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Science News for August 2, 2016


Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Millennials less sexually active than Gen-X peers

A study by San Diego State University psychology professor Jean M. Twenge found that millennials are less likely to have had sex since turning 18 compared to Generation X peers. The researchers attribute this trend to increased safety concerns, reduced interaction time due to technology, and a risk-averse attitude.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalArchives of Sexual Behavior·DateAug 2, 2016

University of Leicester discovery sheds light on how vertebrates see

A new study by the University of Leicester has identified details in fossil vertebrate eyes that shed light on how vertebrates evolved their complex eyes. The research shows that ancient species of hagfish could see, while living counterparts are blind, revealing a 'reverse evolution' process.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·DateAug 2, 2016

Mapping the exotic matter inside neutron stars

A team of physicists has made a significant breakthrough in understanding the internal composition of neutron stars. They used thermal perturbation theory to determine the thermodynamic properties of dense quark matter under extreme conditions, shedding light on its potential presence inside these stars.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 2, 2016

Longer duration of untreated childhood schizophrenia-spectrum psychosis predicts poorer outcomes

A systematic review of 35 studies found that longer duration of untreated childhood schizophrenia-spectrum psychosis is associated with poorer functional improvement. Children and adolescents with EOS often experience frequent pre- and co-morbid conditions, leading to worse outcomes.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Child and Adolescent Psychopharmacology·DateAug 2, 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.

Vaccines fail to protect obese mice from severe influenza infections

Researchers found that flu vaccines with adjuvants do not work as well in obese mice, highlighting the urgent need to understand vaccine response in obese humans. Obesity leaves individuals at increased risk for flu-related complications, including hospitalization and death.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalmBio·DateAug 2, 2016

Child's home address can help guide health care

A new study finds that a child's home address can identify families at risk of severe asthma due to socioeconomic hardships. The address is linked to zip code and census data to target resource allocation.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalAcademic Pediatrics·DateAug 2, 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.

T cell revival through PD-1: Clues for cancer immunotherapy

Researchers at Emory Vaccine Center have identified molecular characteristics of T cells that expand after PD-1 inhibition, paving the way for rational design of combination therapies. The study reveals distinct co-stimulatory molecules and receptors on these revived T cells, which could be targets for drugs.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalNature·DateAug 2, 2016

Low rate of Internet use by seniors for health purposes

A recent study published in JAMA found that only 25% of seniors in the US used digital health technology between 2011 and 2014. The study also revealed socioeconomic disparities in digital health use, with older age, black and Latino ethnicity, divorce, and poor health associated with lower use.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateAug 2, 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.

Rapid bacterial infection test reduces antibiotic use

Researchers developed a rapid 5-minute test to detect C-reactive protein, reducing unnecessary antibiotic prescriptions for respiratory infections. The study showed significant reductions in antibiotic use among adults and children with viral infections.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalThe Lancet Global Health·DateAug 2, 2016

Penn Alzheimer's Disease Center to receive $8.8 million in NIH funding

The University of Pennsylvania's Alzheimer's Disease Core Center has been awarded $8.8 million over five years from the National Institute on Aging to investigate Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. The center will focus on recruiting, studying subjects with early-stage AD, and expanding its bioinformatics infrastructure.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·DateAug 2, 2016

Patented bioelectrodes have electrifying taste for waste

Researchers at Michigan State University have developed bioelectrodes that can generate electricity by harnessing the power of Geobacter bacteria. The biofilms are composed of cells loaded with cytochromes and pili, which work together to transmit electrons across the biofilm and to the underlying electrode.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 2, 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.

Drug does not improve outcomes for patients with advanced heart failure

A study published in JAMA found that liraglutide did not improve post-hospitalization clinical stability in patients with advanced heart failure. The drug was tested in a randomized controlled trial involving 154 patients, but showed no significant effect on primary end points such as death and rehospitalizations.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateAug 2, 2016

Clinical usefulness of bone turnover marker concentrations in osteoporosis

A new review published by the IFCC-IOF Working Group for Standardisation of Bone Marker Assays supports the potential for bone turnover markers to provide clinically useful information. The study highlights the importance of standardization and harmonization of units for reporting serum/plasma CTX and PINP concentrations.

