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Science News for September 10, 2019


Australian immunology pioneer Jacques Miller wins Lasker Award

Jacques Miller's discovery of immune cells T and B cells has had a profound impact on modern medicine, underpinning innovations in vaccine development, organ transplants, and cancer treatment. The Lasker Award recognizes his seminal work, which has also been recognized as a predictor of Nobel Prize success.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·DateSep 10, 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.

How pipeline programs can increase diversity in dentistry

A pipeline program called Saturday Academy at NYU College of Dentistry has shown to increase interest in the health professions, particularly dentistry, among underrepresented high school students. The program exposes students to the field through instruction and hands-on learning, mentoring them through the college application process.

SourceNew York University·JournalJournal of Dental Education·DateSep 10, 2019

Researchers find earliest evidence of milk consumption

Researchers have found the earliest direct evidence of milk consumption in human teeth dating back 6,000 years to Neolithic Britain. The discovery suggests that dairy products were a widespread dietary practice among ancient farmers.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalArchaeological and Anthropological Sciences·DateSep 10, 2019

Researchers focus on older adults' cannabis use to fill emerging policy need

Research highlights existing studies and recommended areas for further investigation into cannabis use among older adults, addressing concerns about public health policy and potential harms. Insights from five articles explore topics such as cannabis use disorders, co-occurring substance use disorders, and related comorbidities.

SourceThe Gerontological Society of America·JournalPublic Policy & Aging Report·DateSep 10, 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.

BU study: Are kids hardwired for revenge?

A new study published in Psychological Science found that children as young as 4 years old exhibit a strong tendency to retaliate against those who wrong them, rather than showing gratitude towards their benefactors. Researchers discovered that kids readily punish the thieves but struggle to reciprocate kindness.

SourceBoston University·JournalPsychological Science·DateSep 10, 2019

Scientists find biology's optimal 'molecular alphabet' may be preordained

A team of researchers found that the amino acids, a fundamental set of life's building blocks, may have special properties that helped bootstrap themselves into their modern form. The study suggests that each time a modern amino acid was discovered and embedded in biology's toolkit during evolution, it provided an adaptive value unusua...

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 10, 2019

New biomarker for dementia improves risk prediction

Researchers have identified a novel biomarker for dementia, IGFBP-2, which is associated with an increased risk of all-cause dementia and Alzheimer's disease. Elevated circulating levels of IGFBP-2 significantly improved dementia risk classification when added to traditional risk factors.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalAnnals of Clinical and Translational Neurology·DateSep 10, 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.

Every time the small cabbage white butterfly flaps its wings it has us to thank

A team of researchers, led by Sean Ryan, documents the invasive history of the small cabbage white butterfly, which they attribute to human activities such as trade and migration. The study uses DNA analysis from over 3,000 submitted butterflies to reveal the butterfly's spread across Europe, Asia, Siberia, North America, and New Zealand.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 10, 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.

NIAAA renews contract for MUSC professor to test potential alcohol medications

The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism has awarded $3.1 million to the Medical University of South Carolina to continue testing medications that could help individuals with alcohol use disorder. The goal is to reduce vulnerability to relapse and improve treatment options for those affected by alcohol misuse.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·DateSep 10, 2019

Food insecurity in toddler years linked to poor health, but not obesity

A new University of Maryland School of Medicine study examines the impact of food insecurity among children from birth to age four, finding a steady rise in obesity rates as they grow. Despite food insecurity, toddlers are more likely to experience poor overall health and developmental problems.

SourceUniversity of Maryland School of Medicine·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateSep 10, 2019

The vagina monocultures

Researchers at Johns Hopkins have developed a universal screening approach for vaginal microbiota transplantation (VMT) donors to ensure only beneficial microbes are transferred. The pilot study found that 35% of participants might be eligible VMT donors, and the success rate may depend on a small number of willing 'super donors'.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology·DateSep 10, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Diabetes nearly double for Japanese-Americans

A new study found that Japanese-American adults with a normal body mass index have a significantly higher risk of developing diabetes compared to their non-Hispanic white counterparts. The study revealed that younger respondents, never smokers, and those with higher education levels were less likely to have diabetes.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalAdvances in Preventive Medicine·DateSep 10, 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.

