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Science News for November 28, 2016


Gene mutation linked to early onset of Parkinson's disease in Caucasians

Researchers at Iowa State University found a gene mutation linked to an accelerated onset of Parkinson's disease in Caucasians, with those under 50 experiencing symptoms 5 years earlier and a 45% increased risk. The study also highlights the importance of blood cholesterol levels, which are directly related to dopamine production.

SourceIowa State University·JournalNeurobiology of Aging·DateNov 28, 2016

Model could shatter a mystery of glass

Princeton University researchers have developed a new model that creates a 'perfect glass' that never crystallizes, even at absolute zero. The model considers 2-, 3-, and 4-body interactions to suppress crystallization, revealing unique properties of perfect glasses.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 28, 2016

Optimizing fertilizer rates for wild blueberry

A 12-year field experiment in Nova Scotia found optimal fertilizer rates of 35 kg·ha-1 N, 40 kg·ha-1 P, and 30 kg·ha-1 K to maximize floral bud number, berries per stem, and berry yield. Higher fertilizers rates increased net profits by $490/ha.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateNov 28, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

UMD researchers crack the code of a deadly virus

Researchers at the University of Maryland have created a mutated version of the Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus that is less deadly and could lead to the development of a vaccine. The discovery was made by exploiting a weakness in the virus' genetic code, which could also help combat other RNA viruses such as HIV and Zika.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalJournal of Virology·DateNov 28, 2016

Can you hear the corn grow? Yes!

Researchers use acoustic emissions techniques to explore corn stalk growth and breakage, discovering that plant growth involves millions of tiny breakage events. This finding may lead to improved crop yields by strengthening plant structures.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateNov 28, 2016

Toxic 'marine snow' can sink quickly, persist at ocean depths

A new study found that toxic marine snow formed by the algae Pseudo-nitzschia can reach significant depths quickly and persist for months. This marine snow can accumulate high levels of domoic acid, a neurotoxin that can cause neurological and gastrointestinal symptoms in humans.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalHarmful Algae·DateNov 28, 2016

When judging other people, first impressions last

A Cornell University study found that first impressions formed from photographs predicted how people felt and thought about the person after a live interaction. Participants consistently evaluated the same person differently after meeting in person compared to their initial impression.

SourceCornell University·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·DateNov 28, 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.

Handheld, mobile data technologies compared for turfgrass

A study by the University of Georgia compared handheld and mobile data technologies for analyzing natural turfgrass sports fields. The results showed that mobile devices were more reliable for measuring penetration resistance, while handheld devices offered advantages in terms of affordability and abundance.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateNov 28, 2016

Marine incentives programs may replace 'doom and gloom' with hope

Researchers conclude that incentive-based solutions can help address environmental threats facing the world's oceans. Positive incentives work better than negative ones, converting near-disaster situations into sustainable fisheries and cleaner water.

SourceOregon State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 28, 2016

Safe hair care spares hair, Johns Hopkins dermatologists report

Hair loss and breakage caused by acquired trichorrhexis nodosa (TN) can be reduced with proper cleansing and styling. Researchers recommend choosing the right shampoo based on hair type and minimizing frequent washing for those with tightly curled or dry hair. Conditioners, especially protein-containing ones, are also crucial for healt...

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Dermatological Treatment·DateNov 28, 2016

Missed connections

Researchers found that brain connections change with age, but compensate for this by using new strategies to remember things. The study used fMRI data to analyze brain activity in individuals, revealing distinct patterns of connectivity among older people.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateNov 28, 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.

How kids' brains respond to a late night up

A new study found that sleep deprivation in children increases slow-wave activity in posterior brain regions, suggesting these areas may be more susceptible to lack of sleep. The research also discovered a correlation between sleep loss and myelin content, indicating the potential for temporary effects on early brain development.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Human Neuroscience·DateNov 28, 2016

Australian solar tech to help China reach clean energy targets

CSIRO's patented low-cost heliostats will be used in China for concentrating solar thermal (CST) electricity generation, helping the country reach its ambitious clean energy targets. The technology has great potential for medium to large-scale solar power due to its low cost of storing thermal energy.

