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Science News for June 20, 2017


Villous tree model with active contractions for estimating blood flow conditions

Researchers developed a computational model to estimate blood flow conditions in the human placenta, leveraging villous tree structures and active contractions. The results showed that displacement caused by contraction can help maintain robust blood circulation even under changed mechanical properties.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalThe Open Biomedical Engineering Journal·DateJun 20, 2017

City rats: Why scientists are not hot on their tails

Rats in cities face significant challenges due to lack of access to urban properties, making it difficult for scientists to study them. This limits our understanding of rat ecology and population dynamics, ultimately affecting disease surveillance and control methods.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalJournal of Urban Ecology·DateJun 20, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

A unique data center for cosmological simulations

A unique data center for cosmological simulations, Cosmowebportal, has been initiated by astrophysicists from TUM and LRZ. The facility pools the results of the Magneticum Pathfinder simulations, allowing scientists to explore and analyze the universe's evolution.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalAstronomy and Computing·DateJun 20, 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 study advances understanding on the treatment of pediatric feeding disorders

A new study found that children with feeding disorders who received behavioral intervention and D-cycloserine experienced more rapid treatment gains, with a 76 percent improvement in feeding after five days of treatment. The results also suggest that the brain changes account for the drug's ability to result in behavioral changes.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalTranslational Psychiatry·DateJun 20, 2017

Simple method measures how long bacteria can wait out antibiotics

A new method, MDK99, measures bacterial tolerance to antibiotics, allowing clinicians to effectively treat antimicrobial-tolerant strains. This metric can also estimate the duration of antibiotic treatments and provide insights into the prevalence of tolerance, ultimately reducing treatment failure and resistance.

SourceCell Press·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateJun 20, 2017

Familiar faces look happier than unfamiliar ones

Researchers found that even when facial expressions are objectively identical, familiar faces are judged more positively. The study suggests that prior experience with a face can influence how happy it appears, highlighting the dynamic nature of emotion perception processes.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalPsychological Science·DateJun 20, 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.

Modeling Gulf War illness: Knowing the cause of brain dysfunction is key to finding a cure

Gulf War veterans experience long-term side effects of their service due to exposure to chemicals like pyridostigmine bromide, DEET, and permethrin. Animal models demonstrate how these chemicals cause brain dysfunction, inflammation, and oxidative stress, leading to symptoms such as cognitive decline, memory problems, and chronic fatigue.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalFrontiers in Molecular Neuroscience·DateJun 20, 2017

Penn study details impact of antibiotics, antiseptics on skin microbiomes

A study by Penn researchers found that antibiotics can significantly change the skin microbiome, leading to lingering effects even after treatment is stopped. Antiseptics, on the other hand, had a less durable impact and did not significantly alter the skin's microbial communities.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalAntimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy·DateJun 20, 2017
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

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

New metrology technique measures electric fields

American scientists have developed a new method to measure electric fields using atomic resonance-based technology, allowing for accurate and traceable measurements. This technique has improved spatial resolution and can measure frequencies up to one terahertz, relevant for future wireless mobile telecommunication systems.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateJun 20, 2017

Computer scientists repurpose laparoscopy video for medical training

Computer scientists at MIT and Massachusetts General Hospital develop a new system to analyze hundreds of hours of laparoscopic surgery videos for training purposes. The system efficiently searches for events and visual features in the videos, enabling speedy analysis and improved surgical outcomes.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateJun 20, 2017

Corn better used as food than biofuel, study finds

A new study from the University of Illinois found that corn is more valuable for food production than biofuel, with a net social and economic worth of $1,492 per hectare. The research also highlighted the importance of soil nutrients in determining the environmental impacts of corn production.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·DateJun 20, 2017

Study: While trust is inherited, distrust is not

A recent study led by the University of Arizona found that trust is significantly influenced by genetics, while distrust appears to be primarily socialized. The research suggests that trust and distrust are distinct qualities, with genetics playing a more significant role in shaping trust behaviors.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 20, 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.

Unlock molecular secrets with mobile game BioBlox2-D

The game, developed by Imperial College London researchers, challenges players to dock molecules into proteins while learning about the science. The 3D version, BioBlox3D, aims to crowdsource protein docking problems through citizen science challenges.

