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Science News for May 15, 2017


Frisky female fruit flies become more aggressive towards each other after sex

Research reveals that mating stimulates aggression in female fruit flies, making them more intolerant of others and changing their behavior, including increased ovulation and rejection of male advances. The study's findings have implications for understanding female competition and potentially controlling pest insect populations.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateMay 15, 2017

Study: Trying new marijuana products and edibles is associated with unexpected highs

A new study by RTI International found that using new marijuana products and edibles significantly increases the risk of experiencing an unexpected high. Most people who experience unexpected highs sleep it off or engage in protective behaviors, but some report unintended consequences such as having sex or ending up in hospital.

SourceRTI International·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence·DateMay 15, 2017

Mechanism that coordinates growth spurts in filamentous fungi revealed

Researchers at the University of Tsukuba have uncovered a molecular mechanism that coordinates growth spurts in filamentous fungi. The team discovered that cellular calcium levels oscillate, triggering the assembly of actin chains that guide vesicles to the site of growth.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 15, 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.

Molecular dynamics, machine learning create 'hyper-predictive' computer models

Researchers from North Carolina State University have demonstrated that integrating molecular dynamics simulations and machine learning techniques can create more accurate computer prediction models. The new models, called 'hyper-predictive,' can quickly predict which new chemical compounds could be promising drug candidates. This is a...

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Chemical Information and Modeling·DateMay 15, 2017

Nonprescription use of Ritalin linked to adverse side effects, UB study finds

A University at Buffalo study found that nonprescription use of Ritalin, a central nervous system stimulant, is associated with changes in brain chemistry linked to risk-taking behavior, sleep disruption, and weight loss. The study highlights the potential long-range risks of using Ritalin as a study enhancer.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalJournal of Neural Transmission·DateMay 15, 2017

Ebola: Lives to be saved with new management approach

A new management approach developed by an international team of researchers, including the University of Warwick, helps to streamline outbreak decision-making. The approach identifies two effective strategies: reducing transmission rates at funerals and in communities, such as educating people about disease transmission.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 15, 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.

Ebola survivors have a 'unique' retinal scar

Researchers found that around 15% of Ebola survivors have distinctive retinal scars, which appear specific to the disease but spare vision. The study also suggests that aqueous fluid analysis can help diagnose Ebola eye disease and enable access to cataract surgery for affected survivors

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalEmerging Infectious Diseases·DateMay 15, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New $2.7M federal grant awarded to JAX Alzheimer's researcher

JAX researcher Catherine Kaczorowski will receive a $2.7M federal grant to investigate the complex processes involved in both healthy aging and Alzheimer's disease through genomic studies. The goal is to identify genetic factors, mechanisms underlying normal aging, and potential targets for intervention against Alzheimer's.

SourceJackson Laboratory·DateMay 15, 2017

Let there be tissue

UCSB researchers have developed a new method to control gene expression in embryonic stem cells using light, allowing for the precise engineering of tissues. This breakthrough could lead to novel therapeutic applications and insights into tissue development.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateMay 15, 2017

More than half of eligible US travelers skip their pre-trip measles vaccine

More than half of eligible US travelers fail to receive a pre-trip measles vaccine, despite clinical recommendations. This increases the risk of endemic measles outbreaks in the US. Researchers urge improved provider and traveler knowledge of measles as a travel-related illness and increased vaccination rates.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMay 15, 2017

Leaving segregated neighborhoods reduces blood pressure for blacks

African-Americans experience a drop in systolic blood pressure when moving to less segregated neighborhoods, with reductions ranging from 1-5 points. The study suggests that less stress and better access to resources contribute to the decrease in blood pressure.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateMay 15, 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.

