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Science News for August 3, 2016


New research explores why people 'pass the buck'

A new study from Northeastern University found that people are more likely to delegate decisions when faced with choices affecting others, rather than themselves. Researchers discovered that individuals tend to avoid delegating unappealing choices on their own behalf, but will do so for someone else to minimize blame.

SourceNortheastern University·JournalOrganizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes·DateAug 3, 2016

Squash and science: A new pathway to STEM success

CityLab will partner with Fordham University and local squash organizations to provide engaging STEM experiences for students from diverse backgrounds. The program aims to develop a national model for informal precollege biomedical science education, inspiring careers in STEM fields.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·DateAug 3, 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.

Successful treatment of rare forms of obesity

Researchers at Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin have successfully treated two patients with rare genetic disorders causing severe hyperphagia. The new drug treatment, which targets the satiety center in the brain, resulted in significant weight loss and normalization of hunger feelings in both patients.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateAug 3, 2016

New finding helps understand feeding ecology of Pleistocene proboscideans

A recent study using cutting-edge 3D dental microwear texture analysis reveals that Sinomastodon and Stegodon were obligate browsers of foliages, while Elephas had a broader diet of grasses and trees. This complex process suggests that biotic factors played a more substantial role in Pleistocene faunal turnovers than previously thought.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalQuaternary International·DateAug 3, 2016

Sea anemone proteins could repair damaged hearing

Researchers discovered a cocktail of sea anemone proteins that can repair damaged mouse cochlear hair cells in as little as 8 minutes. The study suggests that these proteins could potentially be used to treat patients with acute hearing loss.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateAug 3, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Research associates some pesticides with respiratory wheeze in farmers

A North Carolina State University study links several pesticides used by farmers with both allergic and non-allergic wheeze, a sensitive marker for early airway problems. The research, using data from the Agricultural Health Study, found 29 pesticides associated with at least one type of wheeze.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateAug 3, 2016

Study provides a new method to measure the energy of a lightning strike

Researchers developed a unique method to measure lightning strike energy by analyzing 'fossilized' sand cylinders created by thousands of years-old lightning strikes. The team found that the energy released in a single bolt of lightning peaks at over 20 megajoules per meter.

SourceUniversity of South Florida·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 3, 2016

Soaring metabolic rates place sea otter moms at risk

Researchers measured the resting metabolic rate of a lactating sea otter mother, revealing a significant increase in energy demands after giving birth. This finding suggests that sea otters may be accumulating fat reserves before milk production to cope with the high costs of rearing their young.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateAug 3, 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.

The force is strong with embryo cells

Scientists at EMBL discovered that cell contraction strength determines whether cells move inwards to form the embryo or stay on the surface to become the placenta. The study found that unequal inheritance of apical proteins affects cell contraction, leading to the formation of either embryonic or placental tissues.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalNature·DateAug 3, 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.

Better contrast agents based on nanoparticles

Scientists at the University of Basel have created nanoparticles that can serve as efficient contrast agents for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). These smart nanoparticles produce significantly more contrast than traditional contrast agents and respond to specific environments.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalChemical Communications·DateAug 3, 2016

Scientists keep a molecule from moving inside nerve cells to prevent cell death

A groundbreaking study found that keeping a specific RNA binding protein, TDP-43, from moving inside nerve cells can prevent cell death and disease progression in ALS and other neurodegenerative disorders. The researchers developed small proteins to block the protein's localization, preventing toxicity and disease progression in mice.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalNature Medicine·DateAug 3, 2016

Perpetual 'ice water': Stable solid-liquid state revealed in nanoparticles

Researchers at Duke University have created gallium nanoparticles with a unique phase coexistence phenomenon, where the particle core is solid while the outer layer remains liquid. This discovery could lead to breakthroughs in nanotechnology applications, including ultraviolet sensors and molecular sensing devices.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Materials·DateAug 3, 2016

Sprinkling of neural dust opens door to electroceuticals

Researchers at UC Berkeley have developed dust-sized wireless sensors that can be implanted in the body to monitor internal nerves, muscles, or organs in real-time. The technology also enables stimulation of nerves and muscles to treat disorders such as epilepsy or stimulate the immune system.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNeuron·DateAug 3, 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.

Health-care costs are bad medicine

New research reveals that over 40% of people with depression and anxiety skipped healthcare treatment due to cost. Adults with asthma, emphysema, and COPD faced significantly higher household out-of-pocket healthcare expenditure compared to those without a health condition.

