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Science News for August 8, 2016


Researchers flag hundreds of new genes that could contribute to autism

A recent study by Princeton University and Simons Foundation researchers has identified over 2,500 candidate genes that may contribute to autism spectrum disorder. The machine-learning program analyzed the human genome to predict which genes are at risk of causing the condition.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateAug 8, 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.

Two classes of medications linked to similar results in peritoneal dialysis patients

A new study found that angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEI) and angiotensin-II receptor blockers (ARB) have similar results in reducing cardiovascular events in patients on peritoneal dialysis. The researchers surveyed records of Medicare Part D patients and found no significant difference between the two medication classes.

SourceLA BioMed·JournalJournal of Nephrology·DateAug 8, 2016

Self-cleaning, anti-reflective, microorganism-resistant coatings

Researchers create functional coatings with microorganism-resistance, self-cleaning and anti-reflecting properties. The new materials have potential for various applications, including seagoing vessels, mobile phone screens and spectacle lenses.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalProgress in Organic Coatings·DateAug 8, 2016

Prototype chip could help make quantum computing practical

Researchers from MIT and Lincoln Laboratory have developed a prototype chip that can trap ions in an electric field with built-in optics, enabling the miniaturization of qubit technology. This breakthrough could lead to practical quantum computers by scaling up trapped-ion quantum information processing.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateAug 8, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Seasonal allergies could change your brain

Research published in Frontiers in Cellular Neuroscience found that seasonal allergies can lead to increased neuron production in the hippocampus, a region responsible for forming new memories. This discovery raises questions about the long-term consequences of allergies on brain development and function.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Cellular Neuroscience·DateAug 8, 2016

Dormant copies of HIV mostly defective, new study shows

A new study published in Nature Medicine found that over 90% of latent HIV 'provirus' genomes are genetic duds, unable to replicate and cause disease. This challenges the current methods for measuring the size of the reservoir, highlighting a need for more accurate counting methods.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNature Medicine·DateAug 8, 2016

Maternal high-fat diet during pregnancy can affect baby's gut microbes

Researchers found that babies born to mothers on high-fat diets had distinct gut microbiomes with fewer Bacteroides microbes, affecting energy extraction and immune system development. The study suggests a potential link between maternal diet and infant microbiome, emphasizing the importance of considering fat intake in prenatal care.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalGenome Medicine·DateAug 8, 2016

Towards a better screen

Researchers at Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences developed a large-scale screening process to identify new OLED materials. The team discovered a large set of high-performing blue OLED materials using machine learning and cheminformatics, which could improve the efficiency and stability of OLED displays.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature Materials·DateAug 8, 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.

Study suggests tiger sharks opt for scavenging on dead and dying sea turtles as a feeding strategy

Researchers found that tiger sharks prefer to scavenge on dead and dying green turtles, avoiding hundreds of healthy individuals. This behavior is similar to terrestrial carnivores, such as hyenas and polar bears, which selectively scavenge when the opportunity arises.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateAug 8, 2016

Targeting brain cells to alleviate neuropathic pain

Researchers discovered that microglia brain immune cells play a major role in the initiation and maintenance of neuropathic pain. Targeting these cells within a few days after nerve injury can greatly reduce chronic pain in animals. This breakthrough could lead to more effective painkillers with fewer side effects.

SourceRutgers University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 8, 2016

Ancient DNA evidence traces origin of horses' smooth ride

Researchers discovered that ambling horses first appeared in Medieval England, where they were bred by Vikings and later distributed globally. The genetic study found a specific variant of the DMRT3 gene associated with gaitedness in ancient horse remains.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 8, 2016

Contamination from marine mammals may hamper recovery of California condors

Researchers found high levels of pesticides and contaminants in California condors near the coast compared to inland birds. The study suggests that feeding on marine mammal carcasses could complicate condor recovery due to potential harm from toxic substances.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateAug 8, 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.

