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Science News for September 17, 2019


Study: Bigger cities boost 'social crimes'

A recent study found that certain types of crime, such as robbery and car theft, increase at a faster rate than the population in larger cities. In contrast, rape grows only linearly with city size. The researchers suggest that social interactions play a key role in the growth of these crimes.

SourceSanta Fe Institute·JournalPhysical Review E·DateSep 17, 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.

Stevens researchers to develop handheld device to diagnose skin cancer

Stevens researchers create technology to detect skin lesions and determine if they are cancerous or benign using millimeter-wave radiation. The device could reduce unnecessary biopsies by 50% and disrupt the $5.3 billion diagnostic market for skin cancer.

SourceStevens Institute of Technology·JournalIEEE Transactions on Medical Imaging·DateSep 17, 2019

Suicide risk factors vary by ethnic group

Researchers found that depression is not a significant predictor of suicide attempts among certain racial and ethnic groups, highlighting the need for tailored risk profiles. Protective factors like religiosity among black adults may also play a role in reducing suicidal thoughts.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalThe Journal of Nervous and Mental Disease·DateSep 17, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Fruit flies' microbiomes shape their evolution

Researchers found distinct shifts in fruit fly genomes after feeding them different bacteria, racking up significant genomic changes. The study suggests that microbial community composition drives part of how organisms evolve.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 17, 2019

Rare 10 million-year-old fossil unearths new view of human evolution

A recent study of a 10 million-year-old fossil has revealed that human ancestors may not have been as ape-like as previously thought. The Rudapithecus pelvis suggests that early human ancestors had more flexible lower backs, allowing them to stand upright and walk efficiently on two legs.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Human Evolution·DateSep 17, 2019

Special journal issue brings focus to importance of studying landscape pattern

A new special issue of Landscape Ecology assesses the state of science on landscape pattern analysis, highlighting its implications for resource sustainability and ecosystem health. The issue includes articles on current problems, new approaches, and promising research directions.

SourceUSDA Forest Service ‑ Southern Research Station·JournalLandscape Ecology·DateSep 17, 2019

UK study shows increasing proportion of younger adults with type 2 diabetes, with younger cases having a worse metabolic profile

A UK study found that the proportion of younger adults diagnosed with type 2 diabetes has increased since the start of the century. Younger cases have a more aggressive metabolic profile, including higher BMI, blood glucose levels, and cholesterol levels. This trend is associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular disease and mortality.

SourceDiabetologia·DateSep 17, 2019
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

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

The effects of variation in T6SS and bacteria on competition in host environment

Researchers found that strains predicted to be more sensitive to T6SS were able to coexist with aggressor strains, challenging the traditional assumption of a 'winner-take-all' result. The study suggests that genetics and environmental factors play a significant role in determining competition outcomes.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalMolecular Plant-Microbe Interactions·DateSep 17, 2019

Study supports taking blood cultures before beginning treatment for sepsis

A new study finds that drawing blood cultures after starting antimicrobial treatment can result in a significant loss of available clinical information. The study suggests that drawing blood cultures prior to treatment may be more effective in identifying the bacteria causing the infection and selecting the right antibiotic.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateSep 17, 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.

Novel approach to ultrasound raises possibility of new medical applications

Researchers develop non-invasive method to evaluate bone structure using ultrasound, potentially enabling early osteoporosis detection and treatment assessment. The technique also shows promise in distinguishing between tumors and healthy tissue in laboratory rats.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalThe Journal of the Acoustical Society of America·DateSep 17, 2019

Comparing effectiveness of 2 surgical methods for uterine prolapse

A randomized clinical trial compared the effectiveness of two surgical methods: vaginal mesh hysteropexy and hysterectomy with ligament suspension. The study included 175 postmenopausal women and found that vaginal mesh hysteropexy was better at preventing prolapse symptoms, but further research is needed for definitive results.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateSep 17, 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.

Kaleidoscope mirror symmetry inspires new design for optical tools, technologies

Researchers have developed a new method for creating mirror-symmetric axes in the polarizations of light, enabling complex manipulations useful in optical tools and technologies. The design, inspired by kaleidoscope symmetry, allows for tightly focused fields with various shapes and introduces elliptical polarization.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAPL Photonics·DateSep 17, 2019

Married CEOs are more committed to social issues than non-married peers

A study by the University of Connecticut and University of Saskatchewan found that married CEOs tend to prioritize employee well-being and diversity, while non-married CEOs do not. Married CEOs are more likely to support hiring and promoting women, minorities, and disabled employees.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalJournal of Corporate Finance·DateSep 17, 2019

Does adding therapy before, after surgery for urinary incontinence help?