Campi Flegrei volcano eruption possibly closer than thought

Researchers at UCL and the Vesuvius Observatory used a new model to investigate Campi Flegrei's unrest, finding a build-up of energy that makes the volcano more susceptible to eruption. The study suggests an increased possibility of eruption in the near future.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 15, 2017

Code of conduct needed for ocean conservation, study says

A diverse group of experts is advocating for a marine code of conduct to address human rights violations and promote socially responsible decision-making in ocean conservation. The recommended principles include indigenous rights, food security, inclusivity, and transparency.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalMarine Policy·DateMay 15, 2017

Researchers uncover potential risks of common MS treatment

A comprehensive study by UBC researchers found an increased risk of stroke, migraine, depression, and abnormalities in the blood with beta interferon treatment. The study complements previous observations and highlights the need for further research on developing biomarkers to identify patients at greatest risk.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalNeurology·DateMay 15, 2017

Skin cancer on the rise

Researchers found that squamous cell carcinoma diagnoses increased by 263% and basal cell carcinomas by 145% between 2000-2010. Women in specific age groups experienced the greatest increase in basal cell carcinoma diagnoses, while men's diagnosis trends varied across time periods.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateMay 15, 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.

Gladiator games: In the natural world, biodiversity can offer protection to weaker species

A new study by Yale researchers found that maintaining a diverse collection of species in fungal communities not only safeguards weaker species but also protects the genetic diversity of the larger community. This phenomenon, known as biodiversity begetting biodiversity, can help protect threatened ecosystems like coral reefs.

SourceYale School of the Environment·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateMay 15, 2017

What is survival among patients with Parkinson, Dementia with lewy bodies?

A study published in JAMA Neurology found that patients with Parkinson disease and dementia with Lewy bodies died approximately two years earlier than the general population. The highest risk of death was seen among those with multiple system atrophy with parkinsonism, highlighting the need for tailored care and management strategies.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateMay 15, 2017

Faster feeding may mean faster recovery in pancreatitis, study finds

A new study suggests that early solid or tube feeding can lead to fewer symptoms, shorter hospital stays, and similar risk outcomes for patients with mild pancreatitis. However, the evidence for patients with severe disease was weak, but still did not show harm.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMay 15, 2017

Unfolding the folding mechanism of ladybug wings

Researchers at the University of Tokyo discovered how ladybugs fold their wings by transplanting a transparent artificial wing onto an insect. The study revealed that the ladybugs use a combination of origami-like creases and abdominal movements to achieve complex folding, which has significant implications for engineering science.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 15, 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.

Hundreds of thousands of strokes may be preventable each year

A study found that 4 in 10 patients with elevated stroke risk are not prescribed necessary stroke-prevention medication, resulting in potentially hundreds of thousands of preventable strokes each year. The lack of prescribed medication is attributed to disparities in prescribing practices and patient socioeconomic factors.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateMay 15, 2017

Growing plants and scientists: Hydroponic gardening program wins over students

A new study by Boston College researchers found that an after-school hydroponic gardening program increased positive attitudes towards science, reduced anxiety, and boosted self-confidence among elementary-age students. The program showed promise in engaging youths from underrepresented groups in the sciences.

SourceBoston College·JournalJournal of Science Education and Technology·DateMay 15, 2017

Personality may change when you drink, but less than you think

A study found that participants reported changes in all five major personality factors when intoxicated, but observers noted only reliable differences in extraversion. The discrepancy may be due to inherent differences in point of view, with participants experiencing internal changes that were imperceptible to observers.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalClinical Psychological Science·DateMay 15, 2017

Migratory birds bumped off schedule as climate change shifts spring

A growing shift in spring's onset is leaving nine songbird species unable to reach their breeding grounds, according to a study published in Scientific Reports. Climate change is triggering plants to grow earlier or later than normal, disrupting biological cycles and putting the survival of many bird species at risk.

SourceFlorida Museum of Natural History·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 15, 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.

Certain immune reactions to viruses cause learning problems

A study published in Nature Medicine found that immune reactions to viruses can disrupt brain connections, leading to learning problems. The research team identified CX3CR1highLY6Clow monocytes as the key players in this process, releasing inflammatory signaling protein TNFα which blocks nerve cell connection formation.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalNature Medicine·DateMay 15, 2017

Lessons from Ebola: New approach improves disease outbreak management

A new method pinpoints critical information needed to improve management decisions during a disease outbreak. The approach provides two important pieces of information: the best course of action and highlighted gaps in knowledge that matter for intervention strategies.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 15, 2017

Varied increases in extreme rainfall with global warming

A new study reveals that extreme rainfall events will increase in intensity globally, with varying degrees of impact depending on region. Regions such as North America and Europe can expect a 25% increase in intense rainfall by 4°C warming, while the Asian monsoon region may see even greater increases.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Climate Change·DateMay 15, 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.