What the noggin of modern humans' ancestor would have looked like

Researchers created a virtual 300,000-year-old fossil skull with relatively modern features, similar to some fossils only 100,000 years old. The study suggests that the species Homo sapiens arose through hybridization of South and East African populations, contradicting previous theories.

SourceCNRS·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 10, 2019

A little kindness goes a long way for worker performance and health

Researchers found that bus drivers who received a serving of fresh fruit in addition to their box lunch experienced significantly decreased depression levels and increased self-efficacy. These small gestures can make a big difference in improving worker performance and health.

SourcePenn State·JournalInternational Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics·DateSep 10, 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.

Optical vacuum cleaner can manipulate nanoparticles

Scientists from Tomsk Polytechnic University have developed a concept for an 'optical vacuum cleaner' that can manipulate and capture nanoparticles using optical properties. This technology has the potential to improve air purification in lab-on-a-chip operations and clean rooms.

SourceTomsk Polytechnic University·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 10, 2019

Sex for cooperation

Research at a bonobo community found that female-female sex increased oxytocin levels, promoting social bonding and cooperation. This suggests that same-sex interactions may play a crucial role in maintaining high levels of cooperation among female bonobos.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology·JournalHormones and Behavior·DateSep 10, 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.

Reconfigurable electronics show promise for wearable, implantable devices

Researchers developed a reconfigurable electronic platform that can morph into three different shapes, including quatrefoils, stars, and irregular ones. This innovation opens doors to new engineering challenges and opportunities for biomedical technologies such as drug delivery, health monitoring, and implants.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateSep 10, 2019

Adolescents with high levels of physical activity perform better in school over two years

A new study from Finland found that adolescents with higher levels of physical activity performed better in school during a two-year follow-up period. However, the results also showed that increasing physical activity did not necessarily result in improved academic performance, and may even lead to lower grades for some participants.

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·JournalJournal of Sport and Health Science·DateSep 10, 2019

The Mathematikado: A math-inspired parody of a parody

Researchers at Michigan Technological University discovered a long-lost parody of Gilbert and Sullivan's 'The Mikado' that pokes fun at the rigors of math class in Victorian college culture. The parody, titled 'The Mathematikado,' offers insights into student experiences and gender dynamics.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalConfigurations·DateSep 10, 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 danger of heat and cold across Australia

A new study from the University of Technology Sydney reveals that heat is a greater killer in Australia than cold, with up to 9% of deaths linked to heat in warmer regions. The elderly are particularly vulnerable to heat-related mortality.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalClimatic Change·DateSep 10, 2019

Lasker Foundation announces 2019 Lasker Awards

The 2019 Lasker Awards recognize Max D. Cooper and Jacques Miller for their discovery of the function of B and T cells in the adaptive immune system. The awards also honor H. Michael Shepard, Dennis J. Slamon, and Axel Ullrich for their development of Herceptin, a monoclonal antibody therapy that targets HER2-positive breast cancer.

SourceRubenstein Associates, Inc.·DateSep 10, 2019

NASA finds Faxai now extra-tropical in Pacific Ocean

Tropical Storm Faxai has transitioned to an extra-tropical storm in the Pacific Ocean, characterized by a strong gale-force cold core low-pressure area. The system is expected to continue tracking through the Northern Pacific Ocean over the next several days with weakening winds.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 10, 2019

Researchers unveil new volcanic eruption forecasting technique

A team of researchers has developed a new volcano eruption forecasting technique using the Kalman filtering method, which captures the unique unrest patterns of the Okmok volcano in Alaska. The study reveals that past eruptions are key to understanding the likelihood of future volcanic activity.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateSep 10, 2019

Swapping pollinators reduces species diversity, study finds

Research by University of Kansas plant biologists reveals that abandoning one pollinator for another compromises a flower's long-term survival. The study found that hummingbird-pollinated species are less likely to form new species, while insect-pollinated species tend to be more successful in speciating and resisting extinction.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalEvolution Letters·DateSep 10, 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.

