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Science News for October 2, 2017


Children without allergies can still be afflicted with asthma-like coughing and wheezing

Researchers at Cleveland Clinic found that TRPV1 protein plays a critical role in airway disease through mucus production, cough reflex stimulation and airway narrowing. The study suggests that targeting this protein may lead to new strategies to reduce the impact of RSV infections in both asthmatic and non-asthmatic children.

SourceCleveland Clinic·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateOct 2, 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.

DNA: The next hot material in photonics?

Researchers fine-tune DNA-based thin films to achieve a range of refractive indexes four times greater than silicon, enabling the creation of thinner optical fibers. This could lead to applications in photodynamic therapy, optogenetics, and biosensors.

SourceOptica·JournalOptical Materials Express·DateOct 2, 2017

DNA mutations shed in blood predicts response to immunotherapy in patients with cancer

A study by University of California San Diego School of Medicine researchers reveals that a simple blood test can predict which patients will respond to checkpoint inhibitor-based immunotherapies, with 45% of patients showing significant response. The findings suggest that patients with high numbers of genomic alterations in their tumo...

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateOct 2, 2017

Non-invasive imaging predicts cancer malignancy

Researchers at Osaka University developed a non-invasive imaging technique using multiphoton microscopy (MPM) to quantify cancer severity. The method, called non-labeling multiphoton microscopy (NL-MPM), uses second harmonic generation and autofluorescence to detect malignancy with high accuracy.

SourceOsaka University·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 2, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Evolutionary crop research: Ego-plants give lower yield

A new study by Jacob Weiner found that less competitive wheat varieties produce higher yields when grown in groups, challenging traditional plant breeding methods. This finding could lead to a shift towards group selection and the development of more efficient agricultural practices.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalEcology·DateOct 2, 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.

Shared genetics in schizophrenia and bipolar disorder

A genetic variant associated with multiple psychiatric disorders is linked to changes in a brain network that may increase an individual's risk of developing bipolar disorder or schizophrenia. The variant affects the expression of the SNAP25 protein, impacting information processing between brain regions involved in regulating emotions.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateOct 2, 2017

Hospital discharges for prescription opioids down, heroin discharges surge

A recent study led by Stanford Medicine researchers found a significant decrease in hospital admissions for prescription opioid overdoses, but an increase in heroin and synthetic opioid poisonings. This shift suggests that individuals misusing or addicted to prescription opioids are switching to these alternative drugs.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalHealth Affairs·DateOct 2, 2017

A new model of treatment for youth with anxiety

A new model of treatment for youth with anxiety can be effectively delivered using at least 14% less therapist time than traditional treatment services. The study tested a stepped care model, where young people first begin using self-help to manage their symptoms before stepping up to treatment with a therapist.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateOct 2, 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.

Kinesins ignore weak forces as they carry heavy loads

A Rice University-led study shows that kinesins ignore weak forces as they transport cargo in cells, with lead kinesins carrying 90% of the load. The research provides molecular-level details of how kinesins respond to external forces and confirms earlier experiments on team-based motor proteins.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 2, 2017

Prairie strips and agricultural land

Researchers found prairie strips increase insect and bird biodiversity and nutrient retention while reducing water runoff. Fields with prairie strips experienced minimal loss in crop production compared to fields without them.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 2, 2017

Our muscles measure the time of day

Researchers discovered that muscle cell lipid composition varies with the time of day, influenced by a biological clock, which could help regulate insulin sensitivity. This variation is linked to type 2 diabetes development.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 2, 2017

Warnings on Anesthesia before age 3 -- plastic surgeons get update on evidence

The FDA has issued a warning about the risks of prolonged anesthesia in infants and young children, citing possible negative effects on brain development. Plastic surgeons are advised to delay elective procedures lasting more than three hours until after age 3 if possible, while reducing exposure through alternative strategies.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery·DateOct 2, 2017
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

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

New study highlights 'hidden figure' of sun-watchers

A new study recounts the life and work of Hisako Koyama, a pioneering female solar observer who created detailed sunspot drawings for over 40 years. Her archive was used to establish a continuous record of sunspots stretching back to 1610, shedding light on the solar cycle and its influence on Earth.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalSpace Weather·DateOct 2, 2017

How much is that call worth?