Portland State researcher discovers new species of South American rabbit

A new species of South American rabbit has been discovered by Portland State University researcher Luis Ruedas, who found the creature to be larger and shaped differently from its cousins. The discovery is significant as it will require renaming other rabbit species in the region, potentially affecting conservation efforts.

SourcePortland State University·JournalJournal of Mammalogy·DateMay 15, 2017

Grassy beginning for earliest Homo

Researchers discovered the oldest known evidence of Homo at Ledi-Geraru, dated to 2.8 million years ago, with early Homo associated with open and arid grassy environments. The diet of early Homo appears similar to that of Australopithecus, challenging previous assumptions about the origins of Homo.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateMay 15, 2017

Scientists study atmospheric waves radiating out of hurricanes

Researchers have discovered atmospheric gravity waves radiating from hurricanes, which could be used to monitor the storms' intensity and location from hundreds of miles away. These subtle waves can reveal processes occurring in the eyewall of a hurricane that are obscured by thick clouds, leading to better forecasts.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateMay 15, 2017

A path toward ending AIDS in the US by 2025

A new study models HIV incidence, prevalence, and mortality to determine feasible targets for ending the US AIDS epidemic. Achieving a reduction of 12,000 new infections by 2025 could mark an important turning point in the epidemic, with significant declines in HIV transmission rates and related deaths.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateMay 15, 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.

Heart attack risk increases 17-fold following respiratory infections

Researchers found a significant association between respiratory infections and increased heart attack risk, with a 17-fold increase in the seven days following an infection. The study suggests that even mild upper respiratory tract infections can elevate the risk of heart attacks.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalInternal Medicine Journal·DateMay 15, 2017

Virtual top hats allow swarming robots to fly in tight formation

Georgia Tech researchers have developed a team of free-flying robots that can maintain formation and avoid collisions. The robots use virtual top hats to maneuver in the air. Meanwhile, autonomous blimps with face-detecting capabilities are being built to recognize hand gestures and interact with humans.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·DateMay 15, 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.

Arctic warming to increase Eurasian extreme cold events

A recent study by Dr. YAO Yao and Prof. LUO Dehai found that Arctic warming strengthens Ural blocking, leading to more widespread Eurasian cold events. The study suggests that the large BKS warming since 2000 weakens the meridional temperature gradient, increasing persistence of the UB.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalJournal of Climate·DateMay 15, 2017

Parents support policies to limit teens' access to indoor tanning

A study by Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute found that 65% of parents supported age-based restrictions on indoor tanning for adolescents. Parents who perceived the harms of indoor tanning were more likely to support bans, highlighting the importance of public health efforts to reduce adolescents' use.

SourceHarvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute·DateMay 15, 2017

Scientists light the way for immune system to attack cancer

Researchers at the University of Rochester Medical Center have developed a practical way to use light to guide T cells towards tumors, overcoming the challenges of immunotherapy. The innovative method could lead to safer and more effective treatment options for cancer patients.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 15, 2017

Gas gives laser-induced graphene super properties

Rice University scientists discovered that laser-induced graphene can be made either superhydrophobic or superhydrophilic by adjusting the gas used in its formation. This property allows for applications such as separating water from oil and de-icing surfaces.

SourceRice University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateMay 15, 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.

Study examines racial residential segregation and blood pressure in black adults

A study of 2,280 black adults found that living in high-segregation neighborhoods was associated with small increases in systolic blood pressure. Reducing exposure to neighborhood segregation was linked to decreases in systolic blood pressure, suggesting social policies minimizing segregation may have health benefits.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateMay 15, 2017

Outdoor air temperature linked to risk of gestational diabetes

A study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal found a direct link between outdoor air temperature and the risk of gestational diabetes. Women exposed to extremely cold temperatures had a 4.6% prevalence, increasing to 7.7% for hot temperatures

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateMay 15, 2017

Corticosteroid treatment increases survival of preterm infants within hours

A new study suggests that corticosteroid treatments given to pregnant women just hours before delivery can significantly increase the survival rate of very preterm infants. The research found that antenatal corticosteroids reduced infant mortality and severe neonatal morbidity, particularly when administered shortly before birth.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateMay 15, 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.

