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Science News for February 6, 2017


Santa Fe Institute researchers look for life's (lower) limits

Santa Fe Institute researchers investigated the lower bound of energy required for life and found that smallest species are most protein dense. As cell size increases, RNA concentrations grow, leading to a decrease in protein density, with larger cells eventually reaching an energy limit.

SourceSanta Fe Institute·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateFeb 6, 2017

Mimicking nature's cellular architectures via 3-D printing

Scientists at Harvard and MIT have developed a new 3D printing method that can create lightweight structural materials with tunable porosity, inspired by natural cellular structures. The approach uses ceramic foam ink to produce materials with exceptional stiffness and multifunctional properties.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 6, 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.

Rapid test detects mobile resistance gene mcr-1

A rapid genotypic resistance test for colistin has been developed to detect the mobile resistance gene mcr-1, which threatens emergency antibiotics. The test demonstrated 100% sensitivity and specificity in detecting mcr-1 on plasmids.

SourceGerman Center for Infection Research·JournalAntimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy·DateFeb 6, 2017

This spiny slug blazed a trail for snails

Scientists have unearthed a 480-million-year-old creature named Calvapilosa, an early offshoot of the line leading to modern coat-of-mail shells or chitons. The discovery sheds light on the evolutionary history of mollusks, which includes squids, octopuses, snails, and clams.

SourceYale University·JournalNature·DateFeb 6, 2017

Hundreds of ancient earthworks built in the Amazon

Researchers uncovered hundreds of large, mysterious geoglyphs in Brazil's Amazon rainforest, challenging assumptions about the ecosystem. The sites were found to have been built using sustainable 'agroforestry' practices, which concentrated on economically valuable tree species.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 6, 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.

Engineers harness stomach acid to power tiny sensors

Researchers at MIT and Brigham and Women's Hospital have designed a small voltaic cell powered by acidic stomach fluids, generating enough energy to run small sensors or drug delivery devices. This innovation could offer a safer and lower-cost alternative to traditional batteries.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateFeb 6, 2017

A bridge to breathing

A compact respiratory assist device is being developed to replace traditional oxygenation methods as a bridge to transplant or recovery in children with lung failure. The device aims to allow patients mobility while awaiting a transplant, potentially leading to better post-transplant outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·DateFeb 6, 2017

Research reveals strategy to potentially treat juvenile Batten disease

A team of researchers has discovered a novel approach to treating juvenile Batten disease by activating a protein called TFEB, which stimulates the cell to produce more lysosomes and degrade cellular waste. This breakthrough may lead to improved neurological symptoms in patients with the condition.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 6, 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.

Potential new cancer treatment activates cancer-engulfing cells

A research group at Kobe University has discovered a potential new cancer treatment that activates cancer-engulfing cells. The treatment uses an antibody to activate macrophages, which can effectively eliminate cancer cells. This discovery could lead to the development of new and more effective cancer treatments.

SourceKobe University·JournalJCI Insight·DateFeb 6, 2017

Barely educated humans impact bear behavior

Researchers found that education targeting border areas between residential communities and bear habitats can limit conflicts. The study suggests that reducing urban land use can also decrease human-bear interactions.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalEcological Modelling·DateFeb 6, 2017

Older than the moon

Scientists have discovered a primordial soup in the Earth's mantle older than the moon, containing helium-3, a vestige of the Big Bang. Only the hottest and most buoyant mantle plumes draw from this reservoir, suggesting it may be preserved due to its density.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNature·DateFeb 6, 2017

Study shows planet's atmospheric oxygen rose through glaciers

A new study has determined that the first Paleoproterozoic global glaciation and significant step change in atmospheric oxygenation occurred between 2,460 and 2,426 million years ago. The rise of atmospheric oxygen was characterized by significant oscillations before irreversible oxygenation of the atmosphere 2,250 million years ago.

SourceUniversity of Wyoming·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 6, 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.

Psychotherapy normalizes the brain in social phobia

A new study reveals that successful treatment of social anxiety disorder alters key brain structures involved in processing and regulating emotions. Cognitive behavioral therapy, a central therapy for social anxiety disorder, has been shown to restore balance between cortical and subcortical brain areas.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateFeb 6, 2017

Medicaid waivers help parents of children with autism stay in the workforce

Research from Penn State College of Medicine found that Medicaid waivers improving access to home and community-based services for children with autism also support parental employment. Waiver programs with increased cost limits and enrollment limits helped lower-income households, while those with higher limits benefited higher-income...

