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Science News for February 14, 2018


Risk of extreme weather events higher if Paris Agreement goals aren't met

A Stanford University study found that even a 1-degree difference between the UN goal and country commitments may increase extreme weather likelihood. The researchers predict a fivefold increase in record-breaking warm nights over Europe and a threefold increase in record-breaking wet days over North America, Europe, and East Asia.

SourceStanford University·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 14, 2018

How seafloor weathering drives the slow carbon cycle

Researchers discover a previously unknown connection between seafloor weathering and the slow carbon cycle. The study reveals that fluctuations in seafloor spreading rates drive changes in ocean crust capacity to store carbon dioxide.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 14, 2018
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.

Nanotechnology could redefine oral surgery

Researchers have developed liposomal nanoparticles that can deliver collagenase enzymes to remodel teeth in the mouth without surgery. This technology has shown promising results in pre-clinical studies, potentially leading to faster and less painful orthodontic procedures.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Nano·DateFeb 14, 2018

Researchers successfully reverse Alzheimer's disease in mouse model

In a groundbreaking study, researchers from the Cleveland Clinic Lerner Research Institute successfully reversed the formation of amyloid plaques in mice with Alzheimer's disease by gradually depleting the enzyme BACE1. This approach improved cognitive function and had significant benefits for the animals' health.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateFeb 14, 2018

Could sugar chains be the answer to bone growth in osteoporosis?

Researchers at the University of York have identified a potential link between altered sugar chains and enhanced bone formation in stem cells. By treating cells with a chemical that modifies sugar chains, they found improved bone growth processes, which could pave the way for new osteoporosis treatments.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalJournal of Cell Science·DateFeb 14, 2018

New drug improves motor function of children with genetic disorder

A clinical trial demonstrates the impact of nusinersen on older patients with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), showing significant improvements in motor function scores. The study, known as CHERISH, enrolled 126 children aged 2-12 and found that 57% experienced an increase of at least three points in functioning scores.

SourceNemours·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateFeb 14, 2018

Clean plates much more common when we eat at home

A new study by Ohio State University found that adults waste significantly less food when preparing their own meals versus consuming pre-packaged, boxed lunches. In the study, participants who cooked their own meals averaged only 3.5% of plate waste compared to 40% in a lab setting.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 14, 2018
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.

All-terrain microbot moves by tumbling over complex topography

The 'microscale magnetic tumbling robot' can traverse uneven surfaces and climb steep inclines in both dry and wet environments. Researchers developed the bot using standard photolithography techniques and explored its performance in fluid media to address unique challenges at the micro-scale.

SourcePurdue University·JournalMicromachines·DateFeb 14, 2018

Mann receives AAAS Award for public engagement with science

Michael Mann, a leading climate scientist, has been recognized with the AAAS Public Engagement with Science Award for his extensive outreach efforts to communicate the science of climate change. He has collaborated on children's books, testified before Congress, and used various media to share his research.

SourcePenn State·DateFeb 14, 2018

Practical work-related tasks may reduce burnout in new employees

A Tel Aviv University study suggests that assigning practical, task-related assistance to newcomers can prevent burnout. This approach is more effective than encouraging emotional support or helping with personal issues. By involving new employees in providing instrumental help, managers can mitigate burnout and improve productivity.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalJournal of Applied Psychology·DateFeb 14, 2018
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.

Blood thinners may raise stroke risk in over-65s with kidney disease

A recent study has found that people over 65 with chronic kidney disease and atrial fibrillation are at increased risk of stroke when taking blood thinners. The researchers estimate that half a million UK adults fall into this category, highlighting the need for cautious prescribing practices.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalThe BMJ·DateFeb 14, 2018

Can't get an image out of your head? Your eyes are helping to keep it there.

Researchers at Baycrest Centre for Geriatric Care have found that eye movements play a crucial role in storing memories, enabling the development of new diagnostic tools. Brain imaging studies identified patterns of eye movement and brain activity, revealing how our eyes help reconstruct past experiences.

SourceBaycrest Centre for Geriatric Care·JournalCerebral Cortex·DateFeb 14, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

NIH solicits next-generation retina organoids in prize competition

The National Eye Institute is seeking innovative approaches to create functional human retina prototypes using stem cells. The goal is to develop 'mini-retinas' that can replicate the complexity of the human retina, enabling the study of underlying causes of retinal diseases and testing new drug therapies.

