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Science News for October 2, 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.

The violent history of the big galaxy next door

Researchers have discovered that the galaxy Andromeda has eaten several smaller galaxies over the last few billion years, leaving behind remnants in large streams of stars. The study found faint traces of even earlier consumed galaxies, possibly dating back to 10 billion years ago.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalNature·DateOct 2, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Sleeping less than 6 hours and heart disease, stroke -- deadly combo

A new study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that sleeping less than six hours per day can significantly increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. Middle-aged adults with high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes, or heart disease are particularly at risk, according to researchers.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateOct 2, 2019

Nuclear war between India and Pakistan could kill millions worldwide

A Rutgers University co-authored study finds that a nuclear war between India and Pakistan could result in over 100 million immediate deaths and global mass starvation. The conflict could also lead to a significant decline in sunlight reaching the Earth's surface, causing regional cooling and reduced precipitation.

SourceRutgers University·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 2, 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.

Limited seed availability, dry climate hamper post-wildfire forest recovery

Research reveals that coniferous forests struggle to recover after wildfires due to limited seed availability, particularly near severe burn zones. Warm and dry conditions further impede new tree seedling establishment. Land managers are advised to concentrate reforestation efforts in cool, wet areas.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalEcological Applications·DateOct 2, 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.

New research center for artificial intelligence at Mainz University

Researchers at Mainz University explore fundamental aspects of artificial intelligence using machine learning techniques and interdisciplinary approaches combining physics, biology, and materials sciences. The goal is to understand why modern systems are successful and develop better machine learning methods.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·DateOct 2, 2019

Research to focus on small molecule that can help fight breast cancer

Researchers at UC Riverside are developing a novel small molecule that selectively targets the PCNA protein in breast cancer cells. The project aims to create a new series of AOH1160-like molecules to improve the clinical management of breast cancer patients, while sparing non-cancerous cells.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateOct 2, 2019

Touting flavor before nutrition encourages healthy eating

A new study suggests that evocative labels emphasizing taste and positive experience can help people choose and consume more vegetables. Researchers found that diners put vegetables on their plates 29% more often when the food had taste-focused names, and ate 39% more vegetables by weight.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateOct 2, 2019

Spying on topology

Scientists have developed a new way to extract topological information from quantum materials using ultra-fast laser light, which can distinguish between trivial and topological insulators in a millionth of a billionth of a second. This method could lead to the development of optically-controlled electronics that process information te...

SourceForschungsverbund Berlin·JournalNature Photonics·DateOct 2, 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.

Can we peek at Schrodinger's cat without disturbing it?

Scientists from Hiroshima University and Indian Institute of Technology Bombay have found a way to determine the state of a quantum system by analyzing data from outside the system. By carefully reading the quantum data, they can restore the initial superposition of possible outcomes.

SourceHiroshima University·JournalNew Journal of Physics·DateOct 2, 2019

Environmental toxins impair immune system over multiple generations

New research reveals that maternal exposure to industrial pollution can harm offspring's immune system and pass on the weakness to subsequent generations. The study, conducted in mice, suggests that this multigenerational weakening of the immune system could explain variations in responses to flu infection.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournaliScience·DateOct 2, 2019

Aspirin may prevent air pollution harms

A new study suggests that aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may protect the lungs from short-term spikes in air pollution. The researchers found that nearly half of the negative impact of particulate matter on lung function was reduced with NSAID use.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateOct 2, 2019

Substantial variation in uptake of new prescribing guidance by GPs

A study analyzing prescribing data from over 8,000 English general practitioners reveals substantial variation in the adoption of new prescribing guidance, with some practices changing much later than others. This variation can lead to avoidable health service costs and poorer patient care.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateOct 2, 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.

Antidepressant medications appear to be generally safe

A new study of 45 meta-analyses found that antidepressants are not associated with strong adverse health outcomes, and most reported effects were likely due to underlying psychiatric conditions. The study suggests that antidepressants are generally safe but cautionary measures should still be taken during treatment

SourceLinköping University·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateOct 2, 2019

Manchester produces indie music fans just by being Manchester

Researchers found that Manchester-based indie music fans define their musical tastes around specific places like cafes, live music venues, and neighbourhoods. The study highlights the importance of experience in shaping musical tastes and suggests that where people live plays a significant role in forming associations with certain genres.

