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Science News for September 30, 2019


Do celiac families need 2 toasters?

A preliminary study from Children's National Hospital found no significant gluten transfer when tools like the same toaster or knives are used for both gluten-free and gluten-containing foods. Basic kitchen hygiene can further reduce gluten transfer.

SourceChildren's National Hospital·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateSep 30, 2019

Which comes first: Smartphone dependency or depression?

A new study from the University of Arizona has identified a link between smartphone dependency and symptoms of depression and loneliness. Smartphone dependency predicts higher reports of depressive symptoms and loneliness, rather than the other way around.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateSep 30, 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.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Child deaths in Africa could be prevented by family planning

A recent study found that better access to clean water, sanitation services, and family planning can substantially reduce preventable child mortality in Africa. The analysis determined that large households are linked to worsening child health outcomes in developing nations.

SourceFlinders University·JournalBMJ Open·DateSep 30, 2019

Designing a new class of drugs to treat chronic pain

A team of UC Davis researchers led by Vladimir Yarov-Yarovoy is developing a new class of peptides to treat chronic pain with minimal side effects. The goal is to identify the most effective peptide design that can selectively block pain-associated sodium channels without affecting other channels.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·DateSep 30, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

You don't have to go cold turkey on red meat to see health benefits

A new study found that halving red and processed meat consumption reduces LDL 'bad' cholesterol levels and heart disease risk by an average of 10%. Researchers discovered that even small changes to RPM intake can induce significant changes in LDL cholesterol, potentially reducing the risk of developing heart disease.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalFood & Function·DateSep 30, 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.

WVU study reveals falsification issues in higher education hiring processes

A new study from West Virginia University found that 78% of applicants claimed to have at least one publication, with 56% listing inaccurate or unverifiable publications. The researchers hope their findings can inform recommendations for improving the academic hiring process and increasing transparency.

SourceWest Virginia University·JournalJournal of Empirical Research on Human Research Ethics·DateSep 30, 2019

Pineapple genome sequences hint at plant domestication in a single step

Researchers have sequenced and assembled the red pineapple genome, revealing how natural and artificial selection shaped key traits. The study supports the hypothesis that some plants can be domesticated in a single step through clonal propagation.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalNature Genetics·DateSep 30, 2019

Purple martin migration behavior perplexes researchers

Researchers have discovered that purple martins are roosting in small forest patches as they migrate from North America to Brazil. The birds seem to be intentionally seeking out these isolated habitats, possibly due to fewer predators than in larger forest areas.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Field Ornithology·DateSep 30, 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.

'Good' cholesterol counters atherosclerosis in mice with diabetes

A new study finds that increasing levels of 'good' cholesterol reversed disease in the blood vessels of mice with diabetes, reversing atherosclerosis. The study also shows that raising functional HDL levels stopped inflammation and improved cardiovascular disease processes.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalCirculation·DateSep 30, 2019

Your video can ID you through walls with help of WiFi

Researchers at UCSB have enabled identifying a person behind a wall using only WiFi transceivers outside, utilizing received power measurements of a WiFi link. The proposed approach achieves an accuracy of 84% in correctly identifying the person behind the wall, with potential applications in surveillance and security.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·DateSep 30, 2019

Antibiotic-resistant bacteria spread by washing machine

Researchers at the University of Bonn found that conventional washing machines in hospitals and potentially households can transmit antibiotic-resistant bacteria to newborns through clothing. The study highlights the need for higher temperatures during laundry to prevent transmission of dangerous pathogens.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateSep 30, 2019

Vegetarian meal options in cafeterias

A study found that increasing vegetarian meal options led to a significant increase in sales, with diners who previously avoided vegetarian meals purchasing more after increased availability. The results suggest that expanding vegetarian options can reduce meat consumption and promote healthier eating habits.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 30, 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.

Organoid research revealed at Neuroscience 2019

Scientists discuss strengths and weaknesses of organoids as a model for human cortex, employing them to study developmental brain disorders. Researchers explore the viability of mini-brains in clinical research.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateSep 30, 2019

Cooking food alters the microbiome

A new study reveals that cooking food fundamentally alters the microbiomes of both mice and humans. Cooking raw foods can harm certain microbes, while cooked foods may be more calorie-dense, affecting gut bacteria. In a human trial, participants showed significant changes in their microbiome after switching between raw and cooked diets.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature Microbiology·DateSep 30, 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.

