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Science News for August 15, 2016


Enhanced electron doping on iron superconductors discovered

Researchers at IBS Centre for Correlated Electron Systems have revised existing theories on iron-based superconductors. By doping electrons onto the surface of a material, they found no correlation between the transition temperature and the nesting effect, challenging current understanding of these materials.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Materials·DateAug 15, 2016
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.

Work productivity is key factor in assessing recovery of depressed patients

A new study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry found that medications improved work productivity in most patients with depression, but those who showed rapid improvement had more significant reductions in depressive symptoms and were more likely to recover. The study suggests that patients requiring additional treatments l...

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateAug 15, 2016

Mapping the health threat of wildfires under climate change in US West

A new Yale-led study estimates that by mid-century, over 82 million people will experience 'smoke waves,' or consecutive days with high air pollution related to fires. The regions likely to receive the highest exposure include northern California, western Oregon, and the Great Plains.

SourceYale School of the Environment·JournalClimatic Change·DateAug 15, 2016

Methane leaks: A new way to find and fix in real time

A new technique detects methane leaks in real time, informing strategies to meet federal limits on emissions from the oil and gas industry. The approach identified 250 methane plumes emanating from various sources, including natural gas processing facilities and pipeline leaks.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 15, 2016

A short heat-treatment of luggage may reduce spread of bedbugs

A brief blast of heat can kill bedbugs on the exterior of soft-sided luggage, according to a study by University of California, Irvine entomologist Catherine Loudon. The six-minute treatment at temperatures between 158 and 167 degrees effectively killed all bedbugs on the exterior, including those under zipper flaps and decorative piping.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalPest Management Science·DateAug 15, 2016

New insights into how the mind influences the body

Neuroscientists at the University of Pittsburgh identified key brain regions influencing the adrenal medulla, shedding light on the mind-body connection. The study provides a neural basis for psychosomatic illness and suggests meditation and exercise can modulate stress responses by targeting specific cortical areas.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 15, 2016
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.

Reduced ecosystem functions in oil palm plantations

A study of 1000 scientific studies reveals that oil palm plantations have reduced ecosystem functions, particularly gas regulation and water supply. However, the production of marketable goods, such as palm oil, can increase the provision of food and raw materials.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ·JournalBiological Reviews·DateAug 15, 2016

Nanoribbons in solutions mimic nature

Graphene nanoribbons exhibit properties similar to those of biological materials when in solution, forming folds and loops. The researchers found that their rigidity increases as oxide molecules are removed, making them suitable for designing and fabricating GNR-biomimetic interfaces.

SourceRice University·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 15, 2016
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.

New study explains why MRSA 'superbug' kills influenza patients

Researchers have discovered that secondary infection with MRSA often kills influenza patients due to altered antibacterial response of white blood cells. The flu virus can cause extensive lung damage by suppressing the ability of macrophages and neutrophils to kill bacteria, leading to lethal inflammation.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateAug 15, 2016

China facing epidemic of heart disease, stroke

A new study reveals that China is facing a significant increase in cardiovascular disease cases due to factors such as high blood pressure, obesity, and an increasingly sedentary lifestyle. The study found that these risk factors are associated with a substantial burden of heart attacks and strokes in the Chinese population.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateAug 15, 2016

How antiviral antibodies become part of immune memory

Activated B cells play a crucial role in the formation of immune memory, with some cells persisting for months after initial exposure. The study reveals that while plasmablasts dominate early responses to infections or vaccinations, activated B cells take center stage later on.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalNature Immunology·DateAug 15, 2016

Sewage sludge could make great sustainable fertilizer

Thermally conditioned sewage sludge serves as an excellent fertilizer improving soil properties and reducing phosphorus waste. The nutrient-rich sludge stimulates microbial activity, inducing competition between microorganisms and plant roots for phosphorus uptake.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Nutrition·DateAug 15, 2016

Cancer in context: 37 years of painstakingly collected data

The USC Cancer Report Card highlights the decline of prostate and lung cancer among men, while stomach cancer is on the rise globally. Breast cancer risk increases for women, particularly Korean women, due to westernized lifestyles. The report also shows that many cancers are preventable and curable if caught early.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·DateAug 15, 2016
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.

