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Science News for July 19, 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.

High fat diet improves cartilage repair in mice

A high fat diet and increased body weight do not impair but may even accelerate cartilage repair in a mouse model. The study's findings suggest that the mechanism behind this phenomenon is related to inflammatory and metabolic changes.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Orthopaedic Research®·DateJul 19, 2016

Model helps identify drugs to treat cat eye infections

Scientists at Cornell University have developed a model system to test drugs against feline herpes virus 1 (FHV-1) in cats. Early results show that the antiretroviral drug raltegravir is effective against FHV-1, even when administered once daily.

SourceCornell University, College of Veterinary Medicine·JournalJournal of General Virology·DateJul 19, 2016

Using bed bug shed skins to combat the pest

A study by UC Riverside researchers found that bed bug shed skins retain four pheromone compounds that can be used to detect and combat infestations. The findings suggest the development of small, inexpensive monitor traps to catch living bed bugs at early stages of infestation.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 19, 2016

Using urban pigeons to monitor lead pollution

Researchers found that pigeon blood lead levels rose in summer, correlating with higher rates of lead exposure in children. Urban pigeons are being used as a monitoring tool due to their proximity to pollution sources and similarity to human behavior.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalChemosphere·DateJul 19, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Comparing fungal secretions to uncover carbon compound degradation pathways

A team of researchers studied four filamentous Ascomycete fungi to understand their role in carbon degradation. They identified a wide variety of carbohydrate-active enzymes that can directly oxidize labile and recalcitrant carbon, suggesting these species play a key role in lignocellulose conversion.

SourceDOE/Joint Genome Institute·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 19, 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.

Newly described cellular defense activity could guide solutions to UTIs

A study by Duke Health and Duke-National University of Singapore Medical School reveals bladder cells' secreted chemicals can clear urinary tract infections. The research suggests new targets for developing remedies and provides insights into the herb Forskolin's impact on UTIs.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalImmunity·DateJul 19, 2016

An antibody-based drug for multiple sclerosis

Researchers developed an antibody that prevents the immune system from attacking the myelin sheath, reducing demyelination and axon degeneration. In experimental mouse models, treatment with the antibody blocked progression of motor disorders and reduced lymphocyte infiltration into the nervous tissue.

SourceINSERM (Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale)·JournalBrain·DateJul 19, 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.

New study uses computer learning to provide quality control for genetic databases

A new study uses computer learning to create a standardized atlas that can automatically annotate samples, including lost metadata such as tissue type. By combining data from over 7,000 samples and 200 labs, the work represents a way to leverage publically available 'omics data while improving quality control.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalThe Plant Journal·DateJul 19, 2016

Does hormone therapy after menopause affect memory?

A large clinical trial has found that estrogen therapy does not impact cognitive function in postmenopausal women, contradicting previous theories. The study suggests that healthy women at any stage after menopause should not take hormone supplements to improve memory.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateJul 19, 2016

Ancient rocks reveal how Earth recovered from mass extinction

Scientists have discovered that iron-rich, low oxygen waters played a key role in delaying the recovery of life on Earth after the Permian-Triassic Boundary extinction. The study found that while toxic sulphides were not present, the oceans were rich in iron, which restricted marine life recovery.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 19, 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.

NIH awards UAB 3 maternal and infant health grants

UAB will receive $200,000 per year in base funds for the next five years through the NICHD Maternal-Fetal Medicine Units Network. The network focuses on addressing preterm birth through translational research, genetics, and new technologies.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·DateJul 19, 2016

Scientists watch water fleas take over new territory

Researchers created dozens of human-made ponds with cloned water fleas to understand their dispersal patterns and success in the wild. Higher genetic diversity among the clones was found to enhance the likelihood of at least one clone surviving and dominating a new pond, providing insights into aquatic ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateJul 19, 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.

Scientists create new thin material that mimics cell membranes

Researchers have developed a lipid-like peptoid material that can assemble into a sheet thinner than a soap bubble, with properties similar to those of cell membranes. The material can withstand various liquids and repair itself after damage, making it suitable for water purification, sensors, drug delivery, and energy applications.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 19, 2016

How to increase the fat burned during exercise

A new study found that p-synephrine ingestion increased the rate of fat oxidation and reduced carbohydrate oxidation during low- to moderate-intensity exercise. This suggests that p-synephrine supplements could be useful in increasing fat burn by up to 7g per hour of exercise.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalBritish Journal of Clinical Pharmacology·DateJul 19, 2016

CVIA special issue on Intervention

This CVIA special issue explores the latest research and treatments for resistant hypertension, including renal denervation and percutaneous coronary intervention. The featured papers examine the role of radiation exposure in coronary interventional procedures and the optimal duration of dual antiplatelet therapy after stenting.

