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Science News for December 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.

Dipole orientation: New dimension in super-resolution microscopy

A new polarization-dipole azimuth-based super-resolution technique has been proposed, addressing a long-standing debate on the role of fluorescence polarization in super-resolution imaging. The technique uses SDOM technology to improve spatial resolution and detection accuracy, revealing interesting findings in biological samples.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateDec 8, 2016

WSU study finds people willing to pay more for new biofuels

Consumers in three US cities showed willingness to pay a premium of up to 17% for second-generation biofuels, which are made from sustainable biological non-food sources. The study found that marketing efforts could improve perceptions and increase consumer adoption.

SourceWashington State University·JournalEnergy Economics·DateDec 8, 2016

Study examines potential effect of regular marijuana use on vision

A small study found an abnormality involving the retina that may account for altered vision in regular cannabis users. The study used pattern electroretinography to measure retinal ganglion cell function and found a significant delay in transmission of action potentials.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateDec 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.

Metaphoring the police: It's all about the right choice of word

Experiments reveal that using the protective concept of 'guardian' instead of 'warrior' to describe police can influence people's attitudes towards law enforcement. Participants who saw the police as 'guardians' felt the justice system was more fair and effective than those who considered them 'warriors'.

SourceSpringer·JournalPsychonomic Bulletin & Review·DateDec 8, 2016

Brain neurons help keep track of time

A novel analysis in mice reveals that dopamine neuron activity plays a key role in judgment of time, slowing down the internal clock. The study found that transient activation or inhibition of dopamine neurons was sufficient to slow down or speed up time estimation.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateDec 8, 2016

Who needs a body? Not these larvae, which are basically swimming heads

Researchers at Stanford University studied a rare marine worm species, discovering that its larvae undergo a prolonged phase with little more than a head. This indicates that many animals in the ocean likely share this trunk-less stage, shedding light on animal development and evolution.

SourceStanford University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateDec 8, 2016

Shooting, gang violence exposure leads to PTSD

A new Northwestern Medicine study reveals a significant connection between exposure to gang violence and severe depression, with 36% of women exhibiting post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms. The research highlights the often-overlooked impact of traumatic experiences on mental health in disadvantaged neighborhoods.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJournal of Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities·DateDec 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.

Soil pHertility

Researchers create a global map of soil pH, revealing an abrupt transition zone between acidic wet climates and alkaline dry climates. This discovery has significant implications for agriculture, as the ideal neutral range soils are found in areas like Iowa and Ukraine, which are intensively farmed.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNature·DateDec 8, 2016

Researchers peer into atom-sized tunnels in hunt for better battery

Scientists have discovered that certain large ions can hold tunnels open in electrode materials, allowing charge-carrying ions to move in and out easily and quickly. This breakthrough could lead to improved energy density and power density of lithium ion batteries for larger devices such as electric cars.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 8, 2016

Will Earth still exist 5 billion years from now?

Researchers observed L2 Puppis, a star similar to the Sun 5 billion years ago, to understand its evolution and potential impact on planets. A planet orbiting the giant star may offer clues about Earth's ultimate fate.

SourceKU Leuven·JournalAstronomy and Astrophysics·DateDec 8, 2016

New method helps compare cholera vaccine costs

Researchers developed a standardized approach to analyze full costs of cholera vaccines in developing countries, revealing significant variability in costs. The analysis showed vaccine delivery costs ranging from $0.36 to $6.32 per person vaccinated, with procurement costs varying between $0.29 and $29.70.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateDec 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.

Healthy diet may help kidney disease patients live longer

A healthy diet has been linked to a reduced risk of early death in patients with chronic kidney disease. The study analyzed 7 studies involving 15,285 participants and found that healthy dietary patterns were consistently associated with a 20-30% lower rate of mortality.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateDec 8, 2016

Researchers create hidden images with commercial inkjet printers

Scientists developed a method to print hidden images with commercial inkjet printers that can be revealed only with specific illumination, making it ideal for security-related applications. The technique uses silver and carbon ink to create arrays of rods with varying conductivities, allowing for the encoding of information.

