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Science News for July 19, 2017


Team traces masculinization in mice to estrogen receptor in inhibitory neurons

Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory have identified the specific hormone receptors and brain regions responsible for masculinization in mice. The study found that estrogen receptor alpha is essential in inhibitory neurons for male sexual and aggressive behaviors to emerge, while deleting it had no impact on excitatory neurons.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalHormones and Behavior·DateJul 19, 2017

Holograms taken to new dimension

Researchers have developed a new technology to create inexpensive full-color 2-D and 3-D holograms that are far more realistic, brighter and can be viewed at wider angles than current holograms. The applications for this technology could be wide-ranging, from currency and identification badges to amusement rides and advertisements.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 19, 2017

Many men with diabetes experience erectile dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction is common in men with diabetes, affecting over half of cases, according to a review of 145 studies involving 88,577 men. Clinicians should routinely screen for ED in diabetic men, as both conditions increase cardiovascular risks.

SourceWiley·JournalDiabetic Medicine·DateJul 19, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Kakadu find confirms earliest Australian occupation

A team of archaeologists has confirmed the existence of Aboriginal people in Australia for at least 65,000 years, significantly earlier than previously believed. The discovery reveals a sophisticated toolkit and evidence of ochre processing techniques, shedding new light on local customs and lifestyle.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNature·DateJul 19, 2017

Are magnets the secret to Elastigirl's powers?

Nebraska physicist Christian Binek discovered a formula that links magnetism to elasticity and temperature. This finding may enable engineers to design materials with tailored elasticity by manipulating magnetic properties or applying external fields.

SourceUniversity of Nebraska-Lincoln·DateJul 19, 2017

Shark scavenging helps reveal clues about human remains

Researchers analyzed shark scavenging behavior to identify marks on human bones, distinguishing them from terrestrial carnivore marks. The study found that shark teeth leave striations, while terrestrial carnivores leave puncture-like marks, providing valuable clues for forensic anthropologists.

SourceFlorida Museum of Natural History·JournalJournal of Forensic Sciences·DateJul 19, 2017

High-tech sensing illuminates concrete stress testing

University of Leeds scientists have discovered a way to measure the strength of modern concrete forms using light-refracting coatings. The birefringent coating displays stress positions, allowing researchers to assess concrete toughness against fractures with high precision.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 19, 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.

Engineered liver tissue expands after transplant

Researchers have developed a way to engineer liver tissue by organizing tiny subunits that contain three types of cells embedded into a biodegradable scaffold. The engineered livers expanded 50-fold after implantation in mice with damaged livers and performed normal liver functions.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJul 19, 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.

Study: Supreme Court decision complicates prosecuting child abusers

A recent national survey of over 200 prosecutors found that the Supreme Court's 2004 decision in Crawford v. Washington has had a limited impact on prosecuting child abuse cases. Nearly 42% of prosecutors reported that the need for child testimony and prosecutions decreased, while insufficient physical evidence was the primary reason f...

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalChild Abuse & Neglect·DateJul 19, 2017

Scientists shed light on carbon's descent into the deep Earth

Researchers studied iron carbonate under extreme conditions to understand the deep Earth's carbon cycle and its role in global warming. They found unprecedented structural stability of a tetracarbonate phase at high pressures, suggesting self-oxidation-reduction reactions can preserve carbonates in the lower mantle.

SourceEuropean Synchrotron Radiation Facility·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 19, 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 harmless radiopaque glue to seal bleeding and guide surgery

Researchers developed a nanoparticle-based adhesive that exhibits imaging contrast effect in CT and ultrasound, is biocompatible, and ensures accurate target localization during movement. The new glue has shown less toxicity than FDA-approved options and was successfully tested in animal models for various surgical procedures.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 19, 2017

Major communication gaps between doctors and home health care nurses revealed

A study by CU Anschutz researchers found serious communication challenges between HHC agencies and physicians following hospital discharge, citing medication list discrepancies, confusion over who wrote patient care orders, and inaccessible hospital records. Improvements in accountability and communication could address these issues an...

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateJul 19, 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.

