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Science News for December 1, 2017


Location, location, location: Immunization delivery site matters

Dendritic cells known as cDC2s are crucial for robust T cell induction and antibody production in vaccination. The study found that intradermal injections may be more efficient than traditional methods, expanding the number of people who can be vaccinated during a pandemic.

SourceJackson Laboratory·JournalScience Immunology·DateDec 1, 2017

Kids and screen time: Signs your child might be addicted

A recent study found that how children use devices, not hours spent on them, is the strongest predictor of emotional or social problems. Warning signs include interfering with daily activities, conflict, and unhealthy media habits leading to relationship, conduct, and emotional issues.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalPsychology of Popular Media Culture·DateDec 1, 2017

Monopole current offers way to control magnets

Researchers from RIKEN in Japan have discovered a new method to control magnets by manipulating the properties of virtual monopoles. By applying a magnetic field, they can control the behavior of north and south poles in frustrated magnets, leading to a dissipationless current.

SourceRIKEN·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateDec 1, 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.

Virtual reality for bacteria

Researchers have successfully interfaced individual bacteria with a computer to build a hybrid bio-digital circuit. This setup allows for the simulation of complex biological systems, enabling the 'debugging' of such systems like complex computer codes.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 1, 2017

3-D-printed prosthetic implants could improve treatment for hearing loss

Researchers created customized prosthetic replacements for damaged middle ear parts using CT scans and 3-D printing. The technique has the potential to reduce high failure rates of surgical procedures. Custom-designed implants can improve hearing outcomes by providing a more exact fit, decreasing surgical time.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateDec 1, 2017

Oral microbiota indicates link between periodontal disease and esophageal cancer

A recent study published in Cancer Research found that certain oral microbiota are associated with an increased risk of esophageal cancer. Bacteria such as Tannerella forsythia and Porphyromonas gingivalis were linked to higher risks of esophageal adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, respectively.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalCancer Research·DateDec 1, 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.

Study links child abuse, high school dropout

A new study by Duke University researchers found that child abuse and violence are associated with higher high school dropout rates, particularly among girls who experienced childhood violence. The study suggests that policies aimed at reducing violence against children may also help lower the national dropout rate.

SourceDuke University·JournalReview of Behavioral Economics·DateDec 1, 2017

Gene regulation: Risk-free gene reactivation

Researchers have discovered a novel mechanism to reactivate gene expression in mouse embryonic stem cells without causing DNA damage. The new pathway involves enzymatic oxidation of the methyl group attached to cytidine, converting it into 5-formylcytidine, which is then rapidly converted back into unmethylated cytidine.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateDec 1, 2017

Study sheds light on turbulence in astrophysical plasmas

Researchers have proposed a new model to explain turbulent processes in plasmas, which are estimated to make up 99% of the universe's visible matter. The findings suggest that magnetic reconnection plays a crucial role in plasma turbulence, providing a conceptual shift in understanding its dynamics and properties.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateDec 1, 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.

Teens get more sleep when school starts later

Research by Penn State found that high school start times after 8:30 a.m. increased the likelihood of teens obtaining eight hours of sleep, benefiting their overall health. Earlier school start times were associated with decreased time in bed and morning wake-up times.

SourcePenn State·JournalSleep Health·DateDec 1, 2017

Why do we see similarities across languages? Human brain may be responsible

Researchers found that language learners prefer word orders with shorter dependencies, which are easier to process, suggesting a causal link between human cognition and language structure. This discovery provides new insights into the role of human information processing in shaping linguistic universals.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalPsychological Science·DateDec 1, 2017

70Gb/s optical intra-connects in data centers based on band-limited devices

A team from Peking University successfully experimentally demonstrated a 70Gb/s optical link using an 18GHz band-limited VCSEL and multimode fibers. This achievement showcases the potential for realizing high-speed data transmission in data centers using low-cost and band-limited devices. The study's results have important scientific s...

SourceScience China Press·DateDec 1, 2017

NASA sees Ockhi strengthening off southwestern coast of India

Tropical Storm Ockhi intensified into a typhoon with cloud top temperatures as cold as minus 63 degrees Fahrenheit, capable of producing heavy rainfall. The storm was predicted to track northeastward and make landfall over northwest India, undergoing extratropical transition.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateDec 1, 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.

Robot learning improves student engagement

A study at Michigan State University found that online students using robot-learning technology feel more engaged and connected to instructors and fellow students in the classroom. The innovative system uses robots with video screens controlled by remote users, allowing for individualized interactions.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalOnline Learning·DateDec 1, 2017

Stephanie Faubion, M.D., talks genitourinary syndrome of menopause

A new article reviews options for treating genitourinary syndrome of menopause, including low-dose vaginal estrogen therapy and pelvic floor physical therapy. Despite the availability of effective treatments, lack of awareness among healthcare providers and patients hinders reaching women with this condition.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateDec 1, 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.

When Listeria monocytogenes goes to sleep....

