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Science News for August 16, 2017


New tool aims to make surgery safer by helping doctors see nerves

A new non-invasive approach using polarized light can help surgeons identify nerves in real-time, minimizing nerve damage and improving surgical outcomes. The technique has been shown to outperform visual inspection with an accuracy rate of 100% compared to 77%.

SourceOptica·JournalBiomedical Optics Express·DateAug 16, 2017
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.

Antifreeze to improve airplanes, ice cream and organ transplants

Researchers develop iron-based synthetic antifreeze mimicking natural Antifreeze Proteins (AFPs), which can slow ice crystal growth, making airplane wings safer, ice cream smoother and human tissue for transplantation more stable.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateAug 16, 2017

Therapeutic cocktail could restore motor skills after spinal cord injury, stroke

A team of scientists at Boston Children's Hospital has developed a therapeutic cocktail that promotes axon regrowth after spinal cord injury or stroke, resulting in improved fine motor skills. The treatment showed significant improvement in mice with either condition, with error rates dropping to 30% and 46% respectively.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalNeuron·DateAug 16, 2017

Study: Opioids overused in migraine treatment, regardless of race

Researchers found that patients of all races receive opioids at similar rates as evidence-based medications, despite concerns about medication overuse and comorbidities. The study suggests that clinicians can improve treating migraine patients by adopting better prescribing practices.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalCephalalgia·DateAug 16, 2017
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.

BU researcher receives AHA grant to improve cardiovascular treatments

Kolachalama's research aims to improve cardiovascular treatments by developing models for smarter artery care and improving drug-coated angioplasty balloons. The $231,000 Scientist Development grant will support his three-year study on the mechanisms of drug-coated balloon therapy.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·DateAug 16, 2017

Fizzy soda water could be key to clean manufacture of flat wonder material: Graphene

Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a new method to manufacture graphene using carbon dioxide, eliminating the need for harsh chemicals and producing a more environmentally friendly process. This breakthrough has significant implications for the production of graphene, a key material in sensors and flexible devices.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry C·DateAug 16, 2017

Researchers map brain tumor cells' adaptation to oxygen deprivation

Researchers at Lund University identified a specific marker (CD44) that interacts with protein HIF-2a, allowing cancer stem cells in glioblastoma to adapt to oxygen deprivation. This interaction enables the growth of more aggressive tumor cells, which are resistant to treatment and contribute to recurrence.

SourceLund University·JournalCell Reports·DateAug 16, 2017

Molecule increases pregnancy rate and number of offspring in cattle

Researchers at Inprenha Biotecnologia have discovered a molecule that increases bovine pregnancy rates and reduces early embryo loss. The product, which enhances reproductive efficiency in domestic animals like cattle and horses, has been tested by the company and shown to be effective.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·DateAug 16, 2017
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Pig-to-person spread of flu at fairs a continued concern

A new study by Ohio State University researchers highlights the need for protective measures to prevent pig-to-human flu transmission at fairs. The study found that shorter exhibition lengths and proper hygiene practices can significantly reduce disease transmission.

SourceOhio State University·JournalEmerging Infectious Diseases·DateAug 16, 2017

New strategy to treat aggressive lung cancer

Researchers at Norton Thoracic Institute have developed a new approach to treat an aggressive subgroup of lung cancer. The study found that patients with tumors harboring specific genomic mutations, such as KRAS and LKB1, are more likely to benefit from a novel drug in clinical trials.

SourceSt. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center·JournalCancer Research·DateAug 16, 2017

Whales turn tail at ocean mining noise

A new study found that humpback whales avoid loud ocean mining noise triggered by seismic air gun surveys, suggesting a clear avoidance reaction within a certain distance from the vessel. The research aims to improve current mitigation measures to prevent adverse effects of seismic air gun noise on large whale behavior.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateAug 16, 2017

Blood marker may predict postmenopausal women's risk of bone fractures

Researchers discovered a blood marker that can predict the risk of bone fractures in postmenopausal women, independent of other measures. High levels of periostin protein fragments were found to be associated with an increased risk of fractures, suggesting they reflect additional bone properties.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·DateAug 16, 2017

Telemedicine as effective as in-person care for Parkinson's disease

A nationwide program showed that telemedicine can deliver quality care to people with Parkinson's disease in their homes via video conferencing. The study found that virtual house calls were as effective as in-person visits, saving patients time and travel, while improving access to care for those with limited mobility.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalNeurology·DateAug 16, 2017
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.

