Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for September 7, 2016


Epilepsy surgery found safe and cost-effective

A new study found that epilepsy surgery significantly improves seizure-free rates for patients, with 69% achieving complete freedom from seizures within a year. The procedure also proves cost-effective, with reduced antiepileptic drug use and lower direct costs over time.

SourceWiley·JournalEpilepsia·DateSep 7, 2016

Patients with advanced lymphoma in remission after T-cell therapy

Researchers at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center report promising results from an early-phase study of CAR T cell treatment, achieving complete remission in 50% of patients. The study's findings suggest that a defined composition of CAR T cells can increase efficacy while minimizing toxic side effects.

SourceFred Hutchinson Cancer Center·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateSep 7, 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.

Six new groups of molecules could be the key to delaying aging

A study by Montreal-based researchers identified six plant extracts as potential tools in delaying chronic diseases associated with human aging. The most potent extract, Salix alba, was found to be effective in slowing down the pace of aging.

SourceConcordia University·JournalOncoTargets and Therapy·DateSep 7, 2016

Indiana Biosciences Research Institute scientist receives $750,000 JDRF grant

Teresa Mastracci, a Senior Scientist at IBRI, has received a $750,000 JDRF Career Development Award to investigate polyamine and hypusine biosynthesis in reversing type 1 diabetes. Her research aims to identify new drugs that preserve or regenerate healthy beta cells, slowing or halting disease progression.

SourceIndiana Biosciences Research Institute·DateSep 7, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

NASA sees 2 landfalls for Hurricane Newton in Mexico

Hurricane Newton made two landfalls in Mexico, with NASA's Terra and Aqua satellites capturing its trajectory and intensity. The storm's center passed over Baja California and the mainland of western Mexico, causing high winds and flash floods in nearby areas.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 7, 2016

College educated more likely to use e-cigs to quit cigarette smoking

A study by Georgia State University found that college-educated smokers are more likely to use e-cigarettes as a tool to quit smoking. The survey of over 1,200 smokers revealed that those with higher education levels were more intent on quitting and attempting to stop smoking in the past year.

SourceGeorgia State University·JournalAddictive Behaviors·DateSep 7, 2016

Extra physical education classes may benefit bone health in girls, study shows

A long-term study found that extra physical education classes improved girls' bone mass, structure, and strength. Girls who received 200 minutes of physical education per week showed significant gains in cortical thickness and volumetric bone mineral density compared to controls.

SourceInternational Osteoporosis Foundation·JournalCalcified Tissue International·DateSep 7, 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.

Who loses when car prices are negotiated?

A study by the University of Toronto found that age and gender can affect car prices, with older women paying an average of $200 more than younger counterparts. Doing research on prices and quotes before negotiating can help consumers save thousands of dollars.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalJournal of Industrial Economics·DateSep 7, 2016

Atomoxetine improves critical reading skills in children with dyslexia

A new study published in Journal of Child and Adolescent Psychopharmacology found that atomoxetine significantly improved decoding and vocabulary skills in children with dyslexia. The treatment also reduced ADHD symptoms in children with both dyslexia and ADHD or ADHD alone.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Child and Adolescent Psychopharmacology·DateSep 7, 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.

Team of robots learns to work together, without colliding

A team of researchers at Georgia Tech has developed new algorithms that allow any number of robots to move within inches of each other without colliding. This breakthrough enables robots to work together effectively in crowded spaces, such as lab floors and airspace, with minimal safety concerns.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·DateSep 7, 2016

Prevention programs significantly reduce ankle injuries in soccer athletes

A new study found that prevention programs significantly reduce the risk of ankle injuries in soccer players. These programs include neuromuscular, proprioceptive, strengthening, and stretching exercises, and have been shown to be effective in reducing injury rates by up to 40%.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateSep 7, 2016

Excess weight in women has different effects on different types of stroke

A study published in Neurology found that excess weight in women increases the risk of ischemic stroke, while decreasing the risk of hemorrhagic stroke. The research followed over 1.3 million women for 12 years, revealing a significant association between body mass index and stroke subtype.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateSep 7, 2016

Picky ants maintain color polymorphism of bugs they work with

Researchers at Hokkaido University found that ants have a preference for aphid colonies with certain colors, which allows these bugs to retain their colors through generations. The team discovered that the number of attending ants was highest when green aphids comprised 65% of the colony.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 7, 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.

