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Science News for October 1, 2019


Texas Biomed awarded $2.8 Million NIH grant for novel TB research

Researchers at Texas Biomedical Institute are studying lung macrophages and their role in TB infection, with the goal of developing a new set of biological pathways critical to the body's response. The findings could lead to a new strategy for host-directed therapy and potentially cure TB.

SourceTexas Biomedical Research Institute·DateOct 1, 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.

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.

Scientists improve voiceprint collection

Researchers have developed a new method for ensuring quality in automatic voice recording, reducing error rates down to 2% and allowing for real-time processing. The algorithm assesses pronunciation stability and displays a color chart showing the dependence of speech quality on time.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalMeasurement Techniques·DateOct 1, 2019

Why are there no animals with three legs?

A graduate student's essay explores why there are no animals with three legs, citing the challenges of stability and balance. Thomson notes that tripod stances and three-limbed movement exist in some animals, but the evolutionary pressures favor bilateral symmetry.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalBioEssays·DateOct 1, 2019

Neuroimaging reveals hidden communication between brain layers during reading

Researchers used laminar fMRI to investigate brain activation at different layers during word reading, revealing top-down projections from language areas to deep layers. This breakthrough finding expands cognitive neuroimaging knowledge of brain networks.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 1, 2019

New research identifies the strengths and weaknesses of super material

The study measures and sets guidelines for the use of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) in bolted joints, revealing its tensile strength compared to high-strength steel. UHMWPE's unique properties make it an attractive material for various applications, including shipping, armour, and textiles.

SourceAarhus University·JournalInternational Journal of Solids and Structures·DateOct 1, 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.

Mob mentality rules jackdaw flocks

Researchers found that jackdaws can identify individual calls and assess group size when deciding to join a mob. While they use a form of counting, there may be cognitive limitations to their ability.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalBiology Letters·DateOct 1, 2019

Collagen fibers encourage cell streaming through balancing act

Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis found that collagen fiber length can affect how cells move collectively, with longer fibers supporting streaming out of colonies and elongating cells. The study suggests that a balance between aggressiveness and cooperation is crucial for cell movement.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalJournal of Cell Science·DateOct 1, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Predators and hidey-holes are good for reef fish populations

The study found that the presence of Nassau grouper had a positive effect on fish abundance, with groups having both a resident grouper and complex habitat producing the highest numbers of fish. Habitat complexity also significantly benefited fish populations, with degraded sites having fewer than 50 fish on average.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalMarine Biology·DateOct 1, 2019

Study: Better sleep habits lead to better college grades

A recent study by MIT professors found a strong correlation between students' grades and their sleep habits, with consistent sleep quality playing a crucial role. The study discovered that the timing of bedtime also affects performance, with going to bed after 2 a.m. leading to poorer grades regardless of total sleep hours.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·Journalnpj Science of Learning·DateOct 1, 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.

Cracking how 'water bears' survive the extremes

Tardigrades' protein Dsup protects cells from X-rays and hydroxyl radicals by binding to chromatin and forming a shield. This mechanism may help develop animal cells that can live longer under extreme conditions.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateOct 1, 2019

NIH researchers develop MRI with lower magnetic field for cardiac and lung imaging condition

Researchers at NIH and Siemens developed a low-magnetic-field MRI system that improves image quality of lungs and other internal structures, making medical imaging more affordable and accessible. The new system also reduces the risk of heating and allows for safer procedures for patients with pacemakers or defibrillators.

SourceNIH/National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute·JournalRadiology·DateOct 1, 2019

New research puts Australia at forefront of blue carbon economy

Australian marine ecosystems absorb and emit large amounts of greenhouse gases, including 20 million tonnes of CO2 annually. Human damage causes 3 million tonnes to be released back into the atmosphere, highlighting the importance of conservation and restoration.

SourceEdith Cowan University·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 1, 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.

Telescope seeking new planets launches via football field-sized balloon

The University of Massachusetts Lowell's PICTURE-C telescope was launched via a football field-sized helium balloon to study objects hidden by stars' glare. The instrument boasts an optical control system and can block out direct light from stars, allowing for the detailed study of nearby planets.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Lowell·DateOct 1, 2019

Radiology organizations publish statement on ethics of AI in Radiology

The multi-society statement focuses on three areas: data, algorithms, and practice. It emphasizes the importance of ethical use of AI in radiology, ensuring benefits and harms are distributed fairly among stakeholders. Radiologists will need to acquire new skills to work effectively with AI tools.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateOct 1, 2019

Virtual medical visits get wary welcome from older adults, poll finds

A new national poll suggests that older adults are hesitant to try virtual health visits due to concerns about technology and quality of care. Despite this, many (64%) would be interested in telehealth options if they became unexpectedly ill while traveling or needed follow-up on previous care.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·DateOct 1, 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.