SourceOptica·JournalOptica·DateDec 8, 2016

Trapdoor spiders disappearing from Australian landscape

A significant decline in trapdoor spider populations has been reported across southern Australia, with some areas showing almost complete absence of the species. The decline is linked to intensive land clearing and soil disturbance around their burrows.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalAustral Entomology·DateDec 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.

Smallpox, once thought an ancient disease, may have emerged in more recent times

Genetic analysis of ancient DNA reveals that the evolution of smallpox occurred far more recently than previously believed, with all available strains having an ancestor no older than 1580. Researchers found two circulating strains of the virus, variola major and minor, after English physician Edward Jenner developed a vaccine in 1796.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateDec 8, 2016

Illusion reveals that the brain fills in peripheral vision

Researchers found that the brain fills in missing details in peripheral vision, creating a visual illusion. The study suggests that this 'filling in' is a general perceptual mechanism that affects many basic visual features.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateDec 8, 2016

Anxiety measure for children with autism proven reliable

A new method devised by Drexel University professor Connor Kerns to diagnose anxiety symptoms in children with autism has been proven effective. The Autism Spectrum Addendum (ASA) adds new questions to the Anxiety Disorders Interview Schedule - Child/Parent, helping determine behaviors related to autism versus anxiety.

SourceDrexel University·JournalJournal of Clinical Child & Adolescent Psychology·DateDec 8, 2016

USDA announces $3.8 million for organics research

The USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture has allocated $3.8 million for research, education, and extension to support organic farming and promote the growth of the organic sector. The grants aim to improve technologies, methods, and cultural practices in organic farming systems.

SourceNational Institute of Food and Agriculture·DateDec 8, 2016

Contraception influences sexual desire in committed relationships

A new study from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology found a correlation between hormonal contraceptives used by women and their frequency of sex with partners. Women who used contraception with more progesterone were most sexually active when faithful and loyal to their partners.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalEvolution and Human Behavior·DateDec 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.

Study furthers research on protein involved in kidney disease

A study reveals that the liver is the primary source of Apol1, a protein linked to kidney disease, and finds a significant association between APOL1 gene variants and increased risk in individuals of recent African ancestry. The findings provide new insights into the biology of Apol1 and its potential role in health and disease.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateDec 8, 2016

Key regulator of bone development identified

Researchers at Penn State University have identified Speckle-type POZ Protein (Spop) as a key regulator of bone development. The study reveals that Spop positively regulates Hedgehog signaling during bone formation, leading to reduced bone density and brachydactyly-like symptoms.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 8, 2016

Jumping water striders know how to avoid breaking of the water surface

Researchers discovered that jumping water striders adjust their leg movements to prevent the water surface from breaking, allowing them to achieve maximum jump speeds. By studying the biomechanics of these near-vertical jumps, scientists built a mathematical model to explain the behavior and verified its predictions with actual data.

SourceLaboratory of Behavioral Ecology and Evolution at Seoul National University·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 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.

Blood-borne HPV antibodies indicate head, neck cancer prognosis

A new study suggests that blood-borne HPV antibodies can serve as a reliable biomarker for predicting the outcome of all types of head and neck cancer. The researchers found that patients with an immune response to HPV have a lower risk of dying during the five-year follow-up period, regardless of the exact location of their tumors.

SourceBrown University·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateDec 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.

Further improvement of qubit lifetime for quantum computers

Researchers have developed a technique to remove unpaired electrons from superconducting quantum circuits, resulting in a three-fold improvement in qubit lifetime. This breakthrough has the potential to significantly improve the performance of quantum computers by reducing errors and increasing data storage time.

SourceForschungszentrum Juelich·JournalScience·DateDec 8, 2016

Pets offer valuable support for owners with mental health problems

According to a study published in BMC Psychiatry, pets offer significant support for individuals managing long-term mental health conditions. Participants reported that their pets helped manage stigma associated with their condition and provided unconditional validation during times of crisis.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Psychiatry·DateDec 8, 2016

Researchers building flow battery prototype to augment grid

Case Western Reserve University researchers are scaling up a prototype iron-flow battery to provide cleaner and cheaper power when renewable energy sources are ebbing or demand is peaking. The battery can store excess electricity and increase overall efficiency.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·DateDec 8, 2016

Evolution in action: How some fish adapt to pollutants

Killifish in polluted salt marshes have developed tolerance to toxins through reduced genetic diversity. The AHR signaling pathway is key, with compensatory mutations mitigating its loss of function.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateDec 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.