IceCube search for the 'sterile neutrino' draws a blank

Researchers from IceCube Neutrino Observatory find no evidence of sterile neutrino in two independent analyses of data, suggesting the hypothesized particle may not be real. This discovery could help resolve puzzles related to dark matter and neutrino mass.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 8, 2016

Compound shows promise as next-generation prostate cancer therapy

Researchers at Duke University Medical Center report a novel compound, tetraaryl cyclobutane (CB), that blocks testosterone from fueling prostate tumor growth in mice. The compound has a unique mechanism of action and may be effective against prostate tumors resistant to current anti-androgen drugs.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateAug 8, 2016

Nature, not nurture, defines cricket social networks

Researchers found that cricket populations have innate social rules, resulting in stable networks that form year after year. The study, published in BMC Evolutionary Biology, suggests that these networks are conserved over evolutionary time, influenced more by population size than environmental changes.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalBMC Evolutionary Biology·DateAug 8, 2016

Study identifies new pathways involved in development of insulin resistance

A study led by Daniel Kelly identified MondoA as a regulator of key pathways controlling glucose uptake and fat accumulation in muscle cells. Deactivation of MondoA resulted in enhanced glucose uptake and insulin signaling in mice, indicating potential therapeutic targets for preventing and treating obesity-related insulin resistance.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 8, 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.

New drug class gives hope for better treatments for incurable myeloma

Australian researchers have discovered a new class of anti-cancer agents targeting MCL-1, which may be effective in treating multiple myeloma. The majority of myelomas rely on MCL-1 to stay alive, and inhibiting it has shown potential as a treatment approach for the majority of patients.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalBlood·DateAug 8, 2016

Okinawa mozuku: The treasure under the sea

Scientists have successfully decoded the DNA of Okinawa mozuku, a valuable seaweed species with unique properties. The study provides a platform for future research on its cultivation, growth, and health benefits, aiming to restore production levels and promote sustainable farming practices.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalDNA Research·DateAug 8, 2016

Pesticides used to help bees may actually harm them

A study published in Frontiers in Microbiology found that pesticides applied to hives to control Varroa mites can damage the gut microbiome of honeybees, impacting their ability to metabolize sugars and peptides. The research suggests that these chemicals can specifically harm the microbes crucial for honey bee nutrition and health.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateAug 8, 2016

Latin-American, Caribbean health systems need more investment as populations age

The study found that despite progress toward universal coverage, citizens still reported gaps in primary care organization, financing, and delivery in six Latin American and Caribbean countries. People with better experiences at the primary care level were less likely to say their health system needed major reforms.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalHealth Affairs·DateAug 8, 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.

Winners announced for the BMC Ecology Image Competition 2016

The BMC Ecology Image Competition 2016 featured a diverse range of images showcasing biodiversity, natural beauty, and biological interactions. Davide Gaglio's silhouette of antelope grazing against the sunrise in the Kalahari Desert won the top prize.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Ecology·DateAug 8, 2016

Using nanotechnology to give fuel cells more oomph

Researchers at Vanderbilt University have developed a new nanofiber mat technology that increases fuel cell power output by 30 percent while reducing costs and improving durability. The technology is part of a $13 million DOE program to advance fuel cell performance and hydrogen storage technologies.

SourceVanderbilt University·DateAug 8, 2016

CNIO researchers have discovered a mechanism that allows cancer to survive without glucose

CNIO researchers identified a biochemical mechanism that enables cancer cells to survive without glucose, triggering a switch in proteins that control nutrient stress. This finding may help understand the resistance of cancer cells to anti-angiogenic agents and their ability to thrive in low-oxygen environments.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalCancer Cell·DateAug 8, 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.

Tiger sharks can be marine 'hyenas' too

Tiger sharks exploit easy food sources during nesting season, turning into scavengers when abundant dead sea turtles are available. The research found that tiger sharks spend more time patrolling surface waters near shore, indicating they are searching for carcasses or weakened turtles.

SourceSpringer·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateAug 8, 2016

New model recreates early spread of Parkinson's disease in the brain

A new laboratory model of Parkinson's disease has successfully replicated the phase that occurs long before diagnosis, revealing how abnormal alpha-synuclein proteins spread in the brain. The study demonstrates a possible link between Parkinson's and non-motor symptoms like cognitive impairment and gastrointestinal issues.

