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Science News for October 16, 2019


How hunger makes food tastier: a neural circuit in the hypothalamus

Researchers discovered that starved mice prefer sweet tastes and are less sensitive to bitter tastes, attributing this to a neural circuit in the hypothalamus. The study used optogenetic and chemogenetic techniques to activate AgRP-expressing neurons, which modulated taste preferences through two distinct pathways.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 16, 2019

Deep water sites off the US northeast coast are suitable for offshore blue mussel farms

Researchers at NOAA's Northeast Fisheries Science Center have identified suitable locations off the US northeast coast for offshore blue mussel farms. The study suggests that Long Island, north of Cape Ann in Massachusetts, and off New Hampshire are promising sites due to favorable temperature and food availability conditions.

SourceNOAA Northeast Fisheries Science Center·JournalJournal of Marine Science and Engineering·DateOct 16, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Study focuses on repair and reversal of damage caused by Huntington's disease

A study led by UCLA researchers found that suppressing the mutation in astrocytes can stop the progression of Huntington's disease in mice and repair some of the damage. The findings suggest that impaired astrocytes play a role in many neurological diseases, including Alzheimer's and ALS.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateOct 16, 2019

Livestream available: metal to metal oxide progression

Researchers at OIST Graduate University have developed a simplified approach for studying charge transfer in catalysis, using a tiny ruthenium catalyst and real-time detection. This method provides a complete picture of the reaction mechanics and has potential applications in industrial processes such as solar energy devices.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalACS Nano·DateOct 16, 2019

UTEP receives $19M to study cancer affecting Mexican-Americans

The University of Texas at El Paso's Border Biomedical Research Center will use the grant to understand molecular mechanisms and environmental factors contributing to cancer health disparities in Hispanics. Researchers aim to develop novel treatments using a comprehensive Cancer Tissue Biorepository for this population.

SourceUniversity of Texas at El Paso·DateOct 16, 2019
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

First genome of spotted lanternfly built from a single insect

The US Department of Agriculture's Agricultural Research Service has published the first genome of the invasive Spotted Lanternfly, obtained from a single caught-in-the-wild specimen. The genome sequencing was made possible by Pacific Biosciences' new platform that produces 10 times more data from a single run.

SourceUS Department of Agriculture - Agricultural Research Service·JournalGigaScience·DateOct 16, 2019

How human brain development diverged from great apes

Researchers analyzed human and chimpanzee cerebral organoids to understand dynamic gene expression and regulation in early brain development. They identified human-specific gene expression patterns and developmental differences in the adult prefrontal cortex.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology·JournalNature·DateOct 16, 2019
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Biodiversity improves crop production

A study involving over 100 researchers demonstrates that biodiversity enhances pollination and biological pest control, leading to increased crop yields. Higher agricultural biodiversity also reduces the reliance on pesticides, promoting sustainable agriculture.

SourceEurac Research·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 16, 2019

Fully recyclable packaging materials

Researchers at the University of the Basque Country and Colorado State University have developed a class of biorenewable, biodegradable plastics that promote the circular economy. The new materials have suitable mechanical and barrier properties similar to commercial materials currently used in packaging.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 16, 2019
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Scientists discover method to create and trap trions at room temperature

Researchers have developed a method to synthesize and trap trions that remain stable at room temperature, enabling manipulation and study of their fundamental properties. The work has implications for technologies such as bioimaging, chemical sensing, energy harvesting, solid-state computing and quantum computing.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalACS Central Science·DateOct 16, 2019

Consumers trust influencers less when there is a variety of choices for a product

Research found that consumers discount positive influencer recommendations for products with high variety, questioning the quality of the product. Increasing product variety can lead to increased sales, but firms must adjust strategies to influence consumer quality inference and purchase decisions.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalMarketing Science·DateOct 16, 2019

Mathematicians find gold in data

Researchers developed a numerical method that speeds up calculations for modern supercomputers, making the inverse problem tractable. The new algorithm enables prospectors to make do with fewer exploratory holes and is applicable for searching other types of ores.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalGeophysical Journal International·DateOct 16, 2019
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Hubble observes 1st confirmed interstellar comet