SourceNIH/National Eye Institute·DateFeb 14, 2018

A map app to track stem cells

Researchers have created a new mapping app to track stem cells, allowing for the analysis of cell behavior, function, and changes over time. The Web Image Processing Pipeline (WIPP) system uses video footage and high-power computation to bring cell populations under evaluation.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalStem Cell Research·DateFeb 14, 2018
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Monitoring bacteria on whale skin

A study on humpback whales' skin microbiome found that nearly all whales had six core communities of bacteria, which changed with seasonal and environmental conditions. Monitoring these microbes could aid in assessing the whales' health and detecting climate change impacts.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateFeb 14, 2018

Carefully managed fire can promote rare savanna species

Researchers found that varied burning regimes increase the variety of bird and mammal species in wet savannas, allowing geographically rare birds to coexist with more common species. This study suggests that fire can be an effective tool for promoting biodiversity in conservation areas.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalEcology Letters·DateFeb 14, 2018

Cutting off cervical cancer's fuel supply stymies tumors

Researchers at WashU Medicine developed a new approach to combat cervical cancer by targeting the tumor's fuel supply. A combination of radiation and three drugs that cut off glucose metabolism effectively shuts down tumor metabolism, making it vulnerable to treatment.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalCancer Research·DateFeb 14, 2018

Study suggests possible link between highly processed foods and cancer

A large-scale study found a possible association between highly processed food intake and an increased risk of overall cancer, breast cancer, and lower risks of other types. The study suggests that rapid consumption of ultra-processed foods may drive a growing burden of cancer in the next decades.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateFeb 14, 2018
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.

Possible new principle for cancer therapy

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet in Sweden have identified three molecules that effectively treat over 60 types of cancer cells without harming normal cells. These molecules target the TrxR1 enzyme, which supports cancer cell growth and protects them from oxidative stress.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateFeb 14, 2018

Cover crops in nitrogen's circle of life

Researchers found that cover crops like hairy vetch and cereal rye have different nitrogen release dynamics. Hairy vetch released almost three times as much nitrogen compared to cereal rye, while cereal rye released nitrogen slowly over multiple weeks.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalSoil Science Society of America Journal·DateFeb 14, 2018
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Michael E. Mann receives 2018 AAAS Public Engagement with Science Award

Climate scientist Michael E. Mann has received the AAAS Public Engagement with Science Award for his extensive media interviews, op-eds, and public outreach on climate change. He has reached millions of people through social media and collaborations like his book with Tom Toles.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·DateFeb 14, 2018
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.

Study: Running helps brain stave off effects of chronic stress

A new study by Brigham Young University finds that running under stress protects the hippocampus, a part of the brain responsible for learning and memory. Exercise strengthens synapses, maintaining long-term potentiation levels, which are essential for optimal memory formation and recall.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalNeurobiology of Learning and Memory·DateFeb 14, 2018

Thermal blankets melt snow quickly

Researchers created thermal blankets to absorb sunlight, melting snow three times faster than natural processes. The eco-friendly solution slashes snow-removal costs and reduces environmental contamination risks.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalLangmuir·DateFeb 14, 2018

Organ-on-chip technology enters next stage as experts test hepatitis B virus

Scientists at Imperial College London have developed an organ-on-chip technology to study the interaction of pathogens with artificial human organs. They tested the artificial liver's response to hepatitis B virus infection, revealing intricate mechanisms of immune evasion that could be exploited for future drug development.

SourceImperial College London·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 14, 2018
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.

A new class of drug to treat herpes simplex virus-1 infection

Researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago have identified a small drug molecule that can clear HSV-1 infection in cells and works differently than current drugs. The new compound, BX795, has shown to be effective in treating resistant cases with minimal toxicity.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateFeb 14, 2018

Back-and-forth exchanges boost children's brain response to language

Researchers found that back-and-forth conversations between adults and children significantly impact brain response to language and lead to better language skills. The study suggests that parents can influence their child's language development by engaging them in interactive dialogue, not just talking to them.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPsychological Science·DateFeb 14, 2018

More squid, less fish: North Pacific seabirds alter their prey preferences

North Pacific seabirds' prey preferences have shifted from fish to squid over the last 125 years, driven by commercial fishing and climate change. The findings suggest massive changes in ocean ecosystem structure, with species declining in trophic position and squid consumption increasing.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 14, 2018
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.

