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Science News for June 6, 2019


New research unlocks properties for quantum information storage and computing

Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute have discovered a way to manipulate tungsten diselenide to enable faster, more efficient computing and quantum information processing. The findings lay the foundation for future development of next-generation computing and storage devices.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 6, 2019

Radon inferior to radium for electric dipole moments (EDM) searches

A research team from the University of Liverpool has discovered that radon atoms provide less favorable conditions for measuring electric dipole moments than radium. The study, published in Nature Communications, used the ISOLDE facility at CERN to accelerate beams of radioactive radon ions and measure their properties.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 6, 2019

The deep learning dive: how cells regulate division

Hollings Cancer Center researchers used a whole-organism approach to study cell division cycles, revealing two modules that work similarly in all cell types and organs. The findings confirm previous knowledge and address new questions about the regulation of E2F transcription factors.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalCell Reports·DateJun 6, 2019

Fertilizer plants emit 100 times more methane than reported

Researchers at Cornell University and Environmental Defense Fund found that fertilizer plant emissions are 100 times higher than industry reports, exceeding EPA estimates. The study used a mobile sensing approach to measure methane emissions from six plants, finding an average emission rate of 0.34 percent.

SourceCornell University·DateJun 6, 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.

Emerging frontiers in phenological research

This special issue of Applications in Plant Sciences presents cutting-edge methods to study plant phenology, including automated scoring from herbaria collections and standardized ontology for data integration. These innovations enable large-scale datasets to be generated, addressing the urgent need to understand ecosystem responses to...

SourceBotanical Society of America·JournalApplications in Plant Sciences·DateJun 6, 2019

Two new species of 'tweezer-beaked hopping rats' discovered in Philippines

Scientists have discovered two new species of 'tweezer-beaked hopping rats' that specialize in eating earthworms, showcasing the incredible biodiversity of the Philippines. The discovery highlights the importance of protecting mountainous forests, which provide unique habitats for these animals and other endemic species.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalJournal of Mammalogy·DateJun 6, 2019

Organic electronics: a new semiconductor in the carbon-nitride family

A new organic semiconductor material, triazine-based graphitic carbon nitride (TGCN), has been synthesized with a band gap of 1.7 electron volts, ideal for optoelectronics applications. The material exhibits high perpendicular conductivity, 65 times greater than planar conductivity.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJun 6, 2019

Counting the uncounted

Researchers developed a new approach to estimate population abundance from simultaneous counts of unmarked individuals over multiple sites. The methodology works best in scenarios with few sites, large variation in abundance among sites, and individuals moving between sampling sites.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalConservation Biology·DateJun 6, 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.

Scientists recreate blood-brain barrier defect outside the body

Researchers created a living blood-brain barrier that functions as in the human body, opening new avenues for studying brain disorders and predicting drug effectiveness. The breakthrough uses induced pluripotent stem cells and Organ-Chips technology.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateJun 6, 2019

Decoding Beethoven's music style using data science

EPFL researchers use data science to analyze Beethoven's String Quartets, finding that few chords govern most of the music. The study reveals a unique statistical signature characterizing Beethoven's composition style, offering new insights into the structure and evolution of classical music.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 6, 2019

Alzheimer's disease protein links plaques to cell death in mice

A new protein, CAPON, has been linked to the connection between amyloid-β plaques and tau pathology in Alzheimer's disease. Accumulation of CAPON increases AD-related pathology, while deficiency reduces symptoms. The study uses novel mouse models to explore this link.

SourceRIKEN·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 6, 2019

Thwarting oil-pipeline corrosion by identifying a nanoscale villain

Scientists at Sandia National Laboratories discovered a triple junction formed by cementite and ferrite grains as the root cause of unpredictable corrosion in steel pipes. This finding could lead to new methods for forging pipe with reduced nanostructures, minimizing corrosion vulnerability.

SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·Journalnpj Materials Degradation·DateJun 6, 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.

Nuclear architecture: What organizes the genome in the nucleus?

