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Science News for October 8, 2019


Craving junk food after a sleepless night?

A study by Northwestern University found that sleep-deprived individuals are more likely to choose high-energy dense foods due to an imbalance in brain regions receiving food signals. The researchers suggest that paying attention to our nose's influence on food choices may help alleviate unhealthy snacking habits.

SourceNorthwestern University·DateOct 8, 2019

Developing electrically active materials to repair damaged hearts

Scientists are developing new electrically active materials to repair damaged heart tissue. These materials can conduct electricity, stimulate heart muscle growth, and potentially overcome scar tissue that interferes with healthy heart function.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAPL Bioengineering·DateOct 8, 2019

Regular exercise is good for your heart, no matter how old you are!

A new study in the Canadian Journal of Cardiology shows that older individuals have the most to gain from rehabilitation programs and may benefit the most. Regular exercise improves physical capacity, anxiety, and depression in patients with cardiovascular disease, regardless of age.

SourceElsevier·JournalCanadian Journal of Cardiology·DateOct 8, 2019

NYDOE AIDS Institute awards $1M grant to SUNY Downstate HEAT program

The NYDOH AIDS Institute awarded a 5-year, $1 million grant to the Health Education Alternatives for Teens Program (HEAT) at SUNY Downstate to provide essential health services for transgender and gender non-conforming youth. The grant will nearly triple the program's capacity to serve over 100 patients annually.

SourceSUNY Downstate Health Science University·DateOct 8, 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.

UA research shows drug can extend survival rates for heart failure patients

Researchers at the University of Arizona have shown that Aliskiren, a FDA-approved drug, can delay the progression of congestive heart failure and lengthen survival rates in properly identified patients. The study used non-invasive technology to evaluate changes in muscle mass and fluid retention over time.

SourceUniversity of Arizona Health Sciences·JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences·DateOct 8, 2019

Air pollution linked to hair loss, new research reveals

Research shows exposure to air pollutants like particulate matter is linked to decreased levels of proteins responsible for hair growth and retention. The study found that higher concentrations of PM10-like dust and diesel particulate led to greater decreases in these proteins.

SourceSpink Health·DateOct 8, 2019

Melanoma variability at the single-cell level predicts treatment responses

Researchers found that differences at the single-cell level can predict responses to BRAF inhibitor therapy, and leveraging these differences may improve patient outcomes. Maintaining a population of cells within the drug-sensitive State 1 was critical to maintaining drug sensitivity.

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalEBioMedicine·DateOct 8, 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.

CDC designates UMass Amherst a flu forecasting Center of Excellence

The University of Massachusetts Amherst has been selected as a CDC Influenza Forecasting Center of Excellence, receiving up to $3 million in funding to develop accurate flu forecasting models. The team will work closely with the CDC and collaborate with industry partners to improve public health response and communication.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·DateOct 8, 2019

CDC funds Carnegie Mellon's Flu Forecasting Center

Carnegie Mellon University has been designated as a CDC flu forecasting center of excellence, receiving $3 million in funding to develop more accurate forecasting tools. The new center will also explore how to effectively communicate forecast information to the public and leaders.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·DateOct 8, 2019

Patented concept from Halle: novel, high-performance diodes and transistors

Researchers from MLU Halle have created a patented concept for novel diodes and transistors that utilize spintronics to improve energy efficiency. The new components combine data processing and storage with no energy loss, offering flexible reconfigurability.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalACS Applied Electronic Materials·DateOct 8, 2019

New addiction treatments hold promise for stemming the opioid crisis, scientists say

Researchers propose novel treatment strategies that can help prevent opioid abuse by identifying vulnerable individuals through advances in brain science. These findings have implications for addressing the opioid epidemic, particularly in understanding the neurological response to opioids.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science in the Public Interest·DateOct 8, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

UMD discovers new mechanism in the liver that helps prevent invasive fungal infections

Researchers at UMD have identified a new pathway by which liver macrophages capture fungi in the bloodstream, preventing their spread and potentially treating various types of fungal infections. This discovery has significant implications for the treatment of invasive fungal infections, which kill 1.5 million people worldwide each year.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 8, 2019

Exploring mysteries of the universe

A team led by Prof Swati Singh is exploring the use of quantum systems to study astrophysical phenomena. They are developing smaller detectors that can be used to detect weak forces exerted by dark matter and gravitational waves, which could provide new insights into these mysteries.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·DateOct 8, 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.

