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Science News for November 15, 2017


Pluto's hydrocarbon haze keeps dwarf planet colder than expected

A new analysis of Pluto's hydrocarbon haze reveals a novel cooling mechanism controlling the dwarf planet's frigid atmosphere. The study proposes that haze particles absorb heat and emit infrared radiation, resulting in an atmospheric temperature of about 70 Kelvin.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalNature·DateNov 15, 2017

What is the computational power of the universe?

A new paper by physicist Stephen Jordan explores whether the universe holds solutions to difficult computational problems, such as number partitioning. The universe's background energy density is found to be close to zero, implying a stable material universe and potentially offering insights into these problems.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalPhysical Review D·DateNov 15, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

UT study IDs potential cell receptors to reduce antibiotic resistance

Researchers have identified specific chemical receptors in cells that could deceive bacteria and improve patient response to drugs. The study's findings suggest that targeting these receptors could help adapt antibiotics to better attack infections.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee at Knoxville·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 15, 2017

Desert solar to fuel centuries of air travel

Researchers have demonstrated the full process of making kerosene, the jet fuel used by commercial airlines, using a high-temperature thermal solar reactor to create syngas. The feedstock is essentially unlimited, providing a potentially game-changing alternative to fossil fuels.

SourceSolarPACES·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateNov 15, 2017

FIREBIRD II and NASA mission locate whistling space electrons' origins

Scientists have identified a common plasma wave as the cause of high-energy electron loss into Earth's atmosphere. Whistler mode chorus waves are created by fluctuating electric and magnetic fields, efficiently accelerating electrons. The findings provide an important piece of the puzzle to understand space weather predictions.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 15, 2017
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

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

Storing mine waste -- safety is no accident UN finds

The United Nations report emphasizes the need for mining companies to prioritize safety over economic considerations in managing mine waste. The report's recommendations include improving tailings dam government regulation and exploring alternative solutions to building massive dams that can cause devastating environmental damage.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·DateNov 15, 2017

Stem cells fail to alleviate peripheral artery disease

A new Northwestern Medicine clinical trial found that stem cell therapy did not improve walking ability in people with peripheral artery disease, despite exercise showing significant improvements. The study led by Dr. Mary McDermott demonstrated that regular exercise can increase six-minute walking distance in patients with PAD.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJAMA·DateNov 15, 2017
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

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

Strategies to combat the opioid epidemic

Researchers are developing abuse-deterrent opioids with special coatings or infusions to make them harder to misuse, but at a higher cost. Novel painkillers and powerful opioid detectors are also being developed to help combat the crisis.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateNov 15, 2017

Text message reminders increase rates of influenza vaccination

A randomized controlled trial found that text message reminders increased vaccine uptake among eligible patients, with the greatest effect seen in children under five years old. The study suggests cost-efficient strategies to improve vaccine uptake, particularly for vulnerable populations.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateNov 15, 2017

Nanomaterials

Researchers at LMU München precisely tune carbon dot's properties by introducing nitrogen atoms, enabling diverse applications. The study reveals that the physicochemical characteristics can be simply and precisely controlled, opening up new possibilities for energy conversion and bio-imaging.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 15, 2017
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

$2 million grant brings telemedicine to children with disabilities

The UC Davis Department of Pediatrics has received a $2 million grant to fund a new telemedicine program for children in remote communities. The program will provide physiatry care for kids with cerebral palsy, spina bifida, and other disabilities, improving quality of life and preventing complications.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·DateNov 15, 2017

Engineering of a Swedish quantum computer set to start

The Swedish government is investing SEK 1 billion in a research program to develop a superconducting quantum computer with greater computing power than current supercomputers. The goal is to create a functioning quantum computer with at least 100 qubits, enabling it to solve complex problems in fields like optimization, machine learnin...

