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Science News for November 30, 2017


Research uncovers new weed control options for strawberry growers

Researchers discovered effective weed control methods using EPTC, flumioxazin and napropamide to manage yellow nutsedge and black medic in winter strawberry crops. However, none of the studied herbicides adequately suppressed Carolina geranium, with halosulfuron causing significant injury to strawberry plants.

SourceCambridge University Press·JournalWeed Technology·DateNov 30, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

ASCB announces cohort of 67 new Society Fellows

The American Society for Cell Biology (ASCB) has announced 67 new Fellows, recognizing their significant and sustained impact on the discipline of cell biology. The honor is bestowed by peers and acknowledges not only outstanding scientific contributions but also service to ASCB and its missions.

SourceAmerican Society for Cell Biology·DateNov 30, 2017

Neutrophil-inspired propulsion

Researchers have created a novel system that enables aggregates composed of magnetized particles to roll along a channel using a combined acoustic and magnetic field. The system has shown promise for delivering drugs to hard-to-reach sites within the body, with potential applications in cancer treatment.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 30, 2017

Study suggests measurable impact of colorectal cancer screening program

A new study suggests that an American Cancer Society program has been effective in promoting improvements in colorectal cancer screening rates in federally qualified health centers. Funded FQHCs increased their CRC screening rates significantly more than nonfunded FQHCs, with increases of 8.7% and 12.7% over three years.

SourceAmerican Cancer Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateNov 30, 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.

Immune-boosting antibody combination could improve lymphoma survival

A Cancer Research UK-funded study found that combining anti-CD27 and anti-CD20 antibodies increases life expectancy in mice with cancer by nearly doubling the median survival time. The combination recruits more immune cells and enhances their ability to destroy cancer cells, offering a promising new approach to treating lymphoma.

SourceCancer Research UK·JournalCancer Cell·DateNov 30, 2017

Skin pigmentation is far more genetically complex than previously thought

African populations show a higher degree of genetic complexity in skin pigmentation as latitude decreases, with an increasing number of unknown genes contributing to variation. The study found that stabilizing selection takes over at lower latitudes, leading to more diverse skin colors.

SourceBroad Institute of MIT and Harvard·JournalCell·DateNov 30, 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.

Helping the brain prune bad habits

Researchers found that fasudil, a drug that inhibits Rho kinase, promotes goal-directed behavior in mice by pruning dendritic spines, a process involved in learning new behaviors. The treatment showed promise in reducing cocaine self-administration and could be an effective adjunct to cognitive behavioral therapy for treating drug abuse.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 30, 2017

A new research agenda to accelerate malaria elimination and eradication

A new research agenda, malERA Refresh, has been established to accelerate progress towards malaria elimination and global eradication. The initiative focuses on innovation and integrated approaches to tackle the challenges of resistance, transmission dynamics, and ecological balance.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateNov 30, 2017

New software can verify someone's identity by their DNA in minutes

Researchers developed a method to quickly and accurately identify people and cell lines from their DNA. The technology can flag mislabeled or contaminated cell lines in cancer experiments, potentially speeding up the discovery of new treatments.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·DateNov 30, 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.

New vaccine technique effectively fights breast cancer in mice

Researchers from the University of Copenhagen developed a new vaccine technique that can fight HER2-positive breast cancer in mice with a 50-100% prevention rate. The vaccine works by inducing large amounts of antibodies targeted at cancer cells, preventing tumors from developing and slowing down cancer progression.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalOncoImmunology·DateNov 30, 2017

Migration makes breeding harder for seabirds

A study by University of Oxford researchers found that puffin colonies traveling great distances during winter often face difficulty breeding due to environmental factors like competition and habitat quality. The study provides new insights into seabird migration behaviors, highlighting the costs associated with long-distance travel.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalCurrent Biology·DateNov 30, 2017

Global longitudinal study confirms obesity increases dementia risk

A global longitudinal study confirmed that people with high body mass index (BMI) are more likely to develop dementia than those with normal weight. The study analyzed data from over 1.3 million adults in the US and Europe, finding that individuals near dementia onset tend to have lower body weight.

SourceUniversity College London·DateNov 30, 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.

