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Science News for January 25, 2017


'Knitted muscles' provide power

Scientists at Linköping University and the University of Borås developed a new technology that turns fabric into muscular tissue, allowing it to actuate like muscle fibers. The 'textile muscles' can be integrated into clothing, providing power for devices like exoskeletons, and opening up new opportunities for people with disabilities

SourceLinköping University·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 25, 2017

Calculating a new theory: How to teach an old field new tricks

A team of mathematicians from the University of Averio combined past and future operators to create a new theory for fractional calculus, which can predict how variables change and react. This breakthrough has implications for various technologies and applications, including information exchange and automation.

SourceChinese Association of Automation·JournalIEEE/CAA Journal of Automatica Sinica·DateJan 25, 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.

Food is medicine for HIV-positive and Type 2 diabetes patients

A new study found that providing nutritious meals to HIV-positive individuals and those with Type 2 diabetes improved medication adherence, reduced depression, and increased optimal blood sugar control. Participants consumed fewer fats, more fruits and vegetables, and lost weight, while also experiencing fewer symptoms of depression.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJournal of Urban Health·DateJan 25, 2017

Researcher receives NIH award to study pneumonia biology

Dr. Joseph P. Mizgerd, a Boston University School of Medicine professor, has received an NIH award to study the biology of pneumonia, which kills more children worldwide than any other disease. He aims to advance lung defense against pneumonia and identify prevention strategies for chronic disease of aging.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·DateJan 25, 2017

Using Big Data to understand immune system responses

Researchers using big data and CRISPR analyze the immune system's minute-by-minute response to viruses, revealing a step-by-step reaction. This approach provides crucial insights into how the body fights off infections.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·Journalnpj Systems Biology and Applications·DateJan 25, 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.

Passing the chemical Turing test: Making artificial and real cells talk

Researchers demonstrate that artificial cells can communicate seamlessly with real cells through chemical signals, passing a basic laboratory Turing test. The artificial cells showed they could sense and respond to molecules from various bacterial species, including V. fischeri, E. coli, and P. aeruginosa.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Central Science·DateJan 25, 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.

A crab's eye view of rising tides in a changing world

A team of researchers at New Jersey Institute of Technology has developed spectral and co-spectral techniques to measure changes in subsurface water temperature and salinity. The methods, validated with a year's worth of data from two beaches in Alaska, can help coastal scientists anticipate changes in coastal ecosystems.

SourceNew Jersey Institute of Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 25, 2017

First step towards photonic quantum network

Scientists have successfully created a photonic chip that can emit directional photons, paving the way for complex quantum networks. This breakthrough enables full control over photons and has significant implications for quantum communication and information processing.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Niels Bohr Institute·JournalNature·DateJan 25, 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.

New insights into brain circuit for hunger responses during starvation

Researchers at Nagoya University have uncovered a novel brain circuit for hunger responses during starvation, revealing the role of neuropeptide Y signals in controlling heat production by brown adipose tissue. The study found that inhibitory GABAergic inputs from medullary reticular neurons inhibit BAT thermogenesis.

SourceNagoya University·JournalCell Metabolism·DateJan 25, 2017

Safety codes can lead to over-built bridges, higher building costs

Researchers at UBC Okanagan campus found that safety codes can result in overly reinforced bridges, wasting materials and increasing construction expenses. The study suggests a new approach to seismic design, prioritizing self-centering capability and reducing the need for costly demolitions.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalCanadian Journal of Civil Engineering·DateJan 25, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Objective: To deflect asteroids, thus preventing their collision with Earth

Researchers studied asteroid Chelyabinsk to determine properties necessary for deflection missions. The study found that an asteroid's composition, internal structure, density, and physical properties are crucial in determining the success of a kinetic projectile launch.