SourceImperial College London·DateJun 20, 2017

Infections in early life associated with increased risk for celiac disease

Recurring gastrointestinal infections in early childhood significantly increase the risk of developing gluten intolerance, according to a new study. The research found a strong association between early respiratory tract infections and an elevated risk of celiac disease.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalAmerican Journal of Epidemiology·DateJun 20, 2017

San Diego team tests best delivery mode for potential HIV vaccine

In a preclinical study, optimizing immunizations reliably elicits protective antibodies in non-human primates. Delivering the vaccine subcutaneously and increasing time intervals between immunizations improves efficacy and induces neutralizing antibodies.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalImmunity·DateJun 20, 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.

NASA examines potential tropical or sub-tropical storm affecting Gulf states

A developing low-pressure area in the Gulf of Mexico is being monitored by NASA's GPM core satellite, which gathered rainfall and storm height information. The system has triggered Tropical Storm Warnings and Watches along the U.S. Gulf Coast, with a potential tropical cyclone expected to reach the coast late Wednesday or Wednesday night.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJun 20, 2017

Long-term memories made with meaningful information

Researchers at Baycrest Health Sciences found that focusing on the meaning of words rather than repeating them creates better short-term memories. The study used brain scans to identify brain activity related to memorizing through sound and meaning.

SourceBaycrest Centre for Geriatric Care·JournalNeuroImage·DateJun 20, 2017

Pacemakers and other cardiac devices can help solve forensic cases

A study found that pacemakers and other cardiac devices can determine the time and cause of death in unclear cases where autopsy fails. The devices revealed this information in 76% of cases, with changes in lead impedance and pacing threshold used to assign the time of death.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateJun 20, 2017

Increase in use of high-dose vitamin D supplements

The prevalence of daily supplemental vitamin D use above 1,000 IU increased from 0.3% in 1999-2000 to 18.2% in 2013-2014. Intake of 4,000 IU or more daily also rose, with 3.2% of participants using such supplements in 2013-2014. The trend was observed across most age groups, race/ethnicities, and sexes.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateJun 20, 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.

Plant reveals anti-Alzheimer's compounds

Japanese scientists have developed a method to isolate and identify active compounds in plant medicines, which accurately accounts for drug behavior in the body. They identified several active compounds from Drynaria Rhizome that improve memory and reduce disease characteristics in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Pharmacology·DateJun 20, 2017

The story of music is the story of humans

A recent Frontiers article explores the origins of music and its significance in human society. The study reveals that music is closely tied to human emotions, bonding, and social cohesion, suggesting that it may have played a crucial role in shaping human culture.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Sociology·DateJun 20, 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.

New findings reverse hypothesis of GABA neurodevelopment in schizophrenia

A new study published in Biological Psychiatry found that chandelier cells, a type of inhibitory nerve cell, are unaltered in schizophrenia patients, challenging prior findings of GABA deficits. The researchers suspect a developmental origin for the abnormality, which could have implications for treating brain disorders.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateJun 20, 2017

Internet-based weight-loss program for low-income women after child birth

An internet-based weight loss program was found to be effective in promoting significant weight loss among low-income postpartum women, resulting in a 7-pound average weight loss compared to 2 pounds in the standard care group. Additionally, more participants in the intervention group returned to preconception weight by 12 months.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateJun 20, 2017

Stanford scientists turbocharge high-resolution, 3-D imaging

Researchers at Stanford University have developed a way to retrofit OCT machines with off-the-shelf components, increasing resolution by several-fold. This improvement enables physicians to perform virtual biopsies and detect retinal and corneal damage, incipient tumors, and more with enhanced accuracy.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 20, 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.

People looking for prestige prefer 'big ponds' over small ones

Research found that cultural upbringing affects choice of prestige versus performance; Chinese preferred top-ranked college despite below-average grades, while European Americans prioritized above-average grades at a lower-ranked school. Cultural factors play a significant role in decision-making.

SourceSociety for Personality and Social Psychology·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·DateJun 20, 2017

Watching cities grow

Researchers from TUM develop new algorithm to reconstruct 4D point clouds of cities from satellite images, enabling early detection of dangers like subsidence and collapse. The method improves precision on a fraction of the radar wavelength, allowing for monitoring of urban growth and development.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalIEEE Transactions on Geoscience and Remote Sensing·DateJun 20, 2017

Diagnosing obesity by mathematically estimating abdominal fat

A new reconstruction method for Electrical Impedance Tomography (EIT) is proposed to estimate abdominal fat, improving reproducibility and spatial resolution. The technique has shown promising results in detecting subcutaneous fat thickness, with further research needed to assess visceral fat volume.

