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Science News for July 21, 2016


Fire clues in cave dripwater

Scientists at Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation discovered wildfire changes in cave dripwater chemistry, which will be preserved in stalagmites. The study highlights the need to carefully interpret dripwater data, including trace metals, to avoid wrongly attributing climate change.

SourceEuropean Geosciences Union·JournalHydrology and Earth System Sciences·DateJul 21, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Pharmacogenetics experts establish common vocabulary in bid to advance precision medicine

Experts have established a common vocabulary in pharmacogenetics to advance precision medicine. The standardized terms will help guide clinicians, laboratory staff, and patients in interpreting clinical pharmacogenetic test results. The goal is to improve medication safety and effectiveness by individualizing patient care.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalGenetics in Medicine·DateJul 21, 2016

Watching the brain do math

A new study from Carnegie Mellon University reveals four distinct stages of problem solving: encoding, planning, solving, and responding. The research uses functional MRI to analyze brain activity patterns and provides insights into how students think when solving math problems.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalPsychological Science·DateJul 21, 2016

Tide-triggered tremors give clues for earthquake prediction

Researchers found that small earthquakes along California's San Andreas Fault are triggered by tidal forces and provide insights into the fault's strength and behavior. The study's discovery may offer new warning signals for predicting major quakes.

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 21, 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.

Scientists release recommendations for building land in coastal Louisiana

A team of scientists released key recommendations to build and sustain land in coastal Louisiana using Mississippi River sediment diversions. The plan aims to mimic natural processes that originally built the land, taking advantage of winter flood peaks and spring sand, while minimizing socio-economic effects.

SourceLouisiana State University·DateJul 21, 2016

Trees' surprising role in the boreal water cycle quantified

Deciduous trees absorb a large amount of snowmelt water, equating to 17-20 billion cubic meters per year, with potential to create favorable conditions for thunderstorms. The study's findings have critical implications for understanding boreal forest hydrology and ecology.

SourceUniversity of Alaska Fairbanks·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 21, 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.

Virtual development of real drugs

A team of scientists has created an online resource, systemsDock, to virtually check the effectiveness and specificity of potential drugs. The tool allows users to screen multiple drugs against multiple biological targets, providing a comprehensive understanding of drug interactions with the biological system.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateJul 21, 2016

Distinct stages of thinking revealed by brain activity patterns

A new study reveals four stages of problem-solving: encoding, planning, solving, and responding, using functional MRI to analyze brain activity patterns. The method holds promise for designing more effective classroom instruction and broader applications in cognitive research.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateJul 21, 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.

Lack of sleep increases a child's risk for emotional disorders later

Children who experience inadequate or disrupted sleep are more likely to develop depression and anxiety disorders later in life. A study funded by the NIH found that poor sleep impacts children's emotional health by altering positive emotional experiences, leading to increased negative emotions and diminished impulse control.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateJul 21, 2016

Helpful bacteria evolved alongside hominid hosts

A new study suggests that gut bacteria in modern humans and apes coevolved for millions of years to help shape their immune systems. Researchers found that bacterial species distinct to one host were rarely transferred to other hosts, indicating unique patterns of evolution along with their hosts.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJul 21, 2016

Female smokers face greatest risk for brain bleeds

Smoking is a leading risk factor for subarachnoid hemorrhage in women, with those who smoke up to 30 cigarettes per day facing the greatest danger. Quitting smoking significantly reduces the risk of this condition, making it an essential step in maintaining brain health.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateJul 21, 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.

Scientists harness CO2 to consolidate biofuel production process

Researchers at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory have harnessed carbon dioxide to neutralize toxicity in ionic liquids, streamlining the biofuel production process and reducing costs. The process could significantly lower production expenses and make biofuels more sustainable.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateJul 21, 2016

Why Americans waste so much food

A recent study found that only 53% of Americans are aware of food waste being a problem, despite its negative environmental impacts. The study identified practical benefits such as reduced risk of foodborne illness, but also feelings of guilt and misconceptions about the importance of food waste.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 21, 2016

Three-drug combinations could help counter antibiotic resistance, UCLA biologists report

Researchers found that combining three different antibiotics can often overcome bacterial resistance, with some combinations killing 100% of bacteria. The study's findings could be a major step toward combating drug-resistant infections, and the team plans to make open-access software available for other scientists and clinicians to use.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateJul 21, 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.

