Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for May 16, 2019


24% of West Antarctic ice is now unstable

Researchers from the University of Leeds found that Antarctica's ice sheet has thinned by up to 122 meters in places, with rapid changes occurring in West Antarctica. The team tracked changes in snow and ice cover using satellite altimeter measurements and a regional climate model.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateMay 16, 2019

A new iron-based superconductor stabilized by inter-block charger transfer

Researchers at Zhejiang University have discovered a new iron-based superconductor with double FeAs layers, which is stabilized by inter-block charge transfer. The newly found superconductor, BaTh2Fe4As4(N0.7O0.3)2, exhibits contrasting structural and physical properties compared to previous hole-doped IBSCs.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Materials·DateMay 16, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

The Lancet Gastroenterology & Hepatology: Colorectal cancer incidence on the rise among young adults in several high-income countries

The study found significant increases in colon and rectal cancer incidence among young adults in several high-income countries, including Australia, Canada, Denmark, Ireland, New Zealand, Norway, and the UK. The incidence of colon cancer increased significantly each year in people aged 0-49 years, while rectal cancer incidence was most...

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Gastroenterology & Hepatology·DateMay 16, 2019

Largest study of sickness in pregnancy launches

Women with severe morning sickness during pregnancy are invited to join the largest European study of hyperemesis gravidarum, a condition that can lead to weight loss, dehydration, and malnutrition. The study aims to build a database of information about the genetic basis for the condition and potentially find new ways to treat it.

SourceNIHR Biomedical Research Centre at Guy’s and St Thomas’ and King’s College London·DateMay 16, 2019

Study examines consequences of workplace bullying

Research reveals workplace bullying can lead to health-related problems and behavioral issues in victims, including high avoidance coping strategies and moral disengagement. The study identifies five groups of victims based on exposure to bullying types and associated consequences.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalPersonality and Individual Differences·DateMay 16, 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.

When science and politics collide: Support for enhancing FDA independence

Seven former FDA commissioners and a new paper suggest the FDA should become an independent agency to protect science-based drug safety decisions from political interference. The authors propose safeguards, including six-year terms for commissioners and budgetary independence, to ensure the agency's mission is upheld.

SourceBrown University·JournalScience·DateMay 16, 2019

A substantial benefit from replacing steak with fish

The study found that replacing red and processed meat with fish in the Danish diet can lead to a significant health benefit, particularly for men over 50 and women of childbearing age. The greatest effect is seen when consuming fatty fish, as it contains healthy fatty acids and vitamin D.

SourceTechnical University of Denmark·JournalFood and Chemical Toxicology·DateMay 16, 2019

How a member of a family of light-sensitive proteins adjusts skin color

A team of scientists found that opsin 3, a protein related to rhodopsin, regulates melanin production in human skin cells. Without opsin 3, the skin produces more pigment, resulting in darker skin color. The study reveals a new paradigm for opsins and may lead to treatments for pigmentation disorders.

SourceBrown University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 16, 2019

Cancer drugs promote stem cell properties of colorectal cancer

Researchers discovered that MEK inhibitors activate Wnt signalling pathway in colorectal cancer cells, leading to accumulation of tumor cells with stem cell characteristics. This explains why these drugs are not effective in treating colorectal cancer.

SourceGerman Cancer Research Center (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ)·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 16, 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.

The University of Cordoba has simplified the method to categorize olive oil

A University of Cordoba research group has developed a new methodology to categorize olive oil using gas chromatography and ion mobility spectrometry. The approach analyzes the oil's aromatic fraction, generating 3D graphics that predict classification with high reliability and ease of implementation.

SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalFood Chemistry·DateMay 16, 2019

Scientists find new type of cell that helps tadpoles' tails regenerate

Researchers at the University of Cambridge have identified a specialized population of skin cells called Regeneration-Organizing Cells (ROCs) that coordinate tail regeneration in frogs. These ROCs work together to regenerate a tail with the right size, pattern, and cell composition after amputation.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalScience·DateMay 16, 2019

Species may disappear faster than anticipated, according to new data models

A new study in Journal of Applied Ecology proposes ways to improve risk assessments for endangered species by incorporating accurate population growth rates and survival data. The models more closely reflect reality by assessing long-used assumptions and proposing analytics that better reflect the impact of survival and reproduction.

