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Science News for September 12, 2017


How should we handle boys who can't read?

A Norwegian University study found that girls outperform boys in reading by six years old due to better letter recognition and sounds knowledge. The study suggests a multifaceted approach to address the disparity, including early identification and targeted training, to prevent students from dropping out of school.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateSep 12, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Physicists propose new way to stabilize next-generation fusion plasmas

Researchers have proposed a new approach to stabilizing next-generation fusion plasmas by understanding the impact of multiple Alfvén waves on high-energy particles. The study reveals that over 10 unstable waves can be excited, leading to up to 40% loss of energetic particles.

SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·JournalNuclear Fusion·DateSep 12, 2017

Ancient tree reveals cause of spike in Arctic temperature

Researchers discovered a new mechanism that may explain how temperatures in the Northern Hemisphere spiked several degrees centigrade during the last global ice age. The study suggests Antarctica plays a role too, and linked melting ice there to rapid atmospheric warming in the North Atlantic.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 12, 2017

Historic legacies affect climate change survival in Caribbean

Historic legacies of empire have increased Caribbean states' vulnerability to climate change, with unequal power relationships and limited resources hindering their ability to address the issue. Dr Leon Sealey-Huggins argues that addressing historical inequalities is crucial for a just and lasting approach to climate change.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalThird World Quarterly·DateSep 12, 2017

Predicting atypical development in infants at high risk for autism?

A new study from Columbia University Irving Medical Center identified a potential biomarker that predicts atypical development in 1- to 2-month-old infants at high familial risk for developing autism spectrum disorders. Infants at high risk have elevated 'noise' and increased randomness in their spontaneous head movements during sleep.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·DateSep 12, 2017

AI -- Engineering: merging, morphing, mobile robots

Self-reconfiguring modular robots can adapt their bodies by splitting and merging to become new entities with autonomous task or environment choices. The system enables robots to self-heal by removing or replacing malfunctioning parts, including a brain unit.

SourceUniversité libre de Bruxelles·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 12, 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.

Astronauts don't develop anemia during spaceflight, NASA study suggests

A NASA study found that astronaut blood parameters, such as red blood cells and oxygen-carrying proteins, remained higher than pre-flight levels even after adapting to microgravity. The study collected whole blood samples from 31 astronauts over up to six months on the International Space Station.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Hematology·DateSep 12, 2017

Household environment -- not genetics -- shapes salivary microbes

A study published in mBio finds that household environment plays a major role in shaping the salivary microbiome, with similar bacteria found in individuals living together. The research team sequenced DNA and saliva from an extended Ashkenazi Jewish family to determine how environmental influences affect the microbiome.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmBio·DateSep 12, 2017

Tomatoes' crystal ball reveals evolutionary secrets

Researchers at Michigan State University studied the unique molecule acylsugars found in tomato trichomes, revealing their diverse structures and potential as natural pesticides. This discovery opens an evolutionary window into plant defense metabolism and could lead to innovative solutions for pest resistance and human medicine.

SourceMichigan State University·DateSep 12, 2017

Letting the data speak for itself

Researchers developed a flexible geostatistical model that captures both types of asymptotic dependence and accurately estimates extremal dependence type. The new model outperforms other typical models in terms of fit to the data and spatial prediction of extreme wind speeds.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalSpatial Statistics·DateSep 12, 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.

Do cancer and its treatment affect later pregnancy outcomes?

Female cancer survivors face increased risks of preterm birth and small for gestational age infants after diagnosis. Certain cancers, such as cervical, breast, leukemia, brain cancer, and extranodal non-Hodgkin lymphoma, are linked to poorer pregnancy outcomes.

SourceWiley·JournalInternational Journal of Cancer·DateSep 12, 2017

Farming fish

Parrotfish rotationally harvest their favorite food, creating pockets of space without turf algae that enable tiny coral larvae to settle and grow. This behavior supports coral reef health by reducing the harmful impact of turf algae.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalMarine Ecology Progress Series·DateSep 12, 2017

Western researchers reverse the negative effects of adolescent marijuana use

Western researchers have identified a specific mechanism in the prefrontal cortex for the mental health risks associated with adolescent marijuana use and developed a way to reverse those risks using pharmaceuticals. The study found that reducing GABA, an inhibitory neurotransmitter, can lead to hyperactive states in the brain's dopami...

SourceUniversity of Western Ontario·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 12, 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.