Depression overshadows the past as well as the present

Research establishes first clear link between depression and hindsight bias, a distorted view of the past. People with depression show exaggerated perceptions of foreseeability and inevitability for negative event outcomes, reinforcing feelings of helplessness.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalClinical Psychological Science·DateAug 16, 2017

What does music mean? Sign language may offer an answer, new research concludes

A new analysis concludes that music uses abstract animated components to convey information about an extra-musical reality, similar to sign languages. The study suggests that the diverse inferences drawn from musical sources are combined using iconic rules, creating a 'fictional source' for what is perceived as real.

SourceNew York University·JournalMusic Perception An Interdisciplinary Journal·DateAug 16, 2017
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.

Gold shines through properties of nano biosensors

Researchers have discovered that fluorescence in ligand-protected gold nanoclusters is an intrinsic property of the gold particles. The study used Au20 nanoparticles with a tetrahedral structure and found intense fluorescence at a wavelength of 739.2 nanometers, indicating that the metal core is responsible for the phenomenon.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateAug 16, 2017

Print no evil: Three-layer technique helps secure additive manufacturing

Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology and Rutgers University have developed a three-layer system to verify that components produced using additive manufacturing have not been compromised. The system uses acoustic and physical techniques to detect malicious activity and quality problems, reducing materials waste.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·DateAug 16, 2017

The irresistible fragrance of dying vinegar flies

Researchers found that healthy flies are attracted to the smell of infected ones, which produces more sex pheromones. This leads to increased dispersal of disease among fly populations.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 16, 2017

Defeating cyberattacks on 3-D printers

Experts at Rutgers University-New Brunswick and Georgia Tech have created three methods to defend against sneaky attacks on 3D printers, including detecting malicious fill patterns and printing defects using sensors and high-tech scanning.

SourceRutgers University·DateAug 16, 2017
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.

Soil microbes persist through National Mall facelift

Researchers found that the bacteria communities in the National Mall's soil did not change significantly before and after the renovation. The study highlights the importance of understanding how changes in the soil microbiome can impact plant productivity and health.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalCrop Science·DateAug 16, 2017

Eye patterns in children: The development of anxiety and emotion

A new study by Kalina Michalska found that children who are more anxious tend to avoid making eye contact, leading to greater fear experience. This avoidance of eye contact affects how afraid children are of potentially threatening information.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalJournal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry·DateAug 16, 2017

NASA sees wind shear battering Banyan

Typhoon Banyan is experiencing strong wind shear, causing its strongest thunderstorms to be blown northeast of the center. The storm is weakening, with maximum sustained winds dropping to 75 mph, and is moving at a speed of 37 mph.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 16, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Candy cane supercapacitor could enable fast charging of mobile phones

A new type of supercapacitor with improved flexibility, resilience to charge/discharge cycling, and energy storage capacity has been developed. The technique can be applied to various materials, enabling fast charging of mobile phones, smart clothes, and implantable devices.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalACS Energy Letters·DateAug 16, 2017

Scientists give star treatment to lesser-known cells crucial for brain development

A new study published in Neuron confirms that lab-grown astrocytes mature at the same rate as human brains, providing a valuable technique to investigate their role in brain development and disease. The findings have significant implications for understanding the roots of neurological disorders such as schizophrenia and autism.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournalNeuron·DateAug 16, 2017

New test differentiates between Lyme disease, similar illness

A new test has been developed to differentiate between Lyme disease and Southern Tick-Associated Rash Illness (STARI) with an accuracy of up to 98 percent. This breakthrough offers improved early detection and diagnosis for Lyme disease, a vector-borne illness affecting the US.

