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Science News for February 7, 2018


Better knowledge of evolution leads to greater acceptance of the concept

A recent study published in BioScience found that knowing more about evolutionary theory is key to accepting it, even when considering religious and political beliefs. In a representative sample of over 1,100 people, researchers discovered that those with better knowledge of evolution were more likely to accept it.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalBioScience·DateFeb 7, 2018

Changes in mouse breast tissue after exposure to fracking chemicals

Researchers at UMass Amherst and University of Missouri found that prenatal exposure to a mixture of fracking chemicals affects mouse mammary gland development, leading to potential pre-cancerous lesions. Further studies are needed to evaluate the effects on long-term health and lactational capacity.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalEndocrinology·DateFeb 7, 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.

Suicides spiked after death of Robin Williams

After Robin Williams' suicide in 2014, researchers found a 10% increase in overall suicides, particularly among men aged 30-44. Suffocation suicides also increased by 32% compared to other methods.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 7, 2018

Public policy, transportation PhD student receives national award

Somayeh Moazzeni, a UTA doctoral student in public policy and transportation, has been recognized as the 2017 outstanding student of the year by the U.S. Department of Transportation for C-TEDD. She will receive a $1,500 cash prize and contribute to research on access to opportunities, public transit, and decent roads.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateFeb 7, 2018

Exposure to chemicals used during fracking may cause pre-cancerous lesions in mice

Researchers found that female mice exposed to fracking chemicals during prenatal development developed abnormal mammary glands and pre-cancerous lesions in adulthood. The study suggests that the mammary gland is sensitive to mixtures of fracking chemicals, increasing concerns about potential health effects in humans.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalEndocrinology·DateFeb 7, 2018

Wage increases do not have a persistent effect on job satisfaction

A study by Dr. Patric Diriwaechter and Dr. Elena Shvartsman found that wage increases temporarily boost job satisfaction due to expectations and social comparisons, but this effect fades out within four years as individuals adapt to their new salary levels.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalJournal of Economic Behavior & Organization·DateFeb 7, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Recreating liver tumors as organoids for faster, more accurate drug screening

Researchers have developed a new method to grow patient-derived xenografts (PDX) liver cancer cells in culture, which maintains their proper shape and function and grows as organoids. The success of the engineered organoids has the potential to revolutionize the screening and development of liver cancer drugs.

SourceNational University of Singapore, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine·JournalBiomaterials·DateFeb 7, 2018

The social evolution of termites

Researchers compared termites' genetic features to those of ants and bees, discovering similar molecular mechanisms for eusocial lifestyles. They found evidence of convergent evolution in chemoreceptor families and genes involved in pheromone recognition.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateFeb 7, 2018

Cognitive enhancement therapy improves outcomes for adults with autism

A six-year study found that cognitive enhancement therapy (CET) significantly improved neurocognitive function in adults with autism, particularly in attention and social understanding. In contrast, enriched supportive therapy (EST) showed slower but still significant improvements in social cognition.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalAutism Research·DateFeb 7, 2018

Sweet route to greater yields

Researchers from Rothamsted Research introduce a rice gene that regulates sucrose accumulation in kernels, leading to increased productivity in maize even under drought conditions. The transgenic maize also improves rates of photosynthesis, resulting in more sucrose production for additional kernels.

SourceRothamsted Research·JournalPLANT PHYSIOLOGY·DateFeb 7, 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.

HKBU breakthrough in macromolecular machines for controlled drug deliv

Researchers at Hong Kong Baptist University have designed and synthesized a smart globular macromolecular machine vehicle for actively controlled cancer drug delivery, enhancing the efficacy of targeted therapy drugs. The breakthrough offers insights into targeted therapies such as Chlorambucil in leukemia treatment.

SourceHong Kong Baptist University·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 7, 2018

Super wood could replace steel

Researchers at the University of Maryland have created a new type of wood that is 10-12 times stronger than natural wood, making it a potential competitor to steel. The wood's mechanical properties are comparable to those of titanium alloys, but with improved toughness and reduced weight.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalNature·DateFeb 7, 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.

