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Science News for August 28, 2017


Single-nucleus RNA sequencing, droplet by droplet

Researchers developed DroNc-Seq, a method merging sNuc-Seq with microfluidics for parallel measurement of gene expression in complex tissues. The technique enables identification of unique expression signatures for cell types, including rare ones, and differentiation between closely related subtypes.

SourceBroad Institute of MIT and Harvard·JournalNature Methods·DateAug 28, 2017

Oil and gas wells as a strong source of greenhouse gases

New study reveals that methane leaks around North Sea boreholes could be a major source of greenhouse gases, with up to 17,000 tonnes released per year. Scientists estimate that about one third of the over 11,000 wells drilled in the North Sea are leaking methane.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel (GEOMAR)·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateAug 28, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Cutbacks in foreign aid for HIV treatment would produce great harm, generate few savings

A 33% cutback in U.S. foreign aid for HIV treatment and prevention programs in South Africa and Côte d'Ivoire would result in devastating health and economic consequences, including over 500,000 additional cases of HIV and 1.6 million more deaths in the next decade. The study suggests that such cuts would produce proportionally greater...

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateAug 28, 2017

Combination of conventional and new drugs enhances tumor cell death

Researchers found that combining CDKs' inhibitors with conventional anti-cancer drugs like cisplatin increases tumor cell death. However, treating cells with 5-FU can lead to decreased death rates and resistance. This study suggests a promising approach for developing new anti-cancer treatments.

SourceD'Or Institute for Research and Education·JournalTranslational Oncology·DateAug 28, 2017

Largest Ichthyosaurus was pregnant mother

The largest ever recorded Ichthyosaurus was a pregnant adult female, estimated to be 3-3.5m long, and is an important discovery for the field of palaeontology. The specimen, found in a museum collection, has provided valuable insights into the size range of the species and the presence of embryos.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalActa Palaeontologica Polonica·DateAug 28, 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.

Nursing home use and costs in United States

According to an 18-year analysis, 56% of individuals aged 57-61 are likely to spend time in a nursing home, with high out-of-pocket costs for some. Lifetime spending averages $7,300, but some face expenses over $47,000.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 28, 2017

How low should LDL cholesterol go?

Researchers found that ultra-low LDL cholesterol levels (below 10 mg/dL) significantly reduced cardiovascular event risk by over 40%. No adverse effects on cognition or safety endpoints were reported. The study suggests achieving low LDL cholesterol levels beyond current treatment targets may further reduce cardiovascular risk.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalThe Lancet·DateAug 28, 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.

VLA reveals distant galaxy's magnetic field

Scientists used a giant cosmic lens to study a star-forming galaxy nearly five billion light-years away, providing clues about the origin of galactic magnetic fields. The analysis revealed a large-scale, coherent magnetic field similar to those in nearby galaxies.

SourceNational Radio Astronomy Observatory·JournalNature Astronomy·DateAug 28, 2017

Nagoya-led team flips the switch on ferroelectrics

Researchers at Nagoya University have created a way to manipulate the domain structure of lead zirconate titanate films, a crucial step for future electronic and electro-mechanical devices. By controlling the switching of domains, they can potentially accelerate the development of next-generation technologies.

SourceNagoya University·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 28, 2017

New member of NAS reveals how animals select good microbes, reject harmful ones

Researchers discovered that ciliated tissues in mammals selectively recruit beneficial microbes called symbionts and clear out toxic molecules. This mechanism provides insight into the basic function of cilia surfaces and may aid development of ways to foster beneficial bacterial partners.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 28, 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.

Drug breakthrough for mosquito virus outbreaks

A team of researchers discovered a way to treat severe inflammation from mosquito-borne diseases like Chikungunya and Ross River virus. They developed an NLRP3 inhibitor drug MCC950, which provided significant relief from inflammation and disease in infected mice.

