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Science News for June 14, 2019


Researchers find genes that could help create more resilient chickens

Researchers have identified genes that can help chickens resist Newcastle disease, a major poultry pathogen affecting small flocks in low- to middle-income countries. The study found that certain breeds of chickens have innate resistance to the disease due to evolutionary adaptations.

SourcePenn State·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 14, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Exciting plant vacuoles

Researchers discovered that TPC1 ion channel contributes to plant excitability, enabling plants to respond to stressors. The study sheds light on plant communication and may lead to breeding more resilient crop varieties.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 14, 2019

Online shopping interventions may help customers buy healthier foods

A study found that altering food order and offering substitutes lower in saturated fat can encourage healthier choices when shopping online. Participants who received these interventions chose products with less saturated fat than those with no intervention.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalInternational Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity·DateJun 14, 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.

Distant processes influence marine heatwaves around the world

An international team, led by Australian researchers, has published a first-of-its-kind study assessing the major drivers of global marine heatwaves. They found that known climate phenomena, such as El Niño and North Atlantic Oscillation, can increase the odds of marine heatwaves in other regions thousands of kilometres away.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 14, 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.

Electron beam strengthens recyclable nanocomposite

Researchers at Kanazawa University found that electron beam irradiation improves the mechanical properties of short-carbon-fiber reinforced thermoplastics. The treatment strengthens and lengthens carbon fibers, reducing the negative effects of crosslinking and increasing recyclability.

SourceKanazawa University·DateJun 14, 2019

Flickering sky islands generate Andean biodiversity

Climate change connected and disconnected Andean sky islands over the past million years, according to a new mathematical model. The páramo habitat, with stunted shrubs and alpine plants adapted to high winds and cold temperatures, exists between the upper forest line and snowline.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalJournal of Biogeography·DateJun 14, 2019

Benefits beyond fracture risk reduction? Results of the VITALE study

The VITALE study found that high-dose vitamin D supplementation significantly reduces fracture risk in kidney transplant recipients, with a lower incidence of fractures in the high-dose group compared to the low-dose group. The treatment was well-tolerated with no increased risks of adverse effects.

SourceERA – European Renal Association·DateJun 14, 2019

Pew funds 22 scientists to pursue innovative biomedical research

The Pew Scholars Program in the Biomedical Sciences supports young researchers investigating connections between embryos and their mothers, tick-borne diseases, and sensory information processing. The program aims to drive significant scientific discoveries by investing in promising scientists at the beginning stages of their careers.

SourcePew Charitable Trusts·DateJun 14, 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.

Satellite observations improve earthquake monitoring, response

Researchers used satellite imagery to gather detailed information on earthquakes, including location, size of surface deformation, and proximity to population centers. This data improved analysis of earthquake impact and led to more accurate estimates of fatalities and economic losses.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalRemote Sensing·DateJun 14, 2019

High tunnels for specialty crops: The hope and the hindrance

The study reveals that high tunnels can increase yield, enhance shelf life, and improve crop quality, but also pose challenges such as added labor and time requirements. Farmers perceive the ability to differentiate products based on higher quality and premium pricing as a key attractive opportunity.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateJun 14, 2019

What it takes for green businesses to advertise online

A study analyzed green industry firms' online marketing adoption rates, finding that smaller businesses invest more in online ads after initial hesitation. The investigation highlights the need for education programs to help green industry businesses integrate online advertising into daily operations.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateJun 14, 2019

Controlling temperatures for inexpensive plant experiments

Researchers used plug-and-play temperature controllers to create controlled-environment chambers from standard chest freezers, enabling the detailed observation of developmental rates in response to different temperatures. The study found a clear temperature-dependent effect on budbreak and seed germination, allowing for expanded resea...

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateJun 14, 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.

No evidence for increased egg predation in the Arctic

An international team of researchers investigated changes in egg predation on shorebird nests over the past 60 years, challenging a recent claim of increased predation in the Arctic. The study found little support for this hypothesis, instead attributing changes to shifts in research methods and biases in data analysis.