Drug use strong predictor for postpartum mental health problems

Research from NC State University and UBC reveals a strong predictor for postpartum stress and anxiety. A woman's history of drug use is associated with heightened symptoms after childbirth, making it a valuable tool for healthcare providers to identify women at risk.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·DateDec 8, 2016

Scientists develop new drug screening tool for dystonia

Researchers at Duke University have identified a common mechanism underlying separate forms of dystonia, a brain disorder causing involuntary movements. A new cell-based screening test has been developed to identify new drug candidates, leveraging the misplacement of the DYT1 protein near the nucleus.

SourceDuke University·JournalNeuron·DateDec 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.

UTA researchers win three federal transportation grants

Researchers from UTA's College of Architecture and Civil Engineering have won three federal grants to develop sustainable transportation systems and infrastructure for the Dallas/Fort Worth region. The grants will focus on innovative funding policies, performance management, big data analysis, and transportation system competitiveness.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateDec 8, 2016

Research explains why some presents are great to give but not to receive

A study published in Current Directions in Psychological Science highlights the common mistake of givers focusing on their own expectations rather than the recipient's needs. The research suggests practical gifts are more appreciated than expected surprises, and experiential gifts can be preferred over tangible ones.

SourceIndiana University·JournalCurrent Directions in Psychological Science·DateDec 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.

UNIST engineers thermoelectric material in paintable liquid form

Researchers at UNIST have created a new type of high-performance thermoelectric material that can be directly painted onto any surface. This innovation enables the efficient collection of heat energy from industrial waste, potentially powering vehicles and other applications.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 8, 2016

Heavy alcohol use changes adolescents' brain

A recent study found that heavy alcohol use during adolescence is associated with reduced grey matter volumes, particularly in the anterior cingulate cortex. This can disrupt normal brain maturation, leading to potential long-term effects on impulse control and substance use disorder risk.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalAddiction·DateDec 8, 2016

'Hyper-starburst' galaxy churns out stars, clues to universe's evolution

Astronomers have discovered a hyper-starburst galaxy that is forming stars at an incredible rate of 4,500 times the mass of the Sun every year. This galaxy, SPT 0346-52, is 12.7 billion light years from Earth and provides valuable insights into the evolution of galaxies and the formation of massive galaxies.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·DateDec 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.

How to make a motor neuron

Researchers found a dynamic, multi-step process in which multiple independent changes converge to transform stem cells into motor neurons. The study outlines challenges facing current cell-replacement technology but also highlights potential pathways for enhanced gene-therapy methods.

SourceNew York University·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateDec 8, 2016

The song of silence

Researchers at OIST uncover a neural mechanism that uses silent gaps to detect species-specific birdsong. Juvenile zebra finches learn song by mimicking adults and preferentially adopt the song of their own species despite noise and variety of birdsongs.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalScience·DateDec 8, 2016

Scientists track restoration of communication in minimally conscious patient

A severely brain-injured woman regained the ability to communicate through eye movements, with researchers capturing the restoration process by measuring brain structure and function. The study suggests that other patients in chronic care facilities may harbor organized brain function, raising questions about diagnosis and treatment.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateDec 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.

Treating cancer, mental health neglect in rural America

A lack of psychiatric healthcare providers in rural areas is leaving patients without access to necessary treatment options, exacerbating the impact of untreated mental illness. The OHSU Knight Cancer Institute is working to address this issue through innovative approaches to cancer care and mental health support.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateDec 8, 2016

Protection against Zika just as important during winter

The Zika virus poses a threat beyond summer months, as Aedes species mosquitoes can survive winter and transmit the virus through their eggs. Experts emphasize the importance of year-round protection measures, including physical barriers and insect repellents.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalWilderness and Environmental Medicine·DateDec 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.