Eukaryotic chromosomes are separated into active euchromatin and inactive heterochromatin by interactions between the two chromatin types. The researchers discovered that heterochromatin core serves as a microlens condensing light in nocturnal retinas.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature·DateJun 6, 2019

AMA honors research on how mindfulness helps consumers decision making

The American Marketing Association honored research on how mindfulness helps consumers make decisions more consistently with their values and preferences. The winning article, published in the Journal of Public Policy & Marketing, suggests that a mindfulness approach can be used to self-regulate choices.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·DateJun 6, 2019

Artificial reef makes its debut at Sydney Opera House

A pioneering artificial reef project has been launched in Sydney Harbour, aimed at increasing local marine biodiversity and supporting native species. The reef, featuring modular pods with 3D printed design elements, is already attracting interest from fish species such as leatherjackets and bream.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·DateJun 6, 2019

Creating new molecular sieves

A team of researchers from the University of Delaware and Jilin University has synthesized the most stable crystalline porous material on record, a polyarylether-based covalent organic framework. This material can sift antibiotic residue out of water in a pH ranging from 1 to 13 and is stable up to 400 degrees Celsius.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalNature Chemistry·DateJun 6, 2019

Study shakes up sloth family tree

Two studies published in Nature Ecology & Evolution challenge long-standing sloth classification, revealing new relationships between ancient ground sloths and modern species. The findings use proteins in fossils to map an entire lineage for the first time, rewriting our understanding of sloth evolution.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateJun 6, 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.

New research shakes up the sloth family tree

Researchers from McMaster University and the University of Montpellier have reached almost identical results in two separate studies, overturning a longstanding consensus on sloth evolutionary relationships. The combined molecular evidence suggests that ancient sloths may have been at home on both land and in trees.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 6, 2019

What's fair game on the high seas?

A multinational research team developed an innovative application of electronic fish-finders to predict the mix of sizes and species in tuna aggregations. This technique uses acoustic signatures, which vary by species, to distinguish between sustainable skipjack tuna and other species like yellowfin and bigeye.

SourceInternational Seafood Sustainability Foundation·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 6, 2019

Study provides new insight into origin of Canadian Rockies

New research from University of Alberta scientists suggests the Canadian Rockies were formed through a westward collision event more than 100 million years ago. This finding challenges the traditional accretion model and instead proposes a sudden collision event between two continents.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 6, 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.

Two new species of 'tweezer-beaked hopping rats' discovered in Philippines

Researchers found two new species of 'tweezer-beaked hopping rats' in the Philippines, with distinctive features like long pointed noses and sturdy hind legs. The discovery highlights the country's incredible biodiversity and the importance of protecting mountainous forests where these unique species thrive.

SourceField Museum·JournalJournal of Mammalogy·DateJun 6, 2019

UCI scientists create new class of two-dimensional materials

Researchers at UCI unveil a new process for producing oxide perovskite crystals in exquisitely flexible, free-standing layers. The discovery creates a new class of two-dimensional materials with remarkable electronic properties, including high-temperature superconductivity.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalNature·DateJun 6, 2019

Special issue: Organoids open frontiers in biomedicine, as design challenges are addressed

Recent advances in organoid technology are revolutionizing cancer research, allowing for personalized drug testing on individual patient cells. Meanwhile, integrating organoids with organ-on-a-chip technology may overcome control challenges and enhance physiological realism, paving the way for more advanced biomedical applications.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJun 6, 2019

New model predicts impact of invasive lionfish predators on coral reefs

A new model developed by marine biologists has revealed that reef fish enter the 'danger zone' around invasive lionfish at similar rates to native predators. The study found that prey are up to twice as likely to be captured by lionfish than by native predators, highlighting the need for conservation efforts to protect vulnerable species.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalEcosphere·DateJun 6, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Magnetism discovered in the Earth's mantle

