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Science News for November 14, 2017


Electron backscatter diffraction yields microstructure insights

A new methodology examines microscale structural characteristics and changes during manufacturing processes, providing insights into electrical motor efficiency. The technique allows for the evaluation of grain size, shape, texture, and plastic deformations, enabling the tailoring of magnetic properties and minimizing losses.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAIP Advances·DateNov 14, 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 study shows disadvantage for firms possessing celebrity and status

A new study from the University of Notre Dame suggests that businesses seeking to accumulate both celebrity and high-status venture capitalist or underwriter affiliations may be worse off than pursuing one or the other. This challenges the long-held assumption that such assets are always beneficial for corporate success.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalAcademy of Management Journal·DateNov 14, 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.

Treating gum disease may help lower blood pressure

Researchers found that intensive treatment for gum disease significantly lowered systolic and diastolic blood pressure among participants. The study, presented at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2017, suggests that treating gum disease can be a potential method to manage high blood pressure.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateNov 14, 2017

Early trial of peanut patch for peanut allergy shows promise

A skin patch containing a high dose of peanut protein reduced peanut sensitivity in 50% of patients compared to placebo, warranting further investigation. The 250-μg peanut patch showed significant efficacy in treating peanut allergy, suggesting potential for safer and more effective treatment.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateNov 14, 2017

Study: Parents help shape how much pain preschoolers feel after vaccination

A new longitudinal study from York University's OUCH Cohort found that parents' behavior during vaccinations significantly impacts their child's pain coping responses. Engaging in positive behaviors like deep breathing and distraction, while avoiding negative ones, can reduce pain-related distress. The study suggests that a preschooler...

SourceYork University·JournalPain·DateNov 14, 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.

Manganese dioxide shows potential in micromotors

Manganese dioxide-based micromotors exhibit remarkable propulsion efficiency and can remove organic dyes from water with high efficiency. The study demonstrates the potential of manganese dioxide in catalytic micromotors, including protection against sulphur toxicity and efficient drug delivery.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalChemistry - A European Journal·DateNov 14, 2017

Zwicky Transient Facility sees 'first light'

The Zwicky Transient Facility's (ZTF) new survey camera captures hundreds of thousands of stars and galaxies in a single shot, taking its first image of the sky, dubbed 'first light.' ZTF aims to discover objects and events varying in brightness over time, including explosive supernovae, hungry black holes, and asteroids/comets.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·DateNov 14, 2017

Australian workers who smoke hit national pocketbook

Researchers estimate that Australian smokers will lose an estimated 2.9 million years of life and 2.7 million years of productive years, resulting in a significant impact on the country's economy. The study highlights the importance of smoking prevention and the need to address this issue.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateNov 14, 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.

How emotions influence our internal clock

A study by Dr. Roland Thomaschke and colleagues found that emotions impact our mental time-processing system, causing faster processing of positive concepts and slower processing of negative ones. This suggests that emotional states can influence human perception, potentially affecting how we respond to advertisements or online content.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalEmotion·DateNov 14, 2017

Parasitic plants rely on unusual method to spread their seeds

Three non-photosynthetic plant species use camel crickets as their main seed disperser. The seeds are preserved unharmed in the excrement, allowing the plants to occupy a unique biological niche. This discovery highlights the dramatic changes that occur when photosynthesis is lost.

SourceKobe University·JournalNew Phytologist·DateNov 14, 2017

Study settles prehistoric puzzle, confirms modern link of carbon dioxide & global warming

A new study resolves a prehistoric climate puzzle by confirming the link between high carbon dioxide levels and global warming for a time interval about 22 million years ago. The research, led by Southern Methodist University, analyzed fossil leaves from Africa and found that carbon dioxide behaved in the same manner millions of years ...

SourceSouthern Methodist University·JournalGeology·DateNov 14, 2017

Voice impersonators can fool speaker recognition systems

Researchers found that skilled voice impersonators can successfully deceive automatic speaker recognition systems by mimicking specific speakers. The study highlights the vulnerability of these systems to human-induced voice modifications, particularly those produced through imitation and disguise.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalSpeech Communication·DateNov 14, 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.

In bee decline, fungicides emerge as improbable villain

A recent study by Cornell University researchers found that fungicides can harm bumblebees, particularly when used in combination with insecticides. Chlorothalonil, a general-use fungicide, has been linked to stunted colony growth and increased vulnerability to Nosema, a fatal gut infection.

