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Science News for January 9, 2017


Case Western receives $2.5 million Helmsley grant for 'smart' insulin development

The university will explore a 'molecular diversity' of potential glucose-responsive insulin analogs to develop rapid-acting, glucose-responsive insulins that become active when blood sugar is high and inactive when low. The goal is to mitigate the risk of blood sugar levels being too high or too low for patients with type 1 diabetes.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·DateJan 9, 2017

How a moon slows the decay of Pluto's atmosphere

A new study from Georgia Institute of Technology reveals that Charon, Pluto's largest moon, significantly reduces the stripping of Pluto's atmosphere by solar wind when positioned between the sun and Pluto. This barrier creates a more acute angle of Pluto's bow shock, slowing down atmospheric loss.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalIcarus·DateJan 9, 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.

Breakthrough in MS treatment

Ocrelizumab has been shown to significantly reduce new attacks in patients with relapsing MS, slow symptom progression in primary progressive MS, and decrease brain lesions. The drug also demonstrated lower rates of disability progression and fewer infusion-related reactions compared to placebo.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJan 9, 2017

CDC guidelines for HIV prevention regimen may not go far enough, study suggests

A new study from UCLA suggests modifying federal health guidelines to use a risk calculator that takes into account more factors, potentially increasing effectiveness of PrEP in preventing HIV transmission. The calculator uses real-world data and is expected to be useful for gay and bisexual men who have sex with men.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalSexually Transmitted Diseases·DateJan 9, 2017

Breast cancer screening associated with substantial overdiagnosis

A Danish cohort study found that breast cancer screening was not associated with a reduction in advanced tumors, but rather an increase in nonadvanced tumors and ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). The study estimates that approximately 1 in 3 invasive tumors diagnosed in screened women represent overdiagnosis.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJan 9, 2017

Anthropogenic groundwater extraction impacts climate

Groundwater exploitation causes drying in deep soil layers but wetting in upper layers, leading to unsustainable terrestrial water storage. The atmosphere responds with cooling over certain regions and increased precipitation due to evapotranspiration from groundwater irrigation.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalJournal of Climate·DateJan 9, 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.

Pediatric tuberculosis in Canada: A guide for physicians

Pediatric tuberculosis remains a concern in Canada, particularly among Aboriginal communities and children from endemic countries. Effective treatment requires a multidisciplinary approach, including clinicians, nurses, and social workers.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJan 9, 2017

Do weekend warriors reap any health benefits?

A recent study found that people who engage in physical activity on weekends have significantly lower all-cause mortality rates compared to those who are inactive. The research suggests that even short periods of moderate-intensity exercise can have health benefits, especially for individuals with busy weekday schedules. Experts recomm...

SourceGeorge Washington University Milken Institute School of Public Health·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJan 9, 2017

NASA spots short-lived Tropical Depression 01W

Tropical Depression 01W formed near Mindanao on January 8, 2017, and quickly weakened due to wind shear. The depression moved west through Mindanao towards the South China Sea, bringing moderate to heavy rains and rough seas to the region.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 9, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Heartburn pills in pregnancy may be linked to childhood asthma

A recent study found that children born to mothers who took acid-blocking drugs during pregnancy were at least one third more likely to visit a doctor for asthma symptoms. The researchers emphasize the need for further studies to confirm this association and determine whether the medicines cause asthma in children.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateJan 9, 2017

UTSA study shows how phishing scams thrive on overconfidence

A new UTSA study examines how phishing e-mails thrive on overconfidence, finding that self-efficacy is a major factor. The researchers created experimental surveys with subjects choosing between genuine and phishing emails, revealing why certain tactics appeal to different people.

SourceUniversity of Texas at San Antonio·JournalJournal of the Association for Information Systems·DateJan 9, 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.

The science of baby's first sight

Researchers at UNC School of Medicine found that mice reared in darkness show degraded dorsal stream responses, highlighting the importance of early visual experience for proper development. This discovery has implications for understanding vision restoration and recovery from bilateral cataracts.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateJan 9, 2017

Common viruses prove dangerous in long-term care facility

A widespread outbreak of RSV and HMPV in a long-term dementia care ward infected 73% of patients, emphasizing the need for improved protocols to protect vulnerable residents. The facility has since implemented active screening, efficient separation, and partnered with a private laboratory for rapid respiratory viral testing.

SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateJan 9, 2017

Neural connection keeps instincts in check

Researchers at EMBL have traced the physical connection between the prefrontal cortex and brainstem that inhibits instinctive behavior. The study found that this connection, specifically to the PAG region of the brainstem, prevents social animals from acting out impulses.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateJan 9, 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.

High dietary red meat intake linked to common bowel condition diverticulitis

Research found that consuming high amounts of unprocessed red meat increases the risk of developing diverticulitis by 58%. Replacing daily portions with poultry or fish may lower this risk, with a 20% reduced risk observed. Insufficient dietary fibre intake and smoking are also thought to play roles in the development of the condition.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalGut·DateJan 9, 2017

Fear of diagnostic low-dose radiation exposure is overstated, experts assert

Researchers argue that the linear no-threshold hypothesis, which suggests all radiation is harmful, is inaccurate and has led to widespread fear of low-dose radiation. Studies show that low doses stimulate protective responses, reducing cancer risk rather than increasing it.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateJan 9, 2017

Hospitals in Medicare ACOs reduced readmissions faster

A new study found that hospitals in Medicare Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs) reduced readmissions faster than non-ACO hospitals, with ACO hospitals decreasing their rates by 14.9%, compared to a 13.1% decrease for non-ACO hospitals.

SourceBrown University·JournalHealth Affairs·DateJan 9, 2017

National Commission on Prevention Priorities releases new preventive services rankings

The National Commission on Prevention Priorities has released updated rankings for clinical preventive services, highlighting the most effective and cost-effective options. The top three services include immunizing children, tobacco-use screening, and alcohol misuse screening, with scores of 10 out of a possible 10.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateJan 9, 2017

Medicaid expansion linked to better care quality at health centers

A new study found that Medicaid expansion is associated with increased insurance coverage and improvements in asthma treatment, BMI screening, pap testing, and blood pressure control. Care quality also improved on seven measures, including care for asthma, pap testing, and hypertension, particularly among Hispanics.

SourceBrown University·JournalHealth Affairs·DateJan 9, 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.

Aggressive prostate cancer secrets revealed in landmark study

A landmark study reveals that men with a family history of prostate cancer and the BRCA2 gene fault have a more aggressive form of prostate cancer. The study shows that these cancers are genetically similar to advanced cancers, explaining why BRCA2 patients have poor outcomes.

SourceMonash University·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 9, 2017

What did Big Data find when it analyzed 150 years of British history?

Researchers analyzed 35 million articles from British regional newspapers to detect major events, gender bias, and cultural shifts. The study found significant changes in representation over time, with women's presence increasing after 1900 but still being underrepresented.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 9, 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.

Study: Some catalysts contribute their own oxygen for reactions

Researchers at MIT have found that some catalysts produce oxygen from within their crystal structure, contrary to previous assumptions. The study's findings could help fine-tune metal-oxide catalysts for enhanced energy storage processes.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Chemistry·DateJan 9, 2017

Children are more apt to confess misdeeds if they think parents will react positively

A new study from the University of Michigan found that older kids are more likely to view confessing as right, while younger children connect positive emotions to lying and negative emotions to confession. Parents can foster open communication by listening without anger, making it critical for teens grappling with adult issues.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalJournal of Experimental Child Psychology·DateJan 9, 2017

How on Earth does geotagging work?

Computing science researchers at the University of Alberta have developed a technique to automate geotagging for news articles and other online documents. The model integrates two competing hypotheses: inheritance and near-location, achieving high accuracy in matching named entities to geographical locations.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·DateJan 9, 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.

Mediterranean is the fountain of youth, study claims

Researchers found that chemicals extracted from prickly pear and brown seaweed improve cellular and animal models of neurodegenerative proteinopathies. The study suggests these substances may target pathways affected by multiple neurodegenerative conditions.

SourceUniversity of Malta·JournalNeuroscience Letters·DateJan 9, 2017

Delirium an insidious, deadly threat to nursing home residents

Delirium is an often-undiagnosed syndrome affecting nearly 18% of long-term care residents, characterized by disorganized thinking and attention deficits. Prevention strategies include avoiding non-essential surgery, maintaining hydration, and minimizing medication exposure.