SourceGriffith University·JournalNature Microbiology·DateAug 28, 2017

Mimicking birdsongs

A team of researchers at Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences has created a simple device that mimics the complex songs of birds, including Zebra and Bengalese finches. The study suggests that birds may have exploited the physical properties of soft materials to produce their distinctive vocalizations.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalInterface·DateAug 28, 2017

It's not a rat's race for human stem cells grafted to repair spinal cord injuries

Researchers found that human neural stem cells retained an intrinsic human rate of maturation despite being placed in a traumatic rodent environment. The study's findings suggest that clinical outcome measures for future trials need to focus on long time points after grafting, as success may take time.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 28, 2017

Americans' risk of needing nursing home care is higher than previously estimated

A new study by the RAND Corporation found that 56% of people aged 57-61 will stay in a nursing home at least one night during their lifetime, contradicting previous estimates of 35%. The study analyzed 18 years of data and found that most people can afford nursing home care, with costs averaging $7,300 over a lifetime.

SourceRAND Corporation·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 28, 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.

New technique to aid IVF embryo selection

Researchers develop a new imaging technique to assess early-stage embryo quality, improving IVF outcomes. The hyperspectral imaging method measures metabolic differences in embryos, providing an objective measure of viability.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalHuman Reproduction·DateAug 28, 2017

Unifying statistics, computer science, and applied mathematics

The Lehigh project aims to build bridges between optimization experts, learning theorists, and statisticians to advance machine learning. With a $1.5 million grant, the team will develop innovative educational pathways and state-of-the-art mathematical tools for data science, promoting long-term research and training activities in the ...

SourceLehigh University·DateAug 28, 2017

Optical control of magnetic memory -- New insights into fundamental mechanisms

Researchers have made an important step toward understanding optically controlled magnetic storage devices, finding that laser light plays a key role in toggling magnetisation alignments. The study reveals the formation of a ring-shaped region around the tiny laser spot and its impact on the material's temperature distribution.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 28, 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.

Bone marrow protein may be target for improving stem cell transplants

A new study has identified Del-1, a bone marrow protein, as a potential regulator of hematopoiesis, the process by which blood cells are created. Targeting Del-1 may enhance immune cell production and improve stem cell transplants for both donors and recipients.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 28, 2017

Coral skeletons may resist the effects of acidifying oceans

New research suggests that corals build their hard, calcium carbonate skeletons faster and in bigger pieces than previously thought. This active construction method helps them grow much faster and with greater control.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 28, 2017

Keeping pandas off endangered list ledge

Researchers found high-quality panda habitat is growing, but areas outside nature reserves are experiencing fragmentation due to human activities and natural events. The study highlights the need for continued conservation efforts to address these gaps.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalBiological Conservation·DateAug 28, 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.

NASA sees Tropical Storm Pakhar after landfall

Tropical Storm Pakhar made landfall in southeastern China, with NASA's Suomi NPP satellite capturing an image of the storm shortly after. The storm had maximum sustained winds near 63 mph and was centered about 54 miles southwest of Hong Kong.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 28, 2017

Songbirds in the ice-age Bahamas

Fossil analysis reveals morphological similarities between late Pleistocene Bahamian birds and their modern counterparts, indicating extinction due to sea level rise, warming, and wetting. The findings suggest that climate change played a significant role in the disappearance of these species.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 28, 2017

Social biases in the sharing economy

An online experiment with over 9,000 participants reveals social biases in the sharing economy, favoring high-star rated profiles and decreasing trust with increasing risk aversion. The study supports the notion that reputation offsets trust judgments based on social biases.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 28, 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.

