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Science News for November 26, 2019


UT AgResearch and The Nature Conservancy to partner on working woodlands

The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture has partnered with The Nature Conservancy to manage its forested research properties under the highest standards for forest management. Through this partnership, UT will sell carbon credits to benefit society and fight climate change, while also promoting sustainable forestry practic...

SourceUniversity of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture·DateNov 26, 2019

Biotech breakthrough turns waste biomass into high value chemicals

Researchers have developed a process to transform waste sugar cane and wheat straw into valuable chemicals, increasing value by 5000-fold. The new method produces high-value building blocks for food industry and pharmaceuticals directly from waste biomass in a single 'one-pot' process.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalGreen Chemistry·DateNov 26, 2019

CHIRPY DRAGON intervention prevents obesity in urban Chinese children

The CHIRPY DRAGON program, developed to prevent obesity in urban primary school-aged children in China, showed significant beneficial effects on healthy eating habits, physical activity, and sedentary behavior. Children who received the program had a lower body-mass index compared to those in control schools.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateNov 26, 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.

Additives result in higher toxins for vape users, Portland State study finds

A Portland State University study found that vape additives, particularly terpenes, can form more toxins than the main psychoactive chemical THC when inhaled. The researchers discovered that vendors were adding up to 30% more terpenes to their products, which can impact flavor and smell but also pose health risks.

SourcePortland State University·JournalACS Omega·DateNov 26, 2019

Caring for family is what motivates people worldwide

A global survey of over 7,000 people from 27 countries reveals that kin care and long-term relationships are the most important motivations in life, surpassing mate seeking. People who prioritize family values tend to be more satisfied with their lives and have better well-being.

SourceArizona State University·DateNov 26, 2019

Key to rubustness of plants discovered

Researchers at Graz University of Technology and Austrian Centre of Industrial Biotechnology have discovered the mechanism behind Apiose production, a key factor in plant robustness. The enzyme UAXS selectively catalyzes four reaction steps, enabling plants to build strength properties.

SourceGraz University of Technology·JournalNature Catalysis·DateNov 26, 2019

December's SLAS technology feature article now available

Researchers developed an automated platform using exclusive liquid repellency microdrops for lossless single-cell isolation, identification and retrieval. The system combines a robotic liquid handler, microscopic imaging system and real-time image-processing software to enable rapid hands-free isolation of rare cellular samples.

SourceSLAS (Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening)·JournalSLAS TECHNOLOGY·DateNov 26, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Harvesting fog can provide fresh water in desert regions

Researchers develop biomimetic fog-gathering technologies inspired by Namib desert beetles, which can increase collector efficiency and provide additional freshwater harvesting opportunities. The technology aims to collect fog in coastal areas with little precipitation, making it a reliable water source.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·DateNov 26, 2019

New study analyzes viability of sustainable fuels developed through ORNL process

A new analysis by ORNL and collaborators found that a single-step catalytic conversion process can produce blendstocks at $2/gigajoule and $1.44/GJ in the future, competitive with conventional jet fuel. The process uses a zeolite catalyst to directly convert wet ethanol into hydrocarbon chains.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 26, 2019

Splicing factor to blame in triple negative breast cancer

Researchers have identified a splicing factor called TRA2B as a key driver of triple negative breast cancer's ability to grow and spread. Blocking TRA2B expression in cells has been shown to prevent metastasis, providing a potential new treatment avenue for this devastating form of breast cancer.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalCell Reports·DateNov 26, 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.

MS linked to variant of common herpes virus through new method

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet developed a new method to separate between two types of herpes virus 6A and 6B, found that MS-patients carry the virus 6A to a greater extent than healthy individuals, and that HHV-6A may be contributing factor to multiple sclerosis development

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalFrontiers in Immunology·DateNov 26, 2019

Who's Challenging Who? -- unique training project showcased online

A unique training programme co-created by people with learning disability has been launched to improve staff attitudes and empathy. The Who's Challenging Who training course was developed in partnership with people with learning disabilities whose behaviour had previously been labelled as 'challenging'.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·DateNov 26, 2019

Smooth operator: When earnings management is a good thing

Research finds that high-ability management teams can use discretionary accounting choices to signal future performance, leading to more predictable earnings and cash flows. This approach improves a firm's stock price and enhances its reputation among investors.