SourceSpecies360·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateMay 16, 2019

Human antibody reveals hidden vulnerability in influenza virus

Researchers have discovered a human antibody that recognizes and disrupts a vulnerable region on the hemagglutinin protein of the influenza virus. This breakthrough could lead to the development of effective vaccines against multiple strains of the virus, potentially eliminating the need for annual seasonal flu vaccination.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalCell·DateMay 16, 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.

Precursors of a catastrophic collapse

A 2019 study found evidence of sporadic, small landslides preceding a massive one on Ritter Island, sparking interest in whether slow landslides reduce the risk of catastrophic collapses. Researchers measured seismic activity and deformation patterns to understand the island's dynamics.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel (GEOMAR)·JournalEarth and Planetary Science Letters·DateMay 16, 2019

How our current thinking can sway our memories of love

Studies found that writing prompts influencing positive attributes led to stronger recall of love for mothers in early childhood, but effects faded over time. Researchers also discovered that participants' current feelings were misremembered 8 weeks later.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalClinical Psychological Science·DateMay 16, 2019

Early exposure to banking influences life-long financial health

A new study from Iowa State University finds that growing up in a community with limited access to banks or financial institutions can have long-term effects on financial health. Individuals who lack early exposure to banking tend to have lower credit scores and higher delinquency rates as adults.

SourceIowa State University·JournalJournal of Financial Economics·DateMay 16, 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.

Novel tool used to mine clinical data and identify causative gene in childhood epilepsy

A team of researchers discovered a new gene linked to severe childhood epilepsy by analyzing phenotypes and genomics data of patients with similar clinical presentations. The study used a novel computational method to identify the AP2M1 gene variant, which regulates excitability and inhibition in brain cells.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateMay 16, 2019

Early weight-loss surgery may improve type 2 diabetes, blood pressure outcomes

A study funded by the NIH found that early weight-loss surgery in youth can lead to remission of type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure, compared to waiting until later in life. Teens who underwent gastric bypass surgery showed significant improvements in blood glucose control and reduced medication use.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 16, 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.

Study proposes new standards for safely performing 'Brazilian butt lift'

A new anatomic study highlights critical technical issues to ensure safe performance of the Brazilian butt lift, a procedure using patient's own fat to augment and improve buttock appearance. Researchers recommend injecting only under skin, never into muscle, to prevent serious complications.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery·DateMay 16, 2019

Leveraging information technology to address health disparities

A new NIH supplement explores the role of health information technology in addressing health disparities. Researchers discuss the potential of health IT to increase access to care, improve healthcare quality, and promote better patient-clinician communication.

SourceNIH/National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities·JournalMedical Care·DateMay 16, 2019

Brain cell genomics reveals molecular pathology of autism

A new study using single-cell analysis of brain cells from autism patients found that specific genetic changes in neural cells and brain circuits correlate with the clinical severity of autism. The research identified autism-specific genes that could represent high-priority targets for new therapeutic treatments.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMay 16, 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.

How we make complex decisions

Researchers discovered a brain circuit that helps break decisions down into smaller pieces, allowing for more confident reasoning about probable causes of failure. The circuit enables individuals to navigate hierarchical decisions and adjust their approach based on confidence levels.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateMay 16, 2019

Scientists develop technology to capture tumor cells

Researchers at the University of Georgia have developed a microfluidic device that captures nearly every circulating tumor cell (CTC) in a blood sample, over 99%. This technology has the potential to provide key information on CTCs and aid in the early detection of cancer relapse and disease progression.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalLab on a Chip·DateMay 16, 2019

A tale of two skeeters

Researchers found that sharing waters with an invasive Asian rockpool mosquito species reduces parasitism in native eastern tree-hole mosquito species, known as a dilution effect. The presence of the invasive species decreases parasite prevalence by 13-27% compared to 72-90% when kept alone.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·DateMay 16, 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.