SourceChalmers University of Technology·DateNov 15, 2017

Children's exposure to secondhand smoke may be vastly underestimated by parents

A new study suggests that parents who smoke mistakenly rely on their own physical senses to gauge the presence of tobacco smoke in the air, leading to misconceptions about when and where children are exposed. This lack of awareness can result in inadequate measures being taken to protect children from secondhand smoke.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalNicotine & Tobacco Research·DateNov 15, 2017
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

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

Scientists team up on study to save endangered African penguins

A study published in the Journal of Wildlife Diseases found that minimizing rehabilitation time, treating diseases early, and controlling mosquitos can significantly improve African penguin survival rates. The researchers also identified body mass and hematologic parameters as important criteria for initial assessment and treatment.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalJournal of Wildlife Diseases·DateNov 15, 2017

Lower cost, higher quality primary care practices are distinguished by six attributes

A new study has identified six attributes associated with high-value primary care practices, including decision support for evidence-based medicine and careful selection of specialists. These attributes are linked to three themes: care traffic control, cognitive burden reduction, and value-based reimbursement.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateNov 15, 2017

Protein synthesis machinery from bacterial consortia in one shot

Researchers at UC Davis have created a method to produce all 34 proteins required for mRNA translation in the correct proportions within a single mixed culture. This breakthrough enables rapid and high-purity reconstitution of cellular reactions, making it useful for various applications such as disease diagnosis and drug development.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateNov 15, 2017
GoPro HERO13 Black

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

Off track: How storms will veer in a warmer world

Research at Weizmann Institute of Science uncovers mechanisms driving storms toward the poles. Mid-latitude storms steer further poleward in a warmer climate due to vertical structure and circulation near the tops of these weather systems.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalNature Geoscience·DateNov 15, 2017

Counterfeits and product piracy can be prevented by security features, such as printed 3-D microstructures

Researchers at KIT have developed innovative fluorescent 3D structures to improve counterfeit protection in products like bank notes, pharmaceuticals, and car spare parts. These new security features can be easily integrated into various applications to prevent product piracy and counterfeiting.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalAdvanced Materials Technologies·DateNov 15, 2017
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Gut microbes can protect against high blood pressure

A study found that a high-salt diet shrinks beneficial gut bacteria, leading to pro-inflammatory immune cells and high blood pressure. Probiotics can reverse these effects in mice and humans, suggesting potential therapeutic target for treating high blood pressure.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateNov 15, 2017

Winners of the 2017 AAAS Kavli Science Journalism Awards

The 2017 AAAS Kavli Science Journalism Awards honored distinguished reporting on topics such as antibiotic-resistant infections, superbugs, and climate change. The winners included a Reuters team for their investigation into uncounted deaths from superbug infections.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·DateNov 15, 2017

First transcatheter implant for diastolic heart failure successful

A new transcatheter implant has been shown to be safe and effective in treating diastolic heart failure by reducing blood backup in the lungs. The device, a dime-size interatrial shunt, diverted blood flow from high-pressure chambers to low-pressure ones, improving pulmonary capillary wedge pressure readings.

SourceMediaSource·JournalCirculation·DateNov 15, 2017

Single men 'less likely' to participate in bowel screening

A University of Stirling study found that single men are significantly less likely to take part in bowel screening tests compared to those living with a partner. The participation rate for men living alone was 57.6%, lower than the 77.8% of women living alone who took the test.

SourceUniversity of Stirling·DateNov 15, 2017
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

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

Ionic 'solar cell' could provide on-demand water desalination

Researchers have developed an 'ionic analog to the electronic pn-junction solar cell' that harnesses light to generate ionic electricity, with potential applications in desalination and brain-machine interfaces. The technology shows promise for producing electricity to turn brackish water drinkable upon exposure to sunlight.

