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Science News for June 29, 2016


Creating a sustainable 'circular economy' could be complex but rewarding

The article explores the concept of a circular economy, which aims to reduce pollution and waste by recycling resources instead of discarding them. Companies are implementing new manufacturing processes that use safer substances, and the European Union is grappling with regulation of chemicals in a closed-loop recycling system.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateJun 29, 2016

Crucial peatlands carbon-sink vulnerable to rising sea levels

Researchers at the University of Exeter found that peatland ecosystems' ability to absorb and store carbon is threatened by rising sea levels due to increased salt concentrations. The study highlights the vulnerability of blanket bogs in Northwest Scotland to sea-level rise, which could lead to a sharp decline in carbon storage.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 29, 2016

Rate of decline of cardiovascular deaths slows in US

Recent national trends in US death rates show a deceleration of decline in cardiovascular deaths, with heart disease mortality rates slowing down between 2000-2014. Cancer mortality rates remained relatively stable during this period.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateJun 29, 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.

UC Riverside anthropologist awarded NSF grant to excavate Maya households

Researchers will study household sites in Coba and Yaxuna ruins to understand social interactions between residents of two ancient cities linked by a massive roadway during the Late Classic period (600-900 A.D.). The project aims to determine how life changed for tens of thousands of people living along the causeway.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateJun 29, 2016

To improve global health, experts call for a standard list of essential diagnostic tests

A team of experts has proposed a standard list of essential diagnostic tests to support the use of medicines listed on the Model List of Essential Medicines. The list includes 147 critical laboratory tests across 57 categories, which can guide the use of many different EML drugs and improve healthcare quality in developing nations.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJun 29, 2016

Portable test rapidly detects Zika in saliva for $2

A new portable test has been developed to detect the Zika virus in saliva for just $2, making it a promising tool for managing outbreaks. The test can accurately detect low levels of the virus and distinguish it from similar viruses like dengue.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateJun 29, 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.

Physical activity boosts kids' brain power and academic prowess

The statement highlights the benefits of physical activity on children's brain development, intellectual performance, and academic success. It also emphasizes the importance of regular exercise for improved heart health, self-esteem, and social inclusion.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·DateJun 29, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Protein associated with improved survival in some breast cancer patients

Research has discovered a link between high levels of calpain and improved survival rates in breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. The study found that patients with higher calpain levels had better outcomes, suggesting the protein may be a key target for improving patient outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalOncoTargets and Therapy·DateJun 29, 2016

Wearable technology gets good ratings from plastic surgeons

A recent study published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery found that plastic surgeons gave high ratings to Google Glass for comfort and overall satisfaction, with average scores of nearly four out of five for photo and video quality. However, some limitations were noted, including difficulties with capturing images during surgery.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery·DateJun 29, 2016

Deceptive sexual signals keep the peace in a bonobo society

Research found that female bonobos' unreliable sexual swellings make it difficult for males to time their mating efforts accurately. This may reduce aggressive mate competition and result in bonobo societies being more peaceful. The study advances understanding of the evolution of sexual signaling in our closest relatives.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Evolutionary Biology·DateJun 29, 2016

Closer to reality: What can we really see when we look at a sample?

A new description of electron scattering in surface layers enables faster materials analysis and better understanding of sample properties. The theoretical tools used in spectroscopies can exhibit great 'malice', but a new analytical method simplifies calculations of the Chandrasekhar function, reducing errors.

SourceInstitute of Physical Chemistry of the Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalApplied Surface Science·DateJun 29, 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.

Country pledges overshoot Paris temperature limit

A new analysis published in Nature finds that country pledges under the Paris Agreement would lead to a global temperature rise of 2.6-3.1°C by 2100, exceeding the 2°C limit. The study suggests that additional measures are necessary after 2030 to limit warming to 2°C or even 1.5°C.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalNature·DateJun 29, 2016

New research could lead to restoring vision for sufferers of retinal disorders

Researchers have demonstrated that retinal cells carry out key processing tasks, paving the way for improved retinal implants and potentially restoring vision to those with macular degeneration. This breakthrough could significantly improve artificial retinas and enhance the sight of thousands affected by age-related macular degeneration.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield - Faculty of Engineering·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 29, 2016

Rio athletes may benefit from 'leaky gut' therapy

A study found that zinc carnosine can improve gut health and prevent leaky gut in athletes. The supplement, taken alone or with bovine colostrum, may help prevent heat stroke and other symptoms in active individuals.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateJun 29, 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.

