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Science News for May 22, 2017


NASA adds up record Australia rainfall

Extreme rainfall in northeastern Australia exceeded 374 mm near Queensland coast, with storms associated with a low-pressure trough. The heavy rainfall was the heaviest since tropical cyclone Debbie hit Queensland in late March.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMay 22, 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.

Modified experimental vaccine protects monkeys from deadly malaria

Researchers at NIAID developed a new malaria vaccine that protects monkeys against the deadly Plasmodium falciparum parasite. The vaccine elicited neutralizing antibodies in monkeys and showed improved efficacy compared to previous AMA1 vaccines.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·Journalnpj Vaccines·DateMay 22, 2017

Rethinking role of viruses in coral reef ecosystems

A new study by San Diego State University suggests that lysogeny, where viruses lie dormant within host cells, may be more prevalent under stressful environmental conditions. This finding has significant implications for understanding degraded coral reef ecosystems and preserving them.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalNature Microbiology·DateMay 22, 2017

Study finds that sleep disorders affect men and women differently

A new study published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine found that women are more likely to experience severe symptoms of depression and daytime sleepiness due to sleep disorders. In contrast, men are more likely to have snoring that forces bed partners to sleep in different rooms.

SourceAmerican Academy of Sleep Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Sleep Medicine·DateMay 22, 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.

Let there be light

Scientists have successfully created large-scale arrays of quantum light emitters in transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs), a breakthrough that could enable the integration of ultra-thin single photons in electronic devices. This new method allows for deterministic and robust generation of quantum sources, opening up opportunities fo...

SourceGraphene Flagship·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 22, 2017

Intestinal fungi worsen alcoholic liver disease

Researchers found that intestinal fungi exacerbate liver disease and can be protected against by antifungal treatment. Fungi overgrowth leads to inflammation, which kills liver cells and promotes disease progression.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 22, 2017

Ultrafast nanophotonics: Turmoil in sluggish electrons' existence

An international team of physicists has monitored electron scattering behavior in a non-conducting material in real-time. The study reveals that electrons oscillate and collide with atoms within the material, causing energy loss, which could benefit radiotherapy.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature Physics·DateMay 22, 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.

Scientists find 7.2-million-year-old pre-human remains in the Balkans

Researchers discovered two fossils of Graecopithecus freybergi with fused premolar roots, characteristic of modern humans and early humans, indicating a European origin for the pre-human lineage. The study also suggests that environmental changes, such as the formation of the Sahara desert, drove the evolution of pre-humans.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 22, 2017

Study examines polyneuropathy and long-term opioid use

A study published in JAMA Neurology examined the association of long-term opioid therapy with functional status, adverse outcomes, and death among patients with polyneuropathy. The study found that patients with polyneuropathy were more likely to receive long-term opioid therapy and experience depression, opioid dependence, or overdose.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateMay 22, 2017

Human-induced deforestation is causing an increase in malaria cases

A study by Lehigh University sociologist Dr. Kelly Austin finds a link between deforestation and increasing malaria rates across developing nations due to rural population growth, agricultural specialization, and increased standing water and sunlight favoring Anopheles mosquito species.

SourceLehigh University·JournalAIMS Environmental Science·DateMay 22, 2017

NASA lab's life-saving work

The NASA Search and Rescue office is developing second-generation beacons with improved accuracy, which could save thousands of lives worldwide. The new beacons aim to reduce the search area from 2 kilometers to 100 meters, minimizing risk for responders.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMay 22, 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.

Risk of interval colorectal cancers higher among African-Americans

The study found a 31% higher risk for African-Americans compared to whites, even after adjusting for polyp detection rate and other factors. Blacks were more likely to receive colonoscopies from physicians with lower polyp detection rates, indicating lower quality care.

SourceAmerican Cancer Society·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMay 22, 2017

Smoke from wildfires can have lasting climate impact

Researchers found that brown carbon released into the air from wildfires is more likely to travel to the upper levels of the atmosphere, where it can cool or warm the air. Brown carbon appears more likely than black carbon to have a greater impact on climate due to its altitude.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Geoscience·DateMay 22, 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.

Medical gamma-ray camera is now palm-sized

Researchers at Waseda University developed the world's first compact Compton camera for medical imaging, capturing high-resolution 3D molecular images of a live mouse in just 2 hours. The device weighs only 580g and can image energy from hundreds to mega-electron volts.