SourceCSIRO Australia·DateNov 28, 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.

NIAID-sponsored study to assess shorter-duration antibiotics in children

Researchers are conducting a clinical trial to assess whether a shorter course of antibiotics can effectively treat community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) in young children. The study aims to reduce the need for longer antibiotic treatments and conserve the long-term effectiveness of available drugs.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·DateNov 28, 2016

American scientists discover the first Antarctic ground beetle

The discovery of Ball's Antarctic Tundra Beetle sheds light on Antarctica's ancient insect fauna. The new species is the second known beetle for the continent with living descendants, and its presence confirms that tundra ecosystems persisted in Antarctica for millions of years.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalZooKeys·DateNov 28, 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.

Successfully treating genetically determined autoimmune enteritis

A genetic mutation in the CTLA-4 protein led to chronic autoimmune enteritis, causing severe diarrhea and weight loss. Researchers developed a treatment using monoclonal antibodies to block T-cell adhesion, resulting in complete remission after three months.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateNov 28, 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.

Report highlights coffee's potential role in reducing cognitive decline

A new report from the Institute for Scientific Information on Coffee highlights the potential role of coffee consumption in reducing age-related cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases. Moderate coffee intake (3-5 cups per day) may provide protection against cognitive decline, with caffeine likely playing a key role.

SourceKaizo·DateNov 28, 2016

Voice appeal

A study by Canadian researcher Emily Blamire found that female listeners rank male voices as more attractive when the 's' sound is shorter, while male listeners do not. The study suggests that men and women use different criteria when judging vocal attractiveness.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateNov 28, 2016

Warwick and Waitrose tackle global food security together

A new doctoral training collaboration between Warwick and Waitrose aims to develop graduate students who can address the need for a more secure and sustainable food system. The programme will provide PhD students with industry training and expertise in agriculture and sustainable crop production.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·DateNov 28, 2016

UT professor develops algorithm to improve online mapping of disaster areas

A new algorithm developed by a UT professor helps online volunteers prioritize grid cells in disaster response, focusing on areas with high population density and road networks. This enables response teams to make more informed decisions and respond more efficiently to the most urgent needs.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee at Knoxville·JournalGeographical Analysis·DateNov 28, 2016

What role does mouth shape play for echolocating bats?

Mexican free-tailed bats have specialized facial muscles that aid their ability to manipulate the acoustic projection pattern of their sonar pulse emissions. The unique muscles enable the bats to adjust the shape of their mouth cavity, creating a wide-angle beam or a narrow beam with varying degrees of aperture.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateNov 28, 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.

NASA's Aqua satellite sees remnants of Tropical Cyclone Tokage

Tropical Cyclone Tokage weakened to near maximum sustained winds of 28.7 mph as it crossed the Philippines and entered the South China Sea. The storm's remnants were later spotted by NASA's Aqua satellite, showing clouds pushed north of the center of circulation.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 28, 2016

Survey of New York City soil uncovers medicine-making microbes

Researchers at Rockefeller University found genetic evidence of bacteria capable of producing compounds with potent effects as medicines in urban soil. The study identified a wide range of natural products with potential therapeutic applications, including antibiotics and antifungal agents.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 28, 2016

Researchers propose low-mass supernova triggered formation of solar system

A team led by Professor Yong-Zhong Qian uses new models and meteorite evidence to show a low-mass supernova triggered the formation of our solar system. The study found that short-lived nuclei in meteorites are consistent with a low-mass supernova trigger, supporting the theory that this event played a key role in solar system formation.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 28, 2016

Gene discovered to cause rare, severe neurological disease

A debilitating neurological disease in children has been linked to mutations in the DENND5A gene, which regulates neuronal development through control of protein movement within neuronal cells. The study found that recessive loss-of-function mutations in DENND5A cause severe mental and physical disabilities.

SourceMcGill University·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateNov 28, 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.