Best of ESMO 2017 Congress

At ESMO 2017, researchers presented 55 late-breaking abstracts and 1,736 selected abstracts, featuring breakthrough treatments for various cancers. The Congress emphasized the importance of preventing cancer through lifestyle changes and explored sustainable treatment options.

SourceEuropean Society for Medical Oncology·DateSep 12, 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.

New tool for cell-free therapy based on artificial membrane vesicles

Scientists at Kazan Federal University have developed a new tool for cell-free therapy using artificial membrane vesicles, which retain biological properties of donor cells. The study demonstrates that these vesicles can stimulate angiogenesis in vitro and in vivo.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalOncoTargets and Therapy·DateSep 12, 2017

Debunking study suggests ways to counter misinformation and correct 'fake news'

A meta-analysis of debunking studies finds that a detailed counter-message is more effective than labeling misinformation as wrong. The study suggests involving audiences in scrutiny and counterarguing, introducing new information, and reducing arguments supporting misinformation.

SourceAnnenberg Public Policy Center of the University of Pennsylvania·JournalPsychological Science·DateSep 12, 2017

Affordable Care Act expands health coverage to more patients, although differences remain

The Affordable Care Act has expanded Medicaid coverage, leading to significant decreases in medical visits among uninsured patients across all racial and ethnic groups. However, disparities persist, with Hispanic patients experiencing smaller declines in uninsured visit rates compared to non-Hispanic whites and blacks.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateSep 12, 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.

NASA gets infrared look at Tropical Depression 21W

Tropical Depression 21W developed just west of the Philippines, with strong thunderstorms detected around its center and eastern Philippines. Cloud top temperatures as cold as minus 63 degrees Fahrenheit indicate potential for heavy rainfall.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 12, 2017

Hospice care is short and may start later than needed

A Yale-led study found that nearly half of older adults admitted to hospice during their last year of life experienced symptoms for months prior to admission. The most common conditions leading to hospice admission were cancer and advanced dementia.

SourceYale University·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateSep 12, 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.

Small study suggests twice-daily aspirin dosing could lead to more cardiovascular benefits for people with type 2 diabetes

A new study presents evidence that taking aspirin twice daily could provide more cardiovascular benefits for individuals with type 2 diabetes. The research found that platelet aggregation increased over the standard 24-hour dosing interval when aspirin was only taken once daily, suggesting a need for antiplatelet treatment that covers ...

SourceDiabetologia·DateSep 12, 2017

Magnetic cellular 'Legos' for the regenerative medicine of the future

Scientists successfully aggregate cells using only magnets without an external matrix, forming a deformable tissue that can be stretched or compressed at will. This breakthrough approach could revolutionize regenerative medicine by providing a powerful tool for biophysical studies and tissue engineering.

SourceCNRS·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 12, 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.

September/October 2017 Annals of Family Medicine

Primary care physicians spend an average of 355 minutes (5.9 hours) per day in the EHR, including 269 minutes during clinic hours and 86 minutes after hours. This excessive time spent on clerical tasks can lead to burnout and decreased productivity. The study suggests that solutions like proactive planned care, team-based care, and sha...

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateSep 12, 2017

Russian Science Foundation grant winners: Dry storage of biomaterials

Researchers at Kazan Federal University (KFU) have won a Russian Science Foundation grant to develop dry storage technology for biomaterials. They are studying the anhydrobiosis mechanism of mosquitoes, which can survive without water, and plan to apply it to store oocytes, proteins, or vaccines.

SourceKazan Federal University·DateSep 12, 2017

Why high-fiber diets do not always lead to weight loss

A new study published in International Journal of Obesity suggests that the effectiveness of high-fiber diets depends on the type of bacteria in a person's intestine. The research found that participants with a specific combination of Prevotella and Bacteroides bacteria lost more weight and body fat when following a high-fiber diet.

SourceSpringer·JournalInternational Journal of Obesity·DateSep 12, 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.

Doctors can now predict the severity of your disease by measuring molecules

Researchers have developed a method to accurately measure tiny changes in molecular interactions, which can predict cognitive impairment and diagnose mental illness. The technique uses optical tweezers to gauge the effects of gene mutations, offering a new approach to understanding complex diseases.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalSmall·DateSep 12, 2017

To Improve smartphone privacy, control access to third-party libraries

A new app developed by Carnegie Mellon University researchers allows users to control access to third-party libraries, which helps app developers make money by targeting people with ads or compiling marketing profiles. This approach promises to be an effective way of limiting the unwanted release of personal information.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·DateSep 12, 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.

