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Science News for June 20, 2016


Which animals will cope with climate change droughts?

A study developed a template to determine an animal's ability to cope with climate change droughts, considering physiology and environment. The Adaptive Triquetra model assesses species' resilience to increasing aridity by evaluating traits such as temperature tolerance and food availability.

SourceJames Cook University·JournalThe Quarterly Review of Biology·DateJun 20, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Solar cells for greener and safer energies

Researchers at ICFO have developed a solution-processed, semi-transparent solar cell based on AgBiS2 nanocrystals, which are non-toxic and abundant. The cells achieved power conversion efficiencies of 6.3%, competing with current thin film technologies, and offer potential as a low-cost alternative to traditional solar cells.

SourceICFO-The Institute of Photonic Sciences·JournalNature Photonics·DateJun 20, 2016

Watching the luminescent gene switch

Researchers from Hokkaido University developed a new method to track the switching on and off of circadian genes in freely moving mice, enabling the monitoring of gene expression patterns in specific tissues. This technique has significant implications for understanding clock gene function and its effects on mouse behavior.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 20, 2016

Crop breeding is not keeping pace with climate change

Experts warn that crop yields will decline within a decade unless new and improved varieties are developed and adopted by farmers immediately. The research highlights the impact of temperature increases on crop duration, which can lead to reduced biomass and yield.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalNature Climate Change·DateJun 20, 2016
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

NIH vision scientists test theory of how rods in our retina originated

A new study led by NIH researchers suggests that rod photoreceptors in mammals evolved from cone cells through a protein-mediated transformation, enabling nocturnal animals to thrive. The findings provide insights into the evolution of night vision and have potential applications for regenerating retinal cells.

SourceNIH/National Eye Institute·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateJun 20, 2016

Major support for cataract study

Researchers led by Salil Lachke are investigating cellular processes controlling protein production in eye lenses to prevent cataracts. The team aims to build a biological gene regulatory circuit and understand the role of RNA-binding proteins in lens development.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·DateJun 20, 2016

Titan shines light on high-temperature superconductor pathway

Scientists simulate cuprates to understand pseudogap phase and superconductivity emergence. A team led by Thomas Maier identified a possible alternative route mediated by magnetic fluctuations, suggesting an alternative mechanism for Cooper pairing in high-temperature superconductors.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 20, 2016
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Study finds manta rays are local commuters; not long-distance travelers

A new study by the Scripps Institution of Oceanography has challenged the assumption that oceanic manta rays are long-distance travelers. The research team found that these massive creatures tend to stay close to their local habitats, suggesting a high degree of residency behavior.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalBiological Conservation·DateJun 20, 2016
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

'Space tsunami' causes the third Van Allen Belt

Scientists have discovered a 'space tsunami' that creates the third Van Allen Belt, a region of intense radiation in space. This finding helps mitigate the effects of extreme space weather and has significant implications for satellite operations and human exploration.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalNature Physics·DateJun 20, 2016

Fear factor: A new genetic candidate for treating PTSD

Researchers at Children's Hospital Los Angeles have discovered a new genetic candidate for testing therapies that may affect fear learning in people with PTSD or other conditions. The study found that the Hcn1 gene plays a significant role in regulating anxiety and fear responses.

SourceChildren's Hospital Los Angeles·DateJun 20, 2016

Plant kingdom provides 2 new candidates for the war on antibiotic resistance

Scientists have isolated two small peptides from crop species that show effective antimicrobial effects on bacteria implicated in food spoilage and poisoning. These peptides, similar to a human peptide used to guard against beer-spoiling bacteria, offer a promising new approach to combatting antibiotic resistance.

SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateJun 20, 2016

AFib patients at risk for stroke often prescribed aspirin instead of anticoagulants

A study published in Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that more than one-third of atrial fibrillation patients with an intermediate-to-high-risk of stroke are prescribed aspirin instead of oral anticoagulants. This discrepancy may be due to misconceptions about aspirin's efficacy compared to oral anticoagulants.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateJun 20, 2016

Chip makes parallel programs run faster with less code

Researchers from MIT's CSAIL present a new chip design called Swarm that makes parallel programs run many times faster and requires one-tenth the code. The chip has extra circuitry to prioritize tasks and handle synchronization between cores, making it easier for programmers to adapt sequential algorithms.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalIEEE Micro·DateJun 20, 2016
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

How can a family function better? Get outside together

Researchers at the University of Illinois have found that spending time in nature together as a family can restore attention, reduce irritation, and promote self-control, leading to better family relationships. Regular family-based nature activities can also foster a sense of identity and belonging within the family.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Family Theory & Review·DateJun 20, 2016

Scientists engineer tunable DNA for electronics applications

Researchers have developed a framework to manipulate DNA's conductivity by varying its sequence, length, and stacking configuration. This enables the creation of stable and efficient DNA nanowires with potential applications in gene damage identification and novel electronics.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature Chemistry·DateJun 20, 2016

High blood sugar could mean lower risk of one type of brain tumor

Researchers at Ohio State University have found that high blood sugar is associated with a lower risk of developing meningiomas, a type of benign brain tumor. Women with the highest fasting blood sugar levels were less than half as likely to develop a tumor.

SourceOhio State University·JournalBritish Journal of Cancer·DateJun 20, 2016

New electron microscope method detects atomic-scale magnetism

Scientists developed a new technique to detect magnetic behavior at the atomic level using aberration correction in electron microscopy. This approach can collect magnetic signals from individual atoms, refining existing methods like x-ray spectroscopy and neutron scattering.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalAdvanced Structural and Chemical Imaging·DateJun 20, 2016
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Aspirin versus blood thinners in atrial fibrillation patients with stroke risk

Researchers found nearly 40% of AF patients at intermediate to high risk for stroke treated with aspirin alone, despite previous data showing blood thinners more beneficial. The study highlights the need for cardiology specialists to adhere to standardized recommendations regarding the use of oral blood thinners.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateJun 20, 2016

'Electric wind' can strip Earth-like planets of oceans, atmospheres

A powerful electric wind can strip water from an atmosphere, stripping Venus of its oceans, and may have played a significant role in Earth's loss of oceans. The discovery was made by NASA-funded researchers using the ESA's Venus Express mission.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJun 20, 2016
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Heat sickens corals in global bleaching event

The Great Barrier Reef has suffered severe damage from coral bleaching, with 93% of the reef's corals affected. Severely bleached corals have lost nearly all their zooxanthellae, making recovery highly unlikely.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·DateJun 20, 2016

Controlling light: New protection for photosynthetic organisms

Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis have discovered a previously unknown strategy that allows photosynthetic organisms like Chlorobaculum tepidum to survive exposure to oxygen, which could harm them. The 'photosynthetic volume control' mechanism involves two normal amino acids and works by dissipating excess energy as har...

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 20, 2016

Stealth nanocapsules kill Chagas parasites in mouse models

Researchers developed stealth nanocapsules that cure more than half of infected mice with Chagas disease, outperforming conventional nanocapsules. The new delivery system is simple to produce and can be taken orally, making it a practical solution for treating the disease in less developed countries.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalAntimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy·DateJun 20, 2016

$5.8 million grant to improve health for minorities living with HIV

A new intervention aims to increase engagement with treatment among African-American/black and Hispanic people living with HIV. The study will use a pioneering engineering-inspired framework - the Multiphase Optimization Strategy (MOST) -- to identify effective components and build the most cost-effective package.