SourceWaseda University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 22, 2017

Researchers discover mechanism behind rapid smell source localization

Scientists at NERF have discovered a novel method to measure respiration dynamics, revealing that mice compare the strength of smells obtained through both nostrils for odor source localization. This process involves information transfer between brain hemispheres and has valuable implications for Alzheimer's research.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMay 22, 2017

Chronic anabolic steroid use may damage heart, arteries

Chronic anabolic steroid use can lead to reduced heart function, including impaired pumping capacity and increased blood pressure. The study found strong associations between lifetime duration of illicit anabolic steroid use and plaque build-up in coronary arteries, highlighting the critical need for clinicians to monitor this population.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateMay 22, 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.

Harvard Pilgrim awards Quality Grant funding to 14 providers for 2017

The Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute has awarded grant funding to 14 Massachusetts, Maine, and New Hampshire providers to improve care delivery and reduce costs. The grants focus on innovative practices in substance use management, medication adherence, and behavioral health integration.

SourceHarvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute·DateMay 22, 2017

The secret to combating pancreatic cancer may lie in suppression of a common protein

A new study by researchers at the University of Southern California reveals that reducing glucose-regulated protein GRP78 can halt pancreatic cancer development and prolong survival. The findings suggest that targeting this protein could lead to a novel approach in treating KRAS-mutation related cancers.

SourceUniversity of Southern California - Health Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 22, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

National study looks at tobacco advertising and susceptibility to use tobacco among youth

A new national study analyzed data from the PATH Study and found that nearly half of 12- to 17-year-olds who had never used tobacco products were receptive to tobacco marketing if they recalled or liked at least one advertisement. Receptivity to tobacco ads is linked with an increased susceptibility to smoking cigarettes in the future.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateMay 22, 2017

New therapy for atherosclerosis developed by Ben-Gurion University

Researchers at Ben-Gurion University have developed a new biomedical polymer that targets damaged tissue, reducing existing plaque and preventing further progression and inflammation. The therapy has shown promising results in mice, improving myocardial function, decreasing inflammation, and thinning arteries.

SourceAmerican Associates, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev·DateMay 22, 2017

Magnetic order in a two-dimensional molecular chessboard

In a breakthrough study, Uppsala researchers demonstrate magnetic order in a two-dimensional molecular chessboard lattice consisting of organometallic molecules. The researchers created long-range magnetic order at low temperatures through the transmission of Ruderman-Kittel-Kasuya-Yosida (RKKY) interactions and Kondo screening.

SourceUppsala University·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 22, 2017

Researchers suppress fibrosis chemical signal to block haywire healing

Researchers identified a key protein, SMAD3, that facilitates pro-fibrotic TGF-beta signaling. By blocking this protein, they created a peptide-carrying SNX9 that prevents SMAD3 from entering the nucleus and impacting genes regulated by TGF-beta. This approach may lead to effective treatments for fibrosis-related diseases.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 22, 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.

ATS 2017: New COPD action plan outlines strategies for improved care

A new COPD National Action Plan was released by the NHLBI, outlining key goals to raise public awareness, advance research, improve patient care, and develop management strategies. The plan aims to empower people with COPD to recognize and reduce its burden, as well as promote education and training for healthcare professionals.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·DateMay 22, 2017

Calcium dynamics regulating the timing of decision-making in C. elegans

A team of researchers discovered that C. elegans makes decisions by calculating mathematical integration of environmental information via calcium ion concentration changes in nerve cells. This process is similar to the human brain's integration of information for decision-making, suggesting a possible genetic link between the two.

SourceOsaka University·DateMay 22, 2017

Wild geese in China are 'prisoners' in their own wetlands

A study found that China's wild geese are confined to degraded natural wetlands, unable to take advantage of neighboring farmland or rice paddies. Human activities such as hunting and agriculture have reduced the quality and extent of their habitats.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMay 22, 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.

Mindfulness takes practice

A new study from Aarhus University found that mindfulness practice at home is related to reduced stress, pain, and better well-being. Although the 45-minute daily home practice may seem short, it still has a statistically significant positive impact on participants.

