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Science News for July 18, 2019


Coaching scientists to play well together

A new study from Northwestern University shows that a free online training tool can significantly boost scientists' knowledge of team science and increase their self-confidence. The COALESCE tool has been validated by research to help scientists collaborate smoothly, reducing disputes over data access and authorship.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJournal of Clinical and Translational Science·DateJul 18, 2019

Low doses of radiation promote cancer-capable cells

Researchers at the Wellcome Sanger Institute found that low doses of radiation increase p53 mutations, giving cancer-capable cells a competitive advantage. However, antioxidants can boost healthy cells to outcompete mutant cells.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateJul 18, 2019

How sex affects gene expression in mammals

Researchers discovered genome-wide variations in gene expression between females and males in mammalian species. The study revealed hundreds of conserved sex-biased gene expressions contributing to differences in traits.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJul 18, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Biomaterial-delivered chemotherapy leads to long-term survival in brain cancer

Researchers at the University of Nottingham have discovered that delivering chemotherapy drugs via a biodegradable paste during brain cancer surgery can lead to long-term survival. The treatment, using a combination of etoposide and temozolomide, was found to be effective in rat models with glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) tumors.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateJul 18, 2019

Alzheimer's gene may impact cognitive health before adulthood

A study found that individuals carrying the APOE4 allele, present in 15% of the population, showed lower IQ scores during childhood and adolescence. These findings suggest that the gene may impact cognitive health as early as age 6½ and become increasingly detrimental with aging.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNeurobiology of Aging·DateJul 18, 2019

NASA's Webb Telescope shines with American ingenuity

The James Webb Space Telescope is the result of a nationwide collaboration, with components manufactured across 29 US states. The telescope will explore cosmic history, solve mysteries in our solar system, and probe the origins of the universe.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 18, 2019

Over-claiming knowledge predicts anti-establishment voting

A study published in Social Psychological and Personality Science found that individuals who overclaim their knowledge are more likely to vote against the establishment, with a 1.62 times higher likelihood for radical right voters. However, increased actual knowledge decreases this likelihood by 0.85 measurement points.

SourceSociety for Personality and Social Psychology·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·DateJul 18, 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.

Hypertension poorly managed in low- and middle-income countries

A study of 1 million people in 44 low- and middle-income countries found that more than two-thirds have high blood pressure without treatment. Only 30% receive proper diagnosis and treatment, highlighting the need for population-level prevention strategies.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalThe Lancet·DateJul 18, 2019

Women now seen as equally as or more competent than men

A meta-analysis of public opinion polls from 1946 to 2018 found that women are now perceived as more competent than men, especially in jobs that reward social skills. This shift is attributed to changes in women's labor force participation and education, as well as occupational segregation.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalAmerican Psychologist·DateJul 18, 2019

This deep neural network fights deepfakes

A new deep neural network architecture can identify manipulated images at the pixel level, detecting blurred boundaries and unnatural transitions between regions. This technology aims to improve photo editing tool security and detect deepfakes with high precision.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateJul 18, 2019

Strong family relationships may help with asthma outcomes for children

A new Northwestern University study found that positive family relationships can buffer children from the negative effects of difficult neighborhood conditions on asthma management. Children living in high-danger neighborhoods with better family relationships had fewer symptoms and improved pulmonary function.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateJul 18, 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.

How long does a surgery take? Researchers create model

A machine-learning model was developed to predict surgical-case duration, with accuracy improved from 30% to 40-50% in some cases. The study used data from over 45,000 surgeries performed by 92 surgeons, finding that the greatest variability in estimates came from individual surgeon approaches.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateJul 18, 2019

A better avenue for neurosurgery to improve outcomes

A new study demonstrates that transradial surgery is safe and effective for various neuroendovascular procedures, providing faster recovery times with less procedural risk. Patients prefer this approach due to reduced complications and quicker discharge.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalStroke·DateJul 18, 2019

A dynamic genetic code based on DNA shape

A new study published in European Journal of Human Genetics reveals that the left-handed Z-DNA conformation plays a key role in regulating type I interferon responses, which are involved in fighting viruses and cancer. The study analyzes families with variants in the ADAR gene and confirms a biological function for the left-handed conf...

SourceInsideOutBio·JournalEuropean Journal of Human Genetics·DateJul 18, 2019

Special issue: 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 landing

The Apollo 11 lunar landing has left a lasting legacy in planetary science, providing insights into the Moon's formation and geology. Recent lunar exploration missions, such as China's Chang'E-4 program, continue to advance our understanding of the Moon and its potential for future human exploration.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJul 18, 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.

