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Science News for July 9, 2019


MPFI researchers develop newly devised strategy that allows the linking of phenotype to genotype

The Taniguchi Lab at MPFI has developed a novel protocol combining laser microdissection with single-cell genotyping to accurately link observed phenotypes to underlying genetics. This approach enables the reliable determination of exact genetic causes, particularly for genes in the brain that have subtle effects.

SourceMax Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience·JournalCell Reports·DateJul 9, 2019

Addicted to Ran, ovarian cancer cells stop moving when deprived

Researchers at CRCHUM found that Ran protein is essential for ovarian cancer cells to migrate and invade healthy tissues. Inhibiting Ran expression can break down RhoA, a protein necessary for cell migration, leading to a loss of cancer cells' ability to move.

SourceUniversity of Montreal Hospital Research Centre (CRCHUM)·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 9, 2019

New antibiotics developed by Inserm and Université de Rennes 1

Researchers at Inserm and Université de Rennes 1 have created new antibiotics effective against Gram-positive and negative multi-resistant bacteria. The compounds, known as peptidomimetics, also appear to prevent the development of resistance when used in mice models.

SourceINSERM (Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale)·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJul 9, 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.

New technique developed to detect autism in children

A new technique developed by researchers at the University of Waterloo can help doctors quickly and accurately diagnose autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in children. The technique analyzes eye-gaze data to identify how children with ASD scan a person's face differently than neuro-typical children.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalComputers in Biology and Medicine·DateJul 9, 2019

Goats can distinguish emotions from the calls of other goats

A study led by Queen Mary University of London found that goats can differentiate between positive and negative emotion-linked vocalisations. The researchers measured behavioral and physiological changes in response to these calls, suggesting that goats are sensitive to the emotional states of others.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalFrontiers in Zoology·DateJul 9, 2019

Exactly how fast is the universe expanding?

Researchers pin down Hubble constant value between 65.3 and 75.6 km/s/Mpc using gravitational wave signals and radio images. This method relies on a single merger event, which is remarkable given the cosmological models' limitations.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalNature Astronomy·DateJul 9, 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.

Growth failure in preterm infants tied to altered gut bacteria

Research reveals preterm infants with growth failure have altered gut bacteria and delayed metabolic development, which may be treated through individualized interventions. The study's findings offer new insights into predicting and preventing growth failure in premature infants.

SourceAnn & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 9, 2019

Therapeutic strategies based on evolutionary principles may improve patient outcomes

Researchers propose a 'first-strike' and 'second-strike' strategy to tackle metastatic cancer. The approach aims to eliminate the entire cancer population by sequencing drugs, rather than relying on maximum tolerated dose therapy. This could lead to better outcomes for patients with widespread disease.

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalCancer Research·DateJul 9, 2019

NUS scientists discover how to 'lock' heat in place using quantum mechanics

Researchers from NUS have developed a novel approach to confine heat within a small region of a metal ring, demonstrating the application of anti-parity-time symmetry to thermal diffusion. This breakthrough has significant implications for optimizing cooling systems and efficient heat removal in modern technologies.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalScience·DateJul 9, 2019

New blood test for human TB may also identify people at most risk

A new blood test has shown potential to diagnose human tuberculosis and identify those at most risk of developing the disease. The test, Actiphage, was found to be highly sensitive in detecting Mycobacterium tuberculosis, with 73% of participants testing positive for the bacteria.

SourceNational Institute for Health Research·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateJul 9, 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.

Paris Agreement does not rule out ice-free Arctic

A new statistical approach calculates the likelihood of an ice-free Arctic Ocean at different warming levels, finding a 6% chance at 1.5°C and 28% at 2°C. The research suggests a sea ice-free summer Arctic Ocean is most likely to occur at 2-2.5°C warming.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 9, 2019

Teens 'mocked' by their parents are at greater risk for bullying, victimization

A longitudinal study found that derisive parenting, characterized by belittling expressions, fosters dysregulated anger in adolescent children, increasing their risk for bullying and victimization. This type of parenting, often overlooked, is a unique form of parenting that contributes to peer difficulties.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalJournal of Youth and Adolescence·DateJul 9, 2019

Decentralising science may lead to more reliable results

A recent study found that decentralized collaboration in scientific research can increase the robustness of findings, particularly in drug-gene interactions. Independent groups using different methods are less prone to peer pressure and more likely to replicate results accurately.

