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Science News for June 29, 2017


Variation at a central metabolic gene influences male fruit fly lifespan

Scientists at North Carolina State University have found that small variations in the bellwether gene can significantly affect male fruit fly lifespan, but not female lifespans. The study sheds light on sex-specific differences in lifespan and highlights the importance of metabolic genes.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 29, 2017

Bringing CRISPR into focus

Researchers describe for the first time the exact chain of events as the CRISPR complex loads target DNA and prepares it for cutting by the Cas3 enzyme. The study reveals a molecular redundancy that prevents unintended genomic damage, providing insights into ways to improve CRISPR-Cas systems for precision gene editing.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalCell·DateJun 29, 2017

Pain neuron may protect fungal inflammation and bone destruction

Researchers discovered that pain neurons produce CGRP, a neuropeptide that inhibits osteoclast and cytokine production, to suppress fungal inflammation. The study found that Jdp2 transcription factor is necessary for this immunosuppression and that pain neurons are more potent at producing CGRP in response to β-glucan than LPS.

SourceOsaka University·JournalCell Reports·DateJun 29, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Scientists investigate link between air pollution and type 2 diabetes

Research from the University of Leicester and EarthSense reveals associations between air pollution and type 2 diabetes in a large cross-sectional study. Demographic factors largely explained the association, but the study suggests continued research into potential long-term exposure factors.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalEnvironment International·DateJun 29, 2017

Even perfectly clean hands can lead to MRSA transmission in NICU babies

Researchers found that even with perfect compliance, an averaged risk reduction of 86% was still not enough to completely prevent MRSA transmission. The study emphasizes the need for a multi-pronged approach to infection control, including early detection and decolonization measures.

SourceDrexel University·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateJun 29, 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.

New insights into why the immune system fails to see cancer

A team of investigators discovered a genetic program that some cancers use to cloak themselves from the immune system, affecting detection and treatment outcomes. The research highlights potential new immunotherapy targets and biomarkers for cancer survival.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalCell·DateJun 29, 2017

Car seat laws for older kids have limited impact

A new study by Ohio State University researchers found that car seat laws for older kids have a limited effect on compliance rates. Despite increased fines, the same number of kids remain unrestrained. The study suggests that education and access to safety seats might be more effective in improving road safety.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Policy Analysis and Management·DateJun 29, 2017

Mitochondria-targeted antioxidant SkQ1 helps to treat diabetic wounds

Researchers have found that SkQ1, a mitochondria-targeted antioxidant, significantly enhances wound healing in a mouse model of diabetes mellitus type II. The study improves wound epithelization, granulation tissue formation, and vascularization, restoring disturbed blood circulation.

SourceLomonosov Moscow State University·JournalOxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity·DateJun 29, 2017

Surprisingly exact timing of voluntary movements

A new study reveals that people are capable of controlling the exact timing of their blinking, a movement previously thought to be automated. This discovery challenges previous assumptions and highlights the importance of the cerebral cortex in controlling movements at will.

SourceLund University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 29, 2017

Osaka University researchers push metals to their limits

Researchers at Osaka University have created a novel metal alloy by adding two metals to generate a unique cross-lamellar microstructure, significantly improving its mechanical performance. The new alloy shows excellent high-temperature strength and could lead to efficiency gains in gas turbines and jet engines.

SourceOsaka University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 29, 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.

Scientists make giant molecular cages for energy conversion and drug delivery

Researchers at Trinity College Dublin have developed 'molecular cages' that can boost reactivity and storage capacity, offering promise for energy conversion and bio-sensing applications. The new material's enormous internal surface area makes it ideal for encapsulating molecules with specific functions.

SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 29, 2017

Globally, the rise of agriculture is squashing some fires

The expansion of agriculture has led to a decline in burned areas globally, particularly in tropical savannas and grasslands. Long-term declines were more associated with transitions from natural to managed landscapes.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJun 29, 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.

