Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for October 10, 2017


When the brain's wiring breaks

Scientists have discovered that axon damage leads to shrinking dendritic spines and rising excitability in neurons, but also found that blocking gene activity with netrin-1 can reverse these changes. This breakthrough could lead to improved treatments for brain injury patients.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 10, 2017

A new potential alternative to mosquito control discovered

Researchers have found that essential oils extracted from citrus fruit peels are highly effective in killing mosquito larvae, suggesting a potential eco-friendly alternative for mosquito control programs. The study, believed to be the first of its kind, uses three citrus species and has shown promising results.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalNatural Product Research·DateOct 10, 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.

Lung cancer research gets a breath of fresh air

Researchers at the Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering have developed a human lung-on-a-chip technology that models the growth and metastatic behaviors of non-small cell lung cancer. The study found that tumor cells grow rampantly in the alveolar microenvironment but remain quiescent in the airway chip, and that cyclic...

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalCell Reports·DateOct 10, 2017

How fever in early pregnancy causes heart, facial birth defects

Researchers at Duke University Medical Center found that fever in early pregnancy can cause heart and facial birth defects, but using a fever reducer like acetaminophen may help prevent these defects. The study used zebrafish and chicken embryos to demonstrate the impact of fever on development.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalScience Signaling·DateOct 10, 2017
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

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

Study shows epidurals don't slow labor

A new study published in Obstetrics & Gynecology has found that epidural analgesia does not affect the duration of the second stage of labor, contrary to long-held beliefs. The research compared catheter-infused epidural anesthetic with a saline placebo and found no significant difference in duration or other outcomes.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateOct 10, 2017

Meeting an unmet need: Surgical implant that grows with a child

A new growth-accommodating implant designed for cardiac repair in children can reduce the number of surgeries needed over time. The implant, developed by researchers at Boston Children's Hospital and Brigham and Women's Hospital, uses a biopolymer core that degrades predictably, allowing it to grow with the child.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateOct 10, 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.

Seeing the next dimension of computer chips

Scientists at Osaka University used scanning tunneling microscopy to create images of atomically flat side-surfaces of 3D silicon crystals, a crucial step towards designing smaller, faster, and more energy-efficient computer chips. The achievement paves the way for innovation in semiconductor manufacturing.

SourceOsaka University·JournalJapanese Journal of Applied Physics·DateOct 10, 2017

Without a nudge, old prescribing habits die hard for clinicians

Researchers found that two psychological approaches, peer comparison and accountable justification, significantly reduced inappropriate antibiotic prescribing rates. However, when these interventions were removed after a year, some clinicians' bad habits returned, highlighting the need for long-term adoption of nudges to maintain bette...

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalJournal of the American Medical Association·DateOct 10, 2017

New Zika serotypes may emerge, researcher warns

Researchers warn that Zika virus is rapidly mutating in Brazilian patients, potentially leading to the emergence of new serotypes. This could hinder the production of effective vaccines and diagnostic tests, posing significant public health risks.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·DateOct 10, 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.

This soft robotic gripper can screw in your light bulbs for you

Developed by engineers at the University of California San Diego, the gripper combines capabilities to twist, sense, and build models of objects. Researchers tested it on an industrial robot, demonstrating its ability to manipulate a wide range of objects in low light conditions.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateOct 10, 2017

Call to action on food justice and overcoming disparities in infant nutrition

A new article introduces the concept of food justice to address infant feeding disparities and environmental injustices in breast milk access. The authors propose activism strategies to advance food justice, emphasizing the importance of breast milk as a basis for infants' immune response.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalEnvironmental Justice·DateOct 10, 2017

A self-propelled catheter with earthworm-like peristaltic motion

Researchers developed a self-propelled catheter that uses peristaltic motion to navigate ultrafine bronchi, improving biopsy accuracy. The catheter's actively curving function helps choose the direction of propulsion and its flexing drive adjusts to changes in line diameter.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·DateOct 10, 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.

