Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for January 11, 2018


Study examines genetic link between epilepsy and mood disorders

Researchers found a significant increase in lifetime prevalence of mood disorders among individuals with focal epilepsy, but not generalized epilepsy. The study suggests a shared genetic susceptibility to these conditions, specifically expressed in people with focal epilepsy.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalEpilepsia·DateJan 11, 2018

The brain's GPS has a buddy system

Researchers have discovered that brain cells in the hippocampus process spatial information about both oneself and others. This 'buddy system' allows for joint location awareness, enabling rats to track each other's movements through a maze. The findings extend our understanding of the hippocampus' role as the brain's positioning system.

SourceRIKEN·JournalScience·DateJan 11, 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.

Maintaining tiger connectivity and minimizing extinction into the next century

A recent study by National Centre for Biological Sciences reveals that high traffic roads and densely populated urban areas hinder tiger movement in Central India. Simulations show that protected corridors delimited by the NTCA can mitigate this impact, highlighting the need for informed development plans that consider biodiversity and...

SourceNational Centre for Biological Sciences·JournalBiological Conservation·DateJan 11, 2018

Restaurant and bar smoking bans do reduce smoking, especially among the highly educated

A new study found that restaurant and bar smoking bans significantly reduce smoking among college graduates, particularly in areas where the bans are comprehensive. Additionally, lower-income smokers are more likely to attempt to quit after a ban is implemented, but may need additional support for successful cessation.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalAmerican Journal of Epidemiology·DateJan 11, 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.

White graphene makes ceramics multifunctional

Researchers at Rice University have developed a new ceramic material that combines the benefits of white graphene with calcium-silicates. The resulting composite has improved strength, toughness, and thermal conductivity, making it suitable for high-performance applications in construction, nuclear power plants, aerospace, and more.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateJan 11, 2018

Dengue takes low and slow approach to replication

Researchers discovered that dengue virus takes over an accordion-shaped structure within host cells to produce proteins, while avoiding the larger fluid-filled space of the cell. This subtle approach allows the virus to reproduce tens of thousands of times without triggering the body's defenses.

SourceDuke University·JournalJournal of Virology·DateJan 11, 2018

Organic molecule benzonitrile detected in space

Astronomers have identified benzonitrile, a specific aromatic molecule, in a cold molecular cloud of the Taurus region using radio spectroscopy. This finding provides insights into the composition of interstellar material and its potential incorporation into new stars and planets.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJan 11, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

The circadian clock sets the pace of plant growth

A research team led by Elena Monte discovered that proteins acting sequentially in the plant internal clock limit growth until nightfall. The CDF5 gene induces stem growth just before dawn, regulated by PIF and PRR clock proteins.

SourceCentre for Research in Agricultural Genomics (CRAG)·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJan 11, 2018

What sort of stream networks do scientific ideas flow along?

Researchers analyzed scientific connections of leading scholars, including Harry Eugene Stanley and Edward Witten, to understand modern scientific cooperation. They used Erdos numbers to visualize the flow of ideas in graphs, revealing a self-organization resulting from power law dynamics in these networks.

SourceThe Henryk Niewodniczanski Institute of Nuclear Physics Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalJournal of Informetrics·DateJan 11, 2018

Scientists identify immune cells that keep gut fungi under control

Researchers at Weill Cornell Medicine have identified a type of white blood cell that regulates the gut fungal population and protects against harmful fungi. This discovery sheds light on the mechanisms leading to ASCA generation, suggesting patients with certain gene variants may benefit from antifungal therapy.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalScience·DateJan 11, 2018

UC biologists peek into the past to see the future through tiny spider eyes

Researchers at UC are studying the genetic development of spider eyes to find opportunities for research into human visual challenges. They found that spiders evolved from simple compound eyes to complex eyes over a short period of 50 million years, and that they use similar genetic pathways to build their eyes as insects do.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalBiological Bulletin·DateJan 11, 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.

California's water saving brings bonus effects

Water-saving measures in California have led to significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and electricity consumption. The study found that the decrease in water usage translated into a substantial electricity saving, equivalent to 1,830 gigawatt hours.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateJan 11, 2018

UT Dallas study: Recent spikes in homicide rates don't tell whole story

A recent spike in homicide rates across the nation doesn't tell the whole story. According to a new UT Dallas study, long-term factors like segregation and poverty play a more significant role in increases than short-term fluctuations. The study found that most cities' homicide rates have remained relatively stable over time.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalHomicide Studies·DateJan 11, 2018

Researchers demonstrate RAS dimers are essential for cancer

RAS molecules act in pairs, known as dimers, to cause cancer and transmit signals that tell a cell to grow and divide. The study provides a foundation for further studies on RAS biology and could potentially pave the way to develop new cancer drugs.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalCell·DateJan 11, 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.