UK Biobank partners with the EGA

The UK Biobank is distributing its 500,000-person dataset via the European Genome-phenome Archive (EGA), a resource developed by EMBL-EBI and CRG in Barcelona. This move aims to enable researchers to study human disease causes with maximum efficiency.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory - European Bioinformatics Institute·DateJul 19, 2017

UBC researchers test 3-D-printed water quality sensor

Researchers at UBC's Okanagan campus have designed a tiny device that can monitor drinking water quality in real-time, helping protect against waterborne illness. The miniaturized sensors are cheap to make, operate continuously, and can be deployed anywhere in the water distribution system.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalSensors·DateJul 19, 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.

How poverty may affect children's behavior

Research found that high-quality parenting reduces disruptive behavior and improves teacher-child relationships in children experiencing homelessness. However, severe poverty may overwhelm parenting's benefits, highlighting the need for interventions targeting both poverty-related risk and child resilience.

SourceWiley·JournalChild Development·DateJul 19, 2017

New treatment guidelines for pediatric acute onset neuropsychiatric syndrome (PANS/PANDAS)

A comprehensive treatment framework is presented to guide the management of children with PANS/PANDAS, focusing on psychiatric interventions, infection prevention, and immunomodulatory therapies. The guidelines aim to improve symptom relief, functioning, and adherence to therapeutic interventions.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Child and Adolescent Psychopharmacology·DateJul 19, 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.

Titanium dioxide nanoparticles can exacerbate colitis

Researchers found that titanium dioxide nanoparticles can increase inflammation and damage to the intestinal mucosa in mice with colitis. Patients with colitis are recommended to avoid foods containing E171, a food additive made from titanium dioxide.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalGut·DateJul 19, 2017

Evidence of the Higgs particle's decay in quarks

The study confirms the predicted decay of the Higgs particle into quarks, with a probability of 60% and a signal rate exceeding statistical significance. This discovery has significant implications for understanding the particle's properties and potential deviations from Standard Model predictions.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·DateJul 19, 2017

Sea temperature changes contributing to droughts

A study analyzing sea surface temperatures from 1957-2002 found that fluctuations contributed to persistent droughts in North America and the Mediterranean. The researchers showed that increased variability in ocean temperatures correlated with more extreme land temperature anomalies, leading to prolonged droughts.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 19, 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.

Treated hydraulic fracturing wastewater may pollute area water sources for years

Researchers found high concentrations of contaminants, including endocrine disrupting chemicals and carcinogens, in sediments and pore water. The discharge of oil and gas wastewater impacted water quality on a larger scale than previously thought, with contamination detected as far away as 12 miles downstream from treatment plants.

SourcePenn State·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJul 19, 2017

No battery, no wire, no problem

Researchers at Harvard University have created battery-free folding robots that can perform complex movements using wireless magnetic fields and shape-memory alloy coils. The robots, inspired by origami, use passive electronic components to deliver an electric current, eliminating the need for batteries or wired connections.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalScience Robotics·DateJul 19, 2017

Surprising genetic variety in childhood brain cancer

Researchers have identified a wide genetic variety in medulloblastoma, the most common type of childhood brain cancer. This discovery could lead to more precise subgroups and individualized treatments, improving curative chances and reducing side effects.

SourceGerman Cancer Research Center (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ)·JournalNature·DateJul 19, 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.

Hitting the bull's eye on crop nutrient requirements

Researchers from Aarhus University have developed a method to match crop nitrogen requirements with a precision of 10-20 kg N/ha. This method uses a reference curve based on comparisons of leaf area and leaf reflectance at different light wavelengths, allowing for more accurate nitrogen application and reducing agricultural emissions.

SourceAarhus University·JournalEuropean Journal of Agronomy·DateJul 19, 2017

Cornell researchers uncover fresh role for nitric oxide

A new study by Cornell University chemists reveals a critical step in the nitrification process where nitric oxide acts as a chemical prelude to nitrite. This discovery could lead to more efficient fertilization practices and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 19, 2017

A uranium-based compound improves manufacturing of nitrogen products

Researchers at EPFL have developed a uranium-based compound that enables nitrogen fixation to occur in ambient conditions, paving the way for more efficient catalysts and new concepts for metals beyond uranium. This breakthrough has significant implications for the production of ammonia and other nitrogen-containing compounds.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature·DateJul 19, 2017

Why are dogs such doting companions? It's in their genes

Researchers at Oregon State University identified a genetic marker linked to Williams-Beuren syndrome, a disorder characterized by hypersocial behavior. The study found domesticated dogs exhibit an exaggerated motivation to seek social contact compared to wolves, leading to prolonged proximity and gazing at humans.

