAug 8, 2019

Hubble's new portrait of Jupiter

The new image shows Jupiter's trademark Great Red Spot and a more intense color palette in the clouds than seen in previous years. The colorful bands result from differences in atmospheric pressures and ice cloud thickness.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 8, 2019

Pairing prediction and production in AI-informed robotic flow synthesis

Researchers present an integrated strategy for computer-augmented chemical synthesis, successfully yielding 15 different medicinally related small molecules. Their AI-informed, robotically controlled platform has the potential to greatly improve the synthesis of complex molecules, reducing manual labor and increasing scalability.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 8, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Researchers discover oldest fossil forest in Asia

Researchers have uncovered the oldest fossil forest in Asia, spanning 250,000 square meters and featuring lycopsid trees with branchless trunks. The discovery provides insights into the early evolution of plants and their adaptability to coastal environments.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 8, 2019

Pupillary response to glare illusions of different colors

A study published in Acta Psychologica found that subjects' pupils constricted significantly when viewing a blue glare illusion, outperforming other colors. The research team hypothesized that the human visual system relies on ecologically-based predictions to interpret visual input, and this effect is unique to glare illusions.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalActa Psychologica·DateAug 8, 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.

Persistent plume

Scientists studied a massive wildfire smoke plume that lasted for nearly nine months, providing an ideal opportunity to test climate models. The findings show that black carbon was key to the plume's rapid rise and persistence, challenging previous nuclear winter studies.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalScience·DateAug 8, 2019

New perovskite material shows early promise as an alternative to silicon

Researchers at OIST have discovered a new configuration of the inorganic perovskite material CsPbI3, which efficiently creates electricity and has been stabilized in a way that competes with industry-leading materials. The material's conversion efficiency was increased from 15% to 18% after treatment with choline iodide.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalScience·DateAug 8, 2019

Why does El Niño decay faster than La Niña?

A study by Prof. Renhe Zhang and colleagues found that El Niño decays faster than La Niña due to asymmetrical zonal wind anomalies in the equatorial western Pacific. The negative sea surface temperature anomaly associated with La Niña events persists for more than a year, resulting in a longer duration.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateAug 8, 2019

Graphite intercalation compounds may offer keys to prolonging battery life

Researchers studied H2SO4-GIC to monitor stage transitions and observed a difference in mechanisms between natural flake graphite-based and HOPG-based GICs. The findings advance the field of graphene and have potential applications in Li-ion batteries, hydrogen fuel cells, and single-layer graphene production.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry C·DateAug 8, 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.

Electromagnetic fields may hinder spread of breast cancer cells

Researchers at Ohio State University found that low-intensity electromagnetic fields reduce the ability of specific breast cancer cells to migrate and spread. The study used a lab model to mimic the body environment and discovered that certain drug therapies can enhance the effects of electromagnetic fields on blocking cancer cell meta...

SourceOhio State University·JournalCommunications Biology·DateAug 8, 2019

UBC-developed sensor provides next-generation ice detection

Researchers at UBC Okanagan have developed a new sensor that can detect the precise moment when ice begins to form on a surface, using microwave resonators. The device has high sensitivity, low power consumption, and is easy to fabricate, making it ideal for improving airline safety and efficiency.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·DateAug 8, 2019

Puzzling shapes: Unlocking the mysteries of plant cell morphology

Researchers at McGill University used computer simulations and microscopy to show that pectin and cellulose play a crucial role in sculpting epidermal leaf cells. The study suggests that mechanical forces drive plant cell growth, leading to unique shapes like the jigsaw puzzle-like pattern of leaf skin.

SourceMcGill University·JournalCell Reports·DateAug 8, 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.

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.