Scientists unlock the molecular secret behind long-lived bat species

Researchers identified protective structures at the end of chromosomes called telomeres that don't shorten with age in longest-lived bat species. The study found two genes ATM and SETX drive this process, potentially leading to new solutions to slow down aging and extend human lifespan.

SourceUniversity College Dublin·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 7, 2018

Challenging core belief: Have we misunderstood how Earth's solid center formed?

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University question long-held understanding of Earth's solid center formation, citing energy barriers and supercooling issues. The team proposes alternative solutions, including the possibility of a nucleation-enhancing solid metal affecting the core's crystallization process.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalEarth and Planetary Science Letters·DateFeb 7, 2018

New research reveals plant wonderland inside China's caves

A team of researchers has discovered 31 species of plants known only from caves in China, highlighting the importance of cave flora for species conservation. The study also found that plants can photosynthesize at much lower light levels than previously thought.

SourceRoyal Botanic Gardens Kew·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 7, 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.

Researchers develop the first model to capture crosstalk in social dilemmas

Researchers developed a new framework to analyze the effects of crosstalk on cooperation dynamics in groups. The model shows that crosstalk hinders the evolution of cooperation and requires strategies with the correct level of forgiveness. This has significant implications for understanding human behavior in social dilemmas.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 7, 2018

Acne linked with increased risk of depression

Researchers found a significant link between acne and major depression, with a 63% higher risk within the first year of diagnosis. The study highlights the importance of monitoring mood symptoms in patients with acne and initiating prompt treatment for depression.

SourceWiley·JournalBritish Journal of Dermatology·DateFeb 7, 2018

Acute treatment suppresses posttraumatic arthritis in ankle injury

Researchers have identified a method to prevent posttraumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA) by reducing oxidative stress after fractures in an animal model. By inhibiting mitochondrial metabolism or boosting antioxidants, they demonstrated that PTOA can be significantly blunted.

SourceUniversity of Iowa Health Care·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateFeb 7, 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.

Small molecule could make a big difference for arthritis patients

Scientists at USC have discovered a new molecule, RCGD 423, that enhances cartilage regeneration and decreases inflammation. The molecule amplifies the body's natural signals to stimulate cartilage development while blocking inflammatory signals.

SourceUniversity of Southern California - Health Sciences·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateFeb 7, 2018

Printable, colorful camouflage with polymers

Researchers develop polymers that can change colors like structural color in nature, enabling smart decorations and anti-counterfeiting measures. The new materials use inkjet printing technology to produce a wide range of colors, including blue, green, orange, and red.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateFeb 7, 2018

Towards a better prediction of solar eruptions

Scientists identified a confining 'cage' in which a magnetic rope forms, causing solar eruptions. The resistance of this cage determines the power and type of flare. A new model predicts maximum energy release during solar flares, potentially devastating for Earth's systems.

SourceCNRS·JournalNature·DateFeb 7, 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.

Removing fossil fuel subsidies will not reduce CO2 emissions as much as hoped

New research reveals that removing fossil fuel subsidies will only slightly slow the growth of CO2 emissions, with smaller effects in developing economies. The largest emissions savings would come from oil and gas exporting countries, but removal could have a detrimental impact on poor households, who may struggle to afford modern fuels.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalNature·DateFeb 7, 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.

Here is the perfect spot for a birds' inner compass

Migratory birds use a light-dependent protein called cryptochrome 4 to navigate, which is specifically expressed in the outer segment of double-cone photoreceptor cells. This discovery provides new insights into magnetoreception and could help protect wildlife from human disturbances.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·JournalCurrent Biology·DateFeb 7, 2018

WSU researchers build alien ocean to test NASA outer space submarine

Researchers re-created a Titan ocean in a laboratory and studied the freezing temperatures of methane and ethane lakes. They discovered that nitrogen in the liquid causes lakes to freeze at lower temperatures than expected, which could be beneficial for the submarine's operation.

