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Science News for September 26, 2019


A comprehensive atlas of genetic regulation of lipid metabolism published

Researchers at the University of Helsinki have identified 35 genetic loci associated with plasma lipid species levels, revealing a significant heritable component in cardiovascular disease risk. The study also highlights the potential of lipidomics to improve cardiovascular risk prediction and treatment.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 26, 2019

Cause of antibiotic resistance identified

Researchers at Newcastle University have confirmed that bacteria can lose their cell wall to avoid detection by antibiotics, leading to recurring urinary tract infections. The study found that L-form switching allows bacteria to survive and re-form their cell wall, making it harder for the immune system to target them.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 26, 2019

U of M research discovers link between stress and circadian clock health

Researchers at the University of Minnesota Medical School found that a little stress can actually improve the functioning of our internal biological clock. Stress leads to rhythmic phosphorylation of eIF2α, promoting production of ATF4 protein, which activates Per2 gene, ultimately making the clock tick faster.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota Medical School·JournalNeuron·DateSep 26, 2019

Virtual human hand simulation holds promise for prosthetics

Researchers created the world's most realistic model of the human hand's musculoskeletal system using MRI and visual effects techniques. This breakthrough has implications for computer graphics, prosthetics, medical education, robotics, and virtual reality.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·DateSep 26, 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.

Disparities persist in early kidney transplantation despite policy changes

A recent analysis reveals persistent disparities in preemptive kidney transplantation, with Black and Hispanic patients and those on Medicare facing reduced access. The 2014 Kidney Allocation System may have exacerbated some inequalities for these groups.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateSep 26, 2019

AI identifies genes linked to heart failure

Researchers at Queen Mary University of London used AI to analyze 17,000 healthy UK Biobank volunteers' heart MRI images, finding genetic factors account for 22-39% variation in left ventricle size and function. The study identified 14 genome regions associated with heart structure and function.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalCirculation·DateSep 26, 2019

New washing machine filter breaks down plastic microfibres

A new filter developed at the University of Exeter can degrade and dissolve plastic microfibres released during washing, which account for over a third of ocean microplastics. The smart filter catches microfibres and uses enzymes to break them down into safe compounds.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·DateSep 26, 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.

MIPT scientists come up with faster way to discover antibiotics

Researchers at MIPT have identified a promising class of antibiotics, 2-pyrazol-1-yl-thiazole derivatives, which exhibit antibacterial properties and inhibit protein synthesis. The discovery was made possible by a semi-automatic analysis method that enabled the screening of over 125,000 molecules.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalThe Journal of Antibiotics·DateSep 26, 2019

Teenagers less likely to respond to mothers with controlling tone of voice

A new study from Cardiff University found that teenagers are less responsive to instructions from their mothers when spoken in a controlling tone of voice. The researchers discovered that autonomy-supportive tones, on the other hand, elicit positive reactions and encourage self-expression.

SourceCardiff University·JournalDevelopmental Psychology·DateSep 26, 2019

Severe silicosis found among fabricators of engineered quartz stone

Researchers discovered 18 cases of severe silicosis and two fatalities among young Hispanic men working in engineered stone fabrication plants. The study suggests that hundreds or thousands of workers may be at risk due to the material's high silica content, posing significant health concerns.

SourceMediaSource·JournalMMWR Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report·DateSep 26, 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.

Human kidney map charts our growing immune defense

Researchers have created the first cell atlas of the human kidney's immune system, charting the communities of immune cells in different zones. The atlas shows how the immune system develops during early life and strengthens after birth, with implications for tackling kidney disease and transplant rejection.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalScience·DateSep 26, 2019

Immune response against Toxocara roundworms helps explain disease

A recent study reveals significant elevations in anti-inflammatory lipid mediators in response to Toxocara roundworm infections, which contribute to the pathogenesis of neurotoxocarosis. The findings provide new understanding of host-parasite interactions during this disease.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateSep 26, 2019

Link between assisted reproduction and risk for prostate cancer

A national register study from Lund University found that fathers who underwent assisted reproduction, such as IVF and ICSI, had a 30-60% higher risk of developing prostate cancer compared to those who conceived naturally. The study also showed that men treated for infertility had a higher risk of prostate cancer at a young age.