SourceInternational Osteoporosis Foundation·JournalClinica Chimica Acta·DateAug 2, 2016

Bridging the gap between the quantum and classical worlds

Researchers from OIST Graduate University have developed a classical model to describe the phenomenon of strong coupling, challenging previous thoughts that it was a quantum effect. Strong coupling occurs when light and matter interact strongly, affecting both parties equally.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 2, 2016

Lower weight in late life may increase risk of Alzheimer's disease

A study found an association between lower body mass index and greater deposits of Alzheimer's-associated protein beta-amyloid in the brains of older individuals, particularly those carrying the APOE4 gene variant. This may indicate that being underweight late in life increases the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·DateAug 2, 2016
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.

Adis launches new open access pharmacoeconomics journal

PharmacoEconomics - Open will provide readers with the latest on cost and health outcomes associated with drugs, devices, and healthcare interventions. The new journal aims to disseminate credible open access information to researchers, decision makers, and patients, maximizing the reach of their work.

SourceSpringer·JournalPharmacoEconomics - Open·DateAug 2, 2016

Study: Caring for elderly stroke survivors costs an estimated $40 billion per year

A study published in Stroke found that elderly stroke survivors require nearly double the caregiving hours of non-stroke patients. The estimated annual cost of caregiving is around $40 billion due to a need for approximately $11,000 per week in assistance. Caregivers can include family, friends, and paid caregivers.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalStroke·DateAug 2, 2016

Research reveals cancer pathway to spreading through the body

Cancer cells use oxygen gradients to navigate and spread through the body, according to a new study published in PNAS. Researchers at Johns Hopkins University found that cancer cells migrate from low-oxygen areas to higher oxygen concentrations, allowing them to reach blood vessels and metastasize.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 2, 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.

Tracking down the first chefs

Researchers analyze human bite marks on lamb bones to develop new method for identifying ancient meals. The study found that over half of the bones bore human bite marks, allowing for the differentiation between human and animal consumption.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalJournal of Archaeological Science·DateAug 2, 2016

Cardiac complications from energy drinks? Case report adds new evidence

A new case report suggests that energy drink consumption may lead to cardiac complications, including abnormal heart rhythms. The study highlights the potential risks of high caffeine content in energy drinks and encourages healthcare providers to ask about energy drink intake in patients with unexplained arrhythmias.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Addiction Medicine·DateAug 2, 2016

Do eco-friendly wines taste better?

A new UCLA study reveals eco-certified wine tastes better and is often cheaper than regular wine, with professional reviewers giving it higher ratings. The study found a larger effect for red wine, gaining an average of 5.6 extra points, while white wines also showed a positive impact.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalJournal of Wine Economics·DateAug 2, 2016

Lack of pharmacy access sends some patients back to the hospital

A study published in the Journal of the American Pharmacists Association found that rural patients are more likely to be readmitted to the hospital due to lack of pharmacy access. The average number of readmissions from rural areas was 15.3 percent, compared to 14.7 percent for urban counterparts.

SourceOregon State University·JournalJournal of the American Pharmacists Association·DateAug 2, 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.

Proton pinball on the catalyst

Research by Stefano Fabris and colleagues reveals that moisture boosts the efficiency of a catalyst in fuel cells by creating a 'proton pinball game' that facilitates molecular transport. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient fuel cell designs.

SourceInternational School of Advanced Studies (SISSA)·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateAug 2, 2016

Creating bigger, better and more joined-up habitat networks

Scientists developed a new computational method to plan restoration of habitats and improve connectivity across landscapes. The approach optimizes the size, quality, and connectivity of ecological networks to facilitate species range shifts.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalMethods in Ecology and Evolution·DateAug 2, 2016

IBS finds another aged problem of how naïve t cells decline with age

Research by Institute for Basic Science reveals that aging compromises the survival of naïve T cells by degrading the supportive environment within the lymph nodes. The study found that the production of a key protein responsible for attracting T cells to the lymph nodes declined with age, resulting in reduced effective immune response.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 2, 2016

How 5-star online customer reviews can backfire

Research by marketing experts found that excessive positive online customer reviews can lead to higher return rates and increased costs for retailers. This is particularly true for products with low prices or from new customers, as it raises expectations and may result in disappointment upon delivery.

