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Science News for January 26, 2017


Novel risk genes for bipolar disorder

Researchers have discovered two novel genetic risk factors for bipolar disorder, FADS1 and FADS2, which play a crucial role in lipid metabolism. These findings support the notion that lipid abnormalities may contribute to the development of BD.

SourceFujita Health University·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateJan 26, 2017

New peptide could improve treatment for vision-threatening disease

Researchers develop a new peptide that suppresses abnormal blood vessel growth and leakage in the eye, causing regression of established vessels. The peptide lasts longer than current treatments, potentially requiring only annual injections instead of monthly ones.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJan 26, 2017

Sexson receives top educator award from American Psychiatric Association

Dr. Sandra B. Sexson, a renowned child and adolescent psychiatrist, has received the Vestermark Psychiatry Educator Award for her leadership and creativity in psychiatric education. She is recognized for her 40-year dedication to advancing the field of psychiatry through various academic and professional roles.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·DateJan 26, 2017
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Researchers list reasons not to lick a toad

A comprehensive review of Bufonidae family compounds reveals their largely unexplored potential for new drug discovery. The study highlights the critical need for conservation efforts due to declining amphibian populations.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalJournal of Ethnopharmacology·DateJan 26, 2017

US deaths from diabetes significantly underestimated, analysis shows

A new analysis published in PLOS ONE found that the proportion of US deaths attributable to diabetes is as high as 12%, three times higher than estimates based on death certificates. Diabetes was estimated to be the third leading cause of death in the US in 2010, after heart disease and malignant neoplasms.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 26, 2017

Earth's orbital variations and sea ice synch glacial periods

A new study by Brown University researchers shows that the 100,000-year orbital cycle and the 21,000-year precession cycle work together to drive the glacial cycle. The team found that sea ice in the Southern Hemisphere plays a crucial role in modulating the effects of precession on global temperature, leading to an expansion of sea ic...

SourceBrown University·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJan 26, 2017

Sound waves create whirlpools to round up tiny signs of disease

Researchers at Duke University have developed a tiny device that uses sound waves to create whirlpools to gather proteins and other biomarkers from blood, urine or saliva samples. This innovative technology has the potential to form the basis of a small, inexpensive point-of-care device for early disease diagnosis.

SourceDuke University·JournalACS Nano·DateJan 26, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New gene-delivery therapy restores partial hearing, balance in deaf mice

Scientists at Harvard Medical School have developed a new gene-delivery therapy that successfully restores partial hearing and balance in mice born with genetic hearing loss. The treatment uses a modified adeno-associated virus (AAV) wrapped in protective bubbles to penetrate hair cells, which are notoriously difficult to treat.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalMolecular Therapy·DateJan 26, 2017

Professors Ateshian and Myers win ASME honors for bioengineering research

Professors Ateshian and Myers have made significant contributions to the fields of cartilage mechanics and soft tissue biomechanics. Ateshian's work focuses on developing better modalities for osteoarthritis treatment, while Myers studies the mechanics of the uterus and cervix to prevent premature births.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·DateJan 26, 2017

LSD alters perception via serotonin receptors

Researchers discovered LSD alters perception by stimulating serotonin 2A receptors in the brain. This finding may lead to new courses of treatment for psychiatric disorders like depression, addictions, and phobias by enhancing personal relevance.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJan 26, 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.

Make tomatoes flavorful again

Genetic analysis reveals dozens of chemical compounds associated with tomato flavor that have been lost in modern varieties. Selection for size and firmness has led to a reduction in sweetness and flavor content, highlighting the need to reintroduce flavor-infusing genes.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJan 26, 2017

Antioxidants get small

Researchers at Rice University have created single-molecule compounds that quench damaging reactive oxygen species, offering a new basis for antioxidant therapies. The molecules, called PEG-PDI, are true mimics of superoxide dismutase enzymes and show promise for treating cancer, traumatic brain injuries, and chronic diseases.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Nano·DateJan 26, 2017

'Field research and a sharper focus on the young could help combat terrorism'

A new research paper published in Science argues that the US government's national security systems have not adapted sufficiently to the threats posed by groups like Al Qaeda and Islamic State. The paper calls for more field research on young people to inform machine learning and big data analysis to combat terrorism.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalScience·DateJan 26, 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.