What hunter-gatherers can tell us about fundamental human social networks

Researchers studied two contemporary groups of hunter-gatherers, the Agta of Philippines and Mbendjele of Republic of Congo, revealing surprising similarities in their three-tiered social networks. This multilevel structure appears to buffer individuals against day-to-day shortfalls in foraging returns.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJul 21, 2016

One-third of students report elevated psychological distress, CAMH survey shows

A recent survey by CAMH found that 328,000 Ontario students in grades 7-12 reported moderate-to-serious psychological distress, with girls twice as likely to experience it. The survey also highlighted concerns around screen time, social media use, and problem gaming, which are contributing to the rising levels of distress.

SourceCentre for Addiction and Mental Health·DateJul 21, 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.

An accelerated pipeline to open materials research

The Bellerophon Environment for Analysis of Materials (BEAM) platform unites imaging technologies with advanced data analytics and high-performance computing to accelerate materials discovery and design. This innovation enables near-real-time processing, analysis, and visualization of large experimental datasets.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalProcedia Computer Science·DateJul 21, 2016

Some bacteria have lived in the human gut since before we were human

A new study reveals that certain bacteria in the human gut have been passed down over millions of years, guiding early intestine development and influencing immune systems. The researchers found genetic evidence that these bacteria split into distinct strains at around the same time as their hosts diverged from a common ancestor.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalScience·DateJul 21, 2016

How the brain improves motor control

Researchers at Osaka University have discovered that error signals in motor cortices drive adaptation in reaching, a key finding in motor neuroscience. The study used artificial electrical stimulation to induce trial-by-trial improvements in motor control, shedding light on the neural mechanisms underlying motor learning and adaptation.

SourceOsaka University·JournalNeuron·DateJul 21, 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.

Gene controls regeneration of injured muscle by adult stem cells

A key gene called AUF1 determines whether adult stem cells can regenerate muscle after injury and with age. The study found that mice engineered to lack the AUF1 gene showed reduced stem-cell-driven repair, leading to muscle breakdown.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalCell Reports·DateJul 21, 2016

University of Montana research unveils new player in lichen symbiosis

Researchers at the University of Montana discovered a previously unknown second fungus that is part of the symbiotic relationship between an alga and a fungus in many common lichen species worldwide. The findings, published in Science, suggest that the definition of lichen should be revised to include multiple fungal partners.

SourceThe University of Montana·JournalScience·DateJul 21, 2016

HD monkeys display full spectrum of symptoms seen in humans

Transgenic Huntington's disease monkeys exhibit a range of symptoms, including motor problems, neurodegeneration, emotional dysregulation, and immune system changes. The study strengthens the use of HD monkeys as a model for evaluating emerging treatments before human clinical trials.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·DateJul 21, 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.

IU-based startup Arrhythmotech awarded $1.47 million NIH grant

Arrhythmotech aims to detect nerve activity using its device capable of detecting the body's fight-or-flight response on the skin. The company will collaborate with researchers at the Mayo Clinic and Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, with a goal of making its method widely available for research, education, and patient care.

SourceIndiana University·DateJul 21, 2016

Regenerative medicine improves strength and function in severe muscle injuries

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine showed significant improvement in strength and range of motion, as well as evidence for skeletal muscle regeneration in patients treated with bioscaffolds. The study demonstrated the effectiveness of regenerative medicine in i...

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·Journalnpj Regenerative Medicine·DateJul 21, 2016

Sexual minority youth have higher rates of disordered eating behaviors

A new study found that sexual minority boys and girls are more likely to engage in unhealthy eating habits, with lesbian and bisexual girls facing a widening gap in rates. The study analyzed data from youth ages 12-18 and found disparities in disordered eating behaviors between sexual minority teens and their heterosexual peers.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalInternational Journal of Eating Disorders·DateJul 21, 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.