SourceRoyal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research·JournalScience·DateJun 14, 2019

No direct link between north Atlantic currents, sea level along New England coast

A new study published by Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution found that major currents in the North Atlantic do not directly cause changes in sea levels along the New England coast. Instead, both are controlled by variability in weather patterns over the North Atlantic, such as the North Atlantic Oscillation.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJun 14, 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.

Immortal quantum particles

Researchers at TUM and Max Planck Institute discovered quasiparticles that don't decay, but instead oscillate between decay and rebirth. This phenomenon explains unusual stability in materials like magnetic compounds and superfluid helium.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature Physics·DateJun 14, 2019

Part of the immune strategy of the strawberry plant is characterized

A research team has characterized a VQ gene family in strawberries, revealing its relationship to protein transcription factors that regulate stress response genes. This study provides valuable insights into the strawberry's defense mechanisms and opens up possibilities for genetic improvement.

SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 14, 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.

Modified enzyme can increase second-generation ethanol production

Researchers discovered a modified enzyme produced by fungus Trichoderma harzianum that increases glucose release from biomass for fermentation. The modified protein proved 300% more efficient than the wild-type enzyme in terms of glucose release, making it suitable for industrial application.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 14, 2019

It's not easy being green

UC Riverside researchers identified two genes responsible for regulating plant greening through mutant plant experiments. The discovery sheds light on the complex process of photosynthesis and its control by the cell's nucleus and chloroplasts.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 14, 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.

Phantom sensations: When the sense of touch deceives

A study by Bielefeld University and New York University reveals that healthy adults systematically misattribute touch on the hands to the feet and vice versa. The researchers found that three characteristics of touch - limb identity, side of body, and canonical anatomical position - contribute to phantom sensations.

SourceBielefeld University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 14, 2019

Researchers take two steps toward green fuel

Researchers have developed a two-step process to more efficiently break down carbohydrates into their single sugar components, producing bioethanol or biobutanol for use as fuel. The process produces about 30% more sugars than traditional methods and has the potential to commercialize green fuel production.

SourceTokyo University of Agriculture and Technology·JournalIndustrial & Engineering Chemistry Research·DateJun 14, 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.

Virus genes help determine if pea aphids get their wings

A team of researchers, led by Jennifer Brisson and Benjamin Parker, discovered genes from a densovirus that determine whether pea aphids produce winged or wingless offspring. The study sheds light on the genetic mechanisms underlying phenotypic plasticity in insects.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 14, 2019

Heritable behavioral differences between cat breeds

Researchers discovered that behavioral traits are highly heritable, explaining differences between breeds. The study analyzed data from over 6,000 cats representing three breeds: Maine Coon, Ragdoll, and Turkish Van.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 14, 2019

A rapid, easy-to-use DNA amplification method at 37°C

Researchers have developed L-TEAM, a low-temperature DNA amplification method that works at body temperature, enabling highly sensitive nucleic acid detection. The method reduces non-specific amplification errors, making it suitable for disease diagnostics and biosensors.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalOrganic & Biomolecular Chemistry·DateJun 14, 2019

UCPH researchers on hunt for sustainable super crop recipe

Researchers at the University of Copenhagen are working on a six-year collaborative project to develop more resilient crops using beneficial microorganisms. The goal is to create crops that can thrive in an environmentally friendly manner, reducing the need for pesticides and fertilizers.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·DateJun 14, 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.

Can we still have fun if the UK goes carbon neutral?

Researchers from the University of Surrey found that ideal leisure activities for happiness and carbon reduction include goal-oriented pastimes like sports, reading, and socializing. However, these activities can be done in low or high carbon ways, emphasizing the need for a two-pronged approach to address long-distance travel.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalJournal of Public Mental Health·DateJun 14, 2019

American football: The first quarter is crucial

Researchers found that NFL players are disproportionately born in January through March, suggesting a link between early birth and athletic success. The study highlights the importance of physiological factors beyond player control on athletic performance.