Genetic 'fossils' reveal long-term viral partnerships in grass

Defective viruses in grass genomes form partnerships with other viruses to compensate for functional deficiencies, resulting in concerted evolution of noncoding regulatory sequences. This partnership enables the development and maintenance of relationships over time.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateJun 29, 2017

NASA observes Tropical Storm Dora dissipating rapidly

NASA's Global Precipitation Measurement mission tracked Dora's transformation from moderate rainfall to barely any, revealing a rapid dissipation process. The storm's convection was absent in most of its southeastern side, and its low-level center exposed to outside winds

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJun 29, 2017

Depression linked to physical health decline in cancer caregivers

Cancer caregivers experience a steady decline in physical health compared to controls, with symptoms of depression being the only significant predictor. The study suggests that early assessment and addressing depressive symptoms may help prevent premature health decline among this vulnerable population.

SourceAmerican Cancer Society·JournalCancer·DateJun 29, 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.

3-D-printed implants can improve integration of amputee prosthetic devices with bone

Researchers developed two types of titanium implants with fine and coarse textures using electron beam melting and direct metal laser sintering. The study found substantial differences in mechanical testing results, including improved osseointegration and torsional properties for the fine-textured implants.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·Journal3D Printing and Additive Manufacturing·DateJun 29, 2017

Human activities worsen air quality in Dunhuang, a desert basin in China

Air quality has deteriorated in Dunhuang due to increased human activities, shifting from dust aerosol alone to a mixture of coarse and fine particles. Seasonal characteristics show significant variations in aerosol optical properties, with dust aerosols dominating during spring and fine urban aerosols during summer.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateJun 29, 2017

Cancer researchers overestimate reproducibility of preclinical studies

A survey of experts and novices found that cancer scientists overestimated the replicability of high-profile preclinical studies. In reality, none of the six completed studies by the Reproducibility Project: Cancer Biology reproduced the original results. Training might help overcome cognitive biases in interpreting scientific reports.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJun 29, 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.

Incremental discovery may one day lead to photosynthetic breakthrough

Researchers discovered that CP12 regulates enzymes GAPDH and PRK, allowing plants to respond to changing light levels. Removing all three forms of the protein results in reduced photosynthetic efficiency and smaller plant yield.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalJournal of Experimental Botany·DateJun 29, 2017

Common antimicrobials help patients recover from MRSA abscesses

Researchers found two common, inexpensive antimicrobials can help patients recover from MRSA abscesses, contradicting current thinking on treatment effectiveness. The study involved 796 children and adults with small, uncomplicated skin abscesses.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJun 29, 2017

Serious pain afflicts a third of nursing home residents in last 6 months of life

A significant proportion of nursing home residents suffer from chronic pain during their final six months, according to a recent study. Researchers analyzed data from over 960 seniors and found that 60% reported consistent low or mild pain, while around 34% experienced moderate or severe pain, with little improvement as death approached.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalJournal of the American Medical Directors Association·DateJun 29, 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.

Dialysis membrane made from graphene filters more quickly

MIT engineers have developed a functional graphene-based dialysis membrane that filters nanometer-sized molecules at an unprecedented rate. The membrane, made from a single layer of carbon atoms, separates molecules quickly due to its exceptional diffusion properties.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJun 29, 2017

New technique enables safer gene-editing therapy using CRISPR

Scientists at the University of Texas at Austin have developed a technique that can spot editing mistakes made by CRISPR, allowing for more precise gene therapies. The method involves rapidly testing a CRISPR molecule across a person's entire genome to foresee potential interactions.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalCell·DateJun 29, 2017

Catheters linked to most bloodstream infections in dialysis patients

A recent analysis of US dialysis facility data found that central venous catheters are associated with the most bloodstream infections in hemodialysis patients. Staphylococcus aureus was the most commonly isolated pathogen, with 40% of isolates resistant to antibiotic methicillin.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateJun 29, 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.

