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Science News for September 12, 2019


Stem cell researchers reactivate 'back-up genes' in the lab

Researchers have unraveled a mechanism to reactivate 'back-up genes' on the inactive X chromosome, which could help treat Rett syndrome and other X-linked disorders. The study found that different genes require varying amounts of time to become active again, with location and proteins playing key roles.

SourceKU Leuven·JournalGenome Research·DateSep 12, 2019

Chinese scientists update soybean genome to a golden reference

Researchers from China have updated the soybean genome to a golden reference, improving its assembly quality and completeness. The new genome has increased accuracy in gene annotation and expression profiling, facilitating fundamental research and molecular breeding.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Life Sciences·DateSep 12, 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.

Specialized training benefits young STEM researchers

A new study at Binghamton University's First-year Research Immersion (FRI) program found that instructors with extra training improved student outcomes. The FRI program provides STEM students with research experience, while the training program for research educators helped them develop skills in teaching and mentoring.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalFEMS Microbiology Letters·DateSep 12, 2019

Cells that make bone marrow also travel to the womb to help pregnancy

Researchers discovered that bone marrow-derived cells contribute to embryo implantation and pregnancy by differentiating into decidual cells in the uterine environment. The study suggests a potential role of these cells in human implantation and pregnancy, potentially leading to new treatments for recurrent implantation failure and pre...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateSep 12, 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.

JILA's novel atomic clock design offers 'tweezer' control

The new clock platform combines near-continuous operation with strong signals and high stability, featuring unique possibilities for enhancing clock performance. Preliminary data suggest the design is promising, with the tweezer clock providing self-verifying performance 96% of the time.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalScience·DateSep 12, 2019

Innovative model created for NASA to predict vitamin levels in spaceflight food

A team of researchers from UMass Amherst created a mathematical model to predict the degradation of vitamins in spaceflight food over time. The model enables NASA to accurately schedule resupplying trips and provide astronauts with essential nutrients, particularly thiamine, which degrades rapidly in certain foods like beef.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalFood Chemistry·DateSep 12, 2019

Academics call for structured drug monitoring in care homes

A new study from Swansea University shows that a structured approach to medicine monitoring, using the Adverse Drug Reaction (ADRe) Profile, can lead to positive impacts on patients in care homes. The study found that nurses using ADRe picked up issues that resulted in changes to nursing care and medication reviews for many residents.

SourceSwansea University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 12, 2019

Satellite study of Amazon rainforest land cover gives insight into 2019 fires

A recent study by University of Kansas researcher Gabriel de Oliveira analyzed satellite data to understand the effects of deforestation on Amazonian ecosystems. The research revealed significant differences in soil and air temperatures, evapotranspiration rates, and energy exchanges between forested and non-forested areas.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalEcohydrology·DateSep 12, 2019

Kidney transplants from donors with HCV safe and functional 1 year post-transplantation

A recent analysis reveals that kidneys from donors infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV) are now routinely used in transplants at many US centers. These organs function just as well as uninfected kidneys throughout the first year after transplantation, providing strong evidence for their safe and effective use.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateSep 12, 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.

12 early-career scientists win PROLAB awards

Twelve emerging scientists from Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Mexico, Spain, and Uruguay have won PROLAB travel grants to collaborate with top researchers in the US, Canada, and Spain. They will work on various projects, including reproductive biology, neuronal proteostasis regulation, exercise-induced mood changes, and cancer progression.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·DateSep 12, 2019

The genetics of cancer

A team of researchers has identified a new circular RNA that promotes tumor activity, contradicting its role as a cancer suppressor. The discovery opens up new opportunities to understand the genetics of cancer and potentially develop targeted treatment protocols.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalCell Research·DateSep 12, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Study offers verdict for China's efforts on coal emissions

Researchers evaluated China's success in controlling coal-fired power plant (CPP) emissions, finding significant reductions in air pollution and premature deaths since 2005-2020. The upgrading of end-pipe control facilities and early retirement of small units led to substantial emissions reductions.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateSep 12, 2019

Controversial insecticides shown to threaten survival of wild birds

New research at the University of Saskatchewan reveals that neonicotinoid pesticides can cause weight loss and delayed migration in wild birds, threatening their survival. Birds exposed to these insecticides suffered significant negative consequences, including appetite suppression and longer stopover times.