SourcePenn State·DateJun 20, 2016

Ten simple rules to use statistics effectively

The guidelines aim to help researchers avoid common pitfalls in statistical reasoning and ensure accurate findings. The rules emphasize the importance of data quality, careful design, and replication to increase the likelihood of robust results.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateJun 20, 2016
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Keeping alive the art of experimental design

A team of LLNL researchers developed a system using shaped charges to sever an offshore drilling rig from the seabed, solving a critical challenge after the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Their experiment validated their model and provided insight into effective experimental design.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory·DateJun 20, 2016

Researchers link childhood hunger, violence later in life

New research found that children who experienced frequent hunger as kids were more than twice as likely to exhibit impulsivity and injure others intentionally. The study suggests that addressing childhood hunger may help reduce violence, especially among white, Hispanic, and male participants.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateJun 20, 2016

Refugees can offer economic boost to their host countries

A recent study by UC Davis and UN World Food Program found that refugees receiving cash aid can create significant economic benefits for their host countries. The researchers discovered that each additional refugee increased local income by up to 96% in one of the camps, with most of this money spent on goods and services outside the c...

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 20, 2016
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Hospital readmission app could save healthcare industry billions

A mobile application developed by Binghamton University graduate students could help reduce hospital readmission rates and save the healthcare industry billions. The app uses a prediction model to evaluate patient risk and provides instant communication between doctors, nurses, and patients.

SourceBinghamton University·DateJun 20, 2016

Disney princesses: Not brave enough

A recent study from Brigham Young University reveals that preschoolers exposed to Disney Princess culture are more susceptible to limiting female gender-stereotypical behavior, which can be detrimental in the long term. However, the study also suggests that princesses can provide a counterbalance to hyper-masculine media for boys.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalChild Development·DateJun 20, 2016
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

E-cigarette use can alter hundreds of genes involved in airway immune defense

A study by UNC researchers found that vaping e-cigarettes alters dozens of genes essential for upper airway immune defense, similar to cigarette smoking. This discovery suggests that inhaling flavored liquids in e-cigarettes has consequences on epithelial cell gene expression, potentially increasing the risk of respiratory problems.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·DateJun 20, 2016

Tiny alpaca-derived antibodies point to targets preventing viral infection

Researchers have developed a method using tiny alpaca-derived nanobodies to identify and target specific proteins involved in viral infections. By using these molecules to perturb cellular processes, scientists can tease apart the roles individual proteins play in disease, leading to potential new treatments for infectious diseases.

SourceWhitehead Institute for Biomedical Research·JournalNature Microbiology·DateJun 20, 2016

Difficult to predict low testosterone in older men using data on younger men

A systematic review of 40 studies found a weak correlation between signs, symptoms, and testosterone levels in ageing men. The authors suggest that it is difficult to extrapolate the diagnosis of pathologic hypogonadism from younger men to older men with age-related testosterone declines.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJun 20, 2016

London bee tracking project begins

A London bee tracking project has begun, releasing 500 tagged bees to study their behavior and interactions with flowers in urban gardens. The project aims to understand the bees' preferred patches and favourite flowers, rewarding participants with prizes for identifying the most flowers visited by individual bees.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·DateJun 20, 2016
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Rice University lab synthesizes new cancer fighter

Researchers at Rice University have synthesized a new cancer-fighting compound called Thailanstatin A, which targets the spliceosome, a complex of proteins and ribonucleoproteins that regulate DNA splicing. The compound has shown promise in preclinical studies and could potentially be used to develop new therapies for cancer.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJun 20, 2016

Simple reward-based learning suits adolescents best

A new study published in PLOS Computational Biology found that adolescents are more receptive to rewards than punishments of equal value. The researchers suggest using positive reinforcement methods in education and parenting to encourage desired behavior, as reward-based systems may be more effective for this age group.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateJun 20, 2016

Tailored DNA shifts electrons into the 'fast lane'

A team of researchers has engineered a DNA nanowire with alternating guanine bases to facilitate long-range wave-like electronic motions. This breakthrough may lead to the development of stable, efficient, and tunable DNA nanoscale devices.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Chemistry·DateJun 20, 2016
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Simple reward-based learning suits adolescents best

Adolescents outperform adults in choosing rewards but struggle with punishment, leading to the development of a new model for learning during adolescence. The study suggests that incentive systems based on reward rather than punishment may be more effective for this age group.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateJun 20, 2016

Invasive species could cause billions in damages to agriculture

The study analyzed 1,297 invasive insect pests on 124 countries, finding the US, China, India, and Brazil to be the highest potential cost impacters. Smaller developing countries like those in sub-Saharan Africa are disproportionately vulnerable due to their reliance on agriculture.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 20, 2016

People allergic to insect venom need precision medical diagnosis and treatment

Researchers at Aarhus University have developed individual profiles of allergy reactivity in patients who are not protected after immunotherapy. They created artificial allergens that perfectly mimic the allergens in insect venom, which can be used to improve medical treatment for people allergic to insect stings.