Astronomers have observed the first confirmed interstellar comet, 2I/Borisov, using NASA's Hubble Space Telescope. The comet has a central concentration of dust around its nucleus and is traveling at an extraordinary speed of 110,000 miles per hour.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateOct 16, 2019

Alfalfa and potassium: It's complicated

Researchers found that while potassium fertilization increases alfalfa yield, it also decreases forage quality. Understanding the tradeoffs between yield and quality is crucial for sustainable production and fertility management.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalAgronomy Journal·DateOct 16, 2019
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Blood-collection device makes radiation testing quick and easy

A new blood self-collection device has been developed to quickly estimate a person's exposure to radiation in the event of a nuclear accident or attack. The device, which can process samples in a centralized lab, could help triage emergency medical treatment and alleviate a sample collection bottleneck.

SourceUniversity of Arizona Health Sciences·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 16, 2019

UNH researchers find climate change increases risk of mercury contamination

Researchers at the University of New Hampshire found that climate change increases the risk of mercury contamination in Arctic areas. The study reveals that thawing permafrost releases mercury into surrounding waterways, soil, and air, leading to increased levels of methylmercury, a neurotoxin.

SourceUniversity of New Hampshire·JournalGeochemical Perspectives Letters·DateOct 16, 2019
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Respiratory diseases linked with high blood pressure in lungs

Pulmonary hypertension caused by respiratory disease has been linked to improved health outcomes through identifying underlying conditions. Researchers at the University of Missouri have found that thorough evaluations and tailored therapy approaches can help dogs with pulmonary hypertension, increasing survival rates.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalThe Veterinary Journal·DateOct 16, 2019

Reducing open-circuit voltage loss in organic solar cells

Researchers achieved high power conversion efficiencies in organic solar cells by designing a highly crystalline donor-acceptor interface. The V_oc was found to increase with increasing acceptor layer crystallinity, resulting in reduced energy loss and improved efficiency.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateOct 16, 2019
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Rice blast fungus discovery will drive crop innovation

A six-year study has uncovered the existence of a sensor in appressoria that tells the fungus when to rupture the rice leaf. This discovery provides a platform for developing fungicides against rice blast, one of the deadliest crop killers, and could also apply to other septin-mediated fungi.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalNature·DateOct 16, 2019

Artificial pancreas system better controls blood glucose levels than current technology

A new artificial pancreas system improved blood glucose control throughout the day and overnight, reducing time in range for high and low glucose levels. The system also showed improvements in hemoglobin A1c and other measurements related to diabetes control compared to current technology.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateOct 16, 2019

A secret in saliva: Food and germs helped humans evolve into unique member of great apes

Human saliva has distinct differences in protein content and structure compared to other primates, with a waterier consistency and higher amounts of enzymes and proteins involved in digestion and defense. These findings suggest that our diet and evolutionary adaptations played a significant role in shaping our unique saliva.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateOct 16, 2019
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

New strategy to treat Parkinson's disease

A new strategy to treat Parkinson's disease has been developed by amplifying healthy GCase enzymes, alleviating symptoms in both human brain cells and mouse models. This approach may be relevant for multiple forms of PD with reduced activity of wild-type GCase.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateOct 16, 2019
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Digital breast tomosynthesis increases cancer detection over full-field mammography

A recent study comparing digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) and full-field digital mammography (FFDM) found that DBT significantly increased cancer detection rates for invasive, minimal, estrogen receptor-positive invasive, and node-negative cancers. However, the difference was not significant for ductal carcinoma in situ.

SourceAmerican Roentgen Ray Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·DateOct 16, 2019

How does fathers' physical and mental health status impact their children?

A new study found that children of fathers with poor mental health have a higher risk of poor mental health and overall health, highlighting the significant role fathers play in their children's well-being. The researchers emphasize the need for interventions to improve father involvement in children's lives.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalHealth Equity·DateOct 16, 2019
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

High-level EU funding: MLU receives grant for an international Ph.D.-network

The Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg will coordinate an European Training Network for doctoral students to develop a digital twin for highly flexible structures in industrial applications. The network aims to create a computational model of the system's behavior, allowing for simulations and predictions during development.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·DateOct 16, 2019

Sweetened drinks represented 62% of children's drink sales in 2018

A report from the Rudd Center for Food Policy & Obesity found that 62% of children's drink sales were dominated by fruit drinks and flavored waters with added sugars. Healthier drinks like 100 percent juice represented only 38% of sales, with companies spending $20.7 million to advertise sugar-sweetened drinks to children.