Advantages of breast feeding -- Elucidation of a molecular mechanism

Research reveals that oxytocin is ingested by intestinal villiated epithelial cells via RAGE receptors after gut closure. This mechanism enables oxytocin to be orally administered as a medication and/or nutrient supplement in milk, promoting social brain development and communication.

SourceKanazawa University·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 10, 2017

When anemones bleach, clownfish suffer

Researchers found that bleached anemones led to a drastic fall in viable eggs among clownfish (-73%) and increased cortisol levels. This study reveals the impact of climate change on coral reefs and the fish that depend on them.

SourceCNRS·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 10, 2017

Flexible sensors can detect movement in GI tract

Researchers at MIT have developed a flexible sensor that can be ingested to diagnose gastrointestinal disorders such as slow digestion and monitor food intake. The sensor measures the rhythmic contractions of the digestive tract, providing valuable information on stomach movement.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateOct 10, 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.

Quorn protein on par with animal sources

A new study by the University of Exeter suggests that Quorn protein may be as effective as animal-based proteins in building muscle. The research compared Mycoprotein, a fungi-based protein source found in Quorn foods, to milk protein and found equivalent bioavailability.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalBritish Journal Of Nutrition·DateOct 10, 2017

BU: Stepped care beneficial after hurricanes

A stepped care approach is more effective in reducing PTSD prevalence than usual care in the aftermath of hurricanes. The study found that stepped care delivered greater reach, treatment effectiveness, and cost-effectiveness than usual care when it came to hurricane-related PTSD.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateOct 10, 2017

Do male fish prefer them big and colorful?

In a study published in Springer's Behavioral Ecology and Sociobiology, researchers found that male black-finned goodeid fish prefer females with larger bellies and more vibrant colors. These physical traits were associated with higher reproductive value and increased chances of offspring survival.

SourceSpringer·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateOct 10, 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.

A hard lesson -- the way poor sleep impacts on schooling

Research found that over a third of primary school children are getting less than ten hours of sleep per night, with poor sleep associated with difficulties in paying attention in class and keeping up with school work. Removing technology from the bedroom may help improve sleep outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·DateOct 10, 2017

Debate over Mars exploration strategy heats up in astrobiology journal

The article discusses a debate over Mars exploration strategies, with some experts proposing the relaxation of planetary protection policies to expand the search for life on Mars. Current robotic missions may be hindering the discovery of Martian life due to contamination concerns, but easing policies could lead to breakthroughs.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalAstrobiology·DateOct 10, 2017

Targeting 'lipid chaperones' may preserve lifelong metabolic health

Researchers found that mice lacking fatty acid-binding proteins exhibit substantial protection against obesity and metabolic diseases as they age. However, this effect did not lengthen lifespan. The study suggests that targeting lipid chaperones may be a way to mimic the benefits of calorie restriction.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalCell Reports·DateOct 10, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

NASA eyes the development of Tropical Storm Ophelia

Tropical Storm Ophelia developed on Oct. 9, strengthening into a tropical storm with strong thunderstorms and an eye-like feature. NASA forecasts gradual strengthening over the next 48 hours, with Ophelia expected to become a hurricane by Thursday.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateOct 10, 2017

Protein restricts sap uptake by aphids

Researchers at Umea University have discovered a plant protein that limits aphid feeding behavior, resulting in reduced sap ingestion and fewer offspring on resistant plants. The protein is thought to occlude the narrow food canal of the aphid, providing a new avenue for developing more sustainable crop resistance.

SourceUmea University·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateOct 10, 2017

Machine learning translates 'hidden' information to reveal chemistry in action

Scientists have developed a new machine learning method that can analyze x-ray data to reveal the structures and environments of catalysts during reactions. This allows for real-time analysis and optimization of reaction conditions, potentially leading to improved catalyst performance and faster production of desired products.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·DateOct 10, 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.