Modeling the complexity of the world's water

A national team of researchers, led by Xu Liang from the University of Pittsburgh, has received a $1.3 million grant to create CyberWater, an open framework that integrates diverse data sets and models for investigating water resources and climate-related environmental issues.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·DateOct 1, 2019

NIH awards $15.2M grant to UTEP for biomedical training

The NIH awarded UTEP's BUILDing SCHOLARS program a $15.2 million grant to train the next generation of biomedical researchers in the US Southwest, focusing on cancer, addiction, environmental health, and more. The program aims to increase diversity in the biomedical research workforce.

SourceUniversity of Texas at El Paso·DateOct 1, 2019

Stem cell treatments for shoulder and elbow injuries flourish, but so far there's little evidence they work

Researchers warn that stem cell therapies for shoulder and elbow injuries have far outpaced supporting scientific data, with many treatments still unproven. The clinical data for these treatments are currently limited, and a greater understanding of optimal formulations and dosing schedules is needed to determine their effectiveness.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery·DateOct 1, 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.

Genomic fluke close-up

A recent study reveals that parasitic flukes have a long evolutionary history, with genome comparisons showing significant adaptations to different hosts. The research team found that fasciolid flukes may have originated in ancient African elephants and later expanded into Eurasian herbivores.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateOct 1, 2019

Shape affects performance of micropillars in heat transfer

Researchers found that different shapes of micropillars affect liquid retention, with triangular pillars showing reduced critical burst volume for high surface-tension liquids. The study aims to develop an evaporative heat exchange device.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalLangmuir·DateOct 1, 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.

A metronome for quantum particles

Researchers at TU Wien have developed a new measurement protocol that enables direct measurement of the quantum phase of electrons. This breakthrough could lead to better understanding of important phenomena in photosensors and photovoltaics.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateOct 1, 2019

Earthquake in the cell

The study revealed that loss of Lamin A/C acetylation results in softened nuclei prone to mechanical pressure and eventual breaking. Nuclear blebs and micronuclei are more likely to form under these conditions, posing a risk to genetic material integrity.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateOct 1, 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.

Protozoans and pathogens make for an infectious mix

A team of researchers discovered that single-celled organisms like protozoa can protect pathogenic bacteria and prime them for human infection. The bacteria are expelled into the environment after being ingested by protozoa and become more infectious in humans, potentially threatening public health.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·DateOct 1, 2019

Discovered new regulation for infant growth

Researchers at the University of Bergen identified new genetic signals regulating infant growth, which may help combat growth-related diseases like obesity and malnutrition. The study found that different BMI-signals exist for children and adults, with varying genetic influences during childhood.

SourceThe University of Bergen·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 1, 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.

NSF's national optical-infrared astronomy research laboratory launched

The new laboratory combines existing and new facilities, fostering innovative scientific programs, idea exchange, and creative development in ground-based optical-infrared astronomy. The lab enables breakthrough discoveries in astrophysics by developing state-of-the-art observatories and providing data products for a diverse community.

SourceAssociation of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA)·DateOct 1, 2019

2,000 atoms in two places at once

Researchers at the University of Vienna and University of Basel successfully create a quantum superposition in hot, complex molecules composed of nearly 2,000 atoms. The experiment sets new constraints on alternative theories to quantum mechanics, demonstrating the robustness of quantum mechanics on a macroscopic scale.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalNature Physics·DateOct 1, 2019

Researchers synthesize 'impossible' superconductor

Researchers have synthesized a novel superconductor CeH9 with exciting properties. The compound exhibits superconductivity at relatively low pressure of 1 million atmospheres.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 1, 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.

Cloning to fight esophageal cancer

Researchers are using cloning to recreate esophageal cancer development, identifying potential targets for therapies before the disease becomes fatal. The goal is to develop effective drugs in a fraction of the time it takes Big Pharma.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateOct 1, 2019

New in Ethics & Human Research, September-October 2019

Emerging norms in engaged translational genomics research raise substantial ethical concerns. Simplified Spanish-language consent materials require cultural congruence, while participant benefits in HIV prevention research highlight potential direct and indirect benefits for stigmatized populations.