SourcePenn State·JournalHealth Affairs·DateFeb 6, 2017

Scientists discover helium chemistry

Researchers predict two stable helium compounds, Na2He and Na2HeO, with unique properties. The discovery sheds light on extreme conditions inside gas giant planets and stars, where helium is a major component.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalNature Chemistry·DateFeb 6, 2017

UNH researcher discovers a black hole feeding frenzy that breaks records

A giant black hole has been found to have fed off a nearby star for over 9 years, breaking the previous record for the longest tidal disruption event. The X-ray data suggests that the radiation from material surrounding this black hole consistently surpassed the Eddington limit.

SourceUniversity of New Hampshire·JournalNature Astronomy·DateFeb 6, 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.

'Curiosity' exposes low CO2 level in Mars' primitive atmosphere

A recent study published in PNAS reveals that Mars' primitive atmosphere had a low CO2 level, making it inhospitable for the formation of liquid water lakes. This finding contradicts previous assumptions and suggests that the planet's climate may have been colder than previously thought.

SourceSpanish National Research Council (CSIC)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 6, 2017

Stanford scientists develop 'lab on a chip' that costs 1 cent to make

Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine have developed a cheap and reusable diagnostic 'lab on a chip' with the help of an ordinary inkjet printer. The technology has the potential to enhance diagnostic capabilities around the world, especially in developing countries where access to early diagnostics is limited.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 6, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

How geospatial characteristics affect those most affected by HIV

A new study proposes strategies to intensify prevention efforts in communities heavily affected by HIV, highlighting structural factors that contribute to HIV disparities. Researchers found that demographic, physical and social contexts where individuals interact are associated with behavioral and biological HIV risk.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Nursing·JournalThe Journal of Sex Research·DateFeb 6, 2017

E-cigarettes confirmed to be safer than smoking in long-term study

A long-term study found that e-cigarette users who stopped smoking cigarettes substantially reduced their intake of cancer-causing chemicals compared to those who continued to smoke. The study confirms that e-cigarettes are much safer than conventional cigarettes and may be a useful long-term quitting aid for patients.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateFeb 6, 2017

Can sharks be fished sustainably? Yes (but it's going to take work)

A study found that 39 populations of sharks meet biological sustainability criteria, accounting for 9% of the global catch. The researchers offer five recommendations to achieve sustainable shark fisheries, including protection of low-productivity species and international cooperation.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateFeb 6, 2017

Scientists confirm dorado catfish as all-time distance champion of freshwater migrations

Researchers mapped the long-distance movements of four goliath catfish species and found that adult dorado catfish take up to 1-2 years to reach their spawning grounds in or near the Andes. The study reveals the incredible life histories of these fish, which migrate thousands of kilometers in both directions to complete their life cycle.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 6, 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.

Sentinels in the blood: A new diagnostic for pancreatic cancer

Researchers at Arizona State University have developed a new diagnostic method for detecting pancreatic cancer early in its development by identifying extracellular vesicles with the surface protein EphA2. This technique shows promise for rapid and sensitive detection of various diseases based on unique EV signatures.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateFeb 6, 2017

Cholera bacteria stab and poison enemies at predictable rates

Researchers used physics equations to track bacterial battles over sustenance and turf, gaining insights for new targeted therapies against infections. Cholera bacteria wield harpoon-like appendages covered in poison, with a correlation found between weaponry and cooperative social behavior.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 6, 2017

Growing group of women take heart in pregnancy recommendations

Women born with complex congenital heart disease can now have successful pregnancies thanks to new guidance. The American Heart Association journal Circulation published a road map for healthcare providers, emphasizing the need for close monitoring and expert care.

SourceMediaSource·JournalCirculation·DateFeb 6, 2017

New genetic markers for COPD discovered

Researchers have identified 13 new genetic regions linked to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), as well as overlap with asthma and pulmonary fibrosis. The study provides insight into the genetic basis of COPD and may lead to improved therapies for patients.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNature Genetics·DateFeb 6, 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.