Oral bacterium related esophageal cancer prognosis in Japanese patients

Researchers from Kumamoto University found a significant association between the presence of Fusobacterium nucleatum in esophageal cancer tissue and poor survival outcomes. The study suggests that this oral bacterium may contribute to esophageal cancer development via chemokines.

SourceKumamoto University·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateDec 8, 2016

Researchers map neural circuitry of songbird learning

Two studies reveal that dopaminergic neurons in the brain encode errors in singing performance, helping juvenile zebra finches learn to accurately imitate their tutor's song. Meanwhile, another study finds that songbirds adjust song cadence towards an innate template, rather than learning rhythm from other birds.

SourceThe City University of New York·JournalScience·DateDec 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.

Artificial beta cells

Researchers at ETH Zurich have created artificial beta cells that can effectively regulate blood sugar levels. These cells work by measuring glucose concentrations in the blood and producing insulin when necessary, making them a promising solution for diabetes treatment.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience·DateDec 8, 2016

Localized immunotherapy new possibility to treat bladder cancer

Researchers at Uppsala University have developed a new method of antibody-based immunotherapy that targets tumor cells with minimal impact on other parts of the body. This alternative strategy has shown promising results in stimulating immune cells to attack and destroy cancer cells, potentially reducing adverse events.

SourceUppsala University·JournalEuropean Journal of Immunology·DateDec 8, 2016

Tracking breast cancer cell genetics reveals longer potential treatment window

A team of scientists tracked the genetics of disseminated tumour cells in breast cancer patients, finding they are genetically similar to the original tumour. This knowledge could help clinicians choose the most effective therapy, potentially leading to better outcomes and a more accurate prognosis.

SourceThe Francis Crick Institute·JournalGenome Biology·DateDec 8, 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.

Tumor found in a 255-million-year-old mammalian ancestor

Researchers discovered a 255-million-year-old tumor in a gorgonopsian mammalian ancestor, revealing an ancient condition that resembles compound odontoma. This finding challenges the current understanding of vertebrate evolution, suggesting that this condition may have evolved much earlier than previously thought.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateDec 8, 2016

Neuroimaging categorizes 4 depression subtypes

Researchers identified four unique depression subtypes based on brain connectivity patterns, providing potential biomarkers for diagnosis and treatment. These subtypes differ in clinical symptoms and response to transcranial magnetic stimulation therapy.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalNature Medicine·DateDec 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.

Unraveling the secrets of cluster crystallization

Researchers at ICIQ and OSU created a new method to prepare chromium polyoxocations, overcoming a huge synthetic challenge. The study found that controlling the formation of chromium clusters is key to expanding our understanding of metal-oxide cluster crystallization.

SourceInstitute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ)·JournalChem·DateDec 8, 2016

Fast test can monitor drug resistance in hookworms

Researchers have developed a rapid test to monitor drug resistance in hookworms, which can cause disease and stunted growth. The new test uses short nucleotide polymorphisms to detect drug-resistant mutations in as little as 1% of a sample, taking only 60 minutes.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateDec 8, 2016

Oxygen can wake up dormant bacteria for antibiotic attacks

A team of researchers has identified an oxygen-dependent toxin antitoxin system that can be targeted to inhibit biofilm formation and combat antibiotic-resistant bacteria. By understanding the molecular mechanisms behind this system, scientists hope to develop more effective antimicrobials.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 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.

Study finds less fragmentation in muzzleloading and black powder cartridge rifles

Researchers found that traditional bullets for muzzleloading rifles and black powder rifle cartridges fragment less than modern high-velocity rifle bullets, suggesting a reduced risk of secondary lead poisoning. This could benefit hunters using these styles of guns and scavenging animals that consume game meat.