The deeper these octopuses live, the wartier their skin

Researchers discovered that warty and smooth-skinned octopuses from different depths are the same species. The deeper they live, the bumpier their skin and smaller their bodies. Genetic analysis confirmed these findings, indicating that environmental factors, such as food availability, influence the animals' appearance.

SourceField Museum·JournalBulletin of Marine Science·DateOct 8, 2019

Mapping normal breast development to better understand cancer

Researchers used state-of-the-art technology to profile each cell during normal breast development, creating a molecular map to understand how breast tissues are formed and maintained. The team found that cells were already poised to become either basal or luminal cells before birth, with abnormal alterations leading to tumor development.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalCell Reports·DateOct 8, 2019

How to keep cool in a blackout during a heatwave

Researchers found that applying normal tap water to the chest, arms, back, legs, and face with a sponge lowered cardiovascular strain and halved dehydration rates compared to just drinking water. Immersing feet in water was also effective, but not as effective as self-dousing.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalJAMA·DateOct 8, 2019

Tau-mediated RNA splicing errors linked to Alzheimer's disease

Researchers found that aggregates of tau protein disrupt RNA splicing, leading to global disruptions in brain cells. This discovery presents an exciting new possibility for using RNA splicing as a potential target for Alzheimer's disease treatment.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalCell Reports·DateOct 8, 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.

Paclitaxel-coated devices are safe for unblocking arteries in lower limbs

A study of nearly 65,000 patients has found that paclitaxel-coated devices are safe and not linked to an increase in deaths. The analysis, which is the largest of its kind, suggests that drug-eluting stents and balloons have no increased risk of death over long-term follow-up.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateOct 8, 2019

A simple way to control swarming molecular machines

Researchers at Hokkaido University developed a method to control swarming molecular machines using simple mechanical stimuli, exhibiting zigzag patterns or forming vortices. The system uses motor proteins and microtubules, which can self-repair after disruption.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalACS Nano·DateOct 8, 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.

DNA metabarcoding useful for analyzing human diet

A new study demonstrates DNA metabarcoding can amplify and sequence plant DNA from human stool, tracking dietary intake with high accuracy. The method has potential for characterizing animal and fungal components of human diets, offering a promising alternative to traditional assessment techniques.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmSystems·DateOct 8, 2019

Weight stigma affects gay men on dating apps

A University of Waterloo study found that Grindr's anonymous nature and lack of size inclusivity contribute to weight stigma among gay men, leading to body dissatisfaction and sexual objectification. Protective factors like positive self-esteem and social support can mitigate these effects.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalBody Image·DateOct 8, 2019

Scientists discover new antibiotic in tropical forest

Researchers have discovered a new antibiotic, phazolicin, produced by a soil bacterium from a Mexican tropical forest that can prevent harmful bacteria from growing in plant roots. The findings suggest the potential for using this bacterium as a 'plant probiotic' to improve crop health and resistance to disease.

SourceRutgers University·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 8, 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.

Yale study examines shifts in fertility rates among Generation X women

A Yale-led study found that total fertility rates (TFRs) increased across all educational groups in Generation X women, with the greatest increase seen in college-educated women. College-educated women tend to have a three-child norm, driven by a larger proportion of those with two children having a third child.

SourceYale University·JournalPopulation Studies·DateOct 8, 2019

Fun run

A University of California - Santa Barbara mechanical engineer's simple running hack uses a light resistance band to increase efficiency by approximately 6.4%. The device optimizes the work needed to swing legs, reducing energy required during each impact with the ground and allowing for shorter strides.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateOct 8, 2019

Who is telling the truth about their health?