Out of this world: An alumna's dream comes true

Brittany Seto, a UC Riverside alumna, interned at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory and is now working on Mars projects. The university has set a record for the number of UCR undergraduates interning at JPL, with 22 students participating in the FIELDS program.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateAug 8, 2019

Controlling the shape-shifting skeletons of cells

Researchers at Caltech have designed a method to study and manipulate the cytoskeleton in test tubes, shedding light on how cells control movement. By using light-activated proteins, they can control when and where asters form, allowing for the development of new tools for molecular biology and chemistry.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateAug 8, 2019

The world's smallest stent

Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a new method for producing highly detailed structures measuring less than 100 micrometres, enabling the creation of the world's smallest stent with shape-memory properties. The stent has shown promising initial findings and could potentially open the door to minimally invasive surgery.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalAdvanced Materials Technologies·DateAug 8, 2019

Is giant cell arteritis associated with race?

A recent study by Anna M. Gruener et al., published in JAMA Ophthalmology, investigated the association between giant cell arteritis and race. The researchers found a significant association between the disorder and certain ethnic groups, with increased risk observed in African Americans, Hispanics, and individuals of mixed ancestry.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateAug 8, 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.

Data analysis tool to help scientists make sense of mouse's calls

A new computer tool can reveal valuable insights into rodents' communication patterns and is more reliable than existing methods. The system analyses audio recordings of ultrasonic vocalisations to determine different types of sounds, standardizing interpretations for direct comparisons.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 8, 2019

Great Scots! 'It's' a unique linguistic phenomenon

Researchers found that Scots dialects allow for specific types of contractions, such as 'Here it's!' or 'There it's!', which shed light on speakers' understanding of language structure. These patterns suggest that speakers have an unconscious knowledge of grammatical differences between sentences.

SourceLinguistic Society of America·JournalLanguage·DateAug 8, 2019

Oil rigs could pump CO2 emissions into rocks beneath North Sea

Research suggests reusing oil rigs as CO2 storage sites could be 10 times cheaper than decommissioning. This scheme would store natural gas production emissions and help combat climate change by locking away CO2.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalInternational Journal of Greenhouse Gas Control·DateAug 8, 2019

Using recent gene flow to define microbe populations

Researchers developed a simple measurement of gene flow to define microbe populations, separating co-existing microbes in genetically and ecologically distinct groups. This approach identifies parts of the genome that show different adaptations, enabling pinpointing of populations associated with health conditions like Crohn's disease.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalCell·DateAug 8, 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.

A key piece to understanding how quantum gravity affects low-energy physics

A new study has provided a solid theoretical framework to discuss modifications to the Unruh effect caused by microstructure of space-time. The researchers found that thermal response for particle detectors can happen without a thermal state, contradicting an extended belief.

SourceScuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 8, 2019

Researchers identify type of parasitic bacteria that saps corals of energy

A new genus of bacteria has been identified as a major contributor to coral decline, siphoning energy from corals and making them more susceptible to disease. The study found that the bacterial genus is globally associated with many different coral hosts and has genes that enable it to parasitize its hosts for amino acids and ATP.

SourceOregon State University·JournalThe ISME Journal·DateAug 8, 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.

Having a parent, sibling, or child with blood cancer increases one's own risk

New data from the largest population study to date reveal that having a family member with blood cancer significantly raises an individual's risk of diagnosis. The study found increased risks for certain hematologic malignancies, with the highest relative risks observed in specific subtypes of Hodgkin lymphoma and mantle cell lymphoma.

SourceAmerican Society of Hematology·JournalBlood·DateAug 8, 2019

Depression is the single largest predictor of substance use during pregnancy

A recent study published in the Journal of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine found that depression is the single largest driver of substance use during pregnancy. Pregnant women with depression were 2.6 times more likely to use cannabis and twice as likely to smoke cigarettes and use alcohol while pregnant.