Football concussion update: Player-on-player hits cause more serious head impacts

A new study published in Pediatrics analyzed nearly 7,000 head impacts during a high school football team's season and post-season, finding that player-vs.-player hits resulted in the most severe impacts. The study's findings support recent guidelines encouraging players to avoid leading with their heads when hitting another player.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateJul 21, 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.

New detector at South Pole shows early success at neutrino hunting

The new Askaryan Radio Array detector is making waves with its ability to penetrate through Antarctic ice and detect high-energy neutrinos. Scientists are optimistic about the potential for this technology to reveal secrets about the universe's origins and evolution.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalPhysical Review D·DateJul 21, 2016

New therapeutic targets for small cell lung cancer identified

Researchers identified ASCL1 as an essential protein in the development of small cell lung cancer, and deleting it in mice prevented cancer formation. The study highlights a new potential target for treatment, offering hope for improving survival rates for patients with this devastating disease.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalCell Reports·DateJul 21, 2016

Yeast emerges as hidden third partner in lichen symbiosis

Researchers have uncovered yeast as a hidden third partner in lichen symbiosis, producing chemicals that help ward off predators and repel microbes. This discovery explains the genetic similarities between genetically identical lichens with distinct physical features.

SourcePurdue University·JournalScience·DateJul 21, 2016

Autophagy: Cellular waste recycling systems converge into a single process

A recent study from the Neuromed Institute reveals that two previously separate processes converge into a single cell component, the autophagoproteasome. This discovery provides a new understanding of autophagy, a critical mechanism for cellular renewal and waste removal.

SourceIstituto Neurologico Mediterraneo Neuromed I.R.C.C.S.·JournalFrontiers in Neuroanatomy·DateJul 21, 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.

Biologists home in on paleo gut for clues to our evolutionary history

A new study reveals that the evolution of gut bacteria in humans and hominids parallels ape evolution, suggesting a long-term co-evolution between hosts and microbes. The research sheds light on the importance of the human microbiome and its connection to our evolutionary history.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalScience·DateJul 21, 2016

Six Canadian innovations scaling up to improve global health

Six Canadian innovations, including a low-cost drill system and an HIV self-test application, will receive $10 million in scale-up funding from Grand Challenges Canada. The projects aim to improve global health in developing countries by providing innovative solutions for diseases such as diarrhea, cervical cancer, and HIV.

SourceGrand Challenges Canada·DateJul 21, 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.

Should I stay or should I go?

Researchers found that the direct and indirect pathways in the basal ganglia play a crucial role in controlling actions, with the direct pathway sustaining action and the indirect pathway allowing switching between actions. This new model could have therapeutic implications for treating diseases like OCD and ADHD.

SourceJLM&A, SA·JournalCell·DateJul 21, 2016

Here's why run-down schools trigger low test scores

A Cornell University study found that run-down schools contribute significantly to low test scores and poor academic achievement, accounting for 70% of the issue. Students attending such schools are more likely to miss classes and exhibit high absenteeism, hindering their ability to learn.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Environmental Psychology·DateJul 21, 2016

Artificial muscle for soft robotics: Low voltage, high hopes

Researchers at Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences have developed a dielectric elastomer with broad motion range that requires relatively low voltage and no rigid components. This innovation addresses key challenges in soft actuation and opens doors for various applications in soft robotics.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJul 21, 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.