Data suggests modest physical activity associated with improvement in markers

Researchers found that even modest levels of physical activity decreased insulin resistance and biomarkers of inflammation, while sedentary time increased levels of satiety-related chemicals in the blood. The study suggests that physical activity and inactivity may operate through different pathways to modulate disease risk.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalClinical Obesity·DateJan 26, 2017

Mapping biodiversity and conservation hotspots of the Amazon

Researchers used remote sensing data to identify functional diversity hotspots in the Peruvian Andes and Amazon basin, revealing 36 forest functional classes. Up to 46% of these areas are currently protected, with government control over two-thirds and indigenous lands holding one-third.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJan 26, 2017

This is LSD attached to a brain cell serotonin receptor

For the first time, researchers at UNC School of Medicine have discovered precisely what LSD looks like in its active state when attached to a human serotonin receptor. This breakthrough reveals that the psychoactive effects of LSD last for so long because part of the receptor folds over the drug molecule, locking it in place.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalCell·DateJan 26, 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.

Cosmic lenses support finding on faster than expected expansion of the universe

Astronomers using the Hubble Space Telescope have made an independent measurement of the universe's expansion rate, consistent with earlier findings but in disagreement with measurements from the early Universe. The study uses galaxies as giant gravitational lenses to determine the Hubble constant to a high precision.

SourceESA/Hubble Information Centre·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJan 26, 2017

How the border guards fail in HIV infection

Researchers found abnormal antibody levels in HIV-1-infected individuals, suggesting an important factor contributing to the failure of the gut to prevent microbial invasion. The study revealed a significant elevation of immunoglobulin M levels and decreased ratios of IgG/IgM and IgA/IgM in HIV-1-infected patients.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateJan 26, 2017

By age 6, gender stereotypes can affect girls' choices

A new study found that by age 6, girls are already absorbing societal stereotypes about intellectual ability and choosing activities based on these notions. The researchers used experiments to evaluate the beliefs of 5-, 6- and 7-year-old boys and girls about gender and brilliance.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalScience·DateJan 26, 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.

Twice-daily radiation therapy cuts deaths from head and neck cancer

A new study found that twice-daily radiation therapy combined with chemotherapy reduces head and neck cancer deaths by 20% and slows disease progression. The treatment, known as hyperfractionated radiotherapy, has shown promise in treating advanced stage patients who face lower survival rates.

SourceECCO-the European CanCer Organisation·DateJan 26, 2017

CU Boulder team to track methane leaks using lasers

A CU Boulder team, in collaboration with NIST and UC Davis, will track methane leaks from natural gas storage facilities using a novel laser system. The ground-based system measures changes in methane concentrations down to one part-per-billion, while light aircraft flights provide estimates of total emissions.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·DateJan 26, 2017
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Researchers find improved preventive care from Obamacare Medicaid expansion

Researchers found improved preventive care and health behaviors among low-income childless adults due to Obamacare Medicaid expansion, with increased access to healthcare services and reduced barriers to care. They also reported better self-assessed health and fewer days of poor health or restricted activities.

SourceIndiana University·JournalJournal of Policy Analysis and Management·DateJan 26, 2017

Autism researchers discover genetic 'Rosetta Stone'

A new study by UC San Francisco researchers reveals that distinct sets of genetic defects in a single neuronal protein can cause either infantile epilepsy or autism spectrum disorders. The study identifies SCN2A as the human gene with the strongest evidence for a causal role in driving ASDs.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateJan 26, 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.

Feed a cold, starve a fever? Not so fast, according to Salk research

Research from the Salk Institute shows that certain bacteria, such as Salmonella Typhimurium, can block the host's appetite loss response to make themselves healthier while also promoting transmission. This discovery could have implications in treating infectious diseases and may lead to new therapies for metabolic disease.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalCell·DateJan 26, 2017

Climate change helped kill off super-sized Ice Age animals in Australia

A new study suggests that climate change played a significant role in the extinction of giant Ice Age animals in Australia. The analysis of fossil teeth found that as the climate dried out and became more arid, the diets of these megafaunal herbivores shifted dramatically, reducing their ability to consume certain types of plants.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalPaleobiology·DateJan 26, 2017

Boron atoms stretch out, gain new powers

Researchers at Rice University simulated one-dimensional boron materials, which exhibited mechanical stiffness comparable to the highest-performing nanomaterials. The new findings also revealed that these materials can act as constant-force springs and display unique electronic properties.

SourceRice University·DateJan 26, 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.