Each animal species hosts a unique microbial community and benefits from it

A Vanderbilt University study found that each animal species has a unique microbial community that improves its health and fitness. Researchers transplanted microbiomes from closely related species into individuals, showing that digestion and survival rates were reduced when using non-native communities.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalPLOS Biology·DateNov 28, 2016

An exercise in good health

The study confirms that cardiorespiratory fitness is a stronger predictor of mortality than established risk factors such as smoking and hypertension. Higher levels of CRF are associated with improved outcomes for certain forms of cancer, surgical risk, dementia, Alzheimer's disease, depression and Type 2 diabetes.

SourceQueen's University·JournalCirculation·DateNov 28, 2016

Genes, early environment sculpt the gut microbiome

Research found that genetics and early environment significantly influence the gut microbiome, with similar genes linked to human diseases like arthritis and diabetes. The study also discovered a strong correlation between specific microbes and T-helper cells in the blood.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalNature Microbiology·DateNov 28, 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.

Early intervention in brain inflammatory pathways may improve stroke recovery

Researchers discovered that targeting the TGF-β1 pathway can reduce pro-inflammatory signals and improve motor function in mice after intracerebral hemorrhage. In human patients, higher levels of TGF-β1 within the first 3 days following stroke predicted better outcomes three months into recovery.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 28, 2016

Light switch in autumn leaves

Researchers have discovered that yellow phyllobilins in autumn leaves function as four-step molecular switches that react to light, with the molecular environment determining the switching mechanism. These findings suggest potential physiological roles for these compounds in plant photoregulation.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateNov 28, 2016

RIT professor wins grants from the Moore Foundation

RIT professor Moumita Das has won seed funding for her research on population dynamics of mitochondria in mammalian cells and molecular imaging of intercellular transport. Her work aims to understand the impact of mitochondrial DNA changes on human health conditions.

SourceRochester Institute of Technology·DateNov 28, 2016

A change of heart

Cardiac diseases cause pathological growth leading to heart failure. Researchers found epigenetic marks responsible for this growth are lost in disease, allowing cells to switch back to fetal form and leading to irregular rhythms. This finding points to a new strategy for epigenetic therapy.

SourceBabraham Institute·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 28, 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.

Taste bud maintenance in mice requires Hedgehog signaling

The Hedgehog signaling pathway is required to maintain and replenish taste buds and taste papillae in mouse models. Disruptions in the pathway can lead to rapid disappearance of taste buds, highlighting its importance in taste organ homeostasis.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateNov 28, 2016

Power poses don't help and could potentially backfire, Penn study shows

Researchers from the University of Pennsylvania conducted a study to replicate the original power pose study, finding no support for increases in feelings of power or testosterone. The study also suggested that power poses may decrease testosterone levels in individuals who are already perceived as losers.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalHormones and Behavior·DateNov 28, 2016

Inside tiny tubes, water turns solid when it should be boiling

Researchers at MIT discovered that water can freeze solid even at high temperatures in carbon nanotubes, raising the freezing point by tens of degrees. This unexpected finding may lead to new applications such as ice-filled wires with unique electrical and thermal properties.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateNov 28, 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.

Pine product offers fresh take on fine chemical synthesis

Researchers at Rice University have created a multifunctional reagent from pine tree terpenoids, enabling the rapid synthesis of nitrogen- and oxygen-containing molecules in one step. This process cuts waste and saves money for manufacturers by using biorenewable and cost-effective methods.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Chemistry·DateNov 28, 2016

Electro-acupuncture for disrupted sleep in women with breast cancer

A study published by The Menopause Society confirms electro-acupuncture's effectiveness in reducing hot flash severity and improving sleep quality in breast cancer survivors. Electro-acupuncture has been shown to affect neurotransmitters associated with sleep, such as serotonin and melatonin.