SourceIndiana University·JournalThe Accounting Review·DateNov 26, 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.

Chemical herders could impact oil spill cleanup

Research from Johns Hopkins University found that chemical herders can amplify strong breaking waves, dispersing oil slicks into the water column. This makes effective burning difficult in open oceans, but less effective when combined with weaker waves.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·DateNov 26, 2019

Saving bats from wind turbine death

A survey of stakeholders in the wind energy field reveals a consensus on prioritizing biodiversity protection over climate change concerns. Stakeholders agree that measures to make wind energy production ecologically sustainable should be taken, with most suggesting increased research and improved efficiency.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Renewable and Sustainable Energy·DateNov 26, 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.

Turning key metabolic process back on could make sarcoma more susceptible to treatment

Scientists from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have discovered a way to make sarcoma cells more susceptible to treatment by slowing down their growth through a key metabolic process. By reactivating the FBP2 enzyme, researchers were able to stop cancer cell proliferation and leave them vulnerable to targeted therapies.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalCell Metabolism·DateNov 26, 2019

Children of abused mothers 50% more likely to have low IQ

Research finds children of abusive mothers are almost 50% more likely to have a low IQ at age 8, with the risk rising to 34.6% if mothers were repeatedly exposed to domestic violence. The study used data from over 3,997 mother-child pairs and controlled for other risk factors.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalWellcome Open Research·DateNov 26, 2019

Building a better flu shot

Researchers at Michigan State University have found that cellular RNA levels change significantly following infection or vaccination. The study's findings could help identify new targets for building better flu vaccines and aid in the design of a universal vaccine.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalFrontiers in Immunology·DateNov 26, 2019

Woody plants with undesirable tendencies

A literature review found five woody species native to Oklahoma that have become invasive in other regions, causing harm to biodiversity. The study suggests prioritizing conservation efforts based on a species' benefits or harm to the environment.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateNov 26, 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.

Discovering hidden plant medicines on your doorstep

A team from the Earlham Institute is exploring the chemical diversity of UK plants to identify new medicines, including those found in foxgloves and willow trees. The project aims to understand how plants produce complex chemicals and unlock new pathways for biomanufacturing.

SourceEarlham Institute·DateNov 26, 2019

Satellite tracking Guam's Tropical Storm Kammuri

Tropical Storm Kammuri is consolidating and strengthening, with maximum sustained winds reaching 45 mph. The storm will move west-northwest, potentially intensifying into a typhoon by Thursday. NASA's JPSS-1 satellite provides critical forecast data.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 26, 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.

Life, liberty -- and access to microbes?

A new essay in PLOS Biology argues that poverty compromises health by creating unequal access to beneficial microorganisms. People living in low-income communities lack essential factors promoting healthy microbiomes, leading to poor health outcomes such as obesity and mental health disorders.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateNov 26, 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.

Satellite broken? Smart satellites to the rescue

Researchers are developing robotic networks that can work independently but collaboratively to accomplish complex tasks. By using genetic fuzzy logic, they were able to get three robots and then five robots to move a token to a designated spot on a table.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalRobotica·DateNov 26, 2019

Successful alcohol, drug recovery hampered by discrimination

Adults in recovery report experiencing micro and macro forms of discrimination, leading to increased distress and decreased quality of life. The study highlights the need for addressing discrimination to support successful recovery.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence·DateNov 26, 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.

Study pinpoints possible cause of noise-related blood vessel damage, heart disease

A recent study published in the European Heart Journal has identified a potential mechanism linking long-term exposure to environmental noise and cardiovascular disease. The research found that high noise levels lead to activation of the amygdala, a deep brain structure, triggering changes that increase the risk of heart attack, stroke...

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateNov 26, 2019

A novel pathway to target colorectal cancer

A new study published in Gastroenterology reports that prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) promotes metastasis of colorectal cancer through the microRNA MIR675-5p, which silences the expression of p53. Researchers found that mice treated with PGE2 had increased metastases compared to controls, and tumor cells expressed more MIR675-5p and less p53.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateNov 26, 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.

