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Science News for October 20, 2016


Research in worms provides path to study diabetic complications

Researchers at Buck Institute have found a sensor for reactive molecules linked to diabetic complications, providing a pathway to study many of the ravages of diabetes. Two natural compounds, including alpha-lipoic acid, prevented nerve damage in worms experiencing similar hypersensitivity to touch as humans with diabetic neuropathy.

SourceBuck Institute for Research on Aging·JournalCurrent Biology·DateOct 20, 2016

Strong, steady forces at work during cell division

Biologists at UMass Amherst have quantified the internal force during cell division, resolving a decades-long debate on how much force is involved. The study found that kinetochore fibers exert hundreds of piconewtons of poleward-directed force, settling the matter of how much force is brought to bear.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 20, 2016
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

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

Male mice model human speech defect

Researchers at Duke University found that male mice carrying a genetic mutation known to affect human speech struggle with sequencing phonemes into words. The study used new statistical tools to analyze the structure of ultrasonic mouse songs, revealing a similar impact on sequence complexity as seen in humans.

SourceDuke University·JournalFrontiers in Behavioral Neuroscience·DateOct 20, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Women, diversity in STEM focus of ADVANCE grant to Clemson

The ADVANCE grant aims to create an inclusive academic culture to encourage women and underrepresented minorities in STEM fields. Clemson will implement measures to improve the campus climate, mentorship, and family-friendly policies to retain female faculty members.

SourceClemson University·DateOct 20, 2016

Self-healable battery

Scientists have developed thin, flexible lithium ion batteries that can self-heal after breaking, overcoming common wearables' power source limitations. The new batteries feature a self-healing polymer and gel electrolyte, allowing for safe use on the body.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateOct 20, 2016

Withholding amino acid depletes blood stem cells, Stanford researchers say

Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine discovered that a diet deficient in the amino acid valine can effectively deplete blood stem cells in mice, allowing for successful transplantation. This finding may lead to new ways to treat certain cancers and bone marrow disorders without chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalScience·DateOct 20, 2016

How human eggs end up with the wrong number of chromosomes

Researchers explore why human oocytes frequently have abnormal numbers of chromosomes, which can cause genetic disorders such as Down syndrome. Studies found that age-related deterioration of chromosome structure contributes to these errors.

SourceCell Press·JournalTrends in Cell Biology·DateOct 20, 2016

Turning biofuel waste into wealth in a single step

EPFL scientists have discovered a way to convert lignin from plant biomass into valuable molecules for biofuels and plastics using formaldehyde. The method resulted in yields 3-7 times higher than those without formaldehyde, offering a potential solution for sustainable energy production.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalScience·DateOct 20, 2016
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

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

'Gene therapy in a box' effective, reports Nature Communications

A portable device enables medical staff to genetically modify blood stem cells at a lower cost and with reduced staffing requirements. The technology has the potential to make gene therapy more accessible to patients in developing countries, reducing the need for expensive clean rooms.

SourceFred Hutchinson Cancer Center·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 20, 2016
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

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

Sink your teeth into this: How the three-part jaw evolved

The discovery of Qilinyu, a fossilized placoderm with a three-part complex jaw, confirms the evolution of this trait within the placoderm system. The findings suggest that the emergence of jaws in vertebrates marked a significant turning point in early vertebrate evolution.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateOct 20, 2016

Tobacco plants engineered to manufacture high yields of malaria drug

Researchers have successfully engineered tobacco plants to manufacture therapeutic levels of artemisinin, a plant-derived compound used to treat malaria. The breakthrough could lead to cost-effective delivery methods, such as freeze-dried lettuce powder, to make the drug more accessible to those in need.

SourceCell Press·JournalMolecular Plant·DateOct 20, 2016

Analysis challenges notion that women face higher kidney risks after heart surgery

Researchers found no association between sex and risk of kidney damage when analyzing studies that took patient characteristics into account. Women are more likely to develop kidney damage following cardiovascular surgery, but this link is disputed when adjusting for comorbidities.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateOct 20, 2016
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

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

Modeling shifting beliefs in a complex social environment

A new modeling framework allows scientists to study the impact of certainty on individual beliefs, shedding light on why people reject scientific consensus. The research reveals that underlying beliefs can influence interpersonal networks and shape views on controversial topics.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateOct 20, 2016

To prescribe or not to prescribe?