Chronic lack of sleep increases risk-seeking

A study by researchers at the University of Zurich found that chronic lack of sleep leads to increased risk-taking behavior in young adults. After sleeping only 5 hours a night for a week, participants displayed significantly riskier behavior, including taking greater financial risks.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalAnnals of Neurology·DateAug 28, 2017

Helping corals to cope with pressure

Tiny plant cells in coral tissue produce osmolytes to regulate pressure, helping corals survive in salty waters. This finding has important implications for managing coral reefs under climate change.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 28, 2017

NASA sees Tropical Storm Harvey moving back into the Gulf

Tropical Storm Harvey is expected to produce heavy rainfall accumulations of 15-25 inches over the upper Texas coast and into southwestern Louisiana. The storm's center is located near Port O'Connor, Texas, with maximum sustained winds near 40 mph and slight re-strengthening possible later today.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 28, 2017

Maternal suicide in pre-and postnatal periods in Ontario

A new study published in CMAJ found that maternal suicide is a leading cause of death during pregnancy and the first year after giving birth. The study suggests that perinatal women who are suicidal may be at higher risk to complete suicide, and highlights the need for improved mental health supports.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateAug 28, 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.

Compounds in cocoa may help delay onset of type 2 diabetes

Researchers discovered that epicatechin monomers in cocoa enhance beta cells' ability to secrete insulin, improving blood glucose control. The study suggests these compounds could potentially delay or prevent type 2 diabetes onset in patients.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalThe Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry·DateAug 28, 2017

Study identifies methods for preventing overcrowding in emergency rooms

A new study has identified four key strategies for preventing overcrowding in emergency rooms, including the involvement of executive leadership and a data-driven approach. High-performing hospitals use coordinated strategies, gather data to adjust operations in real-time, and hold staff accountable to reduce crowding.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalAnnals of Emergency Medicine·DateAug 28, 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.

Perovskite solar cells go single crystal

Researchers have successfully grown single crystalline films of perovskite CH3NH3PbI3 on electron-collecting substrates, exhibiting excellent photovoltaic properties. The resulting devices achieve high efficiency rates, closing the gap with traditional silicon-based solar cells and offering a promising solution for renewable energy.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience Bulletin·DateAug 28, 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.

Repetitive elements shape embryonic chromatin landscape

Scientists from Helmholtz Zentrum München have found that retrotransposons, particularly LINE1 elements, regulate global chromatin accessibility in the early mouse embryo. This study identifies a novel role for retrotransposons in shaping the chromatin landscape necessary for correct developmental programming.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalNature Genetics·DateAug 28, 2017

Climate may quickly drive forest-eating beetles north, says study

A new study predicts that global warming will extend the range of the southern pine beetle, a tree-killing insect, through much of the northern US and southern Canada. The beetle's spread is threatened by rising winter temperatures, which could lead to loss of biodiversity, iconic forests, and damage to tourism and forestry industries.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalNature Climate Change·DateAug 28, 2017

Boosting immune cell memory to improve vaccines and cancer immunotherapy

Researchers have discovered a way to activate the proteasome in CD8+ T cells, generating more long-lived memory cells that can provide lifelong protection. This approach could be used as an adjuvant therapy to enhance vaccine and immunotherapy effectiveness.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 28, 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.

Oxygen therapy does not improve survival (DETO2X-AMI)

A large clinical trial found that oxygen therapy did not reduce mortality rates in patients with suspected myocardial infarction. The study enrolled over 6,200 patients and showed no significant difference in mortality rates between those who received oxygen and those who did not.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateAug 28, 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.

Renal denervation lowers blood pressure in hypertensive patients

A minimally invasive catheter-based procedure lowered office and ambulatory blood pressure in uncontrolled hypertensive patients not taking medication. Renal denervation was effective in reducing blood pressure, even with small reductions correlating to significant cardiovascular risk reductions.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalThe Lancet·DateAug 28, 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 takes potential Tropical Cyclone 10's temperature

NASA's Aqua satellite captured infrared data on Potential Tropical Cyclone 10, revealing cloud top temperatures colder than minus 63 degrees Fahrenheit. This suggests the storm has the potential to generate heavy rain and become a tropical cyclone over the next two days.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 28, 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.

Self-identifying as disabled and developing pride in disability aid overall well-being

A study from Oregon State University found that people who experience stigma are more likely to self-identify as disabled and develop pride in their disability. The researchers also discovered that severe impairments lead to greater stigma, which can increase the likelihood of self-identification. Developing disability pride is associa...

