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Science News for December 19, 2017


Nearly zero-energy buildings: A difficult challenge for Southern Europe

Researchers in Southern Europe face significant challenges in achieving nearly zero-energy buildings due to sociological and climatic factors. The study highlights the need for improved regulations, design, construction, and use of these buildings to address thermal comfort issues and minimize environmental impact.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalEnergy and Buildings·DateDec 19, 2017

New catalyst meets challenge of cleaning exhaust from modern engines

Researchers at the University of New Mexico and Washington State University have created a catalyst capable of reducing pollutants at lower temperatures expected in advanced engines. The new catalyst uses smaller amounts of platinum, the most expensive component of emission-control catalysts, while maintaining high temperature stability.

SourceUniversity of New Mexico·JournalScience·DateDec 19, 2017

Halogens can increase solar cell performance by 25 per cent

Researchers from UBC and UNC Chapel Hill discovered that halogens can increase conversion efficiency of dye-sensitized solar cells by 25%. The presence of halogens accelerates electron transfer, allowing for faster regeneration of the light-absorbing dye.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 19, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Experimental drug interferes with different mechanisms associated to Alzheimer's disease

The compound anle138b was shown to close harmful openings in the membrane of nerve cells and induce conformational changes that modify pore conductivity. Treatment with anle138b normalized brain activity and improved learning ability in mice affected by Alzheimer's disease, regardless of when treatment started.

SourceDZNE - German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases·JournalEMBO Molecular Medicine·DateDec 19, 2017

Key to immune system's memory revealed

Researchers at Monash University have identified a novel molecular 'blueprint' that enables the immune system to fight disease by 'remembering' past infections. This discovery potentially opens new avenues for improving vaccines and therapies, including those targeting cancer and autoimmune diseases.

SourceMonash University·JournalCell Reports·DateDec 19, 2017

Cervical device reduces rate of preterm birth

A cervical pessary significantly reduced the risk of spontaneous preterm birth at less than 34 weeks. Pregnant women with a short cervix who used the device had a lower rate of preterm birth compared to those without the device.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateDec 19, 2017

Friend or foe? How the unconscious mind picks out faces in a crowd

A new study by Hebrew University researcher Ran Hassin reveals that our unconscious mind quickly registers faces associated with power and potential threat, while ignoring those deemed trustworthy. The findings have implications for understanding mental disorders such as autism and PTSD.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateDec 19, 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.

The missing link between exploding stars, clouds, and climate on Earth

A new study in Nature Communications reveals the link between exploding stars, clouds, and climate on Earth. The research shows that atmospheric ions produced by cosmic rays accelerate the growth of aerosols into cloud condensation nuclei, influencing cloud formation and climate.

SourceTechnical University of Denmark·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 19, 2017

Researchers isolate biting, non-biting genes in pitcher plant mosquitoes

Researchers isolated 1,380 genes related to biting and non-biting in the pitcher plant mosquito, identifying 902 biting and 478 non-biting genes. The study provides a starting point for discovering genetic pathways that can be manipulated to reduce transmission of vector-borne diseases.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 19, 2017

Underactive thyroid within normal range may affect woman's ability to conceive

Research suggests that women with unexplained infertility have higher levels of a hormone stimulating the thyroid gland, negatively impacting their ability to conceive. The study found nearly twice as many women with unexplained infertility had elevated TSH levels compared to those with known infertility causes.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateDec 19, 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.

Grant to fund nutrition education for preschoolers

The American Heart Association funded a three-year study to investigate the effect of a low energy dense diet on preschoolers. The researchers provided nutrition education to over 230 children at seven local preschools, aiming to improve their dietary choices.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·DateDec 19, 2017

Genitourinary health problems worse for sexually abused girls

A study published in The Journal of Pediatrics found that sexually abused girls receive more medical diagnoses for urinary and genital health problems compared to their peers. Researchers also discovered no significant difference in the number of diagnoses for sexually transmitted infections between girls and boys.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·DateDec 19, 2017

Pesticides and poor nutrition damage animal health

A new study by UC San Diego researchers reveals that combining pesticides and limited nutrient sources causes a synergistic effect on bee survival, increasing deaths by up to 50%. The scientists used honey bees as test subjects due to their role as agricultural pollinators and environmental bioindicators.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateDec 19, 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.

