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Science News for October 19, 2016


Are hot flashes genetic?

A recent study published in Menopause found a gene variant associated with hot flashes in postmenopausal women. The study examined genetic variations across the human genome and discovered that specific variants on chromosome 4 linked to the tachykinin receptor 3 were more common among women experiencing hot flashes.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalMenopause·DateOct 19, 2016

The 27th Great Wall International Congress of Cardiology

The 27th Great Wall International Congress of Cardiology was held in Beijing, China, with over 17,000 attendees from 32 societies. Notable speakers included Chinese Academy of Engineering members and international cardiology experts.

SourceCardiovascular Innovations and Applications·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateOct 19, 2016

Neu5Gc in red meat and organs may pose a significant health hazard

A study found Neu5Gc in pig organs, particularly heart, spleen, kidney, and lungs, with concentrations increasing as organs are cooked. This non-human sialic acid sugar molecule may trigger an immune response, leading to chronic inflammation and increased risks of tumor formation and inflammatory diseases.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalGlycoconjugate Journal·DateOct 19, 2016

Subnatural-linewidth biphotons generated from a Doppler-broadened hot atomic vapor cell

Researchers at Hong Kong University of Science and Technology have developed a method to produce subnatural-linewidth biphotons from a Doppler-broadened hot atomic vapor cell. This breakthrough simplifies the production process and enables the creation of narrowband biphotons for practical quantum applications.

SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 19, 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.

With new model, buildings may 'sense' internal damage

Researchers at MIT have developed a computational model that analyzes ambient vibrations to detect signs of building stability. The model may help monitor buildings over time for potential damage or stress, providing a database like a health book for the structure.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalMechanical Systems and Signal Processing·DateOct 19, 2016

Metabolite protects mice against muscle wasting

A new investigation finds that vitamin supplements can slow muscle wasting by boosting NAD+ levels in mice. The study supports the potential benefits of NAD+ precursors for patients with muscular dystrophy and other muscle disorders.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateOct 19, 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.

First glimpse of end-of chromosome repair in real time

A new study from the University of Pennsylvania has developed a system to observe the repair of broken DNA in telomeres, a process that drives 15% of cancers. The researchers found that this unique type of repair, called break-induced telomere synthesis, differs from other forms of homologous recombination.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNature·DateOct 19, 2016

Researchers create method to evaluate profitability of service amenities

A study by the University of Maryland and Georgetown and Cornell Universities found that free amenities like Wi-Fi and bottled water can be profitable for hotel brands, but their effectiveness varies across brands. In contrast, fitness centers were found to have a negative ROI due to high installation costs.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalJournal of Marketing Research·DateOct 19, 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.

No uptick in marijuana use by adolescents after states pass medical marijuana laws

New research by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health finds that adults 26 years and older increased their past-month marijuana use from 5.87% to 7.15% after medical marijuana laws passed, but there was no effect on adolescents or young adults. Perceived availability of marijuana also increased among those over 25.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence·DateOct 19, 2016

Anti-cancer effects found in natural compound derived from onions

Research from Kumamoto University has discovered that a natural compound isolated from onions, onionin A, exhibits anti-ovarian cancer properties. ONA inhibits the growth of ovarian cancer cells and enhances the effects of anti-cancer drugs, making it a promising treatment option.

SourceKumamoto University·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 19, 2016

Shadows reveal how insects walk on water (video)

Researchers study water strider legs to understand how they can walk on water without displacing it, shedding light on a long-standing scientific mystery. By analyzing the shadows cast by their legs, scientists have confirmed key parameters that allow them to perform this remarkable feat.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalLangmuir·DateOct 19, 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.

Successful infographics

A new study identified four key features of successful infographics: an action-oriented title, short text, clear language, and an illustrated direct course of action. These dimensions were found to be significant in persuading viewers and promoting healthy changes.

