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Science News for November 7, 2019


Flexible yet sturdy robot is designed to 'grow' like a plant

Researchers at MIT have developed a robot with an extendable appendage that can twist and turn in various configurations, yet remains rigid enough to support heavy loads. The robot's design is inspired by the way plants grow, allowing it to adapt to different tasks and environments.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateNov 7, 2019

Stanford scientists link Neanderthal extinction to human diseases

Researchers suggest that diseases may have played a crucial role in the extinction of Neanderthals. By employing mathematical models, they demonstrate how unique diseases harbored by Neanderthals and modern humans could have created an invisible disease barrier, ultimately allowing modern humans to supplant their cousins.

SourceStanford University - School of Humanities and Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 7, 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.

Lifelong medicare coverage of transplant drugs would save money

A study suggests that extending lifelong Medicare coverage of transplant medications would reduce healthcare costs and improve quality of life for kidney transplant recipients. This policy change could benefit patients who are currently left without coverage after 36 months.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·DateNov 7, 2019

Bloodlines may matter more than love when it comes to health

Research suggests that family emotional climate has a significant effect on overall health, including the development or worsening of chronic conditions. In contrast, intimate partner relationships showed no significant associations with later health outcomes.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Family Psychology·DateNov 7, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Heart attack modeled with human stem cells

Scientists at Okayama University created a human stem cell-based model of myocardial infarction, allowing for the evaluation of tissue damage and inflammation. This new model offers a more accurate representation of human heart conditions, enabling the development of more effective preventive and therapeutic medicines.

SourceOkayama University·JournalBiochemical and Biophysical Research Communications·DateNov 7, 2019

Imagined movements can alter our brains

Researchers found measurable changes in brain regions after BCI training, which occurred within hours, not weeks. This suggests BCI could be used to stimulate specific brain areas for rehabilitation.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·DateNov 7, 2019

Simulated sunlight reveals how 98% of plastics at sea go missing each year

A recent study published in the Journal of Hazardous Materials found that simulated sunlight can degrade microplastics on the ocean surface. The research revealed that engineered polymer solutions degraded most rapidly under UV radiation, followed by polypropylene and polyethylene.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalJournal of Hazardous Materials·DateNov 7, 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.

The way of making memories

A new study published in PLOS Computational Biology reveals the mechanisms of memory formation and learning in the brain. The research team analyzed neuronal circuits and synaptic plasticity to understand how the nervous system adapts to changing conditions.

SourceHeidelberg Institute for Theoretical Studies (HITS)·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateNov 7, 2019

What your friends' brains look like when they think of you

Researchers found that the brain activity patterns of individuals and their close friends show remarkable similarities when evaluating personality traits. This study utilized a round-robin design to analyze brain activity while participants evaluated themselves and others.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateNov 7, 2019

Why beta-blockers cause skin inflammation

Researchers found that beta-blockers can cause psoriasis by interfering with the breakdown of defective cell components and disrupting autophagy. This leads to the release of inflammatory messengers, resulting in skin problems. The study suggests that fat-soluble beta-blockers are more likely to cause inflammation.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalAutophagy·DateNov 7, 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.

SDHI pesticides are toxic for human cells

Researchers discovered eight SDHI pesticide molecules harming earthworms, bees, and human cells by blocking succinate dehydrogenase activity. The study found these pesticides induce oxidative stress in human cells, leading to cell death, threatening human health.

SourceCNRS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 7, 2019

Cervical cancer screening numbers drop off in women 45-65

A study found that cervical cancer screening rates decline among women aged 45-65, particularly those with lower education, rural residency, or lack of insurance. The study highlights the need for increased awareness and access to screenings for vulnerable populations.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalPreventive Medicine·DateNov 7, 2019

Eight tips for promoting men's health

A study by UBC professor John Oliffe reveals eight lessons learnt from successful community-based men's health promotion programs. These programs recognize social forces that uniquely affect men, such as cultural activities and elder-led circles, to improve mental and physical well-being.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalHealth Promotion International·DateNov 7, 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.