SourceSpanish National Research Council (CSIC)·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·DateJan 25, 2017

New C. diff treatment reduces recurrent infections by 40 percent

A new study found that adding bezlotoxumab to standard antibiotic treatment can reduce the risk of recurrent Clostridium difficile (C.diff) infections by 37%. This reduction in recurrent infections can lead to fewer hospital admissions, reduced costs for the NHS, and possibly a decrease in deaths.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJan 25, 2017

Lessons for optimizing exercise programs

A new study published in Experimental Physiology found that sprint interval training is a powerful stimulus to elicit cellular remodelling in both men and women. The research, conducted at McMaster University, showed that changes in gene expression over a short time-scale are similar between the sexes.

SourceThe Physiological Society·JournalExperimental Physiology·DateJan 25, 2017

Expanding point-of-care disease diagnostics with ultrasound (video)

Researchers developed an acoustofluidic chip to concentrate fluorescently labeled biomarkers using ultrasound, enabling the detection of smaller particles and boost their signal. The technique shows promise for point-of-care diagnostic applications, including the potential analysis via smartphone apps.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Nano·DateJan 25, 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.

Quadrivalent influenza vaccine should reduce medical costs and save lives

The quadrivalent influenza vaccine (QIV) is expected to provide health benefits in most parts of the world by reducing the burden of influenza. By targeting all four circulating strains, QIV may reduce medical costs and save lives compared to the trivalent influenza vaccine (TIV).

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalHuman Vaccines & Immunotherapeutics·DateJan 25, 2017

Video game ratings work, if you use them

Research from Iowa State University shows that video game ratings can effectively reduce violent play in children when used by parents to guide purchases and set rules. Parents who use the rating system and mediate their child's play are less likely to experience negative behaviors, such as acting out or misbehaving.

SourceIowa State University·JournalJournal of Public Policy & Marketing·DateJan 25, 2017

Tiny exports signal big shifts in cancer tissue, researchers find

Researchers at the University of Illinois used a novel imaging technique to visualize microscopic shifts in metabolism and vesicle production in tumor cells. The study found that these changes can precede larger-scale events in the tumor environment, potentially preparing the way for cancerous cells to spread and metastasize.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 25, 2017

Short bowel syndrome results in changes to gene expression

Short bowel syndrome results in significant changes to gene expression, including increased cell proliferation and immune response. The study provides a map of these alterations, potentially leading to new therapies for SBS patients.

SourceChildren's Hospital Los Angeles·JournalBMC Genomics·DateJan 25, 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.

Corralling stink bugs could lead to better wine

A recent study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that stink bugs can contaminate wine with stress compounds, affecting its quality. The researchers discovered that pressing is a key step in releasing these compounds, and that limiting stink bugs to three per grape cluster could improve wine quality.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateJan 25, 2017

Tissue engineering advance reduces heart failure in model of heart attack

Researchers have grown engineered heart tissue using a 3-D printer, improving heart function and decreasing dead tissue after a heart attack. The novel technique holds promise for the clinical use of 3-D-printing technology in preventing heart failure after a heart attack.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalCirculation Research·DateJan 25, 2017

New study shows anxiety impairing quality of life for postmenopausal women

A new study reveals that anxiety in postmenopausal women is associated with increased severity of physical symptoms like hot flashes and sleep disruption. The study found a significant link between anxiety and urogenital symptoms, highlighting the importance of screening for anxiety to improve quality of life.

SourceThe Menopause Society·JournalMenopause·DateJan 25, 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.

Scientists use tumor-derived dendritic cells to slow tumor growth

Researchers have identified two specific dendritic cell groups, cDC1 and cDC2, present in human tumor tissues that stimulate strong anti-tumor immune responses. These cells show promise for developing innovative cancer immunotherapies by vaccinating tumors with the patient's own immune system.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 25, 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.

