Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for February 4, 2019


A match made in neural heaven: How a neuron grows an axon

Researchers have discovered genetic switches that ignite axon formation, revealing the role of PTBP2 and SHTN1 genes. The study shows how alternative splicing enables neurons to produce long axons, essential for neural communication.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNeuron·DateFeb 4, 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.

Retreating snow line reveals organic molecules around young star

Astronomers using ALMA have detected complex organic molecules around the young star V883 Ori, similar to those found in comets in our Solar System. The distribution of these molecules has a ring-like structure with a radius of 60 au, which is twice the size of Neptune's orbit.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalNature Astronomy·DateFeb 4, 2019

The web meets genomics: a DNA search engine for microbes

The Bitsliced Genomic Signature Index (BIGSI) allows researchers to identify antibiotic resistance genes and mutations in real time, making vast amounts of genomic data discoverable. This enables the study of disease dynamics, understanding of bacterial ancestry, and prediction of drug resistance.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory - European Bioinformatics Institute·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateFeb 4, 2019

More than 100 new gut bacteria discovered in human microbiome

A study has discovered and isolated more than 100 completely new species of bacteria from healthy people's intestines, creating the most comprehensive collection of human intestinal bacteria to date. This will help researchers worldwide to investigate how our microbiome keeps us healthy and its role in disease.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateFeb 4, 2019

US Pacific Northwest forest preservation

A study evaluating the impact of the 100-year Northwest Forest Plan found that old-growth forests are declining due to increased fires, while regenerating habitats are increasing in some regions. Despite these findings, the authors recommend continued conservation efforts for old-growth habitats.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 4, 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.

Demand for long-acting contraception rose sharply after 2016 election

A study found that rates of intrauterine device and implant insertions increased by 21.6% in the 30 days after the 2016 election compared to the same time period in 2015. This increase is attributed to women's concerns about losing contraceptive coverage under the Trump administration.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateFeb 4, 2019

Culprit found for honeybee deaths in California almond groves

New research identifies insecticide combinations that are lethal to honeybees and their larvae, leading to a recommendation to stop using these chemicals during almond bloom. The study's findings have already led to changes in industry practices, with many growers backing off insecticide use.

SourceOhio State University·JournalInsects·DateFeb 4, 2019

Obesity-related cancers rising in young adults in the US

A new study finds rates are increasing for six of 12 obesity-related cancers in younger adults in the US, with steeper increases in progressively younger ages. Excess body weight is a known carcinogen associated with more than a dozen cancers and suspected in several more.

SourceAmerican Cancer Society·JournalThe Lancet Public Health·DateFeb 4, 2019

Engineers harvest heart's energy to power life-saving devices

A team of engineers at Dartmouth College has developed a dime-sized invention that converts the kinetic energy of the heart into electricity, powering implantable devices like pacemakers and defibrillators. The new technology could potentially replace batteries with surgery, reducing complications and costs.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalAdvanced Materials Technologies·DateFeb 4, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Time parents spend with children key to academic success

A large study found that parental time has a powerful impact on educational achievement. The longer a parent is absent, the less impact their education has on their child's success. Mothers' education levels have a stronger effect than fathers', particularly in larger families where mothers spend more time with children.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Labor Economics·DateFeb 4, 2019

Policy statements on the effects of media overlook scientific complexity

A scholarly review found that policy statements on media effects frequently oversimplify complex issues, relying on biased evidence and exaggerated claims. The study evaluated 24 policy statements from professional organizations and identified widespread citation bias, false consistency, and overgeneralization.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalAdvances in Methods and Practices in Psychological Science·DateFeb 4, 2019

Harvesting wild genes gives crops renewed resistance to disease

A global alliance of researchers has pioneered a new method to rapidly recruit disease-resistance genes from wild plants for transfer into domestic crops. The technique, called AgRenSeq, promises to transform the development of disease-resistant varieties for the global food supply.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateFeb 4, 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.

Mapping oesophageal cancer genes leads to new drug targets

Cancer researchers have mapped oesophageal adenocarcinoma genes in unprecedented detail, unveiling more than half as potentially targetable by drugs already in trials for other cancers. This breakthrough could lead to personalized therapies and improved treatment options for patients.