Northern bird found to be more resilient to winter weather

A study by University of East Anglia researchers found that northern wren populations are more resilient to harsh winter weather due to local adaptation. The team discovered a correlation between regional climate and population resilience, with larger body mass observed in colder regions.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateJun 29, 2016

Research reveals widespread herbicide use on North American wildlands

Researchers found that more than 1.2 million acres of U.S. federal and tribal wildlands were sprayed with about 200 tons of herbicide in 2010, equivalent to 930,630 football fields. Glyphosate was the most commonly used active ingredient, posing a higher risk to native plants.

SourceThe University of Montana·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateJun 29, 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.

Surprising qualities of insulator ring surfaces

Researchers have discovered that ring-shaped topological insulators display characteristics similar to those in spherical materials. The study reveals a zero-energy state on the surface of ring-shaped insulators and a coupling between charge carriers and curvature, leading to gauge fields and unique electron spin behavior.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal B·DateJun 29, 2016

Testosterone therapy improves sexual interest, function in older men

A large placebo-controlled study found that testosterone therapy significantly improved sexual interest and function in older men with low libido and low testosterone levels. The study, the largest of its kind, showed consistent improvement in most types of sexual activity among those who received testosterone therapy.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateJun 29, 2016

Plate tectonics without jerking

Researchers from AWI deploy ocean bottom seismometers to record earthquakes on Southwest Indian Ridge, revealing unique insights into ocean floor formation. Water circulation up to 15km deep leads to aseismic areas with soft soap-like rock that moves without jerking.

SourceAlfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research·JournalNature·DateJun 29, 2016

Protein in, ammonia out

A recent study analyzed data from 25 previous studies to identify factors influencing ammonia emissions in dairy barns. Researchers found that reducing crude protein in a dairy cow's diet can significantly lower nitrogen excretion, resulting in reduced ammonia emissions. The study provides key information for farmers and farm advisers ...

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalJournal of Environmental Quality·DateJun 29, 2016

Motivation to bully is regulated by brain reward circuits

A study at Mount Sinai Hospital found that brain reward circuits, specifically the basal forebrain and lateral habenula, mediate motivation to engage in or avoid bullying. The research used a mouse model to demonstrate that activating this circuit makes bullying behavior pleasurable for some individuals.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNature·DateJun 29, 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.

UK wildlife calendar reshuffled by climate change

Climate change is altering the UK's wildlife calendar, with plants and animals responding differently to temperature changes throughout the year. By 2050, primary consumers are forecasted to shift their seasonal timing by more than twice as much as other species, potentially disrupting relationships between plants and animals.

SourceUK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology·JournalNature·DateJun 29, 2016

Your blood can reveal your risk for heart disease

Researchers found that measuring specific microRNAs in blood can improve risk prediction for myocardial infarction by 15-20% compared to traditional risk factors alone. The study, published in Journal of Molecular and Cellular Cardiology, identified five key microRNAs that can help identify individuals at high risk for heart disease.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalJournal of Molecular and Cellular Cardiology·DateJun 29, 2016

Mountaineering ants use body heat to warm nests

Army ants create underground bivouacs that maintain a consistent temperature 13 degrees F warmer than surface temperatures. This allows the colony to stay mobile and raise their young offspring, which is critical for their survival at high elevations.

SourceDrexel University·JournalInsectes Sociaux·DateJun 29, 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.

Men may face high lifetime risk of sudden cardiac death

A study published by the American Heart Association found that about one in every nine men will experience sudden cardiac death, most before age 70. The study also revealed that sudden cardiac death claims up to 450,000 American lives each year, with no prior symptoms of cardiovascular disease being a common cause.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateJun 29, 2016

Ovarian cancer study uncovers new biology

A recent study has identified over 200 proteins involved in cell movement and immune system function that are implicated in ovarian cancer progression. By analyzing the proteomes of 169 ovarian cancer patients, researchers have gained new insights into the biology of the disease and potential targets for treatment.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalCell·DateJun 29, 2016

As sea level rises, Hudson River wetlands may expand

Researchers predict that the Hudson River's wetlands will increase in area due to upland migration of existing marshes. This is despite concerns about infrastructure and population near the river, as the wetlands provide habitat for fish and wildlife and buffer against storms.

