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Science News for September 7, 2017


GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

NASA finds Jose strengthening into a hurricane

NASA's GPM satellite detected strengthening in Tropical Storm Jose, indicating towering thunderstorms and heavy rain rates of over 5.3 inches per hour. The storm intensified into a hurricane on September 6, 2017, with maximum sustained winds near 90 mph.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 7, 2017

Circadian clock's inner gears

A team of researchers led by Charles Weitz shows that a set of core clock proteins organize into molecular machines that control circadian rhythms. The findings provide a starting point for understanding the clock's machinery and its role in various conditions, including sleep disorders and cancer.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalMolecular Cell·DateSep 7, 2017
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Climate change for aliens

Researchers develop new scale to measure civilization advancement, emphasizing the importance of sustainable planet management. Earth may reach Class V in future if humanity adopts renewable energy sources.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalAnthropocene·DateSep 7, 2017

Big data may amplify existing police surveillance practices, study shows

Researchers found that big data analytics can amplify existing policing practices, leading to more marginalization and distrust. The influx of personal data enables law enforcement to surveil communities more easily, but also raises concerns about the use of objective crime data and predictive algorithms.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalAmerican Sociological Review·DateSep 7, 2017

Ultraviolet light from superluminous supernova key to revealing explosion mechanism

A team of researchers discovered a way to use ultraviolet light observations to determine characteristics of superluminous supernovae previously unknown. They found that Gaia16apd was most likely an shock-interacting supernova, and their technique could help identify the explosion mechanism of future supernovae.

SourceKavli Institute for the Physics and Mathematics of the Universe·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateSep 7, 2017
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Study: SNAP benefits aren't enough to afford a healthy diet

A new study from North Carolina State University and the Union of Concerned Scientists found that SNAP benefits only cover 43-60% of the cost of a healthy diet. Lower-income households face significant challenges in affording a balanced diet. The study highlights the need for more affordable food options to support vulnerable populations.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·DateSep 7, 2017

Trigger for fatty liver in obesity

Researchers identified a signaling pathway in liver cells that contributes to fatty liver disease in obesity. The study found that increased Fas content leads to liver steatosis and insulin resistance, while low BID content protects against fatty liver development.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 7, 2017

Researchers point way to improved stem cell transplantation therapies

Researchers in Germany have demonstrated that temporarily preventing hematopoietic stem cells from dying can improve HSC transplantation outcomes. By inhibiting apoptosis, HSCs can establish themselves in the bone marrow and produce healthy blood cells more effectively.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateSep 7, 2017

New treatment on the horizon for type 1 diabetes sufferers

Researchers at Westmead Institute for Medical Research have discovered a new approach to treating type 1 diabetes, using pancreatic islet transplants delivered into the quadriceps muscle. This method presents fewer risks than current clinical practice of transplanting islets into the liver via the portal vein.

SourceWestmead Institute for Medical Research·JournalDiabetologia·DateSep 7, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Birds are on the move in the face of climate change

Research reveals significant changes in bird communities due to climate change and land use in northern Europe. Species composition is shifting with some gaining range while others lose it, leading to new community compositions.

SourceWiley·JournalEcology and Evolution·DateSep 7, 2017

Better understanding of 'one of the most complex organs' for better lung treatments

A study published by researchers from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine has identified two distinct cell types in the lungs, one promoting regeneration and the other forming scar tissue. This discovery could lead to targeted therapies for conditions such as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and chronic obstructive pulmonary...

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalCell·DateSep 7, 2017

How tails help geckos and other vertebrates make great strides

Researchers found that disrupting geckos' tail movements limits pelvis rotation, decreasing step length. Tail undulations play a crucial role in increasing step length and speed in geckos, applicable to many terrestrial animals with tails.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 7, 2017
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Study offers a new mindset in the search for stroke therapies

Researchers identified tau, a brain protein, as a potential target for stroke therapies. Mice deficient in tau showed significant protection from excitotoxic brain damage after experimental stroke, offering new avenues for treatment development.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 7, 2017

Are you barking up the wrong tree by sleeping with your dog?

A new Mayo Clinic study found that sleeping with dogs can help people sleep better, but only if they're in the bedroom, not in bed. The study of 40 healthy adults and their dogs over five months showed that having pets nearby can provide comfort and security.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateSep 7, 2017

What makes alcoholics drink? Research shows it's more complex than supposed

New research shows that long-term mental health problems do not affect drinking patterns, but a history of depression differs significantly among men; those with depression drink less often than those without. The study suggests that there is no single answer to why alcoholics drink and may require personalized treatment approaches.

