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Science News for May 24, 2017


Nanoalloys 10 times as effective as pure platinum in fuel cells

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed a new type of nanocatalyst that can significantly reduce the need for platinum in fuel cells. The nanoalloy allows for mass production, making it suitable for large-scale commercial breakthroughs and potentially replacing fossil fuels.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalAdvanced Materials Interfaces·DateMay 24, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Countries most affected by weather disasters do not spend more on weather services

A new study finds that countries most affected by weather-related disasters do not necessarily spend more on commercial weather and climate information services. Developing countries actually commit a higher percentage of their GDP to these services, recognizing their value in mitigating risks.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 24, 2017

Precise insight into the depths of cells

Scientists at Goethe University Frankfurt have combined two advanced fluorescence microscopy techniques to observe cells with high-resolution imaging. The new technique, called csiLSFM, allows for three-dimensional insight into a cell's interior with sub-100nm resolution.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 24, 2017

A new method for creating safer induced pluripotent stem cells

Researchers have developed a new approach to create integration-free, Myc- and Lin28-free human induced pluripotent stem cells. This breakthrough method reduces the neoplastic risk associated with IPSC generation, enabling their utility in regenerative medicine and personalized medicine.

SourceFuture Science Group·JournalFuture Science OA·DateMay 24, 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.

New online database has answers on mitochondrial disorders

A new online database has been created to help clinicians and scientists better diagnose POLG disorders and predict their outcomes. The tool uses a mutation query interface to display cluster mapping of input mutations and show existing patient cases.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalBBA Clinical·DateMay 24, 2017

Parents' divorce increases risk of health disorders in children

A study by Spanish researchers found that children of separated parents are twice as likely to develop gastrointestinal, genitourinary, dermatological, and neurological issues. Improper parental handling, including high conflict and lack of co-parenting, is linked to these physical effects.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalEuropean Journal of Education and Psychology·DateMay 24, 2017

Labeling a bacterial cell 'jacket'

Researchers at the University of Delaware have developed a new method to label and visualize the sugar backbone of bacterial cell walls, also known as the 'cell jacket'. This breakthrough allows scientists to better understand how the immune system misidentifies beneficial bacteria, leading to chronic inflammatory diseases. By using th...

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 24, 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.

Parent training on ADHD using volunteers can help meet growing treatment needs

A new study by NYU's Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development found that a parent training program using volunteers, Caring in Chaos, improved parenting behavior, competence, stress, and depressive symptoms for families with children with ADHD. The model has potential to increase access to behavioral parent traini...

SourceNew York University·JournalJournal of Abnormal Child Psychology·DateMay 24, 2017

Bronchial thermoplasty helps reduce severe asthma attacks and ER visits

A new study found that bronchial thermoplasty (BT) significantly reduces severe exacerbations, hospitalizations, and ER visits in adults with severe, persistent asthma. After two years of treatment, patients experienced long-term improvement in their asthma control and reduced their need for medication.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·DateMay 24, 2017

Canada's largest hospital reports on year of medically assisted dying

The University Health Network in Toronto has implemented a three-team MAiD model, which resulted in 74 inquiries, with 25 approvals and 19 patients receiving MAiD. The hospital's approach emphasizes patient assessment, education, and oversight to ensure high-quality care.

SourceUniversity Health Network·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 24, 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.

Tree-climbing goats disperse seeds by spitting

In a unique mechanism of seed dispersal, goats spit out argan tree seeds during rumination, benefiting the trees' survival. This novel method may be essential for some plant species.

SourceEcological Society of America·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateMay 24, 2017

Zika spread secrets tracked through new gene sequencing study

Researchers used genome sequencing to track Zika virus spread across Brazil, discovering it was present a year before first confirmed cases. The study's findings have significant public health implications and could improve responses to future outbreaks.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalNature·DateMay 24, 2017

New theory predicts wetted area of droplets colliding with flat surface

Researchers at Kumamoto University have derived a new theoretical formula to predict the wetting and spreading behavior of droplets on flat surfaces. The formula allows for quantification of the maximum wetted area of droplets after collision, influencing equipment quality and efficiency.

SourceKumamoto University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 24, 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.

