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Science News for June 5, 2017


AACR pubs 1st set of screening recs from childhood cancer predisposition workshop

The American Association for Cancer Research has published its first set of consensus screening recommendations for children with common cancer predisposition syndromes. The guidelines provide standardized approaches to surveillance and facilitate appropriate monitoring of children affected by these conditions.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateJun 5, 2017
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Engineer unveils new spin on future of transistors with novel design

Engineer Dr. Joseph S. Friedman designs a novel computing system made solely from carbon that might replace silicon transistors in electronics. The resulting all-carbon spin logic proposal enables cascaded logic gates with increased performance and potential terahertz clock speeds.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 5, 2017

Generous health insurance plans encourage overtreatment, but may not improve health

A new study found that generous health insurance plans with low deductibles and copays can lead to unnecessary treatments for chronically ill patients. The study suggests that personalized medicine interventions, providing more information about treatment effectiveness, can reduce healthcare costs and improve patient outcomes.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalMarketing Science·DateJun 5, 2017

RIT study suggests dying stars give newborn black holes a swift kick

Researchers suggest that massive star explosions can expel newborn black holes with strong natal kicks, affecting their spin and alignment. This phenomenon could help explain years of tentative evidence suggesting black holes receive such kicks.

SourceRochester Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJun 5, 2017
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

ASU-led scientists discover why rocks flow slowly in Earth's middle mantle

Researchers used X-ray techniques and atomic resolution electron microscopy to study bridgmanite, the dominant mineral in Earth's mantle. They found that changes in iron composition at certain pressures cause bridgmanite to become more viscous, leading to slowed flow patterns.

SourceArizona State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 5, 2017

Tactile sensor gives robots new capabilities

The GelSight sensor uses physical contact to provide a detailed 3-D map of an object's surface, enabling robots to judge the hardness of surfaces they touch. Researchers also use it to enable robots to manipulate smaller objects than previously possible.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateJun 5, 2017
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

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

Older adults under-referred for mental health therapies

A large research study reveals that older people are not being referred for mental health support nearly as frequently as their younger counterparts. Despite this, studies have shown that older people may benefit the most from 'talk therapies', with over three-quarters of people around the age of 64 experiencing significant clinical im...

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalBritish Journal of General Practice·DateJun 5, 2017

Genetic cross-talk key to cell balance

Researchers at Stowers Institute for Medical Research discovered direct cross-regulatory feedback between Nanog and Hox genes, which regulate pluripotency and differentiation. This study provides important insight into tissue formation processes and holds relevance for regenerative medicine and cancer therapy.

SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 5, 2017

UCSF studies ambulance diversion by race, health care for released prisoners in journal issue

Researchers at UCSF found that black heart attack patients suffered higher mortality rates when ambulances were diverted due to hospital overcrowding. In contrast, better coordination between correctional and community health care systems can help reduce these disparities. A separate study also found that released prisoners who receive...

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalHealth Affairs·DateJun 5, 2017
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Texas team debuts battery-less pacemaker

Researchers from Rice University and the Texas Heart Institute have developed a battery-less pacemaker that can be implanted directly into a patient's heart. The device harnesses energy wirelessly from radio frequency radiation transmitted by an external battery pack, reducing complications related to traditional lead-based pacemakers.

SourceRice University·DateJun 5, 2017

Scientists discover plant 'brain' controlling seed development

A new study reveals a group of cells acting as a 'brain' in plant embryos, assessing environmental conditions and dictating germination timing. The plant's decision on when to germinate is controlled by two types of cells promoting dormancy or germination, communicating through hormone signals.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 5, 2017

NUS researchers pilot 'Home-but-not Alone' app to help new parents

A research team at NUS developed an app to deliver postnatal educational programmes and provide supportive care on-the-go. The 'Home-but-not-alone' app improved parenting confidence, perceived social support, and satisfaction among new parents, highlighting a gap in existing postnatal care in Singapore.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalJournal of Advanced Nursing·DateJun 5, 2017

Police officers speak less respectfully to black residents than to white residents

A study analyzing police body camera footage found that officers consistently use less respectful language with black community members than with white community members. The racial disparities in language use remained even after controlling for other factors, highlighting the need for solutions to improve police-community relations.

