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Science News for December 20, 2016


Coffee-ring phenomenon explained in new theory

Researchers at the University of Nevada, Reno have modeled how a colloidal droplet evaporates and found a previously overlooked mechanism that determines particle deposition dynamics. The discovery builds on existing work, allowing scientists to manipulate solute particles by altering surface tension.

SourceUniversity of Nevada, Reno·JournalPhysical Review E·DateDec 20, 2016

Discovering the origin of mouth and anus

A Norwegian ground-breaking study reveals that the mouth and anus do not originate from a common blastopore as previously thought. The research suggests that the formation of either organ is a consequence of how each embryo is organized during early development.

SourceThe University of Bergen·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateDec 20, 2016

Pittsburgh teen girls take barely half the steps recommended for health

A study led by the University of Pittsburgh found that teenage girls in urban settings took significantly fewer steps per day than their suburban counterparts, averaging only about 5% of the recommended daily activity level. This disparity puts them at risk for poor quality of life and chronic diseases.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalMedicine & Science in Sports & Exercise·DateDec 20, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Gelatin supplements, good for your joints?

A new study found that consuming gelatin supplements combined with intense exercise can improve collagen synthesis and strengthen engineered lab-grown ligaments. The research suggests a potential role for gelatin and vitamin C in injury prevention and tissue repair.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateDec 20, 2016

Cancer registries in resource-constrained countries can inform policy

A special issue of Cancer Epidemiology shows that cancer registries in Kenya, Uganda, Colombia, India, and Barbados can provide valuable data for policy-making on cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment. The low cost of registration per person and economies of scale make them a viable option for resource-constrained countries.

SourceRTI International·JournalCancer Epidemiology·DateDec 20, 2016

Scripps Florida scientists discover new natural source of potent anti-cancer drugs

Researchers developed an efficient process to rapidly discover new 'enediyne natural products' from soil microbes that could be further developed into extremely potent anticancer drugs. The study highlights microbial natural products as abundant sources of new drug leads, saving time and resources compared to traditional approaches.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalmBio·DateDec 20, 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.

Study provides clues to improving fecal microbiota transplantation

A study published in mBio found that fecal microbiota transplantation was effective in treating recurrent C. difficile infection, with cure rates over 90%. The researchers identified specific microorganisms, such as Clostridium Xia clade and Holdemania, which are key for a successful transplant.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmBio·DateDec 20, 2016

As children with autism age, services to help with transition needed

Adolescents with autism face significant stress as they transition to adulthood, with difficulties in accessing services and adapting to change being major concerns. Social workers can play a vital role in supporting families by coordinating essential services such as medical treatment and independent living.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Family Social Work·DateDec 20, 2016

Model demonstrates high-quality patient care while reducing costs

A pilot study at Nationwide Children's Hospital demonstrates that a local learning health system can improve clinical quality while reducing healthcare costs. The study implemented an electronic health record and robust care coordination system, resulting in significant reductions in hospital days, admissions, and urgent care visits, a...

SourceNationwide Children's Hospital·JournalJAMA·DateDec 20, 2016

Double effort against Rett's syndrome

Scientists at SISSA have developed a method to stimulate genes to work twice as hard to compensate for missing genes, potentially treating diseases like Rett's syndrome by leveraging the gene's natural endogenous regulation

SourceInternational School of Advanced Studies (SISSA)·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 20, 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 more accurately predicts breast cancer risk in Hispanic women

A new breast cancer model developed by Kaiser Permanente researcher Matthew P. Banegas accurately predicts breast cancer risk in Hispanic patients based on data from Hispanic women. The model, added to the National Cancer Institute's online tool, corrects underestimation of breast cancer risk in Hispanic women.

SourceKaiser Permanente·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateDec 20, 2016

Good news and bad news about forest fragmentation

A recent study found that fragmented forest edges in New England absorb more carbon than expected due to increased growth rates, but also experience more heat stress. This mixed outcome suggests that while forests may be valuable carbon sinks, they are also sensitive to climate change.