SourceCornell Food & Brand Lab·JournalAmerican Journal of Health Behavior·DateOct 19, 2016

Rockcress as heavy-metal hoover

Researchers found that Arabidopsis halleri rockcress can accumulate high levels of toxic heavy metals like zinc and cadmium in its leaves. This adaptation may help clean soils contaminated with these pollutants through phytoremediation.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalNew Phytologist·DateOct 19, 2016

NASA's MAVEN mission observes ups and downs of water escape from Mars

The MAVEN mission provides unprecedented detail on hydrogen escape from Mars' upper atmosphere, revealing a dramatic variation in loss rates throughout the year. The research suggests that water escape is not a steady leak but rather an episodic flow influenced by seasonal and solar activity.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateOct 19, 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.

Drinking an ice slurry/water mix helps body cope with exertion in hot weather

Researchers found that consuming an ice slurry mixture was as effective as ambient water even when consumed in half the quantity, reducing physiological strain and heat production. The study suggests that temperature of the fluid may be as important as volume when managing thermoregulation in hot environments.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalWilderness and Environmental Medicine·DateOct 19, 2016

Biochemistry: Combining two catalytic worlds

Researchers from Ruhr-University Bochum have successfully combined enzyme and chemical catalysts using a gel matrix to overcome the challenge of different reaction conditions. This approach enables more efficient and cost-effective synthesis of polyphenols, with potential applications in cancer therapies.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateOct 19, 2016

Monkeys are seen making stone flakes so humans are 'not unique' after all

Researchers observed wild-bearded capuchin monkeys in Brazil creating fractured flakes and cores with characteristics of early Stone Age hominin tools. The monkeys' behavior suggests they may be extracting minerals or lichen from stones, but their actions are unintentional and distinct from human tool-making.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalNature·DateOct 19, 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.

Older men cling to 1950s, '60s blueprint of masculinity

A study from Case Western Reserve University found that older men adhere closely to an idealized masculinity script incompatible with the realities of later life. This script leaves senior men without a blueprint to behave or handle emotions, contributing to health problems and difficulties in caregiving.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalMen and Masculinities·DateOct 19, 2016

The road to green hydrogen runs through mazes in algal proteins

Researchers describe chemical reactions responsible for hydrogen generation stability in aerobic environment by algal enzymes. They propose a new catalytic model that reveals two pathways for oxygen molecule penetration into the protein structure.

SourceInstitute of Physical Chemistry of the Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalNature Chemistry·DateOct 19, 2016

Growing gold: Researchers develop gold nanowires for biomedical procedures

Kansas State University researchers have developed a novel device using gold nanowires to manipulate individual cells in medical procedures. The gold nanowires are 1,000 times smaller than a human hair and can pierce biological cells to stimulate the cell membrane and investigate its interior.

SourceKansas State University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateOct 19, 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.

Exercise may help ward off memory decline

Research suggests that exercise can lead to a small improvement in overall thinking skills and executive function abilities in individuals with mild vascular cognitive impairment. Participants who exercised for six months showed better blood pressure and cardiovascular capacity compared to those who did not exercise.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateOct 19, 2016

Study shows low vitamin D levels are associated with increased negative and depressive symptoms in psychotic disorders

Research at the International Early Psychosis Association meeting found a significant association between low vitamin D levels and increased negative and depressive symptoms in patients with psychotic disorders. Vitamin D deficiency was also linked to cognitive impairments, including decreased processing speed and verbal fluency.

SourceInternational Early Psychosis Association·DateOct 19, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Microcrystals of membrane proteins no longer hiding from scientists

Researchers from MIPT and JINR use intersecting laser beams to test protein crystal quality and spot peculiar protein features. This method improves the accuracy of detecting small crystals, essential for studying membrane proteins.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateOct 19, 2016

Scientists find technique to improve carbon superlattices for quantum electronic devices

Researchers at the University of the Witwatersrand have developed a technique to calculate the transport properties of carbon superlattice devices, enabling the creation of high-frequency electronic and optoelectronic devices. This breakthrough could lead to significant advancements in industries such as biology, space technology, and ...

SourceUniversity of the Witwatersrand·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 19, 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.