SourceCornell University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 29, 2016

Tennessee 4-H awarded $10,000 sponsorship for summer camp STEM experience

The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture has been awarded a $10,000 sponsorship to implement a Summer Camp STEM Experience during Junior 4-H camp in Columbia, Crossville, and Greeneville. The program aims to spark youth interest in STEM education through hands-on activities, including zip-lining, wildlife ecology, and archery.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture·DateJun 29, 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.

Both limited and excess sleep may raise diabetes risk in men

A new study found that both limited and excess sleep may raise diabetes risk in men, with those sleeping too much or too little having impaired glucose metabolism. In contrast, women who slept less or more than average were more responsive to insulin and had enhanced beta-cell function.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateJun 29, 2016

Analysis of 1976 Ebola outbreak holds lessons relevant today

The 1976 Ebola outbreak highlighted the importance of rapid clinical recognition, international notification, and specimen provision. Researchers recommend strengthened preparation, detection, response, control mechanisms, and international cooperation to manage future outbreaks promptly.

SourceNIH/Fogarty International Center·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateJun 29, 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.

Fire discovery sheds new light on 'hobbit' demise

Researchers at University of Wollongong have discovered physical evidence of fire use by modern humans at Liang Bua site on Flores Island, narrowing the time gap between hobbit species and modern human arrival. The findings suggest that modern humans likely arrived in Southeast Asia and Australia around 50,000 years ago.

SourceUniversity of Wollongong·JournalJournal of Archaeological Science·DateJun 29, 2016

Findings show gender, not race, a factor in college engineering dropouts

A five-year study found that men and women in engineering programs experience different expectations and outcomes, with women expecting negative experiences and this deterring them from staying. The research aims to develop methods to retain vulnerable populations in the engineering pipeline and provide evidence-based interventions.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·DateJun 29, 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.

Sexual arms race drives range expansion in UK diving beetle species

A new study found that UK diving beetle populations have shifted their ranges over the past three decades due to female choosiness, leading to the evolution of rough body surfaces in males. In some cases, 'rough' and 'smooth' females co-exist within the same species, with different geographical ranges. This shift is likely driven by th...

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalPeerJ·DateJun 29, 2016

RIT professors create new method for identifying black holes

Researchers at RIT create a faster and more accurate way to assess gravitational wave signals, inferring the sources that made them. They use numerical simulations of binary black holes to extract information directly from the data, improving accuracy over previous approximations.

SourceRochester Institute of Technology·DateJun 29, 2016

Jasmonate-deficient tobacco plants attract herbivorous mammals

Genetically modified tobacco plants lacking jasmonates are more susceptible to insect and vertebrate attacks, with a significant impact on reproductive ability. Rabbits prefer to feed on these plants, peeling the stems and reducing flower production, highlighting the importance of nicotine in plant defense.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology·DateJun 29, 2016

Aerobic exercise and CVD in women with fatty liver disease

In a 24-week study, aerobic exercise training improved cardiopulmonary functional capacity and reduced waist circumference in postmenopausal women with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Exercise also increased high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels, but did not significantly affect body composition or glycemic profiles.

SourceThe Menopause Society·JournalMenopause·DateJun 29, 2016
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

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

Climate study finds human fingerprint in Northern Hemisphere greening

A recent climate study found a significant correlation between human activity and enhanced vegetation growth in the Northern Hemisphere. The research, led by Oak Ridge National Laboratory, used advanced statistical methods to detect the human 'fingerprint' behind this phenomenon.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalNature Climate Change·DateJun 29, 2016

Radiation-guided nanoparticles zero in on metastatic cancer

Researchers developed nanoparticles that target and deliver chemotherapy drugs to metastatic cancer tumors using radiation guidance. The approach exploits overexpression of P-selectin molecules in human cancers, allowing for selective tumor penetration.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJun 29, 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.

