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Science News for October 16, 2017


Study: New exercises help athletes manage dangerous breathing disorder

A new set of breathing techniques, developed by Dr. J Tod Olin, has been shown to effectively treat symptoms of EILO in athletes. The techniques, which include the tongue variant, tooth variant, and lip variant, help athletes open their obstructed airways during high-intensity exercise.

SourceMediaSource·JournalJournal of Voice·DateOct 16, 2017

Stress might be just as unhealthy as junk food to digestive system

A BYU study with mice reveals stress can alter gut microbiota to resemble a high-fat diet, potentially contributing to gender-specific health disparities. Researchers found distinct changes in female mice's digestive microorganisms upon exposure to stress.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 16, 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.

Neutron star merger directly observed for the first time

Researchers observe historic detection of neutron star merger in both gravitational waves and the entire spectrum of light, offering insights into a cosmic event. The merger, named GW170817, revealed properties of the dense neutron stars and their collision, providing new opportunities for gravitational testing.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalNature·DateOct 16, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Risk of cesarean section is heritable

A recent study by Philipp Mitteroecker and colleagues used the cliff edge model to predict that women born by Caesarean are more likely to develop FPD in their own childbirth, with a 2.8 times higher risk compared to women born vaginally.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 16, 2017

Most medical students overconfident, underprepared on nutrition guidelines

A study published in the Journal of the American Osteopathic Association found that nearly 55% of medical students are confident in their ability to counsel patients on nutritional recommendations, despite half failing a nutrition quiz. The study highlights a gap between nutritional knowledge and attitudes among future physicians.

SourceAmerican Osteopathic Association·JournalThe Journal of the American Osteopathic Association·DateOct 16, 2017

Aus gravitational waves world-first finding

A team of Australian researchers has confirmed the detection of radio waves from a gravitational wave event, providing new insights into massive bodies like black holes. The discovery was made using the CSIRO's Australia Telescope Compact Array and marks a significant contribution to the global discovery of gravitational waves.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalScience·DateOct 16, 2017

Scientists log newfound understanding of water's responses to changing temperatures

Researchers found that water with different isotopes exhibits complex dynamic properties when in contact with liquid water. The team's findings have significant implications for understanding ice crystallization and its applications in various industries, including agriculture and food preservation.

SourceNew York University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 16, 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.

Approximately 1 in 9 US men infected with oral HPV

A study by the American College of Physicians found that almost 11 million US men have oral human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, with a high prevalence among men with multiple lifetime oral sex partners and those who report having sex with men. HPV causes various cancers, including oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma, which dispropo...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateOct 16, 2017

Seeing the light of neutron star collisions

Researchers confirm neutron star collision using electromagnetic radiation detected by NASA's Swift Gamma Ray Burst Explorer. The event provided a complete picture of compact object mergers, marking a major breakthrough in astronomy.

SourcePenn State·JournalScience·DateOct 16, 2017

ESnet's science DMZ design could help transfer, protect medical research data

A Science DMZ architecture can be adapted to meet the needs of the medical research community, allowing for secure sharing of large datasets while protecting individual privacy. The design provides speed and security for moving large data sets, enabling teams of experts to collaborate in real-time.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalJournal of the American Medical Informatics Association·DateOct 16, 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.

A cautionary tale

Researchers at LMU's Gene Center found that human cells use a different mechanism to recognize misplaced DNA than mouse cells. The inflammasome complex is activated via the cGAS-STING recognition mechanism, triggering both an antiviral response and a classical inflammatory reaction.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalCell·DateOct 16, 2017

Discovered! Neutron star collision seen for the first time

The team used the Swope telescope to discover the light produced by the merger and obtained the earliest spectra of the collision. These observations may allow scientists to explain how many of the universe's heavy elements were created.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalScience·DateOct 16, 2017

Catch a fleeting kilonova

UCSB astronomers capture the fleeting kilonova using a network of telescopes and gravitational wave data. The event sheds light on the formation of heavy elements in the universe.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNature·DateOct 16, 2017

Bite on this: Kansas State University researcher finds alligators eat sharks

A Kansas State University researcher has documented that American alligators on the Atlantic and Gulf coasts are consuming small sharks and stingrays, a widespread interaction previously unreported. The study reveals that alligators seek out freshwater habitats with high salinity to prolong their time in saltwater environments.

