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Science News for October 5, 2016


Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Retroviral diseases: Children who keep HIV in check

A new study reveals that some HIV-infected children control the virus by activating low levels of immune activation and producing potent antibodies. This differs from adults who develop AIDS despite effective antiretroviral therapy.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateOct 5, 2016

Can older adults with dementia continue to drive? More study is needed

Researchers found that current testing procedures are only 77% accurate in predicting driving safety for people with dementia, highlighting the need for better tools to assess their ability to drive safely. Healthcare professionals should work closely with older adults and caregivers to determine when it's time to stop driving.

SourceAmerican Geriatrics Society·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateOct 5, 2016

Certain healthy habits may shorten the time older adults spend disabled at end of life

Research found that healthy lifestyle habits like exercising, eating a healthy diet, and staying socially connected can potentially compress the period of disability in older adults before death. However, factors such as smoking, being inactive, and unhealthy diets were associated with longer periods of disability.

SourceAmerican Geriatrics Society·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateOct 5, 2016

Conservation decisions rely on balancing incentives with unpredictable variables

Researchers examine how large payments are necessary to induce landowners to accept conservation contracts, considering permanent and temporary options. The study reveals that permanent lump-sum payments need to be higher due to 'loss of option value,' while linking carbon payments to profits reduces uncertainty and hesitation.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Agricultural Economics·DateOct 5, 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.

The Lancet: Policies and programs to support early child development a 'wise investment' as 250 million children at risk of not reaching their full potential

A study published in The Lancet highlights the importance of providing nurturing care and supporting parenting practices to help children reach their full potential. The analysis estimates that 250 million children are at risk of poor development due to extreme poverty and stunting, with significant costs for countries and individuals.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·DateOct 5, 2016

Coolness, control and community draw people to Pinterest

A new study by Penn State researchers found that Pinterest users are drawn to the platform's unique features, including easy-to-follow instructions and intuitive navigation. The study also revealed that users pin content to express their interests and creativity.

SourcePenn State·JournalSocial Media + Society·DateOct 5, 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.

Most gay men not aware of treatment to protect them from HIV

Only four in 10 gay and bisexual men in Baltimore are aware of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), a medication that reduces HIV incidence by 92 percent. Despite its effectiveness, PrEP is underused due to lack of education among healthcare providers and patients.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateOct 5, 2016

Do proactive primary health-care programs preserve functioning for older adults?

A recent study found that personalized primary care programs can improve daily functioning in older adults, particularly those with higher levels of education. After six months, participants in the treatment groups experienced fewer problems compared to the control group, but further studies are needed to confirm these results.

SourceAmerican Geriatrics Society·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateOct 5, 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.

A tough day could erase the perks of choosing 'good' fat sources, study finds

A recent study by Ohio State University researchers found that stress can cancel out the benefits of choosing healthier fats, such as monounsaturated sunflower oil. Women who consumed a high-unsaturated-fat breakfast fared better in blood tests looking for precursors to disease than those consuming a high-saturated-fat meal, but this a...

SourceOhio State University·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateOct 5, 2016

Pokémon Go and the potential for increased accidents

Researchers report two cases of accidents caused by playing Pokémon Go while driving and walking. Players became distracted by the game and lost control of their vehicles or swerved into obstacles. The study highlights the potential risks of augmented reality games on physical safety.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalOxford Medical Case Reports·DateOct 5, 2016

Smartphone microscope creates interactive tool for microbiology

The LudusScope, a 3D printed smartphone microscope, enables kids to play games and make serious observations with miniature light-seeking microbes called Euglena. The device allows students to build their own instrument and collect data on Euglena behavior, swimming speed, and natural biological variability.

SourceStanford University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 5, 2016

NASA sees Tropical Depression 22W form

Tropical Depression 22W has formed and its center is elongated due to moderate vertical wind shear. The storm is moving northwest at 24 mph and forecast to pass over open waters near Taiwan.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateOct 5, 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.

Hard-to-control asthma has distinct features, study shows

Children with hard-to-control asthma have distinct features that distinguish them from those with easy-to-control asthma. These include bronchodilator responsiveness, nasal inflammation, and allergy, which impact response to treatment. Early identification of key assessments may help personalize treatment approaches for these patients.