SourceCancer Research UK·JournalNature Genetics·DateFeb 4, 2019

Peering under the hood of fake-news detectors

Researchers developed a deep-learning model that detects fake news by analyzing language patterns, finding favoritism towards exaggerations in false stories. The model achieved high accuracy in distinguishing fact from fiction, particularly when tested on novel topics.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateFeb 4, 2019

Pika survival rates dry up with low moisture

Research reveals that pika populations decline at lower elevations with high vapor-pressure deficit, while mid-elevation pikas face cold stress. High-elevation pikas thrive with sufficient snow cover, promoting healthy reproduction and population growth.

SourceEcological Society of America·JournalEcology·DateFeb 4, 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.

How private households can stall economic growth

A study by the University of Bonn shows that growing income uncertainty among private households can lead to an economic downturn. This is because households may hoard money, reducing demand and negatively impacting the economy. Government investments can stabilize the economy by making it more attractive for households to spend.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalEconometrica·DateFeb 4, 2019

Creativity and collaboration between arts and sciences

Researchers explore how arts and sciences collaboration can lead to increased discovery and innovation. A study found that patent production is correlated with metal- and wood-working practices among STEM professionals.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 4, 2019

The Milky Way in a twist

Astronomers have created a 3D picture of the Milky Way's outer regions using variable stars. The team found that the galaxy's S-like stellar disk is warped in a progressively twisted spiral pattern.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Astronomy·DateFeb 4, 2019

Sex differences in metabolic brain aging

PET scans reveal female brains are metabolically 3-4 years younger than males, affecting resilience to neurodegeneration. Sex differences in metabolic brain aging may influence later life outcomes.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 4, 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.

New clues discovered to lung transplant rejection

Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine identified a process that may prevent antibody-mediated rejection in lung transplants. They found that giving immunosuppressive drugs can help the lungs survive and induce growth of lymph node-like structures within the grafts, which contain cells that dampen immune responses.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateFeb 4, 2019

Boosting glutamate reduces anxiety in monkeys

Researchers found that increasing glutamate levels in the hippocampus normalized anxious monkeys' threat responses, with effects dependent on area 25. This study suggests targeting the brain region and its connection to reduce anxiety.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateFeb 4, 2019

Patients with facial pain report most benefit from self-care techniques

A new study by NYU College of Dentistry suggests that self-care techniques, such as jaw exercises and warm compresses, should be the first line of treatment for muscle-related temporomandibular disorder (TMD). The study found that patients with TMD reported significant improvement in their pain from these non-medication treatments.

SourceNew York University·JournalClinical Oral Investigations·DateFeb 4, 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.

The Milky Way is warped

Astronomers have created the first accurate 3D map of the Milky Way, revealing it is warped and twisted, with young stars in the outer regions.

SourceScience in Public·JournalNature Astronomy·DateFeb 4, 2019

Study: Fatal opioid-related car crashes in Maryland hold steady over decade

Researchers found no significant increase in opioid-involved fatal crashes in Maryland from 2006 to 2017. A new approach defined by limiting analysis to those who died at the scene with opioids in their systems versus those who died later revealed this steady trend.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalAccident Analysis & Prevention·DateFeb 4, 2019

Dung beetles navigate better under a full moon

Researchers at Lund University found that dung beetles are sensitive enough to hold their course during full moon nights despite light pollution. They use polarized light as their most important compass reference.

SourceLund University·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateFeb 4, 2019

A gut feeling for mental health

A population-level study identified specific gut bacteria linked to depression and found that a wide range of gut bacteria can produce neuroactive compounds. The study used faecal microbiome data from 1,054 individuals and validated its results in independent cohorts.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalNature Microbiology·DateFeb 4, 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.

In the February Health Affairs: Telemedicine in Latin America

A study analyzing hospital survey data from nine Latin American countries found that telemedicine use varies greatly among hospitals. Selected health organization characteristics, national policy, and culture are driving forces behind telemedicine expansion.

SourceHealth Affairs·JournalHealth Affairs·DateFeb 4, 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.