Happiness and harm awareness could keep young people from drinking and smoking

A recent study published in BMC Public Health found that young people who were happier and more aware of the harms of alcohol and cigarettes were more likely to never drink or smoke. Nearly 70% of participants labeled themselves as persistent non-users, scoring highest on harm awareness and happiness tests.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Public Health·DateMay 24, 2017

Newly published spinach genome will make more than Popeye stronger

Researchers from Boyce Thompson Institute have sequenced the spinach genome and identified genetic changes due to domestication, revealing potential for improved disease-resistance and higher yield. The study provides valuable information for breeding spinach with better quality and bolting resistance.

SourceBoyce Thompson Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 24, 2017

Special delivery: Macromolecules via spider's 'bite'

Researchers use a redesigned spider venom peptide to deliver biomacromolecules like antibodies into cells, enabling tracking and interaction with target proteins. The technology improves understanding of protein behavior and could lead to new treatments and drug delivery.

SourceKyoto University·JournalNature Chemistry·DateMay 24, 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.

Disaster risk management: Science helps save lives

A new report by the European Commission's Joint Research Centre presents the state-of-the-art in disaster risk management, highlighting the importance of science in preventing disasters and saving lives. The report identifies knowledge gaps and needs for further research to improve responses to natural hazards.

SourceEuropean Commission Joint Research Centre·DateMay 24, 2017

Racial disparities in risk of stroke

Researchers found that black patients have not benefited equally from declining risk factors for stroke, with a greater decline in hypertension. Despite decreasing contributions of major risk factors across the entire participant sample, the disparity in reducing these risks highlights racial disparities in cardiovascular health.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 24, 2017

Jefferson researcher identifies targets for better anti-thrombotic medicine

Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University have discovered a molecule that plays a role in thrombus development but not initial clot formation, offering a new avenue for developing more specific and protective blood thinners. This could reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke without increasing bleeding risk.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 24, 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.

One-dimensional crystals for low-temperature thermoelectric cooling

Nagoya University researchers have created whisker-like crystals composed of tantalum, silicon, and tellurium, which produce high thermoelectric powers over a wide temperature range. The crystals' unique one-dimensional electronic structures enable low electrical resistivity and improved cooling performance.

SourceNagoya University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateMay 24, 2017

NASA's Arctic ecosystem science flights begin

Scientists will fly nine planes over Alaska and northwest Canada to gather data on changing Arctic ecosystems. The ABoVE field campaign aims to understand how environmental changes affect the local environment and beyond.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMay 24, 2017

Scientists develop new device to overcome pig genome flaw

Dr Rebecca O'Connor's research has led to the development of a chromosome screening service for agricultural food providers, improving mapping of the pig genome and reducing economic costs. The device can screen for genetic flaws that affect fertility in pigs, producing fewer than half the usual litter size.

SourceUniversity of Kent·JournalAnimal Genetics·DateMay 24, 2017

Feather-light metal cathodes for stable lithium-oxygen batteries

Researchers developed a new type of cathode that addresses electrochemical stability issues in lithium-oxygen systems. The ultralight all-metal cathode outperforms carbon-based cathodes with higher capacity and improved stability for 286 cycles.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Central Science·DateMay 24, 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.

Chemical Safety Board faces uncertain future

The US Chemical Safety & Hazard Investigation Board has investigated over 130 accidents since its creation in 1998. The board's work has positively influenced industrial safety in the US and globally, producing over 90 accident reports and 40 safety videos with a budget of $12 million per year.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateMay 24, 2017

How listening to music in a group influences depression

New research published in Frontiers in Psychology found that group music listening can either exacerbate or alleviate depression, depending on the individual's coping style. Younger individuals with tendencies towards rumination are more susceptible to negative outcomes from group interactions.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateMay 24, 2017

Helping plants pump iron

A recent study at Salk Institute found that genetic variants of a single gene, FRO2, play a crucial role in determining a plant's ability to grow and stay healthy in environments with limited iron. The research has the potential to improve crop yields and increase dietary sources of iron for animals and humans.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 24, 2017

Ineffective antibiotics form strong teams against deadly super bacteria

Researchers at the University of Buffalo discovered that combining three ineffective antibiotics can eradicate two ESKAPE pathogens, including Acinetobacter baumannii and Klebsiella pneumoniae. The triple combination treatments provide a new weapon in the fight against superbug infections.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalJournal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy·DateMay 24, 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.

Moffitt researchers demonstrate mathematical modeling limits aggressive tumor cell growth

Moffitt researchers demonstrate that mathematical models can be used to predict how different tumor cell populations interact with each other and respond to environmental changes. By applying small biological forces, they show that complex systems like cancer can be steered into a less invasive growth pattern.