Researchers from Germany, France, Denmark, and the USA have made a groundbreaking discovery about the Earth's magnetic field. By studying iron oxide hematite under extreme conditions, they found that it retains its magnetic properties even deep in the mantle, challenging the long-held assumption of its non-magnetic nature.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalNature·DateJun 6, 2019

How artificial intelligence detects rare diseases

Researchers at the University of Bonn used AI to diagnose rare diseases in 679 patients with 105 different rare diseases. The neural network combines facial analysis with genetic data to improve diagnosis accuracy.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalGenetics in Medicine·DateJun 6, 2019

Jack of all trades or master of none? Impact of specialization on returns

A study by Dr. Lorenzo Casavecchia found that funds with greater active management concentration outperformed those with less active focus, achieving a 70 basis points per year advantage before fees. This excess return is economically significant and risk-adjusted.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalInternational Review of Financial Analysis·DateJun 6, 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.

3D microchannels promote self-assembly of ordered emulsions at low droplet concentrations

Researchers from Singapore University of Technology and Design have discovered a method to achieve self-assembly of low-density droplets in microfluidic flows using three-dimensional microchannels. The study shows that by introducing a gradual increase in height, droplets can accumulate and assemble into ordered structures.

SourceSingapore University of Technology and Design·JournalSoft Matter·DateJun 6, 2019

Radio ridge between two galaxy clusters bridges intergalactic space

A team of researchers has discovered a massive radio-emitting plasma ridge in the gap between two merging galaxy clusters. This finding challenges existing theories on particle acceleration in intergalactic space and suggests an unknown mechanism at play.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJun 6, 2019

Researchers uncover a new obstacle to effective accelerator beams

Researchers have found a new obstacle to effective accelerator beam pulses by forming 'electrostatic solitary waves' that reduce neutralization. Widening the filament injecting electrons into the beam can improve neutralization rates.

SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·JournalPhysics of Plasmas·DateJun 6, 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.

Manipulating nanoscale light in nanocavity of scanning tunneling microscope junctions

A research team at the Fritz-Haber Institute in Berlin demonstrated manipulation of nanolight spectrum by shaping plasmonic gold tips with a focused ion beam milling technique. The spectral response was investigated using scanning tunneling luminescence, revealing precise control over Fabry-Pérot type interference of surface plasmon po...

SourceJapan Science and Technology Agency·JournalNano Letters·DateJun 6, 2019

Dementia and the ethics of choosing when to die

The Hastings Center is conducting groundbreaking research on dementia and end-of-life choices, examining the ethical implications of living with dementia. The study aims to identify areas where further research or policymaking is needed to improve the experiences of those affected by dementia.

SourceThe Hastings Center·DateJun 6, 2019

UBC researchers find ways to hackproof smart meters

Researchers at UBC have developed a program to improve the security of smart meters and protect against software-interference attacks. The method addresses vulnerabilities that can be carried out by an attacker with low-cost equipment, found nine types of attacks within an hour through code-level analysis.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalACM Transactions on Embedded Computing Systems·DateJun 6, 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.

Researchers develop fast, efficient way to build amino acid chains

Researchers at the University of Illinois have created a faster and more efficient way to build amino acid chains, known as polypeptides. This breakthrough could enable mass production of protein chains used in various industries, including chemistry and biology.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 6, 2019

Do medical-alert bracelets benefit patients with chronic kidney disease?

A pilot study suggests that patients with chronic kidney disease who wear medical-alert accessories have a lower risk of developing kidney failure. However, there is no significant difference in rates of hospitalization or death between those who wear the accessories and those who do not.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateJun 6, 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.

A polar-bear-inspired material for heat insulation

Researchers created a synthetic insulator mimicking polar bear hair's structure, which traps heat and is lightweight and water-resistant. The new material has exceptional stretchiness, making it suitable for aerospace applications.

SourceCell Press·JournalChem·DateJun 6, 2019

New research helping to reveal more about megaviruses

Researchers from Swansea University have published a study examining the unexpected genes carried by these giant viruses found inside amoebae. The findings provide valuable information on how these viruses may be linked to some forms of pneumonia, paving the way for new treatments and understanding their biology.