SourceUniversity of Western Ontario·JournalJournal of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine·DateAug 8, 2019

Rethinking seizures associated with cardiac disease

Mutations of a gene implicated in long QT syndrome trigger seizures due to its direct effects on neurons and glia, independent from heart function. This discovery challenges the assumption that seizures are secondary outcomes of cardiovascular disease.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateAug 8, 2019

Moffitt researchers identify subtypes of squamous cell lung cancer

Moffitt researchers identified three subtypes of squamous cell lung cancer (SCC) with distinct genetic, chromosomal, and protein alterations. The inflamed subtype is characterized by immune cell infiltration and higher PD-1 levels, while the redox subtype has altered oxidation-reduction signaling pathways. These subtypes did not correl...

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 8, 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.

Using lasers to visualize molecular mysteries in our atmosphere

Scientists have developed a new technique to visualize gas-liquid collisions using lasers, enabling the study of fundamental molecular interactions. The method captures individual frames of molecular movement, revealing the rough surface of liquids and their impact on atmospheric chemistry.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateAug 8, 2019

Ethiopian rock shelter earliest evidence of high-altitude prehistoric life

Archaeologists have discovered a rock shelter in Ethiopia dating back over 30,000 years, providing the earliest evidence of human habitation at high altitudes. The site, Fincha Habera, shows signs of Middle Stone Age foragers living and feasting on giant mole-rats at an elevation of over 11,000 feet.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 8, 2019

Analysis and detoxification in one step

A Thai research team has created a novel approach for simultaneously detecting and detoxifying harmful phenol compounds in one step. The innovative technique leverages natural enzymatic reactions to convert toxic chemicals into luciferin, a bioluminescent compound produced by fireflies.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateAug 8, 2019

Neural networks will help manufacture carbon nanotubes

Researchers have developed an effective method to monitor carbon nanotube films using artificial neural networks (ANN). The technique can help predict the efficiency of single-walled carbon nanotubes synthesis and improve the overall production framework, leading to new horizons for real-life applications.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalCarbon·DateAug 8, 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.

How cigarette smoke makes head and neck cancer more aggressive

Researchers found that cigarette smoke changes the metabolism of cells in head and neck squamous cell carcinomas, making tumors more efficient as an ecosystem to promote cancer growth. The study also identified a protein on tobacco-exposed fibroblasts that drives these metabolic changes.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalMolecular Cancer Research·DateAug 8, 2019

Pancreatic cancer: Less toxic, more enduring drug may improve therapy

Researchers at Columbia University Irving Medical Center have identified a potential new therapy for pancreatic cancer. Their experimental compound, PTC596, has shown to be effective in combination with standard treatment, extending survival by three times in genetically engineered mice.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateAug 8, 2019

This designer clothing lets users turn on electronics while turning away bacteria

Purdue researchers develop waterproof, breathable, and antibacterial clothing that can power electronic devices through simple embroidery. This innovation uses omniphobic triboelectric nanogenerators to turn clothing into self-powered remotes, providing a convenient interface with machines and the Internet of Things.

SourcePurdue University·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateAug 8, 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.

Lassa virus' soft spot revealed

Researchers at La Jolla Institute for Immunology identified the molecular properties of antibodies that neutralize Lassa virus. By understanding these properties, they can create a map for rational vaccine design, aiming to develop effective treatments or vaccines against this deadly disease.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalCell·DateAug 8, 2019

Lekima becomes supertyphoon, heading towards Eastern China

Supertyphoon Lekima rapidly intensifies as it tracks north-northwest over the Pacific, with winds exceeding 130 knots and a strong eye. The storm is expected to reach Eastern China near Taizhou within 48 hours, potentially weakening by 72 hours after crossing Shanghai.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 8, 2019

Thermally stable TB vaccine closer to reality thanks to microscopic silica cages

Researchers have achieved a major breakthrough in developing a thermally stable TB vaccine using a technique called ensilication, which protects vaccine components from heat damage. This innovation has the potential to improve the effectiveness and accessibility of vaccines globally, particularly in remote areas.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 8, 2019

Back-to-back low snow years will become more common, study projects

Consecutive low snow years may become six times more common in the Western United States, leading to ecological and economic challenges. The study projects that year-to-year variability of peak snowpack will decrease, mostly in areas transitioning from snow- to rain-dominated precipitation.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateAug 8, 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.