SourceVan Andel Research Institute·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateAug 8, 2016

Flint lead crisis adds up to $395 million in social costs

The Flint lead crisis resulted in $395 million in social costs, equivalent to 27 lives lost. Nationally, low-level lead exposure costs $4.5 billion annually, affecting lost economic productivity and welfare use.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalHealth Affairs·DateAug 8, 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.

Evidence of Martian life could be hard to find in some meteorite blast sites

Researchers propose deep underground rocks excavated by meteorite blasts as a promising place to find organic compounds indicative of past or present life on Mars. However, they found that some types of organic compounds are destroyed by impact pressures, while others undergo chemical changes but remain resistant.

SourceImperial College London·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 8, 2016

Light and caffeine improve driver alertness: CARRS-Q study

A Queensland University of Technology road safety study found that bright light combined with caffeine improved driving performance and alertness in chronically sleep-deprived young drivers. The study also revealed that driver sleepiness accounted for 20% of all crashes in developed countries.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·DateAug 8, 2016

A plant present in Brazil is capable of colonizing deforested areas

Researchers found that Miconia affinis maintains high genetic diversity and facilitates gene flow between forest fragments. The study suggests that this species' colonization capacity promotes ecosystem recovery despite human-altered landscapes.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 8, 2016

Novel technology may prevent burn scars

Researchers at Tel Aviv and Harvard Universities developed a method to control collagen-cell proliferation that produces scarring, using short pulsed electric fields. This technique, called partial irreversible electroporation (pIRE), reduces scar area by 57.9% in animal models.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalJournal of Investigative Dermatology·DateAug 8, 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.

Thyroid tumor: It takes 2 to tango

Researchers found a significant number of thyroid tumors carry a mutation in the EZH1 gene, leading to increased cell proliferation. The 'two-hit model' suggests that the first mutation increases tumor disposition and the second triggers disease progression.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 8, 2016

Aesthetic appeal of dormant Zoysiagrass enhanced with colorants

A new study explores using colorants to maintain turf color throughout dormant periods. Colorants applied to zoysiagrass at various volumes showed an increase in persistence of green color, with the highest volume providing color for up to 167 days.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateAug 8, 2016

Olfactory receptors discovered in bronchi

Scientists identified two types of olfactory receptors that dilate and contract bronchioles when activated by specific scents. The discovery could lead to new asthma treatments using compounds like amyl butyrate, which relaxes bronchi muscles.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalFrontiers in Physiology·DateAug 8, 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.

New drugs hope to fight neglected tropical diseases

Scientists have made a breakthrough in understanding the parasites that cause Chagas disease, leishmaniasis, and human African trypanosomiasis, three neglected diseases affecting 20 million people worldwide. A new chemical has been developed to kill these parasites, offering hope for effective treatments.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalNature·DateAug 8, 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.

Discovery could help treatments for sickle cell disease

A team of international researchers has identified biophysical markers that could help assess the effectiveness of treatments for sickle cell disease. The study found improvements in red blood cells' shape and volume when treated with hydroxyurea, suggesting a new mechanism behind the drug's action.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 8, 2016

Study finds brain connections key to reading

A new MIT study reveals that brain regions dedicated to reading already exist with pre-existing connections even before children learn to read. These connections can predict the precise location where each child's word recognition area develops.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateAug 8, 2016

Nothing -- and something -- give concrete strength, toughness

Researchers found that cracks tend to follow the path of least resistance and turn towards voids or portlandite particles, sapping energy from them. This interaction regulates competing deformation mechanisms, leading to increased strength and toughness.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of the Mechanics and Physics of Solids·DateAug 8, 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.