MERMAIDs reveal secrets from below the ocean floor

A team of researchers used floating robotic seismometers to image the interior of the planet and discovered a mantle plume under Galapagos, suggesting an alternative explanation for the Earth's constant temperature over 4.5 billion years. The findings hint at the importance of mantle plumes in regulating the Earth's heat budget.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 4, 2019

New disease surveillance tool helps detect any human virus

A new computational method called CATCH enables scientists to design molecular probes that can capture genetic material of various microbes, including viruses. This approach has been successfully tested in detecting low-abundance viruses like Zika, improving the detection of viral content in clinical samples.

SourceBroad Institute of MIT and Harvard·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateFeb 4, 2019

Gap between corporate earnings, non-financial measures affects forecasting

A study by North Carolina State University found that companies with large differences between their earnings and non-financial measures are less likely to forecast their annual earnings. This divergence can lead to inaccurate forecasts, as companies may overestimate their actual performance.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Management Accounting Research·DateFeb 4, 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.

Argonne researchers develop new method to reduce quantum noise

Researchers have developed a new technique to recover lost information in quantum systems by repeating experiments with slightly different noise characteristics. This method effectively reduces quantum noise without the need for additional hardware.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review A·DateFeb 4, 2019

Earthquake with magnitude 7.5 in Indonesia: An unusual and steady speed

Researchers analyzed the Sulawesi island earthquake to identify its propagation speed of 4.1 km/s, which falls between seismic wave speeds. The study's findings suggest that steady rupture at unexpected speeds can occur on damaged rocks and may enhance cascading effects.

SourceInstitut de recherche pour le développement·JournalNature Geoscience·DateFeb 4, 2019

NW Forest Plan 25 years later: Wildfire losses up, bird populations down

Birds associated with older forests in the Pacific Northwest are declining faster than those in early-seral ecosystems, despite conservation efforts. The study highlights the importance of continuing to protect and restore old-growth habitats as wildfires become more frequent.

SourceOregon State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 4, 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.

Biotechnology to the rescue of Brussels sprouts

A team of European researchers has identified multiple genes that are resistant to Albugo candida, a disease causing white rust in Brassicaceae family plants. The discovery was made using Arabidopsis thaliana as a model plant and has the potential to design new genetic improvement strategies for different cultivated crop species.

SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 4, 2019

CEOs profit from issuing negative news releases ahead of stock option grant dates

Researchers found that CEOs who release more negative news before their executive stock option grant date see significant gains. The study suggests that CEOs underpaid compared to peers and with discretion are more likely to manipulate the system. To guard against further gaming, additional regulation and governance are recommended.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalAcademy of Management Journal·DateFeb 4, 2019

Mother's age, race, weight affect hormone concentrations in pregnancy, Rutgers study finds

A Rutgers study found that hormone concentrations in early fetal development are significantly affected by maternal age, body mass index, and race. Older mothers, heavier women, and those of African descent had distinct hormone profiles, with potential implications for future health risks such as breast and ovarian cancer.

SourceRutgers University·JournalMaternal and Child Health Journal·DateFeb 4, 2019

Women's brains appear three years younger than men's

A new study finds that women's brains are metabolically three years younger than men's of the same age, which may contribute to their greater mental sharpness in later years. The researchers used PET scans and machine-learning algorithms to measure brain metabolism and calculate each person's brain age.

SourceWashU Medicine·DateFeb 4, 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.

Why charismatic, introduced species are so difficult to manage

Researchers say that scale is a key contributor to conflicts involving introduced-species management, particularly for charismatic species. These imbalances in public perception influence the way those organisms are managed, leading to difficulties in enacting policies aligned with ecosystem behavior and species invasions.

SourceEcological Society of America·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateFeb 4, 2019

Drug target identified for chemotherapy-resistant ovarian, breast cancer

A new study has identified a pair of genes that can mimic the effects of BRCA proteins, potentially making tumor cells susceptible to PARP inhibitors. The researchers found that targeting these genes could improve treatment options for people with breast or ovarian cancer caused by BRCA defects.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateFeb 4, 2019

Enlarged prostate could actually be stopping tumor growth, simulations show

A new study suggests that enlarged prostates could impede tumor growth in prostate cancer patients. Computer simulations found that the mechanical stresses from an enlarging prostate keep tumors small. The findings challenge traditional treatments that involve downsizing the prostate.