SourceSwansea University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 6, 2019

Sadiqa Kendi, M.D., FAAP, CPST, is 2019 Bloomberg Fellow

Sadiqa Kendi, a pediatric emergency physician at Children's National Hospital, is tackling the burden of injury in DC communities as a Bloomberg Fellow. She aims to lessen morbidity and mortality among children due to unintentional injuries, with a focus on environmental challenges.

SourceChildren's National Hospital·DateJun 6, 2019

Pistons are muscling up

Researchers have developed 'tension pistons' that generate more than three times the force of comparable conventional pistons, eliminating friction and improving energy efficiency. The new design has potential applications in various machines and devices, including shock absorbers, car engines, and mining equipment.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateJun 6, 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.

Proteasome inhibitors show promise for drug-resistant malaria

Researchers identified two P. falciparum-selective proteasome inhibitors with potent antimalarial activity against drug-resistant parasites. The inhibitors exhibited low propensity for generating resistance and synergized with multiple antimalarial agents.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateJun 6, 2019

Just a phage? How bacteria's predators can shape the gut microbiome

A new study reveals that bacteriophages can have a profound impact on the dynamics of the gut microbiome, causing a cascade of effects on other species and modulating metabolite levels. This finding has significant implications for therapeutic use and understanding the potential effects of other treatments.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateJun 6, 2019

New computer attack mimics user's keystroke characteristics and evades detection, according to Ben-Gurion University cyber researchers

Researchers at Ben-Gurion University have developed a new attack called Malboard that mimics a user's keystroke characteristics to evade detection. The attack can be carried out by a remote attacker or an insider using wireless communication, and it is capable of injecting malicious software into the keyboard.

SourceAmerican Associates, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalComputers & Security·DateJun 6, 2019

Neurons that fire alike are connected in the olfactory map

Scientists report that specific patterns of neural activity guide the formation of nerve clusters in the olfactory bulb, enabling variation in response to sensory cues. By changing neural activity patterns using optogenetics, researchers found altered expression of molecules in nerve endings targeting specific nerve clusters.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJun 6, 2019

Ultimate destiny

Researchers from Harvard Medical School and others have discovered that undifferentiated cells face multiple competing choices before committing to their ultimate destiny. By analyzing single-cell sequencing data, they found that genetic programs regulate various cellular functions and influence cell specialization.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalScience·DateJun 6, 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.

Mathematics of plant leaves

A new mathematical model, EDC2, explains the peculiar 'orixate' leaf arrangement pattern of a Japanese plant, suggesting that older leaves have stronger inhibitory signals. The findings support the accuracy of the formula and shed light on the genetic and cellular machinery behind plant development.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateJun 6, 2019

Could climate change make Siberia habitable for humans?

A recent study suggests that climate change may make parts of Asian Russia habitable for humans by the late 21st century. The research found that warming temperatures and increased precipitation could improve food security in the region, but development depends on infrastructure investments.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateJun 6, 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.

Parents of depressed teens in treatment may also benefit from counseling

A new Northwestern University study suggests that parents of depressed teenagers should also receive counseling to address their marital relationships and parent-child conflicts. The research found that while the teenager's depression was being treated, parental marriages and conflict remained stable, but worsened after treatment ended.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJournal of Abnormal Child Psychology·DateJun 6, 2019

Probing semiconductor crystals with a sphere of light

Tohoku University researchers have developed a technique that improves on current photoluminescence spectroscopy techniques, allowing for the measurement of larger semiconducting crystals. The new approach uses a hollow sphere to minimize photon loss and test internal quantum efficiency, a key property of semiconductors.

