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Science News for February 16, 2017


LemurFaceID: Using facial recognition software to identify lemurs

A new facial recognition system, LemurFaceID, can correctly identify individual lemurs using photos of their faces, offering a non-invasive alternative to traditional methods. The system shows high accuracy in identifying lemurs across different species, with potential applications for conservation and research.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Zoology·DateFeb 16, 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.

Genome surgery with CRISPR-Cas9 to prevent blindness

Scientists successfully delivered CRISPR-Cas9 to the eyes of mice with wet AMD, modifying the VEGF gene and reducing choroidal neovascularization (CNV) by 58%. This breakthrough could lead to a new therapeutic modality for non-hereditary degenerative diseases.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalGenome Research·DateFeb 16, 2017

The licensing landscape of CRISPR technologies, and its implications

The use of CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing technology is restricted due to competing claims over foundational patent rights. Exclusive licenses granted to spinoff companies formed by institutions and researchers could bottleneck the development of human therapeutics.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateFeb 16, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Social exclusion leads to conspiratorial thinking, study finds

A Princeton University study found that social exclusion leads to superstitious beliefs and conspiracy theories, suggesting a cycle of exclusion that can entrench beliefs. The researchers propose that addressing social exclusion could help counteract these theories.

SourcePrinceton School of Public and International Affairs·JournalJournal of Experimental Psychology·DateFeb 16, 2017

Seagrasses greatly reduce bacteria, benefiting humans and marine life

A new study reveals that seagrass meadows can reduce bacteria pathogenic to humans and marine life by up to 50%. The presence of seagrasses also reduces the prevalence of disease in corals located nearby, with field surveys showing a 2-fold decrease in disease compared to coral without seagrass neighbors.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateFeb 16, 2017

Mothers and infants connect through song

Research from UM Frost School of Music found that infant-directed singing fosters a strong bond between mothers and infants. Engaging infants through song stimulates their attention, while also benefiting the mother by providing a distraction from negative emotions and thoughts associated with postpartum depression.

SourceUniversity of Miami·JournalJournal of Music Therapy·DateFeb 16, 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.

Underwater seagrass beds dial back polluted seawater

New research reveals that seagrass meadows can combat bacteria in water, reducing disease associated with marine organisms. The study found lower levels of disease on reefs with adjacent seagrass beds than those without nearby grasses.

SourceCornell University·JournalScience·DateFeb 16, 2017

Smokers’ memories could help them quit

A Michigan State University study found that smokers who viewed a nostalgic public service announcement showed greater emotional engagement and stronger negative attitudes towards smoking. The researchers argue that nostalgia-themed messages could be an effective way to promote healthy behaviors.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalCommunication Research Reports·DateFeb 16, 2017

By the numbers: What are the most attractive female lips?

A new study published in JAMA Facial Plastic Surgery found that the most attractive female lips have a 53.5% increase in surface area and an ideal upper to lower lip ratio of 1:2. This guideline aims to help achieve optimal outcomes in lip augmentation procedures.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Facial Plastic Surgery·DateFeb 16, 2017

Doctors treat deadly cancerous disorders with gene-guided, targeted therapy

Researchers at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center successfully treated patients with deadly, treatment-resistant blood cancers using gene-guided therapy. The targeted approach identified specific genes fueling the diseases and prescribed molecular drugs to put them into remission.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalJCI Insight·DateFeb 16, 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.

Investigating the impact of 'legacy sediments' on water quality

A new USDA grant aims to determine if stream-bank legacy sediments are significant sources of nutrients to surface waters. The study will focus on understanding the fate of legacy sediments, their microbial community composition and nutrient transformation processes in aquatic ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·DateFeb 16, 2017

Experts warn of the need to control doping also in amateur athletes

A study by the University of Granada found that 8.2% of amateur cyclists admitted to consuming performance-enhancement drugs. The researchers associate PEDs consumption with a 'false consensus effect', permissive attitudes, and lower self-efficacy among participants.

SourceUniversity of Granada·JournalThe Sport Psychologist·DateFeb 16, 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.