Once hidden cellular structures emerge in fight against viruses

A team of researchers at the University of Arizona has uncovered a previously unknown cellular structure that enables bacteria to rapidly defend against viruses. This newly formed filament increases DNA-cleaving ability by 200 times, making it an essential component of bacterial immune responses.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalStructure·DateNov 26, 2019

New migraine medications could endanger patients with high blood pressure

Studies on mice suggest that a neuropeptide αCGRP has beneficial effects on the heart in patients with high blood pressure. Physical activity increases αCGRP levels, which help prevent pathological heart remodeling and cardiac dysfunction. However, long-term use of αCGRP blockers may be hazardous for these patients.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalCirculation Research·DateNov 26, 2019

Changes in pupils after asymptomatic high-acceleration head impacts indicate changes in brain function

Researchers discovered measurable changes in pupillary parameters following asymptomatic high-acceleration head impacts. The study suggests that nonconcussive head impacts may affect intrinsic brain reflex pathways and reflect biological injuries, paving the way for a potential inexpensive and rapid method of determining brain injury.

SourceJournal of Neurosurgery Publishing Group·JournalJournal of Neurosurgery·DateNov 26, 2019

Producing better guides for medical-image analysis

A new method accelerates template creation for medical-image analysis, generating brain scan templates based on patient attributes such as age and sex. The model can synthesize atlases from sparse data, improving disease diagnosis accuracy.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateNov 26, 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.

Japanese anime and zoos boost public interest in conservation of real-life animal characters

A new national analysis in Japan highlights the potential of entertainment-conservation partnerships to increase public interest in wildlife. The research found that animated shows with animal characters can boost donations to zoo conservation programs, with Kemono Friends being a notable example of its positive impact on public interest.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateNov 26, 2019

Autism and ADHD share genes

Researchers from iPSYCH discovered that autism and ADHD share changes in the same genes, particularly the MAP1A gene involved in nerve cell formation. The study found a significantly increased risk of developing autism and/or ADHD for those carrying mutations in this gene.

SourceAarhus University·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateNov 26, 2019

Image release: Giant magnetic ropes in a galaxy's halo

Astronomers have discovered hair-like filaments of magnetic field protruding above and below the disk of spiral galaxy NGC 4631. The filaments, extending beyond the disk into the galaxy's extended halo, indicate a large-scale, coherent magnetic field.

SourceNational Radio Astronomy Observatory·DateNov 26, 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.

Aerobic exercise and heart-healthy diet may slow development of memory problems

Research suggests that aerobic exercise and a heart-healthy diet, such as the DASH diet, can improve cognitive functioning in older adults with mild cognitive impairment. Combining exercise with the DASH diet showed promise in improving thinking, memory, and decision-making abilities.

SourceAmerican Geriatrics Society·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateNov 26, 2019

Playing board games may help protect thinking skills in old age

A study of over 1000 people aged 70 found that those who played non-digital games scored better on memory and thinking tests. Increasing game playing during their 70s also predicted maintaining certain thinking skills as they grew older.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalThe Journals of Gerontology Series B·DateNov 26, 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.

Ternary acceptor and donor materials increase photon harvesting in organic solar cells

Researchers have developed ternary organic solar cells with non-fullerene electron acceptors or polymer donors, improving spectral response and photon-harvesting capabilities. The addition of these third components enhances energy and charge transfer, leading to increased efficiency and potentially semi-transparent solar cells.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Reviews·DateNov 26, 2019

Simulating amino acid starvation may improve dengue vaccines

Researchers found that a plant-based compound called halofuginone improves the immune response to a potential dengue vaccine in mice, producing twice as many antibodies and binding more strongly. The compound mimics amino acid starvation, activating a pathway that results in better antibodies.

SourceCornell University·JournalScience Signaling·DateNov 26, 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.

One shot of ketamine could reduce problem drinking

A new study found that a one-off dose of ketamine can significantly reduce urges to drink and prolonged decrease alcohol intake in heavy drinkers. After reactivating their drinking-related memories, participants who received ketamine showed rapid improvement and sustained reduction over nine months.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 26, 2019

Smart reactions through online design of catalytic pockets

A new software tool, developed at KAUST, allows researchers to visualize and design catalytic pockets using topographic steric maps. This helps improve the understanding of how known catalysts function and guides exploration of chemical modifications to create better catalysts.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Chemistry·DateNov 26, 2019

'Climate change is a disability rights issue'

Researchers argue that climate change has a disproportionate impact on disabled populations, limiting access to knowledge and resources. The study highlights the need for urgent research into the intersection of disability rights and climate change.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalScience·DateNov 26, 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.