Towards new IT devices with stable and transformable solitons

Researchers at IBS demonstrate manipulation of solitons, leading to the development of quaternary mathematical systems and potentially more efficient information storage. This breakthrough paves the way for new IT devices that combine silicon and solitons.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Physics·DateFeb 6, 2017

New study compares the effects of direct exposure to cigarette smoke or e-cigarette vapor

Researchers compared the effects of direct exposure to cigarette smoke or e-cigarette vapor on reconstituted lung tissue, finding changes in gene expression levels and increased inflammation. The study utilized a 3D airway culture system and next-generation sequencing technologies to evaluate the biological effects.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalApplied In Vitro Toxicology·DateFeb 6, 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.

Smarter MRI diagnosis with nano MRI lamp

Researchers developed a new platform to switch MRI signals ON only in the presence of targeted diseases. The Nano MRI Lamp uses Magnetic Resonance Tuning (MRET) to control signal strength based on distance between magnetic materials.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Materials·DateFeb 6, 2017

Shifting monsoon altered early cultures in China, study says

Researchers found that the lake was six times larger and water levels were 60 meters higher than present during the early and middle Holocene period. The shifting monsoon likely altered the course of early human cultures in China, leading to changes in ecosystems and population dynamics.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 6, 2017

Low-cost imaging system detects natural gas leaks in real time

Researchers have developed a low-cost, real-time imaging system that can detect methane gas leaks in pipelines and oil and gas facilities. The system uses active hyperspectral imaging technology and a single-pixel camera to acquire videos of gas leaking at a rate of 0.2 liters per minute.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Express·DateFeb 6, 2017

For cops, exposure to stressful situations dysregulates cortisol pattern

A study of Buffalo police officers found that exposure to stressful situations can disrupt their cortisol patterns, leading to a blunted response and increased vulnerability to cardiovascular disease. The study identified the top five most intense stressors for police officers, including encounters with violent or traumatic events.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalPsychoneuroendocrinology·DateFeb 6, 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.

E-cigarettes safer than smoking says long-term study

A recent study has found that e-cigarette users have significantly lower levels of toxic chemicals and carcinogens in their body compared to smokers. The study also suggests that quitting smoking altogether is the best way to minimize exposure to toxins, rather than using e-cigarettes alongside traditional cigarettes.

SourceCancer Research UK·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateFeb 6, 2017

Radiotargeted therapy with SST2 antagonists could combat multiple human cancers

Researchers have found that somatostatin receptor sst2 antagonist tracers can target a greater number of sst2 sites in non-NET tumors than agonists. The study shows high binding of the antagonist in 12 breast cancers, all renal cell carcinomas, and 5 medullary thyroid cancers, while agonist binding was low or absent in these cases.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateFeb 6, 2017

Uterine glands vital for embryo growth, successful pregnancies

Researchers at the University of Missouri have found that uterine glands produce several key factors for pregnancies beyond Leukemia Inhibitory Factor (LIF), critical for embryo implantation. The study reveals uterine glands play additional roles in promoting pregnancy, including supporting embryo growth and development.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 6, 2017

New technique slashes diagnosis time during brain surgery

A new approach to surgical pathology in brain tumor patients uses stimulated Raman histology, improving speed and diagnostic efficiency. The method, tested in an operating room, produces accurate results faster than conventional methods.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateFeb 6, 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.

Building a better microbial fuel cell -- using paper

Scientists at the University of Rochester have created a new microbial fuel cell using a paper electrode coated with carbon paste, which outperforms traditional materials in terms of efficiency and cost-effectiveness. The innovation has significant implications for wastewater treatment and energy production.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalACS Energy Letters·DateFeb 6, 2017

Brisk exercise linked to better arterial health already in childhood

A new study from the University of Eastern Finland found that high levels of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity are associated with lower arterial stiffness in 6-8-year-old children. Children who engage in at least 68 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous exercise per day have better arterial health.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalPediatric Exercise Science·DateFeb 6, 2017

SNAP benefits increase household spending on food, study finds

A new Brown University study found that SNAP benefits increase a household's overall spending on food each month, with an equivalent cash benefit leading to much smaller increases in food spending. Households receiving $100 in SNAP benefits spend around $50 more on food each month.

