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Science News for August 8, 2017


Newly discovered pathway for pain processing could lead to new treatments

Scientists at McGill University have discovered a new biological pathway involved in pain processing, which could lead to the use of existing cancer drugs as alternatives to opioids. The researchers found that EGFR blockers were as potent analgesics as morphine in mouse models of inflammatory and chronic pain.

SourceMcGill University·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 8, 2017

Are learning and unlearning bedfellows?

Studies show that humans can learn new sounds while asleep, particularly during REM and N2 sleep phases. However, learned sounds are forgotten in deep sleep (N3) stage, suggesting a mechanism for unloading unnecessary memories. These findings reconcile two theories on sleep's role in memory consolidation.

SourceCNRS·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 8, 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.

Violent news videos can be a moral motivator, says UB researcher

Research suggests including graphic content in serious stories can increase moral sensitivity and desire for intervention, contradicting prevailing wisdom on sensationalism. Editors should consider showing graphic video if the story is important and accurate representation of severe events is necessary.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalMass Communication & Society·DateAug 8, 2017

Research-focused UH biotech program to expand nationally

The UH biotech program will expand to five colleges and universities nationwide, implementing its innovative approach to integrating classroom instruction and research. The program aims to demonstrate its effectiveness across various higher education institutions and has the potential to address real-world issues such as environmental ...

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateAug 8, 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.

Can AI prevent the spread of HIV in homeless youth?

Researchers developed algorithms that pinpoint individuals most likely to influence peers to get tested for HIV status, resulting in a 70% reach compared to current methods. The AI-powered approach encouraged testing, with 37% of peers getting tested when selected by HEALER and 25% by DOSIM.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·DateAug 8, 2017

Distributed wind power keeps spinning, growing

Distributed wind power has grown significantly in the US, with the nation's cumulative capacity reaching 1% of total wind power capacity. The 2016 report highlights the success of third-party financing and leasing options, which have made it more accessible for companies and individuals to install wind turbines on their properties.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·DateAug 8, 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.

NASA program gives students access to astronauts

Children worldwide can connect with astronauts aboard the space station via ARISS, inspiring youth to pursue STEM interests. The program has sparked powerful memories and lifelong passions among participants.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 8, 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.

NSF funds new multidisciplinary approaches to study the brain

The NSF has awarded 19 projects to study neural and cognitive systems, advancing frontiers in cognitive science and neuroscience. The research focuses on four themes: education, engineering, computer science, and the impact of neural systems on these fields.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·DateAug 8, 2017

JCU scientist finds alcohol-free solution works

A James Cook University scientist has discovered an alcohol-free antiseptic solution that is safe and effective for minor surgical procedures. The study found a slightly lower infection rate with the new solution compared to traditional water-based antiseptics.

SourceJames Cook University·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateAug 8, 2017

Assembling nanomachines in bacteria

A new study reveals the dynamic assembly of the export gate complex in bacterial flagellum and injectisome. The research identifies FliO as a scaffold protein essential for assembly, providing candidate targets for experimental drugs.

SourceOsaka University·JournalPLOS Biology·DateAug 8, 2017

One fall too many

A study found that older adults who visit emergency departments for falls are less likely to participate in fall prevention programs. Despite this, patients reported discussing their falls with healthcare providers and family members, suggesting room for improvement in the healthcare response.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalInjury Epidemiology·DateAug 8, 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.

Drug hope for acute myeloid leukemia

Researchers at the University of Bradford have discovered a new drug candidate, HXR9, that targets HOX genes to prevent cancer cell growth and induce apoptosis. Combining HXR9 with another drug shows enhanced results in reducing cancer growth.

SourceUniversity of Bradford·JournalOncoTargets and Therapy·DateAug 8, 2017

Post-glacial history of lake of the woods

A new study presents the post-glacial history of Lake of the Woods, a 4000km lake complex in North America. The research team analyzed sediment cores from the lake and found dramatic hydrological changes over the past 12,000 years.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeological Society of America Bulletin·DateAug 8, 2017

New microscope technique reveals internal structure of live embryos

Researchers have developed a new microscope technique that allows for the first time to produce 3D images of live embryos in cattle, enabling the selection of healthy embryos before in vitro fertilization. This breakthrough could significantly improve IVF success rates and reduce costs.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 8, 2017

Playing with your brain

A new study by Dr. Véronique Bohbot and Dr. Greg West found that playing action video games for 90 hours can lead to grey matter loss in the hippocampus, but playing 3D-platform games may be safer and more beneficial for brain spatial memory. This research highlights the importance of choosing the right type of game to play.