Burrowing echidnas essential for health of Australian environment

A study by Christine Cooper, Phil Withers, and Christofer Clemente found that individual echidnas aerate 200m3 of soil annually, playing a crucial role in maintaining Australia's environmental health. The team also discovered that echidna digging activities can mix organic material into the soil, which is essential for ecosystem balance.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateOct 19, 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.

Doubling down on DNA

The African clawed frog X. laevis genome contains nearly double the number of chromosomes as its related species, a result of whole genome duplication and polyploidy. The study reveals that the genome is comprised of two distinct sets of chromosomes from two extinct ancestors.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalNature·DateOct 19, 2016

Research shows US tendency to hide war against democracies, secretly detain their citizens

A US study found that the country secretly detains citizens from democracies in 'black sites,' while openly holding those from non-democracies in known prisons. The researchers argue that this behavior is rooted in the 'Perceptual Theory of Legitimacy', which suggests good things happen to good people, and bad things happen to bad people.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalJournal of Conflict Resolution·DateOct 19, 2016

Caloric restriction can be beneficial to the brain, study shows

Excessive calcium influx in brain cells can cause excitotoxicity, damaging and killing neurons. Caloric restriction increases mitochondrial calcium retention, protecting against this condition. SIRT3 protein modification inhibits cyclophilin D, allowing mitochondria to retain more calcium.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalAging Cell·DateOct 19, 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.

UMass Amherst leads international astronomical camera project

A team of astronomers led by Grant Wilson at UMass Amherst is building a state-of-the-art imaging system called TolTEC to study the heavens. The new camera will be part of the Large Millimeter Telescope (LMT) and offer improved sensitivity and speed, enabling groundbreaking surveys in star formation and galaxy evolution.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·DateOct 19, 2016

How the African clawed frog got an extra pair of genes

Scientists sequenced the entire genome of Xenopus laevis, revealing it inherited two sets of chromosomes from different diploid ancestors. The discovery provides insights into vertebrate evolution and tetraploidy, a phenomenon where an organism has four sets of chromosomes.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature·DateOct 19, 2016

The silver lining of an inflammatory bowel disease diagnosis

A study published by the American Gastroenterological Association found that adults with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) diagnosed in childhood have better educational levels and higher annual incomes compared to their healthy counterparts. This news may alleviate anxiety for parents of newly diagnosed patients, providing reassurance ...

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·JournalClinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology·DateOct 19, 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.

Creating 3-D hands to keep us safe, increase security

Michigan State University researchers created a life-size 3D model of a human hand complete with fingerprints to test the accuracy of fingerprint scanners. The study highlights the limitations of existing technology, revealing potential security loopholes that could be exploited by crooks.

SourceMichigan State University·DateOct 19, 2016

Hidden chirality

Researchers trigger asymmetric autocatalytic reactions using nitrogen-15 isotope, producing chiral organic intermediates. This breakthrough uses the smallest possible chiral induction via the difference between nitrogen-14 and -15 isotopes.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateOct 19, 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.

Severe lead poisoning in children: Causes and risk factors

A new study identified sources of exposure and assessed outcomes for children with severe lead poisoning. Major risk factors included eating paint, spending time outside the US, and having developmental delays or sickle-cell disease.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·DateOct 19, 2016

Scientists find new genetic roots of schizophrenia

UCLA scientists used a new technology to analyze DNA and found dozens of genes involved in the development of schizophrenia. The study provides important information on how the disorder originates and may lead to better treatments.

SourceMediaSource·JournalNature·DateOct 19, 2016

Reshaping the future of global clinical trials practice

Researchers developed a new international guideline to standardize clinical trial results reporting, increasing the efficiency and value of global research. The COS-STAR statement provides a checklist of 18 essential items for transparent and complete reporting in Core Outcome Set studies.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateOct 19, 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.

Did LIGO detect black holes or gravastars?

The LIGO Scientific Collaboration detected gravitational waves that could have been caused by the collision of two black holes. Researchers used theoretical models to test whether these signals could also be produced by gravastars, hypothetical objects proposed as an alternative to black holes.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalPhysical Review D·DateOct 19, 2016

Researchers explore how Zika infection causes microcephaly

Researchers found that Zika virus disrupts fetal brain development by interfering with human neural progenitor cells, leading to microcephaly. They also identified specific small RNAs from the virus that could impact brain development and lead to microcephaly in mice.

