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Science News for August 9, 2016


Deer evolution: Ancient DNA reveals novel relationships

Researchers at LMU Munich have sequenced mitochondrial DNA from museum specimens of rare deer species, refining the evolutionary history of cervids. The study identifies novel relationships among species, including confirmation of a second muntjac species in Borneo and polyphyletic genera in New World deer.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalPeerJ·DateAug 9, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Origin of the turtle shell lies in digging

Researchers found that ancient turtles' shells evolved from broadened ribs for burrowing, not protection, in a study published in Current Biology. The discovery sheds light on the earliest beginnings of the turtle shell's unique structure.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 9, 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 model sheds light on secondary bacterial pneumonia

Researchers have developed a new model to study the phenomenon of secondary bacterial pneumonia caused by S. aureus and influenza A virus. The model, which simulates the natural pathogenesis of infection, reveals that viral infection induces bacteria to disseminate to the lungs.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmBio·DateAug 9, 2016

Study may lead to better breast cancer drugs

Researchers have identified key proteins involved in regulating gene expression in blood cells, which could lead to the development of more effective breast cancer treatments. The study's findings may also help explain how existing drugs work inside human cells.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateAug 9, 2016

Sex hormones skew outcomes in clinical trials -- here's how

A growing number of scientists argue that sex hormones and other variables affect how therapeutics behave, necessitating male and female inclusion in trials. Hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle can significantly impact research, making it essential to consider these differences when testing drugs or transplant tolerance.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateAug 9, 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.

1967 solar storm nearly took US to brink of war

A solar storm in May 1967 jammed radar and radio communications at the height of the Cold War, prompting a potential military conflict. However, thanks to the U.S. Air Force's space weather forecasting efforts, the military action was prevented, and the nation avoided a disastrous nuclear exchange.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalSpace Weather·DateAug 9, 2016

African-American surgical patients benefit in universally insured health system

Research found no significant differences in post-operative complications or mortality between African American and white patients treated in a universally insured military health system. In contrast, uninsured or Medicaid-receiving African Americans experienced significantly higher odds of mortality, complications, and readmission aft...

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalAnnals of Surgery·DateAug 9, 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.

Talking back: Countering terrorist narratives may reduce recruitment

Researchers suggest that analyzing and countering terrorist narratives can be an effective way to reduce recruitment. By understanding the processes used by terrorists to persuade people to join their groups, experts can craft counter-narratives that contradict these themes and promote alternative messages.

SourcePenn State·JournalStudies in Conflict and Terrorism·DateAug 9, 2016

NREL technique leads to improved perovskite solar cells

Researchers at NREL and Shanghai Jiao Tong University develop a method to treat perovskite films with MABr solution, repairing defects and improving efficiency. The new approach boosts the efficiency of perovskite solar cells to up to 19% and demonstrates improved reproducibility.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 9, 2016

Report: People buy most of their junk food at the supermarket

A study found that nearly half of US adults consume sugar-sweetened beverages daily, and two-thirds eat discretionary foods like cookies and candy. Despite supermarket access, these unhealthy choices persist, suggesting a need to address junk food marketing and nutrition education.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalEuropean Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateAug 9, 2016

1,400 km of optical fiber connect optical clocks in France and Germany

High-precision optical clocks in Europe are connected via a 1400 km optical fibre link, confirming excellent quality of the connection. The connection allows for ultrastable high-precision optical reference signals to be disseminated to various users.

SourcePhysikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB)·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 9, 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.

New study shows breast tumors evolve in response to hormone therapy

A new study analyzes breast tumors before and after hormone-reduction therapy, revealing the genetic complexity of these tumors and their varying responses to estrogen-deprivation treatments. The findings suggest that analyzing a single sample is insufficient for understanding how a patient should be treated.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 9, 2016

Diet designed to lower blood pressure also reduces risk of kidney disease

A study published in American Journal of Kidney Diseases found that following a DASH-style diet can lower the risk of developing chronic kidney disease over two decades. The diet, which emphasizes whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy, was also shown to reduce blood pressure and cardiovascular disease risk.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Kidney Diseases·DateAug 9, 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.

