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Science News for January 5, 2017


Many kidney failure patients lack advance directives near the end of life

A study found that patients with kidney failure were less likely to have advance directives than those with other serious illnesses, but those who did had better end-of-life care. The presence of treatment-limiting directives and surrogate decision makers reduced hospitalizations, intensive procedures, and inpatient deaths.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateJan 5, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

When being extra sweet doesn't pay off

A study on bat preferences for nectar reveals that competition leads to a preference for dilute nectars. The researchers used computer-controlled flowers with varying sugar concentrations to simulate the feeding behavior of bats.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJan 5, 2017

US educators awarded for exemplary teaching in mathematics

The Mathematical Association of America (MAA) has awarded Janet Heine Barnett, Caren Diefenderfer, and Tevian Dray for their outstanding contributions to mathematics education. They were recognized for inspiring students, developing innovative teaching methods, and promoting quantitative literacy.

SourceMathematical Association of America·DateJan 5, 2017

A flexible transistor that conforms to skin

Researchers have developed a flexible transistor that can be stretched to twice its length without significant changes in conductivity. The breakthrough uses a semiconducting polymer confined within an elastic matrix, demonstrating effective transconductivity even under heavy stretching.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJan 5, 2017

Genomic data sharing is critical to improving genetic health care

The American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics advocates for extensive sharing of genomic data to improve patient care. Responsible data sharing will provide critical information for clinical laboratories and treating physicians, leading to advancements in personalized medicine.

SourceAmerican College of Medical Genetics and Genomics·JournalGenetics in Medicine·DateJan 5, 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.

Apligraf® demonstrates significant change in chronic wound's genomic profile

New research from Organogenesis Inc. reveals that Apligraf can convert chronic venous leg ulcers into acute, healing wounds by modulating inflammatory and growth factor signaling. This breakthrough study published in Science Translational Medicine provides valuable insights for researchers and clinicians treating chronic wounds.

SourceOrganogenesis Inc.·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJan 5, 2017

Humans occupied tibetan plateau thousands of years earlier than previously thought

A new analysis of an archaeological site in Tibet suggests that permanent residents may have set up camp thousands of years earlier than previously thought. The study's findings support previous genetic research and propose that the region's wet climate may have enabled permanent pre-agricultural peopling.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJan 5, 2017

New microscope chemically identifies micron-sized particles

Researchers developed a new microscope that can chemically identify individual micron-sized particles using infrared spectroscopy without detectors. The instrument uses photothermal modulation of Mie scattering, allowing for non-destructive analysis and identification of multiple species simultaneously.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Letters·DateJan 5, 2017

Great Barrier Reef almost drowned; climate implications

The Great Barrier Reef nearly drowned during the Last Interglacial period due to rapid sea-level rise from melting glaciers and polar ice sheets. The reef's shallow growth recommenced once the sea-level rise stabilized, but modern pressures such as pesticide run-off, warming temperatures, and dredging could threaten its survival.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalGlobal and Planetary Change·DateJan 5, 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.

Halting lethal childhood leukemia

Researchers at Northwestern University have discovered a genetic driver of mixed lineage leukemia, a rare and deadly form of childhood leukemia. They identified a targeted molecular therapy that halts the proliferation of leukemic cells by stabilizing the wild-type MLL protein, which drives cancer.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalCell·DateJan 5, 2017

Identifying children at risk of eating disorders is key to saving lives

A study published in Appetite found that children with more eating disorder symptoms at age nine also had a higher number of symptoms at age 12. The research identified three key areas to monitor for early intervention: body dissatisfaction, depressive symptoms, and earlier onset of symptoms.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalAppetite·DateJan 5, 2017

Consumption of grilled meat linked to higher mortality risk among breast cancer survivors

A study published in JNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that high consumption of grilled, barbecued, and smoked meats may increase mortality risk after breast cancer diagnosis. The research evaluated the link between these meat types and survival time among 1508 Long Island women with breast cancer.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateJan 5, 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.