UCF team discovers, names new frog species

A UCF team led by Veronica Urgiles has discovered and named two new frog species found in high-elevation ecosystems of Ecuador. The team's research highlights the vast diversity of species yet to be discovered in the region, which is critical for conservation efforts.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalZooKeys·DateJul 18, 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.

Radical reform needed to address dental decay worldwide

A commentary by UCSF experts highlights the need for radical reform in addressing dental decay, citing the sugar industry's influence on dental research and professional bodies. The authors recommend policies to manage financial conflicts of interest and promote public trust.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalThe Lancet·DateJul 18, 2019

Link found between gut bacteria, successful joint replacement

Researchers found a link between healthy gut flora and reduced infection risk after knee and hip replacement surgeries. The study suggests that mice with unhealthy microbiomes may have compromised immune systems, paving the way for potential microbiome-based therapies to prevent infections.

SourceCornell University·JournalClinical Orthopaedics and Related Research·DateJul 18, 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.

Many of the deadliest cancers receive the least amount of research funding

A Northwestern University study found that many deadliest cancers, such as colon, lung, and liver cancer, receive significantly less nonprofit research funding than breast cancer, leukemia, and other well-funded types. This underfunding could impact research, drug development, and FDA approvals for these life-altering diseases.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJournal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network·DateJul 18, 2019

Waking up sleeping bacteria to fight infections

Researchers found a way to stimulate the waking of persisters, dormant bacterial cells that evade antibiotics and lead to chronic infections. Breaking links in the 'pore' formed by peptides enables these sleeping bacteria to regain energy and infect the host again.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalMolecular Cell·DateJul 18, 2019

'Trojan horse' anticancer drug disguises itself as fat

A stealthy new drug-delivery system has been developed that disguises chemotherapeutics as fat, allowing it to penetrate and destroy tumors while minimizing side effects. The system uses a long-chain fatty acid with two binding sites to attach to drugs, which are then carried by human serum albumin throughout the body.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJul 18, 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.

Biochemistry: Versatile recycling in the cell

The ABCE1 enzyme is essential for ribosome recycling, allowing cells to maintain protein quality and homeostasis. Its structure can adopt three conformations to boost recycling, influencing the interaction with ribosomes and ATP.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalCell Reports·DateJul 18, 2019

The unpopular truth about biases toward people with disabilities

A study of 300,000 participants found that implicit bias against people with disabilities increases over time and with age, while explicit attitudes towards them become more positive. Women and those with contact to the disabled population show lower prejudice.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Social Issues·DateJul 18, 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.

Drinking red wine on the red planet

Researchers at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center found that resveratrol supplementation preserved muscle function and mitigated muscle atrophy under Martian gravity. The study suggests that resveratrol could be a key dietary supplement to maintain musculoskeletal health on long-term Mars missions.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalFrontiers in Physiology·DateJul 18, 2019

Diabetes medications masking surgical complication

A recent study published in the British Journal of Anaesthesia found that people with diabetes taking gliflozin medications are at risk of ketoacidosis during surgery. Euglycaemic ketoacidosis can be deceiving, presenting with normal blood sugar levels, and may be missed easily by clinicians.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalBritish Journal of Anaesthesia·DateJul 18, 2019

China's plans to solve the mysteries of the moon

The China Lunar Exploration Program (CLEP) has accomplished significant advancements in lunar research since its launch in 2007. The program plans to send the first sample-return mission to Earth, dubbed Chang'E 5, and establish a Lunar Scientific Research Station by 2030.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalScience·DateJul 18, 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.

Voluntary pact with food industry to curb salt content in England linked to thousands of extra heart disease and stroke cases

Researchers found a slowdown in dietary salt intake in England since the voluntary pact was introduced in 2011, leading to an estimated 9900 extra cases of heart disease/stroke and 1500 additional stomach cancer cases by 2018. If current trends continue, this may lead to 26,000 extra cases and £1 billion in healthcare costs by 2025.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·DateJul 18, 2019

Pre-results review: Taking transparency in economics research to the next level

The Journal of Development Economics introduces Pre-results Review, a peer review process that evaluates empirical research before results are known. This approach helps improve methodological quality and provides earlier recognition for authors. The practice is gaining traction among journals in various disciplines.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalJournal of Development Economics·DateJul 18, 2019

Spread-changing orders and deletions affect stock prices

A study analyzing the NASDAQ100 index found that order deletions increase the bid-ask spread more often than trades do. The researchers also discovered that when the number of deletions exceeds the number of trades, stock prices become more varied across different stocks.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal B·DateJul 18, 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.