Do animals control earth's oxygen level?

Researchers from the GLOBE Institute found that massive fluctuations in ocean oxygen levels during the Cambrian explosion were influenced by animal behavior. The discovery suggests that animals may have controlled their own development through adjustments to oxygen levels, shedding light on Earth's 'heartbeat' and its impact on life.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 10, 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.

Researchers pinpoint animal model proteins important in study of human disease

A study published in PLOS Biology has identified conserved proteins and pathways in four major animal models and humans, revealing unique sets of proteins mutated in human disease states. This discovery allows researchers to select the most appropriate model systems for studying cardiac development and investigating diseases.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalPLOS Biology·DateSep 10, 2019

Young neuroscientist selected as IF/THEN Ambassador by AAAS

Lataisia C. Jones, a postdoctoral fellow at Children's National Hospital, has been selected as an AAAS IF/THEN Ambassador to serve as a STEM role model for middle school students. She will share her passion for research and science with young people near and far, inspiring them to pursue their own STEM dreams.

SourceChildren's National Hospital·DateSep 10, 2019

Microorganisms reduce methane release from the ocean

New research reveals that microorganisms in the Pacific Ocean's oxygen-free zone remove up to 80% of the methane produced, reducing its release into the atmosphere. The discovery has significant implications for understanding the ocean's role in regulating greenhouse gas emissions.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·JournalLimnology and Oceanography·DateSep 10, 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.

New method of analyzing networks reveals hidden patterns in data

Researchers at Penn State developed a new method to measure network changes over time, revealing key insights into the world economy's response to the 2008-2009 financial crisis. The study found significant rewiring in the global economy during this period, and its impact on countries' economic growth rates.

SourcePenn State·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 10, 2019

Numerical simulations probe mechanisms behind sand dune formation

Researchers used numerical simulations to study sediment motion and flow conditions, identifying three stages of dune formation and clarifying the mechanism. The findings can help predict riverbed morphology evolution and prevent hazards like riverbank failure.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateSep 10, 2019

Do as I say: Translating language into movement

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have created a computer model that can translate text describing physical movements into simple computer-generated animations. The Joint Language-to-Pose model enables sentences and physical motions to be jointly embedded, learning how language is related to action, gestures, and movement.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·DateSep 10, 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.

Developing vaccines to fight opioid addiction -- NIH grant

Researchers are developing a vaccine to counteract opioid addiction, with the goal of helping people stop the addiction and regain control of their lives. The vaccine, consisting of one shot and two boosters, aims to develop antibodies against opioids, alleviating symptoms and potentially saving lives during overdose.

SourceVirginia Tech·DateSep 10, 2019

Nobel Laureate, Tom Cech, Ph.D., suggests new way to target third most common oncogene, TERT

Researchers have identified a new way to target the third most common oncogene, TERT. The study reveals that TERT messenger RNA is held up in the nucleus, and keeping it trapped could be an effective strategy for treating cancer. This discovery offers a promising new approach in the fight against TERT over-activation.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 10, 2019

The secret strength of gnashing teeth

Gnashing teeth's secret strength lies in the microarchitecture of brittle materials, where adding small defects can increase glass strength 200 times over. Researchers developed two models to describe fracture propagation and contact mechanics, paving the way for stronger ceramics, biomedical implants, and building materials.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalMechanics of Materials·DateSep 10, 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.