SourceBrown University·DateFeb 6, 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.

Federal law increases use of services for autism without raising out-of-pocket costs

A federal law aimed at ensuring equal insurance benefits for physical and mental health care has led to modest increases in healthcare utilization among children with autism spectrum disorder. Despite these gains, researchers highlight the need for stronger enforcement of the parity law to ensure adequate access to services.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalHealth Affairs·DateFeb 6, 2017

Researchers study care for undocumented immigrants with kidney failure

A new study found that states pay higher costs for care and patients face greater pain and psychological distress when they do not receive scheduled dialysis treatments. The research highlights the need to reconsider professional and societal approaches to end-stage renal disease (ESRD) for undocumented patients.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateFeb 6, 2017

Sign language users have better reaction times and peripheral vision

Researchers found that sign language users, particularly BSL interpreters, exhibit quicker reaction times and enhanced peripheral vision. Deaf adults also display exceptional visual abilities, including significantly faster reaction times than hearing adults.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateFeb 6, 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.

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.

LED lighting could have major impact on wildlife

New research suggests that LED street lighting can have a major impact on wildlife, but that adjusting the lighting schedule and dimming it by 50% can reduce its effects. The study found that changing the way we light at night could have profound consequences for species such as predatory spiders and beetles.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateFeb 6, 2017

NIH-funded project leads to FDA-approved newborn screening device

A new device, SEEKER™, has received FDA clearance to detect four types of lysosomal storage disorders from dried blood spots. This development was made possible with NIH funding and shows a faster screening process compared to conventional methods.

SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·DateFeb 6, 2017

Pride -- sin or incentive?

A study by UC Santa Barbara researchers suggests that humans accurately predict the qualities valued in their local population and generate pride based on those values. The 'advertisement-recalibration theory of pride' proposes that pride serves as a motivator to cultivate traits and behaviors that increase others' valuation.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 6, 2017

Hard shell -- healthy kernel

Researchers from the University of Jena investigate the effects of five types of nuts on colon cancer cells, finding that they activate the body's defences to detoxify reactive oxygen species. Nuts stimulate the activity of protective enzymes catalase and superoxide dismutase, inducing programmed cell death in cancer cells.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalMolecular Carcinogenesis·DateFeb 6, 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.

Stomach acid provides long-term power for ingestible devices

A research team developed ingestible prototypes that draw energy from gastric acid and provide power for nearly a week. They used zinc and copper as electrodes to harness energy from both the stomach and small intestine.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateFeb 6, 2017

Unearthing immune responses to common drugs

Australian researchers investigated how certain medications impact MAIT cell function, finding some prevent detection of infections while others activate the immune system. This discovery may lead to better understanding and control of immune reactions to drugs, as well as new therapies that manipulate MAIT cell behavior.

SourceMonash University·JournalNature Immunology·DateFeb 6, 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.

Severe newborn jaundice could be preventable, mouse study shows

Researchers found that inhibiting intestinal protein NCoR1 breaks down bilirubin, eliminating signs of severe neonatal hyperbilirubinemia in mice. This discovery could lead to new therapeutic approaches for preventing or treating the condition.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 6, 2017

Gene therapy restores hearing in deaf mice...down to a whisper

Researchers have successfully restored a high level of hearing in deaf mice using an improved gene therapy vector, which also improves balance function. The technology has the potential to benefit patients with Usher syndrome, who suffer from profound hearing loss and balance problems.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateFeb 6, 2017

UNC researchers find new potential route to treat asthma

Researchers at UNC School of Medicine have isolated a protein called SPLUNC1 that plays a vital role in regulating proper airway function. When missing or depleted, it can cause airway constriction and difficulty breathing in people with asthma.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 6, 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.