SourceUConn Rudd Center for Food Policy and Obesity·DateOct 16, 2019
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

New international exercise guidelines for cancer survivors

The new guidelines recommend aerobic and resistance training for cancer survivors, aiming to address common side effects such as anxiety and fatigue. The updated recommendations provide specific 'exercise prescriptions' to improve survival rates after a diagnosis of breast, colon, and prostate cancer.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalMedicine & Science in Sports & Exercise·DateOct 16, 2019

Strong storms can generate earthquake-like seismic activity

Researchers have discovered a new phenomenon where strong storms can produce vibrations in the ocean floor as strong as a magnitude 3.5 earthquake. The study found over 10,000 stormquakes occurring from 2006 to 2019 offshore of various locations, including New England and Florida.

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

World's fastest ant hits recording breaking speed of 855mm/s

Researchers have discovered that Saharan silver ants can reach speeds of up to 0.855m/s, making them the fastest ants ever recorded. The team found that the ants' unique footwork, including a gallop-like movement and coordinated leg swings, allows them to navigate their desert habitat efficiently.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateOct 16, 2019

Competitive people are more prone to drug consumption

A recent study published in Personality and Individual Differences found that hostile and competitive personality traits are associated with an increased risk of drug consumption among young people. On the other hand, individuals with patient, less hostile, and non-competitive personalities have a lower likelihood of being drug users. ...

SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalPersonality and Individual Differences·DateOct 16, 2019
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Secretive targets for CEO bonus pay signal poor performance

Undisclosed non-financial measures linked to CEO cash bonuses are associated with worse company performance, new research reveals. However, transparent and measurable non-financial targets related to corporate social responsibility are positively linked to industry-adjusted return on assets.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalJournal of Business Finance &amp Accounting·DateOct 16, 2019

Findings bridge knowledge gap between pheromone sensitivity and courtship

Researchers at the University of California San Diego have identified a key player in fruit fly olfactory processing that amplifies courtship signals in male flies. The discovery of PPK25, a sodium-ion channel, reveals a critical role in regulating pheromone sensitivity and promotes courtship behavior when flies are most fertile.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNeuron·DateOct 16, 2019
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Diabetes: A next-generation therapy soon available?

Researchers at UNIGE identified a protein called S100A9 that regulates blood glucose and lipids, improving glucose management and reducing harmful side effects in diabetic mice. A clinical trial is underway to test the safety and efficacy of this new therapy in humans.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 16, 2019

Scientists find early humans moved through Mediterranean earlier than believed

An international research team has found evidence of human activity on the island of Naxos at least 200,000 years ago, forcing a reevaluation of human movement in the region. The discovery pushes back the known settlement timeline by tens of thousands of years and suggests that early humans were capable of adapting to new environments.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 16, 2019

Gas 'waterfalls' reveal infant planets around young star

Researchers observed unique gas flows and identified three predicted planets around young star HD 163296. The gas flows, like waterfalls, indicate the presence of infant planets pushing aside dust and gas, providing evidence for planet formation. The study offers a more complete picture of planet formation than previously thought.

SourceNational Radio Astronomy Observatory·JournalNature·DateOct 16, 2019

Stanford study shows why even well-controlled epilepsy can disrupt thinking

A Stanford University School of Medicine study found that even people with well-controlled epilepsy often experience cognitive deficits due to abnormal brain electrical activity called high-frequency oscillations. The research suggests that certain medications or implantable devices could be improved to alleviate these deficits.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateOct 16, 2019
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Tackling inequality could save millions of children

A recent study mapping child deaths over two decades finds that nearly half of the 5.4 million under-5 deaths in 2017 were due to differences between countries and districts. The research, conducted by the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation, highlights health disparities within countries and regions.

SourceInstitute for Health Metrics and Evaluation·JournalNature·DateOct 16, 2019

Computer models show clear advantages in new types of wind turbines

Researchers from Aarhus University and Durham University have modelled fluid dynamics of multi-rotor wind turbines, demonstrating a clear advantage for a turbine model with four rotors. This design reduces downstream turbulence, allowing for more efficient energy production.

