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Science News for August 21, 2017


In Neptune, it's raining diamonds

Scientists at Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf simulated the conditions inside Neptune and found diamonds forming in real time using an ultra-strong X-ray laser. The study provides insights into the planet's chemical makeup and has potential applications for electronic instruments, medical procedures, and industrial production.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalNature Astronomy·DateAug 21, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Both chimpanzees and humans spontaneously imitate each other's actions

A new study from Lund University reveals that both humans and chimpanzees engage in similar levels of imitation in zoo settings, suggesting a more complex understanding of ape cognition than previously thought. The study highlights the social and communicative role of imitation in these species.

SourceLund University·JournalPrimates·DateAug 21, 2017

Do video game players make the best unmanned pilots?

Research from the University of Liverpool reveals video game players excel in accuracy and confidence decisions as UAS operators. Professional pilots also perform well, but with less overconfidence compared to VGPs.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalCogent Psychology·DateAug 21, 2017

Repairing damaged hearts with self-healing heart cells

Scientists identify a novel RNA molecule, Singheart, which regulates genes controlling heart cell repair. This discovery may lead to new treatments for heart failure and could potentially heal the heart like skin wounds.

SourceNational University Health System·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 21, 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.

Research reveals potential target for alcohol liver disease

A new study has identified fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) as a potential target for treating alcoholic liver disease. The research found that FGF21 levels increase in the blood after alcohol consumption, providing protection against liver damage.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalMolecular Metabolism·DateAug 21, 2017

A good read: AI evaluates quality of short stories

Researchers developed neural networks to evaluate short narratives, improving predictions over a baseline system. The AIs classified texts into popular and non-popular categories, highlighting the importance of understanding story structures in narrative evaluation.

SourceDisney Research·DateAug 21, 2017

Our brains do change from early to mid-adulthood

Researchers found significant microstructural changes in brain structure from early to mid-adulthood, allowing for accurate age estimation. These changes were associated with cognitive decline and disease, but the link to old-age cognitive decline is unclear.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Human Neuroscience·DateAug 21, 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.

Dino-killing asteroid could have thrust Earth into 2 years of darkness

Scientists estimate that a massive asteroid impact could have triggered 2 years of darkness on Earth, shutting down photosynthesis and drastically cooling the planet. The research found that soot in the atmosphere would have blocked sunlight, causing a steep decline in average temperatures.

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 21, 2017

Afternoon slump in reward response

A study of healthy young men found that brain reward system activation dips at 2 p.m., contrary to previous research showing peak mood during this time. This timing may impact the treatment of disorders like depression, substance abuse, and sleep disturbances.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateAug 21, 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.

Global group to investigate genetic causes of cerebral palsy

A new international collaboration aims to identify common neurodevelopmental pathways and probable environmental triggers for cerebral palsy. The group is pooling data from genetically and clinically characterized cases to lay the groundwork for clinical trials and better management of the condition.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·DateAug 21, 2017

Analysis of a 'rusty' lunar rock suggests the moon's interior is dry

A new study from the University of California San Diego suggests that the moon's interior is likely very dry, contradicting recent findings of wetness. The researchers analyzed fragments of the 'Rusty Rock,' a lunar rock collected during the Apollo 16 mission in 1972.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 21, 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.

Immune cells contribute to treatment resistance in aggressive breast cancers

A recent study found that tumor-infiltrating immune cells, specifically regulatory T cells (Tregs), can interfere with immune-targeting therapies in aggressive breast cancers. Depleting Tregs delayed tumor growth in mouse models, suggesting a potential strategy to improve targeted treatments.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 21, 2017

People favor highly reviewed products, even when they shouldn't

Research suggests that people prioritize products with more reviews, regardless of their quality, due to a popularity bias. This can lead to poor purchasing decisions, as statistical models recommend choosing products with fewer reviews when ratings are low.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateAug 21, 2017

'Electronic skin' takes wearable health monitors to the next level

The electronic skin microsystem developed by Kyung-In Jang and John A. Rogers tracks heart rate, respiration, muscle movement, and other health data, transmitting it wirelessly to a smartphone. The device offers improved flexibility, smaller size, and self-adhesive properties.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 21, 2017

Hidden river once flowed beneath Antarctic ice

A Rice University study reveals that flowing liquid water below the Antarctic ice appears to play a pivotal role in determining the fate of Antarctic ice streams. The research used sediment cores and precise seafloor maps to uncover an extensive, uncovered, water-carved channel connected to subglacial lakes.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Geoscience·DateAug 21, 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.