Global forest network cracks the case of tropical biodiversity

Researchers found that self-suppression is stronger in tropical forests and changes systematically with latitude, contributing to the biodiversity gradient. The Janzen-Connell hypothesis proposes that host-specific natural enemies suppress locally common species, giving rare species space to flourish.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalScience·DateJun 29, 2017

Oceans are warming rapidly, study says

A new study analyzing multiple ocean datasets reveals that the oceans are robustly warming, regardless of data used. The heat redistribution among global oceans experienced a significant shift over several decades.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalClimate Dynamics·DateJun 29, 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.

Elephantiasis on the decline in Cameroon

Mass drug administration campaigns in Cameroon have successfully reduced lymphatic filariasis rates, with only 0.13%, 0.57%, and 0.45% of children infected in three evaluation units. The WHO's elimination strategy is on track, but post-mass drug administration surveillance is necessary to ensure disease transmission does not resume.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateJun 29, 2017

The sharpest laser in the world

Researchers from PTB and JILA develop a laser with an unprecedented 10 mHz linewidth, setting a new world record. The precision of the laser allows for accurate measurements in optical atomic clocks and spectroscopy.

SourcePhysikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB)·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJun 29, 2017

Possible early diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder

A study published in the Journal of Neuroinflammation found that measuring two proteins in the blood can accurately diagnose autism spectrum disorder in approximately 75% of children. The diagnostic accuracy increases to 82% when both proteins are measured together.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalJournal of Neuroinflammation·DateJun 29, 2017

University of Leicester develops pioneering X-ray technique to analyze ancient artifacts

The University of Leicester has developed a non-destructive X-ray technique that can analyze artifacts of any shape or texture, providing high-quality phase information without causing damage. This technique has the potential to eliminate the need for destructive sampling and provide vital context information for museum collections.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalActa Crystallographica Section A·DateJun 29, 2017

Immersive journalism in a post-truth world

The rise of immersive journalism poses challenges to traditional journalistic principles, as it offers a personal experience that can be subjective and relativistic. However, when used thoughtfully, immersion can enhance the narrative and create a powerful emotional impact.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Digital Humanities·DateJun 29, 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.

Test identifies breast cancer patients with lowest risk of death

A new clinical study led by UC San Francisco has identified a molecular test that can pinpoint breast cancer patients with the lowest risk of death, even 20 years after diagnosis. The test, called MammaPrint®, can accurately identify ultralow-risk tumors, which are associated with an excellent prognosis and minimal toxic effects.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateJun 29, 2017

Social status of listener alters our voice

A study by the University of Stirling found that people change their voice pitch depending on who they are talking to and how dominant they feel. Individuals tend to use a higher pitch when talking to high-status people, signaling submissiveness and avoiding confrontation.

SourceUniversity of Stirling·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 29, 2017

University of Surrey's research reveals secrets of success of tourism entrepreneurs

The University of Surrey's research has identified key characteristics and approaches that successful tourism entrepreneurs use to overcome barriers. They emphasize the importance of being dynamic, market-driven, and willing to experiment with new ideas. The study found that entrepreneurs often rely on creative strategies such as runni...

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalCurrent Issues in Tourism·DateJun 29, 2017

For some US counties, climate change will be particularly costly

A new study by AAAS predicts climate change will have a devastating impact on certain US counties, with losses exceeding 20% of gross county product in some areas. Southern and midwestern populations are projected to suffer the largest economic damage due to increased cyclone intensification and sea level rise.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJun 29, 2017

Acoustic scientist sounds off about the location of cave paintings

A systematic acoustic study is proposed by David Lubman to investigate the potential relationship between the location of Paleolithic cave paintings and points of reverberation in caves. The study aims to determine whether there is a correlation between the placement of paintings and areas with good acoustics.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateJun 29, 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.

