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Science News for October 17, 2016


Why is skin thick on the soles of the feet?

Researchers at Hokkaido University have developed a new method for capturing high-resolution, three-dimensional images of the deep structure of skin in living mice. The study reveals that basal cells divide obliquely in thicker skin and parallel in thinner skin, contributing to the maintenance of epidermis thickness

SourceHokkaido University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 17, 2016

'Super yeast' has the power to improve economics of biofuels

Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison have engineered a strain of yeast that can convert all plant sugars, including xylose, into ethanol. This breakthrough could enable the widespread production of biofuels from cellulosic biomass, transforming the economics of ethanol production.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateOct 17, 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.

'There are no miracle cures' -- learning the right lessons from phosphoethanolamine

A recent scandal in Brazil highlights the dangers of unproven compounds being sold to cancer patients. The authors argue that skipping clinical research phases puts patients at risk of false hopes and dangerous treatments. They emphasize the need for evidence-based medicine and the importance of testing novel drug candidates.

Sourceecancermedicalscience·Journalecancermedicalscience·DateOct 17, 2016

Fracking wastewater is mostly brines, not man-made fracking fluids

A new Duke University study reveals that most fracking wastewater comes from naturally occurring brines, not man-made chemicals, accounting for over 92% of the flowback and produced water. While these brines carry risks, they also have potential beneficial re-uses, particularly in areas with scarce freshwater.

SourceDuke University·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateOct 17, 2016
GoPro HERO13 Black

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

Scientists uncover new facets of Zika-related birth defects

Researchers studied Zika virus's effects on animal models during early postnatal development and at weaning, finding increased apoptosis in certain brain areas and cell types. This knowledge could help develop treatments for Zika-related birth defects such as microcephaly.

SourceScripps Research Institute·DateOct 17, 2016

Foster care children at much greater risk of physical, mental health problems

A large-scale study found that foster care children are significantly more likely to experience depression, behavioral issues, and physical health problems like asthma and obesity. Children who have been in foster care were compared to those who hadn't spent time in care, as well as those living in different family arrangements.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateOct 17, 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.

Boston medical center launches new opioid urgent care center

The new opioid urgent care center provides a full continuum of treatment services, including detoxification and follow-up care, to patients with substance use disorders. Faster Paths integrates BMC's existing addiction services to streamline access to treatment.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·DateOct 17, 2016

Adapting to the heat

Researchers have identified a critical survival mechanism that allows animals to quickly respond to and escape from noxious thermal landscapes. The study found that thermosensory neurons in the brain are responsible for sensing the rate of temperature change, with a fast response triggered by rapid increases in temperature.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateOct 17, 2016

Cervical cancer screening could be less frequent, start later

A new study from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health suggests that less-intensive cervical cancer screening is needed among women who have been vaccinated against human papillomavirus (HPV), as these women face a substantially lower risk of developing cervical cancer.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateOct 17, 2016

OU researchers develop novel, non-invasive cancer therapy

University of Oklahoma researchers have designed a novel photothermal therapy that eliminates tumors without affecting healthy cells. The therapy uses single-walled carbon nanotubes to target specific cancer cells in breast, bladder, esophageal, and melanoma cancers.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·DateOct 17, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Heat and irradiation: New approach for more selectively fighting tumors

Researchers at Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf and Leipzig University's Innovation Center for Computer-Assisted Surgery are developing a novel cancer therapy combining radiation and focused ultrasound. The SONO-RAY project aims to selectively warm up tumor tissue, improving the effectiveness of radiation therapy.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·DateOct 17, 2016

Infant nose, lung cells possess remarkably similar RNS patterns

Researchers have discovered that infant nose cells possess remarkably similar RNS patterns to those found in the lungs, enabling non-invasive diagnostic methods and potential therapeutics for pediatric lung diseases. This breakthrough could improve diagnosis and treatment of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and other infant lung disea...

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 17, 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.