SourceKansas State University·JournalSoutheastern Naturalist·DateOct 16, 2017

Tandon researcher engineering antidotes to chemical weapons

Tandon researcher Jin Montclare develops phosphotriesterase (PTE) variants to neutralize toxic chemical agents, including VX and organophosphorus compounds. Her goal is to create stable, robust, and effective antidotes with improved therapeutic efficacy.

SourceNYU Tandon School of Engineering·DateOct 16, 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.

An epigenetic key to unlock behavior change

A new study sheds light on the molecular mechanism that shapes behavior in fruit flies, revealing a causal link between epigenetics and genetics. Researchers found that epigenetic marks interact with genes to regulate differences in feeding behaviors.

SourceCIFAR·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 16, 2017

Study reveals risk factors for substance use problems, as well as resilience

A study of African-American and Latino adults in a high-risk urban community found that despite numerous risk factors, the rate of substance use problems is low for a substantial proportion of participants. Protective 'resilience' factors, such as support, education, and employment, also play a crucial role in preventing substance misuse.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Public Health·DateOct 16, 2017

Social media accounts promote skeletal images of women

A new study by the University of Exeter found thousands of social media accounts celebrating extreme thinness, featuring selfies with protruding bones. The research suggests that these platforms are encouraging eating disorders and promoting unhealthy body image among young women.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalJournal of Eating Disorders·DateOct 16, 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.

GP referral to Weight Watchers avoided type 2 diabetes in third of patients

A commercial weight management program delivered by Weight Watchers helped more than half of patients at risk of developing type 2 diabetes to reduce their risk or get their blood sugar levels back to normal. The program led to significant reductions in diabetes risk, with an average fall in HbA1c levels and notable weight loss.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Open Diabetes Research & Care·DateOct 16, 2017

Liquid metal brings soft robotics a step closer

Researchers at University of Sussex and Swansea University have created a way to morph liquid metal into physical shapes, opening up new possibilities in soft robotics and shape-changing displays. The invention uses electrical charges to program the liquid metal, allowing it to dynamically change shape and form complex geometries.

SourceUniversity of Sussex·DateOct 16, 2017

Cancer relapse linked to body's own immune system

A new study reveals that cancer cells can use the body's own immune system to wake themselves up and fuel their growth after treatment, leading to relapse. Researchers found that immunotherapies targeting this response could delay or prevent cancer return in mice, suggesting a promising approach for patients at risk of relapse.

SourceInstitute of Cancer Research·JournalCancer Immunology Research·DateOct 16, 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.

Mechanism explains how seizures may lead to memory loss

Researchers discover how seizures trigger cognitive deficits in Alzheimer's disease through increased levels of the protein deltaFosB, leading to suppressed production of calbindin and disrupted brain activity. Further studies support the findings, showing potential new strategies for reducing cognitive deficits.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalNature Medicine·DateOct 16, 2017

Mousensor, LLC receives NSF SBIR to decode the human sense of smell

Mousensor, LLC has been awarded a National Science Foundation Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grant to develop a human-nose-on-a-chip based on fundamental research at CUNY. The company aims to detect and digitize every single smell, enabling fragrance houses to increase competitive advantage through unique product development.

SourceThe City University of New York·DateOct 16, 2017

Waves in lakes make waves in the Earth

Scientists have discovered that waves in lakes can generate microseismic signals that can reveal subsurface geology and track ice cover duration. By analyzing these signals, researchers can create a seismic 'CT scan' of the Earth, providing valuable insights into geological structures.

SourceUniversity of Utah·DateOct 16, 2017

Physically active white men at high risk for plaque buildup in arteries

A new study suggests that physically active white men are at a higher risk of developing plaque buildup in their heart arteries by middle age. The study found that those who exercised the most were 27% more likely to develop this condition, compared to those who exercised less.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateOct 16, 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.

Harvey runoff menaces Texas' coral reefs

A recent expedition to the Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary revealed a 10% drop in salinity levels due to Hurricane Harvey's floodwater plume. The team hopes to track the plume as it migrates through the Gulf, aiming to understand its impact on the reefs' health.