Army researchers seek better batteries

A team of Army scientists published new findings on modeling insights into battery electrolyte structure and stability, highlighting the importance of tailoring electrolytes to support fast and reversible lithium transport. The research aims to improve battery efficiency and lifespan.

SourceU.S. Army Research Laboratory·JournalAccounts of Chemical Research·DateNov 30, 2017

How bone cells promote lung cancer growth

Research reveals that bone marrow-derived cells contribute to lung cancer progression by stimulating the production of specific neutrophils. These neutrophils exhibit increased expression of genes associated with tumor-promoting processes, leading to worse patient survival in a small study.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateNov 30, 2017

Southern Ocean drives massive bloom of tiny phytoplankton

Researchers have discovered that a high concentration of coccolithophores and diatoms thrive in the Great Calcite Belt, driven by nutrient levels, sea surface temperature, and carbon dioxide concentration. The bloom plays a crucial role in global carbon cycle models and highlights the complexity of phytoplankton ecology.

SourceBigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences·JournalBiogeosciences·DateNov 30, 2017

Rising levels of HIV drug resistance

A new study reveals that HIV drug resistance is on the rise, particularly among individuals in low- to middle-income countries, where 11.1% of those starting therapy have resistant virus strains. The research highlights the importance of improving monitoring and response strategies to combat this growing threat.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateNov 30, 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.

Researchers advance technique to detect ovarian cancer

Researchers at Rice University and MD Anderson Cancer Center use fluorescent carbon nanotube probes to locate specific tumors in the body. The noninvasive technique achieved first in vivo success in detecting small concentrations of nanotubes inside rodents with high accuracy.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateNov 30, 2017

NIFA supports next generation of farmers and ranchers

The National Institute of Food and Agriculture's Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program provides training, education, and technical assistance to attract diverse groups into farming and ranching. The program aims to help farmers and ranchers establish successful enterprises and increase their chances of survival.

SourceNational Institute of Food and Agriculture·DateNov 30, 2017

Microscopy: A space-time sensor for light-matter interactions

Researchers at LMU Munich create a new mode of electron microscopy that enables the observation of fundamental interactions between light and matter in real time and space. The technique uses attosecond pulse trains to monitor ultrafast processes initiated by light oscillations onto matter, allowing for sub-atomic resolution.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature Physics·DateNov 30, 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.

Does physician age influence the likelihood of patient complaints?

A study found that younger ophthalmologists were more likely to be associated with patient complaints compared to their older colleagues. The Vanderbilt University Medical Center's Patient Advocacy Reporting System was used to analyze patient complaints between 2002 and 2015.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateNov 30, 2017

Gravity: A faster method for gauging the size of great quakes

Researchers have discovered a faster method for estimating large earthquake magnitudes by analyzing 'elasto-gravity' signals, which travel at the speed of light. These signals consistently arrive before seismic wave counterparts, allowing for near-real-time magnitude detection and more accurate estimates.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateNov 30, 2017

Global health committee issues report on heart disease burden

A report by the American College of Cardiology recommends prioritizing US resources toward detecting and treating cardiovascular disease, while maintaining efforts to eradicate infectious diseases. The report aims to save lives and contribute to worldwide economic prosperity through a strong global health strategy.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateNov 30, 2017

Diet success may depend on your DNA

A recent study published in the journal Genetics found that genetic differences can greatly impact how individuals respond to different diets. The researchers used four groups of animal models with unique genetic traits to test the effectiveness of various diets, including American-style, Mediterranean, Japanese, and ketogenic diets.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalGenetics·DateNov 30, 2017

New in the Hastings Center report, November-December 2017

The article examines the persistence of continuous electronic fetal monitoring as a standard of care, despite evidence that it increases risks. It also discusses the lack of mechanisms for ensuring medical professionals stay current with best practices and the role of malpractice law in setting boundaries on acceptable interventions.

SourceThe Hastings Center·JournalHastings Center Report·DateNov 30, 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.

Two-drug combination may boost immunotherapy responses in lung cancer patients

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center have identified a novel drug combination that can prime nonsmall cell lung cancers to respond better to immunotherapy. The treatment, which combines a demethylating drug with an HDAC inhibitor, triggered a chemical cascade that increased the attraction of immune cells to fight tumors an...