Large protein nanocages could improve drug design and delivery

Researchers designed and built large protein icosahedra with potential applications in targeted drug delivery and vaccine development. The structures were created using computational and biochemical approaches, allowing for the design of complex structures from scratch.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalScience·DateJul 21, 2016

DNA-modulating drug attenuates lung inflammation in mice

A DNA-modulating drug, BET inhibitor, attenuates CF lung inflammation by suppressing Th17 cell response and inflammatory factor release. In a mouse model, BET inhibitor treatment decreases lung inflammation without promoting infection, suggesting potential therapeutic use for CF patients.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJCI Insight·DateJul 21, 2016

Why apnea patients are prone to suffer from glaucoma

Scientists at Hokkaido University measured eye pressure in sleeping patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome for the first time, discovering an unexpected correlation between the two conditions. This study sheds light on the potential mechanisms underlying glaucoma development in patients with OSAS.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalInvestigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science·DateJul 21, 2016

Background noise may hinder toddlers' ability to learn words

A new study found that background noise in homes and schools impairs toddlers' word learning skills. However, providing additional language cues can aid young children in overcoming this difficulty. The research suggests that reducing background noise or highlighting important information can help children learn effectively.

SourceSociety for Research in Child Development·JournalChild Development·DateJul 21, 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.

RMIT researchers make leap in measuring quantum states

A breakthrough in quantum tomography has been achieved by RMIT researchers, demonstrating a new technique that significantly reduces resources and improves robustness against noise. This innovation enables the characterisation of large quantum states, a critical bottleneck in quantum information science.

SourceRMIT University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJul 21, 2016

SHIP1 inhibitor reduces obesity and metabolic dysfunction in mice

A new study led by William Kerr of SUNY Upstate Medical University found that SHIP1 inhibition improved metabolic phenotypes in mice fed a high-fat diet. The results showed that SHIP1 inhibition prevented excess weight gain, improved blood sugar control, and reduced inflammation in adipose tissue.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJCI Insight·DateJul 21, 2016

A sweet example of human and wild animal collaboration

A study confirms a rare case of mutualism between humans and a wild animal, the Yao tribe's use of a distinct call to attract a bird species as a honeyguide resulting in 75% successful discovery of beehives. Researchers found that the 'brrr-hm' call increased the probability of being guided by a honeyguide from 33% to 66%.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJul 21, 2016

Smokers quitting tobacco also drink less alcohol

People who have recently attempted to quit smoking are more likely to try to drink less alcohol. They report lower levels of alcohol consumption and are less likely to binge drink compared to other smokers. This finding goes against the common assumption that quitters tend to increase their drinking.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Public Health·DateJul 21, 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.

Can palm oil be sustainable?

A new study identifies nearly 1.37 billion hectares of land globally suitable for oil palm cultivation, while avoiding protected forests and high-biodiversity areas. The resulting map includes 19.3 million hectares of land that could be available for future production, slightly more than the current extent of palm oil production.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalGlobal Environmental Change·DateJul 21, 2016

More doesn't mean better when it comes to trauma centers

Researchers found that each 1% decrease in trauma center volume is linked to a two-fold worsening in patient survival odds. The study suggests that unnecessary trauma centers can have a significant negative impact on patient outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalAnnals of Surgery·DateJul 21, 2016

A missing link in water modeling

Researchers found that lateral groundwater flow uniquely affects plant transpiration, making it up to 30 times greater than evaporation from shallow soil. Including this process in earth system models is crucial as changes in the water table become more common.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJul 21, 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.

Research offers new hope for understanding deadly infections

Researchers have identified molecular pathways required for the development of mucormycosis, a fatal infection in patients with weakened immune systems. The study provides new insights into the evolution of Mucorales fungi and offers potential therapeutic targets.

SourceLA BioMed·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 21, 2016

World's most sensitive dark matter detector completes search

The Large Underground Xenon (LUX) experiment has completed its search for dark matter with sensitivity far exceeding expectations, but yielded no trace of a dark matter particle. This result eliminates many potential models for dark matter particles, offering critical guidance for the next generation of dark matter experiments.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·DateJul 21, 2016

Australian physicists revisit spin-bowling puzzle

Researchers studied the effects of different spin types on cricket ball trajectory. They found that adding top-spin to a delivery can reduce pitch length by up to 25cm, while introducing side-spin can produce significant drift. The study aims to help newcomers master spin-bowling and potentially benefit tennis players.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalPhysica Scripta·DateJul 21, 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.