SourceBoston University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 20, 2016

Why some people may not respond to the malaria vaccine

Researchers found that exposure to malaria's blood stage inhibits the formation of protective immune cells and antibodies. This discovery highlights the need for a vaccine that targets both stages of infection to effectively prevent malaria.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Reports·DateDec 20, 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.

Climate change skepticism may hinge on personal experience

A study by Boston University professor Robert Kaufmann found that experiencing record high or low temperatures affects people's belief in climate change. Local high and low temperatures can influence whether individuals in the US believe in global warming, with recent record lows promoting skepticism.

SourceBoston University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 20, 2016

Predicting future sports rankings from evolving performance

A team of Mexican scientists used tennis, chess, golf, poker, and football performances to identify universal features in hierarchical structure creation. They found that ranking hierarchies may be driven by the same underlying generic mechanisms as rank formation, regardless of sport characteristics.

SourceSpringer·JournalEPJ Data Science·DateDec 20, 2016

Mapping the molecules made by a lichen's resident microbes

An international team of researchers has spatially mapped molecules produced by an intact, complex microbial community for the first time. They used imaging mass spectrometry to track and plot metabolites made by both bacterial and fungal lichen members.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmSystems·DateDec 20, 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.

Neutron diffraction probes forms of carbon dioxide in extreme environments

Researchers use neutron diffraction to study high-pressure and high-temperature phases of solid carbon dioxide, shedding light on the Earth's carbon cycle and potential for carbon substitution with silicon dioxide. The study provides new insights into the behavior of carbon dioxide under extreme conditions.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·DateDec 20, 2016

Dynamic changes, regulatory rewiring occur as Tcells respond to infection

Researchers mapped the molecular pathways and signaling circuits of CD8+ T cells responding to infections and cancer. They identified novel biological pathways and discovered highly dynamic processes as these cells develop. The study aims to help advance vaccine development and cancer immunotherapy.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalImmunity·DateDec 20, 2016

A social network for fish

Researchers at the University of Lincoln have secured £300,000 funding to develop an automated social network analysis tool for monitoring zebrafish and rainbow trout welfare.

SourceUniversity of Lincoln·DateDec 20, 2016

Albert Einstein College of Medicine receives major federal grant for research into intellectual and developmental disabilities

The grant will support a new research program focused on 22q11.2 Deletion Syndrome, an incurable genetic disorder associated with delayed intellectual development and psychiatric conditions. Einstein's IDDRC will also provide critical support for dozens of ongoing studies in intellectual and developmental disabilities.

SourceAlbert Einstein College of Medicine·DateDec 20, 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.

Heart valves strive to get oxygen one way or another

Rice University scientists studied physical and computer models of heart valves to learn how oxygen feeds them. The study revealed that aortic and mitral valves handle stress differently, with the former prompting angiogenesis and the latter transforming into cartilage-like tissue. Understanding these mechanisms can lead to new ways to...

SourceRice University·JournalInterface·DateDec 20, 2016

UMass Amherst nursing students learn brief effective substance abuse screening

UMass Amherst nursing students are trained in the screening, brief intervention, and referral to treatment (SBIRT) technique to identify signs of substance abuse and provide early interventions. The program aims to equip healthcare workers with skills to address addictive behaviors and promote holistic approaches to patient care.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·DateDec 20, 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.

Traffic fatalities decline in states with medical marijuana laws

A study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that states with medical marijuana laws experienced an 11% reduction in traffic fatalities, with the greatest impact on drivers aged 15-24 and 25-44. Dispensaries were also associated with a significant reduction in traffic fatalities among this age group.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateDec 20, 2016

Spicy molecule inhibits growth of breast cancer cells

Researchers from Ruhr-University Bochum found that capsaicin, an active ingredient in chilli peppers, inhibits the growth of triple-negative breast cancer cells by activating the TRPV1 receptor. The treatment also causes tumour cells to die and reduces their ability to form metastases.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·DateDec 20, 2016