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalCancer Research·DateMay 24, 2017

In-hospital COPD mortality shows large drop from 2005-2014

In-hospital COPD mortality declined substantially between 2005 and 2014, with a 62% decrease in deaths among patients hospitalized for the condition. Women accounted for the majority of hospitalizations and in-hospital deaths, making up 57-58% and 51-55%, respectively.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·DateMay 24, 2017

Breakthrough in how autopsy practice is conducted worldwide

A ground-breaking study suggests that a non-invasive post-mortem technique could be used to identify the cause of death in up to 92% of adult post-mortem investigations, potentially replacing invasive autopsies. The technique, known as PMCTA, uses computed tomography and angiography to diagnose causes of death with high accuracy.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalThe Lancet·DateMay 24, 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.

Large market share for non-quality-assured malaria medicines in Africa

A new study of malaria medicine quality in sub-Saharan African countries found that up to 42% of the private-sector market is made up of non-quality-assured (QA) treatments, which can impact patient health and safety. The study's findings highlight the need for policy responses to address the growing market for QA medicines.

SourceInfectious Diseases Data Observatory·JournalMalaria Journal·DateMay 24, 2017

Year-long survey tracks the microbiome of a newly opened hospital

Researchers tracked bacterial diversity in a hospital over 12 months, finding constant flow of microbes between patients, staff, and surfaces. The study reveals how human skin-associated microbes replace construction bacteria upon hospital opening.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMay 24, 2017

Half of mayoral elections in 6 US states are unopposed

A new report from Rice's Kinder Institute examines mayoral elections in 6 US states and reveals that approximately half of all mayoral elections feature only one candidate. Unopposed elections were particularly prevalent in small towns, where 79% of contests saw no competition, yet voter turnout remained high.

SourceRice University·DateMay 24, 2017

Fighting forgery with paper fingerprints

Researchers from Newcastle University have found an inexpensive and easy way to validate the authenticity of ANY paper document by taking a picture with a standard camera. The unique 'texture' fingerprint for every sheet of paper can be identified and verified with 100% accuracy, making it highly reliable even under rough handling.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalACM Transactions on Information and System Security·DateMay 24, 2017

Making people feel bad can be a strategy for helping them

A new study reveals that people can be altruistic and intentionally induce negative emotions in others to help them achieve a specific goal. The study found that empathy played a key role in this process, with participants who took another person's perspective choosing specific negative emotional experiences.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateMay 24, 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.

Baycrest's VP research awarded ORION Leadership Innovation Award

Dr. Randy McIntosh's team developed the Virtual Brain Project, an integrated computer model of a fully functioning human brain to help detect dementia and brain diseases earlier. The platform allows for testing potential treatments before prescribing them to patients.

SourceBaycrest Centre for Geriatric Care·DateMay 24, 2017

Shedding light on how humans walk... with robots

A study published in Science Robotics reveals that patients modify their walking patterns only when the robotic exoskeleton interferes with gait stability. The brain prioritizes stability over other aspects of walking, such as step height or toe angle, requiring customized forces to challenge balance.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalScience Robotics·DateMay 24, 2017

Neutrons provide the first nanoscale look at a living cell membrane

Researchers from Oak Ridge National Laboratory used neutron scattering analysis to examine a living cell membrane at the nanoscale, resolving a long-standing debate about lipid molecule organization. They found tiny groupings of lipid molecules that are likely key to the cell's functioning.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMay 24, 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.

Research in Los Angeles shows water loss

Researchers estimated that Los Angeles lost about 100 gallons of water per person per day to the atmosphere in 2010 due to overwatering of lawns and trees. The study found a surprising water efficiency of tree cover, with trees using significantly less water than grassy lawns.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalWater Resources Research·DateMay 24, 2017

Genetic risk factor for equine eye cancer identified

A genetic study led by UC Davis has identified a mutation in horses that may contribute to squamous cell carcinoma, the most common cancer found in equine eyes. This discovery offers hope for early detection and treatment of ocular SCC, potentially improving horse health and informing breeding decisions.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalInternational Journal of Cancer·DateMay 24, 2017

Religious devotion as predictor of behavior

A study published in Evolutionary Psychology Science suggests that sincere religious beliefs are not associated with hostile attitudes toward outsiders. In contrast, those who use religion for non-religious goals, such as social status or group membership, tend to exhibit greater out-group hostility.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalEvolutionary Psychological Science·DateMay 24, 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.