Remarkable artistry hidden in ancient Roman painting revealed

Researchers used a portable macro X-ray fluorescence instrument to analyze an ancient Roman painting, revealing elements such as iron-based pigment and green earth pigment used in the underpainting. The study could help conservators restore the image and preserve ancient artistry for future generations.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateAug 21, 2017

CHEO researchers identify practices leading to safer outcomes in procedural sedation for children

Researchers at CHEO identified sedation medications and practices associated with the best clinical outcomes, making ketamine-alone a logical choice for providing procedural sedation to children. The study found that choice of sedation medication had the biggest impact on the incidence of adverse events.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateAug 21, 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.

Meter-sized single-crystal graphene growth becomes possible

Researchers successfully grew meter-sized single-crystal graphene on industrial Cu foils, overcoming the challenge of polycrystalline films. The technique improves domain alignment and quality through a temperature-gradient-driving method and oxygen supply.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience Bulletin·DateAug 21, 2017

Post-whaling recovery of Southern Hemisphere

Researchers use complex ecosystem model to predict whale numbers by 2100, finding some species will not recover, while others like humpbacks are expected to make full recovery. Southern Hemisphere whaling has led to slow growth rates and reduced populations in several species.

SourceCSIRO Australia·JournalFish and Fisheries·DateAug 21, 2017

Shocking gaps in basic knowledge of deep sea life

Scientists warn of alarming gaps in basic knowledge of deep sea life as human activities intensify. Despite this, recent technological advancements enable the collection of genetic information about populations, shedding light on their interconnectedness.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateAug 21, 2017

Penn biologists show how plants turn off genes they don't need

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have discovered a mechanism for regulating gene activity in plants by identifying small DNA sequences called Polycomb response elements (PREs) that direct the silencing of genes. These PREs can be manipulated using gene-editing techniques to alter gene expression without adding foreign gene...

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalNature Genetics·DateAug 21, 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.

Formation of volatile-rich lunar surface

Researchers analyzed zinc, chlorine, and lead in 'Rusty Rock' to find volatile elements condensed during the moon's early formation. The findings suggest a depleted lunar interior with reduced volatile compounds, including water.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 21, 2017

Nanotechnology moves from the clean room to the classroom

High school students can now explore nanoscience with the help of Argonne National Laboratory's Center for Nanoscale Materials and industry partner United Scientific Supplies, Inc. Students can grow copper wires at the nano-scale and micro-scale using technology developed by the Center.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·DateAug 21, 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.

McLean researchers uncover security issues with health apps for dementia patients

A recent study by McLean Hospital researchers highlights the need for better security and privacy measures in health apps designed for dementia patients. The paper found that many apps collect user-generated content without adequate protection, posing a risk to patients' sensitive information. Clinicians are urged to educate themselves...

SourceMcLean Hospital·JournalAmerican Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry·DateAug 21, 2017

Link between cells associated with aging and bone loss

Researchers discovered a causal link between senescent cells and age-related bone loss in mice. Targeting these cells increased bone mass and strength. The study's findings suggest that senolytic drugs may have widespread application in treating multiple chronic diseases, including osteoporosis.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalNature Medicine·DateAug 21, 2017

A holodeck for flies, fish and mice

Researchers develop a virtual reality system that decouples movement from perception in animals, allowing for the study of spatial cognition. The system is used to test various behaviors, including navigation, fear response and collective behavior.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalNature Methods·DateAug 21, 2017

Using machine learning to improve patient care

Researchers developed a machine-learning approach called ICU Intervene that takes large amounts of ICU data to determine treatments for different symptoms. The system uses deep learning to make real-time predictions, learning from past cases to suggest critical care interventions.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology, CSAIL·DateAug 21, 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.