SourceTohoku University·JournalApplied Physics Express·DateJun 6, 2019

The FASEB Journal: New psoriatric arthritis mouse model developed

Researchers have created a novel mouse model of psoriatic arthritis (PsA) by infecting non-obese diabetic mice with an adenoviral vector expressing single-chain IL-23, resulting in symptoms similar to human disease. This breakthrough model can be used to test and optimize PsA therapies.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateJun 6, 2019

Large placebo-controlled trial confirms safety of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)

A large, multi-year randomized trial found no evidence to support claims that PPIs cause serious health issues such as pneumonia, chronic kidney disease, diabetes, and dementia. The study suggests that limiting prescriptions of PPI therapy is not appropriate due to the benefits outweighing the risks.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateJun 6, 2019

Research sheds new light on how brain stem cells are activated

A new study published in Cell Reports sheds light on the mechanisms used by neural stem cells to reactivate, with key findings indicating that STRIPAK molecules play a crucial role in enabling reactivation. The research holds promise for future therapies to replace lost brain cells and facilitate brain damage repair.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalCell Reports·DateJun 6, 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.

Study reveals potential new disease threats for wild snow leopards

Wild snow leopards are under threat from emerging infectious diseases, with four pathogens detected in their blood, including Coxiella burnetii and Leptospira species. This study identifies the need to establish surveillance to monitor potential disease impacts on this vulnerable population.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalInfection Ecology & Epidemiology·DateJun 6, 2019

Researchers uncover indoor pollution hazards

A new study by WSU researchers found surprisingly high levels of indoor air pollutants, including formaldehyde and possibly mercury, in carefully monitored homes. Temperature fluctuations inside the homes led to increased pollution levels, which varied throughout the day.

SourceWashington State University·JournalBuilding and Environment·DateJun 6, 2019

The Lancet editor Richard Horton to be honored June 10, 2019

Richard Horton, Lancet editor-in-chief, will receive the $100,000 Roux Prize for his relentless advocacy on global health issues. The honor recognizes his commitment to advance health internationally and challenge the medical profession.

SourceInstitute for Health Metrics and Evaluation·DateJun 6, 2019

Understanding the (ultra-small) structure of silicon nanocrystals

Researchers developed a new technique to study the structure of silicon nanocrystals, revealing disordered layers on the surface and crystalline cores. This discovery can lead to optimized functions and tailored applications for various fields, including battery development and medical imaging.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalSolid State Nuclear Magnetic Resonance·DateJun 6, 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.

Scientists edge closer to root causes of multiple sclerosis

Researchers discovered 12 genes that increase MS risk in families with multiple members affected by the disease. They found a common biological process leading to increased inflammation, paving the way for personalized treatments and preventative strategies.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateJun 6, 2019

Translation of genes more complex than expected

Researchers at the Hubrecht Institute developed a new microscopy method to visualize gene translation in living cells, revealing out-of-frame translation occurs surprisingly frequently. This discovery suggests thousands of previously unknown proteins may be encoded in our DNA with unknown functions.

SourceHubrecht Institute·JournalCell·DateJun 6, 2019

The mystery of the galaxy with no dark matter: Solved!

A team of researchers from Instituto de Astrofísica de Canarias solved the mystery of a galaxy without dark matter by reevaluating its distance. The galaxy was previously estimated to be 64 million light years away, but new measurements reveal it's actually around 42 million light years from Earth.

SourceInstituto de Astrofísica de Canarias (IAC)·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJun 6, 2019

More mysterious jars of the dead unearthed in Laos

Researchers have discovered over 100 massive stone jars in Laos, revealing more widespread use of these enigmatic containers than previously thought. The finds also include beautifully carved discs used as burial markers, showcasing intricate imagery including concentric circles, human figures, and creatures.

SourceAustralian National University·DateJun 6, 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.

Heart rate variation due to stress affects auditory attention

A study found that brain activity related to auditory perception parallels heart rate, suggesting that stress-induced changes in heart rate may impair auditory perception. Researchers suggest that vagus nerve activation by electrical stimulation could improve auditory perception and treat attention and communication disorders.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 6, 2019

Fishing a line coupled with clockwork for daily rhythm

Research groups investigate KaiA and KaiC proteins' interplay to generate circadian oscillation in cyanobacteria. They find that KaiC degrades ATP within its ring structure, triggering the 'fishing a line' mechanism.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalLife Science Alliance·DateJun 6, 2019

Neurons' 'antennae' are unexpectedly active in neural computation

A recent study from MIT has found that dendrites are nearly always active when the main cell body of a neuron is active, suggesting a larger role in neural computation. The researchers used calcium imaging to measure activity in both soma and dendrites of individual neurons in the visual cortex.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNeuron·DateJun 6, 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.