SourceOregon State University·JournalRehabilitation Psychology·DateAug 28, 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.

Shedding consistent pounds each week linked to long-term weight loss

A study of 183 participants found that those who lost a consistent number of pounds each week had better weight loss outcomes than those with high weight variability. This suggests that developing stable behaviors related to food intake and weight loss is crucial for maintaining changes in the long term.

SourceDrexel University·JournalObesity·DateAug 28, 2017

Algae fortifies coral reefs in past and present

Research has found that ancient coral reefs were bolstered by their bond with red algae, which also strengthens them today. The study suggests that understanding this relationship is crucial for preserving coral reefs in the face of climate change.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 28, 2017

US opioid epidemic reaches new level of crisis in overdoses, hospitalizations and cost

A new study reveals a significant increase in US opioid-related overdose deaths and acute care costs, with nearly 4 million patients requiring critical care services over seven years. The study found a 34% increase in overdose-related ICU admissions, with mortality rates rising at the same rate.

SourceAmerican Associates, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalAnnals of the American Thoracic Society·DateAug 28, 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.

Oil and water may combine if conditions are right, study suggests

A new study suggests that hydrophobic molecules like oil can be forced to dissolve in water when subjected to high pressure. Researchers applied immense pressure to methane and water, gaining insights into their interaction. This finding has implications for replacing hazardous industrial solvents and modeling planetary bodies.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 28, 2017

Solar hydrogen production by artificial leafs: Scientists analysed how a special treatment improves cheap metal oxide photoelectrodes

Researchers found that a heat treatment under hydrogen doubles the life span of charge carriers in metal oxide photoelectrodes, leading to improved photocurrent under sunlight. This breakthrough could potentially reduce costs and increase stability for commercialization.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·DateAug 28, 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.

Study finds romance and affection top most popular sexual behaviors

A new US nationally representative study found that romance and affection are the most appealing and common sexual behaviors, contrary to stereotypes. Researchers discovered a wide range of diverse behaviors, with men and women engaging in various romantic and affectionate acts.

SourceIndiana University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 28, 2017

Dispersants improved air quality for responders at Deepwater Horizon

A new study found that deep-sea dispersant injection improved air quality for responders at the Deepwater Horizon disaster site. The subsea injection may have broken up petroleum into smaller droplets, reducing volatile toxic compounds in the air and allowing responders to work longer without respirators.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 28, 2017

Petroleum and dispersant dynamics during Deepwater Horizon

Subsea dispersant injection during the Deepwater Horizon disaster mitigated environmental damage by reducing volatile organic compound emissions in the atmosphere. This led to a decrease in human health risks for response workers and accelerated the response effort.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 28, 2017

LSUHealthNO research award to improve heart attack recovery

The LSU Health New Orleans will investigate the effectiveness of the Adenowire in reversing coronary vasoconstriction and preventing no-reflow phenomenon. The technology has the potential to improve outcomes for millions of people worldwide affected by cardiovascular disease.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·DateAug 28, 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.

Study estimates number of births, population prevalence of Down syndrome in nine states

A new study estimates the numbers of children born annually with Down syndrome and the prevalence of the condition in each of the nine US states. The study found that live birth prevalence ranged from 1 in 729 to 1 in 1,256 across the states, while elective termination reduced the number of births by an average of 39%.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalAmerican Journal of Medical Genetics·DateAug 28, 2017

Mount Sinai identifies strategies to optimize statin treatment for muscle symptoms

Researchers at Mount Sinai developed a clinical index to evaluate muscle-related symptoms associated with statin use. The team proposes re-challenging or switching statins, adopting healthy lifestyle changes, and exploring non-statin pharmacotherapies to optimize cholesterol treatment for patients experiencing adverse muscle symptoms.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateAug 28, 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.