Simulating complex catalysts key to making cheap, powerful fuel cells

Researchers used advanced computational methods to demystify complex catalytic chemistry in fuel cells, bringing cost-effective alternatives closer to reality. The study reveals that water plays a huge role in dictating which hydrogen atom breaks free from methanol first.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 9, 2016

NREL assesses strategies needed for light-duty vehicle greenhouse gas reduction

The US government aims to cut greenhouse gas emissions from light-duty vehicles by 80% by 2050, but current approaches may not be enough. NREL research suggests that a combination of electric and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, vehicle connectivity, and automation could significantly reduce emissions.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·JournalMRS Energy & Sustainability·DateAug 9, 2016

1 in 5 are discharged from hospital with unstable vital signs

A new study by UT Southwestern Medical Center researchers found that nearly 20% of hospitalized adults are discharged with one or more vital sign instabilities. Patients who had vital sign abnormalities on the day of discharge had higher rates of hospital readmission and death within 30 days.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateAug 9, 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.

NIH awards $9 million grant for study on health disparities in HIV prevention

A research team from Penn Nursing, University of Michigan School of Nursing and Emory's School of Public Health is awarded a $9 million grant to test an HIV prevention intervention for adolescent men who have sex with men. The iCON intervention offers life skills training and community-based resources through an online app.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Nursing·DateAug 9, 2016

LISA best strategy to prevent chronic lung disease in preterm infants

The study compared seven ventilation strategies and found that LISA, a non-invasive ventilation strategy, was the most effective in preventing death and/or chronic lung disease in preterm infants. On average, LISA resulted in 164 fewer preterm babies dying or having long-term breathing problems.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalJAMA·DateAug 9, 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.

Double whammy for important Baltic seaweed

A study by GEOMAR Helmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel reveals that climate change and eutrophication could lead to a decline in bladder wrack, a crucial species in the Baltic Sea ecosystem. Rising temperatures and increased nutrient supply have negative effects on the seaweed's biomass, while smaller species of algae benefit from ...

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel (GEOMAR)·JournalLimnology and Oceanography·DateAug 9, 2016

Developmental psychology: Little strategists

A study by Markus Paulus found that preschoolers (3-5 years) expect reciprocity in social interactions, even before it's explicitly taught. This strategic behavior is rooted in the understanding of relative amounts of social capital they build with others.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalDevelopmental Psychology·DateAug 9, 2016

Heredity explains African-American paradox, University of North Texas researcher says

Research by University of North Texas historian Constance Hilliard reveals that West African women living in regions without dairy farming have a lower rate of postmenopausal hip fractures caused by osteoporosis than their East African peers. This paradox is due to genetic adaptation to low-calcium diets, which disadvantage bone strength.

SourceUniversity of North Texas·JournalNature·DateAug 9, 2016

A breakthrough in combating malaria with odor-baited trap for mosquitoes

A new trap using human odor has reduced malaria mosquito populations by 70% and malaria cases by 30% on the Kenyan island of Rusinga. The combination of the odour-baited trap with nets, anti-malaria drugs, and social strategies effectively combats malaria and improves living conditions.

SourceWageningen University and Research·JournalThe Lancet·DateAug 9, 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.

'Fixing' blood vessel cells to diagnose blood clotting disorders

A new device replicates the crucial interface between endothelial cells and circulating blood, enabling the diagnosis of blood clotting disorders and monitoring of anti-platelet therapy. The device uses chemically fixed human endothelial cells to mimic cellular and vascular flow conditions, increasing robustness and diagnostic accuracy.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalBiomedical Microdevices·DateAug 9, 2016

Research reveals patient can have more than one breast cancer, points at treatments

Researchers found that treating human breast cancer tumors with estrogen-deprivation therapy changes the spectrum of mutations in the tumor population. This suggests using this information to improve cancer treatment. The study also discovered 'collision tumors' - separate tumors of different origin growing closely together, undiagnose...

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 9, 2016

Stem cells of worms and humans more similar than expected

Researchers identified new mechanisms controlling stem cell properties in flatworms, including alternative splicing processes that operate only in stem cells. The study also reveals a previously unknown interaction between proteins MBNL and CELF, which may have implications for human regenerative medicine.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·DateAug 9, 2016

Slowly pulling proteins apart reveals unexpected path to stability

Researchers at Duke University used single-molecule force-spectroscopy to study Protein S, a large protein found in nature. They discovered a previously unknown stable conformation made possible by the interaction between two domains, which may help explain why some proteins are more stable than others.

SourceDuke University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateAug 9, 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.