Researchers design new camera tag for white sharks

A team of scientists at the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute has designed a new camera tag to track white sharks' behavior and habitat. The tag, called the 'Café Cam,' can capture video footage of the sharks for up to nine months, providing unprecedented insights into their lives.

SourceMonterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute·DateJun 29, 2016

Persistent HPV infection raises risk of anal and genital cancers

Women with a history of severe cervical intraepithelial neoplasia have an increased risk of developing anal, vulvar, and vaginal cancer, according to a recent study. The study found that women with CIN3 were 4.2 times more likely to develop anal cancer, four times more likely to develop vulvar cancer, and 17 times more likely to develo...

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·DateJun 29, 2016

Immune system link to kidney disease risk, research finds

Researchers at the University of Nottingham have discovered a genetic link between an immune system gene and an increased risk of kidney disease, specifically IgA nephropathy. The study found that variations in the number of copies of the alpha-defensin genes were strongly correlated with the condition.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJun 29, 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.

Simple screening tool helps determine COPD risk

A simple 7-item screening tool has been developed to identify patients at risk for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The tool uses predictive factors such as gender, age, smoking history, and breathlessness to assess COPD risk in primary care settings.

SourceWiley·JournalRespirology·DateJun 29, 2016

Blue-collar training in high school leaves women behind

Research by Cornell University finds that high school training for blue-collar jobs penalizes women in the labor market, reducing their odds of enrolling in college and earning comparable wages. Men in these communities benefit from vocational courses and higher rates of employment, but women face significant disparities.

SourceCornell University·JournalAmerican Sociological Review·DateJun 29, 2016

Total face transplant in patient with severe burns -- team outlines surgical approach

A team of surgeons at NYU Langone Medical Center successfully performed the most extensive clinical face transplant to date on a firefighter with severe burns. The procedure, which took 26 hours and involved 100 physicians and staff, included transplantation of skeletal subunits, eyelids, ears, scalp skin, and skeletal subunit transpla...

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery·DateJun 29, 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.

How a low-calorie diet could extend lifespan

A recent study published in ACS' Journal of Proteome Research found that calorie restriction can help delay age-related disorders. The researchers discovered that mice on low-calorie diets had reduced oxidative stress, improved lipid metabolism, and altered gut-microbial metabolites compared to those on high-calorie diets.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Proteome Research·DateJun 29, 2016

New clues about the aging brain's memory functions

A European study led by Umea University Professor Lars Nyberg found a positive link between the dopamine D2 receptor and long-term episodic memory, which often declines with age. The research suggests that impairment of the dopamine system may play a crucial role in understanding age-related cognitive decline.

SourceUmea University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 29, 2016

Vaccine against Zika virus tested successfully in mice

A vaccine developed by Brazilian and US researchers has been successfully tested in mice trials, preventing viral replication and inducing a protective immune response. The vaccine targets the premembrane protein and external envelope protein of Zika virus, offering hope for humans in the near future.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalNature·DateJun 29, 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.

Researchers develop key power-splitting component for terahertz waves

Brown University researchers have developed a variable broadband power splitter for terahertz radiation, which could enable data transfer up to 100 times faster than current cellular and Wi-Fi networks. The device can split signals into multiple channels with varying power levels, making it suitable for use in terahertz routers.

SourceBrown University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 29, 2016

Synthesized microporous 3-D graphene-like carbons

The IBS team developed a novel approach to synthesize carbon nanostructures by embedding lanthanum ions in zeolite pores, resulting in graphene-like materials with high electrical conductivity. This efficient synthesis strategy enables the scalable production of carbon nanostructures for various applications.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature·DateJun 29, 2016

It's not easy being green -- what colors tell us about galaxy evolution

Researchers used computer modeling to investigate galaxy colors and their relation to evolution. They found that rare green galaxies are likely at a critical stage of transformation from blue to red as they age. The study suggests that these galaxies' unique colors can provide insights into the processes driving their evolution.

SourceDurham University·DateJun 29, 2016

Queen's researcher finds truth to age-old maxim 'work hard, play hard'

A study published in The Open Psychology Journal found a strong correlation between motivation to work and attraction to leisure. Researchers discovered three distinct groupings of individuals based on their strongest motivational factors, suggesting that the 'work hard, play hard' motivation could serve an evolutionary purpose.