Emotionally invested parents give children a leg up in life

Children with emotionally invested parents tend to be more successful due to their enhanced cognitive control, including improved memory, impulse resistance, and social behavior. This study suggests that a caring and emotionally attentive environment can have long-lasting benefits for children's future life skills.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Human Neuroscience·DateSep 7, 2016

Expanding when it shouldn't: New material with exceptional negative compressibility

Researchers at the Polish Academy of Sciences have discovered a material that expands when subjected to hydrostatic pressure, defying intuition. The sodium amidoborane crystal's unique properties are attributed to the formation of new hydrogen bonds between adjacent molecules, leading to an abrupt increase in linear dimensions.

SourceInstitute of Physical Chemistry of the Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 7, 2016

VIB team develops groundbreaking membrane analysis tool

A multidisciplinary team from VIB-KU Leuven has developed a novel technique called QuASIMoDOH to analyze changes in cell membranes. The method can map out polar distributions, allowing researchers to study alterations caused by diseases like cancer and neurodegenerative disorders.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateSep 7, 2016

Battle of the sexes? Not when negotiating with friends

A new study by Dr. Hilla Dotan and Prof. Uta Herbst found that women achieve better negotiation outcomes when representing their friends, rather than competing against them. This counterintuitive finding suggests that women's focus on building relationships and cooperation can lead to more successful negotiations.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalJournal of Business and Industrial Marketing·DateSep 7, 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.

TGen-NAU study generates Soviet anthrax pathogen genome from autopsy specimens

Researchers at TGen and NAU used deep DNA sequencing to recreate the anthrax genome from Sverdlovsk, Russia victims, providing a precise examination of the anthrax strain used in Soviet biological weapons development. The study's findings put the strain into a global context, enabling forensic tracking and identification.

SourceThe Translational Genomics Research Institute·JournalmBio·DateSep 7, 2016

A new way of taming ions can improve future health care

The new technique, called 'Chirped-Standing-Wave Acceleration', could enable compact and inexpensive ion treatment facilities, increasing access to advanced cancer therapy. Researchers have developed a novel method to accelerate ions using lasers, promising a paradigm shift in the field.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·DateSep 7, 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.

Americans are more politically independent, more polarized than ever

New research reveals that millennials' political views diverge from previous generations, with nearly half identifying as independents and polarization increasing over time. The study also finds that conservatism is gaining traction among young people, contradicting traditional liberal assumptions.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateSep 7, 2016

Is sufficient sleep the key to successful antidepressant response?

Researchers found that adults who spent eight hours in bed daily showed greater improvements on all fronts, including faster response to treatment and higher remission rates. In contrast, those who spent six hours in bed experienced no significant differences in treatment response.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of Clinical Psychiatry·DateSep 7, 2016

Early impact of the affordable care act on oral contraceptive cost sharing

The Affordable Care Act's contraceptive mandate has been linked to increased consistency in oral contraceptive use among women with employer-sponsored insurance. Analysis of insurance claims data found that reducing out-of-pocket costs for generic pills led to higher adherence rates, particularly among those using these methods.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalHealth Affairs·DateSep 7, 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.

Computer simulation reveals p53 weak spots and opens new avenues against cancer

Researchers have found that p53 is more prone to aggregation than its cousins due to exposed backbone hydrogen bonds. This instability can lead to the formation of amyloid fibrils, which are associated with various cancers. The study provides new insights into p53 stability and offers potential strategies for developing cancer therapies.