SourceLund University·JournalThe BMJ·DateSep 26, 2019

Living coral cover will slow future reef dissolution

A recent study on the Great Barrier Reef found that living coral cover can slow future reef dissolution due to ocean acidification. The experiment used a controlled system to simulate high CO2 conditions and showed that living corals were more resilient than dead ones, which would dissolve earlier.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateSep 26, 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.

Compute at the speed of light

A research team at the University of Delaware has designed an integrated photonics platform with a one-dimensional metalens and metasurfaces, limiting information loss and enabling high signal transmission. The device demonstrates functionalities of Fourier transformation and differentiation, critical techniques in physical sciences.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 26, 2019

The dark giraffe, the new dark horse

A long-term study found that a giraffe's spot color strongly relates to their social patterns, not age. Darker males may use their color to signal competitive ability and attract females.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalAnimal Behaviour·DateSep 26, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

NIH awards contracts to advance tuberculosis immunology research

The NIH has awarded contracts to establish three new centers for immunology research to accelerate progress in TB vaccine development. The program aims to develop a comprehensive understanding of the immune responses required to prevent TB infection and disease.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·DateSep 26, 2019

Shocking heat waves stabilize single atoms

Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory successfully stabilized single atoms using record-high temperatures of up to 2000 K. The method enables the creation of stable single atom catalysts, which can remain in their place for unprecedented periods of time, maximizing atom-use efficiency and improving catalytic performance.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateSep 26, 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.

Applying structural monitoring technology to the human spine

A team of researchers has developed an implantable, self-powered spinal fusion sensor to monitor the health of the spine after surgery. The sensor will provide continuous and long-term monitoring, eliminating the need for costly imaging appointments and exposing patients to radiation.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·DateSep 26, 2019

The FASEB Journal: PML as potential treatment for pancreatic cancer

Researchers found PML dysfunction due to altered protein modification, specifically sumoylation, enables pancreatic tumor resistance to chemotherapeutic treatment. High PML expression and sumoylation are associated with better survival rates in patients.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateSep 26, 2019

How neuronal recognition of songbird calls unfolds over time

Scientists have created a novel approach to analyze neuronal response to different call meanings in songbirds. The analysis shows that initial responses contain information about the call's meaning, with additional information accumulating up to 600 milliseconds. Individual neurons play a significant role in categorizing call meanings.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateSep 26, 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.

Predicting a hurricane's intensity can prove difficult

A new operational algorithm enhances intensity prediction, particularly for rapid intensification within 24 hours. The Index to Better Estimate Tropical Cyclone Intensity Change improves error rates by 16%.

SourceNova Southeastern University·JournalTransactions American Geophysical Union·DateSep 26, 2019

UMD CONSERVE Center leading effort to advance water and food security

The UMD CONSERVE Center develops safe, alternative irrigation strategies to sustain food production in a changing climate. Non-traditional water sources like reclaimed water, brackish water, and return flows hold promise, but require additional treatments to reduce microbial and chemical contaminants.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalEnvironmental Research·DateSep 26, 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.

People living near green spaces are at lower risk of metabolic syndrome

A new study by Barcelona Institute for Global Health found that long-term exposure to green spaces can prevent metabolic syndrome and its individual components. The study analyzed data from over 6,000 adults in the UK and found a significant association between green space exposure and lower risk of metabolic syndrome.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·DateSep 26, 2019

Predicting cancer versus autism risk in PTEN patients

Researchers at Cleveland Clinic identified a metabolite associated with specific PTEN mutations, distinguishing those at high risk for neurodevelopmental disorders from cancer. The findings may help tailor treatments to individual patients with germline PTEN mutations.

SourceCleveland Clinic·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateSep 26, 2019

Discovery in gallium nitride a key enabler of energy efficient electronics

Researchers at Cornell University have made a groundbreaking discovery in gallium nitride, which could transform electronics and wireless communication. The new material structure creates a high-density of mobile holes, making GaN structures almost 10 times more conductive than traditional doping methods.

SourceCornell University·JournalScience·DateSep 26, 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.