SourceLancaster University·JournalSociology·DateOct 2, 2019

Warming impedes a coral defense, but hungry fish enhance it

A new study found that coral defenses are compromised by warming, but reef conservation and certain fish species, like the Acropora millepora, can enhance them. The research used potions from protected and heavily fished reefs to test their effectiveness against a pathogen.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 2, 2019

Oldest miniaturized stone toolkits in Eurasia

New study reveals earliest microliths in South Asia and any rainforest environment worldwide, alongside tree-dwelling monkeys and tropical plants. The toolkits date back to 48,000-45,000 years ago and suggest the ecological flexibility of early Homo sapiens.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Geoanthropology·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 2, 2019

Engineered T cells may be harnessed to kill solid tumor cells

Researchers at Tel Aviv University have discovered that engineered T cells can target and kill solid tumor cells coated in specific antibodies. This breakthrough in immunotherapy shows promise for treating various types of cancer, offering a more targeted approach than traditional chemotherapy.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateOct 2, 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.

Fossil fish gives new insights into the evolution

A new fossil stingray, Lessiniabatis aenigmatica, has been discovered with an exceptional anatomy that differs from living species. The find provides insights into the evolution of these animals and their recovery in marine ecosystems after the end-Cretaceous mass extinction.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 2, 2019

Machine learning predicts behavior of biological circuits

Researchers at Duke University use machine learning to model complex biological circuits, achieving speeds of hours instead of years or months. By training a deep neural network on large datasets, they uncover patterns and interactions between variables that were previously impossible to discover.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 2, 2019

Understanding the genomic signature of coevolution

Researchers found that genetic diversity makes a striking comeback in the host population after resistance evolution, thanks to an interplay between selection and population growth. The study's findings suggest that eco-evolutionary feedback plays a key role in shaping molecular evolution during species interactions.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 2, 2019

Canadians told to stop taking aspirin to prevent first heart attack, stroke

New research warns Canadians against taking daily aspirin for primary prevention due to increased risk of major internal bleeding and potential increase in cancer deaths. Experts recommend alternative preventive measures such as smoking cessation, exercise, blood pressure tracking, and considering the Mediterranean diet.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalCanadian Family Physician·DateOct 2, 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.

Reaffirming the value of international collaborations

Despite advances in communication and travel, international collaborations in science are threatened by political and economic realities. Current tensions between the US and China exemplify these hurdles, with concerns about foreign nations exploiting and undermining US research activities.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateOct 2, 2019

Amputees merge with their bionic leg

Scientists have successfully merged three amputees with their bionic legs, allowing them to walk instinctively without mental effort. The new technology uses sensory feedback to deliver information wirelessly to the nervous system, reducing mental burden and improving performance.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateOct 2, 2019

Object identification and interaction with a smartphone knock

The new technology uses machine learning to analyze sound and vibration responses from a smartphone's built-in sensors. It achieved high accuracy in identifying everyday objects in various environments, paving the way for innovative object interaction applications.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·DateOct 2, 2019

Finding the 'magic angle' to create a new superconductor

Researchers at Ohio State University have made a discovery that could provide new insights into how superconductors might move energy more efficiently. They found that graphene can become a superconductor when twisted to an angle of around 0.9 degrees, which is less than previously thought.

SourceOhio State University·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 2, 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.

New imaging platform examines mechanisms behind coral bleaching

An interdisciplinary team from Northwestern University has developed a non-invasive imaging platform to study coral nanoscale structures and quantify pigment absorption in live corals. This tool could help researchers develop strategies to prevent coral reef death due to climate change.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 2, 2019

A new scientific instrument for the nation

The University of Delaware will lead the development of a world-class neutron spin echo spectrometer, allowing scientists to detect molecular motion in various materials. The instrument will advance research in engineering, soft matter, and biological sciences, benefiting humanity through new medicines and technologies.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·DateOct 2, 2019

Besides hot water, coral bleaching also about location, location, location

A recent study found that coral bleaching in the Indo-Pacific is driven by a variety of stressors, with each region responding differently to excess heat. The research suggests that coral responses to global climate change are changing, requiring management and policies to be aligned with location and type of stresses.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalNature Climate Change·DateOct 2, 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.