A randomized clinical trial found that combining behavioral and physical therapy before and after midurethral sling surgery improved symptoms of mixed urinary incontinence. However, the small difference may not be clinically significant due to a lack of established thresholds for minimal clinically important differences.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateSep 17, 2019

Peatlands trap CO2, even during droughts

Researchers found that two Sphagnum species in the Le Forbonnet peatland can survive extreme temperatures and droughts. This suggests that preserving peatlands is crucial for mitigating climate change.

SourceCNRS·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateSep 17, 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.

Elusive compounds of greenhouse gas isolated by Warwick chemists

Researchers at the University of Warwick have isolated transition metal compounds of nitrous oxide, which provide clues into its potential use in sustainable chemical technologies. The discovery offers a valuable reference point in the field and is likely to stimulate future catalyst developments.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateSep 17, 2019

A safer way for police to test drug evidence

A new technique allows police to analyze exterior packaging of suspected drug bags for safe handling, reducing accidental exposure to fentanyl. The method involves swiping the outside of a baggie and analyzing it for drugs using DART-MS.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalForensic Science International·DateSep 17, 2019

Diamonds are forever: New foundation for nanostructures

Researchers at OIST have fabricated a novel glass and synthetic diamond foundation for tiny structures, offering a low-cost and sustainable alternative to current methods. The new substrate enables the creation of miniscule micro- and nanostructures with minimal waste.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalDiamond and Related Materials·DateSep 17, 2019

Microbiome may be involved in mechanisms related to muscle strength in older adults

Researchers identified differences in gut microbiome composition between physically high-functioning and low-functioning older adults. The study suggests that the gut microbiome plays a role in maintaining muscle strength in older adults, with mice colonized with fecal samples from high-functioning individuals showing increased grip st...

SourceTufts University, Health Sciences Campus·DateSep 17, 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.

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.

North Atlantic haddock use magnetic compass to guide them

A new study found that North Atlantic haddock larvae use a magnetic compass to navigate the ocean, orienting towards the northwest. This discovery suggests that the larvae are equipped with an innate ability to detect and respond to the Earth's magnetic field.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·JournaliScience·DateSep 17, 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.

Did microbes assist life in colonizing land?

A comparative microbiome study has identified significant differences in the composition of microbial communities between aquatic and terrestrial organisms. The researchers suggest that microorganisms may have played a key role in the evolutionary transition from purely aquatic life to life on land.

SourceKiel University·JournalMicrobiome·DateSep 17, 2019

Brain may not need body movements to learn virtual spaces

A study published in Neuron found that brain areas and patterns of interaction are similar regardless of navigation method, suggesting that sufficient information can be obtained from visual cues alone. The research suggests that even basic virtual reality systems may be useful in instructional applications.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalNeuron·DateSep 17, 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.

Female athletes seek specialty care for concussion later than males

Researchers found that female athletes had longer recovery trajectories and experienced more symptoms than males due to delayed presentation to specialist care. The study suggests that inequities in medical and athletic trainer coverage on the sidelines may contribute to these delays.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalClinical Journal of Sport Medicine·DateSep 17, 2019

The market in your head

A study by neuroscientists from HSE University found that brain signals in the striatum and parietal cortex influence price adjustments in competitive markets. The results provide insight into the brain mechanisms at work when determining prices in such conditions.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalEuropean Journal of Neuroscience·DateSep 17, 2019

Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine names Dr. Garlanger winner of Bors Award

Dr. Kristin L. Garlanger has been awarded the Ernest Bors, MD Award for Scientific Development by the Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine. Her research explores functional outcomes in patients with co-occurring traumatic brain injury and spinal cord injury, shedding light on ways to tailor rehabilitation protocols to improve outcomes.

SourceKessler Foundation·DateSep 17, 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.

From primordial black holes new clues to dark matter

Scientists have made progress in understanding dark matter by studying the interactions between light and gas in intergalactic space. Researchers used simulations and observations of distant quasars to analyze the properties of primordial black holes, which could provide evidence for their role in explaining dark matter.

SourceScuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateSep 17, 2019

Imaging reveals new results from landmark stem cell trial for stroke

A recent study published in Stem Cells found that bone marrow cells treated patients showed enhanced recovery compared to those who received conventional treatment. Additionally, serial diffusion tensor imaging revealed the repair of motor nerve tracts in some patients, suggesting potential therapeutic benefits for stroke recovery.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalStem Cells·DateSep 17, 2019

Nutrition programs alone are not enough to support healthy brain development

A new study published in The Lancet Global Health found that nutrition programs have limited impact on cognitive skills and brain development compared to caregiving programs. Caregiving interventions such as parents playing games with their children significantly improved children's cognitive, language, and motor skills.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalThe Lancet Global Health·DateSep 17, 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.