SourceCornell University·DateNov 14, 2017

A fast reactor system to shorten the lifetime of long-lived fission products

A team of scientists at Tokyo Institute of Technology has proposed a novel approach to tackle radioactive waste disposal. By adding a moderator to a fast spectrum reactor, they found that effective transmutation of long-lived fission products can be achieved without the need for isotope separation.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 14, 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.

From southeast Asia to the sewers: Study determines new geographical origins of brown rats

A recent study published in Molecular Biology and Evolution reveals that brown rats originally migrated from southern East Asia about 3,600 years ago, spreading rapidly across the globe. The research team identified several genes involved in the immune response that have adaptively evolved under natural selection in wild rats.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateNov 14, 2017

Study offers detailed insight into early-life behavior of grey seal pups at sea

Grey seal pups from Welsh colonies were more likely to dive in shallower water than males, reaching the seabed more frequently and having greater feeding opportunities. The study provides insights into the initial foraging behaviour of grey seal pups around the UK, crucial for future protection of their habitat.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 14, 2017

Einstein researchers receive $6 million grant to untangle the genetic protections against Alzheimer's disease

Researchers at Albert Einstein College of Medicine are studying the genetic protections against Alzheimer's disease using two existing longitudinal studies on aging. The study aims to identify networks of genes in healthy centenarians that protect them against dementia, which could help identify new targets for drugs to treat Alzheimer's.

SourceAlbert Einstein College of Medicine·DateNov 14, 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.

Cognitive behavioral therapy for children and adolescents with OCD works in the long run

A study by Aarhus University finds that cognitive behavioral therapy is highly effective in treating OCD in children and adolescents. The research, involving 269 participants from Denmark, Norway, and Sweden, showed that 92% of those who benefited from the treatment remained symptom-free a year after completion.

SourceAarhus University·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateNov 14, 2017

Making mosquitoes self-destruct

Researchers at UCR have developed transgenic mosquitoes stably expressing the Cas9 enzyme, enabling efficient genome editing to disrupt genes controlling vision, flight, and feeding. The long-term goal is to use these mosquitoes with gene drives to insert genes that suppress disease-spreading insects.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 14, 2017

Insurance linked to black-white survival disparities in colorectal cancer

A new study published in Gastroenterology found that health insurance coverage differences account for nearly half of the black-white survival disparity in colorectal cancer patients. The study analyzed data from 199,098 CRC patients aged 18-64 and found a significant impact of insurance status on treatment outcomes.

SourceAmerican Cancer Society·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateNov 14, 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.

Shining a light on the nervous system to thwart disease

A multi-disciplinary team of researchers has received a $9 million grant to develop enhanced infrared light technology for treating diseases such as cardiac arrhythmias, high blood pressure, asthma, and diarrhea. The technology aims to stimulate or inhibit electrical signals in the nervous system with laser precision.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·DateNov 14, 2017

Researchers take next step toward fusion energy

Scientists at Texas A&M University have discovered a material that can withstand the harsh conditions of a fusion reactor, making it possible to harness the sun's energy on Earth. The breakthrough, published in Science Advances, involves the formation of long channels resembling veins in living tissues.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 14, 2017

Businesses need better approach to compliance programs, IU research finds

Indiana University research finds that corporate compliance programs are often ineffective, leading to a culture of silence and widespread corruption. The study identifies eight rationalizations used by offenders to justify their actions, highlighting the need for evidence-based strategies to curb bad behavior.

SourceIndiana University·JournalAmerican Business Law Journal·DateNov 14, 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.

Essential quantum computer component downsized by two orders of magnitude

Researchers at IST Austria have developed micrometer-scale, nonmagnetic devices that route microwave photons and shield qubits from harmful noise. The compact devices are a significant improvement over traditional predecessors and could revolutionize the development of quantum computers.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 14, 2017

Comprehensive health study in India finds rise of non-communicable diseases

A new study finds that non-communicable diseases have become the leading cause of death in India, surpassing infectious diseases. The study reveals significant state-level variations in health outcomes, with some states experiencing much higher rates of deaths and illnesses due to conditions like diabetes and ischemic heart disease.

SourceInstitute for Health Metrics and Evaluation·JournalThe Lancet·DateNov 14, 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.

Why can hot water freeze faster than cold water?