SourceJames Cook University·JournalAustralian Journal of Primary Health·DateAug 3, 2016

Imaging study shows link between inflammatory biomarkers and increased heart disease in men with HIV

A cardiac imaging study showed a correlation between higher inflammatory biomarkers and an increased prevalence of coronary artery disease in men infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Researchers used computed tomography (CT) angiography to detect signs of subclinical CAD, such as narrowed arteries and the amount, density a...

SourceUniversity of Southern California - Health Sciences·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateAug 3, 2016

Insomnia? Oversleeping? Both may increase your risk of stroke

A recent literature review suggests that both sleep disorders and oversleeping may increase the risk of stroke. The review recommends screening for sleep disorders in people who have had a stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA), as they may be more likely to experience negative outcomes. Additionally, treatment with continuous posit...

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateAug 3, 2016

From happiness on Twitter to DNA organization

Researchers used assortativity to analyze DNA interactions and identify proteins mediating chromatin contact networks. This approach helps understand genome organization and its relationship with gene expression regulation.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalGenome Biology·DateAug 3, 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.

Carbon nanotube 'stitches' make stronger, lighter composites

Researchers at MIT have developed a method to reinforce composite materials using carbon nanotubes, resulting in substantially stronger and more resistant materials. The stitched composites were found to be 30% stronger and withstood greater forces before breaking than existing composite materials.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalComposites Science and Technology·DateAug 3, 2016

Federal grant to Rice targets ovarian cancer

Rice University bioengineer Junghae Suh has been awarded a prestigious R01 grant to research the use of viral gene therapy to fight ovarian cancer. The grant will help Suh and her lab adapt viruses to recognize extracellular enzymes overexpressed by ovarian-cancer tumors and deliver therapeutic genes to diseased cells.

SourceRice University·DateAug 3, 2016

Contagion in popular places: From Zika to political extremism

Researchers found that increasing mobility through a popular place can reduce outbreak severity, unlike reducing flow which would increase susceptibility to infection. The team proposes strategies to control the flow of people to minimize risk while maintaining high occupancy.

SourceUniversity of Miami·JournalEPL (Europhysics Letters)·DateAug 3, 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.

Researchers identify how queen bees repress workers' fertility

Researchers discovered how queen honeybees control worker bees' fertility through the Notch cell-signalling pathway. The study found that inhibiting Notch signalling can overcome the effect of queen pheromone and promote ovary activity in adult worker bees.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 3, 2016

Consumption of natural estrogens in cow's milk does not affect blood levels or reproductive health

Researchers found that naturally occurring estrogens in milk did not impact blood hormone levels or reproductive organs in mice, even at concentrations 100 times higher than typical milk from pregnant cows. The study suggests that the gastrointestinal system can metabolize estrogens before they reach systemic circulation.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Dairy Science·DateAug 3, 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.

Desert elephants pass on knowledge -- not mutations -- to survive

Researchers found that Namibian desert elephants share the same DNA as African savanna elephants due to their high learning capacity and long-distance migrations. They possess unique survival skills, including sand-wetting and water conservation techniques.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalEcology and Evolution·DateAug 3, 2016

Tiny high-performance solar cells turn power generation sideways

Researchers at University of Wisconsin-Madison have created high-performance, micro-scale solar cells that outshine comparable devices in key performance measures. The new, small cells capture current from charges moving side-to-side and generate significantly more energy than other sideways solar systems.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalAdvanced Materials Technologies·DateAug 3, 2016

Paving the way toward novel strong, conductive materials

Scientists have developed a method to predict which alloys can form bulk metallic glasses, overcoming the complex process of synthesizing these alloys. The new approach identifies hundreds of new candidates for metallic glass made from simple two-element alloys, opening up possibilities for novel strong and conductive materials.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 3, 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.

Global warming, a dead zone and surprising bacteria

Scientists have discovered that newly found SAR11 bacteria are depleting oxygen and nitrogen in the world's largest oxygen minimum zone, making virtual dead zones even more inhospitable to life. This process has significant implications for global nutrient supplies and greenhouse gas cycles.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateAug 3, 2016

What's really in your swimming pool?