SourceAmerican Osteopathic Association·JournalThe Journal of the American Osteopathic Association·DateJan 9, 2017

Recognize sepsis as a separate cause of illness and death

Sepsis is a life-threatening organ malfunction caused by infection, associated with significant hospital deaths. Recognizing sepsis as a separate cause can lead to improved hygiene, nutrition, vaccination rates, and quality of life for those affected.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJan 9, 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.

Two years and multiple doctors often needed to diagnose polycystic ovary syndrome

A study revealed that it takes two years or more for one-third of women with PCOS to receive a diagnosis, highlighting the need for improved education and support. The authors call for international guidelines and resources to improve diagnosis experience and health outcomes for women with PCOS.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateJan 9, 2017

Place matters in late diagnosis of colorectal cancer, study finds

A recent study led by Georgia State University researcher found that living in segregated communities can affect colorectal cancer diagnosis timing. Residents of highly segregated Asian communities are more likely to receive late diagnoses, while those in African American communities are less likely.

SourceGeorgia State University·JournalAnnals of Epidemiology·DateJan 9, 2017

Brain impairments in premature infants may begin in the womb

Researchers found altered brain circuitry in premature infants as early as 24 weeks gestation, which may lead to neurodevelopmental disorders like autism and cerebral palsy. The study suggests that factors contributing to early birth may impact brain development in the womb.

SourceYale University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 9, 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.

For chemicals, mega is out and bio is in

Researchers argue that waste methane can be turned into valuable chemicals through biomanufacturing, which could meet industry's needs and reduce environmental impact. By operating at smaller scales, biomanufacturing facilities can be closer to feedstocks and point of need, facilitating faster innovation.

SourceRice University·JournalScience·DateJan 9, 2017

Brain cell powerhouses appear good treatment target for stroke, TBI recovery

Researchers observed that brain cell powerhouses, called mitochondria, can quickly become dysfunctional after injury like stroke or trauma. However, they often resume their normal shape once blood and oxygen are restored, suggesting a potential new avenue for improving recovery from such injuries.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·DateJan 9, 2017

WSU researchers discover unique microbial photosynthesis

Researchers at WSU have discovered a new type of cooperative photosynthesis that allows bacteria to transfer electrons, enabling anaerobic photosynthesis. This process has significant implications for engineering microbial communities for waste treatment and bioenergy production.

SourceWashington State University·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 9, 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.

Hidden seeds reveal Canary Islands history

Researchers from Linköping University and the University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria analyzed prehistoric seeds to discover that barley was one of the main crops on the island of Gran Canaria over 1,000 years ago. The study suggests that the Canary Islands were colonized by tribes from northern Morocco nearly 2,000 years ago.

SourceLinköping University·JournalJournal of Archaeological Science·DateJan 9, 2017

Bilingualism may save brain resources as you age

Research finds bilingual brains are more efficient, recruiting fewer regions and specialized areas to process information. Bilinguals show improved focus and interference control, benefiting daily life and potentially staving off signs of aging.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalJournal of Neurolinguistics·DateJan 9, 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.

Friend or foe? Each creates national unity, a mix creates divisions, study shows

A new study published in PNAS reveals that peace brings people together in Scandinavian countries, while groups band together against other groups for a united cause in conflict-ridden war zones. In countries with a mix of indigenous and immigrant populations, intergroup relations are more challenging, leading to ambivalent stereotypes...

SourcePrinceton School of Public and International Affairs·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 9, 2017

Psychology essential to achieving goals of patient-centered medical homes

The American Psychological Association emphasizes the importance of psychologists in patient-centered medical homes, highlighting their role in improving health outcomes, decreasing costs, and enhancing patient experience. Behavioral health problems are prevalent among medical patients, compounding care delivery and effectiveness.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalAmerican Psychologist·DateJan 9, 2017

Decision pathway issued for patients with irregular heartbeat on anticoagulants

The American College of Cardiology has published a new document to manage patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation who need surgery. The guideline provides guidance on temporarily stopping anticoagulation medications, choosing alternative treatments, and restarting blood thinners after surgery.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateJan 9, 2017

Crystallization method offers new option for carbon capture from ambient air

Scientists at ORNL have developed a novel crystallization method to capture carbon dioxide directly from ambient air. The method uses a guanidine sorbent that can be heated at relatively low temperatures to release the gas, reducing energy consumption and emissions.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJan 9, 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.

