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Science News for November 18, 2015


New clues emerge about the earliest known Americans

The research provides greater evidence that humans were established in South America more than 15,000 years ago, supporting an earlier peopling of the Americas. The findings also underscore the importance of long-term interdisciplinary research and raise new questions about how the hemisphere was settled.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 18, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Secrets of dark proteome

A recent CSIRO study maps the boundaries of the 'dark proteome', a region of proteins with completely unknown structure. The research identifies surprising features in nearly half of the eukaryotic proteome, including associations with secretory tissues and disulfide bonding.

SourceCSIRO Australia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 18, 2015

Researchers find link between air pollution and heart disease

Researchers found a significant association between coarse particles in the air and increased cardiovascular hospitalizations in people 65 and older. The study, published in Environmental Health Perspectives, analyzed data from 110 large urban counties in the US and linked it to Medicare data on hospitalizations from 1999 to 2010.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateNov 18, 2015
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Wisconsin scientists grow functional vocal cord tissue in the lab

University of Wisconsin-Madison scientists successfully grew functional vocal cord tissue in the laboratory using bioengineering techniques. The tissue was able to transmit sound and showed similar characteristics to native tissue, paving the way for potential clinical applications.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateNov 18, 2015

Patients improve speech by watching 3-D tongue images

A study by University of Texas at Dallas researchers shows that watching 3-D images of tongue movements can help individuals learn speech sounds. The findings could be especially helpful for stroke patients seeking to improve their speech articulation.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalFrontiers in Human Neuroscience·DateNov 18, 2015

Plant and food-based compounds may be key to future cancer prevention

A broad-spectrum approach to cancer treatment and prevention is being developed by researchers, focusing on low-toxicity agents from plants and foods that target multiple pathways involved in cancer development. The approach aims to improve upon current targeted therapies and reduce costs associated with toxicity and treatment duration.

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalSeminars in Cancer Biology·DateNov 18, 2015

Coconut oil shows promise in the prevention of deadly bloodstream infection

A study found that coconut oil consumption reduced gastrointestinal colonization by C. albicans in mice, suggesting a potential way to prevent invasive infections. The researchers plan to launch a clinical trial testing coconut oil in hospitalized infants at high-risk for developing systemic candidiasis.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmSphere·DateNov 18, 2015
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.

Without prescription coverage, some cancer patients do without even low-cost drugs

A University of Colorado Cancer Center study shows that breast cancer patients without prescription drug coverage are less likely to start and continue hormonal therapy due to high costs. Women from lower-income households were particularly affected, highlighting the need for affordable prescription coverage.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalBreast Cancer Research and Treatment·DateNov 18, 2015

Couples who have sex weekly are happiest

Research published by the Society for Personality and Social Psychology found no significant link between frequent sex and happiness after one sexual encounter per week. Instead, maintaining an intimate connection with a partner is key to overall happiness.

SourceSociety for Personality and Social Psychology·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·DateNov 18, 2015
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.

Has Syria painted a target on medical teams around the world?

A new report by Physicians for Human Rights documents 45 hospital attacks in eastern Aleppo, with two-thirds forced to close. The authors call for an international stance against violating medical neutrality, warning that such attacks could become the 'new normal' in armed conflicts.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 18, 2015

Nationwide look at diabetes in Mexico paints grim picture

A nationwide study in Mexico found that diabetes incidence doubled every 10 years from 1960 to 2012, and up to 23% of the population could be diagnosed with the disease by 2050. The study highlights the need for comprehensive prevention strategies to reverse trends.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalPreventive Medicine·DateNov 18, 2015

Cure for chytrid: Scientists discover method to eliminate killer fungus

Researchers successfully eliminated a lethal chytrid fungus in a wild amphibian population using antifungal treatment and environmental disinfection. The breakthrough study, published in Biology Letters, marks the first time a fatal fungal infection has been eradicated from a wild population.

SourceZoological Society of London·JournalBiology Letters·DateNov 18, 2015

York scientists reveal structure of key cancer target enzyme

Researchers at the University of York have published research on the 3-D structure of human heparanase, an enzyme that degrades sugars and contributes to cancer cell proliferation. The study's findings will enable a more rational approach to drug design and the development of novel therapeutic agents.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateNov 18, 2015
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.

Young whites usually more optimistic than minority peers about likelihood of living to 35

A new study finds that young whites are significantly more optimistic about their chances of living to 35 compared to minority peers. The study controlled for various risk factors and found that foreign-born Mexicans were the most pessimistic about their future survival, even after accounting for socioeconomic status.