Research suggests doctors are more likely to prescribe growth hormones for slow-growing children if the child's family requests it or if they believe in its intangible benefits. This raises concerns about access, overuse, and cost of life-enhancing products, which can be expensive and create financial burdens.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateOct 20, 2016

Amazonian frog has its own ant repellent

A team of researchers discovered that the tiny yellow-striped Amazonian frog has a special skin chemical that allows it to live comfortably among leaf-cutting ants. The frogs' skin extracts mimic the ants' own chemical signals, preventing attacks and enabling coexistence.

SourceSpringer·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateOct 20, 2016
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

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

Researchers describe how tumors recruit and use stem cells to support tumor growth and progression

Researchers have identified a mechanism by which tumors recruit bone mesenchymal stem cells and convert them into cancer-associated fibroblasts, facilitating tumor progression. Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) signaling plays a crucial role in this process, suggesting new therapeutic targets for suppressing tumor growth.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalStem Cells and Development·DateOct 20, 2016

A novel noninvasive imaging probe for fast and sensitive detection of cancer

Researchers developed a novel imaging probe that can detect hypoxic tumors with high specificity and sensitivity. The probe uses bioluminescence resonance energy transfer to generate NIR light only in HIF-active hypoxic cells, reducing off-target signals and increasing tumor-to-normal tissue ratio.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 20, 2016
GoPro HERO13 Black

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

From ancient fossils to future cars

Researchers have created a low-cost, high-energy lithium-ion battery anode material using diatomaceous earth, paving the way for more sustainable and efficient electric vehicle batteries. The discovery could lead to improved adoption of electric vehicles by reducing costs and increasing energy storage capacity.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 20, 2016

Superomniphobic tape can repel virtually any liquid

A team of researchers at Colorado State University has developed a superomniphobic tape that can be applied to any surface, giving it liquid-repelling properties. The tape's potential impact is extraordinary, with applications in various civilian, commercial, and military fields.

SourceColorado State University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateOct 20, 2016

Structure of primary cannabinoid receptor is revealed

A new study reveals the detailed structure of the human CB1 receptor, a key target for cannabinoids. The findings provide clues to mechanisms by which certain chemicals produce longer-lasting effects and offer guidance for designing novel medications that specifically target portions of the receptor.

SourceNIH/National Institute on Drug Abuse·JournalCell·DateOct 20, 2016

Children in the Syrian Civil War

A study by Elsafti et al details the struggles faced by Syrian children, including lack of access to immunization programs, formal education, and healthcare. The study finds that two-thirds of examined children showed signs of infectious diseases, raising concerns about malnutrition and preventable infections.

SourceSociety for Disaster Medicine and Public Health, Inc.·JournalDisaster Medicine and Public Health Preparedness·DateOct 20, 2016
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

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

Mathematical analysis reveals architecture of the human genome

A mathematical analysis has led to a formula describing the movement of DNA inside living human cells, enabling researchers to study the 3D architecture of the genome. The findings provide key insights into how genes are accessed by cellular machinery.

SourceHiroshima University·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateOct 20, 2016

Temperature, not predatory pressures, drives plankton abundance

A new study reveals that temperature-induced increases in cell division are the primary driver of phytoplankton blooms. The analysis of nearly 13 years of data from an in situ device found a direct correlation between temperature and cell division rates, with losses due to viruses and predators following closely behind.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateOct 20, 2016
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Electronic records help link genes to age-related hearing loss

A study published in PLOS Genetics identified two genetic variations linked to age-related hearing impairment, shedding light on the disorder's biological basis. The research used a large cohort of patients' electronic medical records and genome sequences to discover these genetic links.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateOct 20, 2016

The versatility of pronouns and shifting identity

Researchers examine how second person pronouns in Spanish are used to communicate shifts in various social identities, highlighting the dynamic nature of identity negotiation. The study confirms that aspects of our identities are often fleeting, invoked for a purpose and then negotiated as conversations progress.