KEYNOTE-024 three-year survival update

The KEYNOTE-024 trial found that pembrolizumab significantly improved progression-free and overall survival in patients with advanced non-small-cell lung cancer. Patients treated with pembrolizumab had a median overall survival of 26.3 months compared to 14.2 months for those on chemotherapy.

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·DateSep 10, 2019

Software companies follow the skills and move where the staff are

New research shows software firms tend to set up close to established businesses, creating clusters that persist due to the ready supply of skilled employees. This clustering leads to sustained employment in certain areas, but does not necessarily result in increased profitability.

SourceLancaster University·JournalJournal of Economic Behavior & Organization·DateSep 10, 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.

Existing drug could treat aggressive brain cancer

Researchers at the University of Georgia have discovered a new use for an existing insulin compound to treat glioblastoma, a fast-growing and often fatal form of brain cancer. The study found that surfen-treated cells were blocked from tumor growth and the spread of tumor cells in the brain.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateSep 10, 2019

Satellite data record shows climate change's impact on fires

NASA satellite data tracks large-scale trends in fire activity, consistent with a warming climate, particularly in the western US, Canada, and Northern Hemisphere forests. Research reveals that high temperatures, low humidity, and warmer nighttime temperatures contribute to increased fire risk and activity.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 10, 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.

Research aims to improve night-shift workers' sleep

A four-year research project aims to improve sleep patterns for night-shift workers over 50 years old, reducing the risk of depression, cardiovascular diseases, and accidents. The study will test two alternative sleep schedules, providing insights into the impact on productivity and overall health.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Lowell·DateSep 10, 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.

'Asexual' Chagas parasite found to sexually reproduce

Scientists have discovered that the Trypanosoma cruzi parasite, responsible for Chagas disease, can reproduce sexually after analyzing its genomic code in unprecedented detail. The study reveals that some groups of parasites exhibit high levels of sexuality, while others remain abstinent.

SourceOhio University·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 10, 2019

Commonly used antibiotics may lead to heart problems

Researchers found that fluoroquinolone antibiotics, such as Ciprofloxacin, are associated with an increased risk of heart problems, including aortic and mitral regurgitation. Current users face a 2.4 times greater risk compared to patients taking amoxicillin.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateSep 10, 2019

Telemedicine engages newly postpartum women in cardiovascular monitoring

A telemedicine program using remote blood pressure monitoring has shown promising results in engaging newly postpartum women in cardiovascular monitoring, with 88% of participants returning to the clinic for follow-up appointments. The program aims to bridge care from obstetricians to ongoing cardiovascular monitoring, empowering patie...

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateSep 10, 2019

IMpower131

The Impower131 Trial found that atezolizumab + chemotherapy improved overall survival by 3.9 months compared to chemotherapy alone, particularly among patients with high PD-L1 expression. Treatment-related side effects were common but manageable in both arms.

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·DateSep 10, 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.

An overactive cerebellum causes issues across the brain

A recent study by Kyoto University found that acute cerebellar inflammation causes 'depression-like' behavior in rats, characterized by decreased motivation and sociability. The research team discovered that microglia activation led to increased neuronal firing, causing the cerebellum to become hyperexcited.

SourceKyoto University·JournalCell Reports·DateSep 10, 2019

Bones of Roman Britons provide new clues to dietary deprivation

Researchers at the University of Bradford have found a link between the diet of Roman Britons and their mortality rates using stable isotope data from bone collagen. Higher nitrogen isotope ratios were associated with a higher risk of mortality, while higher carbon isotope ratios were linked to a lower risk. The study provides new insi...

SourceUniversity of Bradford·JournalAnnals of Human Biology·DateSep 10, 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.

Yale Cancer Center researchers find key to help treat different cancers

Researchers at Yale Cancer Center have identified a key metabolic pathway that enables cancer cells to adapt to their microenvironment and respond to nutrient availability. The study suggests that targeting this pathway with drugs may help treat various forms of cancer by preventing cancer cells from growing in nutrient-rich environments.