Genitourinary injuries challenge returning US servicemen

Research found that nearly 1,400 US servicemen sustained genitourinary (GU) injuries during the Iraq and Afghanistan wars. The majority of patients suffered severe testicular and/or penile injuries, often part of polytraumatic injuries. Novel treatments are needed to address long-term sexual and reproductive health concerns.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalThe Journal of Urology·DateJan 9, 2017

Parents' physical activity associated with preschooler activity in underserved populations

Researchers found that increasing parental physical activity and reducing sedentary behavior correlates with increased physical activity behaviors in children. The study used movement monitors to objectively measure physical activity and found a significant association between parent and child behavior.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateJan 9, 2017

'Weekend warriors' have lower risk of death from cancer, cardiovascular disease

A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that men and women who engage in physical activity on just one or two occasions per week have a lower risk of death from all causes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. The 'weekend warriors' spent an average of 300 minutes per week doing moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJan 9, 2017

Pre-pregnancy progesterone helps women with recurrent pregnancy loss

A new study suggests that natural progesterone supplementation can increase pregnancy success in women with a history of recurrent pregnancy loss. The research found that over two-thirds of pregnancies were successful in women who received progesterone, compared to barely half in those who did not.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalFertility and Sterility·DateJan 9, 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.

New findings detail structure of immature Zika virus

The study reveals differences in protein arrangement between immature Zika and other flaviviruses, shedding light on the virus's role in infection and disease. Understanding the structure of the immature form could help develop effective antiviral treatments and vaccines for diseases like microcephaly.

SourcePurdue University·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateJan 9, 2017

An ecological invasion mimics a drunken walk

A new mathematical model describes ecological invasions as a random walk, categorizing randomness into spatial, demographic, and temporal factors. The model replicates key properties observed in computer simulations, resolving an ongoing argument between ecologists and mathematicians.

SourcePenn State·JournalTheoretical Population Biology·DateJan 9, 2017

Transfusions of 'old' blood may harm some patients

Researchers at Columbia University Medical Center found that transfusing older blood (over 5 weeks) can lead to excessive iron release, potentially harming patients. The study suggests reducing the maximum storage limit of red blood cells from 6 weeks to 5 weeks.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 9, 2017

President Obama believes US clean energy trend 'irreversible'

President Obama expresses confidence in a clean energy economy driven by economic growth and cost savings. He cites evidence of reduced emissions and carbon dioxide drops alongside businesses profiting from renewable energy investments.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJan 9, 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.

Model sheds light on inhibitory neurons' computational role

A new computational model reveals a winner-take-all operation is enabled by a configuration of inhibitory neurons. The model, developed by MIT researchers, uses theoretical computer science to prove that a specific arrangement of inhibitory neurons is necessary for the operation.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateJan 9, 2017

The fly reveals a new signal involved in limb growth

Researchers at IRB Barcelona identify a fundamental role of JAK/STAT signalling pathway in regulating limb development and growth. The study reveals three key functions of JAK/STAT in specifying wing formation and growth, with implications for understanding human congenital diseases.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 9, 2017

Study: Obamacare benefitted Latinos, but persistent disparities remain

A new study found that the Affordable Care Act (ACA) improved health care access and utilization among Latinos, but persistent disparities persist. The study suggests expanding the law to undocumented immigrants could help combat these disparities.

SourceDrexel University·JournalThe Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine·DateJan 9, 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.

NIH to release findings on impact of parent physical activity, sedentary behavior on their preschool

A new NIH-funded study found that in underserved populations, parents' physical activity levels directly correlate with their preschoolers' activity levels. The research suggests interventions could focus on helping parents model an active lifestyle for their children to combat obesity. Low-income and ethnic minority families are dispr...