A large study indicates how cities can promote walking for travel

A large study found that people who walk the most live in areas with good public transport service and a higher density of households, services, and installations. Walking is associated with improved health and reduced air pollution.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateSep 17, 2019

UM study abroad students fuel understanding of gaps in conservation data

A collaborative study between University of Montana and Universidad de Concepcion in Chile found substantial gaps in scientific information relevant to conservation planning for threatened and endangered terrestrial mammals. The research highlights the importance of developing strategic research agendas for at-risk species worldwide.

SourceThe University of Montana·JournalConservation Science and Practice·DateSep 17, 2019

Hyperbolic paraboloid origami harnesses bistability to enable new applications

Hyperbolic paraboloid origami has been found to exhibit structural bistability, allowing it to find a resting equilibrium in two different states. By tuning the folds of concentric squares, researchers can create structures with multiple stable configurations, enabling new applications in robotics and electronics.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 17, 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.

Study changes guidelines for sepsis management

A new study has found that initiating antibiotics immediately before obtaining blood cultures significantly affects their sensitivity and ability to diagnose bacterial and fungal infections. This change in guidelines may reduce mortality rates from sepsis, a life-threatening condition with a 20% mortality rate.

SourceUniversity of Arizona Health Sciences·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateSep 17, 2019

A Matter of concentration

A team of scientists at the University of Freiburg has found that the concentration of Argonaute proteins plays a central role in regulating the balance between stem cells and differentiated cells in plants. This balance is crucial for plant development, growth, and adaptation to environmental changes.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalPlant Communications·DateSep 17, 2019

CU researchers identify potential target for cardiac fibrosis treatment

A research team at the University of Colorado School of Medicine has identified BRD4 as a central regulator of cardiac fibroblast activation. Chemical inhibitors of BRD4 potently block cardiac fibroblast activation, providing a potential therapeutic target for heart failure treatment.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalCirculation Research·DateSep 17, 2019

UniSA leads nationwide push for academic integrity

The University of South Australia is leading a national push for academic integrity in Australian higher education, partnering with top experts to develop and deliver 20 workshops across the country. The initiative aims to promote good practices, prevent contract cheating, and safeguard the reputation of universities.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·DateSep 17, 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.

Hello, world! A new approach for physics in de sitter space

A team at OIST Graduate University reports a new approach to quantum gravity using a model that more closely matches our reality, including accelerating expansion. The free S-matrix predicts interactions between particles in de Sitter space, which may help explain realistic scenarios.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalPhysical Review D·DateSep 17, 2019

Novel anti-cancer nanomedicine for efficient chemotherapy

Researchers developed an exosome-based nanomedicine that increases tumor accumulation and penetration after intravenous administration. The biocompatible nanomedicines combine natural biomaterials with synthetic nanoparticles, demonstrating potential for improved anticancer drug efficacy.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 17, 2019

One way childhood trauma leads to poorer health for women

A new study reveals that childhood trauma is associated with earlier and non-marital births, which can lead to poorer health later in life. The findings suggest that early trauma affects decision-making in ways that cannot be entirely controlled.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Health and Social Behavior·DateSep 17, 2019

Pitt receives $10 million to boost racial and ethnic diversity in STEM

The University of Pittsburgh has been awarded a $10 million grant to create a network of precollege programs with accreditation standards, aiming to increase racial and ethnic diversity in STEM fields. The goal is to address gaps between underrepresented students in STEM fields, ultimately leading to more diverse STEM majors and jobs.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·DateSep 17, 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 hunt for dark matter

Researchers propose using gravitational-wave observatories to detect axions, which could be a type of dark matter. Axions are predicted to modulate light polarization and can be detected with existing laser-based experiments, offering a cost-effective solution to the hunt for dark matter.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateSep 17, 2019

Researchers see need for action on forest fire risk

A new statistical approach revealed that forest fires in 19th and 20th centuries were man-made, driven by changes in forest management and vegetation. This finding highlights the need for adaptive forestry practices to address climate change.

SourceGFZ GeoForschungsZentrum Potsdam, Helmholtz Centre·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 17, 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.