SourceEuropean College of Neuropsychopharmacology·DateSep 7, 2017
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Article on armed conflict wins Best Research Paper

Dr George Ndi's research highlights the need to upgrade international laws governing warfare due to increasingly asymmetric conflicts involving states and non-state parties. His paper also explores the legal implications of drone technology and stockpiling weapons of mass destruction.

SourceUniversity of Huddersfield·DateSep 7, 2017

A new learning rule for memory formation and storage revealed

Researchers discovered a new learning mechanism that spans seconds, allowing for the storage of entire sequences of events, including places traversed. This finding challenges the widely accepted Hebbian learning rule, suggesting no causal relationship between interconnected neurons is required to form long-lasting associations.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateSep 7, 2017
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

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

Cilia: 'The bouncer' of bacteria

Researchers found that cilia play an active role in filtering bacteria by creating a vortical flow field, and shorter cilia mix the local flow to enhance chemical screening. Cilia are essential for selective recruitment of symbiotic bacteria, as their dysfunction can lead to pulmonary conditions and infertility.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 7, 2017
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

The sand trap: Demand outpaces caution -- and knowledge

Researchers warn that easy access to sand has bred a careless understanding of its true global costs, leading to environmental degradation and social issues. The global sand supply is uncertain, with no clear system in place for managing demand and extraction rates.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalScience·DateSep 7, 2017

What role do genome variations play in tuberculosis?

A genome-wide association study identified the CD53 gene as a susceptible locus for tuberculosis. Increased CD53 expression was observed in active TB patients, supporting its biological role in disease susceptibility. This research lays the foundation for identifying individuals at high risk of developing tuberculosis.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of Human Genetics·DateSep 7, 2017

Life expectancy trends tied to 2016 voting choices

A new study by Boston University School of Public Health researcher Jacob Bor found that counties with lower life expectancy gains saw a significant increase in Republican votes, while Democrats lost votes in these areas. The findings suggest that voters' health needs may be driving their electoral decisions.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateSep 7, 2017
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Drivers don't ignore a ringing phone but do ignore the risk

A new QUT study reveals that drivers find it difficult to ignore a ringing phone but do ignore the dangers, with 45% believing locating and answering is not as risky as talking or texting. Drivers underestimate the distracting dangers of passive phone use, adapting their behavior only when actively using their phone.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 7, 2017

Hidden impacts of sand extraction and trade

The global demand for sand is linked to environmental degradation and social conflicts, threatening water and food security. An interdisciplinary scientific approach is needed to identify sustainable extraction methods.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateSep 7, 2017

Satellites show different sides of Hurricane Irma

Satellite imagery from NASA's Aqua satellite revealed a clear eye with powerful bands of thunderstorms circling the eye. Cloud top temperatures as cold as minus 83.1 degrees Celsius indicated the most powerful storms in Irma, stretching high into the troposphere.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 7, 2017
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

A tiny device offers insights to how cancer spreads

A team of researchers developed a tiny microfluidic device to track the long-term evolution of invasive cancer cells. The device allowed them to cultivate cells for up to three weeks, providing valuable insights into the biology of aggressive cells and potential targets for therapy.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 7, 2017

Sometimes you shouldn't say sorry

A new study published in Frontiers in Psychology reveals that saying sorry when making a social rejection can have the opposite effect of its intention. Researchers found that apologizing can increase feelings of hurt and create pressure to forgive before being ready. The study's findings challenge popular beliefs about apologies in so...

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateSep 7, 2017

Ebola: Early immune response provides insight into vaccination

Researchers identified a signature of five early innate immune markers correlating with antibody titers after vaccination, providing insight into VSV-based vaccine efficacy. The study's findings could lead to accelerated vaccine development and improved emergency vaccine strategies.