UCI-led study reveals non-image light sensing mechanism of circadian neurons

Researchers discovered a sustained light response in central brain neurons to blue and ultra violet light, informing internal circadian processes about the time of day. The study sheds light on non-image-forming vision and its role in regulating circadian rhythms.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 7, 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.

Program improves short term nutritional outcomes in a conflict zone

A multidisciplinary program in Armenia's conflict zone improved childhood nutrition, reducing anemia and increasing minimum dietary diversity. The program, implemented by the Fund for Armenian Relief, also increased breastfeeding duration and reduced reports of children going to sleep hungry.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalPublic Health Nutrition·DateNov 7, 2019

New photonic liquid crystals could lead to next-generation displays

Researchers developed a technique to reconfigure blue-phase liquid crystals into stable orthorhombic and tetragonal structures, leading to fast responses suitable for various display applications. The addition of a polymer stabilizes the crystals in a wide temperature range, speeding up switching responses.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Materials·DateNov 7, 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.

Trapping versus dropping atoms expands 'interrogation' to 20 seconds

A new approach to atom interferometers allows for highly sensitive measurements of gravity and could be used in tests of general relativity. The trapped atom design greatly enhances sensitivity and precision over previous iterations, improving the signal-to-noise ratio by over 10,000-fold.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateNov 7, 2019

Vaping not worth potential heart risk, researchers say

A new review finds growing evidence that vaping can harm the heart and blood vessels, with particulate matter, metals, and flavorings contributing to cardiovascular problems. The study highlights a need for larger-scale research on e-cigarette use and regulation to ensure transparency about ingredients.

SourceOhio State University·JournalCardiovascular Research·DateNov 7, 2019

New molecule reduces the aggressiveness of pediatric cancer

Researchers at HUG-CELL identified a microRNA inhibitor that reduces tumor size and improves survival in mice with aggressive brain tumors. The synthetic miR-367 inhibitor prevents the regulation of proteins involved in cell growth, leading to an attenuation of tumor aggressiveness.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalMolecular Oncology·DateNov 7, 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.

Stanford researchers lay out first genetic history of Rome

The study reveals at least two major migrations into Rome, as well as several smaller but significant population shifts, over the last few thousand years. The genetic data show that immigrants from the Near East, Europe, and North Africa pulled up their roots and moved to Rome, significantly changing its face.

SourceStanford University·JournalScience·DateNov 7, 2019

Sugar-coating proteins can help understand brain disease

Scientists at the University of Dundee have created a method to permanently attach a small sugar molecule called O-GlcNAc to proteins in human cells. This allows them to investigate its role in neurological diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, which are thought to be linked to O-GlcNAc disruption.

SourceUniversity of Dundee·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateNov 7, 2019

Plants and fungi together could slow climate change

A new study reveals that human impacts have greatly reduced plant-fungus symbioses, which play a key role in sequestering carbon in soils. Restoring these ecosystems could help alleviate anthropogenic soil carbon losses and ameliorate increases in atmospheric greenhouse gases.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 7, 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.

Research brief: Origin of deadly wheat pathogen revealed

Researchers analyzed the genome of Ug99 and found that it emerged as a result of somatic hybridization between two different rust strains, creating a unique hybrid with increased virulence. This discovery provides new insights into how Ug99 was able to threaten wheat crops across the world.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 7, 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.