SourceUniversity of Saskatchewan·JournalScience·DateSep 12, 2019

14 journalists earn aging-focused reporting fellowships

The Journalists in Aging Fellows Program has selected 14 new reporters to produce in-depth stories on aging issues. The projects span topics including cultural challenges faced by immigrant communities, health issues for African Americans, and the crisis of loneliness among older adults.

SourceThe Gerontological Society of America·DateSep 12, 2019

Heart attack patients take longer to call emergency when symptoms are gradual

A study found that patients with gradual symptom onset took eight hours to get medical help, compared to 2.6 hours for those with abrupt symptoms. Patients with gradual symptoms began with mild discomfort that slowly got worse, while abrupt onset referred to sudden and severe pain.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Journal of Cardiovascular Nursing·DateSep 12, 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.

A promising treatment for an incurable, deadly kidney disease

A potential treatment for polycystic kidney disease has shown a significant reduction in kidney size in afflicted mice, with no evidence of toxicity in animal or human cell tests. The drug is now in early clinical trials in humans, offering hope for a new option for survival beyond dialysis or transplant.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 12, 2019

Saturn's rings shine in Hubble's latest portrait

The latest Hubble image of Saturn reveals a planet with a dynamic atmosphere, featuring turbulent storms and subtle changes in its banded structure. The iconic hexagon at Saturn's north pole remains unchanged, while the mysterious six-sided pattern continues to intrigue scientists.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 12, 2019

Expert feedback improves antibiotic prescribing decisions in paediatrics

A study by the University of Cologne found that expert feedback significantly reduces the length of antibiotic therapies and improves treatment decisions among pediatricians. The experiment showed that providing feedback can be a useful means to address excessive antibiotic use.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalMedical Decision Making·DateSep 12, 2019

Humans more unique than expected when it comes to digesting fatty meals

A recent study published in the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry found that humans have highly individualized inflammatory responses to eating a high-fat meal. The researchers used a sensitive test to analyze gene expression in response to the meal, finding that responses by more than 13,000 genes differed between subjects.

SourceUS Department of Agriculture - Agricultural Research Service·JournalThe Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry·DateSep 12, 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.

Finding (microbial) pillars of the bioenergy community

A study published in Nature Communications reveals that microorganisms residing on plant leaves are connected to those living in the soil, forming a key part of the bioenergy community. The researchers identified hundreds of leaf microbiome members and compared them to thousands in the soil, using deep sequencing techniques.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 12, 2019

UMass Amherst researchers release new findings in groundbreaking gambling study

A new study by UMass Amherst researchers shows that out-of-state casino gambling among Massachusetts residents decreased significantly after the state's first slot parlor, Plainridge Park Casino, opened in 2015. The study found that only 3-10% of problem gamblers seek professional treatment, highlighting the need for alternative effect...

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·DateSep 12, 2019

Machine learning improves the diagnosis of patients with head and neck cancers

Researchers developed a new classification method using artificial intelligence to identify primary cancerous tissue in head and neck cancers. The method achieved an accuracy of over 99% in distinguishing between primary lung squamous cell carcinomas and head and neck metastases, offering potential benefits for patients.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateSep 12, 2019

As forests burn

The new website provides a resource for understanding why, where, and how tropical reforestation is occurring. It highlights eight key messages on livelihoods, local decision-making, planting trees, natural regeneration, and climate change, among others.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·DateSep 12, 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.

Polysubstance use in young adults -- are there predictable patterns?

A study found that young adults in the US report high rates of non-medical prescription drug use, binge drinking, and illicit drug use. Researchers recommend a multilevel approach to address potential harms related to polysubstance use throughout the life course.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalThe Lancet Psychiatry·DateSep 12, 2019

Discovery concerning the nervous system overturns a previous theory

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet found that only viable neurons survive in the developing nervous system, while immature ones die. This discovery challenges the long-standing neurotrophic theory and could lead to new treatments for neurological diseases like Parkinson's.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 12, 2019

Battery icons shape perceptions of time and space and define user identities

A new study found that mobile technology alters how people view the outside world based on battery life and charging points. Battery icons shape daily activities and user identities, with full batteries linked to feelings of positivity and control, while low batteries induce anxiety and discomfort. The research reveals a strong social ...

SourceCity St George’s, University of London·JournalMarketing Theory·DateSep 12, 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.