SourceAnn & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateOct 5, 2016

Scientists find new path in brain to ease depression

Scientists at Northwestern University discovered a new brain pathway that can be manipulated to alleviate depression. The BMP signaling pathway plays a key role in depression and can be targeted by a new molecule called Noggin, which stimulates neurogenesis and blocks the pathway.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateOct 5, 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.

Most Americans want government to combat climate change

A recent survey found that most Americans (65%) think climate change is a problem that needs addressing, with 43% of Republicans and 84% of Democrats agreeing. The survey also revealed that 42% are unwilling to pay even $1 per month for their electric bill to combat climate change, while 20% would be willing to pay up to $50.

SourceNORC at the University of Chicago·DateOct 5, 2016

Reservoirs are a major source of greenhouse gases

Researchers estimate that dams and reservoirs release 1.3% of total human-caused greenhouse gas emissions, a quantity that should be included in global inventories. The authors suggest that careful dam siting and management can help balance the positive ecosystem services of reservoirs against greenhouse gas emission costs.

SourceAmerican Institute of Biological Sciences·JournalBioScience·DateOct 5, 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.

Research to answer a 'crushing' evolutionary question

Researchers studied placodont teeth to understand how evolution shaped traits for survival. They found that despite predictions, later placodonts developed unique and complex teeth structures, possibly similar to early human molars.

SourceNew Jersey Institute of Technology·JournalPaleobiology·DateOct 5, 2016

For normal heart function, look beyond the genes

Researchers discovered that missing enhancers result in abnormal heart function, a finding that bolsters the significance of noncoding regions. A comprehensive genome-wide map of 80,000 human heart enhancers was also provided to facilitate interpretation of human genetic data sets.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 5, 2016

Leadership expert says political skills important to leader satisfaction

A Kansas State University researcher found that political skill is the only interpersonal skill to have an independent positive relationship with transformational leadership and job satisfaction. Developing this skill can increase work engagement and satisfaction, benefiting organizations.

SourceKansas State University·JournalLeadership & Organization Development Journal·DateOct 5, 2016

Strange 'chimeras' defy science's understanding of human genetics

Scientists have long assumed chimeric RNA indicates cancer, but new research reveals these fusions can also be a normal part of human genetics. Researchers are working to develop more accurate biomarkers and therapeutic targets by understanding the complexities of normal genetic programming.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalTrends in Cancer·DateOct 5, 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.

Custom-tailored strategy against glioblastomas

Researchers have created a new method to combat glioblastomas, a type of brain tumor that is difficult to treat. The method involves testing multiple substances on individual cancer cells from each patient and identifying effective combinations for treatment.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateOct 5, 2016

'Blind dates' in the amber world

Scientists have discovered a 54 million-year-old fossilized biting midge in amber, revealing an unusual vesicular structure at the front edge of its wings. This structure was likely used by the female midge to collect and spray pheromones for attraction, unlike modern biting midges that use simpler methods.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 5, 2016

Bragging as a strategy: What boasting buys, and costs, a candidate

A new study found that boasting about intelligence can make a person seem more competent, but less moral, than those who remain humble. Self-effacement claims also have consequences, with declaring oneself not particularly smart worse for perceived competence than being shown right or wrong.

SourceBrown University·JournalSocial Psychology·DateOct 5, 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.

Atlantic Ocean's slowdown tied to changes in the Southern Hemisphere

A University of Washington study links Atlantic Ocean slowdown to changes in the Southern Hemisphere, which affects eastern North America and Western Europe. The shift is not driven by Arctic sea ice melting but rather by winds in the Southern Ocean.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateOct 5, 2016

Online software helps citizen scientists solve real-world problems

A new study demonstrates how citizen science can be used to improve environmental decision-making and secure funding for conservation projects. Online software and web-portal platforms enable community groups to design protocols, conduct experiments, and implement plans, making them an invaluable tool in addressing environmental issues.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalBiological Conservation·DateOct 5, 2016

The adolescent brain is adapted to learning

New research suggests that teenagers' sensitivity to reward is an evolutionary adaptation to learn from their environment. The study found that adolescents outperformed adults in a picture-based game requiring learning from positive and negative reinforcement cues.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·DateOct 5, 2016

Penn study: Today's most successful fish weren't always evolutionary standouts

A new analysis of over a thousand fossil fishes reveals that holosteans were as evolutionarily innovative as teleosts, and perhaps even more so. The study, led by the University of Pennsylvania's John Clarke, challenges the traditional view of teleosts' success story.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 5, 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.