SourceNIH/National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateJan 9, 2017

New model predicts when people are willing to try new things

Scientists at UCL and dunnhumby developed a model to predict when people will try new products, analyzing purchase data from over 280,000 shoppers. The study found that shopping behavior is consistent across product categories, with individuals having individual 'exploration personalities' when they shop.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateJan 9, 2017

Why high-dose vitamin C kills cancer cells

Research at the University of Iowa shows that high-dose vitamin C selectively kills cancer cells by generating hydrogen peroxide, a reactive oxygen species. Cancer cells with low catalase activity are more susceptible to damage and death when exposed to high amounts of vitamin C.

SourceUniversity of Iowa Health Care·JournalRedox Biology·DateJan 9, 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.

Do exercise 'weekend warriors' lower their risks of death?

A study found that adults who performed the recommended amount of weekly physical activity in one or two sessions had lower risks for death from all causes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. The risk reductions were similar among weekend warriors and insufficiently active adults.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJan 9, 2017

Secret new weapon of insect-transmitted viruses exposed

Researchers at UC Riverside have identified a novel strategy for controlling viral diseases by targeting the interaction between a viral effector protein and a host hormone. The study found that the cucumber mosaic virus manipulates plants to release odors attractive to aphids, which transmit the virus.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalCell Research·DateJan 9, 2017

Can big data yield big ideas? Blend novel and familiar, new study finds

A new study from Columbia Business School sheds light on the secret sauce to developing creative ideas, finding that a balance between novelty and familiarity makes an idea more creative. The researchers developed a tool that analyzes word combinations in real-time and recommends words to improve ideas.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalMarketing Science·DateJan 9, 2017

Study identifies barriers to sexual health among male teens and young men

A Johns Hopkins Medicine study found that social ecology influences on personal experiences and interactions with family, peers, and healthcare providers hinder young men's use of sexual and reproductive health care. Long wait times, costs, and concerns about privacy also deter seeking care.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateJan 9, 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.

Epigenetic changes promote development of fatty liver in mouse and man

A study published in Diabetes journal found epigenetic changes in the DPP4 gene are associated with fatty liver development in both mice and humans. These changes, detected at six weeks of age, lead to increased enzyme production and correlate with fat content in the liver.

SourceDeutsches Zentrum fuer Diabetesforschung DZD·JournalDiabetes·DateJan 9, 2017

Hydropower in China impacts the flow of the Mekong River

The study reveals that Chinese hydropower operations have significantly altered the Mekong River's dry and wet season flows, affecting its ecological productivity. The changes in river flow have been particularly pronounced since 2014, with the Nuozhadu dam project having the largest impact on downstream Cambodia.

SourceAalto University·JournalJournal of Hydrology·DateJan 9, 2017

Nonsurgical and surgical treatments provide successful outcomes for an Achilles tear

A new review found functional rehabilitation and minimally invasive surgery to be effective treatment options for Achilles tendon tears, especially in recreational athletes. Surgical repair may be optimal for high-performance athletes, offering improved strength and power.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateJan 9, 2017

Older adults with arthritis need just 45 minutes of activity per week

A study found that performing even a third of the recommended activity is beneficial for older adults with arthritis. Participants who achieved a minimum of 45 minutes of moderate activity, such as brisk walking, per week were 80% more likely to improve or sustain high function over two years.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateJan 9, 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.

New framework could help online addicts reduce their usage

A new model developed by researchers at Binghamton University uses cognitive dissonance to help individuals recognize their online addiction and reduce its effects. Increasing users' awareness of the consequences of their behavior can create discomfort, motivating them to exert self-control.

SourceBinghamton University·DateJan 9, 2017

High cholesterol intake and eggs do not increase risk of memory disorders

A new study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that a high-cholesterol diet or frequent consumption of eggs do not increase the risk of memory disorders. In fact, egg consumption was associated with better cognitive performance in certain tests.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateJan 9, 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.

Catheter safeguards at hospitals reduce infections and save money, study shows

A recent study by Cedars-Sinai found that implementing rigorous catheter safeguards can significantly reduce bloodstream infections related to central venous catheters. The study, which analyzed data from 113 hospitals, showed a 57% reduction in infection rates while producing net savings of $1.85 million for each site over three years.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJan 9, 2017

Researchers reveal how cancer cells cope with genetic chaos

Two studies reveal that cancer cells can tolerate genetic mutations by inactivating the BCL9L gene and slowing down division to avoid mistakes, allowing them to thrive and evolve. This understanding may lead to new ways to target cancer cells and improve treatment efficacy.

