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Science News for January 10, 2018


Incorporating social media reviews can improve surveillance of restaurant health problems

A system tracking foodborne illness via online Yelp restaurant reviews helped identify 10 outbreaks of foodborne illness associated with NYC restaurants. The use of machine learning techniques improved the system's sensitivity and specificity, highlighting the potential for social media data in public health surveillance.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalJournal of the American Medical Informatics Association·DateJan 10, 2018

Biofilm buster treats drug-resistant infections

A team of scientists has developed SAAP-148, a compound that effectively targets and eliminates drug-resistant bacteria in biofilms. The peptide-based treatment shows promise in treating MRSA and Acinetobacter baumannii infections, with plans for a clinical trial in 2018.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJan 10, 2018

Fast radio burst source linked to 'extreme' environment

Astrophysicists have discovered that the only known repeating fast radio burst (FRB) source is in an extreme environment, with measurements suggesting it may be caused by a black hole or other extreme astrophysical circumstances. The new findings raise questions about whether FRBs are a product of their environment.

SourceCIFAR·JournalNature·DateJan 10, 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.

Factors affecting the success of grizzly bear translocations

The Journal of Wildlife Management study highlights the importance of timing and location in grizzly bear translocations. Researchers found that early spring releases in low-mortality-risk areas near rivers led to higher success rates, emphasizing the need for further scientific data collection and publication of translocation results.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Wildlife Management·DateJan 10, 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.

Worldwide importance of honey bees for natural habitats captured in new report

A new report synthesizes global data to identify honey bees as the world's most important single species of pollinator in natural ecosystems. They are recorded in 89% of pollination networks in their native range and 61% in introduced regions, contributing to 1 out of 8 interactions between non-agricultural plants and pollinators.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateJan 10, 2018

Unexpected undulations in biological membranes

A new study reveals that biological membranes display dynamic properties and exhibit unexpected undulations when embedded in polymer networks. The authors propose a theory elucidating the dynamics of such membranes and identify a new intermediate wavelength regime of membrane undulations.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateJan 10, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New oxide and semiconductor combination builds new device potential

Researchers integrated oxide two-dimensional electron gases with gallium arsenide, creating a promising material for new electronic devices. The new development could lead to the creation of transistors, superconducting switches, and gas sensors that interact with light.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateJan 10, 2018

The atomic dynamics of rare everlasting electric fields

Researchers at Duke University confirm theoretical model by blasting yttrium manganite sample with neutrons at 3,000 degrees Fahrenheit. The study reveals the atomic mechanisms behind the material's rare electromagnetic properties, which could lead to breakthroughs in computing and sensor technology.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 10, 2018

Acetaminophen use during pregnancy associated with elevated rate of language delay in girls

A recent study discovered a significant association between acetaminophen use during pregnancy and an increased risk of language delay in girls. The research found that girls born to mothers who took more than six doses of acetaminophen were nearly six times more likely to experience language delays.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalEuropean Psychiatry·DateJan 10, 2018

Earthquakes as a driver for the deep-ocean carbon cycle

Researchers used new dating methods to study dynamic sediment remobilisation processes triggered by seismic activity in the Japan Trench. The methods enabled precise analysis of organic matter in individual sediment layers, revealing key findings about the history of earthquakes and the carbon cycle in the deep ocean.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 10, 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.

The LEC -- now an efficient and bright device

Researchers have developed LECs that emit bright light with a high brightness of 2,000 cd/m2 and an electron-to-photon efficiency of 27.5 percent, surpassing existing technologies like fluorescent tubes and LEDs. This breakthrough enables efficient and practical operation of LEC components in various fields.

SourceUmea University·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 10, 2018

Giant extinct burrowing bat discovered in New Zealand

A team of scientists has discovered a new species of giant extinct burrowing bat in New Zealand, dating back to the Miocene era. The fossilized remains of Vulcanops jennyworthyae were found near St Bathans, with estimates suggesting it was three times the size of an average bat today.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 10, 2018

Bridging tumor moats with potent drug delivery particles

Scientists create nanoparticles that can penetrate extracellular matrix surrounding tumors, delivering chemotherapies specifically to cancer cells. The 'protocell' nanoparticle overcomes previous limitations by carving through the matrix and releasing drugs in acidic cell interiors, showing promise for treating solid tumors.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemistry of Materials·DateJan 10, 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.