UM awarded 2nd Latin American research ethics grant

The University of Miami has received a $50,000 grant from the US Department of Health and Human Services' Office of Research Integrity to promote research integrity in Argentina. The grant aims to increase awareness of institutional policy and training in responsible conduct of research.

SourceUniversity of Miami·DateSep 12, 2019

Ultra-thin optical elements directly measure polarization

Scientists have developed a new method to measure polarization using ultra-thin metasurface holograms. The technique uses overlapping holographic images to determine the amplitude contrast and phase difference between polarized light waves, enabling fast and compact devices for spectroscopy, sensing, and communications applications.

SourceOptica·JournalOptica·DateSep 12, 2019

Charge change: How electric forces vary in colloids

The study highlights the importance of zeta potential in colloid surface chemistry and its effect on dispersion stability. The Navier boundary condition, considering relative velocity, is applied to particles with hydrophobic surfaces, leading to increased electrophoretic mobility and sedimentation potential.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalAdvances in Colloid and Interface Science·DateSep 12, 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.

New insights into how astrocytes help the brain process information

Researchers found that noradrenaline is necessary for astrocytes to respond to local stimulation, effectively integrating sensory and behavioral information. Astrocytes can track distinct information during behavior, including arousal state and sensory experience.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 12, 2019

Parents to learn signs of sepsis

A $40,000 grant from The Emergency Medicine Foundation is supporting a study to increase awareness among parents about sepsis signs in children. Researchers hope this will lead to improved recognition strategies and faster diagnosis of sepsis.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·DateSep 12, 2019

Gem-like nanoparticles of precious metals shine as catalysts

Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a method to create highly active catalysts from precious metal nanoparticles, improving fuel cells' efficiency. The new catalysts can also be recycled from spent catalysts, reducing waste and increasing their lifespan.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalScience·DateSep 12, 2019

Researchers grow citrus disease bacteria in the lab

Researchers successfully grew Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus, the bacterium causing Citrus Greening Disease, in a laboratory for the first time. This breakthrough enables studies on the disease and potential treatments.

SourceWashington State University·JournalBiofilm·DateSep 12, 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.

Turbo-charging pharmaceutical biotechnology simulations

A new simulation software aims to enhance process knowledge and speed up biopharmaceutical manufacturing. Christian Witz's software shortens simulation times from months to hours, enabling more efficient troubleshooting and insights into processes.

SourceGraz University of Technology·DateSep 12, 2019

Device generates light from the cold night sky

Researchers develop a low-cost thermoelectric generator that harnesses temperature differences to produce renewable electricity at night, when solar power is not available. The device can generate up to 25 milliwatts of energy per square meter and has the potential to be scaled for practical use.

SourceCell Press·JournalJoule·DateSep 12, 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.

GymCam tracks exercises that wearable monitors can't

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University developed GymCam, a vision-based system that detects repetitive motions and recognizes exercise types. The system can track exercises in crowded gym environments without relying on facial recognition or explicit wearables.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·DateSep 12, 2019

Search tightens for genes driving prostate cancer

The team aims to understand how genetics contributes to driving aggressive pathology in prostate cancer by combining pathology, computational modeling, and genomics. They plan to identify therapeutic options by testing combinations of genes in mouse models of the disease.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·DateSep 12, 2019

Knotty problem of cell reprogramming solved, USC scientists report

Researchers at USC have developed a new method for repurposing cells, which they found to be significantly more reliable than existing techniques. The approach uses enzymes to untangle DNA and has been proven to work in mice and humans with near-perfect efficiency.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateSep 12, 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.

Repeated periods of poverty accelerate the ageing process

Researchers found a significant correlation between financial challenges and early ageing, using data from 5500 middle-aged persons. The study suggests that poor finances can lead to premature ageing, with effects on physical capability and cognitive function.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalEuropean Journal of Ageing·DateSep 12, 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.

A robot with a firm yet gentle grasp

A new robot hand with a dynamic grip can adjust its stiffness to absorb shocks, keeping objects intact during collisions. This technology is valuable for industries like automotive and electronics packaging, enhancing worker safety and machine performance.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalIEEE Transactions on Industrial Electronics·DateSep 12, 2019

Texas Biomed researchers pinpoint why HIV patients are more likely to develop tuberculosis

Researchers at Texas Biomedical Institute have discovered that lung-specific chronic immune activation is responsible for the progression of disease in HIV patients. This dysfunction leads to a constant production of cytokines and chemokines, dysregulating the body's ability to fight off other infections.