SourceAarhus University·JournalBehaviour Research and Therapy·DateMay 22, 2017

Deep sleep maintains the learning efficiency of the brain

Researchers have demonstrated a causal connection between deep sleep and learning efficiency in the human brain. By manipulating deep sleep in targeted brain regions, they found that learning efficiency was blocked when synapses remained maximally excited without recovery.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 22, 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.

RIT team creates high-speed internet lane for emergency situations

Researchers developed a new protocol to improve information flow between emergency responders and decision-makers, reducing delays by seconds. The Multi Node Label Routing (MNLR) protocol helps detect failures and reroute data quickly, making it more reliable for emergency situations.

SourceRochester Institute of Technology·DateMay 22, 2017

Micro delivery service for fertilizers

A team has introduced a controlled delivery system for micronutrients based on biohybrid microgels. The system adheres selectively to leaves and slowly releases nutrients, minimizing environmental problems and plant damage.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateMay 22, 2017

Interrogating proteins

Researchers from the Bristol BioDesign Institute created a miniprotein with a stripped-down structure to investigate molecular forces that assemble and stabilize protein structures. They discovered subtle forces beyond hydrophobic interactions, which could lead to new drug targets.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateMay 22, 2017

Weathering of rocks a poor regulator of global temperatures

A University of Washington study questions the natural thermostat related to rock weathering, suggesting a weaker link between temperature and chemical weathering rates. Researchers suggest alternative mechanisms controlling weathering, such as land exposure and surface steepness, may be more significant.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 22, 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.

Pulmonary Thrombosis-on-a-Chip provides new avenue for drug development

Researchers have created a human pulmonary thrombosis model on a chip, allowing for the study of blood clot formation in the lung. The Thrombosis-on-a-Chip technology replicates human lung capillaries and perfuses whole human blood through it, enabling the testing of potential drugs to treat or prevent pulmonary thrombosis.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·DateMay 22, 2017

Study redefines HPV-related head and neck cancers

A recent study by Virginia Commonwealth University researchers has challenged traditional views of human papilloma virus (HPV) in HPV-related head and neck cancers. The study found that most HPV-related head and neck cancers have episomal HPV, not integrated HPV, which is associated with better treatment outcomes.

SourceVirginia Commonwealth University·JournalOncoTargets and Therapy·DateMay 22, 2017

TWEAKing inflammation

Researchers at La Jolla Institute for Immunology pinpoint TWEAK as a common driver of skin inflammation in both diseases. The protein plays a major role in inducing pro-inflammatory signaling molecules that recruit immune cells to the skin.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 22, 2017

Zap! Graphene is bad news for bacteria

Researchers discovered laser-induced graphene is highly effective against bacteria and resists biofouling. When electrified, LIG kills bacteria through a combination of contact with its rough surface, electrical charge, and toxicity from hydrogen peroxide production.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateMay 22, 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.

Humanizing, harmonizing effects of music aren't a myth

Research by University of Arizona professor Jake Harwood and collaborators found that listening to music from other cultures improves intergroup attitudes. The study showed that individuals who listen to music produced by outgroup members experience a humanizing effect and reduce negative feelings towards those groups.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalJournal of Communication·DateMay 22, 2017

Was a statin beneficial for primary cardiovascular prevention in older adults?

A new study published in JAMA Internal Medicine analyzed data from a clinical trial and found no benefit of statins for all-cause mortality or coronary heart disease events when started for primary prevention in older adults. The authors concluded that treatment recommendations should be individualized for this population.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateMay 22, 2017

New cancer drug can prevent reactions to common airborne allergens

A recent study found that a cancer drug called ibrutinib can reduce allergic skin test reactivity by 80-90% in patients with certain types of leukemia and lymphoma. The treatment also showed promise in preventing reactions to common airborne allergens, such as cat dander and ragweed.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateMay 22, 2017

Better, cheaper healthcare with dry blood samples

Researchers at Uppsala University have developed a new method to measure proteins in dry blood samples, allowing for easier and cheaper healthcare. The study found that this method has great potential to save resources and enable early diagnostics, with minimal changes to protein levels over time.

SourceUppsala University·JournalMolecular & Cellular Proteomics·DateMay 22, 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.