SourceYale University·JournalOncogene·DateSep 10, 2019

How the eyes might be windows to the risk of Alzheimer's disease

A new study suggests that measuring how quickly a person's pupils dilate during cognitive tests may be a viable method for detecting Alzheimer's disease risk before symptoms appear. The study links pupillary dilation responses to identified AD risk genes, providing proof-of-concept for this screening tool.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNeurobiology of Aging·DateSep 10, 2019

GPM finds rainfall waning in extra-tropical storm Gabrielle

The Global Precipitation Measurement mission found heavy rainfall north of the center of Tropical Storm Gabrielle, with rates over 25 mm per hour. The storm is expected to weaken and dissipate over the far North Atlantic west of the British Isles on Thursday, Sept. 12.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 10, 2019

Raising a glass to grapes' surprising genetic diversity

Scientists uncover genetic variations in grapes, explaining differences in taste and color between wine varieties. The study's findings also have implications for plant breeding and understanding nutritional values of other fruits and vegetables.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalNature Plants·DateSep 10, 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.

Model of health

Researchers at Lehigh University have developed a novel approach to determine when patients with tibial fractures can bear weight. The study used low-dose computed tomography scans and finite element analysis software to create 3D mechanical structural models that identified the regions of bone and new bone, or callus.

SourceLehigh University·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateSep 10, 2019

New bacterial strain linked to scarlet fever, sore throat and sepsis

A new strain of group A streptococcus bacteria, M1UK, has been identified as the dominant cause of Strep A infections in England and Wales since 2010. The strain produces more toxin than existing strains, potentially leading to increased cases of invasive infections.

SourceImperial College London·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateSep 10, 2019

Chronic enteroviral infection modifies broadly pancreatic cellular functions

A new study by the University of Turku and Tampere University found that chronic enteroviral infection can modify broadly pancreatic cellular functions, including alterations in protein expression and secretion. The study suggests that such infections may have adverse health effects, particularly on the development of type 1 diabetes.

SourceUniversity of Turku·JournaliScience·DateSep 10, 2019

What happens underground influences global nutrient cycles

Researchers at EMSL and JGI selected proposals to study the impact of warming on soil microbial responses, algal photosynthesis, and plant-microbe interactions. The studies aim to understand how underground processes influence global nutrient cycles, with potential implications for climate change feedbacks.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·DateSep 10, 2019

Study shows how salamanders harness limb regeneration to buffer selves from climate change

Researchers at Clemson University discovered that salamanders use temperature rather than humidity to anticipate changes in their environment, and harness limb regeneration to minimize the impact of hot temperatures. This adaptation may have implications for other animals and plants, and could provide insights into regenerative medicine.

SourceClemson University·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 10, 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.

Peripheral artery disease risk hinges on health factors and demographics, including race

A study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association estimates that black men have a 30% lifetime risk of peripheral artery disease (PAD), while Hispanic men have a 22% risk. The researchers developed a risk calculator to identify high-risk patients who may benefit from PAD diagnostic screening.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateSep 10, 2019

Smithsonian scientists triple number of known electric eel species

Researchers at the Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History have discovered three distinct species of electric eels in the Amazon basin, showcasing their remarkable diversity and adaptability. The newly identified species can produce up to 860 Volts of electricity, significantly more than previously known species.

SourceSmithsonian·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 10, 2019

Neuroengineer Joshua Jacobs wins NSF CAREER award

Joshua Jacobs has won a $558,865 NSF Faculty Early Career Development award to study how the human brain supports spatial navigation and memory. The project aims to identify fundamental types of brain signals that support these processes.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·DateSep 10, 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.