SourceAmerican Society of Human Genetics·DateOct 19, 2016

Control system serpent: Scientists propose new model for automation

Scientists propose a new control system design using Fractional-Order Generalized Principle of Self-Support (FOGPSS), disregarding traditional cause-and-effect definitions. The model uses fractional order calculus to describe potential outcomes over time, allowing for robustness and adaptability in systems with long-term memory.

SourceChinese Association of Automation·JournalIEEE/CAA Journal of Automatica Sinica·DateOct 19, 2016

Science shows cheese can make wine taste better

A scientific study published in the Journal of Food Science found that consuming cheese while drinking wine increased how much someone liked the wine. The study used a new sensory evaluation method and found that four cheeses improved the description and preference of different wines, with no negative impact on preference.

SourceInstitute of Food Technologists·JournalJournal of Food Science·DateOct 19, 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.

Study: Does a cancer cell's shape hint at its danger?

Researchers from Colorado State University discovered that a cancer cell's shape may offer similar clues to predict how dangerous it is and guide treatment strategies. By analyzing cell shape using Zernike moments, the team was able to identify patterns that distinguish invasive osteosarcoma cell lines.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalIntegrative Biology·DateOct 19, 2016

Dust mite allergens share rare combo of qualities

Researchers at Duke University and NIEHS discover that dust mite allergens are both more abundant and stable than non-allergenic proteins, which may lead to new allergy treatments or predict allergenic potential of artificially added proteins. This discovery could also help characterize disease states and study drug mode-of-action.

SourceDuke University·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateOct 19, 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.

New innovation in modeling and designing power grids

Researchers developed a new method to model microgrids using Hybrid Petri Net (HPN), allowing for efficient operation under various conditions. This analysis helps engineers estimate time and cost required for grid component switching, enabling improved microgrid design.

SourceChinese Association of Automation·JournalIEEE/CAA Journal of Automatica Sinica·DateOct 19, 2016

Reducing ammonia pollution from cattle

A new study suggests that implementing techniques such as floor scraping, flushing with water, and using different types of flooring can reduce ammonia emissions from commercial dairy cattle barns by up to 50%. This reduction in pollution could have positive impacts on both the environment and human health.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateOct 19, 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.

Finding the lightest superdeformed triaxial atomic nucleus

Scientists from Poland and France have discovered a new type of atomic nucleus that challenges the long-held assumption that heavy elements are the only ones to exhibit complex deformations. The nuclei of calcium were found to be superdeformed and triaxial, with a distorted shape along three axes.

SourceThe Henryk Niewodniczanski Institute of Nuclear Physics Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateOct 19, 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.

It's official: Phonon and magnon are a couple

Researchers have observed and quantified the coupling of phonons and magnons in crystals of antiferromagnet manganite (Y,Lu)MnO3. This discovery challenges a 100-year-old physical problem and deepens knowledge of multiferroics, materials that exhibit multiple types of order simultaneously.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 19, 2016

New research could help build better hearing aids

Scientists at Binghamton University are developing a high-performance sensor to improve hearing aids, addressing limitations in microphone technology and noise understanding. The research aims to create more sensitive MEMS microphones for improved sound detection.

SourceBinghamton University·DateOct 19, 2016

Binge-eating disorder linked to other health conditions

Individuals with binge-eating disorder have a 2.5-times increased risk of an endocrine disorder and a 1.9-times increased risk of a circulatory system disorder. The study highlights the importance of accurate screening and detection to improve treatment outcomes for those affected.

SourceWiley·JournalInternational Journal of Eating Disorders·DateOct 19, 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.