SourceRice University·DateOct 16, 2017

NIH awards $6.5 million to Berkeley Lab for augmenting structural biology research

The NIH has awarded a $6.5 million grant to Berkeley Lab to integrate existing synchrotron structural biology resources, establishing the ALS-ENABLE center to guide researchers in determining biological structures. The initiative will provide rapid response crystallography, high-quality small-angle X-ray scattering, and specialized cry...

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·DateOct 16, 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.

Ocean atmosphere rife with microbes

Researchers found over 100 air samples from tropical and subtropical regions revealing an average of 67,000 prokaryotes per cubic meter of sampled air over the oceans compared to 190,000 bacteria per cubic meter of air over land.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 16, 2017

Cocktail tests on toxic waste called for

Scientists found that low concentrations of toxic chemicals can affect aquatic creature behavior, including feeding and swimming speed. The study calls for low dose and mixture toxicity testing to assess the impact of complex pollutant mixtures on aquatic ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·DateOct 16, 2017

Attending a middle vs. a K-8 school matters for student outcomes

A new study by NYU Steinhardt School found that attending a middle school compared to a K-8 school negatively impacts certain measures of students' beliefs about their academic abilities, particularly in reading skills. The researchers suggest strengthening middle schools by focusing on the instructional and social environment, teacher...

SourceNew York University·JournalThe Journal of Early Adolescence·DateOct 16, 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.

The importance of asymmetry in bacteria

A team of researchers from Newcastle University discovered the MlaA protein, which removes lipids from the outer membrane to increase permeability for toxic compounds. This process could be exploited by drugs to decrease bacterial virulence and enhance antibiotic effectiveness.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalNature Microbiology·DateOct 16, 2017

Osaka university researchers make the slipperiest surfaces adhesive

Researchers at Osaka University have developed a new method to make non-stick fluoropolymers adhesive by combining heat and plasma treatments. This approach improves the bonding strength of PTFE with other materials, avoiding the use of harsh chemicals and increasing its industrial applications.

SourceOsaka University·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 16, 2017

Majority overestimates US gay population, could influence gay rights policies

A new study by University of Kansas researchers found that Americans tend to overestimate the size of the gay and lesbian population, which can influence support for equal rights policies. The study used nationally representative surveys from 1977 and 2013, finding consistent overestimations despite changes in social and political land...

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalJournal of Homosexuality·DateOct 16, 2017

Breaking: the first light from two neutron stars merging

The first-ever detection of light from a gravitational wave source has been made, shedding new light on the behavior of matter under extreme conditions. The event, caused by two neutron stars colliding and merging together, was observed using numerous telescopes around the world.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateOct 16, 2017

SUTD researchers developed single cell level sorting technology using sound waves

A research team from SUTD developed a highly accurate single cell level sorting technology using sound waves, which enables the isolation of rare cell populations in complex biological samples. This technology has the potential to advance precision medicine for cancer treatment by examining DNA mutations at single cell level.

SourceSingapore University of Technology and Design·JournalLab on a Chip·DateOct 16, 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.

Nanoantenna arrays power a new generation of fluorescence-based sensors

Researchers designed and tested plasmonic nanoantenna arrays to enhance fluorescence emission from contaminants in water, leading to a six-fold increase. The arrays can be used to develop highly integrated multi-wavelength sensors for low-cost and portable water quality monitoring.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalApplied Optics·DateOct 16, 2017

Gestational diabetes and cardiovascular disease risk

A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that women with a history of gestational diabetes were at a modestly higher risk of cardiovascular disease. However, adhering to a healthy lifestyle appeared to help mitigate this risk in younger women, particularly those who were predominantly white and followed healthy habits over time.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateOct 16, 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.

Predictions by GSI scientists now confirmed

Researchers detect electromagnetic waves from neutron star merger, confirming predictions of heavy element production. The event is a milestone in understanding astrophysical processes and requires precise nuclear data to be fully understood.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateOct 16, 2017

An architect gene is involved in the assimilation of breast milk

A mutated Hoxd3 gene affects intestinal development and absorption, contributing to certain types of intestinal insufficiency in premature infants. The discovery provides a potential diagnostic tool for this disease, which remains unknown until now.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 16, 2017

Chemical treatment improves quantum dot lasers

Los Alamos National Laboratory researchers have developed a new method to create quantum dots that emit laser light more efficiently, using less power. The treatment involves adding extra electrons to the dots, allowing them to produce laser light without external stimulation.