SourceOregon State University·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 19, 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.

Manipulating electron spins without loss of information

Researchers from the University of Basel create a chip that maintains and transmits electron spin information over large distances using electrical voltages. The technique overcomes spin decay, allowing for targeted spin manipulation without information loss.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalPhysical Review X·DateJul 19, 2017

Imaging of Scar Tissue Formation

Researchers have created a new gadolinium-based probe for noninvasive monitoring of lung fibrogenesis, which can lead to scarring. The probe targets allysine, an amino acid indicative of active collagen cross-linking, and displays high target selectivity in both test tube and real mouse models.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJul 19, 2017

Antiaromatic molecule displays record electrical conductance

Researchers have discovered an organic material with record-high electrical conductance, exceeding that of traditional metals and semiconductors. The antiaromatic molecule displays superior conductivity due to its unique electronic structure, which allows it to efficiently transport electrons.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 19, 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.

Jefferson researchers identify new target for chronic pain

Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University discovered a novel way phosphorylation affects protein function and localization, leading to increased pain sensitivity. The study offers a new target for developing alternative pain medications and provides a tool for studying synaptic development and pathology.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJul 19, 2017

Is bone strength hereditary?

A new study suggests bone strength is hereditary, with its genetic determinants similar to those affecting bone mineral density. This discovery has implications for understanding fracture risk and developing prevention strategies.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·DateJul 19, 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.

Sea cave preserves 5,000-year snapshot of tsunamis

An international team has found the world's most pristine record of tsunamis in a sea cave in Indonesia, spanning 5,000 years and revealing highly erratic tsunami recurrence. The discovery provides new insights into seismic activity along the Sunda Megathrust.

SourceRutgers University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 19, 2017

Nipple temperature may help guide newborns to breastfeed

Research suggests that a temperature gradient around the mother's nipple can facilitate breast crawl in newborns. This study, published in Acta Paediatrica, provides new insights into maternal-infant thermal identification and communication.

SourceWiley·JournalActa Paediatrica·DateJul 19, 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.

Silk 'micrococoons' could be used in biotechnology and medicine

A team of researchers has successfully manufactured microscopic versions of silkworm cocoons, which can store and protect sensitive molecular materials. The tiny capsules, made from silk nano-fibrils, have the potential to increase the stability and lifetime of antibodies used in pharmaceuticals for treating severe diseases.

SourceSt. John's College, University of Cambridge·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 19, 2017

Too many bats are being killed for research

A study highlights the need to limit bat collection for scientific research due to their slow reproduction rates and dwindling populations. Modern technology can often replace killing bats, allowing for the preservation of these species.

SourceWiley·JournalMammal Review·DateJul 19, 2017

Supramolecular materials with a time switch

Researchers developed self-disposing supramolecular materials with tunable lifetimes, mimicking biological processes. These materials autonomously degrade after added energy is exhausted, enabling reusable cycles and diverse applications such as drug delivery and tissue stabilization.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 19, 2017

Hot dogs: Is climate change impacting populations of African wild dogs?

A recent study suggests that climate change is impacting the survival rates of African wild dog pups, with warmer temperatures leading to fewer pups being raised. The research found that high temperatures caused packs to spend less time hunting and resulted in higher pup mortality rates.

SourceZoological Society of London·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·DateJul 19, 2017
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

The dangers of driving after restricted sleep and moderate alcohol intake

Combining moderate alcohol consumption with moderate sleep restriction leads to increased deficits in attention and drowsiness compared to either factor alone. Performance impairment remains apparent even with frequent breaks, emphasizing the need for adequate rest before driving after consuming alcohol.

SourceWiley·JournalHuman Psychopharmacology Clinical and Experimental·DateJul 19, 2017

Here's a tip: Indented cement shows unique properties

Rice University scientists found that indented tobermorite responds differently than bulk material, with layers bonding through indentation remaining intact after force removal. The study reveals three molecular mechanisms at work in tobermorite, which are also responsible for the strength of calcium-silicate-hydrate mix in cement.