SourceColorado State University·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateAug 16, 2017
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Boron nitride foam soaks up carbon dioxide

Researchers at Rice University have developed a new material that can absorb up to 340% of its weight in carbon dioxide, making it a promising solution for capturing greenhouse gases. The boron nitride foam is highly porous and can be tuned for specific applications.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Nano·DateAug 16, 2017

Elevated testosterone causes bull market trading

A new study by researchers at the Ivey Business School found that elevated testosterone levels in male traders increased bid prices and asset price bubbles, leading to market instability. The experiment showed that testosterone drove changes in market dynamics by increasing bidding, selling prices, and volume.

SourceUniversity of Western Ontario, Ivey Business School·JournalManagement Science·DateAug 16, 2017

Predators preserve existing animal species

A new study found that hybrids of roach and bream fish are more likely to be preyed upon by cormorants than their parent species. This suggests that natural predators play a role in maintaining the genetic diversity between species.

SourceLund University·JournalBiology Letters·DateAug 16, 2017
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.

Biophysics explains how immune cells kill bacteria

Researchers developed moving subtrajectory analysis to study TCR microclusters, revealing kinetic and spatial details of CD3 and CD45 behavior. The study shows that the two molecules exhibit distinct mobility states, depending on their location relative to the microcluster, providing new insights into T cell activation mechanisms.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 16, 2017

Voter behavior influenced by hot weather

A study found that increases in state-level temperatures lead to higher voter turnout and votes for the incumbent party. For every 10C increase, voter turnout rises by 1.4%., The study also reveals a rise in temperature motivates citizens to vote for smaller parties while government popularity soars.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateAug 16, 2017

Noninvasive detection for early stage cancers from circulating DNA

Researchers developed a DNA sequencing-based method to detect early stage cancers by analyzing circulating tumor DNA in blood plasma. The approach, called TEC-Seq, identified cancer driver genes in over 90% of patients with colorectal, ovarian, lung, and breast cancers.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateAug 16, 2017
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.

Harvard researchers develop tough, self-healing rubber

Researchers have created a new type of rubber that can self-heal, offering potential applications in durable tires, wearable electronics, and medical devices. The hybrid rubber combines covalent and reversible bonds to achieve its unique properties.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateAug 16, 2017

Researchers discover fundamental pathology behind ALS

A team of researchers has discovered a fundamental pathology behind amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia, identifying the basic cellular malfunction underlying the diseases. The study found that an abnormal version of a protein called TIA1 causes phase separation in cells, leading to neuron death.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalNeuron·DateAug 16, 2017

Comparing the jaws of porcupine fish reveals three new species

Researchers have identified three new species of porcupine fish, expanding our understanding of these unique creatures and their role in ancient ocean ecosystems. The discovery sheds light on the impact of the Isthmus of Panama's formation on tropical biodiversity.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 16, 2017

Spray-on electric rainbows: Making safer electrochromic inks

Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology have developed water-based electrochromic film inks, making them safer and more accessible for various industries. The new method eliminates the use of flammable solvents and toxic fumes associated with previous inks.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalACS Central Science·DateAug 16, 2017
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.

Moving beyond nudges to improve health and health care policies

A report suggests that behavioral science can be used to improve the quality and cost effectiveness of American healthcare by encouraging healthier lifestyles and insurance plan enrollment. The study proposes policy recommendations for employers, insurers, and policymakers to reduce costs and promote evidence-based treatments.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalBehavioral Science & Policy·DateAug 16, 2017

Larvaceans provide a pathway for transporting microplastics into deep-sea food webs

A new study by MBARI researchers reveals that giant larvaceans collect and consume microplastic particles in the deep sea. These particles accumulate in the animals' cast-off filters and are passed into their fecal pellets, which sink rapidly to the seafloor, potentially carrying microplastics to the deep seafloor.

SourceMonterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 16, 2017
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.