SourceAmerican Sociological Association·JournalJournal of Health and Social Behavior·DateNov 18, 2015

What salamanders can teach us about baseball

Researchers analyze salamander hunting skills to understand how animals compensate for sensorimotor delays. By predicting prey movement, salamanders successfully catch over 90% of their targets. The study's findings provide new insights into human motor processing and prediction strategies.

SourceUniversity of Louisville·DateNov 18, 2015

The Lancet: Breastfeeding babies protected against HIV infection from their HIV-positive mothers with 12 months of liquid antiretroviral drug treatment

A study found that providing babies with up to 12 months of liquid formula HIV drugs while breastfeeding with their HIV-positive mothers is highly effective in protecting them from infection. The study showed that rates of HIV infection fell to 0.2% when the drug was taken, and that adherence remained a key factor for success.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·DateNov 18, 2015
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.

Brazilian Artur Avila wins TWAS-Lenovo Prize

Artur Avila, a renowned Brazilian mathematician, has won the TWAS-Lenovo Science Prize for his groundbreaking work on dynamical systems and chaos theory. His research has helped resolve major mathematical quandaries and brought global awareness of Brazilian mathematics.

SourceTWAS·DateNov 18, 2015

Interpersonal communication key to daughters' well-being

A recent study by University of Missouri professor Haley Horstman found that daughters 're-author' stories about adversity over time, increasing their positivity through narrative. This change in storytelling can lead to improved mother-daughter interpersonal relationships and well-being.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalCommunication Monographs·DateNov 18, 2015

New options for treating autism

The research demonstrates that increasing oxytocin levels can improve social interactions in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Additionally, the study reveals a link between oxytocin and anandamide production, which may lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating ASD.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 18, 2015
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.

Ecological extinction explains how turbulence dies

Researchers developed a theory explaining the lifetime of turbulent flows by drawing an analogy with ecosystems near extinction. Computer simulations showed that turbulence excites and inhibits large-scale zonal flow, leading to oscillations in its intensity.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalNature Physics·DateNov 18, 2015

A simple, rapid test to help ensure safer meat

Scientists developed a simple method to quickly detect meat spoilage using nanotubes, providing real-time analysis and high sensitivity. The test reacts in under an hour to a teaspoon of vapor emitted by the samples, indicating freshness.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Sensors·DateNov 18, 2015
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.

Bright light treatment efficacious for nonseasonal major depressive disorder

A randomized clinical trial found bright light treatment alone and combined with fluoxetine to be effective treatments for adults with nonseasonal major depressive disorder. The study's primary outcomes showed that combination therapy and light therapy alone were superior to placebo, while fluoxetine alone was not.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateNov 18, 2015

When did the Andes mountains form?

The Andes mountain chain was formed 14 million years ago, according to new research from the University of Bristol. The study used a novel method based on cosmic rays to determine the age of large boulders in the western margin of the Andes.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateNov 18, 2015
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.

Why do children develop cancer?

A recent study found that 8.5% of children with cancer have genetic mutations increasing their risk, highlighting the need for improved counseling and family testing. The study's author, Dr. John M. Maris, emphasizes the importance of understanding how other genes interact with these mutations to cause cancer in children.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 18, 2015

Critical gaps in antenatal care identified in cases of term stillbirths

A new study has revealed key steps for hospitals to improve care for pregnant mums and babies in cases of term stillbirth. The investigation found 'missed opportunities' that could have potentially saved baby lives, highlighting areas such as diabetes testing, fetal growth monitoring, and bereavement care.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·DateNov 18, 2015
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.

UA researchers capture first photo of planet in making

University of Arizona researchers captured the first photo of a planet forming in a gap within LkCa15's disk, providing insights into protoplanetary formation. The study utilized advanced telescopes and imaging techniques to observe the young star and its surrounding disk.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalNature·DateNov 18, 2015

Viagra improves insulin sensitivity in individuals at risk for diabetes

A new study published in the Endocrine Society's Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that Viagra improves insulin sensitivity in individuals with prediabetes. The medication also reduces a biological marker that signals heightened risk of kidney and heart disease.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateNov 18, 2015

A 'Council of Psychological Science Advisors' tackles pressing policy issues

A special section in Perspectives on Psychological Science provides policy memos to the President from a 'Council of Psychological Science Advisors', offering recommendations on obesity, consumer debt, terrorism, and climate change. The section features articles translating scientific findings into federal policy improvements.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPerspectives on Psychological Science·DateNov 18, 2015

Uni successful in £350k bid to measure students' 'learning gain'

The University of Huddersfield is conducting a £350,000 research project to measure 'learning gain', defined as improvement in knowledge, skills, and employability. The project will survey hundreds of undergraduates who participate in additional activities beyond their course curriculum.