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateOct 16, 2017

Nidoviruses redundantly express genes and encode more proteins than previously believed, study finds

Researchers discovered 96 transcription regulatory sequences (TRSs) used by arterivirus Simian hemorrhagic fever virus to produce subgenomic messenger RNAs, exceeding the previously reported nine TRSs. The study found that multiple TRSs are involved in producing structural proteins and alternative reading frames.

SourceGeorgia State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 16, 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.

Invasive ladybird species threatens other ladybirds in England

A long-term study reveals a significant decrease in the numbers of the 2-spot ladybird on lime trees due to the invasion of harlequin ladybirds. The invasive species accounts for up to 70% of all recorded ladybirds and may drive population changes through predation.

SourceWiley·JournalInsect Conservation and Diversity·DateOct 16, 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.

Bolstering fat cells offers potential new leukemia treatment

Researchers at McMaster University have discovered that bolstering fat cells in the bone marrow can suppress leukemia cells while also regenerating healthy red blood cells. This innovative approach presents a new potential therapeutic strategy for treating acute myeloid leukemia, which often leads to anemia and infection.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateOct 16, 2017

A new target for marijuana

A study published in JNeurosci found that chronic exposure to THC may alter inhibitory function in GABA neurons, increasing dopamine levels and promoting addictive qualities. This discovery could lead to a new target for treating cannabis use disorder.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateOct 16, 2017

Toward efficient high-pressure desalination

A recent study from MIT found that pressurization doesn't exacerbate membrane fouling in reverse osmosis (RO) systems. Researchers devised a method to isolate pressure's effects and discovered no impact on fouling rates or cleaning outcomes.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Membrane Science·DateOct 16, 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.

Healthy lifestyle reduces cardiovascular risk after gestational diabetes, NIH study shows

Researchers analyzed data from over 90,000 women and found that adopting a healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising moderately, and not smoking can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease after gestational diabetes. Women who failed to adopt a healthy lifestyle had a 43-percent-higher risk for cardiovascular disease.

SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·DateOct 16, 2017

Gravitational waves shed first light on mergers of neutron stars

The LIGO-Virgo Collaboration observed the merger of two neutron stars, producing gravitational waves and a gamma-ray burst, marking the birth of multi-messenger astronomy. This discovery confirms kilonova formation, providing insight into the universe's heaviest elements.

SourceCNRS·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateOct 16, 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.

Rice's Laurence Yeung named 2017 Packard Fellow

Laurence Yeung, a geochemist at Rice University, has been awarded a 2017 Packard Fellowship to support his research on the atmospheric system. He plans to use the grant to take risks and explore new ideas in his field, including the development of a compact device for isotopic measurements.

SourceRice University·DateOct 16, 2017

New UTSA study describes how dopamine tells you it isn't worth the wait

A new study by Matthew Wanat found that more dopamine is released when waiting for a reward, highlighting the importance of timing in decision-making. The research could provide valuable insights into understanding drug addiction, which hijacks brain regions where dopamine is released.

SourceUniversity of Texas at San Antonio·JournalCell Reports·DateOct 16, 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.

Skimping on sleep may contribute to gestational diabetes

A new study found that pregnant women who get less than 6 hours of sleep per night have a higher risk of developing gestational diabetes. Average sleep duration of less than 6 hours was associated with a 1.7 fold increase in the risk of being diagnosed with gestational diabetes.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalSleep Medicine Reviews·DateOct 16, 2017

Rice U. study: Vibrating nanoparticles interact

Rice University researchers have found that placing gold nanodisks into groups can selectively alter their vibrational frequencies, a discovery that could lead to new ways of converting light energy into mechanical energy. The study's findings show promise for applications in secure communications, sensing, and other fields.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 16, 2017

Spinning strands hint at folding dynamics

Researchers at Rice University have created a platform to study polymer folding dynamics using magnetic beads. The new method allows for the observation of complex behaviors, such as bending and coiling, in semiflexible fibers like actin and DNA.

SourceRice University·JournalPhysical Review Fluids·DateOct 16, 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.