Shedding light on the key determinants of global land use projections

A new study by an international research group has identified the main drivers of global land use projections, revealing that population growth, agricultural efficiency, and consumption changes are key factors. The findings suggest that increasing agricultural productivity, enforcing efficient land use protection, and shifting diets to...

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 16, 2019

Moving the needle on nanoscale imaging with single-molecule magnets

Researchers have created a sensor that can measure and image magnetic structures at the atomic scale, enabling new directions in atomic-scale research. The sensor uses a single molecule magnet as a scanning magnetometer to detect spin-spin interactions between molecules.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMay 16, 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.

Preventive measures can reduce foot parasite in children, study says

Researchers found that simple prevention methods such as sealing floors, using soap for daily feet washing, and good household infrastructure can reduce tungiasis cases by up to a third and nearly half. The study suggests that public health workers can play a key role in expanding WASH policies to prevent the disease.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateMay 16, 2019

Passion trumps love for sex in relationships

Passion in a relationship is crucial for intercourse frequency, according to a study by Norwegian University of Science and Technology. Women's attitudes to casual sex also play a major role, with those who differentiate between sex and relational aspects being more willing to compromise.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalEvolutionary Behavioral Sciences·DateMay 16, 2019

Identifying the molecular structure of one of Alzheimer's stickier culprits

A team of researchers has mapped the molecular structure and dynamics of an aggressive protein modification linked to Alzheimer's disease. The study found that this modification accelerates disease progression, causing toxic protein fragments to aggregate into sticky plaques that disrupt brain cell communication.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Denver·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 16, 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.

FDA independence in an age of partisan politics

The FDA faces significant politicization, threatening its ability to make scientifically-informed decisions on public health. Experts argue that increased independence is needed to protect the nation's health, citing precedents from other agencies such as the FCC and SSA.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMay 16, 2019

Self-repairing batteries

Researchers at the University of Tokyo have created a material that can significantly extend battery life and increase capacity. The oxygen redox-layered oxide (Na2RuO3) material, when used in lithium-ion batteries, enables self-repair due to its stronger coulombic attraction force, reducing degradation from charge and discharge cycles.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 16, 2019

New way to beat the heat in electronics

A nanocomposite combining polymer nanofibers and boron nitride nanosheets offers high strength and superior thermal conduction, allowing it to withstand harsh environments. The material acts as an effective heat sink up to 250 degrees Celsius.

SourceRice University·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateMay 16, 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.

These four values lessen the power of transformational leadership

Research from Iowa State University found that cultural values significantly limit the effectiveness of transformational leadership. The four core components of transformational leadership were tested in nearly 200 studies of over 57,000 employees from 34 countries.

SourceIowa State University·JournalJournal of Managerial Psychology·DateMay 16, 2019

Australian islands home to 414 million pieces of plastic pollution

The survey found an estimated 414 million pieces of plastic debris on the islands' beaches, including single-use consumer items like shoes and toothbrushes. The total volume dwarfs that found on Henderson Island, indicating a need for urgent action to reduce plastic production and consumption.

SourceUniversity of Tasmania·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 16, 2019

Electric car switch on for health benefits

A study suggests that transitioning to electric vehicles could reduce cardiopulmonary illness due to air pollution, leading to improved quality of life. The research found that the financial costs of building charging infrastructure are lower than the health benefits in many scenarios.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Electric and Hybrid Vehicles·DateMay 16, 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.

How host-cell enzymes combat the coronavirus

A study found that host-cell enzymes PARP12 and PARP14 play a crucial role in combating mutant coronavirus replication. The macrodomain of the virus is required to prevent these enzymes from inhibiting viral replication and enhancing the production of antiviral proteins.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateMay 16, 2019

Researchers develop novel framework for tracking developments in optical sensors

A novel framework has been developed to systematically compare optical sensors, enabling the creation of a technology map that tracks developments in this rapidly growing industry. The map provides a comprehensive benchmark for standardizing optical refractive index sensors with plasmonic and photonic structures.