Zika virus spread undetected for many months, NIH-supported study finds

A new study has found that the Zika virus circulated undetected for up to a year in some regions before public health authorities took notice. The research, published in Nature, reconstructed the virus's dispersal by sequencing genetic material from hundreds of patients in ten countries and territories.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNature·DateMay 24, 2017

Two types of empathy elicit different health effects, Penn psychologist shows

A new study found that empathy can have different health effects, depending on the perspective taken when helping someone in need. Stepping into the shoes of the suffering person leads to a health-threatening physiological response, while reflecting on how they might feel promotes a health-promoting response.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalJournal of Experimental Social Psychology·DateMay 24, 2017

Fitness trackers accurately measure heart rate but not calories burned, study finds

A recent Stanford University School of Medicine study found that fitness trackers generally accurately measure heart rate but struggle with calculating energy expenditure, which is often used to track calories burned. The study evaluated seven devices and found that six were accurate in measuring heart rate within 5% error, while none ...

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalJournal of Personalized Medicine·DateMay 24, 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.

A fresh look inside the protein nano-machines

A new study by Université de Genève researchers reveals the basic geometry of the gene-to-protein code, highlighting the mechanical basis for DNA's map of functional proteins. The research focuses on the segment of the gene coding the hinges of nano-machines, which are essential for protein function.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalPhysical Review X·DateMay 24, 2017

Physicists discover mechanism behind granular capillary effect

Researchers have discovered the mechanism behind granular capillarity, where sand rises in a tube under vertical vibrations. The study found that convective motion of sand grains causes an upward pressure on the base of the column, leading to its ascent.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMay 24, 2017

The birth and death of a tectonic plate

Researchers have developed a new method to investigate underwater volcanoes that produce Earth's tectonic plates. The study found that molten rock is present deeper than expected, indicating faster cooling of the plate, which affects friction at collision zones and megaquake sizes.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 24, 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.

Drug for refractory psoriatic arthritis shows promise in clinical trial

A new biologic drug, ixekizumab, has shown significant symptom reduction in patients with refractory psoriatic arthritis, including joint tenderness and swelling. The study's results suggest that the drug may offer a more effective treatment option for patients who have not responded to standard pharmaceutical treatments.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalThe Lancet·DateMay 24, 2017

New study finds $1 million-per-mile economic impact of TVA reservoirs

A new study by the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture found that TVA reservoirs generate an average annual economic impact of $11.9 billion, supporting over 130,000 local jobs. The study also revealed that these reservoirs provide significant recreational opportunities, with visitors experiencing high levels of satisfaction.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture·DateMay 24, 2017

Machine learning may help in early identification of severe sepsis

A machine-learning algorithm has been developed to predict severe sepsis and septic shock in hospitalized patients, utilizing data from electronic health records. The algorithm was validated in real-time and found to accurately identify patients at risk, with approximately 3% of all acute care patients screened as positive.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·DateMay 24, 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.

MSU doctor to help eradicate malaria in Malawi with $8.5 million grant

Dr. Terrie Taylor is using a $8.5 million federal grant to study why previous malaria prevention methods have been unsuccessful and how progress can be made in Malawi. Her team will focus on identifying 'reservoirs of infection' - people who are infected but not sick, and understanding mosquito behavior to develop effective treatments.

SourceMichigan State University·DateMay 24, 2017

University of Montana student earns NASA Earth and Space science fellowship

Eric Palm, a University of Montana doctoral candidate, has received the NASA Earth and Space Science Fellowship to study animal movement using ecosystem-scale models for caribou. The research aims to understand consequences of land-use and climate change on caribou habitat and populations in the arctic-boreal region.

SourceThe University of Montana·DateMay 24, 2017

Are wolverines in the Arctic in the climate change crosshairs?

A new study co-authored by WCS explores the impact of reduced Arctic snow cover on tundra-dwelling wolverines. The research found that wolverines rely heavily on snow for denning, caching food, and other needs, making them more vulnerable to climate change.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalWildlife Society Bulletin·DateMay 24, 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.

Health benefits of moderate drinking may be overstated, study finds

A recent study analyzed over 9,000 middle-aged adults in England and found that moderate drinkers who also smoked experienced more health problems than those who drank lightly or abstained. The researchers suggest that other lifestyle factors, such as education and smoking habits, may be more influential on midlife health.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·DateMay 24, 2017

Population only part of tornado casualty story

A study by Florida State University researchers found that doubling the population under a tornado's path leads to only a 21% increase in casualties, while a doubling of energy dispersed by the tornado leads to a 33% increase. Stronger storms tend to pass through areas with lower population density, and climate change could impact futu...