SourcePublicase International·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 7, 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.

Lengthy ER visits for psychiatric patients often result in transfer, not treatment

A study by the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine found that psychiatric patients wait significantly longer in ERs than non-psychiatric patients, often being transferred elsewhere. The shortage of psychiatric inpatient beds and limited outpatient mental health facilities contribute to this issue.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalHealth Affairs·DateSep 7, 2016

One-tenth of the world's wilderness lost in 2 decades

Research reveals catastrophic decline in global wilderness areas, with an estimated 3.3 million square kilometers lost since the 1990s, highlighting the urgent need for conservation efforts and international protection.

SourceJames Cook University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 7, 2016

How fungi help trees tolerate drought

Researchers sequenced the genome of C. geophilum and found specific adaptations that could help host trees be more resistant to drought stress. The fungus has a reduced number of plant cell wall degrading enzymes and a large set of symbiosis-induced lineage-specific genes, including water channel genes.

SourceDOE/Joint Genome Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 7, 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.

Calculating the role of lakes in global warming

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute researchers develop a model to forecast the impact of rising temperatures on lakes' carbon cycle, with potential implications for global warming. By analyzing 2,000 lakes across the US, they aim to understand how lakes will respond to changing weather patterns and emissions.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·DateSep 7, 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.

Does recent isolation of Zika virus from Culex mosquitoes point to a new transmission source?

Researchers have identified Zika virus in mosquito species other than Aedes aegypti, raising concerns about alternative transmission sources. However, studies show that Culex species mosquitoes are highly unlikely to transmit the infection to humans, highlighting the need for targeted mosquito control efforts.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalVector-Borne and Zoonotic Diseases·DateSep 7, 2016

Physical activity may offset some of alcohol's lethal harms

Research from the University of Sydney found that physical activity can decrease cancer and all-cause mortality risks in drinkers. The study found moderate to heavy drinking increased cancer risk, but regular exercise offset this risk.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·DateSep 7, 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.

Humans may be uniquely identified by the proteins in their hair

Researchers have identified a unique set of protein markers in human hair that could be used to distinguish individuals. The findings demonstrate the robustness of these proteins and estimate that they would be sufficient to provide a unique pattern for an individual among a population of one million.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 7, 2016

Earned income tax credit program is a boon for health

A new study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) program is more cost-effective than many health interventions, with a net gain of 2.2 Quality of Life Years over an average lifetime for those who supplemented the program relative to those who did not.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateSep 7, 2016

Medication against schizophrenia inhibits pancreatic cancer

Researchers identified dopamine receptor DRD2 as a key molecule in pancreatic cancer. Blocking the receptor inhibited cancer growth, while its blockade also slowed tumor growth in mice.

SourceGerman Cancer Research Center (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ)·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateSep 7, 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.

Computerized tissue image analysis reveals underlying genomics of ER+ breast cancer

Researchers developed a computer program to automatically count the number of tubules in breast cancer tissue specimens, finding a correlation with Oncotype DX gene expression test risk scores. The study aims to provide an affordable and quick alternative to current genomic tests for predicting chemotherapy needs.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 7, 2016

Mount Sinai researchers pinpoint when cocaine-addicted individuals are most vulnerable to relapse

Mount Sinai researchers used EEG to study cue-induced craving in cocaine addicts and found that vulnerability to relapse peaks between one and six months of abstinence. This period coincides with patients' release from treatment programs, highlighting the need for alternative interventions to prevent relapse.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateSep 7, 2016

Ross River virus battle breakthrough

Researchers at Griffith University have discovered a potential new therapeutic treatment for mosquito-borne alphavirus infections, including Ross River Virus and Chikungunya Virus. Pentosan polysulfate sodium (PPS) has shown promising results in treating acute and chronic disease manifestations of alphavirus infections.