Harmful disinfection by-products (DBPs) form when chlorine and other chemicals react with organic matter in pool water, causing respiratory problems like asthma among swimmers. Practicing good hygiene, such as taking showers before entering the pool, can help reduce DBP levels.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateAug 3, 2016

The push for more clinical research data sharing is paying off

The Yale Open Data Access (YODA) Project has made significant progress in accelerating clinical trial data sharing, enabling greater access to high-quality medical research. The project's independent scientific reviews have ensured fair judgment and decision-making authority over data release.

SourceYale University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateAug 3, 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.

NASA sees tropical storm Howard weakening

Tropical Storm Howard is weakening due to cooler waters and increasing instability, with maximum sustained winds decreasing to near 45 mph. Forecasters expect the storm to become a remnant low in 24-36 hours, potentially sooner if organized convection redevelops.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 3, 2016

Minorities less likely to have knee replacement surgery, more likely to have complications

A new study published in Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery found significant racial disparities in knee replacement surgery, with minorities having lower rates of TKR utilization but higher rates of adverse health outcomes. The study also revealed that black, Native American, and mixed-race individuals faced significantly higher risk f...

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateAug 3, 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.

Researchers inhibit tumor growth in new subtype of lung cancer

A team of investigators identified a subtype of human adenocarcinoma that may be amenable to a new therapy. The research found that tumor suppressing C/EBPα works by restraining the expression of oncogenic protein BMI1, leading to an inverse correlation between the two molecules in NSCLC patients.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateAug 3, 2016

Schizophrenia simulator: When chemistry upends sanity's balance

The Georgia Institute of Technology researchers have created an interactive model of the brain's chemical balance to simulate major systemic changes in schizophrenia sufferers. This tool depicts chemical underpinnings in simple graphics, helping clinicians better understand the disease and test hypotheses virtually.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalBiochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) - General Subjects·DateAug 3, 2016

Researchers discover Sandman's role in sleep control

Researchers discovered that ion channel Sandman plays a critical role in sleep control. When dopamine levels increase, Sandman moves outside the cell, effectively shutting down sleep-control neurons and leading to wakefulness.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalNature·DateAug 3, 2016

Synaptec senses growth opportunities with six figure investment

Synaptec, a spinout from the University of Strathclyde, has secured £370,000 investment to boost its renewable energy and subsea operations. The funding will enable the company to hire new staff and broaden its capabilities in areas such as subsea development and renewable energy.

SourceUniversity of Strathclyde·DateAug 3, 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.

Deadly bat fungus in Washington state likely originated in Eastern US

A study published in the journal mSphere found that a deadly bat fungus in Washington state is genetically similar to strains found in the eastern United States, suggesting it did not originate in Eurasia. The findings have implications for resource managers battling white-nose syndrome in North American bats.

SourceUSDA Forest Service - Northern Research Station·JournalmSphere·DateAug 3, 2016

Magnetic atoms arranged in neat rows

Physicists at FAU and the Vienna University of Technology successfully created one-dimensional magnetic atom chains for the first time. The discovery enables basic research in areas such as magnetic data storage and chemistry, by providing a model system with unique properties.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 3, 2016

First evidence of sleep in flight

Researchers found that birds can engage in slow wave sleep and rapid eye movement sleep while flying, with SWS occurring in one hemisphere or both hemispheres. The study revealed unique sleep patterns in flight, including the ability of birds to watch their surroundings while asleep.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 3, 2016

Why parents are the new 'heroes' in policing young drivers

A Queensland University of Technology study reveals that parents play a significant role in shaping their children's behavior behind the wheel. Parents who actively encourage their young drivers to obey road rules are more effective at enforcing restrictions than traditional policing.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·DateAug 3, 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 cause of immune neuropathy discovered

Researchers have identified a potential trigger of immune-mediated neuropathies, a chronic form of nerve disorder, as antibodies against the protein Caspr. The discovery could lead to targeted treatment for sufferers and improved diagnosis through simple blood tests.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalBrain·DateAug 3, 2016

Making nail polish while powering fuel cells

Researchers develop a new catalyst that can produce hydrogen and ethyl acetate, a key ingredient in nail polish, from water and ethanol. This process eliminates the need for energy-consuming purification steps.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Central Science·DateAug 3, 2016

Big step towards cure for lifelong viral infections

Scientists have discovered specialized killer T cells that can migrate into lymphoid tissue to control hidden infections like HIV and glandular fever. This breakthrough discovery could lead to new therapies to treat chronic infections.