SourceStanford University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 5, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

UTA-developed cell phone application now available on iPhones

The iSeeFlood app, developed in 2016, is designed to gather data on flash floods, which can be dangerous to pedestrians and motorists. The app, which has now been made available for iPhones, encourages users to report flooding incidents, providing valuable information for cities and emergency services.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateJun 5, 2017
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Antibiotic overuse in children could be reduced with improved communication

Parents' understanding of antibiotic risks and watchful waiting approaches can significantly impact their adherence to delay antibiotic use for common childhood illnesses. By enhancing physician instruction, compliance rates with this approach could be increased, potentially reducing unnecessary antibiotic overuse.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalJournal of Applied Communication Research·DateJun 5, 2017

Prenatal alcohol exposure is focus of study, editorial, & patient page

A recent study investigates the association between prenatal alcohol exposure and child craniofacial shape at 12 months, emphasizing the need for safe drinking habits during pregnancy. The research underscores the risks of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder and provides guidance for pregnant women and their families.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateJun 5, 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.

Story tips from the Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory, June 2017

Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have developed a new approach to locate oil and gas in shale, reducing production time and cost. Additionally, the team has discovered a link between electrochemistry and ferroelectricity, enabling new materials for electronics and energy applications.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalJournal of Natural Gas Science and Engineering·DateJun 5, 2017

PET/MR shows arterial CO2 as potent vasodilator for cardiac stress testing

Researchers develop new protocol using PaCO2 to amplify myocardial blood flow, offering an alternative to injectable pharmacological agents. The study shows a safe and effective method for widening heart blood vessels during stress tests, benefiting patients with severe side effects from traditional methods.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateJun 5, 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.

Did amount of sodium households acquire in packaged food, beverages decrease?

Researchers found a 12 percent decline in sodium content of households' purchases over the 15-year period, with declines observed for all top food sources of sodium. However, less than 2% of U.S. households had optimal sodium density, highlighting the need for continued efforts to reduce sodium in packaged foods.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJun 5, 2017

Mizzou researchers receive grant to study learning and memory

Researchers Troy Zars and Elizabeth King will use advanced genomic technologies and behavioral techniques to identify genes influencing learning and memory performance in fruit flies. The study aims to uncover the genetic basis of complex traits and shed light on brain function.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·DateJun 5, 2017
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

CRISPR tech leads to new screening tool for Parkinson's disease

Researchers at the University of Central Florida have developed a new screening tool for Parkinson's disease using CRISPR technology. The tool allows scientists to monitor brain protein alpha-synuclein levels, which can help identify potential treatments.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 5, 2017

Decomposing leaves are a surprising source of greenhouse gases

Researchers at Michigan State University discovered that decomposing leaves in soil are a surprising source of nitrous oxide, a potent greenhouse gas. The team found that large soil pores create micro-habitats perfect for bacteria to produce nitrous oxide.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJun 5, 2017
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

USDA announces $6 million for sustainable energy research

The USDA's National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) is providing up to $6 million in funding for sustainable energy research, focusing on perennial grasses and woody plants. This investment aims to develop more options for producing biofuels and biobased industrial products, creating jobs and rural prosperity.

SourceNational Institute of Food and Agriculture·DateJun 5, 2017

Hubble's tale of 2 exoplanets: Nature vs. nurture

Two exoplanets, WASP-67 b and HAT-P-38 b, have distinct atmospheric compositions, with one being cloudier than the other. The team's findings suggest that their past formation histories may be responsible for these differences.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJun 5, 2017

Is there a link between infertility and child educational outcomes?

A study by University of Illinois Chicago sociologist finds that parental infertility is associated with lower test scores and grade point average at age 16. The research suggests a cumulative physical and social experience of infertility affecting child outcomes beyond the point of birth.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalDemography·DateJun 5, 2017

Research reveals new insights into why the heart does not repair itself

A study published in Nature reveals a previously unknown connection between pathways that prevent heart cell renewal. The discovery opens the possibility of developing strategies to promote heart cell growth and regeneration. This finding may also lead to improved cardiac function in children with muscular dystrophy.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalNature·DateJun 5, 2017
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Alectinib halts lung cancer growth more than a year longer than crizotinib

A phase III clinical trial found that alectinib, a next-generation ALK inhibitor, extended the median time to progression by about 15 months compared to crizotinib. Alectinib also caused fewer severe side effects and was more effective in preventing brain metastases.

SourceAmerican Society of Clinical Oncology·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateJun 5, 2017

Marine reserves help mitigate against climate change, say scientists

Marine reserves can help protect wildlife, support fisheries, and promote carbon storage to slow climate change impacts. The study evaluates existing research on the benefits of large, long-established marine protected areas in reducing the effects of ocean acidification, sea-level rise, and other climate change drivers.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 5, 2017

How one man's shoes help NASA communicate water clarity issues

NASA has adopted a 'sneaker depth' method to visualize and communicate water clarity, inspired by Bernie Fowler's data. The algorithm relates satellite measurements of red light reflection to physical measurements of shoe visibility.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalOptics Express·DateJun 5, 2017

Study estimates amount of water needed to carve Martian valleys

A new study published in Nature Communications estimates that the ancient network of valleys on Mars required at least 10 times more water than previously thought to carve out. The research suggests that Mars once had a warmer climate and active hydrologic cycle, with an ocean playing a key role in shaping the planet's landscape.