CHEST Annual Meeting 2016 case reports: Objects that don't belong there

At CHEST Annual Meeting 2016, unusual case reports highlighted foreign object inhalation, where asthma inhaler cap lodged in the bronchus, and a woman coughed out stone after chiseling accident. A patient with substance abuse history swallowed a small metal crucifix, which was successfully removed during surgery.

SourceAmerican College of Chest Physicians·DateOct 17, 2016

Sheffield researchers identify greater environmental risks in 'green' material

Sheffield researchers found that replacing lead zirconate titanate with potassium sodium niobate poses significant environmental risks due to heavy metal and radioactive material releases. The study's life cycle analysis revealed harmful effects on air, water, and land quality prior to material use.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateOct 17, 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.

Finding ideal materials for carbon capture

A new method uses genetic algorithms to rapidly identify top materials for pre-combustion carbon capture. A variant of NOTT-101 has been found to have the highest capacity for capturing carbon and good selectivity, meeting the DOE's 90% CO2 removal target.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 17, 2016

Earthquake series cause uplift variations at continental margins

A new mechanism explains how great earthquakes cause coastal uplift worldwide, highlighting the potential for future damaging earthquakes and tsunamis at active subduction margins. Paleoshorelines reveal that recent uplift is often greatest in periods with clustered large-magnitude earthquakes.

SourceGFZ GeoForschungsZentrum Potsdam, Helmholtz Centre·JournalTectonics·DateOct 17, 2016

'Radical' new approach to connecting carbon atoms

A team of researchers at Princeton University has devised a novel pathway for reactivity that bypasses the need for reactive functional groups. The method uses proton-coupled electron transfer to form valuable carbon-carbon bonds, opening up new synthetic opportunities.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalNature·DateOct 17, 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.

Short walks after meals may prove important tool in managing diabetes

New research from the University of Otago suggests that walking after meals can significantly lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. The study found that post-meal physical activity can reduce blood sugar levels by up to 22% compared to taking a single 30-minute walk at any time of the day.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalDiabetologia·DateOct 17, 2016

Reducing risk of lung distress in preterm babies

A new meta-analysis suggests that antenatal corticosteroids can improve lung development and reduce severe respiratory distress in preterm babies. The study found a significant reduction in respiratory distress syndrome among babies born between 34-37 weeks, including those delivered via scheduled C-section.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalThe BMJ·DateOct 17, 2016

Bait worms are a valuable marine resource

The annual global weight extracted is estimated at 120,000 tonnes of bait worms, with extraction having significant physical impacts on shore sediment and wading bird populations. The researchers encourage sustainable management to minimize environmental impacts.

SourceWiley·JournalFish and Fisheries·DateOct 17, 2016

Chronic pain researchers to expand work with $7.5M award from NIH

The National Institutes of Health has awarded a $7.5 million grant to researchers at the University of Michigan to study chronic pain. The team aims to investigate how peripheral damage, inflammation, and central nervous system factors interact to cause chronic pain, with potential breakthroughs in treating high levels of chronic pain

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·DateOct 17, 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.

Talking to terminally ill adolescents about progressing disease

A review article explores the ethics of discussing disease prognosis with terminally ill adolescents, emphasizing the importance of gentle but persistent conversation. Clinicians are advised to engage patients directly, allowing time for exploration of values and goals, while balancing the need for truth-telling with emotional distress.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateOct 17, 2016

Leading organizations train 100,000 people in CPR on Restart a Heart Day

A nationwide CPR training event aims to improve cardiac arrest survival rates. The training has already been delivered to 31,000 children in the past two years and will reach over 100,000 this year. The initiative is part of a collaboration between leading organizations to create a Nation of Lifesavers.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalResuscitation·DateOct 17, 2016

Bacteria: Third RNA binding protein identified

Scientists at University of Würzburg have discovered a third RNA binding protein, ProQ, which controls gene activity and allows bacteria to quickly adapt to changing conditions. ProQ binds to nearly 100 regulatory RNAs in Salmonella enterica, influencing their activities.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 17, 2016

Understanding the epidemiology of fractures in diabetes

Research highlights diabetes as a significant factor in increased fracture risk, with a potential seven-fold higher risk than non-diabetic patients. Current risk factor calculators may not accurately predict fractures in people with diabetes, emphasizing the need for extra vigilance and targeted prevention strategies.