First prostate cancer therapy to target genes delays cancer progression

A new treatment approach for metastatic prostate cancer has shown promising results, delaying disease progression by more than double and potentially extending lives. The treatment targets genetic alterations that enable cancer cells to repair themselves, leading to significant extensions in time before the disease grows and spreads.

SourceNorthwestern University·DateSep 30, 2019

Great apes have you on their mind

A new study suggests that great apes, including chimpanzees, bonobos, and orangutans, possess a theory of mind, enabling them to understand others' mental states. The team observed that the apes anticipated an agent's actions based on their own experiences with different barriers.

SourceKyoto University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 30, 2019

Solar cells with new interfaces

Scientists from NUST MISIS and University of Rome Tor Vergata developed a new approach to design perovskite solar cells using MXene, increasing efficiency by more than 25% compared to original prototypes. The innovative material enhances charge extraction through interfaces.

SourceNational University of Science and Technology MISIS·JournalNature Materials·DateSep 30, 2019

ORNL scientists shed light on microbial 'dark matter' with new approach

Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory developed a method to isolate specific microbes from complex human oral microbiome samples using antibody engineering. They successfully isolated three different species of TM7 and another uncultivated bacterial group, SR1.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateSep 30, 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.

Human milk fat substitute from seed oil

Scientists created a human milk fat substitute from seed oil by modifying its metabolism to produce triacylglycerols with a specific fatty acid structure. This innovation could provide a cheap and sustainable source of human milk fat substitute for infant formula.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 30, 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.

Expanding Medicaid means chronic health problems get found & health improves, study finds

A new study by Michigan Medicine and University of Michigan found that nearly one in three low-income people with chronic illnesses discovered a new condition after enrolling in expanded Medicaid. Half of those with chronic conditions reported improved overall health within a year of coverage, with similar improvements in mental health.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateSep 30, 2019

Material for nuclear reactors to become harder

Researchers from NUST MISIS created a unique composite material that can withstand temperatures up to 700°C, outperforming individual components in terms of microhardness. The material's multilayer structure, made possible by high-pressure torsion, enables improved thermal stability and strength.

SourceNational University of Science and Technology MISIS·JournalMaterials Letters·DateSep 30, 2019

'Relaxed' enzymes may be at the root of Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease

Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease causes damage to the peripheral nervous system, affecting balance and motor skills. Researchers found that mutated enzymes take on an unusual shape, leading to unwanted interactions with nearby proteins and potential disease severity.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 30, 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.

Silicon technology boost with graphene and 2D materials

The integration of graphene and 2D materials with silicon technology promises to overcome current challenges and enhance device component function and performance. This could lead to breakthroughs in computational systems, non-computational applications, such as cameras and sensors, and even push performance gains in memory and data st...

SourceICFO-The Institute of Photonic Sciences·JournalNature·DateSep 30, 2019

Sleeping pills reduce suicidal thoughts in patients with severe insomnia

A study found that patients with severe insomnia who took a sedative-hypnotic sleep aid showed significant improvement in reported insomnia severity and reduced suicidal thinking. The treatment was particularly effective in reducing suicidal thoughts in patients with the most severe insomnia.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateSep 30, 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.

How meaning is represented in the human brain

Researchers detect non-linguistic experience in brain activity during reading, combining with linguistic information to decode sentence meaning. This breakthrough may guide future efforts in language disorders and artificial intelligence.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateSep 30, 2019

Microbes in warm soils released more carbon than those in cooler soils

A new study finds that warmer tropical soils release more car-bon, leading to a 9% increase in atmospheric CO2 by the century's end. The increased microbial activity and changes in soil microbes also promote a positive feedback loop, exacerbating global warming.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalEcology Letters·DateSep 30, 2019

Best medications to reduce drooling for those with developmental disability

Researchers found anticholinergic drugs like glycopyrrolate significantly reduced drooling, but caused adverse effects such as behavioral changes and dehydration. The study suggests choosing a medication with fewer side effects for those with severe motor impairment.