Fish database could help eliminate the ultimate bait and switch

A new protein database developed by scientists can definitively identify fish species, helping to curb seafood fraud worldwide. The database uses mass spectrometry to create unique 'fingerprints' for 54 fish species, including salmon and tuna.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateAug 16, 2017

Could olfactory loss point to Alzheimer's disease?

Researchers found that individuals with difficulty identifying odors had elevated AD-related proteins in their cerebrospinal fluid. The study suggests a potential cheaper alternative for tracking the progression of Alzheimer's disease through simple smell tests.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNeurology·DateAug 16, 2017

CU Anschutz and UC San Diego researchers find creosote bush could treat deadly infections

Researchers from CU Anschutz and UC San Diego found that creosote bush compounds exhibit potent anti-parasitic activity against Giardia and Naegleria fowleri, two deadly parasites responsible for giardiasis and primary amoebic meningoencephalitis. The discovery could lead to a more effective treatment option for these infections.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateAug 16, 2017

Online education boosts proper use of drugs that prevent blood clots

A yearlong study found that well-designed online education can decrease nonadministration rates of prescribed blood thinners to prevent venous thromboembolism. Nurses who completed an interactive education module showed a greater reduction in non-administration rates compared to those who received traditional voice-over instruction.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 16, 2017

Scientists discover powerful potential pain reliever

Researchers have discovered a potent pain reliever, UKH-1114, that targets the sigma 2 receptor to alleviate neuropathic pain. The compound is as effective as gabapentin but works at a lower dose and longer duration, offering a potential alternative to opioids.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalACS Chemical Neuroscience·DateAug 16, 2017
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.

Domestic abuse 'workshops' reduce repeat offending and harm to public -- study

A new domestic abuse policing strategy has found that an inexpensive two-day course in behaviour management for first offenders resulted in 35% fewer men reoffending against their partner. The CARA programme prevented significant harm to victims, hundreds of prison days, and saved thousands of pounds.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalCambridge Journal of Evidence-Based Policing·DateAug 16, 2017

Understanding how fish grow their hearts could help humans, professor finds

A University of Guelph professor has identified a protein that enables fish to adjust the size of their hearts in response to changing temperatures. This finding may lead to new insights into preventing or treating cardiac fibrosis, a condition where the heart builds up scar tissue after injury.

SourceUniversity of Guelph·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateAug 16, 2017
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.

TDRS: An era of continuous space communications

The Tracking and Data Relay Satellites (TDRS) have provided critical communication services to NASA's missions since the 1980s, increasing global communication coverage to over 99%. The TDRS network will continue to play a vital role in space communications for years to come.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 16, 2017

Raising the minimum wage would reduce child neglect cases

A study by Indiana University researcher Lindsey Rose Bullinger found that increasing the federal minimum wage would lead to a decrease in reported child neglect cases. The analysis of nine years of data shows a substantial reduction in cases among toddlers and school-age children.

SourceIndiana University·JournalChildren and Youth Services Review·DateAug 16, 2017

Blood-filtering organs fight infections that enter through the skin

Researchers at Penn State College of Medicine discovered that certain viruses evade the innate immune system by spreading to blood and being fought off in organs like the liver and spleen. This finding could lead to better treatments for viral infections like Zika, dengue, and measles.

SourcePenn State·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateAug 16, 2017

City College researchers produce smart fabric to neutralize nerve gas

Researchers have created a smart fabric that can detect and neutralize nerve gas, with the ability to absorb up to 7g of toxin per gram of Cu. The fabric uses copper-based nanoparticles to break down nerve gas surrogates, making it a potential tool for detecting chemical warfare agents.

SourceCity College of New York·JournalNanoscale Horizons·DateAug 16, 2017

Telling people not to 'down' drinks could make them drink more

A University of Exeter study found that warnings about peers' behavior can backfire and increase intentions to bolt. In contrast, messages emphasizing what most people do, rather than what they think others do, are effective in reducing such behavior.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalAddiction Research & Theory·DateAug 16, 2017
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.

