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Science News for September 6, 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.

A tail of gene expression

Researchers found that messenger molecules in flatworms have alternate forms with varying tail lengths, affecting gene expression. The study provides insights into stem cell regulation and tissue regeneration.

SourceNational Centre for Biological Sciences·DateSep 6, 2016

Early study shows RTS,S malaria vaccine efficacy may improve by changing dosing schedule

Researchers found that changing the dosing regimen of the RTS,S/AS01 malaria vaccine improved its efficacy to approximately 87%, compared to 63% with the current standard regimen. The new regimen was shown to delay infection longer and provide better protection against a second malaria-causing parasite exposure.

SourceWalter Reed Army Institute of Research·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateSep 6, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Towards the workplace of the future -- with virtual reality

The conference will showcase the latest developments and studies on augmented and virtual reality, enabling trainees to learn on-the-job skills and enhancing the workplace of the future. Researchers will present prototypes, including a product from Virtalis that allows interactive discussion and modification of 3D constructions.

SourceBielefeld University·DateSep 6, 2016

Body heat as a power source

Researchers have created a flexible, wearable thermocell that harnesses body heat to generate electricity. The device uses gel-based electrolytes and combines two different redox pairs to produce a current. This innovation overcomes previous challenges in wearable energy harvesting and storage devices.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateSep 6, 2016

Trauma and shopping

A study of 355 World War II veterans found that those who experienced intense combat were more price-sensitive and less brand loyal. This research provides insights for store owners and aid providers on what items to stock in stores after a disaster, such as practical and affordable options like off-brand variety.

SourceCornell Food & Brand Lab·JournalFrontiers in Physiology·DateSep 6, 2016

Electric fans may exacerbate heat issues for seniors, study finds

A recent study by UT Southwestern Medical Center suggests that electric fans can exacerbate heat issues for seniors, increasing their heart rates and internal temperatures. The researchers found that when elderly patients used fans to cool down in a hot environment, their body temperature rose instead of falling.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalJAMA·DateSep 6, 2016

NASA sees Namtheun dissipating in the Sea of Japan

Tropical Depression Namtheun is dissipating over the Sea of Japan due to limited convection and wind speeds near 28.7 mph. The storm ceased to qualify as a tropical cyclone after moving north-northeast at 10 knots.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 6, 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.

UTA researchers' papers find concept of using light to image, potentially treat PTSD

Researchers at UTA have discovered a potential non-invasive treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) using near-infrared light. The study, published in Nature's Scientific Reports, found that shining near-infrared light on the brain increases production of cytochrome-c-oxidase, a protein that stimulates blood flow.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 6, 2016

Is sex in later years good for your health?

A study published in the Journal of Health and Social Behavior found that sex in later years can have contrasting effects on cardiovascular health for men and women. For older men, frequent sex increases the risk of heart attacks and other cardiovascular problems, while moderate amounts of sex may promote health among older women.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Health and Social Behavior·DateSep 6, 2016

Post-mortem assessment guidelines for vascular cognitive impairment

Researchers at the University of Bristol have developed a set of guidelines for assessing vascular cognitive impairment, which can help determine the likelihood that cognitive decline was caused by vascular disease. The guidelines are based on pathological criteria and can be used to streamline research into dementia.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalBrain·DateSep 6, 2016

New $9.7 million grant to advance research on theory of aging

A new $9.67 million grant will be used to investigate the connection between retrotransposable elements and aging, with the goal of developing therapeutic interventions. The researchers will work with human cells, mice, and fruit flies to study how these elements contribute to age-related diseases.

SourceBrown University·DateSep 6, 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.

Thrive or fail: Examining forest resilience in the face of fires

A framework has been developed to help scientists predict when forests will be resilient enough to recover from fires, and when they will be drastically altered. The framework considers factors such as ecological memory, material legacies, and the impact of changing climate conditions on forest recovery.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateSep 6, 2016

Twin study helps unravel the genetic blueprint of the human brain

A landmark twin study has identified moderate to strong genetic contributions to the volume of cortical and subcortical brain structures in people over 65. The research found that specific brain regions, such as the hippocampus, have high genetic influences, while others show unique genetic determinants.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 6, 2016

Friends help friends on Facebook feel better

A Carnegie Mellon University and Facebook study found that personalized interactions on Facebook can significantly boost users' psychological well-being, even surpassing major life events. Sixty comments from close friends were associated with substantial increases in users' happiness and satisfaction with life.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalJournal of Computer-Mediated Communication·DateSep 6, 2016

Mouse studies show experimental TB treatment may do more harm than good

Researchers found that a repurposed drug, pirfenidone, increased lung lesions and prevented antibiotics from targeting TB bacteria. The study suggests caution when using host-directed therapies for TB, emphasizing the need for careful vetting of new treatments.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 6, 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.