Hummingbirds see motion in an unexpected way

Researchers found that hummingbird brains are uniquely attuned to detect fast visual motion in any direction. This discovery sheds light on the birds' remarkable ability to zoom and stop quickly while sipping nectar. The findings have implications for understanding flight behaviors, competitive interactions, and courtship displays.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJan 5, 2017

New therapeutic agent proves more effective treatment for advanced prostate cancer

A German multicenter study confirms the efficacy and safety of Lu-177-PSMA-617 radioligand therapy for metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer, demonstrating a positive response rate of 45% and manageable side effects. The treatment offers an additional option for end-stage patients with high response rates and low toxicity.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateJan 5, 2017

UNC Catalyst initiative aims to create, share tools to fight rare diseases

The UNC Catalyst initiative aims to create and share research tools to study rare diseases, addressing the lack of resources and expertise in this area. The partnership with Genetic Alliance and Structural Genomics Consortium will provide researchers with access to necessary tools and talent to accelerate solutions.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·DateJan 5, 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.

Worms have teenage ambivalence, too

A study by Salk Institute scientists reveals that adolescent roundworms exhibit erratic behavior when seeking food, unlike adult worms which show efficient behavior. This discovery provides insight into the drivers of neurological development and may shed light on human brain function and diseases.

SourceSalk Institute·JournaleNeuro·DateJan 5, 2017

Protein associated with Parkinson's travels from brain to gut

A laboratory study found that alpha-synuclein, a protein involved in Parkinson's disease, can travel from the brain to the stomach via specific nerve pathways. The protein was detected in gastric nerve terminals six months after its initial midbrain expression.

SourceDZNE - German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases·JournalActa Neuropathologica·DateJan 5, 2017

Buzzing the vagus nerve just right to fight inflammatory disease

The new therapy uses a kilohertz frequency electrical block of afferent vagus nerve pathways to stimulate the nerve while inhibiting unwanted nerve activity, increasing clinical efficacy and therapeutic benefit. This approach is reversible, controllable, and clinically feasible, providing a potential solution for chronic inflammatory d...

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 5, 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.

Climate change could trigger strong sea level rise

An international team of scientists reports that Antarctica's climate change could trigger a strong sea level rise, similar to the one that occurred 15,000 years ago. Global warming is causing layering in the ocean, leading to stronger ice sheet melting.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 5, 2017

Scientists use light to control the logic networks of a cell

Researchers have developed a method to control proteins inside live cells using light, allowing for unprecedented insight into the causes of disease. The technique uses previously inaccessible proteins to create flexible logic networks that can be manipulated in real-time.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalScience·DateJan 5, 2017

Researcher turns 'SARS mask' into a virus killer

A University of Alberta researcher has developed a method to treat surgical masks, making them effective against airborne viruses. By using a salt-based treatment, the mask's fibre filter can trap and kill viruses, reducing the risk of transmission.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 5, 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.

Captured on video: DNA nanotubes build a bridge between 2 molecular posts

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University successfully created DNA nanotube bridges that connected two molecular landmarks on the surface of a lab dish. This breakthrough could lead to the development of new medical devices and technologies that can communicate directly with cells, potentially revolutionizing the field of nanotechnology.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJan 5, 2017

Older lung cancer patients face significant treatment burden

A study by Yale researchers found that older lung cancer patients can spend an average of one in three days interacting with the healthcare system within the first 60 days after surgery or radiation therapy. Patients with a higher number of medical conditions treated with surgery had the most post-treatment burdens.

SourceYale University·JournalJournal of Oncology Practice·DateJan 5, 2017

Climate change has mixed effects on migratory geese

A new study by the University of Exeter found that climate change improves breeding chances for migratory geese in the Arctic, but increases the death rate among mothers. This is because warmer conditions require extra energy for laying eggs and make them more vulnerable to predators.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·DateJan 5, 2017

Telecommunications light amplifier could strengthen integrity of transmitted data

Researchers at Singapore University of Technology and Design have developed a compact optical amplifier that can amplify light by 17,000 times, strengthening the integrity of transmitted data. The device's efficiency enables new opportunities in low-cost broadband spectroscopy, precision manufacturing, and hyperspectral imaging.

SourceSingapore University of Technology and Design·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 5, 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.

Researchers identify factors associated with stopping treatment for opioid dependence

A study published in the Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment found that black and Hispanic patients, as well as unemployed individuals and those with hepatitis C, are more likely to disengage from treatment programs for opioid dependence. Long-term engagement in therapy is crucial for treating this chronic condition, similar to hypert...

