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Science News for January 10, 2019


Giant pattern discovered in the clouds of planet Venus

Researchers identified a giant streak structure among Venus' clouds using Akatsuki spacecraft data, which was replicated by high-resolution climate simulations. The study suggests that the streak structure is formed from baroclinic instability and jet streams in the planet's atmosphere.

SourceKobe University·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 10, 2019

Mobile, instant diagnosis of viruses

A new high-throughput sequencing technique enables quick diagnosis of viruses like Ebola and Zika in the field, avoiding sample transfer. The technology has been validated in plant virology, paving the way for real-time detection of chronic or emerging plant viruses.

SourceCirad·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 10, 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.

Danish malaria vaccine passes test in humans

A team of researchers from the University of Copenhagen has successfully completed a phase one clinical trial of their malaria vaccine, demonstrating its safety and ability to induce the desired antibody response in humans. The vaccine is now poised for further testing and potential use in vulnerable populations.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateJan 10, 2019

Researchers discover a hidden culprit in heart failure

Researchers have identified a key molecule named PI3K alpha that binds to gelsolin and suppresses its enzyme activity, leading to dilated cardiomyopathy. The discovery offers potential for targeted therapies in patients with heart failure.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 10, 2019

Chemical synthesis of nanotubes

Researchers at the University of Tokyo successfully synthesized a phenine nanotube with intentional periodic defects, which imbue it with semiconductor characters. The discovery uses a novel process starting with benzene and platinum atoms to create a controlled defect structure.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalScience·DateJan 10, 2019

Birth of a black hole or neutron star captured for the first time

A Northwestern University-led team captures the exact moment a star collapsed to form a compact object like a black hole or neutron star, revealing evidence of an accreting black hole or neutron star. The event, known as AT2018cow, was detected in the Hercules constellation and emitted remarkable bright glow.

SourceW. M. Keck Observatory·DateJan 10, 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.

Basel researchers identify drug against the formation of metastasis

Basel researchers identified a substance that prevents the formation of metastases by dissociating circulating tumor cell clusters and reversing epigenetic changes. This approach targets key aspects of metastasis seeding, including proliferation and tissue-forming capabilities.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalCell·DateJan 10, 2019

Turbocharger for the cell machinery

Scientists at the University of Bern have identified a unique mechanism in trypanosomes where non-coding RNA molecules stimulate ribosome activity, accelerating protein production during stress. This 'kick start' helps the cell recover quickly from nutrient scarcity or environmental challenges.

SourceUniversity of Bern·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 10, 2019

The pressure's off

Scientists have successfully mapped the active-state structure of the angiotensin II type 1 receptor, a critical drug target for regulating blood pressure and kidney function. The study provides insights into how this receptor activates and offers clues for developing new medications that activate rather than block the receptor.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalCell·DateJan 10, 2019

Bizarre 'bristle-jaw' creatures finally placed on tree of life

Researchers at OIST Graduate University have identified arrow worms as a new group of animals, challenging the classical view that complex organisms evolved from simple ancestors. The study reveals important evolutionary trends and sheds light on the phylogenetic position of these bizarre creatures.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJan 10, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Neuroimaging shows social exclusion spurs extremism in those vulnerable to radicalization

A study using neuroimaging found that social exclusion strengthens willingness to defend non-sacred values, making them more radicalized. The neural activity associated with sacred values was also increased, suggesting a process of sacralization. These findings have implications for understanding and addressing extremism.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateJan 10, 2019

Study: Racial inequality in the deployment of rooftop solar energy in the US

A study by Tufts University researchers found that African-American and Hispanic-dominant neighborhoods have installed significantly fewer rooftop solar photovoltaics than white-dominant neighborhoods, even after controlling for household income and home ownership. This disparity affects the deployment of solar energy across the US.

SourceTufts University·JournalNature Sustainability·DateJan 10, 2019

New biomarker links cancer progression to genome instability

A new study by Tel Aviv University researchers has identified a protein called ubiquilin-4 as a biomarker for genome instability. Elevated levels of this protein in tumor cells accelerate cancer progression and make them resistant to common treatments.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalCell·DateJan 10, 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.