SourceMonash University·JournalNature Immunology·DateAug 3, 2016

New microfluidic chip replicates muscle-nerve connection

A microfluidic device has been developed to replicate the neuromuscular junction, enabling precise stimulation of nerve cells and observation of muscle interactions. This innovation may help identify effective treatments for ALS and other neuromuscular disorders.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 3, 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.

For the love of trash films

A comprehensive empirical investigation into trash films and their audience found that fans enjoy them for ironic viewing stances and appreciation of 'cheap' entertainment. The study also discovered that trash film enthusiasts are predominantly male, enthusiastic film buffs with above-average education.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalPoetics·DateAug 3, 2016

Next steps towards preventing cancer and Alzheimer's

A new generation of drugs that prevent cancer and Alzheimer's are in development thanks to research from the University of Warwick. The university has identified over 700 previously undiscovered proteins related to autophagy, a cellular process that declines with age.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalAutophagy·DateAug 3, 2016

University of Toronto chemists create vitamin-driven battery

Researchers at University of Toronto have created a biologically-derived battery that stores energy in flavin from vitamin B2, a green alternative to traditional lithium-ion batteries. The battery has high capacity and high voltage, making it suitable for powering next-generation consumer electronics.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateAug 3, 2016

Live-streaming crime -- how will Facebook Live and Periscope challenge US privacy law?

Researchers find that current laws protecting individual rights are insufficient to protect privacy when it comes to MSVTs, and the First Amendment likely protects livestreaming activities of users. The study advocates for less legal restraint on recording and live-streaming public matters, but also calls for wisdom in controlling harm...

SourceLehigh University·JournalJournalism & Mass Communication Quarterly·DateAug 3, 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.

Clinical trial results support adalimumab treatment for painful skin condition

Adalimumab, an inhibitor of the inflammatory protein tumor necrosis factor (TNF), has been shown to provide significantly greater symptom relief than placebo in patients with hidradenitis suppurtiva. The results of two phase 3 clinical trials support FDA approval of adalimumab for this painful skin condition.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateAug 3, 2016

Trading farmland for nitrogen protection

A 12-year study found that wider riparian buffer zones were more efficient at removing nitrogen from agricultural runoff than narrower ones. The location of the buffer zone and soil conditions also played a role in nitrogen removal efficiency.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalJournal of Environmental Quality·DateAug 3, 2016

NIH begins testing investigational Zika vaccine in humans

The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases has launched a Phase 1 clinical trial to test the safety and ability to generate an immune system response in participants. The investigational DNA vaccine aims to prevent Zika virus infection, which can cause serious birth defects.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·DateAug 3, 2016

Preventing dependency when patients first receive opioids: Say no to refills

A US study published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine found that prescribing short-acting opioids with no refills to opioid-naive patients significantly reduces the risk of long-term dependency. The study analyzed data from Oregon, which has the highest rate of non-medical opioid use in the US.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateAug 3, 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.

Challenging the 'rigidity' for smart soft electronics

Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology have developed a low-crystalline conducting polymer that shows high-field effect mobility, enabling faster charge transport without compromising mechanical properties. This breakthrough opens up new possibilities for soft electronics and wearables.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateAug 3, 2016

Waste not: Edible wax coating slicks liquids with ease

Researchers at Colorado State University have developed a superhydrophobic coating made from edible waxes, allowing liquids to be easily slicked away. The coating is nontoxic and safe for use in food packaging.

SourceColorado State University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateAug 3, 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.

And the Oscar goes to ... climate change

A new study by SDSU researchers finds that DiCaprio's speech sparked record levels of public engagement with climate change, exceeding Earth Day and a major climate summit. The study analyzed news media trends, Twitter postings, and Google search trends to investigate global engagement with climate change since January 2011.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 3, 2016

Inosine treatment helps recovery of motor functions after brain injury

Researchers found that inosine treatment led to improved motor control in four out of four treated monkeys, with three returning to their pre-operative grasping methods. The study suggests neural plasticity as a therapeutic target for recovering fine motor control and grasping ability after brain injury.