SourceCardiovascular Innovations and Applications·JournalCardiovascular Innovations and Applications·DateJul 19, 2016
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Researchers discover altruism is favored by chance

A team of international researchers found that altruism is favored by random fluctuations in nature, proposing a simple answer to the longstanding puzzle as to why cooperation evolved. This discovery suggests that cooperators benefit more than they lose out due to random decreases in cheating populations.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 19, 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.

A mini-antenna for the data processing of tomorrow

Researchers have successfully generated spin waves with extremely short wavelengths in the nanometer range, a key feature for their future application. The new method uses a magnetic vortex as a nano-antenna, allowing for precise control over the wavelength and wave properties.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJul 19, 2016

New study from Duke links prepregnancy obesity to infant growth

A new study from Duke University found that infants born to obese mothers were 8% larger during the first two years of life compared to those born to healthy-weight mothers. The study also showed a link between maternal weight gain during pregnancy and infant size.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalChildhood Obesity·DateJul 19, 2016

Elderly Japanese most resilient in wake of triple disaster, study finds

A study from the University of Edinburgh found that older people in Japan were less likely to experience a deterioration of existing chronic conditions after the Fukushima earthquake and nuclear meltdown. In contrast, urban dwellers showed a higher decline in managing their blood sugar levels.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalBMJ Open·DateJul 19, 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.

Role for enhancers in bursts of gene activity

Enhancers can increase the frequency of gene activity bursts, suggesting these bursts may be critical for genetic regulation. The study found that enhancer location and strength influence bursting frequencies.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalCell·DateJul 19, 2016

Soy-based protein boosts hunger hormone and stimulates appetite

Researchers discovered a soy-based protein called soy-ghretropin that increases blood levels of ghrelin, an appetite-stimulating hormone. The findings suggest this protein may be developed to help elderly people or anorexic patients with reduced ghrelin levels and food intake.

SourceWiley·JournalFEBS Letters·DateJul 19, 2016

Protein found to bolster growth of damaged muscle tissue

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University have discovered a protein that boosts the growth of damaged muscle tissue, potentially contributing to treatments for age-related muscle degeneration and diseases like muscular dystrophy. The protein, β1-integrin, promotes stem cell growth and restoration after muscle injury, with results showing...

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalNature Medicine·DateJul 19, 2016

What hibernating toads tell us about climate

A 24-year study of Fowler's Toads has created a model to predict the impact of climate change on animal behavior. The model uses weather records to forecast when toads will emerge from hibernation, revealing that warming temperatures are causing this shift to occur earlier.

SourceMcGill University·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateJul 19, 2016

Counteracting poor decision-making due to sleep loss

Researchers aim to reduce decision-making errors with cognitive flexibility training, building on previous studies that showed sleep deprivation affects sustained attention and causes 'feedback blunting' phenomenon. The three-year project will test its effectiveness in a laboratory-based experiment.

SourceWashington State University·DateJul 19, 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.

House-hunting ants know how to take the hassle out of moving

House-hunting ants use tandem running to inform colony members about a new nest, increasing the discovery rate and speeding up migration. By regulating their running rate based on distance, ants efficiently minimize transit time and risk involved in migrating longer distances.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe Science of Nature·DateJul 19, 2016

Paths to Autism: One or Many?

Researchers suggest that widespread brain alterations in infants at risk for autism may affect multiple systems, rather than just social brain networks. Early behavioral and imaging studies provide evidence for general abnormalities during the first year of life.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateJul 19, 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.

New treatment developed to prevent nausea, vomiting caused by chemo

Researchers have developed a new treatment that blocks neurotransmitters to prevent nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy, significantly improving patient outcomes. The study found that 74% of participants experienced no nausea or vomiting when treated with olanzapine, compared to 45% on placebo.

SourceSanford Health/Sanford Research·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJul 19, 2016

Home-cooked meals for infants not always better than shop-bought ones

Research suggests that home-cooked meals designed for infants and young children often exceed energy density and dietary fat recommendations, yet are cheaper than commercially available baby foods. The study found that commercial products met dietary recommendations on energy density more frequently than home-cooked meals.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalArchives of Disease in Childhood·DateJul 19, 2016

Quitting smoking during pregnancy: Beneficial for both mother and child

A study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology found that nicotine patches and Zyban are effective in helping pregnant women quit smoking, with success rates of 80% and 60%, respectively. The use of these products also reduces the risk of premature birth and low birth weight.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateJul 19, 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.