The origin of flower-making genes

Research reveals that MADS-box genes in moss control sperm motility and cell division, critical for fertilization. The findings suggest that these genes may have been reused by flowering plants to evolve new functions.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalNature Plants·DateJan 10, 2018

Extremely bright and fast light emission

Researchers discovered that caesium lead halide nanocrystals emit light at room temperature after just one nanosecond, making them faster and brighter than other quantum dots. This is due to their unique excited energy state, which allows for immediate light emission, unlike traditional quantum dots that rely on a dark state.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature·DateJan 10, 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.

Large-scale study to pinpoint genes linked to obesity

A large-scale study published in Nature Genetics identified 13 genes associated with body mass index (BMI) and obesity. The study found that genetic variations in these genes can affect the function of the genes and their proteins, leading to weight gain or loss. The researchers hope that this discovery will lead to personalized treatm...

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNature Genetics·DateJan 10, 2018

New discovery may explain winter weight gain

A breakthrough study by University of Alberta researchers found that fat cells near the skin shrink when exposed to blue light from the sun, reducing fat storage. This discovery may contribute to a new understanding of how our bodies regulate fat production and metabolism.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 10, 2018

Could melatonin be the key to healthy aging?

Research suggests that melatonin treatments can improve sleep quality, physical health, and mental well-being in older adults. Melatonin deficiency is associated with decreased circadian system robustness and increased risks of age-related diseases.

SourceWiley·JournalBritish Journal of Pharmacology·DateJan 10, 2018

Health Department IDs 10 outbreaks of foodborne illness using Yelp reviews since 2012

The NYC Health Department has identified 10 outbreaks of foodborne illness through a computer system developed with Columbia University, tracking keywords in Yelp reviews to detect incidents. The system helps identify approximately 1,500 complaints annually, improving outbreak detection and prevention.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalJournal of the American Medical Informatics Association·DateJan 10, 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.

Older adults with metabolic syndrome may be more resistant to depression treatments

Researchers found that individuals with Metabolic Syndrome were more likely to experience chronic and severe depression symptoms, requiring longer treatment response times. The study emphasizes the importance of healthcare providers closely monitoring older adults with Metabolic Syndrome when screening for and treating depression.

SourceAmerican Geriatrics Society·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateJan 10, 2018

Transitional care nurses in the geriatric emergency department reduce risk of inpatient admissions

A study conducted at Mount Sinai Hospital found that transitional care nurses can significantly reduce the risk of inpatient admissions for geriatric patients. The program, which includes assessments for cognitive function and caregiver strain, led to a 10% lower chance of hospitalization for those treated by a transitional care nurse.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateJan 10, 2018

The future of grocery shopping: Faster, cheaper, smaller

A study by Case Western Reserve University reveals Aldi's success lies in limiting product choice and targeting price-conscious consumers with a single supplier for most products, resulting in higher sales growth (15%) compared to Walmart (2%)

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalStrategy and Leadership·DateJan 10, 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.

Junk food tax is legally and administratively viable, finds new analysis

Researchers at NYU College of Global Public Health and Tufts' Friedman School examine options for categorizing and taxing junk food. A federal excise tax on manufacturers appears feasible, with potential benefits in reducing disease burden from unhealthy food consumption.

SourceNew York University·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateJan 10, 2018

Webb Telescope's Houston highlights

The James Webb Space Telescope underwent critical cryogenic testing inside Chamber A at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston, ensuring it will safely reach its orbit and perform its science mission. The telescope was subjected to a range of tests, including alignment checks and simulations of starlight detection.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 10, 2018

Making the Internet of Things possible with a new breed of 'memristors'

Researchers at Aalto University have developed a new breed of 'memristors' that can store data for more than 10 years without power and work with low voltages. These ferroelectric tunnel junctions have the potential to revolutionize neuromorphic computing and enable efficient IoT processing.