Researchers discovered Listeria monocytogenes can change its behavior when infecting liver and placenta cells, producing a dormant form that is more tolerant of antibiotics. This finding explains the long incubation period of listeriosis and may lead to new therapeutic strategies.

SourceInstitut Pasteur·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateDec 1, 2017

Model of galaxy and star cluster formation is rectified

A new study by Brazilian researchers resolves the 'fundamental paradox of stellar dynamics', describing galaxy clusters' violent relaxation as displaying unique behavior with entropy oscillation. Entropy increases at the end of the process, but fluctuates in the initial stage, contrary to conventional understanding.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·DateDec 1, 2017

Women with Parkinson's disease less likely than men to have caregivers

A study by Penn Medicine found that women with Parkinson's disease are less likely to have caregivers compared to men, despite experiencing more psychological strain from caregiving. The disparity is attributed to women living longer than their potential caregivers and being more likely to be caregivers themselves.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNeurology·DateDec 1, 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.

Evolution: In the beginning there was the sponge

A new study by researchers at LMU Munich confirms that sponges are the oldest animal group, contradicting previous findings that suggested comb jellies were the first. The team used a refined method to analyze genetic data and found that sponges' simple multicellular structure is more primitive than initially thought.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalCurrent Biology·DateDec 1, 2017

Mosquitoes more likely to transmit dengue virus in hot weather

New research published in Frontiers in Microbiology finds that higher temperatures and temperature fluctuations accelerate the growth of the dengue virus in mosquitoes, making them more infectious. This could help prevent outbreaks during warm periods by reducing mosquito numbers or controlling exposure.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateDec 1, 2017

Jawbone loss predates rheumatoid arthritis

Research from Umea University shows that jawbone loss caused by periodontitis precedes and correlates with rheumatoid arthritis. Elevated levels of RANKL in the blood also indicate a causal link between the two conditions.

SourceUmea University·JournalArthritis & Rheumatology·DateDec 1, 2017

Harmful effects of being overweight underestimated

A new study analyzed data from 60,000 parents and children to establish the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and mortality risk. The research found that previous studies had underestimated the harmful effects of being overweight, with high BMI linked to increased mortality risk.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalInternational Journal of Epidemiology·DateDec 1, 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.

Researchers ID bacteria tied to esophageal cancer

A study of over 120,000 patients found that certain bacteria in the mouth are associated with an increased or decreased risk of developing esophageal cancer. The presence of Tannerella forsythia was linked to a 21% increased cancer risk, while Streptococcus and Neisseria were associated with a 24% decrease in risk.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalCancer Research·DateDec 1, 2017

Neutron spectroscopy: New detector module MultiFLEXX increases count rate tenfold

The new detector module MultiFLEXX enables faster data collection by measuring multiple angles and energies simultaneously, reducing measurement times by a factor of 10. This results in significant gains in acquisition efficiency, particularly useful for applications involving temperature or magnetic field mapping.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 1, 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.

Placenta consumption offers few benefits for new moms

A recent study published in Women and Birth found that consuming placenta capsules has limited benefits for new moms, including no significant impact on postpartum mood or maternal bonding. However, the study did show detectable changes in hormone concentrations in mothers taking placenta capsules.

SourceUniversity of Nevada, Las Vegas·JournalWomen and Birth·DateDec 1, 2017

Topological insulators are among this year's top achievements in photonics

Researchers have created three-dimensional topological insulators that can control light localization in all directions, promising major technological advances. These structures have a considerable practical potential for applications in optical computers, communication networks, antennas, and lasers.

SourceITMO University·JournalNature Photonics·DateDec 1, 2017

New imaging study reveals how saturated fatty acids damage cells

Researchers at Columbia University developed a new microscopy technique to track fatty acids in living cells, revealing that saturated fats cause hardened membrane patches that can lead to cellular damage. In contrast, unsaturated fats can 'melt' these patches, suggesting potential therapeutic strategies for lipid disorders.

SourceColumbia University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 1, 2017

NASA's Webb telescope emerges from Chamber A

After completing 100 days of cryogenic testing, NASA's James Webb Space Telescope has emerged from Chamber A at the Johnson Space Center. The telescope is now set to be integrated with its spacecraft element in California, marking a crucial step towards its launch as the world's premier infrared space observatory.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateDec 1, 2017

The microbiological art of making a better sausage

A team of Italian investigators found that commercial starter culture produced sausages with higher acidity, but inferior taste, as compared to spontaneous fermentation. The study used Next Generation Sequencing techniques and gas chromatography with mass spectrometry to analyze the microorganisms and metabolic pathways involved.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateDec 1, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Sperm RNA may serve as biomarkers of future health, Wayne State researchers find

A study by Wayne State University School of Medicine researchers found that sperm RNA elements can predict human health, potentially leading to improved fertility clinic predictions and better neonatal care outcomes. The discovery may also enable the development of preventive measures against diseases.