A study published in PLOS ONE found that self-reported health data can be highly biased depending on the country or age group. Researchers compared self-reported measures with tested equivalents and found significant differences in reporting behavior between countries and age groups. This highlights the importance of treating self-repo...

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 8, 2019

Modern family roles improve life satisfaction for parents

The study found that modern family roles have closed the 'maternal happiness gap', with mothers and women without children having similar life satisfaction. Meanwhile, fathers' life satisfaction has increased as they take on more active roles in childcare.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalGender & Society·DateOct 8, 2019
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

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

The science of 'Breaking Bad': Would you know if meth was cooked inside your house?

Researchers analyzed a former methamphetamine-cooking house and found high levels of contamination in everyday items, including blinds, carpets, walls, and even toys. The study raises questions about the effectiveness of current surface detection methods in identifying indoor contamination risks.

SourceFlinders University·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateOct 8, 2019

Creating a single phonon in ambient conditions

Physicists at EPFL's Institute of Physics have successfully created a single phonon in ambient conditions, allowing them to study quantum phenomena in naturally occurring materials. The breakthrough enables the creation of room-temperature ultrafast quantum technologies with potential applications in various fields.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalPhysical Review X·DateOct 8, 2019

Badger behavior inside the cull zone

A study by ZSL and Imperial College London found that badgers covered 61% more land each month after a population was culled. Surviving badgers visited 45% more fields and increased the odds of visiting neighboring territories, potentially increasing TB transmission risk to both cattle and other badgers.

SourceZoological Society of London·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateOct 8, 2019

Forward or backward? New pathways for protons in water or methanol

Researchers have discovered a new mechanism for proton transfer between acids and bases, involving hydroxide/methoxide ions rather than hydrated excess protons. This breakthrough has significant implications for aqueous proton transport in solutions, hydrogen fuel cells, and transmembrane proteins.

SourceForschungsverbund Berlin·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateOct 8, 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.

Using machine learning to understand climate change

Researchers have developed a machine learning model to predict global ocean methane emissions, providing a more accurate understanding of the atmosphere's methane cycle. The study reveals that very shallow coastal waters contribute around 50% of total ocean methane emissions, despite making up only 5% of the ocean area.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 8, 2019

Children's language skills may be harmed by social hardship

Research suggests that children from economically deprived areas are three times more likely to have speech, language and communication concerns than their more affluent peers. This study highlights the need for policies addressing social factors that impact language development.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateOct 8, 2019

Pressure runs high at edge of solar system

Researchers have measured pressure at the edge of the solar system for the first time, finding it to be greater than expected. The pressure, caused by plasma, magnetic fields and particles like ions and cosmic rays, was calculated using observations of galactic cosmic rays from NASA's Voyager spacecraft.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateOct 8, 2019

HHS awards major funding award to WFIRM

The Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine has been awarded a five-year, $24 million grant from the US Department of Health and Human Services to advance its lung-on-a-chip technology. The funding will be used to model the effects of chlorine gas on human lungs and develop treatments for resulting injuries.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·DateOct 8, 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.

Screening kindergarten readiness

Researchers found that a kindergarten readiness test can predict future academic success and social behavioral skills. Children with poor academic readiness are up to 10 times more likely to have low reading scores at the end of first grade.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalSchool Psychology·DateOct 8, 2019

Fish in early childhood reduces risk of disease

Research found that introducing fish or cod liver oil early in life significantly reduces the occurrence of eczema, wheezing and asthma at age six. Children who consumed fish weekly until two years old showed a 28-40% lower risk.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalNutrients·DateOct 8, 2019

Need to balance guides development of limb-body coordination

Zebrafish larvae's ability to coordinate movement and maintain balance improves as they age, mirroring human brain function. The study suggests that the developing fish rely on their vestibular organs to oversee improvements in coordination needed to remain horizontal.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·DateOct 8, 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.

Using plasma to find Alzheimer's

Tymora Analytical Operations is developing a plasma-based approach for early detection of Alzheimer's disease. The company aims to analyze exosome proteins and phosphoproteins in plasma samples to identify biomarkers linked to the disease.