SourceLinguistic Society of America·JournalLanguage·DateOct 20, 2016
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

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

Diet and exercise may improve physical function and quality of life in older obese adults

A recent review and analysis of published studies found low-to-moderate evidence that dietary and exercise interventions can improve physical function and quality of life in older adults with obesity. The study included 405 adults aged over 60 years, highlighting the need for well-designed trials to address obesity in this population.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateOct 20, 2016

Blast of thin air can reset circadian clocks

A study published in Cell Metabolism found that varying oxygen levels can reset the circadian clock of mice, which could inform how airlines moderate cabin air pressure. The research also suggests potential benefits for humans, including alleviating jetlag and improving air travel comfort.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateOct 20, 2016

The smart wheelchair

Researchers developed a smart wheelchair navigation system that incorporates enhanced safety features and warning systems to assist users more effectively. The system can detect emotional distress or drowsiness in the user, provide warnings, and monitor vital signs for diagnostic purposes.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Human Factors Modelling and Simulation·DateOct 20, 2016

Mt. Aso could erupt much sooner, scientists warn

New faults in Mt. Aso's magma chamber and volcanic cones alter spatial and mechanical properties of the volcano, potentially changing its eruption dynamics. The study suggests that the 2016 Kumamoto earthquake accelerated the timing of a future eruption by creating new channels for magma venting.

SourceKyoto University·JournalScience·DateOct 20, 2016
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

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

Computer simulation breaks virus apart to learn how it comes together

Scientists created a coarse-grained model of the Cowpea Chlorotic Mottle Virus (CCMV) capsid and applied forces to it. This allowed them to see how the capsid broke apart, providing clues about its assembly process. The study reveals that weaker protein-protein contacts assemble first, followed by stronger ones.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalThe European Physical Journal Special Topics·DateOct 20, 2016
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Tracking waves from sunspots gives new solar insight

Scientists have tracked a particular kind of solar wave as it swept upward from the sun's surface through its atmosphere, adding to our understanding of how solar material travels throughout the sun. The study provides a novel tool for scientists to study the atmosphere of the sun and sheds light on the coronal heating problem.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateOct 20, 2016

A look at the 'marijuana' receptor

The study provides a three-dimensional image of cannabinoid receptor 1, which is found to be embedded in the surface of many nerve cells. This discovery could explain how pain medications meant to mimic cannabis use without the 'high' can cause unintended side effects.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateOct 20, 2016

Disturbance wanted

Researchers found a way to break up p97 complex into its subunits using ASPL protein, which could be a promising new approach to kill proliferating cancer cells. This discovery may lead to the identification of smaller molecules that can disrupt the structure of p97 in a targeted manner.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 20, 2016
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

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

Fast-food calorie labeling unlikely to encourage healthy eating, finds NYU study

A new NYU study found that only a small fraction of fast-food consumers make healthy choices due to current calorie labeling. The researchers recommend improving labeling to boost the odds of diners making healthy choices, including making calorie information more visible and providing average daily recommended intake.

SourceNew York University·JournalJournal of Public Policy & Marketing·DateOct 20, 2016

Nanoparticle vaccinates mice against dengue fever

Researchers developed a new type of nanoparticle vaccine that effectively vaccinated mice against one dengue virus serotype. The vaccine targets only one strain, but its development could pave the way for vaccines against all four serotypes, potentially offering better protection against life-threatening disease.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateOct 20, 2016

Scientists build a better cancer drug to pass through blood-brain barrier

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have developed a modified cancer drug that enhances its ability to reach the brain, improving delivery and reducing toxicity. The new compound shows promise in treating brain tumors by targeting tumor metabolism and evading immune cells.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Medicinal Chemistry·DateOct 20, 2016

Parents of children with cancer value sequencing results, even if non-actionable

Parents of children with cancer find whole exome sequencing useful for understanding the cause of their child's cancer, relieving guilt and providing reassurance for other family members. The study also highlights the importance of considering broader benefits beyond clinical actionability when deciding to disclose genetic information.

SourceAmerican Society of Human Genetics·DateOct 20, 2016

System changes improve prenatal care for Medicaid beneficiaries

Research at Oregon State University shows that Oregon's implementation of coordinated care organizations improved expectant moms starting prenatal care on time. The study also found a small narrowing of the gap in prenatal care quality between Medicaid beneficiaries and those with private insurance.