Urban infrastructure, hydrology, and biodiversity

A study models urban impacts on river and stream ecosystems, finding that hard infrastructure affects over 1,200 species nationwide and contributes to 260 local extinctions. Cities can improve environmental quality through infrastructure policies beyond their boundaries.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 21, 2017

Targeted habitat restoration and biodiversity loss

Restoring links between large adjoining habitat fragments can reduce species extinctions and provide a large potential return on investment in biodiversity. By targeting these areas, researchers found that habitat restoration could decrease the duration between habitat loss and extinction of tropical bird species.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 21, 2017

Sopping up sunblock from oceans to save coral reefs (video)

Scientists have created magnetic nanobiocomposite beads that can effectively remove oxybenzone, a coral killer found in sunblock, from seawater. The beads, made from environmentally friendly materials, can capture high concentrations of oxybenzone and have shown promising results in laboratory tests.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateAug 21, 2017

Evolutionary arms 'chase'

A recent study challenged the conventional view of coevolution between plants and herbivores, suggesting that plants' defensive traits, rather than their genetic relationships, are key factors in determining which species herbivores target. This new paradigm proposes that herbivores may 'chase' or switch hosts based on the plant's defe...

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 21, 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.

Into the wild for plant genetics

Researchers at Royal Botanic Gardens Kew detail for the first time the opportunities for plant sciences with portable real-time DNA sequencing. By sequencing random pieces of the genome in the field, accurate species identification is possible within a few hours of collecting a specimen.

SourceRoyal Botanic Gardens Kew·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 21, 2017

When fish swim in the holodeck

Scientists have developed a system called FreemoVR, which immerses freely-moving animals in a reactive, three-dimensional world controlled by a computer. This allows researchers to study complex interactions of neurons in different brain regions while maintaining natural sensory input and feedback.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalNature Methods·DateAug 21, 2017

CRC screening with flexible sigmoidoscopy reduces risk for death

A re-analysis of USPSTF evidence suggests flexible sigmoidoscopy may reduce all-cause mortality, contrary to previous guidelines. Researchers found that looking at cohorts as separate trials, rather than aggregating them, strengthened the evidence supporting screening with flexible sigmoidoscopy.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateAug 21, 2017

Our hairy insides

Researchers found that angled hairs can affect fluid flow, slowing it down like a grate. This discovery may help illuminate the role of hairy surfaces in the body and enable the design of new microfluidic devices.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Physics·DateAug 21, 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.

What hours are worked by women, men in dual-physician couples with kids?

A study of dual-physician couples found that women with children worked significantly fewer hours than those without children. Men in these couples did not exhibit the same reduction in work hours as their female partners. The authors suggest societal expectations and specialty factors may contribute to these findings.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateAug 21, 2017

Genetic variant tied to risk of typhoid fever

A study identified a genetic risk factor for typhoid fever that targets bacterial virulence and cholesterol metabolism. The VAC14 gene variant reduces the ability of Salmonella Typhi to invade human cells, suggesting a potential preventive approach with cholesterol-lowering drugs.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 21, 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.

NASA sees major Hurricane Kenneth in Eastern Pacific

Hurricane Kenneth, a category 4 storm, has strengthened significantly in the Eastern Pacific, with maximum sustained winds reaching 130mph. The National Hurricane Center forecasts a turn toward the northwest, then north-northwest over the next couple of days.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 21, 2017

How a non-coding RNA encourages cancer growth and metastasis

A non-coding RNA, PNUTS lncRNA, encourages cancer growth and metastasis by soaking up microRNA-205 that prevents epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. In breast and lung cancer cell lines, PNUTS lncRNA promotes tumor development.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateAug 21, 2017

Clay-based antimicrobial packaging keeps food fresh

Researchers create a packaging film coated with clay nanotubes and antibacterial essential oil to prevent microbial growth and over-ripening. The new technology shows promise in preserving fruits, vegetables, and meats, reducing food waste and economic losses.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateAug 21, 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.