Solving the ancient mysteries of Easter Island

Researchers used quantitative spatial modeling to explore the relationship between ahu construction locations and subsistence resources on Rapa Nui. The study found that ahu locations are consistently linked to proximity to freshwater sources, suggesting a critical role for water availability in ancient island society.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 10, 2019

Uncovering more options in cancer immunotherapy

Researchers at Emory University have developed a high-throughput screening platform to identify small molecules that can enhance the ability of human immune cells to kill cancer cells. The platform, called HTiP, has identified compounds such as birinapant, which has shown strong evidence for its relevance as an immune enhancer.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalCell Chemical Biology·DateJan 10, 2019

Ocean warming is accelerating

New research reveals ocean heat content is accelerating, with 2018 likely the hottest year on record. The warming contributes to sea level rise, increased rainfall intensity, and stronger storms.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalScience·DateJan 10, 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.

Researchers map previously unknown disease in children

A team of researchers has discovered a previously unknown disease that causes children to suffer from epileptic seizures, loss of magnesium in urine, and reduced intelligence. The disease is linked to a mutation in the sodium-potassium pump's Alpha-1 form, affecting both kidneys and the brain.

SourceAarhus University·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateJan 10, 2019

Phat on potential, lipidomics is gaining weight

A new generation of chemists and biochemists is advancing lipid research with the help of a newly established database. The LIPID MAPS database, developed by UC San Diego researchers, provides a gold standard classification system for lipids, enabling better study and diagnosis of acute and chronic conditions such as diabetes and cancer.

SourceBabraham Institute·JournalScience Signaling·DateJan 10, 2019

Speeding up genetic diagnosis of Huntington's disease

Researchers have developed a reliable method to measure the length of the Huntingtin gene, which causes Huntington's disease. The new technique reduces analysis time from over five hours to just five minutes, significantly speeding up diagnosis. This breakthrough has potential applications for other trinucleotide diseases.

SourceSwiss National Science Foundation (SNSF)·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 10, 2019

Seeing shapeshifting receptors at work could yield new drugs

Scientists at Duke University and colleagues have identified four main shapes of the angiotensin receptor, which interact differently with various drugs. This breakthrough could lead to the development of more specific medications that target only the desired effects, reducing unwanted side effects.

SourceDuke University·JournalCell·DateJan 10, 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.

Pharmacists could dramatically reduce ER visits

A study found that nearly one-third of non-urgent ED visits in Ontario can be managed by pharmacists with an expanded scope of practice, reducing crowdedness and free up resources for more acute cases. The most frequent ED cases that could be managed include skin-related concerns and other minor conditions.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalResearch in Social and Administrative Pharmacy·DateJan 10, 2019

Sleep Research Society announces 2019 award recipients

The Sleep Research Society recognized four scientists with awards for their groundbreaking work in sleep and circadian research. Louis Ptáček received the Distinguished Scientist Award for his pioneering genetic studies, while Frank A.J.L. Scheer and Steven A. Shea were honored for their seminal discoveries on circadian misalignment.

SourceAmerican Academy of Sleep Medicine·DateJan 10, 2019

A new way to measure solar panel degradation

Researchers develop a new way to measure solar panel degradation by using past meteorological data and machine learning algorithms. The method allows for real-time inspection and prediction of solar power output, enabling faster repairs and improved forecasting.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Renewable and Sustainable Energy·DateJan 10, 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.

Discovery adapts natural membrane to make hydrogen fuel from water

Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory have adapted a chemical reaction pathway from plant biology to convert water into hydrogen fuel using solar energy. The new process combines two membrane-bound protein complexes, Photosystem I and II, to perform a complete conversion of water molecules to hydrogen and oxygen.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalChemical Science·DateJan 10, 2019

How dangerous is microplastic?

Researchers have found microplastics in lakes, rivers, food supplies, and beverages, raising concerns about their impact on human health. Dr. Natalia Ivleva's work focuses on analyzing and quantifying microplastic particles using advanced spectroscopic methods.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalTrAC Trends in Analytical Chemistry·DateJan 10, 2019

Men and women remember pain differently

Research confirms men and women remember pain differently, with men recalling earlier painful experiences and being stressed by later pain. Blocking memories of previous pain alleviates the stress response, suggesting a potential treatment approach for chronic pain sufferers.

SourceMcGill University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJan 10, 2019

Termites mitigate effects of drought in tropical rainforest

A co-led study by HKU researchers found that termites increase leaf litter decomposition, nutrient heterogeneity, and soil moisture during drought periods. The presence of termites helps protect tropical rainforests from the negative effects of drought.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalScience·DateJan 10, 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.