Reevaluating the impacts of smoke plumes aloft, based on the 2017 Pacific Northwest wildfires

Researchers compared observations with model simulations, revealing gaps in smoke plume rise and duration modeling. The study found that solar heating warmed air within the plume, causing it to self-loft to nearly 23 kilometers, but observed smoke lifetime was 40% shorter than calculated models due to photochemical loss of organic carbon.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 8, 2019

Migration can promote or inhibit cooperation between individuals

A new analysis suggests that migration can promote cooperation among individuals by creating heterogeneous patterns in their spatial distribution. This allows populations to thrive despite the threat of exploitation, as defectors avoid cooperators or form communities with public goods.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateAug 8, 2019

Stony corals: Limits of adaption

Researchers found that stony corals Porites astreoides grow more slowly under acidic seawater conditions, indicating a limit to their adaptation to climate change. The study used natural laboratory settings off the east coast of Mexico to investigate coral growth in response to low pH and high dissolved carbon content.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel (GEOMAR)·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 8, 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.

Study furthers radically new view of gene control

Researchers discovered physical interactions between proteins and DNA that help explain why genetic condensates cluster along super enhancers, stimulating gene transcription. The study provides a fundamentally new approach to deciphering gene control in the 'dark matter' of our genome.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalMolecular Cell·DateAug 8, 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.

Many risk factors contribute to worsening of quality of life in people with knee OA

A new study from the University of Eastern Finland shows that health-related quality of life in people with knee osteoarthritis varies significantly among different patient groups. The study found that females, those with higher body mass index, smokers, and lower-income individuals experience rapid worsening of their quality of life, ...

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 8, 2019

88% decline of big freshwater animals

The study found a significant decline in global freshwater megafauna populations, with large fish species like sturgeons and salmonids facing the highest threats. Conservation efforts have shown some success, but monitoring and protection remain inadequate for many species.

SourceForschungsverbund Berlin·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateAug 8, 2019

Existing anti-parasitic drug could offer treatment for Ebola

A new study suggests that nitazoxanide, an FDA-approved anti-parasitic drug, could potentially treat Ebola by enhancing the immune system's ability to detect the virus. The drug inhibited Ebola replication and worked by broadly amplifying the interferon pathway and cellular viral sensors.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournaliScience·DateAug 8, 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.

These sharks use unique molecules to glow green

Researchers have identified a previously unknown family of small-molecule metabolites responsible for the bright green color in sharks' skin, which may also aid in identifying other sharks and fighting microbial infections. The discovery opens new questions about the potential functions of biofluorescence in shark biology.

SourceCell Press·JournaliScience·DateAug 8, 2019

Two-in-one contrast agent for medical imaging

A Belgian team developed a two-in-one contrast agent for medical imaging, combining MRI and photoacoustic imaging techniques. The bimodal probe enhances sensitivity while minimizing risks for patients.

SourceWiley·JournalEuropean Journal of Inorganic Chemistry·DateAug 8, 2019

Typhoon Krosa follows leader Supertyphoon Lekima

Typhoon Krosa is quasi-stationary and intensifying due to favorable conditions like low wind shear and warm sea surface temperatures. The storm will continue to track northeastward before weakening over the next five days, maintaining typhoon strength.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 8, 2019

Fluoride may diminish kidney and liver function in adolescents, study suggests

A recent study published by Mount Sinai researchers found that fluoride exposure may contribute to complex changes in kidney and liver function among youth in the US. The findings suggest that adolescents with poorer kidney or liver function may absorb more fluoride, highlighting potential health concerns.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalEnvironment International·DateAug 8, 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.

Food insecurity common across US higher education campuses

A recent study found that nearly half of university and two-year college students in the US experience food insecurity, leading to academic struggles, mental health issues, and reduced career opportunities. Food insecure students often turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms or go without meals, exacerbating the problem.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·DateAug 8, 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.