First observations of merging neutron stars mark a new era in astronomy

Astronomers have made the first-ever observations of a merging neutron star, detecting both gravitational waves and a brilliant explosion of visible light. The discovery has opened a new window into understanding neutron star physics and could resolve a long-standing question about the origins of heavy elements.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalScience·DateOct 16, 2017

Integration of smoking cessation within CT lung cancer screenings shows life-saving results

A study integrating smoking cessation programs with low-dose CT lung cancer screenings found that this approach can decrease mortality rates while being relatively cost-effective. The research suggests that adding a robust smoking cessation intervention to an organized LDCT screening program could result in significantly fewer deaths, ...

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·DateOct 16, 2017

Marketing study examines what types of searches click for car buyers

Researchers analyzed survey data on automobile purchases between 2002 and 2012 to compare time spent on internet sources with time spent on offline sources. The study found that those who searched more online tend to spend more time at dealerships, while consumers older than 50 spend less time searching and are less likely to be satisf...

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalJournal of Interactive Marketing·DateOct 16, 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.

Insurance plays significant role in breast cancer disparities

A new study found that insurance disparities account for a substantial proportion of the excess risk of death from breast cancer faced by black women. Improving access to care could address much of the existing black/white disparity in breast cancer mortality.

SourceAmerican Cancer Society·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateOct 16, 2017

Biopsy specimen found to be reliable for evaluating DLL3 expression in small cell lung cancer

A study published at the International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer (IASLC) conference found that biopsy specimens are a reliable material for evaluating DLL3 expression in small cell lung cancer. High levels of DLL3 expression were correlated with poor survival trends, smoking history, and neuroendocrine differentiation.

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·DateOct 16, 2017

Sound and color

Researchers are developing a system to alert ships to the proximity of whales using acoustic monitoring, thermal imaging, and big data analytics. The goal is to reduce fatal collisions between ships and whales, particularly in the Santa Barbara Channel where important feeding grounds overlap with busy shipping lanes.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·DateOct 16, 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.

Early palliative care provides no quality of life benefits for recently diagnosed MPM patients

A study published in the IASLC 18th World Conference on Lung Cancer found that early specialist palliative care for recently diagnosed malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) patients does not impact quality of life. Researchers concluded that there is no role for routine early referral to palliative care, regardless of symptoms.

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·DateOct 16, 2017

Whales and dolphins have rich 'human-like' cultures and societies

A new study found that cetaceans have sophisticated social and cooperative behavior traits, including complex alliance relationships, social transfer of hunting techniques, and vocal mimicry. The research suggests a link between brain size and cultural complexity in these marine mammals.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateOct 16, 2017

Major advance in nanopore detection of peptides and proteins

Researchers at the University of Groningen create a funnel-shaped nanopore that can detect polypeptides differing by one amino acid. The technology uses electro-osmotic flow to pull polypeptides into the pore, producing a unique 'fingerprint' for each.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 16, 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.

Endogenous infection marker guides antibiotic therapy

A new meta-analysis shows that procalcitonin reduces relative mortality by 14% and antibiotic side effects by 25% in patients with respiratory infections. This biomarker can help medical experts diagnose infectious diseases and tailor treatment strategies.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateOct 16, 2017

Study suggests oysters offer hot spot for reducing nutrient pollution

Researchers discovered that oyster shells contain unique microbial communities with higher denitrification activities than sediments. This finding has important implications for oyster restoration efforts, which may reduce nutrient levels in coastal waters by leveraging the shell microbiomes' active removal of fixed nitrogen.

SourceVirginia Institute of Marine Science·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 16, 2017

Long nanotubes make strong fibers

Researchers at Rice University have advanced the art of making nanotube-based materials by characterizing and purifying long nanotube wires and films. The study found that longer nanotubes yield stronger and more conductive fibers, with an average tensile strength of 2.4 GPa and electrical conductivity of 8.5 megasiemens per meter.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateOct 16, 2017

A kite that might fly

Researchers have identified the most favorable areas for harnessing high-altitude wind energy in the Middle East, where abundant and reliable winds are available. The study's findings suggest that regions over Saudi Arabia and Oman could be ideal locations for airborne wind-energy systems.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 16, 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.