SourceQueen's University·JournalThe Open Psychology Journal·DateJun 29, 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.

Penguin population could drop 60 percent by end of the century

Climate change is projected to lead to a 60% decline in Adélie penguin populations by the end of the century, with some areas already experiencing population declines. The study suggests that refugia, or areas with relatively unaltered climate, may exist beyond 2099 and buffer a species-wide decline.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 29, 2016

New method detects telomere length for research into cancer, aging

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have developed a new method to detect telomere length, which can influence cancer progression and aging. The new approach uses non-radioactive probes, increasing sensitivity and stability, and may help slow or stop cancer cell growth.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalBioTechniques·DateJun 29, 2016

Ocean acidification affects predator-prey response

A study by University of California - Davis found that ocean acidification makes it harder for sea snails to escape from predatory sea stars. Lower pH levels impaired the snails' ability to sense and respond to the predators, with a tipping point at pH levels as low as 7.1.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·DateJun 29, 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.

NASA sees heavy rain in Arabian Sea tropical cyclone

A powerful tropical depression was weakening over the Arabian Sea, with maximum sustained winds near 30 knots. Heavy rainfall rates of over 8.2 inches per hour were recorded southwest of the storm's center, indicating a severe weather system.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJun 29, 2016

Viral protein silences immune alarm signals

Researchers at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia discovered a novel mechanism by which viruses shut down alarm signals that trigger immune responses. By trapping an important signaling molecule inside the cell nucleus, viral protein VII prevents it from sounding an alarm to the immune system.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalNature·DateJun 29, 2016

Vision through the clouds

Researchers at Technical University of Munich develop a helmet-mounted display that combines terrain information with sensor readings to enhance helicopter flight in poor weather conditions. The technology improves pilot performance and reduces stress symptoms.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·DateJun 29, 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.

El Niño could drive intense season for Amazon fires

Reduced rainfall during El Niño events leads to severe drought conditions, increasing the risk of fires during the dry season. The Amazon fire forecast uses climate and active fire detection data to predict fire severity.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJun 29, 2016

Breakthrough in brain cancer research made by Newcastle experts

Scientists at Newcastle University have made a groundbreaking discovery that brain tumour cells use fats to make energy, not sugars as previously believed. This new understanding has significant implications for developing treatments for glioma, the most common form of primary malignant brain tumour.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalNeuro-Oncology·DateJun 29, 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.

Zika virus infection may be prolonged in pregnancy

Research funded by NIAID found that Zika virus lingers in pregnant animals for at least 57 days, but provides immunity against future infections. Non-pregnant monkeys cleared the virus within 10 days of infection.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 29, 2016

OSIRIS-REx gears up for 3-D mapping on the fly

The OSIRIS-REx mission will generate detailed maps of asteroid Bennu using data from its five instruments, enabling the selection of a suitable sampling site. The team will also develop a new 3D shape model capturing the asteroid's irregular shape and create routine operation maps for navigation and sampling.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJun 29, 2016

Allergy-causing 'bad guy' cells unexpectedly prove life-saving in C. difficile

Researchers at UVA Health System identified a link between C. difficile infection and allergy-causing immune cells, offering potential solutions for prevention through targeted probiotics. The discovery has immediate implications for therapy, as maintaining the natural gut microbiome may prevent life-threatening infections.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalCell Reports·DateJun 29, 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.

Make no mistake, revenge is (bitter)sweet, study confirms

New research from Washington University in St. Louis shows that revenge is not just bitter, but also sweet, with people experiencing both positive and negative emotions. The study used three experiments involving over 600 participants to explore the emotional consequences of revenge.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalJournal of Experimental Social Psychology·DateJun 29, 2016

Plutons, swarms, geothermal energy, and active margins in transition

Two new Geosphere articles reveal the geological history of a major ignimbrite flare-up in the Central Andes, providing insights into the formation of geothermal energy resources. Researchers also study a distinct style of arc volcanism linked to slab-rollback and its impact on continental margins.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeosphere·DateJun 29, 2016

The large-scale stability of chromosomes

Researchers used computer simulations to model chromosomes and found that reorganization occurs only on small spatial scales and short time scales. The study aims to develop new methodologies for visualizing genome distances smaller than 0.1 Mbp, improving our understanding of chromatin behavior during interphase.