Biennial mammography screening yields more advanced-stage cancers

A new study found that biennial mammography screening resulted in smaller and less advanced breast cancer tumors compared to annual screenings. The study also discovered that women receiving biennial screenings tended to have more aggressive treatment options, such as chemotherapy and axillary lymph node dissection.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateNov 26, 2019

Choking deaths in US children drop by 75% in past 50 years

Choking deaths in US children have decreased by 75% over the past 50 years, attributed to choking hazard regulations. Despite this progress, 184 child deaths occurred in 2017, highlighting the need for continued vigilance.

SourceAnn & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago·JournalJAMA·DateNov 26, 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.

Earthquakes, chickens, and bugs, oh my!

A new algorithm developed by University of California, Riverside researchers can spot patterns in massive datasets quickly, improving earthquake detection and monitoring insect vectors. The SCAMP algorithm has been used to detect 16 times more earthquakes than previously known and can also analyze the behavior of chickens.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateNov 26, 2019

Leftover grain from breweries could be converted into fuel for homes

Researchers at Queen's University Belfast have developed a low-cost technique to convert brewery waste into carbon, which can be used as a renewable fuel or in water filters. The method creates activated carbon and carbon nanotubes from barley waste, reducing emissions linked with the agriculture sector and creating a high-value product.

SourceQueen's University Belfast·JournalJournal of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology·DateNov 26, 2019

Industrial bread dough kneaders could use physics-based redesign

Researchers have used physics-based redesign to optimize the industrial bread dough kneading process. Their simulations showed that radial mixing in a spiral kneader is more effective than vertical mixing, leading to improved bread quality. The findings could lead to enhanced mixing performance and reduced over- or under-kneading.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateNov 26, 2019

NASA embarks on 5 US expeditions targeting air, land and sea

NASA is sending five airborne campaigns across the US to investigate fundamental processes that impact human lives and the environment. These campaigns will conduct science on high-altitude aircraft, autonomous gliders, and floats to study snowstorms, ocean eddies, and river deltas.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 26, 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.

Minimally invasive procedure relieves tremors in Parkinson's patients

A new study presents a minimally invasive procedure using focused ultrasound to reduce tremors and improve quality of life in patients with Parkinson's disease. The treatment, known as MRgFUS thalamotomy, shows substantial improvement in 95% of patients, with significant reductions in tremor severity and quality of life.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateNov 26, 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.

Linking wound healing and cancer risk

Researchers from VIB-UGent Center for Inflammation Research found that HMGB1 controls the actions of neutrophils, a specific type of immune cells, in skin wounds and that this is crucial for cancer initiation. Targeting this pathway could be beneficial in diabetic wound care and in patients suffering from skin blistering diseases.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalCell Reports·DateNov 26, 2019

New method enables easier and faster detection of celiac disease antibodies

Researchers developed a rapid diagnostic method for detecting celiac disease antibodies, offering a promising solution to overcome the vast underdiagnosis of this condition. The new method, called RFS, can provide results in less than half an hour, significantly reducing the time and complexity of current testing procedures.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 26, 2019

Big trucks, little emissions

A new integrated conversion process reduces emissions by 40-96% using ethanol, making biofuels more sustainable. Researchers developed a one-step conversion method to lower costs and environmental footprint.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 26, 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.

How to measure inequality as 'experienced difference'

Economists propose a novel approach to measuring inequality, accounting for individual relationships and social interactions. The new method correctly calculates the Gini coefficient by considering differences between individuals' wealth, not just individual values.

SourceSanta Fe Institute·JournalEconomics Letters·DateNov 26, 2019

Regulator of plant immunity tagged

KAUST scientists have identified MAP4K4 as a key player in plant immunity, essential for proper responses to environmental pathogens. The discovery reveals targets in a molecular pathway that could be manipulated by crop breeders to make plants more resistant.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalEMBO Reports·DateNov 26, 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.