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalCell·DateNov 30, 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.

Computer analysis fills gaps in antibody blueprint

Researchers from Helmholtz Munich used computer analysis to study IgG antibodies and reveal new steps in the glycosylation pathway. The findings confirmed predictions made by an algorithm and were replicated using genome-wide association studies and laboratory experiments.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 30, 2017

Type 1 diabetes as common in adults as children, but many adults misdiagnosed

Research published in the Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology found that over 40% of type 1 diabetes cases occur after age 30, and many adults are initially misdiagnosed with type 2. Type 1 diabetes requires insulin treatment to control blood sugar levels, while type 2 can often be managed with diet and medication.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·DateNov 30, 2017

HIV Prevention Trials Network (HPTN) announces initiation of HPTN 084

The HPTN 084 study enrolls 3,200 HIV-uninfected women in seven countries to test the safety and efficacy of a long-acting injectable cabotegravir compared to daily oral TDF/FTC. The study aims to increase HIV prevention choices for women, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa where they bear a disproportionate burden.

SourceFHI360·DateNov 30, 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.

New treatment investigated for brain tapeworm infection

Researchers investigate pretreatment with etanercept to manage post-treatment inflammation in neurocysticercosis, a major cause of epilepsy worldwide. Etanercept suppresses inflammatory pathways involved in treatment-induced inflammation.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateNov 30, 2017

Hundreds of fossilized eggs sheds light on pterosaur development

A collection of over 200 fossilized pterosaur eggs is providing new insights into the species' development, with some containing embryonic remains up to 2 years old. The findings suggest that newborn pterosaurs needed parental care and likely participated in colonial nesting behavior.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateNov 30, 2017

Uncertainty surrounds US livestock methane emission estimates

A new study challenges previous estimates of US livestock methane emissions, suggesting a significant discrepancy between top-down and bottom-up approaches. The researchers used a spatially explicit approach to estimate enteric methane emissions for cattle and manure methane emissions for swine and poultry.

SourcePenn State·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateNov 30, 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.

Hot, sunny days could slow 5G networks, but research offers solutions

A study by Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University researchers found that solar radio emissions can degrade 5G network transmissions by up to 15% in hot weather. However, effective communication links are possible at distances of up to 134 meters indoors and 110 meters outdoors, even in hilly urban areas.

SourceEmbry-Riddle Aeronautical University·JournalIEEE Antennas and Wireless Propagation Letters·DateNov 30, 2017

Versatile cancer drugs

Kinase inhibitors show promise in treating various types of blood and lung cancers by blocking overactive enzymes that control cell growth. Researchers identified new target structures for drugs, including the kinase MELK, which is linked to poor prognosis in lung cancer.

SourceGerman Cancer Research Center (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ)·JournalScience·DateNov 30, 2017

Do your ears hang low? The complex genetics behind earlobe attachment

A study published in the American Journal of Human Genetics reveals that earlobe attachment is influenced by an interplay of at least 49 genes. This complex genetics challenges traditional teaching methods, which often focus on dominant and recessive genes.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateNov 30, 2017

Brain's appetite regulator disrupted in obese teens

A new study using advanced MRI techniques has discovered disrupted brain connectivity in obese adolescents, affecting regions involved in appetite regulation. The findings suggest a possible underlying cause for the rising rates of childhood obesity and its associated health risks.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateNov 30, 2017

Range of opioid prescribers play important role in epidemic, study finds

A study published in Addiction found that low- and high-volume prescribers both play a significant role in opioid prescriptions, challenging the focus on 'pill mill' doctors. The study also identified other high-risk patient groups, such as concomitant users and chronic high-dose users, who pose a greater public health threat.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalAddiction·DateNov 30, 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.

Squeezing light into a tiny channel brings optical computing a step closer

By forcing light to go through a smaller gap, researchers have increased its intensity and allowed photons to interact more strongly over a short distance. This technology brings optical processing closer to electrical transistors, potentially solving the problem of nonlinear optics and enabling faster, more efficient computers.

