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Science News for July 30, 2019


OSC paper earns honors at research computing conference

A new framework for software management was recognized for its potential impact on computation-based science, enabling the Ohio Supercomputer Center to efficiently install and test applications for a wide range of users. The framework leverages automated tools and continuous integration to streamline the process.

SourceOhio Supercomputer Center·DateJul 30, 2019

Weight stigma in men associated with harmful health consequences

A recent study from the Rudd Center for Food Policy and Obesity found that weight stigma in men is associated with harmful health consequences, including depressive symptoms and dieting behaviors. Men who experienced or internalized weight stigma had higher rates of binge eating and lower self-rated health.

SourceUConn Rudd Center for Food Policy and Obesity·JournalObesity·DateJul 30, 2019

Leap toward robust binder-less metal phosphide electrodes for Li-ion batteries

Researchers at Toyohashi University of Technology have successfully fabricated a binder-less tin phosphide/carbon composite film electrode for lithium-ion batteries via aerosol deposition. The electrode exhibits improved charging and discharging cycling stabilities, enabling advanced Li-ion batteries with higher capacity.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalNanomaterials·DateJul 30, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Conservation or construction? Deciding waterbird hotspots

Researchers at Michigan State University studied four different hotspot analysis methods for Great Lakes waterbirds, finding that no single method produced consistent results. A combination of data-driven approaches may be the best way to inform conservation management decisions.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalMethods in Ecology and Evolution·DateJul 30, 2019

Next step in producing magnetic organic molecules

A team of researchers from Ruhr-Universität Bochum has successfully created new organic molecules with magnetic properties, which retain stability up to -110 degrees Celsius. These compounds could be the key to developing lightweight, transparent, and flexible magnetic materials.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJul 30, 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.

Gene transcripts from ancient wolf analyzed after 14,000 years in permafrost

A study published in PLOS Biology analyzed RNA transcripts from a 14,300-year-old canid preserved in Siberian permafrost, providing evidence that RNA from ancient animals may be well-preserved. The analysis revealed tissue-specific transcriptomes in the ancient wolf, with many liver-specific transcripts matching modern samples.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJul 30, 2019

UTA and Lockheed Martin team up on unmanned vehicle project

Researchers at UTA are collaborating with Lockheed Martin to optimize sensor usage in unmanned vehicles, using a Kalman filter to combine information from multiple sensors. The goal is to accurately predict target behaviors and adapt to changing environmental conditions.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateJul 30, 2019

Berlin University Alliance wins excellence status

The Berlin University Alliance, consisting of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Technische Universität Berlin, and Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, has won a major award in the German Excellence Strategy competition. The alliance will receive up to 196 million euros over seven years to create an integrated ...

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·DateJul 30, 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.

Ethnic networks help refugees integrate into the host country's economy

A recent study by Stanford University and ETH Zurich found that refugees living in areas with larger numbers of people who share their background are more likely to be employed. The study revealed a 2% boost in employment for every 10% increase in the size of ethnic networks. Refugees, especially women, benefit most from proximity to m...

SourceStanford University - Immigration Policy Lab·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 30, 2019

UM to lead NIH-funded study of aging men and women with HIV

The University of Miami will track cardiovascular and pulmonary disease in men and women with HIV, exploring differences between sexes. The seven-year study aims to understand comorbid conditions and their impact on people with HIV infection.

SourceUniversity of Miami Miller School of Medicine·DateJul 30, 2019

Smartphone virus scanner is not what you think

Researchers have developed a miniaturized system that uses low-cost components and smartphones to detect biological viruses. The device is portable, battery-powered and can detect real viruses, holding potential for aid in disease prevention.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalLab on a Chip·DateJul 30, 2019

Tech companies not doing enough to protect users from phishing scams

Research by the University of Plymouth found that tech companies' phishing filters are ineffective in protecting users, with most messages reaching inboxes despite being labelled as suspicious. The study highlights the need for improved phishing detection technology and user awareness to combat this growing threat.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalComputer Fraud & Security·DateJul 30, 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.

How humans and chimpanzees travel towards a goal in rainforests

A study by Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology reveals that humans and chimpanzees travel with different linearity when approaching out-of-sight food locations. Humans tend to have higher linearity in familiar areas, while chimpanzees exhibit the opposite pattern.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 30, 2019

Study shows non-lethal impacts of seabirds' plastic ingestion

A study found that plastic ingestion can have a significant negative impact on seabirds, causing reduced blood calcium levels, body mass, and kidney function. The research also revealed that the simple presence of plastic is enough to cause negative consequences, regardless of the amount.