Drops in income may not only hurt the wallet, they may harm the brain

A study found that young adults experiencing annual income drops of 25% or more may be at risk of having thinking problems and reduced brain health in middle age. Participants with two or more income drops performed worse on cognitive tests, scoring 3.74 points lower than those with no income drops.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateOct 2, 2019

Inventing the world's strongest silver

Researchers create metal that is 42 percent stronger than previous record while maintaining electrical conductivity. The team's discovery combines nanocrystalline and nanotwinned structures to overcome traditional trade-offs between strength and conductivity.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalNature Materials·DateOct 2, 2019

Earnings disparities between female, male surgeons in Canada

A study of 3,275 surgeons found female surgeons earned less per hour and were less likely to perform lucrative procedures. The study also identified significant earnings differences between specialties, with women earning up to $60/hour less than men in cardiothoracic surgery.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateOct 2, 2019

A new route to blocking children's bone cancer

A study in mice showed that reducing a particular hormone signal can prevent the growth and spread of Ewing sarcoma, a bone cancer mainly found in teenagers. The findings suggest a potential treatment approach using existing drugs to neutralize glucocorticoid receptors.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalCell Reports·DateOct 2, 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 new strategy to alleviate sadness: Bring the emotion to life

A new study suggests that thinking of sadness as a person can help people regulate their emotions and make better purchasing decisions. Participants who wrote about sadness as a separate entity reported lower levels of sadness and made healthier choices, such as selecting a salad over cheesecake.

SourceSociety for Consumer Psychology·JournalJournal of Consumer Psychology·DateOct 2, 2019

Leg amputees feel and use the prosthesis as a real limb

Researchers at ETH Zurich developed a neuroprosthetic system that allows leg amputees to feel sensations from the prosthesis, giving them a sense of control and confidence while walking. The system involves tiny electrodes implanted in the nerve, allowing the brain to perceive the prosthesis as an extension of the body.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateOct 2, 2019

Gut bacteria 'fingerprint' predicts radiotherapy side effects

A new study shows that a reduced diversity of gut bacteria is associated with an increased risk of radiotherapy-induced gut damage. Patients at higher risk can be identified before radiotherapy, potentially benefiting from faecal transplants or altered radiation doses.

SourceInstitute of Cancer Research·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateOct 2, 2019

Microscopic evidence sheds light on the disappearance of the world's largest mammals

A new review highlights the role of advanced methods in understanding megafaunal extinctions, which occurred during dramatic climatic change and human dispersal. The study emphasizes the importance of combining different approaches to gain detailed insights into climate change, extinction chronologies, and species responses.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Geoanthropology·JournalBioScience·DateOct 2, 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.

Cleaning with bleach could create indoor air pollutants

Researchers discovered that bleach fumes combined with light and limonene from household products can form airborne particles harmful to pets and humans. These particles, known as secondary organic aerosols, have been linked to respiratory issues and other health effects.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateOct 2, 2019

Most kidney transplants between people with HIV have long-term success

Researchers found high rates of overall survival and kidney graft survival in recipients living with HIV who received kidney transplants from deceased donors with HIV. The study, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, showed that outcomes were comparable to those in a previous US study using kidneys from donors without HIV.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateOct 2, 2019

Hovering closer to the secrets of hummingbird flight

A team of researchers is working on understanding the agility of hummingbirds to develop robotic systems that can mimic their complex escape maneuvers. By studying the aerodynamics, perception, motion planning, and control of hummingbird flight, the team hopes to create robots that can achieve high agility in fluid environments.

SourcePenn State·DateOct 2, 2019

NASA examines extra-tropical large Lorenzo's rainfall

Lorenzo has transitioned to an extra-tropical cyclone, bringing hurricane-force winds and heavy rainfall to Ireland and the United Kingdom. The GPM core satellite detected heavy rainfall north of the center, with rates reaching over 1 inch per hour.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateOct 2, 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.