'Traffic jam' in brain linked to common cognitive disorder

A new study found a correlation between microscopic brain damage and impaired cognitive performance in patients with symptomatic carotid artery disease. The researchers used diffusion tensor imaging to assess white matter tract skeleton mean diffusivity, which showed the closest correlation with cognitive impairment.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateSep 6, 2016

Zika infects the eyes of adult mice

Researchers found that Zika virus can infect specific regions of the eye in adult mice, resulting in inflammation and symptoms similar to those observed in human patients. The study also raised questions about whether the virus continues to replicate in the lacrimal gland after being cleared from the body.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Reports·DateSep 6, 2016

MRIs during pregnancy and outcomes for infants, children

Exposure to MRI during the first trimester was not associated with increased risk of harm to the fetus or congenital anomalies. However, gadolinium-enhanced MRI was linked to a broad set of rheumatological and inflammatory conditions in early childhood.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateSep 6, 2016

Location matters in the self-assembly of nanoclusters

Researchers at Iowa State University have developed a theoretical framework to understand the relationship between capture zones and the formation of nanoclusters. The study highlights the importance of subtle spatial details in the nucleation process, which is crucial for controlling nanostructure properties.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateSep 6, 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.

Canada needs a national suicide prevention strategy

Canada's high youth and indigenous suicide rates warrant a comprehensive national strategy. The World Health Organization has seen declines in countries with government-led programs, suggesting a similar approach could work here.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateSep 6, 2016

BCL11A-based gene therapy for sickle cell disease passes key preclinical test

Researchers developed a precision-engineered gene therapy virus that selectively silences BCL11A, reducing signs of sickle cell disease and increasing fetal hemoglobin production. The approach has the potential to substantially increase the ratio of non-sickling versus sickling hemoglobin.

SourceDana-Farber Cancer Institute·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 6, 2016

Fungi contribute to delayed healing of chronic wounds

Researchers found that mixed bacterial-fungal biofilms in chronic wounds are associated with poor outcomes and longer healing times. The study identifies the most abundant fungi species, including Cladosporium herbarum and Candida albicans, which can hinder healing.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmBio·DateSep 6, 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.

NREL discovery creates future opportunity in quantum computing

Scientists at NREL found that perovskites could have great potential for optoelectronic applications beyond photovoltaics, including in quantum computing. The discovery was made by accident while investigating excitons in perovskites and demonstrates the optical Stark effect's promise as an ultrafast optical switch.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 6, 2016

Researchers at the CNIO discover a gene that is essential for the DNA-replication process

The discovery of POLD3's critical role in DNA replication reveals its necessity for both tumor and healthy cells, casting doubt on its use as a therapeutic target for cancer treatment. The study used genetic engineering to eliminate the gene in mice, showing its essential function in cell division and survival.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalMolecular Cell·DateSep 6, 2016

Rumor patterns on social media during emergencies -- Ben-Gurion U. study

A recent study published in Computers in Human Behavior found that over two-thirds of rumors shared during Operation Brother's Keeper were true, and that journalists and emergency personnel played a significant role in spreading them. The research proposes specific lessons for first responders, including actively searching for rumors a...

SourceAmerican Associates, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalComputers in Human Behavior·DateSep 6, 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.