In search of neurobiological factors for schizophrenia

A study found that individuals with smaller hippocampi are more likely to have a combination of genetic risk factors associated with an increased risk of psychosis. This discovery may lead to the development of personalized treatment strategies for schizophrenia.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalTranslational Psychiatry·DateAug 9, 2016

Eat Mediterranean: Your brain will reap the benefit

A Mediterranean diet has been shown to improve cognitive function and slow down cognitive decline. The diet's focus on plant-based foods, low dairy intake, and olive oil as a primary source of fat may contribute to its benefits.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Nutrition·DateAug 9, 2016

Team digs deep to answer water-safety questions

Researchers at Clemson University are launching a new study using their developed 'microcosm' method to investigate how solvents degrade in rock, which could help determine the need for costly cleanups. The study aims to simulate groundwater flow and test how much solvent is released from rock cores at different sites.

SourceClemson University·DateAug 9, 2016

Warmer climate could lower dengue risk

Researchers at Australian National University predict that a warmer climate could lead to a decrease in dengue transmission in certain regions, such as northeast Australia. This finding is relevant to other mosquito-borne viruses like Zika, and highlights the need for continued monitoring of global health impacts.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalEpidemiology and Infection·DateAug 9, 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.

US diabetic kidney disease rate unchanged

A study by University of Washington researchers found that the prevalence of diabetic kidney disease has remained relatively stable over 30 years, but its clinical manifestations have changed significantly. Albuminuria rates decreased, while reduced glomerular filtration rate increased.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalJAMA·DateAug 9, 2016

Researchers successfully test modified stun gun with heart monitoring capability

Researchers successfully combined a heart monitoring device with an existing CEW to detect and store cardiac rhythms, producing both incapacitating charges and interpretable EKG signals. The modified prototype demonstrates the potential for safety measures like cardiac biomonitoring to be incorporated into law enforcement devices.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalJournal of Forensic and Legal Medicine·DateAug 9, 2016

New breakthrough in understanding dystonia

Researchers at VIB-KU Leuven have unraveled the mechanism by which DYT1 dystonia causes cellular defects, linking it to dysregulation of lipids. The findings may lead to new medical approaches to overcome this poorly understood condition.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateAug 9, 2016

The 6 steps to extinction

Scientists propose a new framework to understand plant extinctions, identifying six thresholds that species cross before becoming extinct. The study highlights the slow pace of plant extinction and the need for urgent action to protect declining native species.

SourceOxford University Press UK·JournalAoB Plants·DateAug 9, 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.

The long hunted sterile neutrino cannot be traced

Researchers from the Niels Bohr Institute analyzed thousands of neutrinos in the IceCube Neutrino Observatory at the South Pole. They could not find any signs of a sterile neutrino, which would help explain dark matter and the imbalance of matter over antimatter in the universe.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Niels Bohr Institute·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 9, 2016

DNA dominos on a chip

Researchers at TU Munich and Weizmann Institute successfully recreated DNA condensation on a biochip, replicating the tightly packed structure found in cell nuclei and viruses. This breakthrough enables better understanding of biological processes and potential applications in artificial cells.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateAug 9, 2016

Higher weekly activity levels linked to lower risk of 5 chronic diseases

A study published in The BMJ found that higher total physical activity levels are strongly associated with a lower risk of five common chronic diseases. Most health gains occur at a level of 3000-4000 MET minutes a week, suggesting that current recommended minimum levels may not be sufficient to achieve larger reductions in risks.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateAug 9, 2016

Researchers immobilize underwater bubbles

A research team has developed a method to 'freeze' newly created microbubbles in their tracks, enabling potential applications in medicine, such as ultrasound contrast agents and gas embolotherapy. This breakthrough could also improve the nuclear industry by controlling microbubbles in liquid sodium coolant.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateAug 9, 2016

Plastic manufacturing chemical BPS harms egg cells, study suggests

A new study by UCLA researchers found that Bisphenol S (BPS) damages a woman's eggs at lower doses than BPA. The study exposed roundworms to various concentrations of BPA and/or BPS, revealing decreased fertility in those exposed to either chemical.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateAug 9, 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.

Obesity on the rise in adults with a history of cancer

A study at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that obesity prevalence increased from 22% to 32% among cancer survivors between 1997 and 2014. Colorectal and breast cancer survivors, as well as non-Hispanic blacks, were particularly affected.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateAug 9, 2016

Army medicine opens the door for vision prosthetic prototypes

Researchers have successfully developed three novel approaches to restoring vision in individuals with severe eye injuries. Dr. Rizzo's team aims to bypass the damaged optic nerve, while Dr. Weitz's team focuses on generating precise images without causing inaccurate visual field distortions. Meanwhile, Dr. Kao explores using optical p...