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Substance Abuse Treatment·DateJan 5, 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.

Using fat to help wounds heal without scars

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have made a groundbreaking discovery in wound healing by transforming myofibroblasts into fat cells. This innovation has the potential to revolutionize dermatology and develop new treatments for conditions such as HIV-related complications and aging skin.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalScience·DateJan 5, 2017

NIH-sponsored expert panel issues clinical guidelines to prevent peanut allergy

A new set of clinical guidelines aims to prevent the development of peanut allergy in infants by introducing peanut-containing foods early. The recommendations focus on high-risk infants, suggesting introduction between 4-6 months, and those with mild eczema, around 6 months.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateJan 5, 2017

High-tech mooring will measure beneath Antarctic ice

A VIMS research team has deployed a high-tech mooring beneath the Antarctic ice to monitor CO2 levels in the Southern Ocean year-round. The study aims to improve understanding of global climate change and its impacts on marine life.

SourceVirginia Institute of Marine Science·DateJan 5, 2017

One part of the brain unexpectedly continues to grow in adulthood

A new study reveals that the brain region responsible for face recognition continues to grow in adulthood, contradicting the prevailing view of synaptic pruning as a key factor in brain development. The growth is linked to an increase in cell bodies, dendritic structures, and myelin sheath.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJan 5, 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.

Radar reveals meltwater's year-round life under Greenland ice

A new study uses airborne ice-penetrating radar to observe meltwater's year-round life under the Greenland ice. The research reveals extensive winter water storage beneath the ice, which affects glaciers' response to melting.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJan 5, 2017

Chemotherapy effectiveness and initiation time after lung cancer surgery

A recent study published in JAMA Oncology suggests that chemotherapy can still benefit patients with non-small-cell lung cancer who recover slowly from surgery. The study found that delaying chemotherapy by up to four months did not increase the risk of death and may even lower it compared to earlier treatment.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateJan 5, 2017

Ignition interlock laws reduce alcohol-involved fatal crashes

Mandatory ignition interlock laws are effective in reducing alcohol-involved fatal crashes, preventing approximately 1,250 fatalities. States with such laws have seen a seven percent decrease in the rate of fatal crashes with at least one driver having a blood alcohol content over the legal limit.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateJan 5, 2017

Measuring trees with the speed of sound

A team of researchers developed a non-invasive method to detect and quantify wood decay in living trees, which can help understand global carbon pools and tree health. The sonic tomography technology uses sound waves to image the trunk, allowing for the creation of color-coded images of decaying wood.

SourceBotanical Society of America·JournalApplications in Plant Sciences·DateJan 5, 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.

Physical activity reduces heart disease deaths for older adults

A recent study found that moderate and high levels of physical activity are associated with a decreased risk of heart disease and death from all causes among older adults. Exercise helps maintain a healthy body weight, lowers blood pressure, and improves the ratio of unhealthy to healthy cholesterol in the body.

SourceAmerican Geriatrics Society·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateJan 5, 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.

Changing Antarctic waters could trigger steep rise in sea levels

Researchers found that Antarctic ocean temperatures became more layered, leading to coastal melting of ice sheets. This stratification is now happening again due to global warming, potentially triggering a three-meter rise in global sea levels.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 5, 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.

New research predicts the future of coral reefs under climate change

Coral reefs face severe bleaching every year on 99% of the world's reefs within this century if current trends continue. However, more ambitious emissions reductions may extend their survival by an average of 11 years.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 5, 2017

The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology: Gastric bypass helps severely obese teenagers maintain weight loss over long term

Severely obese teenagers who undergo gastric bypass surgery experience significant weight loss and improved health outcomes, including reduced diabetes and high cholesterol risks. However, some patients may need additional surgery or develop vitamin deficiencies, highlighting the importance of long-term follow-up and support.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·DateJan 5, 2017

Pollutants in the Arctic environment are threatening polar bear health

A new analysis reveals that polar bears are at risk from Arctic pollutants, with the risk being 2-3 orders of magnitude higher than safety thresholds. International control measures have reduced risks for bear cubs, but new contaminants pose a growing threat to the ecosystem.