BMJ launches new open access ophthalmology journal

BMJ has launched a new fully open access international journal, BMJ Open Ophthalmology, to cater for clinicians and scientists working in ophthalmology and vision science. The journal aims to publish high-quality content on basic, translational, and clinical science with a rigorous peer review process.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Open Ophthalmology·DateSep 6, 2016

Bad seeds: How the parental lineage may determine viability in tomato hybrids

Researchers found misregulated imprinting at play in hybrid seeds from South American wild tomato species, affecting core gene regulation and contributing to seed failure. Genome-wide shifts occurred that favored maternal expression, suggesting a key role for epigenetic genomic imprinting in explaining differences in seed viability.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateSep 6, 2016

White racism tied to fatal heart disease for blacks and whites

A new study from UC Berkeley finds that living in overtly racist communities can shorten the lives of both blacks and whites due to increased heart disease and circulatory issues. Blacks are most negatively impacted by racial bias, with higher rates of heart disease-related deaths in counties with high levels of racism.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalPsychological Science·DateSep 6, 2016

Throughout history humans have preferred their pigs to be black, suggests study

Scientists found a novel mutation in modern feral Hawaiian pigs that explains their black coats, suggesting humans across the world have selected and bred black pigs independently. The study suggests Polynesians brought domestic pigs to Hawaii 800 years ago and humans later selected for black coats on at least three separate occasions.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateSep 6, 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.

New tool can calculate renewable energy output anywhere in the world

Researchers created Renewables.ninja to estimate renewable energy output using 30 years of weather data. The tool predicts wind speed and sunlight at any location, allowing for more accurate estimates of energy generation. It has already been used to analyze Europe-wide solar and wind output and is being used by companies like RWE.

SourceImperial College London·JournalEnergy·DateSep 6, 2016

Diagnosing and managing food allergies: A guide for physicians

A new review provides a comprehensive guide for diagnosing and managing food allergies in children and adults. The study highlights the importance of clinical history, diagnostic testing, and supervised oral food challenges to accurately diagnose and treat food allergies.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateSep 6, 2016

Evidence of Zika virus found in tears

Researchers have found Zika virus genetic material in human tears and live virus in mouse eyes, raising questions about transmission through bodily fluids. The study's findings have implications for corneal transplantation and potential new diagnostic methods, such as testing tear samples for viral RNA or antibodies.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalCell Reports·DateSep 6, 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.

Detailed age map shows how Milky Way came together

Researchers used colors to identify the ages of over 130,000 stars in the Milky Way's halo, revealing a clear hierarchy with oldest stars at the center and younger ones further away. The study supports a hierarchical model of galaxy formation, suggesting that small mini-halos merged to form the Milky Way.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalNature Physics·DateSep 6, 2016

Barcodes to identify gene regulators

A group of biologists from the University of Geneva developed a novel technology to identify all transcription factors involved in any process and in response to any signal. The BC-STAR-PROM screening method enables researchers to monitor the activity of thousands of promoters simultaneously, saving time and work.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalGenes & Development·DateSep 6, 2016

Research reveals artificial thyroid cancer epidemic

Research by Australian National University has found that diagnoses of differentiated thyroid cancer have increased three-fold in 25 years despite no change to death rates. Over-meticulous examinations are leading to unnecessary surgeries, causing substantial medical costs and complications for patients.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateSep 6, 2016

Tumor microenvironment acts as a mechanism of resistance to chemotherapy

Researchers at IDIBELL discovered that tumor microenvironment triggers processes to protect tumor cells from conventional chemotherapy. The presence of certain molecules slows down cell cycle and activates proteins minimizing treatment effectiveness.

SourceIDIBELL-Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute·JournalOncoTargets and Therapy·DateSep 6, 2016

Cesarean birth appears associated with higher risk of obesity in children

A study published in JAMA Pediatrics suggests that children born by cesarean delivery are at a higher risk of becoming obese compared to those born via vaginal birth. The research found a 15% increase in the risk of obesity in children after cesarean birth, with siblings born vaginally being 64% more likely to be obese.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateSep 6, 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.

$25 million gift to establish new dental school in Texas

A new dental school will be established in Texas with a significant impact on oral health care in the region. The school will address a severe shortage of dentists in El Paso County, where there is only one dentist for every 5,000 residents.

SourceTexas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso·DateSep 6, 2016

Intervention addresses pediatric patient families' social needs

A study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that an intervention pairing caregivers with navigators to address family social needs decreased reported needs and improved child health status. Caregivers assigned to the intervention group reported fewer social needs and better overall child health compared to those in a control group.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateSep 6, 2016

Hypertension: Releasing the pressure at its source

Researchers have identified a potential new way to treat high blood pressure by targeting aberrant nerve signals in the carotid bodies. By blocking these signals, they were able to significantly reduce blood pressure in preclinical models, suggesting a novel approach to controlling cardiovascular disease.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNature Medicine·DateSep 6, 2016

Healthcare corruption taken to task by technology, study shows

Researchers found that mobile apps, barcodes, and automated monitoring systems can increase transparency and accountability in healthcare services. Digital technologies also enable people to report discrimination or bribery through social media.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalJournal of Global Health·DateSep 6, 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.