Study identifies ways to share key data between researchers, business practitioners

A multi-university research team found that researchers and practitioners share common interests in reducing pay inequality, improving employee morale, and leveraging technological innovation. The study suggests four steps for business schools to improve collaboration: promoting research findings, creating a new journal focused on prac...

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalAcademy of Management Journal·DateJul 21, 2016

UT Southwestern researchers identify new mechanism of tuberculosis infection

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have identified a new route of entry for the tuberculosis bacteria, suggesting an alternative to traditional inhalation-based transmission. This finding opens up potential avenues for developing new therapies to prevent or treat tuberculosis infection.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalCell Reports·DateJul 21, 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.

Neural networks -- why larger brains are more susceptible to mental illnesses

A recent study published in PLOS Biology suggests that larger brains are more susceptible to mental illnesses such as schizophrenia and Alzheimer's disease due to weaker long-distance connections. The researchers found that the global architecture of cortical networks in primates and rodents follows common principles, with primate brai...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJul 21, 2016

Mines hydrology research provides 'missing link' in water modeling

Researchers at Colorado School of Mines have developed a unique model that integrates processes not often captured in existing water models, including lateral groundwater flow. The study found a significant increase in water supply from transpiration when including lateral groundwater flow, paving the way for better global water models.

SourceColorado School of Mines·JournalScience·DateJul 21, 2016

Predatory prawns eliminate a major parasite more effectively than drugs alone

A new Stanford-led analysis reveals that introducing snail-eating prawns to local water sources is the most effective way to reduce schistosomiasis prevalence, outperforming drug-only treatment by over 90%. This approach has consistently proven effective in controlling the disease globally.

SourceStanford University·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateJul 21, 2016

For whom the births (and worms) toll

A study of 869 Tsimane women over 12 years found that high birthrates do not significantly impact maternal health, contrary to expectations. Despite a harsh environment with limited nutrition and high parasite exposure, women experience minimal health costs from their intense reproductive effort.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalAmerican Journal of Physical Anthropology·DateJul 21, 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.

Light-bulb moment for stock market behavior

University of Adelaide physicists discovered the timing of electronic orders on the stock market follows a Weibull distribution similar to light bulb lifetimes, showing rational behavior when intervals exceed 10 milliseconds. The finding could help predict dramatic movements and detect irregularities in market abuse.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalPhysics Letters A·DateJul 21, 2016

Researchers discuss challenges, successes of HIV cure research in science

Researchers at the University of North Carolina and partner institutions have made significant strides in understanding HIV latency, a key obstacle to eradicating the virus. The team has developed effective strategies, including histone deacetylase inhibitors, to reverse latency and boost the immune system.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalScience·DateJul 21, 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.

Self-organizing smart materials that mimic swarm behavior

Researchers have successfully demonstrated self-organizing pattern formation in active materials at microscale by modifying one parameter. The study uses Janus colloids to experimentally test collective, dynamic behavior, creating swarms, chains, clusters, and isotropic gases.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalNature Materials·DateJul 21, 2016

CCNY research gleans climate change insight from lizard genome

Using genomic data from three lizard species, City College of New York-led researchers gained insights on the impact of climate change on animal populations in South American forests. The findings improve ways to model biodiversity distribution in the past and future.

SourceCity College of New York·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 21, 2016

Lichens' secret symbiotic threesome

A new study has revealed that lichens form a complex symbiotic relationship involving three species, including yeast and fungi, which produces the toxic substance vulpinic acid. The research found that the yeast cells are vital to the lichen's health and may play a crucial role in its shape.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJul 21, 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.

Unconventional quasiparticles predicted in conventional crystals

An international team predicts several new types of quantum particles in materials, distinguished by intrinsic properties such as responses to magnetic and electric fields. The researchers propose that these fermions can appear in the bulk of materials, enabling a more systematic way to determine whether a system is a protected metal.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalScience·DateJul 21, 2016

A new method for prostate cancer imaging

Researchers developed an analog of an investigational drug that binds to portions of the androgen receptor common to full-length and variant forms. This compound specifically detected prostate cancer cells expressing androgen receptor in a mouse model using SPECT/CT imaging.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJCI Insight·DateJul 21, 2016

A new key to understanding molecular evolution in space

Researchers at Hokkaido University have discovered a key to understanding molecular evolution in space by revealing the temperature-dependent energy-state conversion of molecular hydrogen on ice surfaces. This finding challenges existing theories and opens new horizons for studying molecular formation and evolution.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJul 21, 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.