SourceCell Press·JournalJoule·DateNov 15, 2017

Pulling iron out of waste printer toner

A team of researchers has created a process to transform residual toner powder from discarded printer cartridges into iron, offering an environmentally friendly way to reuse electronic waste. The method involves heating the toner powder to 1550 °C, resulting in a product with 98% pure iron.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·DateNov 15, 2017

Editorial: Use big tobacco's Nov 26 corrective statements to reduce smoking

The American Thoracic Society editorial emphasizes the need for effective tobacco control measures, citing the court-ordered publication of corrective statements by major US tobacco companies. The statements acknowledge the addictive nature of nicotine and the lethal effects of smoking on human health.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAnnals of the American Thoracic Society·DateNov 15, 2017

Heavy drinking and smoking linked to visible signs of aging

Research published in the Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health found that heavy drinking and smoking are associated with visible signs of physical ageing. Light to moderate drinking was not linked to biological ageing or slowing down the visible ageing process.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·DateNov 15, 2017
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Improving clinical trials with machine learning

A new study from University College London suggests that machine learning can improve clinical trials by analyzing complex brain anatomy and detecting subtle changes in drug effects. The research used large-scale data from patients with stroke to test the concept of machine learning capable of modeling the human brain in its full compl...

SourceUniversity College London·JournalBrain·DateNov 15, 2017

A polymer 'love hormone' sensor for the early detection of autism

A Polish Academy of Sciences team has developed a polymer 'love hormone' sensor that can detect micromolar concentrations of oxytocin, a biomarker associated with autism. The sensor's sensitivity is expected to increase to nanomolar levels, allowing for early diagnosis and potentially dramatic treatment efficacy improvements.

SourceInstitute of Physical Chemistry of the Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalBiosensors and Bioelectronics·DateNov 15, 2017
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

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

New study underpins the future of Person Centred Care

A new tool to support organisations and practitioners achieve person-centred care has been developed. The Person Centred Coordinated Care Organisational Tool (P3C-OCT) helps guide implementation and assess effectiveness of the approach.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalHealth Expectations·DateNov 15, 2017
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

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

Study of Amish suggests mutation linked to longer life span

A null mutation in SERPINE1 is associated with a longer life span and improved metabolism among the Amish population. The study found that carriers of this mutation lived 10 years longer than non-carriers, with lower rates of diabetes.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 15, 2017

Parent-supplied photos allow pediatric dermatology diagnoses with no office visit in most cases

A study published in JAMA Dermatology found that high-quality photographs taken by parents with their smartphones can accurately diagnose pediatric skin conditions without an office visit. The results showed a 83% agreement between photograph-based and in-person diagnoses, paving the way for improved access to care through telemedicine.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalJAMA Dermatology·DateNov 15, 2017

Serious health risks associated with energy drinks

A new review of energy drinks highlights their advertised benefits can be outweighed by serious health risks. The study recommends restricted sales to children and adolescents and setting evidence-based caffeine limits.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Public Health·DateNov 15, 2017

Study finds higher rates of sexual violence among bisexual women

A recent study by Nicole Johnson found that 50% of bisexual women have experienced rape at some point in their lifetime, with approximately 75% reporting sexual violence. The study identifies three factors contributing to higher rates of sexual violence among bi women: substance use, hypersexualization, and biphobic harassment.

SourceLehigh University·JournalJournal of Bisexuality·DateNov 15, 2017
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Floating droplets

MIT scientists have explained why a droplet of liquid can 'levitate' on a bath's surface under certain conditions. By maintaining a temperature difference, the air cushion between the droplet and the bath is strengthened, preventing it from sinking and allowing it to levitate.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Fluid Mechanics·DateNov 15, 2017

Cell-based therapy for type 1 diabetes?

Researchers at Boston Children's Hospital have successfully reversed type 1 diabetes in a mouse model by infusing pre-treated blood stem cells. The treated cells curbed the autoimmune reaction and reversed hyperglycemia in diabetic mice, with almost all mice cured of diabetes in the short term and one third maintaining normal blood sug...