SourceUniversity of Huddersfield·DateNov 18, 2015
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.

A new way to monitor vital signs

Researchers at MIT developed an ingestible sensor that measures heart rate and breathing rate by detecting sound waves produced by the beating heart and lungs. The device has potential applications in trauma patients, soldiers, athletes, and chronic illness diagnosis.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 18, 2015

The Lancet Infectious Diseases: New gene that makes common bacteria resistant to last-line antibiotic found in animals and patients in China

Researchers found a new gene, mcr-1, that enables bacteria to resist polymyxins, the last line of defence against infections. The gene is widespread in E coli and K pneumoniae strains from pigs and patients in south China, suggesting its potential to spread rapidly into human pathogens.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateNov 18, 2015

Study finds high prevalence of incapacitated rape among college women

Researchers found that nearly 18% of students said they'd been raped while incapacitated before college, and 41% were raped again during their freshman year. Young women who believed alcohol enhances a person's sexual experience were at increased risk of incapacitated rape.

SourceJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·JournalJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·DateNov 18, 2015

Investigational immunotherapeutic increased bladder cancer survival

A novel immunotherapeutic approach, personalized peptide vaccination, showed significant improvement in overall survival for patients with advanced bladder cancer. The study found a median overall survival of almost twice as long as that for patients without the treatment, at 7.9 months versus 4.1 months.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateNov 18, 2015
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

New strategy reduces side effects in Parkinson's treatment

A new approach has been discovered to reduce uncontrolled movements caused by levodopa, a common Parkinson's disease medication. By boosting the functioning of a specific brain receptor, scientists have found that side effects such as dyskinesia can be dramatically reduced.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNeuron·DateNov 18, 2015

Use your loaf to save British wildlife

A new farming scheme has been found to support 20% more species of butterflies while producing the same amount of crops as conventional farms. Farmers who sign up to the non-organic Fair to Nature growing protocol gain a premium price for their crops, in return for setting aside and actively managing wildlife habitat.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateNov 18, 2015

Global task force tackles problem of untreatable cancers and disease relapse

A global task force of 180 scientists has identified high-priority molecular targets for improved patient outcomes in most cancers. The team recommends low-toxicity approaches using non-toxic chemicals, including those found in plants and foods, to reach a broad-spectrum of priority targets.

SourceSaarland University·JournalSeminars in Cancer Biology·DateNov 18, 2015

An easy pill to swallow

Researchers at UC Santa Barbara have developed an insulin pill using novel drug delivery technology that shows early promise as a form of diabetes therapy. The pill's oral delivery system could circumvent the discomfort associated with injections, leading to improved patient compliance and potentially more effective treatment.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·DateNov 18, 2015
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.

Neurogastronomy: How our brains perceive the flavor of food

The International Society of Neurogastronomy Symposium brought together scientists, chefs, and patients to explore ways to improve quality of life for those with altered taste or smell. Chefs and neuroscientists collaborated on the 'Applied Neurogastronomy Challenge' to create dishes that appealed to cancer patients.

SourceUniversity of Kentucky·DateNov 18, 2015

Our closest wormy cousins

Researchers sequenced acorn worm genomes to find similarities with human genes, establishing a distant connection. The study identified 8,600 shared gene families across deuterostomes, including humans, starfish, and frogs, suggesting a common ancestor that lived half a billion years ago.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalNature·DateNov 18, 2015
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.

Common pigeon: Not just a bird brain, but a brainy bird

A new study found that pigeons can accurately distinguish between benign and malignant breast cancer slides, similar to human observers. With some training, pigeons performed just as well as humans in categorizing digitized microscope slides and mammograms of normal vs. cancerous breast tissue.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 18, 2015

New method developed to predict response to nanotherapeutics

Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital have developed a new approach to predict which tumors will be most responsive to therapeutic nanoparticles. They use an FDA-approved magnetic nanoparticle and MRI to identify tumors with high or low EPR, a physiological condition that allows nanoparticles to accumulate faster.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateNov 18, 2015
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.