A new model from the University of Toronto's Rotman School of Management provides an integrated marketing-operations framework to help companies design effective service policies for their call centres. The framework links call centre capacity, service quality, and future consumer behaviour, enabling companies to tailor service levels ...

SourceUniversity of Toronto, Rotman School of Management·JournalManufacturing & Service Operations Management·DateOct 2, 2017

Early snowmelt and forest carbon uptake

Researchers studied northern hemisphere boreal forests from 1979-2014 and found that spring recovery after snowmelt advanced by an average of 8.1 days, corresponding to a 3.7% increase in gross primary production per decade.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 2, 2017

Past incarceration and future re-imprisonment

A study analyzing over 100,000 individuals sentenced for felonies in Michigan found that those with a history of imprisonment were 20 percentage points more likely to be re-incarcerated than those on probation. Intense parole supervision may contribute to increased incarceration rates among parolees.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 2, 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.

OU researchers receive $1.8 million NSF grant to predict heavy rainfall events

A University of Oklahoma research team led by Elinor Martin will apply statistical and artificial intelligence methods to predict heavy rainfall events. The team aims to improve forecasting and increase communication between researchers, forecasters, and stakeholders to enhance societal resilience to extended periods of heavy rainfall.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·DateOct 2, 2017

Checkpoint blockade may be key for immunity to malaria

Researchers found that targeting the CTLA-4 molecule at the right time during malaria infection allows mice to quickly clear the disease and develop lasting immunity. The study suggests a new approach for combating malaria, potentially involving immunotherapy drugs or small molecules.

SourceUniversity of Iowa Health Care·JournalNature Medicine·DateOct 2, 2017

Unexpected findings uncover new understanding of gene expression

Researchers at Northwestern University have discovered that the enzymatic function of the fly enzyme Trr may not be as crucial as previously thought, suggesting alternative explanations for its role in cancer development. The study found that knocking out Trr's catalytic activity did not affect flies' viability or gene expression.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Genetics·DateOct 2, 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.

NIH-funded study to focus on newborns affected by opioids

A new NIH-funded study aims to develop evidence-based treatments for neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome, a condition affecting newborns exposed to opioids during pregnancy. The Advancing Clinical Trials in Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome (ACT NOW) project will evaluate treatment options and develop research protocols.

SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·DateOct 2, 2017

Promising Down syndrome research expands to second site in Brazil

A Case Western Reserve University-led study assessing memantine's cognitive-enhancing effects on adolescents and young adults with Down syndrome has been approved in São Paulo, Brazil. The trial aims to build on previous findings and could lead to a much larger final phase of testing.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·DateOct 2, 2017

New 'building material' points toward quantum computers

Researchers have created a new building material that produces Majorana particles, which could lead to the development of faster quantum computers. The breakthrough enables the mass production of nano wires with Majorana properties, paving the way for more efficient computing.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateOct 2, 2017

Plastic surgeons get tips on managing opioid addiction risk

The article highlights the risks of opioid addiction after plastic surgery, citing a study that found 4.7% of US population aberrantly used prescription opioids in 2015. Plastic surgeons are advised to screen patients for risk factors and refer them to addiction specialists or transitional pain services.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery·DateOct 2, 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.

Tropical diversity takes root in relationships between fungi and seeds

A team of scientists discovered that tropical fungi form species-specific associations with seeds, influencing survival and germination rates. The study found that different fungi can aid or hinder seed development, depending on the seed species, providing new insights into the persistence of tropical forest diversity.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 2, 2017

Tiny aquariums put nanoparticle self-assembly on display

Researchers use liquid-phase transmission electron microscopy to study colloidal gold nanoparticles' interactions and self-assembly. The method provides precise control over particle shape and assembly rates, opening up new possibilities for nanotechnology applications.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 2, 2017

Millions of suburban residents in US lack health insurance

Suburban areas in the US face barriers to healthcare access, including limited community health centers and free clinics. Poor suburbanites have higher odds of being uninsured and having unmet healthcare needs compared to higher-income adults.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalHealth Affairs·DateOct 2, 2017

An algorithm that explains how ants create and repair trail networks

Researchers developed an algorithm based on ant trail networks, which adapts to changes in the environment and avoids taking the shortest path. The algorithm is inspired by how ants navigate through complex vegetation and repair broken trails using a 'greedy search' method.