GPs' uncertainty at dealing with those bereaved by suicide revealed

A new study has found that GPs lack knowledge and confidence in dealing with parents who have lost a child to suicide, leading to feelings of isolation and stigma. The research highlights the need for training and support for primary care practitioners to better respond to these vulnerable families.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalBritish Journal of General Practice·DateAug 15, 2016

Twenty-five little bones tell a puzzling story about early primate evolution

The discovery of 25 little bones in India suggests that primates native to the region played a crucial role in the early evolution of primates. The bones, dated to around 54.5 million years ago, show primitive features that do not clearly belong to either clade and may represent an early stage of primate evolution.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Human Evolution·DateAug 15, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Pulmonary complications in adult survivors of childhood cancer

A study of over 14,000 childhood cancer survivors reveals a significant increase in cumulative incidence of lung complications up to 25 years after diagnosis. The findings highlight the need for follow-up health care and suggest potential impacts on quality of life.

SourceChildren's Hospital Los Angeles·JournalCancer·DateAug 15, 2016

Long-lived parents could mean a healthier heart into your 70s

A major study found that having longer-lived parents is associated with lower rates of heart conditions and some cancers. The study, involving almost 190,000 participants, showed an increased chance of survival by 17% for each decade a parent lived beyond 70.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateAug 15, 2016

Time of day influences our susceptibility to infection, study finds

Researchers found that virus replication increases at certain times of the day, with peak replication occurring in the morning. This suggests that shift workers, whose body clocks are disrupted, may be more prone to viral diseases.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 15, 2016
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Brown dwarfs reveal exoplanets' secrets

New research on brown dwarfs has found that atmospheric properties may be behind their incredible variation in size, temperature, chemistry, and more. The discovery may also apply to planets outside the solar system, making brown dwarfs a valuable tool for studying exoplanet evolution.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Supplement Series·DateAug 15, 2016

Season and region of birth linked to heightened childhood celiac disease risk

A Swedish study of over 2 million children found that those born in spring had a higher risk of developing coeliac disease, especially before age 2. The risk was also higher among girls and in the south of the country where sunlight is more intense, suggesting possible links to viral infections and vitamin D.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalArchives of Disease in Childhood·DateAug 15, 2016

UH biomedical engineer pursues nerve regeneration

A biomedical engineer from the University of Houston is using a $1.2 million grant to develop technology platform for axonal regeneration in nervous system. The goal is to understand how shifts in chemical gradients affect axonal growth, with potential applications for neurodegenerative diseases and neural prosthetics.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateAug 15, 2016
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.

Warming climate likely to have 'minor' impact on power plant output

A new study by Duke University found that future climate warming will likely cause only minor cuts in energy output at most US coal- and gas-fired power plants. The study contradicts previous modeling-based studies that predicted significant drops in plant efficiency due to rising temperatures.

SourceDuke University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateAug 15, 2016

Researchers develop new strategy to limit side effects of stem cell transplants

Researchers have developed a new approach to limit side effects of stem cell transplants by stimulating the formation of regulatory T cells in recipients. Pretreating mice with STAR2 protein protected them from developing GvHD, while donor-derived cells retained their ability to kill recipient's tumor cells.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateAug 15, 2016

NASA analyzes deadly Louisiana flooding

A severe low-pressure system brought intense tropical moisture to the Gulf of Mexico, resulting in record-breaking rainfall totals over southern Louisiana. At least 4 people have died in the floods, which also affected southeastern Mississippi and western Louisiana.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 15, 2016
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.

Researchers sequence genome of tobacco hornworm

The team's genome sequence will stimulate new research in molecular studies of insects and may lead to improved pest management methods. The sequenced genome provides insights into the tobacco hornworm's physiology, particularly its unique ability to evade insecticides.

SourceKansas State University·JournalInsect Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·DateAug 15, 2016

Urea impairs insulin-producing cells in chronic kidney disease

Research at the University of Montreal found that high urea levels impair insulin secretion and blood glucose regulation in chronic kidney disease. A mouse model study demonstrated similar reductions in insulin secretion and poor glucose control when urea was increased.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 15, 2016

Study finds B.C. physician incentives not enough to improve complex patient care

A study led by SFU health sciences professor Ruth Lavergne found that BC's primary care physician incentive program has not improved access to primary care or reduced hospitalizations. The program, which provided over $240 million in incentive payments since 2007, has also failed to save money.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateAug 15, 2016
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.