Comparison of screening recommendations indicates annual mammography

A new study found that annual screening starting at age 40 reduces breast cancer-specific deaths by nearly 40%, compared to 23-31% reductions with other recommendations. The findings suggest that women starting annual mammography at age 40 may benefit from a significant reduction in breast cancer-related deaths.

SourceWiley·JournalCancer·DateAug 21, 2017

Personifying places can boost travel intentions

A QUT study found that writing about a destination as if it were human can boost its appeal as a travel destination. Participants who saw a personified advertisement for Paris or Rome reported higher levels of positive emotions and had a more favorable view of the city.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalTourism Management·DateAug 21, 2017

Understanding brittle crack behaviors to design stronger materials

A team of researchers from Northeastern University has discovered a new mechanism that causes cracks to behave strangely in brittle materials, leading to catastrophic failure. The study's findings have the potential to help designers create stronger materials by understanding how fragile materials like glass and bone break.

SourceNortheastern University College of Science·JournalNature Physics·DateAug 21, 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.

Science literacy and polarization

Respondents showed stronger correlations between scientific beliefs and political/religious identity for topics like human evolution and stem cell research. However, this correlation weakened for non-polarized topics such as nanotechnology.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 21, 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.

Gut microbes may talk to the brain through cortisol

Researchers found that certain gut bacteria, such as Bacteroides and Clostridium, can predict brain metabolites like serotonin and myo-inositol, which are altered in individuals with autism. The study suggests a potential mechanism by which the gut microbiome communicates with the brain through cortisol.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalGut Microbes·DateAug 21, 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.

Cholesterol-lowering drugs may fight infectious disease

Duke scientists discovered a gene variant linked to susceptibility to typhoid fever and found that cholesterol-lowering drug ezetimibe protected zebrafish against Salmonella Typhi. The study provides insight into human susceptibility to infectious disease and potential avenues for protection.

SourceDuke University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 21, 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.

Before the flood: What drives preparedness?

A new study across Austria, England, and Romania finds that both public and private schemes can improve risk reduction behaviors and reduce losses in future disasters. The study suggests that insurers and governments need to better coordinate their efforts to design efficient, socially just, and politically feasible solutions.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalRisk Analysis·DateAug 21, 2017

Have flowers devised the ultimate weapon of distraction?

Researchers found that nectar attracts herbivores like sawflies, which eat petals and nectaries, away from critical flower parts. This 'decoy' strategy allows flowers to protect their reproductive tissues, enhancing pollination success.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalBiology Letters·DateAug 21, 2017

New meta-analysis shows peer influence doubles smoking risk for adolescents

A new meta-analysis finds that having friends who smoke doubles the risk of adolescents starting and continuing to smoke. The study also reveals that peer influence is stronger in collectivist cultures, where adolescents are 4.3 times more likely to pick up smoking if their peers smoke.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalPsychological Bulletin·DateAug 21, 2017

Researchers produce new map of seismic hazards

Researchers have created a new national map of seismic hazards for Brazil, highlighting regions prone to tremors. The survey found that the Northeast, Mato Grosso, and Pantanal biome are at higher risk, with low-intensity tremors capable of causing significant damage.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·DateAug 21, 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.

Harvard-Osher integrative medicine's mind-body partnership with JACM

The Harvard-Osher Center for Integrative Medicine has partnered with The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine (JACM) to showcase cutting-edge mind-body research. Recent studies explored the impact on telomere length, group-based clinical interventions, and electronic apps for veterans' mental health.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalThe Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine·DateAug 21, 2017

Researchers identify key compounds to resolve abnormal vascular growth in AMD

A new study published in PNAS identifies two key compounds that can reduce the severity of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) by regulating inflammatory immune cells. The findings have significant therapeutic implications for AMD and other conditions involving angiogenesis and inflammation.

SourceMass Eye and Ear·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 21, 2017

Research reveals 'exquisite selectivity' of neuronal wiring in the cerebral cortex

A recent study by Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory reveals the intricate interactions between chandelier cells and pyramidal neurons in the cerebral cortex. The research shows that these inhibitory cells can receive information from hundreds of excitatory cells, influencing their firing patterns and local circuit activity.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateAug 21, 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.