SourceRice University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 19, 2017

How off-line retailers can fight back

New research published in the Journal of Retailing shows that offline retailers can use online data to identify consumers who value product touch and target them with marketing strategies. By understanding consumers' mental representations of products, retailers can offer free trials and other incentives to boost sales.

SourceJournal of Retailing at New York University·JournalJournal of Retailing·DateJul 19, 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.

Smart toys without the batteries

Researchers have developed lightweight, flexible, and simple TENGs from recycled plastics that can generate electricity in self-powered smart toys. The technology has shown promise in creating interactive games without the need for batteries, benefiting children's entertainment and education.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·DateJul 19, 2017

Study examines birth defects following 9/11 terrorist attacks

A recent study analyzed data from California Birth Defects Monitoring Program and found that male infants had lower rates of birth defects after the 9/11 attacks. The researchers suggest that large population stressors like 9/11 may select against weaker male fetuses.

SourceWiley·JournalBirth Defects Research·DateJul 19, 2017

New animal models for hepatitis C could pave the way for a vaccine

Researchers at Rockefeller University have developed a new animal model for hepatitis C using a virus closely related to the human disease, allowing for study of disease progression and immune system response. This breakthrough could accelerate hepatitis C vaccine development and lead to the eradication of the disease.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalScience·DateJul 19, 2017

Antiplatelet drugs are often inappropriately prescribed in older patients

A study of nearly 2200 older patients found that 44% were prescribed antiplatelet drugs, with 52% of primary prevention patients overprescribed and 31% of secondary prevention patients underprescribed. This highlights the need for personalized treatment strategies in this patient population.

SourceWiley·JournalBritish Journal of Clinical Pharmacology·DateJul 19, 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.

Birds avoid crossing roads to prevent predation

A new study reveals birds are less likely to cross roads due to predation fears and territorial boundaries, with smaller forest-dependent species being the most affected. The findings highlight the need for measures to connect fragmented forests across roads, allowing wildlife to move freely.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and Evolution·DateJul 19, 2017

Smart walk assist improves rehabilitation

A clinical study showed that patients wearing a smart walking assist immediately improved their locomotor abilities and could perform daily activities without support. The algorithm tailors assistance to each patient based on leg movement, stride length, and muscle activity to promote natural walking patterns.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJul 19, 2017

Scientists identify new way cells turn off genes

Researchers have identified a new mechanism for silencing imprinted genes in cells, which could shed light on developmental disorders such as Angelman syndrome. The discovery also raises questions about the difficulty of cloning mammals, with potential implications for treating developmental failures.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalNature·DateJul 19, 2017

Many pet owners unable to spot an out of hours vet emergency

A study found that 67% of pet owners surveyed couldn't accurately recognize veterinary emergencies, with many calling out-of-hours services for convenience or reassurance. Veterinary practices can help by providing guidance on emergency conditions and training receptionists in telephone triage.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalVeterinary Record·DateJul 19, 2017

Nanoparticles could spur better LEDs, invisibility cloaks

A University of Michigan team has created a method to add metallic nanoparticles into semiconductors with virtually no added manufacturing cost. The process enhances LED lighting efficiency and allows for precise control over the distribution of particles, potentially enabling future applications such as invisibility cloaks.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateJul 19, 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.

Researchers find path to discovering new topological materials

A team of researchers has found a way to determine whether a crystal is a topological insulator and predict its structure and composition. This discovery reveals that topological materials are much more common than previously believed, with thousands of new candidates identified.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalNature·DateJul 19, 2017

A personalized rehabilitation algorithm helps stroke patients walk again

Scientists developed an algorithm for a robotic harness that provides personalized support to address motor defects in stroke and spinal cord injury patients. Wearing the harness allows participants to walk with abilities comparable to healthy individuals, offering a promising alternative to traditional rehabilitation programs.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJul 19, 2017
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Study finds obese patients don't need to lose weight before total joint replacement

A new study from UMass Medical School found that obese patients who underwent knee or hip replacement surgery reported similar pain relief and improved function as normal-weight patients. The study suggests that obesity is not a barrier to joint replacement surgery, which can provide long-term relief from joint pain.