SourceDe Gruyter·JournalJournal of Quantitative Analysis in Sports·DateJun 14, 2019

Small cluster of neurons is off-on switch for mouse songs

Researchers at Duke University have identified a key cluster of neurons in the mouse brain responsible for producing ultrasonic 'songs.' By controlling these neurons, scientists can make a mouse sing or not on command. The discovery sheds light on the mechanisms that allow humans to form speech and communication sounds.

SourceDuke University·JournalNeuron·DateJun 14, 2019

Study develops updated national birth weight reference

A new paper provides an updated national birth weight reference for the United States using the most recent, nationally representative birth data. The study aims to improve clinical indicator of morbidity and long-term health outcomes in children and their mothers by addressing previous limitations.

SourceHarvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateJun 14, 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.

Scientists investigate climate and vegetation drivers of terrestrial carbon fluxes

A global dataset analysis revealed exponential increases in gross primary productivity (GPP) and ecosystem respiration (ER) with mean annual temperature (MAT), with maximum leaf area index (LAI) as a key factor determining carbon fluxes across all biomes. The model explained 53% of GPP variations and 48% of ER variations, highlighting ...

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateJun 14, 2019

Noninvasive prenatal diagnosis for fetal sickle cell disease moves a step closer

A new non-invasive prenatal test has been developed to diagnose sickle cell disease in unborn babies. The test uses cell-free fetal DNA and has shown promising results, with successful diagnoses achieved in 21 out of 24 pregnancies. Further development and validation are needed before the test can be introduced into clinical practice.

SourceEuropean Society of Human Genetics·DateJun 14, 2019

USC study finds e-cigarette cartoon ads may increase likelihood of vaping

A new USC study finds that exposure to cartoon-based advertisements for e-cigarettes may increase the likelihood of vaping among young adults. Cartoon images are being used by e-liquid companies and online vendors to market their products, and recognition of these images is associated with a greater potential for use.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence·DateJun 14, 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.

International experts call for action for world's 450 million scabies sufferers

Researchers and health organizations are urging a coordinated effort to develop operational procedures, including methods for identifying scabies prevalence in impacted countries. The goal is to reduce the burden of scabies-related illnesses such as rheumatic heart disease through mass drug administration strategies.

SourceMurdoch Childrens Research Institute·JournalThe Lancet·DateJun 14, 2019

Hubble sets sights on an explosive galaxy

The Hubble Space Telescope has observed multiple supernovae in the spiral galaxy NGC 4051, revealing Type Ic supernovae produced by massive star core collapse. These events are scattered throughout the center and spiral arms of the galaxy.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJun 14, 2019

NIAID scientists develop 'mini-brain' model of human prion disease

Researchers have developed a human cerebral organoid system, or 'mini-brain,' to study sporadic Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD) and its subtypes. The model enables evaluation of potential therapeutics and provides insights into human prion disease progression.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalActa Neuropathologica Communications·DateJun 14, 2019

Dickkopf-related protein 3 (DKK3) predicts AKI

A new biomarker, urinary DKK3, has been identified as a predictor of acute kidney injury (AKI) in patients undergoing cardiac surgery. High preoperative levels of DKK3 are associated with lower kidney function and increased risk of AKI.

SourceERA – European Renal Association·JournalThe Lancet·DateJun 14, 2019

The challenges of North American specialty cut flowers

The study reveals that the main perceived production problem is insect management, followed by crop timing and disease management. The survey also highlighted common postharvest issues such as temperature management, hydration, and flower food management, with hydration and vase life being the top concerns.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateJun 14, 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.

Electron (or 'hole') pairs may survive effort to kill superconductivity

Researchers found that even after losing ability to carry electrical current with no energy loss, materials retain some conductivity and possibly electron pairs required for superconductivity. The discovery supports the role of 'charge stripes' in formation of charge-carrier pairs essential to resistance-free flow of electrical current.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 14, 2019

Discovery of new mutations may lead to better treatment

Researchers analyzed genomic data from over 31,000 parent-child trios and identified 307 significantly enriched genes, 49 of which are novel. The study explains about 51% of the DNM burden in their dataset, leaving half unexplained, providing clues for future discovery.