Injecting manure instead of spreading on surface reduces estrogen loads

A new study by Penn State researchers finds that injecting manure into crop fields instead of spreading it on the surface significantly reduces estrogen loads in surface runoff. The method also showed reduced transport rates of total dissolved phosphorus and dissolved organic carbon.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Environmental Quality·DateAug 16, 2017

Study reveals the evolutionary history of imperiled salmon stocks

Researchers used DNA analysis to uncover the genetic basis of early migration in Pacific salmon species, finding a single gene variant responsible for this adaptation. This discovery challenges previous views on the evolution of early migrating populations and highlights the need for targeted conservation strategies.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 16, 2017
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.

Tropical trees maintain high carbon accumulation rates into old age

Researchers studied 61 tropical tree species with age ranges of 84 to 255 years and found that old trees stored more carbon than younger ones. The trees maintained high carbon accumulation rates until the end of their lives, accumulating up to 50% of their final carbon stock in the last quarter.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 16, 2017

Study calls for action to help adolescents with diabetes transition to adult care

A new study from McGill University Health Centre highlights significant gaps in transition care services for young adults with diabetes in Quebec. Pediatric care providers reported lack of standardized policies and limited communication between settings, underscoring the need for targeted interventions to improve the transition process.

SourceMcGill University Health Centre·JournalBMJ Open Diabetes Research & Care·DateAug 16, 2017

Supervolcanoes: A key to America's electric future?

Researchers found concentrated lithium in caldera lakes formed by ancient supervolcanic eruptions. This discovery aims to reduce reliance on single companies or countries for lithium supply, addressing global energy and climate change concerns.

SourceStanford's School of Earth, Energy & Environmental Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 16, 2017

HIIT helps combat high insulin resistance -- a warning sign for diabetes

A new study suggests that High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) is an efficient way to combat high insulin resistance, a warning sign for diabetes. HIIT improved blood pressure and glucose levels in women at risk of type 2 diabetes, with the greatest benefits seen in those with higher insulin resistance.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Physiology·DateAug 16, 2017
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.

Follow the Bitcoin to find victims of human trafficking

A team of researchers has created a suite of tools to help identify victims of sexual exploitation by analyzing online ads and Bitcoin transactions. The algorithm can link ads to a common author and Bitcoin wallet, potentially revealing human traffickers' identities. This technology is crucial for law enforcement and nonprofit organiza...

SourceNYU Tandon School of Engineering·DateAug 16, 2017

Why teens take risks: It's not a deficit in brain development

A recent literature review suggests that adolescent risk-taking behavior is not due to a brain development deficit, but rather exploration and learning. The review highlights that most adolescents pass through this period without significant problems, while a smaller subset is at higher risk of unhealthy outcomes.

SourceAnnenberg Public Policy Center of the University of Pennsylvania·JournalDevelopmental Cognitive Neuroscience·DateAug 16, 2017
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.

Going 'green' with plant-based resins

Researchers developed a new curing agent made from castor oil components that strengthened a soybean-based epoxy thermoset, increasing its durability and heat resistance. The material also allows light to pass through, potentially ideal for applications like solar cells.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalMacromolecules·DateAug 16, 2017

Starting opioid addiction treatment in the ED is cost-effective

A Yale University study found that ED-initiated buprenorphine treatment was the most cost-effective approach for individuals screening positive for opioid addiction. The treatment resulted in lower healthcare costs and better patient outcomes compared to referral alone or brief intervention with facilitated referral.

SourceYale University·JournalAddiction·DateAug 16, 2017

Survey examines pubic hair grooming-related injuries

A national survey of pubic hair grooming habits found that 76.1% of participants reported a history of grooming, with 25.6% experiencing injuries such as cuts, burns, and rashes. The study's findings may contribute to the development of clinical guidelines for safe pubic hair removal.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Dermatology·DateAug 16, 2017

Study: Playing smartphone app aids concussion recovery in teens

A mobile health app called SuperBetter improved concussion symptoms and optimism in teens who used it daily alongside standard medical treatment. The app incorporates social game mechanics and a heroic narrative to help teens cope with unresolved concussion symptoms, promoting healthy habits and reduced risk of depression.