First 3-D observation of nanomachines working inside cells

Researchers have made a groundbreaking discovery by directly observing the structure of protein machinery in living cells, allowing them to study its functions in unprecedented detail. This breakthrough has significant implications for understanding cellular biology and developing new therapeutic strategies for diseases.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalCell·DateJan 26, 2017

Why Salmonella wants its host to have a healthy appetite

A study found that when a bacteria reduces its virulence by blocking loss of appetite, it increases mouse survival and helps the pathogen spread. Salmonella Typhimurium, a natural intestinal pathogen in mice, uses this strategy to replicate and transmit to other hosts.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateJan 26, 2017

Scientists use stem cells to create human/pig chimera embryos

Researchers at Salk Institute successfully created human/pig chimeras, offering insights into early human development and potential applications for drug testing. The achievement marks an important step towards growing functional tissues and organs for regenerative medicine.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateJan 26, 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.

Can myeloid derived suppressor cells subdue viral infections?

Research highlights the role of myeloid-derived suppressor cells in regulating immune responses to viral infections. These cells have been shown to directly alter the viral infectious process, posing challenges for developing antiviral therapies.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalViral Immunology·DateJan 26, 2017

High-tech maps of tropical forest diversity identify new conservation targets

Remote sensing maps reveal new regions for conservation effort in Peruvian forests, identifying previously unknown assemblages and assessing the effectiveness of current protections. The approach links biodiversity and functional diversity, providing a roadmap for detecting critical omissions in regional networks.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalScience·DateJan 26, 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.

Parasite protein could help inform new anti-tuberculosis strategies

A study published in PLOS Pathogens suggests that proteins produced by the toxoplasmosis parasite may play a role in developing host-directed tuberculosis therapies. The researchers found that these proteins interact with human proteins to activate anti-tuberculosis defense mechanisms.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateJan 26, 2017

Mature heart muscle cells created in the laboratory from stem cells

Johns Hopkins researchers successfully created mature heart muscle cells from human or animal stem cells by implanting them into newborn rat hearts. The host animal's biological signals and chemistry enabled the immature cells to mature, overcoming a developmental blockade.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalCell Reports·DateJan 26, 2017

Rapid gas flares discovered in white dwarf star for the first time

Scientists have discovered incredibly rapid gas flares from a white dwarf binary star system for the first time. The unusual activity was observed at radio wavelengths in SS Cyg, one of the brightest variable stars in the constellation of Cygnus.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJan 26, 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.

Globe-trotting pollutants raise some cancer risks 4 times higher than predicted

A new study reveals that tiny particles can shield pollutants like polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) from degradation, allowing them to travel farther and increasing lung cancer risk. The findings quadruple the estimated global lung cancer risk from a pollutant caused by combustion, exceeding World Health Organization limits.

SourceOregon State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 26, 2017

Scientists develop new flu vaccines for man's best friend

Researchers at the University of Rochester Medical Center have created two new live-attenuated vaccines against canine influenza viruses, which can be transmitted to humans. These vaccines provide better immune protection and longer periods of protection than existing inactivated vaccines.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalJournal of Virology·DateJan 26, 2017

Leprosy strain genotyped from medieval pilgrim at UK burial site

Researchers analyzed a medieval skeleton found in a leprosy hospital cemetery in Winchester, UK, and discovered the strain of leprosy it carried was genetically distinct from others, linked to South-Central and Western Asia. The findings suggest that resistance to the disease may have developed over time.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateJan 26, 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.

Anti-inflammatory diet could reduce risk of bone loss in women

A new study suggests that an anti-inflammatory diet rich in vegetables, fruits, fish, and whole grains can help prevent bone loss and fractures in post-menopausal white women younger than 63. The researchers found a correlation between lower-inflammatory diets and lower risk of hip fracture in this subgroup.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·DateJan 26, 2017

Examining women's bones during menopause may help head off fractures

Researchers identified distinct changes in bone mineral content and area among midlife women transitioning through menopause, contradicting previous assumptions about bone expansion. The findings suggest that individual variability in bone structure can be used to identify women at risk of fractures far in advance.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·DateJan 26, 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.

For immigrant mothers delivering 'the talk,' facts trump culture

Research finds that African immigrant mothers tend to focus on factual information about sex and reproduction, rather than cultural teachings or myths, when educating their daughters. This shift is attributed to increased exposure to liberal American culture and the desire for more accurate education.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalJournal of Transcultural Nursing·DateJan 26, 2017

Depression is under-treated in patients receiving chronic dialysis

Patients with kidney failure receiving chronic hemodialysis often have depressive symptoms but refuse treatment. When willing, doctors commonly don't prescribe anti-depressant therapy, citing underlying reasons including physiological and psychological changes associated with kidney failure.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateJan 26, 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.