SourceImperial College London·JournalScience·DateNov 30, 2017

Parasitic worms don't just wait to be swallowed by new hosts

Scientists found that parasitic nematodes use odors from host mice as cues to position themselves where they have a higher chance of being eaten. The worms are attracted to fresh mouse feces and can migrate towards new hosts based on odorants produced by mammalian skin, feces, or urine.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateNov 30, 2017

Study suggests a way to stop HIV in its tracks

A Loyola University Chicago study has identified the protein bicaudal D2, which facilitates the trafficking and nuclear import of HIV-1 genomes during infection. This finding raises the possibility of developing a drug that would prevent HIV-1 from binding to bicaudal D2.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 30, 2017

Gravitational waves could shed light on the origin of black holes

Researchers propose using gravitational wave experiments to detect merger events at redshifts greater than 40, which could indicate the presence of primordial black holes or non-Gaussianity in the early universe. A detection would bolster theories about dark matter, while a non-detection would cast doubt.

SourceBrown University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateNov 30, 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.

Researchers map brain activity to improve prosthetic design

Researchers at the University of Houston have developed a new way to understand how the brain controls walking in complex environments. Using brain-body imaging and motion capture technology, they identified specific areas of the brain involved in locomotion, including the posterior parietal lobe and sensorimotor cortex.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 30, 2017

Missing DNA fragments hold clue to predicting childhood leukaemia relapse

Australian researchers have developed a new risk scoring system for children with leukaemia based on missing DNA fragments or 'microdeletions'. The study tested 475 patients and found that the new score is more accurate than the current approach, allowing doctors to better predict relapse risk.

SourceChildren's Cancer Institute Australia·JournalBritish Journal of Haematology·DateNov 30, 2017

New multipurpose device to help prevent HIV and pregnancy

A new dual-purpose drug delivery device, SCHIELD, aims to provide long-acting contraception and HIV prevention for women in low- and middle-income countries. The device, set to be launched in Kenya and South Africa, has the potential to improve health outcomes and empower women.

SourceRTI International·DateNov 30, 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.

Targeted treatment could prevent spread of pancreatic cancer, heart damage

Researchers at the University of Cincinnati have developed a targeted treatment that can prevent the spread of pancreatic cancer and protect the heart from damage. The treatment, which involves using an mTOR kinase inhibitor, has shown promise in reducing disease progression and cardiac impairment in patients with certain types of tumors.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalMolecular Cancer Therapeutics·DateNov 30, 2017

Mindfulness training and therapy can reverse jail time's negative psychological effects

Researchers found that mindfulness training and therapy can mitigate the decline in cognitive abilities and impulse control associated with prison time. The study revealed that inmates who participated in CBT and mindfulness exercises showed significant improvements in emotion recognition and impulse control compared to those in a cont...

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalCriminal Justice and Behavior·DateNov 30, 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.

Study reads between the lines in children's vocabulary differences

Grade school children from low-income homes have significantly smaller vocabularies compared to their peers, with a 10% difference in word learning, leading to long-term academic implications. The study suggests that increasing vocabulary through oral methods and visualizing sentence relationships can be effective interventions.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalJournal of Experimental Child Psychology·DateNov 30, 2017

Caught in the act: Papillomaviruses promote non-melanoma skin cancer

Researchers at the German Cancer Research Center have found that papillomaviruses associated with UV light can promote the development of non-melanoma skin cancer. The viruses affect the stability of host cell DNA, leading to accumulation of UV-related damage. This link has been previously underinvestigated in human biopsies.

SourceGerman Cancer Research Center (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ)·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateNov 30, 2017

Conspiracy thinking less likely with greater news media literacy, study suggests

A study by University of Illinois researchers found that individuals with higher news media literacy are less likely to endorse conspiracy theories. The study surveyed nearly 400 participants and found that those who know more about the news media are less susceptible to conspiracy theories, regardless of their political affiliation.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalCommunication and the Public·DateNov 30, 2017

CRF1 stress receptor is regulator of mast cell activity during stress

A new study identified CRF1 as a master regulator of mast cell activity during stressful challenges, including psychological stress and anaphylaxis. The study showed that mice lacking CRF1 expression were protected against disease, suggesting a potential therapeutic target for treating stress-related diseases.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalJournal of Leukocyte Biology·DateNov 30, 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.