SourceCancer Research UK·JournalCancer Cell·DateJan 9, 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.

Moralistic thinking on political left, right not so different

A new study reveals that liberals and conservatives share similar moral roots, particularly concerning sanctity, making constructive discussion challenging. The findings suggest a stalemate in the culture war due to each side considering certain issues as sacrosanct or fair for revision.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalAnalyses of Social Issues and Public Policy·DateJan 9, 2017

January/February 2017 Annals of Family Medicine tip sheet

The National Commission on Prevention Priorities releases updated rankings of clinical preventive services, identifying high-impact services for improving population health. The top three services are immunizing children, tobacco-use screening and brief intervention, and alcohol misuse screening with brief intervention.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateJan 9, 2017

How Spain achieved a remarkably high rate of deceased organ donation

The Spanish system has made organ donation a routine consideration when a patient dies, with professionals exploring patients' wishes regarding organ donation. The model's success lies in its coordination and organization, making it applicable to other countries with adaptations depending on the healthcare system and factors.

SourceWiley·JournalAmerican Journal of Transplantation·DateJan 9, 2017

The strange double life of Dab2

Researchers have discovered that Dab2 controls a population of fat stem cells that slowly disappears with maturity. This finding may reinforce the importance of steering children away from high-fat diets and lead to new pharmaceutical strategies to combat childhood obesity.

SourceUniversity of Miami Miller School of Medicine·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 9, 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.

Speeding up 19th century oil paintings

Lead acetate, combined with mastic resin and linseed oil, enabled artists to create quick-drying paint layers for the first time. This innovation allowed for faster production times, facilitating the development of modern styles in the 19th century.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJan 9, 2017

Progesterone may be key to preventing recurrent miscarriage

A new study suggests that progesterone could be a key to preventing recurrent miscarriage in women who suffer multiple pregnancy losses. Researchers found that micronized plant-derived progesterone improved endometrial function and prevented pregnancy loss.

SourceYale University·JournalFertility and Sterility·DateJan 9, 2017

PKM2 promotes exosome release via phosphorylating SNAP-23

A research team at Nanjing University found that PKM2 promotes exosome release by phosphorylating SNAP-23, which controls the dock and release of secretory granules or exosome-containing multivesicular bodies. This study demonstrates for the first time that PKM2 plays an essential role in promoting tumor cell exocytosis.

SourceNanjing University School of Life Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 9, 2017

NASA sees storms affecting the western US

A series of moisture-laden storms has affected the western US, including California and the Pacific Northwest, causing extreme rain events and blanketeting the region in snow. The National Weather Service is forecasting heavy snows and periods of rain with potential flooding or flash flooding along the West Coast.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 9, 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.

Most breastfed infants not receiving recommended vitamin D supplementation

A study found that only 55% of breastfed infants received the recommended daily vitamin D supplementation. Mothers preferred to supplement themselves, citing safety as their top concern. Higher doses of vitamin D could be incorporated into maternal supplementation routines to enrich breast milk and improve intakes in breastfed infants.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateJan 9, 2017

Short-lived greenhouse gases cause centuries of sea-level rise

Researchers find that methane and other short-lived greenhouse gases impact sea levels for hundreds of years after being cleared from the atmosphere, with some effects even more long-lasting. The study highlights the importance of understanding climate change duration and its consequences for coastal regions.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 9, 2017

Exploiting the placebo effect can improve recovery of heart surgery patients

A new study found that patients given psychological support before heart surgery scored lower on disability tests, had better mental quality-of-life, and reported more physical activity. Personalized support appeared to have the greatest benefit, and a short-term intervention can be easily implemented in cardiac surgery units.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Medicine·DateJan 9, 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.

Warmer West Coast ocean conditions linked to increased risk of toxic shellfish

A new study by NOAA-supported researchers has developed a climate-based risk analysis model to predict domoic acid concentrations in shellfish. This model can help seafood industry managers stay ahead of harmful algae events, supporting timely fishery closures or openings and safeguarding public health.

SourceNOAA Headquarters·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 9, 2017