SourceMediaSource·JournalBrain Injury·DateAug 16, 2017

Trying to resist the urge to splurge? Ditch the smartphone

A UBC study found that consumers are more likely to buy hedonic products with touchscreen technology, evoking experiential thinking. The study advises consumers to put away their smartphones when shopping for guilty pleasures to save money.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalJournal of Retailing and Consumer Services·DateAug 16, 2017
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.

Subarachnoid hemorrhage and the need for expert treatment

Subarachnoid hemorrhages account for 5-10% of all strokes, particularly among younger patients, and can result in long-term neuropsychological effects. Expert treatment is crucial, with high-volume centers and specialized neurosurgeons offering the best outcomes.

SourceSt. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateAug 16, 2017

Children who skip breakfast may not be getting recommended nutrients

A study published in the British Journal of Nutrition found that children who eat breakfast every day have superior nutritional profiles compared to those who skip it. Children who consumed breakfast daily had higher intakes of key nutrients like folate, calcium, and iodine.

SourceKing's College London·JournalBritish Journal Of Nutrition·DateAug 16, 2017

NASA's infrared look at Hurricane Gert

The Atmospheric Infrared Sounder instrument detected very cold cloud top temperatures exceeding minus 63 degrees Fahrenheit, suggesting the presence of intense thunderstorms that can generate heavy rain. The hurricane's center was located near Bermuda and Halifax, Nova Scotia, with forecasted strengthening and weakening phases.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 16, 2017
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.

Using barcodes to trace cell development

Researchers at the German Cancer Research Center create a new barcode system to study blood cell development, revealing two major branches that give rise to different cell types. The technology allows for precise tracking of individual cells and has implications for cancer research and other tissue studies.

SourceGerman Cancer Research Center (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ)·JournalNature·DateAug 16, 2017

VA targets healthcare equity for all veterans -- new research on reducing health disparities presented in Medical Care

A recent VA study presents original research and perspectives informing efforts to ensure high-quality patient-centered care for vulnerable veteran populations. The research highlights disparities in healthcare access and outcomes among racial and ethnic minorities, LGBTQ+ veterans, homeless veterans, and others.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalMedical Care·DateAug 16, 2017

Why the definition of polycystic ovary syndrome harms women

Australian scientists argue that the current PCOS definition brings no clear benefit to women, despite higher levels of depression, anxiety, and negative body image. The authors recommend reevaluating diagnosis and treatment based on individual characteristics and symptom severity.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalThe BMJ·DateAug 16, 2017
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.

Navigation and spatial memory: New brain region identified to be involved

Researchers have discovered a new brain area, the retrosplenial cortex, that plays a crucial role in spatial memory and navigation. This finding could lead to a better understanding of how our brains process spatial information and may shed light on neurological conditions such as Alzheimer's disease.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 16, 2017

Genetic variants found to play key role in human immune system

A new study published in Nature Communications reveals genetic variants that affect the immune response to infections, linking genetics and environment to disease risk. The research identified hundreds of genes where gene expression changes depend on individual genetic variants, shedding light on the genomic elements underlying immune ...

SourceNew York Genome Center·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 16, 2017

Superconductivity research reveals potential new state of matter

Researchers report finding similarities among classes of materials with phenomena like electronic symmetry breaking, which helps establish essential ingredients for novel functionalities. A new nematic-like state is observed in heavy-fermion superconductor CeRhIn5, correlating with unconventional superconductivity.

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·JournalNature·DateAug 16, 2017
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.

Popular immunotherapy target turns out to have a surprising buddy

Researchers at the Netherlands Cancer Institute discovered that PD-L1 is stabilized by protein CMTM6, making it a potential new therapeutic target for cancer treatment. This finding may also improve the prediction of treatment success in patients with current PD-L1 blockers.