An anti-aging protein could be targeted to rejuvenate immune cells

Researchers found that SIRT1 stabilizes a mechanism preventing immune cell toxic effects, but its loss accelerates glycolysis and cytokine production. This understanding led to potential new drug targets to strengthen or weaken SIRT1, potentially countering age-related diseases.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateNov 30, 2017

New document guides hospitals in responding to infectious disease outbreaks

The Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America published a new guidance document for hospitals to respond to infectious disease outbreaks. The document emphasizes the role of healthcare epidemiologists in emergency preparedness and response, providing medical and technical expertise and leading infection prevention efforts.

SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateNov 30, 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.

Postsurgery guideline could reduce opioid prescriptions by as much as 40 percent

A new guideline for discharge opioid prescriptions after inpatient general surgical procedures could significantly reduce opioid prescriptions. The guideline, developed by researchers at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, recommends prescribing a certain number of opioids based on the patient's usage the day before discharge.

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateNov 30, 2017

Cigarette smokers are 10 times more likely to be daily marijuana users

A study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that cigarette smokers are 10 times more likely to use marijuana on a daily basis. The strongest relationship between cigarette smoking and daily cannabis use is among 12 to 17 year olds, who are 50 times more likely to be daily cannabis users than non-smokers.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateNov 30, 2017

Smartphone addiction creates imbalance in brain

Researchers found a significant increase in GABA levels and disrupted balance between neurotransmitters in the brains of smartphone- and internet-addicted teenagers. Cognitive behavioral therapy improved these imbalances, suggesting a potential treatment pathway for addiction.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateNov 30, 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.

Speaking up against bigotry can reduce bad behavior

Rutgers psychologists discover that confronting people about bigoted statements can lead to a lasting reduction in prejudice. Confrontation causes individuals to feel bad and consciously avoid repeating such statements, with effects persisting even a week after the initial encounter.

SourceRutgers University·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateNov 30, 2017

Butterfly emerges from quantum simulation

A team of researchers has successfully recreated Hofstadter's butterfly using quantum simulators, enabling the simulation of exotic electronic conduction properties. This breakthrough could lead to the development of new materials with unique properties.

SourceCentre for Quantum Technologies at the National University of Singapore·JournalScience·DateNov 30, 2017

Antibiotics may reduce the ability of immune cells to kill bacteria

A recent study found that antibiotics like ciprofloxacin can directly alter the biochemical environment of mouse immune cells during infection, making it harder for them to kill bacteria. This change in environment also led to increased resistance to antibiotics in E. coli bacteria.

SourceBroad Institute of MIT and Harvard·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateNov 30, 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.

Vulnerability identified for subtypes of glioblastoma

Researchers have identified a genetically distinct subpopulation of patients with glioblastoma that is particularly sensitive to drugs like cilengitide. The strategy uses a gene profile alone to predict which tumors are susceptible to αvβ3 blockade, offering a new therapeutic target for precision medicine in brain cancer treatment. Thi...

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalCancer Cell·DateNov 30, 2017

Studies examine the effects of weight on patients with rheumatoid arthritis

Research indicates that being overweight or obese can lead to poorer RA treatment outcomes and higher mortality risk. Studies show that patients with healthy weights are more likely to achieve remission, while those who are overweight or obese face a 25-47% lower chance of sustained remission despite similar treatments.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateNov 30, 2017

Windows of opportunity: Solar cell with improved transparency

Researchers at The University of Tokyo's Institute of Industrial Science have developed a semi-transparent solar cell that absorbs red and blue light while letting green through. The new material, based on perovskite, is able to retain an impressive power conversion efficiency of around 10% despite being made much thinner.

SourceInstitute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 30, 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.