Mindfulness combats depression for disadvantaged black women

A mindfulness-based intervention reduced depressive symptoms and stress among African-American women with lower socio-economic status. Participants learned yoga, breathing techniques, and body scans to manage daily stresses and gain control over their emotions.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalComplementary Therapies in Clinical Practice·DateAug 15, 2016

Flu nasal spray provides similar protection against influenza as flu shot: Study

A recent study published in Annals of Internal Medicine has found that flu nasal sprays provide similar protection against influenza as standard flu shots. The study, conducted over three years in a Hutterite colony, shows that the nose spray had a similar effect to the standard flu shot in protecting both children and community members.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateAug 15, 2016

CRISPR gene editing reveals new therapeutic approach for blood disorders

Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital have found a way to use CRISPR gene editing to help fix sickle cell disease and beta-thalassemia in blood cells isolated from patients. The study provides proof-of-principle for a new approach to treat common blood disorders by genome editing.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalNature Medicine·DateAug 15, 2016

Incentive payments increased quit rates among low-income smokers in Switzerland

A study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that incentive payments led to an increase in quit rates among low-income smokers. At 18 months, almost 6 percentage points higher abstinence rates were observed among those who received financial incentives.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateAug 15, 2016
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.

Lack of fresh food choices linked to signs of early heart disease

A new study by the American Heart Association reveals that limited access to nearby stores selling fresh food may increase residents' risk of developing signs of early heart disease. The research found that healthy food stores within one mile of their home significantly reduced or slowed the progression of coronary artery calcium buildup.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateAug 15, 2016

UW research backs up ongoing efforts to protect the enigmatic Nautilus

Researchers at the University of Washington support global restrictions on trade and collection of the chambered nautilus and its relatives, citing declining populations and unregulated fishing as major issues. The convention on international trade in endangered species will decide which species should be subject to new restrictions.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalEcology and Evolution·DateAug 15, 2016

'Smoke waves' will affect millions in coming decades

Researchers identified hundreds of western US counties with high risk of exposure to wildfire smoke, affecting up to 82 million people by 2051. The study found that climate change will cause longer, more intense, and frequent 'smoke waves' impacting children, seniors, and communities.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalClimatic Change·DateAug 15, 2016

Rice cultivation in Southeast Asia: 5 years of lessons learned by LEGATO

The LEGATO project has provided guidelines for optimizing rice ecosystem functions and services, with a focus on the socio-cultural context. Research on Silicon application has shown its potential to improve rice yields, while recommendations have been made for farmers and practitioners on managing decomposition driven by invertebrates.

SourcePensoft Publishers·DateAug 15, 2016

New family of bacterial cell wall builders

Harvard Medical School scientists have identified a new family of proteins that virtually all bacteria use to build and maintain their cell walls. The discovery of this new family, called SEDS proteins, reveals potential targets for much-needed therapies that target the cell wall as a way to kill harmful bacteria.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNature·DateAug 15, 2016
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.

'Bursts' of chromosome changes fuel breast cancer tumor growth

A new study reveals that chromosomal changes in breast cancer occur in short, punctuated 'bursts' at the earliest stages of tumor growth, contradicting the traditional gradual acquisition model. This finding has significant implications for diagnosis and treatment, suggesting a potential new approach to clinical management.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalNature Genetics·DateAug 15, 2016

AED accessibility a barrier during cardiac arrest

Research found that 21.5% of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests occurred near an AED, but it was inaccessible at the time of the arrest, resulting in coverage loss. Implementing models that account for both location and availability when determining AED placement could increase access to devices.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateAug 15, 2016

CU Boulder study: Mate choices of barn swallows tied to diverging appearances

A new CU Boulder study found that differences in mate-choice decisions among closely related populations can lead to the evolution of different physical traits. Barn swallow males with altered breast feathers and streamer length were more successful in reproduction, suggesting that females play a crucial role in speciation.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalEvolution·DateAug 15, 2016
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.