SourceTexas Biomedical Research Institute·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 12, 2019

NSF awards two 'convergence accelerator' pilot grants to UNC Charlotte

The NSF Convergence Accelerator program aims to accelerate use-inspired convergence research in areas of national importance. Two faculty teams at UNC Charlotte received Phase 1 awards to develop innovative solutions, including a digital resource hub and data analytics tools for studying public policy.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Charlotte·DateSep 12, 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.

Gravitational lensing provides a new measurement of the expansion of the universe

Scientists have developed a new technique for measuring the expansion of the universe using gravitational lensing, which yields a somewhat higher Hubble Constant value compared to standard measurements. The method provides a valuable alternative approach to addressing the long-standing discrepancy in the Hubble Constant's value

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateSep 12, 2019

Two studies show promise, safety of proton therapy in the brain in children with cancer

Two new studies published in Pediatric Blood and Cancer and Acta Oncologica demonstrate the potential benefits of proton therapy for children with brain cancer. Proton therapy shows promising outcomes in improving overall survival and recurrence-free survival rates, particularly in young patients. Additionally, a new technique called p...

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalPediatric Blood & Cancer·DateSep 12, 2019

Four billion particles of microplastics discovered in major body of water

A study by the University of South Florida and Eckerd College found four billion particles of microplastics in Tampa Bay's waters, highlighting the need to address plastic pollution. Microplastics, tiny plastic particles less than 1/8 inch, come from various sources and can harm marine life through ingestion or surface damage.

SourceUniversity of South Florida·JournalMarine Pollution Bulletin·DateSep 12, 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.

Elaborate Komodo dragon armor defends against other dragons

Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin discovered that Komodo dragon armor is designed to protect against other dragons, not predators. The unique bone structure, featuring four distinct shapes, provides extensive coverage and suggests that young Komodo dragons do not have armor until adulthood.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalThe Anatomical Record·DateSep 12, 2019

All on the table

The study highlights significant gaps in knowledge about underassessed foods, which represent more than half of animal production and over 25% of total food globally. The researchers argue that a more complete global food assessment is necessary to develop sensitive and versatile local solutions to environmental and food security issues.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 12, 2019

Finding (microbial) pillars of the bioenergy community

Researchers at Michigan State University have discovered that many core microbes on bioenergy plant leaves originate from the soil and remain consistent across seasons. The study suggests that these microbes play a crucial role in the plant's growth and health, and their phyllosphere microbiome can be targeted for cultivation.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 12, 2019

Hepatitis C-infected kidneys function as well as uninfected organs after transplant

A new national study by Penn Medicine found that hepatitis C-infected kidneys can function comparably to uninfected kidneys in patients who do not already have the virus. The study showed a significant increase in the use of HCV-infected organs, but raised questions about why these organs are still assigned lower risk scores.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateSep 12, 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.

Spin devices get a paint job

Physicists have developed a novel method to create high-performance spintronic devices using organic molecules, which can be easily configured for different functions. The new fabrication method uses layers of molecules that can be painted or printed onto metals, offering a promising alternative to traditional materials.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNano Letters·DateSep 12, 2019

Routine sparring in boxing can affect brain performance

Researchers found short-term impairments in brain-to-muscle communication and decreased memory performance after nine-minute boxing sparring sessions. The study suggests that routine impacts in sports like football and other combat sports may pose health risks.

SourceUniversity of Stirling·JournalFrontiers in Human Neuroscience·DateSep 12, 2019

Why do birds migrate at night?

Scientists have found that cryptochromes from migratory birds have evolved a mechanism that enhances their ability to respond to light, allowing them to sense and respond to magnetic fields under nighttime conditions. This discovery sheds light on how vertebrate cryptochromes function in low-light environments.

SourceSouthern Methodist University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 12, 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.

'Fire inversions' lock smoke in valleys

Researchers have discovered a feedback loop that reinforces atmospheric inversions, locking smoke in valleys and worsening air quality. Understanding this loop enables scientists to predict when fire inversions are likely to occur, aiding firefighters and residents.

SourceUniversity of Utah·DateSep 12, 2019

Cause of congenital nystagmus found

Researchers at the Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience have found that congenital nystagmus is caused by electrical oscillations in retinal neurons. The study shows that defects in just a few proteins result in erroneous movement signals sent to the brain, leading to the oscillating eye movements characteristic of the condition.