SourceInternational Osteoporosis Foundation·JournalCalcified Tissue International·DateOct 17, 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.

A promising step toward controlling Zika virus and dengue fever

Researchers at UCLA have identified the structure of a molecule toxic to disease-carrying mosquitoes, including those that transmit dengue fever and Zika virus. The toxin, BinAB, is lethal to Culex and Anopheles species but not Aedes, which carries Zika virus and dengue fever.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalNature·DateOct 17, 2016

Ancient fish illuminates one of the mysteries of childhood

A team of researchers used synchrotron x-ray tomography to study a 424 million-year-old fossil fish's jawbone, providing new insights into the origin of tooth replacement. The findings suggest that the process evolved independently in two different groups of early vertebrates, using distinct mechanisms.

SourceUppsala University·JournalNature·DateOct 17, 2016

New breakthrough for IBS patients

A new study has found that faecal bacterial profiles can be used to predict which IBS patients are most likely to benefit from a low-FODMAP diet. The research identified differences in gut bacteria composition between those who responded and did not respond to the diet.

SourceSpink Health·DateOct 17, 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.

Ancient hominid 'hanky panky' also influenced spread of STIs

A recent study reveals that archaic and modern humans co-diverged with a common HPV16 strain, which was then transmitted through sexual contact with Neanderthals. This ancient 'hanky panky' may have influenced the spread of STIs, explaining regional diversity in HPV16 strains.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateOct 17, 2016

UMD biologists first to observe direct inheritance of gene-silencing RNA

Researchers from the University of Maryland have observed molecules of double-stranded RNA being passed directly from parent to offspring in Caenorhabditis elegans, suggesting a key mechanism for non-genetic inheritance. The study reveals that dsRNA can silence genes in offspring even if it doesn't match the parent's genes.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 17, 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.

Identified a key protein in the generation of B lymphocytes

Researchers have identified HDAC7 as a transcriptional repressor involved in B lymphocyte generation and identity. The study reveals that HDAC7 is essential for B cell development, maintaining its lymphoid identity by silencing lineage-inappropriate genes.

SourceIDIBELL-Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateOct 17, 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.

Oncoproteins interact to promote cancer cell growth in retinoblastoma

Researchers at Children's Hospital Los Angeles identified a critical role of the MDM2 oncogene in promoting expression of the MYCN oncogene required for retinoblastoma cell growth and survival. The study found that MDM2 promotes MYCN expression, which plays a key role in cell proliferation.

SourceChildren's Hospital Los Angeles·JournalOncogene·DateOct 17, 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.

UCF scientist creates most efficient quantum cascade laser ever

A UCF team led by Assistant Professor Arkadiy Lyakh has developed a simpler process for creating quantum cascade lasers, offering comparable performance and better efficiency. The new method uses only two different materials, making production more practical.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateOct 17, 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.

NASA sees Typhoon Sarika approaching second landfall

NASA's Suomi NPP satellite captures visible image of Typhoon Sarika in the South China Sea. The storm is forecasted to make its second landfall near Hainan Island, China, before continuing west and impacting northern Vietnam.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateOct 17, 2016

Estrogen signaling impacted immune response in cancer

New research from The Wistar Institute found that estrogen signaling is responsible for immunosuppressive effects in the tumor microenvironment across various cancers. This discovery paves the way for combining anti-estrogen therapy with immunotherapeutic treatments to extend survival in patients.

