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Science News for November 7, 2017


UMD neuroscientists identify source of early brain activity

A new study led by University of Maryland neuroscientists found that subplate neurons, thought to have no role in transmitting sensory information, may conduct such signals after all. This discovery could enable early diagnosis of autism and other cognitive deficits.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 7, 2017

Immigrants living in US near California-Mexico border have history of trauma

A new study from Rice University reveals that nearly 80% of undocumented Mexican immigrants living near the California-Mexico border have a lifetime history of traumatic events. Clinically significant psychological distress affects around 50% of these individuals, with many reporting domestic violence, poverty, and material deprivation.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of Traumatic Stress·DateNov 7, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

How climate change may reshape subalpine wildflower communities

A recent study on Mount Rainier floral communities found that climate change can cause reassembly among wildflowers, leading to disrupted interactions. In 2015, an unusually warm summer resulted in new patterns of flowering times, with some species blooming earlier and others later.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalEcology·DateNov 7, 2017

New study explains why US health care spending increased $1 trillion

A new study measures the causes behind the US health care spending increase, attributing 50% to price and intensity of services. The analysis reveals that factors like population growth, age, disease prevalence, and utilization drive most of the spending increase.

SourceInstitute for Health Metrics and Evaluation·JournalJAMA·DateNov 7, 2017

Need entangled atoms? Get 'Em FAST! with NIST's new patent-pending method

Physicists at NIST have created a new method to link atoms' properties quickly, potentially providing precise sensing and quantum computer tools. The approach uses dipolar interaction to enable fast entanglement propagation through groups of atoms.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateNov 7, 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.

Dozens of new wildlife corridors identified for African mammals

Researchers at the University of California, Davis, have identified 52 potential wildlife corridors in Tanzania, linking protected areas across the country. The study found that nearly a sixth of previously identified corridors may be separated by land conversion.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 7, 2017

How Helicobacter pylori causes gastric cancer

Researchers at FAU have identified two mechanisms by which H. pylori destroys the stomach's protective layer, allowing bacteria to access deeper tissue layers and inflict further damage. The team also discovered that the injected bacterial toxin reprograms host cells, making them potentially cancerous.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateNov 7, 2017

Modeling social interactions to improve collective decision-making

Researchers analyzed social interactions in France and Japan, identifying five behaviors that influence group decisions. They developed a mathematical model that reproduces the results and predicts group performance based on information exchange, which can lead to improved cooperation and collaboration.

SourceCNRS·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 7, 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.

Inner ear stem cells may someday restore hearing

A Rutgers-led study has shown promise in using inner ear stem cells to reverse deafness, but also poses a risk of increased cell division, which could lead to cancer. The researchers discovered that controlling the chromatin state can reduce unwanted stem cell proliferation.

SourceRutgers University·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateNov 7, 2017

Improving sensor accuracy to prevent electrical grid overload

Researchers found that yokeless current sensors are prone to errors when measuring currents in iron conductors due to magnetic permeability. The study provides recommendations for designing more accurate sensors to improve the electrical grid's ability to respond to power surges and prevent catastrophic damage.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAIP Advances·DateNov 7, 2017

Stem cell and leukemia expert wins prestigious medal

Cristina Lo Celso, a rising star in biomedical research, has been awarded the Foulkes Foundation Medal for her groundbreaking work on leukemia. Her research focuses on understanding how leukaemia cells develop and relapse, with the ultimate goal of improving treatments and preventing disease recurrence.

SourceAcademy of Medical Sciences (UK)·DateNov 7, 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.

New quantum materials offer novel route to 3-D electronic devices

Researchers have discovered a new way to simulate Einstein's theory of general relativity in electronic systems, enabling the creation of 3D electron lenses and electronic invisibility devices. The discovery uses Weyl metamaterials, which combine ideas from solid-state physics, particle physics, and cosmology.

SourceAcademy of Finland·JournalPhysical Review X·DateNov 7, 2017

It takes a microclimate to raise a pinyon tree

Pinyon pine trees rely on specific microclimates to recover from drought events. Cooler and wetter climates with high tree cover, abundant juvenile trees, and mature seed-producing trees are essential for regeneration. Microsites under shaded canopies also provide favorable conditions for young pinyon pine growth.