UTIA receives grant to improve farm financial performance in Tennessee

The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture has received a grant to expand the farm financial management database FINBIN to include Tennessee farms. This expansion will provide benchmark financial information for producers, lenders, and other agricultural professionals, enabling them to make more informed financial decisions.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture·DateOct 5, 2016

To help or not to help?

In emergency situations, people tend to behave either egotistically or prosocially, with some individuals being more cooperative than others. A study published in Nature Scientific Reports found that most participants helped others less in emergency situations due to time pressure, while prosocial individuals were more willing to help.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 5, 2016

Hebrew University study reveals a biological link between stress and obesity

Researchers have discovered a biological link between anxiety and metabolic disorders, revealing microRNAs as key regulators of inflammation and metabolism. This finding offers novel opportunities for innovative diagnoses and treatments, including manipulation of microRNA activity through DNA-based drugs.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 5, 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 shows potential disease treatment in newborns via drug delivery to amniotic fluid

Researchers at Rosalind Franklin University and Oregon Health & Science University developed a breakthrough study on treating congenital diseases in utero using antisense oligonucleotides injected into the amniotic cavity. The procedure resulted in targeted alteration of gene expression for up to a month after birth.

SourceRosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateOct 5, 2016

IRCM researchers explain how evolution has equipped our hands with 5 fingers

A team of researchers led by Dr. Marie Kmita discovered that the transition from fin to limb was not accomplished overnight and identified a key difference in gene regulation between fish and mice. By reproducing the fish-type regulation, mice developed up to seven digits per paw, revealing the significance of this difference.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalNature·DateOct 5, 2016

Brookhaven Lab to play major role in 2 DOE exascale computing application projects

The Computational Science Initiative at Brookhaven Lab will develop modeling and simulation applications for nuclear and high-energy physics, focusing on lattice quantum chromodynamics calculations and computational chemistry code NWChem. The projects aim to optimize societal impact in fields like climate science and materials science.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·DateOct 5, 2016

Absolute structure determination: Pushing the limits

Current methods for determining compound chirality rely on X-ray diffraction and computer analysis. Recent advancements have improved the accuracy of absolute structure assignment, enabling reliable results for compounds containing heavy atoms.

SourceInternational Union of Crystallography·JournalActa Crystallographica Section B·DateOct 5, 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.

Heavy hitters: Obesity rate soars among professional baseball players

Professional baseball players have seen a significant increase in weight and obesity over the last quarter century. The majority of athletes were within the normal BMI range for over 100 years, but around 1991, their average BMI began to rise, with nearly 80% now falling into the overweight or obese category.

SourcePenn State·JournalObesity Research & Clinical Practice·DateOct 5, 2016

Heparin derived from cattle is equivalent to heparin from pigs, study finds

A new study by Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine researchers has found that bovine heparin has equivalent anti-clotting properties to porcine heparin. This breakthrough could help address possible shortages of the essential medication, which is primarily derived from pigs.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalClinical and Applied Thrombosis/Hemostasis·DateOct 5, 2016

The incredible shrinking particle accelerator

A new toolkit has been developed to simulate, analyze and visualize particle accelerator studies using advanced visualization tools and supercomputers. This enables faster and more efficient simulations, reducing memory usage and saving computer time.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalIEEE Computer Graphics and Applications·DateOct 5, 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.

Study shows infants pay more attention to native speakers

A study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that infants as young as 5 months old give more attention to objects presented by their native speaker. This preference for native language is thought to aid infants' quick acquisition of societal knowledge and cultural adaptation.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateOct 5, 2016

NASA satellite sees stubborn Atlantic Tropical Storm Nicole

Tropical Storm Nicole in the western Atlantic Ocean is resisting erosion from wind shear, a phenomenon that can disrupt tropical cyclones. Despite being battered by strong winds, Nicole has maintained its strength and is expected to remain in strong wind shear conditions for several days.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateOct 5, 2016

Redox biomarker could predict progression of epilepsy

A study published in Redox Biology found that a decreased cysteine/cystine ratio in plasma may predict the progression of epilepsy. The study used a rat model and found significant changes in the biomarker after seizures were induced, suggesting its potential as a redox biomarker for epilepsy.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalRedox Biology·DateOct 5, 2016

Planet formation: The death of a planet nursery?