Video messages clarify patients' wishes for critical versus end-of-life care

A study published in the Journal of Patient Safety found that video testimonials improve physicians' agreement on patients' treatment choices. The addition of a video testimonial led to statistically significant changes in responses, with doctors more likely to choose full aggressive treatment in five scenarios.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Patient Safety·DateFeb 16, 2017

Identifying vaccination capacity for future foot-and-mouth outbreaks

A mathematical model determines the best vaccination strategy in the presence of uncertainty surrounding vaccination efficacy and animal vaccination capacity. The study shows significant cost savings can be achieved by accurately identifying our capacity to vaccinate, with £55 million in outbreak costs potentially saved.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateFeb 16, 2017

Adenoviruses and the immune system join forces against cancer

Researchers at IDIBELL have developed an oncolytic virus that redirects the patient's immune system against tumor cells, increasing antitumor efficacy. The virus uses BiTE antibodies to activate T lymphocytes and capture them to attack adjacent cancer cells.

SourceIDIBELL-Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute·JournalCancer Cell·DateFeb 16, 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.

GARP2 accelerates retinal degeneration in a mouse model

Researchers found that GARP2 accelerates retinal degeneration in mice, while GARP1 slows its negative effect when both proteins are present. They also developed a standardized nomenclature for OCT measurements in mice, facilitating comparisons with human studies.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 16, 2017

B vitamins reduce schizophrenia symptoms, study finds

A review of worldwide studies found that high-dose B-vitamins significantly reduce schizophrenia symptoms. The research suggests that B vitamins are most beneficial when implemented early on and used with higher dosages or combined several vitamins.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalPsychological Medicine·DateFeb 16, 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.

Being a tattoo artist is a pain in the neck, study finds

A study by Ohio State University researchers measured the muscle exertions of 10 central Ohio tattoo artists, finding they exceeded maximums recommended to avoid injury. The study highlighted issues with ergonomic guidelines and workers' compensation in the industry.

SourceOhio State University·JournalApplied Ergonomics·DateFeb 16, 2017

How whale nerves survive huge stretching during feeding

Researchers have discovered that whale nerves utilize two levels of waviness to package their highly extensible nerves, reducing strain when stretched or bent. This unique structure enables the nerves to recoil without sustaining damage during feeding lunges.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateFeb 16, 2017

HIV hijacks common cells to spread infection

Scientists discovered that fibroblasts, a type of connective tissue cell, increase HIV infection in immune cells through trans-infection and make them more prone to infection. Epithelial cells, on the other hand, secrete high levels of antiviral proteins that inhibit infection.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateFeb 16, 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.

Snap beans hard to grow in cover crop residue

Researchers found that snap bean yields were not significantly affected by no-till cover crops, despite the benefits of weed suppression. The study suggests that timing and management techniques are crucial for successful integration of cover crops into vegetable production systems.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalRenewable Agriculture and Food Systems·DateFeb 16, 2017

Researchers discover 'molecular switch' that causes auto-immune diseases

Researchers identified T-bet as the key control point regulating genetic risk in specific diseases like IBD and Celiac disease. This discovery provides a specific target for treatment development, potentially leading to more effective therapies for life-changing auto-immune conditions.

SourceNIHR Biomedical Research Centre at Guy’s and St Thomas’ and King’s College London·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateFeb 16, 2017

Doctors prescribe more antibiotics when expectations are high, study says

Physicians are more likely to prescribe antibiotics when they expect high patient expectations, even if the probability of bacterial infection is low. This study suggests that tackling non-clinical factors, such as managing patient expectations, is crucial in reducing antibiotic overuse and addressing global health threats.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalHealth Psychology·DateFeb 16, 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.

Bringing satellites to users can improve public health and safety

The NASA team is using satellites to provide real-time air quality data, making it easier for policymakers, doctors, and lawyers to track changes in rural and suburban areas. By collaborating with experts from various fields, the team aims to develop new ways to use satellite data to address pressing public health issues.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·DateFeb 16, 2017

Printable solar cells just got a little closer

Researchers at the University of Toronto have developed a new chemical reaction that enables the growth of an electron-selective layer made of nanoparticles in solution, directly on top of the electrode. This breakthrough reduces the manufacturing temperature and improves efficiency, paving the way for low-cost, printable solar panels.