Gene therapy using 'junk DNA' could lower risk for heart disease

Researchers used gene therapy with LeXis, a 'junk DNA' suppressor of cholesterol, to reduce plaque in mice with familial hypercholesterolemia. The treatment lowered cholesterol and blockages in arteries, and appeared to reduce fat build-up in liver cells.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalCirculation·DateAug 28, 2017

Forest mortality risk and climate change

A study predicts that changes in precipitation and air temperature will lead to increased plant mortality risk in 13 temperate and tropical forests worldwide. However, higher atmospheric humidity and CO2 concentrations partially offset this rising mortality risk.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 28, 2017

UMass Amherst study of bee health finds no natural medicine in once-promising compound

A recent study by researchers at UMass Amherst found that anabasine, a natural alkaloid, has deleterious effects on infected bees and exacerbates the negative effects of combined stressors on pollinator health. The compound was previously thought to have potential as a self-medicating agent against intestinal parasites in bumble bees.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 28, 2017

Urban development in ancient Rome

A study by Hugo Delile and colleagues used high-resolution geochemical and isotopic analyses to reconstruct Rome's urban development. The analysis of a sediment core from Ostia harbor revealed the installation of ancient Rome's lead pipe system was around 2nd century BC, with a peak during the early-high Imperial period.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 28, 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.

Anti-inflammatory therapy cuts risk of lung cancer

Researchers found that patients who received canakinumab had a marked reduction in lung cancer incidence and mortality, with death from cancer reduced by half in the highest dosage group. The study suggests that anti-inflammatory therapy may help slow lung cancer progression.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalThe Lancet·DateAug 28, 2017

The outsized role of soil microbes

Researchers propose a new approach to understanding soil organic matter's response to climate change and atmospheric chemistry. Soil microbes contribute significantly to stable carbon pools through catabolic and anabolic activities, which could lead to improved soil stabilization and renewal strategies.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature Microbiology·DateAug 28, 2017

European electricity consumption under climate change

Future electricity consumption in Europe is expected to decrease in Northern Europe and increase in Southern and Western Europe under rising temperatures. Daily peak usage is predicted to peak in summer instead of winter, affecting transmission infrastructure and storage requirements.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 28, 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.

Worm infection reveals cross-talk in the lymph nodes

Researchers at EPFL discovered key molecules driving lymphangiogenesis in response to worm infections, revealing a complex cross-talk between B cells and fibroblastic reticular cells.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 28, 2017

New app uses smartphone selfies to screen for pancreatic cancer

A new app, BiliScreen, uses computer vision algorithms and machine learning to detect increased bilirubin levels in the eye, a potential early sign of pancreatic cancer. The app has been shown to correctly identify cases with an accuracy rate of 89.7%, offering a non-invasive and easy-to-use screening tool.

SourceUniversity of Washington·DateAug 28, 2017

Astronomers use Kepler satellite to study variability in the Seven Sisters Cluster

Researchers have developed a new algorithm to enhance observations from the Kepler Space Telescope and perform detailed studies of stellar variability. The technique, called halo photometry, reveals pulsations in B-type stars with day-long periods, offering insights into poorly understood processes in their cores.

SourceGeorgia State University·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateAug 28, 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.

Electricity consumption in Europe will shift under climate change

Daily peak loads in Southern Europe are expected to increase due to rising temperatures, while overall consumption will shift from Northern Europe to the South. The study also found that temperature-driven annual peak demand will shift from winter to summer by the end of this century.

SourcePotsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 28, 2017

New analysis examines how low cholesterol can safely go (FOURIER)

A new analysis of the FOURIER trial found that very aggressive reduction of LDL-cholesterol to ultra-low levels was associated with fewer cardiovascular events without increased safety risks. The study suggested that lowering LDL-C levels below current guidelines can further reduce recurrent cardiovascular events in high-risk patients.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalThe Lancet·DateAug 28, 2017

Black hole models contradicted by hands-on tests at Sandia's Z machine

Researchers at Sandia National Laboratories have challenged long-standing theories on black holes using hands-on experiments at the Z machine. The study found that certain ionization stages of iron are not present in a black hole's accretion disk, contradicting previous assumptions.

SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 28, 2017

Married patients with heart disease have better survival rates

Researchers found that married patients who have had a heart attack are 14% more likely to survive compared to single patients. Marriage also provides protection for patients with high cholesterol, diabetes, and high blood pressure, increasing their chances of survival by 16%, 14%, and 10%, respectively.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateAug 28, 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.

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.

Acid zone in Chesapeake Bay identified

A 'pH minimum zone' of acidic water has been discovered at depths of 10-15 meters in the Chesapeake Bay. This increase in acidity is attributed to toxic hydrogen sulfide and ammonia produced when bottom waters mix upward, threatening shellfish like oysters and clams.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 28, 2017

NASA calculates Tropical Storm Harvey's flooding rainfall

Using satellite data, NASA calculated Tropical Storm Harvey's accumulated effects of rain, with totals reaching on the order of 20 inches near Galveston Bay and over 10 inches in western Louisiana. The analysis shows widespread massive flooding across the region, similar to Tropical Storm Allison in 2001.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 28, 2017

Skeleton formation in corals

Coral skeleton formation occurs within tissue, contrary to previous understanding that particles precipitate from surrounding water. This finding may improve paleoclimate reconstructions and enhance coral resilience research.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 28, 2017

Mass. General team reports first response of central nervous system tumor to CAR T-cells

Researchers report a remarkable treatment response in a patient with recurrent diffuse large-B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), where CAR T-cell therapy induced complete remission of a brain metastasis. The treatment also showed spontaneous re-expansion of CAR T-cells after a subcutaneous tumor recurrence, leading to further research into the me...

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateAug 28, 2017

Men, women and risk of developing Alzheimer disease: Is there a difference?

A new study published in JAMA Neurology analyzed 27 research studies and found that female carriers of the apolipoprotein E ?4 allele have a greater risk of developing Alzheimer disease, particularly between ages 65-75. The authors suggest physiologic changes associated with menopause and estrogen loss may underlie these sex differences.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateAug 28, 2017

Coastal flood risk and rising sea levels

A new study predicts shorter flood intervals for US coastal cities when considering both ocean water level rise and river flow, increasing overall flood risk. Researchers warn that as sea levels continue to rise, compound effects will further exacerbate coastal flooding.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 28, 2017

Study finds the burdens of spousal caregiving alleviated by appreciation

Research reveals that caregivers experience improved well-being when their loved ones recognize and appreciate their help. The study suggests that specific conditions, including emotional communication and recognizing the impact of caregiving, are crucial to alleviating the burdens of spousal care.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalHealth Psychology·DateAug 28, 2017

NASA gets an infrared view of Tropical Cyclone Sanvu

Scientists analyze infrared data to determine the strength of Tropical Cyclone Sanvu, finding coldest cloud tops near minus 63 degrees Fahrenheit. This information helps predict storm intensity and potential heavy rainfall.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 28, 2017

Neighborhood socioeconomic position an important predictor of cardiovascular risk

A recent study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that neighborhood socioeconomic position is a crucial predictor of cardiovascular risk. The model used to predict this risk systematically underestimated the negative effects of living in disadvantaged neighborhoods, highlighting the importance of considering ecologic circum...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateAug 28, 2017

Popularity outranks strategy in supply chain integration decisions

A study by Aalto University researchers reveals that companies' supplier integration practices are more similar due to environmental factors than strategic objectives. The similarity in practices is attributed to benchmarking and copying of similar organizations, rather than conscious comparison.

SourceAalto University·DateAug 28, 2017

Using donor stem cells to treat spinal cord injury

A new study in mice found that transplantation of donor stem cells from human brain tissue can help repair an injured spinal cord. However, the effectiveness of these stem cells is hindered by the body's immune response to injury. Immune cell depletion can improve the recovery outcome for animals receiving transplanted stem cells.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateAug 28, 2017