For geriatric falls, 'brain speed' may matter more than lower limb strength

Researchers found that complex reaction time accuracy, or 'brain speed,' is a key factor in determining an older person's ability to recover from a trip or stumble. This measure was shown to be more predictive of fall-related injuries than lower limb strength and perception of motion.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalAmerican Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation·DateDec 20, 2016

High-fat diet before imaging improves diagnosis of cardiac sarcoidosis

Researchers found that a high-fat, low-sugar diet for 72 hours prior to diagnostic imaging improved the accuracy of diagnosing cardiac sarcoidosis. This technique minimizes indeterminate findings and allows clinicians to better monitor patient progress under treatment.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalClinical Nuclear Medicine·DateDec 20, 2016

Magnifying time reveals fundamental rogue wave instabilities of nature

Scientists used a novel measurement technique to magnify time and study ultrafast intense pulses of light, confirming theoretical predictions. The technique has implications for understanding giant rogue waves on the ocean and extreme events in nature.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 20, 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.

Study pinpoints when the Galápagos Islands developed their unique ecology

A new study suggests the Galapagos Islands' incredible biodiversity emerged approximately 1.6 million years ago when the Equatorial Undercurrent collided with the archipelago, bringing nutrient-rich waters to the surface. This event allowed for the growth of unique plants and animals that thrive in the islands' ecosystem.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalEarth and Planetary Science Letters·DateDec 20, 2016

Computer models find ancient solutions to modern problems

Researchers used computer technology to learn how past societies responded to climate change, identifying crops and strategies that can be useful today. The studies found that drought-tolerant crops like Hopi corn and foxtail millet could become crucial for human survival in areas impacted by climate change.

SourceWashington State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 20, 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.

HIV prevention trials network launches HPTN 083

The HIV Prevention Trials Network (HPTN) has launched a new study, HPTN 083, to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of injectable cabotegravir for PrEP in men who have sex with men and transgender women. The study aims to provide an alternative to daily oral tenofovir disoproxil fumarate/emtricitabine (TDF/FTC) for HIV prevention.

SourceFHI360·DateDec 20, 2016

Chimpanzees are 'indifferent' when it comes to altruism

New research suggests that chimpanzees do not display a tendency to help others, nor are they spiteful, when there is no anticipated benefit to themselves. In two experiments, chimpanzees could determine whether or not a peer received access to food and showed no preference for either providing access or denying access.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 20, 2016

Given time, most women with anorexia or bulimia will recover

A study found that around two-thirds of women with anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa will eventually recover from their eating disorders. Recovery tends to happen more quickly for those with bulimia, while anorexia recovery takes longer on average.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJournal of Clinical Psychiatry·DateDec 20, 2016

Zika virus infection determined by reproductive cycle in mice

Scientists found that female mice are more susceptible to vaginal Zika virus infection during a specific stage of their reproductive cycle. The study suggests that sex hormones play a role in allowing the virus to establish itself in the reproductive tract and spread beyond it.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Reports·DateDec 20, 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.

Routine screening for genital herpes infection not recommended

The USPSTF recommends against routine serologic screening for genital herpes infection in asymptomatic individuals, citing the lack of a long asymptomatic period and the high false-positive rate of current tests. This decision is based on the low test accuracy and potential harms of early detection and intervention.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateDec 20, 2016

Going green with nanotechnology

Researchers have developed environmentally friendly organic solar cells using nanomaterials, increasing efficiency and reducing toxic substances. Additionally, hybrid capacitors with enhanced storage capacity and faster charging capabilities have been created using nano-diamond composites, paving the way for more efficient energy stores.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·DateDec 20, 2016

NASA sees Tropical Cyclone 02S develop in Southern Indian Ocean

Tropical Cyclone 02S has developed strong thunderstorms, with cold cloud top temperatures near -63°F (-53°C), according to NASA's Aqua satellite data. The Joint Typhoon Warning Center predicts the storm will curve toward the southeast and make landfall south of Broome on Dec. 25.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateDec 20, 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.