Milky Way ties with neighbor in galactic arms race

Researchers have discovered that the Milky Way and Andromeda galaxies are roughly the same size, with Andromeda being 800 billion times heavier than the Sun. This finding challenges previous estimates of dark matter in the Andromeda galaxy and suggests that scientists may need to revise their understanding of the local group.

SourceInternational Centre for Radio Astronomy Research·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateFeb 14, 2018

Uniting diverse research areas to drive autonomous cars

WPI researchers Raghvendra Cowlagi and Alexander Wyglinski combine their expertise in autonomy and wireless communications to create a network that enables self-driving cars to share information about traffic flow, road conditions, and accidents. This allows for safer operation on highways and congested city streets.

SourceWorcester Polytechnic Institute·DateFeb 14, 2018

Study: Rigorous hand hygiene-intervention practices can lower mortality, antibiotic prescription rates in nursing homes

A new study published in the American Journal of Infection Control found that implementing consistent hand hygiene measures in nursing homes can lead to lower mortality rates and reduced antibiotic prescriptions. The study assessed 26 French nursing homes and found a 30% lower mortality rate in the intervention group compared to the co...

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal of Infection Control·DateFeb 14, 2018
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.

AAAS Leshner Leadership Institute names new public engagement fellows

The American Association for the Advancement of Science has selected 15 researchers to participate in its Public Engagement Fellowship program, which aims to promote meaningful dialogue between science and society. The fellows will receive training and support to develop public engagement activities and increase capacity for leadership.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·DateFeb 14, 2018

Asthma linked to infertility but not among women taking regular asthma preventers

Women with asthma who use short-acting asthma relievers take longer to become pregnant than those without asthma, but using long-acting asthma preventers has no impact on fertility. The study of over 5,000 women in Australia, New Zealand, and Ireland shows a significant difference between short-acting and long-acting treatments.

SourceEuropean Respiratory Society·JournalEuropean Respiratory Journal·DateFeb 14, 2018
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.

The search for dark matter: Axions have ever fewer places to hide

A new analysis of ultracold neutron measurements imposes strict constraints on the interactions of axions with nucleons and gluons. Researchers discovered frequency changes in neutrons that could be indicative of an 'axion wind', suggesting a specific direction of movement for these hypothetical particles.

SourceThe Henryk Niewodniczanski Institute of Nuclear Physics Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalPhysical Review X·DateFeb 14, 2018

Hydrogen transfer: One thing after the other

Researchers used time-resolved spectroscopy to study the mechanism of light-dependent hydrogenation of protochlorophyllide. They found evidence of partially stepwise hydride transfer involving three discrete intermediates. This discovery sheds light on how light energy can be harnessed for chemical reactions.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateFeb 14, 2018

Deforestation in the tropics

A study using physics principles explains global patterns of tropical forest fragmentation, revealing critical points beyond which fragment numbers increase dramatically. The research found similar size distributions on all three continents, suggesting a universal pattern.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ·JournalNature·DateFeb 14, 2018
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.

Most parents don't believe their child's BMI report card

A study found that 53% of parents questioned the accuracy of their child's BMI report card, leading to limited behavioral changes. Schools can support parents by providing resources and healthcare professional guidance to help improve children's health.

SourceSAGE·JournalHealth Promotion Practice·DateFeb 14, 2018

Video games to improve mobility after a stroke

A study published in PNAS suggests that video games can complement physical therapies to overcome attention deficit disorders, which contribute to motor skills disorders in stroke patients. The researchers analyzed brain injuries in 167 patients and found a connection between attention control areas and mobility problems.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 14, 2018

Remote jets are clearer now

Astrophysicists develop model to test hypothesis about supermassive black holes and their impact on galaxy jets. The study suggests that part of the jet's power comes from the rotating black hole, which loses angular momentum as it emits energy. By measuring magnetic fields in jets, scientists can estimate this rotational energy loss.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·DateFeb 14, 2018

A second life for old treated wood

Researchers at INRS develop a hydrometallurgical process to decontaminate treated wood waste, removing over 90% of contaminants. The process is environmentally friendly and cost-effective, diverting wood waste from landfills and incineration.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·DateFeb 14, 2018

Dance of auroras

Researchers have made the first direct observation of electron scattering in auroras, revealing a previously unknown mechanism behind the colorful displays. The discovery was made using a specialized sensor on the ERG satellite and confirms that chorus waves are capable of exciting electrons to create pulsating auroras.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature·DateFeb 14, 2018
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.