SourceWiley·JournalEnvironmental Toxicology and Chemistry·DateJan 5, 2017

Deepest X-ray image ever reveals black hole treasure trove

A team of astronomers led by Penn State's Niel Brandt has captured the deepest X-ray image ever obtained, revealing a treasure trove of supermassive black holes. The image, taken with Chandra observing time of about 11 weeks, shows that these massive objects grow in bursts rather than slowly accumulating matter.

SourcePenn State·DateJan 5, 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.

Arctic sea ice loss impacts beluga whale migration

A new study finds that beluga whales in Alaska are mirroring changes in Arctic sea ice timing, delaying their migration south by up to one month. However, another population remains unaffected by these changes, suggesting variability in response across populations and time.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateJan 5, 2017

Genetics play a significant role in immunity, new research finds

A study published in Nature Communications found that nearly three quarters of immune traits are genetically determined, with adaptive responses being more influenced by genetics than previously thought. The research also highlights the importance of environmental factors such as diet on shaping innate immunity in adult life.

SourceKing's College London·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 5, 2017

Lung cancer patients may benefit from delayed chemotherapy after surgery

A new Yale study suggests that delaying chemotherapy after lung cancer surgery can lead to similar outcomes and lower risk of death. The research found that initiation between 57-127 days post-surgery had a similar impact as traditional timing, indicating a potential benefit for patients.

SourceYale University·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateJan 5, 2017

Hong Kong hosts more than a quarter of all marine species recorded in China

A comprehensive study on Hong Kong's marine biodiversity reveals the territory is home to over 26% of China's recorded marine species, comparable to regions like the Caribbean Sea and East Africa. The research highlights the importance of conserving marine habitats in Hong Kong, with only 2% currently protected.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalBiodiversity and Conservation·DateJan 5, 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.

New apps designed to reduce depression and anxiety as easily as checking your phone

A new Northwestern University study found that 13 speedy mini-apps, IntelliCare, significantly reduced depression and anxiety in participants who used them up to four times a day. The apps offer various exercises and strategies to improve mental well-being, resulting in a 50% decrease in depressive and anxiety symptoms.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·DateJan 5, 2017

Cancer death rate has dropped 25 percent since 1991 peak

The cancer death rate has decreased by 25% since its peak in 1991, resulting in 2.1 million fewer cancer deaths between 1991 and 2014. The decline is largely driven by reductions in smoking and improvements in early detection and treatment.

SourceAmerican Cancer Society·DateJan 5, 2017

Salk scientists crack the structure of HIV machinery

Researchers have solved the atomic structure of HIV's intasome, a key piece of machinery that integrates virus into human DNA. The discovery provides structural clues informing the development of new HIV drugs and sheds light on mechanisms of viral resistance.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalScience·DateJan 5, 2017

Mathematical papers and service honored at Joint Mathematics Meetings

The Mathematical Association of America honored Martha J. Siegel, Mark F. Schilling, and Robert D. Hough with prestigious awards for distinguished service and exemplary writing at the Joint Mathematics Meeting. The MAA recognized their contributions to advancing mathematical research and strengthening the community.

SourceMathematical Association of America·DateJan 5, 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.

Mouse model points to potential new treatment for Alzheimer's disease

Researchers have discovered a potential new treatment for Alzheimer's disease by inhibiting the 12/15-lipoxygenase enzyme, which is elevated in patients with the condition. The study found that this inhibitor reverses cognitive decline and neuropathology in an AD mouse model, even after symptoms have already developed.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateJan 5, 2017

Alarming levels of hypertension found in the general public

A new study reveals that 50% of Canadians are unaware they have high blood pressure, highlighting the need for increased awareness and education on managing the condition. Researchers also found a significant number of participants experienced hypertensive urgency or emergency, emphasizing the importance of proper management.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalAmerican Journal of Hypertension·DateJan 5, 2017

TSRI researchers discover surprising process behind sense of touch

Researchers at Scripps Research Institute discovered that lipid rafts on cell surfaces act as compartments to keep enzymes from mixing with their binding partners. Disrupting these rafts through touch triggers a signal that communicates the touch to responsive proteins in the cell.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 5, 2017

Off-grid power in remote areas will require special business model to succeed

A new study suggests that off-grid solar energy can have significant economic benefits for people living in remote areas, but requires a special business model to succeed. Successful business models include community interaction, partnerships, local capacity building and addressing barriers unique to the off-grid market.