How 1000 new genetic variants were discovered in blood groups

A recent study by Lund University researcher Mattias Möller has identified 1000 new genetic variants in blood group genes, which could have negative effects during blood transfusions. The discovery was made possible by developing a new computer program to process the genomes of 2504 people, providing insights into human genetic variation.

SourceLund University·JournalBlood Advances·DateJan 26, 2017

The secret of the supervolcano

Scientists at Uppsala University reveal the secret behind massive volcanic eruptions, discovering chemical clues in quartz crystals that hint at magma assimilating a local rock rich in water, leading to increased gas pressure and catastrophic eruptions.

SourceUppsala University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 26, 2017

What patients say and what doctors document

A study from Michigan Medicine reveals significant disparities between patients' self-reported eye symptoms and their electronic medical records. The study analyzed 162 Kellogg patients and found that only 38 had exact agreement between their survey responses and medical records, with symptom reporting driving the inconsistencies.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateJan 26, 2017

IV contrast for CT is not associated with increased risk of acute kidney injury

A recent study published in Annals of Emergency Medicine found no association between intravenous contrast media and acute kidney injury. The research, which analyzed five years of records, showed that the probability of developing acute kidney injury was higher for patients receiving unenhanced CT scans.

SourceAmerican College of Emergency Physicians·JournalAnnals of Emergency Medicine·DateJan 26, 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.

Antidote for partisanship? In science, curiosity seems to work

A new study suggests that science curiosity can reduce polarization on contentious issues like climate change and fracking. Curious individuals are more willing to engage with surprising information that challenges their political predispositions, leading to a decrease in partisan divide.

SourceYale University·DateJan 26, 2017

Limited HIV testing access for Baltimore youth

A new survey found that 59% of Baltimore's youth-serving organizations do not offer HIV testing, highlighting the need for better integration of community-based services and clinical care. Organizations with HIV testing were more likely to provide general health services and referral services for sexually transmitted infections screening.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalPublic Health Reports·DateJan 26, 2017

Hospital-led interventions associated with significant reduction in cesarean rate

A new study at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center found that hospital-led interventions significantly reduced the Cesarean delivery rate from 34.8% to 21.2% over a seven-year period. The interventions included quality improvement measures such as standardized protocols, increased provider education and revised guidelines.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalThe Joint Commission Journal on Quality and Patient Safety·DateJan 26, 2017

Scientists map the genetic evolution of dinoflagellates for the first time

A four-year genetic research effort has mapped the major landmarks in the evolution of dinoflagellates, a key species in the environment. The study found that nonphotosynthetic dinoflagellates have retained vital metabolic functions and could lead to a better understanding of bioluminescence and toxic algal blooms.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Center for Environmental Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 26, 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.

Terrorism research must be driven by evidence, not political agendas

Four experts propose a strategy for terrorism research that combines theoretically informed fieldwork with policy-making, aiming to protect academic integrity from politics and inform effective countermeasures. They outline the need for national institutional review boards to ensure legal and ethical standards in research, grounded in ...

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalScience·DateJan 26, 2017

Metallic hydrogen, once theory, becomes reality

Researchers successfully created atomic metallic hydrogen using diamond anvil cells at extreme pressures, offering potential applications in high-energy storage, superconductors, and rocket propulsion. The discovery could transform various industries, including energy production and space exploration.

SourceHarvard University·JournalScience·DateJan 26, 2017

Young girls less likely to attribute brilliance to their own gender

A new study found that six-year-old girls are less likely than boys to believe they themselves are brilliant. This trend is concerning given the impact of gender stereotypes on career aspirations. The research suggests girls' perceptions of school achievement and intelligence remain separate until age 7.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJan 26, 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.

Gene key for chemically reprogramming human stem cells

Researchers at UCL and Heinrich Heine University have discovered the OCT4 gene essential for chemically reprogramming human amniotic stem cells. The process allows these cells to be rejuvenated and function like embryonic stem cells, providing a promising alternative for therapies and research.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalMolecular Therapy·DateJan 26, 2017

New study shows how to avoid weight gain and cardiometabolic disease

A new model for defining healthy eating is presented in a review article, taking into account caloric load, cellular respiration, and food perception. The study aims to reduce the risk of weight gain and cardiometabolic disease by understanding the complex factors involved.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalMetabolic Syndrome and Related Disorders·DateJan 26, 2017

Scientists unveil new form of matter: Time crystals

Researchers have successfully created the first time crystals, which repeat their structure in time due to periodic kicking. This breakthrough opens a new landscape of non-equilibrium matter with promise for quantum computing and memory storage.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJan 26, 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.