SourceWashington State University·JournalFluid Phase Equilibria·DateFeb 7, 2018

Helping authorities respond more quickly to airborne radiological threats

Researchers from North Carolina State University have developed a new technique that can detect potential airborne radiological materials in hours, instead of days. This approach uses existing technologies to provide quality information to first responders, allowing them to make informed decisions about evacuating the area.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalHealth Physics·DateFeb 7, 2018

Study punctures 'you are what you eat' paradigm for carnivore skull shape

Researchers create biomechanical models to test how ecological factors like age at sexual maturity and average precipitation influence skull shape in carnivoran species. The study reveals that nondietary factors significantly impact both skull form and function, surpassing dietary influences.

SourceAmerican Museum of Natural History·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 7, 2018

Increased UV from ozone depletion sterilizes trees

Pine trees become temporarily sterile when exposed to intense UV radiation, similar to what scientists believe the Earth experienced 252 million years ago. The effect suggests caution in introducing chemicals that deplete the ozone layer.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 7, 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.

Star-like cells may help the brain tune breathing rhythms

Researchers found that silencing astrocytes in the brain's breathing center caused rats to breathe at a lower rate and tire out on a treadmill earlier. Astrocytes were shown to use adenosine triphosphate (ATP) to communicate with other cells, and their modulation was linked to changes in oxygen levels.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 7, 2018

More work is needed to determine appropriate drug doses for children

A recent study analyzing pediatric drug dosage guidelines found inconsistencies in recommended doses, with varying results from allometric scaling and prior patterns of use. The analysis suggests a need for more precise treatment approaches to address the complexities of pediatric dosing.

SourceWiley·JournalBritish Journal of Clinical Pharmacology·DateFeb 7, 2018

Scientists successfully test new, safer titanium plate for bone tissue repair

Researchers at Shinshu University have successfully tested a new, safer titanium plate for bone tissue repair, eliminating the need for plate extraction and associated surgical risks. The titanium fiber plates share a similar measurement of stiffness with natural bone, reducing the risk of embrittlement.

SourceShinshu University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateFeb 7, 2018

Smallpox vaccine study yields favorable results

A Phase 3 clinical trial demonstrates the safety and efficacy of IMVAMUNE, a non-replicating smallpox vaccine. The study showed twofold higher neutralizing antibodies compared to ACAM2000, a statistically superior immune response.

SourceUS Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases·DateFeb 7, 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.

Scientists halt breast cancer spread

Researchers found that restricting asparagine production in mice greatly reduced breast cancer's ability to spread, suggesting a potential new treatment approach. The study also suggests that dietary changes may help stop cancer from spreading and improve outcomes for patients.

SourceCancer Research UK·JournalNature·DateFeb 7, 2018

Scientists crack structure of enzyme complex linked to cancer

Researchers at UC Riverside have solved the crystal structure of an enzyme that plays a key role in DNA methylation, a process linked to various diseases including cancer. The breakthrough provides important information for understanding de novo DNA methylation and its implications for gene expression and cell differentiation.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature·DateFeb 7, 2018

The robots will see you now

Researchers at NYU Tandon School of Engineering have created a bioinspired robotic replica that can interact in three dimensions with live zebrafish. The system allows the robot to watch and mimic the behavior of live fish in real-time, promoting social interactions.

SourceNYU Tandon School of Engineering·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 7, 2018

Study identifies how to improve WHO eradication strategy for skin disease

A new study suggests adapting the WHO eradication strategy for yaws by implementing multiple rounds of mass drug administration and targeting a broader geographic area. The research found that this approach can capture those not present during the first round and prevent the spread of antibiotic-resistant strains.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalThe Lancet·DateFeb 7, 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.

First-ever questionnaire assesses impact of brachial plexus injury and surgical outcomes

A new patient questionnaire developed by Hospital for Special Surgery measures the physical and emotional impact of brachial plexus injury, assessing patients' expectations and treatment outcomes. The survey has the potential to improve patient care by aligning surgical alternatives with patient needs and expectations.

SourceHospital for Special Surgery·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateFeb 7, 2018

Self-sealing miniature 'wound' created by engineers

Biomedical engineers developed a miniaturized system mimicking blood vessel injury, allowing for the study of bleeding and clotting. The device replicates all aspects of blood vessel injury, including clot formation and repair, and responds to drugs and other alterations.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 7, 2018

A genetic trigger adds branches to plants, could boost crop yields

Researchers have discovered a genetic trigger that can increase plant branching, leading to improved crop yields. The newly identified chemical, DL1, has shown promise in both flower and rice plants, paving the way for potential commercial applications in agriculture.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Central Science·DateFeb 7, 2018
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.