Drivers are less cautious at railway crossings

A QUT study found drivers approach level crossings significantly faster and with less caution than at road intersections, posing a significant risk of fatalities. Drivers often fail to assess the situation properly, failing to recognize approaching trains or adapting their behavior for reduced visibility during night-time driving.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·DateOct 10, 2017

SUNY Downstate awarded $10 million from National Institutes of Health

SUNY Downstate has been awarded a $10 million grant to form a translational health disparities research program, focusing on recruiting and training underrepresented minority scientists. The program will support junior faculty endowments, research fellowships, and recruit underrepresented minority students to study health disparities.

SourceSUNY Downstate Health Science University·DateOct 10, 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.

Forget about it

Researchers develop a quantum perovskite material that exhibits adaptive response to repeated proton insertion and removal, resembling brain's desensitization. This property enables effective programming of the material like a computer.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 10, 2017

More than half of police killings not officially documented on US death certificates

A new study from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found that official US death certificates failed to count over half of the people killed by police in 2015, with a greater proportion undercounted in lower-income counties and for deaths involving non-firearm means like Tasers. The study's findings highlight the need for better...

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateOct 10, 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.

Mass. General team creates functional, stem-cell-derived small bowel segments

A team of researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital has successfully created functional small intestine segments using human induced pluripotent stem cells. The segments were able to absorb nutrients and transfer glucose and fatty acids into the bloodstream when transplanted into rats. This breakthrough could potentially provide a ...

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 10, 2017

Research clarifies nuclear hormone receptor function in plants

A new study reveals that Mediator subunit MED25 links the jasmonate receptor to transcriptionally active chromatin. It also interacts with histone modification enzymes to regulate gene expression, integrating genetic and epigenetic regulators.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 10, 2017

Study identifies whale blow microbiome

A new study found a shared respiratory microbiome in healthy humpback whales, with 25 bacterial groups present across all samples. This discovery could serve as an important framework for monitoring whale health and detecting diseases.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmSystems·DateOct 10, 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.

Fighting sickle cell disease by looking back to infancy

Researchers at MUSC are developing a gene-modifying treatment for sickle cell disease by targeting the LSD 1 enzyme. The potential breakthrough could lead to a disease-modifying treatment and fast-track human clinical trials in as few as three years.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·DateOct 10, 2017

Survey provides new directions for employment of people with disabilities

The 2017 Kessler Foundation National Employment and Disability Survey: Supervisor Perspectives shows that most employers have processes and practices in place for the inclusion of employees with and without disabilities. Effective practices like centralized accommodation funds are highly effective, but underutilized by many organizations.

SourceKessler Foundation·DateOct 10, 2017

Changes in perspective may affect how useful drones really are

Researchers found that users struggle to use drone images to locate objects on the ground, posing challenges for emergency operations and applications. Switching from an aerial view to a ground view slows down estimates of object location, with incorrect placements four times farther away.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·DateOct 10, 2017

A molecular garbage disposal complex has a role in packing the genome

The proteasome complex has been found to regulate DNA packing in the nucleus, influencing gene expression. In yeast cells, the proteasome can induce heterochromatin formation but prevent its spread, suggesting an alternative mechanism of action beyond proteolysis.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateOct 10, 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.

Study shows antibody-biogel partnership can be stronger defense than previously thought

Scientists have discovered that weak binding between antibodies and biological gels like mucus is more effective in trapping pathogens, making it a stronger first line of defense. This finding has the potential to revolutionize the treatment and prevention of various diseases by providing new targets for engineered antibodies.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 10, 2017

Genetic advance for male birth control

Researchers at Michigan State University have identified the PNLDC1 gene as a key player in regulating sperm production, providing a genetic foundation for male birth control. The study's findings suggest that silencing this gene can lead to infertility in mice, making it a promising approach for human male contraception.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 10, 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.

New ichthyosaur species, long gone, found in a storeroom

A new species of ichthyosaur, Protoichthyosaurus applebyi, has been identified from a fossil at the University of Nottingham. The specimen is significant due to its rarity and uniqueness, providing valuable insights into Britain's early fossil past and ichthyosaur evolution.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalJournal of Vertebrate Paleontology·DateOct 10, 2017

Research reveals how rabies can induce frenzied behavior

A new study reveals how rabies induces frenzied behavior in animals by binding to and inhibiting brain receptors, leading to the transmission of the disease. The research provides a molecular mechanism for this behavior change, shedding light on why rabies is devastating in poor, rural regions.