Biomechanical acoustics study sheds light on running injuries

Researchers investigated how runners adapt their running patterns to cope with shock-induced vibrations. Preliminary results suggest that the human body adjusts to stabilize energetics and protect the upper body, regardless of speed. Further research is needed to confirm these findings and develop strategies to prevent running injuries.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateJun 29, 2017

Bullying and bias can cost schools millions in lost funding

New research highlights the economic impact of bullying on schools, with 10.4% of students missing school due to feeling unsafe and up to $276 million in lost revenue each year in California public schools. Schools can take steps to create a safe environment through professional anti-bullying training and decreasing racism.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalSchool Psychology Quarterly·DateJun 29, 2017

Researchers refute textbook knowledge in molecular interactions

Researchers at the University of Luxembourg have redefined the understanding of van der Waals interactions, discovering they can be repulsive in confined spaces. This new paradigm could have implications for pharmaceutical delivery, water desalination and photovoltaic devices.

SourceUniversity of Luxembourg·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJun 29, 2017

Cocoa and chocolate are not just treats -- they are good for your cognition

Italian researchers found that cocoa flavanols can enhance working memory and visual information processing, and even counteract cognitive impairment in women after sleep deprivation. Long-term ingestion of cocoa flavanols improved cognitive performance in elderly individuals with starting memory decline or mild cognitive impairments.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Nutrition·DateJun 29, 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 study examines effectiveness of labor induction in India

A new study published in The Lancet found that oral misoprostol tablets were more effective than Foley catheter induction in reducing need for caesarean section and increasing vaginal birth rates. Women who received oral misoprostol tablets also reported higher satisfaction rates with the outcome.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalThe Lancet·DateJun 29, 2017

A new ribosomal biogenesis regulation point to treat cancer and 5q- syndrome

A new mechanism has been identified by researchers where a subset of free 40S ribosomes preserve genetic information needed to produce new ribosomes. This discovery may lead to new therapies for cancer and 5q- syndrome, conditions where cancer cells exploit ribosome biogenesis to proliferate.

SourceIDIBELL-Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute·JournalMolecular Cell·DateJun 29, 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.

NIST 'noise thermometry' yields accurate new measurements of boltzmann constant

Researchers at NIST have contributed to accurate new measurements of the Boltzmann constant using a novel technique called noise thermometry. This approach measures the random motion of electrons in a resistor, allowing for more precise temperature measurements and potentially better thermometers for industry.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalMetrologia·DateJun 29, 2017

Promising new therapeutic approach for debilitating bone disease

Researchers have demonstrated a new therapeutic approach that can re-build and strengthen bone, offering hope for individuals with the debilitating bone cancer, multiple myeloma. The treatment targets a protein called sclerostin, which halts bone formation, and found to double bone volume in some mice.

SourceGarvan Institute of Medical Research·JournalBlood·DateJun 29, 2017

Research suggests association between gut bacteria and emotion

Researchers identified distinct gut microbiota profiles associated with altered brain activity and emotional responses in healthy women. The Bacteroides group showed increased gray matter and hippocampal volume, while the Prevotella group exhibited reduced brain volumes and heightened negative emotions.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·DateJun 29, 2017

Why does acupuncture work?

A recent study from LA BioMed researchers found that the proper use of acupuncture can lead to elevated levels of nitric oxide in the skin at acupoints, increasing blood flow and analgesic release. The study suggests that this method may contribute to the pain-relieving effects of acupuncture.

SourceLA BioMed·JournalEvidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine·DateJun 29, 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.

Eighty-five percent of Spanish children eat too much salt

A study by Complutense University of Madrid found that 85% of Spanish schoolchildren eat too much salt, with an average daily intake of 7.8g. The experts recommend reducing salt intake from young age, particularly from processed foods like cured meats and bread.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalEuropean Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateJun 29, 2017

UTA study recommends that children with autism be checked for DCD

Children with autism spectrum disorder may benefit from assessments for developmental coordination disorder (DCD) due to overlapping symptoms and co-occurrence. The UTA study highlights the importance of evaluating individuals with autism thoroughly for DCD, which affects up to 7% of school-age children.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalResearch in Autism Spectrum Disorders·DateJun 29, 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.