SourceSingapore University of Technology and Design·JournalAdvanced Optical Materials·DateMay 16, 2019

Research brief: Protecting rare species can benefit human life

Researchers argue that preserving rare species can have a direct positive impact on human life, from restoring food sources like bluefin tuna to storing airborne carbon in giant sequoias. This new understanding is crucial for conservation decisions under climate change, shifting focus to future benefits rather than current conditions.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·DateMay 16, 2019

How plants are working hard for the planet

Research found that photosynthesis has increased nearly in constant proportion to rising atmospheric CO2 since the industrial era. Plants are working hard to mitigate climate change by absorbing CO2.

SourceJames Cook University·JournalTrends in Plant Science·DateMay 16, 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.

Brain network activity can improve in epilepsy patients after surgery

Researchers found that successful epilepsy surgery can restore brain networks, leading to improved quality of life for patients with temporal lobe epilepsy. The study showed significant improvements in brain network activity after surgery compared to healthy subjects.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalNeurosurgery·DateMay 16, 2019

Evolution in the gut

A large-scale study has investigated the composition of microorganisms in the digestive tract of animals, revealing evolutionary relationships between host species and their gut microbiomes. The study found that closely related species share similar microbial communities, while diet also plays a significant role in shaping the gut micr...

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 16, 2019

A work patch for better nursing home care

Research suggests that optimized work schedules can lead to less stress, better patient care, and reduced turnover in nursing homes. The study found that facilities using the 'Work-Life Needs' method showed a link between improved scheduling and fewer pressure ulcers in patients.

SourcePurdue University·JournalWork and Occupations·DateMay 16, 2019

Brain activity of Spanish Popular Party voters triggered by rivals

Researchers found that messages about corruption from the rival party have a greater impact on Spanish Popular Party voters' brains, triggering areas related to risk, disappointment, and rejection. This biased rejection affects PP voters more intensely, regardless of whether the message is positive or negative.

SourceUniversity of Granada·JournalPolitical Psychology·DateMay 16, 2019

CosmoGAN: Training a neural network to study dark matter

A team of researchers developed CosmoGAN, a deep learning network that generates high-fidelity convergence maps for weak gravitational lensing. The model achieves high statistical agreement with fully simulated maps, paving the way for building emulators out of deep neural networks.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalComputational Astrophysics and Cosmology·DateMay 16, 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.

Critical windows when experience shapes the brain

Researcher Pat Levitt will investigate how genetic factors interact with early experiences to influence brain circuit development, with a focus on the MET receptor gene. The study aims to determine the brain cells dependent on proper MET function to form healthy connections.

SourceChildren's Hospital Los Angeles·DateMay 16, 2019

Brain changes in autism traced to specific cell types

A study of human brains found that gene activity in specific cells is associated with autism severity, targeting potential treatments. Researchers identified a common set of circuit changes in neurons and glial cells, which were closely correlated with behavioral symptoms.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalScience·DateMay 16, 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.

Stigma deterring elite athletes with mental health issues from seeking help

A review of 52 studies involving 13,000 elite athletes found stigma was the main barrier to seeking help, with poor understanding of mental illness, busy schedules, and gender stereotyping also playing a role. Coaches and sports governing bodies are key to changing the culture and promoting mental wellbeing.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·DateMay 16, 2019

Extreme heat -- and maybe a virus -- wiped out Cambodian bats

In April 2016, a mass mortality event occurred in two bat species in Cambodia due to extreme heat. The investigation suggests that the heat stress hypothesis is consistent with clinical signs and gross pathology findings.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalEuropean Journal of Wildlife Research·DateMay 16, 2019

Improving carbon-capturing with metal-organic frameworks

Scientists have improved gas separation in metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) by making the lattice structure rigid through a novel heat treatment method. This results in enhanced carbon capture performance, potentially reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateMay 16, 2019

To win online debates, social networks worth a thousand words

Researchers at Cornell University found that social interactions are more important than language in predicting online debate success. A model combining social interactions and language was the most accurate, with a robust history of complex social interactions being the best predictor of future debate success.

SourceCornell University·DateMay 16, 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.