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·JournalSystems Biology in Reproductive Medicine·DateDec 1, 2017

Fighting myocardial infarction with nanoparticle tandems

Scientists show that transplanted muscle cells loaded with magnetic nanoparticles engraft better onto the existing tissue, leading to improved heart function. The technology could potentially be used to revitalize damaged heart tissue and has shown promising results in mice.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalBiomaterials·DateDec 1, 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.

Ultrasound imaging needle to transform heart surgery

Researchers have developed an optical ultrasound needle that provides unprecedented real-time imaging of soft tissues during keyhole procedures, reducing the risk of complications and improving surgical outcomes. The technology uses a miniature optical fibre to deliver light pulses, generating ultrasonic waves for image guidance.

SourceUniversity College London·DateDec 1, 2017

Medical note system could boost patients' engagement in their health care

A new medical note system called 'OurNotes' has the potential to promote patient engagement, improve patient-centered care and collaboration between patients and providers. The study suggests that inviting patients to co-produce their own notes may help reduce documentation burdens on clinicians.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateDec 1, 2017

From Alaska to Amazonia: First global maps of traits that drive vegetation growth

Researchers have created detailed global maps of key plant traits that significantly impact carbon cycle calculations. The maps show substantial local diversity, contradicting previous simplistic models that assumed identical trait values across regions. This advancement will lead to more accurate modeling of carbon cycle feedbacks.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 1, 2017

Under pressure: Novel technology to model pressure-induced cellular injuries in the brain

Researchers at MUSC develop an ex vivo model of ICP-induced cellular injury to understand early cell-injury mechanisms and identify biomarkers associated with pathological pressure. The novel model successfully initiates cellular stress in a cell-specific manner, offering potential for therapies to minimize neurological deficits.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalJournal of Neuroscience Methods·DateDec 1, 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.

Highly efficient photocatalyst capable of carbon dioxide recycling

Researchers at DGIST developed a highly efficient titanium dioxide-based photocatalyst that can convert carbon dioxide into methane. The newly created material shows the highest conversion rate of 12.49% and has been proven to increase methane conversion efficiency up to 29 times using platinum nanoparticles.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalMaterials Today·DateDec 1, 2017

Chick embryos provide valuable genetic data for understanding human development

A team of international researchers from Kumamoto University and RIKEN mapped 60% of all developmental chicken TSSs to the most recent chicken genome, providing valuable genetic data for understanding human development. This achievement enables the application of CRISPR-on technology to activate specific genes during development.

SourceKumamoto University·JournalPLOS Biology·DateDec 1, 2017

3-D-printed minifactories

A team of ETH researchers created a novel 3D printing platform that utilizes living matter to produce mini biochemical factories with various properties. The platform uses bacteria-containing ink to create objects with specific characteristics, such as biodegradable materials and sensors for toxic substances.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 1, 2017

Engineering electron pathways in 2-D-topological insulators

Topological insulators exhibit unique properties, with electrons confined to quantum channels at the edge. Researchers have engineered these pathways, allowing for controlled conduction and potential applications in next-generation electronic devices. This work provides new insights into fundamental properties of topological edge states.

SourceElhuyar Fundazioa·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateDec 1, 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.

New European alliance to save the European flat oyster

A new European alliance for oyster conservation has been established to protect the endangered European flat oyster. The alliance seeks to re-establish this key species in the North Sea and adjacent seas through restoration of oyster reef structures.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·DateDec 1, 2017

Most glaucoma patients don't ask about medication costs

A recent study found that less than one-third of glaucoma patients discuss medication costs with their doctor. High costs are a significant barrier to adherence, and doctors should consider discussing medication costs during visits to prompt a discussion. The study analyzed video recordings of 275 office visits and suggested further re...

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalOptometry and Vision Science·DateDec 1, 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.

Study finds reading information aloud to yourself improves memory

A study from the University of Waterloo found that reading information aloud enhances long-term memory by leveraging the dual action of speaking and hearing oneself. This 'production effect' is particularly beneficial for learning new information, suggesting a simple yet effective method to improve memory retention.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalMemory·DateDec 1, 2017

Yelp reviewers take a dimmer view of nursing homes than the feds

A study by USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology found significant disparities between Yelp and Nursing Home Compare ratings for nursing homes in California. The research highlights the need for improved ratings systems to help consumers make informed decisions about nursing home care.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalBMJ Quality & Safety·DateDec 1, 2017

Mental health disorder therapeutic modalities modified for the GMS

This article reviews mental health disorder therapeutic modalities for the GMS, highlighting effective treatments like mindfulness-based cognitive therapy and music therapy. The authors emphasize the need for trained mental health professionals and propose community-based interventions to promote a better quality of life.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCurrent Psychiatry Reviews·DateDec 1, 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.

To drop CO2 emissions, look to local transportation and housing

According to a new study from the University of Pennsylvania, local efforts in residential housing and transportation can significantly reduce CO2 emissions. The researchers found that adopting energy-conservation standards in housing could reduce emissions by 31-46% by 2030, while a fuel-economy standard of 40 mpg could reduce transpo...

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalJournal of Planning Education and Research·DateDec 1, 2017