NASA sees Darby's strongest storms north of center

NASA's Aqua satellite detected coldest cloud top temperatures between minus 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit, indicating strong storms remained north of Tropical Storm Darby's center. The storms are expected to generate heavy rainfall due to their high altitude in the troposphere.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 21, 2016

Carnegie Mellon algorithm characterizes how cancer genomes get scrambled

Researchers have developed a new method to analyze scrambled cancer genomes, allowing for the simultaneous identification of two types of genetic changes and their connections. This tool, called Weaver, may help identify characteristics that distinguish cancers and inform personalized treatments.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalCell Systems·DateJul 21, 2016

Does social status affect generosity?

Research by Michigan State University scholars found that high-status individuals who don't feel they deserve their position are more generous. Generosity can alleviate feelings of inequity and promote a sense of fairness.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateJul 21, 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.

Case western reserve researcher receives NIH grant for HIV research in Uganda

Drs. Henry Boom and Moses Joloba at Case Western Reserve University and Makerere University, respectively, have received a $1.5 million five-year grant to strengthen Ugandan biomedical research capacity. The program aims to provide PhD-level training in microbiology and immunology to talented young Ugandan scientists.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·DateJul 21, 2016

Stanford researchers reveal cost-effective path to drought resiliency

A new Stanford study reveals that managed aquifer recharge (MAR) is an effective and affordable way to balance local groundwater decisions with regional and statewide management. The median cost of MAR projects is $410 per acre-foot, compared to $2,100 for surface water projects.

SourceStanford University·JournalSan Francisco Estuary and Watershed Science·DateJul 21, 2016

Airbags, seat belts associated with reduced likelihood of facial fractures

Airbags and seat belts significantly reduce the likelihood of facial fractures in motor vehicle collisions. The study found that using an airbag alone reduced the risk by 18%, a seat belt by 43%, and combining both devices by 53%. Facial fractures were more common among young males who used alcohol during the collision.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Facial Plastic Surgery·DateJul 21, 2016

Stop the rogue ADAM gene and you stop asthma

Researchers at the University of Southampton have found a potential method for preventing asthma by targeting the ADAM33 gene, which is associated with airway remodelling and inflammation. Stopping the rogue gene can significantly reduce asthma symptoms in mice, suggesting a new approach to disease modification therapy.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 21, 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.

Stress-coping mechanism helps mice make new friends

Researchers at the Weizmann Institute of Science identified a stress mechanism that regulates social behavior in mice, determining their willingness to form new relationships. The findings suggest that similar mechanisms may operate in humans, potentially informing treatments for social anxiety and other disorders.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateJul 21, 2016

Cinnamon may be fragrant medicine for the brain

A study by Dr. Kalipada Pahan found that cinnamon improves learning in poor mice by increasing sodium benzoate, a chemical produced as cinnamon breaks down in the body. The effect appears to be due mainly to sodium benzoate's ability to stimulate hippocampal plasticity and enhance the structural integrity of brain cells.

SourceVeterans Affairs Research Communications·JournalJournal of Neuroimmune Pharmacology·DateJul 21, 2016

Collective hum: Buzzing midges inspire new swarm theory

Scientists have discovered a mathematical resemblance between swarm dynamics and gravitational interactions in midge swarms. The team proposes an 'adaptive gravity' model that explains how swarming insects maintain cohesion despite the dominant interaction being long-range.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalNew Journal of Physics·DateJul 21, 2016

NASA's Hubble looks to the final frontier

The Hubble Space Telescope has explored the farthest objects in the universe, unveiling a warping-of-space phenomenon predicted by Einstein. The telescope has magnified images of galaxies much farther away, allowing astronomers to study the early universe and understand dark matter.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 21, 2016

We're lucky climate change didn't happen sooner

Naturally occurring carbon dioxide concentrations allowed for a relatively slow onset of climate change effects. Scientists have a longer window to understand and mitigate human-induced climate change.