SourceNorthern Illinois University·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 5, 2017
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Domes of frozen methane may be warning signs for new blow-outs

Researchers have discovered frozen methane domes on the Arctic Ocean floor that could indicate an increased risk of new methane blow-outs. The domes are stable due to high pressure but can collapse with a small change in water temperature, posing a threat to the environment.

SourceUiT The Arctic University of Norway·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 5, 2017

A stream of superfluid light

Scientists have observed room-temperature superfluidity in light, a phenomenon previously only seen at extremely low temperatures. This breakthrough could lead to the development of new photonic devices with reduced losses and enhanced performance.

SourcePolytechnique Montréal·JournalNature Physics·DateJun 5, 2017

Metal-ion catalysts and hydrogen peroxide could green up plastics production

Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a new method to produce plastics precursors using environmentally friendly catalysts and hydrogen peroxide. This approach can reduce the use of olefin molecules derived from fossil fuels and lower greenhouse gas emissions.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJun 5, 2017

App uses smartphone compass to stop voice hacking

A new app is being developed to stop voice hacking using a smartphone's compass, which can detect magnetic fields and prevent replayed voices from being convincingly impersonated. The app aims to provide an additional layer of security for users and protect against growing digital security threats.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·DateJun 5, 2017
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

CAR T-Cell therapy sends multiple myeloma into lasting remission

A new type of immunotherapy using CAR T cells targeting B-cell maturation protein (BCMA) has shown promising results in treating multiple myeloma, achieving a 100% objective response rate and 94% clinical remission. Most patients experienced mild side effects, with only one case of disease progression among those in complete response.

SourceAmerican Society of Clinical Oncology·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateJun 5, 2017

International science team: Marine reserves can help mitigate climate change

A global study suggests that highly protected marine reserves can slow down the rate of climate change and protect marine ecosystems. These areas can provide critical resilience benefits to rapid climate change, including reducing ocean acidification and supporting productive fisheries.

SourceOregon State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 5, 2017

Trends in reoperation after initial lumpectomy for breast cancer

A population-based study found that a 2014 consensus statement endorsing minimal negative margins led to decreased reoperations and increased rates of breast-conserving surgery. Final surgical treatment rates also shifted towards mastectomy, resulting in overtreatment reduction.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateJun 5, 2017

Two-part system turns stem cells into whatever you want

A new two-part system turns embryonic or adult stem cells into the desired target cell type, reproducing flawlessly. The system uses a DNA plasmid that makes cells glow green when exposed to blue light, allowing researchers to track its removal and control gene expression.

SourcePenn State·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 5, 2017
GoPro HERO13 Black

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

'Hail Mary' mechanism can rescue cells with severely damaged chromosomes

A team of scientists has discovered a remarkable mechanism that enables cells to repair severely damaged chromosomes, preventing cell death and cancer. The 'Hail Mary' mechanism involves the creation of a DNA tether to keep the broken fragment connected to the chromosome.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateJun 5, 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.

What caused the most toxic algal bloom ever observed in Monterey Bay?

Researchers found that a low silicate-to-nitrate ratio in the bay's waters led to extremely high concentrations of domoic acid, causing the bloom. This unique combination resulted in dense populations of toxic diatoms, affecting wildlife and commercial fisheries.

SourceMonterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJun 5, 2017
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Adding a second HER2 blocker may lower chance of invasive breast cancer for some women

A phase III clinical trial suggests that adding pertuzumab to standard trastuzumab treatment after surgery may help reduce the risk of invasive breast cancer by 19% in patients with HER2-positive disease. The benefit is most pronounced in women with node-positive and hormone receptor-negative breast cancer.

SourceAmerican Society of Clinical Oncology·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateJun 5, 2017

HUD housing assistance linked to improved health care access

A new study by University of Maryland School of Public Health researcher Dr. Andrew Fenelon found that people receiving subsidized housing assistance were more likely to have medical insurance and less likely to have unmet medical need compared to those on HUD waitlist.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalHealth Affairs·DateJun 5, 2017

Newly identified gene helps time spring flowering in vital grass crops

Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison have identified a gene called RVR1 that represses VRN1 prior to winter, allowing grasses to wait for the right conditions to flower. This discovery may help improve yields in important food and energy crops such as corn, wheat, and oats.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 5, 2017

Cell phone use and distracted driving begins in the mind

Researchers at the University of Iowa found that even simple conversations on a cell phone can affect drivers' brain ability to focus on the roadway. The delay is about 40 milliseconds, which compounds and contributes to impaired driving.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalPsychonomic Bulletin & Review·DateJun 5, 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.