Liquid light switch could enable more powerful electronics

Scientists have created a mini electro-optical switch that can change the spin of a liquid form of light by applying electric fields to a semiconductor device. This technology bridges the gap between light and electricity, enabling faster and more powerful electronics.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Materials·DateAug 8, 2016

Negative attention from teachers can lead to more negative student behaviors

Researchers found students receiving negative attention from teachers experience emotional regulation, concentration problems and increased disruptive behavior. Teachers tend to give more negative attention to African-American students and those receiving free or reduced lunch.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalAssessment for Effective Intervention·DateAug 8, 2016

Study finds racial disparity in emergency department opioid prescriptions

A study published in PLOS ONE found a significant racial disparity in opioid prescriptions for black patients with vague pain-related conditions, suggesting discrimination and potential unintended consequences. Researchers used the National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey to examine five-year data from 2007-2011.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 8, 2016

GIS mapping aims to improve health care access for older adults

Researchers used GIS mapping to identify areas with socially and medically vulnerable older adults in Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach counties. The study found that these populations often lack adequate access to healthcare services, highlighting the need for targeted interventions.

SourceUniversity of Miami·JournalThe Gerontologist·DateAug 8, 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.

A single compound could treat 3 parasitic diseases

Scientists have identified a single compound that can kill parasites responsible for three neglected diseases: Chagas disease, leishmaniasis and sleeping sickness. The new study suggests a single class of drugs could be used to treat all three diseases.

SourceWellcome Trust·JournalNature·DateAug 8, 2016

TSRI scientists pinpoint Ebola's weak spots

Researchers at TSRI have developed a high-resolution view of how the ZMapp experimental therapy targets Ebola virus. The study revealed detailed images of the protein structures, providing new clues to improve the effectiveness of the antibodies in the treatment.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalNature Microbiology·DateAug 8, 2016

ICU use associated with more invasive procedures, higher costs

A study of four common medical conditions found that hospitals using intensive care units (ICUs) more frequently were associated with more invasive procedures, higher hospital costs, but showed no improvement in mortality rates. Smaller hospitals and teaching hospitals had higher ICU utilization rates.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateAug 8, 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.

Highly curative hep C treatment safe and effective for drug users

Research suggests removing drug use barriers to effective hep C treatment for opioid-addicted patients. The elbasvir-grazoprevir treatment showed high sustained virologic response rates in a randomized trial. In contrast, lipid screening evidence is lacking for younger adults.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateAug 8, 2016

August Health Affairs

A recent study in Health Affairs highlights critical primary care shortcomings in Latin American countries, including high rates of skipping needed care and emergency department usage. The findings emphasize the urgent need for attention to address these gaps as populations continue to age.

SourceHealth Affairs·JournalHealth Affairs·DateAug 8, 2016

UNH researchers uncover new insights on Great Lakes monuments

Researchers from the University of New Hampshire have developed a geospatial approach to better understand the roles of pre-European archaeological monument sites in Michigan. By utilizing a modeling technique called Maximum Entropy, they were able to identify the distinct niches occupied by burial mounds and circular earthwork enclosu...

SourceUniversity of New Hampshire·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 8, 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.

Texting 1 million people in India improves diabetes prevention

A study sent twice-weekly text messages to 1 million people in India advising them to exercise, eat less fat, and eat more fruits and vegetables, resulting in a 40% improvement in health behaviors. The intervention increased fruit and vegetable consumption and reduced fat consumption.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·DateAug 8, 2016

NOvA shines new light on how neutrinos behave

The NOvA collaboration has made a groundbreaking discovery that suggests the flavor and mass correlation of neutrinos may be more complex than previously thought. The data collected by the NOvA experiment indicates that one of the three neutrino mass states might not include equal parts of muon and tau flavor, as previously assumed.

SourceDOE/Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory·DateAug 8, 2016

Researchers find brain's 'physics engine'

A Johns Hopkins University cognitive scientist has discovered the brain's 'physics engine,' a set of regions involved in predicting physical outcomes, which is essential for survival. The findings suggest that the brain constantly runs physics simulations to prepare for action.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 8, 2016

TTUHSC El Paso to provide health education to West Texas' impoverished communities

The Gayle Greve Hunt School of Nursing at TTUHSC El Paso has received a $430,780 grant from the USDA to offer free health education services via live video conferencing to 10 underserved communities in rural West Texas. The project aims to improve health outcomes and inspire young students to pursue careers in healthcare.

SourceTexas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso·DateAug 8, 2016

Researchers propose new treatment to prevent kidney stones

Researchers found a natural fruit extract, hydroxycitrate (HCA), dissolves calcium oxalate crystals, the most common component of human kidney stones. The study suggests HCA is an effective inhibitor and may be preferred over existing treatments.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalNature·DateAug 8, 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.