For ancient deep-sea plankton, a long decline before extinction

A new study of ancient graptolite fossils reveals that plankton communities began changing in important ways 400,000 years before massive extinctions. The effects of environmental degradation can be subtle until they reach a tipping point, leading to dramatic declines in population.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 19, 2016

How meltwater from the ice sheets disturbed the climate 10,000 years ago

Researchers found a negative correlation between rainfall in north-western Africa and Europe 10,000 years ago, reversing in the early Holocene period. Climate simulations suggest the North American ice sheet's melting affected atmospheric circulation patterns and ocean currents, leading to the change in correlation.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJul 19, 2016

Dartmouth study with aye-ayes and slow loris finds that prosimians prefer alcohol

In a controlled study, researchers found that two aye-ayes and a slow loris could discriminate between varying concentrations of alcohol and preferred the highest concentrations. The findings support the idea that fermented foods were important in human ancestors' diets, potentially pre-adapting humans for the Neolithic Revolution.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateJul 19, 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.

Radiologists do not face elevated risk of radiation-related mortality

A new study published in Radiology found that radiologists who graduated after 1940 do not face an increased risk of dying from radiation-related causes like cancer. The researchers attributed the reduction in health risks to improvements in radiation protection and monitoring, as well as advancements in equipment safety.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateJul 19, 2016

After psychiatric hospital discharge, many patients are still taking multiple antipsychotic drugs

A recent study found that nearly 1 in 10 patients discharged from state psychiatric hospitals continue to take multiple antipsychotic drugs. The high rate of antipsychotic polypharmacy is attributed to a diagnosis of schizophrenia and extended hospital stays, highlighting the need for revised standards and definitions.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Psychiatric Practice·DateJul 19, 2016

Fighting life-threatening bacteria without antibiotics

Cirrhosis patients experience impaired immunity due to gut bacteria migration into the liver. Scientists identify that Type-1 IFN released by immune cells incapacitates the immune system, leading to fatal bacterial infections. Strengthening the immune response may now treat life-threatening infections without antibiotics.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalGut·DateJul 19, 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.

Beware of antioxidants, warns scientific review

Antioxidant supplements have been linked to cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes, and other conditions due to their impact on oxygen radicals. However, the review suggests that targeting specific sources of oxygen molecules may be a more effective approach.

SourceWiley·JournalBritish Journal of Pharmacology·DateJul 19, 2016

Paleontology: Aftermath of a mass extinction

A new study of fossil fishes from Middle Triassic sediments on Lake Lugano finds that biological communities recovered within a few million years after the great mass extinction event. The research identifies two new species of ancient fish with distinct ecological niches, suggesting that ecosystems were already recovering.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalPeerJ·DateJul 19, 2016

Many skin cancer patients still too likely to sunburn

A recent study by researchers at Johns Hopkins finds that people with a history of nonmelanoma skin cancers still get sunburned, likely due to ineffective use of sun-protective methods. The study urges healthcare providers to better educate patients on protective skin care practices.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Dermatology·DateJul 19, 2016

Huge time-lag between erosion and mountain building

Researchers found a two-million-year delay between tectonic uplift and maximum erosion rates in the Argentine Precordillera mountains. This time-lag is attributed to the slow propagation of erosion waves through the fluvial network under semi-arid conditions.

SourceGFZ GeoForschungsZentrum Potsdam, Helmholtz Centre·JournalEarth and Planetary Science Letters·DateJul 19, 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.

Big data for small cells

A new software has been developed to analyze time-lapse microscopy movies, enabling the measurement of cellular properties such as cell cycle length and protein expression dynamics. The tool is freely available online and has already led to high-impact publications in top scientific journals.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateJul 19, 2016

Atrazine alternatives in sweet corn

Researchers found that tembotrione and other HPPD-inhibiting herbicides provided comparable control to atrazine, with crop yields also comparable. In Oregon fields, several alternative treatments worked well, but limitations were noted in Midwest regions.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalWeed Science·DateJul 19, 2016

Expanding development associated with declining deer recruitment across western co.

A new study from Colorado Parks and Wildlife, WCS, and CSU finds that dramatic increases in residential and energy development are associated with declining early winter recruitment in western Colorado's mule deer populations. The study suggests that these impacts on habitat may be having a greater effect on deer populations than previ...

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateJul 19, 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.