Versatile sensor against tumor initiating cells

A team of researchers developed a fluorescent sensor, TiY, that selectively stains tumor initiating cells (TICs) in various cancer tissues. The sensor can distinguish TICs from non-TICs and inhibit sphere formation, leading to suppressed tumor growth in mice xenograft models.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateFeb 7, 2018

A step toward sensitive and fast gluten detection

Researchers have developed a fast gluten detector that can detect and quantify different sources of gluten than current tests, providing more accurate results. The new test is faster, taking only 45 minutes, and can sense less than 20 parts per million of gluten, meeting the FDA's limit for 'gluten-free' designation.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Sensors·DateFeb 7, 2018

Crowd workers, AI make conversational agents smarter

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have created a conversational agent, Evorus, that can answer a wide range of questions using a human/machine hybrid system. The system, which combines crowd workers and AI, allows the agent to learn and improve over time, making it more accurate and effective in its responses.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·DateFeb 7, 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.

What happens when women stop MS treatment during pregnancy?

Two studies found that women with MS who stop taking natalizumab before or after pregnancy experience increased disease activity and relapse rates compared to those who continue treatment. The risk of miscarriage is also higher in the first trimester, but this rate is small and within the general population range.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateFeb 7, 2018

Chemists develop a simple, easy-to-use method to break down pollutants in water

Researchers from Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg have developed a cost-effective method to break down pollutants in water, using a green LED light, catalyst, and vitamin C. The new process produces hydrated electrons that can react with stable substances and break them down into harmless components.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateFeb 7, 2018
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.

Back pain is common in highly active older adults

Back pain is common in highly active older adults, impacting nearly half of well-functioning individuals. The condition was linked to less efficient walking and poorer endurance, which can lead to mobility issues. Better back pain management may help maintain independence and prevent future loss of mobility.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateFeb 7, 2018

Discovery paves way for treatment to prevent blood vessel damage

A new interaction between proteins could provide a breakthrough in the prevention of healthy blood vessel damage. The study found that stabilizing caveolae regions prevents damage by binding protein SOCS3 with Cavin-1, maintaining healthy vascular function.

SourceUniversity of Bradford·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 7, 2018

Schools alone cannot help to prevent childhood obesity, study finds

A new study found that school-based healthy lifestyle interventions did not lead to significant changes in pupils' weight. The WAVES study intervention aimed to support children in keeping their weight at a healthy level by promoting physical activity and healthy eating.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalThe BMJ·DateFeb 7, 2018

Who's your daddy? Good news for threatened sea turtles

A Florida Atlantic University study found that 70% of loggerhead sea turtle nests and hatchlings had different fathers, with no repeat males detected. This research provides insight into the reproductive behavior of male sea turtles and suggests a breeding sex ratio of approximately 1 female for every 2.5 males.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 7, 2018

Marketing of lower strength alcohol products may increase drinking

A study found that marketing messages for lower strength wines and beers are often associated with healthier habits, despite containing less alcohol. This can paradoxically lead to increased consumption, as consumers mistakenly believe these products are suitable for all occasions.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Public Health·DateFeb 7, 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.

Army-led effort demos new atomic effect for potential isotopic battery

A multinational research team led by Army scientists successfully induced a controlled release of stored isotopic energy using a physical effect involving atomic electrons. This achievement marks a step in the Army's quest for alternative energy sources for new types of batteries.

SourceU.S. Army Research Laboratory·JournalNature·DateFeb 7, 2018

Mathematics pushes innovation in 4-D printing

Researchers developed a mathematical approach to predict crease formation in soft solids, enabling on-demand control of adaptive surface morphology. This breakthrough enables the design and fabrication of morphable materials for stretchable electronics, self-foldable machines, and lab-on-a-chip devices.

SourcePolitecnico di Milano·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 7, 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.