SourceStanford University·JournalThe American Naturalist·DateOct 2, 2017
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

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

New Central Park fly species gets CCNY professor's moniker

A new Central Park fly species, Themira lohmanus, has been discovered and named after City College of New York entomologist Professor David Lohman. The insect's unique mating ritual involves unusual methods and appendages used by males to store sperm for the female's selection.

SourceCity College of New York·JournalZooKeys·DateOct 2, 2017

RUDN University scientists described the distribution of soil microorganisms

Scientists from RUDN University have classified the distribution of soil microorganisms at different latitudes, discovering that soil properties are the primary factor in determining microbial composition. The study revealed that climate and vegetation play a lesser role in shaping microbial communities.

SourceRUDN University·JournalFunctional Ecology·DateOct 2, 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.

A new method for removing cells infected with the AIDS virus

Researchers from Kumamoto University developed a compound that suppresses viral budding, confining the virus within host cells and leading to cell death through apoptosis. This approach aims to eradicate latent HIV reservoirs, which are key to complete recovery from AIDS.

SourceKumamoto University·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 2, 2017

Childhood asthma: Not associated with BCG vaccination

A large epidemiological study conducted in Québec found no link between the BCG vaccine and childhood asthma. The research team analyzed data from a comprehensive vaccination registry and public health records, adjusting for various confounders to ensure accurate findings.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·JournalAmerican Journal of Epidemiology·DateOct 2, 2017

Many hospitals still not using digital patient health information

Despite electronic health record adoption, many US hospitals face challenges in integrating external data from other providers, leading to clinician barriers and limited accessibility. The study highlights the need for improved systems to ensure seamless data sharing.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalHealth Affairs·DateOct 2, 2017

New method could help disrupt opioid crisis

Researchers have developed a new method to track the origin of individual batches of heroin, potentially aiding in the disruption of the opioid crisis. By analyzing the ratio of radiogenic strontium isotopes, they can differentiate samples from different geographic regions.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·JournalInorganica Chimica Acta·DateOct 2, 2017

Game time: To increase exercise, study shows gaming strategies and a buddy are key

Researchers found that incorporating game design elements into activity trackers increased step counts by nearly one mile per day. The study, which involved families tracking physical activity with wearable devices or smartphone apps, showed a 27% increase in achieving daily fitness goals.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateOct 2, 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.

UTSA receives $200,000 grant for cancer drug research

Researchers at UTSA are developing new cancer drugs from complex natural products with proven anticancer potential. The team aims to recreate the active portion of these compounds to overcome drug resistance and tackle advanced-stage cancers.

SourceUniversity of Texas at San Antonio·DateOct 2, 2017

Monstrous crocodile fossil points to early rise of ancient reptiles

A newly identified prehistoric marine predator has shed light on the origins of ancient reptiles. The Melksham Monster, a 10-foot-long animal that lived in warm seas during the Middle Jurassic, reveals an early rise of these distant relatives.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalJournal of Systematic Palaeontology·DateOct 2, 2017

New system finds and targets vulnerabilities in lung cancer cells

A study found that mutations in the KEAP1 gene make lung adenocarcinoma cells vulnerable to oxidative stress, allowing an experimental drug called CB-839 to stop tumor growth. The discovery could lead to a more effective treatment for patients with combined KRAS and KEAP1 mutations.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalNature Medicine·DateOct 2, 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.

Vision restoration after retinal degeneration

Researchers used gene therapy to express melanopsin in mouse retinas, restoring visual function and improving pupil constriction. The treatment was effective for up to 15 months, showing enhanced visual responses and light avoidance behaviors.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 2, 2017

UCLA receives $5 million grant for sharing research on AIDS and substance abuse

The National Institute on Drug Abuse has awarded UCLA a $5 million grant to create a resource center for researchers studying the effects of substance abuse on HIV/AIDS. The Collaborating Consortium of Cohorts Producing NIDA Opportunities will connect researchers with access to millions of pieces of research data and lab samples.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·DateOct 2, 2017

Scientists find new source of radioactivity from Fukushima disaster

Researchers found high levels of radioactive cesium-137 in beach sands and brackish groundwater beneath beaches up to 60 miles away from the Fukushima Dai-ichi nuclear power plant. The study suggests that this new pathway for radionuclide release should be considered in managing coastal areas near nuclear power plants.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 2, 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.

