A new study predicts that migrants applying for asylum in the European Union will nearly triple over the average of the last 15 years by 2100. The researchers found that countries with higher temperature deviations from 20 degrees Celsius during their growing season are more likely to see increased asylum applications.
Researchers found that repeated low-grade bacterial infections can lead to severe inflammatory disease and potentially life-threatening colitis. The study also identified a link between Salmonella infection and an acquired deficiency of intestinal alkaline phosphatase, which accelerates inflammation.
SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalScience·DateDec 21, 2017
Meta Quest 3 512GB
Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.
A new IRTG at MLU focuses on how trees interact with each other, exploring their role in ecosystem services. PhD researchers will study tree-to-tree interactions, molecular biology, and statistical methods to define principles and models for these interactions.
SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·DateDec 21, 2017
A meta-analysis published in Mayo Clinic Proceedings shows that the FeNO test has moderate accuracy for diagnosing asthma, particularly in patients aged 5 and older. The test's sensitivity and specificity vary depending on the cutoff value used.
SourceElsevier·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateDec 21, 2017
A revised set of diagnostic criteria for multiple sclerosis is expected to improve the accuracy and speed of diagnosis. The new guidelines, published in The Lancet Neurology, provide more avenues for obtaining supporting evidence for diagnosis, including positive CSF oligoclonal bands and asymptomatic MRI lesions.
SourceNational Multiple Sclerosis Society·JournalThe Lancet Neurology·DateDec 21, 2017
Researchers at MIT's Media Lab have developed a new approach to time-of-flight imaging that increases depth resolution 1,000-fold. This breakthrough could enable accurate distance measurements through fog, a major obstacle to self-driving cars, and improve the resolution of existing systems.
SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalIEEE Access·DateDec 21, 2017
Research suggests that women with heart disease are more vulnerable to the effects of mental stress, particularly in terms of constricted peripheral vessels leading to reduced blood supply. This increased risk is associated with a higher likelihood of heart-related events and death.
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.
Ben-Gurion University researchers identified a pattern of theta activity decline that predicts post-injury epilepsy development. This finding holds promise for predicting and treating the condition, as well as other neuropsychiatric complications.
SourceAmerican Associates, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev·DateDec 21, 2017
A University of Washington study found that an after-school program focused on black culture and identity increased confidence and connection to school among African-American girls. The program, Sisters of Nia, addressed negative perceptions of African-Americans and fostered a sense of belonging and self-worth.
SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalPsychology in the Schools·DateDec 21, 2017
A team of researchers has identified the first rust virulence molecule that triggers built-in wheat resistance, allowing plants to fend off devastating stem rust disease. This breakthrough could help prioritize resistance genes and inform fungicide use in high-yielding wheat varieties.
SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalScience·DateDec 21, 2017
Researchers will study how social media affects news dissemination and develop algorithms to accurately predict the spread of information online. The project aims to improve official evacuation orders by filtering out inaccurate posts during disasters.
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.
A new study suggests that climate change will increase asylum-seeking into the European Union, with a potential 28% increase by 2100 under a slow-warming scenario. The researchers found a link between weather fluctuations and migration, with countries experiencing temperature increases having more asylum seekers, while cooler countries...
SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateDec 21, 2017
Patients with chronic kidney disease prefer home dialysis due to flexibility, independence, and better survival rates. Transplantation improves brain function and enables patients to assume family obligations and careers, increasing its appeal.
SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateDec 21, 2017
Researchers at DOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory have found a way to reduce secondary electron emission by up to 80% using fractal fibers resembling feathers and whiskers. This breakthrough improves the performance of plasma devices such as spacecraft thrusters and particle accelerators.
SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateDec 21, 2017
The Bocas dolphin population in Panama's archipelago is genetically isolated and faces high risk from increasing local boat traffic. The study suggests designating the population as 'endangered' due to low numbers and high mortality rates.
SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 21, 2017
Researchers developed a technique to pinpoint potential targets for cancer therapies that rely on the immune system. The technique identified two human antigens relevant to immunotherapies and found evidence of shared self-antigens between patients, offering a key to developing effective treatments.