New study reveals reversibility of genetic nervous system disease

Researchers developed a mouse model where the FXN gene defect causing Friedreich’s ataxia can be turned on or off, revealing that many early symptoms are reversible. The study found that reducing frataxin levels led to symptoms similar to those seen in humans with the disease, which disappeared when frataxin levels returned to normal.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·DateDec 19, 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.

Overlooked immune cells hold breakthrough for treating aggressive cancers

Researchers have discovered that T cells with a protein called CD26 on their surface are highly effective against aggressive solid tumors. These cells, previously overlooked in cancer immunotherapy, can resist apoptosis and repopulate after infusion, making them ideal for adoptive cell transfer therapy.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 19, 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.

New findings clarify thyroid's role in mammalian seasonal changes

A review article reveals that thyroid hormones and biochemical pathways drive seasonal reproduction in some mammals. The study suggests that increased triiodothyronine (T3) levels regulate gonadotropin-releasing hormone secretion in a seasonal fashion.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalThyroid·DateDec 19, 2017

DNA annotations predict patient outcomes in childhood leukemia

Researchers at UCSF have developed a test that can predict how patients with juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia will respond to treatment, potentially identifying those who are likely to recover spontaneously. The test uses epigenetic annotations of the genome and has been validated in an additional group of patients treated in Germany.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 19, 2017

Cigarette smoking is increasing among Americans with drug problems

A new study found that cigarette smoking rates increased among individuals with substance use disorders, including hallucinogens and heroin, while decreasing among those with cannabis use disorders. More than half of individuals with a substance use disorder reported cigarette use in the past month, compared to 18% without a disorder.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalAddiction·DateDec 19, 2017

More complex biological systems evolve more freely

Researchers found that mutations in two components interact with each other, increasing the system's freedom to change and evolve. The study provides a mechanistic understanding of how genetic structure determines patterns of epistasis.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·DateDec 19, 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.

Quantum trick blocks background 'chatter' in sensing devices

A University of Sydney team has developed quantum control techniques to enable ultra-sensitive quantum sensors that can identify tiny signals while rejecting background noise. The new protocols reduce spectral leakage by many orders of magnitude over conventional methods, with applications in medicine and defence.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 19, 2017

Knockout mice help find gene for bad breath

Researchers discovered a genetic link between sulfur compounds and chronic bad breath in humans and genetically modified mice. The study found that people with the condition had mutations in the SELENBP1 gene and high levels of odor-causing chemicals in their blood, mirroring findings in mice with the same mutation.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalNature Genetics·DateDec 19, 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.

Life on the edge prepares plants for climate change

Scientists used genetic variability to map a plant species' ability to adapt to climate change, finding that Scandinavian plants can cope with severe drought. The study suggests that relocating populations with genetic variants supporting drought adaptation could help rescue endangered species and improve crop performance.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateDec 19, 2017

New methods reveal the biomechanics of blood clotting

Researchers have measured and mapped the key molecular forces on platelets that trigger blood clotting. The findings suggest that platelets care about the direction of forces applied to them, requiring a lateral force signal to prevent unnecessary clotting.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 19, 2017

Biofilms as construction workers

Researchers at Technical University of Munich use biofilms to guide microorganisms in creating tailor-made templates for new materials. This process utilizes light, heat, and other stimuli to control the movement of microbes, enabling the creation of complex networks with natural structures.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateDec 19, 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.

Hibernating squirrels and hamsters evolved to feel less cold

Research reveals that hibernating rodents evolved adaptations to reduce cold sensation, allowing them to conserve energy during winter. This adaptation enables ground squirrels and Syrian hamsters to survive exposure to extremely low temperatures without feeling stressed.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Reports·DateDec 19, 2017

Technique makes NMR more useful for nanomaterials, exotic matter research

Researchers at Brown University developed a new technique that enhances NMR signal strength and versatility for studying nanomaterials and exotic states of matter. By using flat NMR coils, the team was able to optimize signal detection for various sample shapes and experiment types.

SourceBrown University·JournalReview of Scientific Instruments·DateDec 19, 2017

Cooperative learning aids in preventing alcohol use in rural middle schools

A new study found that cooperative learning significantly reduced students' association with deviant peers and growth in alcohol use among middle schoolers. By increasing students' contacts with prosocial youths, cooperative learning helps interrupt the tendency for socially marginalized students to cluster into groups of deviant peers.

SourceSociety for Research in Child Development·JournalChild Development·DateDec 19, 2017

Can't switch your focus? Your brain might not be wired for it

A new study at Drexel University suggests that brain signals 'stick' to white matter networks are associated with cognitive flexibility. The research found that the alignment between brain signals and structural anatomy is linked to greater flexibility, but also a measurable mental cost.