SourceMcGill University·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateAug 8, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Sleep makes it possible for babies to associate words with content -- and not with noise

Scientists found that babies associate words with content between 6-8 months old during a midday nap, while awake they can't connect new objects to the corresponding name. This early word learning ability suggests that children hold real word meanings in their long-term memory much earlier than previously assumed.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 8, 2017

One step closer in explaining MS relapse during upper respiratory infection

A recent study from the University of Illinois sheds light on what may be happening in the brains of MS patients during upper respiratory infections. Researchers found an increase in glial activation and elevated levels of chemokine CXCL5, which could lead to a drug intervention to inhibit relapses.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 8, 2017

Colorectal cancer death rates rising in people under 55

A new report reveals a significant increase in colorectal cancer mortality rates among adults under 55, with the rise confined to white individuals. Despite declining CRC incidence rates in other age groups, the authors suggest that rising mortality may be due to true disease occurrence rather than earlier detection.

SourceAmerican Cancer Society·JournalJAMA·DateAug 8, 2017

New noninvasive method of intracranial pressure monitoring

Researchers developed a noninvasive ICP monitoring device using advanced signal analysis algorithms. The study showed strong association between noninvasive and invasive methods, with good correlation between ICP values.

SourceJournal of Neurosurgery Publishing Group·JournalJournal of Neurosurgery·DateAug 8, 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.

The mystery of the yellowing sugarcane

Researchers from UT Tyler and Sugar Research Australia used TACC supercomputers to analyze genetic data from affected and unaffected plants. They created a reference genome for sugarcane's transcriptome, allowing them to explore gene expression related to the disease.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·DateAug 8, 2017

New research reveals failure of World War One loan scheme

A new study reveals that the British government's initial efforts to pay for World War One through loans from the public were a failure. The War Loan scheme raised less than a third of its £350 million target, with most funds coming from wealthy financiers and companies.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·DateAug 8, 2017

MRI reveals striking brain differences in people with genetic autism

A new study published in Radiology found structural abnormalities in the brains of individuals with one of the most common genetic causes of autism. The abnormalities corresponded to cognitive and behavioral impairments, highlighting a potential future role for imaging in identifying those who need urgent intervention.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateAug 8, 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.

CCP program in Nigeria increases modern contraceptive use, study suggests

A four-year program led by the Johns Hopkins Center for Communication Programs (CCP) increased modern contraceptive method use by 10 percentage points and desire for fewer children in six Nigerian cities. The program's successes were attributed to its coordinated campaign to create demand for family planning services.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalStudies in Family Planning·DateAug 8, 2017

A taste cell encyclopedia

A new study from the Monell Center enables researchers to pinpoint the unique molecular components needed for each type of taste cell to function. This breakthrough provides a treasure trove of information on how taste cells respond to different compounds and can help devise ways to promote healthy eating.

SourceMonell Chemical Senses Center·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 8, 2017

Biological bypass shows promise in coronary artery disease

A new gene therapy has been found to be safe and effective in treating patients with coronary artery disease, enhancing circulation in the heart muscle. The biological bypass method involves injecting a natural human growth factor into the heart muscle to promote vascular growth.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateAug 8, 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.

Clinical trial shows ready-to-use cells are safe and effective to treat viral infections

A clinical trial has demonstrated the safety and effectiveness of a new treatment using virus-specific cells to treat viral infections in patients who have received a hematopoietic stem cell transplant. The treatment resulted in an overall complete or partial response rate of 92% in patients with severe, drug-resistant viral infections.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateAug 8, 2017

NI former-paramilitaries can help deter future generations

Researchers at the University of Huddersfield found that Loyalist former-paramilitaries in Northern Ireland are working to demythologise the past and deter young people from violent activity. They argue that this approach can provide a valuable precedent for other conflict zones around the world.

SourceUniversity of Huddersfield·JournalPeace and Conflict Journal of Peace Psychology·DateAug 8, 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.