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.
Researchers found that human APOBEC3H strongly inhibited SIVcpz due to its resistance to Vif proteins. The study suggests that human APOBEC3H may protect against HIV-1 transmission from chimps, particularly in individuals with unstable forms of the protein.
A study by Imperial College London has discovered that a drug used to treat iron overload can protect bone marrow areas and allow blood stem cells to survive. This can improve the efficiency of chemotherapy, increasing the five-year survival rate for AML patients over 60 to 5-15 per cent.
SourceImperial College London·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateDec 21, 2017
A new test measures RNA or protein molecules in human cells to identify viral infections, potentially replacing current methods for respiratory viral illnesses. The test was found to predict respiratory viral infection with 97% accuracy and could help diagnose patients more quickly and accurately.
SourceYale University·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateDec 21, 2017
Astronomer Catherine Pilachowski discovers star RZ Piscium is slowly consuming its planetary offspring, shedding light on a brief but volatile period in solar system history. The study provides insight into the evolution of planetary systems and why some young solar systems survive while others don't.
Researchers at the Salk Institute have found a streamlined method to generate functioning heart cells from embryonic stem cells by turning off a single gene, YAP. This discovery offers scientists a simpler protocol for creating cardiomyocytes for research and regenerative therapies.
SourceSalk Institute·JournalGenes & Development·DateDec 21, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
Researchers create a data-driven method to detect and track human movements with high accuracy, focusing on the entire body rather than just the core. The new technique uses a time-of-flight camera to scan the subject's range of view and identify five extreme points: head, hands, and feet.
SourceChinese Association of Automation·JournalIEEE/CAA Journal of Automatica Sinica·DateDec 21, 2017
Children spend increasing amounts of time on screen-based devices, but research shows they combine technology with other activities. The study highlights key gender differences in gaming habits and time spent engaging in various activities, revealing that children are not addicted to screens.
SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalChild Indicators Research·DateDec 21, 2017
NASA has selected the Comet Astrobiology Exploration Sample Return and Dragonfly mission for concept development under the New Frontiers program. The CAESAR mission aims to return a sample from a comet to study its origin and history, while the Dragonfly mission will explore Saturn's moon Titan and its prebiotic chemistry.
A novel biochemical assay has been developed to rapidly and sensitively screen for antagonist compounds targeting aldolase A (ALDOA), a key enzyme in cancer cell metabolism. The optimized assay is high-throughput friendly, cost- and labor-efficient, and suitable for analysis of multiple NADH-dependent enzymes.
SourceSLAS (Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening)·JournalSLAS DISCOVERY·DateDec 21, 2017
A study found that adults who ate more than two tomatoes or three portions of fresh fruit per day had slower lung function decline over a 10-year period. The researchers suggest that certain components in these foods might help restore lung damage caused by smoking.
SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalEuropean Respiratory Journal·DateDec 21, 2017
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.
A computational study by Queen Mary University of London has identified Botswana as the country with the most distinct musical recordings globally. The researchers found that China has the most spatial outliers compared to its neighboring countries, highlighting unique timbral characteristics such as the butterfly harp string instrument.
SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 21, 2017
Tropical Storm Tembin was spotted by NASA's Terra satellite on Dec. 20 near the Philippine Sea, with maximum sustained winds of 40 mph and a westward trajectory. The storm is forecasted to move through the southern Philippine islands, potentially strengthening in the South China Sea.
Tropical Depression Kai-Tak has weakened and elongated due to wind shear, but still harbors strong storms with extremely cold cloud top temperatures. The Joint Typhoon Warning Center expects the depression to maintain its strength before dissipating east of the Malay Peninsula.
Researchers create a new catalyst by alloying iridium with osmium and then removing the osmium to achieve a balanced structure that supports chemical reactions. The resulting material exhibits enhanced catalytic stability and electron conductivity.
SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 21, 2017
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University discovered a gene that helps zebrafish convert water motion into electrical impulses, similar to human hearing. The shared gene allows fish to sense water flow direction and may also inform future studies on human hair cell mechanotransduction.
SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 21, 2017
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.
Researchers develop methods to regulate robot movements and human interactions, aiming to improve social acceptance of robots in mobile robotics. The proposed control improves the robot's ability to emulate human-human dynamic behavior, reducing collisions and improving its acceptance by humans.
SourceChinese Association of Automation·JournalIEEE/CAA Journal of Automatica Sinica·DateDec 21, 2017
A recent study published in Nature found that Mars' surface water was absorbed by its crust over time, leaving the planet essentially dry. The research suggests that approximately 300 meters of surface water on Mars could have been locked up in microscopic mineral structures.
SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalNature·DateDec 21, 2017
Researchers from SUTD design a versatile all-electric-controlled valley filter and demonstrate a concrete working design of valleytronic logic gate. They achieve logically-reversible computation by storing information in the electron's valley state, bypassing complex circuitries.
SourceSingapore University of Technology and Design·JournalPhysical Review B·DateDec 21, 2017
A new USC study reveals that tumor growth properties can influence response to cancer drugs. Researchers found certain parameters of tumor growth can forecast the effectiveness of anti-angiogenic treatment, allowing for more accurate predictions. This breakthrough has the potential to improve cancer therapy outcomes.
SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateDec 21, 2017
GoPro HERO13 Black
GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.
Scientists have determined the kinetic cycle of a potassium channel at atomic resolution, allowing for more precise targeting of specific spots within the channel structure. This breakthrough could lead to the creation of new drug molecules that can correct potassium channels dysfunction, addressing conditions such as epilepsy and diab...
SourceTexas Tech University Health Sciences Center·DateDec 21, 2017
Scientists have identified a common target shared by the T-cell receptors of two patients with colorectal cancer, paving the way for personalized immunotherapies. The breakthrough could lead to the development of broadly effective treatments that harness the immune system to fight cancer.
SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalCell·DateDec 21, 2017
Researchers have devised a carbon-nitrogen bond forming strategy leading to new nucleoside analogues with interesting fluorescence properties, expanding on previous modifications.
SourceCity College of New York·JournalChemCatChem·DateDec 21, 2017
A team of astronomers discovered massive clouds of gas and dust orbiting the star RZ Piscium, which could have formed from destroyed planets. The star's unusual dimming episodes suggest it is a young Sun-like star with a debris disk.
A mathematical model reveals that adding a pendulum between the container and carrying hand reduces sloshing by diminishing resonant frequency. The study shows that this design significantly reduces liquid movement, minimizing spills and burns.
SourceSociety for Industrial and Applied Mathematics·JournalSIAM Review·DateDec 21, 2017
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.
Researchers at Hokkaido University have identified a cellular protein called STAP-2 that stabilizes the EGFR signaling pathway, leading to increased cell proliferation and tumor formation in prostate cancer. Suppressing STAP-2 with inhibitors could potentially treat Gefitinib-resistant prostate cancers.
SourceHokkaido University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateDec 21, 2017
A study published in the American Journal of Public Health found that Medicaid expansion led to a significant increase in early-stage cancer diagnoses, particularly among those aged 35-54. The research suggests that public health insurance may increase cancer detection, resulting in fewer cancer deaths and better patient outcomes.
SourceIndiana University·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateDec 21, 2017
Researchers propose new statistical methodology to understand climate system and attribute extreme climatic events. This approach views extreme events as a given and assesses the degree of changes in thermodynamic state variables influenced by climate change.
SourceAmerican Statistical Association·JournalCHANCE·DateDec 21, 2017
Researchers found that FDA-approved anti-inflammatory medications tofacitinib and ruxolitinib can block HIV production from infected cells, prevent transmission to bystander cells, and decay the viral reservoir. The study suggests using Jak inhibitors as a potential treatment for HIV-infected individuals to control the virus.
SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateDec 21, 2017
The study found that intoxicated participants spent significantly less time looking at women's faces compared to sober participants. Intoxicated men were more likely to 'check out' the body parts of women they perceived as unfriendly or unintelligent.