Spanish researchers have confirmed how hot water freezes faster than cold water in granular fluids, a phenomenon known as the Mpemba effect. They also found that the opposite effect can occur: coldest liquids can heat up faster.

SourceUniversidad Carlos III de Madrid·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateNov 14, 2017

Queen's researchers make killer superbug breakthrough

Researchers at Queen's University Belfast have made a breakthrough in treating antibiotic-resistant bacteria Klebsiella pneumoniae. They discovered that the body's natural defences, specifically interferons, can fight back against the infection, offering new avenues for therapy.

SourceQueen's University Belfast·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateNov 14, 2017

Pesticides may cause bumblebees to lose their buzz, study finds

A new study found that pesticides significantly reduce bumblebees' ability to collect pollen and perform complex behaviors like buzz pollination. Chronic pesticide exposure interferes with bees' vibrations, leading to reduced pollen collection over time.

SourceUniversity of Stirling·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 14, 2017

Potential new autism drug shows promise in mice

Researchers have tested a potential new drug, NitroSynapsin, in a mouse model of an autism disorder and found it largely corrected electrical, behavioral and brain abnormalities. The candidate drug is intended to restore the signaling imbalance found in virtually all forms of autism spectrum disorder.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 14, 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.

Study provides insights for combating devastating amphibian disease

A new study indicates that the common eastern froglet can carry infections without experiencing mortality, which hinders efforts to reintroduce threatened species. The frog's wide distribution and high densities suggest it plays a key role in maintaining disease levels within ecosystems.

SourceWiley·JournalAnimal Conservation·DateNov 14, 2017

A new strategy for prevention of liver cancer development

Researchers discovered a synthetic double-stranded RNA that boosts anti-tumor innate immune functions, potentially preventing liver cancer. The study found that administering the RNA at different stages suppressed tumor formation in mouse models.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalCell Reports·DateNov 14, 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.

Defects in cell's 'waste disposal system' linked to Parkinson's

A study has found a connection between genetic mutations in lysosomal storage disorders and an increased risk of developing Parkinson's disease. Researchers analyzed the largest available Parkinson's disease genetic dataset, discovering that nearly half of those with the disease carried damaging mutations in these genes.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalBrain·DateNov 14, 2017

Contracting white dwarf observed for the first time

Scientists have observed a contracting white dwarf for the first time, providing insights into young stars' evolution. The discovery suggests that young white dwarfs contract as they age, challenging current understanding of their behavior.

SourceLomonosov Moscow State University·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateNov 14, 2017

Does clinical evaluation plus noninvasive cardiac testing improve outcomes?

A study of 1,000 patients with chest pain found that adding noninvasive cardiac testing did not improve clinical outcomes, but rather prolonged hospital stays and increased costs. The test also resulted in more radiation exposure and repeated emergency department visits without a significant reduction in major adverse cardiac events.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateNov 14, 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.

World's longest sauropod dinosaur trackway brought to light

Scientists from CNRS and ENS de Lyon discover the world's longest sauropod dinosaur trackway, spanning over 155 meters, in the French village of Plagne. The trackway is estimated to be 150 million years old and belonged to a dinosaur at least 35m long and weighing 35t.

SourceCNRS·JournalGeobios·DateNov 14, 2017

Stem cell therapy shows promise for common cause of blindness

Researchers from Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center and Bascom Palmer Eye Institute conducted two clinical trials using human embryonic stem cells to treat dry macular degeneration, a leading cause of new blindness. The studies showed that stem cell injection into the eye replaced damaged cells and improved vision in some patients.

SourceAmerican Academy of Ophthalmology·DateNov 14, 2017

Quick! What's that smell? Mammal brains identify type of scent faster than once thought

Researchers at NYU School of Medicine found that mammalian brains can distinguish between one odor and another in under 100 milliseconds, using fewer nerve signals than previously believed. This groundbreaking study has implications for our understanding of human olfaction and the potential for new treatments for smell disorders.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 14, 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.

More stress and lower survival rates for birds in young, managed forests

Researchers found that young, managed forests cause higher stress levels and lower survival rates in willow tits due to reduced food availability and increased predation risks. About 92% of the birds sheltering in older trees survived the winter, compared to nearly 73% in younger plantations.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe Science of Nature·DateNov 14, 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.