SourceUniversity of Toronto Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering·JournalScience·DateFeb 16, 2017

Method to predict surface ozone pollution levels provides 48-hour heads-up

A novel air quality model, REGiS, can predict surface ozone levels up to 48 hours in advance by combining statistical models with weather patterns. This method provides a 48-hour heads-up for air quality forecasters and decision-makers to mitigate unhealthy ozone level formation.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Applied Meteorology and Climatology·DateFeb 16, 2017

Vitamin B3 prevents glaucoma in laboratory mice

Researchers found that vitamin B3 administration eliminated age-related molecular changes and provided robust protection against glaucoma. The treatment boosted metabolic reliability of aging retinal ganglion cells, keeping them healthier for longer.

SourceJackson Laboratory·JournalScience·DateFeb 16, 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.

Zero tolerance policies unfairly punish black girls

Zero tolerance policies unfairly target black girls, resulting in higher suspension rates and harsher discipline for minor offenses. The paper argues that these policies perpetuate a prison-type mentality, snuffing out the identities of black girls.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalUrban Education·DateFeb 16, 2017

Stepping up the hunt for genetic diseases

A new genomic technique has been devised to quickly and accurately detect imprinted genes expressed in each cell type, improving diagnosis of genetic diseases like Prader-Willi and Angelman syndrome. Researchers have identified novel imprinted genes and demonstrated their tissue-specific expression.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateFeb 16, 2017

International students' concept of 'home' shapes post-graduation plans

A study from University of British Columbia found that international students' concepts of 'home' significantly impact their post-graduation plans. Four ways of thinking about home were identified: host, ancestral, cosmopolitan, and nebulous. Students who thought of their host home as 'home' planned to stay, while those who saw it as a...

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalGeoforum·DateFeb 16, 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.

RIT selected to receive National Science Foundation I-Corps grant

RIT National Technical Institute for the Deaf (NTID) will partner with RIT's I-Corps site initiative to promote inclusive entrepreneurship among deaf and hard-of-hearing students. The grant will support programs and events that engage underrepresented groups in STEM entrepreneurship.

SourceRochester Institute of Technology·DateFeb 16, 2017

Physical basis of tissue coordination uncovered

A recent study published in Developmental Cell reveals that surface cells play a key role in coordinating tissue movements during early zebrafish development. By reducing surface tension, these cells drive both surface cell layer expansion and inner cell intercalation, resulting in coordinated tissue spreading.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateFeb 16, 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.

Is your big data messy? We're making an app for that

Researchers have developed Vizier, an open-source software to 'clean' big data, making it easier for users to explore, visualize, and communicate insights. The tool is designed for massive datasets, allowing users to spot errors and offer solutions.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·DateFeb 16, 2017

Complex neurological infections require team care

The Infectious Diseases Society of America has published guidelines for diagnosing and treating complex neurological infections, highlighting the importance of a multidisciplinary team approach. The guidelines provide parameters for identifying and managing ventriculitis and meningitis, as well as prevention strategies.

SourceInfectious Diseases Society of America·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateFeb 16, 2017

Breakthrough in 'wonder' materials paves way for flexible tech

Researchers at University of Warwick developed a new technique to measure electronic structures of two-dimensional materials, paving the way for highly efficient nano-circuitry. This breakthrough could lead to smaller, flexible gadgets and revolutionized solar power with strong absorption and efficient power conversion.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 16, 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.

Scientists reveal the treadmilling motion of dividing bacteria

An international team of scientists has discovered the critical role of FtsZ filament motion in bacterial cell division, revealing a novel mechanism for building the cell wall. The study provides insights into the process and potential targets for new antibiotics.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalScience·DateFeb 16, 2017

Prebiotic evolution: Hairpins help each other out

Researchers found that hairpin structures can effectively replicate DNA, leading to faster evolution. This discovery challenges traditional views of DNA replication and provides insight into the origins of life on Earth.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 16, 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 simple test allows to identify children prone to suffer cardiovascular diseases

A study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine analyzed data from over 9,000 children and adolescents to identify those with increased risk of cardiovascular disease. The research found that a simple aerobic capacity test can determine which children have worse cardiovascular health and should undergo an intervention program.