Weird quantum effects stretch across hundreds of miles

Scientists have found that neutrinos can exist in a state of superposition, with no definite flavor or identity, while traveling hundreds of miles. This phenomenon is unexpected under classical theories and confirms the reach of quantum mechanics even at large scales.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJul 19, 2016

Potential new target identified for treating itch

Scientists have discovered how sensory nerve cells work together to transmit itch signals, identifying a new potential target for treating itching. The discovery suggests that interfering with the activity of sensory neurons may inhibit multiple types of itching.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalScience Signaling·DateJul 19, 2016

Metastatic prostate cancer cases skyrocket

A recent study by Northwestern University found that metastatic prostate cancer cases have increased by 72% between 2004 and 2013, with men aged 55-69 being disproportionately affected. The study suggests that both more aggressive disease and lax screening may be contributing factors.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProstate Cancer and Prostatic Diseases·DateJul 19, 2016

Minimalist swimming microrobots

Researchers at Drexel University have developed a fabrication method for swimming microrobots using just two conjoined microparticles coated with magnetic debris. The microswimmers can be controlled by an external magnetic field, allowing for control over speed and direction.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateJul 19, 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.

On the path to controlled gene therapy

Researchers have successfully programmed a virus to transport genetic material to affected tissue and nerve cells, opening up new options for treating various diseases. The approach uses attenuated viruses to selectively target diseased cells, reducing damage to healthy ones.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalMolecular Therapy — Nucleic Acids·DateJul 19, 2016

NASA sees a weaker Hurricane Darby in infrared light

Hurricane Darby's strength is decreasing due to warming cloud tops, indicating a weakening circulation with strong convection. The storm is expected to become a tropical storm later today, with maximum sustained winds remaining near 75mph.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 19, 2016

Researchers produce first widely protective vaccine against chlamydia

Researchers at McMaster University have developed a novel vaccine candidate, BD584, which shows promise in reducing chlamydial shedding and hydrosalpinx by 95% and 87.5%, respectively. The vaccine has the potential to be widely protective against all Chlamydia trachomatis strains, including those causing trachoma.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalVaccine·DateJul 19, 2016

Birds on top of the world, with nowhere to go

A new study predicts that climate change will restrict migratory birds to small islands in the Arctic Ocean as they retreat north, leading to declines in hard-hit regions and changes in migration pathways.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateJul 19, 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.

Abnormalities found in 'insight' areas of the brain in anorexia

A study found that individuals with anorexia nervosa who struggle with insight have abnormal brain connectivity in regions involved in error detection and conflict monitoring. This can lead to poor decision-making and a reduced ability to recognize the danger of their behavior, making recovery more challenging.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalPsychological Medicine·DateJul 19, 2016

Brain stimulation to reduce food cravings? The data so far...

A meta-analysis found that non-invasive brain stimulation can reduce food cravings for high-calorie snack foods, with a moderate-sized effect, roughly half a point on a four-point self-rated scale. The results suggest that DLPFC stimulation reduces cravings, especially for carbohydrates, which are often implicated in obesity.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalPsychosomatic Medicine·DateJul 19, 2016

IVF treatment not associated with increased risk of breast cancer

A study of 19,158 women who underwent IVF treatment and 5,950 women starting other fertility treatments found no association between IVF and increased breast cancer risk. Women with 7 or more IVF cycles had a significantly decreased risk compared to those treated with 1-2 cycles.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateJul 19, 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.

Chasing fire: Fever and human mobility in an epidemic

Researchers in Iquitos, Peru, found that fever reduces human mobility by 30% and increases time spent closer to home. Asymptomatic individuals play a significant role in disease transmission, highlighting the need for revised surveillance and control strategies.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·DateJul 19, 2016

Rate of new HIV infections increased in 74 countries over past decade

A new study found that the rate of new HIV infections increased in 74 countries between 2005 and 2015, posing significant challenges to ending the AIDS pandemic. Despite progress in lowering AIDS mortality, the pace of decline in new infections has slowed, with only a 0.7% drop per year between 2005 and 2015.

SourceInstitute for Health Metrics and Evaluation·JournalThe Lancet HIV·DateJul 19, 2016

Adults born with heart disease have increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes

Children born with heart disease have an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes after age 30, according to a new study. Those with cyanotic congenital heart disease face the highest risk. The incidence of diabetes by age 45 was significantly higher in CHD subjects compared to the general population.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateJul 19, 2016

New detector overcomes key challenge in using light for wireless communications

Researchers from Facebook's Connectivity Lab have demonstrated a new approach for detecting optical communication signals, overcoming the primary challenge of precisely pointing a small laser beam at a tiny light detector. The new technology uses fluorescent materials to collect and concentrate light onto a photodetector, achieving dat...

SourceOptica·JournalOptica·DateJul 19, 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.