Penn study finds new clues to causes of heart failure

A recent study by Penn researchers has found that signaling proteins in cells lining the heart play a key role in preventing excessive scarring after a heart attack. The proteins, YAP and TAZ, regulate immune responses to prevent inflammation and fibrosis, which can lead to heart failure.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateFeb 6, 2017

Bacterium from coal mine fire could aid drug targeting

A unique enzyme found in a soil bacterium from the Ruth Mullins coal fire has been used to improve antibiotic daptomycin, with potential applications for other drugs and therapies. The discovery could aid in the development of new drugs and treatments.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateFeb 6, 2017

Low-dose chemotherapy protocol relies on normalization of tumor blood supply

A new mathematical model reveals that metronomic chemotherapy's benefits rely on the normalization of tumor blood vessels, improving drug delivery and immune cell activity. The approach aims to alleviate abnormal tumor blood vessel structure and function, reducing proliferation of stem-like cancer cells.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 6, 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.

Genetic defect found to cause disease in multiple organs

Researchers at Queen Mary University London have discovered a genetic defect causing kidney and adrenal disease in patients from around the world. The study found that defects in the SGPL1 gene can lead to progressive diseases with neurological involvement.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateFeb 6, 2017

What happened to the sun over 7,000 years ago?

Researchers have identified a new type of solar event and dated it to 5480 BC using carbon-14 levels in tree rings. The team proposes causes for the event, extending knowledge of the sun's behavior and its effects on Earth. The study provides new insights into the sun's activity during the mid-Holocene period.

SourceNagoya University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 6, 2017

Picking teams and picking music in P.E.

BYU professor David Barney's research shows that playing music in P.E. class can significantly improve outcomes, making kids 5.87 times more likely to enjoy physical activity. Publicly picking teams, on the other hand, has a negative associative effect on children, leading to lower self-esteem and decreased confidence.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalThe Physical Educator·DateFeb 6, 2017

Successful preclinical tests for new agent against severe malaria

A new substance, SC83288, has been successfully used to treat severe malaria in humanised mice, killing the parasites in a short period of time. The substance was chemically modified from benzamidine derivatives to increase its effectiveness and tolerability without forfeiting its action against parasites.

SourceGerman Center for Infection Research·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 6, 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.

Research predicts extreme fires will increasingly be part of our global landscape

A recent study published in Nature Ecology and Evolution found that extreme fire events are associated with anomalous weather patterns, such as droughts and strong winds. The research suggests that the global footprint of extreme fires is expanding, particularly in regions like Australia's east coast and the Mediterranean region.

SourceUniversity of Tasmania·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateFeb 6, 2017

NASA sees Tropical Cyclone Carlos over La Reunion and Mauritius

Tropical Cyclone Carlos formed north of La Reunion Island in February 2017, bringing heavy rain and towering storms to the area. NASA's GPM satellite collected data on the storm's structure and precipitation rate, showing intense feeder bands with rainfall rates over 100 mm per hour.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateFeb 6, 2017

Global consortium formed to educate leaders on climate and health

The Global Consortium on Climate and Health Education aims to share best practices and design model curricula for academic and non-academic audiences. The consortium's goal is to create a cadre of highly trained health professionals to address the harmful health effects of climate change.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·DateFeb 6, 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.

Pharmaceuticals from a coal mine?

Researchers at the University of Kentucky have discovered ten previously unknown microbial natural products from an abandoned coal mine in Kentucky. The compounds include four new geldanamycin variants and four McCrearamycins, which contain a cyclopentenone ring. These findings suggest that small structural variations can impact cell u...

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateFeb 6, 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.

Size matters for marine protected areas designed to aid coral

Research in Fiji Islands reveals that small community-based marine protected areas can be susceptible to attacks by crown-of-thorns sea stars, which can devastate coral reefs. Despite the importance of these protected areas, the findings highlight a new threat that may emerge from degraded areas surrounding healthy ecosystems.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 6, 2017

WSU researchers tackle impact of climate change on plants

Researchers at Washington State University are utilizing a fully automated 'plant hotel' to analyze the effects of global warming on plant growth. The machine can mimic various climate conditions, allowing scientists to study the genetic underpinnings of stress tolerance in plants and how they respond to environmental changes.