Diabetes increases the risk of heart failure more in women than men

A new study finds that diabetes confers a greater excess risk of heart failure in women than men, with type 1 diabetes associated with a 47% higher risk. The study suggests several potential explanations for this difference, including sex differences in diabetes management and cardiovascular risk factors.

SourceDiabetologia·JournalDiabetologia·DateJul 18, 2019

New research identifies gene that hides cancer cells from immunotherapy

A team at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center has identified a gene called DUX4 that can prevent the immune system from recognizing and attacking cancer cells. This discovery suggests that blocking the activity of this gene might increase the success of immunotherapy treatments for a wide range of cancers.

SourceFred Hutchinson Cancer Center·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateJul 18, 2019

Lionfish ear-bones reveal a more mobile invasion

Researchers studying lionfish ear-bones found that these fish are more mobile than previously believed, moving at least once throughout their life. This discovery has implications for managing the invasive species, as understanding habitat choice can inform effective removal and conservation efforts.

SourceEcological Society of America·DateJul 18, 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.

Diabetes increases the risk of heart failure; more so in women than men

A global study of 12 million people found that diabetes significantly increases the risk of heart failure, with women at greater risk than men. Type 1 and type 2 diabetes both pose a stronger risk for women, highlighting the need for sex-specific research into diabetes and its impact on heart health.

SourceGeorge Institute for Global Health·JournalDiabetologia·DateJul 18, 2019

The art of sensing within the skin

Scientists developed permanent dermal sensors that can be applied as artistic tattoos to detect changes in blood pH and metabolite levels. The sensors, based on colorimetric chemical reactions, were tested on pig skin patches, showing accurate detection of biomarkers.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJul 18, 2019

UMN Medical School researchers explain muscle loss with menopause

Researchers at UMN Medical School found that estrogen deficiency leads to a 30-60% drop in muscle stem cells and severe difficulty reproducing new muscle after injury. Estrogen replacement therapy may help maintain muscle health, but risks cancer due to its effects on tissues.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota Medical School·JournalCell Reports·DateJul 18, 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.

New low-cost thermoelectric material works at room temperature

Researchers have discovered a new thermoelectric material that works efficiently at room temperature, requiring less expensive materials like magnesium. The material's production could close the performance gap with traditional bismuth-tellurium-based alloys, expanding the use of thermoelectric modules for cooling.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalScience·DateJul 18, 2019

Study: Even in competitive markets, shareholders bear burden of corruption

A new study finds that US shareholders suffer substantial costs due to domestic political corruption, with low-profit firms in competitive environments particularly vulnerable. The research suggests that state-level monitoring mechanisms and transparency can mitigate the negative effects of corruption on firm value.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Business Ethics·DateJul 18, 2019

UC Davis joins landmark study to test lifestyle changes on brain health

The UC Davis Alzheimer's Disease Center is participating in the U.S. POINTER study, a landmark trial examining the effects of lifestyle modifications on brain health. The study aims to expand research on slowing cognitive decline and will enroll 400 adults at risk for Alzheimer's over 18 months.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·DateJul 18, 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.

CCNY physicists use mathematics to trace neuro transitions

Researchers at The City College of New York used a mathematical model to study how the brain transitions from consciousness to unconscious behavior. They found that the subliminal state is the most robust part of the conscious network, indicating that it represents the core of the brain's processing system.

SourceCity College of New York·JournalNeuroscience·DateJul 18, 2019

Tornadoes, windstorms pave way for lasting plant invasions

A new University of Illinois study found that large blowdown areas in southern Illinois forests are more heavily invaded and slower to recover than smaller areas. Invasive species cover decreased over time, but the most common invaders were already present in the system, suggesting a need for targeted management focus.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Ecology·DateJul 18, 2019

Ultra-soft, liquid magnetic droplets could vault technology forward

Scientists at UMass Amherst and Beijing University have developed a way to transform paramagnetic ferrofluids into ferromagnetic liquid droplets, opening up new research areas such as liquid actuators and active-matter delivery. The resulting ultra-soft droplets can be controlled using an external magnetic field.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalScience·DateJul 18, 2019

BU researchers use Twitter and AI to see who is hitting the gym

A new study found that lower-income communities tend to lack access to resources encouraging a healthy lifestyle, highlighting the need for targeted interventions. The research used social media data to show how different populations feel about various physical activities.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalBMJ Open Sport & Exercise Medicine·DateJul 18, 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.