SourcePurdue University·DateOct 8, 2019

Four Loko continues to wreak havoc among young drinkers

New studies from George Mason University found that young drinkers underestimates alcohol content in Four Loko, even with new labels, and experienced dangerous effects such as blacking out or vomiting. The studies suggest that limiting the alcohol content of these beverages could help reduce their harmful effects on young people.

SourceGeorge Mason University·JournalThe American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse·DateOct 8, 2019

Low intelligence linked to suicide risk later in life

People with low intelligence scores are at a higher risk of suicide and attempted suicide later in life. The study found that the association between suicidal behavior and emotional control develops over time, with men with low IQ remaining vulnerable throughout their lives.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalPsychological Medicine·DateOct 8, 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.

AFAR to lead national program office of new Clin-STAR coordinating center of the NIA

The Clin-STAR Coordinating Center, led by AFAR, will promote and enrich the career development of clinician-investigators across specialties and disciplines. The center aims to improve care for older adults through a multi-faceted national platform, leveraging the expertise of four principal investigators from Johns Hopkins, UCSF, Yale...

SourceAmerican Federation for Aging Research·DateOct 8, 2019

Rice bran may help curb malnutrition, diarrhea for infants

A new clinical trial found that adding rice bran to infant diets enhanced growth and reduced diarrhea, while also showing potential for improving gut health. The study's results suggest that rice bran could be a practical dietary intervention strategy in regions with high rates of impaired growth and development.

SourceColorado State University·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 8, 2019

Thin to win

University of Utah engineers create a new type of optical lens that is thinner and lighter than conventional lenses, working with night imaging and enabling longer-flying drones and military applications. The lens is made of plastic instead of glass, reducing manufacturing costs.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 8, 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.

Pesticide companies leverage regulations for financial gains

A Princeton researcher found that pesticide companies lobby for stricter regulations on less profitable products, allowing them to clear the way for more expensive alternatives. This practice has significant economic and public health implications.

SourcePrinceton School of Public and International Affairs·JournalAmerican Journal of Political Science·DateOct 8, 2019

Scientists observe a single quantum vibration under ordinary conditions

Researchers create and observe a single phonon in diamond at room temperature, bringing quantum behavior closer to everyday life. This breakthrough technique can now be used to probe other materials for quantum vibrations, potentially leading to advancements in solar cells and quantum computing.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review X·DateOct 8, 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.

Sweet corn growers, processors could dramatically increase yield, profit

A new study in PLOS ONE shows that certain hybrids are naturally density tolerant, improving yield when planted at higher populations. Increasing populations of density-tolerant hybrids can lead to an average extra $40 per acre in profit for growers and up to $120 to $280 per acre for processors.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 8, 2019

Research identifies factors influencing how religious identity interacts with workplace

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University identified three key factors influencing the interaction between employees' religious identity and workplace: personal preferences, opportunities for expression, and individual worker characteristics. The study recommends ways management can promote inclusivity and reduce conflict by creating a...

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalHuman Resource Management·DateOct 8, 2019

Skin cancer prevention program may have reduced melanoma in Australians

A recent study found that the SunSmart skin cancer prevention program contributed to a decline in melanoma among younger Australians. The use of sun protection behaviors increased rapidly after the program commenced, with maximal sun protection including shade also seeing significant improvements.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateOct 8, 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.

Relatively unhappy

Researchers found that strict labor laws lead to higher levels of temporary and informal employment, resulting in reduced happiness and life satisfaction among these workers. Women tend to feel the impact at a deeper level.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalJournal of Happiness Studies·DateOct 8, 2019

New approach for modern power grids that increases efficiency, reduces cost

Researchers from Singapore University of Technology and Design proposed a novel probabilistic dispatch strategy to minimize generation costs while ensuring constraint satisfaction in modern power grids. The approach significantly decreases the probability of constraint violation without impacting nominal power generation cost.

SourceSingapore University of Technology and Design·JournalIEEE Transactions on Control of Network Systems·DateOct 8, 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.