SourceOregon State University·JournalHealth Affairs·DateOct 20, 2016
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Ancient proteins shown to control plant growth

A UCLA-led team reports the discovery of blue-light inhibitor of cryptochromes (BICs) that regulate plant growth, growing Arabidopsis plants at least twice as tall without cryptochromes. BICs likely have counterparts in human circadian clocks and other organisms.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalScience·DateOct 20, 2016

Prey-foraging: The collective search or lone-wolf approach?

Researchers created a simple rule of thumb to help predators weigh the pros and cons of sharing information about prey locations. The model suggests that cooperation is beneficial when it takes longer to find and consume prey, such as large buffalo or rich fishing grounds.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateOct 20, 2016

Optical and PET/CT probes detect early signs of atherosclerosis

The study demonstrates the effectiveness of activity-based probes in detecting early signs of atherosclerosis. By targeting cysteine cathepsins, the probes image activated macrophage populations using optical and PET/CT methods, providing real-time monitoring of disease progression and therapeutic responses.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateOct 20, 2016
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Taking out the cellular 'trash' - at the right place and the right time

Researchers at the University of Vienna have made a groundbreaking discovery on how cells regulate autophagy, a vital process for maintaining cellular balance. The study shows that autophagy is tightly controlled in space and time by two independent coordinators, which enables the activation of autophagy when precise requirements are met.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalMolecular Cell·DateOct 20, 2016

Study estimates ADHD symptom persistence into adulthood

A recent study found that 60% of children with ADHD persist with symptoms until their mid-20s, and 41% experience both symptoms and impairment as young adults. The researchers suggest using a combination of parent and self-reports, along with an adjusted symptom threshold for adulthood, to accurately diagnose ADHD in adults.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry·DateOct 20, 2016
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

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

Study suggests benefits of laser treatments for dental problems

Researchers developed computer simulations demonstrating how lasers attack bacterial colonies, suggesting benefits for oral debridement and periodontal treatment. The study confirms the effectiveness of 810 nm diode lasers and 1064 nm Nd:YAG lasers in killing bacteria with minimal heating of surrounding tissue.

SourceNew York Institute of Technology·JournalLasers in Surgery and Medicine·DateOct 20, 2016
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

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

Leisure activities, job crafting can make company 'misfits' more productive

A recent study found that employees who are a poor cultural fit can remain engaged and productive through job crafting and enhanced leisure activities. Job crafting allows workers to modify their duties to better match personal abilities, while leisure activities can improve job satisfaction and performance.

SourcePenn State·JournalAcademy of Management Journal·DateOct 20, 2016

HIV active in tissues of patients who were treated, study shows

Researchers found HIV in brain, kidney, spleen & other tissues of treated patients with undetectable viral loads, suggesting continued disease progression. The study suggests that strategies to 'cure' HIV infection must consider targeting tissue-based sites of HIV.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJournal of Virology·DateOct 20, 2016
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

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

ALS study reveals role of RNA-binding proteins

Researchers discovered damage to RNA-binding protein hnRNP A2/B1 contributes to ALS by scrambling cellular messaging systems. The study provides a new therapeutic target for treating the disease.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNeuron·DateOct 20, 2016

Scientists reveal link between cell metabolism and the spread of cancer

Researchers found that manipulating macrophages' metabolism can prevent tumor cells from spreading by stealing glucose, leading to a structured vessel barrier. The study's findings may lead to new cancer therapies targeting mTOR inhibitors and improving treatment outcomes for patients.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalCell Metabolism·DateOct 20, 2016

Chemical tags affect ability of RNA viruses to infect cells

New research from Duke University found that RNA viruses like hepatitis, Zika, and dengue are littered with N6-methyladenosine tags which slow down their ability to infect cells. The study suggests that these chemical tags might regulate the life cycle of these viruses and provide new targets for antiviral drug development.

SourceDuke University·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateOct 20, 2016
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

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

Rat brain atlas provides MR images for stereotaxic surgery

A comprehensive rat brain atlas has been created to guide stereotaxic surgery procedures, combining high-resolution MRI images with histological sections. The atlas features a standardized reference grid and precise coordinates, enabling accurate targeting of surgical targets.

SourceBeckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology·DateOct 20, 2016
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

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

Rac1 protein critical for lung development

A study by Children's Hospital Los Angeles reveals Rac1 is crucial for proper lung development. The protein regulates the Wnt signaling pathway, essential for lung branching morphogenesis. Inhibition of Rac1 disrupts lung formation and leads to cell death in mouse lungs.

SourceChildren's Hospital Los Angeles·DateOct 20, 2016

New compound shows promise in treating multiple human cancers

A new compound, S63845, has been shown to block a protein essential for the sustained growth of up to a quarter of all cancers. This research holds promise for treating blood and solid cancers, including acute myeloid leukaemia and melanoma.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalNature·DateOct 20, 2016

Early fossil fish from China shows where our jaws came from

New fossil discovery in China reveals that the jaw bones of modern humans and bony fishes are linked to the ancient armoured fish placoderms. The findings provide a significant clue on how our jaws evolved, suggesting substantial parts of human anatomy can be traced back to these early creatures.

SourceUppsala University·JournalScience·DateOct 20, 2016

Risk analysis for common ground on climate loss and damage

The new research framework lays out two sets of options for support: curative measures to address unavoidable risks, and transformative risk management to build resilience against climate-related impacts. This analysis provides a way to work towards consensus and principled action for dealing with critical climate-related risks.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalScience·DateOct 20, 2016
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

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

How snakes lost a blueprint for making limbs

Researchers found a genetic mutation responsible for the loss of limb formation instructions in snakes, which are unable to form limbs. By restoring the missing DNA sequence in mice, scientists demonstrated that snakes' inability to form limbs is due to a critical stretch of DNA involved in limb growth.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateOct 20, 2016
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

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

Park rangers, gorillas under increasing threat in DRC

In the Democratic Republic of Congo, a park ranger was recently killed while defending Grauer's gorillas, highlighting the increasing threats to rangers and their families. The WCS Senior Conservation Scientist for Africa expresses concern over these increased threats to animal protection.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 20, 2016

Receding glaciers in Bolivia leave communities at risk

Glacial lakes in Bolivia are increasing in size, posing a threat to communities and infrastructure downstream. The study found that glacier recession could lead to glacial lake outburst floods, which have already occurred in the region, causing devastating effects on villages and farmland.

SourceEuropean Geosciences Union·JournalThe Cryosphere·DateOct 20, 2016
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

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

New research verifies TASINs as viable target for colon cancer therapies

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have identified a small molecule called TASIN-1 that selectively kills cells with a mutation precursor to colon cancer while sparing normal cells. The findings could eventually help with both prevention and intervention efforts for colon cancer.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateOct 20, 2016

Ancient human history more complex than previously thought, researchers say

A new estimator developed by geneticists suggests that the population in Africa was likely 50% larger than previously thought and that an archaic-modern human separation date of 440,000 years ago is the best fit. The study also found that ancient populations interbred less than previously believed throughout Eurasia.

SourceAmerican Society of Human Genetics·DateOct 20, 2016

Life on the edge is dangerous

Research on sand lizards found that populations at the edge of their range exhibit lower genetic diversity compared to those in the center, making them more susceptible to climate change, parasites, and other challenges. This study highlights the importance of conservation efforts for species living on the periphery of their habitats.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ·JournalLandscape Ecology·DateOct 20, 2016
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

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

Mobilizing our immune system to fight viruses

Researchers at Monash University have made a groundbreaking discovery about how T cells recognize viruses, challenging decades-old immunological concepts. By using the National Synchrotron, they gained key molecular insights into the T cell-virus interaction, revealing a new way T cells 'see' viruses and triggering an immune response.

SourceMonash University·JournalImmunity·DateOct 20, 2016

Zika virus infection alters human and viral RNA

Researchers discovered that Zika virus infection leads to modifications of both viral and human genetic material, including the addition of methyl groups. This alteration affects viral replication and the human immune response, highlighting the importance of methylation in vaccine and therapy development.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateOct 20, 2016

Science sheds light on 250-year-old literary controversy

Researchers mapped character relationships in Scottish epics and found close similarities to Irish texts, challenging the authenticity of Macpherson's works. The study also reveals distinct distance from classical Greek literature.