Calcium in arteries influences heart attack risk

Patients without coronary artery calcium had significantly lower risk of future heart attacks or strokes, even with diabetes, high blood pressure, or bad cholesterol levels. A CT scan may be worthwhile to discuss treatment options and add more information about the patient's 10-year risk.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateAug 8, 2017

NYITCOM researcher discovers potential cancer treatment breakthrough

Researchers identified synthetic lethal interactions that inhibit tumor growth in mesenchymal cells, a promising approach for treating alternative lengthening telomere (ALT) cancers. Simultaneous inhibition of BLM and FANCM genes could lead to more effective treatment with fewer side effects.

SourceNew York Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 8, 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.

Tiny terahertz laser could be used for imaging, chemical detection

Researchers at MIT have developed a new terahertz laser design that boosts the power output of chip-mounted lasers by 80 percent, opening up new possibilities for medical and industrial imaging and chemical detection. The device has been selected by NASA for its Galactic/Extragalactic ULDB Spectroscopic Terahertz Observatory mission.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Photonics·DateAug 8, 2017

Blocking enzyme linked to Alzheimer's may reverse memory loss

Researchers at MIT have found a way to precisely target the enzyme HDAC2, which blocks genes required for memory formation in Alzheimer's patients. By blocking its interaction with Sp3, they were able to reverse memory loss in mice, offering a potential new treatment approach.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalCell Reports·DateAug 8, 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.

Human gut microbe may lead to treatment for multiple sclerosis

Researchers at Mayo Clinic and University of Iowa found a human gut microbe, Prevotella histicola, that effectively suppresses immune disease in a mouse model of MS. The study suggests that this microbe may play a role in treating MS, an autoimmune disease caused by the immune system's attack on the myelin sheath.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalCell Reports·DateAug 8, 2017

Online team-based game helps patients with diabetes lower blood glucose

A randomized, controlled clinical trial found that an online team-based game improved glucose control in veteran patients with type 2 diabetes. Participants who played the game had significant reductions in hemoglobin A1c levels, with those having severe diabetes experiencing the greatest improvement.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalDiabetes Care·DateAug 8, 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.

Scientists restore youthful plasticity to the brains of adult mice

Researchers at University of Utah Health successfully rejuvenated the plasticity of adult mouse brains, specifically in the visual cortex, by triggering a shift with a single gene. This breakthrough suggests a potential target for new treatments that could recover brain youthful potential and reduce cognitive decline with aging.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 8, 2017

New theory on the origin of dark matter

Physicists at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz introduce a new mechanism explaining dark matter's observed quantity, suggesting instability in its early universe phase. This alternative to the WIMP theory could be tested in future experiments on gravitational waves and CERN's LHC particle accelerator.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 8, 2017

Sleep disorders linked to preterm birth in large California study

A large California study found that pregnant women with sleep disorders such as insomnia and sleep apnea are at a higher risk of delivering their babies before full term. The study also suggests that treating sleep disorders during pregnancy could be a way to reduce the preterm birth rate.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateAug 8, 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.

Dino hips discovery unravels species riddle

A new discovery in Dinosaur Provincial Park reveals the existence of two previously unknown species: Latenivenatrix mcmasterae and Stenonychosaurus inequalis. These findings challenge current understanding of the Troodontid family tree in North America.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalCanadian Journal of Earth Sciences·DateAug 8, 2017

Penguin forensics

Scientists have discovered a new method to track penguin migration patterns using forensics, analyzing tail feathers for geochemical signatures. This approach can be applied to other marine animals and will help better understand and conserve charismatic species.

SourceLouisiana State University·JournalBiology Letters·DateAug 8, 2017

NASA measures Tropical Storm Franklin's soaking rains from space

Tropical Storm Franklin generated heavy rain when observed by NASA's GPM satellite, with rainfall rates exceeding 1.6 inches per hour around the center and south of its circulation. The storm is expected to bring life-threatening flash floods and mudslides to Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 8, 2017

Extreme heat linked to climate change may adversely affect pregnancy

Researchers found exposure to temperature extremes can negatively impact birth outcomes for pregnant women, including changes in gestation length and birth weight. The study highlights the need for further research on climate change's effects on maternal health and neonatal outcomes.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateAug 8, 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.