The TW Hydrae system shows a prominent gap that is unlikely to be caused by an actively accreting protoplanet. Instead, researchers attribute the feature to photoevaporation, which heats gas and allows it to fly away from the disk. This process may disperse the disk before planets can form.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateOct 5, 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.

A better blood sugar test for diabetes

A new blood sugar test method developed by the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) has been shown to cut diagnostic errors by more than 50% compared to current tests. The technique, which takes into account the age of red blood cells, offers personalized diabetes monitoring for over 400 million diabetics worldwide.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateOct 5, 2016

Research details industry payments to dermatologists

A new study analyzed industry payments to 8,333 dermatologists in 2014, finding that the top 10% collected at least $3,940 and the top 1% received over $93,622. The majority of payments were for speaker fees, consulting, or research activities.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Dermatology·DateOct 5, 2016

First results on semen quality from the world's oldest group of ICSI men

The study found that ICSI men had almost half the sperm concentration and a two-fold lower total sperm count compared to naturally conceived men. They were also nearly three times more likely to have sperm concentrations below 15 million per millilitre of semen.

SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·JournalHuman Reproduction·DateOct 5, 2016

A nerve agent antidote that could be taken before an attack

Scientists have created a potential nerve agent antidote that can be taken before an attack, offering hope for soldiers and others exposed to these molecular weapons. The enzyme-based antidote was encapsulated in a porous metal-organic framework, enhancing its staying power and effectiveness.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Nano·DateOct 5, 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.

Common US snake actually 3 different species

Research finds yellow-bellied kingsnake has three subspecies with distinct habitats on each side of the Mississippi, challenging long-held biodiversity theory. This discovery highlights the importance of understanding ecological environments in shaping species diversity.

SourceAmerican Museum of Natural History·JournalMolecular Phylogenetics and Evolution·DateOct 5, 2016

Clean water-treatment option targets sporadic outbreaks

David Wendell's technology targets harmful pathogens like E. coli, Listeria, and protozoa while preserving healthy bacteria in public drinking water. It uses light-generated hydrogen peroxide to eliminate outbreaks, without adding contaminants to the environment.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalPLOS Biology·DateOct 5, 2016

Certain citrus species produce repellent against huanglongbing

Researchers discovered that three citrus plants - Citrus reticulata, Swingle citrumelo, and Murcott mandarin - produce essential oils that repel Diaphorina citri, the insect that transmits huanglongbing. These compounds may act as repellents, making the plants less attractive to D. citri for ovipositing purposes.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalMolecules·DateOct 5, 2016

Grant to TSRI-led consortium expands to $207 million

The National Institutes of Health has expanded a five-year funding award to The Scripps Research Institute (TSRI) from $120 million to $207 million. TSRI will lead the effort to engage one million or more U.S. participants in a historic medical research effort aimed at improving disease prevention and treatment based on individual diff...

SourceScripps Research Institute·DateOct 5, 2016

New imaging method could enable dentists to detect and heal tooth cavities much earlier

A new imaging device uses long-wavelength infrared imaging to detect small thermal radiation emitted from dental caries, allowing for earlier diagnosis and potential reversal. The tool has the benefits of being noncontact, noninvasive, and low-cost, with great potential as a commercially viable diagnostic imaging device.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Biomedical Optics·DateOct 5, 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.

Low lead levels in children negatively affect test scores

A new study using data from Rhode Island's lead-abatement program and repeated blood lead level tests found that low reading scores among preschoolers can predict lower scores in subsequent years. The study suggests that lead exposure may contribute to the persistence of gaps in test scores between children from different socioeconomic...

SourceBrown University·DateOct 5, 2016

Physicists 'dissolve' water in an emerald

Researchers successfully confine individual H?O molecules within nanosized cavities in beryl crystals, exhibiting ferroelectric properties. This discovery could have implications for various fields, including biology, chemistry, and geology.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 5, 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.