SourceEuropean Society of Human Genetics·DateJun 14, 2019

A shady spot may protect species against rapid climate warming

Researchers create mathematical framework to estimate cost-benefit trade-off of seeking shade in a warming world. The framework predicts that 17 insect species will experience 'behavioral rescue' and improve their fitness, while 19 are likely to be negatively impacted by rising temperatures.

SourceRice University·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateJun 14, 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.

Patient organization challenges government to bring vital support to people with rheumatic diseases in Cyprus

The Cyprus League Against Rheumatism has successfully implemented the first rheumatology nurse educational program in Cyprus, improving patient care and safety skills. A randomized controlled trial shows that nurse-led patient education can significantly improve essential safety skills in patients with inflammatory arthritis.

SourceEuropean Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR)·DateJun 14, 2019

What drives Yellowstone's massive elk migrations?

A new study led by University of California, Berkeley researchers found that elk primarily rely on environmental cues, such as a retreating snowline and greening grasses, to decide when to migrate. The study used GPS tracking data from over 400 animals and satellite imagery to create a comprehensive model of the migrations.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateJun 14, 2019

New research on the prevalence of JUUL use and awareness amongst US youth age 13 to 17

A recent study by the Centre for Substance Use Research found that approximately 45.5% of 15-17 year olds in the US had heard or seen a JUUL, while 7.6% had used one in the past and 4.0% within the last 30 days. The research suggests that JUUL use is less prevalent amongst young people than previously thought.

SourceCentre for Substance Use Research·JournalAmerican Journal of Health Behavior·DateJun 14, 2019

Snack peppers find acceptance with reduced seed count

A recent study investigated the desirability and practicality of producing snack peppers with low seed count. The findings revealed that true breeding pepper lines with reduced fruit seed count exhibited significantly reduced seed count, making them more suitable for specialty markets.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateJun 14, 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.

How Sweden went from 'least democratic' to welfare state

A new study by Lund University economist Erik Bengtsson challenges the myth that Sweden became a social democracy due to a tradition of independent farmers and a lack of nobility. Instead, he argues that the temperance movement's organisational culture and free churches played a crucial role in shaping the Swedish welfare state.

SourceLund University·JournalPast & Present·DateJun 14, 2019

Better prognosticating for dogs with mammary tumors

Researchers develop a bio-scoring system to improve prognostication for dogs with mammary tumors, identifying those at higher risk of metastasis. The system uses tumor stage, grade, and histological type to provide a clearer picture of treatment options.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalVeterinary and Comparative Oncology·DateJun 14, 2019

Using waves to move droplets

Scientists have developed a method to transport individual droplets using transverse surface waves, enabling more efficient applications in lab-on-a-chip systems and self-cleaning surfaces. This technology also opens up possibilities for harvesting moisture from the air and improving blood tests.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 14, 2019

One class in all languages

Researchers at NAIST created a deep learning-based system to transcribe Japanese lecture speech and translate it into English with near-realtime accuracy. The system uses archived lecture videos with subtitles in both languages, achieving better translations than traditional live translation methods.

SourceNara Institute of Science and Technology·DateJun 14, 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 finds Tropical Cyclone's Vayu getting stretched

Tropical Cyclone Vayu is weakening due to increasing vertical wind shear, causing it to elongate and potentially intensify into a hurricane. The Joint Typhoon Warning Center predicts landfall near the India/Pakistan border by June 17.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJun 14, 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.

WVU researcher studies new treatment for pancreatic cancer

Researchers found that FOLFIRINOX prolonged patients' lives by an average of 22.2 months, increasing the chances of complete tumor removal through surgery. More than two-thirds of cancers responded well to treatment, allowing for surgical removal.

SourceWest Virginia University·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateJun 14, 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.