New research shows that women with IBD are at greater risk of mental illness

A new study published in the journal Gut found that women with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are at a higher risk of developing mental illness after giving birth. The study analyzed healthcare data from over 200,000 pregnant women and found that more than one-fifth had a new-onset mental health diagnosis.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute·JournalGut·DateJan 10, 2019

Targeting an RNA-binding protein to fight aging

Researchers identified a link between the RNA-binding protein PUM2 and age-related decline in cellular function. Targeting PUM2 restored mitochondrial dynamics and mitophagy, leading to improved mitochondrial function and increased lifespan.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalMolecular Cell·DateJan 10, 2019

African-Americans may live longer after liver transplant if their donors are the same race

Researchers analyzed national data and found that African-American transplant recipients lived 4.75 years longer on average if their livers were donated by someone of the same race. The study suggests a possible way to improve survival rates for this patient population, which typically faces poorer outcomes with liver cancer.

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateJan 10, 2019

The science is clear: with HIV, undetectable equals untransmittable

The U=U concept has been scientifically established, showing that people with undetectable viral loads cannot transmit HIV through sex. Large clinical trials and cohort studies validate the concept, which can help control the HIV pandemic and reduce stigma.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalJAMA·DateJan 10, 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.

Learning about the impact of multiple symptoms in older adults

Research found that 75% of older adults had at least one symptom, with nearly half having two or more. Symptoms increased with age, education level, and chronic conditions, leading to weaker grip strength, slower walking, and increased falls and hospitalizations risk.

SourceAmerican Geriatrics Society·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateJan 10, 2019

Giving Cas9 an 'on' switch for better control of CRISPR gene editing

Researchers have designed a new Cas9 enzyme, ProCas9, that can be controlled by specific enzymes present in cells or viruses. This allows for more accurate and precise gene editing with added security. The technology has potential applications in treating diseases and improving crop resistance to viral pathogens.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalCell·DateJan 10, 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.

Birth of a black hole or neutron star captured for first time

A Northwestern University-led team captures the moment a star collapsed to form a compact object, such as a black hole or neutron star. The team used multiple imaging sources and a comprehensive approach to study the object's makeup, finding evidence of hydrogen and helium.

SourceNorthwestern University·DateJan 10, 2019

Oceans are warming even faster than previously thought

Recent ocean heating observations provide further evidence that global warming is accelerating, with the top 2,000 meters of oceans predicted to rise 0.78 degrees Celsius by the end of the century, contributing to sea level rise and extreme weather events.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalScience·DateJan 10, 2019

Madariaga virus spreads to Haiti

The Madariaga virus has been identified in eight children in Haiti, with symptoms resembling dengue fever infection. Researchers suggest the virus was introduced to Haiti from Panama between 2012 and 2015, raising concerns about its potential spread to other Caribbean or North American regions.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateJan 10, 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.

AI approach outperformed human experts in identifying cervical precancer

A new AI algorithm has been developed to analyze digital images of the cervix and identify precancerous changes, outperforming human experts in accuracy. The approach has the potential to transform cervical cancer screening, especially in areas with limited resources.

SourceNIH/National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateJan 10, 2019

CRISPR study reveals new immune system regulators

Scientists have created a retroviral CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing library to explore the regulation of mouse T cells, mapping the most important genes for controlling T helper cells and identifying several new regulatory genes. This could help develop new treatments to activate the immune system.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalCell·DateJan 10, 2019

How forest termites protect tropical forests from drought

Forest termites play a crucial role in maintaining ecosystem function during droughts by decomposing organic matter, mixing soil nutrients, and regulating moisture. Their increased activity during drought helps buffer important soil processes critical for tropical forest survival.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJan 10, 2019

Far-ranging fin whales find year-round residence in Gulf of California

Researchers have discovered that fin whales may live in the Gulf of California year-round, with a resident population estimated to be between 100 and 700 individuals. The study suggests that the gulf provides an ideal habitat for the whales, allowing them to exploit a rich food source and potentially breed and calve.