SourceUMass Chan Medical School·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateJul 19, 2017

New study provides BRCA mutation carriers guidance for when surgery has greatest impact

A new study offers a decision-analytic model to help women with BRCA mutations determine the optimal age for preventive surgeries that can significantly reduce lifetime breast and ovarian cancer risk. The model recommends specific ages for bilateral mastectomy (BM) and salpingo-oophorectomy (BSO) procedures.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalDecision Analysis·DateJul 19, 2017

Human in vitro fertilization could evolve thanks to piglet study

Researchers at the University of Missouri have made a breakthrough in human in vitro fertilization (IVF) after discovering a method to improve success rates in pigs. By adding specific growth factors to a special liquid medium, they were able to increase efficiency and quality of embryos, potentially reducing costs for IVF treatments.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 19, 2017

Thawing permafrost releases old greenhouse gas

A study in the Mackenzie Delta found that thawing permafrost releases high amounts of geological methane, contributing significantly to climate change. The research team discovered strong emissions solely where permafrost is discontinuous, primarily from deeper geologic sources.

SourceGFZ GeoForschungsZentrum Potsdam, Helmholtz Centre·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 19, 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.

The price of increasing health-care costs

A new study by Harvard University suggests that reducing insurance coverage for mental health treatment leads to increased costs for the most severely ill, as they turn to acute and involuntary care. The reform also resulted in a decrease in regular mental health care usage, but with a significant increase in acute care usage among tho...

SourceHarvard University·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateJul 19, 2017

Study looks at physicians who prescribe methadone

A new study reveals that a small group of physicians in Ontario prescribe the majority of medications used to treat opioid addiction. High-volume prescribers see large numbers of patients daily and bill the province hundreds of thousands of dollars annually.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence·DateJul 19, 2017

Despite lack of efficacy data, surprising consensus in pediatric anti-epilepsy med scripts

A study by Children's National Hospital found that doctors in the US have reached an unexpected consensus on prescribing medications for pediatric epilepsy patients, with levetiracetam being the most frequently chosen. The study highlights a need for real data on efficacy for each medication to inform evidence-based decision-making.

SourceChildren's National Hospital·JournalPediatric Neurology·DateJul 19, 2017

AOSSM presents prestigious research awards and grants during annual meeting

The American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine (AOSSM) announces its annual meeting, featuring the presentation of research awards and grants totaling over $300,000. The grants include the Steven P. Arnoczky Young Investigator Grant, Sandy Kirkley Grant, AOSSM/Sanofi Osteoarthritis Grant, Fellow Research Award in Basic Science, F...

SourceAmerican Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine·DateJul 19, 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.

Social interaction affects cancer patients' response to treatment

Researchers found that cancer patients who interacted with other patients undergoing chemotherapy were more likely to survive for five years or more after treatment. The study suggests a possible link between social interaction and stress response in the context of cancer treatment.

SourceNIH/National Human Genome Research Institute·JournalNetwork Science·DateJul 19, 2017

New robotic lab tracking toxicity of Lake Erie algal bloom

A new robotic lake-bottom laboratory is tracking the levels of toxic cyanobacteria in Lake Erie to provide advance warning to municipal drinking water managers. The goal is to prevent another water crisis like the 2014 Toledo event, where over 400,000 residents were left without safe drinking water.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·DateJul 19, 2017

Simulation reveals universal signature of chaos in ultracold reactions

Researchers have performed a quantum-mechanical simulation of an ultracold chemical reaction, revealing the underlying chaotic dynamics of the system. The study's findings have important implications for controlled chemistry experiments and technological applications in quantum computing and sensing.

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 19, 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.

Damming and lost connectivity for fish in northeastern ecosystems

The article highlights the devastating impact of damming and lost connectivity on anadromous forage fish in northeastern ecosystems. The authors report that these fish exist at only a tiny fraction of their previous populations due to habitat loss and fragmented landscapes.

SourceAmerican Institute of Biological Sciences·JournalBioScience·DateJul 19, 2017

Aging power plants provide Trump administration with risks and opportunities

The retirement of aging power plants will complicate achieving long-term carbon dioxide emission reduction targets and require significant capital investments. The study found that younger coal plants tend to retire earlier than older ones, creating an imbalance in investment emphasis between generating capacity and emissions reductions.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalEnergy Policy·DateJul 19, 2017

Destruction of wetlands linked to algal blooms in Great Lakes

Researchers from University of Waterloo found that small wetlands have a significant role in preventing excess nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus from reaching waterbodies. The study suggests that protection efforts should focus on preserving smaller wetlands, which are more effective at filtering environmental contaminants.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalWater Resources Research·DateJul 19, 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.