SourceAalto University·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateJan 10, 2018

With these special bacteria, a broccoli a day can keep the cancer doctor away

Researchers have engineered probiotics that can target and kill colorectal cancer cells using a substance found in broccoli. The mixture killed over 95% of colorectal cancer cells in a dish and reduced tumour numbers by 75% in mice with colorectal cancer.

SourceNational University of Singapore, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateJan 10, 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.

Intoxicatingly light sensitive

Scientists at ETH Zurich have synthesised four variants of THC that can be altered with light, offering a potential tool for controlling and influencing CB1 receptors. These light-sensitive THC derivatives were tested in living cell cultures and found to activate and deactivate the receptors using specific wavelengths of light.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJan 10, 2018

New research improves our understanding of cancer cell regulation

A team of cancer researchers has made a significant contribution to our understanding of cancer cell regulation, which could lead to improved cancer treatments. The study focuses on kinases, proteins that influence cancer cell growth and development, and identifies new strategies for killing cancer cells.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalCancer Research·DateJan 10, 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.

ASU astronomers to build space telescope to explore nearby stars

The Star-Planet Activity Research CubeSat (SPARCS) mission aims to monitor the flares and sunspots of small, cool stars, known as M dwarfs, to assess their habitability for planets. The spacecraft will use ultraviolet-sensitive detectors to study how stellar activity affects planetary environments.

SourceArizona State University·DateJan 10, 2018

Cancer patients given fluids live longer

A recent study has found that cancer patients given fluids at the end-of-life stage live significantly longer than those who don't receive such treatment. This results in an average of one-and-a-half more days of life, as well as better symptom control and minimal side effects.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalJournal of Palliative Medicine·DateJan 10, 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.

Two simple tests could help to pinpoint cause of stroke

Researchers developed a new approach to detecting the cause of intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), the deadliest form of stroke. Combining a blood test with a brain scan can accurately spot cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA), a condition linked to ICH and increased risk of further strokes and dementia.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalThe Lancet Neurology·DateJan 10, 2018

New app motivates type 2 diabetes patients to be more active

A new app developed by researchers at University of Utah Health aims to motivate type 2 diabetes patients to increase physical activity. The interactive simulation tool helps patients understand the impact of exercise on blood sugar levels, leading to increased motivation and plans for more exercise.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·DateJan 10, 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.

Light activity measured with fitness tracker linked to lower mortality in older women

A study of 6,489 female participants found that those with higher levels of light-intensity physical activity were less likely to die than those with lower activity levels. The researchers concluded that encouraging older women to increase their daily light-intensity activity could lead to better health outcomes.

SourceAmerican Geriatrics Society·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateJan 10, 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.

'Sniffing' out counterfeit liquors

A portable device can identify liquors and determine if they've been altered, offering a strategy for liquor quality assurance. The device uses an advanced sensor array that can detect various scotch whiskies, bourbon, rye, brandy and vodka with greater than 99 percent accuracy.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Sensors·DateJan 10, 2018

NASA's newly renamed Swift Mission spies a comet slowdown

The Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory has detected a comet's rotation period slow by more than 10 times in just 60 days, revealing light variations associated with material recently ejected into the coma. The comet's small size and high water production suggest that more than half of its surface area contains sunlight-activated jets.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalNature·DateJan 10, 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.

Study provides insights on links between childhood abuse and later depression

A study published in International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry suggests that smaller social networks and feelings of loneliness are significant risk factors for late-life depression. The findings also emphasize the need to detect childhood abuse in adults with depression and consider it in treatment planning.

SourceWiley·JournalInternational Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry·DateJan 10, 2018

New depth limit for deep-sea marine burrows

Scientists discovered fossil evidence of deep-sea marine life burrowing up to eight meters below the seabed, which is four times deeper than previously thought. The findings suggest that deep-sea burrowing marine life may be more abundant than previously considered.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 10, 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.