SourceWashington State University·DateFeb 6, 2017

Scientists catalogue 'parts list' of brain cell types in a major appetite center

Researchers have cataloged 50 distinct cell types in a major appetite center of the brain, including two newly discovered subtypes that play a role in genetic control of obesity. The study provides a comprehensive parts list for this area of the brain, allowing researchers to identify which cells are responsible for specific functions.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateFeb 6, 2017

Successful application of VasalgelTM male contraceptive in monkeys

A new non-hormonal male contraceptive, Vasalgel, has been successfully tested in rhesus monkeys, showing no conception after injection and minimal complications. The study's findings suggest that Vasalgel could be a promising alternative to vasectomy for managing reproductive rates in captive populations.

SourceParsemus Foundation·JournalBasic and Clinical Andrology·DateFeb 6, 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.

'I feel for you' -- some really do

UD researchers identified 45 students with MTS, showing a unique brain processing pattern. The study found that the brain matches the video hand to their own hand, suggesting hyperactive somatosensory networks.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalCortex·DateFeb 6, 2017

Scripps Florida scientists find clue to why Zika, but not its close relatives, causes birth defects

Researchers discovered that human umbilical endothelial cells are more susceptible to Zika infection, allowing it to access the fetal bloodstream. The virus uses a cell surface molecule called AXL to exploit a secret passage, enabling it to cause birth defects such as microcephaly and eye damage.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 6, 2017

The solution from the skies to save endangered species

A new project from Liverpool John Moores University is using drones equipped with thermal cameras to help identify endangered species, such as rhinos and orang-utans. The technique involves analyzing thermal heat profiles to create a unique 'fingerprint' for each animal, allowing for more efficient conservation efforts.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalInternational Journal of Remote Sensing·DateFeb 6, 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.

Promiscuous lamprey found to conduct 'sham matings'

Researchers found lampreys mate promiscuously, with females mating dozens of times with multiple males before releasing eggs; sham mating occurs more often with larger male groups. The study suggests female lampreys choose mates based on body size and other qualities.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalJournal of Ethology·DateFeb 6, 2017

Is the pain coming from your hip, spine or both?

Patients with low back pain that radiates to the buttock, groin, thigh, and knees may have complex 'hip-spine syndrome'. A comprehensive physical examination and imaging studies can help diagnose the primary cause of pain. The article recommends considering both hip and spine conditions in diagnosis and treatment.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateFeb 6, 2017

Novel combination therapy overcomes difficult-to-treat form of antibiotic resistance

Researchers have discovered a novel combination therapy that successfully treats infections caused by a pernicious form of antibiotic resistance. The treatment regimen, which includes ceftazidime/avibactam and aztreonam, overcomes the resistance caused by metallo-ß-lactamases, a growing global public health problem.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalAntimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy·DateFeb 6, 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.

Less is more: Exposure to stimuli for overcoming phobia

Researchers found that unconscious exposure to phobic images strongly activates brain regions involved in immediate fear processing, reducing the conscious experience of fear. This technique may be effective in treating anxiety disorders in children and adolescents by preparing them for feared stimuli without conscious awareness.

SourceChildren's Hospital Los Angeles·JournalHuman Brain Mapping·DateFeb 6, 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.

CIFAR receives $4M to strengthen health research in B.C.

The Canadian Institute for Advanced Research (CIFAR) has received a $4 million funding boost from the British Columbia Ministry of Health to enhance health research in the province. This support enables CIFAR to facilitate collaborations among top researchers, tackling pressing health questions such as cancer and asthma.

SourceCIFAR·DateFeb 6, 2017

Spiny, armored slug reveals ancestry of molluscs

A 480-million-year-old slug-like fossil in Morocco has been discovered, providing new insights into the evolution of molluscs. The fossil, Calvapilosa kroegeri, features a radula and short spines, suggesting that its ancestor was single-shelled and covered in bristle-like spines.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNature·DateFeb 6, 2017

Powerful change: A profile of today's solar consumer

A QUT study reveals that solar PV systems are being acquired by families with lower incomes, contradicting the long-held notion that it is a luxury reserved for high-income individuals. The research found that financial capacity, education status, and home ownership were not the primary factors driving solar uptake.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalRenewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews·DateFeb 6, 2017

The power of tea

Researchers found that a green tea compound may prevent light chain amyloidosis, a condition where parts of the body's own antibodies become misshapen and accumulate in organs, by transforming the protein into a non-toxic form. The study suggests potential lifesaving benefits for patients with multiple myeloma and amyloidosis.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateFeb 6, 2017