SourceGriffith University·JournalJournal of Virology·DateSep 7, 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.

Introducing diversity in online language analysis

Researchers created the largest data set for studying African-American English from online communication, analyzing 59 million tweets. They found that current NLP tools poorly identify African-American English as 'not English', implying worse information access for texts authored by African-Americans.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·DateSep 7, 2016

Neutron crystallography aids in drug design

Researchers used neutron crystallography to study the binding of acetazolamide to human carbonic anhydrase isoform II, gaining insights into H-bonding networks and hydrophobic interactions. This technique provides missing details that X-ray crystallography couldn't capture, enabling more effective drug design.

SourceInternational Union of Crystallography·DateSep 7, 2016

The perfect car, according to science

A study published in the Journal of Marketing found that consumers prefer cars with a unique design that mimics luxury car aesthetics, but not those that are too similar to the market average. The researchers used a morphing technique and consumer choice model to quantify how aesthetic design affects consumer preferences.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateSep 7, 2016

No consensus on how the microbiome affects tuberculosis, review finds

Recent studies on tuberculosis have yielded conflicting results, leaving questions about the role of the lung microbiome in the disease. The variability in study methods, particularly in sampling techniques, may be a major contributor to these discrepancies.

SourceTexas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso·JournalClinical Microbiology Reviews·DateSep 7, 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.

Why bones don't heal: Researchers identify risk factors for nonunion of fractures

A national team of orthopaedic surgeons identified risk factors contributing to fracture nonunion in adults, including the severity and location of the fracture, presence of diseases, and medication use. Nonunion rates varied by bone type, with scaphoid and tibia/fibula showing the highest rates.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateSep 7, 2016

Atomic scale pipes available on demand and by design

Researchers at the University of Manchester have developed a method to create artificial capillaries with atomic-scale precision, opening up new avenues for filtration, desalination, and gas separation. The technology uses graphene as a template to produce ultra-thin cavities with tailored properties.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalNature·DateSep 7, 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.

Combination therapy shows promise for chronic myeloid leukemia

Researchers discovered a combination of two inhibitor drugs that can stop CML completely and significantly lower treatment costs. The study, published in Science Translational Medicine, found encouraging response and cure rates for both chronic phase and blast crisis, offering new hope for patients.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateSep 7, 2016

Transgender youth are as likely to become pregnant as other adolescents

A recent UBC study found that 5% of sexually active transgender youth have been pregnant, similar to the general adolescent population. This challenges common assumptions about trans youth and highlights the need for improved sex education and healthcare.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalInternational Journal of Transgenderism·DateSep 7, 2016

Humira provides effective, non-steroid alternative for eye inflammation

A new study has found that adalimumab (Humira) is an effective, non-steroid alternative for treating eye inflammation in patients with non-infectious uveitis. The medication targets a protein that promotes inflammation, delaying treatment failure and reducing symptoms.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateSep 7, 2016

Cord blood transplant associated with high survival rate in high-risk leukemia patients

A recent study found that cord blood transplants may be the best option for high-risk leukemia patients, offering a lower risk of relapse compared to traditional transplants. Researchers at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center discovered that these patients have better outcomes against leukemia and related bone marrow disorders.

SourceFred Hutchinson Cancer Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateSep 7, 2016

NASA sees a much weaker Tropical Storm Lester

Tropical Storm Lester has weakened, with a lack of thunderstorm development around its center of circulation. The storm is forecast to dissipate on Thursday as it becomes absorbed into a larger extra-tropical low near the Gulf of Alaska.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 7, 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.

Has the Affordable Care Act accomplished its goals?

The Affordable Care Act has significantly reduced the number of uninsured individuals through expanded Medicaid and health insurance exchanges. Early evidence also suggests improvements in access to and affordability of healthcare, despite ongoing disparities by geography, race/ethnicity, and income.

SourceWiley·JournalHealth Services Research·DateSep 7, 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.