Gazing into the flames of ionic winds

KAUST researchers have produced detailed 3D visualizations of ionic winds flowing from a flame in response to direct and alternating electric fields. The study reveals that negative ions play a crucial role in shaping the wind dynamics.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalCombustion and Flame·DateSep 12, 2017

Graphene based terahertz absorbers

Researchers have created a terahertz saturable absorber using graphene produced by liquid phase exfoliation, enabling ultrafast lasers with high modulation. The devices have great potential for applications such as time-resolved spectroscopy of gases and molecules, quantum information, and ultra-high speed communication.

SourceGraphene Flagship·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 12, 2017

Storming the cellular barricades to fight fungi

Researchers have created antibody-recruiting molecules targeting fungi (ARM-Fs) that can attach to fungal cell walls and recruit human antibodies to combat infections. These small molecules offer a new strategy for treating fungal diseases affecting thousands of people each year.

SourceYale University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateSep 12, 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.

Irma's heavy rainfall measured by NASA's IMERG

Irma dropped extremely heavy rain, up to 20 inches, across Cuba and Florida, causing severe flooding. The post-tropical cyclone weakened over Georgia, but its remnants produced additional 1-3 inch rain accumulations across the southeastern US.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 12, 2017

Bionic heart tissue: U-M part of $20 million center

Researchers are developing living patches that mimic heart muscle cells, blood vessels and optical circuitry to create implantable heart tissue. The goal is to produce a true-to-life 'heart on a chip' to aid the pharmaceutical industry in developing better treatments for arrhythmia.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·DateSep 12, 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.

NASA-funded research at USC provides evidence of ground-ice on asteroids

Research at USC Viterbi School of Engineering has provided evidence for the occurrence of ground ice on protoplanet Vesta, a NASA-sponsored study that utilized bistatic radar techniques. The findings suggest large, smooth areas on Vesta correlated with higher hydrogen concentrations, supporting the presence of ground ice.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 12, 2017

New Tulane University drug effective against malaria

Researchers at Tulane University have developed a new drug, AQ-13, effective against non-severe cases of malaria. The clinical trial results match the effectiveness of widely used treatment regimens and hold promise for combating drug-resistant Plasmodium falciparum strains.

SourceTulane University·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateSep 12, 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.

SLU researcher discovers how hibernating ribosomes wake up

Bacterial ribosomes can take an inactive form called hibernating 100S ribosome, helping bacteria conserve energy under stressful conditions. A SLU researcher discovered the protein factor HflX that triggers the transition back to active 70S form, essential for protein synthesis.

SourceSaint Louis University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 12, 2017

NASA finds a tail on Typhoon Talim

Typhoon Talim's satellite imagery revealed a large tail-like structure extending from its center to the southeast. The storm was moving west-northwest with maximum sustained winds near 65 knots, intensification expected as it approaches Taiwan.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 12, 2017

Cancer drug stimulates tripolar mode of mitosis

Researchers have discovered that the taxane drug Paclitaxel stimulates a unique form of cell division called tripolar mitosis, which makes tumor cells more sensitive to radiation therapy. This discovery could lead to the development of personalized treatment strategies by identifying patients with high levels of specific biomarkers.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalOncogene·DateSep 12, 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.

Breaking down barriers to accessing PrEP for men who have sex with men

A new study suggests that primary care providers' failure to discuss sexual orientation and behaviors with MSM is a significant barrier to accessing PrEP. The researchers found that improved communication would allow for more open discussion about health risks and preventive interventions.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalLGBT Health·DateSep 12, 2017

Want to rebound from failure? Feel the pain

Researchers found that people who focused on their emotions following a failure put forth more effort when they tried again. Emotionally motivated participants spent nearly 25% more time searching for a low-priced book than those with only cognitive responses.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Behavioral Decision Making·DateSep 12, 2017

Preventing childhood deafness following chemotherapy treatment

Researchers have developed a novel technique to deliver steroids directly into the cochlea, reducing hearing loss caused by cisplatin treatment in mice by 50%. This breakthrough has potential applications for treating various types of hearing loss and could also be used to deliver other drugs and therapies.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Cellular Neuroscience·DateSep 12, 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.

Forest regeneration experiment of 30 years yields results

A 30-year forest regeneration experiment in Interior Alaska shows that planting white spruce seedlings is the most effective method to produce a spruce-dominated stand, with broadcast seeding as the next best option. The study's findings provide valuable insights for forest landowners and reforestation practices.