SourceColorado State University·JournalJournal of Ecology·DateNov 7, 2017

BU researcher leads team in 'cancer interception' project

A research team led by BU School of Medicine professor Avrum Spira is developing diagnostic tools to intercept lung cancer at its earliest stage using innovative approaches like nasal swabs and blood tests. The goal is to confirm whether lung abnormalities found on chest imaging are benign lung disease or signs of cancer.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·DateNov 7, 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.

UC3M releases new research report

UC3M has secured over 7 million euros in contracts with companies, supporting its R&D efforts. The university is also active in European Horizon 2020 programs, with 50 projects approved and seven ERC projects funded.

SourceUniversidad Carlos III de Madrid·DateNov 7, 2017

Cities can cut greenhouse gas emissions far beyond their urban borders

A new study reveals that cities can significantly reduce their greenhouse gas emissions by addressing upstream activities such as housing and transportation. By choosing low-carbon construction materials and renewable energy sources, cities can drastically decrease their indirect CO2 emissions. This approach offers local policymakers m...

SourcePotsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 7, 2017

Targeting a microRNA shows potential to enhance effectiveness of diabetes drugs

Researchers found that inhibiting microRNA-204 could lead to better treatment of diabetes by regulating the cell surface receptor GLP1R. This could result in lower-drug doses and reduced dose-dependent side effects. The study suggests a novel approach to targeting beta-cell function and improving glucose control.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalDiabetes·DateNov 7, 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.

Lending late neurons a helping hand

University of Geneva researchers found that delayed neuronal migration in the fetus causes behavior disorders comparable to autism. They also discovered that correcting late neuron activity can restore interneuronal connections and prevent behavioral problems.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 7, 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.

NASA tracking Atlantic's Tropical storm Rina

Tropical Storm Rina strengthened to tropical storm status on Nov. 6 with increased cloud coverage and deep convection near its center. The storm is forecasted to accelerate toward the north-northeast by Wednesday night.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 7, 2017

UTIA awarded FAA grant to analyze biorefinery supply chains

Researchers will analyze U.S. biorefinery supply chains from feedstock to alternative jet fuels, with a focus on Southeastern states. The project aims to accelerate the commercialization of renewable fuels and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80%.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture·DateNov 7, 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.

Reformulation of Markowitz theorem

A new version of Markowitz's portfolio theory predicts inflated growth and reduced volatility in diverse populations across the landscape. It was developed by Prof Cang Hui and colleagues to quantify population demographics and behavior in invasive species management.

SourceStellenbosch University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 7, 2017

NASA-developed drone aircraft offer one-of-a-kind capabilities

The VA001 and sUAS offer one-of-a-kind capabilities, including flying in extreme temperatures and detecting soil moisture levels. These aircraft represent the future of scientific research, enabling NASA scientists to advance state-of-the-art airborne capabilities.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 7, 2017

Call for Europe-wide screening of babies for heart defects

A consensus statement from a group of neonatologists and pediatric cardiologists recommends routine pulse oximetry screening for all European babies within 24 hours of birth to detect critical congenital heart defects. Early detection is crucial for the best outcome, and current methods may miss up to 50% of affected infants.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalThe Lancet Child & Adolescent Health·DateNov 7, 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.

Severely bleeding patients must receive lifesaving drug within minutes, not hours

A new study found that treatment with tranexamic acid must be given within minutes of severe bleeding to improve survival by 70%. The World Health Organization has updated its recommendations for the use of tranexamic acid, calling for it to be made readily available in all health systems to reduce global deaths from severe bleeding.

SourceLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine·JournalThe Lancet·DateNov 7, 2017

'Zombie ant' brains left intact by fungal parasite

A study led by Penn State researchers found that a fungal parasite controls the behavior of carpenter ants without infecting their brains. The fungus surrounds and invades muscle fibers throughout the ant's body, forming a network to collectively control host behavior.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 7, 2017

New possibility to prevent and treat Parkinson's disease with licorice extract

A recent study by Korean researchers identified a potential mechanism of licorice extract inhibiting dopaminergic neuronal cell death in Parkinson's disease. The study found that liquiritigenin, a compound extracted from licorice, induces the expression of RNF146 protein and removes excessive PAR accumulation, resulting in inhibition o...

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalOncoTargets and Therapy·DateNov 7, 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.

Rival sperm and choosy eggs

In a groundbreaking study, FSU Professor Don Levitan found that sperm from multiple males compete for fertilization, allowing eggs to choose their preferred mate. This discovery has significant implications for the evolution of reproductive compatibility and the creation of new species.