To catch a wireless thief

Researchers are developing a crowdsourced system that allows users to contribute in helping detect and locate unauthorized radio frequency use. The system uses software-defined radio technology and smartphone apps to monitor for suspicious activity, potentially aiding authorities in combating wireless theft.

SourceUniversity of Utah·DateJul 19, 2016

Mercury exposure in Canada's northern indigenous communities

Canada's northern indigenous communities are at risk of mercury exposure due to high fish and marine animal consumption. The Canadian Medical Association Journal provides guidance on managing mercury exposure in patients with diets high in fish and marine animals.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJul 19, 2016

Virgin olive oil and hypertension

Epidemiological studies support the consumption of virgin olive oil as an effective antihypertensive agent. The unique bioactive properties of oleic acid and minor constituents in virgin olive oil protect against hypertension by influencing vascular contractibility and heart/kidney cellular loss, leading to reduced blood pressure.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCurrent Vascular Pharmacology·DateJul 19, 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.

In-hospital formula feeding, family history help explain breastfeeding gaps

Researchers found that black mothers were nine times more likely to be given formula in the hospital than white mothers, while Hispanic mothers had higher breastfeeding rates due to family history. The study suggests that hospitals and policy makers consider these factors to reduce racial and ethnic disparities

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateJul 19, 2016

American Cancer Society endorses HPV vaccine recommendations from CDC

The American Cancer Society has endorsed HPV vaccination recommendations from the CDC, recommending routine vaccination of all children at age 11 or 12. Vaccination is also recommended for females ages 13 to 26 and males aged 13 to 21 who have not been vaccinated previously or completed the 3-dose series.

SourceAmerican Cancer Society·DateJul 19, 2016

Risk of low blood sugar differs among similar diabetes drugs

A new systematic review found that gliclazide confers the lowest risk of hypoglycemia when added to metformin. This suggests prescribing a medication with a lower risk of low blood sugar may be a rational and affordable alternative for patients with type 2 diabetes.

SourceWiley·JournalBritish Journal of Clinical Pharmacology·DateJul 19, 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.

Juicy news about cranberries

Researchers at Worcester Polytechnic Institute and the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth discovered flavonols in cranberry juice significantly reduce E.coli adhesion, which can cause bacterial infections. The findings may lead to new antibiotic drug targets and alternative treatments for 'superbugs'.

SourceWorcester Polytechnic Institute·JournalFood & Function·DateJul 19, 2016

Teaming up against sepsis

A multidisciplinary team of UCSB faculty members and clinicians will conduct biomedical research on sepsis, a severe response to infections, thanks to a $12.8 million NIH grant. The program aims to develop radically different approaches to treating sepsis, with the goal of reducing disability and death.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·DateJul 19, 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.

Ship engine emissions adversely affect macrophages

A recent study reveals that ship engine emissions adversely affect macrophages, a key component of the immune system. The toxic effects of these emissions on macrophages can lead to pro-inflammatory reactions and other biological processes, highlighting the need for efficient particle-reducing measures.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 19, 2016

NASA seeks picometer accuracy

A new tool is being developed by NASA to assure picometer-level stability, a feat not yet accomplished. The instrument will measure tiny changes in mirror segments and other supporting telescope structure during environmental testing.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 19, 2016

Electron spin control: Levitated nanodiamond is research gem

Purdue University researchers have successfully controlled the electron spin of a levitated nanodiamond using lasers in a vacuum, enabling potential applications in quantum information processing, sensors, and fundamental physics studies. The technique could also be used to detect and measure gases, such as oxygen, with improved accuracy.

SourcePurdue University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 19, 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.

Surface tension can sort droplets for biomedical applications

Researchers at Colorado State University have developed a simple and inexpensive device that can sort droplets of liquid based solely on their varying surface tensions. The device uses a tunable surface chemistry to manipulate its repellency to different liquids, enabling the sorting of droplets by surface tension.

SourceColorado State University·JournalLab on a Chip·DateJul 19, 2016

Where the buffalo have evolutionarily roamed

Scientists explore European bison bulls' demographic history, revealing footprints of selection on over 400 genes. These genes are associated with physiological functions underlying distinctive features between bison and bovine lineages, such as thermogenesis and wooly hair development.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateJul 19, 2016

Australian first study finds massive diabetic foot disease costs

A new Australian-first study found that nearly half of patients hospitalized due to diabetic foot disease were already showing symptoms. Diabetic foot disease causes significant costs, with estimated annual direct costs reaching $350 million for hospitalization alone.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalBMJ Open·DateJul 19, 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.