SourceeLife·DateJul 9, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Smells like love...to sea lampreys

Researchers at Michigan State University have discovered that spermine, an odorous compound in male semen, attracts mature female sea lampreys and helps them select suitable mates. This finding could potentially be used to control invasive sea lamprey populations in the Great Lakes.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 9, 2019

Tour de France pelotons governed by sight, not aerodynamics

Researchers at Utah State University found that cyclists align in patterns within a plus-or-minus 30-degree arc corresponding to the human near-peripheral visual field. This helps them safely react to changes or disturbances from neighboring riders, leading to lower individual rider energy expenditures.

SourceUtah State University·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateJul 9, 2019

Study identifies the best healthy eating nudges

A meta-analysis of real-life experiments found that behavioural nudges can reduce daily energy intake by up to 209 kcal, equivalent to 21 cubes of sugar. Cognitive and affective nudges were less effective, with average reductions of 64 kcal and 129 kcal respectively.

SourceINSEAD·JournalMarketing Science·DateJul 9, 2019

New study: How much do climate fluctuations matter for global crop yields?

A new study published in Science Advances found that El Niño-Southern Oscillation and other climate patterns significantly affect global corn, soybean, and wheat production. The research estimated that climate variability accounted for 18% of year-to-year changes in corn production.

SourceInternational Food Policy Research Institute·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 9, 2019

Research tackles head injuries in youth football

A new athletic training method has been shown to reduce head injuries in high school football players, with a 26-33% decline in head impacts during games. The training technique, developed by UMass Lowell Prof. Erik Swartz, aims to teach players to avoid hitting their heads as the first point of contact and improve tackling abilities.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Lowell·DateJul 9, 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.

'Hunger hormone' enhances memory

A team of researchers identified a link between ghrelin and episodic memory, finding that blocking ghrelin signaling impaired rats' ability to remember specific events. The study also found that vagal ghrelin signaling influences feeding behavior, with animals eating more frequently but consuming smaller amounts at each meal.

SourceSociety for the Study of Ingestive Behavior·DateJul 9, 2019

Brain stimulation enhances motivation to work for food

Researchers found that electrical stimulation of the vagus nerve increases motivation to exert physical effort for food rewards, potentially providing a novel method to alter motivation. The study involved 81 hungry participants who underwent two sessions: one with vagus nerve stimulation and another with placebo stimulation.

SourceSociety for the Study of Ingestive Behavior·DateJul 9, 2019

Body plan evolution not as simple as once believed

A recent study published in Current Biology has challenged the long-held idea that Hox genes are the primary drivers of body plan evolution. Researchers found that modifications to a Hox gene were only part of the story, with other genes playing crucial roles in shaping animal development.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJul 9, 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.

Scientists identify new virus-killing protein

Researchers discovered a new protein called KHNYN that works together with the known virus-killing protein ZAP to target viral genomes and destroy viruses. This natural antiviral system has potential applications in developing new vaccines and treatments for cancer.

SourceeLife·DateJul 9, 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.

Scientists decode DNA secrets of world's toughest bean

The genome of black-eyed peas has been fully sequenced, providing valuable insights into the genes responsible for their drought and heat tolerance. This breakthrough could help develop new crop varieties more resilient to climate change, particularly in regions where water availability is limited.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalThe Plant Journal·DateJul 9, 2019

Smoke from Canadian fires drifts into United States

Massive wildfires in Ontario and Manitoba produce massive amounts of smoke moving southeast into Michigan, over the Great Lakes, and into Minnesota. The smoke is carried on the jet stream, with actively burning areas outlined in red on satellite imagery.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 9, 2019

Unusual eating behaviors may be a new diagnostic indicator for autism

A new study from Penn State College of Medicine suggests that atypical eating behaviors may be a sign a child should be screened for autism. Researchers found that 70% of children with autism exhibit unusual eating habits, including limited food preferences and hypersensitivity to textures or temperatures.

SourcePenn State·JournalResearch in Autism Spectrum Disorders·DateJul 9, 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.

Cleaning up the cosmic neighborhood

Vestigo Aerospace LLC is developing drag sail technology to remove small satellites and launch vehicle stages from orbit, addressing the growing risk of on-orbit collisions. The company aims to reduce energy and debris impact zones through targeted reentry.

SourcePurdue University·DateJul 9, 2019

Inbreeding depression reduces litter sizes in golden retrievers

A recent study published in Mammalian Genome found that inbreeding depression reduces litter sizes in purebred golden retrievers. The researchers analyzed data from 93 female golden retrievers and discovered that a dam's inbreeding coefficient was associated with the number of puppies it birthed.