SourceAarhus University·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateJun 20, 2016

Molecular map provides clues to zinc-related diseases

The study provides a roadmap for targeting ZIP4, which is overexpressed in pancreatic cancer and plays a critical role in zinc transport, offering new hope for treating diseases like acrodermitis enteropathica and pancreatic cancer.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 20, 2016

Fighting resistant blood cancer cells

Researchers have discovered new drugs that can break resistance to Gab2 in CML cells, a type of blood cancer. The study found that sorafenib and axitinib are effective in treating CML model systems, providing potential alternatives for patients who have developed resistance to existing medications.

SourceBIOSS - Centre for Biological Signalling Studies·JournalLeukemia·DateJun 20, 2016
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

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

Blood test shows promise in gauging severity of pulmonary arterial hypertension

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have developed a new blood test to measure levels of hematoma-derived growth factor (HDGF), which rise predict survival in patients with severe pulmonary arterial hypertension. Higher levels of HDGF are linked to more extensive heart failure and poorer outcomes.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateJun 20, 2016

Microbiota affect the rate of transplant acceptance and rejection

A mouse study reveals that skin grafts between mice treated with antibiotics before transplantation survive roughly twice as long. The team also found that changing the composition of microbiota affects organ transplants, suggesting a new strategy to improve transplant outcomes in humans.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJun 20, 2016

UTSW study finds new enzyme with structure that could explain how heart can beat optimally

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center identified a previously unrecognized enzyme, MLCK4, that could optimize contraction and prevent heart failure. The study provides the first three-dimensional structure for any member of the MLCK family and sheds light on the optimal phosphorylation level for normal heart function.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 20, 2016
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

'Traffic lights,' calorie counts help consumers order healthier online

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University and the University of Pennsylvania found that online food ordering reduced calorie counts by about 10 percent when menus used traffic light color-coded labels, numeric labels, or a combination of both. The study suggests that clearer information helps consumers make healthier choices.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalJournal of Public Policy & Marketing·DateJun 20, 2016

Robotic motion planning in real-time

A new computer processor designed specifically for robotic motion planning can plan movements up to 10,000 times faster than existing approaches while using significantly less power. This breakthrough technology has the potential to revolutionize robotics and automation in manufacturing environments.

SourceDuke University·DateJun 20, 2016
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

What does Zika virus mean for the children of the Americas?

The Zika virus outbreak has highlighted the need for new paradigms in child health, requiring mobilization by pediatricians and healthcare providers to address the growing number of cases. The article suggests revisiting the response to HIV/AIDS 30 years ago to inform a new approach.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateJun 20, 2016

Study finds surgery can lengthen survival of metastatic kidney cancer patients

A new study by Dana-Farber Cancer Institute found that surgery to remove a cancerous kidney can lengthen the lives of patients receiving targeted therapy for metastatic kidney cancer. Patients who undergo the procedure survive for a median period of 17.1 months, compared to 7.7 months for those who don't receive the surgery.