Rice irrigation worsened landslides in deadliest earthquake of 2018 finds NTU study

A recent NTU study found that widespread liquefaction in irrigated areas contributed to devastating landslides in Palu, Indonesia, during the 7.5 magnitude earthquake. The research highlights the urgent need for Southeast Asian nations to review locations with intensive rice farming activities near active faults.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalNature Geoscience·DateOct 8, 2019

A close up on the real world -- atomic migration under ambient conditions

Osaka University researchers use in situ environmental transmission electron microscopy to visualize atomic dynamics on metal surfaces under atmospheric conditions. They track progressive changes at the surface of gold electrodes during oxidation reactions, providing new insights into materials science.

SourceOsaka University·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateOct 8, 2019

Study: Innovative pancreatic cancer treatment may rev up immune system

A new treatment combination using stereotactic body radiotherapy and interleukin-12 has been shown to cure pancreatic cancer in mice by activating T-cells to attack cancer cells. The treatment also destroys pancreatic cells that have spread to the liver, a common site for metastatic disease.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalCell Reports·DateOct 8, 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.

New study challenges our understanding of premature ageing

A new Finnish study published in Nature Metabolism challenges the long-held mitochondrial theory of aging by proposing that compromised nuclear DNA maintenance is responsible for accelerated aging. The study found that Mitutor mice, which harbor a defective polymerase-gamma enzyme, present with pronounced mtDNA mutagenesis and accelera...

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalNature Metabolism·DateOct 8, 2019

Study reveals limitations of method for determining protein structure

A new study shows that X-ray crystallography can provide inaccurate information about critical cell membrane proteins, leading to poor drug design. Researchers used supercomputing to simulate molecular dynamics of a membrane protein and found that unresolved loops can stabilize the protein despite apparent lack of structure.

SourceUniversity of Arkansas·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 8, 2019

Unlocking the secrets of gallstones

A team of researchers at FAU has discovered the mechanism behind gallstone formation, finding that neutrophil granulocytes cover crystals with their genetic material to form stones. The discovery opens up new treatment options, including the use of beta blockers and PAD inhibitors.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalImmunity·DateOct 8, 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.

Influenza evolution patterns change with time, complicating vaccine design

Researchers discovered a 'senescence' pattern in influenza virus surface protein mutations, making it harder to predict future changes. This understanding can improve vaccine strain selection, ultimately enhancing protection against seasonal flu outbreaks.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 8, 2019

Accidental discovery of strong and unbreakable molecular switch

Physicists have accidentally discovered a material that can change shape without breaking, a property that could lead to new applications in fields like artificial muscles and pumps. The material, called 4-DBpFO, changes shape at temperatures around 180 degrees Celsius due to molecular movement.

SourceRadboud University Nijmegen·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 8, 2019

One in three young adults receive medication for opioid use disorder after overdose

A new study found that one in three young adults (18-45 years old) received medication for opioid use disorder within 12 months of a non-fatal overdose. The study shows that age affects the type of medication administered, with younger adults more likely to receive naltrexone and older adults more likely to receive methadone.

SourceBoston Medical Center·JournalAnnals of Emergency Medicine·DateOct 8, 2019

A look at Japan's evolving intelligence efforts

A new history of Japan's intelligence efforts, right up to the present, highlights the country's recent revival of its intelligence operations. The book attributes this shift to a combination of strategic environment changes, technological innovations, and intelligence failures.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateOct 8, 2019

A cool alternative to air conditioning

Researchers developed a low-cost, non-electric cooling technology using a polymer film that can cool buildings in metropolitan areas during the day. The tech achieves this by exploiting spectral overlap between atmospheric window and thermal radiation emitted by buildings.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Sustainability·DateOct 8, 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.

Buying less is better than buying 'green' -- for the planet and your happiness

A new study from the University of Arizona suggests that reducing consumption is more effective in improving personal well-being and lower psychological distress compared to green buying. Participants with fewer materialistic values were more likely to engage in reduced consumption and reported higher personal well-being.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalYoung Consumers Insight and Ideas for Responsible Marketers·DateOct 8, 2019

Study recommends special protection of emperor penguins

A new study recommends that emperor penguin populations be listed as 'vulnerable' due to projected sea ice loss and rising temperatures. The researchers advocate for improved climate change forecasting and enhanced protection measures to safeguard the species.