SourceSociety for Industrial and Applied Mathematics·JournalSIAM Journal on Imaging Sciences·DateJun 20, 2017

Familiar faces look happier than unfamiliar ones

Researchers found that people tend to perceive familiar faces as happier, even when the faces objectively express the same emotion. The study suggests that familiarity influences 'deeper' perceptions of a person's emotion and makes faces on the happy side appear more positive.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateJun 20, 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.

Memory for stimulus sequences distinguishes humans from other animals

Researchers discovered that humans have a superior capacity to deal with sequential information, making it easier to distinguish between stimuli sequences. This ability is crucial for language, mathematics, and strategic games, and may have evolved during human prehistory, supporting the later development of these traits.

SourceStockholm University·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateJun 20, 2017

The Journal of Nuclear Medicine impact factor increases

The Journal of Nuclear Medicine ranked 5th in impact factor among medical imaging journals, increasing to 6.646 in 2016, with a 5-year impact factor of 6.459. Citations increased to 24,977, and article influence score is 1.84.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateJun 20, 2017

African plant extract offers new hope for Alzheimer's

Researchers at The University of Nottingham have discovered that a plant extract from Carpolobia lutea may help protect brain chemical messengers in people with Alzheimer's disease. The study found the extract to be highly effective in preventing the breakdown of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter linked to memory and learning.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalPharmaceutical Biology·DateJun 20, 2017

Boyhood violence victims are more likely to commit similar acts on intimate partners

A study conducted by Case Western Reserve University found that 60% of male participants reported being both perpetrators and victims of intimate partner violence. The research highlights the need for behavioral programs that address unresolved trauma from childhood abuse, which can contribute to violent behavior in adulthood.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalJournal of Interpersonal Violence·DateJun 20, 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.

UW-led scientists 'closing the gap' on malaria in India

The UW-led Malaria Evolution in South Asia research center is one of 10 NIH-supported International Centers of Excellence for Malaria Research. Researchers are studying the genetic diversity of malaria parasites in India, which shows more variation than elsewhere globally, making standard laboratory tests less accurate.

SourceUniversity of Washington·DateJun 20, 2017

Making waves with the hot electrons within Earth's radiation belts

A recent study by the American Institute of Physics reveals that high-frequency quasi-electrostatic fluctuations in the Earth's radiation belts are driven by hot electrons. These fluctuations allow radiation belt electrons to remain inside the outer Van Allen band for a long time, influencing radiation exposure for orbiting satellites.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Plasmas·DateJun 20, 2017

Taking stock early on is crucial for working late in life

A new research study from the University of Gothenburg reveals that taking stock early on is essential for working late in life. The study found that many people who worked beyond 50 years old had changed their career relatively early and were self-employed or consultants, while others practiced 'career crafting'.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalJournal of Business and Economics·DateJun 20, 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.

Screening for obesity in children and adolescents recommended

The USPSTF recommends screening for obesity in children and adolescents 6 years old and older, offering comprehensive behavioral interventions to promote weight improvements. This recommendation is based on moderate certainty, as screening can lead to small harms but also improve weight status with moderate net benefits.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateJun 20, 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.

How six cups of ground coffee can improve nose, throat surgery

A team of engineers at Vanderbilt University has designed a novel solution to improve the accuracy of navigation systems used in delicate nose and throat surgeries. By using a thin layer of coffee grounds inside a stretchy silicone headpiece, they aim to reduce targeting errors caused by skin movement and accidental bumps.

SourceVanderbilt University·DateJun 20, 2017

To work or not to work: Moms' well being rests on what she wants

Among well-educated mothers, those who pursued their desired lifestyle experienced overall positive adjustment, while those who were 'misaligned' faced considerable distress and unhappiness. Feeling emotionally supported, unconditional acceptance, and satisfying friendships are key to promoting life satisfaction and mitigating loneliness.