SourceFlorida State University·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateMay 24, 2017

Tracing how 'hidden life' grows inside a newly opened hospital

A study tracked microbial community composition in a newly opened hospital, finding patients initially acquire bacteria from the environment before their own microbiota influences what's present. The research provides context for future studies of hospital-acquired infections.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMay 24, 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.

New 'sperm radar' test may uncover secrets about male infertility

Scientists have developed a non-destructive technique to examine human sperm using Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy, which may improve diagnosis of fertility problems. The test can distinguish between good and poor sperm populations based on molecular composition differences.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalMolecular Human Reproduction·DateMay 24, 2017

System piggybacks on Bitcoin to prevent identity theft

Researchers from MIT's Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory have developed a new system called Catena that uses Bitcoin's security machinery to defend against online identity theft and equivocation. The system requires the download of only about 40 megabytes of data, making it suitable for smartphones.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateMay 24, 2017

Secret weapon of smart bacteria tracked to 'sweet tooth'

A team of researchers discovered that a bacterium infects cotton by tricking the plant to produce food for itself, ultimately depleting the plant's resources. The study offers potential tools for earlier diagnostics and strategies for controlling the disease, which can affect up to 40% of cotton yield.

SourceTexas A&M AgriLife Communications·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 24, 2017

New modified toy car designs offer children with disabilities more options

Researchers at Oregon State University developed two new modified toy car designs to encourage children with disabilities to engage in physical and social activities. The sit-to-stand car promotes standing up to activate the switch, while the Throw Baby Throw car uses a pitching machine to facilitate throwing skills.

SourceOregon State University·JournalFrontiers in Robotics and AI·DateMay 24, 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.

Learning about nutrition from 'food porn' and online quizzes

A team of researchers used online quizzes and food photos to test how people learn about nutrition. The results showed that participants who received additional explanations did better on the quiz and learned more than those with no feedback. Peer-generated explanations were just as effective as expert explanations.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·DateMay 24, 2017

Where you grow what you grow

A new study found that camelina seed yields were 54% lower at Hays than at Moccasin due to environmental conditions. However, seed protein content was significantly higher at Hays, and oil composition differed between the two test sites.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalAgronomy Journal·DateMay 24, 2017

Study suggests metals from Bolivian mines affect crops and pose potential health risk

A study suggests that exposure to trace metals from potatoes grown in soil irrigated with waters from the Potosi mining region in Bolivia may pose a potential health risk. The study found high hazard quotients for arsenic and cadmium, indicating a significant risk of non-cancer health illnesses, particularly among children.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalEnvironmental Geochemistry and Health·DateMay 24, 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.

Sorghum: Health food, sweetener and now, clothing dye

Researchers develop practical wool dye from sorghum husks, offering UV protection and fluorescence, while reducing waste disposal. The dyes showed good colorfastness even after multiple washes and ironing cycles.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·DateMay 24, 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.

Can parents' tech obsessions contribute to a child's bad behavior?

A new study found that even low amounts of digital technology interruptions by parents can cause greater child behavior issues such as oversensitivity and hyperactivity. Researchers suggest carving out technology-free times for family bonding and reducing device use during parent-child activities.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalChild Development·DateMay 24, 2017

Genetic mutation studies help validate new strategy for reducing lipids, cholesterol

Researchers found that blocking ANGPTL3 activity with an injectable antibody reduced triglycerides by up to 76 percent and lowered LDL cholesterol 23 percent in human study participants. Carriers of mutations disabling ANGPTL3 had nearly 40 percent fewer incidents of coronary artery disease compared to non-carriers.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 24, 2017

Discovered: Fast-growing galaxies from early universe

A team of astronomers discovered a new kind of galaxy that formed less than a billion years after the Big Bang, creating stars more than 100 times faster than our Milky Way. This find solves a long-standing puzzle of how massive galaxies came to have hundreds of billions of stars when they formed so quickly.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalNature·DateMay 24, 2017

Study documents range of challenging meditation experiences

A new study chronicles and categorizes challenging meditation experiences among Western Buddhists, revealing a broader range of effects than previously documented. The research identified seven types of experiences and 26 categories of influencing factors, which vary widely in duration and associated distress or impairment.

SourceBrown University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 24, 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.