SourceUS Department of Defense Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs·DateAug 9, 2016

Study pushes back the origin of HIV-related retroviruses to 60 million years ago

A recent study has uncovered evidence of HIV-related retroviruses dating back 60 million years, challenging previous estimates of their origin. The research, led by Daniel Elleder, analyzed genomic data from the Malayan flying lemur and reconstructed ancient viral genomes.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateAug 9, 2016

Getting it 'just right' in the immune system

Researchers suggest that duration of T-cell interactions with dendritic cells may be key to matching immune response to infection severity. Understanding this process could lead to advancements in vaccine development and the study of autoimmune diseases.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalTrends in Immunology·DateAug 9, 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.

Why is breast cancer common but heart cancer rare?

Researchers propose that natural selection favors strong anti-cancer protection in small, critical organs like the heart and brain. The study suggests that these organs are more resistant to tumor formation due to their smaller size and importance for human survival.

SourceCell Press·JournalTrends in Cancer·DateAug 9, 2016

Why are New England's wild blue mussels disappearing?

A study led by University of California, Irvine ecologists found that wild blue mussel numbers have declined by over 60% along the Gulf of Maine coastline. The decline is attributed to warming oceans and increased human harvesting, which heighten physiological stress and mortality rates in the mussels.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateAug 9, 2016

UH Cancer Center researchers develop algorithm to find precise cancer treatments

Researchers developed an algorithm called JAMMIT that uses advanced mathematics to identify patterns across multiple molecular data types. The algorithm can accurately predict which patients would benefit most from chemotherapy and combining it with immunotherapy, leading to improved clinical outcomes and reduced costs.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii Cancer Center·JournalBioData Mining·DateAug 9, 2016

Device reduces risk of brain injury after heart valve replacement

A new cerebral protection device has been shown to reduce the number and volume of brain lesions in high-risk patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation. The study found significant reductions in brain damage and adverse events, but calls for further research to assess long-term effects.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateAug 9, 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.

How do the bugs in your gut affect neurodegenerative and psychiatric diseases?

The gut microbiome plays a complex role in cognitive and psychiatric disorders, including autism spectrum disorder, schizophrenia, Alzheimer's disease, and Parkinson's disease. Researchers are exploring synthetic biology to develop engineered bacteria that can remodel the gut microbiota and treat these conditions.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalBioResearch Open Access·DateAug 9, 2016

Neutrinos, ever bizarre, enjoy the spotlight

Recent neutrino discoveries by T2K and NOvA experiments at Colorado State University provide evidence of oscillations between neutrinos and antineutrinos, violating a longstanding physics principle. The findings hint at the universe's matter-antimatter imbalance and offer opportunities to study the weak nuclear force.

SourceColorado State University·DateAug 9, 2016

Bleed like hell

Researchers found that platelets must undergo a process called mitochondrial necrosis, where they release calcium and reactive oxygen species, causing the cell to collapse. This programmed death allows platelets to transition into super-activated states, which accelerate blood clotting.

SourceLomonosov Moscow State University·JournalJournal of Thrombosis and Haemostasis·DateAug 9, 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 have developed a new class of artificial proteins

A team of Danish researchers has developed a new method for creating artificial proteins by combining oligonucleotides and peptides. This breakthrough could lead to better treatments for diseases like cancer and diabetes, as well as improved control over protein properties.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 9, 2016

Study highlights serious security threat to many internet users

A weakness in Linux operating systems allows attackers to track users' online activity, terminate connections, and inject false material into their communications. Researchers identified the vulnerability and have alerted Linux about it, resulting in patches applied to the latest Linux version.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateAug 9, 2016

Reduced activity of an important enzyme identified among suicidal patients

Research identifies ACMSD enzyme as key player in regulating inflammation and its byproducts, which may contribute to depression and suicidal tendencies. The study found reduced activity of the enzyme in patients who have attempted suicide, suggesting a potential biomarker for identifying individuals at risk.

SourceVan Andel Research Institute·JournalTranslational Psychiatry·DateAug 9, 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.

Scientists count microscopic particles without microscope

Scientists from Russia and Australia have developed a simple new way to count microscopic particles in optical materials using laser diffraction. This method allows for the structure and shape of any optical material to be determined without expensive electron or atomic-force microscopy.