SourceArizona State University·JournalJournal of Family and Economic Issues·DateJun 20, 2017

Getting the biggest bang out of plasma jets

A new study by Huazhong University of Science and Technology finds that maximizing energy density within the capillary chamber yields the longest plasma jet. Varying capillary dimensions, cathode diameter, and cathode tip length are key factors in achieving optimal performance.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalReview of Scientific Instruments·DateJun 20, 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.

Fighting a destructive crop disease with mathematics

Researchers used mathematical modelling to understand new ways of combating maize lethal necrosis, an emerging disease affecting food security in sub-Saharan Africa. The study found that a combination of crop rotation, clean seed, and insect control is the best way to prevent loss of maize crop.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalPhytopathology·DateJun 20, 2017

Radiologists seek greater involvement in patient care

A survey of radiologists found that while they agree on the importance of patient-centered care, current practices are hindered by time and workload constraints. Social media and integrating reading rooms into clinics offer opportunities for better communication with patients.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateJun 20, 2017

No evidence of gender bias in philosophy

A recent study by Sean Allen-Hermanson found no significant evidence of gender bias against women in philosophy departments. Despite a male-dominated field, women secured tenure-track positions at rates comparable to men. Increasing diversity is crucial for the discipline.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateJun 20, 2017

New report looks at integrating frailty research into care as we age

A new report advances the integration of frailty research into care as we age, highlighting its importance in managing conditions like heart failure and HIV. The study aims to improve quality of life and guide healthcare decision-making for older adults.

SourceAmerican Geriatrics Society·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateJun 20, 2017

Researchers call for paradigm shift in type 2 diabetes treatment

Recent clinical trials suggest using medications that control blood glucose while reducing cardiovascular risk can improve patient outcomes. This approach may be more effective than current treatments, which prioritize blood sugar maintenance alone.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateJun 20, 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.

People who go to bed late have less control over OCD symptoms

Researchers at Binghamton University found that individuals who go to bed late have lower perceived control over obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. Participants in a one-week sleep study completed daily ratings of their ability to control their symptoms, with those who went to bed later showing significant decrements in control.

SourceBinghamton University·DateJun 20, 2017

Students of all races feel safer in ethnically diverse middle schools, UCLA study says

Middle school students from diverse backgrounds report feeling safer and less lonely in ethnically diverse classrooms. Researchers found that students in diverse schools showed more tolerance and less prejudice towards peers of other ethnicities. The study highlights the benefits of diversity on personal and social well-being.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalChild Development·DateJun 20, 2017

Wave beams mix and stir the ocean to create climate

Researchers propose a new theory on how waves mix and stir the ocean, bringing cold water to the surface. The study explains how internal waves direct themselves based on topography, shedding light on climate-dependent ocean circulation patterns.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateJun 20, 2017

Tennis cheats may be predicted by their moral standards

Researchers found a connection between certain moral values and the acceptance of cheating behavior in tennis matches. Players who prioritize ego and status over self-improvement tend to condone cheating. The study suggests that promoting personal success and achievement can help decrease the risk of antisocial behavior in sport.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateJun 20, 2017

Is more digital support needed for young cancer patients?

A survey of 102 young cancer patients aged 13-24 found that digital resources could enhance their experience and engagement. The study's lead author believes digital support resources can address unmet needs and improve patient outcomes.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of Cancer Survivorship·DateJun 20, 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.

Older dads have 'geekier' sons

A new study suggests that children of older fathers are more intelligent and focused on their interests, with better educational and career prospects. The researchers found that 'geekier' children tend to perform better in school exams, particularly in STEM subjects.

SourceKing's College London·JournalTranslational Psychiatry·DateJun 20, 2017

Star's birth may have triggered another star birth, astronomers say

Astronomers found new evidence suggesting that a jet of material ejected from one young star triggered the formation of another protostar. The younger star, HOPS 108, lies in the path of an outflow from the older star, HOPS 370. New measurements support the idea that the older star's outflow led to the younger's star formation process.

SourceNational Radio Astronomy Observatory·DateJun 20, 2017

Students of all races & ethnicities benefit from ethnically diverse middle schools

A new study found that students in ethnically diverse middle schools report better self-reported well-being and views on race, particularly when exposed to different ethnic groups in their academic classes. The researchers emphasized the importance of class placement to reap the social benefits of school diversity.