Penn collaboration produces surprising insights into the properties of butterfly wings

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have made surprising discoveries about the properties of butterfly wings, shedding light on their structural origins. The study reveals that the whiteness on male butterflies' wings changes depending on the angle, and that this phenomenon is crucial for signaling and mating purposes.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 29, 2017

Making sense of petunia scents

Petunias use volatile organic compounds (VOCs) to attract pollinators and defend against herbivores and pathogens. A newly identified protein helps transport these compounds across cell membranes.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJun 29, 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.

Eyewitness identification study earns top award at Policing Journal

A Sam Houston State University study found that half of witnesses did not select anyone from the lineup, with 78% accuracy when a selection was made. The results show challenges in identifying suspects, particularly for witnesses of different races or ethnicities and those exposed to guns.

SourceSam Houston State University·DateJun 29, 2017

Lung cancer screening could save money as well as lives, research shows

A new study suggests that lung cancer screening programs targeting high-risk people could reduce costs while saving lives. The research found that focusing on high-risk individuals could reduce the number of people who need to be screened by over 80%, making the program more cost-effective.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateJun 29, 2017

Study shows antibiotics effective for treatment of small skin infections

A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that antibiotics are effective in treating small skin abscesses when combined with drainage. The study showed higher cure rates for adults and children using clindamycin or trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, compared to drainage alone.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJun 29, 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.

A new way out of the cycle of rejection

A study found that emotional messages are more effective in motivating people to pursue social activities again, especially for those who feel socially excluded. Emotional appeals can help counteract the cycle of rejection and isolation, making it easier for individuals to take care of themselves.

SourceSociety for Consumer Psychology·JournalJournal of Consumer Psychology·DateJun 29, 2017

CVIA volume 2 issue 2 major new China focus issue

The CVIA China Focus Issue brings together contributions from leading cardiologists in the US and China, highlighting epidemiology, prevention, rehabilitation, and clinical management of CVD in China. The issue also highlights future perspectives in cardiovascular disease of China.

SourceCardiovascular Innovations and Applications·JournalCardiovascular Innovations and Applications·DateJun 29, 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.

New research identifies key mechanism behind some deafness

Researchers have identified a crucial protein, CIB2, essential for sound wave conversion into brain signals in the inner ear. The study reveals how this protein facilitates mechanotransduction, enabling people to interpret sounds.

SourceUniversity of Maryland School of Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 29, 2017

Researchers find link between food allergies and childhood anxiety

Researchers at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health studied the link between food allergy and childhood anxiety and depression. Children with a food allergy had a significantly higher prevalence of childhood anxiety, while symptoms of depression were not linked to food allergies.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·DateJun 29, 2017

Are people 'rolling the dice' when it comes to food safety?

A recent study by the ENIGMA Project found that many chefs engage in risky behaviors such as serving undercooked meat, returning to work after illness, and failing to wash hands. The researchers used a dice-rolling technique to gather data, which revealed surprising findings about food safety practices in UK kitchens.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 29, 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.

Discovering the early age immune response in foals

Researchers at Cornell University discovered a new way to measure tiny amounts of antibodies in foals, helping to understand how quickly they start producing their own. This will aid in optimizing vaccination schedules for young horses.

SourceCornell University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 29, 2017

More milkweeds located throughout the landscape can help conserve monarchs

A new study suggests that converting marginal cropland to monarch-friendly habitat is the most effective way to add milkweed and restore the eastern migratory monarch population. Planting milkweeds in protected areas, urban, and suburban locations may also be necessary to achieve a full population recovery.

SourceU.S. Geological Survey·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateJun 29, 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.

Treatment benefits patients with thalassaemia and HCV

A new study shows that sofosbuvir and ledipasvir single pill therapy leads to a sustained virological response in 98% of patients with thalassaemia and HCV. The treatment is expected to be limited by drug-to-drug interactions, but offers a significant benefit for these patients.

SourceWiley·JournalAlimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics·DateJun 29, 2017

Does carrying extra weight offer better survival following a stroke?