Cancer research using mini-organs from tumors and healthy tissue

The use of mini-organs from tumors and healthy tissue in cancer research has been explored, revealing their potential in studying tumor development and testing existing and new therapies. This innovative approach holds promise for improving cancer treatment outcomes and advancing personalized medicine.

SourceHubrecht Institute·JournalScience·DateJun 6, 2019

Toward a low-cost industrialization of lithium-ion capacitors

Lithium-ion capacitors combine large storage capacity and rapid charging capabilities. Researchers have proposed a new approach using two additives to facilitate incorporation of lithium into capacitors, enabling cost-effective development of these components. This method has the potential to increase energy storage efficiency.

SourceCNRS·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·DateJun 6, 2019

USA lags behind EU, Brazil and China in banning harmful pesticides

A recent study published in Environmental Health found that the US uses voluntary mechanisms for pesticide cancellations, leading to a delayed ban on harmful pesticides compared to the EU, Brazil, and China. The study identified nearly all pesticide cancellations in the US as being done voluntarily by the industry.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalEnvironmental Health·DateJun 6, 2019

Treating type 2 diabetes and heart failure

The American Heart Association and the Heart Failure Society of America issue a statement on managing both conditions, highlighting lifestyle modifications and multidisciplinary care teams. The guidelines emphasize the importance of coordinated treatment to improve patient outcomes.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalCirculation·DateJun 6, 2019
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

A home-based weight management program benefits both children and parents

A new study published in the Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior found that a home-based weight management program improved the health of both children and their parents. The Developing Relationships that Include Values of Eating and Exercise (DRIVE) curriculum led to modest reductions in body mass index for children and signif...

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·DateJun 6, 2019

I, you, or we: Pronouns provide hints to romantic attachment styles

Researchers found that people with avoidant attachment styles are less likely to use the word 'we' when talking about their relationships. The study, published in Social Psychological and Personality Science, suggests that pronoun use can be an indirect indicator of attachment style.

SourceSociety for Personality and Social Psychology·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·DateJun 6, 2019

Posture impacts how you perceive your food

Researchers found that posture affects taste perception, with standing reducing sensory sensitivity and increasing cortisol levels. Sitting down enhances the gustatory system, resulting in a more pleasant tasting experience.

SourceUniversity of South Florida·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJun 6, 2019

Sediment from fishing choking out sea sponges, study shows

Research shows sediment stirred up by human activity is harming glass sea sponges in northern British Columbia. The sediment can smother sponges from the outside or clog their filtration system, leading to sponge death and ecosystem disruption.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalMarine Ecology Progress Series·DateJun 6, 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.

Is sex primarily a strategy against transmissible cancer?

Researchers suggest that sexual reproduction prevents invasion of transmissible cancer by generating genetic variation and detecting foreign cells. This theory proposes a novel explanation for the evolution of sex in multicellular organisms, shifting our understanding of evolutionary biology.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJun 6, 2019

Breaking down pathological protein aggregates

Scientists at ETH Zurich found that a cellular mechanism called SCF detects and targets alpha-synuclein fibrils for breakdown. This mechanism could be used to develop therapies for neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's. Gene therapy and stem cell transplantation may also offer new options.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJun 6, 2019

The universal beauty of the mountains can be seen in graphs

Scientists from the Polish Academy of Sciences analyzed mountain ranges worldwide and found a universal similarity in their structure. The analysis showed that the distribution of ridges and valleys follows a power-law nature, with most nodes having low degree and few hubs having high degree.