Muscle more important than fat in regulating heat loss from the hands

A study by University of Cambridge biological anthropologists reveals that muscle mass is key to regulating heat loss from the hands in cold conditions. Volunteers with higher muscle mass experienced faster rewarming of their hands after exposure to ice-cold water.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalAmerican Journal of Physical Anthropology·DateFeb 14, 2018

Cardiac macrophages found to contribute to a currently untreatable type of heart failure

A Massachusetts General Hospital team discovered that macrophages, immune cells known for removing debris, are actively involved in the development of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Elevated levels of inflammatory cardiac macrophages were found in both mouse models and human patients with HFpEF.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateFeb 14, 2018

Company partnerships may have in-house ramifications

Researchers found that positive sponsorship agreements can increase employee identification with the organization, while negative ones can lead to turnover. Deals that resonate with employees' values can strengthen their bond with the company.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalAcademy of Management Review·DateFeb 14, 2018

Can learning stress-reducing techniques help reduce seizures?

A recent study found that learning stress-reducing techniques can significantly reduce the frequency of seizures in people with difficult-to-treat epilepsy. Participants who learned progressive muscle relaxation and breathing techniques experienced a 29% decrease in seizures, while those in the control group had a 25% reduction.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateFeb 14, 2018

Understanding how the body builds immunity, to build better influenza vaccines

Researchers analyzed blood samples from 35 healthy adults and found a marked increase in antibody-producing B cells and circulating T follicular helper cells after vaccination. The study's findings suggest that intranasal vaccination might be more effective than injections, with implications for ideal inoculation routes.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateFeb 14, 2018
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.

Living human tracheas

Case Western Reserve University scientists have engineered natural windpipe replacement structures using patient cells and self-assembling modules. This approach overcomes challenges in current tissue-engineering methods, enabling the creation of functional living tracheas that can be implanted into patients with damaged airways.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalAdvanced Science·DateFeb 14, 2018

Neural networks everywhere

MIT researchers developed a special-purpose chip that increases the speed of neural-network computations while reducing power consumption. The chip can calculate dot products for multiple nodes in a single step, improving efficiency and making neural networks more practical for handheld devices.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateFeb 14, 2018
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.

Tiny membrane key to safe drinking water

CSIRO scientists have developed a new filtering technique using Graphair that can remove almost all contaminants from water in a single step. The breakthrough technology has the potential to provide clean drinking water for millions of people worldwide who currently lack access to safe drinking water.

SourceCSIRO Australia·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 14, 2018

Cells 'walk' on liquids a bit like geckos

Researchers at Queen Mary University of London have discovered that cells can 'walk' on liquids using protein nanosheets with strong mechanical properties. This breakthrough could lead to the design of new cell technologies for regenerative medicine and tissue engineering.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalNano Letters·DateFeb 14, 2018

Hip hop meets health in a campaign against type 2 diabetes

A new campaign uses spoken word videos to educate young people about the link between diet, environment, and type 2 diabetes, promoting change and demanding healthier habits. The 'Bigger Picture' campaign aims to address the social determinants of health behind the rising rates of Type 2 diabetes in youth.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJAMA·DateFeb 14, 2018

Turning background room temperature heat into energy

Researchers at the University of Tsukuba have developed a new kind of thermoelectric system that can harness small energy differences at low temperatures, producing an electrical energy of 2.3 meV per cycle. The device has shown promising prospects for large-scale heat energy recovery and could help industries become more efficient.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalApplied Physics Express·DateFeb 14, 2018
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.

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.

Personality: Where does it come from and how does it work?