SourceSociety for Research in Child Development·JournalChild Development·DateJun 20, 2017

First randomized controlled trial of DBS for chronic pain shows promise

Researchers at Cleveland Clinic conducted the first randomized controlled trial of DBS for neuropathic pain, targeting brain structures related to emotion and behavior. The study showed significant improvements in indices of depression, anxiety, and quality of life, suggesting a potential shift away from analgesia-based treatments.

SourceCleveland Clinic·JournalAnnals of Neurology·DateJun 20, 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.

Mathematical biology tackles destructive plant virus

Researchers used mathematical modeling to understand maize lethal necrosis, a devastating plant disease in sub-Saharan Africa. The study found that rotating crops and controlling insects can provide effective disease control, but limited control is achievable by resource-poor farmers.

SourceNational Institute for Mathematical and Biological Synthesis (NIMBioS)·JournalPhytopathology·DateJun 20, 2017

Predicting cognitive deficits in people with Parkinson's disease

A new research tool may predict a patient's risk for developing dementia in Parkinson's disease, enabling the design of 'smarter' trials that require fewer participating patients. The tool was built using data from 3,200 people with PD and evaluates seven known clinical and genetic risk factors.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalThe Lancet Neurology·DateJun 20, 2017

Wet and stormy weather lashed California coast... 8,200 years ago

A paleoclimate study found that California experienced exceptionally wet and stormy weather around 8,200 years ago, coinciding with a global climate anomaly. The researchers used stalagmite records to extract information about the prehistoric California atmosphere during this time.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 20, 2017

Buyer beware: Antimicrobial products can do more harm than good

Over 200 scientists and medical professionals issue a warning on the dangers of antimicrobial products, citing no health benefits and environmental harm. Experts urge caution in using these chemicals in everyday products, calling for alternatives to prevent unneeded exposures.

SourceGreen Science Policy Institute·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateJun 20, 2017

Study finds most people aren't as happy as their friends on social media

A recent study by Indiana University found that people with the most connections on social media are also happier, but this does not translate to their own happiness. The study revealed that a majority of social media users have fewer friends on average than their friends and are less happy as well.

SourceIndiana University·JournalEPJ Data Science·DateJun 20, 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.

Task Force presents new ranking of colorectal cancer screening tests

The task force ranked tests into three tiers according to the strength of the recommendation for average-risk people. Colonoscopy is highly sensitive for cancer and precancerous lesions, while fecal immunochemical testing (FIT) is non-invasive and lower-cost but must be repeated annually. The new guidelines also recommend starting scre...

SourceAmerican Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy·JournalGastrointestinal Endoscopy·DateJun 20, 2017

Older people who feel close to God have well-being that grows with frequent prayer

A Baylor University study finds that frequent prayer among older adults with a secure attachment to God improves their sense of well-being, while those with an average or weak attachment may experience mixed results. For those who perceive God as distant or untrustworthy, prayer is not associated with improved mental health.

SourceBaylor University·JournalJournal of Aging and Health·DateJun 20, 2017

Lightweight steel production breakthrough: Brittle phases controlled

Researchers at WMG, University of Warwick have developed a new processing route to control brittle stages during steel production. This breakthrough allows for the creation of low-density steels with maximum strength and durability, making them suitable for safer, greener, more fuel-efficient cars.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalActa Materialia·DateJun 20, 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.

Positive engagement in preschool key to developmental gains

A new study found that children's individual engagement in preschool classrooms, including with teachers, peers, and tasks, is crucial to their learning and development. Positive engagement was linked to improved literacy skills, language, and self-regulatory skills, while negative engagement hindered school readiness.

SourceSociety for Research in Child Development·JournalChild Development·DateJun 20, 2017

Shared decision-making is cornerstone of multiple sclerosis treatment

Shared decision-making between patients and healthcare providers is essential for optimal MS treatment and quality of life. The process involves working together to select tests, treatments, and care plans, taking into account evidence-based treatments and lifestyle factors.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalPractical Neurology·DateJun 20, 2017

How a girl is raised can influence her adult sporting success

A new study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that female footballers raised with non-traditional values and role models exhibit greater fighting spirit and pleasure in the game, leading to improved performance. This suggests that upbringing plays a significant role in shaping the desire to succeed in sports.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateJun 20, 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.