New answers for kids with inherited kidney disease

A global research team has identified a new gene behind autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease (ARPKD), a rare form of childhood kidney disease. The discovery uses whole exome sequencing to analyze genes simultaneously, revealing errors in the DZIP1L gene that cause kidney defects.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNature Genetics·DateMay 22, 2017

Fat can neutralize listeria

Researchers have discovered that naturally occurring fatty acids can switch off the specific genes that make listeria bacteria dangerous. Omega-3 fatty acids took about half an hour to neutralize the bacteria, according to the study published in Research in Microbiology.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·JournalResearch in Microbiology·DateMay 22, 2017

New clues emerge about how fruit flies navigate their world

Researchers at Janelia Research Campus have discovered how fruit flies use a specialized nerve cell system to navigate their environment, involving the activation and suppression of neighboring neurons. The discovery sheds light on the fly's internal picture of the outside world and its cognitive processes.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalNature·DateMay 22, 2017

Scientists develop test to identify best treatment for gonorrhea

Scientists at UCLA developed a laboratory test to determine the most effective treatment for gonorrhea. The new test led to a significant increase in the use of ciprofloxacin, from 0% to 34%, while reducing the use of ceftriaxone from 100% to 66%. This shift may help slow down the emergence of antibiotic resistance.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateMay 22, 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.

The right thing to do: Why do we follow unspoken group rules?

A new study from NIMBioS explores human social norms and their evolution. The model found that norm internalization readily evolves in both 'us-vs.-nature' and 'us-vs.-them' scenarios, suggesting a genetic variation in humans' ability to internalize norms.

SourceNational Institute for Mathematical and Biological Synthesis (NIMBioS)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 22, 2017

Obamacare support: When polls mention repeal it seals the deal

A new study published in Health Communication suggests that mentioning 'repeal' or 'repeal and replace' in survey questions boosts support for the Affordable Care Act. The research analyzed hundreds of national opinion polls and found that people tend to oppose repeal, leading to increased support for the existing law.

SourceCornell University·JournalHealth Communication·DateMay 22, 2017

Doctors urge FDA to tighten regulations on 'filtered' cigarettes

A new study suggests that 'light' cigarettes have no health benefits and may contribute to the rise of lung adenocarcinoma. The FDA should regulate the use of ventilation holes on cigarettes to reduce the risk of this type of cancer, according to experts.

SourceMediaSource·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateMay 22, 2017

Scientists find new genetic roots for intelligence

Researchers at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam identified 52 genes associated with intelligence, including 40 previously unknown discoveries. The study reveals a correlation between genetic influences on intelligence and educational attainment, as well as traits like autism spectrum disorder and schizophrenia.

SourceVrije Universiteit Amsterdam·JournalNature Genetics·DateMay 22, 2017

Sleep apnea may increase risk of pregnancy complications

Women with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) are at greater risk for serious pregnancy complications, including ICU admission and increased risk of rare but severe complications such as hysterectomy and congestive heart failure. OSA also increases the risk of hypertensive disorders and gestational diabetes.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·DateMay 22, 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.

Abused caregivers have double chance of poor health

Women who become caregivers after intimate partner violence experience increased depressive symptoms and stress. They also have worse physical health than other women, with nearly one in 20 middle-aged women in this position.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalMaturitas·DateMay 22, 2017

The fungal microbiome contributes to alcohol-induced liver damage in mice

A study led by Bernd Schnabl found that chronic alcohol intake increases fungal populations in the intestine and levels of β-glucan in the bloodstream, leading to liver inflammation. Treating mice with anti-fungal agents prevented liver disease, supporting further research into the fungal microbiome's role in alcohol-related liver damage.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 22, 2017

Investigational biologic appears to reduce oral corticosteroid use in severe asthma

A new investigational biologic, benralizumab, has shown promise in reducing the need for adults with severe asthma to take oral corticosteroids. The study found that patients enrolled in either of the benralizumab arms had a significant reduction in prednisone use and annual exacerbation rates compared to those receiving a placebo.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 22, 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.