SourceNetherlands Institute for Neuroscience - KNAW·JournalPLOS Biology·DateSep 12, 2019

How breast cancer uses exosomes to metastasize to the brain

Research reveals how breast cancer cells use exosomes to bypass the blood-brain barrier and spread to the brain. Exosomes trick endothelial cells into taking them up, allowing cancer cells to metastasize, and can also manipulate astrocytes to facilitate tumor growth.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·DateSep 12, 2019

The 2019 CNRS innovation medallists

Three innovative minds received the 2019 CNRS innovation medallist award for their groundbreaking work in reducing satellite size and propulsion units. Ane Aanesland and Dmytro Rafalskyi developed new propellant technologies, while Vance Bergeron created electrostimulation solutions to improve paralysis rehabilitation. Livio de Luca pi...

SourceCNRS·DateSep 12, 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.

Bone marrow may be the missing piece of the fertility puzzle

Researchers at Yale University have discovered that a woman's bone marrow plays a crucial role in determining her ability to start and sustain a pregnancy. Bone marrow-derived stem cells travel to the uterus, where they help transform the uterine lining for implantation, essential for embryo implantation and pregnancy maintenance.

SourceYale University·JournalPLOS Biology·DateSep 12, 2019

Bone, not adrenaline, drives fight or flight response

A recent study suggests that osteocalcin, a hormone released by the skeleton, is necessary for the fight or flight response to be triggered in bony vertebrates. This finding challenges the long-held assumption that adrenaline drives this response.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalCell Metabolism·DateSep 12, 2019

Researchers develop chemical reaction method for more efficient drug production

Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology researchers have developed a more efficient method to produce polyene substructures, a crucial framework in many natural products and pharmaceutical molecules. The new 'one-pot' solution eliminates lengthy preparation steps and excess waste, making the production process more economical.

SourceTokyo University of Agriculture and Technology·JournalChemical Communications·DateSep 12, 2019

Exercising at home has a positive effect on Parkinson's patients

A recent study by Radboud University Medical Center found that exercising at home using motivating apps significantly improves cardiovascular fitness and motor disability in Parkinson's patients. The cycling exercise program was more effective than stretching exercises alone, with a notable impact on disease progression.

SourceRadboud University Medical Center·JournalThe Lancet Neurology·DateSep 12, 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.

Bones secrete a stress hormone

Research reveals that bone-derived hormone osteocalcin plays a critical role in mediating the acute stress response, which is distinct from hormones released by the adrenal glands. Osteocalcin levels rise in response to stress, triggering physiological responses such as increased energy expenditure and heart rate.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateSep 12, 2019

Research discoveries suggest that LH dipeptide improves mental health

Researchers discovered LH dipeptide as a potent anti-inflammatory agent that inhibits the secretion of inflammatory cytokines from microglia, reducing brain inflammation and depression symptoms. Consuming foods rich in LH dipeptide may be a safe method for maintaining good mental health.

SourceKobe University·JournalNutrients·DateSep 12, 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.

Researchers use metamaterials to create two-part optical security features

New optical security features use a two-piece metamaterial system to create difficult-to-replicate optical phenomena, making it harder to counterfeit money or intercept secure information. The approach offers improved forgery protection and can be used for various applications, including banknotes and identification cards.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Letters·DateSep 12, 2019

New review highlights benefits of plant-based diet for rheumatoid arthritis

A plant-based diet has been shown to reduce inflammation and improve symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis through various mechanisms. Studies have found that plant-based diets are low in fat and high in fiber, which can reduce inflammatory markers and promote healthy gut bacteria.

SourcePhysicians Committee for Responsible Medicine·JournalFrontiers in Nutrition·DateSep 12, 2019

'Time-outs' not associated with long-term negative effects in children

A recent study found no long-term negative effects of time-outs on children's emotional and behavioral health. Despite previous alarming claims, researchers did not find a relationship between reported use of time-outs and increased behavior problems.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics·DateSep 12, 2019

Terahertz waves reveal hidden processes in ultrafast artificial photosynthesis

A team of researchers directly observed charge transfer and intermolecular interactions in artificial photosynthesis on a picosecond scale. They used time-resolved attenuated total reflection spectroscopy in the terahertz region to reveal the process, which involves rhenium complexes and Triethanolamine solvent.

