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Science News for October 19, 2015


Watching the inflammation process in real time

Researchers at Jena University developed a cellular system to study inflammation processes in real time, providing a method for targeting new therapeutic approaches. The system allowed them to clarify the exact regulatory mechanism of 5-LO and FLAP interaction, enabling tests for active compounds.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateOct 19, 2015

The Canadian experience on pediatric liver disease: Early diagnosis is critical

A nationwide study in Pediatrics found 159 children under 18 with Autoimmune Hepatitis in Canada, with fatigue, jaundice, and abdominal pain as common presenting symptoms. Early diagnosis is critical to prevent worsening symptoms, and the study provides evidence-based data for family physicians and specialists to refer patients earlier.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateOct 19, 2015

Poisonous frogs more likely to face extinction, study finds

A study by University of Liverpool scientists found that amphibians using toxins for defense are at higher risk of extinction, contradicting a long-held evolutionary hypothesis. This discovery challenges our understanding of the relationship between defense mechanisms and species diversification.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 19, 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.

Gene could hold key to treating Parkinson's disease

Researchers at King's College London have identified a new gene, HIFalpha, that regulates nerve signals from damaged mitochondria in fruit flies. Switching off the HIFalpha gene restores nerve function and prevents early failure of nerve cells caused by mitochondrial damage.

SourceKing's College London·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 19, 2015

Study of pregnancy complications finds refugee women in Ontario have higher rates of HIV

A new study by Dr. Susitha Wanigaratne found that pregnant refugee women in Ontario had a higher prevalence of HIV than immigrants and Canadian-born women, with rates eight times higher for refugees than immigrants and 17 times higher than Canadian-born women. The study suggests that recent changes to Canadian immigration policy may ha...

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateOct 19, 2015

Late-breaking study finds aerobic exercise significantly improved asthma control

Researchers found that a 12-week supervised aerobic exercise program improved asthma control, reduced short-acting bronchodilator usage, and depressive symptoms in patients with confirmed asthma. The study suggests that aerobic exercise could be an adjunct to current pharmacological therapy for adult asthma patients with poor control.

SourceAmerican College of Chest Physicians·DateOct 19, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Mixed bag: Electronic health records and ICU quality improvement

The study found significant reductions in central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI) and surgical intensive care unit (SICU) mortality rates after EHR implementation. This improvement resulted in a lower risk of CLABSI per 1,000 catheter days and a decrease in overall SICU mortality.

SourceAmerican College of Chest Physicians·DateOct 19, 2015

How mechanical stretching forces impact human vascular cells

An in vitro study found that smooth muscle cells and endothelial cells respond uniquely to mechanical stretching, with different frequencies triggering distinct adaptations. Understanding these responses could lead to cell-type specific activation of vascular cells for improved regenerative medicine strategies.

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology and Medicine·JournalExperimental Biology and Medicine·DateOct 19, 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.

Solar energy's land-use impact

A new study found that most utility-scale solar energy facilities in California are located in natural habitats, leading to environmental conflicts. The researchers identified areas for more sustainable siting, including built-up lands and those already affected by human activities.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 19, 2015

The smell of death can trigger fight or flight in humans

A new study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that exposure to putrescine, a chemical compound produced by dead bodies, increases vigilance and readiness for either escape or aggressive behavior. The researchers believe this discovery may help determine the sensory and brain pathways involved in chemosensory threat detection.

SourceUniversity of Kent·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateOct 19, 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.

Building and breaking synapses

A new study reveals the role of ephrin-B3 in organizing synapses, which is essential for healthy brain function. The discovery could lead to better treatments for neurological diseases such as autism and Alzheimer's.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateOct 19, 2015

Scientists find some thrive in acid seas

Seagrasses thrive in acidic waters near underwater volcanic vents, potentially increasing their ability to absorb carbon from the ocean. However, climate change also poses risks to these ecosystems, highlighting the need for further research.

SourceJames Cook University·JournalICES Journal of Marine Science·DateOct 19, 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.