Designing a golden nanopill

A team of scientists used supercomputers to explore the optical properties of plasmonic nanovesicles, which could lead to breakthroughs in cancer treatment and studying the nervous system. The researchers designed golden nanopills that can be triggered by laser light to release drugs or molecules.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·JournalAdvanced Optical Materials·DateNov 30, 2017

Enhancing graduate studies in environmental technology

A six-year program will provide multidisciplinary training to tackle urban and industrial runoff challenges and promote ecofriendly approaches to managing water and residual effluents. The grant supports INRS' Decontamination and Reclamation research area and ties in with NSERC's priority fields of environmental science and technology.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·DateNov 30, 2017

Skin pigmentation far more complex than previously known

Researchers studied African populations, finding a high degree of variability in skin pigmentation that cannot be explained by just a few genes. The study suggests that multiple genes contribute to the process, with variations increasing near the equator.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalCell·DateNov 30, 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 laser technology could reduce accidents on icy roads

Researchers have developed a method to detect hydrohalite, a substance that forms on treated icy roads and cannot be removed by conventional salting. Using Raman instruments fitted with lasers, trucks can identify the presence of hydrohalite and switch to alternative de-icers, making roads safer for users.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalApplied Spectroscopy Reviews·DateNov 30, 2017

Deducing the properties of a new form of diamond

Researchers at Clemson University used a simple computer model to calculate the elastic properties of amorphous diamond, a new form of diamond with varying fractions of sp3-bonded carbon. The results show that this new substance retains desirable mechanical properties similar to crystalline diamond.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateNov 30, 2017

Bat cave study sheds new light on origin of SARS virus

A new study sheds light on the origin of the SARS virus, finding that genetic recombination between viral strains in bats may have produced the direct evolutionary ancestor of the strain that caused a deadly outbreak. The study also identified strains capable of entering human cells.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateNov 30, 2017

Double-edged sword: Killing cancer cells can also drive tumor growth

Researchers at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center have shown that chemotherapy-generated debris can stimulate tumor growth, but resolvins can suppress this effect. The findings offer a novel treatment approach to prevent cancer recurrence.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateNov 30, 2017

Phase III Immunotherapy trial for migraine shows positive results

The phase III clinical trial showed that fremanezumab reduced the number of headache days by an average of 4.3 days with quarterly treatment and 4.6 days with monthly treatment. The therapy also demonstrated a favorable safety profile, with most common adverse event being irritation at injection site.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 30, 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.

New research robustly resolves one of evolutionary biology's most heated disputes

Recent genomic analyses have flipped between whether sponges or comb jellies are the oldest lineage of living animals. New research by Professor Davide Pisani reveals that sponges are the most ancient lineage, with models that describe the data poorly favouring comb jellies and those that better describe the data favouring sponges.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalCurrent Biology·DateNov 30, 2017

Going swimmingly: Biotemplates breakthrough paves way for cheaper nanobots

Researchers have demonstrated a new method to produce biotemplated nanoswimmers using bacterial flagella as templates, overcoming high startup costs of traditional approaches. The nanorobots can perform nearly as well as living bacteria and show potential for targeted cancer therapeutics and electronics applications.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAPL Materials·DateNov 30, 2017

Behavior not indicative of pain in stressed babies

New research suggests that stressed newborns may not display typical pain behavior despite increased brain activity in response to pain. The study found a disconnect between brain wave patterns and behavioral responses in stressed babies, highlighting the need for alternative methods to assess infant pain.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalCurrent Biology·DateNov 30, 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.

Secure information transmission over 500m fiber links based on quantum technologies

Researchers at Tsinghua University and Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications have successfully demonstrated entanglement-based quantum secure direct communication (QSDC) over 500m optical fibers. The system uses novel fiber-based quantum light sources to generate polarization entangled Bell states, enabling secure informat...

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience Bulletin·DateNov 30, 2017

Researchers report altered brain functional connectivity in autism spectrum disorder

A study published in Brain Connectivity found significant differences in functional architecture and interactivity of the default mode network in adolescent and young adult males with autism spectrum disorder compared to those without ASD. These findings could lead to the development of new imaging-based diagnostic markers for autism.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalBrain Connectivity·DateNov 30, 2017

Visible signals from brain and heart

A new sensor molecule allows researchers to visualize calcium concentrations in living animals without genetic modification or radiation exposure. This breakthrough enables better understanding of disease processes and has potential applications in improving medical treatments.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateNov 30, 2017

Emergency radiologists see inner toll of opioid use disorders

A high prevalence of complications related to opioid use disorders has been seen in emergency radiology patients, with skin and soft tissue infections, respiratory issues, and back pain being common. Imaging results often provided critical information to aid management plans and reduce mortality rates.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateNov 30, 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.