Antidepressant bone loss could be prevented with beta-blockers

Researchers discovered that fluoxetine, an antidepressant, causes bone loss by increasing epinephrine levels and impairing bone formation. However, co-treating with low-dose beta-blockers may prevent this effect. This finding has significant implications for preventing fractures in peri- and postmenopausal women.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalNature Medicine·DateSep 7, 2016

Exercise can help keep medical costs down

A new study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that regular exercise can lead to lower healthcare costs, even for those with established cardiovascular disease. Participants who met exercise guidelines had average yearly medical costs $500 lower than those who didn't.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateSep 7, 2016

How does your garden grow?

A new study by UC Santa Barbara researchers found that converting lawns to vegetable gardens can reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The study modeled the effect of household gardens on emissions, finding a reduction of 2 kilograms for every kilogram of homegrown vegetables compared to store-bought counterparts.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalLandscape and Urban Planning·DateSep 7, 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.

New research supports hep C treatment for people who use drugs

The new study debunks myths about treatment efficacy and adherence in people who use drugs, highlighting its benefits in disease elimination. Treatment uptake among people who inject drugs could halve hepatitis C prevalence in 15 years.

SourceInternational Network for Hepatitis C in Substance Users·DateSep 7, 2016

New research reveals hundreds of undiscovered black holes

Researchers at the University of Surrey have discovered hundreds of undetectable black holes within a globular cluster, overturning old theories on their formation. The study uses advanced simulations to map the cluster and its behavior, revealing the effects of these massive objects on the surrounding stars.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateSep 7, 2016

Flying the flag for an airship revolution

Researchers propose a new conceptual model to analyze airship cargo capabilities, highlighting benefits over traditional vehicles in terms of access to coastal ports, airports, and remote regions. The value-density cargo pyramid could disrupt freight transport markets and alter world trade patterns.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Aviation Management·DateSep 7, 2016

Recommended weekly physical activity level may offset some of alcohol's lethal harms

A recent study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that engaging in regular physical activity may help mitigate the risks associated with excessive alcohol consumption. The research analyzed data from eight British population cohorts and discovered a positive correlation between moderate to high levels of physical...

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·DateSep 7, 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.

Americans more politically polarized than ever; independents at an all time high

A study by Florida Atlantic University and San Diego State University found that Americans are increasingly identifying as independents, with 46% of adults now self-identifying as independents. Millennials are leading this trend, with nearly 30% marking themselves as having extreme affiliations with either party.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateSep 7, 2016

Model maps out molecular roots of learning and memory formation

A team of researchers has built a mathematical model that describes the molecular events associated with the beginning stage of learning and memory formation. The study focuses on dendritic spines, which are dynamic structures changing in size, shape, and number during development and aging.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 7, 2016

Bringing graphene speakers to the mobile market (video)

Scientists have created graphene audio speakers for mobile devices with a sound quality comparable to existing systems. The new fabrication method uses ultra-thin graphene aerogels that don't vibrate and can be mass-produced for use in mobile devices.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateSep 7, 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.

Scientists work to turn up the heat of brown fat to combat obesity

Researchers are working to enhance the heat-burning ability of brown fat to combat obesity. They discovered a gene, BSCL2, that regulates brown, white, and beige fat. Deleting this gene in mature brown fat surprisingly increased its efficiency at burning fat, while mice on high-fat diets still lost weight.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·DateSep 7, 2016

New service improves cloud storage usage on mobile devices

A new service called StoArranger has been developed to optimize cloud storage requests on mobile devices, reducing battery drain and synchronization times. By intercepting and coordinating app requests, StoArranger improves performance without changing how apps run, making it a promising solution for millions of users.

SourceBinghamton University·DateSep 7, 2016

Study examines risk, risk factors for depression after stroke

A study of over 135,000 patients with stroke found that the risk of depression within two years was eight times higher than in a reference population, with half of cases appearing in the first three months after stroke. Major risk factors for depression included older age, female sex, and history of depression or severe stroke.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateSep 7, 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.