SourceJournal of Retailing at New York University·JournalJournal of Retailing·DateAug 2, 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.

Alaska research center moves science from bench to bedside

The Alaska Native and American Indian Peoples Health Disparities Research Center will address significant health gaps in these communities. It provides training, research opportunities and project funds to scientists working with indigenous people.

SourceUniversity of Alaska Fairbanks·DateAug 2, 2016

Researchers study impact of extreme weather events on striped bass

Researchers tracked 22 striped bass in response to severe storms in the Hudson River Estuary and New York Harbor. The study found that fish rapidly left the area, moving south along the coast, and some adopted new migration behaviors. This change may impact fish populations and breeding habits.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Center for Environmental Science·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 2, 2016

UTSW study finds innate immunity connection to rare, fatal childhood disease

Researchers identified a key role for Vps33B in regulating innate immunity and found exaggerated inflammatory responses in cells lacking the protein. The study suggests potential new therapies for arthrogryposis-renal dysfunction-cholestasis (ARC) syndrome, which is associated with recurrent infections and sepsis.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalImmunology·DateAug 2, 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.

Unlocking the secrets of creeping concrete

Researchers discovered that calcium-silicate-hydrates dissolve at high-stress regions and re-precipitate at low-stress regions, leading to 'creep' deformation. This finding could help develop mechanistic models for predicting creep behavior and identifying cementation agents with reduced sensitivity.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateAug 2, 2016

Scientists model the 'flicker' of gluons in subatomic smashups

Researchers developed a mathematical model to represent gluon distributions within protons, identifying fluctuations as essential for explaining experimental data. The model's results suggest that gluon fluctuations can help explain collective phenomena observed in proton-nucleus collisions.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 2, 2016

Oregon research points to mechanisms on why 'green' helps in urban life

A pilot study by University of Oregon researchers found that urban parks have unique bacterial fingerprints reflecting vegetation types, while parking lots tend to be more similar. This study provides evidence for how differences in vegetation influence airborne microbial communities and offers promising new directions for exploring th...

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateAug 2, 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.

Think millennials are the 'hookup generation?' You're wrong, says FAU sex study

A new study conducted by researchers from Florida Atlantic University reveals that Millennials are not the 'hookup generation' as previously thought. The study found that Millennials born in the early 1990s were significantly more likely to report no sexual partners after age 18, compared to GenX'ers born in the late 1960s.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalArchives of Sexual Behavior·DateAug 2, 2016

Echo templates aid mental mapping in bats

Researchers found that bats recognize locations by remembering unique echo signatures, allowing them to form cognitive maps of their environment. The study suggests that prominent landmarks play a key role in template-based place recognition.

SourceeLife·DateAug 2, 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.

NASA sees Typhoon Nida make landfall

Typhoon Nida made landfall just north of Hong Kong, bringing maximum sustained winds of 74.8 mph, and a Category 1 hurricane on the Saffir-Simpson Wind Scale. The storm has weakened to a tropical storm and is moving northwest towards inland areas where it is expected to dissipate.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 2, 2016

Tropical Storm Earl forms in Caribbean Sea

Tropical Storm Earl has formed in the Caribbean Sea, with maximum sustained winds near 45 mph and a minimum central pressure of 1,001 millibars. The storm is forecast to move west over the next couple of days, affecting Honduras and Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 2, 2016

Population boom preceded early farming

Researchers analyzed carbon-dated artifacts at archaeological sites to conclude that a population boom and scarce food led to early farming in eastern North America around 5,000 years ago. This transition enabled large numbers of people to live in one place, ultimately setting the stage for civilization.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateAug 2, 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.