SourceUniversity of Alaska Fairbanks·JournalForest Ecology and Management·DateSep 12, 2017

Drunken noodles or Pad Kee Mao? Language matters on ethnic menus

A study by Ohio State University researchers found that customers who prefer a sense of structure and predictability react negatively to authentic-language menu labels. The study suggests that restaurants should consider their customers' individual needs for cognitive closure when deciding on menu language.

SourceOhio State University·JournalCornell Hospitality Quarterly·DateSep 12, 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.

Doctors spend half of workday in the electronic health record

Primary care physicians dedicate half of their workday to EHR activities, with significant time spent on clerical tasks and inbox management. The authors suggest that solutions, such as proactive planned care and sharing of clerical tasks, can improve EHR system applications.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateSep 12, 2017

A one-of-a-kind star found to change over decades

Researchers at the University of Notre Dame have discovered that the unique binary star system AR Scorpii exhibits variability on a timescale of decades, contrary to initial expectations. The study found that the system's brightness more than doubled in minutes and hours, but also showed long-term changes over decades.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateSep 12, 2017

Modeling the impact of green eggs and hens

A new study by UBC Okanagan researcher Nathan Pelletier found that poultry fed vegan organic feed produce eggs with a smaller environmental footprint. The type of feed and manure management system had the greatest influence on environmental impacts.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalJournal of Cleaner Production·DateSep 12, 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.

Test may miss diabetes in some African-Americans

Researchers found 60 genetic variants influencing HbA1c measurements and ability to diagnose diabetes. These variants, including one associated with lower HbA1c levels despite high blood glucose, may lead to underdiagnosis of type 2 diabetes in African Americans.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateSep 12, 2017

Primary care practices use 4 complementary methods to identify high-risk patients

Four primary methods are used by primary care practices to risk stratify patient populations: practice-developed algorithm, AAFP clinical algorithm, payer claims/electronic health record, and clinical intuition. Practices that developed their own algorithm identify more high-risk patients than those using other methods.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateSep 12, 2017

Eye movements reveal temporal expectation deficits in ADHD

A study found that individuals with ADHD showed different patterns of eye movements compared to neurotypical individuals, indicating difficulties with predicting and reacting to upcoming events. This suggests the use of eye movements as an objective measure of temporal expectation, potentially complementing existing diagnostic tools.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateSep 12, 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.

Your stools reveal whether you can lose weight

A new study from the University of Copenhagen found that a specific ratio of gut bacteria can predict weight loss success on a high-fruit diet. Approximately 50% of the population has this beneficial bacterial balance, which can help tailor nutritional advice for individual weight loss needs.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalInternational Journal of Obesity·DateSep 12, 2017

Alzheimer's disease biomarker identified across test sites

A new study has demonstrated the potential of using a frequency distribution-based index of brain functional connectivity as a biomarker for detecting Alzheimer's disease and mild cognitive impairment. The findings show good accuracy across databases and test sites, offering promise for widespread clinical usage.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalBrain Connectivity·DateSep 12, 2017

Research finds entrenched hiring bias against African-Americans

A recent Northwestern University meta-analysis found striking stability in discrimination against African-Americans, despite a decline in Latino discrimination. Researchers analyzed data from field experiments of hiring between 1990 and 2015, finding that racial gaps in the labor force persist regardless of educational attainment.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 12, 2017

Telemonitoring and automated messages improve CPAP adherence

Patients with OSA improved CPAP use when telemonitored and received individualized, automated messages that reinforced therapy adherence. Telemonitoring increased CPAP use by 36-60 minutes per night.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateSep 12, 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.

LSUHealthNO Research discovers potential new Rx target for colon cancer

A study published in Nature Research's Scientific Reports reveals that the novel protein SATB2 can cause normal cells to become malignant, grow and spread like cancer stem cells. Silencing SATB2 suppresses cell growth and cancer stem cell characteristics, suggesting a potential new target for therapy.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 12, 2017

NIH awards $15 million to support development of 3-D human tissue models

The National Institutes of Health has awarded $15 million to support the development of 3-D microphysiological system platforms, called 'tissue chips,' that model human disease. These platforms will enable scientists to better understand disease mechanisms and predict how patients respond to specific drugs.

SourceNIH/National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS)·DateSep 12, 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.

Russian Science Foundation grant winners: Soil decontamination

A team of researchers at Kazan Federal University is exploring the mechanism of how microorganisms form and develop in response to petroleum contamination. They aim to understand whether hydrocarbon-oxidizing community structure depends on soil properties, and how new technologies for soil decontamination may arise from this research.