SourceThe Hastings Center·JournalEthics & Human Research·DateOct 1, 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.

Handling traumatic grief reactions in children and adolescents post-9/11

A new study found that traumatic grief reactions in youth post-9/11 warrant separate clinical attention. The study, published in the Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, identified a distinct bereavement-related disorder that captures maladaptive reactions after 9/11.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateOct 1, 2019

250-million-year-old evolutionary remnants seen in muscles of human embryos

A team of evolutionary biologists discovered that atavistic limb muscles, lost in adult humans, are formed during early human development and then disappear. These muscles are present in many limbed animals but are absent in adults. The study uses high-quality 3D images to analyze the development of human arm and leg muscles.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalDevelopment·DateOct 1, 2019

New method improves measurement of animal behaviour using deep learning

A new deep learning toolkit, DeepPoseKit, has been developed to measure animal body posture with high speed and accuracy. The tool can be applied to study wild animals in challenging field settings and provides an accessible system for non-experts to apply machine learning to their behavioral research.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·DateOct 1, 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.

Collaboration may improve access to HIV testing, primary care

A new study by the University of Michigan found that interprofessional collaboration and on-the-job training significantly improve linkages to HIV testing and primary care. This can help decrease HIV transmission and promote viral suppression among vulnerable populations.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalAIDS Care·DateOct 1, 2019

Early warning signals heralded fatal collapse of Krakatau volcano

Researchers at GFZ Potsdam identified clear warning signs before the Anak Krakatau volcano's flank collapse, which triggered a deadly tsunami. The study analyzed data from various sources, including satellites and seismic data, to better understand the event and improve early warning systems for other volcanoes.

SourceGFZ GeoForschungsZentrum Potsdam, Helmholtz Centre·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 1, 2019

Molecular motors -- Rotation on an eight-shaped path

Researchers at LMU develop first molecular motor that moves on an eight-shaped path using hemithioindigo dyes and green light. The new motor system offers improved switching properties and reduces environmental harm compared to existing motors.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 1, 2019

Study finds rising ozone a hidden threat to corn

A new study found that genetically diverse corn plants have varying responses to high ozone levels, with some experiencing yield losses of up to 10%. The research could lead to the development of ozone-resistant corn varieties, helping plant scientists address the hidden threat to corn agriculture.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateOct 1, 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.

Acute psychotic illness triggered by Brexit Referendum

A middle-aged man experienced a brief episode of acute psychosis after the 2016 Brexit Referendum, highlighting the potential impact of political events on mental health. The case highlights the importance of identifying early warning signs and providing prompt treatment to ensure quick recovery.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Case Reports·DateOct 1, 2019

Why multipartite viruses infect plants rather than animals

Researchers used mathematical models and computer simulations to explain why multipartite viruses predominantly infect plants, rather than animals. The studies found that these viruses can colonize structured populations with less resistance, making them more advantageous for plant hosts.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateOct 1, 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.

Room for improvement in drug dosage timing in hospitals

A new study found that hospitals often administer medications based on practical staff scheduling rather than ideal dosing times. This can lead to undertreatment of pain and other medical conditions. Researchers are working to adjust drug administration protocols to better align with patients' needs.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 1, 2019

A brain protein that could put the brakes on Alzheimer's

Scientists have identified a key role for the brain protein TOM-1 in regulating inflammatory responses, which are linked to Alzheimer's disease. By restoring TOM-1 levels, the study found improved pathology and cognitive problems associated with the disease.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 1, 2019

Beyond Einstein: Mystery surrounding photon momentum solved

Researchers at Goethe University use new super COLTRIMS apparatus to measure minuscule effect on photon momentum. They find electrons receive unexpected additional momentum from magnetic fields, altering tunneling in strong-field ionization.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalNature Physics·DateOct 1, 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.

Intriguing discovery provides new insights into photoelectric effect

Researchers discovered asymmetrical movement of free electrons in photoelectric effect, enabling better control over electrons and potentially improving chemistry reactions. The study used ultrashort laser pulses to disrupt the electrons' behavior, allowing them to move sideways for the first time.

SourceLund University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateOct 1, 2019

The future of bone healing

Researchers at UTA are developing a groundbreaking treatment to accelerate the healing of cranial injuries using live 3D printing and regenerative antioxidant materials. The approach has the potential to shorten healing time and make treatment more accessible for patients.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateOct 1, 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.