Researchers reverse heart failure in Marfan mice

Johns Hopkins researchers identified a cellular pathway responsible for rapid heart failure in Marfan syndrome and reversed the disease in mouse models by increasing stress on the animals' hearts. The findings provide a potential model for treating this aggressive form of the disorder.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·DateNov 14, 2017

Soft magnetic material characterizations get a harder look

Soft magnetic materials are crucial for designing efficient electric machines, but current characterization methods are inadequate for applications like traction drives. Researchers offer improvements to guide the selection of the most suitable material.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAIP Advances·DateNov 14, 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.

Researchers reveal new insights into why sleep is good for our memory

Researchers at the University of York found that sleep helps us use our memory in a flexible and adaptable manner by strengthening both old and new versions of an experience. This process allows for the adaptive updating of memories, but can also lead to distortions if incorrect information is incorporated.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalCortex·DateNov 14, 2017

Later-borns choose less prestigious programs at university

Research by Kieron Barclay and Mikko Myrskylä found that birth order differences in university subject choice explain half of the gap in siblings' long-term earnings. Later-borns tend to pursue less prestigious subjects like arts, journalism, and teaching.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalSocial Forces·DateNov 14, 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.

Flower attracts insects by pretending to be a mushroom

The Aspidistra elatior flower attracts insects by pretending to be a mushroom, with fungus gnats being the primary pollinators in its native habitat. This discovery clarifies that like most plants, A. elatior is mainly pollinated by flying insects.

SourceKobe University·JournalEcology·DateNov 14, 2017

Expanding geographic sharing of donor kidneys would increase transplants, study finds

A study suggests that expanding geographic sharing of donor kidneys could add 58 to 174 additional kidney transplants per year, helping more patients get off dialysis treatments. Organ quality varies from donor to donor and is concentrated in less populous regions, where patients are more willing to accept lower-quality organs.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalProduction and Operations Management·DateNov 14, 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.

Confusion, different priorities may cause EMTALA violations

A study by Penn State researchers found that EMTALA violations are often caused by confusion about the law and conflicting priorities between healthcare professionals. Hospitals may not report suspected violations due to financial pressure, referral burdens, or reluctance to maintain good relationships with other hospitals.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Healthcare Risk Management·DateNov 14, 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.

Artificially cooling planet 'risky strategy,' new research shows

Artificially cooling the planet through geoengineering could have devastating effects on regions prone to storms or droughts, a new study shows. The researchers warn that targeting one hemisphere for geoengineering could lead to increased likelihood of natural disasters in other parts of the world.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 14, 2017

Aspirin can prevent heart attacks after noncardiac surgery in patients with prior PCI

A Canadian-led study found that perioperative aspirin can prevent heart-related complications after major noncardiac surgery in patients with previous percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). For every 1,000 patients with PCI, giving them aspirin at the time of noncardiac surgery would prevent 59 heart attacks and cause eight major bl...

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateNov 14, 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.

Global birth season study links environment with disease risk

A new analysis of 10.5 million patients found that mothers' exposure to sunlight, air pollution, and carbon monoxide during pregnancy may increase their child's lifetime risk of type 2 diabetes, atrial fibrillation, depression, and anxiety. The study also found that relative age at school enrollment is a stronger predictor of ADHD.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalJournal of the American Medical Informatics Association·DateNov 14, 2017

Female mongooses help their pups by driving out rivals

A new study reveals that female mongooses evict rivals to reduce reproductive competition and increase pup survival rates. This behavior also leads to the creation of new social groups and reduced chances of successful breeding for evicted females.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalAnimal Behaviour·DateNov 14, 2017

Researchers examine social identity threat and religion in the US

A new US study examines how social identity threat affects religion and finds that highly religious individuals, particularly Christians, feel targeted and experience prejudice. The study reveals that religious minorities like Jews and Muslims also face heightened threat, likely due to prejudice and discrimination.

SourcePenn State·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·DateNov 14, 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.

To find new biofuel enzymes, it can take a microbial village

A Berkeley Lab-led study discovers new types of cellulases from a microbiome, which can break down plant biomass into glucose at high temperatures. The enzymes were cultivated from a cluster of uncultivated bacteria in municipal compost, offering a scalable source for biofuel production.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Microbiology·DateNov 14, 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.

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.