Research suggests vapers are vulnerable to pneumonia

Research suggests that e-cigarette vapour can increase susceptibility to lung infection with pneumococcal bacteria, similar to traditional cigarette smoke or particulate matter from fossil-fuel pollution. Long-term vaping may raise the risk of bacterial lung infection.

SourceEuropean Respiratory Society·JournalEuropean Respiratory Journal·DateFeb 7, 2018

Devoted frog fathers guard their eggs from predators

In a groundbreaking study, male white-spotted bush frogs have been found to dedicatedly guard their fertilized eggs from other male frogs and predators. This unique parental care behavior significantly enhances offspring survival rates, with up to 70% of 'fatherless' egg clutches perishing.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateFeb 7, 2018

Mind-controlling molecules from wasp venom could someday help Parkinson's patients

Scientists have identified a new family of peptides in wasp venom that can control insect behavior, which may also help develop Parkinson's disease treatments. The peptides, called ampulexins, were found to immobilize cockroaches, and further research aims to identify cellular targets for potential treatment applications.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalBiochemistry·DateFeb 7, 2018

Influence of increasing carbon dioxide levels on the seabed

A recent study published in Science Advances found that CO2 leakage from storage sites can drastically alter seabed ecosystems, leading to the disappearance of animals and disruption of the food chain. The researchers also discovered that some microorganisms can adapt to increased CO2 levels, but most species struggle to cope.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Marine Microbiology·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 7, 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.

Re-introducing an 'old' antibiotic may help fight multi-drug resistant bacteria

A new study suggests that a re-evaluation of fosfomycin's dosing regimen may be effective in treating systemic multi-drug-resistant bacterial infections. Researchers found that a higher dosage schedule is required to combat these infections, offering a potential alternative to developing new antibiotics.

SourceWiley·JournalPharmacology Research & Perspectives·DateFeb 7, 2018

The big burn

Researchers found evidence of extensive biomass burning at the Younger Dryas Boundary, coinciding with a cometary cloud impact that triggered an 'impact winter', causing widespread extinctions. The study suggests that this event may have contributed to the collapse of the Clovis people and the extinction of megafauna.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalThe Journal of Geology·DateFeb 7, 2018

Large-group living boosts magpie intelligence

Scientists found wild Australian magpies from larger groups showed increased intelligence and produced more offspring. The research suggests that living in complex social groups may drive the evolution of intelligence.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature·DateFeb 7, 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.

Yoga benefits patients with metabolic syndrome

A recent study found that yoga exercise decreases pro-inflammatory adipokines and increases an anti-inflammatory adipokine in adults with metabolic syndrome. This suggests that regular exercise, such as yoga, can help manage aspects of the condition by reducing chronic inflammation.

SourceWiley·JournalScandinavian Journal of Medicine and Science in Sports·DateFeb 7, 2018

First-in-the-US study brings home hospital model to patients

A pilot study by Brigham and Women's Hospital found that a home hospital model reduced direct costs up to half compared to traditional hospital care. The model also decreased hospital utilization and improved patient physical activity, with no significant impact on quality or safety.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateFeb 7, 2018

Polluted air may pollute our morality

A study published in Psychological Science found that exposure to air pollution, whether physical or mental, is linked with transgressive behavior through increased levels of anxiety. Participants who imagined experiencing air pollution engaged in more unethical behavior than those who thought about clean environments.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateFeb 7, 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.

Fruit bat's echolocation may work like sophisticated surveillance sonar

Researchers found that Egyptian fruit bats use a technique similar to frequency-scanning sonar, pointing different frequencies of sound at slightly different angles to create fine-grained acoustic images. This discovery could lead to the development of cheap sensors with sensing capability.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalPLOS Biology·DateFeb 7, 2018

An experiment in mice palliates kidney disease caused by diabetes

Researchers have successfully palliated kidney disease in mice by removing protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B from renal podocytes. Mice with this modification displayed improved glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity, alleviating some consequences of diabetes.

SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalMetabolism·DateFeb 7, 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.