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateNov 15, 2017

Genome of wheat ancestor sequenced

The genome of a wild ancestor of bread wheat, Aegilops tauschii, has been sequenced by an international team of scientists. The findings will enable researchers to discover new genes improving wheat quality and resistance to diseases. This breakthrough technology can be applied to other plant genomes.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalNature·DateNov 15, 2017

UTEP team advances in developing vaccine for cutaneous leishmaniasis

A UTEP team has made significant progress in developing a human vaccine for cutaneous leishmaniasis, a tropical disease affecting thousands worldwide. Their research results in a 96% decrease in lesions and an 86% protection rate from the disease in mice.

SourceUniversity of Texas at El Paso·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateNov 15, 2017

Type 2 diabetes associated with risk of aggressive breast cancer in black women

African American women with type 2 diabetes have a higher risk of developing estrogen receptor negative (ER-) breast cancer, a more aggressive form of the disease. Chronic inflammation from diabetes may contribute to this increased risk, which could help explain the higher incidence of ER- breast cancer in African American women.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalCancer Research·DateNov 15, 2017
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

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

Volatility surprises arise in removing excess hydrogen

The study reveals that the carbon-hydrogen bonds in the molecule play a key role in its volatile behavior. The optimal conditions for removal of excess hydrogen are below 175 degrees Fahrenheit, done in a good vacuum. This discovery can help chemists identify ideal operating temperatures and environments.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateNov 15, 2017

Colorado River's connection with the ocean was a punctuated affair

A scientific team, led by geologist Rebecca Dorsey of the University of Oregon, theorizes that the river's route off the Colorado Plateau was influenced by a combination of tectonic deformation and changing sea levels. The research challenges long-held conventional thinking on river connection to ocean.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalSedimentary Geology·DateNov 15, 2017

RUDN University scientists found a new cascade reaction

Researchers have discovered a new chemical reaction to synthesize diazabicyclo[3.2.1]octanes, which could lead to breakthroughs in drug development. The new approach allows for the rapid synthesis of complex compounds without requiring additional reagents or catalysts.

SourceRUDN University·JournalJournal of Fluorine Chemistry·DateNov 15, 2017
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

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

A delicate crossing: Controller developed to open the blood-brain barrier with precision

Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital have developed a system to temporarily loosen the blood-brain barrier using microbubbles, allowing for real-time monitoring and controlled delivery of drugs to the brain. The approach offers improved safety and efficacy control for human clinical trials underway in Canada.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 15, 2017

Researchers chart rising inequality across millennia

The study found that hunter-gatherer societies had low wealth disparities, while larger agricultural societies saw increasing inequality. The researchers attribute this to the domestication of plants and large animals, which led to increased social organization and wealth concentration.

SourceWashington State University·JournalNature·DateNov 15, 2017

NASA measures Haikui's remnant rainfall over southern Vietnam

GPM data shows storms from Haikui's remnants containing light to moderate precipitation, with some areas dropping rain at over 23 mm per hour. Heavier precipitation was also detected in southern Vietnam, exceeding 79 mm per hour in downpours not associated with Haikui.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 15, 2017

New guidelines issued for diagnosis and care of LAM, a rare lung disease

The American Thoracic Society and Japanese Respiratory Society have published new clinical practice guidelines for lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM), a rare lung disease affecting women of child-bearing age. The guidelines recommend a diagnostic approach that includes transbronchial lung biopsy before surgical lung biopsy, as well as earl...

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateNov 15, 2017
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

X-rays reveal the biting truth about parrotfish teeth

A study by scientists at the Department of Energy's Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory has revealed a unique chain mail-like woven microstructure in parrotfish teeth that enables their remarkable bite and resilience. This structure also provides a blueprint for creating ultra-durable synthetic materials.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalACS Nano·DateNov 15, 2017

Kevlar-based artificial cartilage mimics the magic of the real thing

Researchers created a synthetic material that combines the strengths of Kevlar with polyvinyl alcohol to mimic natural cartilage's properties. The new material boasts the same mechanism as natural cartilage, releasing water under stress and recovering by absorbing it later.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateNov 15, 2017

Has the Mental Health Act had its day?