'Sniffer plasmons' could detect explosives

Researchers propose a graphene-based spaser that can detect small amounts of explosives and toxic chemicals using surface plasmons. The device's construction involves a graphene layer, enabling subwavelength light focusing and increasing sensitivity beyond conventional optical devices.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalPhysical Review B·DateAug 15, 2016

How mechanical force triggers blood clotting at the molecular scale

A research team has developed a clearer understanding of how platelets sense mechanical forces to initiate the cascading process leading to blood clotting. The study reveals that mechanoreceptor molecules like GPIbα play a crucial role in transducing forces into biochemical signals.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·DateAug 15, 2016

Scientists find the brain's generosity center

Researchers discovered that a specific brain area, the subgenual anterior cingulate cortex, is active when learning to help others. People with higher empathy levels showed increased activity in this region and learned to benefit others faster.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 15, 2016

Leptomeningeal metastases more common in NSCLC patients with EGFR mutations

A study found that NSCLC patients with EGFR mutations had longer overall survival when treated with tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) for leptomeningeal metastases, compared to those without TKI therapy. Chemotherapy was also associated with prolonged survival in these patients.

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateAug 15, 2016
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

NASA's spots extra-tropical cyclone Conson in Sea of Okhotsk

NASA's Terra satellite captured an image of extra-tropical cyclone Conson on Aug. 15, 2016, showing clouds covering Japan's Hokkaido and stretching over the Sea of Okhotsk and Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula. The Joint Typhoon Warning Center issued the final warning of Conson on Aug. 14.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 15, 2016

Chronic kidney disease may cause diabetes

A study by CRCHUM researchers reveals that chronic kidney disease can cause secondary diabetes through the buildup of urea in the blood. The disease impairs insulin secretion from pancreatic beta cells, leading to increased blood glucose levels and potentially progressing to diabetes.

SourceUniversity of Montreal Hospital Research Centre (CRCHUM)·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 15, 2016
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.

Researchers discover that DNA naturally fluoresces

Researchers at Northwestern University discovered that DNA naturally fluoresces under certain conditions, allowing for label-free super-resolution imaging without the need for toxic fluorescent stains. This breakthrough could revolutionize the understanding of biological processes by providing more accurate images of living cells.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 15, 2016

New research sheds light on the role of proteins and how synapses work

A recent study published in Nature Neuroscience has made significant progress in understanding the role of proteins in synaptic transmission. The researchers identified two variations of a protein called Unc13 that work separately to regulate synaptic function, paving the way for new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateAug 15, 2016

Gaming camera could aid MS treatment

Researchers have developed a cost-effective method using the Microsoft Kinect to evaluate gait abnormalities in multiple sclerosis patients. The device detects movement and computer algorithms quantify walking patterns, reducing human error. The technology shows promise for diagnosing gait pathology and tracking treatment effects.

SourceMcGill University·JournalIEEE Journal of Biomedical and Health Informatics·DateAug 15, 2016
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.

New findings on flu nasal spray

Researchers found that immunizing children with the flu nasal spray did not provide better direct or community protection against influenza than the inactivated influenza vaccine, but offered similar protection. This contradicts earlier studies suggesting the nasal spray vaccine provided better herd immunity.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateAug 15, 2016

Study examines 'weekend effect' in emergency surgery patients

A new study assessed the 'weekend effect' in emergency general surgery patients, revealing a significant reduction in mortality rates from 5.4% to less than 2.9% over 15 years. The study found great improvements in outcomes overall and notable differences in care provided within the week and at the weekend.

SourceWiley·JournalBJS·DateAug 15, 2016
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.

Offspring live longer when parents lived longer, UK study reports

A UK study of 186,000 participants found that offspring with long-lived parents have lower rates of cardiovascular conditions. The researchers discovered an inverse relationship between the age of parents' death and the mortality rate of offspring.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateAug 15, 2016

Biomarker breakthrough could improve Parkinson's treatment

Researchers developed a non-invasive way to track Parkinson's disease progression using functional magnetic resonance imaging, revealing areas of progressive brain decline. This biomarker could help evaluate experimental treatments and measure neurological changes behind symptoms.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalNeurology·DateAug 15, 2016

Physician incentive program to improve care for complex patients did not result in improvements

A Canadian study found that a $240 million incentive program aimed at improving primary care for patients with complex health conditions had no measurable impact on access to physicians, hospital admissions or healthcare costs. The researchers concluded that other strategies are needed to improve care for this patient group.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateAug 15, 2016

Ben-Gurion University of the Negev researcher uncovers 340 million year-old oceanic crust in the Mediterranean Sea using magnetic data

Scientists have identified the world's oldest oceanic crust, dating back to around 340 million years ago, in the eastern Mediterranean Sea. The study used magnetic data from a 4,300-mile-long marine profile to analyze the nature of the underlying igneous crust.