SourceITMO University·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 9, 2016

System helps protect privacy in genomic databases

Researchers from MIT and Indiana University developed a new system to protect genomic database privacy through differential privacy. The system adds noise to query results, making it difficult for attackers to extract private information.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalCell Systems·DateAug 9, 2016

Psychologist's magic makes a non-existent object disappear

Experimental psychologists at Oxford University found that 32% of people were convinced they saw an object disappear, even though none was shown. The study suggests people confuse expectations with sensory experiences, leading to misperception.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateAug 9, 2016

Heat release of later-age concrete and the concrete strength development

Researchers investigate relationship between hydration heat and concrete strength, establishing a preliminary hydration heat model to predict heat release in later-age concrete. The study finds that increasing concrete strength reduces hydration heat, improving pipe cooling effects and controlling temperature peaks.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalThe Open Construction and Building Technology Journal·DateAug 9, 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.

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.

UH researchers are pioneering tools for heart regeneration

A team of University of Houston researchers has identified novel regulators of heart formation, including microRNAs, which can convert human fibroblasts into heart muscles. These findings hold promise for treating human heart attack and subsequent heart failure within the next five to 10 years.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 9, 2016

HIV is not a super-spreader of drug-resistant tuberculosis

A study published in eLife found no significant difference in the rate of mutations leading to drug resistance between HIV-positive and negative TB patients. HIV co-infection accelerates the development of active TB but does not increase the evolution of multidrug-resistant strains.

SourceeLife·DateAug 9, 2016

NASA spots Tropical Storm Conson facing wind shear

Tropical Storm Conson is facing strong southwesterly wind shear, pushing clouds and showers to the northeast of its center. The storm is expected to intensify into a typhoon over open waters on August 12 before weakening commences.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 9, 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.

Outdated assessment of treatment response makes good cancer drugs look bad

A new approach using metabolic imaging could help determine a patient's response to targeted therapies much earlier and with greater precision than traditional tumor shrinkage. This method recognizes a drug's ability to stop cancer cells' energy overuse, allowing for more accurate assessments of treatment success.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalFrontiers in Oncology·DateAug 9, 2016

Financial worries linked to mental health issues among university students

Research from the University of Southampton found that financial difficulties worsen symptoms of anxiety and depression among university students. The study suggests a 'vicious cycle' where financial struggles exacerbate mental health issues, which in turn increase financial stress.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalCommunity Mental Health Journal·DateAug 9, 2016

Study: Some black teens may feel pulled between health and hair

African-American adolescent girls prefer straightened hair and avoid sweating during exercise due to concerns about ruining their hairstyle. The study explores the impact of cultural pressure on physical activity among black teens, finding a consistent theme across three states.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalBMC Obesity·DateAug 9, 2016

Researchers ID key drivers of heart complications in sickle cell anemia

A study published by Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center reveals the molecular pathways responsible for heart anomalies in sickle cell anemia. The research opens a path to non-invasive diagnosis and development of new targeted therapies, aiming to improve quality of life and reduce mortality among SCA patients.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 9, 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.

Stowaway frogs being stopped by border security

Stowaway frogs being stopped by border security reduces the risk of introduction of new diseases by up to 50%. Biosecurity measures are crucial in preventing the spread of emerging diseases that have devastated native frog populations worldwide.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateAug 9, 2016

Boron carrier for targeted tumor therapy

Researchers at Tokyo Institute of Technology created a boron carrier system that uses albumin to target tumors, improving the delivery of boron in cancer treatment. The new system was tested on mice and showed promising results, with high concentrations of boron in tumors and low levels in healthy cells.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Controlled Release·DateAug 9, 2016

New Piltdown hoax analysis points to work of 'lone forger'

A multi-disciplinary team analyzed the Piltdown specimens using DNA and 3D X-ray imaging, revealing that an orang-utan specimen was used to create the fakes. The forgeries were created using a consistent method, suggesting the perpetrator acted alone, with some researchers now accusing Charles Dawson of being the 'lone forger'.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateAug 9, 2016

Cascade of events leading to prion disease described

Researchers describe distinct stages of prion disease in the mouse retina and define a model to test therapeutic approaches. They found that misfolded prion protein accumulation and inflammatory responses occur at specific time points, allowing for potential therapy evaluation.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateAug 9, 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.

'Game on for Pokémon Go,' says The BMJ pundit

Pokémon Go has been linked to increased physical activity and social connections, with players walking longer distances and interacting with strangers in public spaces. However, the game also carries risks, such as accidents and thefts, that have sparked concerns about its impact on mental health.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateAug 9, 2016