Inability to work: Medical experts often disagree

A systematic review found that healthcare providers frequently disagree on whether an individual is incapable of working. A new method, function-oriented assessment, has been developed to improve the assessment process for people with mental disorders.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalThe BMJ·DateJan 25, 2017

How water can split into two liquids below zero

Researchers confirmed a theoretical possibility of dual liquid states in sub-zero water and other tetrahedral molecules. A study using DNA origami and simulation revealed that such structures could exhibit a high-density and low-density liquid phase, separated by an empty lattice.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateJan 25, 2017

Study indicates 'Alalā calls have changed

A study published in Animal Behaviour documents changes in the 'alalā's vocal repertoire, including a reduction in alarm calls and territory broadcasts. This cultural shift may be related to differences in behavior necessary for survival in protected aviaries.

SourceSan Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance·JournalAnimal Behaviour·DateJan 25, 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.

Researchers in Kiel can control adhesive material remotely with light

Scientists developed a bioinspired adhesive material that can be controlled remotely by UV light, transporting micro-objects with high precision. The material consists of mushroom-shaped adhesive microstructures and elastic porous material, allowing for reversible control and detachment.

SourceKiel University·JournalScience Robotics·DateJan 25, 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.

Rat-grown mouse pancreases help reverse diabetes in mice

Researchers at Stanford University and the University of Tokyo successfully transplanted functional mouse islets into diabetic mice, reversing their condition with minimal immunosuppression. The study suggests a potential approach to generate genetically matched human organs in large animals.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalNature·DateJan 25, 2017

TSU is developing a new method for treating autism and memory disorder

Researchers found that myokines enhance human cognitive function, plan to use this feature to correct conditions such as autism and memory disorders without medication. They conducted comprehensive studies involving volunteers and animals, including mice, to investigate the production of myokines.

SourceNational Research Tomsk State University·JournalFrontiers in Physiology·DateJan 25, 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.

Study suggests best order of treatment for brain metastases in EGFR lung cancer

A study of 351 patients with EGFR mutant lung cancer and brain metastases found that radiation therapy followed by targeted medicines resulted in the longest overall survival, with median survival times of 46 months and 30 months respectively. The findings suggest that a more aggressive approach to treating brain metastases may be the ...

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateJan 25, 2017

iGeorge syndrome kidney problems may be caused by missing gene

A study at Columbia University Medical Center found that a missing CRKL gene causes kidney and urinary tract defects in people with DiGeorge syndrome. The team analyzed genomic data from over 2,600 children with congenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJan 25, 2017

Deep learning algorithm does as well as dermatologists in identifying skin cancer

A Stanford-developed deep learning algorithm accurately diagnoses skin lesions as well as board-certified dermatologists, with potential to provide life-saving smartphone diagnosis. The algorithm was trained on a database of nearly 130,000 images and tested against 21 dermatologists in identifying malignant carcinomas and melanomas.

SourceStanford University·JournalNature·DateJan 25, 2017

Major drug initiatives are best way to curb threat from parasites

Mass drug administration programmes have significantly increased treatment for bilharzia, killing an estimated 280,000 people annually. Praziquantel MDA programmes are effective but long-term effects and resistance to the drug are largely unknown.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateJan 25, 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.

Jumping spiders court in color

Two groups of jumping spiders, Habronattus and Maratus, have evolved rare color vision to see reds, yellows and oranges. They use different mechanisms, with Habronattus employing a red filter and Maratus relying on ultraviolet, blue and green sensitive cells.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateJan 25, 2017

Development of a hydraulic drive high-power artificial muscle

The researchers have developed an ultra-lightweight, highly powerful artificial muscle using rubber tubes and high-tensile fibers. It has a strength-to-weight ratio 5-10 times greater than conventional electric motors and hydraulic cylinders, making it suitable for tough robots that can handle strong external shocks and vibrations.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·DateJan 25, 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.