SourceCoventry University·JournalAdvances in Complex Systems·DateOct 20, 2016
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

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

Imaging technique maps serotonin activity in living brains

Researchers developed an imaging technique that creates a 3-D video of serotonin transport, mapping its activity across multiple brain regions. This tool could aid the research and development of antidepressants by analyzing how inhibitors like SSRIs work in different parts of the brain.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNeuron·DateOct 20, 2016

Novel mechanisms of action discovered for skin cancer medication Imiquimod

Scientists at TUM have discovered new mechanisms of action for Imiquimod, a medication used to treat viral skin infections and certain types of skin cancer. The study reveals that Imiquimod activates the NLRP3 inflammasome, which can lead to inflammation and potentially contribute to its efficacy or adverse side effects.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalImmunity·DateOct 20, 2016

Move over, lasers: Scientists can now create holograms from neutrons, too

Researchers at NIST have developed a method to create visual holograms using neutron beams, which can reveal detailed information about an object's interior. This technique has potential applications in studying solid materials and exploring small structures.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalOptics Express·DateOct 20, 2016

Smashing metallic cubes toughens them up

Rice University scientists fire micro-cubes at a target to rearrange their nanoscale structures, creating ultrastrong and tough materials. The technique, known as LIPIT, uses advanced laser-induced projectile impact testing to generate high pressure that far exceeds the material's strength.

SourceRice University·JournalScience·DateOct 20, 2016

Patients weigh in on orthopedic surgeons' pay, reimbursement

A study of patient perceptions by Henry Ford Hospital found that patients overestimate the Medicare reimbursement for knee surgery and ACL reconstruction procedures. Patients believe a surgeon's salary should be compensated more for advanced training and are willing to pay more out-of-pocket costs.

SourceHenry Ford Health·JournalOrthopedics·DateOct 20, 2016

Scientists show how plants turn a 'light switch' on and off

Researchers have uncovered the mechanism by which cryptochrome 2, a key photoreceptor, is switched on and off in plants. This desensitization mechanism allows plants to maintain homeostasis of their blue light responsiveness in fluctuating light environments.

SourceRIKEN·JournalScience·DateOct 20, 2016

More American men with early-stage prostate cancer could opt out of immediate treatment

A new report suggests that well over half of American men with non-aggressive prostate cancer could choose to monitor their disease instead of seeking immediate radiation treatment or surgery. Active surveillance relies on regular blood tests, physical exams, and periodic biopsies to screen for tumor growth before therapy is considered.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateOct 20, 2016

Researchers find new way to attack gastro bug

Scientists at Griffith University identified a unique sensory structure in bacteria that binds host-specific sugar and is present on virulent strains of Campylobacter jejuni. Disabling this sensor reduces the ability of campylobacteria to colonize chickens, offering a potential target for antimicrobial drugs.

SourceGriffith University·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 20, 2016

Study offers different perspective on entrepreneurial opportunities

A new study from the University of Texas at Dallas offers a different view on entrepreneurial opportunities. The authors propose that opportunities are not pre-existing but rather have potential that can be actualized through effort and creativity. This perspective has significant implications for education, suggesting a shift in how e...

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalAcademy of Management Review·DateOct 20, 2016

Designing the future internet

Raychaudhuri's MobilityFirst project aims to rearchitect the internet with name-based routing, improving flexibility, security, and efficiency. The project has underway trials to deliver content closer to users, extend mobile services, and support targeted emergency messaging.

SourceRutgers University·DateOct 20, 2016

Teachers and students pair up to widen the STEM pipeline

The NYU Tandon School of Engineering has launched a novel summer program that brings together teams of teachers and their students to learn robotics and entrepreneurial education. The program aims to improve teacher practices and student outcomes by combining robotics and entrepreneurship to establish elective courses in STEM subjects.

SourceNYU Tandon School of Engineering·DateOct 20, 2016

CVIA volume 1 issue 4: Major new special issue on cardiovascular risk factors

A new special issue on cardiovascular risk factors has been published in CVIA, highlighting key findings on hypertension management and the role of gut microbiota in atherosclerosis. The issue also explores the global burden of cardiovascular disease and its socio-economic impact.

SourceCardiovascular Innovations and Applications·JournalCardiovascular Innovations and Applications·DateOct 20, 2016