SourceNetherlands Cancer Institute·JournalNature·DateAug 16, 2017

The environmental injustice of beauty

Research highlights the disproportionate impact of beauty product-related chemicals on women of color, who face higher levels of exposure and health risks. The study suggests that marketing practices and societal pressure contribute to this issue, emphasizing the need for improved testing and disclosure to advance environmental justice.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateAug 16, 2017
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.

Giant larvaceans transfer ocean pollution by ingesting plastic waste

Giant larvaceans, a type of plankton, consume tiny pieces of plastic and pass them in their fecal pellets, which sink to the ocean bottom. This process suggests that these filter feeders may contribute to faster transfer of plastic pollution from surface to sea floor.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 16, 2017

Increased support could reduce attrition rates among general surgery residents

A recent study published in JAMA Surgery found that the attrition rate among general surgery residents was lower than previously thought, with only 8.8% leaving their training programs compared to 20%. The study also identified a significant difference in program directors' attitudes and support for struggling residents between high- a...

SourceLA BioMed·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateAug 16, 2017

Smart electrical grids more vulnerable to cyber attacks

A recent paper analyzes security issues in smart electrical grids, highlighting potential consequences of cyber attacks on advanced metering infrastructures. The report provides crucial keys to ensuring the security of our power supply.

SourceElsevier·JournalInternational Journal of Critical Infrastructure Protection·DateAug 16, 2017
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Researchers clarify mystery about proposed battery material

A team at MIT has carried out detailed tests that resolve the questions surrounding a compound called lithium iodide, a possible solution to some of the lithium-air battery's problems. The study finds that LiI can enhance water's reactivity and interfere with charging, but suggests ways to suppress these reactions to make it work better.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateAug 16, 2017

Supermassive black holes feed on cosmic jellyfish

A team of astronomers used the MUSE instrument on the VLT to study how gas can be stripped from galaxies, focusing on extreme jellyfish galaxies. Six out of seven jellyfish galaxies were found to host a supermassive black hole feeding on surrounding gas.

SourceESO·JournalNature·DateAug 16, 2017

Harnessing rich satellite data to estimate crop yield

Researchers at the University of Illinois are using satellite data to estimate crop yield in the US Corn Belt. By integrating various spectral bands and analyzing them together, they've uncovered valuable information on crop biomass and environmental stresses related to drought and heat.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalRemote Sensing of Environment·DateAug 16, 2017

Specialists make breakthrough in the treatment of anal cancer

A recent study has made a groundbreaking discovery in the treatment of anal cancer, suggesting that current methods of checking for lymph node spread may be overestimating survival rates. This finding has significant implications for patient care, potentially leading to more targeted and effective treatments.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·DateAug 16, 2017
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.

Mosses used to evaluate atmospheric conditions in urban areas

Researchers have developed a method using mosses (bryophytes) to evaluate atmospheric conditions in urban areas, including nitrogen pollution severity and drought stress. The study found that bryophytes can indicate the degree of nitrogen pollution and drought levels, making them a valuable tool for assessing environmental changes.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalLandscape and Urban Planning·DateAug 16, 2017

Study solves mystery of how first animals appeared on Earth

Researchers from Australian National University discovered ancient sedimentary rocks revealing molecular fossils that indicate the emergence of algae, a pivotal moment in ecosystems. This event led to the evolution of complex life, including humans.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalNature·DateAug 16, 2017

Daily e-cigarette users had highest rates of quitting smoking

Daily e-cigarette use was found to be the strongest predictor of smoking cessation among established smokers. Over half of daily e-cigarette users had quit smoking in the past five years, compared to just 28% of those who never tried e-cigarettes.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalAddictive Behaviors·DateAug 16, 2017

Computer scientists use music to covertly track body movements, activity

Computer scientists at the University of Washington have developed CovertBand, a software that can transform smart devices into active sonar systems, tracking personal activity and movements through walls. The technology uses repeating pulses in the audible range to gather detailed data on body position and movements.