Moth's eye inspires critical component on SOFIA's newest instrument

A NASA-developed camera, equipped with a moth's eye-inspired absorber technology, is now operational on the SOFIA aircraft. This innovation allows for greater sensitivity in far-infrared astronomy, enabling scientists to study early stages of star and planet formation, as well as map magnetic fields around supermassive black holes.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateDec 20, 2016

Building a better brain

Scientists at the Salk Institute have developed a 3D mini-brain model grown from human stem cells, which is structurally and functionally more similar to real brains than existing 2D models. This breakthrough model may help understand brain development and neurological diseases like Alzheimer's or schizophrenia.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalCell Reports·DateDec 20, 2016

Study details molecular roots of Alzheimer's

Scientists have detailed the structure of TREM2, a molecule implicated in Alzheimer's and other neurodegenerative diseases. The study shows that certain mutations alter the surface or internal structure of TREM2, leading to impaired function and neurodegeneration.

SourceWashU Medicine·DateDec 20, 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.

Got to remember them all, Pokémon

A new study by UCR psychology professor Weiwei Zhang found that familiarity with a subject can boost memory capacity. Participants were shown Pokémon characters and asked to remember them in working memory; those who were more familiar with the characters remembered more.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalMemory & Cognition·DateDec 20, 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.

Study to assess climate resiliency of more than 250 US cities

The University of Notre Dame's Global Adaptation Initiative is assessing the climate vulnerability and readiness of over 250 US cities with a population over 100,000. The Urban Adaptation Assessment integrates social equity analysis to investigate how vulnerable groups are disproportionately harmed by climate hazards.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·DateDec 20, 2016

Levels of DNA in blood test correlated with ovarian cancer outcomes

Researchers found correlations between circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) levels and ovarian cancer size, as well as patient response to treatment. The study used ctDNA carrying mutations in the TP53 gene to predict disease progression and treatment response, offering potential for early diagnosis and alternative treatment options.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateDec 20, 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.

Pop-outs: How the brain extracts meaning from noise

Researchers at UC Berkeley observed the brain's re-tuning process when listening to previously unintelligible speech after priming. The study confirms speculation that neurons in the auditory cortex continually tune themselves to pull meaning out of a noisy environment, enabling individuals to quickly comprehend garbled speech.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 20, 2016

Genetic mutations could increase risk of cytomegalovirus infection

Researchers found that a genetic mutation in protein NOD1 increases susceptibility to human cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection. Studies with human cells and mice showed decreased CMV replication when NOD1 was activated, suggesting a key role in controlling the virus.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 20, 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.

Arctic Inuit, Native American cold adaptations may originate from extinct hominids

A study finds that Arctic Inuit and Native American cold adaptations originated from an extinct hominid population related to the Denisovans. The archaic variant of the TBX15/WARS2 region was introduced into modern humans during their expansion, potentially providing a unique adaptive trait.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateDec 20, 2016

Einstein in an iron crystal

Researchers from Forschungszentrum Jülich and LMU Munich use angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy to visualize band structure shifts in response to magnetic field changes. This observation confirms the predictions made by Einstein's theory of relativity, which suggests that electrons can sense the direction of a magnetic field.

SourceForschungszentrum Juelich·JournalPhysical Review X·DateDec 20, 2016

The evolutionary secret of H. pylori to survive in the stomach

The study identifies a new nickel transporter crucial for the pathogen's ability to colonize the stomach and survive its acidic environment. The discovery sheds light on the genetic modifications that enabled H. pylori to adapt to this hostile environment, highlighting the importance of metals in bacterial pathogenesis.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·JournalPublication Library and Information Science·DateDec 20, 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.