Killing off rivals makes for happy families, bacteria study finds

Research reveals that bacteria eliminating competitors creates conditions for thriving populations, leading to cooperative family structures. The study suggests that similar patterns can be seen in natural objects, providing insights into bacterial behavior.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 6, 2017

Exploring the matter that filled the early universe

The Quark Matter 2017 conference showcases new results on ultrarelativistic heavy-ion collisions, revealing the behavior of quarks and gluons in a primordial soup. Scientists explore the structure of nuclear matter, detecting correlations in particle characteristics to understand the dynamic behavior of quarks and gluons.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·DateFeb 6, 2017

What are the best treatments for female genital mutilation?

A new review highlights effective interventions for managing health complications from female genital mutilation, sparking further research on addressing the needs of millions affected worldwide. The World Health Organization's guidelines provide a crucial starting point, but more work remains to determine the most effective treatments.

SourceWiley·JournalInternational Journal of Gynecology & Obstetrics·DateFeb 6, 2017

Myopia cell discovered in retina

Researchers at Northwestern University have identified a retinal cell that may cause myopia when it dysfunctions, and this dysfunction may be triggered by excessive indoor time. The discovery could lead to a new therapeutic target to control myopia.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateFeb 6, 2017

Study sheds light on how carnivorous plants acquired a taste for meat

A new study found that distantly related carnivorous plants, including pitcher plants, share similar genetic changes associated with their ability to digest insects. The research suggests that the evolutionary routes to carnivory may be limited and that these plants have co-opted ancient proteins to create digestive enzymes.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateFeb 6, 2017

Body dysmorphic disorder may be under-diagnosed in patients seeking cosmetic procedures

A survey study found that cosmetic professionals are often unaware of the true prevalence of body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) in patients seeking cosmetic procedures. Most respondents were familiar with BDD and its criteria, but only a small percentage routinely addressed body image problems or collaborated with psychologists.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery·DateFeb 6, 2017

Prosthetic arm technology that detects spinal nerve signals developed by scientists

Researchers have created sensor technology for a robotic prosthetic arm that detects signals from nerves in the spinal cord, enabling users to control the device with phantom limb movements. This breakthrough could lead to more functional and user-friendly prosthetics, potentially revolutionizing the lives of amputees.

SourceImperial College London·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateFeb 6, 2017

Online Pest Risk Atlas for Africa to combat climate change effects on pest management

The International Potato Center launched an online mobile-accessible Pest Risk Atlas for Africa to assess potential pest risks under current and future climate conditions. The atlas provides detailed information for pest risk analysis, including detection and identification, means of movement and dispersal, and phytosanitary measures.

SourceInternational Potato Center / Centro Internacional de la Papa·DateFeb 6, 2017

How does the brain make perceptual predictions over time?

Neuroscientist David Heeger proposes a new theory that explains how the brain uses prediction and inference to make decisions. The brain's neural network can process sensory input in a feedforward manner, but also runs in a feedback mode to generate predictions, and combines both modes for optimal performance.

SourceNew York University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 6, 2017

Campus natural gas power plants pose no radon risks

A two-year study found that Penn State's power plants on campus pose no radon-related health risks, despite high concentrations of radon in the natural gas used. Researchers measured radon levels downwind and upwind from the plants, finding them to be far below a health threat.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of the Air & Waste Management Association·DateFeb 6, 2017

UTSW identifies ion channel necessary for hormone and anti-obesity drug to suppress eating

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center identified an ion channel, TrpC5, essential for the brain's response to leptin and lorcaserin, two hormones and medications used to suppress appetite and reduce body weight. In mice deficient in TrpC5, these hormones were ineffective, leading to increased body weight and disrupted metabolism.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalCell Reports·DateFeb 6, 2017

An application of astronomy to save endangered species

A multidisciplinary team combines drones with infrared cameras to monitor animal populations, reducing costs and increasing access. The new technique uses thermal imaging to identify species, potentially aiding conservation efforts against poaching and habitat destruction.

SourceInstituto de Astrofísica de Canarias (IAC)·JournalInternational Journal of Remote Sensing·DateFeb 6, 2017