Age limit for federal food assistance program is increasing food insecurity

A new study found that US federal food assistance programs face a critical issue with their age limits, which can lead to increased food insecurity for families. The current program restricts eligibility for children at the age of five, despite many not attending school immediately after.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalChildren and Youth Services Review·DateOct 5, 2016

Food scientists: We can detect much more food fraud

Researchers from the University of Copenhagen have reviewed the use of NIR spectroscopy to detect food fraud in Current Opinion in Food Science. The method can reveal far more food fraud than current methods, including intentional misrepresentation and undeclared introduction of cheaper substances. By examining large quantities of raw ...

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalCurrent Opinion in Food Science·DateOct 5, 2016

Discovery: A new form of light

A team of scientists from the University of Vermont and Dartmouth College have discovered a new way that some molecules can make a luminescent glow, breaking Kasha's Rule. The newly discovered pathway to creating light may prove useful in industrial materials, LEDs, and biomedical imaging.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalNature Chemistry·DateOct 5, 2016

New method to detect aging cells developed by researchers

Researchers at the University of Manchester developed a universally applicable method to assess senescence across biomedicine. The new biomarker provides unprecedented advantages over existing products, being sensitive, specific, and easy-to-use.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalAging Cell·DateOct 5, 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.

Volunteering may have benefits for memory among older adults

A new study found that volunteering regularly over time may have benefits for older adults' memory and physical health. Volunteering reduces the risk of cognitive problems by 27%, even among those with other risk factors.

SourceAmerican Geriatrics Society·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateOct 5, 2016

NASA sees Chaba becoming extra-tropical

Tropical Storm Chaba has become an extra-tropical storm, with strong winds and wind shear causing it to resemble a frontal system. NASA's Aqua satellite captured visible images of the storm as it moved northeast through the Sea of Japan, affecting Japan and South Korea.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateOct 5, 2016

How much does that fertilizer REALLY cost?

Researchers from the University of Minnesota Institute on the Environment have proposed a framework that accounts for the damages caused by reactive nitrogen, estimating the dollars-and-cents cost of nitrogen pollution. The tool will help integrate nitrogen costs into decisions made by agencies and groups.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 5, 2016

Drug restores hair growth in patients with alopecia areata

A clinical trial found that ruxolitinib, a JAK inhibitor, significantly restored hair growth in 75% of patients with moderate to severe alopecia areata. The treatment was well-tolerated and showed promise for treating other forms of hair loss.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateOct 5, 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.

Researchers modify yeast to show how plants respond to a key hormone

Researchers have developed a novel toolkit based on modified yeast cells to tease out how plant genes and proteins respond to auxin, the most ubiquitous plant hormone. The system revealed the basic 'code' of auxin signaling, including how specific combinations of repressing or activating proteins can bind to auxin, DNA, and one another.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 5, 2016

Transgender women who begin hormone therapy more likely to quit smoking

A new study found that transgender women on hormone therapy have a higher rate of smoking cessation compared to the general population, with 64% of current smokers quitting after starting treatment. Researchers believe this may be due to the life-changing event of hormone therapy and the associated health risks.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalEndocrine Practice·DateOct 5, 2016

Case of the missing continental crust solved: It sank

Researchers computed precise amount of continental crust before and after collision, concluding that half the mass is missing due to sinking into mantle. The finding explains puzzling geochemistry and throws out long-held idea that continental crust can't descend into mantle.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalNature Geoscience·DateOct 5, 2016

Solving the problem of glare

Researchers have developed innovative methods to counteract glare and reduce unwanted light in various imaging applications, including microscopy, biomedicine, and astronomy. These new approaches use modified light to minimize glare, offering a promising solution for improving image quality.

SourceOptica·JournalOptica·DateOct 5, 2016

Non-toxic solvent removes barrier to commercialization of perovskite solar cells

Scientists at Oxford University have developed a non-toxic solvent system that can be used to manufacture perovskite solar cells, overcoming a major barrier to their commercialization. The clean solvent quickly crystallizes perovskite films at room temperature, making it suitable for coating large solar panels.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateOct 5, 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.