Fat shaming linked to greater health risks

A new study by the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine finds that internalizing negative weight stereotypes increases the risk of cardiovascular and metabolic disease in obese patients. Patients who experience fat shaming are more likely to avoid exercise, consume extra calories, and develop conditions like metabolic syndrome.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalObesity·DateJan 26, 2017

Model assessment may predict obstructive sleep apnea in children with Down syndrome

A new assessment tool combines parental questionnaires and inexpensive diagnostic procedures to rule out obstructive sleep apnea in children with Down syndrome. The tool showed high accuracy in identifying participants without moderate to severe OSA, potentially reducing the need for sleep studies.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalAmerican Journal of Medical Genetics·DateJan 26, 2017

NASA observes extreme rainfall over Southern California

NASA's Integrated Multi-satellitE Retrievals for GPM (IMERG) estimated record-breaking rainfall totals over the western United States from January 17 to 24, 2017. Rainfall of almost 4 inches in one day was reported in Long Beach, California, causing flooding and mudslides.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 26, 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.

Study reveals public perception of police and body-worn cameras

The study found that 87% of respondents agree that body-worn cameras would improve police officer behavior, while citizens with more positive views of police had the most support for BWCs. West Palm Beach residents reported less favorable perceptions on police-community encounters and issues of crime and safety.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalCriminal Justice and Behavior·DateJan 26, 2017
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

New technique could lead to safer, more efficient uranium extraction

Researchers at Oregon State University have developed a new technique for extracting uranium from an aqueous solution using soap-like chemicals, potentially reducing the need for harsher separation methods. The technique also shows promise for legacy waste treatment and environmental cleanup.

SourceOregon State University·JournalEuropean Journal of Inorganic Chemistry·DateJan 26, 2017

A cellular system makes the battle against a rare disease personal

Researchers have created a human stem-cell based system to find drugs for mitochondrial disease. They extracted skin cells from patients with faulty mitochondria and used them to identify a promising potential drug called avanafil. This breakthrough gives the potential for truly personalized treatments for rare diseases.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateJan 26, 2017

How insects decide to grow up

Researchers found that DNA amount controls initial steroid hormone production, signaling start of metamorphosis. This internal timer determines juvenile development and makes metamorphosis irreversible.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateJan 26, 2017

For this metal, electricity flows, but not the heat

Scientists have found that electrons in vanadium dioxide move in unison, making it a poor conductor of heat. The material's unique properties make it suitable for applications like thermoelectric systems and window coatings.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateJan 26, 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.

From theory to reality: The creation of metallic hydrogen

Researchers successfully demonstrate metallic properties in hydrogen at pressures between 465-495 GPa and 5.5 Kelvin. The discovery has potential implications for high-temperature superconductivity and energy production.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJan 26, 2017

Study: How climate change threatens mountaintops (and clean water)

A new study published in Nature forecasts disruption to alpine ecosystem health due to climate change. Rising temperatures are expected to decouple key nutrient cycles in mountain soils and plants, threatening the function of mountaintop ecosystems and their ability to provide clean water.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalNature·DateJan 26, 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.

How fast is the universe expanding? Quasars provide an answer

The H0LiCOW collaboration has made a new measurement of the Hubble constant using quasars and gravitational lensing. The result agrees with recent independent studies but disagrees significantly with cosmic microwave background measurements, potentially indicating new physics beyond the standard cosmological model.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJan 26, 2017

Astronomers measure universe expansion, get hints of 'new physics'

The Hubble Constant measurement by the H0LiCOW collaboration hints at 'new physics' beyond the standard model of cosmology. The team used gravitational lenses to measure the universe's expansion rate, which is crucial for confirming or refuting the current picture of dark energy and dark matter.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJan 26, 2017

New drug SAK3 may offer hope to Alzheimer's disease patients

Researchers at Tohoku University have developed a new drug, SAK3, that stimulates the release of acetylcholine in the brain and improves cognition. In animal experiments, SAK3 has proven to be safe and well-tolerated, with potential for development into a disease-modifying drug.

SourceTohoku University·JournalNeuropharmacology·DateJan 26, 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.

National Academy of Sciences honors LIGO researchers

LIGO researcher Gabriela González has received the National Academy of Sciences Award for Scientific Discovery for her work on gravitational wave astronomy. She shares the award with David Howard Reitze and Peter R. Saulson, who have also contributed significantly to the field over 19 years.

SourceLouisiana State University·DateJan 26, 2017