Mini NASA satellite begins environmental testing

Dellingr will study Earth's outer atmosphere, creating a chemical and electromagnetic profile using its miniaturized mass spectrometer and magnetometer systems. The satellite's findings will help understand changes in our space weather and impact on satellites.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 8, 2016

Can early life exposure to pollutants predispose for disease?

A study by UMass Amherst researcher Alicia Timme-Laragy investigates the link between early life pollutant exposure and future diabetes risk. The researchers will expose zebrafish embryos to toxic chemicals, aiming to understand how environmental contaminants affect pancreas development.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·DateAug 8, 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.

Lithium-ion batteries: Capacity might be increased by 6 times

Researchers have discovered a way to increase lithium-ion battery capacity by up to 2300 mAh/g, more than six times the current maximum for graphite-based batteries. Extremely thin layers of silicon can be sufficient to absorb high amounts of lithium, reducing material and energy consumption.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalACS Nano·DateAug 8, 2016

Transmitting energy in soft materials

Soft materials can store and release elastic energy using bistable beams, allowing for signal propagation without dissipation. The developed system enables transmission of mechanical signals through long distances in autonomous soft systems.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 8, 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.

Rice University chemical engineers explore market for pure levoglucosan

Researchers at Rice University have created a method for producing extremely pure levoglucosan, an organic compound with potential applications in pharmaceuticals and synthetic chemistry. The team's process is more economical and operationally simpler than existing methods, offering new possibilities for the production of LGA.

SourceRice University·JournalGreen Chemistry·DateAug 8, 2016

Alternative insurance expansions under ACA linked to better access, use of care

Two insurance expansion approaches under ACA associated with increased outpatient and preventive care, reduced emergency department use, and improved self-reported health. The Medicaid expansion and alternative private option were linked to gains in coverage, primary care access, and reduced out-of-pocket spending.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateAug 8, 2016

Scientific serendipity yields new neuron type in mouse retina

Researchers at UW Medicine have identified a new type of neuron in the mouse retina that defies traditional categorization. The GluMI cell, which resembles one type of neuron but functions like another, has been found to convey information within the retina.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 8, 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.

Watch a tiny space rocket work

Researchers at Michigan Technological University and University of Maryland operated a tiny electrospray thruster under a microscope to study its behavior. The thruster, which creates a force less than the weight of a human hair, was found to form needle-like spikes that disrupt its function.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalNanotechnology·DateAug 8, 2016

Low oxygen, high risk: How tumors adapt to become more aggressive

Scientists at The Wistar Institute identified a critical pathway driving tumor adaptation in hypoxic conditions, enabling tumor cells to survive and proliferate despite low oxygen levels. This pathway, involving the protein Akt and PDK1, has implications for glioma treatment and potential therapeutic targets.

SourceThe Wistar Institute·JournalCancer Cell·DateAug 8, 2016

Smarter self-assembly opens new pathways for nanotechnology

Scientists at Brookhaven National Laboratory have developed a method to guide the self-assembly of multiple molecular patterns within a single material, creating new nanoscale architectures. This technique enables the spontaneous formation of complex nanostructures without exhaustive preliminary patterning.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 8, 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.

Researchers turn to policy to tackle health disparities in an age of personalized medicine

Increased support for minority-focused research and community-based participatory research can improve understanding of chronic diseases across races and ethnicities. Policy recommendations include increasing non-white participant enrollment, educating healthcare providers, and funding research on gene-environment interactions.

SourceTufts University, Health Sciences Campus·JournalHealth Affairs·DateAug 8, 2016

Illuminating sulfides' roles in the body

A novel probe created by Washington State University researchers illuminates hydrogen sulfide and hydrogen polysulfides in different colors, enabling the identification of their roles in biological processes. This breakthrough could lead to the design of new drugs and treatments for diseases such as Alzheimer's, cancer, and diabetes.