Statin use appears to reduce risk of serious bacterial bloodstream infection

Researchers found that statin users have a 27% lower risk of Staphylococcus aureus bloodstream infections outside hospitals, with increased dosage offering greater protection. The study suggests that statins may play an important role in preventing serious blood infections, particularly among elderly patients with chronic conditions.

SourceElsevier·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateOct 2, 2017

CU Researchers win prestigious $2 million NIH grant for brain study

CU Anschutz and CU Boulder scientists have won a $2 million grant from the National Institutes of Health to refine their unique 2P-FCM microscope, which allows deeper brain imaging and dynamic focus capability. The researchers will deploy the microscope to laboratories across the country to study neural activity in various species.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·DateOct 2, 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.

New drug protects heart from cardiac rupture after myocardial infarction

Researchers from Kumamoto University found that LCZ696 prevents cardiac rupture and heart failure following acute myocardial infarction. The study showed that LCZ696 reduces mortality due to cardiac rupture by inhibiting inflammatory cytokines and MMP-9, improving prognosis for patients with chronic heart failure.

SourceKumamoto University·DateOct 2, 2017

Family Medicine and Community Health Journal volume 5, issue number 2 publishes

The Summer 2017 issue of Family Medicine and Community Health Journal focuses on various topics in family medicine, including prostate-specific antigen testing, health-related quality of life, and breast cancer tumor grade. The journal features six original research articles and one China Focus article.

SourceFamily Medicine and Community Health·JournalFamily Medicine and Community Health·DateOct 2, 2017

Advancing algae for better biofuels

The Colorado State University team aims to increase algal cultivation productivity, optimize biomass composition, and extract different types of algal lipids to reduce upgrading costs. The goal is to double the yield of biofuel precursors from algae to around 3,700 gallons per acre per year.

SourceColorado State University·DateOct 2, 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.

Text messaging program may help some pregnant women kick the smoking habit*

A study found that a more intensive text messaging program helped some pregnant women quit smoking during pregnancy. The combo of Text4baby and Quit4baby was particularly effective for women age 26 and older and those in the second and third trimester. However, resolve to quit seemed to disappear postpartum.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateOct 2, 2017

Doctors define 'safe and effective' margins for 'one and done' skin removal around suspicious moles

A study led by NYU Langone Health found that removing a 2mm margin from suspicious moles can completely remove cancer cells with a single procedure. Researchers monitored patients for over a year and found no further suspicious growths, with 90% of biopsied moles being completely removed.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Dermatology·DateOct 2, 2017

Gene therapy shows promise for reversing blindness

Researchers have shown that gene therapy can reprogram cells at the back of the eye to become light sensitive, potentially reversing blindness. In a study, mice blind from retinitis pigmentosa regained vision and recognized objects in their environment after receiving melanopsin gene therapy.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 2, 2017

World's most advanced shipborne radar ready to set sail

A team led by Professor Steven Rutledge will test the SEA-POL radar in the intertropical convergence zone near the Equator. The radar uses dual polarization technology to measure ocean rainfall and collect detailed information about clouds.

SourceColorado State University·DateOct 2, 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.

Novel platform for investigating quiescence in dormancy-capable cancer cells

University of Minnesota researchers report a novel encapsulation approach to identify and maintain dormant cancer cells in a quiescent state. This method involves immobilizing cells within a rigid silica-PEG matrix, which prevents movement and proliferation, allowing for differential response between cancer cell lines.

SourceWorld Scientific·JournalTECHNOLOGY·DateOct 2, 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.