Dust deposits give new insights into the history of the Sahara

Researchers have discovered that the Sahara's dust supply fluctuated in millennial-scale phases during the decline of the African Humid Period. The study suggests that Saharan dust phases may reflect aridity at a trans-Saharan scale, with implications for vegetation cover and wildlife.

SourceLeibniz Institute for Tropospheric Research (TROPOS)·JournalQuaternary Science Reviews·DateJul 19, 2017

Despite a great grip, geckos sometimes slip

Researchers found that geckos don't always have enough adhesive ability to save themselves, especially when encountering unexpected falls. The study's results could lead to a better understanding of how geckos stick to surfaces and potentially inspire new technologies.

SourceCornell University·JournalInterface·DateJul 19, 2017

Scientists calculate total amount of plastics ever produced

The study found that humans have generated 8.3 billion metric tons of plastics since the 1950s, with most becoming waste and accumulating in landfills or the natural environment. The researchers estimate that if current trends continue, 12 billion metric tons of plastic waste will be in landfills or the natural environment by 2050.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 19, 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.

Grant supports deep dive into microbes

The University of Delaware research team, led by Jennifer Biddle, will investigate how environmental factors affect gene expression in microbes. They aim to develop a new method for detecting epigenetic signals, which could have wide-ranging impact on human health and renewable energy.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·DateJul 19, 2017

Exercise packs a punch against inflammation

Physical activity has strong anti-inflammatory properties, playing a crucial role in chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Exercise stimulates cytokines IL-6 and IL-10, inhibiting TNF-α and limiting IL-1β signalling to combat inflammation.

SourceWiley·JournalEuropean Journal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 19, 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.

Blood test IDs key Alzheimer's marker

Researchers have developed a blood test that can detect amyloid beta plaques in the brain, a key characteristic of Alzheimer's disease. The test measures levels of three different amyloid subtypes and has been shown to be highly accurate in identifying individuals with altered levels of amyloid in their brains.

SourceWashU Medicine·DateJul 19, 2017

Teaching without training

A recent study found that 40% of new secondary science teachers teach mostly or entirely out of field, with 64% having at least one out-of-field course in their first five years. This can lead to constrained teaching and rote memorization rather than in-depth learning

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalJournal of Research in Science Teaching·DateJul 19, 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.

High-fat ice cream may not necessarily mean tastier ice cream

A team of Penn State food scientists found that people generally cannot tell the difference between fat levels in ice creams within a certain range. The study challenges some ice cream marketing that suggests high-fat ice cream is higher quality and better tasting.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Dairy Science·DateJul 19, 2017

'Shadow network' keeps communities safe from deadly volcano

Researchers found that informal networks linking volunteers with authorities improved monitoring, decision-making, communication systems, and evacuations in Tungurahua volcano. The network has helped minimize forced evacuations and enabled better trust between public and experts.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalGlobal Environmental Change·DateJul 19, 2017

Heat tweet: Users flock to Twitter when temperatures rise

A new study by Florida State University researchers found that temperature-related tweets increase on Twitter when temperatures rise. Government officials use the platform to disseminate information about cooling centers and energy assistance, with agencies in several states actively using Twitter for this purpose.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalInternational Journal of Biometeorology·DateJul 19, 2017

A common underlying genetic basis for social behavior in dogs and humans

A new study reveals that domesticated dogs and humans share a common genetic basis for social behavior, with unique genetic insertions associated with human-directed social behaviors in dogs. This finding challenges the conventional view of dog domestication and highlights the evolutionary conservation of sociability across species.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 19, 2017

Understanding genetic synergy in cleft palate

Researchers investigate how genetic genes IRF6 and SPRY4 interact during fetal development to form the palate. Studies reveal that these two genes interact to reduce adhesion of the oral surface to the tongue, leading to cleft palate formation. The study aims to better understand this interaction to address defects in palate creation.