SourceAarhus University·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateOct 16, 2019

Clingfish biology inspires better suction cup

A team of engineers and marine biologists created a suction cup that clings to both smooth and rough surfaces, holding up to hundreds of times its own weight. The device was inspired by the clingfish's unique adhesive mechanism, which involves a soft layer and slits in the artificial suction cups.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalBioinspiration & Biomimetics·DateOct 16, 2019
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Computational 'match game' identifies potential antibiotics

A software tool called MetaMiner has been developed to identify bioactive molecules and their producing microbial genes for therapeutic use. The tool speeds up the discovery process, identifying 31 known RiPPs and seven new ones in about two weeks.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalCell Systems·DateOct 16, 2019

Ag-to-energy farmland use is focus of new $2.4 million grant

A team of Cornell University researchers will investigate the interrelationships between food, energy and water through a three-year, $2.4 million grant. The study aims to understand how ag-to-energy land-use conversions affect agricultural production, water quality and quantity, as well as electrical grid operational efficiency.

SourceCornell University·DateOct 16, 2019
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Artificial pancreas system better controls blood glucose levels than current technology

A new artificial pancreas system improved participants' blood glucose control throughout the day and overnight, reducing the risk of low blood sugar levels. The system's advanced algorithms and safety features enabled users to achieve near-normal blood sugar levels every morning.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateOct 16, 2019

Syphilis infection rates in dialysis patients exceed general population

A new study has found that syphilis infection rates are significantly higher in dialysis patients compared to the general population. The study, published in the Clinical Kidney Journal, screened over 759,000 patients and found a rate more than three times that of the general population.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalClinical Kidney Journal·DateOct 16, 2019
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Raw meat-based diets for pets pose a health risk for humans

Researchers found antibiotic-resistant bacteria in over 60% of raw pet food samples, including E. coli that can cause infections in humans and animals. The study advises dog and cat owners to handle the food carefully and maintain strict hygiene standards.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateOct 16, 2019

A rat's brain, on and off methamphetamine

Study reveals substantial changes in metabolic pathways related to energy metabolism, the nervous system, and cell membrane lipid metabolism during methamphetamine self-administration and withdrawal. Biomarkers such as depleted amino acids may help identify early warning signs of methamphetamine dependence.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Proteome Research·DateOct 16, 2019
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

AI system more accurately identifies collapsed lungs using chest X-rays

The AI system uses a huge database of x-ray images to identify collapsed lungs with 75% accuracy, outperforming medical specialists who diagnose fewer than 50%. Researchers plan to integrate the technology into a software system and apply it to other conditions, reducing treatment delays and improving patient outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·DateOct 16, 2019

EPFL is developing next-generation soft hearing implants

Researchers at EPFL's Laboratory for Soft BioElectronic Interface have developed a next-generation soft hearing implant that can send targeted electrical signals to the auditory brainstem. The new implant overcomes the limitations of current ABIs, which can only provide sound perception and are stiff and inflexible.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateOct 16, 2019
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Surveying solar storms by ancient Assyrian astronomers

A research team at the University of Tsukuba studied ancient cuneiform tablets and matched them with tree-ring radioisotope data to identify three possible magnetic storms that occurred around 679-655 BCE. This work may help modern astronomers predict future solar flares or coronal mass ejections.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateOct 16, 2019

Scientists link hormone production in baby wallabies how some girls are born with 'male' genitalia

Researchers discovered an alternative pathway for testosterone production that contributes to the development of male characteristics in human girls with a genetic disorder. The study found this pathway is present and active during fetal development and plays a key role in shaping external genitalia in newborns with CAH.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 16, 2019

Artificial pancreas system better controls blood glucose levels than current technology

A new artificial pancreas system has been shown to improve blood glucose control throughout the day and overnight, offering a significant advantage over existing treatments for people with type 1 diabetes. The system, which automatically monitors and regulates blood glucose levels, was more effective than traditional therapies in achie...