SourceIOS Press·JournalRestorative Neurology and Neuroscience·DateAug 3, 2016

Paper: Strategic trade-offs in automobile design affect market-share value

A new study reveals that investments in both function and ergonomics result in higher market share, whereas investments in both function and form impose a share penalty. Older vehicles with higher form design hold their market-share value better than older vehicles with higher functional or ergonomic designs.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateAug 3, 2016

HIV/AIDS: Filarial worm infections double the risk of infection

A recent study conducted in Tanzania found that an infection with the filarial nematode Wuchereria bancrofti increases the risk of HIV infection by two to three fold. The study revealed a significant association between filarial infections and increased risk of HIV infection, particularly among adolescents and young adults.

SourceGerman Center for Infection Research·JournalThe Lancet·DateAug 3, 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.

Three new species identified amongst the Tegu lizard family

A study published in PLOS ONE identifies three new cryptic species within the Tegu lizard family, including subtle differences in leg scale morphology and substantial genetic divergence. The discovery may aid conservation efforts for these heavily exploited species.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 3, 2016

ORNL optimizes formula for cadmium-tellurium solar cells

Scientists at ORNL discover the optimal ratio of selenium in cadmium-tellurium solar cells, increasing efficiency from 22% to near-theoretical levels. The alloy composition of 50% cadmium, 25% tellurium and 25% selenium performed best.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 3, 2016

Blood sugar slumps affect how lean men treat the more rotund

A study found that lean men who experience low blood sugar are less fair in their economic decision-making, especially when it comes to hiring and salary decisions involving obese individuals. This bias can lead to employment disparities and unfair treatment of corpulent people in the workplace.

SourceSpringer·JournalInternational Journal of Obesity·DateAug 3, 2016

Gentle cancer treatment using nanoparticles works

Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have developed a method that kills cancer cells using nanoparticles and lasers. The treatment has been tested on mice and shown to be effective in destroying cancer tumors without causing major side effects.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Niels Bohr Institute·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 3, 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.

'Second skin' protects soldiers from biological and chemical agents

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory scientists have created a breathable material that provides protection from biological agents due to its small pore size. The material also responds to chemical hazards with dynamic functional groups, mimicking the adaptive response of human skin.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateAug 3, 2016

Surgical stitch linked to stillbirth and preterm birth

A cervical stitch used to prevent preterm labor has been linked to a three times higher risk of stillbirth and almost twice the risk of preterm birth. The suture may disrupt the vaginal microbiome and spur inflammation, major risk factors for preterm birth.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateAug 3, 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.

Can you teach koalas new tricks?

A team from Griffith University monitored 130 koala crossings using retrofitted eco-passages and pinpointed individual koalas with RFID tags, camera traps, and audio radio transmitters. The study provides comprehensive insights into koala behavior and movements.

SourceGriffith University·JournalWildlife Research·DateAug 3, 2016

Brazilian study identifies new target for treatment of melanoma

Researchers found that inhibiting RMEL3, a non-coding RNA, reduces melanoma cell proliferation by up to 95%. The study suggests RMEL3 is expressed in most cases of melanoma and offers promising therapeutic and diagnostic potential.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalOncoTargets and Therapy·DateAug 3, 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.

Novel genetic mutation may lead to the progressive loss of motor function

Researchers at the National Institutes of Health have identified a novel genetic mutation that may lead to progressive loss of motor function in children. The study, published in Science Signaling, found that a gain-of-function mutation in the KCC3 protein causes extreme swelling of neurons, leading to nerve damage and muscle weakness.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournalScience Signaling·DateAug 3, 2016

Detecting blood alcohol content with an electronic skin patch

Researchers have developed a flexible electronic skin patch that can detect blood-alcohol levels from sweat, offering a non-invasive and fast solution for measuring BAC. The patch uses three rapid steps to induce sweat, detect alcohol content, and transmit data wirelessly.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Sensors·DateAug 3, 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.

Next generation anode to improve lithium-ion batteries

Researchers at UCR developed a silicon-tin nanocomposite anode that triples charge capacity and extends battery life. The new material enables longer-lasting rechargeable batteries with improved performance and scalability.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 3, 2016

Recycling carbon dioxide: U of T researchers reduce climate-warming CO2 to building blocks for fuels

Researchers at U of T have developed a technique to convert climate-warming carbon dioxide into useful chemicals, such as methanol and ethanol, by consuming the greenhouse gas. The breakthrough uses nanoneedles to catalyze the reaction, producing CO2 reduction faster than any catalyst previously reported.

SourceUniversity of Toronto Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering·JournalNature·DateAug 3, 2016