Structure of mammalian protein complex of respiratory chain solved at atomic level

Researchers have determined the detailed structure of Mitochondrial Complex I, the first and largest complex in the respiratory chain. This breakthrough allows for a deeper understanding of its intricate arrangements and interactions, enabling insights into disease-causing mutations and affected enzyme activity.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalNature·DateSep 6, 2016

European standards to prevent repeat heart attacks launched today

The European Society of Cardiology has published new standards to prevent repeat heart attacks, highlighting the importance of a healthy lifestyle, regular physical activity, and prescribed medication. The guidelines also emphasize the need for patients to take responsibility for their own health after a first heart attack.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Journal of Preventive Cardiology·DateSep 6, 2016

Researchers use hardware to accelerate core-to-core on-chip communication

Researchers from North Carolina State University and Intel Corporation developed a new chip design that accelerates core-to-core communication using built-in hardware. The core-to-core communication acceleration framework (CAF) improves communication performance by two to 12 times, reducing execution times from start to finish.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·DateSep 6, 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.

Is 40 the new 50? Push for a new national local street speed

Researchers argue that lowering the speed limit would reduce fatalities and serious injuries for pedestrians and cyclists. A study found that a 10km/h difference can lead to significant safety gains, with slower speeds allowing for longer reaction times and greater braking distance.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·DateSep 6, 2016

Human aichi virus atomic structure identified by IBP and STRUBI scientists

The discovery of the human aichi virus atomic structure is crucial for understanding its entry into host cells and evolution. The research reveals unique structural features, including a polyproline helix that acts as a recognition motif for binding to the enteric receptor.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Microbiology·DateSep 6, 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.

Hungry cells on the move

Researchers identified molecules controlling cell repulsion through endocytosis, a process by which cells engulf neighboring protein complexes. This discovery provides insight into development and neuronal networks, as well as cancer growth and metastasis.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateSep 6, 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.

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.

Researchers design solids that control heat with spinning superatoms

Researchers discovered the cause of vastly different thermal conductivities in superatomic structural analogues, directly related to rotational disorder within those structures. This finding enables the creation of materials with potential applications in sustainable energy generation, energy storage, and nanoelectronics.

SourceCollege of Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University·JournalNature Materials·DateSep 6, 2016

Single HIV mutation induces distinct T cell immune responses

A single HIV mutation was found to induce two different outcomes in T cell adaptation, revealing a complex co-evolution between the virus and human immune cells. This finding has significant implications for the development of T cell-mediated AIDS vaccines.

SourceKumamoto University·JournalCell Reports·DateSep 6, 2016

High utility bills trigger anxiety and depression in low-income households

A study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that high utility bills lead to mental health disorders like anxiety and depression among low-income families. Inefficient infrastructure and limited options for assistance also contribute to the problem, highlighting the need for comprehensive policy measures.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·DateSep 6, 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.

Pushing a parasite from land to sea

A recent study from the University of California, Davis, found that coastal development and precipitation increase the risk of disease-causing organisms flowing to the ocean. The study tracked the parasite Toxoplasma gondii, which can shed infective egg-like structures in soil, freshwater, and seawater.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·DateSep 6, 2016

Farming adaptations needed to combat climate change to impact crop yields in 2050

Researchers find using heat-tolerant sorghum varieties can increase crop yield under higher temperatures, but late sowing and collecting rainfall show minimal benefits. The study suggests a novel framework to assess the effectiveness of different adaptation options for West African farmers.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalAgricultural and Forest Meteorology·DateSep 6, 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.

The enigma machine takes a quantum leap

The researchers created a device called a quantum enigma machine that can transmit an unbreakable encrypted message using a key significantly shorter than the message, advancing the field of quantum data locking. The team successfully demonstrated six bits of classical information being securely locked in with only one bit of encryptio...

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalPhysical Review A·DateSep 6, 2016

Refrigerator us warm?

A new discovery at RUDN University allows for substantially increased production of high-quality planting material using artificial winter in the fridge. This method uses micro cloning to grow plants from small buds, with potential benefits including increased plant height, reduced virus attacks, and improved plant health.