Images of pleasure and winning have unique distracting power

A new study by University College London finds that positive images are highly distracting, even when the task is difficult, while negative images can be ignored. The researchers suggest using positive images in marketing campaigns to capture attention, as people are more focused on pleasure seeking than potential harm.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalEmotion·DateOct 19, 2015

Structure revealed: Plant sugar transporter involved in carbon sequestration

Researchers have elucidated the molecular structure of a plant sugar transporter called SWEET2, which plays a critical role in limiting the sugar supply to beneficial microbes while preventing pathogens from thriving. This discovery provides insights into how plants control carbon sequestration and energy homeostasis.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalNature·DateOct 19, 2015

X-citing X chromosome discovery could aid research on many sex-linked disorders

A team of scientists from the University of Michigan Medical School has discovered a new way for RNA to regulate genetic activity on the X chromosome in females. The finding, which could lead to better treatment for sex-linked disorders, shows that female cells produce a special type of RNA called XistAR to silence one of their two X c...

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 19, 2015

Study reveals new, potent way to boost immunity and fight viruses

Scientists at Washington University School of Medicine have found a new component of the interferon system that enhances the body's innate immune defenses while attacking a protein relied on by many viruses. This dual mechanism could lead to effective antiviral drugs and may explain improved survival rates in genetically engineered mice.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNature Immunology·DateOct 19, 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.

Electronics get a power boost with the addition of a simple material

Researchers at Penn State have discovered a way to give transistors a power boost by incorporating vanadium oxide into electronic devices. The material's metal-to-insulator transition property can enhance state-of-the-art non-volatile memories and improve the stability and energy efficiency of read, write, and maintain information states.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 19, 2015

Video and research release: How insects become queens or workers

Researchers uncovered molecular mechanisms behind caste differentiation in insects, revealing subtle gene networks and lack of DNA methylation. The study used two species, dinosaur ants and red paper wasps, to gain insights into social evolution.

SourceBiotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 19, 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.

Clear link between income and survival after cardiac surgery

A new registry study by Karolinska Institutet found a strong correlation between household disposable income and long-term survival after cardiac surgery. The study included 100,000 patients and showed that those with higher incomes had significantly lower mortality rates, even after adjusting for other risk factors.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateOct 19, 2015

No increased dementia risk found in diagnosed celiac patients

Researchers at Columbia University Irving Medical Center analyzed data from 8,846 individuals over 50 years old with celiac disease, finding no increased risk of dementia before or after diagnosis. However, a small increase in vascular dementia was observed in patients with celiac disease.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·DateOct 19, 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.

L.A.'s CicLAvia significantly improves air quality in host neighborhoods

A study by the UCLA Fielding School of Public Health found that CicLAvia significantly reduces air quality in Los Angeles neighborhoods. The event decreases ultrafine particle presence and particulate matter readings by up to 49% along closed streets, and even lower rates on nearby streets still open to traffic.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·DateOct 19, 2015

Daily Earth images available from DSCOVR satellite EPIC instrument

NASA has launched a new website featuring daily color images of Earth taken by the Deep Space Climate Observatory (DSCOVR) EPIC camera, providing insights into global variations in vegetation, ozone, and cloud height. The images are available for public viewing on the NASA website.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateOct 19, 2015

Memo to docs: Mind the nonresistant bugs too

Garden-variety staph infections are just as deadly for newborns as drug-resistant strains, according to a study by Johns Hopkins Medicine. Nonresistant bacterial infections affect more than twice as many babies and have the same high mortality rate as their drug-resistant cousins.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateOct 19, 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.

The 20 lb. cereal box

A new Cornell study found that women who had breakfast cereal sitting on their counters weighed 20-lbs more than those without, while soft drinks contributed to a 24-26 lb weight increase. In contrast, households with fruit bowls showed a 13-lb weight loss.

SourceCornell Food & Brand Lab·JournalHealth Education & Behavior·DateOct 19, 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.

Do stem cells hold the key to breast cancer spread?

Breast cancer researcher Dr Michalak aims to understand how normal and cancerous cells develop in the breast to identify suspicious tumors and develop better treatments. Her study focuses on epigenetic modifiers, which can influence DNA behavior, and may hold clues to preventing tumor spread.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·DateOct 19, 2015

Cyclic healing removes defects in metals while maintaining strength

A new technique called cyclic healing uses repetitive stretching to eliminate pre-existing defects in metal crystals, significantly increasing their strength. The technique was developed by an international team of researchers and published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 19, 2015

Firstborn, middle child, last-born: Birth order has only very small effects on personality

A study of over 20,000 grown-ups found no substantial effects of birth order on central personality traits, including extraversion, emotional stability, and conscientiousness. Self-reported intellect showed a small effect, with firstborns reporting better vocabulary and less difficulty understanding abstract ideas.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 19, 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.