SourceMorris Animal Foundation·JournalMammalian Genome·DateJul 9, 2019

Keeping do-it-yourself gene science safe

A CWRU team will provide regulatory guidelines for non-traditional gene editing experiments, aiming to protect the public while encouraging creativity and innovation. The researchers will explore options such as licensure requirements, experiment reporting, and equipment restrictions.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·DateJul 9, 2019

Pregnancy outcomes greatly improved in lupus patients

Pregnancy outcomes for lupus patients have dramatically improved, with a decline in maternal and fetal mortality rates over the past two decades. The study found that more women with lupus are attempting pregnancy and delivering successfully, with minimal risk of complications.

SourceHospital for Special Surgery·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJul 9, 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.

Clinical trial for new anti-obesity drug ready to launch at University of Alberta

A new clinical trial will test the effects of the anti-obesity drug setmelanotide on participants with Bardet-Biedl syndrome or Alström syndrome, two rare genetic disorders that include obesity as a symptom. The trial aims to assess the drug's ability to lead to significant weight loss in these individuals.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·DateJul 9, 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.

UM researchers land NIH contract to develop opioid addiction vaccine

The University of Montana has received a $3.3 million contract from the National Institutes of Health to develop an opioid addiction vaccine. The vaccine targets fentanyl and prevents it from crossing the blood-brain barrier, offering a promising safe and cost-effective strategy to treat opioid use disorders.

SourceThe University of Montana·DateJul 9, 2019

20 overlooked benefits of distributed solar energy

A recent study by the University of California, Davis, reveals 20 overlooked advantages of distributed solar energy, such as carbon sequestration and improvements for pollinator habitats. The study provides a framework for analyzing solar projects and highlights the potential of rooftop solar to benefit both humans and wildlife.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalNature Sustainability·DateJul 9, 2019

Discovery in mice points to potential treatment for vestibular disorders

Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine have found a way to regenerate hair cells in the inner ears of mice, allowing them to recover vestibular function. The technique shows promise for treating vestibular disorders, such as dizziness and balance problems caused by damaged or lost hair cells.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalCell Reports·DateJul 9, 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.

'Chaos' in the home linked to poor asthma control in children

A chaotic household environment is associated with worse asthma control in urban minority children, according to a new study published in Pediatrics. The researchers found that parent and childhood depressive symptoms are linked to poorer asthma outcomes, while family chaos explained part of this relationship.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateJul 9, 2019

Study highlights need for tailored skin cancer prevention programs

A study published in Journal of Drugs in Dermatology highlights the need for tailored skin cancer prevention programs to reach non-white and younger populations. The research found significant gaps in sun protective knowledge and behavior among these groups, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive community-based solutions.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalJournal of Drugs in Dermatology·DateJul 9, 2019

Participating in local food projects may improve mental health

A new study suggests that local food initiatives can improve psychological well-being by fostering connection to nature, satisfying basic needs, and promoting better diets. Participants in local food projects scored higher on standardised measures of well-being than non-participants.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalJournal of Public Health·DateJul 9, 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.

Fear of predators increases risk of illness

Research at Lund University reveals that prey animals with a weaker immune system have an increased risk of illness due to chronic stress from predator presence. The study found that bold individuals with a greater need for defense exhibit a better immune response.

SourceLund University·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·DateJul 9, 2019

Scientists reveal close connections between the Northern Hemisphere mid-high latitudes and East Asia

Research findings show that mid-high latitude climate variability significantly impacts the East Asian monsoon, with a synergistic effect on predictability sources. Chinese scientists propose new concepts to explain combined effects of regional climate variabilities on East Asian climate.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateJul 9, 2019

Intermittent fasting protects mice from type 2 diabetes

Researchers found that mice eating a high-fat diet who fasted every other day had reduced pancreatic fat and lower blood sugar levels. This suggests that intermittent fasting may be a therapeutic approach to prevent type 2 diabetes by reducing fat accumulation in the pancreas.

SourceSociety for the Study of Ingestive Behavior·DateJul 9, 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.

Coral reefs shifting away from equator

New research reveals coral reefs have retreated from tropical waters and established new reefs in more temperate regions over the last 40 years. This shift is attributed to climate change, which has warmed ocean temperatures, favoring corals' growth in subtropical areas.

SourceBigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences·JournalMarine Ecology Progress Series·DateJul 9, 2019

Organic solar cells will last 10 years in space

Scientists developed record-high radiation stable organic solar cells that retained over 80% efficiency after exposure to 6,500 Gy of gamma rays. The breakthrough enables space applications for the light-weight and flexible solar cells.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateJul 9, 2019

Deep learning-powered 'DeepEC' helps accurately understand enzyme functions

A deep learning-powered computational framework called DeepEC has been developed to predict enzyme commission numbers with high accuracy and efficiency. It uses convolutional neural networks and homology analysis to identify EC numbers, which is essential for understanding enzyme functions.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 9, 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.