Gene responsible for lutein esterification in bread wheat identified

Researchers have identified the gene Xanthophyll acyl-transferase (Xat) as the key to lutein esterification in bread wheat. This process increases carotenoid stability and retention during storage, maintaining nutritional quality. The discovery opens new opportunities for improving cereal nutrition and addressing carotenoid degradation.

SourceAmerican Society of Plant Biologists·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateOct 1, 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.

Estimating calorie content not clear-cut for all -- Otago study

A new University of Otago study found that people have varying levels of knowledge about food energy and portion sizes. Inaccurate judgements about these factors can result in overeating and subsequent weight issues. To combat this, the researchers suggest providing more explicit and salient energy labels on food packages.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalAppetite·DateOct 1, 2019

Doctor offers unique perspective as father of a child with rare genetic disease

A doctor, who is also the father of a child with type 1 spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), offers a personal perspective on the benefits of the new treatment nusinersen. The medication has shown significant improvement in his son's condition, allowing him to regain motor skills and autonomy.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateOct 1, 2019

Food insecurity in young adults raises risk for diabetes, high blood pressure, asthma

A recent study by UCSF researchers found that young adults with food insecurity are more likely to develop disorders associated with obesity and obstructive airway diseases like asthma. Chronic stress from food insecurity can lead to inflammation, insulin resistance and increased risk of mental health issues.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateOct 1, 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.

The science of mindfulness -- What do we really know and where do we go?

A special issue of Current Opinions in Psychology maps the state of mindfulness research, exploring its historical foundations, clinical applications, and social implications. The study reveals that mindfulness can be learned and applied uniquely across different contexts, with mobile apps emerging as a promising platform for deliverin...

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalCurrent Opinion in Psychology·DateOct 1, 2019

Retired UT extension specialist inducted into National Hall of Fame

John Campbell, a retired UT Extension specialist, was inducted into the National Association of County Agricultural Agents' (NACAA) Hall of Fame for his commitment to community service and effective leadership. He served nine counties as an area farm management specialist and helped develop state-wide programming.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture·DateOct 1, 2019

The rise of deal collectives that punish profits

Researchers find that consumers are better at identifying and reacting to deals, constructing 'deals' with unintended value through crowdsourced online forums. This can lead to stockouts, logistical problems, and anti-company sentiment among consumers.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateOct 1, 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.

Study demonstrates antibody responses within 6 weeks of initial vaccination

A study by HVTN 105 demonstrated that DNA (DNA-HIV-PT123) and protein (AIDSVAX B/E) combination vaccine regimens induced high magnitude and long-lasting binding antibody responses. The findings showed more rapid potentially protective immune responses when the vaccine regimens were co-administered.

SourceHIV Vaccine Trials Network (HVTN)·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateOct 1, 2019

Step forward in falling research

University of Queensland researchers studied human responses to unexpected changes in environment, like falling into a hole. They found that humans use different strategies to stabilize themselves based on the drop height and utilized distal lower-limb joints such as the ankle for energy absorption at low drop heights.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalInterface·DateOct 1, 2019

Can humans exploit the genetics of a mouse that regrows axons after injury?

Scientists at the Buck Institute are exploring the genetics of mice that can regrow axons after injury to develop new treatments for human brain injuries and diseases. The researchers will use a new method to identify genetic differences between closely related species, which may hold the key to boosting lifespan or healthspan in humans.

SourceBuck Institute for Research on Aging·DateOct 1, 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.

Safeguarding the world's largest tuna fishery

A new study using FAD tracking data, ocean models and simulation methods reveals the trajectories and potential impact of FADs on fisheries and island nations. The research found that over 2000 FADs wash up on beaches and coral reefs every year, with significant impacts on bycatch species and reef damage.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 1, 2019

ATS/IDSA publishes clinical guideline on community acquired pneumonia

The new guideline offers evidence-based recommendations for diagnosing and treating community-acquired pneumonia in adults, with a focus on outpatient settings. It suggests using amoxicillin as first-line empiric therapy, while also recommending more microscopic studies of respiratory tract samples to avoid unnecessary antibiotic use.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateOct 1, 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.