SourceBritish Antarctic Survey·JournalBiological Conservation·DateOct 8, 2019

NCI-sponsored trial explores better treatment for brain tumors in children

The study aims to examine the efficacy of a drug that inhibits an enzyme used by brain tumors to protect themselves from the immune response. Adding the inhibitor to chemotherapy and radiation therapy may enable lower doses, better quality of life, and improved survival for children with recurrent or newly diagnosed brain tumors.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·DateOct 8, 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.

How can ultrasonic brain stimulation cure brain diseases?

Researchers have identified the mechanism underlying ultrasonic brain stimulation's neuromodulation effect, revealing that TRPA1 channels in astrocytes play a crucial role. This non-invasive approach has shown promise for treating movement disorders and may also be useful for conditions like dementia, concussions, and depression.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalCurrent Biology·DateOct 8, 2019

Flagging false Facebook posts as satire helps reduce belief

A new study from Ohio State University found that labeling false Facebook posts as satire, humor, parody, or hoax reduces users' belief in the falsehoods and their willingness to share them. In contrast, flagging inaccurate posts as disputed by fact-checkers or fellow users did not have a significant impact.

SourceOhio State University·DateOct 8, 2019

Prenatal stress could affect baby's brain, say researchers

Researchers found evidence of impaired white matter tract development in premature babies whose mothers experienced more prenatal stress. The study highlights the importance of supporting expectant mothers and providing interventions to mitigate adverse outcomes.

SourceKing's College London·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateOct 8, 2019

Smaller than a coin

Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a compact spectrometer that can analyze infrared light in the same way as conventional spectrometers. The device uses special waveguides with an adjustable optical refractive index to disperse the spectrum of incident light, allowing for broad spectral analysis.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Photonics·DateOct 8, 2019

Cooling nanotube resonators with electrons

Researchers at ICFO have successfully cooled nanomechanical resonators using electron transport, enabling the observation of quantum effects on demand. By applying a constant current of electrons through the resonator, they reduced thermal vibration fluctuations, achieving a population number of 4.6 quanta of vibration.

SourceICFO-The Institute of Photonic Sciences·JournalNature Physics·DateOct 8, 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.

Stabilizing multilayer flows may improve transportation of heavy oils

A new technique using viscoplastic lubrication stabilizes multilayer flows, allowing for efficient transportation of heavy oils. By positioning a layer of yield stress between the oil and lubricant, researchers eliminate interfacial instabilities and improve flow stability.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateOct 8, 2019

Pharmacists provide patient value in team-based care

The Pharmacist-Led Chronic Care Management Services model has been shown to improve patient outcomes and streamline medication regimens. By integrating pharmacists into the healthcare team, patients receive comprehensive medication management and lifestyle education.

SourceUniversity of North Texas Health Science Center·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateOct 8, 2019

Research maps key signaling pathways linking calcium entry and exit in activated T cells

A study by Temple-led researchers describes a unique mechanism for coordinating calcium entrance and exit 'doors' on T cells, which helps them carry out their jobs and ensure normal immune function. The research offers new insight into calcium signaling that could help scientists better understand autoimmune and immunodeficiency diseases.

SourceTemple University Health System·JournalScience Signaling·DateOct 8, 2019

New evidence on the mistreatment of women during childbirth

A recent WHO-led study in four countries found that over one-third of women experience physical and verbal abuse during childbirth, with younger, less educated women at highest risk. The study highlights the need for respectful maternity care and informed policies to address these inequalities.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalThe Lancet·DateOct 8, 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.

Cheap as chips: identifying plant genes to ensure food security

Researchers developed a new approach to identify plant genes that control traits, enabling more efficient breeding of affordable and sustainable crop varieties. The method is valuable for global food security and human nutrition, particularly for crops such as maize, vegetables, fruits, and grains.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalBMC Plant Biology·DateOct 8, 2019