SourceOsaka University·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 12, 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.

Strategies to connect with barricaded buyers

Researchers found that suppliers can enhance competitiveness by engaging in 'peacocking' behavior, embedding unique capabilities into RFPs, and providing innovative solutions. Price is also important, but its importance varies by service and product.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateSep 12, 2019

Simple model captures almost 100 years of measles dynamics in London

A simple epidemiological model accurately predicts measles transmission dynamics in London over almost a century, accounting for historical events like the 1918 pandemic. The study's findings suggest long-term disease dynamics can follow simple rules, with implications for understanding other ecological phenomena.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateSep 12, 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 marketers can shape customer sentiment during events

A new study from the Journal of Marketing finds that firms' own social media posts surrounding customers' experiences can influence digital sentiment. Informational content offers a substantial means to improve customer sentiment in negative interaction event outcomes, increasing positive sentiment by nearly 20%.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateSep 12, 2019

Big game hunting for a more versatile catalyst

Researchers at Harvard University have discovered the architecture of a copper-nitrenoid complex that can transform carbon-hydrogen bonds into valuable building blocks for chemical synthesis. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient and sustainable production methods for pharmaceuticals, household products, and other chemicals.

SourceHarvard University·JournalScience·DateSep 12, 2019

Scientists discover new breakthrough in cancer hair loss treatment

Scientists have found a way to protect hair follicles from chemotherapy, potentially preventing hair loss. Researchers used CDK4/6 inhibitors to halt cell division and reduce damage caused by taxanes, common anti-cancer drugs that can induce permanent hair loss.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalEMBO Molecular Medicine·DateSep 12, 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.

The rare molecule weighing in on the birth of planets

Astronomers have discovered a rare form of carbon monoxide in the dust and gas disc around a young star, revealing it to be much heavier than previously thought. This finding provides new insights into the formation of planets and challenges existing theories about planetary system formation.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateSep 12, 2019

Introducing 'phyjama,' a physiological-sensing pajama

Researchers developed physiological-sensing textiles that can be woven into sleep garments to monitor heart rate and breathing rhythm. The technology, dubbed 'phyjama,' extracts signals from pressured regions of the textile to get a more accurate composite reading.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·DateSep 12, 2019

Advanced MRI brain scan may help predict stroke-related dementia

A new MRI analysis technique using diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) helped predict thinking problems and dementia related to small vessel disease. Participants with the most brain damage were more likely to develop these conditions, and the scan accurately predicted three-fourths of dementia cases.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateSep 12, 2019

Mysterious Jurassic crocodile identified 250 years after fossil find

A fossil skull found in a Bavarian town in the 1770s has been recognized as Mystriosaurus laurillardi, a now-extinct species that lived in tropical waters during the Jurassic Period. Researchers have also identified another skull discovered in Yorkshire, belonging to the same species.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalActa Palaeontologica Polonica·DateSep 12, 2019
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

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

New drug target discovered for the lung disease PAH

Scientists identified a molecular pathway that contributes to PAH's development, targeting the EYA3 protein for new therapies. Blocking this protein prevents dangerous lung artery thickening and reversal of vascular remodeling was seen in laboratory rat models.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 12, 2019

Epilepsy surgery: The earlier the better, overview study shows

A systematic review and meta-analysis suggests that people with drug-resistant epilepsy have better prospects of being seizure-free if they undergo surgical treatment at an earlier stage. The study found a 15-21% higher probability of attack freedom for those who underwent surgery early compared to later stages.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalNeurology·DateSep 12, 2019

UBC researchers design roadmap for hydrogen supply network

A new study by UBC researchers provides a comprehensive model for hydrogen adoption in British Columbia, recommending a refuelling infrastructure and production plants to support the adoption of hydrogen-powered cars. The study sees significant growth in hydrogen demand every year, provided policies like B.C.'s carbon tax are maintained.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalInternational Journal of Hydrogen Energy·DateSep 12, 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.

Few people with peanut allergy tolerate peanut after stopping oral immunotherapy

A study found that desensitization from peanut oral immunotherapy can be maintained by continuing a modest dose of peanut protein, offering more protection against allergic reactions. Participants who passed food challenges had lower initial levels of antibodies and indicators of allergic activity in their blood.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalThe Lancet·DateSep 12, 2019