SourceGerman Center for Infection Research·JournalCell Reports·DateSep 7, 2017

Nutrition has benefits for brain network organization, new research finds

A new study found that monounsaturated fatty acids, particularly in olive oils, nuts, and avocados, are linked to improved cognitive performance. The researchers discovered a specific brain network, the dorsal attentional network, where these fatty acids positively impact general intelligence.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNeuroImage·DateSep 7, 2017
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Human papillomavirus 16 infections may pose variable cancer risk

Researchers have found that human papillomavirus 16 (HPV16) infections can have varying levels of cancer risk due to unique genetic variations. Studies revealed thousands of distinct HPV16 genomes in infected individuals, with some variants linked to increased carcinogenic potential.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateSep 7, 2017

Double targeting ligands to identify and treat prostate cancer

Researchers have developed a new approach to precisely identify and localize prostate cancer tumors while protecting healthy tissue. The double targeting ligand RPS-027 binds to both PSMA and albumin, reducing kidney uptake and increasing tumor-to-tissue ratios for improved therapeutic profile.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateSep 7, 2017

How do close relationships lead to longer life?

Research highlights benefits of social connections on physical and mental health, with decreased risk of mortality associated. The special issue emphasizes the need to integrate social relationships into public health priorities.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalAmerican Psychologist·DateSep 7, 2017

Chen receives Humboldt Award

Long-Qing Chen, a renowned professor at Penn State, has been awarded the Humboldt Research Award for his significant contributions to materials science and engineering. He plans to establish international collaborations and learn about European cultures through a one-year research project in Germany.

SourcePenn State·DateSep 7, 2017
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

New dental imaging method uses squid ink to fish for gum disease

A new dental imaging method using squid ink combines light and ultrasound for a comprehensive and accurate examination of gums without pain or discomfort. This non-invasive approach enables dentists to create detailed maps of gum pocket depths, surpassing the conventional method's limitations.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJournal of Dental Research·DateSep 7, 2017

Mediterranean-style diet may eliminate need for reflux medications

A plant-based Mediterranean-style diet has been shown to provide the same medical benefits as popular reflux medications for treating laryngopharyngeal reflux. The diet led to a 62.6% reduction in Reflux Symptom Index, compared to 54.1% in patients taking proton pump inhibitors.

SourceNorthwell Health·JournalJAMA Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery·DateSep 7, 2017
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

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

Hidden Inca treasure: Remarkable new tree genus discovered in the Andes

Researchers from Wake Forest University and Smithsonian detail a new genus of large forest tree commonly found in the tropical Andes. The Incadendron esseri, also known as 'Esser's tree of the Inca', is a canopy tree that stretches up to 100 feet tall and is susceptible to climate change.

SourceWake Forest University·JournalPhytoKeys·DateSep 7, 2017

Fast magnetic writing of data

Researchers at ETH Zurich have successfully developed a novel method to rapidly and efficiently write data onto magnetic carriers using a spin-orbit-torque technique. The technique involves the application of electric current pulses through an adjacent wire, which causes magnetization inversion without the need for coils.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateSep 7, 2017

UT Austin study raises question: Why are fossilized hairs so rare?

Researchers at UT Austin found that fossilized hair is extremely rare, unlike feathers, due to its composition and preservation conditions. The team analyzed a massive database of fossilized body coverings to determine the frequency of different types of body coverings in exceptional sites.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·DateSep 7, 2017

Potentially lifesaving implantable cardioverter defibrillators underutilized in eligible patients

A study found that only 57% of qualified patients receive implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs), despite guidelines recommending their use. ICDs can detect and stop life-threatening arrhythmias, reducing death by over 30%. The study suggests a treatment gap and calls for improved education to ensure eligible patients receive t...

SourceElsevier·JournalCanadian Journal of Cardiology·DateSep 7, 2017

Quantum detectives in the hunt for the world's first quantum computer

Researchers at University of Sydney and Microsoft Station Q have confirmed the existence of Majorana fermions, a quasiparticle at the heart of topological quantum computing. This finding is essential for building practical quantum computers and will also be useful in spintronic systems.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 7, 2017
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Paint by numbers

The study uses image data to reconstruct the cell cycle of white blood cells and the progress of diabetic retinopathy, demonstrating the method's capability in handling continuous biological processes. The software also identifies individual categories and assigns measured data to clusters when data is not part of a continuous process.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 7, 2017

Interrupting Parkinson's disease

Researchers have identified a toxic cascade in Parkinson's disease and found that treating dopamine neurons with antioxidants early on may prevent degeneration and improve neuron function. The study also highlights the importance of studying human neurons to develop new therapies.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalScience·DateSep 7, 2017
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

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

Alcohol industry misleading the public about alcohol-related cancer risk

A study by London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine found that alcohol industry organisations distort information on cancer risk, particularly for breast and colorectal cancers. The researchers call for policymakers to reconsider relationships with these bodies, which develop alcohol policy and disseminate health info.

SourceLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine·JournalDrug and Alcohol Review·DateSep 7, 2017

Exchanges of identity in deep space

Researchers recreated complex cosmic simulations to investigate a possible transformation process where photons become axions and retransform into photons upon interacting with magnetic fields. This phenomenon may explain the observed brightness of distant celestial bodies.

SourceScuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateSep 7, 2017
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Immune cells halt fungal infection by triggering spore suicide

Human immune cells in the lungs can trigger programmed cell death in inhaled fungal pathogens, preventing germination and host invasion. Pharmacologic inhibition of a key fungal protein has shown promise as a potential therapeutic approach against invasive aspergillosis.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateSep 7, 2017

Researchers develop 3-D-printed biomaterials that degrade on demand

Researchers create biocompatible degradable structures using stereolithography with sodium alginate precursor solutions, allowing for transient structures to dissolve away on demand. This technique is useful for making lab-on-a-chip devices and dynamic environments for live cells experiments.

SourceBrown University·JournalLab on a Chip·DateSep 7, 2017
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

An advanced autonomous platform for securing marine infrastructures

Researchers are developing an autonomous detection system for divers and mines to secure underwater infrastructure. The system combines active acoustic remote detection with target recognition by an approaching Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV), improving coverage and response times.

SourceIMDEA Networks Institute·DateSep 7, 2017

Individuality drives collective behavior of schooling fish

Researchers found that individual characteristics, such as speed and exploratory tendency, significantly impact the cohesion, movement dynamics, and foraging performance of schooling fish. The study provides insights into how inter-individual differences drive collective behavior and group functioning.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 7, 2017

Using antidepressants during pregnancy may affect your child's mental health

A nationwide register-based cohort study in Denmark found that children born to mothers taking antidepressants during pregnancy were at increased risk of developing psychiatric disorders. The study suggests that medication alone may not be the sole cause, as heritability also plays a part in determining mental health later in life.

SourceAarhus University·JournalThe BMJ·DateSep 7, 2017

Urinary markers may indicate prognosis after kidney transplantation

A new study reveals that urinary markers miR-155-5p and CXCL10 can predict acute rejection and organ dysfunction in kidney transplant patients. The findings suggest a potential for improved patient outcomes through biomarker-based monitoring after transplantation.

SourceWiley·JournalBritish Journal of Clinical Pharmacology·DateSep 7, 2017
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Helping cancer survivors return to work

A new analysis highlights the diversity of employer-related factors that can help or hinder cancer survivors' return to work. The study emphasizes the need for individualized approaches and effective communication between employers and survivors.

SourceWiley·JournalPsycho-Oncology·DateSep 7, 2017

New Canadian telescope will map largest volume of space ever surveyed

The Canadian Hydrogen Intensity Mapping Experiment (CHIME) telescope is a revolutionary radio telescope that will create a three-dimensional map of the universe, extending deep into space and time. By measuring dark energy, scientists will better understand the shape, structure, and fate of the universe.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·DateSep 7, 2017

Study finds length of stay critical factor in readmission rates at hospitals

A new study from the University of Texas at Dallas found that patients with shorter-than-guideline hospital stays are more likely to be readmitted, while those with longer stays have a lower risk. The study suggests that early discharge can actually increase costs in the long run.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalProduction and Operations Management·DateSep 7, 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.

Smooth, manmade surfaces create a 'blind spot' for bats using echolocation

Researchers found that bats produce fewer calls, spend less time near vertical glass surfaces, and approach at a more acute angle, highlighting the 'blind spot' in their echolocation ability. The study's findings underscore the negative impact of human development on wildlife, particularly injured or dead bats often found near buildings.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateSep 7, 2017

Professor takes lead role in future of European accelerator facilities

Particle accelerators already have a significant impact on day-to-day life, particularly in medicine and industry. A new EU-funded project has resulted in a concise document highlighting their importance and future development needs, written by University of Huddersfield Professor Rob Edgecock.