Pitt ChemE and Lubrizol team up to improve American manufacturing

The partnership aims to apply advanced chemical engineering research to industrial-scale chemical manufacturing, reducing waste generation, utility, and energy costs. The University of Pittsburgh's Chemical and Petroleum Engineering Department is developing new educational programs and internships to prepare students for the industry.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·DateNov 30, 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.

NIH and partners launch HIV vaccine efficacy study

The NIH has launched a Phase 2b proof-of-concept study called Imbokodo to assess the safety and efficacy of an experimental HIV vaccine regimen. The study aims to enroll 2,600 HIV-negative women in sub-Saharan Africa and will test the quadrivalent mosaic vaccine against placebo.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·DateNov 30, 2017

Researchers find link between excessive screen time and suicide risk

Research reveals a concerning relationship between excessive screen time and mental health issues, including depression and suicidal behaviors, particularly among teenage girls. Limiting screen time to an hour or two daily may help reduce the risk of depressive symptoms and suicidal attempts.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalClinical Psychological Science·DateNov 30, 2017

Study identifies genes involved in tolerance following kidney transplantation

Researchers found genes associated with B cell receptor signaling and activation in tolerant kidney transplant recipients, suggesting an active immune regulation of B cells. The study provides insights into the mechanisms behind tolerance induction in renal transplantation, potentially leading to minimization of immunosuppression.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateNov 30, 2017

Nutrition may play a key role in early psychosis treatment: New research

Research from Australia's NICM Health Research Institute finds large nutritional deficits in blood levels of critical nutrients among individuals with early psychosis. Vitamin B9 (folate) and D were found to be particularly low, associated with poorer mental health outcomes.

SourceNICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University·JournalSchizophrenia Bulletin·DateNov 30, 2017

To proliferate or not to proliferate? A cellular spring replies

The study reveals that protein ZO-1 perceives mechanical signals and activates cellular responses accordingly, influencing epithelial cell proliferation and differentiation. Targeted inhibition of ZO-1 in tumors could be a potential pathway to explore for cancer treatment.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalCurrent Biology·DateNov 30, 2017

New research provides insights into the skin microbiome

Two Corynebacteria species have been identified as potential targets to improve skin appearance, with one associated with younger people and the other with older people. The 'old skin' bacteria was found to be associated with skin redness, wrinkles, and age spots.

SourceSpectrum Science·DateNov 30, 2017

Public resource boosts drug discovery and offers insights into protein function

The new Connectivity Map includes over 1.3 million gene expression profiles from multiple cell lines treated with chemical or genetic perturbations, enabling the study of small molecule and gene function. This expanded resource accelerates drug discovery efforts by predicting how small molecules work and discovering compounds with spec...

SourceBroad Institute of MIT and Harvard·JournalCell·DateNov 30, 2017

Global risk of Madagascar's pneumonic plague epidemic is limited

A recent study by Hokkaido University found that the global risk of Madagascar's pneumonic plague epidemic is limited, with an estimated risk of less than 0.1 person per country between August and October. The basic reproduction number was calculated at 1.73, and case fatality risk was 5.5 percent.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalEurosurveillance·DateNov 30, 2017

Cannabis linked to bipolar symptoms in young adults

Teenage cannabis use at least 2-3 times weekly is directly associated with suffering from symptoms of hypomania in later years. The study found that adolescent cannabis use is an independent risk factor for future hypomania, suggesting a potential causal link.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalSchizophrenia Bulletin·DateNov 30, 2017

Fish oil component preconditions vision cells to survive future injury or disease

A LSU Health New Orleans study found that DHA in fish oil 'preconditions' photoreceptor and RPE cells to survive future insults, reducing the risk of retinal degeneration. The researchers also discovered that daily omega-3 supplementation may provide an opportunity for halting debilitating eye diseases.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalCellular and Molecular Neurobiology·DateNov 30, 2017

Judging a 'clean face' for trachoma

Researchers trained staff in Tanzania to assess facial cleanliness and found reliable measures of clean faces. These findings suggest adding facial cleanliness assessments to trachoma surveys in developing countries where the infection is a public health problem.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateNov 30, 2017

Why are genetically identical individuals different? Ask your mum!