EBV-derived microRNAs silence immune alarm signals of the host cell

Scientists at Helmholtz Zentrum München discovered a mechanism by which EBV virus suppresses alarm signals sent out by infected cells. MicroRNAs made by the virus block production of proteins that would ring the alarm, rendering killer T cells and helper T cells inactive.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 5, 2016

Sustainability projects offer potential seeds for a more just future

International researchers have identified six main overarching themes in community initiatives that can potentially play a role in creating a future that is both more just and more sustainable. These include agroecology, green urbanism, future knowledge, urban transformation, fair futures, and sustainable futures.

SourceMcGill University·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateOct 5, 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.

Urban warming slows tree growth, photosynthesis

Researchers found that urban warming negatively affects tree growth and photosynthesis, regardless of pest presence. Trees at warmer sites had less trunk growth, accounting for more tree biomass.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·DateOct 5, 2016

NASA sees Hurricane Matthew heading for the Bahamas

Hurricane Matthew is forecast to make landfall in Haiti and then move toward the Bahamas, with maximum sustained winds near 120 mph. The storm's minimum central pressure is 962 millibars, and it is expected to remain at category 3 or stronger while moving through the Bahamas and approaching Florida.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateOct 5, 2016

Technique mass-produces uniform, multilayered particles

Researchers at MIT have developed a new microencapsulation technique that produces uniform, multilayered particles with high consistency. The technique uses 3D printing to create emitters that encapsulate materials, enabling efficient production of particles for pharmaceuticals and other applications.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalLab on a Chip·DateOct 5, 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.

Neural membrane's structural instability may trigger multiple sclerosis

Researchers at Tel Aviv University have discovered that structural instabilities in the myelin sheaths of neurons may enable the immune system to launch an uncontrolled attack on them, leading to multiple sclerosis. The study suggests a potential trigger for the disease's outbreak and offers new avenues for therapies and diagnostics.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateOct 5, 2016

Parkinson's disease protection may begin in the gut

Researchers discovered that intestinal cells' immune response acts like detectives to identify damaged machinery within neurons and discard defective parts, protecting vital neurons. This innate mechanism, originating in the intestine, may hold the key to preventing Parkinson's disease.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalCell Reports·DateOct 5, 2016

Genome: It's all about architecture

Scientists are exploring the relationship between genome architecture and antigen variation in pathogens like Trypanosoma brucei. By analyzing the parasite's genomic structure, researchers aim to better understand how these pathogens evade the immune system and develop more effective vaccines.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·DateOct 5, 2016

Wireless 'data center on a chip' aims to cut energy use

Researchers have designed a tiny, wireless data center that could be as small as a handheld device and reduce energy consumption. The 'data center on a chip' technology has the potential to run big data applications three times more efficiently than existing platforms.

SourceWashington State University·DateOct 5, 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.

Vitamin E may prevent pneumonia in nonsmoking elderly men

Researchers found that vitamin E supplementation decreased pneumonia risk by 35% in smokers starting at age 21 or older. Vitamin E also reduced pneumonia incidence by 69% in a subgroup of light smokers exercising in their leisure time. This benefit was seen even among heavy smokers and those not exercising.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalClinical Interventions in Aging·DateOct 5, 2016

Lowering the heat makes new materials possible while saving energy

Researchers at Penn State developed a cold sintering process (CSP) that combines ceramic and plastic materials at lower temperatures than traditional methods. The process allows for densification of materials to over 95% of their theoretical density in just 15 minutes.

SourcePenn State·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateOct 5, 2016

Rapid blood test can rule out serious infections in children

A rapid blood test using a finger prick can detect serious infections in children within minutes, allowing general practitioners to diagnose more quickly. The test, which measures C-reactive protein levels, is not meant for all ill children but can help identify those with serious symptoms.

SourceKU Leuven·JournalBMC Medicine·DateOct 5, 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.

MIT engineers design beaver-inspired wetsuit material

Researchers fabricate fur-like, rubbery pelts to trap warm pockets of air in dense layers of fur. The findings provide a detailed mechanical understanding of how mammals insulate themselves while diving underwater.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Fluids·DateOct 5, 2016

Roundworms even more useful than researchers previously thought

A new study reveals that Caenorhabditis elegans roundworms have the ability to produce chondroitin sulfate, a crucial carbohydrate molecule. This discovery opens up new avenues for research into early embryonic development and cell division processes.