SourceUniversity of Huddersfield·DateSep 7, 2017
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

HCV treatment found safe and effective in individuals with kidney disease

A new study finds that sofosbuvir-based direct-acting antiviral therapy is safe and effective in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. The treatment improved kidney function in stage 3 patients after cure, suggesting a potential therapeutic option for CKD patients with HCV.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateSep 7, 2017

Study demonstrates courts' critical, underappreciated role in climate policy

A study by George Washington University researchers found that air pollution and coal-fired power plants were the subject of most cases, while renewable energy and energy efficiency saw pro-regulation plaintiffs win more than twice as frequently. Courts are expected to play a significant role in shaping climate policy in the US.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalScience·DateSep 7, 2017

Satellites show Hurricane Katia not moving much

Hurricane Katia strengthened into a hurricane on Sept. 6, with powerful bands of thunderstorms around its center, and is forecast to produce heavy rainfall and potentially major hurricane strength at landfall.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 7, 2017

Link between positive emotions and health depends on culture

Research finds that positive emotions are associated with healthier blood lipid profiles in Western adults but not in Japanese participants. The study's findings highlight the importance of cultural context in understanding links between emotion and health.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateSep 7, 2017
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Streamlined security: Optimizing sensor placement with mathematics

Researchers develop a computational level set method to optimize sensor placement for maximum surveillance in complex environments. The model acknowledges finite range, limited viewing angle, and nonzero failure rate of realistic sensors, yielding accurate sensory constraints and optimal viewing directions.

SourceSociety for Industrial and Applied Mathematics·JournalSIAM Journal on Scientific Computing·DateSep 7, 2017

Chemical hot spots

Researchers at Technical University of Munich used a scanning tunneling microscope to analyze the surface activity of catalysts. They found that defects on the surface create ideal conditions for catalysis by attracting but not holding onto hydrogen ions.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature·DateSep 7, 2017

New facial recognition findings could help develop new treatments for conduct disorder

Researchers found that teenage girls and boys with severe antisocial behavior have difficulty recognizing facial expressions, particularly those showing negative emotions. The study suggests that boys with Conduct Disorder may need more comprehensive interventions than girls due to their unique challenges in emotion recognition.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalJournal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry·DateSep 7, 2017
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Discovery of chromosome motor supports DNA loop extrusion

Scientists from TU Delft and colleagues show that condensin, a protein involved in packing DNA into chromosomes, has motor function. This discovery supports the 'loop-extrusion' model of chromosome packing, suggesting that condensin pulls DNA inwards to create loops.

SourceDelft University of Technology·JournalScience·DateSep 7, 2017

Intermittent electrical brain stimulation improves memory

Researchers found that intermittent electrical stimulation improved working memory in adult non-human primates, whereas continuous deep brain stimulation impaired memory. The study suggests that increased acetylcholine levels and blood flow may contribute to the benefits of intermittent stimulation.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 7, 2017

Researchers break through the wall in bacterial membrane vesicle research

Bacterial membrane vesicles are nanoscale spheres formed by bacteria, potentially used in cancer treatment and nanotechnology. Researchers visualized their formation using live cell imaging and electron cryotomography, revealing that endolysin enzymes play a crucial role in their production.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 7, 2017
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Ship exhaust makes oceanic thunderstorms more intense

A new study finds that ship exhaust aerosol particles alter cloud formation, leading to more lightning and intensified storms. Researchers detected nearly twice as many lightning strokes above heavily-trafficked shipping lanes in the Indian Ocean and South China Sea.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateSep 7, 2017

Pressure to be perfect may increase suicide risk in some individuals

A recent analysis of published studies suggests that self-generated and socially based pressures to be perfect may contribute to suicidal thoughts and attempts. Thirteen perfectionism dimensions had positive relationships with suicidal thoughts, particularly the most pernicious form involving perceived external pressure.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Personality·DateSep 7, 2017

New method for producing malaria treatment at large scales

Scientists have successfully produced artemisinin, a key malaria treatment, in large quantities using genetically engineered moss. The process is simple, efficient, and cost-effective, offering a promising solution to the global shortage of artemisinin.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology·DateSep 7, 2017
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

City kids with asthma suffer less if they live near a park

Research suggests that children with asthma who live closer to parks experience fewer days of symptoms, especially older children who can independently visit parks. The study found a correlation between proximity to green spaces and lower asthma symptom rates.

SourceEuropean Respiratory Society·DateSep 7, 2017

Want your question answered quickly? Use gestures as well as words

A study published in Springer's Psychonomic Bulletin & Review found that incorporating gestures into conversations leads to faster turn transition times and quicker responses. Gestures appear to provide a visual component that helps speakers convey additional information, enabling listeners to process and respond more efficiently.