Technique can image individual proteins within synapses

Researchers at MIT have developed a rapid imaging method to visualize hundreds of synaptic proteins at high resolution. By analyzing protein levels in thousands of neurons, they discovered groups of proteins that tend to associate with each other more often than others, shedding light on synapse subtypes and their functions.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 26, 2019

The secret of motivation

Researchers identified a neural circuit in fruit flies that controls perseverance, with dopamine and octopamine neurotransmitters playing a key role. The finding suggests that simple organisms like fruit flies exhibit stamina and perseverance, challenging the idea that these traits are unique to humans.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNeuron·DateSep 26, 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.

Chemists clarify a chiral conundrum?

Rice chemists disentangled the mysterious interactions between bovine serum albumin and gold nanorods, revealing multilevel chirality and a possible way to sense single proteins' handedness. This discovery could lead to the development of drug-sensing tools with improved accuracy.

SourceRice University·JournalScience·DateSep 26, 2019

NIST goes with the (slow) flow: New technique could improve biotech, precision medicine

Researchers at NIST have created an optical system that can measure the flow of extremely small amounts of liquids with high accuracy. The technique relies on a laser interacting with light-sensitive molecules in a liquid flowing through a microchannel, allowing for precise control of flow rates as low as 2 nanoliters per minute.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateSep 26, 2019

Study suggests French ban on food additive may be premature

Researchers from Michigan State University and University of Nebraska Medical Center found no evidence of negative health effects from titanium dioxide in rats. The study corrected flaws in the original French research, including inadequate testing methods and unrealistic rat exposure scenarios.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalFood and Chemical Toxicology·DateSep 26, 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.

Farmed oysters able to protect themselves from acidification

Researchers found that selectively bred oysters can alter their shell biomineralisation mechanisms to promote resilience against environmental acidification. This breakthrough could be a global mitigation strategy for sustainable shellfish aquaculture in the face of climate-driven change.

SourceUniversity of Stirling·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateSep 26, 2019

Teens share stories to deter other students from using tobacco

A study by UTHealth School of Public Health found that an innovative strategy called Teens Against Tobacco Use is a promising model in tobacco prevention. The program, which partners teachers with youth, led to significant reductions in tobacco susceptibility scores among students who received the presentation.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·DateSep 26, 2019

Teenage acne may be a natural, transient inflammatory state

Researchers propose that teenage acne is a naturally occurring, inflammatory state caused by the sudden change in skin microbiota composition and increased sebum production during adolescence. This hypothesis challenges conventional thinking and may explain special clinical characteristics of acne.

SourceCell Press·JournalTrends in Immunology·DateSep 26, 2019

Walking speed may predict return to work in young stroke survivors

Young stroke survivors who can walk faster than 3 feet per second are more likely to return to work, with those walking almost 6 feet per second showing significant improvement. The study highlights the potential of walking speed as a reliable tool for clinicians to predict return to work and guide rehabilitation.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateSep 26, 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.

Tracking Alzheimer's disease pathology in single neuronal cells

University of Warwick researchers introduce fluorescently labelled Tau oligomers into single brain neurons and observe significant effects on action potential dynamics and synaptic transmission. They find that Tau oligomers interfere with memory storage by mis-localising at synapses.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournaleNeuro·DateSep 26, 2019

Tasmanian devil research could help tackle immunotherapy resistance

A cluster of interacting proteins found in Tasmanian devil facial tumours and human cancers could guide the development of new drug combinations that improve immunotherapy treatment effectiveness. Researchers suggest that a class of EZH2 inhibitors may help overcome immune evasion in cancer cells.

SourceCancer Research UK·JournalCancer Cell·DateSep 26, 2019

Machine learning at the quantum lab

Researchers from Oxford, Basel, and Lancaster develop an algorithm that uses machine learning to automate the process of characterizing quantum dots. By reducing measuring time and number of measurements, this approach enables efficient characterization of large arrays of quantum devices.

SourceSwiss Nanoscience Institute, University of Basel·DateSep 26, 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.