Researchers found that overweight or mildly obese individuals have better survival rates after a stroke compared to those with normal body weight. The study suggests that increased weight may provide a 'metabolic reserve' that helps recovery from severe disease.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateJun 29, 2017

A wave's 'sweet spot' revealed

Scripps researcher Nick Pizzo found the exact location on a wave where a surfer gains maximum speed, enabling better forecasting of weather and climate. The study also sheds light on the energy transfer between waves and the atmosphere.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJournal of Fluid Mechanics·DateJun 29, 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.

UCI: Earth is losing its fire power

Industrial farming has disrupted the burn-regrowth cycle in grasslands, leading to a 25% decline in globally burned areas. This shift affects iconic species like lions and rhinoceroses.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalScience·DateJun 29, 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.

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.

Bumble bees make a beeline for larger flowers

Researchers found that bumble bees create more efficient foraging routes when larger flowers are available, as they can quickly recognize and navigate to the next nearest flower. This study suggests that learning is a choice that foragers make based on the cost-benefit balance of learning, depending on circumstances.

SourceSpringer·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateJun 29, 2017

One step closer to a DNA vaccine against dengue virus

A recent study published in Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology has made significant progress in developing a DNA vaccine against the dengue virus. Researchers have successfully induced persistent humoral and cellular immune responses in mice, providing efficient protection against lethal challenge from one of the four ser...

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology·DateJun 29, 2017

Camera-trap research paves the way for global monitoring networks

A study led by Lindsey Rich demonstrates that camera traps are an effective method for collecting data on species populations. The research found that prey availability can determine carnivore distributions, while human development and influence also impact population sizes.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalGlobal Ecology and Biogeography·DateJun 29, 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.

AI helps to fight against lung cancer

Researchers developed an AI-based approach to extract lung nodules from chest CTs, improving diagnosis accuracy and reducing false positives. The method can be integrated into existing CADe systems and accommodate new data streams, potentially increasing the five-year survival rate for lung cancer patients.

SourceScience China Press·DateJun 29, 2017

USDa invests $7.6 million for research on pests and beneficial species

The USDA is investing $7.6 million in research to help manage pests and beneficial species that affect agricultural crops. The funding will support projects that promote beneficial organisms associated with pests and better understand the fundamental mechanisms of interactions between plants, pests, or beneficial species.

SourceNational Institute of Food and Agriculture·DateJun 29, 2017

Solving a sweet problem for renewable biofuels and chemicals

Researchers at Arizona State University have developed a new approach to convert biomass into renewable biofuels and chemicals, using the trial-and-error power of evolution. By harnessing this power, they were able to coax bacteria to better ferment sugars derived from biomass, leading to a 50% increase in product yield.

SourceArizona State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 29, 2017

Ancient viral 'fossils' reveal evolutionary mechanisms

Researchers at Hokkaido University discovered that non-autonomous viruses can infect the same plant and exchange DNA to help each other prosper. This 'commensal' partnership with another virus species is crucial in establishing life cycles, with exchanging noncoding regulatory sequences playing a key role.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateJun 29, 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.

Newly identified small RNA fragments defend the genome when it's 'naked'

A team from Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory has discovered small RNA fragments that protect the genome from retrotransposons during epigenetic reprogramming in preimplantation embryos. These fragments, consisting of 18 and 22 nucleotides, are perfect complements of sequences within retrotransposons.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalCell·DateJun 29, 2017

Hydrogen peroxide protects plants against sun damage

Researchers discovered that hydrogen peroxide plays a crucial role in plant adaptation to sunlight. Plants use H2O2 to signal genes in their cell nuclei, allowing them to adjust and protect photosynthesis. This process ensures plants continue to thrive under varying light conditions.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 29, 2017

New avenue for the large-scale synthesis of 'God' Janus particles

Researchers developed a novel approach to synthesizing Janus particles with controllable topological and chemical anisotropy using emulsion interfacial polymerization. The method produced uniform Janus particles with amphiphilicity, expanding their utility in applications such as oil-water separation and biological detection.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 29, 2017