Heidi M. Sosik selected as a Fellow of The Oceanography Society

Dr. Heidi M. Sosik has made significant contributions to phytoplankton ecology and sensor development, with notable applications in monitoring harmful algal blooms and promoting ocean science education. She will be formally recognized as a Fellow of The Oceanography Society at the Ocean Sciences Meeting in February 2018.

SourceThe Oceanography Society·DateJan 11, 2018

Experts call for action to address physician burnout in nephrology

A group of articles highlights the factors threatening job satisfaction and high-quality care delivery among nephrology specialists. Experts propose measures to improve professional lives, including fellowship training reform, practice transformation, and creating a stronger community of nephrologists.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateJan 11, 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.

New expert guidance on contact precautions for drug-resistant infections

The new guidelines aim to improve hospital policies and reduce the spread of multi-drug resistant bacteria. Hospitals are advised to weigh factors such as patient characteristics and time elapsed since last positive culture to determine contact precautions duration.

SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateJan 11, 2018

Study identifies brain circuit controlling social behavior

A new study identified a key brain region controlling social behavior and found that altering its activity may contribute to social deficits in autism. Increasing activity led to social problems, while decreasing it prevented social issues.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateJan 11, 2018

Population-specific deep biomarkers of aging

A novel deep-learning based hematological human aging clock predicts the biological age of individual patients with high accuracy. The model outperforms chronological age in predicting all-cause mortality, highlighting population-specific patterns of aging.

SourceInSilico Medicine·JournalJournal of Gerontology·DateJan 11, 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.

How the animal brain deciphers the locations of animals nearby

Researchers discovered a subset of neurons in bat and rat hippocampi that specifically encode the spatial position of other members of the same species. These findings provide insights into how social animals navigate and interact with each other.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJan 11, 2018

Re-programming innate immune cells to fight tuberculosis

A Montreal team of researchers has discovered a new approach to combat tuberculosis by reprogramming immune cells. By training stem cells in the bone marrow, macrophages can be generated to kill TB-causing bacteria. The findings offer promising results for developing an effective vaccine against TB.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalCell·DateJan 11, 2018

New turkey-sized dinosaur from Australia preserved in an ancient log-jam

A new species of turkey-sized herbivorous dinosaur, Diluvicursor pickeringi, has been discovered in 113 million year old rocks in southeastern Australia. The fossilized tail and foot bones provide significant information about the diversity of small, bipedal ornithopods that roamed the Australian-Antarctic rift valley.

SourcePeerJ·JournalPeerJ·DateJan 11, 2018

Why did the passenger pigeon die out?

The passenger pigeon's massive population of five billion individuals was dwindling even before the arrival of Europeans, who contributed to its eventual collapse. Genetic analysis using PSMC method found that the species' genetic variation patterns were unusual, making it unsuitable for this technique.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalScience·DateJan 11, 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.

Shedding some light on life in the Arctic

Zooplankton respond to natural light cycles in the upper water column, but artificial light from research vessels disrupts this pattern. The researchers found that zooplankton migrated deeper into the water when exposed to artificial light.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 11, 2018

Study examines link between epilepsy and mood disorders

A new study suggests a shared genetic susceptibility between epilepsy and mood disorders, particularly in individuals with focal epilepsy. The study found a significant increase in lifetime prevalence of mood disorders among people with focal epilepsy compared to those with generalized epilepsy.

SourceWiley·JournalEpilepsia·DateJan 11, 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.

Risk of non-infectious elephantiasis mapped in Cameroon

Researchers have mapped podoconiosis in Cameroon, a neglected tropical disease causing leg swelling, with an overall prevalence of 0.5%. The study suggests a nationwide distribution, highlighting the need for prevention and control strategies to beat this disabling disease.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateJan 11, 2018

Long-lasting adaptations of the innate immune system through the bone marrow

Researchers at Radboud University Medical Center discovered that mevalonate, a byproduct of cholesterol production, trains the immune system. A Western diet rich in cholesterol can also induce trained immune cells, leading to long-lasting inflammation. Statins may inhibit this training, while boosting it could help weakened immune systems

SourceRadboud University Nijmegen·JournalCell·DateJan 11, 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.