A protein tag to study the immune system

Scientists have identified nearly thousand ISG15 sites on protein targets during bacterial infection, revealing a link between ISG15, cellular metabolism, and autophagy. This discovery may lead to novel antimicrobial drugs.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 26, 2019

Space travel can make the gut leaky

Researchers found that space travel disrupts intestinal epithelial cell barrier function even after return to Earth. The microgravity environment weakens the immune system and increases gastrointestinal permeability.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 26, 2019

Human migration out of Africa may have followed monsoons in the Middle East

A new study suggests that summer monsoons from Asia and Africa reached the Middle East at least 125,000 years ago, providing suitable corridors for human migration. This finding corresponds with cyclical changes in Earth's orbit that brought increased summer precipitation, supporting animal and human migration into the region.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 26, 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.

Crossing borders and growing resistance: a superbug from south Asia

A multi-drug resistant Staphylococcus aureus lineage known as the Bengal Bay clone has spread globally, causing severe disease and raising concerns about antibiotic resistance. The bacteria combines high virulence potential with multi-drug resistance, making it a significant public health issue.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalmBio·DateNov 26, 2019

Analysis of US life expectancy

Analysis of US life expectancy reveals a nearly 10-year increase from 69.9 years in 1959 to 78.9 years in 2016, driven by factors such as drug overdoses, suicides, and organ system diseases among working-age adults.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateNov 26, 2019

NASA finds heavy rain potential in Tropical Storm Rita

NASA used infrared data from its Aqua satellite to identify the storm's strongest areas, where coldest cloud top temperatures were recorded. The research indicates that these cold temperatures are indicative of strong storms capable of producing heavy rain.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 26, 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.

Newborn immune system detects harmful skin bacteria

Researchers found that a specific toxin in Staphylococcus aureus prevents tolerance and maintains the immune system's vigilance. Early-life exposure to commensal bacteria like S. epidermidis leads to immune tolerance, while later exposure to pathogenic S. aureus results in a vigorous immune response.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateNov 26, 2019

HIV: Overwhelming the enemy from the start

Researchers Éric A. Cohen and Tram NQ Pham have discovered a method to suppress HIV infection in humanized mice by boosting the levels of plasmacytoid dendritic cells, which can help control the spread of the virus at its early stages.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalCell Reports·DateNov 26, 2019

A record-setting transistor

Researchers created a high-electron mobility transistor with record-low gate leakage current, high on/off current ratio, and high current gain cutoff frequency. The device has the potential to expand bandwidth for wireless communication systems, enabling more information transmission in less battery life.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalApplied Physics Express·DateNov 26, 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.

Research: Alcohol and tobacco policies can reduce cancer deaths

New research from La Trobe University found that public health policies on alcohol and tobacco implemented in the 1960s significantly reduced Australian cancer death rates. The study, published in BMC Medicine, analyzed data from 1911 to 2013 and found that key policies such as random breath testing programs, plain cigarette packaging,...

SourceLa Trobe University·JournalBMC Medicine·DateNov 26, 2019

Mommy drinking is on the upswing -- but women without children still drink more

A study found that women without children increased their binge drinking from 21% to 42% between 2006 and 2018. In contrast, men without children reported the highest levels of binge drinking, while young men with children experienced a decline. The researchers suggest physicians should screen all adults for alcohol use disorders.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateNov 26, 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.

Insights into a versatile molecular death switch

A new study reveals that caspase-8 controls multiple cell death mechanisms, including pyroptosis, apoptosis, and necroptosis. The research found that the enzymatic activity of caspase-8 is required to inhibit pyroptosis, while inactive caspase-8 induces pyroptosis when necroptosis is blocked.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalNature·DateNov 26, 2019

Cancer research that's out-of-this-world

Researchers on Australia's first space research mission to the International Space Station will investigate how microgravity affects aggressive cancers like ovarian, breast, and lung cancer. The mission may lead to new treatments that enhance existing therapies.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·DateNov 26, 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.

New modeling will shed light on policy decisions' effect on migration from sea level rise

A new modeling approach can help researchers, policymakers and the public better understand how policy decisions will influence human migration as sea levels rise. The approach suggests that global policy decisions about greenhouse gas emissions and coastal policies will determine whether people need to migrate and where they may go.