SourceUppsala University·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 5, 2016

Adults value overcoming temptation, kids value moral purity

Research suggests that children view unconflicted characters as morally superior, while adults judge those who overcome moral conflict as more deserving of credit. As people develop, they come to value the exercise of willpower and self-control, according to a series of four studies published in Psychological Science.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateOct 5, 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.

Stopping breast cancer metastasis in its tracks

Researchers harness microRNA therapy to block movement of cancer cells from primary tumors, preventing fatal proliferation and metastasis. The study's results suggest a promising approach for human breast cancer treatment.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 5, 2016

Study suggests additional benefits to HIV-prevention therapy

A new study finds that pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) can prevent up to 99% of new HIV infections among high-risk gay men in Toronto. By engaging these individuals with healthcare, PrEP also reduces costs and increases health outcomes.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalJournal of the International AIDS Society·DateOct 5, 2016

Researchers call for global grand challenge strategy to develop clean energy

A group of international researchers from nine countries calls for a grand challenges strategy to set global priorities for developing renewable energy. The proposed approach is modeled on the successful efforts to combat neglected diseases, with an emphasis on big thinking, multidisciplinary approaches and supportive policies.

SourceCIFAR·JournalNature·DateOct 5, 2016

How do birds dive safely at high speeds? New research explains

Researchers from Virginia Tech discovered that birds' slender necks and pointed beaks reduce drag force during dives, allowing them to plunge safely. The team also found that contracting neck muscles before impact helps prevent buckling.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 5, 2016

Brain study reveals how teens learn differently than adults

Adolescents' brains show enhanced connectivity between hippocampus and striatum, enabling better reinforcement learning and memory formation. This unique feature may be key to their ability to form powerful memories during adolescence.

SourceThe Zuckerman Institute at Columbia University·JournalNeuron·DateOct 5, 2016

E-cigarette vapor non-toxic to human lung cells in lab tests

Lab tests reveal e-cigarette vapor is non-toxic to human lung cells, even at unrealistically high doses. Cigarette smoke proves cytotoxic, with lung cells showing low levels of toxicity only after equivalent daily exposure in just one hour.

SourceR&D at British American Tobacco·JournalToxicology Mechanisms and Methods·DateOct 5, 2016

Thousands of illegally traded wild animals at risk due to gaps in data

A new report highlights the need for better data recording on seized live wild animals, as only one in three CITES countries provide data. The study found that two out of three countries did not report any live wildlife seizures, despite poaching and the estimated $8-10 billion global wildlife trafficking industry.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalNature Conservation·DateOct 5, 2016

Eating your greens could enhance sport performance

A recent study published in Frontiers in Physiology found that taking nitrate supplements alongside Sprint Interval Training can improve athletic performance in low-oxygen conditions. After just five weeks, the muscle fiber composition changed with enhanced nitrate intake during training in these conditions.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Physiology·DateOct 5, 2016

Here's looking at you -- finding allies through facial cues

Researchers found that men prefer masculine men as allies in a physical fight but feminine-looking women in emotional support, while women's preferences are the opposite. This suggests an evolutionary basis for these differences, with alliances benefiting ancestral males and improving their social rank.

SourceSpringer·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateOct 5, 2016

Got eczema? It may just be bad evolutionary luck, study finds

A new study examining the genetic history of eczema finds that a key genetic variant strongly associated with the disorder has no apparent adaptive value. The research suggests that the variant may have simply endured due to chance rather than providing any survival or reproductive benefits.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalGenome Biology and Evolution·DateOct 5, 2016

Targeting cardiovascular disease risk factors may be important across a lifetime

A recent NIH-funded study found that all adults, regardless of age, should be mindful of risk factors for cardiovascular disease. The study, led by George Howard, discovered that nearly half of participants developed high blood pressure during a 10-year follow-up, highlighting the importance of prevention efforts across the lifespan.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateOct 5, 2016