Experts argue that a non-discriminatory legal framework governing involuntary treatment could replace unjust discrimination against people with mental ill health. Critics, however, worry that changing the law without proper resourced services could lead to reduced rates of compulsion and decreased care for vulnerable individuals.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateNov 15, 2017

Study urges global-change researchers to embrace variability

A new review article argues that incorporating natural variability into experiments can provide more accurate insights into the effects of climate change on corals and other reef organisms. Studies found that varying factors such as temperature and pH can affect the physiology and response to future changes, warranting further research.

SourceVirginia Institute of Marine Science·JournalCurrent Climate Change Reports·DateNov 15, 2017
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

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

'Left-handed' fish and asymmetrical brains

Biologists have found that cichlid fish with a distinct preference for one side of their bodies exhibit corresponding asymmetry in brain structure and gene expression. The study reveals a functional relationship between brain shape and behavioral laterality, suggesting an evolutionary link to handedness in humans.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalGenome Biology and Evolution·DateNov 15, 2017

Gut bacteria are sensitive to salt

A study published in Nature found that common salt reduces certain lactic acid bacteria in the gut of mice and humans, impacting immune cells responsible for autoimmune diseases and hypertension. Probiotics ameliorate disease symptoms in mice.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalNature·DateNov 15, 2017
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

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

Intentional teaching makes the biggest impact on early childhood outcomes

Research suggests that high-quality preschool teaching practices, particularly those focused on intentional teaching and scaffolding, have the largest effect on young children's academic and social skills. Effective curricula, teacher-child ratio, and professional development also play a significant role in shaping outcomes.

SourceFrank Porter Graham Child Development Institute·JournalChild Development Perspectives·DateNov 15, 2017
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Stopping the dengue threat

A QUT study has identified social factors such as overseas arrivals, rainwater tanks, and economic status as potential dengue risk factors. The study suggests increasing surveillance and monitoring of travellers arriving in Australia to control the importation and transmission of dengue virus.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 15, 2017

How to keep cows happy

A Brazilian study reveals that minor changes to corrals, such as removing splash colors and water puddles, can significantly reduce the stress levels of cattle. The implementation of good handling practices, including calm handlers and reduced noise levels, also led to improved behavior and cortisol release.

SourceSpringer·JournalTropical Animal Health and Production·DateNov 15, 2017

Count your blessings: Quantitative microbiome profiling

The VIB-KU Leuven team presents a novel approach to analyzing gut microbiota, enabling the calculation of bacterial loads in fecal samples. This allows for a more accurate understanding of the relationship between microbiome composition and health parameters.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalNature·DateNov 15, 2017
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Spinning cylinders to recreate nature's patterns

Researchers at Institute for Basic Science developed a method to create dynamic tubular structures by exploiting centripetal force of rotating fluids, enabling self-assembly of particles under non-equilibrium conditions. This breakthrough could lead to creation of various shapes of microcomposites useful in photonics applications.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateNov 15, 2017

Three-dimensional nanomagnets for the computer of tomorrow

Scientists at the University of Cambridge and TU Eindhoven develop functional 3D-nanoprinted circuits that can process information along three dimensions. This breakthrough could lead to significant increases in electronic device storage and processing capacities.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalACS Nano·DateNov 15, 2017

Engineering the gut microbiome with 'good' bacteria may help treat Crohn's disease

Researchers at Penn Medicine found that wiping out bad bacteria and re-introducing 'good' bacteria can reconfigure the gut microbiota, potentially treating Crohn's disease. The study used human and mouse studies to show that a single enzyme can regulate bacterial nitrogen metabolism and lead to dysbiosis.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateNov 15, 2017

The rhetorical signature of Donald J. Trump

Kathleen Hall Jamieson and Doron Taussig analyze Trump's rhetoric, finding it both disrupted political norms and created challenges for governing. Trump's signature traits include spontaneity, accountability dodging, and demonization, which have led to concerns about his mental acuity and speculation about invoking the 25th Amendment.