SourceKazan Federal University·DateSep 12, 2017

PCORI Board approves $18 million for research on sickle cell disease

Two studies funded by PCORI will compare strategies to improve care-management transitions for adolescent and young adults with sickle cell disease. The projects aim to reduce emergency department visits, hospital admissions, and improve quality of life among young adults with the condition.

SourcePatient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute·DateSep 12, 2017

Keeping NASA's James Webb Space Telescope in the dark

The James Webb Space Telescope relies on a complex shroud system to maintain extremely low temperatures, minimizing unwanted infrared light that could compromise optical testing. The system consists of two nested shrouds: liquid nitrogen and cold gaseous helium, which work together to cool the telescope.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 12, 2017

SLU engineering students to build full-scale projects in new lab

Saint Louis University's civil engineering students will design and test steel beams and concrete frames at full-scale thanks to a recent National Science Foundation grant. The new lab aims to provide experiential learning opportunities, enabling students to better prepare for the workforce.

SourceSaint Louis University·DateSep 12, 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.

'Missing link' explains how viruses trigger immunity

A Melbourne research team has identified a protein called SIDT2 as critical for cells to detect viral components and initiate an immune response. This discovery has important implications for delivering new therapeutics based on dsRNA.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalImmunity·DateSep 12, 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.

Relapse rare in young men after antireflux surgery

A large study found that antireflux surgery has a low risk of complications and relapse in young, healthy males. The procedure is considered an under-used therapeutic alternative to long-term medication, which can lead to osteoporosis and other complications.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalJAMA·DateSep 12, 2017

Study sets new distance record for medical drone transport

Researchers from Johns Hopkins Medicine successfully transported medical samples 160+ miles using a drone, setting a new delivery distance record. The flight maintained temperature control, ensuring the samples were viable for laboratory analysis after landing.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Pathology·DateSep 12, 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.

Researchers identify potential biomarkers of age-related macular degeneration

A new study has identified potential lipid biomarkers in human blood plasma associated with age-related macular degeneration, which may lead to earlier diagnoses and better treatment options. The study's findings also suggest that metabolomics profiling may provide novel insights into the relationship between lipids and AMD.

SourceMass Eye and Ear·JournalOphthalmology·DateSep 12, 2017

Scientists use mismatch in telescopic data to get a handle on quasars and their 'tails'

Researchers have gained a better understanding of the structure of hot jets and accretion disks surrounding black holes at the center of galaxies. They compared data from radio interferometry and Gaia space observatory, discovering discrepancies in object positions that revealed bright jets emitting visible light in many quasars.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateSep 12, 2017

Scientists find that nanoparticles from tattoos travel inside the body

Scientists have found that nanoparticles from tattoos can migrate to the lymph nodes and cause inflammation, leading to potential long-term health problems. The study provides strong evidence for the transport of toxic elements and tattoo pigments, highlighting the need for further research on the safety of tattoo inks.

SourceEuropean Synchrotron Radiation Facility·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 12, 2017

Running group helps half its graduates quit smoking

A new UBC study found that joining a running group can help individuals successfully quit smoking, with half of participants able to stop smoking after completing a 10-week program. Participants who stuck it out showed significant improvement in mental health and reduced their smoking habits.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalMental Health and Physical Activity·DateSep 12, 2017

Explaining bursts of activity in brains of preterm babies

A new study found that the insula plays a major role in generating spontaneous neuronal bursts in preterm babies, essential for strengthening brain connections. The bursts are also linked to healthier cognitive skills and reduced risk of cerebral palsy.

SourceUniversity College London·DateSep 12, 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.

Adults with intellectual disabilities are at high risk of preventable emergency admissions

Adults with intellectual disabilities have a nearly threefold higher rate of emergency hospitalizations and five times more preventable admissions than their matched controls. The most common ACSCs resulting in admission are convulsions/epilepsy, lower respiratory tract infection, and urinary tract infection.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateSep 12, 2017

Kids praised for being smart are more likely to cheat, new studies find

Two studies found that praising children's intelligence leads to increased dishonesty and cheating. The research suggests that 'smart' praise creates expectations and pressures children to perform well, leading them to cheat. The findings highlight the importance of using specific, behavior-based praise to promote positive outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalPsychological Science·DateSep 12, 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.