SourceFlorida State University·DateNov 7, 2017

Muñoz-Avila awarded grant for goal driven autonomy

Researchers aim to create adaptive autonomous agents capable of self-reflection and adaptation in complex environments. The project will focus on developing AI and machine learning techniques to enable UUVs and other agents to operate reliably in uncertain conditions.

SourceLehigh University·DateNov 7, 2017

Circadian clock discovery could help boost water efficiency in food plants

Researchers have identified key genes that regulate water-efficient photosynthesis in pineapple and other CAM plants. This breakthrough could lead to improved water use efficiency in C3 crops, allowing them to thrive in environments previously inhospitable to them.

SourceTexas A&M AgriLife Communications·JournalGenome Biology and Evolution·DateNov 7, 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.

New model reveals possibility of pumping antibiotics into bacteria

Researchers have discovered that a cellular pump can move drugs like antibiotics into E. coli bacteria, contradicting the long-held assumption of strict proton and drug movement in opposite directions. This finding opens up new avenues for exploring antibiotic entry mechanisms to combat bacterial resistance.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 7, 2017

Public's poor knowledge of anatomy may hamper healthcare

A study found that the general public's limited understanding of human anatomy can impact the success of health screening campaigns targeting specific organs. The research revealed a surprising eagerness among the public to learn about anatomy, despite their knowledge gaps.

SourceLancaster University·JournalAnatomical Sciences Education·DateNov 7, 2017

How SORLA protects against Alzheimer's disease

Researchers at Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute identified a new protective function for the brain protein SORLA, which limits amyloid beta's toxic signaling. The study suggests that increasing levels of SORLA in mice reduced cognitive impairments caused by amyloid beta.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateNov 7, 2017

Tiny worms may offer new clues about why it's so hard to quit smoking

Researchers found a previously dismissed genetic mechanism that contributes to nicotine dependence and withdrawal effects. The study identified specific genes and microRNA that play an essential role in how the roundworms develop nicotine dependence and withdrawal responses.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalCell Reports·DateNov 7, 2017

For cancer patients with HIV, immunotherapy appears safe

A new category of immunotherapies called checkpoint inhibitors shows promise in treating cancers in HIV patients, who were previously excluded from clinical trials. The ongoing study suggests that these drugs can be safely used to manage cancer in people with HIV, providing a new hope for this population.

SourceFred Hutchinson Cancer Center·DateNov 7, 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.

Healthiest college students keep weight down, spirits up

Researchers found that a positive outlook and BMI both contribute to good health among college students. The study showed subjective happiness had the most significant impact on overall health, followed by hope and then BMI. In contrast, gratitude and life satisfaction didn't influence overall health individually.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·DateNov 7, 2017

Why plants form sprouts in the dark

Researchers identified a cell wall signal that initiates darkness programme in seedling development, enhancing survival. The signal is linked to metabolic breakdown products of pectin, allowing plant cells to communicate with each other about light conditions.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalCurrent Biology·DateNov 7, 2017

Mechanochemistry paves the way to higher quality perovskite photovoltaics

Researchers have developed a method to produce high-quality perovskite photovoltaics using mechanochemistry, resulting in improved efficiency and reduced structural defects. The production process involves grinding powders to create homogeneous perovskites with fewer defects, which improves the cell's performance.

SourceInstitute of Physical Chemistry of the Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateNov 7, 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.

Bonobos help strangers without being asked

Researchers studied wild-born bonobos at a sanctuary in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The results showed that bonobos will help strangers get food even when there is no immediate payback. This behavior is linked to a basic form of empathy called emotional contagion, which suggests that bonobos are also contagious with yawning.

SourceDuke University·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 7, 2017

Current cattle injections increase the risk of injury, research finds

A study by the University of Nottingham found that current injection methods in UK dairy cattle can damage the sciatic nerve, particularly in cows with low body condition scores. Researchers recommend injecting cattle in the neck or choosing a more lateral location when using the gluteal region to minimize the risk of nerve injury.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalVeterinary Record·DateNov 7, 2017

Mice prefer rules over fights

A study by IBS scientists found that mice develop 'social rules' to allocate rewards, promoting long-term benefits for both mice. The researchers used brain stimulation to induce a sense of pleasure, and observed that 60% of the mice waited for their turn, leading to more rounds and total reward time.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 7, 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.

Keeping harsh punishment in check helps kids with ADHD, study finds

A study by Ohio State University found that reducing harsh parenting approaches, including physical punishment, can calm children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. The intervention led to improvements in children's emotional regulation and behavior, with greater benefits seen in those who received longer coaching sessions.