SourceDana-Farber Cancer Institute·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateJun 20, 2016

Ultra-thin solar cells can easily bend around a pencil

Researchers in South Korea have developed ultra-thin photovoltaics with a record-breaking flexibility, allowing them to wrap around small objects. The new method uses transfer printing instead of etching and produces flexible solar cells with a smaller amount of materials.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateJun 20, 2016

How China can ramp up wind power

A new study suggests that China can increase its use of wind power, but not in the most resource-rich areas. The country should focus on integrating wind into existing grids for a substantial gain in renewable energy and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Energy·DateJun 20, 2016

New nanoparticle technology developed to treat aggressive thyroid cancer

Researchers developed an innovative nanoplatform to deliver RNAi agents to tumor sites, suppressing growth and reducing metastasis in preclinical models of anaplastic thyroid cancer. The platform, called theranostic, brings therapy and diagnosis together in one functional nanoparticle.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 20, 2016
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Self-assembling icosahedral protein designed

Researchers have designed a self-assembling icosahedral protein nano-cage with a large internal volume, capable of holding more cargo than previously designed nano-cages. The cage's reversible property allows it to disassemble and reassemble under certain conditions.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalNature·DateJun 20, 2016

10,000 windows onto biomolecular information processing

Researchers have developed a new brute force technique to test thousands of biochemical reactions at once, allowing them to quickly find optimal conditions. This breakthrough enables faster development of diagnostic tests and sheds light on molecular behavior in test tube conditions.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature Chemistry·DateJun 20, 2016

Botanical diversity unraveled in a previously understudied forest in Angola

A recent botanical survey in Angola's Kumbira forest revealed impressive numbers of vascular plants, including new records for the country and potential new species. The study highlights the importance of preserving the region's biodiversity due to human activities such as logging, agriculture, and invasive species.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalPhytoKeys·DateJun 20, 2016
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

An attempt to reduce materials cost of autoclaved aerated concrete production

A study investigates the feasibility of producing autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC) by combining MSWI bottom ash with CFBC fly ash, significantly reducing material costs. The researchers found that satisfactory properties can be achieved using this combination without additional additives.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalThe Open Civil Engineering Journal·DateJun 20, 2016

Illuminating detection of deep cancers

A team of Tokyo Tech and UEC researchers developed a luciferin analog, AkaLumine-HCl, that produces near-infrared bioluminescence with improved tissue-penetration efficiency. This allows for highly sensitive deep-tissue imaging in animal experiments, including lung cancer models.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 20, 2016

New Baylor research identifies keys to managing innovators

A new study from Baylor University's Hankamer School of Business reveals that highly innovative individuals can be committed to both their organizations and professions, especially when they understand their role in the organization's success. The study suggests design policies and procedures that support creative work styles and empha...

SourceBaylor University·JournalResearch Policy·DateJun 20, 2016

New technique improves accuracy of computer vision technologies

Researchers at North Carolina State University developed a new image segmentation technique that improves object identification and separation in images. The technique, called Consensus-Based Image Segmentation via Topological Persistence, aggregates data from multiple algorithms to create a new version of the image.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·DateJun 20, 2016
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Third to half of UK population lives with chronic pain

A recent analysis found that approximately 43% of the UK population, around 28 million adults, suffer from chronic pain. The prevalence is expected to rise as the population ages, with older individuals being more likely to experience long-term pain. Women are also more likely to be affected by chronic pain than men.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Open·DateJun 20, 2016

Radiological prediction of posttraumatic kyphosis after thoracolumbar fracture

A study investigated risk factors for progressive kyphosis after a thoracolumbar spine injury. The authors analyzed X-rays of patients with traumatic spinal fractures to determine the relationship between fracture type, patient characteristics (AO classification, age, gender, and localization), and post-traumatic kyphosis.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalThe Open Orthopaedics Journal·DateJun 20, 2016

Newborn exoplanet discovered around young star

A team of Caltech-led researchers has discovered the youngest fully-formed exoplanet ever detected, K2-33b, which orbits a young star at 5 to 10 million years old. The planet's proximity to its star and large size suggest it may have formed quickly or challenged the migration theory.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateJun 20, 2016

How early mammals evolved night vision to avoid predators

In early mammals, rods in the mammalian eye developed from color-detecting cone cells, giving them an edge in low-light conditions. This evolution allowed early mammals to take up a nocturnal lifestyle and survive as predators were dominant during the day.

SourceCell Press·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateJun 20, 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.