SourceDrexel University·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateDec 19, 2017

Timing of regulatory stick and supportive carrot may keep businesses focused

Researchers found that when punitive measures from regulatory agencies were followed by help from business support organizations, companies were more likely to stick to voluntary improvement projects. The study analyzed 1,200 environmental improvement recommendations and found a positive correlation between the timing of regulatory act...

SourcePenn State·JournalManagement Science·DateDec 19, 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.

New evidence supports HIV screening in young adulthood

A study suggests that age 25 would be the most beneficial age for a one-time screening HIV test of the general population, improving rates of HIV diagnosis and overall health outcomes. However, youth at high risk should be tested more frequently.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateDec 19, 2017

Special issue: Natura 2000 appropriate assessment and derogation procedure

A comprehensive review of the European Court of Justice and German Federal Administrative Court's relevant case-law on Natura 2000 assessment and derogation procedure. The study examines key aspects of the procedure, including scope, procedural steps, and requirements for authorisation and implementation.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalNature Conservation·DateDec 19, 2017

The cyanide defense: How one bacterium inhibits predators with poison

A South Korean study reveals that the bacterium Chromobacterium piscinae produces cyanide when attacked by a microbial predator, inhibiting its growth without killing it. The researchers suspect that the bacteria use nutrient-rich environments to trigger the production of this protective compound.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmBio·DateDec 19, 2017

Neurological assessment in the blink of an eye?

The Blink Reflexometer uses high-speed video to analyze the blink response in patients, providing quantitative measurements comparable to electromyography. A small validation study showed promising results, suggesting its potential as a diagnostic indicator of neurological health.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalIEEE Journal of Translational Engineering in Health and Medicine·DateDec 19, 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.

Silky secrets to make bones

Researchers found that genes can be activated in human stem cells to initiate biomineralization, a key step in bone formation. The study used engineered silk derived from golden orb weaver spider webs and supercomputers Stampede1 and Comet to model the folding of proteins and predict osteogenesis.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateDec 19, 2017

Exercising at own pace boosts a child's ability to learn

A study conducted by primary school pupils found that exercising at their own pace significantly improves a child's mood, attention, and memory. The research used over 11,000 schoolchildren across the UK, who completed various physical activities before answering tests on concentration and happiness.

SourceUniversity of Stirling·DateDec 19, 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 examines insecticide's effects on honey bees

A large-scale study has found that residue levels in pollen and nectar from thiamethoxam-treated seeds do not harm bees, with no effect on colony survival. The research involved individual honey bees and 84 colonies, providing a robust threshold for assessing potential risk.

SourceWiley·JournalEnvironmental Toxicology and Chemistry·DateDec 19, 2017

Couple up for long-term happiness

Research from the British Household Panel Survey shows married couples have a higher sense of well-being than singles. Those who consider their spouse as their best friend experience the largest benefits, suggesting a lifelong positive effect on happiness.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of Happiness Studies·DateDec 19, 2017

Arthritis drug could help treat advanced skin cancer

Researchers at the University of East Anglia have discovered that combining an immunosuppressive arthritis drug, leflunomide, with a melanoma treatment may enhance its effectiveness. The study found that the combination almost completely stopped the growth of a melanoma tumor in mice.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalOncoTargets and Therapy·DateDec 19, 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.

New approaches in medical genomics: A step forward in Parkinson's disease

Researchers at CRG discover a mechanism regulating alpha-synuclein protein linked to Parkinson's disease and multiple system atrophy (MSA). Two factors, TIAR and ELAVL1, are deemed crucial in neurodegeneration, offering potential biomarkers for early detection and new treatment targets.

SourceCenter for Genomic Regulation·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateDec 19, 2017

Study resolves controversy about electron structure of defects in graphene

Researchers Ana María Valencia García and Marília Junqueira Caldas resolved a longstanding controversy about the calculation of defect electronic structures in graphene. They used a hybrid functional method, which yielded results compatible with experimental data, resolving divergences between different simulation methods.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalPhysical Review B·DateDec 19, 2017

Developing next-generation sensing technologies

Researchers develop low-cost, privacy-preserving sensor technology for counting, locating, and tracking occupants in commercial spaces. The technology uses high-efficiency infrared LEDs and photodiodes to reduce energy costs of heating and cooling by up to 30%.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·DateDec 19, 2017

Monocytes have many faces

An international research team has discovered that monocyte-derived cells are a diverse mixture, differing from dendritic cells. This diversity affects the immune system's response to tumor cells, impacting cancer immunotherapy success rates.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalImmunity·DateDec 19, 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.