Viral ARIs in infants may lead to recurrent childhood wheezing

Researchers found that viral acute respiratory infections (ARIs) in infants may lead to oxidative stress and recurrent wheezing in early childhood. Oxidative stress is an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body, and measuring it in urine samples during a viral ARI may predict the development of recurrent wheeze.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·DateMay 22, 2017

Wafer-thin magnetic materials developed for future quantum technologies

Researchers at the University of Basel and Paul Scherrer Institute have produced a wafer-thin ferrimagnet by arranging phthalocyanine molecules on a gold surface in a checkerboard pattern. The material exhibits two-dimensional magnetic properties, making it suitable for applications such as sensors and quantum computing.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 22, 2017

Why fewer blood cancer patients receive hospice care

Research shows that blood cancer patients are less likely to enroll in hospice care compared to solid cancer patients. However, a survey of hematologic oncologists found that 68% agree that hospice care is helpful for blood cancer patients, and most would refer patients if red blood cell transfusions were available.

SourceWiley·JournalCancer·DateMay 22, 2017

Two simple building blocks produce complex 3-D material

Scientists at Northwestern University have developed a lightweight, porous crystal with unprecedented structural complexity using uranium and organic linkers. The new material has a high surface area, pore volume, and water stability, making it suitable for separating small molecules and enzymes.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalScience·DateMay 22, 2017

Preterm birth linked to higher risk of heart failure

A registry-based study of 2.6 million individuals found that children born preterm are 17 times more likely to suffer heart failure than those born at full term. The study also suggests that the risk may remain in early adulthood.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateMay 22, 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.

Female STEM leaders more likely to back policies aiding women

A national study of college and university administrators has found that female department chairs, deans, and provosts have different attitudes and beliefs than their male counterparts about how to retain women professors in STEM fields. Female administrators gave higher ratings to policies and strategies designed to improve the lives ...

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateMay 22, 2017

Reimbursement for integrative health care suggests violation of non-discrimination law

A new study found that health insurance reimbursement for complementary healthcare services is significantly lower than for primary care physicians. The likelihood of reimbursement was 69% lower for acupuncturists, 71% lower for chiropractors, and 62% lower for doctors of naturopathic medicine.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalThe Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine·DateMay 22, 2017

3.3-million-year-old fossil reveals origins of the human spine

A 3.3 million-year-old fossil skeleton known as Selam has provided the first glimpse into how early human ancestors' spines were organized. The study found that portions of the human spinal structure enabling efficient walking motions emerged over 3.3 million years ago.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 22, 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.

Flexible new method for early cancer diagnosis

Researchers at the University of Gothenburg have developed a new method for early cancer diagnosis that uses DNA barcoding to detect tumor cells in blood. The technique has been shown to increase sensitivity by thousand-fold, making it possible to screen at-risk patient groups and spot relapsing patients more effectively.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalNature Protocols·DateMay 22, 2017

New method: Water mapping around solutes

Chemists at Ruhr-University Bochum developed a new terahertz calorimetry technique to map changes in water molecules around solutes. This method allows for real-time analysis of hydration shells and can be applied to complex systems like enzymes for drug design.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateMay 22, 2017

Biofilm discovery suggests new way to prevent dangerous infections

Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin have made a breakthrough in understanding how bacterial biofilms form, suggesting a new approach to preventing these deadly infections. By developing coatings for medical devices that block the trigger mechanism, biofilm-related hospital-borne infections could be sharply reduced.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 22, 2017

Moderate drinking may not ward off heart disease

A recent research review found that moderate drinking has little support for preventing heart disease. In fact, seniors who drink moderately may be healthier due to their age and health status. However, the association between moderate drinking and better health may be misleading due to factors such as age and overall health.

SourceJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·JournalJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·DateMay 22, 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.

New findings on formation and malformation of blood vessels

New research at Karolinska Institutet reveals the role of Endoglin protein in vascular formation and malformation, leading to potential treatments for vascular diseases. The study also found that reducing vascular malformation can be achieved by manipulating endothelial cells.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateMay 22, 2017

Social factors of patients affect hospital performance measures

Researchers found that including social determinants of health in readmission rate evaluation improves accuracy. Social factors such as race and ethnicity, public insurance, and median household income impact hospital performance rankings.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·DateMay 22, 2017

Predictive models may help determine which patients benefit from ICDs

A recent study found that patients with heart failure may not benefit from implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) if they have low predicted risk of death and sudden cardiac death. The researchers identified a subgroup of patients who received significant survival benefits from ICDs, while others did not.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateMay 22, 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.

Supercomputing helps researchers understand Earth's interior

Geologists created a computer model that helps understand Earth's interior and predicts tectonic activity, including earthquakes and volcanoes. The team found that the subducting slab is the dominant driving force behind mantle deformation.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Liberal Arts & Sciences·JournalEarth and Planetary Science Letters·DateMay 22, 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.