Physicists mix waves on superconducting qubits

Researchers mixed electromagnetic waves on a superconducting qubit, enabling the detection of quantum wave mixing. The study could aid in developing new quantum electronics.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 14, 2017

Three decades of responding to infectious disease outbreaks

The article highlights the lessons learned from past infectious disease outbreaks, including HIV/AIDS and SARS, to inform current responses to emerging threats such as Zika. The NIAID Director emphasizes the importance of sustained support for scientific research and effective communication with policymakers and communities.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateNov 14, 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.

Proposed NASA mission would investigate where space weather begins

The proposed FOXSI mission will study the physical mechanisms behind solar flares and their impact on Earth. By analyzing X-ray radiation and particle acceleration, scientists aim to gain a deeper understanding of space weather and its effects on satellites and communications systems.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 14, 2017

High speed video recording precisely measures blood cell velocity

Researchers at ITMO University developed a system to measure red blood cell velocity using high-speed video recording. The system provides accurate data for diagnosing vascular conditions and assessing therapy efficiency, offering a reliable tool for disease pattern recognition.

SourceITMO University·JournalOptics and Lasers in Engineering·DateNov 14, 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.

Shape-shifting agent targets harmful bacteria in the stomach

A new shape-shifting polymer can target and kill Helicobacter pylori bacteria in the stomach, improving digestive health for billions worldwide. The agent morphs into a bacterial hole-puncher at acidic pH, killing H. pylori while sparing helpful gut bacteria.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 14, 2017

New player in Alzheimer's disease pathogenesis identified

A study published in Nature Communications reveals that membralin plays a crucial role in regulating the cell's machinery for producing beta-amyloid, the protein responsible for neuronal death in Alzheimer's disease. The researchers found that membranes with lower levels of this protein are associated with increased neurodegeneration a...

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 14, 2017

Health care reforms fail to lower hospitalizations in England

A new study published in PLOS Medicine found that recent health care reforms in England did not lead to the expected decrease in hospitalisations and specialist visits. In fact, there was an increase in outpatient specialist visits, resulting in 3.7 million additional specialist visits between 2012 and 2015.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateNov 14, 2017

Cognitive training enhanced innovative thinking and brain networks in older adults

A pilot study by the Center for BrainHealth found that cognitive training improved innovative thinking and corresponding brain changes in healthy adults over 55. The SMART program showed significant gains in high-quality innovation performance and increased connectivity among brain cells in the central executive network.

SourceCenter for BrainHealth·JournalFrontiers in Aging Neuroscience·DateNov 14, 2017

Screen time might boost depression, suicide behaviors in teens

A new study by San Diego State University professor Jean Twenge found that increased screen time is associated with higher symptoms of depression and suicide-related behaviors among American teenagers, particularly girls. Spending more than five hours per day on electronic devices was linked to at least one suicide-related outcome.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalClinical Psychological Science·DateNov 14, 2017

Stressful events can increase women's odds of obesity

Research presented at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2017 found that traumatic lifetime events and recent negative life experiences increase a woman's likelihood of being obese. Women who experienced four or more negative events in the past five years had a 36% higher risk of obesity compared to those with no such...

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateNov 14, 2017

Psoriasis severity linked to increased risk of type 2 diabetes

Researchers found a strong connection between psoriasis severity and the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Patients with more severe psoriasis are 64% more likely to develop diabetes than those without the condition.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Dermatology·DateNov 14, 2017

An atlas of the heart: Proteome of the human heart mapped for the first time

A team of researchers has created the first atlas of the healthy human heart's protein composition, which will aid in identifying differences between healthy and diseased hearts. The study found that despite functional differences between the right and left halves of the heart, they share similar protein compositions.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 14, 2017

Pregnancy-related conditions taken together leave moms -- and dads -- at risk

A new study from McGill University Health Centre found that women with gestational diabetes and high blood pressure are 15-37 times more likely to develop type 2 diabetes and hypertension, respectively. The risk also affects fathers, particularly when they share similar lifestyle habits with their partners.

SourceMcGill University Health Centre·JournalAmerican Journal of Epidemiology·DateNov 14, 2017

Disease-resistant apples perform better than old favorites

Researchers found that scab-resistant apple cultivars, such as GoldRush and CrimsonCrisp, retain their quality and nutritional value after storage, rivaling traditional varieties like Golden Delicious. The new apples also show promise for long-term storage using 1-MCP gas.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Food Quality·DateNov 14, 2017