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateOct 16, 2019
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Aҫaí berry extracts fight malaria in mice

Researchers have discovered that aҫaí berry extract can significantly reduce the number of malaria parasites in infected mice, with a 89.4% decrease in parasitic load. The treatment also prolonged the survival of the mice, with all those given polyphenols surviving for over 15 days.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Omega·DateOct 16, 2019

Scientists discover skin keeps time independent of the brain

Researchers found that skin in mice expresses its own photoreceptors using neuroposin, synchronizing circadian clocks to light-dark cycles independently of eyes or brain. This discovery has implications for understanding skin physiology and potentially enhancing medical practice.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalCurrent Biology·DateOct 16, 2019

Examining risk of suicide and use of ACE inhibitors, ARBs

A study by JAMA Network found a potential association between ACE inhibitors and ARBs and an increased risk of suicide among individuals with hypertension, diabetes, and chronic kidney disease. The observational study analyzed data from over 200,000 patients to identify any possible links between these medications and suicidal behavior.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateOct 16, 2019
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

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

Mothers' behavior influences bonding hormone oxytocin in babies

A new study found that mothers' involvement in play with their children can influence the development of their oxytocin systems. Higher maternal involvement was associated with reduced DNA methylation and increased expression of the oxytocin receptor gene, which can lead to a stronger bond between mother and child.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 16, 2019

Scientists identify genetic variation linked to severity of ALS

Researchers found that ALS patients with a specific genetic variation in the IL6 receptor gene experience more severe symptoms and faster disease progression. The study suggests this polymorphism may serve as a target for new treatments and lay the groundwork for future clinical trials.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·DateOct 16, 2019
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

New catalyst would boost biomass conversion to fuels, chemicals

Researchers have discovered a new catalyst using bulk cerium oxide that can efficiently remove oxygen from biomass, enabling more economical conversion to fuels and chemicals. The discovery could reduce energy use and carbon emissions associated with fossil fuel production.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateOct 16, 2019

'Short sleep' gene prevents memory deficits associated with sleep deprivation

A new gene, NPSR1, has been discovered that promotes natural short sleep and prevents memory deficits associated with sleep deprivation. The researchers found that the mutant version of NPSR1 is easier to activate and better at switching on other proteins involved in wakefulness.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateOct 16, 2019

In Baltimore, lower income neighborhoods have bigger mosquitoes

A study by the Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies found that mosquitoes in lower-income neighborhoods have larger bodies, which can transmit diseases more efficiently. The researchers measured wing length and habitat features to understand how socioeconomic conditions influence mosquito-borne disease risk.

SourceCary Institute of Ecosystem Studies·JournalJournal of Medical Entomology·DateOct 16, 2019

X marks the spot: recombination in structurally distinct chromosomes

Researchers discovered that different mechanisms govern chromosome interaction with the synaptonemal complex, particularly for sex chromosomes like X. The findings highlight the importance of structural features over primary amino acid sequences and suggest a chromosome-specific aspect to human meiotic defects.

SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 16, 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.

Research networks can help BRICS countries combat invasive species

A recent study suggests that BRICS countries can curb the spread of invasive species by forming networks of researchers dedicated to invasion science. The study proposes a 'facilitated' network model that would allow for rapid responses to emerging alien species and substantial increases in capacity to tackle existing invasions.

SourceStellenbosch University·JournalPLOS Biology·DateOct 16, 2019

NIH scientists develop test for uncommon brain diseases

Scientists have linked abnormal tau in the brain to at least 25 neurodegenerative diseases, but current diagnosis requires analyzing brain tissue after death. The new test uses cerebrospinal fluid to detect abnormal tau, offering hope for diagnosing less common neurological diseases like Alzheimer's.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalActa Neuropathologica·DateOct 16, 2019

Are we underestimating the benefits of investing in renewable energy?

A new study reveals that using average emissions intensities can lead to errors in estimating the benefits of interventions, potentially compromising their implementation. By analyzing electricity from PJM, researchers found that ignoring marginal emissions can underestimate damages avoided by 50%. The study highlights the importance o...

SourceStanford's School of Earth, Energy & Environmental Sciences·DateOct 16, 2019

First study to test healthy lifestyle changes in reducing the risk of dementia in a large-scale, diverse population in the United States

A new study at Rush University Medical Center aims to determine whether a combination of lifestyle changes can protect memory and thinking skills in people at risk of developing dementia. The two-year U.S. POINTER clinical trial will enroll 2,000 adults between 60-79 years old with no current memory problems or exercise habits.