Marine animals use new form of secret light communication

Researchers at the University of Queensland discovered that mantis shrimp use circular polarised patterns as a means to covertly advertise their presence to aggressive competitors. This new form of light communication has potential applications in satellite remote sensing, biomedical imaging, and computer data storage. The study also f...

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalCurrent Biology·DateNov 18, 2015

Sea level rise from Antarctic collapse may be slower than suggested

A new study suggests that Antarctic ice sheet collapse will contribute to a significant but lower-than-expected 10-30 cm sea-level rise over the next two hundred years. The research uses an ice-sheet model to predict the consequences of unstable retreat of the ice, which recent studies suggest has begun in West Antarctica.

SourceBritish Antarctic Survey·JournalNature·DateNov 18, 2015
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Dark matter dominates in nearby dwarf galaxy

Astronomer Evan Kirby measures high concentration of dark matter in small dwarf galaxy Triangulum II, potentially making it a leading candidate for direct detection. The galaxy's unique characteristics and minimal background noise make it an ideal location to search for gamma-ray signals from colliding dark matter particles.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateNov 18, 2015

Weekday sleep changes may raise risk of diabetes, heart disease

A new study published in the Endocrine Society's Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism has found that weekday sleep changes may raise the risk of developing metabolic problems such as diabetes and heart disease. Researchers discovered a link between social jetlag, which refers to the mismatch between an individual's biological...

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateNov 18, 2015

Whale sharks in Gulf of Mexico swim near the surface, take deep dives

Researchers tracked whale sharks in the Gulf of Mexico, revealing they use both near-surface and deeper waters for feeding, with some staying at depth greater than 50 meters continuously for over three days. The study found complex patterns of habitat utilization likely driven by shifting ocean conditions and prey distribution.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 18, 2015

Neuroscientists reveal how the brain can enhance connections

MIT neuroscientists have discovered a new way that the brain strengthens connections between neurons. The presynaptic neuron plays a crucial role in this process, releasing neurotransmitters to stimulate growth of new connections and enhancing synaptic function.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNeuron·DateNov 18, 2015

Cereal science

Researchers at San Diego State University have discovered a new phenomenon in materials science using puffed rice cereal. They found that highly porous, brittle materials can deform differently depending on compaction velocity, with three distinct deformation patterns emerging at low, medium, and high velocities.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalNature Physics·DateNov 18, 2015
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.

Electron partitioning process in graphene observed, a world first

Scientists from Osaka University have observed the electron partitioning process in graphene for the first time, a world-first discovery that could lead to the development of electron interferometer devices. The study found that electron partitioning took place in the p-n junction of graphene in the Quantum Hall regime.

SourceOsaka University·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 18, 2015
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.

Dartmouth scientists shed light on how our brains see the world

A Dartmouth study shows that the brain processes motion differently for animate and inanimate objects, interacting between two visual pathways. This discovery has potential applications in improving motion recognition algorithms for public security systems and treating motion blindness and object agnosia.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalNeuroImage·DateNov 18, 2015

New study suggests more than 8 percent of children with cancer have genetic predisposition

Researchers analyzed genomic data from 1,120 pediatric cancer patients and found that 8.5% had pathogenic germline mutations in cancer predisposition genes. This study suggests that comprehensive genomic screening may be necessary for all pediatric cancer patients, not just those with a family history of cancer.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 18, 2015

Rotman Professor wins Financial Times/McKinsey Award for Young Business Writers

University of Toronto Rotman School professor András Tilcsik won the Financial Times/McKinsey Award for Young Business Writers for his book proposal on managing catastrophic failure risk. The proposal, 'Rethinking the Unthinkable,' aims to help managers rethink existing organizational practices and build more robust systems.

SourceUniversity of Toronto, Rotman School of Management·DateNov 18, 2015

FDA-approved drug protects mice from Ebola

A new study found that gamma interferon, an FDA-approved drug, completely protects mice from death when given either before or up to 24 hours after exposure to Ebola. The treatment targets macrophages and blocks the infection of those initial cell targets, preventing a second round of infection.

SourceUniversity of Iowa Health Care·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateNov 18, 2015
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.