Unless warming is slowed, emperor penguins will be marching towards extinction

A new study suggests that emperor penguins in Antarctica are likely to decline by 86% by 2100 due to sea ice loss, with only a 5% chance of survival under the 1.5 degree Celsius scenario. The 'business as usual' scenario is even more dire, with nearly complete colony loss and extinction imminent.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateNov 7, 2019

GP clinics could help bridge mental health treatment gap, study finds

Research from the University of Cambridge suggests that GP practices can effectively manage mild to moderate mental health issues, reducing stigma and waiting times. Specialist treatment remains more cost-effective in the long term, but GPs can provide just as effective care.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 7, 2019

Voters agree with polls that favor their candidates

A new study by researchers at the University of Michigan and University of Pennsylvania indicates that individuals disproportionately find polls more credible when their preferred candidate is leading. The study suggests that emphasizing polls' methodological quality can lessen voters' biases, potentially benefiting democracy.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalInternational Journal of Public Opinion Research·DateNov 7, 2019

Study shows fewer American Indians getting heart disease

A study by Washington State University researchers shows a decline in new cases of heart disease among American Indians over a 25-year period. Fewer Native men are dying from heart-disease-related events, while overall prevalence of heart disease has decreased more in women.

SourceWashington State University·DateNov 7, 2019

Melting arctic sea ice linked to emergence of deadly virus in marine mammals

A 15-year study links Arctic sea ice decline to the emergence of a deadly phocine distemper virus in northern sea otters and other marine mammals. The loss of sea ice facilitates disease transmission among species, highlighting the need for understanding PDV transmission in rapidly changing environments.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 7, 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.

Galactic fountains and carousels: order emerging from chaos

A new cosmological simulation, TNG50, has revealed that the geometry of cosmic gas flows determines galaxies' structures. The study finds that galaxies form into disc-like shapes with rapid rotation, eventually becoming spiral galaxies through a process known as galactic fountains.

SourceRoyal Astronomical Society·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateNov 7, 2019

Researchers take flight with unmanned aerial vehicles

A team of researchers developed a way for multiple UAVs to form intelligent teams while maintaining individual control, enabling more efficient and adaptable flight operations. The technique uses software-in-the-loop testing and simulation environments to optimize UAV performance in varying environmental conditions.

SourceChinese Association of Automation·JournalIEEE/CAA Journal of Automatica Sinica·DateNov 7, 2019

Learning to stop cancer at its roots

Researchers identify a potential target for eliminating leukemia stem cells using vitamin K3, which stabilizes the DYRK2 enzyme. This approach could lead to treatment-free remissions and improved patient outcomes.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalBlood·DateNov 7, 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.

Self-cannibalizing mitochondria may set the stage for ALS development

Researchers at Northwestern University have discovered a new phenomenon in the brain where mitochondria self-destruct, leading to early stages of neurodegeneration. The study found that this process occurs selectively in neurons vulnerable to future degeneration, providing a potential target for drug therapies.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalFrontiers in Cellular Neuroscience·DateNov 7, 2019

Millions of seabirds rely on discarded fish

A new study reveals that North Sea fishing vessels discard over 267,000 tonnes of fish, enough to feed 3.45 million birds, and this figure has declined since 1990. The discarded fish support scavenging bird species, with the largest declines observed in northern fulmars, black-legged kittiwakes, and herring gulls.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalFish and Fisheries·DateNov 7, 2019

UMass Amherst study updates impacts of Plainridge Park Casino

The study found largely positive effects on employment and economy from the casino's operations, with a decrease in visitors but an increase in average gross gaming revenue per patron. Researchers also highlighted the potential risks of increased spending among patrons, which could impact their ability to meet financial obligations.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·DateNov 7, 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.

Personalized gene networks enhance study of disease

Researchers at Penn State College of Medicine developed a new method to model gene interactions and predict changes over time. The idopNetwork can create personalized networks for individual patients, showing complex gene connections and predicting outcomes.

SourcePenn State·Journalnpj Systems Biology and Applications·DateNov 7, 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.

Oxygen-starved tumor cells have survival advantage that promotes cancer spread

Researchers found that oxygen-starved tumor cells have a four times greater probability of becoming viable circulating tumor cells than those under normal oxygen conditions. These cells also have six times the probability of forming lung metastases, suggesting that oxygen starvation enhances their metastatic capabilities.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 7, 2019

Ancient roman DNA reveals genetic crossroads of Europe and Mediterranean

A study of 127 ancient individuals' genomes found two major ancestry shifts, one during Neolithic farmers' arrival and another during the Bronze age. The results suggest that by Rome's founding, central Italy's genetics were similar to modern populations, but genetic diversity increased over time.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateNov 7, 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.