Physicist Johannes Henn receives ERC Consolidator Grant

Johannes Henn, a leading theorist in scattering amplitudes, will develop new methods to calculate properties of the Higgs boson with greater precision. His work aims to simplify mathematical structures and improve calculations in quantum field theory.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·DateMay 15, 2017

Naomi Halas wins Weizmann Women and Science Award

Rice University's Naomi Halas has made significant contributions to the field of plasmonics, profoundly influencing modern optics. She is the first person in university history to be elected to both National Academy of Sciences and Engineering.

SourceRice University·DateMay 15, 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.

Spinal muscular atrophy: New clues to cause and treatment

A study in mice suggests that abnormalities in sensory synapses may contribute to the disease, and increasing their activity can alleviate symptoms. The findings also indicate that targeting these synapses could be a new approach for treating spinal muscular atrophy.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateMay 15, 2017

New research links outdoor air temperature and risk of developing gestational diabetes

Research found that women exposed to colder temperatures during pregnancy had a lower rate of gestational diabetes compared to those exposed to hotter temperatures. The study also discovered that for every 10-degree Celsius rise in temperature, women were six to nine percent more likely to develop gestational diabetes.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateMay 15, 2017

Tumor-trained T cells go on patrol

New study reveals that immune cells trained to recognize cancer can exit one tumor and move to another to attack cancerous cells. The research sheds light on how immune therapies for cancer might work and suggests new approaches to developing anti-cancer immune therapies.

SourceGarvan Institute of Medical Research·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 15, 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.

Cell changes drive breast cancer relapse

Researchers at EMBL found that residual breast cancer cells have specific traits that distinguish them from healthy cells and seem to cause relapse. The study suggests lipid metabolism as an exciting therapeutic target to reduce breast cancer recurrence.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 15, 2017

NUS-led research teams uncover extraordinary properties of strontium niobate

Researchers from the National University of Singapore have discovered novel properties of strontium niobate, a material that displays both metallic type conduction and photocatalytic activity. The material exhibits an intrinsic plasmonic absorption, allowing it to absorb visible photons, which is exceptional among metals.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 15, 2017

Where you live may impact how much you drink

A University of Washington study found that neighborhoods with high poverty and disorganization tend to have residents who drink twice as much and binge-drink four times as frequently. The researchers suggest that improving neighborhood quality of life can lead to benefits, including reduced problem drinking.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalJournal of Urban Health·DateMay 15, 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.

Year-round flu vaccinations promote healthier infants in subtropics

Vaccinating pregnant mothers year-round against flu in Nepal reduced infant flu virus infection rates by an average of 30 percent, increasing birth weights by 15 percent. The study also found that expanding year-round flu vaccinations during pregnancy would benefit children in other tropical and subtropical parts of the world.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateMay 15, 2017

Nano fiber feels forces and hears sounds made by cells

Engineers at UC San Diego developed a nano-sized optical fiber that can detect forces down to 160 femtonewtons and hear sounds down to -30 decibels, with applications in detecting bacteria, monitoring cellular behavior, and creating mini stethoscopes.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Photonics·DateMay 15, 2017

Invention produces cleaner water with less energy and no filter

Researchers at Princeton University have developed a low-cost water treatment system that uses carbon dioxide to remove particles from dirty water. The system splits the water stream and filters out suspended particles based on their electrical charge, making it an effective method for cleaning water from ponds or rivers.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 15, 2017

Mountains of waste could lead to new US manufacturing, jobs

A Texas A&M research team has discovered a way to produce good quality carbon fiber from lignin, a structural part of plants that piles up as waste. The breakthrough could lead to the creation of new products like tennis rackets and cars, generating jobs and rural economic growth.

SourceTexas A&M AgriLife Communications·JournalGreen Chemistry·DateMay 15, 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.