Gene on-off switch works like backpack strap

A team of researchers has found that proteins forming loops in human chromosomes work like a sliding plastic adjuster on a backpack. This discovery could provide new clues about genetic diseases and allow for reprogramming cells by directly modifying the loops in genomes.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 19, 2015

New review: What to do to prevent food allergies in infants

A new review based on latest evidence interprets how to guide physicians and families regarding food introduction and allergy prevention. Introducing peanut between 4-11 months is now recommended for high-risk infants, contradicting previous avoidance diets.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateOct 19, 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.

Satellite animation shows Olaf grow into a major hurricane

Hurricane Olaf has strengthened into a major hurricane with maximum sustained winds reaching near 115 mph, forecast to cross into the Central Pacific basin tonight. The storm is expected to curve northwest and move parallel from Hawaii, posing potential threat to the region.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateOct 19, 2015

Solvents save steps in solar cell manufacturing

Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have developed a new solvent-based method to manufacture ultrathin films used in organic bulk heterojunction solar cells. This method eliminates the need for thermal annealing, resulting in improved film morphology and increased photovoltaic performance.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 19, 2015

More than 11 moles on your arm could indicate higher risk of melanoma

Researchers at King's College London have identified a method to quickly estimate total body mole count using a smaller 'proxy' area, like the arm. Females with over 7 moles on their right arm had 9 times more risk of having 50+ moles overall, while those with 11 or more had 100+, indicating higher melanoma risk.

SourceKing's College London·JournalBritish Journal of Dermatology·DateOct 19, 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.

Burnout and depression: Two entities or one? CCNY provides answer

A recent study by City College of New York researchers found that burnout and depression are closely linked among public school teachers. The survey of 1,386 teachers revealed that 86% of those experiencing burnout also met criteria for depression.

SourceCity College of New York·JournalJournal of Clinical Psychology·DateOct 19, 2015

NASA sees Koppu moving across the Philippines

Typhoon Koppu made landfall in eastern Luzon on Oct. 17, with NASA-NOAA's Suomi NPP satellite capturing powerful thunderstorms and cloud top temperatures as cold as -81F. The RapidScat instrument revealed sustained winds around the eye at 40 meters per second before weakening to a tropical storm over the South China Sea.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateOct 19, 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.

New study explains near-annual Monsoon oscillations generated by El Niño

A new study reveals the source of near-annual pressure and wind changes in the Southeast Asian Monsoon system, attributing them to El Niño's interaction with solar radiation. The research demonstrates that these oscillations are more predictable than previously assumed and provide a new mechanism for understanding climate phenomena.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 19, 2015

Study: Alaskan boreal forest fires release more carbon than the trees can absorb

Research in Alaska's Yukon Flats reveals massive carbon losses due to increasing fire frequency, challenging assumptions about recent fire activity. The study finds that the region has become a net exporter of carbon, posing a significant threat to the global carbon cycle and climate balance.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Climate Change·DateOct 19, 2015

Researchers learn how to steer the heart -- with light

A team of researchers from Oxford and Stony Brook universities has developed a way to precisely control electrical waves in heart cells using light. This allows for fine control over wave speed, direction, and orientation, enabling unprecedented direct control of organ-level function without manipulating individual cells.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalNature Photonics·DateOct 19, 2015

Seizures from solving sudoku puzzles

A young adult developed clonic seizures while trying to solve Sudoku puzzles after being exposed to oxygen deficiency during an avalanche. The patient stopped solving the puzzle and has been seizure-free for over five years.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateOct 19, 2015

Biomarker finder adjusts on the fly

Researchers at Rice University have developed a new tool to identify DNA and RNA sequences, which will help detect diseases and design therapies. The method allows for the simultaneous observation of multiple biomarkers by adjusting the brightness of fluorescent probes.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Methods·DateOct 19, 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.

CHEST Annual Meeting 2015 Case Reports

Clinicians presented rare cases of methemoglobinemia after Jungle Juice ingestion, as well as a patient with worsening dyspnea and dry cough following buttock augmentation gone wrong. Silicone emboli to the lungs can induce acute pneumonitis syndrome, which was successfully treated with corticosteroids.

SourceAmerican College of Chest Physicians·DateOct 19, 2015

Side stream emissions from 'heated tobacco' products similar to secondhand cigarette smoke

A new study published in the Journal of Environmental Analytical Chemistry found that 'heated tobacco' products, like iQOS, release chemical compounds into the air when activated, similar to secondhand cigarette smoke. The findings suggest these devices should be regulated similarly to regular cigarettes in indoor spaces.