SourceUniversity of Washington·DateAug 16, 2017

Modeling human psychology

A mathematical model of embodied consciousness predicts states of consciousness and behavior, analyzing free energy and projective geometry. The model, developed by an international team of experts, has potential industrial applications in robotics, AI, and healthcare.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalJournal of Theoretical Biology·DateAug 16, 2017

Multicolor MRIs could aid disease detection

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University have developed a new multicolor MRI method that enables simultaneous detection of two different contrast agents, allowing for immediate comparisons of diseased and healthy tissue. This breakthrough has the potential to transform molecular imaging and aid disease diagnosis.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 16, 2017

NASA's LRO team wants you to wave at the moon

The Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) will capture an image of the Moon's shadow on Earth during a solar eclipse on Aug. 21. The public can participate by waving at the Moon, with the camera resolution able to see continents and large surface features.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 16, 2017

Magnetic resonance is used to evaluate food quality

A Brazilian company's device uses low-field NMR to analyze food products in a few seconds, measuring sugar content, fat content, moisture, tenderness, flavor, and succulence. The technology has been used to analyze beef and palm oil without dehydrating samples.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·DateAug 16, 2017

Heavily used pesticide linked to breathing problems in farmworkers' children

Research links elemental sulfur use to poorer respiratory health in children living near farms that apply the pesticide, with significant associations found between sulfur use and asthma-related symptoms. The study suggests urgent need for more research and possible changes to regulations and application methods.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateAug 16, 2017

Popular sungazer lizards under threat from poaching

The Sungazer lizard is critically endangered due to poaching and habitat loss, with its population declining by over a third in the last decade. A conservation assessment found that only half of the species' habitat has been irreversibly transformed by humans.

SourceUniversity of the Witwatersrand·JournalJournal for Nature Conservation·DateAug 16, 2017

Deafness in farmed salmon linked to accelerated growth

Accelerated growth rates in farmed salmon are linked to a common inner ear deformity causing up to 50% hearing loss. Reducing growth rate can reduce the incidence of the deformity by three times.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateAug 16, 2017

Turning pollen into a low-cost fertilizer

Researchers have created a biocompatible fertilizer from carbon dots derived from rapeseed pollen, increasing plant biomass by 50% in treated plants. The process was found to be relatively inexpensive, costing just 3 cents per gram.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Omega·DateAug 16, 2017

University of Stirling team discovers new plant in Shetland

A new type of plant, 'Shetland's monkeyflower', has been discovered in the Shetland Isles, resulting from the doubling of its chromosomes. The plant, a descendant of a non-native species, produces larger flowers and changes in leaf size and flowering time.

SourceUniversity of Stirling·JournalBotanical Journal of the Linnean Society·DateAug 16, 2017

How future volcanic eruptions will impact Earth's ozone layer

Researchers found that volcanic eruptions can cause ozone depletion until 2070, despite declining levels of human-made CFCs. Natural sources of halogen gases from marine plankton and microalgae become important in the lower stratosphere after CFC concentrations decline.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateAug 16, 2017

Cardiac ICU patient composition is changing over time

A study found that more than half of heart patients are admitted to the cardiac intensive care unit (CICU) for noncardiac conditions such as sepsis or renal failure. This shift in patient composition requires providers to reassess training and staffing models, with implications for care and outcomes.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·DateAug 16, 2017

Mars 2020 mission to use smart methods to seek signs of past life

The Mars 2020 mission utilizes advanced techniques developed from studying early life on Earth to detect biosignatures in ancient Martian rocks. By mapping elemental and organic composition at high spatial resolution, scientists aim to determine if these features were formed by life.

SourceGoldschmidt Conference·DateAug 16, 2017

Smoking raises risk of aneurysm recurrence after endovascular treatment

A new study published in the Journal of Neurosurgery found that smoking significantly increases the chance of brain aneurysm recurrence. Former and current smokers had a higher rate of recurrence compared to never smokers, emphasizing the importance of quitting smoking after endovascular treatment.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of Neurosurgery·DateAug 16, 2017