Racial stereotypes influence perception of NFL quarterbacks

Recent research by University of Colorado Boulder professor Patrick Ferrucci reveals that racial stereotypes continue to shape public perception of NFL quarterbacks, with black players often being described in terms of physical strength and natural ability. The studies found that social identity theory and implicit racial bias contribu...

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalHoward Journal of Communications·DateAug 21, 2017

A tougher tooth

UCSB researchers developed a new type of dental composite inspired by mussel mechanisms to adhere to surfaces. The material provides an extra layer of durability, potentially leading to longer-lasting fillings and crowns.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateAug 21, 2017

'Lost city' used 500 years of soil erosion to benefit crop farming

Researchers at the University of York discovered that ancient Engaruka's irrigation systems and terraces were built to capture eroded sediments, benefiting farming practices for centuries. The study highlights the importance of this method of farming in sub-Saharan Africa and its potential applicability to modern day farming techniques.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalQuaternary Research·DateAug 21, 2017

Virus reprograms ocean plankton

Researchers from the University of Exeter have discovered a virus that can reprogram ocean plankton to absorb certain nutrients, potentially affecting carbon storage in the ocean. The study found that infected phytoplankton cells become more competitive and grow faster before being killed by the virus.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 21, 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.

Forest fire activity in southern South America

A study analyzing tree-ring fire scars reveals a strong connection between drought driven by the Southern Annular Mode and regional fire activity. The research suggests that SAM-mediated droughts may drive widespread wildfire activity in southern South America during the 21st century.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 21, 2017

Soil carbon loss since advent of farming

Agricultural land use has led to significant soil carbon loss over the past 12,000 years. Major cropping or grazing regions show high hotspots of soil carbon loss, indicating potential areas for restoration.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 21, 2017

Chemicals from gut bacteria maintain vitality in aging animals

Research finds that indoles produced by intestinal bacteria enhance mobility, resistance to stress, and reproductive span in worms, flies, and mice. Indoles may help maintain the intestinal barrier and limit systemic inflammatory effects, suggesting a potential therapeutic avenue for improving healthspan.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 21, 2017

Biochemical 'fingerprints' reveal diabetes progression

A new method using molecular spectroscopy enables researchers to extract biochemical profiles containing information about disease progression. The method facilitates improved understanding of the mechanistic processes on molecular and cellular levels that are key to developing diabetes.

SourceUmea University·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 21, 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.

Indole and aging

Researchers report that indole reduces age-related infirmities and alters AHR-regulated gene expression. Indole exposure is linked to increased healthspan in animals with functional AHR.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 21, 2017

Searching for the 'signature' causes of BRCAness in breast cancer

A study has identified a genetic signature linked to defects in the DNA damage repair-genes BRCA1 and BRCA2 in breast cancer. The researchers found that this signature is not exclusive to BRCA mutations but also indicates other ways of deactivating the DNA repair mechanism, offering new insights into breast cancer treatment decisions.

SourceBroad Institute of MIT and Harvard·JournalNature Genetics·DateAug 21, 2017

aCar -- the electric 'all-rounder'

The aCar is an electric off-road capable vehicle designed to strengthen rural structures and drive the economy in Africa. Its modular structure allows for various applications, including water treatment, medical care, and cargo transportation.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·DateAug 21, 2017

Systematically studying slippery surfaces

Japanese researchers investigated the effects of charged group spacer length on hydration state in polymer brushes, revealing a clearer picture of the relationship between structure and properties. The results show that hydration states are independent of chain spacer length, with water uptake not affected by this parameter.

SourceKyushu University, I2CNER·JournalLangmuir·DateAug 21, 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.

Licorice is a hot trend in hot flashes, but could interact with medications

Researchers found that licorice extracts from three species can inhibit certain liver enzymes involved in drug metabolism, potentially causing interactions with medications. The team plans to develop a safe and effective licorice therapy using a specific species, G. glabra, for women experiencing menopausal symptoms.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateAug 21, 2017

New tool identifies diabetes patients at risk for low blood sugar emergencies

A new tool developed by Kaiser Permanente researchers can identify diabetes patients at high risk of severe hypoglycemia-related emergency department or hospital visits. The tool categorizes patients into three risk levels based on six variables, and has been validated with data from over 1.3 million members.