What a rare blood disease can teach us about blood clotting

Researchers discovered a previously unknown region of antithrombin protein plays a crucial role in preventing blood clots. This finding could lead to better-designed drugs for other blood disorders and improved treatments for patients with antithrombin deficiency.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateOct 2, 2017

Career Awards advance research for Jefferson Lab researchers

Two Jefferson Lab researchers, Ted Rogers and Justin Stevens, received $750,000 in funding to advance their research on protons and the strong nuclear force. Rogers aims to improve understanding of quark movement, while Stevens seeks to gain insight into hybrid mesons and QCD.

SourceDOE/Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility·DateOct 2, 2017

Study finds new program reduces absenteeism in primary schools

A pilot program in five North Carolina schools reduced absenteeism among first- and second-grade students by an average of 10%. The Early Truancy Prevention Program, which involved teachers visiting homes to establish a positive connection with parents and students, showed strong evidence of effectiveness.

SourceDuke University·JournalChildren and Youth Services Review·DateOct 2, 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.

Kinless adults in the United States

The study projects an increase in kinless adults among US citizens, particularly white and black Americans, from 2015-2060. The percentage of kinless adults is expected to more than double for white Americans and nearly triple for black Americans.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 2, 2017

Feeling sated can become a cue to eat more

A new study reveals that internal physical states can serve as contexts that cue specific learned behaviors, such as seeking food. Researchers found that rats conditioned to associate fullness with receiving treats pressed the lever far more often when they were full than hungry, suggesting a relapse pattern.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateOct 2, 2017

Liquid biopsies may help predict response to immune checkpoint inhibitors

Researchers found that patients with high numbers of alterations detected in their DNA collected from blood samples had a higher response rate to treatment, and median survival was longer. The study suggests that counting mutations in the bloodstream could help predict response to checkpoint inhibitor therapy.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateOct 2, 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.

Mini-kidneys grown in lab reveal renal disease secrets

Researchers at UW Medicine have developed mini-kidney organoids that can track the early stages of polycystic kidney disease. By manipulating the micro-environment, they found that cyst formation can be increased or decreased.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalNature Materials·DateOct 2, 2017

Earth's tectonic plates are weaker than once thought

Researchers found that the strength of olivine increases with decreasing grain size, indicating the mantle is weaker than believed. This discovery may help understand how tectonic plates form and deform.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 2, 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.

Artificial light and nocturnal bird migration

Researchers observed that birds slowed down and increased vocal activity at the 'Tribute in Light Memorial' when illuminated by artificial light. The effects disappeared once the installation was extinguished, suggesting urban lighting may impact nocturnal bird migration patterns.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 2, 2017

Healthy lifestyle linked to lower pain in MS sufferers

A study published in Frontiers in Neurology has found strong associations between healthy lifestyle factors and reduced pain levels in people with multiple sclerosis. Regular exercise was shown to increase pain threshold and tolerance, while a balanced diet and no smoking were also linked to lower pain levels.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Neurology·DateOct 2, 2017

Animals that play with objects learn how to use them as tools

Researchers found that birds learned about object properties through exploration before using them to solve tasks. The study suggested that playful exploration enables animals to gather information about their physical world, leading to creative problem-solving.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateOct 2, 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.

Preventing autoimmune disease after a viral infection

A study published in Nature Immunology has found that a specific type of immune cell, called T follicular regulatory cells, plays a crucial role in preventing autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus after viral infections. These cells prevent the generation of self-reactive antibody responses whil...

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalNature Immunology·DateOct 2, 2017

A deeper understanding of a surface phenomenon

Researchers studied the movement of acetone droplets on water using a simplified model and three independent approaches, finding that ignoring surface tension's curvature leads to accurate calculations. The study has implications for understanding complex phenomena like droplet gliding and measurements like the Langmuir balance.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalJournal of Fluid Mechanics·DateOct 2, 2017

Glowing news for organic materials

Researchers at Kyushu University have successfully demonstrated persistent luminescence from organic materials, achieving long-lived emission lasting over an hour. This breakthrough has the potential to revolutionize various fields, including bio-imaging and safety applications.