US public backs carbon tax, and spending revenue on renewables

A new study found that the majority of Americans support a carbon tax, with 80% wanting revenue used for clean energy development and infrastructure improvements. The average American household is willing to pay $177 per year in carbon tax, generating around $22 billion for investments in renewable energy and infrastructure.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateSep 12, 2017

Churches, places of reference, integration and socialization for the immigrant population

A study by the UPV/EHU-University of the Basque Country found that Pentecostal churches serve as places of reference for migrants to establish relationships, build trust, and share values. Pastors act as cultural mediators, providing essential information on welfare benefits, language skills, and navigating local provinces.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalCritical African Studies·DateSep 12, 2017

New research to treat acute malnutrition

A large study in Burkina Faso treated over 1600 children with acute malnutrition using a lipid-based nutrient supplement, resulting in significant weight gain from healthy lean tissue. The findings can be used to prevent and treat moderate acute malnutrition, potentially saving thousands of lives.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateSep 12, 2017

Asthma symptoms can be improved by diet and exercise in non-obese patients

Non-obese individuals with asthma may benefit from a healthy diet and regular exercise to control symptoms and improve quality of life. Studies have shown that exercise combined with a low-GI diet can lead to significant improvements in symptom control, with patients reporting a 50% reduction in asthma symptom scores on average.

SourceEuropean Respiratory Society·DateSep 12, 2017

UT faculty member helps identify new species of prehistoric crocodile

Researchers have identified a new species of prehistoric crocodile, Deltasuchus motherali, from a fossil site in north central Texas. The species, which lived around 95 million years ago, is estimated to have grown up to 20 feet long and ate a wide variety of prey, including turtles and dinosaurs.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee at Knoxville·JournalJournal of Vertebrate Paleontology·DateSep 12, 2017

Therapy proves effective in subgroup of COPD patients

A new antibody treatment has been shown to reduce the rate of exacerbations by nearly 20% in patients with a subgroup of treatment-resistant chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The study found that patients with high eosinophil counts benefited more from the treatment, indicating a potential biomarker for the disease.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateSep 12, 2017

Lay interventions for depression and drinking

Two brief psychological therapies targeting depression and harmful drinking delivered by lay counsellors were effective and sustained over 12 months. The interventions, Healthy Activity Programme (HAP) and Counselling for Alcohol Problems (CAP), showed significant symptom reduction and remission rates.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateSep 12, 2017

Exposure to head impacts in youth football practice drills

A study of nine young athletes found that contact drills involving multiple players led to the highest number of head impacts, while open-field tackling resulted in high-magnitude impacts. The study suggests modifying or eliminating certain drills from practice sessions to reduce injury risks.

SourceJournal of Neurosurgery Publishing Group·DateSep 12, 2017

KFU astronomers discovered an exoplanet together with Turkish and Japanese colleagues

KFU astronomers have made a groundbreaking discovery of an exoplanet orbiting a red giant star HD208897, located 210 light years away from Earth. The planet has a mass of 1.4 Jupiter masses and an orbital period of 353 days, marking the first time in Russian astronomy such a discovery was made using spectroscopic methods.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalAstronomy and Astrophysics·DateSep 12, 2017

Agriculture and health sectors collaborate to address population health

In at least 18 states, academic health centers partner with cooperative extension systems to improve local community health. These collaborations focus on nutrition education, healthy cooking demonstrations, and health and nutrition education for seniors.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateSep 12, 2017

'Superbug' bacteria gang up on us, fueled by antibiotic use, nursing home study suggests

Researchers found that 40% of nursing home patients had multiple multidrug-resistant organisms living on their bodies, increasing the risk of urinary tract infections. The study suggests a complex network of interactions among bacteria and antibiotics, highlighting the need for more targeted treatment approaches.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 12, 2017

Inhibitors support immune therapy for leukemia

Researchers have developed a new leukemia therapy that combines inhibitors with immune therapies to eliminate cancer cells, showing promising results in preclinical trials. The combination of treatments worked better than using one active substance alone.

SourceGerman Cancer Research Center (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ)·JournalLeukemia·DateSep 12, 2017

Researchers identify possible new target in fight against lung cancer

Researchers have identified a molecule called miR-124 in non-small cell lung cancer cells that plays a regulatory role in programmed cell death. The findings may offer a new target in the fight against non-small cell lung cancer, particularly for mesenchymal-like cells resistant to chemotherapy.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalScience Signaling·DateSep 12, 2017

Study: Social media helps students learn scientific argumentation better

A University of Kansas study found that students who participated in a social media program learned scientific argumentation better than their peers. The program, which used Twitter and Skype, improved students' ability to share scientific claims, discuss phenomena, and demonstrate knowledge.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalEducational Media International·DateSep 12, 2017