Songbirds may hold the secret to how babies learn to speak

A study of zebra finches found that when young birds mimic sounds they've memorized, neural activity increases in specific brain regions. This process may hold the key to understanding how humans learn complex behaviors like speech and precise movements.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·DateDec 19, 2017

A functional genomics database for plant microbiome studies

A functional genomics database has been developed to study the plant microbiome, revealing key genes involved in bacterial adaptation to plants. The database combines 3837 genomes from various organisms, including plants and human gut bacteria, allowing researchers to identify genes that aid in bacterial colonization.

SourceDOE/Joint Genome Institute·JournalNature Genetics·DateDec 19, 2017

Scientists make research 'jelly' grow more like biological tissues

Researchers from NTU Singapore and CMU have developed a technique to direct the growth of hydrogel to mimic plant or animal tissue structure and shapes. The team's findings suggest new applications in tissue engineering and soft robotics, where hydrogel is commonly used.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 19, 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.

Obesity can add five weeks of asthma symptoms per year in preschoolers

A new study from Duke University Medical Center finds that obesity can add five weeks of asthma symptoms per year in preschoolers. The research suggests that maintaining a healthy weight may be an effective strategy for controlling asthma, and that inhalers work effectively for all preschoolers.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateDec 19, 2017

Siting solar, sparing prime agricultural lands

A new study suggests that unconventional spaces like rooftops, salt-affected land, and contaminated sites can generate renewable energy while sparing valuable agricultural land. The research found that these land-sparing sites in the Central Valley could exceed state energy demands up to 13 times for photovoltaics.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateDec 19, 2017

Discovery of unsuspected flexibility offers new pathway to cancer drug development

Researchers at the University of Illinois found that cross-system signaling activity between growth factors can direct blood vessel growth and influence cancer progression, stroke recovery, and other disorders. This discovery offers a new pathway to developing effective therapies by promoting or inhibiting this signal.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 19, 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.

Conservation study uses tiny treadmills to test sea turtle hatchling stamina

A Florida Atlantic University study uses tiny treadmills to simulate disorientation and measures the energy spent by sea turtle hatchlings crawling on beaches. The researchers found that hatchlings expend massive amounts of energy but can still swim well, supporting the importance of lighting ordinances during turtle hatching season.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateDec 19, 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.

Dysfunctional gene may be culprit in some Crohn's disease cases

Researchers identified a mechanism where ileal Crohn's disease is induced by bile acids when T cell adaptation does not occur properly. Bile acid sequestrants may be an effective treatment for patients with impaired MDR1 expression, suggesting a potential new avenue for therapy.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalImmunity·DateDec 19, 2017

Paving the way for a non-electric battery to store solar energy

Researchers at UMass Amherst developed a polymer-based system storing more than two times higher energy density than previous systems. The new technology has potential applications in solar-powered heating and could provide sustainable energy storage for areas without access to power grids.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 19, 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.

Rice U. physicists discover new type of quantum material

Researchers predict creation of 'Weyl-Kondo semimetal,' a quantum material with unique properties, and demonstrate its existence through modeling. The discovery has significant implications for understanding high-temperature superconductivity and strongly correlated materials.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 19, 2017

Consumer choices for the climate

Researchers found that Norwegian consumers can reduce their carbon footprint by up to 58% by making conscious choices such as carpooling, cutting back on meat, and buying durable goods. However, this reduction can be offset if the saved money is spent on discretionary items with high climate impacts.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalJournal of Cleaner Production·DateDec 19, 2017

Some monkeys prone to isolation

Research on rhesus macaques suggests that some individuals are more likely to remain socially isolated due to a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental influences. This phenomenon is linked to reduced life expectancy in various species, including humans, who are experiencing an increasing epidemic of social isolation.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 19, 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.

New measurements to guide radiation therapy

Researchers measured absolute cross sections for secondary electrons interacting with DNA molecules in a condensed-phase environment. This study provides insights into the damage and radiation dose delivered to patients in radiotherapy.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateDec 19, 2017

Climate change may favor large plant eaters over small competitors

A new study suggests that climate change could lead to increased body sizes in certain herbivores as plants become more nutritious. This is because larger herbivores can convert the foliage to energy more efficiently than smaller competitors.