Scientists take action to prevent sexual harassment and bias

A new paper published in Science outlines best practices for institutions to support women faculty in research careers, including increased accountability for misconduct and promoting transparency. The report aims to address the persistent issue of gender diversity in STEM fields.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalScience·DateNov 7, 2019

Minimizing post-harvest food losses

Researchers from Graz University of Technology develop biological methods to improve storage of apples and sugar beet, reducing losses due to spoilage. The combined use of hot water treatment and biocontrol organisms significantly increases shelf life and reduces post-harvest pathogens.

SourceGraz University of Technology·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateNov 7, 2019

MSU leads new NSF-funded international nuclear astrophysics research network

Michigan State University (MSU) has led the creation of a new International Research Network for Nuclear Astrophysics (IReNA), funded by the National Science Foundation. IReNA connects expertise in nuclear physics, astrophysics, and related fields to advance understanding of the origin of elements and dense nuclear matter.

SourceMichigan State University Facility for Rare Isotope Beams·DateNov 7, 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.

Nutrient supplements significantly reduce child deaths

A new study finds that nutrient supplements rich in vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids significantly reduce child mortality among children 6-24 months old. The supplements may decrease mortality by up to 27 percent in these countries.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateNov 7, 2019

Electronic cigarettes are not worth the risk say scientists

Scientists report that electronic cigarettes have adverse effects on the heart and blood vessels due to nicotine's impact on blood pressure and inflammation. The lack of standardised products makes it difficult to study the health effects of e-cigarettes, leading researchers to advise against their use.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalCardiovascular Research·DateNov 7, 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.

Skull features among Asian and Asian-derived groups differ significantly

Skull shape differences were found among Asian and Asian-derived groups, enabling more nuanced ancestry estimations in forensic casework. The study provides population-specific methods for estimating biological profiles, aiding victim identification in mass disasters.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Forensic Sciences·DateNov 7, 2019

Friends of BrainHealth fund innovative new research projects

The Center for BrainHealth has awarded five scientists with innovative research grants to study brain health and performance. These studies aim to improve understanding of brain disorders and develop new treatments, including biomarkers for dementia and multiple sclerosis.

SourceCenter for BrainHealth·DateNov 7, 2019

Implantable artificial kidney achieves preclinical milestone

Researchers at UCSF have successfully implanted a bioreactor containing human kidney cells into pigs without triggering an immune reaction or blood clots. The device, similar to the size of a deck of cards, maintained healthy kidney function and demonstrated progress towards eliminating dialysis for patients with end-stage renal disease.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·DateNov 7, 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.

Go with the flow: Scientists design new grid batteries for renewable energy

Researchers develop a versatile yet affordable battery membrane technology using AquaPIMs, enabling long-lasting and low-cost grid batteries. The new membrane reduces costs by eliminating expensive fluorinated polymer membranes, making flow batteries more viable for widespread adoption.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalJoule·DateNov 7, 2019

NASA's NICER catches record-setting X-ray burst

NICER detected a record-breaking X-ray burst from pulsar SAX J1808.4-3658, revealing a two-step change in brightness caused by the ejection of separate layers from the pulsar surface. The observations also show X-rays reflecting off of the accretion disk and burst oscillations.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateNov 7, 2019

Penn State awarded $3.3M to develop more efficient gas turbines

The US Department of Energy has funded three Penn State projects to enhance combustion turbine performance and efficiency in fossil fuel power generation. Researchers will utilize additive manufacturing techniques to improve cooling effectiveness, fuel injection hardware, and ceramic matrix composite turbine vanes.