Wasted nutrients: The result of widespread food waste

A recent study found that discarded food in the US food supply chain contains large amounts of key nutrients like vitamin D, fiber, and potassium. The study estimates that around 1,217 calories per person per day are squandered, equivalent to 5.9g dietary fiber, which is 23% of the RDA for women.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics·DateMay 15, 2017

Study expands understanding of how the brain encodes fear memory

Researchers at UCR have discovered that a specific population of hippocampal neurons project to both the amygdala and mPFC, facilitating coordinated neural activity in these areas. This finding could lead to the development of new therapeutics for reducing pathological fear in PTSD.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateMay 15, 2017

Rise of aggressive reef predator may impede sea urchin recovery, study finds

A recent study suggests that an aggressive reef competitor, the Threespot Damselfish, may be impeding the recovery of Caribbean long-spined sea urchin populations after a mysterious disease outbreak. The research reveals a link between the decline of staghorn coral and the increase in damselfish populations.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalEcography·DateMay 15, 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.

Wasted food means wasted nutrients

A recent study by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health estimates that US food waste contains approximately 1,217 calories, 33 grams of protein, and other essential nutrients. These lost nutrients are important for maintaining healthy diets, particularly dietary fiber, calcium, potassium, and vitamin D.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalJournal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics·DateMay 15, 2017

More than half of eligible US travelers not receiving measles immunization

A study found that 53% of eligible US travelers not receiving the measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine during pre-travel consultations. Lack of concern about disease risk was the most common reason for non-vaccination. The research team recommends ways to increase vaccination rates among travelers.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMay 15, 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.

Quantum reservoir for microwaves

Scientists at EPFL develop a microwave resonator coupled to a metallic micro-drum, creating a quantum reservoir that can shape the states of microwaves. The findings enable novel phenomena in cavity optomechanical systems.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Physics·DateMay 15, 2017

Stretching the limits of elastic conductors

Researchers have developed a printable elastic conductor that retains high conductivity even after being stretched by five times its original length. The new material, made with silver nanoparticles, has potential applications in wearable devices and robots.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature Materials·DateMay 15, 2017

Diesels pollute more than lab tests detect

A new study reveals that diesel vehicles worldwide exceed emissions standards by 4.6 million tons, resulting in 38,000 premature deaths each year. The findings emphasize the need for stricter emission certification tests and real-world compliance measures to improve air quality.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalNature·DateMay 15, 2017

Diverse rotations and poultry litter improves soybean yield

Research found that combining crop rotations with soil amendments like poultry litter can alleviate issues associated with continuous cropping. Incorporating corn once within a 4-year cycle resulted in 8% greater yields than continuous soybean.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalAgronomy Journal·DateMay 15, 2017

New finding affecting immune reconstitution related to B cells

Researchers discovered a disruption in B cell maturation preventing antibody production in children after bone marrow transplant, impairing their ability to fight infection. The study highlights the need for closer monitoring and targeted prophylaxis to address this critical immune issue.

SourceChildren's Hospital Los Angeles·JournalBiology of Blood and Marrow Transplantation·DateMay 15, 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.

BC's drug plan deductibles do not lower drug use for some seniors

A study published in CMAJ found that adding a modest 2% income-based deductible to British Columbia's public drug plan did not decrease prescription medication use among seniors. However, it reduced the number of people who qualified for public subsidy and decreased public drug spending.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateMay 15, 2017

Exposure to psychological domestic abuse most damaging to children's wellbeing

New research from University of Limerick finds growing up in home with psychological abuse has longer-term effects on children's wellbeing than physical domestic violence. Exposure to psychological abuse, including name-calling and manipulation, has detrimental impact on young people's satisfaction with social support.

SourceUniversity of Limerick·JournalJournal of Interpersonal Violence·DateMay 15, 2017

Two dose HPV vaccine effective in treating genital warts, study finds

A new study published in the STD Journal found that a two-dose HPV vaccine provides the same level of protection against genital warts as three doses. The study, which looked at nearly 400,000 girls, confirms the CDC's updated recommendations for a two-dose vaccine schedule.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalSexually Transmitted Diseases·DateMay 15, 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.