SourceWashington State University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateAug 8, 2016

Flu vaccine uptake slightly higher in provinces that allow vaccination by pharmacists

A study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal found that provinces allowing pharmacists to administer influenza vaccines had slightly higher vaccine uptake rates compared to those without such policies. The study analyzed data from over 481,000 people aged 12 and above across seven years.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateAug 8, 2016

Origin of the long body of snakes now discovered

A research team led by Moisés Mallo discovered the Oct4 gene as a key regulator of vertebrate trunk length diversity. The study found that snakes have an exceptionally long trunk due to changes in their genome during reptile evolution, which keeps the Oct4 gene active for longer periods.

SourceInstituto Gulbenkian de Ciencia·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateAug 8, 2016

Mcr-1 gene isolated from human for the first time in Brazil

Researchers isolated MCR-1 gene from a diabetic patient's foot infection in Brazil, marking the first detection of the gene in humans. The discovery highlights the potential for antibiotic resistance to spread within countries.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalAntimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy·DateAug 8, 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.

Undergraduates uncover mechanism tied to plant height

A Purdue University undergraduate class uncovered a mutation in the Sunspot sunflower that leads to its small stature, revealing a crucial role for DELLA proteins. The discovery sheds light on the genetic basis of plant height and has potential applications for modifying ornamental horticultural plants.

SourcePurdue University·JournalJournal of the American Society for Horticultural Science·DateAug 8, 2016

Volunteering later in life can enhance mental health and wellbeing

A study of over 66,000 British adults found that volunteering was positively associated with good mental health and emotional wellbeing after age 40. Volunteering may provide a sense of purpose and social connections, particularly for older people who live in isolation.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalBMJ Open·DateAug 8, 2016

FDA commissioner discusses future of cardiovascular medicine

The FDA commissioner emphasizes the need for rigorous evaluation of new approaches in treating patients and improving cardiovascular outcomes. Despite progress, there is a risk of harm if systems for evidence generation and healthcare delivery do not keep pace with technological advancements.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateAug 8, 2016

NASA sees Tropical Storm Omais weakening near Japan

Tropical Storm Omais is weakening due to its elongation and moving northwards, posing a threat to northern Japan. NASA's satellite images reveal the storm's strongest thunderstorms are located over northern Japan, with coldest cloud tops detected.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 8, 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.

Higher ICU usage led to increased invasive procedures and costs

A new study by LA BioMed and UCLA found that hospitals using ICUs more frequently perform more costly and invasive procedures but do not see better mortality rates among patients with four common conditions. The study analyzed records from 156,842 hospitalizations and reported higher costs ranging from $647 to $3,412.

SourceLA BioMed·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateAug 8, 2016

Scientists discover potential avenue to treating type 2 diabetes at early stages

Researchers at Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute have identified a potential target for preventing type 2 diabetes by blocking the cellular glucose sensor MondoA in muscle, improving insulin responsiveness. This study suggests that MondoA regulates genes involved in fat synthesis and inhibits insulin signaling.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 8, 2016

How to engineer a stronger immune system

Researchers at the Gladstone Institutes have developed a new method to consistently activate mesenchymal stromal cells to produce anti-inflammatory proteins, enhancing their immune-suppressing effects. This breakthrough could lead to improved treatments for inflammatory bowel disease and organ transplant rejection.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalStem Cells Translational Medicine·DateAug 8, 2016

Tailored AFM probes created via 3-D direct laser writing

A team of Karlsruhe Institute of Technology researchers has developed a method to tailor AFM probes with unique designs using 3-D direct laser writing based on two-photon polymerization. The technique enables the creation of custom probes with nanoscale precision, opening up new possibilities for analyzing samples at the atomic scale.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateAug 8, 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.

Insurance status impacts survival in men with testicular cancer

A new study published in Cancer found that uninsured and Medicaid-covered men with testicular cancer had a higher risk of death from the disease compared to insured patients. The researchers analyzed outcomes and insurance status for 10,211 men diagnosed with testicular cancer between 2007 and 2011.