Asthma changes obesity rate in black female teens living in disadvantaged neighborhoods

Researchers at LSU Health New Orleans found that asthma status reversed the relationship between neighborhood disadvantage and obesity in African American adolescent females. The study analyzed data from 129 participants and found that those with asthma were less likely to be obese compared to those without asthma.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalObesity Science & Practice·DateOct 2, 2019

Battling BPA with biofilms

The University of Pittsburgh researcher is using biofilms and electrodes to remove BPA from water, a common contaminant found in plastics. The project aims to create an effective method for degrading BPA, which has been linked to fertility problems and other health issues.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·DateOct 2, 2019

Study: Carbon emissions soar as tourism reaches new heights

A recent study reveals that nearly half of routes analyzed exceeded an individual's annual mobility carbon budget, with direct routes generally producing lower emissions. The researchers suggest selecting nonstop routes whenever possible to mitigate carbon footprint.

SourceUniversity of Texas at San Antonio·JournalAnnals of Tourism Research·DateOct 2, 2019

TTUHSC researchers use NHANES to search for hypothyroid-sleep apnea link

Researchers estimate 19.6 million people have hypothyroidism, with individuals diagnosed more likely to develop sleep apnea. They also found patients undergoing hormone replacement therapy at the time were 2.51 times more likely to have a sleep apnea diagnosis.

SourceTexas Tech University Health Sciences Center·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateOct 2, 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.

Why some greens turn brown in historical paintings

Copper acetate and copper resinate pigments, used in Renaissance-era art, turned brown over time due to molecular changes triggered by light exposure. Boiling linseed oil before mixing slowed the darkening reaction.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalInorganic Chemistry·DateOct 2, 2019

Fragmented physical activity linked to greater mortality risk

A study of 548 older adults found that fragmented physical activity, measured by brief periods of activity and sedentary states, was associated with increased mortality risk. The researchers suggest that this may be an earlier indicator of mortality than total daily activity levels.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateOct 2, 2019

A study of educational sabotage

A study by domestic violence expert Rachel Voth Schrag explores the impact of educational sabotage on survivors, revealing tactics such as financial aid disruption, physical violence, and guilt induction. The research highlights the importance of addressing school sabotage to promote students' well-being and safety.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalViolence Against Women·DateOct 2, 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.

How opt-out organ donation could affect US waiting lists

A new study from the University of Michigan suggests that an opt-out organ donation policy could alleviate some of the burden on US waiting lists, but its impact would be marginal. The researchers found that such a policy could potentially translate to large gains in life years for thousands of patients awaiting organ transplantation.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateOct 2, 2019

The propensity to hear 'voices' in Schizophrenia may be established by infancy

Researchers found that patients with schizophrenia who experienced auditory hallucinations had abnormal tonotopic organization of the auditory cortex, established in infancy. This suggests that the vulnerability to develop 'voices' is probably established many years before symptoms begin.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalSchizophrenia·DateOct 2, 2019

Novel material with strong action against fungi and tumors was developed

A new composite material with enhanced antifungal activity was created by irradiating metallic tungstate with electrons and femtosecond laser pulses. The modified compound displayed antifungal activity 32 times greater than original silver tungstate, while also showing promise in treating bladder cancer cells.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 2, 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.

Smartphone typing speeds catching up with keyboards

A study of over 37,000 users reveals that smartphone typing speeds are decreasing the gap between mobile devices and physical keyboards. Young people aged 10-19 years old can type around 10 words-per-minute faster than their parents' generation.

SourceAalto University·DateOct 2, 2019

CRISPR technology reveals secret in monarchs' survival

Researchers used CRISPR technology to study the genetic changes that allow monarch butterflies to survive toxic milkweed by editing genes into laboratory fruit flies. This breakthrough reveals a key adaptation in the evolution of these iconic insects.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature·DateOct 2, 2019

Preventing future forest diebacks

Researchers argue that Germany's reforestation plan won't protect forests from future climate change. Instead, preserving dead wood and promoting diverse tree structures could increase resistance to extreme weather events and pests.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalScience·DateOct 2, 2019

Moffitt researchers identify mechanism controlling DNA repair

Researchers at Moffitt Cancer Center have identified a new mechanism controlling DNA repair, where βarrestin-1 targets 53BP1 for protein degradation. This finding provides a novel strategy for developing therapeutic agents with radiation protection properties.