SourceMurdoch Childrens Research Institute·JournalDevelopmental Medicine & Child Neurology·DateSep 30, 2019

Quantum material goes where none have gone before

Physicists at Rice University have created a new alloy that exhibits unusual electronic properties when traversing the final frontier of quantum criticality. The cerium palladium aluminum alloy behaves like a spin liquid, a metallic system with exotic properties that can be found in other strongly correlated materials.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Physics·DateSep 30, 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.

NIH forms new collaborative influenza vaccine research network

The NIH has initiated a collaborative influenza vaccine research network to develop more durable and broadly protective vaccines. The CIVICs program will support the development of universal influenza vaccines with longer-lasting protection against a wider variety of influenza viruses.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·DateSep 30, 2019

No need to cut down red and processed meat consumption

A major Canadian-led study has found that most adults can continue to eat red and processed meat without significant impacts on heart disease, diabetes, or cancer. The researchers concluded that a small reduction in risk was associated with reducing meat consumption by three servings per week.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateSep 30, 2019

Turning Phoenix green

A study by Arizona State University found that urban agriculture can meet 90% of Phoenix's current annual fresh produce consumption. The city could also increase green space by 17% and reduce CO2 emissions by displacing energy use equivalent to 6,000 homes.

SourceArizona State University·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateSep 30, 2019

Preparing for the future

A new multidisciplinary study examines projected changes to the Santa Barbara coast and provides recommendations for adaptation. Key impacts include rising temperatures, increased flooding and erosion, and more frequent droughts.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalOcean & Coastal Management·DateSep 30, 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.

Autonomous electric minibus in development to tour Timanfaya

The UC3M has developed a completely autonomous electric vehicle to replace combustion vehicles in the Timanfaya National Park. The minibus features level 5 autonomy, allowing it to operate without human control, and advanced AI perception systems for navigation and localization.

SourceUniversidad Carlos III de Madrid·DateSep 30, 2019

New guidelines: No need to reduce red or processed meat consumption

A panel of experts based on rigorous systematic reviews found little to no health benefits for reducing red or processed meat consumption. Most adults can continue their current levels of red and processed meat intake without negative health effects.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateSep 30, 2019

Optoceutics: A new technique using light for regenerative medicine

Researchers at Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia have developed a new technique called Optoceutics, which uses visible light to specifically direct the fate of tissue cells. This breakthrough has significant potential for regenerative medicine and treating cardiovascular diseases.

SourceIstituto Italiano di Tecnologia - IIT·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 30, 2019

Novel treatment combination for patients with BRAF-mutant metastatic colorectal cancer

A phase III study showed that the combination of encorafenib, binimetinib, and cetuximab significantly improved overall survival (9.0 months) and objective response rates compared to standard care. The treatment was well-tolerated, suggesting a potential paradigm shift in treating BRAF-mutant metastatic colorectal cancer.

SourceVall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateSep 30, 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.

Bateman's cowbirds

A study by researchers at the University of Illinois found that male cowbirds exhibit greater variation in offspring production, conforming to Bateman's Principle. Surprisingly, approximately 75% of cowbirds were monogamous for the entire breeding season despite not providing food or resources to their young.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Liberal Arts & Sciences·JournalJournal of Evolutionary Biology·DateSep 30, 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.

Johns Hopkins researchers advance search for safer, easier way to deliver vision-saving gene therapy

Researchers have developed a new approach to delivering sight-saving gene therapy to the retina, using a small needle to inject harmless viruses into the suprachoroidal space. This method could provide a more permanent therapeutic option for patients with common diseases such as wet age-related macular degeneration and inherited retina...