SourceOregon State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 10, 2019

More stable light comes from intentionally 'squashed' quantum dots

Researchers at Los Alamos National Laboratory developed a new method to intentionally 'squash' colloidal quantum dots, creating dots capable of stable, blink-free light emission. This approach suppresses spectral fluctuations in single-dot emission and results in spectrally narrow light with highly stable intensity.

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·JournalNature Materials·DateJan 10, 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.

Chirality in 'real-time'

Scientists have created a system to probe biomolecules' chiral properties in real-time, providing insights into their biological function. The setup allows for the detection of enantiomers at picosecond resolution, overcoming previous limitations.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalOptica·DateJan 10, 2019

Fish farmers of the Caribbean

UC Santa Barbara researchers estimate the Caribbean can produce over 34 million metric tons of seafood annually, exceeding current production by two orders of magnitude. The region's vast ocean space makes it an attractive location for offshore mariculture, with some areas showing promise for commercial farming.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNature Sustainability·DateJan 10, 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.

How missing appointments increases the risk of death

A large study found that missing general practice appointments is associated with an increased risk of death, especially among patients with long-term mental health conditions. Patients with more health conditions had a higher risk of missing appointments and dying within the year.

SourceLancaster University·JournalBMC Medicine·DateJan 10, 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.

New guideline recommendations for the treatment of mild-to-moderate ulcerative colitis

The American Gastroenterological Association publishes a new clinical guideline for managing patients with mild-to-moderate ulcerative colitis. The guidelines recommend the use of oral and topical 5-aminosalicylates, rectal corticosteroids, and oral budesonide to promote high-quality care. However, the use of biologic therapies and imm...

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateJan 10, 2019

Cartilage could be key to safe 'structural batteries'

Researchers created a damage-resistant rechargeable zinc battery with a cartilage-like solid electrolyte, extending flight time by 5 to 25 percent in drones. The batteries can withstand hard impacts and stabbing without losing voltage or starting a fire.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalACS Applied Nano Materials·DateJan 10, 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.

Company partners with UTA Research Institute to help emergency responders

The University of Texas at Arlington Research Institute is collaborating with Newcastle Manufacturing to create a network of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) equipped with lights. The goal is to support emergency responders in nighttime operations, potentially reducing the risk of accidents and improving response times.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateJan 10, 2019

Early development of memory for space and time

Researchers observed newborn rats navigating environments to understand brain development of episodic memory. The hippocampus plays a critical role in turning experiences into memories.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJan 10, 2019

2D materials may enable electric vehicles to get 500 miles on a single charge

Researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago have developed 15 new types of 2D transition metal dichalcogenides that can act as catalysts in lithium-air batteries. These materials enable batteries to store up to 10 times more energy and charge faster, potentially increasing electric vehicle range to 400-500 miles on a single charge.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJan 10, 2019

Unusual supernova opens a rare window on the collapse of a star

Astronomers have observed a rare supernova that provides a unique glimpse into the physics of black hole or neutron star creation. The object, known as AT2018cow, is thought to be the formation of an accreting black hole or neutron star.

SourceAssociation of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA)·DateJan 10, 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.

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.

Bacteria help discover human cancer-causing proteins

A team of researchers used bacteria to identify human proteins that cause DNA damage when overproduced, leading to cancer. The study found 284 human protein relatives linked to cancer more often than random sets of proteins.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalCell·DateJan 10, 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.

How drugs can minimize the side effects of chemotherapy

A team of researchers at the University of Zurich has determined the three-dimensional structure of the receptor that causes nausea and vomiting as a result of cancer chemotherapy. They found that effective drugs like EmendTM and AkynzeoTM alter the receptor's structure, allowing for long-lasting attachment and effective treatment.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 10, 2019

Climate change intensifies war of the birds

Researchers found that climate change leads to increased aggression between great tits and pied flycatchers, resulting in higher mortality rates for flycatchers. Great tits' earlier arrival due to warmer temperatures gives them an advantage over flycatchers, leading to more conflicts.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJan 10, 2019

Social and environmental costs of hydropower are underestimated, study shows

A new study reveals that large dams in developing countries ignore climate change impacts, displacement of communities, and economic damages. The researchers argue that these effects should be factored into the total cost of hydropower projects.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 10, 2019

Using genetics of human fat cells to predict response to anti-diabetes drugs

A Penn study reveals that individual genetic variation can predict how well patients respond to certain anti-diabetes drugs, including thiazolidinediones. The researchers identified a specific genetic variation associated with increased cholesterol levels in response to rosiglitazone treatment.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateJan 10, 2019

Foundation funding changes international reporting

A study by University of East Anglia researchers found that foundation funding alters how journalists work, reducing news output and favoring outcome-oriented content. Foundations require evidence of their impact, incentivizing longer-form pieces aimed at specialist audiences.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalJournalism Studies·DateJan 10, 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.