SourceUniversity of Tasmania·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJul 30, 2019

How we care for the environment may have social consequences

Researchers found that men and women were more likely to question each other's sexual orientation if they engaged in non-conforming environmental behaviors. Women were also more likely to avoid men who preferred masculine behaviors. The study highlights the social consequences of gendered pro-environmental behaviors.

SourcePenn State·JournalSex Roles·DateJul 30, 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.

Birthweight, height together provide insight into future heart health

A new study suggests that measuring both birthweight and length provides a more accurate indication of fetal growth and future cardiovascular risk. A low ponderal index or body mass index at birth is associated with an increased risk of heart problems later in life.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalEarly Human Development·DateJul 30, 2019

Virtual reality to solve personal problems

A study found that talking to oneself as if they were Dr. Sigmund Freud in virtual reality improved people's mood and helped them find solutions to their problems, with over 80% of participants reporting a change compared to 50% in the control group.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 30, 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.

Girls who are more physically active in childhood may have better lung function in adolescence

A new study found that girls who were moderately to highly physically active in childhood had higher exhalation capacity and greater forced expiratory volume than their inactive peers. The research suggests that promoting physical activity in childhood may have long-term benefits for respiratory health, particularly in adolescent girls.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalInternational Journal of Epidemiology·DateJul 30, 2019

Researchers estimate societal costs of the opioid epidemic

Researchers estimate that opioid misuse reduced state tax revenue by over $11 billion and increased Medicaid costs associated with opioid use disorder to more than $3 billion. The study also found significant costs to the child welfare system, criminal justice system, and education sector.

SourcePenn State·JournalThe American Journal of Managed Care·DateJul 30, 2019

Experimental observation of a new class of materials: Excitonic insulators

Researchers observe novel phase of matter, excitonic insulator, in antimony nanoflakes, which could lead to breakthroughs in low-energy electronics. The findings provide a new strategy to search for excitonic insulators and potentially carry exotic superfluids.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence in Future Low-Energy Electronics Technologies·JournalNano Letters·DateJul 30, 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.

Fly antimicrobial defence system doubles as tumor-killer

The fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster produces more Defensin, which interacts with dying tumour cells and kills them, while sparing normal cells. This finding reveals an anti-tumour role for Defensin and provides insights into the molecular mechanisms behind AMPs' killing action.

SourceeLife·DateJul 30, 2019

'Love hormone' has stomach-turning effect in starfish

A new study from Queen Mary University of London found that the 'love hormone' oxytocin plays a crucial role in the feeding behavior of European starfish. When injected into the starfish, oxytocin induces fictive feeding, causing them to behave as if they are eating prey despite no actual food being present.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalBMC Biology·DateJul 30, 2019

Legal status no guarantee of job security

A new study found that regularised migrants still face issues with work conditions and opportunities, with many trapped between formal and informal labour markets. The research highlights the importance of labour markets in creating spaces for undocumented workers to live and work.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalMIGRATION LETTERS·DateJul 30, 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.

Next-generation medication: where chemistry meets computation

Researchers at Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology have developed a new synthetic process for indole alkaloids, using zinc reagent. This approach enables concise and divergent synthesis of diverse alkaloidal scaffolds, paving the way for next-generation pharmaceuticals and pesticides.

SourceTokyo University of Agriculture and Technology·JournalChemical Science·DateJul 30, 2019

To get customers to buy more in the future, help them buy a gift

A study found that customers who buy gifts for others spend 63% more in the year following the purchase, increasing their frequency and cross-buying. Gift design characteristics like assistance during the gift process and branded wrapping can enhance the effect.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateJul 30, 2019

Stem cell research sheds new light on the skin

Researchers from the University of Copenhagen have gained new insight into how sebaceous glands form and are maintained throughout life, shedding light on their role in skin development. The study reveals that a common cancer mutation affects normal cell behavior, leading to unchecked growth of the gland.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateJul 30, 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.

Credit default swaps cushion stock prices against credit downgrades

A study by the University of Toronto's Rotman School of Management found that credit default swaps (CDS) can cushion stock prices against credit downgrades. Companies with CDS saw a 44-52% reduction in stock price drops after a downgrade, compared to those without CDS.