Heat on for Australia's Great Barrier Reef when global temperatures hit 1.5C

Research suggests that a 1.5C temperature increase will lead to twice as many extreme ocean heat events like the 2016 Great Barrier Reef damage, while a 2C rise triples the odds of mass bleaching. The study models thousands of years under different scenarios and finds keeping temperatures below 1.5C reduces extreme events and costs.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalNature Climate Change·DateMay 15, 2017

Diabetes drug may help symptoms of autism associated condition

A widely used diabetes medication, metformin, improves sociability and reduces symptomatic behaviors in adult mice with Fragile X syndrome. Researchers believe the drug could be repurposed as a therapy for this genetic disorder within a few years.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalNature Medicine·DateMay 15, 2017

No escaping ocean plastic: 37 million bits of litter on one of world's remotest islands

A recent study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences reveals that Henderson Island, a remote UK territory, is heavily polluted with an estimated 37.7 million pieces of plastic. The island's beaches have the highest density of plastic debris reported anywhere on the planet, posing significant threats to marine life.

SourceUniversity of Tasmania - Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 15, 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.

Prototype drug uses novel mechanism to treat lung cancers

Researchers developed a prototype drug that directly activates a tumor suppressor protein, preventing lung cancer tumors in mice. The study's findings suggest the potential for broad applicability to various human cancers, including breast, prostate, and childhood cancers.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 15, 2017

Pig model to help research on human knee growth, injury treatment

Researchers created a pig model to study human knee growth and changes in ligament orientation during maturity. The model enables researchers to better understand joint injuries in children and teens, potentially informing new surgical approaches and clinical practice.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Orthopaedic Research®·DateMay 15, 2017

Virus study targets infection linked to birth defects

Researchers discovered a key molecule VCP linked to Human Cytomegalovirus replication, which can be blocked by chemicals to stop the virus from multiplying. This approach could lead to more powerful therapies and reduce the risk of resistance.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateMay 15, 2017

NASA's EPIC view spots flashes on Earth

Scientists have identified the source of unexpected flashes of light reflecting off Earth's surface captured by NASA's EPIC camera. High-altitude ice crystals are the cause of these glints, which were previously thought to be limited to water on land or oceans.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMay 15, 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.

WSU researchers deliver first 'nanotherapeutics' to tumor

Researchers have developed a new approach to deliver therapeutics into tumors using the white blood cells of our body. By attaching a nanoscale particle to an infection-fighting white blood cell, they can get a drug past the armor of blood vessels that typically shield a tumor.

SourceWashington State University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateMay 15, 2017

Decision aid, support strategy boosts colorectal testing for groups with low screening

A decision aid and support strategy increased screening completion among patients with historically lower screening rates, with 68% screened for colorectal cancer within six months. The intervention provided clear information about screening options and personalized support, facilitating shared decision-making with physicians.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateMay 15, 2017

Path to end HIV could be within reach for United States in next decade

New research from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health reveals that the US could see a significant decline in HIV infections and prevalence if critical milestones are met. By 2025, annual new infections could drop to 12,000, marking a turning point for the epidemic.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateMay 15, 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.

More genes turned on when plants compete

Researchers at Michigan State University have discovered a gene that is turned on when plants compete for resources, including nitrogen fixing bacteria. This finding has potential implications for reducing manmade fertilizer use in agriculture.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Ecology·DateMay 15, 2017

Strategy significantly boosts colorectal screening for groups with low rates

Researchers found that a strategy combining personalized support and decision-making tools increased screening rates among patients at community health centers. 68% of participants were screened for colorectal cancer within 6 months, compared to 27% without the intervention.

SourceUNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateMay 15, 2017

Folk contraceptives lead researchers to drugs that block fertilization

Researchers have discovered two chemicals found in anti-fertility folk medicines that can block fertilization, potentially providing an effective alternative to hormone-based contraceptives. The chemicals, pristimerin and lupeol, work by stopping sperm's power kick, allowing for a new type of emergency contraceptive.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 15, 2017

Timing of menopause onset may increase heart failure risk in women

Postmenopausal women with shorter reproductive duration, earlier age at menopause, or who never gave birth are at higher risk for heart failure. Women with diastolic heart failure, a type of heart failure affecting the left side of the heart, also face increased risk.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateMay 15, 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.