SourceUniversity of Nebraska-Lincoln·JournalSex Roles·DateDec 21, 2017
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.
Researchers at the University of Michigan have created a new type of neural network made with memristors that can dramatically improve the efficiency of teaching machines to think like humans. The system, called reservoir computing, uses fewer nodes and requires less training time than traditional neural networks.
SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 21, 2017
Research highlights the importance of dietary fiber in managing weight, blood sugar, and insulin sensitivity. Low-fiber diets can lead to weight gain, high blood sugar, and inflammation. Fiber supplements may help restore gut bacteria balance but more study is needed for treatment recommendations.
SourceCell Press·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateDec 21, 2017
A study of over 1,200 Veterans with Parkinson's disease found that those receiving deep brain stimulation (DBS) lived an average of 6.3 years after surgery, compared to 5.7 years for non-DBS patients. This modest survival advantage was attributed to improved quality of life and better symptom control.
SourceVeterans Affairs Research Communications·JournalMovement Disorders·DateDec 21, 2017
Researchers at the Max Planck Institute for Biophysical Chemistry have developed secondary nanobodies that outperform traditional antibodies in key cell-biological applications. These nanobodies can be produced in large scale by bacteria, reducing the need for animals in antibody production and improving resolution in light microscopy.
SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateDec 21, 2017
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.
A new approach identifies and measures changes in thousands of proteins as Xenopus eggs undergo fertilization, revealing details of protein destruction and release to prevent multiple fertilization. This method enables comprehensive analyses of protein dynamics and sheds light on cellular changes driving disease.
SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 21, 2017
Small Ontario municipalities are less prepared to support aging adults due to lack of planning and funding, according to a University of Waterloo report. The report recommends that municipalities adopt age-friendly policies and strategies, as seen in British Columbia, to better support their aging populations.
SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalJournal of Urban Affairs·DateDec 21, 2017
The observation of two neutron stars merging generated tiny ripples in spacetime called gravitational waves, detected by LIGO detectors on Earth. This event also triggered an explosion studied by hundreds of astronomers worldwide, marking a major breakthrough in astrophysics and offering new tools for observing the universe.
SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateDec 21, 2017
A high-protein diet can protect against colorectal cancer in those with inflammatory bowel disease, while a low-protein diet may be beneficial for those with a genetic predisposition. Researchers suggest tailoring treatments based on the amount of protein in the diet.
SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalCell Metabolism·DateDec 21, 2017
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.
Researchers at University of Utah Health have found a way for cells to destroy viruses without harming themselves. The study reveals how the protein Dicer, which is part of normal cell function, uses a different mechanism to process viral dsRNA.
SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalScience·DateDec 21, 2017
A global analysis of human birth-rate cycles found that post-holiday 'baby boom' persists across cultures, with Christmas and Eid-al-Fitr being key drivers. The study used data from Google searches and Twitter posts to reveal a correlation between online interest in sex and births nine months later.
SourceIndiana University·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 21, 2017
Researchers have developed a standardized, freely available method for creating interactive 3D maps of molecules on the skin. The technique has been used to study the influence of environmental factors and health outcomes, with potential applications in forensics, agriculture, and microbiome studies.
SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Protocols·DateDec 21, 2017
A recent study found that shutting down a coal-fired power plant significantly improves fetal health in downwind areas. The analysis of birth outcomes showed a 15% reduction in low birth weight and a 28% decrease in preterm births in areas affected by the plant's emissions.
SourceLehigh University·JournalJournal of Environmental Economics and Management·DateDec 21, 2017
Researchers detected a high rate of thyroid cancer in young individuals from Fukushima Prefecture after the 2011 nuclear accident. However, no clear evidence suggests an increased incidence of thyroid carcinomas following the accident, contrasting with Chernobyl's findings.
SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalThyroid·DateDec 21, 2017
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.
Researchers in Colorado study 200 people affected by AFFF contamination, collecting data on biological markers and health indicators to assess biopersistence and potential health impacts of PFASs. The study aims to provide a better understanding of the effects of long-term exposure to these chemicals.
SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·DateDec 21, 2017
Researchers developed a mathematical model that simulates tumor growth and predicts response to cancer drugs. The model uses parameters of tumor growth to forecast treatment effectiveness, potentially leading to new strategies for predicting tumor response.
SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateDec 21, 2017
NIFA's investments support transformative discoveries in maximizing agricultural productivity, providing a safe food supply, and promoting responsible stewardship. The partnership aims to bolster the US economy by creating jobs and enhancing nutrition while sustaining natural resources.
SourceNational Institute of Food and Agriculture·DateDec 21, 2017
Carnegie Mellon University's Tom Mitchell and MIT's Erik Brynjolfsson describe 21 criteria for evaluating task amenable to machine learning. Skills people develop and investments businesses make will determine who thrives in ML-driven economy.
SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalScience·DateDec 21, 2017
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.
Researchers from HSE and University of Valladolid created a neural network prediction model to detect corruption cases in Spanish regions. The model uses macroeconomic and political determinants to estimate the probability of corrupt cases emerging over three years, providing valuable insights for anti-corruption measures.
SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalSocial Indicators Research·DateDec 21, 2017
Entomologist Gia Aradottir from Rothamsted Research explores insect communication through chemical signals and sound-based interactions. Her experiments with aphids and parasitic wasps demonstrate the complex ways insects convey information to each other.
Researchers recreate ancient copper alloy colours using colour charts, shedding light on the importance of aesthetics in prehistoric metal-making. The study reveals that early tin bronzes may have had a distinctive golden hue, driven by demand for an 'exotic' colour.
SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalJournal of Archaeological Science·DateDec 21, 2017
New research by professors Sunil Mithas and Michael Kimbrough at the University of Maryland shows that IT investments also matter to bond markets. Bond investors favor IT investments in industries where automation and richer information flows are key, but view them as riskier in transform industries.
SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalMIS Quarterly·DateDec 21, 2017
A 10-minute burst of exercise can measurably boost brain power, improving focus and problem-solving skills. Research found that exercising for a short duration primes the brain's problem-solving areas, leading to faster reaction times and improved cognitive performance.
SourceUniversity of Western Ontario·JournalNeuropsychologia·DateDec 21, 2017
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.
A new DNA marker discovered by University College London researchers can detect fatal breast cancer up to a year before symptoms appear. The EFC#93 DNA methylation marker in blood serum correctly identified 43% of women who went on to be diagnosed with fatal breast cancer within three to six months.
SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalGenome Medicine·DateDec 21, 2017
A new study challenges the long-held assumption that soil animals contribute to the self-reinforcing effect of climate change by releasing more CO2. The research found that warming temperatures and drought actually lead to a decrease in feeding activity, contrary to expectations.
SourceGerman Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig·JournalNature Climate Change·DateDec 21, 2017
Researchers at Bar-Ilan University demonstrate that each neuron functions as a collection of excitable elements, where inputs from different directions are processed differently. This new understanding could impact research into the origin of degenerative diseases and challenges traditional spike sorting techniques.
SourceBar-Ilan University·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 21, 2017
A team of researchers identified a crucial region in Numb that binds and inhibits Mdm2, stabilizing p53 levels. This interaction is key to understanding the regulation of p53 in breast cancers, which tend to retain a functional p53 gene.
SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateDec 21, 2017
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.
A team of researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine identified four on-the-market drugs that successfully quelled symptoms triggered by several overabundant proteins in patients with a rare eye disease. The findings demonstrate the potential of treating rare and complex eye conditions using precision health approaches.
A new methodology for correlating compound identity to CYP1A2 potency of inhibitors in metabolic mixtures has been developed, providing direct identification of compounds with inhibitory properties. This approach allows for rapid assessment of pharmacokinetic properties of drugs and their metabolites, improving drug development.
SourceSLAS (Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening)·JournalSLAS DISCOVERY·DateDec 21, 2017
Researchers discovered that defects in monolayer molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) exhibit electrical switching, providing new insights into the material's electrical properties. This finding could contribute to MoS2's future use in opto-electronics and address current limitations.
SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 21, 2017
Dr. Carmen Ulloa and her team compiled a comprehensive checklist of 124,993 vascular plant species of the Americas, representing one third of all known vascular plants worldwide. The checklist was published in Science today and used the Garden's plant database, Tropicos, as its data repository.
SourceMissouri Botanical Garden·JournalScience·DateDec 21, 2017
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.
Weyl fermions, massless particles similar to light, were discovered in materials with strong electron interaction. They move extremely slowly despite no mass, lending unique properties to these materials.
SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 21, 2017
A model predictive control framework incorporates adaptable interaction models for personalized human-robot collaboration, resulting in precise shared movements. Personalization allows robots to learn from users and adjust their interference to optimize performance.
SourceChinese Association of Automation·JournalIEEE/CAA Journal of Automatica Sinica·DateDec 21, 2017
Archaeologists have uncovered a vast, structured surveillance and communication network dating back to the Middle Bronze Age in northern Syria. The network, comprising fortresses, small forts, towers, and enclosures, stretched across approximately 7,000 km2 and was designed to protect urban areas and transport corridors.
Researchers developed a compact and inexpensive camera that produces high-resolution 3D images from a single 2D image. The DiffuserCam uses computational imaging to reconstruct 100 million voxels from a 1.3-megapixel image, with potential applications in brain research, self-driving cars, and machine learning.
A study by Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciencia found that worldwide peaks of sexual interest coincide with specific religious celebrations, leading to peaks in birth rates. Online searches related to sex display a cyclical nature that correlates with a specific "loving mood" independently detected on Twitter.
SourceInstituto Gulbenkian de Ciencia·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 21, 2017
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.
A new study from the University of Pennsylvania found that children who eat fish at least once a week have better sleep quality and higher IQ scores. The researchers discovered that increased omega-3 consumption is associated with improved cognitive function and reduced sleep disturbances.
SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 21, 2017
The study presents a comprehensive checklist of 124,993 plant species across North and South America. Notably, the vast majority of plant species in the Americas are found in just one country or region, with Brazil having the most diverse flora. The authors predict an additional 25,000 species will be documented by 2050.
SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateDec 21, 2017
Researchers have developed small shining molecules that can recognize specific proteins in the brain, such as amyloid beta and tau. These molecules emit light at different wavelengths when bound to their target protein, enabling potential diagnostic tools for neurodegenerative diseases.
SourceLinköping University·JournalChemistry - A European Journal·DateDec 21, 2017
A new population-based model has been developed to track new HIV infections with greater accuracy, enabling researchers to better target prevention strategies and evaluate interventions. The tool uses biomarkers to identify recent infections, reducing false classifications and costs for studies.
Researchers discovered a mechanism to regulate switching between breast cancer-associated genes, using G-quadruplex structures. The study provides new insights into alternative splicing and could lead to the development of novel therapeutic strategies for controlling cancer growth.
SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalGenes & Development·DateDec 21, 2017
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.
The new book highlights scientific advances and emerging opportunities for targeted research, focusing on key questions to improve management effectiveness. World-renowned experts discuss the biology, ecology, and early life stages of COTS, emphasizing the need for improved knowledge to prevent outbreaks.
SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·JournalDiversity·DateDec 21, 2017
Researchers have gained crucial gene-level insights into an age-old evolutionary arms race between wheat and stem rust disease, a devastating fungal pathogen. The studies identified key peptides released by the fungus that can evade plant immune systems, potentially allowing for more effective DNA testing to identify resistant crops.
SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateDec 21, 2017
Research from the University of East Anglia found that singing in a community group improved mental health for participants. The combination of singing and socializing promoted feelings of belonging and well-being, leading to improved mood and daily functioning.
SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalMedical Humanities·DateDec 21, 2017
Researchers have isolated the first rust pathogen gene that wheat plants detect to 'switch on' resistance, allowing for faster DNA testing and prioritizing resistance genes. The breakthrough could save crops from being destroyed by devastating diseases, threatening food security globally.