New metamaterials can change properties with a flick of a light-switch

Scientists design metamaterials that can block or transmit specific wavelengths of light at the command of light pulses, enabling new optical device applications. The new switchable materials have potential to create ultra-thin metasurface lenses and other flat optical components.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateAug 2, 2016

Hidden tooth infections may predispose people to heart disease

A Finnish study found that nearly 60% of patients with coronary artery disease also had dental root tip infections. The researchers discovered a strong link between the two conditions, suggesting that oral infections may contribute to heart disease risk. Root canal treatment may help reduce this risk.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalJournal of Dental Research·DateAug 2, 2016

Adolescent depression in girls offset by presence of 'boomerang father'

Research finds that adolescent girls with 'boomerang fathers' experience lower depressive symptoms compared to those without stable paternal involvement. The study suggests familiarity and commitment from the biological father create a protective bond, assisting in positive mental health.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalJournal of Marriage and Family·DateAug 2, 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.

NASA catches visible and infrared views of Tropical Storm Howard

Tropical Storm Howard is moving west through the Eastern Pacific Ocean with maximum sustained winds near 60 mph and higher gusts. NASA's Aqua satellite provided forecasters with visible and infrared imagery of the storm on August 1-2, capturing its bulk thunderstorms east of the center.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 2, 2016

Flexible wearable electronic skin patch offers new way to monitor alcohol levels

Researchers at UC San Diego have developed a flexible wearable sensor that can accurately measure blood alcohol levels from sweat, providing real-time monitoring for doctors and police officers. The device, consisting of a temporary tattoo and portable electronic circuit board, can be worn on the skin and transmit data wirelessly to a ...

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalACS Sensors·DateAug 2, 2016

Glucose transporters blocked in bacterial meningitis

Scientists at Children's Hospital Los Angeles found that glucose transporters are inhibited by E. coli K1 during meningitis, leaving insufficient fuel for immune cells to fight off infection. The study suggests modulation of PPAR-γ and GLUT-1 levels may boost the immune system to fight infection.

SourceChildren's Hospital Los Angeles·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateAug 2, 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.

Giant forest fires exterminate spotted owls, long-term study finds

A new study on the King Fire in California finds that even large, intense fires like this one do not exterminate spotted owls. In fact, owl populations may be resilient to megafires, contrary to previous studies, which suggests a reevaluation of forest thinning and prescribed burns as conservation strategies.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateAug 2, 2016

Combat exposure may jeopardize the behavioral health of women in the military

A recent study found that combat exposure among Army enlisted women was associated with an increased likelihood of developing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and at-risk drinking after deployment. Women with combat exposure were 20 times more likely to screen positive for PTSD compared to those with no exposure.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Traumatic Stress·DateAug 2, 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.

Trees on farms: The missing link in carbon accounting

A recent study reveals that tree cover on agricultural land has increased globally, capturing vast amounts of carbon dioxide and potentially playing a significant role in mitigating climate change. The research highlights the importance of agroforestry systems in reducing greenhouse gas emissions from agriculture.

SourceWorld Agroforestry Centre (ICRAF)·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 2, 2016

Heritability of thoracic spine curvature

A study published in the Journal of Bone and Mineral Research found that heritability of thoracic spine curvature is significant, with a heritability score of 54%, suggesting genetic control. This discovery may inform prevention efforts for hyperkyphosis, a condition causing breathing, walking, and daily life difficulties.

SourceHebrew SeniorLife Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·DateAug 2, 2016

Managing uncertainty: How soil carbon feedbacks could affect climate change

A new study calls for collaboration between modelers and soil scientists to improve understanding of soil carbon turnover and its potential impact on climate feedbacks. The researchers aim to increase confidence in climate projections by representing a range of ideas about how the world works in models.

SourceYale School of the Environment·JournalNature Climate Change·DateAug 2, 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.

Depression screening tools not accurate for children and adolescents

Researchers found that existing depression screening tools do not accurately identify 6- to 18-year-olds with depression. The study suggests that these tools may incorrectly label non-depressed children as depressed, leading to potential misuse of psychiatric medications and resources.

SourceMcGill University·JournalThe Canadian Journal of Psychiatry·DateAug 2, 2016

NASA looks at historic flooding from slow-moving Maryland storms

NASA's IMERG data revealed strong bands of heavy rain extending east-west over north-central Maryland, with localized areas experiencing higher rates. The area affected suffered devastating flooding, including the historic town of Ellicott City, where two people drowned and numerous cars were damaged.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 2, 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.