Q-CTRL leaps into the global top-10 of quantum start-ups

The quantum technology company Q-CTRL has secured a $15 million funding round led by Square Peg Capital, placing it among the top 10 global quantum start-ups. The investment will support major growth for the company and geographic expansion to include a new office in Los Angeles.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·DateSep 10, 2019

Tides don't always flush water out to sea, study shows

A study published in Estuarine, Coastal and Shelf Science found that high-tide water in Willapa Bay's tidal flats takes multiple tidal cycles to fully replace, leading to differences in oyster growth. This slower turnover affects the quality of oyster beds, with regions having 'old' water showing lower levels of nutrients.

SourceUniversity of Washington·DateSep 10, 2019

Colorful microreactors utilize sunlight

Researchers have created a widely applicable and affordable photomicroreactor that utilizes luminescent solar concentrators to efficiently power photochemical reactions. This innovation enables the synthesis of various substances, including pharmaceuticals, using sunlight as a sustainable energy source.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateSep 10, 2019

It's not about self-driving cars, it's about more people in fewer vehicles

A study by FAU researchers suggests that pooled-ride services like car-pooling and public transit can significantly reduce traffic congestion and environmental impacts. By putting more people in fewer vehicles, these services can improve energy efficiency and lower costs.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalJournal of the American Planning Association·DateSep 10, 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.

Genetic mutation linked to flu-related heart complications

Researchers at Ohio State University have found a link between a genetic mutation and flu-related heart complications in mice. The study suggests that some people may be genetically predisposed to these complications, which could lead to new therapies.

SourceOhio State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 10, 2019

NUS invention makes biopsies less invasive and more informative

The NUS-developed STAMP technology enables accurate detection and classification of cancer cells, as well as determination of disease aggressiveness from minimal clinical samples. This breakthrough could lead to earlier diagnoses and more effective treatment decisions.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateSep 10, 2019

Do we tend to center our Instagram selfies on our left eye?

Researchers analyzed over 4,000 Instagram photos from various cities worldwide and found that people tend to centre one of their eyes slightly to the left of centre of the selfie, with the left eye being more commonly centred than the right. This phenomenon is consistent with a previously observed cognitive bias known as pseudoneglect.

SourceCity St George’s, University of London·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 10, 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.

Prize for 'negative scientific results' awarded for work on experimental drug

A prize has been awarded to researchers who investigated an experimental schizophrenia drug that didn't improve cognitive function but had a good safety profile. The study will inform the development of other treatments for patients with schizophrenia, including potential applications in other disease areas.

SourceEuropean College of Neuropsychopharmacology·DateSep 10, 2019

Foot painters' toes mapped like fingers in the brain

Researchers found organised 'hand-like' maps of toes in the brains of professional foot painters, as they used their feet similarly to how people use hands. The study demonstrates an extreme example of brain plasticity and suggests that all people may have innate capacity for forming such maps.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalCell Reports·DateSep 10, 2019

Research shows 80% drop in ICU bloodstream infections

A study published in Clinical Infectious Diseases found a significant reduction in UK ICU bloodstream infections over an 8-year period. The research used data from over 1 million patients admitted to 276 NHS adult ICUs, showing a 95% decline in MRSA infections and a 57% drop in E. coli infections.

SourceNIHR Biomedical Research Centre at Guy’s and St Thomas’ and King’s College London·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateSep 10, 2019

Scientists listed ways of applying genetic engineering to treat Parkinson's disease

Parkinson's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by motor and cognitive impairments. Scientists listed ways of applying genetic engineering to study and treat the disease, including manipulating mitochondria and iron homeostasis. CRISPR technology holds promise for finding new effective treatments.

SourceSechenov University·JournalFree Radical Biology and Medicine·DateSep 10, 2019
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

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

Scientists identify rare evolutionary intermediates to understand the origin of eukaryotes

A new study by Yale scientists identifies ancient prokaryotes with compartmentalized nuclei, shedding light on the origin of eukaryotic cells. They found ribosomal proteins in Archaea with NLS-motifs similar to those in eukaryotic species, suggesting a transitional phase.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateSep 10, 2019