New genes discovered regulating brain metastases in lung cancer

Researchers at McMaster University have discovered two new genes, SPOCK1 and TWIST2, that regulate brain metastases in lung cancer patients. These genes are present in the primary lung cancer of all patients with brain metastases but not in those without them.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalActa Neuropathologica·DateAug 8, 2017

Dopaminergic neurons derived from iPSCs in non-human primate model

Scientists have successfully generated dopaminergic neurons in a non-human primate model using induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) derived from adult marmoset monkeys. This breakthrough advances the use of marmosets as a model for Parkinson's disease, enabling the development of regenerative medicine approaches.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalStem Cells and Development·DateAug 8, 2017

An updated classification for freshwater crayfishes

A comprehensive taxonomic summary of all recognized species of crayfish worldwide has been created. The updated classification includes five families and 38 genera, and will impact various fields such as physiology, ecology, neurobiology, conservation, and evolution.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalJournal of Crustacean Biology·DateAug 8, 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.

Controlled manipulation

Researchers at FAU successfully manipulated the properties of hybrid systems made from carbon nanostructures and a dye. The team discovered that light stimulation could transfer electrons between the dye and carbon structures, a crucial requirement for dye-sensitised solar cells.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalChem·DateAug 8, 2017

Mainz-based researchers stabilized gold in very rare oxidation state +II

Scientists at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz isolate and analyze gold in the rare +II oxidation state for the first time. The stabilization of this labile ion is achieved by a porphyrin macrocycle, allowing researchers to investigate its unique properties and behavior.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalNature Chemistry·DateAug 8, 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.

Regular energy drink use linked to later drug use among young adults

A University of Maryland study found that individuals who regularly consumed highly caffeinated energy drinks over five years were more likely to use cocaine and non-medically use prescription stimulants. The research suggests a potential link between energy drink consumption and increased risk for substance use among young adults.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence·DateAug 8, 2017

Machine learning could be key to producing stronger, less corrosive metals

A BYU research team has developed a machine learning approach to analyze grain boundaries in metals, enabling the prediction of material strength and corrosion resistance. By analyzing massive data sets, their algorithm provides insight into physical structures associated with specific mechanisms and properties.

SourceBrigham Young University·DateAug 8, 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.

Not all glaciers in Antarctica have been affected by climate change

A new study by scientists at Portland State University and the National Snow and Ice Data Center found that the effects of climate change on glaciers in the western Ross Sea coast of Antarctica have not yet been observed. The research team examined glacier activity along over 700 kilometers of coastline using historic maps and satellit...

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeology·DateAug 8, 2017

NASA's scientific balloon program reaches new heights

PIPER aims to detect primordial gravitational waves and study their effects on the cosmic microwave background, providing insight into the early universe's expansion. The mission will fly immersed in liquid helium at nearly absolute zero temperature.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 8, 2017

Laser mapping project shows effects of physical changes in Antarctica's Dry Valleys

Researchers have released high-resolution maps of Antarctica's McMurdo Dry Valleys, allowing scientists to compare present-day conditions with lower-resolution surveys conducted 13 years ago. The data provide detailed topography and insights into landscape changes, including rapid erosion along streams.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalEarth System Science Data·DateAug 8, 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.

Prostate cancer cells become 'shapeshifters' to spread to distant organs

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine discovered a biochemical process that gives prostate cancer cells the ability to change shape and invade other tissues. The study found that a gene called AIM1 is deleted in approximately 20-30% of prostate cancers confined to the gland and 40% of metastatic prostate cancers.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 8, 2017

Hormone shows promise as cognition enhancer

A study by UC San Francisco scientists found that administering klotho to young, aging or impaired mice rapidly improves their cognitive and physical performance. The treatment also showed benefits for aged mice and those with Parkinson's disease-like symptoms, suggesting a potential therapeutic application.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalCell Reports·DateAug 8, 2017

NASA studies tethered CubeSat mission to study lunar swirls

Scientists aim to understand how the moon got its 'tattoos' with a novel mission concept involving two connected CubeSats. The Bi-sat Observations of the Lunar Atmosphere above Swirls (BOLAS) mission could provide data on lunar hydrogen cycles and mechanisms for hydrogen implantation, shedding light on the formation of lunar swirls.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 8, 2017

Smoking is on the rise among pregnant women with depression

A new study finds that smoking during pregnancy is disproportionately common among women with depression, affecting nearly one-third of this group. The study suggests that depression is a significant barrier to quitting smoking, and addressing it may be crucial for helping women quit during pregnancy.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence·DateAug 8, 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.