Alternatives to burning can increase Indian farmers' profits and cut pollution

A new study in Science shows that alternative farming practices can boost farmers' profits while reducing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. The Happy Seeder system, which allows for direct seeding of wheat into unplowed soil and shredded rice residues, is a promising solution.

SourceInternational Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT)·JournalScience·DateAug 8, 2019

Biomarker to avoid safety risk for the sleep deprived

A new study published in The Journal of Physiology found that an eye-movement test can detect acute sleep loss with high reliability. The researchers used a range of eye-movement measures to distinguish sleep-related impairment from that caused by alcohol or brain injury.

SourceThe Physiological Society·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·DateAug 8, 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.

Fighting child diarrhea

A simple, electricity-independent device has been proven effective in reducing child diarrhea rates by up to 23% in developing countries. The Aquatabs Flo technology uses precise chlorine dosing to purify water without compromising taste, offering a promising solution to control the second-leading cause of death for children globally.

SourceStanford University·JournalThe Lancet Global Health·DateAug 8, 2019

Control theory: Mother nature is an engineer

A University of Arizona research team discovered complex biochemical circuits in cells that follow control theory principles, controlling growth in response to nutrient availability. The study found that the TOR and PKA pathways work together like a thermostat, with one pathway speeding up response and the other maintaining stability.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 8, 2019

Studies of fungi provide new knowledge of harmful mutations in cells

Researchers discovered that long-lived fungi accumulate surprisingly few mutations over time, indicating a well-developed protection mechanism. The study uses fairy rings of Marasmius oreades to examine the speed and pattern of mutations, providing new insights into cell processes and longevity.

SourceUppsala University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 8, 2019

Grant to help Warner study public health in rural planning

Warner's project will expand her research on multigenerational planning in rural areas by adding public health as a key topic of concern for planners and regional scientists. The team aims to create an econometric model for livability that promotes economic development and public health across rural and urban communities.

SourceCornell University·DateAug 8, 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.

Study shows gun shops can aid in preventing suicides

A new University of Washington study finds that firearm retailers are willing to learn about suicide prevention and train their employees to spot warning signs. However, a lack of awareness and reluctance to discuss personal issues inhibit greater progress in suicide prevention.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalSuicide and Life-Threatening Behavior·DateAug 8, 2019

Restructuring Medicare Shared Savings Program can yield 40% savings in health costs

A new research study suggests that redesigning the contract for the Medicare Shared Savings Program could lead to significant cost savings. The proposed changes aim to align provider incentives with performance-based subsidies, increasing reimbursement payments and improving healthcare outcomes.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalOperations Research·DateAug 8, 2019

Too much coffee raises the odds of triggering a migraine headache

A new study in The American Journal of Medicine found that drinking three or more caffeinated beverages a day increases the odds of triggering a migraine headache on the same or next day. However, consuming one to two servings per day did not appear to be linked to developing a migraine headache.

SourceElsevier·DateAug 8, 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.

Tel Aviv U and Technion researchers wrest control of one of world's most secure PLCs

Researchers at Tel Aviv University and the Technion Institute of Technology discovered critical vulnerabilities in the Siemens S7 Simatic programmable logic controller. They successfully reverse-engineered the proprietary cryptographic protocol and gained control of the PLC's operations, demonstrating how a sophisticated attacker can a...

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·DateAug 8, 2019

Bringing cancer medication safely to its destination

Researchers develop innovative technology to transform proteins and antibodies into stable drug transporters, reducing side effects and increasing effectiveness in targeted cancer treatment. The new method allows for lower doses and fewer severe side effects compared to existing antibody-drug conjugates.