Making drug use a crime makes HIV prevention, treatment more difficult

A systematic review finds that criminalizing drug use has negative health effects, including increased HIV transmission and overdose rates. The study suggests that alternative strategies and policies are needed to address the harms associated with drug use.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalThe Lancet HIV·DateMay 15, 2017

LGB-focused resources help stressed teens cope

A new study by University of Arizona researcher Russell Toomey found that LGB-specific strategies promote health and reduced likelihood of dropping out of high school. Cognitive and alternative-seeking strategies were associated with poorer adjustment, depressive symptoms, and lower self-esteem.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalJournal of Homosexuality·DateMay 15, 2017

Unborn rays traumatized when their mothers are captured: World-first study finds

A world-first study found that pregnant rays are traumatized by capture, impacting their reproductive potential and offspring health. The study, led by Leonardo Guida, examined the southern fiddler ray and found that trawl capture can affect fetal development, leading to smaller, lighter offspring with compromised immune systems.

SourceMonash University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 15, 2017

Biophysicists say iodine is the solution of biomolecule structures

Researchers discovered iodide phasing is universally applicable to membrane protein structure determination, enabling a molecular-level understanding of biomolecules. This breakthrough accelerates computer-aided drug development and makes it cheaper.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 15, 2017

Understanding changes in extreme precipitation

A study by ETH Zurich researchers reveals that regional variability plays a key role in extreme precipitation, with increasing atmospheric moisture and weaker vertical wind velocities contributing to differences. The decomposition of projections highlights weaknesses in existing climate models and provides insights into where to focus ...

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Climate Change·DateMay 15, 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.

Technology edits voices like text

VoCo enables users to edit audio tracks by typing a transcript, automatically synthesizing new words in the speaker's voice. The system uses an optimization algorithm to find and stitch together phonemes, producing natural-sounding results.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalACM Transactions on Graphics·DateMay 15, 2017

Entropy landscape sheds light on quantum mystery

Researchers precisely measured the entropy of a cerium copper gold alloy to shed light on high-temperature superconductivity and similar phenomena. The study provides new evidence about the possible causes of these phenomena near a quantum critical point, where electrons fluctuate between two different quantum states.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Physics·DateMay 15, 2017

Epilepsy drug therapies to be improved by new targeted approach

A new study has identified a protein called high mobility group box-1 (HMGB1) that may help patients with epilepsy respond more positively to drug therapies. The research found that HMGB1 isoforms can predict how an epilepsy patient's seizures will respond to anti-inflammatory drugs.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 15, 2017

Researchers report new, more efficient catalyst for water splitting

Physicists at the University of Houston have discovered a highly active and stable electrocatalyst produced from ferrous metaphosphate on a nickel foam platform, outperforming traditional catalysts in efficiency and affordability. The breakthrough could enable large-scale water splitting to produce hydrogen for clean energy.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 15, 2017

New therapeutic approaches for uveitis featured in special festschrift issue

The Journal of Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics presents novel therapeutic approaches for treating uveitis, including cyclosporine, topical ganciclovir, and regulatory T cell therapy. These advances aim to improve treatment outcomes and quality of life for patients with autoimmune uveitis.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics·DateMay 15, 2017

Rare Earth element mineral potential in the southeastern US coastal plain

Researchers have mapped areas with high rare earth mineral resource potential within heavy mineral sands in the southeastern United States. The study suggests that a large percentage of these minerals are derived from specific Piedmont province rocks via coastal processes during Atlantic opening.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalACM SIGSAM Bulletin·DateMay 15, 2017

Does sleep duration affect cardiac metabolic risk in young children?

A new study found no correlation between sleep duration and cardiometabolic risk in children aged 3-8 years. However, less sleep was associated with higher levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. The researchers suggest that sleep quality may have a greater impact on cardiometabolic risk than sleep duration.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalChildhood Obesity·DateMay 15, 2017

A carnivorous plant's prized genetic treasures, unveiled

A new genomic analysis reveals the bladderwort plant retained and enhanced genes related to its carnivorous nature despite evolutionary pressure. The study identifies genes facilitating prey trapping, digestion, and protein transport, which are highly active in the plant's vacuum traps.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 15, 2017

How satellite data led to a breakthrough for Lake Erie toxic algal blooms

Researchers used satellite data to estimate historical algal blooms in Lake Erie, doubling the available years of data. Decadal-scale cumulative phosphorus loading helps predict bloom size, suggesting a possible decade-long benefit from recent nutrient reductions.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalJournal of Great Lakes Research·DateMay 15, 2017