SourceOregon State University·JournalJournal of Fish and Wildlife Management·DateDec 8, 2016

DNA methylation biomarker for prostate cancer shows promise for accurately determining patient risk

A DNA methylation biomarker called PITX2 has been identified as a reliable predictor of prostate cancer recurrence. The study found that patients with high PITX2 methylation levels were at significantly increased risk for recurrence. This breakthrough could lead to more personalized treatment strategies for prostate cancer patients.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Molecular Diagnostics·DateDec 8, 2016

Higher BMI in adolescence may affect cognitive function in midlife

A study of Israeli adolescents found that higher BMI in late adolescence and long-term cumulative burden of BMI predict poorer cognitive function later in life. Taller stature was associated with better global cognitive function, independent of socioeconomic position.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·DateDec 8, 2016

Honeybee memories: Another piece of the Alzheimer's puzzle?

Honeybee memories may hold clues to understanding human long-term memory formation and combating degenerative brain diseases. DNA methylation plays a crucial role in regulating memory specificity, with implications for treating conditions like Alzheimer's and dementia.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Molecular Neuroscience·DateDec 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.

Scientists examine bacterium found 1,000 feet underground

Researchers discovered a bacterium in Lechuguilla Cave that resists 18 different antibiotics, including 'drugs of last resort'. This finding suggests evolutionary pressure has driven resistance for millions of years, not just since antibiotics were introduced.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 8, 2016

Electron highway inside crystal

Physicists at the University of Würzburg have discovered a new electronic state in topological crystalline insulators, creating conductive channels for electrical currents. The channels are narrow and robust, making the materials suitable for ultra-fast and energy-efficient computers.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalScience·DateDec 8, 2016

Scheduling leisure activities makes them less fun

Researchers at Ohio State University found that scheduling leisure activities makes them seem like work, leading to reduced enjoyment. Roughly planning an event, however, can lead to similar levels of enjoyment as unplanned events.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Marketing Research·DateDec 8, 2016

Study: Mobile money lifts Kenyan households out of poverty

A new study found that mobile-money services in Kenya increased daily per capita consumption levels by 194,000, or 2%, lifting households out of extreme poverty. Female-headed households saw a significant increase in consumption and occupation shifts, with an estimated 185,000 women moving from farming to business occupations.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateDec 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.

Antidepressant effects of ketamine

A new study suggests that a metabolite of ketamine can produce antidepressant-like effects in mice, potentially leading to further research on the efficacy and safety of ketamine in humans. Ketamine has been shown to have rapid and potent antidepressant effects in humans, even in those resistant to traditional treatments.

SourceAmerican College of Neuropsychopharmacology·DateDec 8, 2016

Moderate exercise improves memory dysfunction caused by type 2 diabetes

Researchers found that moderate exercise improved spatial memory impairments in type 2 diabetic rats, possibly due to increased lactate levels and normalization of glycogen levels. Exercise also normalized MCT2 expression, which may be a key mechanism underlying the improved memory function.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalDiabetologia·DateDec 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.

Immune system's 'workaround' may explain heart disease in psoriasis patients

Researchers discovered that blocking IL-6 in psoriasis patients may not prevent skin inflammation, but its levels are central to thrombosis events triggered by skin inflammation. A compensatory 'workaround' mechanism involving other immune system molecules is proposed to explain the findings.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalJCI Insight·DateDec 8, 2016

Copeptin levels associated with renal and cardiac disease in type 1 diabetes patients

A study found that type 1 diabetes patients with elevated albumin in their urine had triple the risk of life-threatening kidney and cardiac disease compared to those with normal levels. Copeptin levels were significantly higher in these patients, suggesting a new potential target for therapies.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJournal of Diabetes and its Complications·DateDec 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.

Researchers question lifelong immunity to toxoplasmosis

A team of researchers suggests that the lifelong immunity to toxoplasmosis, once thought to be absolute, may not be as robust as previously believed. Studies have shown that even expectant mothers infected with Toxoplasma gondii at birth can still test positive for antibodies, challenging the long-held dogma.