Call time on costly drug to curb excess drinking, say dtb editors

Researchers and editors of the Drug and Therapeutics Bulletin express concerns about the clinical and cost-effectiveness of nalmefene, a drug approved to curb excess drinking. The authors argue that the limited data on its effectiveness raises questions about its continued use in the NHS.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalDrug and Therapeutics Bulletin·DateSep 7, 2016

National education reformers target local school boards

A new study finds that outside donors are playing a large role in school board elections, often supporting reform-minded candidates over those backed by teacher unions. This trend suggests that local democracy may be influenced by national education reform groups and wealthy donors with differing views on education policy.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalUrban Affairs Review·DateSep 7, 2016

Tooth decay -- drilling down to the nanoscale

Researchers from the University of Sydney have created three-dimensional maps showing the positions of atoms critical in the decay process using atom probe tomography. The study reveals magnesium-rich regions between hydroxyapatite nanorods, which play a key role in governing tooth behavior.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 7, 2016

Do teachers' climate change beliefs influence students?

A North Carolina State University study found that teachers' beliefs about climate change affect students' perceptions, with 92% of students mirroring their teacher's belief in global warming. However, students diverge from their teachers when it comes to understanding the human causes of climate change.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 7, 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.

Ginger and chili peppers could work together to lower cancer risk

Researchers found that a ginger compound, 6-ginergol, can lower cancer risk when combined with capsaicin, the active ingredient in chili peppers. In mouse studies, only 20% of mice developed lung carcinomas after receiving both compounds, compared to 50% with capsaicin alone.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateSep 7, 2016

Fruit flies yield clues on cancerous tumor hotspots

Researchers discovered that tumors in fruit flies always originate from specific regions of epithelial tissue, which also occurs in humans and other animals. This finding may lead to a better understanding of cancer development and the discovery of potential treatments.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalPLOS Biology·DateSep 7, 2016

Faculty team awarded $1.25 million to study 'swimming cells'

A research team from Washington University has been awarded a $1.25 million grant to study the movement and mechanics of flagella in a green alga called Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, which is nearly identical to human cilia. The goal is to understand how these tiny organelles propel movements and potentially develop new discoveries in mec...

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·DateSep 7, 2016

Stealth pig cells may hold the key to treating diabetes in humans

University of Alabama at Birmingham researchers are developing a way to wrap insulin-producing cell-clusters from pigs in a thin protective coating to prevent immune rejection. The goal is to transplant these cells into humans to treat Type 1 diabetes, with promising results in preclinical work.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·DateSep 7, 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.

Adverse drug reactions may be under-reported in young children

A new study reveals that spontaneous reports of adverse drug reactions in newborns and infants are insufficient, highlighting the need for additional reporting strategies. The UK's Yellow Card Scheme, established over 50 years ago, has improved drug safety but may not be enough to capture all instances of adverse reactions.

SourceWiley·JournalBritish Journal of Clinical Pharmacology·DateSep 7, 2016

Tapping the unused potential of photosynthesis

Researchers at the University of Southampton have developed a new method to harness the unused potential of photosynthesis by introducing an additional enzyme that captures more light energy. This innovation enables the efficient bioremediation of polluted wastewater areas, as shown in their study published in ACS Synthetic Biology.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalACS Synthetic Biology·DateSep 7, 2016

Leopoldina Annual Assembly

The Leopoldina Annual Assembly brings together 400 participants from around the world to discuss international dialogue in science. Key findings include recognition of outstanding research into present-day Chinese culture, with Freiburg sinologist Lena Henningsen receiving the Leopoldina Early Career Award 2016.

SourceLeopoldina·DateSep 7, 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.