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalCell Death and Differentiation·DateOct 2, 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.

Two ancient migration events in the Andromeda Galaxy: Dynamical footprints uncovered by galactic archaeologists in galaxy next door

Astronomers have uncovered two historic events in the Andromeda Galaxy, with evidence suggesting major changes to its structure occurred a few billion years ago and much earlier. The findings provide insights into the evolution and formation of both the Andromeda Galaxy and our own Milky Way.

SourceAssociation of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA)·JournalNature·DateOct 2, 2019

Fungal invasion of pancreas creates cancer risk

Certain fungi can expand their population over a thousand-fold, encouraging pancreatic cancer growth, according to a new study. The study found that treating mice with an antifungal drug reduced PDA tumor weight by 20-40 percent.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalNature·DateOct 2, 2019

Lifetime indoor tanning associated with squamous cell carcinoma cancer

A large Norwegian study of nearly 160,000 women found a significant association between cumulative exposure to indoor tanning and the development of squamous cell carcinoma. The findings suggest that even short-term indoor tanning can increase cancer risk, emphasizing the importance of sun protection measures.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Dermatology·DateOct 2, 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.

Mutant cells team up to make an even deadlier blood cancer

Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory discovered that the IDH2 and SRSF2 gene mutations work together to cause acute myeloid leukemia (AML), a deadly blood cancer. The team found that the presence of these mutations leads to errors in RNA splicing, resulting in defective blood cells.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalNature·DateOct 2, 2019

Grouping 'smart cities' into types may help aspiring city planners find a path

A comparative analysis of 60 municipal smart-city plans reveals four major types: Essential Services Model, Smart Transportation Model, Broad Spectrum Model, and Business Ecosystem Model. These categories offer targeted suggestions for implementing smart-city components, tailored to each city's socio-economic circumstances.

SourcePenn State·JournalTelecommunications Policy·DateOct 2, 2019

Seafood consumption during pregnancy may improve attention capacity in children

Eating a seafood-rich diet during early pregnancy is associated with better attention outcomes in children, according to the study. The researchers found that consuming fatty fish and lean fish had a positive effect on children's attention capacity, while canned tuna and shellfish were linked to lower scores.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalInternational Journal of Epidemiology·DateOct 2, 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.

Addictive de-vices: How we can unplug from this 21st century epidemic

Researchers warn of the dangers of digital addiction, citing links to physical dangers like distracted driving and increased anxiety. Experts propose policy changes, including mandatory app labeling, natural breaks in digital offerings, and taxes on addictive services.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalJournal of Public Policy & Marketing·DateOct 2, 2019

How to make online recommendations work better

A new study in the Journal of Marketing finds that user-based framing outperforms item-based framing in online recommendations, providing customers with a sense of taste matching beyond product attributes. This approach increases click-through rates and can be adapted at little cost to maximize return on recommender systems.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateOct 2, 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.

Tracking the HI virus

A European research team has developed a method to track the HI virus's spread between living cells using superresolution STED fluorescence microscopy. The study reveals that the HIV pathogen creates a specific lipid environment for replication, providing a potential target for antiviral drugs.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 2, 2019

Discovery of new source of cancer antigens may expand cancer vaccine capabilities

Researchers at Arizona State University have discovered a common source of tumor mutations that could lead to the development of universal cancer vaccines. They found that errors in RNA transcription and splicing in tumors can produce unique protein fragments, or peptides, that can be recognized by the immune system.

SourceArizona State University·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 2, 2019

Managing stormwater and stream restoration projects together

Researchers found that combining stormwater controls with stream restoration results in improved erosion reduction. The study suggests that watershed-scale implementation of stormwater controls is essential for reducing channel erosion and pollutant loading, making it a more effective approach than individual restoration projects.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalJournal of Environmental Quality·DateOct 2, 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.