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 30, 2019

Water contamination and bottled water sales

A study found that water contamination violations associated with immediate health risks led to a 14% increase in bottled water sales. However, low-income rural communities did not show a significant response to nitrate violations, which pose a risk to infants.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 30, 2019

Great apes and theory of mind

A recent study suggests that great apes possess theory of mind, demonstrated by their ability to anticipate an agent's action based on past experience. The findings indicate that these animals can use perceptual cues to infer another agent's belief about an object's location.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 30, 2019

First-time pregnancy complications linked to increased risk of hypertension later in life

Researchers found that women who experience complications such as preterm births and preeclampsia during their first pregnancy are nearly twice more likely than women without complications to develop high blood pressure later in life. The study emphasizes the need for doctors to focus on knowing the health histories of women.

SourceNIH/National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateSep 30, 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 AI method may boost Crohn's disease insight and improve treatment

A Rutgers-led study uses artificial intelligence to examine genetic signatures of Crohn's disease, revealing previously undiscovered genes linked to the illness. The AI method accurately predicted whether thousands of people had the disease, holding promise for improved diagnosis and treatment.

SourceRutgers University·JournalGenome Medicine·DateSep 30, 2019

Curved nanochannels allow independent tuning of charge and spin currents

Physicists at the University of Groningen created curved spin transport channels, enabling independent control over charge and spin currents. This discovery could lead to more energy-efficient electronics by allowing spin injectors and detectors to be integrated into modern 3D circuitry.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalNano Letters·DateSep 30, 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.

Cooling requirements, climate change, and desert bird collapse

A study found that climate-driven extinctions in Mojave Desert birds may be linked to increased water requirements, particularly for insectivorous and carnivorous species. Climate forecasts predict a 50-78% increase in water needs for Mojave birds, making species declines more likely.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 30, 2019

Fish fathers exhibit signatures of 'baby brain' that may facilitate parental care behavior

A study of stickleback fish found that male parental care is accompanied by changes in gene activity in the brain, similar to those experienced by mammals. The researchers identified genes associated with mothering and aggression, suggesting a molecular link between fish and mammal parents.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 30, 2019

The Lancet journals: Papers at ERS Congress 2019

The Lancet Respiratory Medicine published a series of papers on cystic fibrosis treatment, including new CFTR modulator drugs showing promise and improving patient outcomes. Additionally, a three-in-one inhaler therapy was found to improve lung function and reduce asthma attacks in patients with severe asthma.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Respiratory Medicine·DateSep 30, 2019

Cornell researchers reveal molecular basis of vision

Researchers at Cornell University have solved the three-dimensional structure of a protein complex involved in vertebrate vision at atomic resolution, revealing how signals from photons are amplified in the eye. The study provides insights into G-protein-coupled receptors and their role in human vision, with potential implications for ...

SourceCornell University·JournalMolecular Cell·DateSep 30, 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.

Brave new world: Simple changes in intensity of weather events 'could be lethal'

A recent study from Washington University in St. Louis challenges the idea that species previously exposed to variable conditions are better suited to cope with climate change. The model predicts that simple changes in weather event intensity could be lethal for populations that have experienced similar events in the past.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalEcology and Evolution·DateSep 30, 2019

Fruit flies live longer with combination drug treatment

A triple drug combination of lithium, trametinib, and rapamycin has been shown to extend the lifespan of fruit flies by 48%, a significant increase compared to previous studies. The treatment targets different cellular processes and may have potential benefits for preventing age-related diseases in humans.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 30, 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.

A new concept could make more environmentally friendly batteries possible

A new concept for an aluminum battery has twice the energy density of previous versions and is made of abundant materials, potentially leading to reduced production costs and environmental impact. The idea could be used in large-scale applications such as solar and wind energy storage.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalEnergy Storage Materials·DateSep 30, 2019

New smallpox vaccine tested by USAMRIID receives FDA approval

The US FDA has approved a new smallpox vaccine called JYNNEOS, which is non-replicating and can be used to protect against both smallpox and monkeypox diseases. The vaccine developed by Bavarian Nordic was shown to have a superior immune response compared to the existing ACAM2000 vaccine.

SourceUS Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases·DateSep 30, 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.

Is this brain cell your 'mind's eye'?