SourceAmerican Associates, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalNature Geoscience·DateAug 15, 2016

Are expecting moms as well-prepared as they should be to breastfeed?

A global survey of 1,044 healthcare providers reveals that most expectant mothers delay discussing breastfeeding techniques until after delivery or even before the baby arrives. However, experts emphasize the importance of planning and preparation in overcoming breastfeeding challenges. To support expectant mothers, Lansinoh has develo...

SourcePorter Novelli·DateAug 15, 2016
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

How shaping light can change particle behavior

The study found that higher order modes trap and move particles more rapidly than fundamental modes, with the collective particle speed slowing down when more particles are added. The results also showed that interparticle distances were smaller in higher order modes.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 15, 2016

Skills gap for US manufacturing workers mostly a myth, paper says

A new paper by University of Illinois expert Andrew Weaver finds that only 16-25% of US manufacturing establishments struggle with skilled worker shortages. The study reveals that reading skills and cluster membership are key predictors of long-term vacancies, contrary to the notion of a severe math and science shortage.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalILR Review·DateAug 15, 2016

Defect in process that controls gene expression may contribute to Huntington's disease

Researchers identify Polycomb Repressive Complex 2 (PRC2) as a key player in maintaining medium spiny neurons' identity and function throughout adulthood. The study reveals that PRC2's dysfunction contributes to Huntington's disease-like symptoms in mice, highlighting its potential role in neurodegenerative disorders.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateAug 15, 2016

Providers face cultural challenges when evaluating refugee children

A new study from the University of Rochester Medical Center highlights cultural differences in refugee developmental screening, including language barriers and differing beliefs about disability. Researchers found that establishing trust and using in-person interpreters improved engagement and milestone identification.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateAug 15, 2016
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.

Many life-saving defibrillators behind locked doors during off-hours, study finds

A study by U of T Engineering researchers found that up to 30% of AEDs are locked inside closed buildings, leading to a 21.5% coverage loss during evenings, nights, and weekends. The researchers propose a model to optimize AED placement considering location and availability, which could improve accessibility by an average 25%.

SourceUniversity of Toronto Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateAug 15, 2016

NSF wants engineering researchers to bend rules (of classical physics)

The National Science Foundation has awarded $18 million to nine teams of engineering-led researchers to pursue transformative research in new light and acoustic wave propagation. The goal is to disrupt conventional ways of designing electronic, photonic, and acoustic devices and enable new functionalities.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·DateAug 15, 2016

Blood pressure diet improves gout blood marker

A DASH diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy significantly lowers uric acid levels, a causative agent of gout, nearly matching the impact of gout medicines. The study suggests a safe and sustainable dietary approach to lower uric acid and prevent gout flare-ups.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalArthritis & Rheumatology·DateAug 15, 2016
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.

Marshall SOM receives nearly $2.4 million grant to study nutrition and disease

The Marshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine has received a $2.39 million grant from the National Institutes of Health to study the regulation of glutamine absorption in relation to inflammatory bowel disease. The project aims to develop better nutritional therapies for IBD, which is linked to an increased risk of colon c...

SourceMarshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine·DateAug 15, 2016

Legions of nanorobots target cancerous tumors with precision

Researchers developed nanorobotic agents capable of navigating to administer anti-cancer drugs with precision, targeting active cancerous cells while avoiding healthy tissues. This breakthrough reduces toxic drug dosage and enhances therapeutic effectiveness, offering a promising solution for chemotherapy.