Nearly 1 in 3 patients with lupus use prescription opioids for pain

A new study published in Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report found that nearly one-third of patients with lupus use prescription opioids to manage chronic pain. The research, led by Emily Somers, aims to determine current levels of opioid prescribing for lupus patients.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalMMWR Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report·DateSep 26, 2019

Researcher hopes to make gene-editing device safer and more precise

Dr. Jin Liu is working on a $437,864 grant to develop more precise gene editing using CRISPR-Cas9 technology, aiming to reduce off-target effects and increase on-target effectiveness for treating life-threatening diseases such as cancer, eye diseases, and sickle cell anemia.

SourceUniversity of North Texas Health Science Center·DateSep 26, 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.

Texas Biomed continues testing Ebola therapies and vaccines

Researchers at Texas Biomed continue testing Ebola therapies and vaccines in human clinical trials, motivated by promising preclinical data. The goal is to positively impact human lives with effective treatments, building on previous studies involving nonhuman primates.

SourceTexas Biomedical Research Institute·DateSep 26, 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.

Estonian humanities scholar awarded a prestigious grant by ERC

Laanes' five-year project 'Translating Memories: The Eastern European Past in the Global Arena' investigates how literature, cinema, and art shape global perceptions of WWII and Soviet regimes. The team will analyze aesthetic and political debates around these works to break local history deadlocks.

SourceEstonian Research Council·DateSep 26, 2019

Preserving old bones with modern technology

A team of researchers has developed a method to screen bone samples for collagen using near-infrared spectrometry, reducing the need to destroy valuable remains. This breakthrough could enable scientists to analyze ancient DNA and gain insights into human history.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 26, 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.

How time affects the fate of stem cells

Researchers found that small changes in SOX2 and OCT4 levels impact embryonic stem cell fate during the G1 phase. Elevated OCT4 levels direct cells towards neuronal and non-neuronal types, while increased SOX2 pushes them towards neuronal-type cells.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalMolecular Systems Biology·DateSep 26, 2019

Positive relationships boost self-esteem, and vice versa

A meta-analysis of over two decades of research found a robust reciprocal link between positive relationships and self-esteem across the lifespan. The study analyzed 52 studies involving over 47,000 participants and found that both positive relationships and high self-esteem shape each other's development.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateSep 26, 2019

Otherworldly worms with three sexes discovered in Mono Lake

Researchers at Caltech have discovered a new species of worm, Auanema sp., in Mono Lake, which can survive 500 times the lethal human dose of arsenic. The eight discovered species are diverse and resilient to arsenic-laden conditions, suggesting nematodes may have genetic predispositions for adaptability.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 26, 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.

Dishing the dirt on an early man cave

A team of scientists uncovered new details about day-to-day life in the famous Denisova Cave complex in Siberia's Altai Mountains. Microscopic studies of fossil droppings and charcoal from ancient fires indicate that large carnivores such as hyenas, wolves, and bears dominated the landscape for over 300,000 years.

SourceFlinders University·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 26, 2019

Study champions inland fisheries as rural nutrition hero

A recent study reveals that inland fisheries are providing vital micronutrients and animal-source protein to sustain 159 million people. The global economic value of inland catch is estimated at $24 billion, highlighting its importance in local rural economies.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalFish and Fisheries·DateSep 26, 2019

Spider silk: A malleable protein provides reinforcement

Scientists have discovered that the natural amino acid methionine provides plasticity to spider silk proteins, increasing strength and elasticity. This finding has potential applications in industries such as aviation and textile production.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 26, 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.

Genomic map implicates broad immune cell involvement in multiple sclerosis

A new study has identified 233 genetic sites that contribute to multiple sclerosis (MS) susceptibility, highlighting the involvement of peripheral immune cells and microglia. The findings confirm earlier results and provide a rich perspective on the molecular events leading to MS.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalScience·DateSep 26, 2019

MSU researchers lead team that observes exotic radioactive decay process

Researchers from MSU and TRIUMF observed a rare nuclear decay in beryllium-11, measuring low-kinetic-energy protons emitted after beta decay. The observation represents a new challenge for understanding exotic nuclei, particularly halo nuclei.