Researchers image brain cells' reactions to concussive trauma

A Brown University study used a custom-built device to compress neurons in 3-D cell cultures and observed their reaction to traumatic brain injury. The findings suggest that there may be a window for therapeutic intervention aimed at minimizing further damage, with irreparable structural damage occurring after approximately six hours.

SourceBrown University·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 2, 2016

Bacteria show capacity for rapid, beneficial mutations

A study published in Nature found that the majority of new genetic mutations in E. coli bacteria are beneficial and occur at variable rates, contrary to previous assumptions. This discovery has implications for treating bacterial infections and may impact personalized medicine.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalNature·DateAug 2, 2016

What can a sea-lion teach us about musicality?

Researchers found that a sea lion named Ronan can keep the beat better than any other non-human animal, suggesting that beat-keeping abilities may be more ancient and widespread than thought. The study used mathematical equations to analyze Ronan's brain activity while she moved to different rhythms.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Neuroscience·DateAug 2, 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.

Flow diagnostics breakthrough for hydraulic capsule pipeline

Researchers have developed mathematical models that can ensure new pipeline systems are designed economically and efficiently. The models use computational fluid dynamics to predict the optimum design for hydraulic capsule pipelines, which can convey bulk solids effectively.

SourceUniversity of Huddersfield·JournalInternational Journal of Pressure Vessels and Piping·DateAug 2, 2016

Reach in and touch objects in videos

Researchers from MIT's CSAIL have developed an imaging technique called Interactive Dynamic Video (IDV) that lets users reach in and interact with objects in videos. By analyzing video clips for 'vibration modes,' the team can predict how objects will move in new situations, enabling realistic simulations.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology, CSAIL·DateAug 2, 2016

Crystallization frustration predicts metallic glass formation

A new study from Duke University predicts which binary alloys will form metallic glasses, paving the way for strong and conductive materials. The technique involves analyzing structures and energies within solidified alloys to identify potential metallic glasses.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 2, 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.

Stem cells may speed up screening of drugs for rare cancers

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center have developed a system using transformed human stem cells to speed up screening of existing drugs for rare brain and other cancers. This method enables more confident comparison with human cells, leading to promising treatments like CDK inhibitors for Group 3 medulloblastoma.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateAug 2, 2016

Personalized virtual brains: Big data -- big theory

Researchers at Charité are developing a personalized virtual brain model using big data and advanced simulations. They aim to improve our understanding of cognitive performance by analyzing the interaction between individual brain components.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·DateAug 2, 2016

More accurate prostate cancer prognosis

A new scheme improved prostate cancer prognosis by grouping men into 5 strata based on clinical measurements like PSA level, disease stage, and tumor grade. This method performed better in predicting cancer death compared to the current risk stratification system.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateAug 2, 2016

Ultracompact photodetector

Researchers at KIT have created a novel type of photodetector that can transmit information at speeds of up to 40 gigabits per second, using surface plasmon polaritons to combine optics and electronics on a tiny space. The smallest photodetectors worldwide for optical data transmission can be used for integrated optical circuits.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalOptica·DateAug 2, 2016

TSRI researchers find 'lead actors' in immune cell development

Researchers at The Scripps Research Institute (TSRI) found that members of a cluster of microRNAs work together throughout the stages of immune cell generation. Different miRNAs dominate different stages as disease-targeting immune cells develop, guiding the development of therapies against autoimmune diseases.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 2, 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.

Study shows cell-free DNA sequencing is more accurate for diagnosing myelodysplastic syndrome

A new study published in Genetic Testing and Molecular Biomarkers found that analyzing cell-free DNA using next-generation sequencing is more accurate than the current standard approach of Sanger sequencing. This method can detect genetic abnormalities responsible for myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) with greater sensitivity.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalGenetic Testing and Molecular Biomarkers·DateAug 2, 2016

Many physicians still prescribe controversial drug combination

A significant number of patients on clopidogrel therapy are also prescribed proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) omeprazole or esomeprazole, increasing the risk of cardiovascular events. Despite regulatory warnings, many physicians have continued to prescribe this combination.