SourceKyushu University, OPERA·JournalNature·DateOct 2, 2017

Fukushima radiocesium in Japan

Researchers sampled radiocesium at 8 beaches up to 100 km from Fukushima Dai-ichi Nuclear Power Plant, finding highest levels in brackish groundwater beneath the beaches. The concentrations do not pose public health risks but have implications for nuclear power plant management.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 2, 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.

Researchers get first look at electrons escaping atoms

Scientists have successfully tracked an electron leaving the vicinity of an atom as it absorbs light, allowing for the classification of quantum mechanical behavior of electrons from different atoms. The breakthrough could eventually lead to controlling electrons' behavior inside matter and creating new states of matter.

SourceOhio State University·JournalNature Physics·DateOct 2, 2017

New report details innovations in water reuse

A new national report provides comprehensive guidelines for innovative water-saving techniques, emphasizing safe expansion of water reuse systems. Decentralized non-potable water systems, which use local water sources, are highlighted as a promising approach to reduce water consumption by up to 50 percent.

SourceColorado State University·DateOct 2, 2017

When HIV drugs don't cooperate

Researchers studied HIV drug combinations to understand why some drugs act synergistically while others do not. They found that virus protein mutations and host cell receptor density affect synergy, highlighting the need for personalized treatment approaches.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateOct 2, 2017

Skipping breakfast associated with hardening of the arteries

Researchers found skipping breakfast associated with increased risk of atherosclerosis and poorer cardiometabolic health. Participants who skipped breakfast had higher waist circumference, blood pressure, and fasting glucose levels.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateOct 2, 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.

ALMA and Rosetta detect Freon-40 in space

Researchers detected Freon-40, a stable organohalogen molecule, around infant star system IRAS 16293-2422 and comet 67P/C-G using ALMA and Rosetta. This finding suggests that organohalogens may be an important element in the origin of life, rather than indicators of existing life.

SourceESO·JournalNature Astronomy·DateOct 2, 2017

Fast-moving magnetic particles could enable new form of data storage

Scientists have discovered a way to create and control skyrmions at will in specific locations, paving the way for a new form of data storage. This breakthrough enables the storage of vast amounts of data in a tiny area, potentially extending Moore's Law.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateOct 2, 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.

A sea of spinning electrons

Scientists have discovered a 'chiral spin mode' - a sea of electrons spinning in opposing circles that can transport information with little energy dissipation. This breakthrough paves the way for building novel electronic devices such as computers and processors with reduced energy loss.

SourceRutgers University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateOct 2, 2017
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

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

New insights into leading cause of miscarriage, birth defects discovered

Two Northwestern University studies uncover how egg cells use innovative strategies to detect and prevent division errors, leading to birth defects and miscarriages. The research identifies essential proteins for cell division and a backup process that ensures the correct number of chromosomes is received by the embryo.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateOct 2, 2017

Irish scientists can now produce electricity from tears

Researchers at the University of Limerick have discovered that applying pressure to crystals of lysozyme, a protein found in egg whites and tears, can generate electricity. This finding has significant implications for innovative applications such as electroactive coatings for medical implants.

SourceUniversity of Limerick·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateOct 2, 2017

Blast off!

The University of Pittsburgh has established a new NSF-funded research center, SHREC, to focus on mission-critical computing in space, high-performance computing, and resilient computing. The center aims to bring in $1 million in annual external funding and collaborate with industry partners.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·DateOct 2, 2017

Delayed hospital discharges could be linked to rise in population deaths

UK researchers found a link between delayed hospital discharges and rising mortality rates, with increased funding needed for the NHS and adult social care to address this issue. The study suggests that each additional day of delay in discharge is associated with an increase in deaths.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·DateOct 2, 2017

Genre may impact cognitive training using video games

Researchers found that video game genres impact cognitive training, with strategy games offering unique benefits for memory and processing speed. Strategy games were associated with improved white matter connectivity in brain regions related to memory, while action games were linked to a brain region governing mood.