NASA satellite provides a view of a large hurricane Humberto

Hurricane Humberto is a very large storm stretching from Florida to North Carolina with a tail extending hundreds of miles into the western Atlantic Ocean. The storm is expected to bring heavy rain and large swells to Bermuda, with maximum sustained winds near 100 mph.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 17, 2019

Coveted NCI award comes to BRCA expert at UT Health San Antonio

Patrick Sung, a leading BRCA expert, has received the National Cancer Institute's Outstanding Investigator Award, providing $6.1 million through 2026. His work focuses on understanding BRCA biology and its role in cancer initiation and progression.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·DateSep 17, 2019

Genomic migration analysis shows antibiotic resistance moving from humans to animals

A study by Vincent Richards and colleagues found that antibiotic-resistant genes are being transmitted from humans into animal species, including livestock, companion animals, and wildlife. This reverse zoonosis is facilitated by high bacterial genome plasticity, allowing bacteria to adapt quickly to environmental changes.

SourceClemson University·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateSep 17, 2019

New piece of Alzheimer's puzzle found

Researchers have discovered two short peptides that significantly improved memory and reduced physical changes in the brain of mice with Alzheimer's disease. The treatment uses a process of computer modeling and artificial intelligence to develop an optimized oral version of the drug, which could lead to new treatments for Alzheimer's.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 17, 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.

Scientists create fully electronic 2-dimensional spin transistors

Researchers at the University of Groningen have successfully created a two-dimensional spin transistor in graphene, which uses charge-to-spin conversion to generate spin currents. The spin transistor can be switched on and off using an electric field, enabling the creation of all-electrical spin circuits.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalNano Letters·DateSep 17, 2019

Pew funds six research teams to pursue scientific discoveries

The Pew Charitable Trusts has awarded grants to six interdisciplinary research teams, combining expertise in virology, epigenetics, microbiology, and developmental biology to advance groundbreaking discoveries. The research projects focus on understanding complex biological processes, such as viral manipulation of host cells, genetic v...

SourcePew Charitable Trusts·DateSep 17, 2019

New method for detecting quantum states of electrons

Researchers at OIST Graduate University have developed a new method to detect electrons' transitions to quantum states using image charge detection. This technique has the potential to create a ten-centimeter chip, reducing the size of current quantum computers and bringing them closer to practical use.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateSep 17, 2019

Acoustic energy harnessed to soften shear-thickening fluids

Shear-thickening fluids can be manipulated using ultrasonic waves to soften them, opening up new applications for materials like concrete and ceramics. The approach uses acoustic transducers to break force chains responsible for thickening, allowing for dynamic tuning of the material.

SourceCornell University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateSep 17, 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.

March of the multiple penguin genomes

The Penguin Genome Consortium has sequenced high-coverage penguin genome sequences, providing an unparalleled amount of information on the genomic landscape of all living penguin species. This study reveals key insights into the evolution of life on the ice and will help predict population trends under future climate change scenarios.

SourceGigaScience·JournalGigaScience·DateSep 17, 2019

Miniaturizing medical imaging, sensing technology

Scientists at Columbia University have successfully miniaturized medical imaging technology using a microchip, producing high-quality images with improved depth resolution. The breakthrough could lead to affordable handheld devices for disease diagnosis outside of hospitals in low-resource settings.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAPL Photonics·DateSep 17, 2019

Programmable swarmbots make flexible biological tools

Biomedical engineers create biomanufacturing platform using bursting bacteria and shrinking capsules to produce targeted proteins, enabling flexible and efficient production of diverse biologics. The new technology simplifies the creation of protein complexes and offers an easy way to produce multiple proteins simultaneously.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateSep 17, 2019

New study measures how much of corals' nutrition comes from hunting

A new study measures how much of coral nutrition comes from hunting, suggesting that corals may be eating more than expected. The research provides a more accurate view of coral diets and has big implications for reef survival during climate change.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalFunctional Ecology·DateSep 17, 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.

Tortillas tell the story of folate deficiency in Mexico: study

A new study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that a significant proportion of Mexican women of childbearing age have inadequate folate intake. The study suggests that fortification of staple foods with folic acid has improved overall folate intake, but still leaves vulnerable populations at risk.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateSep 17, 2019

Electronic nose can sniff out which lung cancer patients will respond to immunotherapy

A new electronic nose can identify lung cancer patients who will respond to immunotherapy with 85% accuracy, outperforming the current gold standard of immunohistochemistry. The non-invasive test detects chemicals in patient breath and provides instant feedback, potentially avoiding ineffective treatment and side effects.

SourceEuropean Society for Medical Oncology·JournalAnnals of Oncology·DateSep 17, 2019

Raising the profile of lupus

A new two-year grant aims to improve outreach and care for people with lupus, focusing on historically black colleges and universities. The initiative includes educational outreach efforts, a patient navigator program to reduce hospital readmissions, and partnerships to increase understanding of health disparities among healthcare prov...