Seafloor data point to global volcanism after Chicxulub meteor strike

University of Oregon geologists discovered unusual seafloor structures indicating heightened worldwide magmatic activity 66 million years ago after the Chicxulub meteor struck. The research suggests seismic waves from the impact triggered accelerated volcanism globally, contributing to a mass extinction event.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 7, 2018

Youth consider mobile health units a safe place for sexual health services

Mobile health units offer a portable approach to bringing healthcare to communities, with over 2,000 units in service nationwide. Adolescents surveyed expressed interest in learning about sexual health through MHUs, with high rates of willingness to obtain birth control and recommend the service to friends.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalJournal of School Health·DateFeb 7, 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.

Anti-obesity programs in schools unlikely to halt child obesity epidemic

A randomized controlled trial found no significant difference in weight status among children taking part in a school-based lifestyle and healthy eating program compared to those not participating. The study suggests that wider influences from families, communities, and the food industry may have a greater impact on childhood obesity t...

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateFeb 7, 2018

Freedom, not coercion

A recent study found that giving individuals a sense of freedom leads to increased feelings of responsibility. The research, involving Russian and American participants, showed that autonomy is a basic human need and that people are more likely to take responsibility when they have the freedom to choose their actions.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalJournal of Research in Personality·DateFeb 7, 2018

Insight into chromatin therapies for breast cancer could aid personalized medicine

Researchers at Boston University School of Medicine have found that individual BET bromodomain proteins work independently, reducing the effectiveness of pan-BET inhibitors. This discovery paves the way for more fine-tuned experiments and treatments in breast cancer patients with varying levels of protein expression.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalMolecular Cancer Research·DateFeb 7, 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.

Cities of the future may be built with locally available volcanic ash

Researchers found that adding volcanic ash to traditional cement reduces the overall energy needed to manufacture concrete, with a 16% decrease in energy required. The optimal particle size of volcanic ash affects the strength and energy efficiency of the concrete.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Cleaner Production·DateFeb 7, 2018

GlycoNet, partners fund $3.5 million in health research

GlycoNet has awarded $3.5 million to researchers across Canada to explore glycomics and its impact on human health. The grants will support research into Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's, drug-resistant fungal infections, and other areas.

SourceCanadian Glycomics Network·DateFeb 7, 2018

Hairy tongues help bats drink up

Researchers at MIT developed a mathematical model to describe the relationship between hairy surface dimensions, dipping speed, and fluid properties. The model predicts optimal fluid entrainment for hairy-tongued nectar feeders like bats, honeybees, and possums.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Fluids·DateFeb 7, 2018

How should biosimilars be used to treat rheumatic diseases?

The American College of Rheumatology now supports the use of biosimilars in treating patients with rheumatic diseases, citing rigorously acquired data. Communication between providers and patients is crucial to alleviate anxiety around newly available agents.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatology·DateFeb 7, 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.

Case for assisted dying 'stronger than ever' says The BMJ

Most UK doctors (79%) and 80% of the public support legislation for assisted dying. A series of articles explores the debate around assisted dying, with personal accounts and expert opinions. The proposed legislation aims to provide safeguards for terminally ill patients who want to end their lives.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateFeb 7, 2018

Can interrupting a cell's power source after injury protect against post-traumatic osteoarthritis?

Researchers use a compound called amobarbital to protect joints from cartilage loss after injury, showing promise in preventing post-traumatic osteoarthritis. The study's findings suggest that targeting mitochondria after joint fractures could substantially improve quality of life for PTOA patients.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateFeb 7, 2018

Fast-spinning spheres show nanoscale systems' secrets

The Rice lab demonstrates energetic properties of colloids in spinning magnetic fields, gathering into disorganized aggregated clusters and then forming crystal-like regimes as the field strength increases. The researchers explore ways to model novel two-dimensional materials like tunable catalysts or colloids with changing surface areas.

SourceRice University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 7, 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.

A pair of RNA scissors with many functions

Scientists at the University of Freiburg discovered RNase E as a crucial enzyme in CRISPR/Cas systems, enabling correct gene expression and immune defense. The findings suggest stronger interaction between CRISPR/Cas systems and host organisms, increasing potential for its applications.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalNature Microbiology·DateFeb 7, 2018

Many epilepsy patients take drug combinations that interact

Many epilepsy patients receive antiepileptic and non-epilepsy drugs that can interact, altering the effectiveness of one or both types of medications. The study found over 1 in 5 patients taking such combinations may experience reduced efficacy or increased toxicity.