Higher kidney function at dialysis start linked with greater risk of death in children

A recent analysis of US data over 20 years shows that children with kidney failure are being started on dialysis with higher levels of kidney function. Initiating dialysis at these higher levels is linked to lower patient survival, suggesting that asymptomatic children may benefit from delaying treatment.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateJul 18, 2019

UM School of Medicine awarded HRSA grant to establish rural residency program

The University of Maryland School of Medicine has been awarded a $750,000 grant to establish a rural residency program in Maryland's Eastern shore communities. The program aims to develop a sustainable pipeline for primary care physicians in rural areas, addressing the growing shortage of providers in the region.

SourceUniversity of Maryland School of Medicine·DateJul 18, 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.

Some pharmacists missing mark on therapeutic guidelines: QUT study

A QUT study found that only 57.6% of pharmacies in Brisbane followed dispensing behavior compliant with therapeutic guidelines, while 31.3% oversold or over-treated medication. The study highlights the need for better guidance and training for pharmacists to ensure effective treatment outcomes.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJul 18, 2019

Sperm may offer the uterus a 'secret handshake'

Researchers discovered an endometrial receptor that recognizes sperm molecules, allowing them to survive and potentially increasing fertility rates. This 'secret handshake' interaction may adjust the female's immune response and help sperm overcome the leukocytic reaction.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJul 18, 2019

Cleaning our water with groundbreaking 'bioinspired' chemistry

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University's Institute for Green Science unveiled a new field of sustainable chemistry using bioinspired oxidation catalysts. The catalysts, called NewTAMLs, can eliminate pharmaceutical micropollutants from water in under five minutes and have major cost savings over current water treatment techniques.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalACS Catalysis·DateJul 18, 2019

New laws of attraction: Scientists print magnetic liquid droplets

Researchers have created a new material that is both liquid and magnetic, allowing for the creation of printable liquid devices with potential applications in artificial cells and flexible electronics. The droplets can change shape to adapt to their surroundings and are preserved even when divided into smaller droplets.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateJul 18, 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.

Jumbo squid mystery solved

A Stanford-led study identifies shifting weather patterns and ocean conditions as contributing factors to the collapse of Mexico's jumbo squid fishery. The research found that warmer waters led to smaller, less profitable squid, shutting down the entire industry in the Gulf of California.

SourceStanford University·JournalICES Journal of Marine Science·DateJul 18, 2019

BU faculty member receives Doris Duke Clinical Scientist Development Award

Michelle Long, MD, MSc, assistant professor of medicine at Boston University School of Medicine, has been awarded a three-year, $495,000 Doris Duke Clinical Scientist Development Award to investigate the relationship between physical activity and NAFLD. The study aims to identify biomarkers of early disease and risk for progression.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·DateJul 18, 2019

Deciphering brain somatic mutations associated with Alzheimer's disease

Researchers have identified non-inherited somatic mutations in the brain that could contribute to Alzheimer's disease progression. These mutations were found to be associated with hyperphosphorylation of tau proteins, a hallmark of AD.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 18, 2019

Strong storms also play big role in Antarctic ice shelf collapse

A recent study published in Frontiers in Earth Science suggests that intense storms may contribute to the breakup of Antarctic ice sheets. Researchers deployed underwater sensors to record 'icequakes' indicating fracturing of the Nansen Ice Shelf, which calved into two giant icebergs during a massive storm system.

SourceOregon State University·JournalFrontiers in Earth Science·DateJul 18, 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.

Simulations fix the cracks in magnetic mirrors

Physicists have found that by fine-tuning the electromagnet configurations and initial plasma properties, magnetic mirrors can achieve longer confinement times and lower loss rates. This could make them ideal for new particle physics experiments.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal D·DateJul 18, 2019

Early mammal fossil reveals the evolutionary origins of having a loose tongue

A new study discovers complex hyoid bones in a 165-million-year-old mammaliaform species, suggesting the evolution of a loose tongue in early mammals. The discovery sheds light on the evolutionary origins of hyolingual structures, which enable advanced food and liquid swallowing in modern mammals.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience & Justice·DateJul 18, 2019

Depressed by Facebook and the like

Researchers found a positive correlation between passive Facebook use and depressive symptoms in individuals with an increased need for social comparisons. Long-term use of social networks can also lead to lower self-esteem and greater depressive tendencies.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalBehaviour and Information Technology·DateJul 18, 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.