SourceRUDN University·DateSep 6, 2016

A first for direct-drive fusion

Researchers successfully created conditions for a fusion yield five times higher than current record using the OMEGA laser. The direct-drive approach, used by LLE scientists, is promising for achieving fusion as an energy source.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateSep 6, 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.

Recessions are harmful to health

A review of studies on the 2008 European recession found an association with adverse health outcomes, particularly for suicides and mental health problems. The evidence is strongest for these outcomes, but the quality of the research varies greatly.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateSep 6, 2016

New simulations of wind power generation

Researchers have created a more realistic picture of wind energy output in Europe, correcting for biases in existing data. The updated simulations show that the current European average capacity factor is 24.2%, but could increase to over 31% with improved grid interconnection and technology advancements.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalEnergy·DateSep 6, 2016

Some islands started in diamond-bearing regions under continents, geochemists say

Researchers found high calcium-to-aluminum ratios in olivine and diamond inclusions, suggesting a connection between the chemistry of tiny carbon-rich fluids trapped within diamonds and those that form HIMU islands. The study suggests that material from diamond-forming regions journeys to earth's core and back up to form such islands.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalNature·DateSep 6, 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.

Orientation without a master plan

Studies show that when learning objects in an open space, spatial memory is accessed step-by-step, while environmental spaces require more time to recall objects from neighboring corridors. This research has implications for understanding navigation and the neuronal basis of wayfinding.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalCognition·DateSep 6, 2016

Tuning the instrument: Spider webs as vibration transmission structures

Research confirms spider webs are superbly tuned instruments for vibration transmission, with web tension and stiffness controlling information sent. Spiders use web vibrations to detect prey and predators, with their 'view' relying almost exclusively on this sensory input.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateSep 6, 2016

New breed of optical soliton wave discovered

Researchers at Caltech have discovered a new breed of optical soliton wave that can travel in the wake of other solitons, hitching a ride on their energy. This phenomenon has been observed in light waves and has applications in highly accurate optical clocks and microwave oscillators.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Physics·DateSep 6, 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.

Over-the-counter head lice treatments are likely to fail

A recent review found that over-the-counter head lice treatments have declined in effectiveness, likely due to widespread use leading to pyrethroid resistance. Prescription products such as malathion and spinosad are safer alternatives with proven efficacy.

SourceWiley·JournalPediatric Dermatology·DateSep 6, 2016

Age before youth: Older cranes lead the way to new migration patterns

Researchers found that older Whooping cranes are leading the way in changing migration patterns due to climate and land use change. The birds' long-term memory and ability to learn from experience enable them to innovate new behaviors, such as shortstopping, which involves shifting wintering grounds closer to breeding grounds.

SourceU.S. Geological Survey·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 6, 2016

Genetics of African KhoeSan populations maps to Kalahari Desert geography

Researchers found that genetic clustering of southern African populations is closely tied to the ecogeography of the Kalahari Desert region. The study analyzed genome-wide data from 21 KhoeSan groups and identified five primary ancestries, suggesting a geographically complex set of migration events.

SourceGenetics Society of America·JournalGenetics·DateSep 6, 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.

Flowers critical link to bacteria transmission in wild bees

Researchers found that flowers are a hot spot for bacterial transmission to wild bees, with multiple flower and bee species sharing the same types of bacteria. This discovery highlights the importance of understanding wild bees as an alternative pollination option due to declining honey bee populations.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalMicrobial Ecology·DateSep 6, 2016

A minimalist theory to predict protein movements

Researchers developed a novel simulation technique called eBDIMS to predict protein movements, which can be done on standard PCs. This approach uses low-resolution models, simplifying the structure of proteins, allowing for precise predictions in minutes, not months.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 6, 2016

YouTube videos promote positive associations with alcohol use

A recent study found that YouTube music videos often glamorize excessive drinking and link it to sexual attractiveness and luxury lifestyles. The research analyzed 49 UK Top 40 videos containing alcohol content, revealing a strong association between alcohol consumption and sociability, personal image, and lifestyle.

SourceSpringer·JournalBehavioral Medicine·DateSep 6, 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.

Study to examine value of ECG testing for high school athletes

A randomized clinical trial will assess whether electrocardiograms (ECGs) can identify high-risk students among Texas high school athletes, who are at risk of sudden cardiac death. The study aims to balance the potential benefits of ECG testing against its costs and risks.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·DateSep 6, 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.