Signaling pathway could be key to improved osteoporosis treatment

Researchers identify SIK2 enzyme as key to improved osteoporosis treatment, reducing bone breakdown and stimulating formation in animal model. A new compound YKL-05-099 mimics PTH effects, safely stimulating bone growth while suppressing bone resorption.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 19, 2016

Mapping the elephant ivory trade: New evidence revealed

Historic analysis of East African ivory reveals where elephants roamed and were hunted during the 19th century, shedding light on the ecological impact of the ivory trade. The study maps elephant geography in the region and informs contemporary conservation strategies.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalPublication Library and Information Science·DateOct 19, 2016

Study finds link between childhood cancer and poor dietary quality in adulthood

Adult survivors of childhood cancer have poor adherence to federal dietary guidelines, with low intakes of whole grains and excessive sodium and empty calories. Incorporating nutrition into cancer care may help establish long-term healthy eating habits to promote well-being and prevent or delay new chronic diseases.

SourceTufts University, Health Sciences Campus·JournalJournal of Nutrition·DateOct 19, 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.

Curious tilt of the sun traced to undiscovered planet

A recent study by Caltech researchers Konstantin Batygin and Mike Brown suggests that the large, undiscovered planet Planet Nine is responsible for the sun's tilted orbit. The planet's massive size and unique orbit cause a multi-billion-year wobble in the solar system, resulting in a six-degree tilt.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·DateOct 19, 2016

Scientists find link between tropical storms and decline of river deltas

A University of Southampton study reveals that tropical storms are a significant contributor to the decline of river deltas globally. The researchers used archived measurements to detect sediment concentration changes in the Mekong River delta, finding that one-third of the sediment is due to tropical cyclones.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalNature·DateOct 19, 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.

Tweaking the immune response might be a key to combat neurodegeneration

A recent study suggests that manipulating the immune response in adult zebrafish brains could lead to the activation of neural stem cells and the proliferation of new neurons. This finding has significant implications for the potential development of novel therapies against Alzheimer's disease.

SourceDZNE - German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases·JournalCell Reports·DateOct 19, 2016

The latest science on Zika and the challenges ahead

The latest Zika virus research highlights the need for better diagnosis, treatment, and prevention methods due to its link to severe birth defects. Scientists are working to understand the virus's behavior and develop effective strategies to combat its spread worldwide.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Infectious Diseases·DateOct 19, 2016

Penn physician argues for 'meaningful' update to national Alzheimer's act

The National Alzheimer Project Act lacks a strategy to determine the clinical benefit of investigational drugs, potentially leading to exploitation by private interests. Authors propose three key questions to address this issue: slowing cognitive decline, lengthening disease stages, and delaying death.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Medical Association·DateOct 19, 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.

Digital tools for more safety in the food chain

The BfR has developed two digital tools, RITOPS and PERCOW, to estimate the transfer of undesirable substances in animal feeds to foods of animal origin. These tools simulate the toxicokinetic behaviour of PFAS in animals and estimate contaminant levels in milk, eggs, and pork.

SourceBfR Federal Institute for Risk Assessment·DateOct 19, 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.

Seed coating effective on turfgrass under deficit irrigation

A low-dose application of nonionic surfactant applied directly to seed as a component of a seed treatment significantly increases seed germination rate and synchrony. Under deficit irrigation conditions, this coating promotes seedling emergence and plant growth, offering potential for water conservation in urban landscapes.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateOct 19, 2016

A vitamin could help treat Duchenne muscular dystrophy

Large doses of nicotinamide riboside have been found to effectively counteract the progress of Duchenne muscular dystrophy in animals, reducing muscle inflammation and increasing comfort. The treatment aims to provide worn-out mitochondria with fuel, reversing the disease's damaging effects.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateOct 19, 2016

Growing industrial hemp in eastern Canada: A new frontier

Researchers found specific hemp cultivars, such as Ferimon, Anka, and Jutta, consistently produced high yields of biomass and seeds in eastern Canada. The study provides valuable information on adapting industrial hemp to the region's wetter conditions.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalAgronomy Journal·DateOct 19, 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.

Overcoming egocentricity increases self-control

A recent study found that redirecting attention to future needs increases self-control, a mechanism previously thought to be solely governed by the prefrontal cortex. The research suggests that the temporo-parietal junction plays a crucial role in both social interactions and self-controlled decision-making.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 19, 2016

All yeasts are not created equal

A recent study published in Current Biology shows that the type of yeast used to make bread is less similar to the type that causes fungal infections than previously thought. This discovery may lead to the development of targeted drugs with limited side effects.