SourcePolytechnique Montréal·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateAug 15, 2016

Scientists take big step toward recreating primordial 'RNA world' of 4 billion years ago

Researchers at TSRI successfully created a ribozyme capable of synthesizing complex RNA molecules with mixed sequences, showing promise for replicating the ancient RNA world. The new ribozyme can perform both RNA synthesis and replication, a crucial step towards creating a self-sustaining RNA-based life form.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 15, 2016
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.

Humble moss helped create our oxygen-rich atmosphere

Early land plants like moss helped create modern levels of atmospheric oxygen, according to researchers. The study suggests that these simple plants' emergence and evolution permanently increased the flux of organic carbon into sedimentary rocks, driving up oxygen levels in a second oxygenation event.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 15, 2016

NASA sees Tropical Storm Chanthu east of Japan

Tropical Storm Chanthu is located about 424 nautical miles south-southeast of Yokosuka, Japan, with maximum sustained winds near 46 mph. The storm is forecast to track north and make landfall in south central Hokkaido on Aug 17.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 15, 2016

Expanding the stable of workhorse yeasts

A team of researchers has sequenced the genomes of over 29 yeast species, revealing a wider diversity than expected. The study identifies new genetic pathways and enzymes that can be used to produce biofuels and other valuable products from a range of sugars.

SourceDOE/Joint Genome Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 15, 2016
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.

Accelerating materials discovery

A powerful materials discovery platform developed at Harvard University has been licensed to Kyulux, a developer of OLED display technologies. The platform enables the rapid identification of promising molecules for use in next-generation electronic displays.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature Materials·DateAug 15, 2016

Prostitution has gone online -- and pimps are thriving

A study by Michigan State University found that online pimps are thriving, using underground websites and social media to avoid detection. They reported an average annual income of $75,000, with many making over $100,000, highlighting the challenges of policing online prostitution.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalVictims & Offenders·DateAug 15, 2016
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.

Computer programming made easier

Researchers have developed a technology that provides human operators with automated assistance in creating working code, expanding the number of people engaged in programming. The ExCAPE project aims to simplify program development and has already been tested in classrooms and online learning platforms.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalACM Transactions on Computer-Human Interaction·DateAug 15, 2016

Genomics solutions to the riddle of the tobacco hornworm sphinx moth

The sequencing of the tobacco hornworm moth's genome has opened new avenues for research, including understanding insect physiology, biochemistry, and molecular biology. The study identified over 600 genes involved in defense against pathogens, highlighting the potential for genetic insights into this important agricultural pest.

SourceSwiss Institute of Bioinformatics·JournalInsect Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·DateAug 15, 2016

Today's electric vehicles can make a dent in climate change

A comprehensive study found that 90% of personal vehicles on the road can be replaced by low-cost electric vehicles, reducing emissions and meeting near-term climate targets. The study analyzed driving behavior and energy requirements to demonstrate the feasibility of widespread EV adoption.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Energy·DateAug 15, 2016

Don't scan so close to me

A study using brain scans of musician Sting found unexpected connections between seemingly disparate songs, including Beatles' "Girl" and Piazzolla's "Libertango". The research employed novel techniques to analyze brain activity patterns, revealing rich representations of desired soundscapes in great musicianship.

SourceMcGill University·DateAug 15, 2016
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.

DASH diet may help prevent gout flares

A new study published in Arthritis & Rheumatology suggests that the DASH diet can effectively lower blood levels of uric acid, a known trigger of gout. The DASH diet, which emphasizes fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, was found to lower uric acid by an average of 0.35 mg/dL.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatology·DateAug 15, 2016

New DCIS consensus guideline could curb unnecessary breast surgery and reduce health system costs

The new guideline establishes a two millimeter margin as the standard for adequate margins in DCIS treated with whole breast radiation therapy, potentially reducing re-excision rates and improving cosmetic outcomes. This recommendation is supported by evidence and aims to improve quality of care and patient outcomes.

SourceAmerican Society for Radiation Oncology·JournalAnnals of Surgical Oncology·DateAug 15, 2016

New enzyme-mapping advance could help drug development

Scientists at MIT and the University of São Paulo have identified the structure of an enzyme that targets parasites responsible for spreading these diseases. The distinctive structure of the class I fumarate hydratase enzyme makes it a promising target for new medical therapies.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 15, 2016
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.