SourceKaiser Permanente·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateAug 21, 2017

$5 million from state will transform K-12 history education

The University of California, Davis, will develop online teaching and learning resources for K-12 history-social science curriculum, fostering better understanding of California's history and improving student literacy. The program, Teaching California, aims to provide accessible and engaging resources for teachers and students.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·DateAug 21, 2017

Heating quantum matter: A novel view on topology

Researchers demonstrate a universal probe for exotic states of matter by heating up quantum systems. This phenomenon is linked to the topological nature of the system and can be quantized in terms of a unique physical observable: the heating rate.

SourceUniversité libre de Bruxelles·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 21, 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.

Why tiger snakes are on a winner

Researchers have discovered that Australian tiger snake venom is highly conserved across species, making the corresponding antivenom effective against many other snake bites. This finding has significant human medical benefits and upends a long-held theory on venom evolution.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalComparative Biochemistry and Physiology·DateAug 21, 2017

Climate change and bear feeding habits

Researchers estimate that climate change increased overlap between sockeye salmon spawning and red elderberry ripening seasons on Kodiak Island, Alaska. This shift in food resources can alter food webs among Kodiak brown bears.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 21, 2017

What is the global prevalence of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder?

The global prevalence of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) is estimated to be about 8 per 1,000 in the general population, with 1 in every 13 pregnant women delivering a child with FASD. Higher prevalence rates are observed in special populations, such as Aboriginal populations and children in care.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateAug 21, 2017

Atmospheric soot and Cretaceous mass extinction

Large soot injections at the Cretaceous-Paleogene boundary could have prevented photosynthesis and reduced global temperatures by up to 16C for several years. The effects likely contributed to mass extinction through ozone layer depletion and stratospheric warming.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 21, 2017

Overcoming the last line of antibiotic resistance against bacterial infections

Staphylococcus aureus, a common bacteria causing severe infections, has developed mechanisms to evade the human immune system. Researchers have identified various tactics used by S. aureus to slow down neutrophil migration, impede priming, and even kill neutrophils. Understanding these strategies can lead to new therapeutic approaches.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology·DateAug 21, 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.

Once invincible superbug squashed by 'superteam' of antibiotics

Researchers at the University at Buffalo have discovered a novel combination of aztreonam, amikacin, and polymyxin B that is capable of eradicating the deadly E. coli bacterium carrying mcr-1 and ndm-5 genes. The triple combination was found to eliminate the bacteria within 24 hours and prevent regrowth.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalmBio·DateAug 21, 2017

Sedentary behavior increases risk of death for frail, inactive adults

A new study published in CMAJ found that sedentary time increases the risk of death for middle-aged and older people who are frail and inactive. However, this association was not observed among nonfrail adults who were inactive. The study suggests that physicians should stress the harms of inactivity with patients to encourage movement.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateAug 21, 2017

Postnatal identification of Zika virus peptides from saliva

Researchers have identified a potential method to screen for Zika virus exposure using proteomics in saliva. The study found that specific protein signatures can be detected in the saliva of infected individuals, allowing for earlier detection and treatment of the virus.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·JournalJournal of Dental Research·DateAug 21, 2017

Penn Medicine receives NIH training grants for genomic medicine

The University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine has received two highly competitive post-doctoral Institutional Training Grants for genomic science. The grants will support training programs in translational medicine and informatics, as well as the ethical, legal, and social implications of genetics and genomics.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·DateAug 21, 2017

Researchers find an alternative mode of bacterial quorum sensing

A team of researchers found a new quorum-sensing molecule that increases the virulence of P. aeruginosa by activating RhlR independently of C4-HSL. This discovery offers potential for developing novel antimicrobial drugs to treat serious infections caused by this bacterium.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateAug 21, 2017

Polarization for controversial scientific issues increases with more education

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University found that people's beliefs about scientifically-associated topics become increasingly polarized with education. Education was correlated with both political and religious identity for some issues, while others showed a correlation only with political identity.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 21, 2017