SourceConcordia University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateOct 19, 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.

Triploid flowering pears reduce self-sowing

New triploid flowering pear cultivars show substantial reduction in fertility, making them suitable for infertile options and reducing naturalization concerns. The study demonstrates that selection of highly infertile triploid cultivars can be an effective way to control self-sowing and plant invasions.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateOct 19, 2016

Going for a run could improve cramming for exams

A new study published in Cognitive Systems Research found that moderate exercise like running improves memory retention for students who have just learned new information. The researchers suggest that physical stress activates the brain's 'memory storage mode', retaining the information.

SourceElsevier·JournalCognitive Systems Research·DateOct 19, 2016

Better diabetic foot disease care would save taxpayers billions

A recent study published in the International Wound Journal found that implementing evidence-based prevention and treatment for diabetic foot ulcers through Medicare could save Australia $2.7 billion over five years. Patients receiving best care also experience faster ulcer healing, fewer hospitalisations, and amputations.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalInternational Wound Journal·DateOct 19, 2016

The unseen cancer crisis: Alarming disparities found across Appalachia

Rural Appalachia faces alarming disparities in cancer care, including higher mortality rates, late diagnoses, and limited access to comprehensive treatment. The region has seen a decline in cancer incidence nationwide, but its cancer death rate has increased, with rural residents facing significantly worse outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalThe Journal of Rural Health·DateOct 19, 2016

NIH study determines key differences between allergic and non-allergic dust mite proteins

A NIH/National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences study found that dust mite allergens are more stable and abundant than other dust mite proteins. This discovery may lead to the development of new approaches for treating dust mite allergies, a common trigger for asthma.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateOct 19, 2016

Algae discovery offers potential for sustainable biofuels

Scientists have discovered a mutation in algae that increases oil yields without sacrificing growth, opening up the prospect of reprogramming metabolism to produce more oil. The finding, published in The Plant Cell, reveals a new way to understand how cells control carbon metabolism and storage.

SourceDonald Danforth Plant Science Center·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateOct 19, 2016

Are extraverts always at an advantage in team-based work?

New research reveals that extraverts' ability to energize their teammates is key to their perceived advantage in team-based work. However, when there's high conflict, extraverts may be seen as dominating or aggressive, showing a less desirable side of being extraverted.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalJournal of Organizational Behavior·DateOct 19, 2016

Population analysis suggests Grauer's gorilla is Critically Endangered

A study published in PLOS ONE suggests Grauer's gorillas are Critically Endangered due to a 77% population decline over one generation. The research identifies three key areas critical for the remaining population and calls for greater conservation efforts, including halting mining and protecting wildlife.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 19, 2016

Researchers identify breast cancer risk factors for younger, black women

African American women are diagnosed with breast cancer at younger ages and face higher mortality rates due to more aggressive ER-negative tumors. Researchers identified modifiable risk factors, including breastfeeding and waist-to-hip ratio, that may help reduce personal risk of ER-negative breast cancer.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·DateOct 19, 2016

How plants make friends with fungi

Researchers identified MIG1 gene controlling root cortex development and arbuscular mycorrhiza fungi symbiosis. This enables plants to extract nutrients from the ground, leading to improved growth and health.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalCurrent Biology·DateOct 19, 2016

Neurodevelopmental model of Zika may provide rapid answers

Researchers developed a neurodevelopmental chick model that demonstrates fetal death and brain damage similar to microcephaly caused by the Zika virus. The study suggests that identifying critical windows of susceptibility could lead to therapeutic innovation.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalStem Cells and Development·DateOct 19, 2016

Does it matter how long you sit -- if you are fit?

A study by NTNU researchers found that older adults who were fit and had the highest fitness levels had lower cardiovascular risk factors despite spending more hours sedentary. Conversely, meeting physical activity guidelines alone was not enough to eliminate these risks if an individual lacked cardiorespiratory fitness.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateOct 19, 2016