SourceThe Henryk Niewodniczanski Institute of Nuclear Physics Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalJournal of Complex Networks·DateJun 6, 2019

New study finds microplastic throughout Monterey Bay

A new study published in Scientific Reports reveals that microplastic particles are common throughout Monterey Bay, from the surface to the seafloor. The research found that small ocean animals are consuming microplastic, introducing it into food webs and highlighting a growing concern for marine ecosystems.

SourceMonterey Bay Aquarium·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 6, 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.

Social interactions impact climate change predictions, U of G study reveals

A University of Guelph study found that including social processes in climate models can alter predictions and may hold the key to reducing global warming. Researchers developed a new model that accounts for social learning, finding that higher rates of social learning are needed to meet the 1.5-degree target.

SourceUniversity of Guelph·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateJun 6, 2019

Toxic metals found in reproductive organs of critically endangered eels

Research by an international team including the University of Saskatchewan has found toxic metals in European eels' ovaries, potentially jeopardizing their reproductive success. The metals, including mercury and copper, are concentrated in the eels' bodies during their journey to spawning grounds.

SourceUniversity of Saskatchewan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 6, 2019

Dynamics of key viral attack strategy visible for first time

Researchers developed imaging technology to visualize and understand frameshifting mechanisms at single molecule level, revealing bursts of activity and subsets of RNAs involved. This discovery promises new depth to understanding viral replication and could inform future antiviral therapeutics.

SourceColorado State University·JournalMolecular Cell·DateJun 6, 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.

Normal tissues not so normal, but instead mosaics of mutated cells

A comprehensive RNA sequence analysis reveals that normal cell populations contain lineages of mutational mosaics, with sun-exposed skin and throat tissues developing more mutations. The study's findings suggest a link between age, cell proliferation rate, and environmental exposure to cancer risk.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJun 6, 2019

Are penguins righties or lefties?

Magellanic penguins exhibit no lateralization in stepping up, swimming, and thermoregulation. However, they display dominance through aggression, favoring their left eye in most confrontations.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalPeerJ·DateJun 6, 2019

Dogs mirror owner's stress

A new study from Linköping University found that dogs and their owners share similar stress levels, with high-stress owners having high-stress dogs. The study examined 25 border collies and 33 Shetland sheepdogs and found no correlation between dog personality traits and stress levels.

SourceLinköping University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 6, 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.

New global warming model highlights strong impact of social learning

A new climate modeling approach suggests that social processes strongly affect global warming predictions, and mitigation efforts should account for this influence. The rate at which people learn about climate mitigation strategies via social interactions can raise warming predictions by over 1 degree Celsius.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateJun 6, 2019

Scientists get a grip on sloth family tree

Researchers use cutting-edge techniques to extract ancient protein sequences from fossilized bones, revealing a common ancestor between two-toed sloths and giant ground sloths like Megatherium. The study challenges decades of scientific opinion on sloth evolution and provides new insights into the evolutionary history of animals.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateJun 6, 2019

Where to draw the line between mental health and illness?

A study examined which conditions were considered illnesses by different groups, revealing a significant difference between psychiatrists and non-medical professionals. The results underscore the importance of understanding societal attitudes towards mental health, as these perceptions influence resource allocation and stigma.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalBMJ Open·DateJun 6, 2019

For dying patients, early plans can improve quality of life

Researchers found that early documentation of end-of-life wishes in health records can prevent hospitalizations, especially if noted at least six months prior to death. This helps respect the patient's priorities and focus on quality of life and pain management.

SourceOhio State University·JournalAmerican Journal of Hospice and Palliative Medicine®·DateJun 6, 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.

Do we judge chocolate by its wrapper?

A new study found that participants associated stronger emotions with the packaging than the actual taste, affecting their willingness to purchase. The researchers discovered a moderate positive correlation between liking packaging and taste when it was described with positive terms.