SourcePurdue University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 4, 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.

Electrical activity in prostate cancer cells

Researchers at the University of Seville have characterized the normal electrical activity in PC-3 prostate cancer cells, showing a low-frequency pattern between 0.1 and 10 Hz. This study aims to explore the relationship between electrical patterns and cell proliferation, with potential applications for medicine delivery.

SourceUniversity of Seville·JournalSensors·DateFeb 4, 2019

Research shows teens too low on sleep, activity, and too high on screen time

A study of nearly 60,000 US adolescents found that only 1 in 20 meet national recommendations for sleep, physical activity, and screen time. The research highlights the need for doctors to advise parents on parenting style and home environment to promote healthier lifestyles.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateFeb 4, 2019

New progress toward chip-based ghost imaging

A new, low-cost chip-based light-illuminating device enables fast and practical ghost imaging for applications like biomedical imaging and LIDAR. The device uses a compact optical phased array to generate random speckle patterns, allowing for higher sensitivity and faster imaging than traditional methods.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Express·DateFeb 4, 2019

Graphene biosensor could provide early lung cancer diagnosis, research shows

Researchers from the University of Exeter have developed a new graphene biosensor that can detect molecules of common lung cancer biomarkers. The device has the potential to revolutionize existing electronic nose devices and provide an early-stage lung cancer diagnosis through a convenient and reusable breath test.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNanoscale·DateFeb 4, 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.

Physicists uncover the topological origin of surface electromagnetic waves

Researchers from RIKEN discover that surface electromagnetic waves have a purely topological origin, similar to quantum topological states. This finding explains why these waves appear at interfaces where medium parameters change sign, providing new insights for plasmonics, metamaterials, and topological quantum systems.

SourceRIKEN·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 4, 2019

Rust never sleeps

Researchers at PNNL use APT to trace oxidation-reduction reactions and create the first 3D atomic maps of iron oxide crystals. These 'atomic maps' reveal a dynamic iron cycle, showing iron atoms filling in potholes on crystal surfaces and driving growth.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 4, 2019

75 CDTs announced by UKRI to develop the skills needed for UK

The UK has invested £446 million in CDTs, which will equip the next generation of doctoral level researchers with skills needed for tackling global challenges. Industry partners have also contributed £386 million, with 1,400 project partners involved in the programme.

SourceEngineering and Physical Sciences Research Council·DateFeb 4, 2019

The Caucasus: Complex interplay of genes and cultures

A recent genetic study published in Nature Communications analyzed genome-wide data from 45 individuals in the North Caucasus region, revealing a complex interaction between populations from the Eurasian steppe and the Caucasus Mountains during the Bronze Age. The study shows that despite harsh mountain terrain, groups living throughou...

SourceMax Planck Institute of Geoanthropology·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 4, 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.

UC Riverside physicists create exotic electron liquid

Physicists at UC Riverside created the first production of an electron liquid at room temperature, opening the way for new optoelectronic devices and basic physics studies. The achievement could lead to development of efficient terahertz devices for applications such as cancer detection and space communications.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Photonics·DateFeb 4, 2019

FSU chemists harness power of light to tackle asymmetrical molecules

A team of FSU researchers has discovered a way to convert asymmetric molecules into their mirror image counterparts through light-induced proton transfer. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient drug screening and reduced waste in pharmaceutical processes.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalChemical Communications·DateFeb 4, 2019

Convergent gene losses in herbivores and carnivores

Herbivore species lost genes related to triglyceride digestion inhibition and pancreatic enzyme secretion, enabling efficient digestion. Carnivores lost genes linked to appetite regulation, glucose production, and detoxification of plant compounds, indicating reduced gut microbial diversity.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 4, 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.