SourceThe Wistar Institute·JournalCancer Discovery·DateOct 17, 2016

England's national drugs policy is failing, warn experts

The UK government's shift from harm reduction to abstinence-based policies has contributed to the rising number of drug-related deaths. Experts recommend expanding treatment options and investing in naloxone, safer injecting equipment, and immunization programs to combat the crisis.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateOct 17, 2016

Cold medicine could stop cancer spread

Researchers at Hokkaido University discovered that a nonsteroid anti-inflammatory drug used for treating colds can suppress the spread of bladder cancers and reduce chemoresistance in mice. The study identified the metabolic enzyme aldo-keto reductase 1C1 (AKR1C1) as a key player in cancer progression.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 17, 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.

'Shadow method' reveals locomotion secrets of water striders

Researchers in China developed a 'shadow method' to measure forces acting on water strider legs, revealing key principles behind their locomotion. The technique could help design advanced biomimetic robots and measure forces at the single molecular level.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateOct 17, 2016

Having HIV and chronic HBV/HCV coinfection may increase cancer risk

HIV-infected patients with chronic HBV and HCV coinfection are at a higher risk for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, a leading cause of AIDS-related deaths. The study found that the incidence rate is 10 times higher in HIV-infected persons compared to the general population.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateOct 17, 2016

Identifying children and saving lives one thumbprint at a time

A new study by Michigan State University researchers demonstrates that digital scans of a young child's fingerprint can be correctly recognized one year later, allowing for proper medical care. The technique has the potential to save millions of lives by tracking vaccination records and providing lifelong identity.

SourceMichigan State University·DateOct 17, 2016

'Weekday effect' not a risk factor for death from elective surgery

A new study published in CMAJ found no correlation between the day of the week elective surgery is performed and patient risk of death. The researchers analyzed data from 402,899 procedures over 10 years, including variations in surgeon experience and post-surgical care on weekends.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateOct 17, 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.

Exercising the elderly heart: No value in overexertion

A study published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine found that frequent participation in multiple types of leisure activities reduces heart-related deaths among seniors. Engaging in low-intensity daily physical activity can provide cardiovascular protection.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateOct 17, 2016

Chemotherapy drives treatment resistance in bladder cancer

Researchers at Weill Cornell Medicine found that chemotherapy kills urothelial cancer cells but shapes their genetic evolution, leading to drug-resistant cell clones. This study provides a framework for understanding the biological basis of chemotherapy resistance in bladder cancer and may lead to improved diagnostics and treatments.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalNature Genetics·DateOct 17, 2016

On Philippine isle, research pinpoints 'bull's-eye' of biodiversity

A recent expedition to Mindanao, Philippines, revealed 126 species of amphibians and reptiles, including 40 frogs, making up 36% of known Philippine species. The research team used genetic and morphological analysis, international collaboration, and rigorous fieldwork to uncover the island's biodiversity hotspot.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalZooKeys·DateOct 17, 2016

World first porous acupuncture needles enhance therapeutic properties

A DGIST research team developed porous acupuncture needles with enhanced therapeutic properties by applying nanotechnology. The findings showed that PANs excel in transferring signals from a spinal dorsal horn and demonstrate superior efficacy in treating addiction in animal experiments.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 17, 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.

Java gene study links caffeine metabolism to coffee consumption behavior

A study at Northwestern University found that genetic variants affect how people metabolize caffeine, impacting their coffee consumption habits. The research also discovered a link between caffeine metabolism and nicotine metabolism, with potential implications for precision medicine.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalHuman Molecular Genetics·DateOct 17, 2016

Researchers use 'robomussels' to monitor climate change

The 'robomussels' have tracked internal body temperature, enabling scientists to pinpoint areas of unusual warming and develop strategies to prevent extinction of certain species. The findings can reveal emerging hotspots, allowing policymakers and scientists to intervene before it's too late.