SourceElsevier·JournalHeliyon·DateJun 6, 2019

Drug makes tumors more susceptible to chemo

Researchers discovered a compound that blocks a DNA repair pathway, increasing cell killing with cisplatin and preventing mutations. In mouse models, tumors shrank more when treated with the combination of the compound and cisplatin, suggesting improved treatment outcomes.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalCell·DateJun 6, 2019

New synthesis of complex organic molecules revealed

Researchers at Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology have designed a sequential synthesis sequence to create intricate molecules with various practical applications. The new method enables the efficient production of complex organic compounds, overcoming previous challenges related to bulkiness and instability.

SourceTokyo University of Agriculture and Technology·JournalOrganic Letters·DateJun 6, 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.

Three-drug combination helps curb the growth of deadly type of skin cancer

A UCLA-led research team has pinpointed a three-drug combination that can effectively treat advanced melanoma. The approach shows promise for extending the lives of people with BRAF V600E mutated melanoma, with progression-free survival lasting an average of 16 months.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalNature Medicine·DateJun 6, 2019

Ultrasound method restores dopaminergic pathway in brain at Parkinson's early stages

Researchers developed a novel technique using transcranial ultrasound and microbubbles to open the blood-brain barrier, enabling drugs to penetrate the brain and restore dopaminergic pathways. The method has been approved by FDA for clinical trials in Alzheimer's patients and shows promise for treating Parkinson's disease at early stages.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalJournal of Controlled Release·DateJun 6, 2019

How flow shapes bacterial biofilms

Researchers discover that fluid flow significantly impacts bacterial biofilm architecture, with dense formations in weak flows and sparse colonies in strong ones. This study provides insights into the role of physical principles guiding biofilm organization and its implications for bacterial physiology and evolution.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 6, 2019
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Rhythmic control of 'brain waves' can boost memory -- study

Neuroscientists have discovered that controlling brain waves through rhythmic neural stimulation can improve memory performance. The study, published in Trends in Neurosciences, suggests that this technique may be a promising tool for improving memory and potentially treating conditions like Alzheimer's disease.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalTrends in Neurosciences·DateJun 6, 2019

Researchers spot mutations that crop up in normal cells as we age

A new approach detects mutations across many different types of normal cells by analyzing RNA sequencing data from normal tissues. The study found that 95% of individuals had at least one tissue with mutations, with higher rates in lung, esophagus, and sun-exposed skin.

SourceBroad Institute of MIT and Harvard·JournalScience·DateJun 6, 2019

Talking to each other -- how forest conservation can succeed

A German research team developed a framework to classify conservation objectives, highlighting key areas of consensus and shortcomings. The study found that stakeholders agree on protecting diverse forest ecosystems and species, but there is room for improvement in abiotic resource conservation and socio-cultural considerations.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalNature Conservation·DateJun 6, 2019

If you teach them, they will care

Researchers developed an innovative curricular approach to educate undergraduate nursing students in geriatric care, using interactive learning assignments to increase understanding, confidence, and competence. The program was well-received by students and provided them with multiple learning activities to master geriatric content.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalNurse Educator·DateJun 6, 2019

Shaking up the sloth family tree

New molecular evidence contradicts long-held views on sloth relationships, suggesting that tree sloths and extinct kin are more closely related than previously thought. The research uses both mitochondrial genome and protein collagen data to support convergent origins of adaptations in the six living tree sloth species.

SourceAmerican Museum of Natural History·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateJun 6, 2019

New study identifies molecular aging 'midlife crisis'

A new study identifies a 'midlife crisis' in human molecular aging, where key longevity programs cease functioning after 50 years. Researchers found that humans use the same biochemical pathways as short-lived animals but stop using them from about age 50.

SourceUniversity of Miami Miller School of Medicine·JournalAging Cell·DateJun 6, 2019

Are American Zika strains more virulent than Pacific and Asian strains?

Research comparing American, Pacific, and Southeast Asian Zika virus strains found that the American subtype has the highest ability to grow in vitro and in vivo. The strain also caused more testis damage in infected mice, highlighting potential concerns about its pathogenicity.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateJun 6, 2019