SourceWiley·JournalEpilepsia·DateFeb 7, 2018
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.

Redefined Alzheimer's biology has implications for drug design

A new study challenges the long-held assumption that amyloid beta buildup in brain cells is the origin of Alzheimer's disease. Researchers found that standard diagnostic tools fail to detect future AD in many patients under age 70, and that a decline in cerebrospinal fluid clearance may be the early feature of AD.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 7, 2018

How old antibiotic compounds could become tomorrow's life-saving drugs

Researchers are re-examining old antibiotics to find new ones, applying modern science and technology to test their potential. A compound identified in the 1940s is now being considered as a realistic contender for a new antibiotic drug, with the potential to combat certain types of bacterial infections.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 7, 2018

New results point out the need to modify the current strategy for yaws eradication

A new study published in The Lancet suggests that the current WHO strategy for yaws eradication is insufficient and may not be effective against antibiotic-resistant strains. Researchers recommend treating every individual living in an endemic zone to cure latent infections and achieve elimination.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalThe Lancet·DateFeb 7, 2018

Nostalgia safeguards against negative feelings

A new study finds that nostalgia for America's past can buffer collective guilt and create group coherence. Those who glorify the US tend to be more nostalgic, which alleviates feelings of guilt about historical wrongs.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalEuropean Journal of Social Psychology·DateFeb 7, 2018

Multiple chronic diseases leave patients with adversely high costs

A global study found that treating multiple chronic diseases is putting a significant financial burden on countries' health systems and individuals. Patients with multimorbidity often face high out-of-pocket costs, leading to non-adherence to prescribed medicines.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalBMJ Global Health·DateFeb 7, 2018

UPMC researchers solving treatment resistance in most common breast cancer

Researchers at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center have identified a new genetic change in the estrogen receptor that contributes to therapy resistance in ER-positive breast cancer. The presence of ESR1 fusion proteins in treatment-resistant breast cancer may lead to improved treatments for this form of the disease.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalAnnals of Oncology·DateFeb 7, 2018

CU researchers identify potential treatment for diastolic dysfunction in heart failure

CU researchers found that givinostat improved the heart's ability to relax, holding promise for treating patients with diastolic dysfunction and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. Fibrosis is not the sole cause of diastolic dysfunction; a defect in muscle cell relaxation contributes.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateFeb 7, 2018

Eye could provide 'window to the brain' after stroke

A study published in Neurology suggests that strokes can compromise the blood-ocular barrier, causing gadolinium to leak into the eye. This phenomenon could potentially provide valuable information about stroke severity and guide treatment.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournalNeurology·DateFeb 7, 2018

Biosensors will be inexpensive, do more, go everywhere

Researchers at University of Cincinnati are developing cutting-edge methods to overcome the barrier of human skin for biometric sensors. The devices can measure things optically, chemically, electrically, and mechanically without compromising the skin's ability to prevent infection and dehydration.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalLab on a Chip·DateFeb 7, 2018

Army research leading to materials of the future wins national award

Researchers at Cornell University developed a novel analytical technique to visualize polymer chain growth in real-time. By combining magnetic tweezers, optical microscopy, and spectroscopic techniques, they discovered that individual polymer chains undergo consecutive wait-and-jump steps.

SourceU.S. Army Research Laboratory·DateFeb 7, 2018

Highly efficient ammonia synthesis catalyst developed

Researchers at Tokyo Institute of Technology have discovered a highly efficient ammonia synthesis catalyst that functions at low temperatures, exceeding the efficiency of conventional ruthenium and iron catalysts. The catalyst's unique structure expands surface area to improve performance.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateFeb 7, 2018

Breast cancer patients often mispredict well-being after mastectomy

Women who underwent mastectomy without reconstruction underestimated their future quality of life, while those with immediate reconstruction overestimated it. The study highlights the importance of decision support for breast reconstruction, taking into account patients' expectations about well-being.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateFeb 7, 2018