Football is medicine for women with high blood pressure

A 1-year football training program significantly reduces blood pressure, body fat percentage, and improves bone density in women with mildly high blood pressure. The study demonstrates the effectiveness of Football Fitness as a broad-spectrum medicine for women with high blood pressure.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark Faculty of Health Sciences·JournalScandinavian Journal of Medicine and Science in Sports·DateJan 25, 2017

Genetic study identifies 14 new developmental disorders in children

A recent genetic study discovered 14 new developmental disorders in children, providing diagnoses for over 1,000 individuals and their families. The study revealed that nearly 400,000 annual births worldwide are affected by rare developmental disorders caused by spontaneous mutations.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalNature·DateJan 25, 2017

Rhino genome results

The San Diego Zoo's Frozen Zoo cell cultures contain genetic variation missing in surviving individuals of the critically endangered northern white rhinoceros. Genome-wide levels of genetic diversity and inbreeding in both southern and northern white rhinos were examined to aid future efforts toward genetic rescue and assisted reproduc...

SourceSan Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance·DateJan 25, 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.

Predicting and preventing prostate cancer spread

Researchers at the University of Adelaide have identified a new microRNA that promotes cancer metastasis, leading to the development of a potential blood test for early detection. The discovery also reveals new targets for drugs that may inhibit cancer spread.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalCancer Research·DateJan 25, 2017

Universal CAR T cell therapy helps beat a hard-to-treat pediatric cancer

Researchers developed a universal CAR T cell therapy that overcomes the obstacle of generating personalized cancer-killing cells from young children. The treatment successfully eradicated leukemia from two infant patients, who remained disease-free for 10 and 16 months.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJan 25, 2017

Should hypothyroidism in pregnancy be treated?

Researchers found that treating subclinical hypothyroidism in pregnancy can reduce pregnancy loss, especially for those with higher TSH levels. However, treated women were more likely to experience preterm delivery and gestational diabetes.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalThe BMJ·DateJan 25, 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.

Fixating on faces

Researchers found two types of face cells that respond differently to human and non-human faces. The study's findings suggest that the brain processes faces based on attention focus, not just visual presence. This discovery may lead to a better understanding of social cognitive defects like autism.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalCell Reports·DateJan 25, 2017

Good outcomes with 'telepsychiatry' in medical treatment of opioid use disorder

A study found that telepsychiatry provides similar clinical outcomes as face-to-face group sessions for patients with opioid use disorder receiving medication treatment with buprenorphine. The pilot study suggests that telepsychiatry may help extend access to medication-assisted treatment, particularly in rural areas.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Addiction Medicine·DateJan 25, 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.

Disparities between asian immigrants and sufficient access and utilization of dental service

A recent study by New York University researchers found that Asian immigrants have lower rates of dental service utilization compared to non-Hispanic whites. The study, which analyzed data from the National Health Interview Surveys, identified acculturation and family income level as key factors affecting dental care use among Asian im...

SourceNew York University·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateJan 25, 2017

Drug compound halts Alzheimer's-related damage in mice

Researchers develop antisense oligonucleotide to lower tau protein levels in mice, reversing neurological damage and improving survival. The treatment also shows promise in monkeys, suggesting a potential therapeutic approach for Alzheimer's and other tau-related diseases.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJan 25, 2017

Researchers find new way to target blood stem cell cancers

A study led by NYU Langone researchers identified CD99, a protein-sugar molecule, as a potential therapeutic target for blood stem cell cancers like acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). Antibodies against CD99 can selectively kill cancer stem cells while sparing normal blood stem cells.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJan 25, 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.

Images show cytofilaments linking cell nucleus to extracellular environment

The study provides the first visual evidence of a physical link by which genes can receive mechanical cues from their microenvironment. The images show thread-like cytofilaments reaching into and traversing a human breast cell's chromatin-packed nucleus, revealing a direct connection to the nucleus.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalJournal of Cell Science·DateJan 25, 2017

Are patients in rural areas being deprived of potentially lifesaving therapy?