Product authentication at your fingertips

A team of researchers has fabricated silver nanoparticles that can rapidly change color in response to moisture, enabling fast and reversible switching of plasmonic color in solids. This technology holds promise for applications in product authentication, information encryption, and sensing.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateOct 1, 2019

Inspired by Northern clingfish, researchers make a better suction cup

A University of Washington team developed an artificial suction cup that borrows from the Northern clingfish's natural design, performing better than its natural counterpart. The prototype held up to 230 times its own weight and was flexible enough to conform to rough surfaces.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London (B )·DateOct 1, 2019

Jellyfish's 'superpowers' gained through cellular mechanism

Researchers at Tohoku University have discovered the cellular mechanisms behind jellyfish's remarkable ability to regenerate body parts. The study found that free-swimming adult jellyfish possess actively proliferating cells controlling body-size, tentacle shape, and regeneration.

SourceTohoku University·JournalPeerJ·DateOct 1, 2019

Fatal flaws in UK Government's price of a life

A UK government-used VPF valuation undervalues human life due to insufficient sample size and invalid interpretation methods. An alternative method called J-value offers an accurate assessment by balancing safety spend against extended life expectancy, valuing a life at £8.59 million.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalMeasurement·DateOct 1, 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.

Horse nutrition: Prebiotics do more harm than good

Commercially available prebiotic supplements can break down in horses' stomachs, leading to inflammation. However, feeding a specific type of prebiotic, Jerusalem artichoke meal, increased bacterial diversity in the entire digestive tract.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 1, 2019

No evidence that power posing works

Iowa State University researcher Marcus Credé found nearly all power posing studies were poorly designed and failed to compare power poses to normal poses. Only four studies met the criteria, showing that feelings of power diminished when compared to neutral pose.

SourceIowa State University·JournalMeta-Psychology·DateOct 1, 2019

New study links vitamin C therapy to better survival rates after sepsis

A new study published in JAMA found that treating septic patients with intravenous vitamin C infusions significantly reduced mortality and improved recovery times. The trial showed a 30% reduction in mortality at day 28 compared to the placebo group, and patients spent three fewer days in the ICU.

SourceVirginia Commonwealth University·JournalJAMA·DateOct 1, 2019

Science proves that what doesn't kill you makes you stronger

Researchers found that early-career failure leads to greater success for those who try again, with near-miss scientists publishing more hit papers than their just-made-it counterparts. The study suggests a counter-narrative to the Matthew Effect, highlighting the value of failure in future career impact.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 1, 2019

Bacteria bullets target toxic algae

Researchers at the University of Delaware have invented a bacteria-based application to prevent or mitigate harmful algal blooms, specifically targeting dinoflagellates responsible for red tides. The algicide, embedded in gel beads, is environmentally neutral and can be deployed in coastal waters as needed.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·DateOct 1, 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.

Chemicals for pharmaceuticals could be made cheaper and greener by new catalysts

Researchers have developed a series of new catalysts for the asymmetric synthesis of alcohols, which could be used to make high-value chemicals such as pharmaceuticals and electronics chemicals. The new method is faster, cheaper and more sustainable than traditional methods, requiring less material and reducing waste.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalOrganic Letters·DateOct 1, 2019

Pua lands NIH Director's New Innovator Award

Heather Pua, an assistant professor at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, has received a 2019 National Institutes of Health (NIH) Director's New Innovator Award. She will investigate the role of extracellular RNAs in allergic airway inflammation, with potential implications for new therapies and diagnostics.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·DateOct 1, 2019

The private lives of sharks

Researchers attached video cameras and sensors to white sharks to study their underwater hunting behavior. The findings suggest that white sharks actively search and pursue seals in deeper waters at night, contradicting the common assumption of surface-based prey capture during dawn and dusk.

SourceResearch Organization of Information and Systems·JournalMarine Ecology Progress Series·DateOct 1, 2019

St. Jude neuroscientist Lindsay Schwarz receives a 2019 NIH Director's Award

Lindsay Schwarz, a St. Jude Children's Research Hospital neuroscientist, has won the prestigious NIH Director's New Innovator Award for her groundbreaking research on norepinephrine neurons and neural circuits. The award supports her innovative approaches to developing new molecular tools that target specific cell populations.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·DateOct 1, 2019

Stopping the spread of cancer

Biomedical engineer Tara Deans receives $1.5 million grant to develop alternative platelets that can help stop tumor cells from spreading in the bloodstream. Her lab will engineer platelets with proteins that kill cancer cells, inspired by her friend's diagnosis with blood cancer.

SourceUniversity of Utah·DateOct 1, 2019