Speeding up quality control for biologics

A new nanofluidic device enables rapid testing of protein drugs produced by living cells, offering continuous monitoring and automated quality control. The system can analyze small protein samples in 30-40 minutes, with potential future miniaturization for real-time point-of-care checks.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateMay 22, 2017

ASKAP telescope to rule radio-burst hunt

The Australian Square Kilometre Array Pathfinder (ASKAP) has successfully detected its first fast radio burst (FRB), marking a major breakthrough in this elusive field of astronomy. The detection was made using an innovative strategy, allowing the telescope to scan a larger area of the sky and increasing its chances of finding FRBs.

SourceCSIRO Australia·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateMay 22, 2017

Field of 'sexting' research finds little to worry about

Researchers analyzed 15 studies to investigate the relationship between sexting and sexual behavior. They found a weak statistical correlation, but couldn't determine if sexting influenced behavior. A common definition of sexting is lacking, highlighting the need for better study design.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Computer-Mediated Communication·DateMay 22, 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.

Female peer mentors help retain college women in engineering

A study by Nilanjana Dasgupta and Tara C. Dennehy found that female peer mentors increased retention rates among young women in engineering majors, with 100% of mentored students still in the program after one year. The benefits of mentoring lasted for two years and were associated with higher motivation and confidence.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 22, 2017

New insight into life-threatening childhood brain cancer

Childhood medulloblastoma can be separated into seven distinct subgroups with unique biological and clinical characteristics. This new understanding may lead to increased survival rates as each subgroup responds differently to treatment, allowing for tailored treatment options. The study aims to improve diagnosis and treatment outcomes...

SourceNewcastle University·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·DateMay 22, 2017

Himalayan powerhouses: How Sherpas have evolved superhuman energy efficiency

Research found that Sherpas have evolved to produce more efficient red blood cells and nitric oxide levels, allowing them to adapt to low oxygen environments. This study could lead to new ways of treating hypoxia in ICU patients, who often experience life-threatening complications due to lack of oxygen.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 22, 2017

South African team performs second successful penis transplant

A South African team has successfully performed the second penis transplant, a procedure that aims to address penile mutilation caused by traditional circumcisions. The recipient is expected to regain full urinary and reproductive functions within six months, paving the way for cost-effective solutions to help affected men.

SourceStellenbosch University·JournalJournal of Materials Science·DateMay 22, 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.

Discovery may offer hope to Parkinson's disease patients

Researchers have pinpointed a common protein abnormality, SOD1 fingerprint, in Parkinson's disease brains, suggesting a new target for therapies that improved ALS outcomes. The finding may lead to substantial improvements in motor function and survival time for Parkinson's patients.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalActa Neuropathologica·DateMay 22, 2017

Cultural backgrounds of media organizations affect international news coverage

A new study by University of Missouri researchers reveals that cultural values of photojournalists' home countries influence the framing of international events. The study analyzed over 400 photographs from Pope Francis's 2015 visit to Cuba, finding differences in camera angles and news priorities between media outlets from the US, UK,...

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournalism Studies·DateMay 22, 2017

Conservation and nameless earthworms: Assessors in the dark?

Conservation assessments for endemic earthworm species in KwaZulu-Natal Province are hindered by lack of common names. Assigning English names facilitates inclusion in environmental impact assessments, highlighting the importance of biodiversity preservation.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalAfrican Invertebrates·DateMay 22, 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.

Sleep apnea may increase atrial fibrillation risk

Research found that measures of OSA severity were significant predictors of AF, with oxygen desaturation remaining a significant predictor after adjusting for known risk factors. Women with sleep apnea were more likely to develop AF hospitalizations, highlighting the potential for gender-specific mechanisms.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·DateMay 22, 2017

Extreme preterm infant death or disease may be predicted by biomarker

A new biomarker has been identified that can predict the risk of lung disease and death in extremely preterm infants. The biomarker is related to endothelial mitochondrial function, which can be measured using umbilical cord cells collected at birth.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateMay 22, 2017

Experimental therapy for immune diseases hits Achilles heel of activated T cells

A new treatment modality called PPCA has been discovered that targets the DNA damage in rapidly expanding T cells, reducing autoimmune damage in mouse models of hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) and multiple sclerosis (MS). The therapy, which leverages p53 potentiation with checkpoint abrogation, selectively interrupts DNA damag...