SourceInternational School of Advanced Studies (SISSA)·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateJun 29, 2016

Watching a forest breathe

Researchers obtained detailed measurements of carbon exchange in a temperate deciduous forest, revealing that trees exhale less CO2 during the day than previously thought. The study confirmed that forest photosynthesis doesn't decline over the course of summer, contrary to conventional wisdom used in climate models.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalNature·DateJun 29, 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.

Overweight youths at greater risk for heart failure

A high BMI in youth increases the risk of heart failure, even after adjusting for recent weight changes. Stable weight throughout life may be the best approach to reduce this risk. Excessive weight at a young age puts individuals at a far higher risk of heart failure compared to maintaining a healthy weight.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalJournal of Internal Medicine·DateJun 29, 2016

Shaping drops: Control over stiction and wetting

Researchers have created a surface with switchable wetting and adhesion using a single layer of boron nitride. The surface can be made water-repellent or wettable by applying an electrical voltage, opening up potential applications in daily life and space travel.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalNature·DateJun 29, 2016

Nutrition labels on dining hall food: Are they being used? By who?

A study found that university students who practice health-promoting behaviors like tracking food intake and exercising frequently are more likely to use nutrition information on dining hall food. Only 20% of students used the labels, despite high label awareness rates.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics·DateJun 29, 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.

Testing for malaria -- or cancer -- at home, via cheap paper strips

Researchers have developed paper strips that can detect diseases like cancer and malaria at home using a cost of 50 cents per strip. These tests are accurate even after a month and can be sent via mail, making them ideal for rural communities where access to healthcare is limited.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJun 29, 2016

The irony of awkward

A recent study published in Developmental Psychology found that individuals who engage in problematic media, such as violent video games, gambling, or pornography, become more withdrawn over time. The research suggests that avoidant individuals are particularly at risk for negative outcomes, including depression and crime, when they co...

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalDevelopmental Psychology·DateJun 29, 2016

Unlocking the secrets of nerve regeneration

Researchers discovered that cutting parallel fibres in normal mice results in three distinct phases of degeneration, hypertrophy, and remodelling. In contrast, mice lacking the GluD2 receptor remain stuck in the degenerative phase. This suggests that GluD2 plays a crucial role in regulating nerve regeneration.

SourceHokkaido University·DateJun 29, 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.

Everolimus R-CHOP combination safe for treating diffuse large B-cell lymphoma

Researchers have successfully combined everolimus with the standard R-CHOP regimen for new, untreated diffuse large B-cell lymphoma patients. The treatment achieved a 96% overall response rate and no dose-limiting toxicity was observed, indicating potential benefits in increasing cure rates and improving patient outcomes.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalThe Lancet Haematology·DateJun 29, 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.

A drop of water as a model for the interplay of adhesion and stiction

Researchers developed an electrically switchable nanomesh that alters the contact angle of a drop of liquid, enabling precise control over adhesion and stiction. This breakthrough has potential applications in biology and technology, including controlling cell movement and flow resistance in capillary pumps.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature·DateJun 29, 2016

Saved by the sun

A new solar-powered oxygen delivery system, developed by UAlberta, is providing concentrated oxygen to children with severe pneumonia in Ugandan hospitals. The system, which uses solar energy and batteries, has shown to be as effective as conventional oxygen delivery methods.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalThe International Journal of Tuberculosis and Lung Disease·DateJun 29, 2016

Ovarian cancer study provides painstaking look at inner workings of tumors

Scientists analyzed 169 ovarian cancer tumors to identify key proteins, revealing new molecular events in high-grade serous carcinoma. This proteogenomics approach combines genomic and proteomic data to improve understanding of the disease, with potential applications for precision medicine and pharmaceutical interventions.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalCell·DateJun 29, 2016

Stem cell treatment for Lou Gehrig's disease may be safe

Researchers found that transplanting human stem cells into the spinal cord was done safely, but did not slow down the progression of the disease. The treatment resulted in temporary side effects, including pain and swelling, but no conclusive evidence of effectiveness was found.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateJun 29, 2016