Obesity spells problems for trauma patients

A study found a strong association between obesity and an increased need for surgery, longer hospital stays, and higher treatment costs in orthopaedic trauma patients. Patients with obesity were more likely to be discharged to a care facility rather than home.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateNov 18, 2015

Key barriers to quality end-of-life care for ethnic minorities

A new study reveals that ethnic minority populations face significant barriers to receiving quality end-of-life care, with financial resources and insurance being the biggest obstacle. The researchers emphasize the need for education, training, and support to improve end-of-life care among diverse patient populations.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Palliative Medicine·DateNov 18, 2015

Chemical engineers have figured out how to make vaccines faster

Researchers at Brigham Young University create a system to speed up vaccine production by storing the biological machinery in a freeze-dried state. This allows labs to rapidly produce vaccines with just the addition of water, reducing the time from months to days.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalBiotechnology Journal·DateNov 18, 2015

Light therapy effective for depression: UBC study

A UBC study published in JAMA Psychiatry found that light therapy can effectively treat non-seasonal depression and improve the overall wellbeing of people suffering from the disease. The research, which followed 122 patients, showed that light therapy was most beneficial when used with antidepressants.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateNov 18, 2015
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.

Vanderbilt study finds erectile dysfunction drug may benefit patients at risk for diabetes

A Vanderbilt study found that sildenafil improves insulin sensitivity in people at risk for diabetes, potentially reducing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The researchers discovered that sildenafil inhibits an enzyme called phosphodiesterase 5, resulting in relaxation of smooth muscle and increased blood flow.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateNov 18, 2015
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.

Sound deprivation leads to irreversible hearing loss

Researchers at Mass Eye and Ear found that chronic conductive hearing loss can lead to permanent hearing impairment if left untreated. The study, published in PLOS ONE, showed dramatic changes in the inner ear after a year of sound deprivation.

SourceMass Eye and Ear·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 18, 2015

Low-oxygen 'dead zones' in North Pacific linked to past ocean-warming events

A new study finds a link between abrupt ocean warming and low-oxygen conditions that led to vast marine dead zones in the North Pacific. The researchers discovered a clear connection between two prehistoric intervals of abrupt ocean warming that ended the last ice age, resulting in an increase in diatom production and subsequent hypoxia.

SourceOregon State University·JournalNature·DateNov 18, 2015

Prevalence of lifetime drug use disorders nearly 10 percent in US

A large national survey found nearly 10% of Americans have lifetime drug use disorder diagnoses, resulting in significant impairment and comorbidities. The study also highlights the importance of treatment, with only 24.6% of those with lifetime diagnoses receiving treatment.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateNov 18, 2015

Strategy based on human reflexes may keep legged robots and prosthetic legs from tripping

A robotic prosthetic control strategy based on human reflexes has shown promise in simulation and laboratory testing, producing stable walking gaits over uneven terrain and improved balance recovery from trips. The technology will be further developed and tested using volunteers with above-the-knee amputations over the next three years.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Biomedical Engineering·DateNov 18, 2015
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.

New technology for dynamic projection mapping

Researchers from Osaka University developed a technology that projects images onto moving objects, aligning them with the object's movement. The technology uses visual markers and radiometric compensation to achieve accurate registration.

SourceOsaka University·DateNov 18, 2015

Parents' top fears about teen cellphone use

While parents' fears about teens' digital habits are often overstated, there are valid concerns about cyberbullying and sleep disruption. Teens' online lives mirror their offline experiences, but excessive screen time can lead to negative effects for vulnerable adolescents.

SourceDuke University·JournalPerspectives on Psychological Science·DateNov 18, 2015

Mutations in key cancer protein suggest new route to treatments

Researchers have identified mutations in the STAT3 protein that can block its ability to act as a transcription factor, suggesting a basis for new cancer treatments. The discovery reinforces the importance of targeting transcription factors like STAT3 in fighting cancer.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 18, 2015

Powering the next billion devices with Wi-Fi

The Power Over Wi-Fi system can wirelessly power low-power devices, such as cameras and wearable trackers. The technology attracts attention for its potential to enable Internet of Things development.

SourceUniversity of Washington·DateNov 18, 2015

Research shows benefits, danger of Ultraman competition

Researchers analyzed competitors before the Ultraman competition and found that body fat percentage dropped significantly, but weight remained unchanged due to fluid retention. The study also revealed signs of muscle damage, elevated cortisol levels, and reduced insulin sensitivity.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalEuropean Journal of Applied Physiology·DateNov 18, 2015
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.