Fish 'biowaste' converted to piezoelectric energy harvesters

A team of researchers at Jadavpur University in India has devised a way to recycle fish byproducts into an energy harvester that can generate electricity from mechanical stress. The energy harvester, made from fish scales, is capable of scavenging various types of ambient energies and powering small devices.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateSep 6, 2016

Research shows it may be time to abandon dreaded digital rectal exam

A recent study suggests that the digital rectal exam (DRE) is no longer necessary for prostate cancer screening due to its limited effectiveness and potential risks. The DRE has been shown to capture an additional small population of men with significant prostate cancer, but it also subjects a large number of men to unnecessary tests.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalCurrent Medical Research and Opinion·DateSep 6, 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.

Nutrient pollution is changing sounds in the sea

A new study by the University of Adelaide found that nutrient pollution from cities and agricultural land is altering marine sounds, including snapping shrimp and sea urchin noises. This degradation may negatively impact fish populations and their ability to find sheltering habitats.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalLandscape Ecology·DateSep 6, 2016

Nanotechnology supports treatment of malignant melanoma

Researchers use nanosensors to detect genetic mutations in tissue samples from patients with malignant melanoma. This enables the identification of specific mutations and targeted treatment, significantly extending patients' life expectancy. The new method detects changes quickly and easily using coated microcantilevers.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalNano Letters·DateSep 6, 2016

Gentle vibe designed to give docs smoother moves

A team at Rice University is creating a haptic cueing system that provides real-time vibration feedback to medical students during endovascular surgeries. The system aims to improve the smoothness of tool movements, reducing errors and improving training efficiency.

SourceRice University·DateSep 6, 2016

PSA failure predicts risk of death only in healthy men

Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital found that PSA failure increases the risk of death by 1.6-fold in healthy men, but not those with comorbidities like heart disease or stroke. The study suggests healthy men should be informed about clinical trials showing reduced PSA failure benefits.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateSep 6, 2016

ESMO rewards outstanding oncologists

The European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) has awarded four distinguished recipients for their outstanding contributions to cancer treatment and research. Alberto Sobrero received the ESMO Award for his world-renowned research on gastrointestinal cancer, while Sir Richard Peto was recognized for his important contributions to bre...

SourceEuropean Society for Medical Oncology·DateSep 6, 2016

ESMO Women for Oncology awards Sumitra Thongprasert

Sumitra Thongprasert has been awarded the second ESMO Women for Oncology award for her role as a role model for women in oncology. The award acknowledges her advocacy across Asia for female participation in the oncology workforce and promotion of women in leadership positions.

SourceEuropean Society for Medical Oncology·DateSep 6, 2016

Speech technology enables kids to control video game

Disney researchers developed a speech technology system that can sort through overlapping speech, social side talk, and creative pronunciations of young children to make it work. The system was 85% accurate in recognizing keywords, outperforming commercial speech recognition systems.

SourceDisney Research·DateSep 6, 2016

A new angle on anxiety

A new study from Boston Children's Hospital reveals that specific neurons in the hypothalamus play a central role in triggering anxiety. Blocking these neurons selectively erased natural fears in mice, suggesting a potential more effective treatment for anxiety and other psychiatric disorders.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateSep 6, 2016

Infrared light to detect early signs of esophageal cancer

Researchers at Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute developed an endoscope using near-infrared light to spot early warning signs of oesophageal cancer. The new technique could be used to monitor people with Barrett's oesophagus and prevent some cases of oesophageal cancer.

SourceCancer Research UK·JournalJournal of Biomedical Optics·DateSep 6, 2016

Incubating climate change

A group of James Cook University scientists has designed an inexpensive incubator to study the effects of climate change. The incubators, costing under $160 each, allow researchers to replicate realistic experiments with controlled temperature regimes.

SourceJames Cook University·JournalMethods in Ecology and Evolution·DateSep 6, 2016

Beat the stock market by satisfying customers

Researchers from Michigan State University found that creating a stock portfolio based on customer satisfaction data achieves cumulative returns of 518 percent. This surpasses the 31 percent increase for the S&P 500 Index in the same time period, with the customer satisfaction portfolio outperforming the benchmark in 14 out of 15 years.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateSep 6, 2016