Hypoglycaemia prevention could cut hospital stays

A systematic review and meta-analysis found that people with diabetes exposed to hypoglycaemia during their admission had an increased average length of stay. The risk of inpatient mortality almost doubled in this group, highlighting the importance of preventing hypoglycaemia to improve patient outcomes.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalDiabetic Medicine·DateOct 2, 2019

Using past extinctions to drive future conservation

Researchers used fine-grain analyses and new technologies to study past extinctions, gaining insights into animal populations' responses to climate change and other external drivers. The findings inform present approaches to ecosystem management and may even aid in species rewilding efforts.

SourceAmerican Institute of Biological Sciences·JournalBioScience·DateOct 2, 2019

Planes and vehicles main culprits masking iconic natural sounds in peaceful national parks

Research found that vehicles and aircraft are the main culprits masking iconic natural sounds in peaceful national parks. The study analyzed nearly 47,000 hours of audio clips from 66 national parks, revealing that anthropogenic noise causes a ten-fold increase in natural background sound levels in over a third of parks.

SourceEcological Society of America·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateOct 2, 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.

Teens taking oral contraceptives may be at increased risk for depressive symptoms

A new study found no overall association between oral contraceptive use and depressive symptom severity in young women, but reported higher symptoms in 16-year-old girls. The researchers suggest that the bidirectional relationship between oral contraceptive use and depressive symptoms may be at play, with both contributing to each other.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateOct 2, 2019

Nuclear war between India and Pakistan would launch a global climate catastrophe

Researchers warn that a nuclear conflict between India and Pakistan would release massive amounts of black carbon into the atmosphere, blocking out sunlight and cooling the planet by 2-5°C. This would lead to severe droughts, diminished plant growth, and potentially mass starvation, threatening global stability.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 2, 2019

New approach to pain treatment in diseases of the pancreas

Researchers at Technical University of Munich have discovered a specific neuroenzyme responsible for analgesics resistance in chronic pancreatitis. The team found that targeting this enzyme, nNOS, with an existing inhibitor reduces pain perception in animal models, offering new hope for pancreatic patients

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalEBioMedicine·DateOct 2, 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.

Researchers use drones to weigh whales

Researchers used drones to take aerial photos of southern right whales, allowing them to calculate body volume and mass without weighing live whales. This innovative method enables new avenues of research into whale physiology and ecology.

SourceBritish Ecological Society·JournalMethods in Ecology and Evolution·DateOct 2, 2019

Poor mental and physical health in pregnancy linked to infant sleep problems

Severe infant sleep problems in the first year are linked to poor maternal mental and physical health during pregnancy. Mothers experiencing persistent and severe sleep issues were more likely to have poorer mental and physical health during pregnancy.

SourceMurdoch Childrens Research Institute·JournalJournal of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics·DateOct 2, 2019

Cancer data provide insights into occurrence, overdiagnosis, and treatment advances

A 40-year epidemiological study found that cancer incidence and mortality rates often move in concert for certain cancers, such as lung cancer, indicating a desirable trend. However, other cancers like thyroid, kidney, and melanoma show rising incidence rates with stagnant mortality rates, suggesting overdiagnosis may be at play

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateOct 2, 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.

Researchers use drones to weigh whales

Scientists develop a method to estimate whale weight using drone aerial images, opening up new avenues of research on growth, energy requirements and survival. The innovative approach can be used for studying other marine mammals where alternative methods are not feasible.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalMethods in Ecology and Evolution·DateOct 2, 2019

Tunable optical chip paves way for new quantum devices

Scientists demonstrate a new type of quantum device using a silicon carbide photonic integrated chip that can be tunable, paving the way for next-generation quantum information processing devices. The approach overcomes some of the fragility drawbacks of previously reported SiC platforms.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Letters·DateOct 2, 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.