SourceUniversity of Granada·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·DateFeb 16, 2017

Honey bee genetics sheds light on bee origins

A new study from researchers at UC Davis and UC Berkeley reveals the population structure of honey bees in California, shedding light on their origins. The research combines large databases to provide a comprehensive sampling of honey bees across Africa, the Middle East, and Europe.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalGenome Biology and Evolution·DateFeb 16, 2017

Study examines life history of imperiled rattlesnake

Scientists found strong evidence for geographic variation in six of nine life-history variables, including body size and litter sizes. The study suggests a one-size-fits-all conservation strategy is not appropriate, and assessments should account for geography to aid Eastern Massasauga recovery efforts.

SourceNorthern Illinois University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 16, 2017

US icebreaker to visit New Zealand

The USCGC Polar Star's port call in Lyttelton marks a significant shift in US-New Zealand relations, allowing for increased cooperation on logistics and scientific research. The visit supports the US Antarctic Program's cargo operations and enables the efficient transportation of supplies to research stations.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·DateFeb 16, 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.

Molecular patterns of complex diseases

A team of scientists has conducted the largest genome-wide association study on proteomics to date, revealing 539 associations between protein levels and genetic variants in complex diseases. The study found these associations overlap with risk genes for 42 complex conditions, such as cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer's disease.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 16, 2017

Do you really get paid less if you're 'ugly'?

A study by Kanazawa and Still found that healthier and more intelligent people, as well as those with better personality traits, tend to earn higher salaries. In contrast, the 'ugliness premium' theory suggests that physically unattractive individuals earn less.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of Business and Psychology·DateFeb 16, 2017

Study maps where US patients appear more ill than they are

A new study maps where US patients appear more ill than they are, highlighting the impact of diagnostic intensity on population health. Researchers found that areas with more aggressive medical practices tend to have higher health scores, while less aggressive areas have lower scores.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateFeb 16, 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.

New studies unravel mysteries of how PARP enzymes work

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center discovered that PARP-1 enzyme plays a crucial role in inhibiting fat cell formation and maintaining embryonic stem cells. The study highlights the importance of PARP-1 in normal physiological processes and its potential as a target for treating metabolic disorders.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalMolecular Cell·DateFeb 16, 2017

Less snow and a shorter ski season in the Alps

A study published in The Cryosphere shows the Alps could lose up to 70% of snow cover by the end of the century unless global warming is kept below 2°C. However, if emissions are controlled, the reduction would be limited to 30% by 2100.

SourceEuropean Geosciences Union·JournalThe Cryosphere·DateFeb 16, 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.

For mosquito repellents, stick with the spray

Researchers found that DEET and PMD-based sprays were the most effective at repelling Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, while wearable devices showed little to no effect. The study tested five wearable devices and five spray-on repellents, concluding that consumers should seek out the most effective products to avoid mosquito bites.

SourceEntomological Society of America·JournalJournal of Insect Science·DateFeb 16, 2017
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

How cancers trick the immune system into helping rather than harming them

Scientists at Trinity College Dublin discovered how cancers hijack the immune system's wound-healing response to receive help. They found that a molecule called TRAIL can be re-wired in certain tumors to send an inflammatory signal, tricking the immune system into assisting cancer growth.

SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalMolecular Cell·DateFeb 16, 2017

A case where smoking helped

Researchers found that a specific mutation in hemoglobin makes it selectively bind to carbon monoxide from cigarette smoke, preventing oxidation and anemia. The father's smoking habit prevents him from developing the disease, while his daughter requires treatment with antioxidants to manage her condition.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateFeb 16, 2017

Glowing mice suggest new gene therapy technique

A novel gene therapy technique, called charge-altering releasable transporters (CARTs), has been developed to deliver messenger RNA (mRNA) into cells. This method overcomes the challenge of delivering mRNA through cell membranes and shows promise for treating diseases by inserting therapeutic proteins.

SourceStanford University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 16, 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.

Children's National Health System, in partnership with GW, receives second CTSA

The Children's National Health System has received a prestigious Clinical and Translational Science Award, worth $24 million, to break down research barriers and foster innovative pediatric-focused translational research. The partnership enables the translation of research into real-life improvements in child health, addressing various...