Researchers suggest a structural connection between 'content circuits' in the cortex and 'switchboard circuits' that allocate awareness, mediated by L5p neurons. Studies demonstrate interaction between state and contents of consciousness in these cells.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Systems Neuroscience·DateSep 30, 2019

High wealth inequality linked with greater support for populist leaders

A large-scale international study found that people in economically unequal societies are more supportive of strong, even autocratic leaders. The researchers suggest that economic inequality perceptions fuel a desire for a leader who will restore order by whatever means necessary.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateSep 30, 2019

BU finds physical therapy access may reduce opioid prescriptions

Patients who first see a chiropractor or physical therapist are less likely to be prescribed opioids, reducing the risk of short- and long-term use. The study found that state-level policy regulations impact opioid prescribing, with patients in states with limited access more likely to receive opioids.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalBMJ Open·DateSep 30, 2019

Viscoelastic fluids and wildfire prevention

Researchers developed nontoxic, biodegradable viscoelastic carrier fluids to enhance fire retardant retention on wildfires-prone vegetation. Treating high-risk locations with these fluids may help prevent wildfires from starting during peak season.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 30, 2019

Georgia State research finds early life racial discrimination linked to depression, accelerated aging

A study led by Georgia State University researchers found that early life racial discrimination is linked to elevated depressive symptoms and accelerated aging processes in African American youth. The study, which analyzed data from over 800 African American families, suggests that experiences of racial discrimination may be driving a ...

SourceGeorgia State University·JournalHealth Psychology·DateSep 30, 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.

Delivery system can make RNA vaccines more powerful

MIT researchers have developed a delivery system that makes RNA vaccines more powerful, triggering efficient protein production and boosting immune response. The nanoparticles also activate an immune signaling pathway, provoking T cells to attack cancer cells and infectious agents.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateSep 30, 2019

Underwater manatee chatter may aid in their conservation

A new method for detecting manatee calls could help restore populations of the endangered Antillean manatee. By analyzing underwater recordings, scientists can estimate manatee numbers and understand their habitat use in turbid waters.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalThe Journal of the Acoustical Society of America·DateSep 30, 2019

Mesothelioma trial suggests immunotherapy as an alternative to chemotherapy

A recent study presented at the ESMO Congress 2019 found that nearly four times more patients responded to immunotherapy with pembrolizumab than standard chemotherapy in a trial for advanced mesothelioma. However, these responses did not delay progression or improve survival rates.

SourceEuropean Society for Medical Oncology·JournalAnnals of Oncology·DateSep 30, 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.

Does being a 'superwoman' protect African American women's health?

African American women report feeling pressured to act as superwomen to cope with racial discrimination, but research reveals mixed results on the persona's impact on health. Some aspects of being a strong black woman seem to protect against chronic stress, while others exacerbate its negative effects.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalAnnals of the New York Academy of Sciences·DateSep 30, 2019

New CRISPR-Cas9 variant may boost precision in gene editing

Researchers have developed a new CRISPR-Cas9 variant that reduces unintended changes in DNA, increasing precision in gene therapy. The SaCas9-HF variant shows high on-target efficiency and nearly undetectable off-target activity, offering a promising alternative for precise genome editing.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 30, 2019

German fishermen's scepticism towards EU impedes compliance with its regulations

A game of chance experiment revealed that German commercial fishermen are more honest than students when not under suspicion. However, when told to report their results in favor of the EU, almost one in three fishermen answered dishonestly. The study highlights the importance of trust between fishermen and regulatory authorities.

SourceGerman Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig·JournalEuropean Economic Review·DateSep 30, 2019

NASA-NOAA's Suomi NPP analyzes record-setting hurricane Lorenzo

Hurricane Lorenzo attained Category 5 strength briefly, becoming the strongest hurricane on record in the eastern-most Atlantic Ocean. The Suomi NPP satellite provided infrared data that showed changes in the storm's eye and powerful thunderstorms, and mesospheric gravity waves were also observed.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 30, 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.

Biologists track the invasion of herbicide-resistant weeds into southwestern Ontario

Researchers identified two mechanisms driving herbicide-resistant weed emergence in Ontario: pollen and seed dispersal via wind and water, and spontaneous genetic mutations. This study highlights the need for integrated management approaches to minimize gene flow and resistances, including thorough equipment cleaning and crop rotation.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 30, 2019

Veg 'nudge': an extra vegetarian option cuts meat consumption without denting food sales

A study found that doubling vegetarian options reduced meat-rich purchases by 40-80%. The results suggest tweaking food availability can influence people's decisions for human health and environmental preservation. No rebound effect was detected, meaning opting for a veggie lunch didn't lead to a compensatory meat-heavy dinner.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 30, 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.