Flu vaccine failed to protect young leukemia patients during cancer treatment

A study by St. Jude Children's Research Hospital found that young leukemia patients who received the flu vaccine were still susceptible to flu infections, highlighting the need for additional measures to protect vulnerable individuals. Researchers emphasize the importance of hand washing and other precautions.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·DateOct 16, 2017

Brain training shows promise for patients with bipolar disorder

Researchers at McLean Hospital discovered a unique brain training program that improves cognitive skills in individuals with bipolar disorder. The study found significant improvements in cognitive performance, memory, and visual learning, with sustained benefits six months after treatment.

SourceMcLean Hospital·JournalJournal of Clinical Psychiatry·DateOct 16, 2017

Sleep duration may affect the integrity of sperm DNA

A study of 796 male volunteers found that shorter or longer sleep durations were associated with lower High DNA Stainability in sperm. Volunteers sleeping 6.5 hours or less had 30% lower DNA stainability compared to those sleeping 7-7.5 hours.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Sleep Research·DateOct 16, 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.

NASA sees Hurricane Ophelia lashing Ireland

NASA's Suomi NPP satellite provided detailed thermal and precipitation data on Hurricane Ophelia, showing extreme heavy rainfall rates of over 8.4 inches per hour. The hurricane was downgraded to a post-tropical cyclone but expected to bring hurricane-force winds to Northern Ireland.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateOct 16, 2017

Think laterally to sidestep production problems

KAUST researchers have created a new method for producing solar cells using lateral p-n heterojunctions, which achieve greater power conversion efficiency than traditional methods. This breakthrough simplifies the production process and enables cheaper solar tracking systems to become redundant.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateOct 16, 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.

Einstein researchers share $9 million grant to find anti-aging therapies

Einstein researchers have been awarded a $9 million grant to study the genetic differences between healthy centenarians and people with no family history of extreme longevity. They aim to identify rare gene variants that contribute to longevity and develop drugs that mimic these effects, potentially leading to longer, healthier lifespans.

SourceAlbert Einstein College of Medicine·DateOct 16, 2017

Family members play important role in managing chronic illness

A family approach to managing chronic illnesses can lead to improved health outcomes and reduced healthcare costs. By working together on lifestyle changes such as healthier eating habits and regular exercise, family members can help patients stay on track with their treatment plans.

SourcePenn State·JournalAmerican Psychologist·DateOct 16, 2017

Astronomers detect colliding neutron stars for first time

For the first time, scientists have detected the collision of two neutron stars using both gravitational waves and light. The historic discovery ushers in a new era in astronomy with multi-messenger astronomy, confirming theoretical predictions and providing new mysteries to understand.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateOct 16, 2017

Germ-free hatching eggs: An alternative to formaldehyde application

Researchers have successfully tested a pre-industrial laboratory scale method using microorganisms as natural antagonists to eliminate up to 99.6% of germs from hatching eggs. The bacteria producing pyrazines demonstrated efficiency comparable to that of formaldehyde fumigation.

SourceGraz University of Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 16, 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.

Shaping animal, vegetable and mineral

Scientists from Harvard SEAS develop a technique to grow any target shape from any starting shape using a bilayer of elastic materials. The researchers demonstrate the system by modeling the growth of various shapes, including a flower petal and the face of Max Planck.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 16, 2017

Tweeting rage: How immigration policies can polarize public discourse

Research by René D. Flores found that Twitter data shows a shift in behavior towards anti-immigrant users, with tweets becoming more negative after Arizona Senate Bill 1070 was passed. The study used sentiment analysis to determine the impact of the law on public discourse.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalAmerican Journal of Sociology·DateOct 16, 2017

Radio 'eyes' unlocking secrets of neutron-star collision

The VLA detection and ongoing observations reveal key facts about the event that generated gravitational waves, including the amount of energy released and the environment in which it occurred. Radio waves will continue to provide valuable information for months or even years.

SourceNational Radio Astronomy Observatory·JournalScience·DateOct 16, 2017

Sales of sugar-sweetened drinks in Jamie's Italian restaurants fall by 11 percent after 10p levy

A study by the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine found that introducing a small levy of 10 pence per drink to the price of sugar-sweetened beverages sold in Jamie's Italian restaurants contributed to a significant decline in SSB sales, with a 9.3% decrease observed six months later. The study suggests that financial measures...

SourceLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·DateOct 16, 2017

Childhood poverty, poor support may drive up pregnant woman's biological age

Researchers found that pregnant women with low socioeconomic status during childhood and poor family social support had shorter telomeres, indicating a faster biological age. This rapid aging may increase the risk of premature delivery, gestational hypertension, and other pregnancy complications.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPsychoneuroendocrinology·DateOct 16, 2017

Men develop irregular heartbeat earlier than women; extra weight a factor

A new study found that men develop atrial fibrillation about a decade earlier than women and that being overweight is a significant risk factor. Researchers analyzed data from 79,793 people in Europe and found that men had higher diagnosis rates, especially after age 50, while women's rates increased after age 60.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalCirculation·DateOct 16, 2017

Untangling vitamin D activation pathways in inflammation and bone health

A team of researchers has identified a region of the genome that regulates vitamin D activation in the kidneys, which could lead to new treatments for diseases involving vitamin D. The discovery also sheds light on the role of calcitriol in inflammatory diseases and its potential use as a treatment.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateOct 16, 2017

New study finds nature is vital to beating climate change

A new study by The Nature Conservancy found that better land management practices can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 11.3 billion tonnes per year, equivalent to halting oil burning. Natural climate solutions could deliver 37% of the emissions reductions needed to hold global warming below 2 degrees Celsius by 2030.

SourceNature Conservancy·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 16, 2017

What's the next step for exon skipping therapies to treat duchenne muscular dystrophy?

A team of leading European clinicians and scientists presents a unique perspective on how to move forward in the development of exon skipping therapies for DMD. The authors discuss the main challenges and opportunities for these therapeutic agents going forward, including biomarkers in AON drug development and regulatory tools in the EU.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalNucleic Acid Therapeutics·DateOct 16, 2017

Treatment based On BRCA1 level does not increase survival of stage II/III NSCLC N+ resected patients

Researchers found that treating stage II and III non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients with chemotherapy based on their specific BRCA1 expression levels did not increase overall survival rates. However, BRCA1 expression levels were found to be prognostic, and individualized treatment could achieve different outcomes.

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·DateOct 16, 2017

New antibiotic resistance genes found

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology and the University of Gothenburg have discovered 76 new types of antibiotic resistance genes. These genes can provide bacteria with the ability to degrade carbapenems, a powerful class of antibiotics.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalMicrobiome·DateOct 16, 2017

Learning during development is regulated by an unexpected brain region

Scientists have discovered that the thalamus, a deep brain structure, plays a crucial role in regulating critical periods of learning and development. The findings, published in Nature Neuroscience, have important implications for understanding developmental problems such as intellectual disability and albinism.

SourceNetherlands Institute for Neuroscience - KNAW·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateOct 16, 2017

Inpatient satisfaction improved by five-minute intervention, study finds

A daily five-minute conversation that focuses on hospitalized patients' overall well-being and medical symptoms significantly improved their satisfaction with medical care. Patients who received BATHE showed a high degree of satisfaction and rated their medical care as excellent.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalFamily Medicine·DateOct 16, 2017

Cool your airfoils

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh are developing advanced strategies to reduce the adverse effects of extremely high-temperatures on gas turbines. They are exploring applications for an anti-oxidation coating that can help cool airfoils and other hot-section components, enabling higher temperature operation for better efficie...

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·DateOct 16, 2017

Portable 3-D scanner assesses patients with elephantiasis

A portable 3D scanner has been developed to measure swollen limbs in patients with elephantiasis, a parasitic disease causing major swelling and deformity of the legs. The device provides highly accurate results in just a fraction of the time required by traditional methods, making it easier to assess treatment effectiveness.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalAmerican Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene·DateOct 16, 2017

Astronomers follow gravitational waves to treasure

Researchers from the J-GEM collaboration observed a kilonova explosion, a phenomenon predicted to create heavy elements through rapid neutron capture reactions. The first-ever confirmed kilonova was detected using a network of telescopes worldwide, providing insight into the universe's heavy element production.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalPublications of the Astronomical Society of Japan·DateOct 16, 2017

Study finds auto-fix tool gets more programmers to upgrade code

A recent study by North Carolina State University found that automated pull request tools can encourage programmers to upgrade out-of-date dependencies, resulting in a 60% increase in necessary upgrades. The research also showed that these tools can help maintain the most up-to-date versions of dependent software.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·DateOct 16, 2017