SourceAspect Consulting·JournalJournal of Environmental Analytical Chemistry·DateOct 19, 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.

Unintended costs of health-care integration

A recent study by Harvard Medical School researchers found that hospital-physician integration leads to higher prices for outpatient care, increasing health care spending by $75 per patient annually, without affecting the use of healthcare services.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateOct 19, 2015

Queen or worker? Flexibility between roles relies on just a few genes

A study on dinosaur ants and red paper wasps found subtle, non-random arrangements of gene networks distinguish queens from workers, suggesting no single master gene regulates caste differentiation. The research also suggests that epigenetic modifications play a limited role in regulating these differences.

SourceBabraham Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 19, 2015

The missing 'recipe'

Researchers have developed a theoretical description of thermal conduction, accounting for both atomic and electronic behavior, allowing for accurate numerical simulations. This breakthrough enables scientists to study complex materials and processes, such as those found on planets, with unprecedented precision.

SourceInternational School of Advanced Studies (SISSA)·JournalNature Physics·DateOct 19, 2015

Journalism fellowship recognizes America's top age beat reporters

The Gerontological Society of America and New America Media have selected 18 distinguished reporters to develop major aging-focused stories or series. The fellows will utilize the latest research on aging to inform their work, with projects addressing elder isolation, food insecurity, and aging in ethnic populations.

SourceThe Gerontological Society of America·DateOct 19, 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.

Study urges optimization of solar energy development

A new study led by UC Riverside researchers found that utility-scale solar energy development can drive land-use and land-cover change, resulting in greenhouse gas emissions. The study emphasizes the need for optimized solar energy development to minimize environmental impacts.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 19, 2015

Carbon sequestration in soil: The potential underfoot

A new study suggests that carbon sequestration in European cropland could store between 9-38 megatons of CO2 per year, but its effectiveness is limited due to potential emissions leakage. The research highlights the need for additional mitigation efforts to achieve global climate goals

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalGlobal Environmental Change·DateOct 19, 2015

Early childhood stress affects brain's response to rewards

A Duke University study found that early childhood stress can lead to a reduced response to rewards in adulthood, which may contribute to an increased risk of depression and other mental health problems. The research used fMRI scans to examine brain activity in adults who were closely monitored from kindergarten onwards.

SourceDuke University·JournalSocial Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience·DateOct 19, 2015

How chickens walk holds clues to how they spread disease

A mathematical model of chicken walk patterns may help farmers predict and prevent the spread of disease in their flocks. By analyzing patterns of movement, researchers can identify high-risk areas and develop strategies to minimize losses.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalMathematical Methods in the Applied Sciences·DateOct 19, 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.

Orange lichens are potential source for anticancer drugs

Researchers at Emory University's Winship Cancer Institute have discovered a potential anticancer drug in orange lichens, called parietin. The pigment kills human leukemia cells and inhibits the growth of cancer cell lines, including lung and head and neck tumors.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateOct 19, 2015

The phage is a lonely hunter

Researchers at San Diego State University discovered that bacteriophages employ subdiffusive motion to find and kill bacteria in mucosal surfaces. This novel hunting strategy is more effective when bacterial concentrations are high, making it a unique approach among predators on Earth.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 19, 2015

Low household income can increase risk of death after heart surgery

A Swedish study found that low household income is associated with a higher risk of death after cardiac surgery, even in a country with universal healthcare coverage. The study suggests that socioeconomic status affects health outcomes beyond healthcare access alone.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateOct 19, 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.

Social media usage at critical care conferences helps broaden reach

The study found substantial growth in Twitter adoption and impressions at three major critical care conferences, with over 6.6 million impressions in the first year and 32.6 million views in the second year. Healthcare providers dominated tweets, accounting for 71% of all tweets.

SourceAmerican College of Chest Physicians·DateOct 19, 2015

Genomic ancestry linked to mate selection, study shows

Researchers found that people tend to choose mates with similar genomic ancestries, leading to stronger assortative mating patterns. This phenomenon may have implications for genetic disease perpetuation and health benefits.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 19, 2015

Monkey model discovery could spur CMV vaccine development

Researchers at Duke Medicine have discovered that rhesus monkeys can transmit the virus across the placenta to their unborn offspring, establishing a first primate model to study mother-to-fetus CMV infections. The discovery aims to spur development of potential vaccine approaches against congenital CMV infections.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 19, 2015

NASA studying 2015 El Niño event as never before

Scientists will analyze the current El Niño event using NASA's suite of orbiting Earth-observing missions, providing insights into its global impacts. The study aims to better understand the connections between El Niño and extreme weather patterns, such as fires and floods.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateOct 19, 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.