A new report in the Canadian Journal of Cardiology found significant disparities in referral patterns among heart function clinics with and without onsite cardiac electrophysiology services. Rural patients were less likely to be referred for implantable cardioverter defibrillators, leading to higher mortality rates.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalCanadian Journal of Cardiology·DateJan 25, 2017

Antibody combination puts HIV on the ropes

A study using antibodies from an elite controller has shown that a combination of three broadly neutralizing antibodies can completely suppress HIV in infected mice. The finding validates the approach of using multiple antibodies to control HIV infection, pointing towards a potential new treatment for people infected with HIV.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJan 25, 2017

Lifting the fog on China's unwieldy air pollution problem

Despite enacted policies, China's smog remains due to climate change and uncertainty over pollution sources, with nitrogen dioxide and ammonia contributing significantly. Research suggests targeting volatile organic compounds from vehicles could help clean up the air.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateJan 25, 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.

Hospitals can rapidly identify life-threatening bacteria

Researchers developed a new analytical procedure using bioconjugates to identify bacterial species in minutes, reducing waiting time and increasing measurement accuracy. The technique uses a flow cytometer and is easy to adapt and inexpensive.

SourceInstitute of Physical Chemistry of the Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalBioconjugate Chemistry·DateJan 25, 2017

Triggering the brain's auto-focus

Duke University researchers identified the caudate nucleus as the brain structure responsible for forming direct links between environmental stimuli and enhanced focus. By repeating exposure to specific faces, participants could trigger automatic focus and bypass distractions.

SourceDuke University·DateJan 25, 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.

Scientists and students tackle omics at NASA workshop

The NASA Human Research Program Investigators' Workshop in Galveston, Texas, brought together scientists and students to tackle the complex field of Omics. Researchers presented preliminary results from the Twins Study, which examines the effects of long-duration spaceflight on identical twins Scott and Mark Kelly.

SourceNASA/Johnson Space Center·DateJan 25, 2017

Genome secrets of elusive human malaria species revealed

The genomes of Plasmodium malariae and Plasmodium ovale parasites have been sequenced, revealing genes that could be involved in human infection and immune evasion. These findings may lead to the development of improved diagnostic tools and vaccines against these less common but still deadly malaria species.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalNature·DateJan 25, 2017

New clues on the base of Parkinson's disease and other 'synucleinopathies'

Researchers have shed light on the relationship between misfolded alpha-synuclein protein and Parkinson's disease, identifying key genes and cellular processes involved. The study provides new insights into the underlying mechanisms of synucleinopathies, paving the way for developing patient-specific treatments.

SourceWhitehead Institute for Biomedical Research·JournalCell Systems·DateJan 25, 2017

Advances prompt release of new recommendations for diagnosis, management of adult AML

The European LeukemiaNet has released updated guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in adults, including revised genetic categories and a proposed response category based on minimal residual disease status. These recommendations aim to improve patient outcomes and harmonize clinical trials.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalBlood·DateJan 25, 2017

Antarctic bottom waters freshening at unexpected rate

A new study from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution reveals that Antarctic Bottom Water has freshened at an unexpected rate between 2007 and 2016, potentially altering ocean circulation and contributing to sea level rise. The researchers hypothesize that a recent landscape-changing event may be responsible for the shift.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 25, 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.

Floating towards water treatment

Researchers engineered four floating treatment wetland designs using different materials and plants, finding they can affect water quality in similar ways to natural wetlands. The study suggests these systems could help treat wastewater by enhancing nitrogen removal and managing algal blooms.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalJournal of Environmental Quality·DateJan 25, 2017

New study highlights need to increase female peer reviewers

A new analysis by the American Geophysical Union found that women across all age groups have fewer opportunities than men to serve as peer reviewers of manuscripts. The study suggests that journals should take additional steps to get more women involved in peer reviewing to advance and retain women in science.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalNature·DateJan 25, 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.