CAR-T cell therapy makes strides in clinic *free*

In a phase 1 clinical study of 32 participants with advanced B cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma, immunotherapy with defined subsets of T cells showed strong antitumor activity. The therapy was found to be more effective when combined with specific ratios of CD4 and CD8 CAR-T cells and pretreatment chemotherapy regimen.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateSep 7, 2016

Reconciling dwarf galaxies with dark matter

Theoretical modeling work resolves debates on dwarf galaxy formation by accurately predicting their properties. The new simulation brings theoretical predictions into better agreement with observations of dwarf galaxies surrounding the Milky Way.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateSep 7, 2016

Researchers find molecular link behind aspirin's protective powers

Aspirin has been found to have a molecular link that explains its ability to reduce the risk of both cardiovascular disease and colon cancer. The researchers discovered a gene regulatory protein that not only influences platelet function but also suppresses tumors in the colon.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalEBioMedicine·DateSep 7, 2016

New tumor analysis method identifies high-risk prostate cancer

Researchers developed a new way to identify aggressive prostate cancer patients by analyzing their tumor's genetic pathways. The study found three subtypes of prostate tumors, with one subtype showing high disease progression and poor clinical outcomes.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalCancer Research·DateSep 7, 2016

More evidence that TV ads may influence kids' drinking

Research suggests that TV ads may influence kids' alcohol consumption, with those exposed to more ads consuming more alcohol. A study of over 1,000 13-20 year olds found that more ad exposure was linked to higher total consumption of advertised brands.

SourceJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·JournalJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·DateSep 7, 2016

September Health Affairs

A study published in Health Affairs evaluated the impact of in-service training and supervision on quality of care for pregnant women and sick children in sub-Saharan Africa. The research found that while receiving recent training and supervision was associated with improved quality, it did not exceed 50% of expected performance.

SourceHealth Affairs·JournalHealth Affairs·DateSep 7, 2016

Sugar transforms a traditional Chinese medicine into a cruise missile

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine have developed a new compound by attaching glucose to triptolide, making it more effective against cancer cells. The compound, glutriptolide 2, shows promise as a potential anticancer treatment with fewer side effects.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateSep 7, 2016

Intestinal bacteria influence food allergies

Researchers found that a protein called NOD2 plays a critical role in determining the strength of anaphylactic reactions to food allergens. A changed immune reaction leads to more Th2 helper cells and increased antibody immunoglobulin E production, triggering allergic reactions.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalJournal of Investigative Dermatology·DateSep 7, 2016

Fuel cell membrane patented by Sandia outperforms market

Researchers have developed a polyphenyline membrane that operates at temperatures between 176-320 degrees F, lasting three times longer than comparable commercial products. The membrane uses ammonium ion pairs to enhance stability and resist degradation, making it suitable for automotive applications.

SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·JournalNature Energy·DateSep 7, 2016

Researchers identify method of creating long-lasting memories

A new study in mice finds that dopamine release from the brain's locus coeruleus region can enhance memory retention. The researchers used optogenetics to activate dopamine-carrying neurons and found a direct, long-lasting synaptic strengthening that improved learning and memory.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalNature·DateSep 7, 2016

Deadly scrub typhus bacteria confirmed in South America

Researchers confirm cluster of cases in Chile, suggesting wider global distribution than previously understood. Scrub typhus kills at least 140,000 people annually and is transmitted through mite bites.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateSep 7, 2016

New material to revolutionize water proofing

Scientists at Australian National University have developed a new spray-on material that can repel water and withstand ultraviolet radiation. The coating, made from nanoparticles, is transparent, stable, and has numerous real-world applications.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateSep 7, 2016

Probing a mosquito protein for clues in the fight against Zika

Researchers have gained structural insights on a key protein from Aedes aegypti, the mosquito species most often linked to Zika. The study suggests compounds targeting this protein could kill mosquitoes and reduce cases of Zika and other illnesses.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalBiochemistry·DateSep 7, 2016