SourceForschungsverbund Berlin·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateAug 8, 2019

Novel strategy uncovers potential to control widespread soilborne pathogens

A team of scientists analyzed microbial communities within sclerotia of soilborne fungal pathogens, discovering specific bacterial communities that produce volatile compounds with the potential to reduce pathogen viability. Combining different beneficial microorganisms can effectively counteract pathogens.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalPhytobiomes Journal·DateAug 8, 2019

FutureNeuro researchers integrate genomics data in to electronic patient records

FutureNeuro researchers integrated genomics data into the Irish National Epilepsy Electronic Patient Record system, enabling personalized treatment plans for individuals with unknown cause epilepsy. The new system facilitates multidisciplinary meetings and review of genomic test results to determine genetic causes, leading to better di...

SourceRCSI·JournalEpilepsia·DateAug 8, 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.

The reasons behind aerosol pollution over the eastern slope of the Tibetan Plateau

A combination of local emissions, transport from outside the region, and terrain-driven circulation contribute to high aerosol loading over the eastern slope of the Tibetan Plateau. The study highlights the need for understanding aerosol transport processes and physical mechanisms to mitigate environmental risks.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateAug 8, 2019

Decoding touch

A study at Harvard Medical School's Blavatnik Institute has identified molecular aberrations causing heightened touch sensitivity in autism and points to a possible treatment. The research, conducted in mice, shows that an experimental compound mitigated abnormal touch sensitivity while improving body mass and alleviating anxiety.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalCell·DateAug 8, 2019

Insights on timing of Huntington's disease onset

Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital found that the timing of HD onset is determined by a property of the expanded CAG repeat in an individual's DNA, not its length. The study also identified multiple genes involved in DNA maintenance and repair as modifiers of HD onset, offering potential targets for treatments.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalCell·DateAug 8, 2019

Leaping larvae! How do they do that without legs?

Researchers at Duke University discovered that gall midge larvae use a hydrostatic legless jumping mechanism, which allows them to launch themselves through the air with incredible speed and efficiency. This remarkable behavior is made possible by sticky patches of skin on the larva's body, similar to those found on geckos' feet.

SourceDuke University·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateAug 8, 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.

Mega-cloud from Canadian wildfires will help model impacts of nuclear war

Scientists used a state-of-the-art climate model to study the lofting and movement of the colossal Canadian wildfire smoke cloud, which contained only about 0.3 million tons of soot. The modeling validated previous theories on nuclear war impacts and provided new insights into potential global climate effects.

SourceRutgers University·JournalScience·DateAug 8, 2019

New design strategy brightens up the future of perovskite-based light-emitting diodes

The team discovered a new strategy to design highly efficient perovskite-based LEDs by leveraging the quantum confinement effect, which allows for superior mobility of electrons and holes. This results in attractive light-emission properties, enabling record-setting performance in terms of brightness and power efficiency.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalApplied Physics Reviews·DateAug 8, 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.

Study finds changes in mindset key to helping college students exercise more

Researchers surveyed 135 college students and found that viewing exercise as a stress outlet can significantly increase their willingness to exercise. The most important factor in sustaining this habit was behavioral confidence, including visualization of future performance and external sources of encouragement.

SourceAmerican Osteopathic Association·JournalThe Journal of the American Osteopathic Association·DateAug 8, 2019

Cancer survivors in high deductible health plans more likely to have delayed care

A new study from American Cancer Society investigators reveals that cancer survivors enrolled in high deductible health plans (HDHPs) are more likely to report delaying or foregoing medical care due to cost concerns. Meanwhile, individuals with HDHPs who also have health savings accounts (HSAs) may experience less delayed care.

SourceAmerican Cancer Society·JournalJournal of Oncology Practice·DateAug 8, 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.

NASA's MMS finds its first interplanetary shock

The Magnetospheric Multiscale mission has made the first high-resolution measurements of an interplanetary shock. The shock was triggered by a fast stream of solar wind overtaking a slower stream, creating a wave that spread across the solar system. By analyzing the data from this event, scientists gained evidence to support a theory o...

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 8, 2019

Where are the bees? Tracking down which flowers they pollinate

Researchers use 'Reverse Metagenomics' method to identify preferred wildflowers for bees, providing valuable insights into pollinator behavior and habitat conservation. This technique can be applied to various studies, including diet analysis and airborne allergenic pollen identification.