Saving energy by taking a close look inside transistors

Researchers at FAU developed a simple yet accurate method to find interface defects in silicon carbide transistors. This allows for improved and shorter innovation cycles in developing more energy-saving power electronics.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalCommunications Physics·DateJan 10, 2019

Spintronics 'miracle material' put to the test

Physicists at the University of Utah have built two devices using perovskite to demonstrate its potential in spintronics. The materials' properties bring the dream of a spintronic transistor one step closer to reality.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 10, 2019

Treat vitamin D deficiency to prevent deadly lung attacks

A study led by Queen Mary University of London found that vitamin D supplements reduced the risk of potentially fatal lung attacks in COPD patients with low vitamin D levels. The use of supplements led to a significant reduction in moderate/severe exacerbations, with no benefit seen for patients with higher vitamin D levels.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalThorax·DateJan 10, 2019

New role for brain's support cells in controlling circadian rhythms

A new study reveals that astrocytes can lead the tempo of the body's internal clock and control daily behavior patterns in mammals. The discovery could pave the way for new treatments to manage circadian rhythm disruptions related to health conditions like jet lag, sleep disorders, and dementia.

SourceMedical Research Council·JournalScience·DateJan 10, 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.

Excessive social media use is comparable to drug addiction

Research from Michigan State University found a correlation between excessive social media use and impaired risky decision-making capabilities. Participants who struggled with poor decision-making on the Iowa Gambling Task also displayed more problematic social media use.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Behavioral Addictions·DateJan 10, 2019

The Lancet: High intake of dietary fiber and whole grains associated with reduced risk of non-communicable diseases

A study published in The Lancet reveals that consuming at least 25g to 29g of dietary fibre per day can reduce the risk of non-communicable diseases such as coronary heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and colorectal cancer by 16-24%. Whole grains also show promise in reducing mortality rates and incidence of these diseases.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·DateJan 10, 2019

New research reveals the enduring benefits of hiring a star

A new study by INSEAD researchers found that collaborating with a creative 'star' increases the chances of becoming a star and boosts innovators' creativity. Working alongside a star designer significantly enhances the ability to create breakthrough innovations through skills such as creative synthesis.

SourceINSEAD·JournalOrganization Science·DateJan 10, 2019

Mothers use sex pheromones to veil eggs, preventing cannibalism

Researchers found that fruit fly mothers incorporate sex pheromones into the eggshell's wax layer to mask its identity from larvae, preventing cannibalism. This nontoxic chemical deception strategy has implications for our understanding of animal behavior and defense mechanisms in diverse species.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJan 10, 2019

Clever budgies make better mates

A study found that male budgies who exhibit intelligent behavior, such as solving problems for food, become more appealing to females. The research suggests a possible evolutionary link between cognitive abilities and mate selection in birds.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJan 10, 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.

Mapping residual esophageal tumors -- a glimpse into the future?

Researchers at Osaka University found that mapping residual esophageal tumors can predict long-term prognosis and direct personalized treatment plans. The study identified four tumor remnant patterns, with specific associations to disease factors such as prognosis and metastasis risk.

SourceOsaka University·JournalAnnals of Surgery·DateJan 10, 2019

A human model to test implants for cataract surgery

A new human model simulates cataract surgery on human donor eyes, allowing evaluation of artificial intraocular lens (IOL) implants. The model predicts that Hoya Vivinex IOL is better able to manage events leading to Posterior Capsule Opacification (PCO) than Alcon Acrysof IOL.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalInvestigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science·DateJan 10, 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 dynamic probes for ions interacting with biomolecules

Vibrations of phosphate groups allow for a noninvasive probe of ion geometries in a water environment. Researchers use two-dimensional infrared spectroscopy to map Mg2+ ions in direct contact with PO2- groups, revealing fluctuations of the contact ion pair geometry and embedding water shell.

SourceForschungsverbund Berlin·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·DateJan 10, 2019