SourceCell Press·JournalTrends in Parasitology·DateDec 8, 2016

Against the tide: A fish adapts quickly to lethal levels of pollution

Atlantic killifish have evolved remarkable resilience to toxic industrial pollutants, with genetic diversity playing a key role in their adaptation. The study's findings could help explain how genetic differences among humans contribute to varying sensitivity to environmental chemicals.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalScience·DateDec 8, 2016

Transplanted interneurons can help reduce fear in mice

Researchers have discovered that transplanting immature interneurons into the brains of mice can help reduce fear response. The study found that these transplanted cells reactivated a juvenile-like plasticity in the mature amygdala, enhancing synaptic plasticity and modulating fear extinction behavior.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·DateDec 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.

Going with the flow: Facile synthesis of a complex biologically active oligopeptide

Researchers have developed a facile synthesis method for complex biologically active oligopeptides, including feglymycin. The new approach uses micro-flow amide bond formation to overcome challenges in synthesizing arylglycine-containing peptides, which are present in various natural products with potent biological activity.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 8, 2016

GPs not dissatisfied with performance related pay, study finds

A University of Manchester study of 2,000 UK doctors found no link between performance-related pay and GP job satisfaction. Despite concerns over its impact on morale, the study suggests that dropping performance-related pay may not increase satisfaction.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·DateDec 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.

An anti-CRISPR for gene editing

Scientists have isolated three families of proteins that can turn off CRISPR-Cas9 systems specifically used for gene editing. This discovery offers a new strategy to prevent unintended changes in the genome, making gene editing more precise and controlled.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateDec 8, 2016

EEG reveals information essential to users

A study by Aalto University and the Helsinki Institute for Information Technology used EEG to model user interest in Wikipedia articles, predicting search intentions and recommending relevant documents. This technology has potential to assist humans by automatically monitoring and gathering information through wearable EEG sensors.

SourceAalto University·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 8, 2016

What to do with the data?

Researchers are preparing to tackle an onslaught of petabytes of complex data from sophisticated experiments, including CERN's Large Hadron Collider. To keep up with the challenge, experts propose developing exascale supercomputers and smarter networks, as well as reengineering software to adapt to future hardware developments.

SourceDOE/US Department of Energy·DateDec 8, 2016

Perspectives on magnetic reconnection

Researchers provide a major perspective on four key problems in magnetic reconnection, including the rate problem, trigger problem, energetics problem, and interplay of scales problem. The study advances understanding of these puzzles using data from satellite sightings, laboratory experiments, and computer simulations.

SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·DateDec 8, 2016

Rice scientists' study of human migration could help understand cancer metastasis

Researchers used a model to simulate human migration in the Americas, finding that east-west migration was easier due to transferable knowledge. The study reveals how modularity of knowledge interacts with asymmetry during migration, with implications for understanding cancer metastasis and other biological systems.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateDec 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.

How miniature predators get their favorite soil bacteria

Tiny soil predators called protists 'eavesdrop' on bacteria's communication using scent, helping them choose the best prey. The discovery could lead to practical applications in biological pest control and agricultural research.

SourceNetherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO-KNAW)·JournalThe ISME Journal·DateDec 8, 2016

Protein disrupts infectious biofilms

A team of researchers at Caltech and the University of Oxford identified a protein that degrades and inhibits biofilms of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, the primary pathogen in cystic fibrosis infections. This discovery offers a new approach to inhibit biofilm development and has promise for treating antibiotic-resistant biofilm infections.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateDec 8, 2016

A nano-roundabout for light

Researchers at Vienna University of Technology have created a nano-roundabout for light signals using an atomic switch, allowing for precise control over the direction of circulation. The system utilizes a bottle resonator and a single rubidium atom to break symmetry and define traffic rules.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalScience·DateDec 8, 2016

Child mummy offers revised history of smallpox

Researchers discovered a 17th-century variola virus in a child mummy, providing a more accurate timeline for the evolution of smallpox. The study suggests that smallpox may have appeared in humans more recently than previously thought, and its evolutionary history was influenced by human migration and colonization.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateDec 8, 2016

Mobile money improves economic well-being in Kenya

A study estimates that mobile money improved the lives of 194,000 Kenyan households, lifting them out of extreme poverty. Increased access to mobile money also boosted long-term consumption, especially among female-headed households.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateDec 8, 2016

Newly discovered bacteria-binding protein in the intestine

Researchers have identified a key role for ZG16 in protecting the body from intestinal bacteria, preventing inflammation and abdominal fat accumulation. The discovery provides new insights into the mechanisms of inflammatory bowel diseases and obesity.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 8, 2016

Why cryptophyte algae are really good at harvesting light

Cryptophyte algae have been found to harness light energy at an unprecedented rate, thanks to the ability of molecular vibrations to enhance photon absorption. This discovery has potential applications in developing more efficient light-harvesting technologies, such as sensors and communication systems.