SourceThe Menopause Society·DateNov 28, 2016

West Antarctic ice shelf breaking up from the inside out

Researchers at Ohio State University discovered a crack that formed deep beneath the Pine Island Glacier, leading to its breaking apart in 2015. The rift's origin suggests that warming ocean waters are melting the center of the West Antarctic Ice Sheet, potentially causing accelerated ice loss and sea-level rise.

SourceOhio State University·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateNov 28, 2016

New finding about a protein that enables our brains and muscles to talk

Researchers find that rapsyn helps ensure optimal positioning and functioning of acetylcholine receptors on muscle cells, enabling precise brain-muscle communication. This discovery provides new insight into diseases like muscular dystrophy and offers potential therapeutic targets.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalNeuron·DateNov 28, 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.

No association between mother flu in pregnancy and increased child autism risk

A large study of over 196,000 children found no association between a mother having an influenza infection during pregnancy and an increased risk of autism spectrum disorders. While there was a suggestion of increased risk with maternal vaccination in the first trimester, this finding was not statistically significant after adjusting f...

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateNov 28, 2016

Largest resource of human protein-protein interactions can help interpret genomic data

The largest database of protein-to-protein interaction networks, InWeb_InBioMap, can illuminate how numerous disease-associated genes contribute to disease development and progression. By analyzing over 586,000 interactions, researchers may identify new candidate genes and improve understanding of processes that occur in human cells.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalNature Methods·DateNov 28, 2016

Squeezing light into new miniature devices

Researchers have developed three key components for optical communication that work with light, enabling high-performance computers and miniaturized volumes. The innovations utilize surface plasmons to control the propagation of light in matter.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 28, 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.

Wound irrigation tools improvised in the wilderness are effective

A new study found that improvised wound irrigation tools in the wilderness can be effective, producing pressures similar to commercial devices. The research examined various options and found that all systems using compressible water bottles met or exceeded pressure standards.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalWilderness and Environmental Medicine·DateNov 28, 2016

Study finds cause of visual impairment in astronauts

A recent study has identified a link between cerebrospinal fluid volume changes and visual impairment in long-duration space missions. The findings suggest that the increased fluid pressure in microgravity may cause structural changes in the eye, leading to blurry vision and other symptoms.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateNov 28, 2016

Bioscientists at Kent help throat cancer patients speak again

Researchers at the University of Kent have developed a new method to extend the life of silicone voice prostheses for throat cancer patients by treating a common fungal infection. By addressing Candida albicans, patients can now carry on using their voice prosthesis for longer, reducing the risk of secondary chest infections.

SourceUniversity of Kent·DateNov 28, 2016

Biologists watch speciation in a laboratory flask

Biologists observed the emergence of two distinct virus species within a month-long experiment, leveraging a harmless human virus and two types of bacteria with varying receptors. This rapid process, known as speciation, was previously challenging to study due to its slow pace.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience·DateNov 28, 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.

Smart patch releases blood thinners as needed

Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a smart patch that monitors a patient's blood and releases blood-thinning drugs as needed. The patch, made with microneedles containing hyaluronic acid and Heparin, can prevent thrombosis in animal models, offering a more effective treatment than traditional methods.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateNov 28, 2016

Mystery of ultra-diffuse faint galaxies solved

Researchers from the Niels Bohr Institute have recreated characteristics of ultra-diffuse faint galaxies using computer simulations. The study reveals that supernovae explosions during star formation can push stars and dark matter outwards, causing galaxies to expand and become faint.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Niels Bohr Institute·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateNov 28, 2016

Cultivation technologies benefit ultradwarf bermudagrass

Researchers recommend combining dry-injection technology with modified traditional hollow-tine aerification programs for growing healthy ultradwarf bermudagrass putting greens. The optimal combination improves soil physical properties, such as bulk density and water infiltration.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateNov 28, 2016

Quicker and twice as accurate predictions

Researchers at URV develop collaborative filtering model with scalable algorithm for predicting individual preferences and group overlaps. The new approach provides more accurate predictions than existing algorithms by considering individual differences, making it ideal for large datasets.