TSRI scientists find way to make leukemia cells kill each other

Researchers at The Scripps Research Institute have discovered a way to convert leukemia cells into cancer-killing immune cells using a rare human antibody. The induced NK cells can detect and eliminate cancer cells, offering a potential new therapy for leukemia and possibly other cancers.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 19, 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.

Nanotechnology inspires next-generation dental materials

Brazilian scientists review advances in nanodentistry, exploring how nanoparticles can improve dental materials, prevent oral diseases, and create wearable toothpaste. However, safety and cost concerns hinder the adoption of these new technologies.

SourceCell Press·JournalTrends in Biotechnology·DateOct 19, 2015

Pledges by top 3 greenhouse gas emitters shut out other nations

A new study finds that the US, EU, and China's pledges to reduce emissions leave little room for other nations, requiring them to adopt drastic reductions. The researchers argue that even if the top emitters fulfill their pledges, global temperatures will rise by around 3C, posing a significant threat to the planet.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateOct 19, 2015

Biosimilars -- clinical perspectives in rheumatology

Biosimilars are complex proteins that provide therapeutically equivalent alternatives to expensive biologics, reducing treatment costs in rheumatology and other fields. The introduction of biosimilars into clinical practice requires careful management to ensure patient safety and efficacy.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalNature Reviews Rheumatology·DateOct 19, 2015

Unveiling distribution of defects in proton conductors

Researchers at Tohoku University developed a new idea to improve proton mobility in rare-earth doped BaZrO3 perovskite-type proton conductors. By creating pairs of oxygen vacancies and rare-earth elements, the team found that this inhibits proton trapping, leading to higher proton concentration around Zr

SourceTohoku University·JournalChemistry of Materials·DateOct 19, 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.

Regrow a tooth? Fish -- yes; humans -- maybe some day

Researchers studying Lake Malawi cichlids and mice aim to understand how fish regenerate teeth and develop new teeth in humans. The study reveals potential genetic pathways for tooth regeneration in humans, but more research is needed to make it viable.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 19, 2015

Invasive birds spreading avian malaria in eastern Australia

A Griffith University PhD candidate has discovered that up to 40% of Indian Mynas in eastern Australia carry avian malaria parasites, posing a significant threat to native wildlife. The spread of these invasive birds could expose native birds such as parrots and magpies to new diseases.

SourceGriffith University·JournalInternational Journal for Parasitology·DateOct 19, 2015

Mobile device reminders help to improve post-operative outcomes

Researchers found that mobile device reminders and patient progress tracking significantly reduce the risk of procedure cancellations and decrease post-op ER visits. Patients reported increased satisfaction with the tools provided, which empowered them to track their progress and communicate more effectively with their surgeon.

SourceAmerican College of Chest Physicians·DateOct 19, 2015

Fossils reveal humans were greater threat than climate change to Caribbean wildlife

A study of fossil species on Great Abaco Island reveals that humans were more significant a threat to island biodiversity than climate change. The discovery highlights the impact of human activities such as habitat alteration and introduction of invasive species, which can lead to rapid extinctions.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 19, 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.

Are cars nanotube factories on wheels?

Researchers detected carbon nanotubes in Parisian children's lung cells and exhaust pipes, suggesting widespread exposure to the pollutants. The findings prompt further investigation into the potential health effects of nanotubes, which are found naturally but also produced by human activities.

SourceRice University·JournalEBioMedicine·DateOct 19, 2015

NASA's GPM measured Typhoon Champi's heavy rainfall

Typhoon Champi generated heavy rainfall with rain rates exceeding 114.8 mm/h due to GPM's Dual-Frequency Precipitation Radar. The storm's strongest winds were found in its northern quadrant, with winds reaching 89.4 mph.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateOct 19, 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.

Gut microbiome insights headline key research presented at ACG 2015

Fecal microbiota transplantation may predict treatment failure for Clostridium difficile, while changes in gut microbiota could be linked to weight gain or loss. The American College of Gastroenterology's 80th Annual Scientific Meeting highlights the latest scientific advances and clinical practice management.

SourceAmerican College of Gastroenterology·DateOct 19, 2015

How proteins age

Researchers at UCSB have discovered a mechanism by which secreted proteins age and turn over, shedding light on a crucial aspect of health and disease. The discovery identifies over 600 proteins with molecular signs of aging and turnover, including regulators of proteolysis, blood coagulation, and immunity.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 19, 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.