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·DateSep 17, 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.

NASA-NOAA satellite catches Hurricane Kiko at night

The Suomi NPP satellite's Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) instrument provided an infrared image of Hurricane Kiko on Sept. 16, showing an elongated shape due to wind shear. Wind shear affects tropical cyclones by pushing against the rotating cylinder of winds, weakening rotation and intensifying the storm.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 17, 2019

Research reveals the crucial role of recycling in the evolution of life in our universe

New research by astrophysicists at the University of Kent reveals how matter discarded as stars die is recycled to form new stars and planets. The study found that elements such as carbon and oxygen are transferred through a process of fragmentation, providing vital clues about the emergence of life in our universe.

SourceUniversity of Kent·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateSep 17, 2019

Mutant live attenuated Ebola virus immunizes non-human primates

A new study demonstrates that a mutant live attenuated Ebola virus vaccine protects non-human primates against infection, targeting the immune-evasion function of VP35. The researchers developed a virus with three mutations in the VP35 protein, which plays a critical role in evading host immune responses.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Reports·DateSep 17, 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.

NASA's Terra Satellite sees the birth of Tropical Storm Imelda

NASA's Terra satellite captured a visible image of newly formed Tropical Depression 11 over the western Gulf of Mexico on Sept. 17. The storm briefly strengthened into Tropical Storm Imelda, making landfall near Freeport, Texas, and triggering a Tropical Storm Warning.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 17, 2019

Pros and cons of genetic scissors

The Crispr method enables researchers to monitor proteins' function live under natural conditions, eliminating the need for overproduction. This facilitates analysis of genes and gene products, allowing for more accurate results.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalTrends in Cell Biology·DateSep 17, 2019

Synthetic cells capture and reveal hidden messages of the immune system

The study reveals that ectosomes, tiny vesicles containing key immune messages, can be intercepted and deciphered using super resolution microscopy. This breakthrough understanding of cellular communication has significant implications for developing therapies that shape the immune response to specific diseases.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·DateSep 17, 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.

Feeling depressed? Mahjong might be the answer

A new study from the University of Georgia suggests that playing mahjong can reduce rates of depression among middle-aged and older adults in China. The study found that urban residents who played mahjong were less likely to feel depressed, while rural Chinese overall tended to report poor mental health.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·DateSep 17, 2019

Here's what you need to rise to the top

A new scale assessing passion in relation to a skill has been presented in the journal New Ideas in Psychology. Passion, grit, positive mindset, and mentors are key factors in achieving success. Men tend to rely on passion and grit, while women emphasize grit and a positive mindset.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalNew Ideas in Psychology·DateSep 17, 2019

Scientists in New York City discover a valuable method to track rats

Researchers developed a new tracking method for urban rats using pheromones, revealing sex-specific scent preferences. This finding could aid in urban wildlife management and development of novel control tools, such as bait deployment or immuno-contraceptives.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalJournal of Urban Ecology·DateSep 17, 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.

Ethanol fuels large-scale expansion of Brazil's farming land

A University of Queensland-led study models future ethanol demand scenarios, forecasting potential expansion of sugarcane farming land in Brazil to 5 million hectares by 2030. The high demand scenario could lead to doubling current ethanol demand and necessitate additional 5 million hectares of land for sugarcane crops.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalEnergy Policy·DateSep 17, 2019

Shark pups lose gains in stressed environments

A study found that shark pups born in stressed environments, like those with climate change and overfishing, lose their initial physical advantages. This means they start foraging later and have lower body conditions, affecting their survival rates.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 17, 2019

Novel mechanism of electron scattering in graphene-like 2D materials

Scientists have identified an unusual electron scattering phenomenon in hybrid systems of Bose-Einstein condensates and 2D electron gases. This discovery opens up new possibilities for designing high-temperature superconductors by exploiting the unique interactions between electrons and Bogoliubov quanta.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateSep 17, 2019

Screening mammography could benefit men at high risk of breast cancer

A landmark study found that selective mammography screening can detect male breast cancer in high-risk men at an early stage, improving survival prognosis. The cancers detected were often benign, but the study's results support targeted screening for men with elevated risk.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateSep 17, 2019

Stroke patients relearning how to walk with peculiar shoe

The iStride Device, a patented therapeutic shoe, helps stroke patients relearn how to walk by strengthening the affected leg. Clinical trials show improved gait symmetry and functional walking in six participants, with four achieving double limb support.

SourceUniversity of South Florida·JournalJournal of NeuroEngineering and Rehabilitation·DateSep 17, 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.