SourceCell Press·JournalChem·DateDec 8, 2016

Graphene-infused silly putty detects human respiration, spider footsteps

Researchers created graphene-infused G-putty, a highly sensitive material that detects heart rates through skin and individual spider footsteps. The unique substance surpasses conventional strain sensors in sensitivity, with potential applications in various fields.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateDec 8, 2016

How turtles and crocodiles lost parietal eye and differing color vision adaptations

Scientists have traced back 200 million years of eye evolution in turtles and crocodiles, discovering that their adaptations led to the loss of color vision. Turtles developed reduced color vision for freshwater habitats, while crocodiles adapted for dim light.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateDec 8, 2016

Prof Steve WaiChing Sun wins Air Force's Young Investigator Program Award

Sun, a civil engineering and engineering mechanics professor at Columbia University, has won the award for his project on modeling high-rate responses of wetted granular materials. He aims to improve predictions of large-scale field problems using insights from small-scale observations and simulations.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·DateDec 8, 2016

Vaping robots measure e-cig vapor delivered to lung cells in the lab

Researchers used smoking/vaping robots to study e-cigarette aerosol's effect on human lung cells. The results show that e-cigarette aerosol is effectively delivered to cell surfaces, despite having a reduced biological impact compared to cigarette smoke.

SourceR&D at British American Tobacco·JournalChemistry Central Journal·DateDec 8, 2016

State of the art sensors made from graphene and children's toy silly putty

Researchers have created extremely sensitive sensors using graphene-infused silly putty, which can measure breathing, pulse, and blood pressure with unprecedented sensitivity. The material shows promise for applications in medical devices and diagnostics, offering a potentially inexpensive alternative to traditional sensors.

SourceAMBER Centre·JournalScience·DateDec 8, 2016

Researchers find the incident commander in the brain's defence system

Microglia coordinates reinforcements to warn neighbouring cells of invading virus, recruiting astroglia and neurons to remove injured or killed cells. The discovery aims to contribute to new treatment of brain diseases like multiple sclerosis and Alzheimer's disease.

SourceAarhus University·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 8, 2016

Keeping electric car design on the right road

Researchers assess environmental costs of electric vehicles, identifying material trade-offs to mitigate climate change. A new framework guides developers in choosing sustainable materials for batteries and fuel cells.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateDec 8, 2016

Report proposes standards for sharing data and code used in computational studies

A new report by University of Illinois professors recommends standardizing sharing of data sets and software code to improve reproducibility in computational research. The recommendations include documenting digital objects, making datasets and workflows accessible, and implementing reproducibility checks before publication.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalScience·DateDec 8, 2016

Scientists reveal 'safety catch' within all dividing cells

Researchers have made a major discovery about how cells control when to divide, revealing a key part of the cellular machinery that prevents cells from dividing until DNA is properly aligned. This finding could lead to new treatments for cancer by forcing cancer cells into premature division and killing them.

SourceInstitute of Cancer Research·JournalMolecular Cell·DateDec 8, 2016

RNA modification important for brain function

Researchers have found that the RNA modification m6A plays a vital role in regulating genes in the nervous system and influencing sex determination in fruit flies. This study sheds light on the importance of m6A in fine-tuning gene expression and neuronal function.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalNature·DateDec 8, 2016

Study: Running actually lowers inflammation in knee joints

New research from Brigham Young University finds that running decreases pro-inflammatory molecules in the knee joint, reducing inflammation. The study suggests exercise can be a type of medicine for preventing osteoarthritis and delaying its onset.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalEuropean Journal of Applied Physiology·DateDec 8, 2016