SourceWiley·JournalPharmacology Research & Perspectives·DateAug 2, 2016

Research targets number one killer of under-5s

Researchers at the University of Oxford have developed a machine learning tool to diagnose childhood pneumonia more accurately and cost-effectively. The tool uses data from basic equipment such as pulse oximeters, thermometers, and stethoscopes, achieving high sensitivity and specificity rates compared to existing guidelines.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateAug 2, 2016

New study supports link between alcohol advertising and adolescent drinking

A recent study found a positive association between adolescents' exposure to various types of alcohol marketing and their increased drinking frequency. The research suggests that restricting the volume of alcohol marketing to which young people are exposed could help reduce youth drinking. The findings support demands for stricter regu...

SourceSociety for the Study of Addiction·JournalAddiction·DateAug 2, 2016

Study uses GPS technology to predict football injuries

Researchers found that high levels of acceleration, total distance covered, and short bursts of speed are linked to increased injury risk. The study provides guidelines for reducing injury occurrence in elite youth football by organizing training sessions to fluctuate between high and low workloads.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·DateAug 2, 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.

Promoting regulatory T cell production may help control atherosclerosis

Research led by Catherine Hedrick found that removing ATP-binding cassette transporter G1 (ABCG1) from immune cells increases regulatory T cell production, decreases pro-inflammatory T cells, and reduces atherosclerotic lesions in mice. This suggests that therapies targeting ABCG1 could help control atherosclerosis.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 2, 2016

Colonel Sanders was ahead of his time

A recent study found that visual cues, such as photos of stores or business owners, can reassure wary online shoppers and increase purchases. The research suggests that including these elements can help small retailers overcome the constraints of distance and anonymity in e-commerce.

SourceJournal of Retailing at New York University·JournalJournal of Retailing·DateAug 2, 2016

Hysterectomy with ovary conservation doubles odds of hot flushes, night sweats

A University of Queensland study found that over a decade after hysterectomy with ovary conservation, nearly one-third of women experienced persistent hot flushes, while almost half suffered from frequent night sweats. The study suggests an abrupt decline in estrogen levels may contribute to this increased risk.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalMaturitas·DateAug 2, 2016

The Lancet: Infections with the parasitic worm W bancrofti associated with increased risk of HIV infection, according to Tanzanian study

A Tanzanian study has found that people infected with the parasitic worm W bancrofti in areas where HIV is endemic are more likely to acquire HIV. The study, published in The Lancet, suggests that controlling lymphatic filariasis could prevent incident HIV infections among the 120 million people living with this chronic infection.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·DateAug 2, 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.

The great evolutionary smoke out: An advantage for modern humans?

A team of Penn State researchers identified a genetic mutation in modern humans that increased their tolerance to toxic smoke and fire. This mutation, found only in humans, may have given ancient humans an edge over Neandertals, who were more susceptible to respiratory problems and cellular toxicity.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateAug 2, 2016

NASA's new CO2 sounder nearly ready for prime time

The CO2 Sounder Lidar is a strong contender for the ASCENDS mission, which aims to measure global atmospheric carbon dioxide levels. The instrument uses advanced technologies, including a highly sensitive solid-state detector and a rapidly tuning laser system, to achieve unprecedented precision and resolution.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 2, 2016

Treatment strategy under development has 2 arms to get a secure grip on cancer

Scientists have developed a novel combination of an aptamer and siRNAs to target two tumor-dependent genes in prostate cancer cells. This approach shows promise for effective, less toxic gene therapies for various cancers. The strategy uses two 'missiles' to bind to specific proteins, increasing its grip on cancer targets.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·DateAug 2, 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.

High schoolers with mental health issues more likely to use alcohol, tobacco, & marijuana

Research at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that high school students with psychiatric symptoms were more likely to use substances like alcohol, tobacco, and marijuana. The study highlights the link between mental health issues and substance use among teenagers in Brazil.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal on Addictions·DateAug 2, 2016