SourceRush University Medical Center·DateOct 16, 2019
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Tiny particles lead to brighter clouds in the tropics

A new study found that tiny particles formed in the tropics can brighten lower-level clouds, which may impact global cooling predictions. The research used measurements from a massive airborne study to understand how these particles form and contribute to cloud properties.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalNature·DateOct 16, 2019

Toxoplasmosis: Preventing mother-to-child transmission

Researchers aim to prevent congenital toxoplasmosis by studying the molecular mechanisms of transmission and placenta development. The team will investigate how Toxoplasma gondii infection affects fetal development and explore potential treatments.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·DateOct 16, 2019

The moon determines when migratory birds head south

Researchers found that European nightjars begin their autumn migration 10 days after the full moon and synchronize their flight to depart at the same time. The study reveals that moonlight affects the birds' activity patterns, enabling them to hunt more efficiently and replenish energy reserves.

SourceLund University·JournalPLOS Biology·DateOct 16, 2019

Study finds brands are resilient against 'fake news' on social media

A recent study found that established brands are less affected by fake news on social media, with trust remaining unaffected. The researchers tested 468 consumers and found those who could detect misinformation were more likely to perceive the post as manipulative.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Product & Brand Management·DateOct 16, 2019

Family members' emotional attachment limits family firm growth

Research by Lancaster University finds that family-related considerations often trump a desire to grow among firms with multiple generations of the same family in senior roles. Non-active family members as major shareholders and non-family members on boards encourage growth, while active family members are more conservative and risk-av...

SourceLancaster University·JournalEuropean Management Review·DateOct 16, 2019

Ultrafast particle interactions could help make quantum information devices feasible

Researchers detected energy transfer from excited electrons to the crystal lattice on the femtosecond timescale, enabling the development of materials that retain energy for longer periods. This study contributes to the retardation of decoherence and the creation of quantum information devices such as optical switches.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateOct 16, 2019

Premature death from cardiovascular disease

Between 2000 and 2015, the number of US deaths from cardiovascular disease among people aged 25 to 64 rose substantially. This trend is attributed to increased rates of heart disease and stroke.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateOct 16, 2019

Cascades of gas around young star indicate early stages of planet formation

A team of astronomers discovered three areas in the disk of a young star where gas is cascading into gaps, indicating the presence of forming planets. The study confirms a theory about how planets acquire their atmospheres, suggesting that warmer gas from the outer layers of the disk forms the atmosphere of the planet.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalNature·DateOct 16, 2019

How partisan hate leads people to believe falsehoods

A study by Ohio State University found that partisan media use is linked to stronger negative feelings and false beliefs about political opponents. Researchers surveyed Americans using various news outlets during the 2012 and 2016 presidential elections, discovering a correlation between increased hostility and belief in misperceptions.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Communication·DateOct 16, 2019

3D-printed coral could help endangered reefs

Researchers at the University of Delaware found that 3D-printed coral models do not harm fish behavior or coral survival. Fish showed no preference between native coral and artificial habitats, making biodegradable materials like cornstarch a promising alternative to plastic.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 16, 2019

Virtual walking system for re-experiencing the journey of another person

A Japanese research team developed a virtual walking system that records a person's walk and replays it to another user, creating an illusion of walking. The system uses pre-recorded oscillating optic flow and synchronous foot vibrations to induce sensations of self-motion, walking, leg action, and telepresence.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·Journali-Perception·DateOct 16, 2019

Sociodemographic factors associated with passing surgery board exams

A study examining sociodemographic factors associated with passing American Board of Surgery board exams found that women and family-salaried physicians were more likely to pass. General surgeons who identified as Asian or Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander also had higher board exam passing rates.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateOct 16, 2019

Human medicines affect fish behavior

Research reveals that human medicines influencing serotonin and dopamine systems alter the boldness and explorative behaviour of three-spined sticklebacks, highlighting potential consequences for aquatic ecosystems. The study confirms the role of these signal substances in individual personality differences and stress resilience.