SourceUniversity of Alaska Fairbanks·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 10, 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.

Law enforcement-related deaths in the US undercounted in official government data

A study published in PLOS Medicine found that law enforcement-related deaths in the US are significantly undercounted in official government data. The study used capture-recapture analysis and multilevel logistic regression to estimate the number of such deaths, finding that only 44.9% were documented by state death certificates compar...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateOct 10, 2017

Solar flux: From bug to feature

Sandia scientists develop a system to convert surplus solar flux into additional electricity at tower CSP plants, increasing capacity by up to 10 MW and reducing costs. The concept involves cladding the tower with photovoltaic panels, generating over 10% of total capacity.

SourceSolarPACES·DateOct 10, 2017

Electrons surfing on a laser beam

Researchers at FAU successfully developed a new technique to generate an optical field that can be influenced with great precision, enabling light and electrons to coincide within 'attoseconds'. This allows for high-energy acceleration of electrons, promising applications in materials science, biology, and medicine.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalNature Physics·DateOct 10, 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.

What is a safe following distance?

A study by Queensland University of Technology found that 50% of drivers tailgate, with most leaving less than a two-second gap between vehicles. The researchers identified confusion among drivers over what is deemed a safe following distance, which can lead to rear-end crashes.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·DateOct 10, 2017

Best way to recognize emotions in others: Listen

A study published by the American Psychological Association found that listening without visual cues improves emotion recognition. Researchers conducted five experiments with over 1,800 participants and discovered that voice-only communication yields more accurate results than combined visual and auditory cues.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalAmerican Psychologist·DateOct 10, 2017

'Fake fin' discovery reveals new ichthyosaur species

A new study has re-examined a 1970s-discovered ichthyosaur, Protoichthyosaurus, and found major differences in its forefin structure compared to Ichthyosaurus. The discovery of fake fins added to some specimens led to the recognition of a new species, Protoichthyosaurus applebyi.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalJournal of Vertebrate Paleontology·DateOct 10, 2017

New smell test could aid early detection of Alzheimer's and Parkinson's

Researchers at Rockefeller University have developed new smell tests that can detect olfactory disorders more reliably than conventional options. The tests aim to identify underlying causes of neurological disorders like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases early on, potentially improving treatment outcomes.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 10, 2017

Missing atoms in a forgotten crystal bring luminescence

A team of researchers at KAUST discovered the origin of strong photoluminescence in Cs4PbBr6, a perovskite material. Heating the crystal to 180°C irreversibly destroys its photoluminescence, but creates CsPbBr3 nanocrystals that act as traps for excitons, leading to efficient re-emission of light.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalChemistry of Materials·DateOct 10, 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.

Growing human brain cells in the lab

Researchers have developed a new, simplified technique to produce homogeneous human brain cells in the lab, accelerating drug screening and disease study. This breakthrough allows for cost-effective production of large quantities of brain cells within weeks, enabling wider adoption in basic science and industry.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateOct 10, 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.

Forest grazing counteracts the effectiveness of trees to reduce flood risk

A recent study published in Geoderma suggests that high-intensity forest land use like grazing can counteract the positive effect of tree planting on reducing flood risk. Researchers found that infiltration rates were higher under trees when the forest was undisturbed, but decreased when sheep grazed underneath

SourceLancaster University·JournalGeoderma·DateOct 10, 2017

Common acid reflux medications promote chronic liver disease

Researchers discovered that stomach acid suppression alters specific gut bacteria in a way that promotes liver injury and progression of three types of chronic liver disease. This association was found in both mouse models and human patients with chronic alcohol abuse, highlighting the potential risks of common acid reflux medications.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 10, 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.