Characterizing the 'arrow of time' in open quantum systems

Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis compared forward and reverse trajectories of superconducting circuits called qubits, finding that they follow the second law of thermodynamics and exhibit increasing entropy.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJul 9, 2019

Tungsten as interstellar radiation shielding?

Researchers discovered a nanoscale tungsten-microbial interface that enables the growth of heat-loving microorganisms. This finding has implications for the survivability of microorganisms in outer space and the potential use of tungsten as interstellar radiation shielding.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateJul 9, 2019

Mathematical modeling for translational research of new CRSD medication

A mathematical modeling study reveals that photosensitivity and PER2 level affect the efficacy of a clock-modulating drug, enabling precision medicine for circadian disruption. The researchers identified adaptive chronotherapeutics to identify precise dosing regimens that can restore normal circadian phase under different conditions.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalMolecular Systems Biology·DateJul 9, 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.

On-demand control of terahertz and infrared waves

Graphene's ability to control infrared and terahertz waves using magnetic fields has been confirmed experimentally, opening up new possibilities for opto-electronics, telecommunications, and medical diagnostics. The research also shows that graphene can be used to observe molecular chirality and search for life on exoplanets.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJul 9, 2019

US Naval Research Laboratory 'connects the dots' for quantum networks

Researchers at US Naval Research Laboratory developed a new technique that enables precise control over quantum dot wavelengths, paving the way for breakthroughs in quantum information technologies and brain-inspired computing. This achievement could lead to new technologies that harness the strange properties of quantum physics for co...

SourceNaval Research Laboratory·JournalNature Materials·DateJul 9, 2019

Improved model could help scientists better predict crop yield, climate change effects

A new computer model simulates stomatal movements in response to light, enabling scientists to predict crop yields and climate change effects. The model has the potential to create virtual plants for more accurate predictions, improving food productivity sustainably.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalPhotosynthesis Research·DateJul 9, 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.

Physicists' finding could revolutionize information transmission

A team led by UC Riverside physicists has identified dark trions as a promising carrier of quantum information, with a lifetime of over 100 times longer than bright trions. This breakthrough could revolutionize information transmission and enable new ways of data transfer.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJul 9, 2019

Paleoproterozoic dolomites elucidate the development of Precambrian marine systems

Paleoproterozoic dolomites confirm direct sea water deposition and dominate Proterozoic oceans, revolutionizing our understanding of Precambrian marine systems. Researchers at Kazan University used various methods to study sedimentation, finding preserved ooids and bacterial structures supporting primary dolomite formation.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalPrecambrian Research·DateJul 9, 2019

New antibacterial fillings from Tel Aviv University may combat recurring tooth decay

Researchers at Tel Aviv University have developed novel dental restoratives that display potent antibacterial capabilities, potentially preventing recurrent cavities and tooth decay. The resin-based composites incorporate antibacterial nano-assemblies to hinder bacterial growth and viability on dental restorations.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateJul 9, 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.

Elbows key for walkers' efficiency

Researchers found that walkers who use straight arms conserve energy and reduce their cost by 11% compared to bending their elbows. However, the study did not find any significant difference in energy costs between arm postures for runners. The exact reason behind runner's bent arm posture remains a mystery.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateJul 9, 2019

Cancer study to ease plight of people at advanced stages of illness

Researchers are testing a therapy called bermekimab, which blocks inflammation and pain-causing molecules in the immune system. The trial aims to improve outcomes in lung, pancreatic and ovarian cancer patients, with the goal of reducing symptoms such as weight loss and decreased mobility.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·DateJul 9, 2019

Exercise improves brain function in overweight and obese individuals

A study led by Dr. Stephanie Kullmann found that exercise improves brain function in overweight and obese individuals by normalizing brain functions important for metabolism and increasing regional blood flow in areas of the brain dependent on dopamine. Participants also reported improvements in mood and executive function.

SourceSociety for the Study of Ingestive Behavior·DateJul 9, 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.

Could vacuum physics be revealed by laser-driven microbubble?

Researchers at Osaka University discover novel mechanism of microbubble implosion, achieving ultrahigh electrostatic field near Schwinger limit. The density during compression reaches several hundred thousand to one million times solid density.