SourceSpringer·JournalPsychonomic Bulletin & Review·DateSep 7, 2017

Fifty-fifty split best for children of divorce

Preschool children in joint physical custody show less behavioral problems and psychological symptoms compared to those living mostly or only with one parent. A new study finds that continuity and stability are crucial for young children's mental health.

SourceUppsala University·JournalActa Paediatrica·DateSep 7, 2017

UTA's David Nygren receives Marie Sklodowska-Curie award

David Nygren, Presidential Distinguished Professor of Physics at UTA, has been honored with the 2018 Marie Sklodowska Curie Award for his groundbreaking contributions to particle detection and nuclear sciences. He invented the Time Projection Chamber, a key technology used in particle physics research.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateSep 7, 2017
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Children exposed to chemicals in 9/11 'dust' show early signs of risk of heart disease

Children who lived near the World Trade Center on 9/11 are showing early signs of increased risk for future heart disease due to exposure to toxic chemicals. Blood tests revealed elevated levels of artery-hardening fats in their blood, linked to higher blood levels of perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs).

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalEnvironment International·DateSep 7, 2017

Extreme weather has limited effect on attitudes toward climate policies

A recent study found that extreme weather events do not significantly increase support for climate policies, even among those who experienced severe weather. The study suggests that other factors, such as political beliefs and party affiliation, play a much larger role in shaping attitudes towards climate change.

SourceIndiana University·JournalGlobal Environmental Change·DateSep 7, 2017

Human skin cells transformed directly into motor neurons

Researchers at WashU Medicine convert skin cells from healthy adults into motor neurons, retaining their age and potential for studying neurodegenerative diseases. The technique eliminates ethical concerns and allows for the study of human motor neurons in the lab.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateSep 7, 2017

Neuroscientists explore the risky business of self-preservation

Research reveals that prey use both speed of approach and proximity of predator to calculate best escape route, leading to a more nuanced understanding of self-preservation instincts. The study also sheds light on the neural mechanics that fuel this fundamental behavior in animals, including humans.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 7, 2017

Monarch butterflies disappearing from western North America

A new study reveals that western monarch butterfly populations have declined by more than 70% over the past 35 years, threatening their survival. Habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change are likely contributing factors to this decline.

SourceWashington State University·JournalBiological Conservation·DateSep 7, 2017

New porcelain crab species from Colombia named

Researchers at STRI and JLU discovered a new species of porcelain crab, Pachycheles tuerkayi, found only along the coasts of Costa Rica, Panama, and Colombia. The new species has hairy claws and can be distinguished from another similar species, P. serratus, through its unique characteristics.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalCrustaceana·DateSep 7, 2017

Curious properties

Theoretical physicists analyze flocking behavior on curved surfaces, including a sphere and an hourglass-shaped figure called a catenoid. They found special sound modes that don't dissipate and flow around obstacles, with the sphere's bands centered on the equator.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalPhysical Review X·DateSep 7, 2017

Study: Biomarkers as predictive of sepsis as lengthy patient monitoring

A new study published in Scientific Reports found that measuring five key biomarkers in blood can quickly identify patients with sepsis, potentially saving lives. The researchers used machine learning models to determine the predictive power of using traditional vital sign data, biomarkers alone, or a combination of both.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 7, 2017

Hip fracture often deadly, Australian study shows

A new Australian study reveals hip fractures are a major public health issue with high morbidity and mortality rates. The research found that individuals with hip fractures were 3.5 times more likely to die within 12 months compared to non-injured counterparts, with excess mortality risk higher in males than females.

SourceInternational Osteoporosis Foundation·JournalArchives of Osteoporosis·DateSep 7, 2017

Scientists make methanol using air around us

Researchers at Cardiff Catalysis Institute have developed a new method to produce methanol from methane using oxygen and hydrogen peroxide at low temperatures. This breakthrough has major implications for cleaner industrial processes worldwide.

SourceCardiff University·JournalScience·DateSep 7, 2017

A fair wage for global garment industry workers?

Research by Surrey's Centre for Environment and Sustainability found that Western European garment industry workers in BRIC countries are paid only around half the living wage. The study estimated that workers need to be paid an additional 35% to offset financial demands, such as income tax and social security contributions.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalThe International Journal of Life Cycle Assessment·DateSep 7, 2017

Penn researchers closer to uncovering a new feature in heart failure

A team of Penn researchers found a correlation between shorter telomeres and heart failure in human patients. Telomere length was directly related to cardiac function, with severely shortened telomeres indicating decreased cardiac performance.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateSep 7, 2017