Ibuprofen better choice over oral morphine for pain relief in children after minor surgery

A randomized controlled trial found ibuprofen to be a better choice for postoperative pain relief in children aged 5-17 after minor orthopedic surgery. The study showed that ibuprofen had fewer adverse effects compared to oral morphine, which was associated with significant side effects such as nausea and drowsiness.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateOct 10, 2017

Probing exotic ices

Researchers analyzed how water molecules interact with one another in three types of ice, finding that interactions depend strongly on molecule orientation and ice structure. Insights from this analysis will help understand liquid water and its behavior surrounding biomolecules.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateOct 10, 2017

Meeting an unmet need: A surgical implant that grows with a child

Researchers developed a growth-accommodating implant that can expand in tune with a child's natural growth, decreasing the number of heart surgeries a child must endure. The novel design, inspired by nature, could also be adapted for other growth-accommodating implants throughout the body.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateOct 10, 2017

The Fitbits of food ingestion?

A multi-disciplinary team developed flexible sensors that can sense movement and ingestion in the stomach for at least two days. These devices can harvest energy from the gastrointestinal tract movement and potentially power novel ingestible electronic systems.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateOct 10, 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.

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.

Deaton designated as SRA International Distinguished Faculty

Andrea Deaton, University of Oklahoma administrator, has been designated as a Society of Research Administrators International Distinguished Faculty. She is recognized for her exemplary teaching, scholarship, and practice in research management and administration.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·DateOct 10, 2017

Pest resistance to biotech crops surging

A global assessment reveals that genetically engineered crops producing insect-killing proteins from Bacillus thuringiensis have led to a fivefold increase in pest resistance cases over the past decade. However, some pests remain suppressed due to factors such as recessive inheritance of resistance and abundant refuges.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateOct 10, 2017

Ancient asteroid impact exposes the moon's interior

Scientists have discovered that the moon's mantle is composed of orthopyroxene, not olivine, contrary to previous assumptions. This finding challenges models for the formation and evolution of the Moon and its differences from Earth.

SourcePurdue University·JournalGeology·DateOct 10, 2017

Breath instead of a blood test

Scientists at ETH Zurich have developed a method to monitor lipolysis in real-time by analyzing exhaled acetone during exercise. The new breath test can detect when the body starts burning fat, allowing athletes to optimize their training regimen.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateOct 10, 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.

Little growth observed in India's methane emissions

A recent study by the University of Bristol found that India's methane emissions have shown little growth over the last few years, with accurate reporting by the country's authorities. The research used a combination of observations from the surface, an aircraft, and a satellite to quantify India's methane emissions.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 10, 2017

Sharing of science is most likely among male scientists

A recent study published in Scientific Reports found that male scientists are more likely to share their research than female scientists. The researchers discovered a significant gender gap in scientific collaboration, with males being over 15% more likely to respond positively to requests for shared work.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 10, 2017

New health equity research center established at UIC

The University of Illinois Chicago has established a Center of Excellence in minority health and health disparities research, funded by a $6.75 million NIH grant. The center will investigate social determinants contributing to health disparities in marginalized groups.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·DateOct 10, 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.

Parasite study paves way for therapies to tackle deadly infections

Researchers at the University of Edinburgh have made a significant discovery on how a harmful parasite harnesses energy, which could lead to new treatments. The study reveals that targeting a key enzyme linked to metabolism could be an effective way to kill the parasite without harming humans.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalJournal of Molecular Biology·DateOct 10, 2017

A lesson for Canada: Quebec pharmacare system creates winners and losers

A study found that Quebec's system increased access to medicines for working population but came at a cost of $200 more per person than the rest of Canada. The private-public model disproportionately affects low-income individuals and families, with premiums exceeding three percent of household income.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateOct 10, 2017

Breeding salt-tolerant plants

Researchers have discovered that quinoa plants can absorb and store salt in bladder cells, allowing them to thrive on saline soils. This unique adaptation enables the plant to recycle energy from sugar molecules to neutralize toxic salt.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalCell Reports·DateOct 10, 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 the cone snail's deadly venom can help us build better medicines

Scientists studying cone snail venom aim to develop new medicines by understanding how the poison works. Researchers have discovered that cone snail toxins can overlap between the immune and central nervous systems in humans, potentially leading to breakthroughs in treatments for neurological diseases like Alzheimer's.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 10, 2017

Does chronic inflammation contribute to PCOS?