SourceUniversitat Rovira i Virgili·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 28, 2016

Engineering success

The University of California - Santa Barbara's ESTEEM program offers scholarship funding, outreach, and academic counseling to help low-income engineering transfer students complete their degrees. The initiative aims to address the lack of diversity in STEM fields and provide a critical push to these promising students.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·DateNov 28, 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.

Stanford researchers develop new compound to reduce tumor growth

Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine developed a receptor that attracted a key cancer-causing molecule called Gas6, slowing the progression of pancreatic and ovarian cancer in mice. The 'decoy receptor' showed a higher ability to reduce or stop cancer growth than other treatments did.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 28, 2016

Thwarting autoimmune diseases

Scientists at TUM have determined the molecular mechanisms of inhibitors that can selectively thwart the human immunoproteasome. This could lead to the development of new drugs for autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and type 1 diabetes.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalThe EMBO Journal·DateNov 28, 2016

Liver-brain pathway may regulate alcohol consumption

A liver hormone called FGF21 may regulate alcohol drinking by acting directly on a receptor in the brain, according to a new study. The researchers found variations of a gene called β-Klotho that were related to the amount of alcohol people consumed, indicating that this gene may regulate drinking behaviour.

SourceKing's College London·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 28, 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.

Programmable disorder

Scientists at Caltech have developed a method to combine deterministic and random processes for creating complex nanostructures out of DNA. By controlling the design of individual tiles and their interactions, they can produce emergent features with tunable statistical properties, including loop, maze, and tree structures.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateNov 28, 2016

Staph uses nitric oxide enzyme to colonize noses

Researchers discovered that Staph bacteria use the nitric oxide synthase enzyme to colonize nasal passages, allowing them to thrive in low-oxygen environments. This mechanism may contribute to the virulence and resistance of staphylococcus bacteria, making it a potential target for prevention strategies.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalNature Microbiology·DateNov 28, 2016

DFG to fund 20 new research training groups

The DFG is establishing 20 new Research Training Groups to support early career researchers, including topics such as medical imaging, analysis of authority and trust in US politics and society. The groups will receive €87 million in funding over four and a half years.

SourceDeutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft·DateNov 28, 2016

Prevention program safeguards children's brains from effects of poverty

A University of Georgia research team found that participation in the Strong African American Families Program enhances brain development in regions promoting learning, memory, and stress tolerance. This prevention program strengthens family relationships and supportive parenting among African-American families living in poverty.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateNov 28, 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.

Nano factories to prevent bacterial colonization

Researchers at the University of Konstanz are developing nano factories that can prevent bacterial colonization on surfaces. The team, led by Sebastian Polarz and David Schleheck, plans to create a cocktail of chemical compounds that specifically target bacteria, reducing the need for antibiotics.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·DateNov 28, 2016

What's up with Madagascar?

Researchers found three areas of hot rock within the mantle beneath three separate volcanic provinces, indicating that Madagascar's volcanoes are not related to nearby tectonic activity. The study suggests that the island's unique geology, with a delaminated lithosphere and a mantle plume, led to the formation of these hot regions.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalEarth and Planetary Science Letters·DateNov 28, 2016

Study says salt marshes have limited ability to absorb excess nitrogen

A new study finds that salt marshes do not respond significantly to fertilization with excess nitrogen. This challenges the long-held assumption that these coastal resources can soak up excess nutrients through enhanced plant growth, preventing low-oxygen dead zones and harmful algal blooms.

SourceVirginia Institute of Marine Science·JournalEcological Applications·DateNov 28, 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.