Adding a polymer stabilizes collapsing metal-organic frameworks

Researchers have developed a new method to stabilize collapsing metal-organic frameworks by adding small amounts of polymer, resulting in significant increases in surface area. This breakthrough enables the creation of mesoporous MOFs that were previously inaccessible due to pore collapse.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·DateJul 18, 2019

Survival of the zebrafish: Mate, or flee?

Researchers at Harvard University discovered zebrafish choose mating over fleeing a threat when exposed to pheromone cues. This decision is controlled by specific brain regions responding to reproductive hormones.

SourceHarvard University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJul 18, 2019

Emotion-detection applications built on outdated science, report warns

A comprehensive report finds that facial movements are inexact gauges of emotions and behaviors, challenging current technology's reliance on these signals. The study proposes a new model for studying complex emotional responses by measuring multiple indicators beyond facial cues.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science in the Public Interest·DateJul 18, 2019

Species on the move

A study by Zoological Society of London reveals 55 UK animal species have been displaced due to climate change, with invertebrates most affected. The research highlights the need for a centralized platform to track and mitigate the impacts of climate-driven species movement.

SourceZoological Society of London·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateJul 18, 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.

Diversity on teams leads to positive outcomes, but not for all

Research by University of Michigan and Michigan State University researchers found that diversity in science teams surprisingly does not lead to positive outcomes for the diverse individuals themselves. Participants with underrepresented demographic characteristics experienced negative team climate and lower satisfaction.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 18, 2019

How mammals' brains evolved to distinguish odors is nothing to sniff at

Researchers at the Salk Institute discovered that mammals use a similar 'distributed circuit' approach to distinguish odors, with the size of brain components scaling across species. This finding may have implications for understanding other parts of the brain and developing more efficient machine learning systems.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJul 18, 2019

Stimulating life-like perceptual experiences in brains of mice

Researchers developed a new optogenetic technique to control brain activity in mice, recreating natural perception and guiding behavior. The method revealed new insights into neuronal dynamics and the neurobiology of mammalian behavior.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJul 18, 2019

Greater prevalence of congenital heart defects in high intensity oil and gas areas

A new study found mothers living near intense oil and gas development have a 40-70% higher chance of having children with congenital heart defects. The study analyzed 3,324 infants born in Colorado from 2005-2011, estimating monthly intensity of well activity to confirm positive associations between maternal exposure and CHDs.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalEnvironment International·DateJul 18, 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.

Study finds key metabolic changes in patients with chemotherapy-associated cardiotoxicity

Researchers at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center found that metabolites associated with energy powerhouse mitochondria changed differently in patients who developed heart dysfunction compared to those who did not. Citric acid and aconitic acid levels differentiated the two groups of patients.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalJournal of Cardiovascular Translational Research·DateJul 18, 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.

A sharper focus: New computational technique resolves compressed X-ray data

Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory have developed a novel method to overcome limitations of high-energy X-rays, enabling sharper imaging of complex materials. This breakthrough allows scientists to gain better information about material interfaces and control the behavior of new materials.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review A·DateJul 18, 2019

TGen-led study finds link between gene and severe liver damage

A recent study published in PLoS One found a link between the gene AEBP1 and severe liver damage, specifically nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. The research suggests that AEBP1 regulates a network of genes related to fibrosis, which could lead to new therapeutic targets for treating liver disease.

SourceThe Translational Genomics Research Institute·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 18, 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.

Scientists discover how and when a subterranean ocean emerged

Researchers found that a global cycle of matter underpins modern plate tectonics, with excess water in the transition zone of the mantle originating from an ancient ocean on Earth's surface. Komatiitic magma samples revealed significant quantities of water and chlorine in minerals, indicating a 'pumping' of water into the planet's inte...

SourceAKSON Russian Science Communication Association·JournalNature·DateJul 18, 2019

Canada's high school curricula not giving students full picture of climate change

A new study found that Canada's high school curricula often fail to provide a comprehensive understanding of climate change, including its causes and consequences. The research highlights the need for accurate and scientifically-based climate education to prepare the next generation of Canadians to address this pressing issue.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 18, 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.

Algae-killing viruses spur nutrient recycling in oceans

A Rutgers-led study confirms the crucial role of viruses in controlling diatom populations, which produce 20% of Earth's oxygen and store carbon dioxide. Low silicon levels accelerate viral infection, releasing nutrients for recycling by other algae.

SourceRutgers University·JournalNature Microbiology·DateJul 18, 2019