SourceOhio State University·JournalClinical Psychological Science·DateNov 7, 2017

SLU researcher draws bulls eye around muscular dystrophy drug targets

A Saint Louis University researcher has identified two classes of drugs that could turn off the DUX4 protein responsible for facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD). The first class of drugs inhibits bromodomain and extra-terminal proteins, while the second class turns on beta-2 adrenergic signaling. These discoveries offer hope ...

SourceSaint Louis University·JournalSkeletal Muscle·DateNov 7, 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 model coulomb crystals to understand star evolution

Physicists Denis A. Baiko and Andrew A. Kozhberov studied the effects of strong magnetic fields and electron screening on ion motion in a Coulomb crystal. Their calculations can help understand the thermal evolution of neutron stars and white dwarfs.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Plasmas·DateNov 7, 2017

Color me purple, or red, or green, or ...

The NIST team has developed a directional color filter that can manipulate multiple wavelengths of light simultaneously and detect the source of incoming light. The device uses a nonuniform grid to selectively filter white light based on its angle of illumination, enabling applications in displays, solar energy harvesting, and sensing.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 7, 2017

Artificial sweeteners in groundwater indicate contamination from septic systems

A study by researchers at the University of Waterloo found that over 30% of rural groundwater wells contained artificial sweeteners, indicating contamination from local septic systems. This suggests that human wastewater is affecting shallow groundwater in the area, posing a health risk to aquatic organisms.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalJournal of Environmental Quality·DateNov 7, 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.

HIV patients at greater risk of both heart and kidney disease

A recent study published in PLOS Medicine reveals that HIV patients are at a higher risk of both chronic kidney disease and cardiovascular disease. The research found that nearly 11% of patients experienced both conditions within one year of each other.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateNov 7, 2017

U of I-led team reports connections that will fuel future brain trauma research

A University of Idaho-led team found a way to stimulate the formation of new neural connections in the adult brain, which could help humans fend off memory loss and brain trauma. The study used genetic manipulation in mice to induce axon and dendrite outgrowth, leading to the formation of stable, functional connections.

SourceUniversity of Idaho·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 7, 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.

Man's earliest ancestors discovered in southern England

Fossils of the oldest mammals related to mankind have been discovered on the Jurassic Coast of Dorset, dating back 145 million years. The two teeth belong to small, rat-like creatures that lived during the time of the dinosaurs and are the earliest undisputed fossils of mammals belonging to the line that led to human beings.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalActa Palaeontologica Polonica·DateNov 7, 2017

Employee volunteerism? Only if you think your boss is ethical

A new study by University of Vermont researchers shows that employees are more likely to engage in green behavior and local volunteerism if their boss is perceived as ethically responsible. However, this engagement declines significantly if the boss displays poor ethics.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalJournal of Business Ethics·DateNov 7, 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.

Can virtual reality be used to manage pain at a pediatric hospital?

Researchers found that virtual reality significantly reduced patients' and parents' perception of acute pain, anxiety, and general distress during blood draw procedures. The study suggests that VR could act as a preventative intervention transforming the blood draw experience into a less distressing procedure.

SourceChildren's Hospital Los Angeles·JournalJournal of Pediatric Psychology·DateNov 7, 2017

Osaka University chemists unlock the potential of fluoroalkenes

Researchers have developed a new method to replace fluorine atoms with boron in fluoroalkenes, enabling the creation of more versatile building blocks. This breakthrough could lead to improved pharmaceuticals and materials with unique properties.

SourceOsaka University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateNov 7, 2017

Shocking results of galaxy-cluster collisions

New observations reveal previously undetected regions where shocks accelerated subatomic particles, causing radio emission. Astronomers believe a North-South and East-West collision occurred, with possible third collision still to be analyzed.

SourceNational Radio Astronomy Observatory·DateNov 7, 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.

Cosmos code helps probe space oddities

The Cosmos code, developed by the University of Texas at Austin, has been optimized for the Stampede2 supercomputer using XSEDE ECSS resources. This allows for accurate simulations of black hole jets and other astrophysical phenomena, providing new insights into the mysteries of space.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·DateNov 7, 2017

Tech increases microfluidic research data output 100-fold

North Carolina State University researchers have developed a novel microfluidic platform called NanoRobo, which can collect up to 30,000 spectrographic information points per day. This technology enables the rapid discovery and screening of colloidal semiconductor nanocrystals, such as perovskite quantum dots, used in LEDs.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalLab on a Chip·DateNov 7, 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.