SourceMichigan State University Facility for Rare Isotope Beams·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateSep 26, 2019

Research shows racial disparities in pregnant women on dialysis

A new study from the University of Cincinnati reveals racial disparities in pregnancy rates among women on dialysis, with Native American, Hispanic, and black women experiencing higher rates. The study found that these groups were 77%, 51%, and 33% more likely to become pregnant than white women, respectively.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateSep 26, 2019

Habitat connectivity increases plant diversity over decades

A new study suggests that restoring habitat connectivity can increase plant diversity by nearly 14% in fragmented ecosystems. By reconnecting disparate habitat fragments, plant extinctions are reduced by 2% per year and colonization from new species is increased by 5% per year.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateSep 26, 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.

Using the immune system as a defence against cancer

Researchers at King's College London have discovered that β-Galactoside-Binding Protein (βGBP) can selectively target and kill cancer cells while stimulating the immune system to provide long-term protection against cancer recurrence. The study presents a promising new strategy for treating aggressive forms of cancer.

SourceKing's College London·JournalBritish Journal of Cancer·DateSep 26, 2019

Semen miRNAs could be non-invasive biomarkers for prostate cancer

Researchers have discovered that certain molecules in semen, known as miRNAs, may serve as non-invasive biomarkers for prostate cancer. The study found that these molecules can provide reliable information to help diagnose and predict the progression of the disease.

SourceIDIBELL-Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 26, 2019

Galaxy surrounded by a halo of tranquil gas

Astronomers have found that a distant galaxy is nestled in a serene ocean of gas, defying expectations and providing new insights into the composition of galaxy halos. The discovery was made possible by a new technique involving fast radio bursts, which allowed researchers to study the gas directly.

SourceInternational Centre for Radio Astronomy Research·JournalScience·DateSep 26, 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.

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.

Music is essential for the transmission of ethnobiological knowledge

Scientific research reveals that music is essential for expressing and enforcing relationships between humans, other beings, and ecosystems. Traditional music-making systems are being eroded due to globalization, but they continue to be honoured and celebrated.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalJournal of Ethnobiology·DateSep 26, 2019

2019 Science in Society Journalism Award winners announced

The National Association of Science Writers awarded prizes in seven categories, including She Has Her Mother's Laugh by Carl Zimmer, In the Land of Quakes by Michelle Donahue, Scientists think Alabama's sewage problem has caused a tropical parasite by Arielle Duhaime-Ross, and Surrendering to Rising Seas by Jen Schwartz. Winners receiv...

SourceNational Association of Science Writers·DateSep 26, 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.

Galaxy found to float in a tranquil sea of halo gas

Astronomers analyze radio pulses from a fast radio burst to characterize the diffuse gas in a galactic halo, finding surprisingly low density and weak magnetic field. The discovery challenges previous models and provides new insights into ejection processes and galaxy evolution.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalScience·DateSep 26, 2019

Found: 'Poster child' for being shredded by a black hole

A team of astronomers has observed the aftermath of a star violently ripped apart by a supermassive black hole, providing unprecedented detail and insights into these mysterious phenomena. The observations, made possible by NASA's TESS satellite, reveal new features of tidal disruption events (TDEs) that were previously unknown.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·DateSep 26, 2019

How neural circuits form in a developing embryo

Researchers develop tools to watch neural circuit formation directly in living animals, revealing new window into brain development. The study uses light-sheet microscopy to track neurons' movement, activity, and function, shedding light on how coordinated network activity emerges and gives rise to early behaviors.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalCell·DateSep 26, 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.

Testing effectiveness of a mobile app for assessment of dementia symptoms

A Regenstrief Institute research scientist is testing a novel mobile app designed to improve care for people with Alzheimer's disease. The study aims to determine if the Brain CareNotes app can manage behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia, leading to improved quality of life for patients and caregivers.

SourceRegenstrief Institute·DateSep 26, 2019

A planet that should not exist

Astronomers detected a massive planet, GJ 3512b, orbiting the small red dwarf star GJ 3512, defying predictions of theoretical models. The discovery poses questions about planetary formation mechanisms and encourages further research.

SourceUniversity of Bern·JournalScience·DateSep 26, 2019

Sport has its benefits but do not overdo it

A study shows that intensive physical training can harm brain capacity, particularly cognitive control. Excessive physical activity is linked to reduced activity of the lateral prefrontal cortex, leading to impulsive decision-making and burnout syndrome.