Researchers develop program aimed at reducing dating violence among students

A new program, Me & You: Building Healthy Relationships, was effective in reducing dating violence perpetration and victimization among early middle school ethnic-minority students. The program uses a life skills decision-making model to teach youth better communication and problem-solving skills.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateSep 30, 2019

Potent antibody curbs Nipah and Hendra virus attack

A potent monoclonal antibody has been developed to impede henipavirus fusion with cell membranes, blocking viral genome injection. The antibody recognizes a specific area of the viral membrane machinery, preventing membrane fusion and keeping viral material out of host cells.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateSep 30, 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.

Origins of female orgasm and induced ovulation

Researchers propose female orgasm evolved from copulation-induced ovulation (CIO) in animals like rabbits. A study found that inhibiting CIO reduced ovulations in treated rabbits, supporting the hypothesis of a shared evolutionary origin.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 30, 2019

EPFL researchers invent low-cost alternative to Bitcoin

A new cryptocurrency system, Byzantine Reliable Broadcast, achieves safe and secure transactions with virtually zero energy cost. This paradigm shift is made possible by assuming all players are honest until proven guilty, eliminating the need for complex consensus tasks.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·DateSep 30, 2019

Curbing diesel emission could reduce big city mortality

Reducing diesel emissions from freight trucks can lead to significant improvements in public health and the economy. By 2050, studies predict a decline in mortality rates and annual savings of $38 billion, thanks to improved air quality and technology.

SourceCornell University·JournalEnvironment International·DateSep 30, 2019

New clinical trial analyses predict response to benralizumab by patients with COPD

A new analysis of two international clinical trials predicts that benralizumab may be effective for a subpopulation of patients with moderate to very severe COPD who have elevated blood eosinophil counts and a history of frequent exacerbations. The study found no significant efficacy in reducing annual COPD exacerbation rates for patie...

SourceTemple University Health System·JournalThe Lancet Respiratory Medicine·DateSep 30, 2019

The flagellar hook: Making sense of bacterial motility

Researchers at OIST Graduate University revealed the flagellar hook's mechanics, showing how it acts as a dynamic joint to transmit torque and enable bacterial motility. The study provides insights into the hook's flexible and rigid structure, allowing for dynamic shifts in its conformation.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateSep 30, 2019

Borophene on silver grows freely into an atomic 'skin'

Researchers have successfully grown elongated hexagon-shaped flakes of borophene on a silver substrate, overcoming a major hurdle in its production. The discovery could enable the creation of atom-width conductive wires for nanoelectronics devices.

SourceRice University·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 30, 2019

Nanoparticles wiggling through mucus may predict severe COPD

A new technique uses nanoparticles to measure how quickly they move through mucus samples, correlating with COPD severity. The study's findings suggest that the structure of mucus in patients with severe COPD may be distinct and affect particle movement.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalEuropean Respiratory Journal·DateSep 30, 2019

Triplet-targeted therapy improves survival for patients with advanced colorectal cancer and BRAF mutations

The BEACON CRC Phase III clinical trial found that the three-drug combination of encorafenib, binimetinib, and cetuximab significantly improved overall survival in patients with BRAF-mutated metastatic colorectal cancer. Median OS for the triplet-targeted therapy was 9 months compared to 5.4 months for standard therapy.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateSep 30, 2019

Terror activity and local power structures

Research reveals that subsequent terrorist attacks are more likely to occur within a 20km radius of the initial attack, suggesting a localized pattern. The study also finds that group alliances and rivalries play a crucial role in shaping terror activity, with mutually reinforcing effects between terror attacks and state intervention.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 30, 2019

Strained, symmetric, and new

Tetravinylallene, a highly unsaturated molecule with two adjacent double bonds, has been synthesized for the first time, offering a new approach to constructing complex molecular frameworks. Its symmetry enables chemists to perform multiple reactions in one step, making it a potent tool for synthesizing natural products and drugs.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateSep 30, 2019