SourceDana-Farber Cancer Institute·JournalCancer·DateAug 8, 2016

Medicaid expansion under ACA linked with better health care for low-income adults

A new study found that Medicaid expansion under the Affordable Care Act led to increased primary and preventive care, reduced emergency department visits, and improved quality of care for low-income adults in Kentucky and Arkansas. The findings suggest that how states expand coverage may not be as important as expanding coverage itself.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateAug 8, 2016

Drought conditions slow the growth of Douglas fir trees across the West

A study by University of California - Davis researchers found that drought conditions significantly impact Douglas fir tree growth, with warmer and drier conditions causing the most stress. The analysis of tree core samples over a 91-year period indicates projected decline in growth rates under future climate change scenarios.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 8, 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.

Calculating solutions to combat Zika

A NSF-funded mathematician is working on a model to track how to fight A. aegypti mosquitoes carrying the Zika virus using Wolbachia-infected mosquitoes, reducing their lifespan by a day or two. The goal is to create an endemic population that can displace the virus-carrying population in the wild.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·DateAug 8, 2016

Bipolar research to benefit from sharing of patients' stem cells

Researchers have made patients' stem cells available for worldwide study to better understand bipolar disorder, a serious mental illness with extreme mood swings. The shared stem cells can be turned into brain cells in the lab, enabling scientists to study how the disease affects brain cells and potentially lead to new treatments.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·DateAug 8, 2016

New research supports the removal of drug use as a restriction to hepatitis C treatment

A world-first clinical trial found that people who inject drugs can receive safe and effective hepatitis C treatment while on opioid substitution therapy. The results show excellent treatment adherence rates of over 95% and low reinfection rates, contradicting long-held assumptions about drug users' ability to adhere to medication.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateAug 8, 2016
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Navigating the human genome with Sequins

Researchers have developed Sequins, synthetic DNA sequences that reflect the human genome, allowing for improved analysis and diagnosis of genetic diseases. The technology provides internal standards to assess the accuracy of genomic data generated during sequencing.

SourceGarvan Institute of Medical Research·JournalNature Methods·DateAug 8, 2016

Lake Tanganyika fisheries declining from global warming

A new report by an international team led by a University of Arizona geoscientist shows that Lake Tanganyika's fishery productivity has been declining since the 19th century due to global warming. The lake's algae, which serves as a food source for fish, has also decreased in abundance.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 8, 2016

Promising new treatment for lupus on the horizon

A new study published in Nature Medicine shows that a natural immune system protein called IL-2 can help restore balance to the overactive immune system of lupus patients. The drug, originally used to boost the immune system for cancer treatment, has been found safe and effective in clinical trials.

SourceMonash University·JournalNature Medicine·DateAug 8, 2016

Playground zoning increases physical activity during recess

Research from the University of Missouri found that zones with specific games can increase physical activity during recess, leading to improved health and academic performance. The study used accelerometers to track participants' physical activity, showing a significant increase in zoned playground participants.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalThe Physical Educator·DateAug 8, 2016

New chili pathogens discovered in Australia

Four new Colletotrichum species have been identified in Australian chillies, causing anthracnose disease that lowers yield and produces sunken black spots. The discovery highlights the need for a more effective diagnostic quarantine system to protect Australia's billion-dollar agriculture export industry.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalPlant Pathology·DateAug 8, 2016

Looking different than your parents can be an evolutionary advantage

A new study by Queen Mary University of London and the University of California, Riverside found that polyploid hybrids in the genus Nicotiana have shorter and wider flower openings than their parent species. This allows a wider range of pollinators to enter the flowers, making them less vulnerable to extinction. The researchers sugges...

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Plants·DateAug 8, 2016

Mom's high-fat diet may have a lasting impact on baby's gut

A study found an association between maternal high-fat diets and changes in infant gut microbiomes, affecting energy extraction and immune development. The researchers discovered that high-fat diets were linked to reduced numbers of Bacteroides microbes, which play a crucial role in breaking down carbohydrates.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalGenome Medicine·DateAug 8, 2016

Hi-tech test to find elusive sawfish

Using cutting-edge eDNA technology, researchers from James Cook University successfully identified largetooth sawfish habitats in the Daly River, Northern Territory. The technique was mostly accurate in waterholes but disappointing in flowing rivers, with limitations yet to be overcome.

SourceJames Cook University·JournalEndangered Species Research·DateAug 8, 2016