Chemists at Ruhr-Universität Bochum tracked individual water molecules attaching to an organic molecule, exploring hydrophilicity and hydrophobicity. The study uses low-temperature scanning tunneling microscopy, providing insights into solvation processes.
SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateDec 21, 2017
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.
Harvard researchers have developed a technique to fabricate high-quality lithium niobate devices with ultralow loss and high optical confinement. This breakthrough opens the door to practical integrated photonic circuits for applications in quantum photonics, microwave-to-optical conversion, and more.
SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalOptica·DateDec 21, 2017
Scientists use x-ray lasers to map out water's fluctuations between two liquid states as it cools. Water behaves strangely compared to other substances, with density and specific heat responding oppositely to pressure and temperature changes.
A research team led by Tanya Prozorov has demonstrated the first high-resolution mapping of magnetic fields in bacterial cells and magnetic nano-objects in liquid. This capability has vast potential for scientific breakthroughs in physics, nanotechnology, biofuels conversion, biomedical engineering, catalysis, batteries, and pharmacology.
SourceDOE/Ames National Laboratory·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateDec 21, 2017
Scientists at UTHealth and UT Health San Antonio are developing an innovative antibody-based drug to stem the spread of breast cancer to bone, linked to reduced survival rates. The goal is to create a less toxic treatment and reduce deaths tied to breast cancer's spread.
SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·DateDec 21, 2017
A team of MGH investigators has developed an approach to convert autoantibodies into anti-inflammatory antibodies using enzymes, which showed promise in treating two autoimmune diseases. The researchers hope this method will provide a more effective and efficient alternative to IVIG treatment.
SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalCell·DateDec 21, 2017
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.
Researchers propose a new term, mapranosis, to describe the interaction between gut microbiota and brain proteins that contributes to neurodegenerative diseases. The process involves amyloid protein misfolding and inflammation in the nervous system.
SourceUniversity of Louisville·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateDec 21, 2017
A new study found that adolescents who experienced frequent psychosocial risks are more likely to engage in unsafe sexual behavior and report unprotected sex. The longitudinal study of 850 African-American students from age 14 to 32 revealed a higher risk of HIV infection for those with co-occurring psychological and social risk factors.
Researchers estimate that vampire bat rabies causes between 505-724 cattle deaths annually in Peru, with significant financial losses for farming communities. Enhancing vaccination programs can reduce the disease burden and increase awareness can encourage preventative measures.
SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateDec 21, 2017
A new technique uses interactive software to analyze digital images of giant panda footprints, identifying individual animals and their sex with high accuracy. The system's ease of use makes it suitable for studying elusive species like the giant panda.
SourceDuke University·JournalBiological Conservation·DateDec 21, 2017
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.
The University of Texas at Arlington has extended its partnership with Apache Corporation to study the Alpine High region's surface and groundwater quality. The project aims to provide baseline data for ongoing monitoring efforts and evaluate stimulation additives to optimize oil and gas well efficiency.
Researchers at Ural Federal University and Institute of Chemistry of Solids created a new compound that converts UV radiation into visible light. The compound has potential uses in medical and optical devices, as well as air pollution analysis.
SourceUral Federal University·JournalJournal of Luminescence·DateDec 21, 2017
Researchers at the Salk Institute have discovered a multifunctional role for the protein nup98 in blood cell development, enabling immature stem cells to differentiate into specialized mature cell types. The findings also shed light on the mechanism of leukemia formation and its potential treatment.
SourceSalk Institute·JournalGenes & Development·DateDec 21, 2017
A team of experts has identified a gene that triggers resistance in wheat to the devastating fungal pathogen Puccinia graminis f. sp. tritici (Pgt). The breakthrough allows for DNA testing to identify whether a rust strain can overcome a resistance gene, enabling targeted treatment and reducing crop devastation.
A study by Nanyang Technological University found that oil palm production in Malaysia leads to a surge in wild boar population, damaging forest trees and preventing regeneration. The researchers suggest larger buffer areas around forest reserves to limit wildlife access to oil palm fruits.
SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 21, 2017
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