The University of Illinois Chicago is conducting a $3 million study on inflammation's role in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which affects one in seven women. The research aims to test whether nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug salsalate can improve ovarian function and reduce inflammation.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·DateOct 10, 2017

Research explores relationship between social media and drinking

A University of Houston psychologist explores how social media influences alcohol consumption among college students, finding that heavy drinkers overestimate others' drinking and misperceive what's normal. A new intervention uses social media to provide personalized feedback and reduce excessive drinking.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateOct 10, 2017

Smartphone apps launched for atrial fibrillation patients and their healthcare providers

Atrial fibrillation patients can use My AF app to access condition information, treatment options, and lifestyle tips. The app also enables face-to-face consultations with healthcare professionals. Meanwhile, AF Manager app helps healthcare providers import patient data, suggest personalized treatment plans, and share notes with patients.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEP Europace·DateOct 10, 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.

Tenfold increase in childhood and adolescent obesity in 4 decades: New study by Imperial College

A new study by Imperial College London and the World Health Organization found that childhood and adolescent obesity rates increased tenfold over four decades, from less than 1% in 1975 to nearly 6% in girls and 8% in boys in 2016. The number of obese children and adolescents is expected to surpass those who are underweight by 2022. He...

SourceImperial College London·JournalThe Lancet·DateOct 10, 2017

Antibiotics before low-risk operations do not seem to breed postop antibiotic resistance

A large-scale study found that patients who receive antibiotics before certain types of low-risk operations have the same risk for developing antibiotic-resistant infections as those who don't. The study analyzed data from over 22,000 patients and found no association between prophylactic antibiotic use and postoperative antibiotic res...

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateOct 10, 2017

Moffitt researchers discover new targets for approved cancer drug

Researchers found that ceritinib, an FDA-approved drug for ALK-rearranged non-small cell lung cancer, also inhibits previously unknown targets. The study shows promise for repurposing the drug to target other cancers with networked alterations.

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateOct 10, 2017

Conservationists' eco-footprints suggest education alone won't change behavior

A recent study reveals that education and knowledge have little impact on individual behavior when it comes to major issues like the environment and personal health. Conservationists were found to behave in a marginally 'greener' manner, but with surprisingly modest differences compared to economists and medics.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalBiological Conservation·DateOct 10, 2017

Researchers identify gene that influences nicotine dependence

A DNA variant in the DNMT3B gene is associated with an increased risk of nicotine dependence, as well as heavier smoking and a higher likelihood of developing lung cancer. The study, which analyzed over 38,600 participants, provides new insights into the genetic factors influencing addiction.

SourceRTI International·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateOct 10, 2017

The right women for the job

The participation of women in the labor force has nearly doubled since 1950, benefiting everyone, including men, with average wages increasing as a result. Women bring important skills and perspectives to businesses, making them more productive and competitive.

SourceUniversity of Akron·JournalJournal of Regional Science·DateOct 10, 2017

Mass extinctions led to low species diversity, dinosaur rule

Two mass extinction events led to the survival of a low number of 'weedy' species that spread globally, affecting ecosystems and biogeography. The findings shed light on modern high extinction rates and potential consequences for current biodiversity loss.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 10, 2017

Likely new treatment target identified for diabetic retinopathy

Researchers have identified adenosine receptor A2a as a potential target for reducing dysfunctional blood vessel development in the eye. Blocking this receptor has been shown to inhibit pathological angiogenesis and promote healthy blood vessel formation, offering new hope for treating diabetic retinopathy.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 10, 2017

Marine snowfall at the equator

Researchers publish high-resolution data on particle density in equatorial Atlantic and Pacific Ocean, finding that particle density increases again in 300-600 meters of water depth due to daily migratory behavior of plankton organisms. This challenges previous assumptions about the flow of particles into the deep sea.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel (GEOMAR)·JournalNature Geoscience·DateOct 10, 2017

Filling gaps in dementia research could help patients, family

Researchers analyzed 56 high-quality studies on dementia to identify gaps in knowledge, focusing on caregiver behavior, environment, and progression of disease. The study aims to inform treatment design and interventions to reduce behavioral and psychological symptoms in dementia patients.