Adaptation now: River flood risks increase around the globe under future warming

Scientists warn of increased river flood risks worldwide due to global warming, with the need for adaptation greatest in the US, parts of India and Africa. The study finds that without additional measures, millions will be exposed to severe flooding, with devastating impacts on communities.

SourcePotsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 10, 2018

New HSS study finds hope in understanding and better treating scleroderma

A new study by Hospital for Special Surgery researchers suggests that plasmacytoid dendritic cells play a key role in causing fibrosis and inflammation in scleroderma patients. The study's findings, published in Science Translational Medicine, also identify a potential target for treatment: the TLR8 receptor on the surface of these cells.

SourceHospital for Special Surgery·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJan 10, 2018

The ecological costs of war: Conflict a consistent killer of African megafauna

A recent study found that conflict in Africa's protected areas has led to a consistent decline in large mammal populations. Despite severe impacts, these populations rarely collapse and can recover with the right policies and resources. The research suggests that avoiding even low-level conflicts is crucial for conservation efforts.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalNature·DateJan 10, 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.

Lifestyle biomarkers investigated in prostate cancer survivors

A clinical trial investigates whether dietary and exercise interventions can decrease AGEs, which have been linked to cancer, in prostate cancer survivors. Preliminary data suggest that AGEs may be a better biomarker for lifestyle changes than previously used markers.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·DateJan 10, 2018

Higher-ranked colleges don't necessarily provide a better educational experience

A recent study published in The Review of Higher Education reveals that institutional rankings have little to no relationship with student engagement, a key indicator of collegiate quality. Despite their high ranks, students at higher-profile institutions reported fewer interactions with faculty and lower levels of engagement.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalThe Review of Higher Education·DateJan 10, 2018

More dentists to discuss risks of HPV-related cancers with their patients

A study highlights the need for better training and education in the dental community to discuss HPV prevention methods with patients. Most dentists don't address HPV-related oropharyngeal cancers due to lack of knowledge and communication skills.

SourceUniversity of South Florida (USF Health)·JournalThe Journal of the American Dental Association·DateJan 10, 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.

Stigma continues to hamper response to opioid epidemic

The American health care system must address the stigma associated with opioid use disorder to effectively treat the nation's opioid epidemic. Opioid prevention and treatment efforts remain hindered by federal restrictions, addiction stigma, and chronic pain management limitations.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalAnnual Review of Public Health·DateJan 10, 2018

SETI project homes in on strange 'fast radio bursts'

Recent observations of FRB 121102 provide new data about the source of fast radio bursts, which are nearly 100 percent linearly polarized and suggest a source embedded in strong magnetic fields. The team plans to observe at higher frequencies to narrow the range of possible sources.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNature·DateJan 10, 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.

Rare melanoma type highly responsive to immunotherapy

A study found that desmoplastic melanoma patients respond significantly to anti-PD-1/PD-L1 therapies, with a 70% response rate. The tumors have high levels of DNA mutations and pre-existing immune cells necessary for an immune response.

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalNature·DateJan 10, 2018

Pancreatic cancer accelerated by stress, finds study

A new study published in Cancer Cell suggests that stress accelerates the development of pancreatic cancer by triggering the release of 'fight-or-flight' hormones. Beta-blockers, commonly used medications that inhibit these hormones, were found to increase survival in a mouse model of the disease.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalCancer Cell·DateJan 10, 2018

The complexities of clouds and the seeds that make them

Researchers analyzed three weather systems to understand how aerosols influence cloud formation and development. The study highlights the complexity of aerosol-cloud-precipitation-radiation interactions, which vary on a case-by-case basis.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateJan 10, 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.

New stellar streams confirm 'melting pot' history of the galaxy

The discovery of eleven new stellar streams in the Milky Way confirms its role as a cosmic melting pot, with stars originating from other galaxies. The Dark Energy Survey data, made publicly available, enabled the detection of these streams, which provide evidence for the galaxy's history of migration events.