SourceUniversity of Toronto, Rotman School of Management·JournalReview of Finance·DateJul 30, 2019

Finding a cause of neurodevelopmental disorders

Researchers identified the molecular mechanism linking a protein mutation with abnormal nervous system development in neurodevelopmental disorders. A complex of proteins called the SWI/SNF complex was found to be affected, leading to changes in gene expression and brain development.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalMolecular Cell·DateJul 30, 2019

ReBUILDetroit program receives renewal of more than $19 million from NIH

The ReBUILDetroit program, a partnership between University of Detroit Mercy and Wayne State University, has received a $19.4 million NIH grant renewal to provide scholarships and stipends for students enrolled in the program. The program aims to encourage underrepresented students to pursue careers in biomedical research.

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·DateJul 30, 2019

Considering the container to strengthen the weak force's signal

The Q-weak experiment successfully measured the weak charge of the proton by exploiting parity asymmetry in electron scattering off aluminum. Kurtis Bartlett's thesis work played a crucial role in minimizing signal contamination and achieving this milestone.

SourceDOE/Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility·DateJul 30, 2019

Why are we so drawn to places of happy memories?

Researchers identified astrocytic mu-opioid receptors as key to conditioned place preference, a mechanism underlying addictive behaviors. The study found that astrocytic MORs in the hippocampus release glutamates, increasing synaptic transmissions and inducing long-term potentiation, which is responsible for spatial memory acquisition.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalCell Reports·DateJul 30, 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.

Cigarette smoke makes MRSA superbug bacterium more drug-resistant

Researchers found that cigarette smoke can change the DNA and characteristics of pathogenic microbes like MRSA, making them more resistant to antibiotics. This stress response sparks an emergency mutation, resulting in hardy variants that are better equipped to resist drugs.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 30, 2019

When mosquitoes are biting during rainy season, net use increases, study finds

A new study from the Johns Hopkins Center for Communication Programs found that net use increases during rainy seasons and decreases in the dry season. This seasonal variation in net use can lead to gaps in malaria prevention efforts if not taken into account.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene·DateJul 30, 2019

From urine samples to precision medicine in bladder cancer through 3D cell culture

Researchers at Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology have developed a novel experimental model for dog bladder cancer using 3D organoid culture from urine samples. The model allows for quick determination of chemotherapy and identification of new biomarkers for both human and canine bladder cancer.

SourceTokyo University of Agriculture and Technology·JournalCancer Science·DateJul 30, 2019

Scientists reproduce the dynamics behind astrophysical shocks

Researchers at Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory reproduced the process behind astrophysical shocks, bridging the gap between laboratory and spacecraft observations. The experiments showed how plasma interactions can cause sudden jumps in pressure and magnetic field strength, accelerating particles to near light speed.

SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJul 30, 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.

Microfluidic array catches, holds single cervical cells for faster screening

A new microfluidic array catches and holds single cervical cells for faster screening, trapping them with microscopic electrodes and analyzing them using immunofluorescent staining. The device effectively trapped 98% of cells and held on to 92%, providing a promising tool for cervical cancer diagnosis.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalBiomicrofluidics·DateJul 30, 2019

ASU professor Paul Westerhoff selected for 2019 Clarke Prize

Paul Westerhoff, an ASU Regents Professor, has been awarded the 2019 Clarke Prize for his contributions to water science and technology. He will receive a medal and a $50,000 prize, recognizing his work on nanomaterials and machine learning in solving global water problems.

SourceArizona State University·DateJul 30, 2019

Individuals with obesity get more satisfaction from their food

A new study found that people with obesity experience higher levels of initial taste perception and greater satisfaction from food compared to those with normal weight. This difference in taste perception may lead to increased food consumption among individuals with obesity, contributing to their higher caloric intake.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics·DateJul 30, 2019

Technological developments in radiation detectors enhance global nuclear security

Researchers identify hybrid organic-inorganic perovskite as prime compound candidate for room temperature semiconductor radiation detectors, offering cost efficiency and rapid synthesis. Improved detectors will enable better detection, identification, and prevention of radioactive threats, enhancing global nuclear security.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateJul 30, 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.