After repeated C. diff infections, people change their behaviors

A study of patients with recurrent Clostridium difficile (C. diff) infections found that many changed their behaviors, including increased hand washing and use of soap and water. However, certain dietary changes and probiotic supplements showed little evidence to reduce the risk of future infections.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateNov 7, 2017

A little stress is good for cellular health and longevity

Researchers discovered that mild mitochondrial stress signals can prevent protein-folding quality control failure and suppress damaged proteins associated with degenerative diseases. This approach doubles the lifespan of C. elegans and may offer a strategy for increasing cellular health and delaying disease risk in humans.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalCell Reports·DateNov 7, 2017

IUDs may have a surprising benefit: Protection against cervical cancer

A comprehensive study from the Keck School of Medicine of USC found that IUD use is associated with a dramatic decrease in cervical cancer incidence. The analysis included data from 16 high-quality observational studies involving over 12,000 women worldwide.

SourceUniversity of Southern California - Health Sciences·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateNov 7, 2017

Study: Serving water with school lunches could prevent child, adult obesity

A new study suggests that encouraging children to drink plain water with their school lunches could prevent over half a million youths from becoming overweight or obese. The intervention was associated with small but significant declines in risks of being overweight, with estimated long-term savings of $13 billion.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalPediatric Obesity·DateNov 7, 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.

Study outlines 'perfect storm' that led to Colombia's antibiotic resistance epidemic

A study by UTHealth researchers found that a 'promiscuous' carbapenemase gene and a bacterial clone carrying an antibiotic-killing gene created the perfect storm for Colombia's antibiotic resistance epidemic. The gene spread horizontally across Gram-negative bacteria, while the clone was introduced via an infected patient from the US.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateNov 7, 2017

Position statement opposing sex/porn addiction model

A group statement by three organizations opposes the addiction model in relation to frequent sexual behavior and pornography viewing. The statement cites a lack of scientific rigor and validity in current assessments for these concepts, as well as neglecting important cultural factors.

SourceCenter for Positive Sexuality·JournalJournal of Positive Sexuality·DateNov 7, 2017

How far did you fall from the tree?

Researchers at Kyoto University used a chimpanzee parent-offspring trio to estimate direct mutation rates, finding higher rates than in humans. The study also revealed a strong male-biased mutation spectrum and new structural alterations.

SourceKyoto University·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 7, 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.

Sheep are able to recognize human faces from photographs

Researchers trained sheep to recognize celebrity faces and found they could identify their handler's face without prior training. The study suggests sheep have advanced face recognition abilities, comparable to those of humans and monkeys.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateNov 7, 2017

Researchers discover promising new anticancer strategy

Researchers at Scripps Research Institute have discovered a compound that irreversibly stops the growth of certain aggressive, treatment-resistant tumor cells. The compound, FiVe1, blocks cell division by binding to a structural protein, vimentin, produced abundantly in mesenchymal-type cells.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 7, 2017

Climate change, sparse policies endanger right whale population

The study reveals that climate change and insufficient international protection are endangering the North Atlantic right whale population, which has made modest gains in recent years. The lack of adequate policies in northern waterways increases the risk of ship traffic and commercial fishing gear harming the whales.

SourceCornell University·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateNov 7, 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.

UTSA professor to harvest clean energy from hot pavements

A new technology developed by UTSA professor Samer Dessouky converts heat from paved surfaces into electricity, generating power for rural areas and potential back-up lighting in airports. This innovation uses drones to map concentrated heat sources, enabling efficient energy harvesting from hot pavements.

SourceUniversity of Texas at San Antonio·DateNov 7, 2017

Take charge, wine lovers, and trust your palate

A Michigan State University study found that people fit into specific 'vinotypes' based on their food and beverage preferences. The researchers recommend that servers and sommeliers consider these preferences when suggesting a wine. By trusting their own palate, consumers can make informed choices about wine pairings.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalInternational Journal of Wine Business Research·DateNov 7, 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 a 'flipped' gene helped butterflies evolve mimicry

A genetic inversion led to the development of mimicry in Asian swallowtail butterflies, with some species maintaining multiple forms of disguise to evade predators. The researchers found that the genetic change carried unrelated material, potentially introducing long-term disadvantages.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 7, 2017