SourceOregon State University·JournalRenewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews·DateJan 5, 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.

Hot weather not to blame for Salmonella on egg farms

Researchers found no direct association between hot weather and increased Salmonella prevalence at free range egg production farms. The study emphasizes the critical role of hand hygiene in reducing food poisoning from eggs.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateJan 5, 2017

Authors of year's best books in mathematics honored

Ian Stewart won the MAA Euler Book Prize for his book In Pursuit of the Unknown, a journey through equations that shaped history. Tim Chartier received the Beckenbach Book Prize for his book When Life is Linear, which brings linear algebra alive in everyday life.

SourceMathematical Association of America·DateJan 5, 2017

Anemia protects African children against malaria

Researchers found that iron deficiency anemia reduces the risk of malaria by 16% in African children, compared to sickle-cell trait, which only reduces it by 4%. Iron supplementation reverses this protection, increasing the risk of P. falciparum malaria.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalEBioMedicine·DateJan 5, 2017

New model shows companies how to tailor call center service to different customer types

A new study provides an integrated marketing-operations framework to help companies design more effective service policies for their call centers. The framework considers the flow of customers through the call center and their subsequent behavior, allowing companies to design different service levels for various customer types.

SourceUniversity of Toronto, Rotman School of Management·JournalManufacturing & Service Operations Management·DateJan 5, 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.

Density functional theory took a wrong turn recently

Recent studies in density functional theory (DFT) have raised concerns about the accuracy of approximations used in computational chemistry. Researchers found that even with improved energy calculations, the quality of electron density simulations worsened over time. This contradiction highlights a fundamental flaw in DFT's approach.

SourceNesmeyanov Institute of Organoelement Compounds·JournalScience·DateJan 5, 2017

Immune cell therapy shows promising results for lymphoma patients

The phase I trial of CAR-T therapy with axicabtagene ciloleucel resulted in a durable complete remission rate of 43% among highly refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphoma patients. The treatment showed promising clinical activity, with an overall response rate of 71%, and manageable toxicity.

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalMolecular Therapy·DateJan 5, 2017

Are tiny grazers the new hope for Caribbean reefs?

Researchers found small algae-grazing sea urchins and parrotfish may take the place of larger grazers to prevent algae from overgrowing reefs. These tiny organisms, comprising up to 95% of grazing biomass, can preempt shifts from coral to algae on degraded reefs.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 5, 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.

Harmonization needed!

A review in Angewandte Chemie emphasizes the importance of standardized analytic protocols to accurately assess microplastic contamination in aquatic ecosystems. The authors propose a list of nine arguments for harmonized methods, including improved sampling and processing techniques, to ensure reliable data and inform risk assessments.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJan 5, 2017

Stanford study shows development of face recognition entails brain tissue growth

A Stanford study suggests that the development of face recognition entails brain tissue growth, particularly in regions that distinguish faces from other objects. The research found microscopic tissue growth in these regions, which continues into adulthood and contributes to the differences between face and place recognition areas.

SourceStanford University·JournalScience·DateJan 5, 2017

Research sheds new light on high-altitude settlement in Tibet

New research published in Science suggests that humans established permanent settlements on the Tibetan Plateau around 7,400 years ago. The findings contradict previous estimates of 5,200 years ago, and are consistent with genetic adaptations to high-altitude environments dating back at least 8,000 years.

SourceUniversity of Wyoming·JournalScience·DateJan 5, 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.

Animal study shows harmful effects of secondhand smoke even before pregnancy

Exposure to second-hand tobacco smoke even before conception appears to impair fetal brain development throughout pregnancy, damaging regions involved in learning and memory. The impact was most severe with exposures occurring in late gestation, but adverse effects also occurred when mothers were exposed prior to conception.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalToxicological Sciences·DateJan 5, 2017

Foods rich in resistant starch may benefit health

A new review examines the potential health benefits of resistant starch, a form of starch not digested in the small intestine. It has been linked to improved blood sugar control and enhanced gut health through increased production of short-chain fatty acids.

SourceWiley·JournalNutrition Bulletin·DateJan 5, 2017