SourceLinköping University·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateOct 16, 2019

Do we trust artificial intelligence agents to mediate conflict? Not entirely

A new study examines the effectiveness of artificial intelligence in mediating conflict among team members. Researchers found that while humans initially engaged with a virtual agent during mission planning, their engagement decreased as conflicts arose, suggesting a limit to trust in AI-mediated conflict resolution.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·DateOct 16, 2019

Newly identified compounds could help give fire ants their sting

Researchers have identified 10 previously hidden pyridine alkaloids in fire ant venom, which could help explain the severity of bites and potential health complications. These compounds are found in different species of fire ants and even within individual ant castes.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateOct 16, 2019

UC Riverside helps secure the future of food

The Plants-3D program will provide academic and entrepreneurial training to 50 students, equipping them with cutting-edge technologies to increase crop yields and nutritional value. The synthetic biology approach will enable plants to tolerate increased stress levels, reducing the need for fertilizer.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateOct 16, 2019

Pilot study shows even short-term 'vaping' causes inflammation in non-smokers

Researchers at Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center report a measurable increase in inflammation after four weeks of e-cig use without nicotine or flavors. The study suggests that even short-term usage can result in inflammatory changes at a cellular level, a concern as vaping usage is rapidly outpacing scientific understanding.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalCancer Prevention Research·DateOct 16, 2019

Study reveals how age affects perception of white LED light

Researchers found that age-dependent effects on color perception can lead to different perceptions of white LED lighting. Designs that consider these differences can improve the aesthetic appeal of LED lighting. The study suggests using modern colorimetry to minimize inter-user discrepancies in LED emitters.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Express·DateOct 16, 2019

Assembler robots make large structures from little pieces

Researchers have developed a new kind of robotics that can assemble large structures from identical subunits using simple robotic systems. The system works by having the robot work together with the structure, adjusting its position as it adds each piece, allowing for efficient and precise assembly.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalIEEE Robotics and Automation Letters·DateOct 16, 2019

Failure of mitochondrial quality control causes heart disease

Researchers at Penn Medicine discovered that ANT is crucial for mitophagy, a quality control process removing damaged mitochondria, and found that mutations leading to defective quality control cause heart disease. The study reveals ANT's two distinct roles: producing ATP and regulating mitophagy.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNature·DateOct 16, 2019

Oxygen in hyperbaric chamber provides relief after radiotherapy

A study shows that hyperbaric oxygen therapy can relieve self-reported symptoms and side-effects of radiotherapy in cancer patients, including bleeding, urinary incontinence, and pain. The treatment, administered for 30-40 sessions, was found to be highly effective for the majority of patients.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·DateOct 16, 2019

Recovering 'lost dimensions' of images and video

MIT researchers create a visual deprojection model that recovers valuable data lost from images and video by learning patterns in low-dimensional projections. The model has successfully recreated video frames showing people walking and recovered motion-blurred images, with potential applications in medical imaging.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateOct 16, 2019

Pioneering cell therapies for non-responders to current immunotherapies

A new approach to identifying killer T lymphocytes in patients with gastrointestinal tumors has been developed, which can hone in on unique mutations expressed in cancer cells. This breakthrough could lead to the development of personalized and effective cell therapies for patients who do not respond to current immunotherapies.

SourceVall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateOct 16, 2019

New human reference genome resources help capture global genetic diversity

Scientists have assembled a set of genetic sequences to improve the human reference genome, which better reflects global genetic diversity and provides more accurate interpretations of whole-genome sequencing data. The new resource benefits researchers studying diverse human populations and future sequencing studies.

SourceAmerican Society of Human Genetics·DateOct 16, 2019

Distribution of highly radioactive microparticles in Fukushima revealed

Scientists have created a quantitative map of radioactive cesium-rich microparticle distribution in Fukushima soils, shedding light on their origin and environmental impact. The study suggests three regions of particular interest, with varying levels of microparticle abundance and radioactivity.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalChemosphere·DateOct 16, 2019

High levels of chronic stress linked to high blood pressure in African-Americans

Researchers found a strong association between chronic stress and hypertension in African Americans, with those reporting high stress levels facing a 22% increased risk over time. Lifestyle changes may help prevent hypertension, but culturally sensitive interventions are needed to address disparities.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateOct 16, 2019