SourceNortheastern University·JournalScientific Data·DateOct 17, 2016

Minimal exercise can prevent disease, weight gain in menopausal women

Researchers found that minimal exercise can regulate insulin levels, maintain metabolic function, and help prevent significant weight gain in postmenopausal women. Sedentary rats experienced a 50% reduction in fat tissue after limited physical activity, highlighting the benefits of any amount of exercise.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalMedicine & Science in Sports & Exercise·DateOct 17, 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.

Did quality of outpatient care change from 2002 to 2013?

The study found improvements in some quality measures, such as recommended medical treatment and cancer screening, but worsened in others, like antibiotic use. Patient experience ratings also showed significant gains. However, deficits in care continue to pose serious health risks.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateOct 17, 2016

Does my eye deceive me? Not with these digital forensics tools

Researchers aim to produce advanced tools capable of analyzing images and video at high speeds, detecting subtle manipulations and determining the integrity of digital media. The system will also be able to analyze localized manipulations within an image and provide context-based analysis.

SourceNYU Tandon School of Engineering·DateOct 17, 2016

Nanowires as sensors in new type of atomic force microscope

Physicists at the University of Basel have developed a new type of atomic force microscope using nanowire sensors to measure forces with unprecedented precision. The device can detect not only the magnitude but also the direction of forces, making it a significant advancement in sensing applications.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateOct 17, 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.

Here's how young people decide when they're drunk 'enough,' according to math

Researchers at Ohio State University developed a mathematical model of drinking behavior in college students, revealing that they adjust their consumption to maintain a certain level of drunkenness. The study aims to provide insights into high-risk alcohol consumption and inform interventions.

SourceOhio State University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Cybernetics·DateOct 17, 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.

Quantum computers: 10-fold boost in stability achieved

Australian engineers have created a new quantum bit called the 'dressed qubit' which retains quantum information for much longer than previously achieved, opening up new avenues to build and operate powerful quantum computers. The result is a 10-fold improvement in the time span during which quantum superposition can be preserved.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateOct 17, 2016

Researchers create stretchy, biocompatible optical fibers

Developed by MIT and Harvard Medical School, the fibers are made from hydrogel material that can stretch and bend like taffy. They can sense signs of disease and could be used to deliver therapeutic pulses of light, enabling long-lasting implantable medical devices.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateOct 17, 2016

A better battery: One-time pollutant may become valued product to aid wind, solar energy

Researchers at Oregon State University have found that organic compounds traditionally known as pollutants can function as a low-cost, long-lasting cathode in dual-ion batteries. The discovery has promising characteristics for storing electricity from wind and solar energy, addressing a key constraint to wider use of clean energy systems.

SourceOregon State University·JournalACS Energy Letters·DateOct 17, 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.

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.

Tiny crystals and nanowires could join forces to split water

Researchers at the University at Buffalo are developing new materials that show promise for splitting water into oxygen and hydrogen fuel using tiny crystals and nanowires. The hybrid materials have the potential to support cheap and efficient production of hydrogen gas, which could be used to power cars and other vehicles.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·DateOct 17, 2016

Yearly exposure to chemicals dangerous to hormone function burdens Americans with hundreds of billions in health care costs and lost earnings

Annual exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals has a significant impact on the US healthcare system, causing over 2.3% of the country's GDP to be lost. The estimated disease burden from these chemicals is valued at $340 billion annually, with specific effects including neurological damage, infertility, and certain cancers.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·DateOct 17, 2016

Conflicting perception of family presence during resuscitation

A study of healthcare staff perceptions found that only 36.9% were in favor of family presence during resuscitation, with attending physicians being the most comfortable at 47%. Staff working in intensive care units and emergency departments were more amenable to FPDR, despite concerns about increased stress and anxiety.

SourceAmerican College of Chest Physicians·DateOct 17, 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.