VA reduces antibiotic use in system-wide antimicrobial stewardship initiative

The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) implemented a multi-year initiative to improve antibiotic use, resulting in a 12% decrease in inpatient antibiotic use. The program's success was attributed to the involvement of multiple disciplines and leadership buy-in.

SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateJan 25, 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.

Therapeutic hypothermia offers no significant benefits for infants or children after in-hospital car

A multicenter study of infants and children who suffered cardiac arrest found that body cooling had no significant benefits compared to maintaining a normal temperature. The study included 329 patients aged 2 days to 18 years old, but the results showed no difference in survival rates or brain function between the two groups.

SourceNIH/National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJan 25, 2017

Automation speeds clinical safety surveillance

A new automated web-based surveillance system has been demonstrated to detect potential safety problems with medical devices like the Mynx, a vascular closure device. The system, called DELTA, performs automated safety analyses and comparative effectiveness studies prospectively, sending alerts to users via email.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJan 25, 2017

Diabetes drug takes aim at cancer's fuel source

Researchers found that metformin significantly increased tumor cell apoptosis and altered the cancer microenvironment in patients with head and neck cancer. The study suggests that metformin may make cancer more susceptible to standard therapies and has potential immunotherapeutic effects.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalThe Laryngoscope·DateJan 25, 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 power of wind energy and how to use it

A new model predicts wind frequency and potential contributions to traditional energy sources, enabling decentralized load frequency control. The algorithm requires less computational time than traditional methods, but may require more computation to maintain system stability.

SourceChinese Association of Automation·JournalIEEE/CAA Journal of Automatica Sinica·DateJan 25, 2017

NASA restarts rigorous vibration testing on the James Webb Space Telescope

NASA has resumed rigorous vibration testing on the James Webb Space Telescope after an early shutdown in 2016 due to sensor readings exceeding predicted levels. The team implemented changes to the test profile to prevent similar issues, adding diagnostic tests to ensure confidence in the launch environment.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 25, 2017

New study reveals solidification cracking during welding of steel

A new study by University of Leicester researchers has identified the mechanism behind solidification cracking in steel welding, a critical engineering alloy. The team used synchrotron X-ray beamline technology to observe crack formation in real-time, revealing micro-porosities as the primary cause.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 25, 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.

When should doctors treat short children and teens with growth hormone?

A group of medical experts has issued new clinical guidelines for managing children and adolescents with growth failure, recommending hormonal treatments for certain conditions but cautioning against routine use in cases of unknown cause. The guidelines aim to balance medical needs with potential risks and long-term consequences.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalHormone Research in Paediatrics·DateJan 25, 2017

MIT scholars show new method of harvesting crowd wisdom

Researchers at MIT's Sloan Neuroeconomics Lab have developed a new method to extract correct answers from large groups of people, reducing errors in crowd wisdom surveys. The 'surprisingly popular' algorithm uses the variation between individual responses and predicted popular opinion to identify the correct answer.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateJan 25, 2017

NIH advances understanding of defenses against antibiotic-resistant klebsiella bacteria

Researchers discover that a component of the innate immune system, the complement system, plays a crucial role in killing antibiotic-resistant ST258 bacteria. The study's findings suggest that a modified antibody could be used to develop new tools to treat and prevent infections caused by these bacteria.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalAntimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy·DateJan 25, 2017

Stimulating the brain with electricity may reduce bulimia symptoms

A new study found that non-invasive brain stimulation using transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) can significantly reduce bulimia symptoms, including urge to binge eat and concerns about weight. The treatment showed promise in improving cognitive control over compulsive features of the disorder.

SourceKing's College London·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 25, 2017

Genetic makeup of 'roommate' impacts health

Researchers found that genetic makeup of social partners significantly impacts wound healing, anxiety, and body weight in mice. The study provides insights into the mechanisms of social genetic effects and their potential application to human health.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory - European Bioinformatics Institute·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateJan 25, 2017