Understanding the resistance to treatments against breast cancer

Biologists from UNIGE reveal a mechanism of resistance to the anti-estrogenic drug tamoxifen, identifying eight factors that enable breast cancer cells to become refractory to treatment. The researchers suggest various approaches for developing new therapies targeting these factors.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateJun 20, 2016

RedEye could let your phone see 24-7

Researchers at Rice University developed RedEye, a technology that can provide computers with continuous vision, enabling wearables to see and remember what their owners need. By analyzing analog signals in real-time, RedEye improves energy efficiency and presents unique privacy advantages.

SourceRice University·DateJun 20, 2016

High levels of education linked to heightened brain tumor risk

A large observational study found that university-educated individuals are more likely to develop certain types of brain tumors, including gliomas and meningiomas. Men with higher education were 19% more likely to develop glioma, while women were 23% more likely.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·DateJun 20, 2016
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Strike a pose -- bringing crop analysis into the 21st century

CropQuant uses Raspberry Pi computers to control infield cameras capturing crop growth images, then analyzes data on high-performance computers to link environmental data with crop traits. This enables scientists to reduce farming costs and improve crop yields through field-based phenotyping methods.

SourceEarlham Institute·DateJun 20, 2016

Scientists glimpse why life can't happen without water

Scientists have made a groundbreaking discovery that water molecules play a crucial role in controlling protein motion. The study reveals that proteins rely on water to fold and function correctly, with water molecules modulating protein fluctuations at ultrafast time scales.

SourceOhio State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 20, 2016
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

NERSC readying for Cori Phase 2 Knights Landing-based system

NERSC is optimizing 20 leading science applications for the new Cori system, set to arrive in July. The system will feature Intel's Xeon Phi Knights Landing processor, with optimizations focusing on thread scaling, vector parallelism and on-chip MCDRAM.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·DateJun 20, 2016

New brain map could enable novel therapies for autism and Huntington's disease

USC scientists have created a comprehensive map of the dorsal striatum, a part of the brain responsible for motor learning and coordination. The study identifies 29 distinct areas and hubs that coordinate complex limb movements, potentially leading to new treatments for autism and Huntington's disease.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateJun 20, 2016
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Most biodiverse countries spending the least on conservation, study finds

A study by WCS and University of Queensland found that countries most in need of conservation are not investing enough, despite being home to most of the Earth's biodiversity. The researchers recommend adopting culturally-appropriate conservation efforts to promote economic development and wealth before acting on conservation.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalConservation Biology·DateJun 20, 2016

More gay men than ever getting tested for HIV -- but 1 in 4 still never had a test

According to the National Gay Men's Sex Survey, more gay and bisexual men than ever are getting tested for HIV. However, one in four have never had an HIV test, and many are unsure of their status. The survey also found that condom use remains a concern, with one-in-three sexually active gay men having unprotected anal sex with non-ste...

SourceLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine·DateJun 20, 2016

Shedding light on an assistant protein

Researchers at the University of Würzburg have developed a new fluorescence probe to visualize the motions of Hsp90, an essential chaperone that assists numerous proteins. The technique reveals synchronized structural changes within the protein, shedding light on its healing powers and potential connection to diseases.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateJun 20, 2016
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

How a cold gets into cells

Researchers at Vienna University of Technology have developed a new method to analyze the process of RNA transfer from viruses into human cells. This breakthrough could lead to the development of new drugs that prevent this precise RNA transfer.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalAnalytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry·DateJun 20, 2016

Low FODMAP diet and IBS recently published by Dove Medical Press

The low FODMAP diet has been found to be an effective treatment option for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), with a significant body of evidence supporting its efficacy. The long-term effects of this dietary approach, however, require further investigation.