Biggest ever map of human Alzheimer's brain published

A team of researchers has created the largest dataset of its type ever, mapping the relative levels of over 5,825 distinct proteins across six regions of the brain. The study reveals new molecular targets for Alzheimer's disease and identifies changes in the cerebellum that may protect it from damage caused by the disease.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalCommunications Biology·DateFeb 4, 2019

A reconfigurable soft actuator

Researchers at Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences have developed a method to change the shape of a flat sheet of elastomer using actuation that is fast, reversible, and controllable by an applied voltage.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 4, 2019

WVU researcher unearths an ice age in the African desert

Researchers Graham Andrews and Sarah Brown from West Virginia University discovered drumlins, a type of hill formed by glaciers, in the Namibian desert. The study provides evidence of an ice stream in southern Africa during the late Paleozoic Age, about 300 million years ago.

SourceWest Virginia University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 4, 2019

Monthly wages are an important step towards economic development

Researchers from the University of Zurich found that self-control concerns are the primary driver of demand for monthly payments among Kenyan dairy farmers. The study shows that 86% of farmers prefer to receive a large payment at the end of the month, even if it means lower prices, to overcome trust issues and set aside savings.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalAmerican Economic Review·DateFeb 4, 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.

Rapid gene cloning technique will transform crop disease protection

Researchers have developed a new method called AgRenSeq, which enables the rapid recruitment of disease resistance genes from wild plants and their transfer into domestic crops. This technique has been successfully trialed in a wild relative of wheat and holds promise for protecting multiple crops worldwide.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateFeb 4, 2019

Fish and humans are alike in visual stimuli perception -- Ben-Gurion U.

Archae fish, trained in a computer experiment, exhibit same visual processing skills as humans when identifying target features such as color, size, orientation and motion. This shared approach is believed to be essential for survival and could provide insights into other species' brains.

SourceAmerican Associates, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalJournal of Vision·DateFeb 4, 2019

Study: Environmental regulations may have unintended consequences in energy production

A new study by Carnegie Mellon University researcher Edson Severnini found that environmental regulations aimed at preserving ecosystems may have encouraged the substitution of dirtier fuels for hydropower in electricity generation. The study estimates that each megawatt of fossil fuel power-generating capacity added to the grid due to...

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 4, 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.

Mayo Clinic researchers develop prediction tool for kidney stones

Researchers used data from Olmsted County, Minnesota to develop an online prediction tool that predicts the likelihood of future kidney stone episodes. The tool takes into account factors such as age, sex, body mass index, pregnancy history, and family history of stones.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateFeb 4, 2019

Research shows hidden fire risk of emollients

A recent study published in the Fire Safety Journal found that commonly-used emollients can increase fabric flammability, posing a hidden fire risk. The research, conducted by Anglia Ruskin University, tested various emollients and found that even paraffin-free products can ignite fabrics quickly.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalFire Safety Journal·DateFeb 4, 2019

Advocating for social issues at work more likely to succeed linking morality and mission, study says

A recent study published by the American Psychological Association found that employees who frame their arguments in moral language are more successful in getting buy-in from management when the issue aligns with the company's values and mission. The study suggests that using moral language without explicit links to the organization's ...

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Applied Psychology·DateFeb 4, 2019

Where does this contamination come from?

Researchers at TU Wien have developed a simple method for detecting water contamination from ruminants directly at source using a DNA test. The technology uses targeted DNA amplification and detection to identify specific bacteria found in the intestinal microbiome of grazing cattle.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 4, 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.

Putting yourself in their shoes may make you less open to their beliefs

Researchers found that taking someone else's perspective can make people less open to their opposing views, particularly when values are incongruent. In contrast, simply generating arguments for the other side without engaging in perspective-taking was effective in increasing receptiveness.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateFeb 4, 2019

Heat impairs immune defense against flu virus

High ambient temperatures reduce food intake, body weight, and immune response in mice infected with viral pathogens like the flu virus and Zika virus. Nutritional supplementation may enhance immune responses to emerging infectious diseases in tropical or developing countries.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 4, 2019

Compounded pain creams no better than placebo

Researchers found compounded pain creams ineffective in relieving localized pain, with small benefits attributed to peripheral nervous system drugs. The treatment's lack of efficacy and high cost make it less suitable than FDA-approved compounds.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateFeb 4, 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.