Mindfulness-focused childbirth education leads to less depression

A study from researchers at University of Wisconsin-Madison and UCSF found that mindfulness training during pregnancy can reduce depression symptoms in new mothers. The study showed a decrease in opioid-based pain medication use during labor among the mindfulness group, suggesting a potential benefit for infant health.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalBMC Pregnancy and Childbirth·DateMay 24, 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.

Near real-time genomic sequencing maps introduction and spread of Zika virus in US

A study by a multi-national research team, including scientists from the US Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, explains how Zika virus entered the US and how it might re-enter the country. They used near real-time genomic sequencing to create a family tree showing the virus's spread through space and time.

SourceUS Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases·JournalNature·DateMay 24, 2017

Amazingly flexible: Learning to read in your 30s profoundly transforms the brain

A new study found that learning to read in adulthood reorganizes deep brain structures, including the thalamus and brainstem, which helps filter visual input. This process enhances reading capabilities, with better alignment of signal timings between brain regions leading to improved navigation through texts.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 24, 2017

Three types of work stress increasing in the US, according to SUNY downstate researchers

Researchers at SUNY Downstate Medical Center found increasing trends in US work characteristics since 2002, including low job control, job strain, and work-family conflict. These stressors are risk factors for cardiovascular disease and contribute to the slowing of declining CVD mortality rates.

SourceSUNY Downstate Health Science University·JournalEuropean Journal of Preventive Cardiology·DateMay 24, 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.

Brain microenvironment makes HER2-positive breast cancer metastases resistant to treatment

A recent study led by Massachusetts General Hospital researchers has identified a novel mechanism behind the resistance of HER2-positive breast cancer metastases to treatment. The study found that overexpression of the HER3 gene contributes to this resistance, and combining anti-HER2 and anti-HER3 therapies can slow tumor growth.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMay 24, 2017

Recreational cannabis, used often, increases risk of gum disease

A recent study published in the Journal of Periodontology found that frequent recreational cannabis use increases the risk of gum disease. The study analyzed data from over 1,900 US adults and found that frequent users were twice as likely to have signs of periodontal disease as non-frequent users.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalJournal of Periodontology·DateMay 24, 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.

FGCU virologists publish study that finds Zika invaded Florida multiple times in 2016

A new study published in Nature reveals that the Zika virus outbreak in Florida was not a single introduction but rather at least four separate introductions that led to local chains of transmission. The research found that most Florida introductions are linked to the Caribbean, and mosquito control efforts helped limit the spread of t...

SourceFlorida Gulf Coast University·JournalNature·DateMay 24, 2017

Study shows need for increased protection of world's national animal symbols

A recent study found that 35 percent of the world's national animal symbols are threatened with extinction, highlighting the urgent need for conservation efforts. The analysis also revealed that populations of national animal symbols represented by North America and Australia-Oceania fare better than those in Africa.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·JournalBioScience·DateMay 24, 2017

Largest psoriasis meta-analysis to date yields new genetic clues

Researchers have identified 16 new genetic markers associated with psoriasis, bringing the total to 63 loci linked to the disease. The largest psoriasis meta-analysis to date, involving over 39,000 participants, has shed light on pathways related to the disease and pinpointed potential gene targets.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 24, 2017

What bone proteomics could reveal about the dead

Researchers identified protein patterns in bones that change with age, suggesting potential biomarkers for determining age in human remains. The study's findings have implications for forensic science and may help reconstruct ancient species relationships.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Proteome Research·DateMay 24, 2017

Water is surprisingly ordered on the nanoscale

Scientists have observed a surprising order in the surface of water droplets at the nanoscale, with molecules behaving like those in ice. This discovery could lead to a better understanding of atmospheric, biological, and geological processes, as researchers explore how additives like salt affect the water network.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 24, 2017

Revealed: How polyomavirus tricks our cells into helping it build its invasion route

Researchers from the University of Michigan have discovered how polyomaviruses hijack cellular molecular motors to build a portal for itself, allowing it to reach the nucleus and cause problems. The findings could aid in the development of new treatments or preventive strategies against polyomavirus diseases such as Merkel cell carcinoma.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 24, 2017

BU researcher receives entrepreneur award from the American Thoracic Society

BU researcher Avrum Spira recognized for his work on early detection of lung cancer using Percepta RNA biomarker, as well as development of new drugs for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). His research has made a direct impact on diagnosis and daily care of patients with lung cancer and COPD in the past 20 years.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·DateMay 24, 2017