Small RNA identified that offers clues for quieting the 'voices' of schizophrenia

Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital identified a small RNA that regulates the production of a protein targeted by antipsychotics, providing new clues for quieting the 'voices' of schizophrenia. The microRNA was linked to disruptions in brain circuits and age-related delays in symptom onset.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalNature Medicine·DateNov 28, 2016

Iraq-Afghanistan veterans with epilepsy more at risk of death

Veterans with Iraq-Afghanistan war-related epilepsy had substantially higher mortality rates than those without the condition. After controlling for comorbid conditions, IAVs with epilepsy were about 2.6 times more likely to die during a 5-year span.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalMMWR Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report·DateNov 28, 2016

Large study finds no evidence for age-based mammography cut-off

A large study analyzed over 5.6 million screening mammograms and found a gradual upward trend in cancer detection rates and positive predictive values with increasing age, but no clear evidence for age-based mammography cessation. The findings support guidelines encouraging individual patient decisions based on health status.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateNov 28, 2016

NP predischarge thresholds associated with reduced ADHF mortality, readmission

A systematic review found that achieving brain-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) and pro-brain-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) predischarge thresholds is associated with reduced mortality and readmission in patients hospitalized for acute decompensated heart failure. The evidence was low-strength, but the studies consistently showed ...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateNov 28, 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.

It takes less than a second to tell humans from androids

Researchers at UC Berkeley discovered that humans use visual cues to quickly determine if something is lifelike or not. In real life, this allows us to navigate social situations and avoid confusion, while in the lab, participants accurately rated groups of images as more or less lifelike even when shown for just 250 milliseconds.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 28, 2016

How crop load density affects apple juice, hard cider quality

A study found that medium and high crop loads resulted in higher total polyphenol content in cider. Meanwhile, low crop loads led to lower yeast-assimilable nitrogen concentrations in apple juice. These findings suggest optimal management strategies for orchard managers to improve cider quality.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateNov 28, 2016

Why conservation fails

New research published in the Journal of Economic Theory highlights a fundamental contradiction in the policy of making land owners paid more than it costs them to conserve forests. This market inefficiency leads to stalemate and makes forest protection unfeasible through logging with some chance or gradual logging to secure funding.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Economic Theory·DateNov 28, 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.

Bekzod Khakimov received the first Nils Foss Talent Prize

Bekzod Khakimov, a promising young researcher from the University of Copenhagen, has received the first Nils Foss Talent Prize. His work focuses on metabolomics, using Gas Chromatography-Mass spectrometry to improve data analysis and reproducibility.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·DateNov 28, 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.

Secret phenotypes: Disease devils in invisible details

Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology have developed an algorithm that reveals micron-sized bumps and grooves in lab worms, exposing potential subtle genetic connections to diseases. The technique uses digital optics and computational genetics to analyze intricate web of gene mutations.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 28, 2016

NIST debuts dual atomic clock -- and a new stability record

Physicists at NIST have combined two experimental atomic clocks based on ytterbium atoms to set a new world record for clock stability. The dual-clock design eliminates dead time and noise, resulting in a more powerful tool for precision tests and applications.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalNature Photonics·DateNov 28, 2016

Compost establishes growing media pH similar to limestone

Researchers found that compost can establish growing media pH similar to limestone, reducing the need for peatmoss and limestone. Compost provides supplemental nutrition, suppresses disease-causing organisms, and can be used as a limestone substitute for pH establishment.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateNov 28, 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.

Clinical trial of infection detecting bandages begins

A clinical trial of infection-detecting bandages is underway using samples from hundreds of burns patients across four UK hospitals. The technology has potential to improve treatment outcomes by detecting infections earlier, allowing for targeted treatment and reducing antibiotic use.

SourceUniversity of Bath·DateNov 28, 2016

Program helps teens 'get the message' about distracted driving

A hospital-based injury prevention program helps teens understand the dangers of texting, cell phone use, and other distractions while driving. The program increased teens' awareness of the risks and encouraged them to adopt healthy driving behaviors, such as not making phone calls or sending texts while driving.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Trauma Nursing·DateNov 28, 2016

UT Austin engineers develop first-ever capsule to treat hemophilia

Researchers have developed a biodegradable capsule that can administer protein therapy to treat hemophilia B, providing hope for a more accessible and affordable treatment. The oral delivery system contains micro- and nanoparticles that carry the protein therapy and are designed to release it over time, alleviating the burden of inject...