Chemicals of 'emerging concern' mapped in 3 Great Lakes

The study estimates that about 3,000 tons of PHCZs lie in the sediment under lakes Michigan, Superior, and Huron, with Category 2 PHCZs likely from man-made sources. Most PHCZs, however, are believed to result from natural processes.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateDec 20, 2016

National Endowment for the Humanities supports work at UH

The National Endowment for the Humanities has awarded grants to University of Houston faculty members Rex Koontz and Julie Tolliver. Koontz will oversee a collaboration with the Museum of Fine Arts-Houston to expand its digital archive of Latin American art, while Tolliver will complete her book on Francophone independence literatures.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateDec 20, 2016

Aging and cancer: An enzyme protects chromosomes from oxidative damage

A protein called Peroxiredoxin 1 (PRDX1) has been identified as a key player in protecting telomeres from oxidative damage. By analyzing the protein composition of telomeres across the cell cycle, researchers found that PRDX1 functions as an antioxidant enzyme, preserving telomeric DNA for extension by telomerase.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalCell Reports·DateDec 20, 2016

Studies lead to use of melanin as material for bioelectronic devices

Melanin, a natural compound found in mammals, has been successfully synthesized using a novel route that enables its use in sensors and other applications. This breakthrough material is promising for developing miniaturized implantable devices capable of altering and controlling electrical signals in the human body.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·DateDec 20, 2016
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

New point of attack against stomach bacterium Helicobacter pylori

Researchers used neutrons to determine the structure of an important enzyme in Helicobacter pylori, offering a new point of attack for medications. The findings provide insights into the enzyme's mode of action, enabling the development of molecules that can block this process and target the bacterium effectively.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 20, 2016

Does 'publication bias' affect the 'canonization' of facts in science?

A mathematical model by Carl Bergstrom and colleagues explores the effect of publication bias on fact canonization in science. The study found that lower publication rates for negative results increase the risk of false canonization, but suggest that publishing more negative results could help minimize this risk.

SourceUniversity of Washington·DateDec 20, 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.

Epigenetic changes promoting cancer metastasis identified

Epigenetic changes in melanoma cells have been identified as key drivers of cancer metastasis. The study, published in Oncotarget, found that these changes can be reversed, making them a potential target for new therapies.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalOncoTargets and Therapy·DateDec 20, 2016

Safe and inexpensive hydrogen production as a future energy source

Osaka University researchers have developed a catalyst that efficiently produces hydrogen from organosilanes at room temperature without additional energy input. The catalyst, composed of gold nanoparticles supported on hydroxyapatite, demonstrated high turnover frequency and recyclability.

SourceOsaka University·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 20, 2016

Violence spreads like a disease among adolescents, study finds

A new study found that adolescents are up to 183% more likely to carry out violent acts if their friends have also committed the same act. The contagion extends beyond friends to up to four degrees of separation, making it essential to stop violence in one person to prevent it from spreading to others.

SourceOhio State University·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateDec 20, 2016

'Watershed' discovery reveals plants' medicinal secrets

Scientists have discovered metabolons, complex enzyme clusters, for the first time using molecular movie technology. This breakthrough reveals plants' secret medicinal toolbox and unlocks new possibilities for harnessing plant-based medicines.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalScience·DateDec 20, 2016

ANU helps find supercluster of galaxies near Milky Way

A team of astronomers from ANU has found a massive galaxy supercluster near the Milky Way, which influences the motion of our Galaxy. The Vela supercluster is one of the largest concentrations of galaxies in the Universe, and further studies will confirm its size.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateDec 20, 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.

The dirt on packaged rhino beetles

Researchers discovered that bags of potting soil on Guam's island are a breeding ground for invasive coconut rhinoceros beetles. The beetles spread through holes in plastic bags, which customers unknowingly bring home for their gardens.

SourceUniversity of Guam·JournalProceedings of the Hawaiian Entomological Society·DateDec 20, 2016

Study identifies gastric cancer biomarker and possible treatment

Scientists have discovered a potential biomarker, GHRH-R, for gastric cancer, which can aid in earlier diagnoses and better staging. The team also found that the GHRH-R antagonist MIA-602 inhibited gastric cancer growth in cell lines and human xenografts.

SourceUniversity of Miami Miller School of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 20, 2016

Sex cells evolved to pass on quality mitochondria

Mammals have evolved a specialized germline in their sex cells to pass on high-quality mitochondria, driven by the need to counteract rapid genetic mutations. This process restricts genetic variation in offspring, but allows for the transfer of better-functioning mitochondria.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalPLOS Biology·DateDec 20, 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.