Study may help prevent relapse in cocaine use disorder patients

Researchers used cognitive dysfunction tests and analysis of drug use patterns to identify patients at high risk of relapse after treatment. The study suggests that a revised classification system may be needed to better predict vulnerability to relapse.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence·DateMay 16, 2019

UBC researchers create washable sensor that can be woven into materials

Researchers at UBC Okanagan have created a low-cost, washable sensor that can monitor human movement and detect deformations in composite materials. The sensor uses piezo-resistivity technology and has shown great promise for health-monitoring applications and the composites manufacturing industry.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalSmall·DateMay 16, 2019

Archaeological discovery upends a piece of Barbados history

A recent archaeological discovery in Barbados sheds new light on the island's early European settlement, revealing a previously undetected historic peccary introduction. The findings suggest that Europeans altered New World environments by introducing non-native species, contradicting accepted colonial history.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 16, 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.

Could better tests help reverse the rise of drug-resistant infections?

A new modeling study suggests that rapid tests for drug-resistant infections could turn the tables against bacteria, allowing doctors to target resistant strains with precision. However, the researchers found that asymptomatic carriers must also be screened and treated to reverse the spread of resistance.

SourceDuke University·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMay 16, 2019

CRISPR catches out critical cancer changes

Researchers used CRISPR to analyze over 8,000 gene fusions in human cancer cell lines, finding that 90% do not play an essential role in cancer. A new fusion, YAP1-MAML2, was identified as critical for progression of multiple cancers, offering a potential new drug target.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 16, 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.

Automatic neurological disease diagnosis using deep learning

Researchers at Osaka University developed an automatic diagnosis system using deep learning and MEG, achieving high accuracy in classifying patients with neurological diseases. The system outperformed conventional methods using waveforms, offering a promising approach for clinical practice.

SourceOsaka University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 16, 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.

University of Virginia chemist IDs possible addiction-free pain reliever

Researchers at the University of Virginia have identified a possible new drug target for reducing chronic pain and inflammation. A naturally occurring enzyme called diacylglycerol lipase-beta (DAGL?) has been found to produce chemical signals that control inflammation, making it a viable target for non-addictive pain relief.

SourceUniversity of Virginia·JournalCell Chemical Biology·DateMay 16, 2019

Designing biological movement on the nanometer scale

Researchers created synthetic proteins that change shape in response to pH changes, moving as intended and disrupting lipid membranes. This technology could help medication enter cells more effectively, potentially rivaling viral delivery systems without drawbacks.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalScience·DateMay 16, 2019

ALMA discovers aluminum around young star

Researchers discovered aluminum oxide around a young massive protostar using ALMA data, providing insights into the early formation of meteorites and planets. The detection suggests that aluminum-rich dust can form in hot regions close to the star and later condense into solid particles.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateMay 16, 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.

Flexibility of working memory from random connections

A new article in Neuron presents a model of working memory that captures its flexibility through high-dimensional random networks and structured sensory networks. The model suggests a tradeoff between flexibility and capacity in working memory.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalNeuron·DateMay 16, 2019

Long-term decline in stroke greater in older adults

Researchers found that the risk of stroke at middle age declined by 39% and at older age by 53% between 1998-2005 and previous periods. Lifestyle choices like exercise and a healthy diet can reduce stroke risk across all ages.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalStroke·DateMay 16, 2019

People recycle more when they know what recyclable waste becomes

Researchers from Penn State University and Boston College found that promoting recyclable waste transformation increases recycling rates. Consumers who saw product transformation messages recycled up to 87.7% of their waste, compared to 19% for those without such messages.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateMay 16, 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.

Researchers unravel mechanisms that control cell size

A multidisciplinary team at UC San Diego unraveled the mechanisms controlling cell size through a fundamental process known as 'the adder.' The process relies on balanced synthesis of biological ingredients and a critical threshold to initiate cell division. This discovery sheds light on the origins of precise cellular reproduction.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMay 16, 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.