Rapid spread of dog disease can be stopped with diligent infection control

A new guide provides evidence-based advice for controlling the rapid spread of dog diseases in group settings. The guidelines recommend measures such as frequent hand washing, disinfection, vaccination, and careful crowd management to prevent disease transmission.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of the American Veterinary Medical Association·DateOct 5, 2016

Scavenger cells repair muscle fibers

Researchers at KIT discovered that scavenger cells play a crucial role in repairing torn muscle fibers by removing repair patches and restoring normal cell membrane structure. This process requires the aid of macrophages roaming within the muscle, and a short amino acid sequence in the dysferlin repair protein.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 5, 2016

Smoking bans persuade light users to give up the habit

A new study shows that smoking bans in cities and states lead to a significant reduction in the number of young people who start or continue smoking cigarettes. The study found that light smokers are more likely to give up cigarettes after a ban is implemented, while heavier smokers were not affected by the ban.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Health and Social Behavior·DateOct 5, 2016

Sensors -- quantum leap

A photon-sensing scheme has been conceptualized for a detector that mimics a miniature trampoline, featuring enhanced sensitivity. The sensor utilizes a suspended micro-bridge to detect tiny displacements caused by photons, minimizing movement and overcoming inherent limitations.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review A·DateOct 5, 2016

Does brain size really matter?

A massive MRI study identified seven genetic hotspots regulating brain growth, memory, and reasoning, as well as predicting the onset of Parkinson's disease. The research supports the notion that brain size can be used to measure 'brain reserve' and promote resilience to age-related brain diseases.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateOct 5, 2016

Preschoolers form body images -- but parents are unaware, study says

A new study suggests that preschoolers are forming their body images, both positively and negatively, despite parental unawareness. Researchers found that most parents believe their children are too young to have body-image concerns, but 40% of parents described their child exhibiting at least one body-related behavior.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalBody Image·DateOct 5, 2016

New discoveries offer critical information for improving crop yield

Researchers at the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center have made significant breakthroughs in understanding the role of Heterotrimeric G proteins in plant development, stress tolerance, and yield improvement. The study revealed that specific G protein subunits play a crucial role in regulating plant growth and abiotic stress response.

SourceDonald Danforth Plant Science Center·JournalPLANT PHYSIOLOGY·DateOct 5, 2016

Scientists speed up muscle repair -- could fight dystrophy

Researchers found that increasing satellite cell numbers can increase muscle regeneration and stifle degeneration. Muscles with genetically modified TEAD1-expressing fibers showed a six-fold increase in satellite cells, allowing for faster repair after injury.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·DateOct 5, 2016

Climate change, species invasions harming popular native fish in Ontario lakes

Research from York University finds that climate change is exacerbating the decline of walleye populations in Ontario lakes due to the invasion of competitive smallmouth bass. The study predicts a significant increase in co-occurrence of the two species by 2070, posing a major threat to walleye survival.

SourceYork University·JournalDiversity and Distributions·DateOct 5, 2016

Early marijuana use associated with abnormal brain function, study reveals

A new study found that early marijuana use is associated with abnormal brain function, particularly in areas related to reward-processing and motor control. Additionally, those who used marijuana from a young age had lower IQ scores and more pronounced abnormalities in brain regions responsible for visuo-spatial processing and memory.

SourceLawson Research Institute·JournalActa Psychiatrica Scandinavica·DateOct 5, 2016

Surgery timing after neoadjuvant chemoradiation in Stage IIIA NSCLC impacts OS

The study found that surgery performed within 6-9 weeks after neoadjuvant chemoradiation therapy (NCRT) correlates with increased risk of poor outcomes, including perioperative mortality and overall survival. In contrast, an optimal interval of less than 8 weeks is recommended to minimize risks associated with radiation pneumonitis.

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateOct 5, 2016

Your next nurse could be a robot

Researchers have trained a robot to imitate natural human actions, allowing for effective coordination during high-stakes events like surgeries. This development holds promise for improving safety and efficiency in medical procedures.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Robotics and AI·DateOct 5, 2016

Electrons in graphene behave like light, only better

Researchers have directly observed negative refraction for electrons passing across a boundary in graphene, mimicking light behavior. This finding could lead to the development of new types of electron switches and enable new experimental probes, such as on-chip electron microscopes.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalScience·DateOct 5, 2016