Closer ties for silver clusters

Researchers at KAUST have developed a simpler way to assemble silver nanoclusters, opening up new opportunities for catalysis and opto-electronics. The clusters can be modified with atom-by-atom control, allowing their properties to be tailored for specific applications.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateDec 20, 2016

Scripps Florida scientist awarded $5 million Outstanding Investigator Grant

Ron Davis, a Scripps Florida scientist, has been awarded a $5 million Outstanding Investigator Grant to investigate the biological processes underlying memory formation. The grant aims to understand how the brain organizes memories and suppresses their formation, with potential applications in treating neurological disorders.

SourceScripps Research Institute·DateDec 20, 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.

Examining toddler temperament around the globe

Research by Maria Gartstein and Sam Putnam found that toddler temperament differs significantly across cultures, with Chilean infants being the most active and Polish babies displaying sadness. The study suggests that parents' cultural values influence their children's behavior and overall temperament.

SourceWashington State University·JournalEuropean Journal of Developmental Psychology·DateDec 20, 2016

New antimatter breakthrough to help illuminate mysteries of the Big Bang

Swansea University researchers have conducted the first precision study of antihydrogen, a key step towards understanding why matter and antimatter exist. By measuring the spectrum of light emitted from excited antihydrogen atoms, they hope to shed light on the Big Bang's central question: what led to the creation of our universe.

SourceSwansea University·JournalNature·DateDec 20, 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.

Focused interactions important for protein dynamics

Researchers have shown that weak attraction forces between proteins can greatly impact diffusion in densely concentrated protein molecules, similar to those found in living cells. This phenomenon has significant implications for understanding biological processes and their regulation.

SourceForschungszentrum Juelich·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 20, 2016

Trends in extracorporeal life support -- ASAIO Journal presents latest worldwide registry data

The Extracorporeal Life Support Organization (ELSO) registry report finds that ECLS is becoming more widely available and frequently used globally. Adults with respiratory failure are the fastest-growing group of ECLS patients, while rates of survival to hospital discharge have improved for this age group. In contrast, newborns with re...

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalASAIO Journal·DateDec 20, 2016

Characterization of magnetic nanovortices simplified

Researchers at Forschungszentrum Jülich have developed a simpler method to characterize magnetic nanovortices, also known as skyrmions. This new technique uses X-rays to identify suitable materials with the topological charge necessary for these tiny structures.

SourceForschungszentrum Juelich·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 20, 2016

History of TBI linked to poor outcomes for those who are homeless, have mental illness

A study published in Journal of Psychiatric Research found that homeless adults with mental illness and a history of traumatic brain injury are more likely to experience adverse health conditions, increased use of emergency departments, and suicidal risk. The research highlights the need for specialized services such as clinical treatm...

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalJournal of Psychiatric Research·DateDec 20, 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.

Stabilizing evolutionary forces keep ants strong

Researchers found evidence of stabilizing selection that maintains functional characteristics in ant populations. The study revealed significant genetic differences and limited gene flow among ant populations, suggesting that natural selection acts on important traits while less critical traits diversify over time.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 20, 2016

Male bumblebees leave home without looking back

Male bumblebees perform characteristic learning flights to find flowers but neglect their nest's location. Unlike females, males don't return to the nest after leaving and instead travel far to avoid breeding with relatives.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateDec 20, 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.

Black language matters: A linguistic analysis

A new study reveals that dialect unfamiliarity and prejudice against AAVE and other non-standard dialects can lead to mishearing and misjudgment in courtrooms. The authors argue that vernacular varieties should matter more, and linguists can play a bigger role in explaining them.

SourceLinguistic Society of America·JournalLanguage·DateDec 20, 2016

Bright future for energy devices

Researchers at Michigan Tech created a new way to synthesize sodium-embedded carbon nanowalls, which have two orders of magnitude higher conductivity than three-dimensional graphene. The material also retains high capacity after 5,000 charge/discharge cycles, making it ideal for supercapacitors and energy devices.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalNano Letters·DateDec 20, 2016