SourceAssociation of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA)·DateJan 10, 2018

Study finds body size of marine plankton, currents keys to dispersal in ocean

A new international study found that plankton's body size and ocean currents are crucial in determining their dispersal in the ocean. The larger the plankton, the smaller the connection between distant communities. Climate change is rapidly warming marine waters, making it essential to understand how this affects biological communities.

SourceOregon State University·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 10, 2018

In India, subtle corruption robs villagers of roads

Researchers found that almost 500 roads were listed as completed but never built, linked to local politicians steering contracts to favored businesses in their social networks. The study suggests giving local politicians no formal role in road-building may exacerbate corruption.

SourcePrinceton School of Public and International Affairs·JournalJournal of Development Economics·DateJan 10, 2018

A close-up look at an uncommon underwater eruption

A research team led by University of Tasmania and Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution explored the Havre volcano using autonomous underwater vehicle and remotely operated vehicle. They found that the eruption was larger than expected, with more than 70% of volcanic activity occurring on the seafloor.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 10, 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.

Scaling to new heights with gecko-inspired adhesive

Scientists have developed a dry adhesive with ultra-sticky properties, comparable to that of a gecko's toe pads. The adhesive was made using a nanoimprinting technique and showed remarkable durability in repetitive attachment and detachment tests.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateJan 10, 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.

Job ads should be worded wisely to encourage women to apply

A recent study published in Springer's journal Sex Roles found that job ads intended to appeal to women can be flawed by stereotypical wording, discouraging them from applying. The researchers recommend using task-directed language to attract high-quality and gender-diverse applicants.

SourceSpringer·JournalSex Roles·DateJan 10, 2018

Astronomers detect 'whirlpool' movement in earliest galaxies

Researchers have discovered swirling gas motion in early galaxies, which spun like a whirlpool similar to the Milky Way. The galaxies, observed nearly 13 billion years ago, were found to be forming stars at a higher rate than expected, yet retaining order and appearing well-regulated despite their small size.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature·DateJan 10, 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.

Frozen embryos result in just as many live births in IVF

A recent study published in The New England Journal of Medicine has found that frozen embryos can lead to the same number of live births as fresh embryos in IVF. Researchers investigated 800 infertile women and found equivalent pregnancy and live birth rates between frozen and fresh embryo groups.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJan 10, 2018

3-D printing creates super soft structures that replicate brain and lungs

Scientists at Imperial College London develop a new 3D printing technique that can replicate biological structures, paving the way for tissue regeneration and replica organs. The method uses cryogenics to create super soft scaffolds that mimic the mechanical properties of organs like the brain and lungs.

SourceImperial College London·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 10, 2018

Study finds strong support for ocean protection

A recent study found that 70% of respondents believe the marine environment is under threat from human activities, with pollution and fishing identified as top concerns. The public also strongly supports protection of marine areas through MPAs, but rules governing these areas vary widely.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalOcean & Coastal Management·DateJan 10, 2018

Earliest fossil evidence of butterflies and moths

Researchers have uncovered the earliest known fossil evidence of insects from the order Lepidoptera, providing important insights into their evolutionary history. The fossils, mostly wing scales, suggest that lepidopterans likely depended first on gymnosperms before shifting to angiosperms as a primary food source.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 10, 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.

CCNY leads four-nation NSF-funded complex fluids project

The City College of New York is leading a five-year research project on complex fluids funded by the National Science Foundation, which includes 11 partner institutions in France, Germany, and Norway. Possible outcomes include improvements in energy and process efficiency in industrial systems globally.

SourceCity College of New York·DateJan 10, 2018

Dark energy survey publicly releases first three years of data

The Dark Energy Survey has publicly released its first three years of data, containing information on 400 million astronomical objects, including distant galaxies and stars in the Milky Way. The dataset also reveals 11 new stellar streams, remnants of smaller galaxies torn apart by the Milky Way.