Decomposing leaves are surprising source of greenhouse gases

Researchers have discovered that decomposing leaves in soil are a significant source of nitrous oxide, a potent greenhouse gas. The study, led by Michigan State University, found that leaf particles create micro-habitats perfect for bacteria that produce nitrous oxide.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJun 5, 2017
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Breeding pairs of birds cooperate to resist climate change

A team of scientists found that male and female plovers shift incubation more frequently in response to rising temperatures, increasing cooperation between the sexes. This flexibility in parental care helps birds adapt to changing climates and extreme conditions.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalGlobal Ecology and Biogeography·DateJun 5, 2017

Injectable solution may provide weeks of glucose control

Researchers at Duke University have created a technology that fuses GLP1 with a heat-sensitive elastin-like polypeptide, providing glucose control up to three times longer than current treatments. The new biopolymer injection lasts more than two weeks in primates and has the potential to replace daily or weekly insulin shots.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateJun 5, 2017

Increased number of female engineers in managerial roles brings unintended consequences

Research by M. Teresa Cardador found that women in managerial roles in engineering firms experience mixed identification with the profession, feeling they don't belong in technical roles. This can lead to stereotypes about women's suitability for technical work and increased work-life balance tensions.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalOrganization Science·DateJun 5, 2017
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Fixing the role of nitrogen in coral bleaching

Excess nitrogen in oceans disrupts coral-algae symbiosis, triggering bleaching even without heat and light stress. Microbial processes like nitrogen fixation can exacerbate bleaching events.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateJun 5, 2017

Staphylococcus ribosome structure researched by KFU Structural Biology Lab

Researchers at KFU's Structural Biology Lab have made significant breakthroughs in understanding Staphylococcus ribosomes using cryo-electron microscopy. This discovery holds great promise for developing new treatments against deadly infections, such as pneumonia and septicemia.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateJun 5, 2017

Pictorial warning labels on tobacco products could help improve communication of risks to smokers

A recent study published in Tobacco Control found that pictorial warning labels (PWLs) with images convey similar risk information as text-only labels, holding smokers' attention more effectively. The researchers observed that congruent PWLs where the image and text express similar messages or themes may be an optimal design strategy.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalTobacco Control·DateJun 5, 2017

Seeing the invisible with a graphene-CMOS integrated device

Researchers from Graphene Flagship have successfully integrated graphene into a CMOS circuit, enabling the creation of high-resolution image sensors that can detect UV, visible, and infrared light. This technology has vast applications in fields such as safety, security, and medical imaging.

SourceGraphene Flagship·JournalNature Photonics·DateJun 5, 2017
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Earliest human impact on geological processes took place 11,500 years ago

Researchers at Tel Aviv University discovered basin-wide erosion rates incompatible with known tectonic and climatic regimes of the period. The findings indicate that human impact on the environment began significantly affecting the Earth's geology around 11,500 years ago.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalGlobal and Planetary Change·DateJun 5, 2017
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

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

Citizen scientists help infectious bacteria researchers

Researchers used citizen scientists wearing boot socks on walks to find that slightly less than half of the socks were positive for Campylobacter, a common cause of diarrheal disease. The study suggests seasonal patterns and links to environmental factors, which could lead to interventions to reduce disease risk.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateJun 5, 2017

Study evaluates overall geriatric health during androgen deprivation therapy

A study published in Journal of Clinical Oncology found that patients undergoing androgen deprivation therapy experience significant changes in physical function and skills of daily living. After treatment, most patients show improvement in overall geriatric health, with some even experiencing increases in daily function.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateJun 5, 2017

Dasatinib excels in worldwide phase II trial against pediatric CML

Dasatinib demonstrated significant benefits in a phase II clinical trial for pediatric chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), with 75% of patients experiencing progression-free survival after treatment. The study also showed minimal toxicities and improved quality of life for patients.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·DateJun 5, 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.

A planet hotter than most stars

KELT-9b orbits a star more than twice as large and nearly twice as hot as our sun, causing its atmosphere to puff up like a balloon. The planet's day side is perpetually bombarded by stellar radiation, making it inhospitable for life.