SourceSpringer·JournalClimatic Change·DateJul 21, 2016

Stop the snails

A study published in PLOS NTDs found that 19 programs using widespread snail control reduced schistosomiasis prevalence by over 90%, while 29 with little or no snail control achieved less than 40% reduction. Ecological, economic, and political factors also contributed to successful elimination.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateJul 21, 2016

First free comprehensive data facility for patient-centered care

A new web-based data facility has been launched to aid the creation and implementation of patient-centered care policy. The Measure for Person Centred Coordinated Care (P3C) provides a compendium of measures for person centred care, making it easier to source information for commissioners and researchers.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·DateJul 21, 2016

Researchers temporarily turn off brain area to better understand function

Researchers at UC Davis used DREADDs technology to temporarily turn off the amygdala, a key region for emotions, and found changes in activity across the entire brain. This study suggests that altered brain connectivity may be used to determine pathology sites in complex disorders like schizophrenia and autism.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalNeuron·DateJul 21, 2016

Scientists program cells to remember and respond to series of stimuli

Researchers at MIT have programmed cells to remember and respond to a series of events, including substances commonly used in lab experiments. This approach enables the creation of environmental sensors that store complex histories and biological state machines with different behaviors.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateJul 21, 2016

New ASTRO clinical practice statement updates treatment standard for rectal cancer

The American Society for Radiation Oncology has updated its treatment standard for rectal cancer, recommending a more customized approach that may reduce treatment side effects. The new guideline suggests alternatives to the traditional tri-modal approach, including short-course radiation therapy and non-operative management.

SourceAmerican Society for Radiation Oncology·JournalPractical Radiation Oncology·DateJul 21, 2016

Immune-enhancing treatment may destabilize HIV reservoirs

Researchers found that combining antiretroviral therapy with an immune-enhancing treatment can destabilize viral reservoirs in macaques infected with simian immunodeficiency virus. The treatment, which targets PD-1, boosted anti-viral CD8+ cells and reduced SIV levels in infected monkeys.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·DateJul 21, 2016

UNIST to develop a new form of futuristic transportation system

Researchers at UNIST are developing a new form of futuristic transportation using the Hyperloop technology, which could reduce travel times from Seoul to Busan to just 16 minutes. The team aims to overcome challenges such as air resistance and friction by using magnetic levitation and innovative power supply systems.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·DateJul 21, 2016

A more powerful way to develop therapeutics?

A new approach to discover key proteins necessary for biologics has been developed by Philip M. Kim at the University of Toronto, combining high-tech computer simulation and laboratory experiments.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 21, 2016

Penn study models how the immune system might evolve to conquer HIV

Researchers modeled co-evolution of antibodies and viruses to understand conditions for broadly neutralizing antibodies to emerge. They found that presenting the immune system with a large diversity of viral antigens may prompt the emergence of such potent antibodies, which could defeat broad swaths of viral strains.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateJul 21, 2016

GPS jamming: Keeping ships on the 'strait' and narrow

Maritime GPS signal disruption can cause vessels to go off course and collide or run aground due to inaccurate positional information. Researchers investigated the impact of DGPS jamming on shipping lanes and found that even small errors can lead to hazardous situations.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalJournal of Navigation·DateJul 21, 2016

Wrist fractures linked to poor balance in elderly patients

Elderly patients with wrist fractures are more likely to have poor balance, increasing the risk of future injuries. Researchers recommend evaluating and treating balance deficiencies after a fracture to prevent further complications.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateJul 21, 2016

Making magnets flip like cats at room temperature

Heusler alloy NiMnSb exhibits spin-orbit torques, a phenomenon that enables magnets to flip themselves through internal electron motion. This effect could lead to improved magnetic random access memory architectures with low power consumption and scalability.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalNature Physics·DateJul 21, 2016