SourceIOS Press·JournalRestorative Neurology and Neuroscience·DateOct 2, 2017

Sticker shock

A new study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that the cost of compounded medication to prevent preterm births is significantly lower than the brand-name version. The analysis showed that the compounded form costs an average of $206 per pregnancy, compared to $10,917 for the brand-name version.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateOct 2, 2017

After medical error, apology goes a long way

A study published in Health Affairs found that communication-and-resolution programs significantly improve patient safety while reducing liability costs. The programs, which include apologies and explanations for medical errors, lead to a low percentage of events resulting in lawsuits, with only 5% leading to malpractice claims.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalHealth Affairs·DateOct 2, 2017

Physician licensing laws keep doctors from seeking care

A recent study by Mayo Clinic found that nearly 40% of physicians hesitate to seek mental health care due to concerns about their medical license. The researchers discovered that states with licensing requirements asking about past mental health conditions have more reluctant physicians.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateOct 2, 2017

Tracking live brain activity with the new NeuBtracker open-source microscope

The NeuBtracker microscope allows for the simultaneous observation of neuronal activity and behavioral responses in zebrafish. This enables researchers to test the effects of substances on both brain activity and behavior, opening up new avenues for drug discovery and metabolic research.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalNature Methods·DateOct 2, 2017

Did game design elements increase physical activity among adults?

A new study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that game-based interventions can increase physical activity among adults. In a 12-week clinical trial, participants who engaged with gamification elements showed significant improvements in step goal achievements and average daily steps compared to those in the control group.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateOct 2, 2017

Financial incentives for physicians did not increase follow-up of patients after discharge

A study published in CMAJ found that financial incentives for physicians to see patients sooner after discharge did not influence their behavior, with no significant improvement in follow-up rates. The incentive program, introduced in Ontario in 2006, aimed to reduce costly readmissions by encouraging early physician follow-up.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateOct 2, 2017

International competition benchmarks metagenomics software

Scientists evaluated metagenomics software using international competition benchmarks to assemble, classify, and analyze complex pools of bacterial DNA. The results showed that different algorithms perform better in various contexts, highlighting the need for researchers to choose software based on specific questions.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalNature Methods·DateOct 2, 2017

Superconductivity found in thin films of titanium oxide

Scientists at Tokyo Tech have reported superconductivity in two types of higher titanium oxides grown as ultrathin films. The materials exhibit a high transition temperature of up to 7.1 K, making them promising for fundamental physics and potential applications in faster computers.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 2, 2017

Genetic test successfully detects some asymptomatic pancreatic cancers

A genetic test developed by UPMC scientists proved highly sensitive in detecting pancreatic cysts associated with aggressive pancreatic cancer. The test, PancreaSeq°, correctly classified patients with intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (IPMN) and identified cysts that would progress to cancer with 100% accuracy.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalGut·DateOct 2, 2017

Asphalt helps lithium batteries charge faster

Rice University scientists have created a new anode material made from asphalt that shows exceptional stability and can bring lithium metal batteries from zero to full charge in just five minutes. The finding has significant implications for high-power density devices, including rapid charging capabilities.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Nano·DateOct 2, 2017

Low consumption of vitamin K by adolescents associated with unhealthy enlargement of the heart's major pumping chamber

A recent study published in The Journal of Nutrition found that adolescents consuming the least amount of vitamin K1 were at a higher risk for unhealthy enlargement of their heart's major pumping chamber. This association was independent of other factors such as physical activity and blood pressure.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalJournal of Nutrition·DateOct 2, 2017

BU: Few South Africans receiving adequate diabetes care

A new study published in PLOS ONE found that a significant proportion of South Africans with diabetes do not receive adequate care, with nearly twice the proportion of cases being undiagnosed. The research highlights gaps in screening, diagnosis, treatment, and control of the disease, particularly among adults aged 40-plus.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 2, 2017

Breakthrough cancer treatment brings hope and challenges

The approved gene therapy Kymriah offers hope for children and young adults with relapsed or refractory B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia. However, its high cost and limited accessibility pose significant challenges for policy-makers and patients alike.

SourceThe Hastings Center·JournalHealth Affairs·DateOct 2, 2017

The 'myth' of language history: Languages do not share a single history

A recent study published in PNAS found that language grammatical structures change more quickly than vocabulary, influenced by contact with unrelated languages. Researchers analyzed 81 Austronesian languages and discovered striking differences in the rates of change between grammar and lexicon.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Geoanthropology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 2, 2017