SourceAnnenberg Public Policy Center of the University of Pennsylvania·JournalPolitical Science Quarterly·DateNov 15, 2017
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

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

Visiting the doctor for low back pain? Expect something different now...

Recent revisions to major international guidelines for the management of low back pain recommend shifting from pain medicines to non-medicinal approaches such as yoga, mindfulness, and physiotherapy. GPs are now unlikely to prescribe pain medicines, encouraging a more holistic approach to treating LBP.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateNov 15, 2017

Developing a new vaccination strategy against AIDS

Researchers tested a new vaccination approach in rhesus monkeys, finding that the type and order of administration influenced immune activation. The study showed promise for inducing sustained protective immunity without increasing CD4+ T helper cells.

SourceDeutsches Primatenzentrum (DPZ)/German Primate Center·JournalJournal of Virology·DateNov 15, 2017

Public -- and researchers -- skeptical to climate engineering

A study found that the general public and researchers share a sceptical attitude towards climate engineering, preferring political solutions over technological interventions. Respondents expressed concerns about the complexity of systems we don't understand and the potential for greater problems than it solves.

SourceLinköping University·JournalClimatic Change·DateNov 15, 2017
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

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

Filling intercropping info gap

Researchers developed mathematical equations to calculate crop yields and optimize fertilizer use for sorghum-peanut intercropping. The study aims to improve profits and food production in West Africa, where millions of farmers face food security challenges.

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

Targeting cancer without destroying healthy T-cells

Researchers have discovered a method to target cancerous T-cells while sparing healthy ones, which are essential to the immune system. This breakthrough could lead to new therapeutic approaches for rare and aggressive T-cell lymphoma, which has been difficult to treat without damaging healthy T-cells.

SourceCardiff University·JournalNature Medicine·DateNov 15, 2017

Generous people give in a heartbeat -- new study

Research at Anglia Ruskin University and Stockholm University links sensitivity to heartbeats with generosity. Participants in a game showed higher generosity when better at detecting heartbeats.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 15, 2017
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Aging tests yield varying results

Researchers compared 11 measures of aging, including blood and chromosome tests, and found that none consistently predicted physical or cognitive changes. Telomere length and epigenetic clocks showed some promise but were less clearly linked to physiological outcomes.

SourceDuke University·JournalAmerican Journal of Epidemiology·DateNov 15, 2017

Wine 'legs' and minibot motors (video)

Researchers Lidong Zhang and colleagues developed a new method for propelling tiny motors using the Marangoni effect, eliminating expensive catalysts. The droplets rotate rapidly on water, propelled hundreds of centimeters without pollution, with added electromagnetic generator converting kinetic energy to electrical energy.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalLangmuir·DateNov 15, 2017
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

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

Virtual reality training may be as effective as regular therapy after stroke

A recent study published in Neurology found that virtual reality training can improve arm and hand movement after a stroke, with results comparable to traditional therapy. The study involved 120 participants who underwent either standard physical and occupational therapy or virtual reality training for four weeks.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateNov 15, 2017

Teenage depression linked to father's depression

A new study by University College London researchers found a significant association between fathers' depressive symptoms and their teenage children's symptoms of depression. The study, which analyzed data from two large longitudinal studies, suggests that family-focused interventions should also target fathers to prevent depression.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalThe Lancet Psychiatry·DateNov 15, 2017

Study finds asthma and food allergies predictable at age 1

A study finds that children with eczema or atopic dermatitis and sensitization to an allergen at age 1 are significantly more likely to develop asthma and a food allergy by age three. The CHILD Study also found that early introduction of common allergenic foods may reduce the risk of allergic sensitization and food allergy.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateNov 15, 2017
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

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

An Alzheimer's treatment would tax the US health care system

A new study suggests that a breakthrough Alzheimer's treatment could leave millions of people without access to care due to the US healthcare system's limited capacity. The study identifies shortcomings in specialist diagnosis, diagnostic scanners, and infusion centers, and recommends measures to prepare for an Alzheimer's therapy.