SourcePenn State·JournalNursing Outlook·DateOct 10, 2017

Being unaware of memory loss predicts Alzheimer's disease, new CAMH study shows

A new CAMH study found that people unaware of their memory loss are more likely to progress to Alzheimer's disease. Those aware of memory problems are unlikely to develop dementia. The study used PET brain scans to identify specific brain regions affected in impaired illness awareness.

SourceCentre for Addiction and Mental Health·JournalJournal of Clinical Psychiatry·DateOct 10, 2017

Spin-current generation gets mid-IR boost with plasmonic metamaterial

Researchers in Japan have developed a wavelength-selective plasmonic metamaterial absorber to enhance the generation of spin currents from heat produced in the mid-infrared regime. The unique combination enables stronger light absorption and shows excellent tenability of these metamaterials' resonance wavelengths.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAPL Photonics·DateOct 10, 2017

Size doesn't matter -- at least for hammerheads and swimming performance

Researchers from Florida Atlantic University found that hammerhead sharks use different body movements to swim at the same speed, despite varying head shapes and sizes. The study revealed a double oscillating system in their movement, allowing for increased sensory perception and scanning of the environment.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateOct 10, 2017

Better mini brains could help scientists identify treatments for Zika-related brain damage

Researchers developed improved mini brain organoids from stem cells, closely mimicking human brain structure. They found critical similarities between the organoids and real brain tissue and identified effective drugs to block Zika's entry into the brain, offering new avenues for studying neurological disorders

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalCell Reports·DateOct 10, 2017

Giant bacteria make algae easy to stomach

A team of scientists has identified a specific group of giant bacteria, Epulopiscium, that dominate the intestines of Red Sea surgeonfish and enable them to digest different types of algae. The discovery sheds light on the basis of surgeonfish diversity and provides a valuable genetic resource for developing algal-based biofuels.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 10, 2017

Evolution: The beneficiaries of mass extinction

A new study reveals that mass extinctions have predictable consequences, leading to low diversity and the emergence of dominant species. The researchers analyzed nearly 900 animal species between 260-175 million years ago and found a global pattern of 'disaster faunas'.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 10, 2017

Study identifies whale blow microbiome

Researchers at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution identified an extensive conserved group of bacteria within healthy humpback whales' blow. The discovery could serve as a framework for monitoring the health of this species and others, with potential implications for disease detection and conservation.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalmSystems·DateOct 10, 2017

Hibernating ribosomes help bacteria survive

Researchers have uncovered secrets of how bacteria turn off protein biosynthesis to conserve energy and survive under stressful conditions. Hibernating ribosomes, found in Gram-positive bacteria like Staph, help them survive by suppressing translation, making them a potential target for new antibiotics.

SourceSaint Louis University·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 10, 2017

What can cystatin C test contribute to chronic kidney disease management?

A study published in PLOS Medicine found that using cystatin C with creatinine to estimate GFR for chronic kidney disease diagnosis resulted in increased healthcare costs without improved risk prediction. The test led to a higher number of patients being reclassified to more advanced CKD, requiring more frequent monitoring and referrals.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateOct 10, 2017

Home-brewed poppy seed tea can be lethal, study finds

Research at Sam Houston State University found that home-brewing techniques using unwashed poppy seeds can produce lethal doses of morphine. The study reveals the potential danger of consuming moderate volumes of poppy seed tea, which can lead to overdose or death.

SourceSam Houston State University·JournalJournal of Forensic Sciences·DateOct 10, 2017

Concussion: How the NFL came to shape the issue that plagued it

A new University of Michigan study reveals the NFL's transformation from a leader in avoiding concussion discussion to one that now leads the charge. The league has implemented significant changes, including creating expert-only committees and advocating for legislation, to address the issue, which had previously damaged its public image.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalJournal of Sport Management·DateOct 10, 2017