ADHD and risk of giving birth as teenagers

A Swedish study of over 384,000 women found that those with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) had a higher likelihood of giving birth as teenagers. The research suggests that teenage girls with ADHD may face increased risk of early childbirth, highlighting the need for closer monitoring and support.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateOct 2, 2019

An India-Pakistan nuclear war could kill millions, threaten global starvation

A new study suggests that a nuclear war between India and Pakistan could result in 50-125 million deaths, with temperatures potentially dropping by up to 9 degrees Fahrenheit. The conflict could also lead to severe food shortages worldwide, affecting human populations higher on the food chain.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 2, 2019

Laser therapy gains credibility as effective option for treating vaginal problems

A new study published by The Menopause Society finds that fractional CO2 laser therapy is as effective and safe as vaginal estrogen in improving sexual and urinary functionality in postmenopausal women. After 6 months of follow-up, researchers reported similar improvements in symptoms such as vaginal dryness, itching, and burning.

SourceThe Menopause Society·JournalMenopause·DateOct 2, 2019

Plant diversity a casualty of high-severity wildfires

A study by University of California, Davis, found that high-severity fires are turning forest patches into shrub fields, indefinitely in some cases. The researchers suggest a multifaceted management approach to help forests adapt and preserve plant diversity.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalEcosphere·DateOct 2, 2019

Argonne receives more than $1 million for quantum information science

The U.S. Department of Energy's Argonne National Laboratory has received $1.19 million in funding for five projects related to quantum information science (QIS). Researchers will develop ultra-sensitive detectors to detect dark matter and simulate fundamental theories on a quantum computer.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·DateOct 2, 2019

Reshaping rehab recovery

A new intelligent depth sensor system will track and assess daily activities of patients recovering from stroke in their own homes. The system provides personalized therapy plans tailored to individual patient goals and abilities.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·DateOct 2, 2019

CU Anschutz receives grant for cancer prevention and control

The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus has received a grant to advance implementation science and cancer control efforts. The Center will develop resources and education to enhance cancer prevention and control in Colorado and nationally.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·DateOct 2, 2019

Researchers repurpose failed cancer drug into printable semiconductor

Researchers from the University of Illinois have discovered a way to repurpose biological molecules, once considered for cancer treatment, as organic semiconductors. These molecules can interact with biological material with high specificity, making them good candidates for use in biosensors.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 2, 2019

Quantum vacuum: Less than zero energy

A research team investigated the possibility of negative energy in quantum physics, finding that while energy can be less than zero under certain conditions, it must be paid back. The study placed tight bounds on negative energy and connected it to quintessential properties of quantum mechanics.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateOct 2, 2019

Going to sleep on your back in late pregnancy

A recent study published in JAMA Network Open suggests that sleeping on one's back during the third trimester of pregnancy may be associated with average lower birth weights. The study investigated this potential link and found a correlation between back sleepers and smaller newborns.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateOct 2, 2019

Recommendations to prevent secondary fractures in adults 65+ with osteoporosis

A multistakeholder coalition has issued clinical recommendations to prevent secondary fractures in older adults with osteoporosis. The guidelines recommend increased communication with patients regarding fracture risk and mortality outcomes, as well as fracture risk reduction strategies.

SourceHebrew SeniorLife Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·DateOct 2, 2019

Stanford-made exhibit plunges people in the world of microbes

Researchers at Stanford University and the Exploratorium developed an immersive exhibit allowing visitors to interact with single-cell organisms called Euglena. Visitors spent twice as much time engaging with interactive exhibits compared to traditional microscope-only displays.

SourceStanford University·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateOct 2, 2019

Swimming toward an 'internet of health'?

The authors propose an 'internet of health' where wearable sensors provide non-intrusive data on a person's health, correlated with environmental factors. This could lead to early disease prevention and personalized medicine.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Sensors·DateOct 2, 2019

Decades-long drop in breast cancer death rate continues

The breast cancer death rate has slowed in recent years, but the gap between black and white women remains significant. Breast cancer incidence rates have continued to rise, with a greater increase seen in hormone receptor-positive disease.

SourceAmerican Cancer Society·DateOct 2, 2019

FODMAPs diet relieves symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease

A new study from King's College London found that a low FODMAP diet improved certain gut symptoms such as swelling of the stomach and flatulence in patients with IBD. The diet reduced gut inflammation and improved health-related quality of life, with 52% of patients reporting adequate relief of gut symptoms.

SourceKing's College London·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateOct 2, 2019