A team of scientists discovered that a major cause of variation between genetically identical C. elegans worms is their mother's age, particularly in younger mothers. The study found that the youngest mothers produce offspring with impaired characteristics such as size, growth rate, and starvation resistance.

SourceCenter for Genomic Regulation·JournalNature·DateNov 30, 2017

Cancer drug leads to 'drastic decrease' in HIV infection in lung cancer patient

A recent study has found that a cancer drug called nivolumab can drastically decrease the reservoirs of HIV-infected cells in the body, a key step towards potentially eradicating the virus. This breakthrough has been observed in a single patient with lung cancer, who showed a sustained reduction in HIV reservoirs after treatment.

SourceEuropean Society for Medical Oncology·JournalAnnals of Oncology·DateNov 30, 2017

Recurring nightmares could reflect your daily frustrations

Research suggests that people's daily frustration with life can lead to recurring nightmares, where they experience falling, failing, or being attacked in their dreams. The study found that those whose psychological needs were not met reported more negative dream themes and struggled to interpret their dreams positively.

SourceSpringer·JournalMotivation and Emotion·DateNov 30, 2017

Scallop eyes mirror reflecting telescopes, with sophisticated optical properties

Researchers have obtained a detailed view of a scallop's visual system, which is strikingly similar to a reflecting telescope. The complex arrangement of up to 200 eyes allows the scallop to achieve spatial vision through a layered mirror structure that reflects specific wavelengths of light.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateNov 30, 2017

Novel transcriptomic signature of type 2 diabetic islets identified

A collaborative study has identified a novel cluster of dysregulated genes in the pancreatic islets of patients with type 2 diabetes. The findings suggest that these altered genes are responsible for beta cell failure in diabetes and may hold new insights into how to prevent and treat the disease.

SourceDiabetologia·JournalDiabetologia·DateNov 30, 2017

Introducing iScience, Cell Press's first interdisciplinary journal

iScience is an open-access, peer-reviewed journal publishing on a continuous basis starting early 2018. It will promote rigorous research that advances a field and reporting with transparent methods, replication studies, and negative results. The editorial board harnesses experts across many different fields.

SourceCell Press·JournaliScience·DateNov 30, 2017

HIV also targets the brain

Researchers at Stellenbosch University found that HIV affects the brain in early stages of infection, leading to decreased blood flow and brain functional impairment. The study used fMRI scans to compare brain activity of people with and without HIV, revealing a link between frontal lobe atrophy and cognitive symptoms.

SourceStellenbosch University·JournalAIDS·DateNov 30, 2017

People with disabilities more likely to be arrested

Research at Cornell University found that people with disabilities are nearly 44% more likely to be arrested by age 28 compared to those without disabilities. Black men with disabilities face a disproportionately high risk of arrest, highlighting the need for police training and healthcare improvements.

SourceCornell University·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateNov 30, 2017

Barrow researchers validate five new genes responsible for ALS

Researchers have validated five new genes responsible for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), a fatal neurological disorder. The study uses AI-powered technology to accelerate the discovery of new treatments by identifying key proteins linked to the disease.

SourceSt. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center·JournalActa Neuropathologica·DateNov 30, 2017

Shifting protein networks in breast cancer may alter gene function

A new study found that breast cancer proteins can have altered functions in tumor cells due to changes in protein interaction networks. This shift affects the number of genes performing each function, not their expression levels. The study predicts patient survival and cancer subtype based on these functional shifts.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateNov 30, 2017

Discovery puts the brakes on HIV's ability to infect

Researchers have found a mechanism that prevents the formation of HIV's protein shell, which is essential for infection. The discovery could lead to the development of new anti-HIV drugs by targeting specific molecular processes.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 30, 2017

Length of stay in neonatal ICU can affect behavior of premature babies

Research shows that longer stays in the neonatal ICU are linked to behavioral problems and impaired emotional regulation in preterm babies. The study highlights the importance of developmental care programs to reduce stressful experiences and promote protective strategies during early development.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalEarly Human Development·DateNov 30, 2017

Lighting the way to switch chemical reaction pathways

Researchers from QUT, KIT, and Ghent University create a light-switchable chemical reaction system to revolutionize chip printing. The system uses visible light to reversibly switch certain chemical processes, potentially making it cheaper, simpler and safer.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 30, 2017