SourceDove Medical Press·JournalClinical and Experimental Gastroenterology·DateJun 20, 2016

Strong 'electric wind' strips planets of oceans and atmospheres

A new study published in Geophysical Research Letters reveals that Venus' electric field is capable of accelerating oxygen ions to escape the planet's gravity, stripping away significant amounts of water over billions of years. This discovery challenges previous theories about the planet's loss of oceans and atmospheres.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJun 20, 2016

Researchers find better way to 'herd' electrons in solar fuel devices

The discovery could lead to more efficient conversion of sunlight into electricity and fuel by minimizing the distance electrons travel through chemical bonds. This finding has implications for both solar fuel devices and biological systems, where understanding electron transfer is crucial.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalNature Chemistry·DateJun 20, 2016
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Breathing space for the Gulf Stream

Scientists have calculated the fate of Greenland's melting freshwater, finding that more than half of it is transported southward by the Labrador Current. The study suggests that the melting-induced impact on ocean salinity is smaller than expected and may lead to a weakening of the Gulf Stream system.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel (GEOMAR)·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJun 20, 2016

Newer tests could cut hep C diagnosis steps in half

Researchers found that several commercially available tests for hepatitis C virus core antigen are highly sensitive and specific, potentially replacing the current two-test screening process with a single test. This could streamline care in low- and middle-income countries where HCV is prevalent, but patients are often lost to follow-up.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJun 20, 2016

Study finds patient navigators improve comprehensive cancer screening rates

A clinical trial found that patient navigators increased the likelihood of low-income and ethnic minority patients receiving cancer screenings. The study showed that 32% of patients connected with navigators completed at least one overdue screening, compared to 18% in the control group.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJun 20, 2016
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Urban bird species risk dying prematurely due to stress

Research from Lund University reveals that urban great tits have shorter telomeres than their rural counterparts, increasing their risk of dying young. The induced stress in urban environments is believed to be the primary cause of this difference.

SourceLund University·JournalBiological Letters·DateJun 20, 2016

Researchers find Highland East Asian origin for prehistoric Himalayan populations

A study published in PNAS found that high-altitude Himalayan populations have a remarkably stable genetic make-up despite cultural transitions and outside population exposure. The analysis suggests that these populations originated from East Asia, with genetic stability maintaining across millennia.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 20, 2016

Silencing of gene affects people's social lives, study shows

A recent study by researchers at the University of Georgia found that silencing of the OXT gene may impact social behaviors, including recognizing emotional states of others. Participants with higher methylation levels of the OXT gene showed difficulty in describing facial emotions and had increased anxiety about relationships.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 20, 2016

Breast cancer cells use newfound pathway to survive low oxygen levels in tumors

Researchers discovered a new signaling pathway that helps cancer cells cope with hypoxia, allowing them to thrive in low-oxygen environments. The study found that the enzyme protein-tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) regulates tumor response to hypoxia by controlling oxygen consumption, potentially leading to novel treatments.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateJun 20, 2016

Cannabis use during pregnancy may affect brain development in offspring

A new study published in Biological Psychiatry suggests that prenatal cannabis exposure is associated with thicker prefrontal cortex in children. The study found no differences in overall brain volume, but highlights the importance of preventing cannabis and cigarette use during pregnancy.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateJun 20, 2016

Low attention control in early adolescence is a genetic risk factor for anxiety disorders

Researchers at the University of Texas at Arlington found a significant genetic link between low attention control in early adolescence and four distinct anxiety symptoms. Low attention control is also linked to increased risk of depression, drug dependence, suicidal behavior, and educational underachievement.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalJournal of Research on Adolescence·DateJun 20, 2016

Apparel causes additional barriers for people living with disabilities

A study by University of Missouri researchers identified three types of apparel-related barriers: mechanical, cultural, and sensory sensitivity barriers. These barriers prevent people with disabilities from engaging in their communities, including job interviews, court appearances, and team sports.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalDisability and Rehabilitation·DateJun 20, 2016

Four new risk genes associated with multiple sclerosis discovered

Scientists identified four new risk genes linked to epigenetic mechanisms in MS, which affect gene regulation within immune cells. These findings suggest that environmental influences play a significant role in the development of MS, with epigenetic signals marking DNA sequences and regulating gene activation.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 20, 2016