Selfish gene acts as both poison and antidote to eliminate competition

Researchers discovered a genetic survival strategy in fission yeast that uses a 'poison' to eliminate competition, but also keeps an 'antidote' for its own transmission. This mechanism, found in the wtf4 gene, can lead to infertility and has potential applications in eradicating pest populations or facilitating desirable traits.

SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·DateJun 20, 2017

Depressed patients more likely to be prescribed opioids

A new study reveals that individuals with low back pain who are also depressed are more likely to receive opioid prescriptions and higher doses. This finding sheds light on the current opioid epidemic and highlights the need for further research into prescribing patterns.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalPAIN Reports·DateJun 20, 2017

Hiding true self harms career and sense of belonging

A new study by University of Exeter researchers found that hiding one's true self at work can damage career prospects and reduce feelings of belonging. Concealing stigmatised characteristics such as LGBT identity or poverty history results in lower self-esteem, job satisfaction, and commitment.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalJournal of Social Issues·DateJun 20, 2017

Post-ICU glucose management may improve outcomes in critical patients

Research published in Mayo Clinic Proceedings found that critically ill patients with dysglycemia have higher mortality rates, and that a target glucose level of 80-140 mg/dL is associated with best prospects for survival. The study suggests that broader glucose control protocols from admission to discharge may improve survivability.

SourceStamford Health·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateJun 20, 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.

Mountain lions fear humans, fleeing when they hear our voices, new study reveals

A new study reveals that mountain lions are afraid of humans and flee when they hear our voices. The findings show that pumas take longer to return to their kills after hearing people, reducing their feeding time by about half. This is significant as it can have implications for their well-being in human-dominated landscapes.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·DateJun 20, 2017

New guideline aims to reduce infections in total hip & knee replacement patients

A new guideline aims to reduce joint infection risks from total hip and knee replacements by managing anti-rheumatic medications during perioperative process. The guideline provides recommendations for withholding certain medications, such as biologics and immunosuppressants, to minimize the risk of infection.

SourceAmerican College of Rheumatology·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateJun 20, 2017

Steaming fish eliminates more cyanotoxins than boiling it

A study published in Food Control found that steaming freshwater fish for over two minutes significantly reduces the presence of cylindrospermopsin, a harmful cyanotoxin. Boiling, on the other hand, results in a smaller reduction, posing an increased risk to consumers.

SourceUniversity of Seville·JournalFood Control·DateJun 20, 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.

Exhausted immune cells linked to irritable bowel syndrome

Researchers at the University of Adelaide have discovered that T-cells in patients with diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-D) are exhausted, leading to reduced responsiveness and secretion of mediators. This finding may help distinguish between different types of IBS and improve diagnosis and treatment options.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalGut·DateJun 20, 2017

Ancient skulls shed light on migration in the Roman empire

Researchers analyzed ancient Roman skulls using state-of-the-art forensic techniques to identify significant cranial differences between coastal communities. The findings suggest that the area around Velia had a large Greek population, influencing local physical characteristics.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalInternational Journal of Osteoarchaeology·DateJun 20, 2017

Bacterial superantigens turn our immune cells to the dark side

Researchers found that mucosa-associated invariant T (MAIT) cells can mount a rapid and robust inflammatory response to bacterial superantigens, contributing to severe organ damage or death. The overzealous response leads to exhaustion of MAIT cells, resulting in immunosuppression and increased susceptibility to secondary infections.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJun 20, 2017

Finding the perfect match: A new approach to battle drug-resistant bacteria

Researchers have developed a rapid screening method to identify beneficial pairs of existing FDA-approved drugs to combat multi-drug resistant bacterial infections. The approach identified 14 drugs that could be paired synergistically, with the most promising pairing combining azidothymidine and floxuridine.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJun 20, 2017

Studies link nutrient, academic achievement in pre-adolescent children

Researchers found that children with higher lutein levels in the eye tended to perform better on tests of cognition and academic achievement. The studies, conducted at the University of Illinois, also suggested that lutein may play a role in brain development and overall brain health.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNutritional Neuroscience·DateJun 20, 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.

Simple tactic results in dramatic water conservation, study shows

Researchers at Florida Atlantic University developed a simple, low-cost tactic to conserve water by providing people with more information about lawn watering. The 'Rain-watered Lawn' pilot program involved 627 households and showed a 61% decrease in lawn watering during rainy summer weeks.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalJournal of Environmental Management·DateJun 20, 2017