What drives patients to use medical marijuana: mostly chronic pain

A new study found that most medical marijuana users in the US are treating chronic pain, with 85.5% of patients reporting an evidence-based condition. The study analyzed data from states with legalized medical use of marijuana and found a dramatic increase in patient numbers over time.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalHealth Affairs·DateFeb 4, 2019

Female education and fertility decline in Africa

African women's fertility rates declined between 1985-2010 when they were deprived of educational opportunities. However, improvements in education led to steady declines in Ghana.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 4, 2019

Genome structure of malaria parasites linked to virulence

The study reveals that malaria parasite genomes are shaped by parasite-specific gene families and strongly correlate with virulence. The researchers identified unique features in the organization of gene families involved in antigenic variation, which enables high virulence in Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium knowlesi.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 4, 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.

Male killer whales hunt more than females

Researchers monitored southern resident killer whale population and found that males dive deeper and are more successful hunters than females. The team tracked the animals' movements and diving patterns using archival tags to estimate how much fish they capture, revealing sex differences in foraging activity.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateFeb 4, 2019

Balloon-guided catheters provide better blood flow following stroke interventions

Researchers compared two groups of patients who underwent clot retrieval with either a balloon-guided catheter or a conventional guide catheter. Patients treated with the balloon-guided catheter showed improved restoration of blood flow scores and clinical outcomes, highlighting its potential to enhance stroke patient care.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of NeuroInterventional Surgery·DateFeb 4, 2019

Over 800 new genome regions possibly relevant to human evolution identified

A study by Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona identifies 873 new regions of the human genome as candidates for natural selection, increasing the total number of detected signals to date. These new regions provide valuable data to help answer questions about human origins and adaptations.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateFeb 4, 2019

Mindfulness and sleep can reduce exhaustion in entrepreneurs

A recent study from Oregon State University suggests that mindfulness practices can reduce exhaustion in entrepreneurs by compensating for sleep deprivation. The research found that even short periods of mindfulness exercise, such as 10 minutes a day, can have the same benefits as an extra 44 minutes of sleep per night.

SourceOregon State University·JournalJournal of Business Venturing·DateFeb 4, 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.

Word order predicts a native speaker's working memory

Researchers found that left-branching language speakers outperformed right-branching language speakers in recalling initial stimuli across verbal and non-verbal working memory tasks. This suggests that the language structure affects the way native speakers process, store, and retrieve information.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 4, 2019

Yeast study prompts rethink of DNA safekeeping

A new study led by Grant Brown suggests that at times of stress, DNA replication errors are far more frequent than previously appreciated. This could lead to increased mutations in human cells, potentially contributing to cancer and other diseases.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalMolecular Cell·DateFeb 4, 2019

How froghoppers grip on smooth surfaces

Researchers discovered that froghoppers pierce leaves with their hind-leg spines to create traction, while also indenting epoxy surfaces to avoid slipping. This unique attachment mechanism could lead to innovative gripping systems for robots.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 4, 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.

New study shows cost effectiveness of early cancer surveillance

A new study published in Pediatric Blood and Cancer found that early cancer surveillance in patients with Li-Fraumeni Syndrome is cost-effective, resulting in additional years of life. The research showed a significant increase in life expectancy for high-risk patients, with healthcare costs estimated at $17,000 per year gained.

SourceHuntsman Cancer Institute·JournalPediatric Blood & Cancer·DateFeb 4, 2019

Insight into protein formation could aid understanding of diseases

Researchers have discovered a crucial mechanism for removing faulty proteins from cells, which may aid understanding of neurological diseases and anaemia. By studying the yeast protein Hel2, they found that this process is essential for maintaining cellular health.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 4, 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.