The theory proposes that personalities develop around three basic psychological needs: predictability, competence, and acceptance. These needs form the basis of personality and drive behavior. The article also highlights the role of temperament in shaping personality, particularly in children.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalPsychological Review·DateFeb 14, 2018

Rotating dusty gaseous donut around an active supermassive black hole

Researchers used ALMA to directly observe the rotation of a compact gaseous structure around a supermassive black hole in galaxy M77. The team found that the structure, called a torus, has an asymmetry and contains random motion, suggesting a possible violent history.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateFeb 14, 2018

Would-be social entrepreneurs need more than a kind heart

A study by Anglia Ruskin University found that millennials who feel confident in their ability to solve social problems and feel valued are more likely to consider becoming social entrepreneurs. Empathy is not enough, but self-efficacy and social worth play a strong role in translating into social entrepreneurial intentions.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalJournal of Business Venturing·DateFeb 14, 2018

New method to replicate harsh conditions for materials

A new method has been proposed to stress test materials subjected to harsh conditions, offering a faster and more accurate alternative to existing methods. Laser-accelerated proton beams can reproduce damage equivalent to several months of full operation of facilities producing a harsh environment for materials.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 14, 2018
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.

Rutgers-led innovation could spur faster, cheaper, nano-based manufacturing

Researchers at Rutgers University have developed a new method for processing nanomaterials that could lead to faster and cheaper manufacturing of flexible thin film devices. The 'intense pulsed light sintering' method uses high-energy light to fuse nanomaterials in seconds, retaining conductivity while reducing temperatures.

SourceRutgers University·JournalRSC Advances·DateFeb 14, 2018

Scientists fill in a piece of the copper transport puzzle

Researchers have identified the protein SLC25A3 as the copper carrier into mitochondria, where it plays a crucial role in energy conversion. This discovery has implications for understanding metabolic diseases related to copper transport and energy production.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateFeb 14, 2018

Study links fox domestication to gene activity in the pituitary gland

Researchers found changes in gene activity in the pituitary gland of foxes selectively bred for tameness, which may explain why tame foxes are less stressed. The study suggests that domestication alters animals' reactivity to stress by modifying the way their brain centers communicate about hormone release.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·DateFeb 14, 2018
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Suiker's equations prevent 3-D-printed walls from collapsing or falling over

Professor Akke Suiker developed a model to determine the stability of 3D-printed walls, considering factors such as material curing characteristics and wall dimensions. His equations enable engineers to calculate the optimal printing speeds and minimize material usage, leading to more stable structures.

SourceEindhoven University of Technology·JournalInternational Journal of Mechanical Sciences·DateFeb 14, 2018
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.

Rapid evolution of a calcareous microalgae

A team of scientists found that Emiliania huxleyi adapted rapidly to ocean acidification, with some lineages exhibiting extremely rapid changes in ecological fitness. However, the algae's ability to adapt did not translate to better survival in natural conditions.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel (GEOMAR)·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateFeb 14, 2018

Study finds that a surprise stimulus helps people stop an action

Researchers found that an unexpected sound increased brainwave activity and improved stopping outcomes by up to 15%. The study offers insight into the brain's communication with the motor system and could lead to new treatments for motor-control disorders like Parkinson's disease and ADHD.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·DateFeb 14, 2018
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.

Patients with chagas disease are often infected with an intestinal parasite

A retrospective study found that 49% of Latin American migrants screened positive for Chagas disease, with a higher percentage of patients with strongyloidiasis infected by the parasite. The authors recommend implementing a combined screening program to address both infections.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateFeb 14, 2018

Model of fecal transplantation predicts which bacteria will flourish

A statistical model predicts which bacteria will engraft after fecal transplantation, providing a context for developing synthetic probiotics. The study found that recipient microbiome and immune state play roles in successful FMT, and new bacteria are acquired from both donors and recipients.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateFeb 14, 2018
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.

NASA totals rainfall from destructive Tropical Cyclone Gita

Tropical Cyclone Gita produced over a foot of rain, causing widespread destruction and flooding in Samoa and Tonga. NASA's IMERG analysis revealed heavy rains and strong winds affected both countries, with some structures destroyed including Tonga's historic Parliament House.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateFeb 14, 2018

A gut reaction...on a chip

Researchers created an organ-on-a-chip model of the human gut to mimic radiation damage and tested a potential radioprotective drug, DMOG. The study found that DMOG significantly reduced cell damage, apoptosis, and intestinal permeability in both epithelial and endothelial cells.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalCell Death and Disease·DateFeb 14, 2018