SourceChildren's National Hospital·DateFeb 16, 2017

Looking beyond cancer cells to understand what makes breast cancer spread

A new study from Michigan Medicine identifies a protein in the microenvironment of metastatic breast cancer cells that promotes their spread. The researchers found that this protein, DDR2, plays a key role in fueling the growth and migration of cancer cells, and that inhibiting it may prevent metastasis.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalCell Reports·DateFeb 16, 2017

Gene therapy used to treat Fabry disease -- a world first

Researchers have used gene therapy to treat Fabry disease, a rare inherited enzyme deficiency that can damage major organs and shorten lifespan. The treatment involves transplanted altered stem cells with copies of the fully functional gene responsible for the missing enzyme.

SourceAlberta Health Services·DateFeb 16, 2017

Solving the puzzle of Alzheimer's disease

A UAlberta study found that AC253 improves memory and learning in mice with Alzheimer's-like symptoms, reducing amyloid levels and inflammation in the brain. Further studies are needed to optimize dosage and effectiveness.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·DateFeb 16, 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.

Real-time MRI analysis powered by supercomputers

Researchers develop a pipeline to power fast and accurate image processing for precision medicine. The platform combines the imaging capabilities of Philips MRI scanners with the processing power of Stampede supercomputer.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·DateFeb 16, 2017

Pizza, burgers and the like: A single high-fat meal can damage the metabolism

A single high-fat meal can reduce the body's sensitivity to insulin, leading to increased fat deposits in the liver and changes in energy metabolism. This study found that even a small amount of palm oil triggers insulin resistance, which can contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes and fatty liver disease.

SourceDeutsches Zentrum fuer Diabetesforschung DZD·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateFeb 16, 2017

How much biomass grows in the savannah?

A team of geographers has developed a methodology to measure aboveground woody biomass in savannahs, with results showing significant changes in the ecosystem. The study found that some areas of Kruger National Park's savannah are experiencing declining biomass due to elephant activity, not human impact.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalForests·DateFeb 16, 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.

Foot-and-mouth crises to be averted with vaccination strategy

Researchers from the University of Warwick have discovered that establishing a daily vaccination capacity can effectively control and eradicate foot-and-mouth disease outbreaks. By tailoring controls to this number, the UK could save up to £50 million and spare around 200,000 animals from culling.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateFeb 16, 2017

Can facial recognition systems help save lemurs?

A new facial recognition system, LemurFaceID, identifies over 100 individual lemurs with 98.7% accuracy, providing a rapid and cost-effective method for long-term research of endangered species. This technology also offers a humane alternative to capture and collar methods.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalBMC Zoology·DateFeb 16, 2017

People far from urban lights, bright screens still skimp on sleep

A Duke University study found people in rural Madagascar get shorter, poorer sleep than those in the US or Europe, but compensate by having a more consistent sleep schedule. Despite disrupted rest due to noise and light, participants reported being happy with their sleep.

SourceDuke University·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Biology·DateFeb 16, 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.

Same behavior outdoors and in the lab

Desert ants have an internal navigation system that allows them to measure distance by recording steps taken and orient themselves using the sun. In a lab experiment, researchers created a spherical treadmill for the ants to navigate on, showing high precision in their navigation skills.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateFeb 16, 2017

Four-stroke engine cycle produces hydrogen from methane and captures CO2

Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology have developed a laboratory-scale system that produces green hydrogen at relatively low temperatures, capturing CO2 emissions. The CO2/H2 Active Membrane Piston (CHAMP) reactor can be scaled up or down to meet specific needs and operates more slowly than conventional engines.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalIndustrial & Engineering Chemistry Research·DateFeb 16, 2017

Placebo and valium are equally effective for acute lower back pain in the ER

A double-blind, randomized clinical trial found that patients treated with naproxen and placebo had outcomes as good as those treated with naproxen and diazepam (Valium) for acute lower back pain. By three months after visiting the emergency department, most patients had recovered completely regardless of treatment.