Study finds mixed results for use of mesh for hernia repair

A study of 3,242 patients found that mesh use during incisional hernia repair reduced hernia recurrence risk over 5 years. However, the long-term benefits were partially offset by mesh-related complications. The study highlights the need for more research on the safety and efficacy of mesh in hernia repair.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateOct 17, 2016

Short episodes of abnormal heart rhythm may not increase risk of stroke

Researchers found that short episodes of atrial fibrillation are associated with a low risk of stroke and other cardiovascular complications. Patients experiencing only brief episodes of the condition were at no greater risk than those without atrial fibrillation, suggesting that anticoagulants may not be necessary in this group.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateOct 17, 2016

Embryonic white blood cells needed in adulthood

A significant proportion of macrophages are distributed to tissues before bone marrow function starts, maintaining themselves through stem cell-like renewal. Embryonic-derived macrophages regulate iron metabolism and the growth of the mammary gland in adults.

SourceAcademy of Finland·JournalNature·DateOct 17, 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.

NIH scientists uncover genetic explanation for frustrating syndrome

Researchers discovered a genetic link between high tryptase levels, multiple copies of the alpha tryptase gene, and a range of symptoms including dizziness, skin flushing, and gastrointestinal issues. The study provides new insights into the cause of this frustrating syndrome and potential strategies for diagnosis and treatment.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNature Genetics·DateOct 17, 2016

How will salmon survive in a flooded future?

New research from Alaska analyzed 800 watersheds and found that intact flood plains can mitigate the impacts of a warmer, wetter future on salmon spawning habitat. The study predicts up to 16% loss of coho salmon spawning habitat by the 2080s in narrower, steeper streams.

SourceWild Salmon Center·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateOct 17, 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.

Study suggests gut bacteria can aid recovery from spinal cord injury

Research suggests that spinal cord injuries alter the type of bacteria living in the gut, exacerbating neurological damage and impairing recovery. Probiotics may counteract these changes, aiding patients' recovery from spinal cord injuries by activating regulatory T cells and promoting neuronal growth.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateOct 17, 2016

Science spotlights research involving Brazil's Zika Virus Research Network

Three different candidate Zika vaccines have been found to protect rhesus monkeys against the disease in trials. The vaccines, tested in preclinical trials, were found to be effective at warding off infection by the Zika virus strain circulating in Brazil and Puerto Rico.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalScience·DateOct 17, 2016

'That pizza was #delish!' What do Tweets say about our health?

A study analyzing over 80 million Twitter messages found that communities expressing positive sentiments about healthy foods were more likely to be healthier overall. Tweets about fast food restaurants, on the other hand, were often associated with poorer neighborhoods and larger households.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·DateOct 17, 2016

Genomics breakthrough paves way for climate-tolerant wine grape varieties

A new genome assembly process allows for rapid access to genetic information in Cabernet Sauvignon, enabling researchers to identify genetic markers for breeding disease-resistant vines. This breakthrough paves the way for developing new wine grape varieties suitable for changing climate conditions.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalNature Methods·DateOct 17, 2016

Neural signature for fibromyalgia may aid diagnosis, treatment

Researchers at CU Boulder discovered a neural signature that identifies fibromyalgia patients with 93% accuracy, a potential breakthrough for diagnosis and treatment. The study used functional MRI scans to identify three sub-markers that correlate with pain hypersensitivity in fibromyalgia.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalPain·DateOct 17, 2016

ECS takes down the paywall to free the science during open access week

The Electrochemical Society (ECS) has removed the paywall to its digital library during Open Access Week, providing free access to over 132,000 scientific articles. This move is a precursor to ECS's Free the Science initiative, which aims to make the entire digital library open access by 2024.

SourceThe Electrochemical Society·JournalJournal of The Electrochemical Society·DateOct 17, 2016

Beyond genes: Protein atlas scores nitrogen fixing duet

A massive atlas of plant and bacterial proteins has been published, providing unprecedented detail on the molecular controls of nitrogen fixation symbiosis. The study, led by University of Wisconsin-Madison researchers, reveals the interplay of proteins in rhizobia colonization of root nodules in the model legume Medicago truncatula.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateOct 17, 2016