SourceChildren's National Hospital·JournalJournal of Dental Research·DateJul 19, 2017

Saliva as good as blood for diagnosing hepatitis E, study suggests

A new saliva test developed by Johns Hopkins researchers matches the performance of a widely used blood test for diagnosing hepatitis E virus infection. The test has the potential to ease and speed up research into the disease, which affects an estimated 20 million people worldwide each year.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalJournal of Immunological Methods·DateJul 19, 2017

Over 9.1 billion tons of plastic have been produced and most of it thrown away

Since 1950s, over 9.1 billion tons of plastic have been manufactured, with the majority ending up in landfills or natural settings. Recycling plastic merely delays disposal unless it reduces new production, while incineration can have negative environmental and health effects.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 19, 2017

Individual insight into brain networks

Harvard scientists have identified two brain networks that lie side-by-side in the brain and may play key roles in planning, remembering and imagination. These networks are intertwined, with one connected to memory structures while the other isn't, suggesting they originated from similar processes during brain development and evolution.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNeuron·DateJul 19, 2017

Memory takes time, researchers conclude

Researchers at NYU conclude that memory is fundamentally structured in the time domain, with a 'temporal hierarchy' of time windows altering brain state. This theory explains how short-term memories can transform into long-term ones.

SourceNew York University·JournalNeuron·DateJul 19, 2017

MRSA emerged years before methicillin was even discovered

Researchers found MRSA's resistance gene in S. aureus isolates dating back to the mid-1940s, 14 years before methicillin's introduction. The study highlights the importance of surveillance and genome sequencing to combat antibiotic resistance.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalGenome Biology·DateJul 19, 2017

Massive simulation shows HIV capsid interacting with its environment

A massive simulation of the HIV capsid has revealed new details about how it interacts with its environment, including oscillations that transmit information between different parts. The study also found that ions flow in and out of the capsid pores, potentially creating vulnerabilities for new drug development.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 19, 2017

Artifacts suggest humans arrived in Australia earlier than thought

Researchers have found and dated artifacts in northern Australia indicating human arrival around 65,000 years ago. This new date calls into question the argument that humans caused the extinction of unique megafauna, suggesting a coexistence view of early humans and wildlife.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalNature·DateJul 19, 2017

NASA's Terra satellite watching Tropical Storm Greg

Tropical Storm Greg is one of three cyclones in the Eastern Pacific, located near 14.3 degrees north latitude and 111.0 degrees west longitude, about 550 miles southwest of Manzanillo, Mexico. As of July 19, its maximum sustained winds were near 45 mph with higher gusts, and it's forecast to gradually strengthen over the next 48 hours.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 19, 2017

Brains are more plastic than we thought

Researchers at McGill University have shown that practice can alter the way the brain uses sensory information, including visual perception. By temporarily deactivating a critical brain region, subjects who practiced with moving lines were able to perceive motion despite the region's inactivation.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNeuron·DateJul 19, 2017

Douglas W. Brown, M.D., inducted into AOSSM Hall of Fame

Dr. Douglas W. Brown is being inducted into the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine's (AOSSM) Hall of Fame for his groundbreaking work in sports medicine, spanning over four decades. He has served as a team physician for numerous national teams and has been an active member of AOSSM since 1981.

SourceAmerican Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine·DateJul 19, 2017

Healthy heart in 20s=healthy brain in 40s

Researchers found that people with better heart health scores had a higher average brain volume as a percentage of their total head size in middle age. A stronger association was also seen between current smoking and smaller brain volume.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateJul 19, 2017

Control of the unfolded protein response in health and disease

The unfolded protein response (UPR) is an adaptive biochemical process linked to cell homeostasis, crucial for maintaining normal physiological function. Prolonged ER stress can push the UPR past beneficial functions, contributing to various disease states, making it a global target for novel therapeutic intervention.

SourceSLAS (Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening)·JournalSLAS DISCOVERY·DateJul 19, 2017

Innovative nanosensor for disease diagnosis

A research team at KAIST developed diagnostic sensors using protein-encapsulated nanocatalysts to analyze human exhaled breath and diagnose diseases. The sensors achieved high sensitivity and selectivity, detecting biomarker gases related to diseases with improved performance compared to conventional platinum-based catalysts.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalAccounts of Chemical Research·DateJul 19, 2017

Are sugary drink interventions changing people's behavior?

Interventions targeting children reduced sugary drink intake by around 30%, while those for teenagers saw a decrease of nearly 10%. However, adults showed almost no change. The study highlights the need for comprehensive approaches to address this issue, including taxation and environmental changes.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalObesity Reviews·DateJul 19, 2017