Sepsis and shock response team in the ED reduces mortality

Researchers created a multidisciplinary sepsis and shock response team to improve recognition and treatment of suspected sepsis or shock in the emergency department. The SSRT's implementation led to reduced compliance with standard care measures and improved overall mortality rates.

SourceAmerican College of Chest Physicians·DateOct 19, 2015

Restrictive approach to chest X-rays provides positive outcomes for ICU

A restrictive approach to ordering chest X-rays in the ICU significantly reduces radiation exposure and operating costs without negatively impacting patient outcomes. The study found large decreases in total X-rays ordered, without adverse effects on ventilator days, length of stay, or other key metrics.

SourceAmerican College of Chest Physicians·DateOct 19, 2015

Don't smile for the camera when sleepy: CARRS-Q study

Researchers found a mix of criticism and sympathy for fatigued drivers on YouTube, with most videos portraying driver fatigue as dangerous. In-vehicle footage was the most popular type, but those trivializing sleepy driving received more views.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·DateOct 19, 2015

New approach toward a broad spectrum malaria vaccine

Researchers have identified a five amino acid segment of Plasmodium parasite protein with protective antigenic properties, which can be used to develop antibodies and prevent malaria transmission through mosquitoes. The finding has the potential to lead to the development of a powerful malaria vaccine.

SourceTata Institute of Fundamental Research·JournalMalaria Journal·DateOct 19, 2015

Invasive Staphylococcus aureus infections in hospitalized infants

Researchers found invasive methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) caused more infections and deaths in hospitalized infants than methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA). The study suggests that measures to prevent MSSA infections should be included in addition to MRSA, alongside hand hygiene as a primary prevention strategy.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateOct 19, 2015

How proteins age

Scientists at Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute have identified a mechanism by which secreted proteins age and turnover, shedding light on health and disease. The discovery highlights the importance of N-glycan remodeling and lectin recognition in regulating protein abundance.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 19, 2015

More rain leads to fewer trees in the African savanna

Researchers at Princeton University found that intense rainfall leads to a decrease in tree growth and an increase in grass growth on the African savanna. This is because trees struggle to utilize excess water, while grasses can absorb it quickly, giving them a competitive advantage.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 19, 2015

Gout risk high in patients with sleep apnea

A new study shows that patients with sleep apnea are at a higher risk of developing gout. The incidence rate of gout was found to be 60% higher among those with sleep apnea compared to similar-weight comparators.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatology·DateOct 19, 2015

How wind might impact birds' migration routes

A study using 21 years of global wind data found that following optimal routes reduces travel time by 26.5% and increases survival rates. This suggests migratory routes may be under strong natural selection, with potential evolutionary advantages.

SourceWiley·JournalEcology Letters·DateOct 19, 2015

Experimental treatment regimen effective against HIV

A new experimental treatment regimen combining a drug delivery system and URMC-099 has been shown to effectively combat HIV, reducing the need for daily medication. The nanoformulated protease inhibitor and URMC-099 prolonged therapeutic effects by increasing drug concentration in immune cells.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·DateOct 19, 2015

Drug residues in wastewater: Private households mainly responsible

Most drug residues discharged to wastewater originate from private households, according to a study by Leuphana University. The researchers found that health care facilities, such as hospitals and psychiatric clinics, emit significantly lower levels of contaminants, highlighting the need for stricter regulations on medication disposal.

SourceLeuphana Universität Lüneburg·JournalEnvironment International·DateOct 19, 2015

Site of inflammatory bowel disease crucial

A study of over 30,000 patients found that Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis share similar genetic markers, suggesting a continuum of disorders. Genetic data can help identify misdiagnoses and inform treatment guidelines.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalThe Lancet·DateOct 19, 2015

Mapping the folding process of a single membrane protein

Researchers at KAIST and UCLA developed a method to manipulate membrane protein folding in a natural environment, revealing cooperative folding behavior. The study used magnetic tweezers to induce unfolding and refolding, allowing for the mapping of folding energy landscapes and kinetic rates.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateOct 19, 2015

For low-risk prostate cancer a shortened RT schedule has similar benefit

A shortened radiotherapy schedule has been shown to have similar efficacy as a conventional course in treating low-risk prostate cancer. The study found that patients treated with the shorter schedule experienced no significant decrease in cancer control compared to those treated with the longer conventional schedule.

SourceNRG Oncology·DateOct 19, 2015