SourcePenn State·DateNov 7, 2019

Hubble captures a dozen galaxy doppelgangers

The Hubble Space Telescope reveals a remote galaxy split into multiple images by gravitational lensing, allowing astronomers to study its structure and environment. The Sunburst Arc, 11 billion light-years away, resembles galaxies from an earlier time in the universe's history.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 7, 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.

Biology: Artic sea ice loss may facilitate disease spread in marine mammals

A study published in Scientific Reports found that Arctic sea ice reduction facilitates the spread of disease among marine mammals, particularly through open water routes. Widespread exposure to Phocine distemper virus (PDV) was observed in sea mammals across the North Pacific Ocean, peaking in 2003-2004 and again in 2009.

SourceScientific Reports·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 7, 2019

For first time, potential treatment path becomes clear for subtype of Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease

Scripps Research scientists have discovered a way to stop a problematic enzyme from wreaking havoc on peripheral nervous system cells in patients with a specific subtype of Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease. By preventing the enzyme's entry into the nucleus, researchers achieved a complete rescue of symptoms in fruit fly models.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 7, 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.

Can our thoughts alter our brains?

The study found that BCI training alters specific regions of the brain involved in motor and visual tasks. This suggests potential therapeutic benefits for conditions like stroke rehabilitation. The changes occur within a short period, raising hopes for more efficient decoding of BCI activities.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·DateNov 7, 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.

Mated female mosquitoes are more likely to transmit malaria parasites

Research reveals that mated female mosquitoes are more susceptible to transmitting malaria parasites, highlighting the importance of targeting male mosquitoes in vector control measures. This study provides new insights into the impact of mating on mosquito susceptibility to P. falciparum.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateNov 7, 2019

Protein decoy stymies lung cancer growth in mice, Stanford-UCSF study finds

Researchers at Stanford and UC-San Francisco have developed an experimental drug that targets lung cancer by neutralizing a single protein, slowing its growth. The decoy version of the receptor protein was engineered to preferentially bind to the protein, repelling other proteins involved in tumor growth.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalNature Medicine·DateNov 7, 2019

Thorium superconductivity: Scientists discover new high-temperature superconductor

Researchers at Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology have synthesized a new superconducting material called thorium decahydride (ThH10), which exhibits high-temperature superconductivity at 161 kelvins. This breakthrough is significant as it could lead to the development of more practical applications for superconductors.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalMaterials Today·DateNov 7, 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.

Hurt in the east -- distance in the west

The project Generation 1975 -- being 14 in the new Germany examines the transformation process after the Wall came down, with feelings of condescension and trauma prevalent in the east. Life plans were destroyed, but positive memories of a childhood in the GDR remain.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·DateNov 7, 2019

World's most comprehensive study of a deadly heart condition yields 1st results

Researchers have developed a comprehensive registry of over 2,750 patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, allowing for more accurate predictions of patient risk and identification of best treatments. The study's findings will help doctors better understand the condition and its complexities.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateNov 7, 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.

Sounds of mosquito mating rituals could lead to quieter drones

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University discovered that mosquitoes use sound to communicate during mating, which could lead to quieter drones. The study also found that targeting the specific frequency of the sound can disrupt breeding and population growth.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalBioinspiration & Biomimetics·DateNov 7, 2019

NASA-NOAA satellite finds Tropical Storm Nakri affecting Kalayaan

Tropical Storm Nakri, known as Quiel in the Philippines, has maintained strength with maximum sustained winds near 60 knots (69 mph/111 kph). The storm is forecast to cross the South China Sea and make landfall in Vietnam on Nov. 12, potentially affecting Kalayaan municipality.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 7, 2019

The medieval Catholic church's influence on psychology of Western, industrialized societies

A study by Jonathan Schultz et al. reveals how the medieval Catholic Church's marriage policies replaced extended kin networks with nuclear households, contributing to increased individualism and less conformity in Western populations. The researchers controlled for variables such as education and income to support their findings.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateNov 7, 2019

$2 million grant will support development of 'magnetic camera'

Researchers will build a quantum mechanical magnetic camera using $2 million grant from NSF, enabling them to capture snapshots of weak magnetic fields emanating from quantum materials. The device aims to reveal intricacies of magnetic interactions and may have industrial applications in quality control and medical diagnostics.