How to trick your heart into thinking you exercise

Researchers have discovered a protein called cardiotrophin 1 (CT1) that can trick the heart into growing in a healthy way and pumping more blood. CT1 also repairs heart damage and improves blood flow in animal models of heart failure.

SourceThe Ottawa Hospital·JournalCell Research·DateAug 8, 2017

Multi-nutrient rice against malnutrition

Researchers have successfully created a multi-nutrient rice variety that produces iron, zinc, and beta-carotene, addressing micronutrient deficiencies. The new rice lines could provide a solution to hidden hunger in Asia and Africa if they are widely adopted.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 8, 2017

Early diagnostic imaging to prevent kidney disease

Researchers at Osaka University developed a non-invasive imaging technique to detect kidney damage and predict chronic kidney disease in diabetic patients. The method uses diffusion tensor MRI (DTI) to identify specific regions of the kidney with abnormal fluid dynamics, offering a promising approach to prevent kidney disease progression.

SourceOsaka University·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 8, 2017

NIH accelerates the use of genomics in clinical care

The NIH is awarding $18.9 million to accelerate the use of genome sequencing in clinical care, focusing on diverse and underserved populations. The Clinical Sequencing Evidence-Generating Research (CSER2) Consortium will develop innovative approaches and best practices to integrate genomic medicine into healthcare settings.

SourceNIH/National Human Genome Research Institute·DateAug 8, 2017

First long-term study on medical marijuana's impact on opioid use for pain

Researchers at Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Health System are conducting a five-year study to test whether medical marijuana reduces opioid use among adults with chronic pain. The study will enroll 250 HIV-positive and HIV-negative adults who use opioids and have received certification for medical marijuana use.

SourceAlbert Einstein College of Medicine·DateAug 8, 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.

Magnetic fields turn up the heat on bacterial biofilms

A study published in Scientific Reports shows that high-frequency alternating magnetic fields can be used to destroy bacteria encased in a slimy 'biofilm' growing on artificial joints. The treatment increased the effectiveness of antibiotic treatment, reducing the need for multiple surgeries and weeks of IV antibiotics.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 8, 2017

Asian hornet to colonize UK within 2 decades without action

Researchers predict potential for rapid colonization of UK by Asian hornet, threatening honey bee and beneficial insect populations. Beekeepers and public advised to be vigilant in identifying nests and reporting sightings to halt destruction of bee populations.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 8, 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.

High quality early intervention for children with autism quickly results in costs savings

A study found that high-quality early intervention for children with autism can lead to significant cost savings. After just two years, the costs associated with the Early Start Denver Model were fully offset due to reductions in other services. The model uses a developmental curriculum and teaching procedures delivered by therapy team...

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateAug 8, 2017

Bush and Obama's gifts to Trump: More war-making powers

A study from the University of Waterloo found that George W. Bush and Barack Obama's military interventions between 2001-2016 set a precedent for Donald Trump to go to war unilaterally, expanding executive authority

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalCanadian Foreign Policy Journal·DateAug 8, 2017

'Ego-dissolving' psychedelic drugs could assist with mental health

Research suggests that psychedelic experiences can lead to transformative outcomes, including reduced anxiety and depression. Ego dissolution allows for expanded awareness and a shift in perspective, potentially beneficial for individuals struggling with addiction and psychiatric disorders.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalNeuroscience of Consciousness·DateAug 8, 2017

Racial differences for trends in colorectal cancer mortality rates

A study published in JAMA found that colorectal cancer mortality rates declined in black individuals but rose in white individuals between 1970 and 2014. The disparity was particularly pronounced among younger adults, with increased mortality rates observed in white men and women since the mid-1990s.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateAug 8, 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.

New battery is activated by your spit

Researchers at Binghamton University developed a paper-based bacteria-powered battery activated by spit, which can generate reliable power from one drop of saliva. The battery has competitive advantages over conventional solutions due to the availability of biological fluid and long-term storage capabilities.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalAdvanced Materials Technologies·DateAug 8, 2017