Gerontologists find functional status after TAVR, SAVR linked to pre-op fragility

Researchers found that patients with high functional status and lower frailty scores before valve replacement fared best after the procedure. After SAVR, three-quarters of patients experienced functional improvement, while among those who underwent TAVR, only 37% saw an improvement in functional status.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateFeb 4, 2019

A warming world increases air pollution

Climate change is warming the ocean but land faster, increasing continental aridity and aerosol concentration. This leads to a heightened risk of smog and air pollution, posing health problems for people, animals, and plants worldwide.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Climate Change·DateFeb 4, 2019

It's all in the code: protein production efficiency can be predicted by gene sequence

Researchers discovered a correlation between mRNA codon composition and protein abundance, revealing the importance of gene sequence optimization for efficient translation. The study's findings have significant implications for medicine and bioengineering, offering new avenues for treating diseases and boosting biotech applications.

SourceInstituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia de Biologia Estrutural e Bioimagem (INBEB)·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateFeb 4, 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.

Study: Medicare rules increase out-of-pocket costs of MS drugs

Researchers found that Medicare patients with multiple sclerosis spend $6,894 a year out of pocket for treatment. This is attributed to the lack of incentives for companies not to raise prices, leading to restrictive policies and high coinsurance cost-sharing models.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalHealth Affairs·DateFeb 4, 2019

Study: Much of the surface ocean will shift in color by end of 21st century

A new study predicts that over 50% of the world's oceans will shift in color by the year 2100, with blue regions intensifying and green ones deepening. The changes are caused by climate-driven changes in phytoplankton communities and can be detected using satellite measurements.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 4, 2019

Research: Religion affects consumer choices on specialty foods

Research finds that religiosity affects the selection of diet-minded foods, while sustainability-minded food consumption is driven by moral foundations of care. Marketers can leverage this knowledge to design products and marketing communications tailored to specific religious groups.

SourceUniversity of Wyoming·JournalJournal of Business Research·DateFeb 4, 2019

Early spring rain boosts methane from thawing permafrost by 30 percent

A recent study found that early spring rainfall warms up thawing permafrost bogs in Alaska, promoting plant growth and increasing methane emissions. The team discovered a 30% increase in methane production compared to previous years, highlighting the sensitivity of these regions to thermal effects.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateFeb 4, 2019

Rutgers study finds rise in overdoses from opioids in diarrhea drug

Overdoses from opioids in loperamide have increased nationwide, with cardiac failure being a major concern due to the high toxicity of the drug when misused. Misusing non-prescription loperamide can lead to serious consequences, including irregular heartbeat and cardiac arrest.

SourceRutgers University·JournalClinical Toxicology·DateFeb 4, 2019

Heat waves, food insecurity due to climate change may weaken immune systems

Research in mice at the University of Tokyo found that heat waves can reduce the body's immune response to flu. However, providing supplemental nutrition before and after infection can help restore normal immune function. The study suggests that food insecurity may weaken the immune system, making people more susceptible to illness.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 4, 2019

Cutting health care costs

A new Harvard University study reveals that reducing spending on cardiovascular disease has slowed healthcare cost growth among the elderly population. The research found that investments in preventative care can produce significant savings, with nearly half of the reduction attributed to cardiovascular health.

SourceHarvard University·JournalHealth Affairs·DateFeb 4, 2019

Laughter may be best medicine -- for brain surgery

Researchers at Emory University discovered that electrical stimulation of the cingulum bundle can induce laughter and a sense of calm in patients undergoing brain surgery. The technique has potential applications in treating depression, anxiety disorders, and chronic pain via deep brain stimulation.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateFeb 4, 2019

Study examines women, men and brain marker of Alzheimer's disease

A study examining nearly 300 clinically normal adults found that women showed more tau deposits in the brain than men, associated with greater Aβ plaque deposits, supporting potential reasons for differences in AD risk between men and women. The findings may be limited by the study population's age and demographic characteristics.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateFeb 4, 2019

OU astrophysicist modeling the early stages of solar system

A University of Oklahoma astrophysicist is using a new algorithm to model the early stages of planetary system formation and the impact of nearby stars on planets in binary systems. This research will be integrated into Oklahoma classrooms through the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·DateFeb 4, 2019

Scaling up search for analogies could be key to innovation

Researchers are developing tools to help identify analogies using AI and crowd workers. This approach aims to scale up the process of finding helpful insights that can lead to scientific breakthroughs. The potential benefits include more efficient discovery and a greater number of profound advances.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 4, 2019