SourceOregon State University·JournalNature Climate Change·DateNov 26, 2019

Swiss army knife for genome research

A new program, CRUP, simplifies analysis of enhancer regions and their target genes in the genome. The tool identifies active enhancers and links them to their respective genes, helping researchers understand complex diseases.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalGenome Biology·DateNov 26, 2019

Joint statement from six journals highlights concerns about EPA proposed rule

Six leading scientific journals express concerns about EPA's 'Strengthening Transparency in Regulatory Science' rule, citing need for careful analysis of confidential data. The editors-in-chief emphasize the importance of informed decision-making based on full suite of relevant science vetted through peer review.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateNov 26, 2019

We love coffee, tea, chocolate and soft drinks so much, caffeine is literally in our blood

A study by Oregon State University found that 18 batches of supposedly pure human blood serum contained caffeine, cough medicine, and anti-anxiety drugs, highlighting potential issues with contaminated blood transfusions. The research also tested for interactions between botanical supplements and prescription drugs.

SourceOregon State University·JournalJournal of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Analysis·DateNov 26, 2019

LSE study calls for improved mental health support

The study found that the current system of immediate psychological help after a terrorist attack is inadequate, with most people seeking external help and expressing dissatisfaction with their GP's response. The researchers recommend improving the system to provide better support sooner.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of Health Services Research & Policy·DateNov 26, 2019

December's SLAS Discovery special issue now available

The December issue of SLAS Discovery features articles on new screening tools and assays for medically relevant membrane protein targets. The special issue also includes reviews and original research papers on emerging protein-lipid reconstitution methodologies.

SourceSLAS (Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening)·JournalSLAS DISCOVERY·DateNov 26, 2019

High levels of screen use associated with symptoms of anxiety in adolescence

A study by researchers at the University of Montreal found that adolescents who spent more time on social media, television, and computers experienced increased anxiety symptoms. Decreasing screen time was linked to reduced anxiety. The study suggests limiting screen time may be a way to help teens manage anxiety.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalThe Canadian Journal of Psychiatry·DateNov 26, 2019

Extra-terrestrial impacts may have triggered 'bursts' of plate tectonics

A new study suggests that extra-terrestrial impacts could have triggered the emergence of plate tectonics on early Earth. The research used modelling simulations and comparisons with lunar impact studies to reveal that massive impacts continued to shape the planet for hundreds of millions of years, potentially driving tectonic processes.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeology·DateNov 26, 2019

Scientists clarify light harvesting in green algae

Researchers characterized the light-harvesting system of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, a common unicellular green alga. The study reveals the assembly mechanisms and energy transfer pathways of the C2S2M2L2 supercomplex, shedding light on efficient light harvesting in green algae.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Plants·DateNov 26, 2019

Did human hunting activities alone drive great auks' extinction?

A study published in eLife analyzed ancient genetic data to investigate the decline of great auks. The findings suggest that intense hunting by humans likely caused their rapid extinction, even if the birds weren't already under threat from environmental changes. This highlights the potential for industrial-scale exploitation to drive ...

SourceeLife·DateNov 26, 2019

Scientists dissect and redesign protein-based pattern formation

Researchers dissected protein pattern formation into its main functional modules and rebuilt the process from scratch, identifying the minimal ingredients needed for self-organisation. The new system produces less regular patterns than native systems but is still sufficient for reproducing basic biological processes.

SourceeLife·DateNov 26, 2019

Building a better battery with machine learning

Argonne researchers used a machine learning algorithm to relate known molecular structures to larger data sets, reducing computational costs while maintaining precision. The approach improved the accuracy of predictions about battery electrolyte candidates, enabling scientists to identify potential materials for next-generation batteries.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalMRS Communications·DateNov 26, 2019

Using fungi to search for medical drugs

Researchers from the Hubrecht Institute and Utrecht University have set up a library of products derived from over ten thousand fungi to find new therapeutic compounds. They found 34 known compounds, including the cholesterol-lowering drug lovastatin, using zebrafish embryos as a test subject.

SourceHubrecht Institute·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 26, 2019