SourceNational Institute for Mathematical and Biological Synthesis (NIMBioS)·DateDec 19, 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.

Images of the brain refute a theory of the 60s on the domain of language

A large-scale brain imaging study has refuted the long-held theory that a specific region in the left hemisphere is responsible for language processing. The research found no correlation between the planum temporale's anatomical asymmetry and language lateralization, contradicting previous findings.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalBrain Structure and Function·DateDec 19, 2017

UC researchers identify nontraditional sites for future solar farms

A study by UC researchers identified over 8,400 square kilometers of non-agricultural land in the Central Valley suitable for large solar installations. This land can generate enough solar energy to exceed California's projected demands by 13 times for photovoltaic power and two times for concentrating solar power.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateDec 19, 2017

Using DNA strands to design new polymer materials

Scientists have created asymmetrical polymer structures that bind together in a spatially defined manner, similar to atoms coming together to make molecules. This breakthrough technique could lead to new materials for applications ranging from drug delivery to 'soft robotics',

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature Chemistry·DateDec 19, 2017

Acoustic device makes piezoelectrics sing to a different tune

Researchers have developed a surface acoustic wave (SAW) device that can achieve frequencies six times higher than most current devices, thanks to the use of embedded interdigital transducers (IDTs). The device also boosts output power by 10 percent compared to conventional devices.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateDec 19, 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.

AI insights could help reduce injuries in construction industry

Research using motion sensors and AI software reveals expert bricklayers use techniques to limit joint loads and develop efficient work methods. The study's findings could lead to improved training programs for apprentices and enhanced worker safety.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalAutomation in Construction·DateDec 19, 2017

Novel combination therapy shown to be effective in ovarian cancer

Researchers found a novel combination of PARP and BET inhibitors to be effective in treating ovarian cancers without BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations. The combination resulted in enhanced sensitivity of cells to cell death, offering potential applications in broadening treatment options for various malignancies.

SourceThe Wistar Institute·JournalCell Reports·DateDec 19, 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.

Unhackable computer under development with $3.6 million DARPA grant

A University of Michigan team is developing a new cybersecurity approach called MORPHEUS, which aims to create an unhackable computer by turning computer circuits into unsolvable puzzles. The technology could protect both hardware and software from attacks, making it difficult for hackers to identify vulnerabilities.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·DateDec 19, 2017

Sexual minority young people are at a higher risk for suicide

A new study published in JAMA finds that sexual minority young people are at a substantially higher risk of suicidal behavior than their heterosexual peers. LGBQ youth were 40% more likely to seriously consider suicide, and 25% more likely to attempt suicide compared to non-LGBQ youth.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalJAMA·DateDec 19, 2017

NIH study uncovers clues about why common cancer drug causes hearing loss

Cisplatin, a common cancer drug, causes permanent hearing loss in 40-80% of adult patients and at least half of children. Researchers found that the inner ear builds up the drug, leading to damage. Targeting the stria vascularis region could prevent cisplatin-induced hearing loss.

SourceNIH/National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 19, 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.

Warming seas double snowfall around North America's tallest peaks

A study from Dartmouth College reveals that warming tropical oceans have caused a strengthening of the Aleutian Low pressure system, driving increased snowfall in Alaska and other regions. This is evident in record accumulation rates dating back over 1200 years, exceeding normal variability.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 19, 2017

Mild obsessive-compulsive symptoms in healthy children are linked with cerebral changes

A new study by IDIBELL and ISGlobal found that mild obsessive-compulsive symptoms in healthy children are associated with specific cerebral anatomical changes. The study suggests that these symptoms may be an early manifestation of a more severe mental disorder, highlighting the importance of prevention strategies.

SourceIDIBELL-Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateDec 19, 2017

A non-invasive method to detect Alzheimer's disease

Researchers have linked changes in brain anatomy to early biomarkers of Alzheimer's disease, suggesting a non-invasive test may detect AD before symptoms appear. The study found that specific regions of the hippocampal circuit shrink in individuals with high levels of tau and amyloid-Beta proteins.

SourceMcGill University·JournalHuman Brain Mapping·DateDec 19, 2017

How great is the influence and risk of social and political 'bots?'

A new collection of articles explores the role and risks of bots in influencing public opinion and political elections. Researchers examine approaches to detect and control bots, their impact on recent elections, and potential methods for automation identification of bot activity.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalBig Data·DateDec 19, 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.