How to dismantle a nuclear bomb

A new method uses neutron beams to establish facts about warheads, physically encrypting information to prevent disclosure of military secrets. The system balances verification with secrecy for countries involved in arms reduction pacts.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 30, 2019

Secrets of the molecular makeup of cannabis

Research reveals how CBD inhibits emotional processing in rats exposed to THC, reducing anxiety behaviors. The study proposes a bi-directional control of ERK1-2 phosphorylation as the key mechanism behind these findings.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateSep 30, 2019

Women with asthma appear more likely to have lower levels of testosterone

Researchers found that women with asthma are more likely to have lower levels of free testosterone and estradiol compared to those without asthma. Elevated sex hormone levels were associated with reduced odds of asthma in both men and women, particularly obese individuals.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateSep 30, 2019

Helping tobacco plants save water

Scientists have successfully implanted an electronic device into tobacco plants, allowing them to deliver a stress hormone called ABA. This enables the plant to close its small pores and conserve water.

SourceLinköping University·JournalSmall·DateSep 30, 2019

Novel strategy using microRNA biomarkers can distinguish melanomas from nevi

Researchers developed a new approach to diagnosing melanoma using microRNA biomarkers, achieving high sensitivity and specificity rates. The method overcomes challenges of tumor heterogeneity and improves diagnostic accuracy, potentially leading to earlier detection and better patient outcomes.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Investigative Dermatology·DateSep 30, 2019

Targeted therapy slows progression of advanced prostate cancer

A recent study has shown that targeting faulty DNA repair mechanisms can slow the progression of advanced prostate cancer and improve survival rates. The PROfound trial demonstrated a significant delay in cancer progression with olaparib, compared to new hormonal agents, in patients with metastatic, pre-treated prostate cancer.

SourceEuropean Society for Medical Oncology·JournalAnnals of Oncology·DateSep 30, 2019

How common is food insecurity among Medicare enrollees?

A study of nearly 9,700 Medicare beneficiaries found that food insecurity was common among older adults (1 in 10) and individuals with long-term disabilities (4 in 10). Lower incomes and reporting multiple chronic conditions were associated with increased risk of food insecurity.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateSep 30, 2019

Mechanisms of real-time speech interpretation in the human brain revealed

Scientists developed computational models of word meanings and tested them against real-time brain activity in volunteers, revealing how the brain combines words to make sense in context. The study shows how word constraints directly affect meaning interpretation, highlighting the neural mechanisms behind spoken language understanding.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 30, 2019

Building a brighter way for capturing cancer during surgery

UT Dallas researchers have shown that hyperspectral imaging and AI can predict the presence of cancer cells with 80-90% accuracy in 293 tissue specimens. This technology, called a smart surgical microscope, aims to reduce operating time, lower medical costs, and save lives.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalCancers·DateSep 30, 2019

New research finds coastal living linked with better mental health

A new study published in Health and Place found that living close to the coast supports better mental health in England's poorest urban areas. The research analyzed data from nearly 26,000 respondents and revealed a link between coastal proximity and reduced symptoms of mental health disorders among low-income households.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalHealth & Place·DateSep 30, 2019

Artificial intelligence improves biomedical imaging

Researchers developed a machine learning method to enhance optoacoustic imaging quality without sacrificing it. The approach uses sparse data, allowing for reduced sensor numbers and improved diagnosis accuracy, facilitating clinical decision-making.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·DateSep 30, 2019

Plastic bottles in South Atlantic Ocean

Researchers found polyethylene terephthalate (PET) drinking bottles are the most abundant type of debris, increasing at 14.7% annually since the 1980s. The majority of recent bottles were manufactured in Asia, with China being a primary source.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 30, 2019

NASA finds Typhoon Mitag's eye east of Taiwan

Typhoon Mitag continues to produce strong thunderstorms around its cloud-filled eye, affecting Taiwan and forecasted to graze China's east coast. The storm is at peak intensity, moving northwards with maximum sustained winds near 75 knots.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 30, 2019