SourceOhio State University·JournalNature·DateJun 5, 2017
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Memory loss and other cognitive decline linked to blood vessel disease in the brain

Researchers found strong association between cognitive decline and small blood vessel disease in the brain, with 61% of older adults having at least one component of the condition. The study, part of the Atahualpa Project, suggests that vascular neurology may be an important factor in stroke and neurological disorders in Latin America.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalInternational Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry·DateJun 5, 2017

Artificial fluorescent membrane lipid shows active role in living cells

Researchers at Osaka University developed artificial fluorescent membrane lipids that mimic sphingomyelin and interact with proteins, enabling the study of complex cellular processes. The findings reveal dynamic behavior of SMs associated with CD59 and plasma membranes, offering insights into modifying molecular interactions.

SourceOsaka University·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateJun 5, 2017

Diabetes drug prevents stiffening of heart muscle in obese mouse model

Researchers found that a diabetes medication, linagliptin, can protect against stiffening of the left ventricle of the heart in overweight female mice fed a Western diet. The treatment suppressed oxidative stress, inflammation, and fibrosis, reducing the risk of cardiovascular complications associated with obesity and Type 2 diabetes.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalCardiovascular Diabetology·DateJun 5, 2017
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Splitting carbon dioxide using low-cost catalyst materials

EPFL scientists have developed an Earth-abundant catalyst to split carbon dioxide into oxygen and carbon monoxide, producing liquid fuels from renewable sources. The catalyst achieved a high efficiency of 13.4% in converting CO2 to CO using solar energy.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Energy·DateJun 5, 2017

Research aims to make artificial intelligence explain itself

Researchers aim to develop a system that can explain AI decisions to humans, making autonomous vehicles and robots more trustworthy. The project will utilize real-time strategy games like StarCraft to train AI players that can provide natural language explanations.

SourceOregon State University·DateJun 5, 2017

Small intracranial aneurysms may have little risk for rupture

Researchers found that small and very small unruptured intracranial aneurysms have low growth rates, ranging from less than 3% per year. The annual rupture rate for aneurysms smaller than 7mm was 0-1%. These findings may inform patient management and treatment decisions for patients with UIAs.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJun 5, 2017

Chronic pain linked to increased risk of dementia in study of older adults

Researchers at UCSF found a significant association between chronic pain and faster declines in memory function and increased risk of dementia in older adults. The study suggests that chronic pain could be related to changes in the brain contributing to cognitive decline.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJun 5, 2017
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Savvy sports audiences care about team sponsorship deals

Researchers found that sponsorships involving high fees and distant international sponsors are perceived as reflecting calculative motives, while close geographic proximity is associated with affective motivations. Teams need to communicate the relevance of a sponsor to their market and area.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateJun 5, 2017

Attacking metastatic tumors in the brain

Researchers have discovered a novel mechanism behind treatment resistance in brain metastatic breast cancers, and a potential treatment strategy that may overcome this resistance. Targeting the Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 3 (HER3) protein has been shown to significantly slow tumor growth and improve survival.

SourceNational Foundation for Cancer Research·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJun 5, 2017

Electrocatalyst nanostructures key to improved fuel cells, electrolyzers

Purdue University scientists have identified a new type of electrocatalyst that is both active and stable, which could solve a significant problem in fuel cells and electrolyzers. The nanoscale nickel islands on platinum substrate exhibit unexpected properties that make it an ideal candidate for promoting chemical reactions.

SourcePurdue University·JournalNature Energy·DateJun 5, 2017

Evidence shows increased risk of ozone loss over the United States in summer

Researchers found that stratospheric ozone concentrations in the US are vulnerable to water vapor and temperature variations from storm systems, posing a risk to human health and crops. The study calls for increased meteorological and chemical observations to forecast short-term and long-term ozone loss.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 5, 2017

Is cirrhosis associated with increased risk of stroke?

A study of over 1.6 million Medicare beneficiaries found that cirrhosis significantly increases the risk of stroke, particularly hemorrhagic stroke. The authors suggest that mixed coagulopathy and underlying vascular risk factors may contribute to this association.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateJun 5, 2017

Study addresses misconceptions about electroconvulsive therapy

A new study has found that patients undergoing electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) for psychiatric disorders have a positive experience, with 80% viewing the treatment as useful and 70% finding it more efficacious than drug therapy. The study aims to validate ECT as a less frightening option by improving its administration standards.

SourceWiley·JournalProgress in Neurology and Psychiatry·DateJun 5, 2017

Discovery reveals planet almost as hot as the Sun

The newly discovered planet KELT-9b has a unique orbit, atmospheric features, and a daytime temperature hotter than most stars. Its surface reaches 7,800 degrees Fahrenheit during the day, just 2,000 degrees cooler than the Sun.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalNature·DateJun 5, 2017