SourceEarlham Institute·JournalMethods in Ecology and Evolution·DateAug 8, 2019

Forest fragments surprising havens for wildlife

Camera trap surveys reveal 28 mammal species in protected forest and 21 in fragmented habitats, including critically endangered species like Sunda pangolin and Sumatran tiger. These findings suggest conservation value for small patches of remnant forest and the importance of further research.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalEnvironmental Conservation·DateAug 8, 2019

Reducing exposure to opioids after cesarean delivery

Researchers at Kaiser Permanente discovered that allowing women to eat and move sooner after surgery improves recovery, reduces opioid exposure, and enhances breastfeeding experiences. The study's Enhanced Recovery After Surgery program led to a significant decrease in opioid use without increased pain or hospital stay.

SourceKaiser Permanente·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateAug 8, 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.

Does cable news shape your views?

A new MIT study finds that partisan news coverage has a bigger impact on viewers without strong media preferences, while those with strong preferences may be less influenced. The study suggests that certain types of political media affect different populations in varying manners.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalAmerican Political Science Review·DateAug 8, 2019

A new pathway: researchers identify potential treatment target for Crohn's disease

A new pathway has been identified as a potential treatment target for Crohn's disease, a form of inflammatory bowel disease that affects millions in the US. The study suggests that blocking a specific protein receptor may ameliorate inflammation and fibrosis in CD patients.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalCellular and Molecular Gastroenterology and Hepatology·DateAug 8, 2019

Researchers discover why intense light can protect cardiovascular health

Researchers discovered that intense light amplifies the PER2 gene, which bolsters blood vessels and offers protection against heart attacks. The study found that mice exposed to intense light had reduced cardiac tissue damage after a heart attack, suggesting a potential therapeutic strategy for humans.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalCell Reports·DateAug 8, 2019

Tobacco plant 'stickiness' aids helpful insects, plant health

Researchers found that sticky glandular trichomes on tobacco leaves trap insects, which are then consumed by the spined stilt bug, a predator that protects the plant from pest infestation. This mutualistic relationship increases leaf yield and reduces plant damage without harming the tobacco plants.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalBiological Control·DateAug 8, 2019

New WSU technology to improve delivery of anti-inflammatory drugs

A WSU researcher has created a new technology that harnesses the immune system to target diseased tissues, improving drug delivery and reducing side effects. The technology uses neutrophils to deliver drugs directly to inflammatory sites, showing promise in treating acute lung injury and potentially other diseases.

SourceWashington State University·DateAug 8, 2019

How maggots leap without legs

Researchers discovered that Asphondylia maggots use microscopic hairs to latch onto surfaces, forming a temporary leg to launch themselves into the air. This unique mechanism allows them to catapult themselves up to 121mm in just a few seconds, saving energy compared to crawling.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateAug 8, 2019

BrainHealth researchers study the neurochemistry of social perception

Recent research from Dr. Dan Krawczyk's lab at the Center for BrainHealth explored the effects of oxytocin and vasopressin on social cognition. Oxytocin consistently led a perception of greater dominance, while both hormones affected brain activity across trustworthiness and dominance.

SourceCenter for BrainHealth·JournalPsychoneuroendocrinology·DateAug 8, 2019

GW researchers identify barriers to fungal infection diagnosis

Researchers found that around 21% of dermatologists rarely/never perform fungal preparations due to perceived adequacy or time concerns, while 25% with CLIA certification reported difficulty in obtaining the necessary certifications. The study emphasizes the need for increased education and policy-based interventions to ease the process.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalJournal of Drugs in Dermatology·DateAug 8, 2019

Genetic variation contributes to individual differences in pleasure

Research using identical and fraternal twins suggests that genetic variation contributes to individual differences in pleasure and reward processing. The study found that activation of the nucleus accumbens, a key structure in the brain's reward system, is moderately heritable, as are scores for physical anhedonia and pleasure.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateAug 8, 2019