Sexual competition helps horned beetles survive deforestation

A study of dung beetles in Borneo found that species with more intense male competition for mating are less likely to go extinct. Species with horns were more likely to persist in disturbed environments than those without, and larger horns were associated with greater population sizes.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalEcology Letters·DateJul 30, 2019

New studies by CU researchers highlight causes of vitiligo

New studies by CU researchers reveal that both genetic and environmental factors play significant roles in the onset of vitiligo. The findings suggest that unidentified factors contribute to the disease's complex etiology, complicating personalized medicine approaches.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateJul 30, 2019

Food quality control made faster and easier

Scientists at TUM and Leibniz-Institute developed a new methodology for simultaneous analysis of odorants and tastants using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography mass spectrometry. This approach enables fast and precise food analysis, which is crucial for manufacturers to guarantee consistent sensory quality.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateJul 30, 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.

Smoking impedes embolization treatment in lungs

A study found that smoking impairs the effectiveness of embolization treatment for pulmonary arteriovenous malformations (PAVMs) in patients with HHT. Smokers experienced a higher rate of PAVM persistence after treatment compared to non-smokers, with those who smoked more than 20 pack-years facing a fivefold increased risk.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateJul 30, 2019

Selective antibiotics following nature's example

Researchers discovered antibiotic properties of a natural product that selectively inhibits pathogen growth while leaving beneficial microbes intact. Synthetic derivatives of this substance have shown enormous antibiotic efficiency against Moraxella catarrhalis and malaria parasites.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalChemical Science·DateJul 30, 2019

Improving efficiency, brightness of perovskite LEDs

Researchers developed a new approach to optimize highly efficient perovskite LEDs by exploring the performance of an amorphous zinc-silica-oxide system layered with perovskite crystals. The resulting devices showed improved efficiency, brightness, and light out-coupling efficiency, particularly in green diodes.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Reviews·DateJul 30, 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.

NASA analyzes first central pacific ocean hurricane's water vapor

NASA analyzed water vapor content and temperature information from Hurricane Erick using MODIS instrument on July 30. The analysis found highest concentrations of water vapor and coldest cloud top temperatures around the storm's eye, indicating potential for heavy rainfall.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 30, 2019

To conserve water, Indian farmers fire up air pollution

A new study reveals that water-use policies in northwestern India have led to increased air pollution due to delayed rice harvests and concentrated agricultural burnings. The study found almost 30% higher atmospheric concentrations of fine particulate matter, posing significant concerns for human health.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature Sustainability·DateJul 30, 2019

Antenatal screening for kidney problems in early childhood

A large cohort study found that babies with persistent fluid-filled areas in their kidneys during gestation are at higher risk of urinary tract problems and hospital admissions in early childhood. The study used data from over 21,000 children and showed a strong link between renal pelvis dilatation and increased risk of hospital admiss...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJul 30, 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.

Researchers enrich silver chemistry

The research team derived precise values of enthalpy and entropy of numerous silver compounds, enabling predictions of chemical processes in the gas phase. The findings will help manage thin film and pure sample deposition from the gas phase.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalInorganic Chemistry·DateJul 30, 2019

Expanding the palette

A team of UC Santa Barbara researchers have discovered a new phase in block copolymers, expanding the range of possible options for material design. The newly found phase, known as A15, belongs to a class of tetrahedrally close-packed structures and has been observed in both metal and polymer materials.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 30, 2019

Soft wearable health monitor uses stretchable electronics

The soft and conformable monitor can broadcast ECG, heart rate, respiratory rate, and motion activity data up to 15 meters. It avoids signal issues created by traditional metal-gel electrodes, providing accurate signals even during movement.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalAdvanced Science·DateJul 30, 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.

Electric car research boosted by cobalt-free battery

Researchers at UT Austin aim to develop a lithium-ion battery that requires no cobalt while maintaining high energy density. A $3 million collaborative project funded by the US Department of Energy seeks to demonstrate low-cobalt battery technology in large cells and create a cobalt-free battery.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·DateJul 30, 2019

CHOP research team redefines the footprint of viral vector gene therapy

Children's Hospital of Philadelphia researchers have developed a new AAV vector screening method that captures the full range of gene expression patterns caused by AAV vectors. This innovative technique is expected to significantly advance the field of gene therapy by providing a more sensitive approach to detecting gene transfer sites.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 30, 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.