Forming planet observed for first time

Researchers from the University of Sydney and other institutions have directly observed a planet in formation for the first time. The planet, located 450 light years away, is surrounded by a vast disc of dust and gas, and its presence has been confirmed through images and spectral fingerprint analysis.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalNature·DateNov 18, 2015

Master switch for brain development

Researchers at the Institute of Molecular Biology in Mainz have identified a key gene that drives brain cell development, revealing a complex regulatory mechanism. The discovery has significant implications for understanding neurodegenerative disorders and developing new treatments.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalThe EMBO Journal·DateNov 18, 2015

Warming ocean worsened Australia's fatal 2010/2011 floods

A recent study by Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution researchers reveals that long-term ocean warming significantly increased the risk of devastating floods in northeast Australia during the 2010/2011 event. The study found that warmer sea surface temperatures contributed to record-breaking rainfall and extreme weather conditions.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateNov 18, 2015
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 sees In-fa become a Typhoon near Micronesia

Typhoon In-fa intensified into a typhoon near Micronesia, prompting warnings and advisories for the region. The storm is expected to continue intensifying as it moves west-northwest through Micronesia and the Marianas, bringing stronger winds and heavier showers.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 18, 2015

College studies may reduce risk of dementia for older adults, research finds

A study by the American Psychological Association found that older adults who take college courses show significant increases in cognitive capacity compared to those who don't. The research suggests that mentally stimulating activities like college studies can enhance cognitive reserve and potentially reduce dementia risk.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalNeuropsychology·DateNov 18, 2015

Stormy space weather puts equatorial regions' power at risk

Smaller geomagnetic storms cause fluctuations in wholesale electricity prices in equatorial regions due to the amplified effects of the electrojet. The research highlights the need for scientists to investigate the infrastructure and economic implications on countries near the equator.

SourceRMIT University·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateNov 18, 2015

Research using CO2 keeps even small fry invasive carp at bay

A recent study found that high concentrations of carbon dioxide deter even small invasive carp from entering areas with elevated CO2 levels. The gas causes stress and avoidance behavior in fish as young as eight days old, providing a non-physical barrier against the species.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalBiological Invasions·DateNov 18, 2015

A focus on fairness

A new study from Harvard University found that children globally quickly reject unequal distributions of rewards, but in three countries (U.S., Canada, and Uganda), they also accept deals that favor themselves. This suggests that fairness behaviors may vary across cultures.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature·DateNov 18, 2015
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.

Bringing the chaos in light sources under control

A study investigates how to control noise in quantum dot LEDs by modulating bias current, leading to stabilized light sources suitable for optical telecommunications. The researchers found that spiking competition of quantum dots enhances self-feedback and affects noise perturbation.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal D·DateNov 18, 2015

One very brainy bird

A new study finds that pigeons can accurately categorize digitized microscope slides and mammograms of benign and malignant human breast tissue. With training, they perform as well as humans in this task, demonstrating a remarkable ability to perceive and process visual cues.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 18, 2015

Geordie Williamson to receive 2016 AMS Chevalley Prize

Geordie Williamson will receive the inaugural AMS Claude Chevalley Prize in Lie Theory for his work on representation theory, including proofs of longstanding conjectures and counterexamples to expected bounds. His research has re-opened the field of modular representations and revealed inadequate numerical evidence.

SourceAmerican Mathematical Society·DateNov 18, 2015

Spider webs yield clues to stickier glues (video)

Researchers create synthetic adhesives that mimic the viscosity and tackiness of spider web glues, improving performance in humid environments. The study's findings suggest that adding salts to synthetic adhesives could enhance their stickiness.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Nano·DateNov 18, 2015

Tel Aviv Univ discovery may redefine classifications in the animal kingdom

Researchers have discovered a microscopic parasite in fish that's a close cousin to jellyfish, challenging current animal kingdom classifications. The study found that myxozoans, a group of parasites, are highly degenerated cnidarians, sharing essential genes with jellyfish.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 18, 2015

New urban heat island study shows surprising variation in air temperatures across Twin Cities

A new study from the University of Minnesota used a network of 180 sensors to capture detailed temperature patterns across the Twin Cities metropolitan area, highlighting the strength and variability of the urban heat island effect. The research provides valuable insights into efforts to reduce heat-related harm in metro areas globally.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalJournal of Applied Meteorology and Climatology·DateNov 18, 2015

Babies have logical reasoning before age one, study finds

Research reveals that infants can make transitive inferences about social dominance by 10-13 months of age, demonstrating an ability to reason logically. The study's findings suggest that this skill is evolutionarily important and may be shared with other animals.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalDevelopmental Science·DateNov 18, 2015