SourceDOE/Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory·DateJan 10, 2018

Here's how stress may be making you sick

A recent study published in Journal of Leukocyte Biology found that stress receptors can control immune cells' defense mechanisms, leading to allergic diseases. Mice with disabled stress receptors showed reduced disease symptoms and were protected against stress-related illnesses.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Leukocyte Biology·DateJan 10, 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.

Robotic implants spur tissue regeneration inside the body

Researchers developed an implanted robotic system that applies traction forces to stimulate tissue growth in stunted hollow organs. The device was tested on pigs and showed a 77% increase in esophagus length, promoting cell proliferation without disrupting organ function.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalScience Robotics·DateJan 10, 2018

Black hole breakthrough: New insight into mysterious jets

Researchers gained new understanding of relativistic jets' behavior through advanced supercomputer simulations, revealing how space-time is dragged into the rotation of rotating black holes. The study confirms that tilted disks lead to precessing jets that periodically change their direction in the sky.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJan 10, 2018

New options for more animal welfare

A BfR study reveals specific research fields in need of new alternative methods, such as investigating and treating human diseases like cancer and hypertension. The EU-wide solution aims to enhance transparency and promote the development of alternative methods for more animal welfare.

SourceBfR Federal Institute for Risk Assessment·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJan 10, 2018

Mexican migrant health access much lower after US border crossing

A Drexel University public health study found that Mexican immigrant health access plummets after crossing into the US, and remains low even when returning to Mexico. The study revealed a significant drop in healthcare access, from 78% to 47-60%, among Mexican adults before and after migration.

SourceDrexel University·JournalJournal of Health Care for the Poor and Underserved·DateJan 10, 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.

Housework gender differences may affect health in elderly men and women

The study found that elderly men and women spent significant amounts of time on different types of housework activities. While engaging in some housework was beneficial to the health of older adults, long periods combined with too much or too little sleep were associated with poor health among elderly women. In contrast, elderly men wh...

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Public Health·DateJan 10, 2018

Robotic weeders: to a farm near you?

Robotic weeders are being increasingly adopted by farmers due to their ability to efficiently control weeds in specialty crops like lettuce, broccoli, and tomatoes. While they have limitations, the technology is improving with advancements in programming and sensor technology.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·DateJan 10, 2018

Changing how we view chlorine in soil

A recent study from Linköping University reveals that the supply of fresh organic compounds increases chlorination in soils, potentially changing our view on chlorine's significance. The discovery highlights new ecological functions of chloride and its potential impact on risk models for radioactive waste.

SourceLinköping University·DateJan 10, 2018

Frogs reveal mechanism that determines viability of hybrids

The African and Western clawed frog hybrid crossbreeding reveals that a duplication of chromosomes can occur, allowing viable offspring. However, some hybrids are not viable due to dysfunctional separation of paternal chromosomes, leading to the death of early-stage embryos.

SourceRadboud University Nijmegen·JournalNature·DateJan 10, 2018

Retaliatory violence between police and citizens is primed by social media

A new study published in PLOS ONE found that social media coverage of fatal police-citizen incidents can act as a virtual contagion, leading to future violence against law enforcement. The research also suggests that an unexpected increase in officer line-of-duty deaths is associated with an increase in the number of minority citizens ...

SourceUtah State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 10, 2018

'Decorated' stem cells could offer targeted heart repair

Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a new approach to improve cardiac stem cell therapy, which shows promise in targeting heart attack injuries and enhancing treatment effectiveness.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateJan 10, 2018

What happens when your brain's support cells aren't so supportive?

Researchers at the Salk Institute discovered that genes that normally sever connections between neurons are reactivated in aging astrocytes, leading to reduced neuronal communication. This may explain age-related cognitive decline and neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's and diabetes.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalCell Reports·DateJan 10, 2018

Company-sponsored CRISPR clinical trials set to start in 2018

Three companies - Crispr Therapeutics, Intellia Therapeutics, and Editas Medicine - are launching clinical trials using CRISPR to boost healthy hemoglobin levels in patients with blood diseases. Researchers are also conducting extensive computer predictions and in vitro tests to minimize the risk of accidents.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateJan 10, 2018