PE fitness tests have little positive impact for students

A new study reveals that school fitness tests have little association with students' enjoyment of PE and emotions towards the subject. Despite polarized views, research suggests that fitness testing is not effective in promoting a positive outlook or discouraging participation.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalPhysical Education and Sport Pedagogy·DateJul 30, 2019

Beyond the bottom line: Investors favour companies that give back

A new study found that when public interest in CSR is high, investors place a premium on companies involved in CSR activities, perceiving greater value despite fundamentals. Companies respond by upping their CSR efforts to boost stock market performance, especially for firms with transient investors and higher share turnover.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalThe Accounting Review·DateJul 30, 2019

New material could make it easier to remove colon polyps

Researchers at MIT have developed a new gel-like material that can create a stable cushion for more than an hour, reducing the risk of tearing the colon lining during polyp removal. This innovation could greatly improve the safety and effectiveness of colonoscopies.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalAdvanced Science·DateJul 30, 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.

NASA finds Flossie's center just north of coldest cloud tops

NASA's Aqua satellite detected coldest cloud top temperatures as cold as minus 63 degrees Fahrenheit, indicating strong storms capable of heavy rain. The storm's center has migrated southward toward the strongest convection, positioning just north of the coldest cloud tops.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 30, 2019

A first bad apple spoils the bunch

A new study by Cass Business School academic Dr Janina Steinmetz confirms that people tend to judge entire groups based on the performance of their first member. The research found that a bad experience at the 'first' register or position leads to harsher judgments about the group, while a good experience results in greater positivity.

SourceCity St George’s, University of London·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateJul 30, 2019

'Tickle' therapy could help slow aging

A new study at the University of Leeds suggests that transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS) may help slow down an important effect associated with ageing. The therapy, which delivers a small electrical current to the ear, has been shown to improve physiological and wellbeing outcomes in over-55s.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·DateJul 30, 2019

Learning in virtual spaces

Researchers at the University of Würzburg are developing a social-VR platform called ViLeArn to explore the potential of virtual reality in education. The platform allows students to engage in fully equipped virtual teaching environments, fostering collaboration and creativity.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·DateJul 30, 2019

Pre-eclampsia increases risk of end stage kidney disease, study finds

A new study published in PLOS Medicine found that women who developed pre-eclampsia during pregnancy were nearly five times more likely to develop end stage kidney disease (ESKD) than those who did not. The study analyzed data from over 1 million healthy women and revealed a significant association between pre-eclampsia and ESKD risk.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJul 30, 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.

Marital infidelity and professional misconduct linked, study shows

A study from the University of Texas at Austin found a strong correlation between marital infidelity and professional misconduct. Researchers analyzed data from police officers, financial advisers, and CEOs to discover that individuals who cheated on their spouses were more likely to engage in corporate misconduct.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 30, 2019

Researchers repair faulty brain circuits using nanotechnology

Researchers have identified a specific role for astrocyte proteins in directing neural connections, using nanoparticles to deliver corrective proteins to replace missing proteins in neurodegenerative diseases. The study offers new hope for regrowing and repairing damaged brain networks.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateJul 30, 2019

UW study: House move during early pregnancy linked to heightened premature birth risk

A UW study found that moving to a new home during the first three months of pregnancy increases the risk of low birthweight, premature birth, and smaller-than-expected babies. Despite limitations, the researchers suggest counseling patients on stress-mitigating techniques and care continuity may be beneficial.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·DateJul 30, 2019

NHS 'health checks' reduce cardiovascular disease risk, new study finds

Attending NHS health checks is associated with increased risk management interventions and decreased risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Health check participants had lower baseline BMI, blood pressure, and fewer smokers, and were more likely to receive weight management and smoking cessation advice.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJul 30, 2019

75% of asthma sufferers unable to work to their full potential

A new multi-national survey found that nearly one-tenth of work hours are missed by asthma sufferers, resulting in significant productivity loss. Additionally, workers reported feeling embarrassed, ashamed, and inferior when using inhalers at work.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalJournal of Asthma and Allergy·DateJul 30, 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.

Skin in balance: Joint forces of polarity and cell mechanics

Researchers discovered that Par3 regulates contractility of keratinocytes, essential for accurate cell division and preventing DNA damage. The findings suggest that Par3 plays a key role in maintaining skin self-renewal capacity, with dysfunction linked to premature aging and skin cancer.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 30, 2019

Boosting the anti-inflammatory action of the immune system

Researchers have identified a molecule called Gas6 that induces macrophages to clean up cellular debris and reduce inflammation. Boosting Gas6 levels in macrophages has been shown to resolve inflammation in mouse models of acute lung injury, holding promise for treating diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and rheumatoid arthritis.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 30, 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.