SourceINSERM (Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale)·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 26, 2019

How to tie microscopic knots

Physicists at the University of Colorado Boulder have discovered a way to tie microscopic knots within liquid crystals, a type of material used in electronics. The researchers found that by applying voltage, they can expand or shrink the knots and even form complex shapes.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalScience·DateSep 26, 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.

Molecular link between chronic pain and depression revealed

Chronic pain leads to depression by suppressing brain reward system, say Hokkaido University researchers. Their study found that blocking excessive CRF signals can increase dopamine neuron activity, suggesting potential therapeutic targets for chronic pain and depression.

SourceHokkaido University·DateSep 26, 2019

Enigmatic radio burst illuminates a galaxy's tranquil halo

Using FRB 181112, researchers studied the diffuse gas in the halo of a massive galaxy, finding no evidence of cold turbulent clouds or small dense clumps of cool gas. The signal also revealed information about the magnetic field in the halo, which is very weak.

SourceESO·JournalScience·DateSep 26, 2019

Scientists finally find superconductivity in place they have been looking for decades

Researchers successfully simulated high-temperature superconductivity in cuprate materials using the Hubbard model, a decades-old representation of electron behavior. The study suggests that tweaking electron hopping patterns can toggle superconductivity on and off, offering a promising step towards producing controlled superconductors.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalScience·DateSep 26, 2019

Viruses as modulators of interactions in marine ecosystems

A team of scientists discovered a giant virus genome in choanoflagellates, unicellular predators that eat bacteria and small algae. The virus encodes genes for microbial rhodopsin proteins, which are also found in vertebrates and help detect light.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel (GEOMAR)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 26, 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.

New findings enable more heart donations

A new study published in The Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery found that hearts from donors with acute stress-induced cardiomyopathy can be safely transplanted without affecting recipient outcomes. This breakthrough could lead to a significant increase in the supply of donor hearts, estimated at 20-30%.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalJournal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery·DateSep 26, 2019

Black hole shreds star, UH astronomer on discovery team

The ASAS-SN telescope network discovered a tidal disruption event in 2019, which was followed up with observations from NASA's Swift satellite and TESS. The team captured the event's evolution, revealing unique characteristics such as a smooth increase in brightness and a young host galaxy.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·DateSep 26, 2019

New genes identified in hearing loss, providing treatment hope

Researchers from King's College London and UCL have identified 44 genes linked to age-related hearing loss, offering a clearer understanding of the condition's development. The study's findings may lead to new therapies for millions worldwide affected by hearing loss as they age.

SourceKing's College London·JournalThe American Journal of Human Genetics·DateSep 26, 2019

The global phosphorus crisis

A team of 40 experts from industries, universities, and research institutes worldwide warn that the world's limited phosphate resources are being overexploited and wasted. Without sustainable management, phosphorus will eventually run out, threatening global food security.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateSep 26, 2019

Catching evolution in the act

Researchers found that natural selection acts on signal-sensing receptors, influencing a worm's decision to stay or enter dauer based on the availability of resources. The study provides evidence that artificial and natural selection work similarly, supporting Darwin's hypothesis.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateSep 26, 2019

Jumping the gap may make electronics faster

Researchers have developed a method to transfer information using surface plasmon polaritons (SPPs), enabling faster signal propagation in microelectronic chips. The technique, which uses multiple snapshots of electromagnetic fields, can potentially solve the problem of shrinking electronic components and improve the speed of chips.

SourcePenn State·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 26, 2019

Rock-solid climate solutions: Negative emissions technology

A four-year research project aims to deliver safe and reliable carbon dioxide removal by injecting CO2 into ocean basalt, where it will mineralize and remain permanently as rock. The project combines state-of-the-art technologies in a way that has never been conceived before.

SourceUniversity of Victoria·DateSep 26, 2019

NASA finds Tropical Storm Karen's strength on western side

NASA's Terra satellite captured an image of Tropical Storm Karen showing strongest thunderstorms west of center, indicating weakening. The storm is forecast to become a remnant low by Sunday with wind speeds near 45 mph and minimum central pressure at 1004 millibars.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 26, 2019