SourceAmerican College of Emergency Physicians·JournalAnnals of Emergency Medicine·DateFeb 16, 2017

Queen's researchers make breakthrough in fight against superbug

Klebsiella pneumoniae is a multi-drug resistant microbe causing severe infections with mortality rates of 25-60 percent. Researchers have identified the underlying molecular explanations preventing treatment, highlighting the need for innovative solutions to counteract its effects.

SourceQueen's University Belfast·JournalThe EMBO Journal·DateFeb 16, 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.

Immune cell serves as an essential communications link for migrating cells

Researchers discovered that macrophages transmit messages between non-immune cells, such as pigment cells in fish, to facilitate complex patterns like stripes. This unique function of macrophages suggests they may play a broader role in intercellular communication, affecting tissue development, regeneration, and cancer.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalScience·DateFeb 16, 2017

Encouraging signs for potential new antibiotic

A study published in the Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy reveals that epidermicin is as effective as mupirocin in eradicating MRSA from cotton rats' nostrils. The results justify further development of epidermicin as an alternative to existing antimicrobial agents.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalJournal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy·DateFeb 16, 2017

Consuming saturated animal fats increases the risk of type 2 diabetes

Researchers found that high consumption of saturated fatty acids and animal fat increased the risk of type 2 diabetes by twofold. The study also showed that substituting saturated fats with vegetable sources like olive oil and nuts can help prevent chronic diseases.

SourceUniversitat Rovira i Virgili·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateFeb 16, 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.

Big improvement to brain-computer interface

Researchers at San Diego State University have developed glassy carbon electrodes that transmit more robust signals to restore motion in people with damaged spinal cords. This innovation improves durability and signal quality, enabling better motor function restoration.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 16, 2017

Cells divide by 'bricklaying on moving scaffolding'

Researchers discovered how bacteria build new cell walls by 'treadmilling', adding material to the front and removing it from the rear. This process allows for rapid cell division, with new cell walls constructed in just 10-15 minutes.

SourceDelft University of Technology·JournalScience·DateFeb 16, 2017

Targeting the biological clock could slow the progression of cancer

Researchers at McGill University have discovered that targeting the biological clock in cancer cells can inhibit tumor growth. By 'repairing' the malfunctioning clock, tumors grew nearly half as fast as those without such intervention, suggesting a potential new way to treat cancer in humans.

SourceMcGill University·JournalBMC Biology·DateFeb 16, 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.

Moths' sweet way of compensating for lack of antioxidants

A new study reveals that nectar-feeding moths can avoid oxidative damage to their muscles by converting carbohydrates into antioxidants. The researchers found that the moths rely on the pentose phosphate pathway to produce antioxidants, a mechanism that may be shared with other animals, including humans.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateFeb 16, 2017

NASA gets a night-time view ex-Tropical Cyclone Dineo

The NASA-NOAA's Suomi NPP satellite captured a night-time image of the ex-tropical cyclone, showing it had become elongated as it weakened. The storm is expected to continue weakening as it tracks further inland on February 16, bringing heavy rain and localized flooding to parts of South Africa.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateFeb 16, 2017

Roads are driving rapid evolutionary change in our environment

A Dartmouth-led study finds that roads trigger rapid evolutionary changes in wild populations, with some species adapting to pollutants and others becoming maladapted. This shift is transforming scientists' views of the biological impacts of roads on ecosystems.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateFeb 16, 2017

Spider web of cancer proteins reveals new drug possibilities

Researchers at Emory University's Winship Cancer Institute have mapped a vast network of interactions between cancer proteins, revealing new ways to target cells with mutations. This approach identified a potential link between FDA-approved drug palbociclib and a commonly mutated gene in lung cancer cells.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 16, 2017

Robbed of royalty: Mutilation and social determination of female Diacamma ants

A study on female Diacamma ants reveals that gene expression patterns primarily determine caste differentiation in nutrition-related genes. The research found that only a small number of genes differentiate the reproductive and worker castes, supporting the idea that increased energy requirement may drive eusociality evolution.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateFeb 16, 2017

Using an air conditioner in summer may affect sleep quality

A study by Toyohashi University of Technology found that general air conditioner airflow can influence sleep conditions, even at low velocities. The research suggests customized airflow settings may help create a comfortable sleeping environment.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalEnergy and Buildings·DateFeb 16, 2017