SourceRAND Corporation·DateNov 15, 2017

Study finds consuming nuts strengthens brainwave function

A study by Loma Linda University Health researchers found that consuming nuts regularly strengthens brainwave frequencies associated with cognition, healing, learning, memory, and other key brain functions. Pistachios produced the greatest gamma wave response, while peanuts stimulated the highest delta response.

SourceLoma Linda University Adventist Health Sciences Center·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateNov 15, 2017

Water baths as good as bleach baths for treating eczema

A new Northwestern Medicine study found that water baths were just as effective as bleach baths in reducing eczema symptoms, with no added benefits to using bleach. Regular bathing can help control bacterial infections and prevent dryness, making it a better alternative for patients with eczema.

SourceNorthwestern University·DateNov 15, 2017

Manganese-based MRI contrast agent may be safer alternative to gadolinium-based agents

Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital have developed a potential alternative to gadolinium-based contrast agents for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The new manganese-based agent Mn-PyC3A produced comparable image enhancement to the standard of care with rapid clearance and less likelihood of toxicity. The study used a baboon...

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalRadiology·DateNov 15, 2017
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

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

Amazon's recovery from forest losses limited by climate change

A study by researchers at the University of Edinburgh found that Amazon forest areas have limited ability to recover due to recent climate changes. The findings suggest that replanted and recovering forests can only lock away about two-thirds of the carbon they have lost over the past 20 years.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 15, 2017

NUS researchers identify potential mediator for social memory formation

A study by NUS researchers has identified the potential role of a neuropeptide named Substance P as a mediator of social memory in area CA2 of the hippocampus. This finding suggests that Substance P may play a key role in forming social memories, including distinguishing between familiar and novel faces or objects.

SourceNational University of Singapore, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 15, 2017

Diagnostic test helps primary care docs rule out pathologic heart murmur in kids

A new diagnostic test found that disappearing of heart murmur while standing reliably rules out pathologic heart murmurs in children. The test showed a high predictive positive value and specificity, but poor sensitivity, making it a valuable tool for primary care docs to exclude costly cardiologist referrals.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateNov 15, 2017

Hunt for dark matter is narrowed by new University of Sussex research

Scientists at the University of Sussex have disproved the existence of a specific type of axion, an important candidate for 'dark matter', across a wide range of its possible masses. The study limits the characteristics that these particles could have, sending physicists back to the drawing board in their hunt for dark matter.

SourceUniversity of Sussex·JournalPhysical Review X·DateNov 15, 2017

November/December 2017 Annals of Family Medicine tip sheet

A new study found that disappearance of heart murmur while standing reliably rules out pathologic heart murmurs. The test, using an acoustic-based stethoscope, has a high predictive positive value and specificity, but poor sensitivity.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateNov 15, 2017

Model sheds new light on pathogen cooperation

A new model reveals that cooperative contagion processes can lead to more severe spread of infectious diseases, generating abrupt outbreak transitions and multi-stability. This discovery highlights the need for new containment strategies to combat epidemics in realistic systems.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalNew Journal of Physics·DateNov 15, 2017

Tapeworm drug fights prostate cancer

Researchers at the University of Bergen find that NTZ deactivates activated Beta-catenin in prostate and colon cancer cells, stopping their growth. The discovery could lead to faster development of new treatments for these cancers.

SourceThe University of Bergen·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateNov 15, 2017

Study asks neurosurgeons: How old is too old to perform brain surgery?

A Mayo Clinic study surveyed neurosurgeons on their attitudes toward ceasing practice and testing in late career. Most disagreed with an absolute age cutoff, while half favored additional testing for neurosurgeons 65 and older. The study highlights the need to focus on patient safety and assess a surgeon's capacity over time.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateNov 15, 2017