SourceBrown University·DateNov 7, 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.

Study finds sex bias in bird conservation plans

A new study reveals that conservation plans often overlook habitats used by females, putting declining species at greater risk. Researchers found that female birds face a higher threat to their habitats than males, highlighting the need for inclusive conservation strategies.

SourceCornell University·JournalBiological Conservation·DateNov 7, 2019

Stem cell transplants used to grow fully functional lungs in mice

Scientists at Columbia University have successfully grown fully functional lungs in mouse embryos using transplanted stem cells. The innovative technique has shown promising results, suggesting that it may eventually be possible to generate human lungs in animals for transplantation and studying new treatments.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalNature Medicine·DateNov 7, 2019

Researchers find potential new target for treatment of inflammatory disease

A team of researchers from the University of Birmingham has found a potential new target to treat inflammatory disease. They discovered that lactate build-up in inflamed tissue exacerbates the inflammatory response, and molecules involved in transporting sodium lactate could be a target for treatment.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalCell Metabolism·DateNov 7, 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.

Research reveals potential dangers during skin-to-skin contact for mother and baby following cesarean section birth

Researchers warn of risks in allowing skin-to-skin contact between mothers and newborns after a C-section, as cardiac activity can interfere with electrocardiogram readings. Both cases involved abnormal heart rhythms triggered by the baby's touch on ECG electrodes, highlighting the need for safe protocols.

SourceThe European Society of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care (ESAIC)·JournalEuropean Journal of Anaesthesiology·DateNov 7, 2019

Targeted gene modification in animal pathogenic chlamydia

Scientists adapted a genetic tool to modify virulence factors in zoonotic Chlamydia, revealing distinct sets of factors determine host infection and disease. The study sheds light on the molecular mode of action of SinC and IncA, opening new avenues for investigating these pathogens.

SourceUmea University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 7, 2019

Catalyst switching means four become one

Scientists at KAUST have successfully combined four polymers to form a single substance using a novel approach called catalyst switching. This breakthrough could lead to the development of materials with enhanced properties, such as improved energy storage and tissue engineering applications.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateNov 7, 2019

Study provides insights on the effects of cannabidiol on severe form of epilepsy

A new study published in the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology found that cannabidiol may not have a significant antiepileptic effect on seizure frequency in patients with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. However, the interaction between cannabidiol and clobazam could be responsible for the reduction in seizures.

SourceWiley·JournalBritish Journal of Clinical Pharmacology·DateNov 7, 2019

SwRI demonstrates balloon-based solar observatory

Southwest Research Institute successfully demonstrated a miniature solar observatory on a high-altitude balloon, collecting 75 minutes of solar images. The SwRI Solar Instrument Pointing Platform provides optical precision equivalent to imaging a dime from a mile away, supporting the development of custom solar instruments.

SourceSouthwest Research Institute·DateNov 7, 2019

Neural network fills in data gaps for spatial analysis of chromosomes

A new machine learning method called SNIPER has successfully applied to nine cell lines, providing missing information for how DNA is organized in the cell nucleus. This enables scientists to study differences in spatial organization related to subcompartments across those lines.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 7, 2019

Researchers discover how cells know their future and forget their past

Researchers from University of Copenhagen have discovered how stem cells can 'forget' their past and develop into specific cell types. The study reveals that transcription factors play a key role in regulating gene expression, rather than driving cellular development.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalNature·DateNov 7, 2019

Debunking common misperceptions of Asian community health

Research published in Public Relations Review debunks myths about Asian American health, revealing a lack of awareness and reluctance to seek care. Community engagement is crucial for addressing health disparities and promoting participation in healthcare initiatives.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalPublic Relations Review·DateNov 7, 2019