SourceOsaka University·JournalPhysics of Plasmas·DateJul 9, 2019

How to equip the brake of immunity

Researchers at Toho University found that mice lacking JunB develop severe autoimmune disorders due to reduced Treg cell number. Injecting high doses of IL-2 can mitigate colitis by expanding Treg cells, suggesting a potential novel strategy for treating inflammatory diseases.

SourceToho University·JournalMucosal Immunology·DateJul 9, 2019

Charge transfer within transition-metal dyes analysed

A team of researchers at HZB has investigated the fundamental photochemical processes around metal atoms and its ligands in transition-metal dyes. They found that charge carriers are not spatially separated as previously assumed, but rather undergo a rapid recombination process.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJul 9, 2019

Hinge-like protein may open new doors in cystic fibrosis treatment

Researchers characterized the interaction between potentiators and cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) protein at atomic resolution. The study found that two distinct compounds act on the same region of CFTR, pointing to strategies for developing more effective drugs.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalScience·DateJul 9, 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.

Parents who help unemployed adult children curb behavior to offset costs

A new study by RAND Corporation finds that parents who help unemployed adult children offset costs by adjusting their behavior, such as spending less on food and working more. This decision may result in financial detriment for the parent, highlighting the economic impact of such decisions.

SourceRAND Corporation·JournalIZA Journal of Labor Economics·DateJul 9, 2019

Cyborg-like microchip valve driven by earthworm muscle

The team of researchers from RIKEN BDR and Tokyo Denki University have developed a bio-MEMS that is driven by real muscle, which could be useful in surgical implants. The new study successfully demonstrates an on-chip muscle-driven valve that can open and close without any external power source.

SourceRIKEN·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 9, 2019

Aphrodisiac pheromone discovered in fish semen

Researchers identified a potent pheromone called spermine in the semen of sea lampreys that attracts only ovulatory female sea lampreys. The discovery may reveal a new mechanism for male animals to recruit mates through chemical cues in semen, potentially with implications for conservation and management of sea lamprey populations.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJul 9, 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.

A clearer picture of global ice sheet mass

Scientists have made significant advancements in measuring global ice sheet mass using satellite imaging and remote sensing equipment, allowing for greater detail than ever before. This improves the connection between climate variations and ice mass changes over time.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalReviews of Geophysics·DateJul 9, 2019

Lovebirds ace maneuvers in the dark

Researchers at Stanford University found that lovebirds can navigate through extreme crosswinds in both bright and dark environments, challenging long-held assumptions about bird navigation. By stabilizing their gaze and twisting their necks, the birds actively control their flight towards a light beacon.

SourceStanford University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 9, 2019

NSF funds Bridges-2 supercomputer at PSC

The National Science Foundation is funding a new supercomputer at the Pittsburgh Supercomputing Center (PSC) with a $10-million grant. The Bridges-2 system will provide massive computational capacity and flexibility to researchers in Pennsylvania and nationwide.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·DateJul 9, 2019

Strengthening muscle may be healthier than losing fat

Researchers suggest that strengthening muscles, rather than losing fat, may be a better way to protect against weight-related health risks like diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Muscle health is linked to metabolic function, insulin sensitivity, and glucose uptake, making it a potential indicator of overall health.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·DateJul 9, 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.

Decades-long butterfly study shows common species on the decline

A long-term study of butterflies in Ohio found that common species are declining at a rate of 2% per year, resulting in an overall 33% decrease over 21 years. This trend is consistent with other monitoring programs in Europe and highlights the impact of environmental changes on insect populations.

SourceOregon State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 9, 2019

New analysis shows drug slows down respiratory decline

Eteplirsen shows supportive results in delaying respiratory decline in DMD patients, with slower rates of decline observed in both ambulatory and non-ambulatory patients. This may have notable positive implications on quality of life and potentially delayed mortality.

SourceIOS Press·JournalJournal of Neuromuscular Diseases·DateJul 9, 2019

Old protein, new tricks: UMD connects a protein to antibody immunity for the first time

Scientists have discovered a newly found function of the US11 protein that impairs antibody immunity, allowing human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) to evade white blood cells and potentially leading to birth defects and immune system dysfunction. This breakthrough has significant therapeutic prospects for treating autoimmune diseases like lupus.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 9, 2019

Small-volume, high-throughput organic synthesis

A new method for synthesizing and evaluating large numbers of potential drug leads has been developed by the University of Groningen. This technique uses acoustic dispensing to create thousands of variant molecules in a high-throughput system, making it possible to quickly identify promising candidates.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 9, 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.