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 22, 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.

Raised blood platelet levels 'strong predictor' of cancer

A large-scale study found that raised blood platelet counts are a strong predictor of cancer, with lung and colorectal cancers being more commonly diagnosed. The research suggests that substantial numbers of people could have their cancer diagnosed up to three months earlier if thrombocytosis prompted investigation.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalBritish Journal of General Practice·DateMay 22, 2017

3.3-million-year-old fossil reveals the antiquity of the human spine

A 2.5-year-old fossilized toddler from the species Australopithecus afarensis has provided groundbreaking insights into human spinal column development, dating it back over 3.3 million years. This discovery sheds new light on the evolution of bipedalism and modern human body shape.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 22, 2017

Next-gen computing: Memristor chips that see patterns over pixels

Researchers at the University of Michigan have developed a new memristor chip that can process complex data, such as images, much faster and with less power than traditional systems. Inspired by how mammals see, the chip uses pattern recognition to shortcut energy-intensive processes.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateMay 22, 2017

Rise in lung adenocarcinoma linked to 'light' cigarette use

A new study confirms high-ventilation cigarettes have no health benefits and likely contributed to the rise of lung adenocarcinoma. Researchers call for immediate action from the FDA to regulate or ban the use of ventilation holes.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateMay 22, 2017

Wearable vision systems reveal more than a 'highway in the sky'

The special section aims to facilitate consumer-driven advancements in wearable virtual system applications, including automotive, industrial, and military vision systems. Papers describe various approaches and technologies to address challenges such as latency, acuity, field-of-view, fashion, and donning/doffing.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalOptical Engineering·DateMay 22, 2017

Total synthesis of flueggenine C via an accelerated intermolecular Rauhut-Currier reaction

Researchers at KAIST successfully synthesized the natural product (-)-flueggenine C via an accelerated intermolecular Rauhut-Currier reaction. The conventional RC reaction is non-selective and high-temperature, but the team modified it to use a base at ambient temperature.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMay 22, 2017

Awareness of controversial Arizona immigration law influenced male students' classroom behavior

A new study found that U.S.-born Latino male middle school students who were aware of the Arizona immigration bill had difficulty exhibiting proper classroom behavior, such as following instructions and staying quiet. The study also discovered that awareness of the law predicted lower levels of academic self-regulation among male stude...

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalEthnic and Racial Studies·DateMay 22, 2017

Researchers discover hottest lavas that erupted in past 2.5 billion years

A team of researchers led by Esteban Gazel discovered deep portions of Earth's mantle might be as hot as it was more than 2.5 billion years ago. They found magnesium concentrations and textural evidence similar to the mysterious Archean komatiites in rocks from the 90 million-year-old Tortugal Suite in Costa Rica.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalNature Geoscience·DateMay 22, 2017

UNLV study: Warming news from Russia

A new UNLV study published in Nature Geoscience has found evidence of nearly continuous warming in the Ural Mountains in central Russia over the past 11,000 years. This contradicts previous work that focused on summer temperature trends and supports computer models predicting continual warming.

SourceUniversity of Nevada, Las Vegas·JournalNature Geoscience·DateMay 22, 2017

Taking a closer look at genetic switches in cancer

A genetic switch that regulates blood stem cell maturation is dysregulated in acute myeloid leukemia. Researchers have identified a protein, DPF2, that controls this switch and developed a mutated version of the protein that can block its function. This new approach may lead to more effective treatments for leukemia.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 22, 2017

City life could present psychosis risk for adolescents

Living in a city significantly increases young people's vulnerability to psychotic experiences, with British adolescents raised in major cities being over 40% more likely to report such experiences. Adverse neighbourhood conditions, crime, and social factors were key contributing factors.

SourceKing's College London·JournalSchizophrenia Bulletin·DateMay 22, 2017

Scientists propose synestia, a new type of planetary object

Researchers Simon Lock and Sarah Stewart propose a new type of planetary object called a synestia, which forms through giant impacts. Synestias could be responsible for moon formation, particularly in our solar system where Earth's moon is similar to its parent planet.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·DateMay 22, 2017