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalInternational Journal of Pharmaceutics·DateNov 28, 2016

Young toddlers can tell when others hold false beliefs, study finds

A new study by Renée Baillargeon and colleagues found that 2.5-year-old children can answer questions about people acting on false beliefs, a skill previously thought to develop until age 4. The researchers developed a modified version of the Sally-Anne test, which gave children a chance to prepare for the question and reduced processi...

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 28, 2016

New guidelines aim to improve understanding of scientific data

Researchers at University of East Anglia developed guidelines to make scientific graphics more accessible and understandable. The new guidelines, published in Nature Climate Change, provide recommendations on how to design graphics that are easy to comprehend by both experts and non-experts.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalNature Climate Change·DateNov 28, 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.

A new technique for structural color, inspired by birds

A new technique for structural color has been developed by Harvard researchers, inspired by the disordered nanonetwork of bird feathers. The system creates a gradient of colors using a metallic alloy and a thin transparent coating, enabling vibrant hues for applications such as lightweight coatings, biomimetic tissues, and camouflage.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·DateNov 28, 2016

Modern hunter-gatherers show value of exercise

The Hadza people, an indigenous ethnic group in Tanzania, engage in significantly more physical activity than recommended by US government standards. Their lifestyle, characterized by regular hunting and gathering, is associated with extremely low risk of cardiovascular disease.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Biology·DateNov 28, 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.

Vestibular function declines starting at age 40

A new study found that vestibular thresholds double every 10 years above 40, correlating strongly with poorer balance test results and increased fall risk. Vestibular dysfunction is estimated to cause up to 152,000 American deaths each year, making it a leading cause of death.

SourceMass Eye and Ear·JournalFrontiers in Neurology·DateNov 28, 2016

Most people at risk for osteoporisis fractures are not evaluated and treated

The American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists and American College of Endocrinology have released new osteoporosis guidelines recommending that all postmenopausal women aged 50 and older be evaluated for osteoporosis risk. Successful treatment is defined as stable or increasing bone mineral density with no evidence of new fract...

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalEndocrine Practice·DateNov 28, 2016

Lake ecologists see winter as a key scientific frontier

Researchers found complex and active life under the ice in over 100 lakes, with productivity exceeding summer levels in some cases. This discovery complicates understanding of freshwater systems as climate change warms lakes worldwide.

SourceWashington State University·JournalEcology Letters·DateNov 28, 2016

It's all in the eyes: Women and men really do see things differently

A recent study published in Journal of Vision found that women and men process facial information differently, with women exhibiting a stronger left eye bias and exploring faces more thoroughly. The researchers used eye-tracking technology on almost 500 participants to analyze their scanning patterns.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalJournal of Vision·DateNov 28, 2016

Targeting breast cancer metabolism to fight the disease

Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University discovered that a protein called TIGAR promotes the growth of breast cancer cells by altering cell metabolism, which could be targeted with existing drugs like metformin and doxycycline. These therapies have already passed safety testing in humans and may help reduce tumor growth.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateNov 28, 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.

World-first scientific discovery uncovered at a Melbourne beach

Scientists at Monash University have discovered a new mechanism by which algae in sand survive under conditions of constant mixing. They found that these organisms ferment, producing hydrogen and other compounds like oleate, a component of olive oil. This breakthrough has significant implications for the biofuels industry.

SourceMonash University·JournalNature Geoscience·DateNov 28, 2016

Imaging study examines brains of current, former NFL players

Researchers found higher distribution volume in 8 brain regions among NFL players compared to nonplayers, suggesting localized brain injury may be associated with football play. Limited white matter changes were observed in the brains of NFL players.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateNov 28, 2016

Researcher suggests kratom may have medical benefit as opioid alternative

Research into kratom's unique pharmacologic properties could be stifled if the DEA proceeds with a Schedule 1 classification. The herb's active compounds, including mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, show promise in treating pain and opioid withdrawal.

SourceAmerican Osteopathic Association·JournalThe Journal of the American Osteopathic Association·DateNov 28, 2016