JQI researchers shed new light on atomic 'wave function'

Scientists have developed a technique to directly observe an isolated quantum system, such as a gas of atoms, with unprecedented spatial resolution. This allows them to obtain details on a scale of tens of nanometers, enabling the calculation of wave function information and its effects.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalPhysical Review X·DateMay 16, 2019

Political disinformation campaigns not as threatening as you think

Research suggests foreign powers like Russia and China can't significantly impact election outcomes or policies through disinformation. A Canadian researcher found that deeply ingrained identities and attitudes among elites and citizens counteract such efforts.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalEuropean Journal of International Security·DateMay 16, 2019

Meet the tenrecs

Researchers have identified six threatened tenrec species out of 31, categorized as Vulnerable or Endangered due to habitat loss and hunting. The conservation status of tenrecs is expected to improve by integrating research into broader sustainable development objectives.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalOryx·DateMay 16, 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.

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.

Dog DNA find could aid quest to help breeds breathe more easily

Researchers have identified a DNA mutation linked to breathing problems in dogs, including Norwich terriers with proportional noses. The discovery raises the possibility of genetic tests to identify animals at risk and could help breeders avoid producing affected pups.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateMay 16, 2019

Ocean skeletons reveal historical climate impacts

Researchers studied skeletal stress bands on corals to reconstruct bleaching history and understand thermal thresholds of reef communities. The study found thermally tolerant reefs experienced more stress than the least resistant ones, highlighting historical climate impacts on coral reefs.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalCoral Reefs·DateMay 16, 2019

NIH study finds heavily processed foods cause overeating and weight gain

A small-scale trial found that participants eating ultra-processed foods consumed more calories and gained weight than those on a minimally processed diet, despite similar calorie counts. The study suggests that ultra-processed foods may be a significant contributor to overeating and weight gain.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases·JournalCell Metabolism·DateMay 16, 2019

Breakthrough technique for studying gene expression takes root in plants

Researchers successfully adapted an open-source genetic analysis method called Drop-seq to plant cells for the first time, allowing them to see what genes are being expressed in different cell types. The breakthrough could lead to a better understanding of plant biology and ultimately develop more efficient food and biofuel crop plants.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalCell Reports·DateMay 16, 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.

Improving health outcomes with a little help from our friends -- and artificial intelligence

A team of researchers at Medical University of South Carolina developed a natural language processing software that identified socially isolated prostate cancer patients with 90 percent accuracy. This technology can help physicians provide care informed by an awareness of their patients' social determinants of health, including social ...

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalBMC Medical Informatics and Decision Making·DateMay 16, 2019

'Smart' insulin could prevent hypoglycemia during diabetes treatment

A new type of insulin called i-insulin was developed by UCLA researchers to help regulate blood sugar levels and prevent hypoglycemia. The smart insulin works like a 'smart key,' allowing glucose to enter cells while blocking excessive entry when blood sugar is normal.

SourceUCLA Samueli School of Engineering·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 16, 2019

Study finds 24% of West Antarctic ice is now unstable

A new study found that 24% of West Antarctic ice is now unstable due to rapid ocean melting. The ice sheet has thinned by up to 122 meters in places, with the most rapid changes occurring in West Antarctica.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateMay 16, 2019

Regular crosswords and number puzzles linked to sharper brain in later life

Researchers found that older adults who regularly participate in word and number puzzles have improved brain function, particularly in attention, reasoning, and memory. The study suggests that engaging with these puzzles can lead to cognitive improvements equivalent to a decade younger in age.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalInternational Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry·DateMay 16, 2019

Study reports breakthrough to measure plant improvements to help farmers boost production

Scientists have developed a new technology that can measure improvements in plant photosynthesis in just 10 seconds, allowing for more efficient analysis of genetically engineered crops. This breakthrough enables faster screening and pinpointing of traits that could greatly improve crop performance.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalRemote Sensing of Environment·DateMay 16, 2019

Algal blooms in Lake Erie's central basin could produce neurotoxins

A new study detects the production of neurotoxins by cyanobacteria in Lake Erie's central basin, a region previously thought to be less prone to harmful algal blooms. The research finds that specific strains of Dolichospermum and microcystis can produce toxins capable of attacking the central nervous system.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Great Lakes Research·DateMay 16, 2019

Study uncovers key step in cell protein production

Scientists at the University of Sheffield discovered how genes create proteins based on mRNA instructions, helping understanding of cancers and conditions like motor neuron disease. The process, similar across many living organisms, could aid development of treatments for human diseases.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalMolecular Cell·DateMay 16, 2019