Teenagers gamble away their education

A long-term population-based study found that teenagers who gambled at age 14 and 17 had lower academic performance. The study controlled for socio-familial risk factors and impulsivity.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of Gambling Studies·DateJan 11, 2018

Rising CO2 is causing trouble in freshwaters too, study suggests

Research reveals that increasing CO2 levels are causing widespread effects on freshwater ecosystems, leading to a decrease in pH and negatively affecting keystone species like Daphnia. The study found that rising pCO2 can impair the water fleas' ability to detect predators and produce defensive features.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJan 11, 2018

Rising temperatures turning major sea turtle population female

A new study finds that warmer temperatures are turning the majority of sea turtles in the Great Barrier Reef population female, with some beaches having as few as 1% male turtles. This shift could threaten the long-term sustainability of the colony.

SourceNOAA Fisheries West Coast Region·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJan 11, 2018

D. James Baker selected as a Fellow of The Oceanography Society

D. James Baker was selected as a Fellow of The Oceanography Society for his foundational role in establishing the organization and providing leadership to the nation's ocean science and policy communities. He has made significant contributions to physical oceanography, climate science, and environmental measurement technology.

SourceThe Oceanography Society·DateJan 11, 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.

Scientist's work may provide answer to martian mountain mystery

A study published in Physical Review E suggests that Martian winds were capable of digging up tens of thousands of cubic kilometers of sediment from the Gale Crater over a billion years. The wind-driven movement of sediment and dust is thought to have played a key role in shaping the Martian landscape.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalPhysical Review E·DateJan 11, 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.

NIH researchers report first 3-D structure of DHHC enzymes

The study's findings offer a blueprint for designing therapeutic drugs against common forms of lung and breast cancer. Understanding the structure of DHHC20 may aid in treatment of EGFR-driven cancers.

SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·JournalScience·DateJan 11, 2018

Babies stir up clouds of bio-gunk when they crawl

A new study found that babies' crawling movements kick up high levels of dirt, skin cells, bacteria, pollen, and fungal spores, which can be detrimental to adult health. However, researchers suggest that this exposure may actually stimulate the immune system and reduce the risk of asthma and allergies later in life.

SourcePurdue University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJan 11, 2018

Women and men military veterans, childhood adversity and alcohol and drug use

A national study led by Elizabeth Evans found that childhood adversity elevates men's alcohol risk and increases women's drug risk among veterans. In contrast, civilian men and women show similar risks for both disorders with increasing childhood adversity. The study highlights the need to assess and address childhood adversity in vete...

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalSocial Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology·DateJan 11, 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.

A major step forward in organic electronics

Researchers at Linköping University developed the world's first complementary electrochemical logic circuits that function stably for long periods in water. This breakthrough has major consequences for many applications, including bioelectronics and printed electronics.

SourceLinköping University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJan 11, 2018

Rice University biologists create toolkit for tuning genetic circuits

Researchers develop a gene promoter library to precisely tune genetic inputs and outputs, allowing for the design of probiotics that can diagnose or fight disease. The toolkit enables the creation of non-leaky promoters that turn on as much as needed, opening new doors for fighting disease.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 11, 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.

Frequent growth events and fast growth rates of fine aerosol particles in Beijing

Fine aerosol particles in Beijing exhibit high growth rates, with frequent events occurring approximately every 20 hours. The study reveals that nucleation is the dominant mechanism driving these growth events, contributing to haze formation and air quality issues.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateJan 11, 2018

Breaking bad metals with neutrons

Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory used neutron scattering to study the behavior of correlated electron systems, gaining insight into material properties. The technique allowed for accurate predictions and comparison to theoretical models, enabling a more ambitious approach to discovering new materials.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateJan 11, 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.

Urban insects are more resilient in extreme weather

A Rutgers University-Camden study found that urban insects are more resilient in extreme weather due to adaptations to high-stress urban environments. Arthropod diversity declined after Hurricane Sandy in New York City parks, becoming indistinguishable from street medians.

SourceRutgers University·JournalEcological Applications·DateJan 11, 2018

Correct warm-up reduces soccer injuries in children by half

A new warm-up program for children's soccer has been shown to reduce injuries by around 50 percent. The '11 + Kids' program, developed for kids aged 7-13, involves a 20-minute warm-up with seven exercises performed at the start of training sessions.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalSports Medicine·DateJan 11, 2018

Marijuana farms expose spotted owls to rat poison in northwest California

A study by UC Davis found seven of 10 Northern spotted owls tested positive for rat poison, while 40% of 84 barred owls also contaminated with the poison. The illegal marijuana farms are contaminating the food web and posing a significant threat to the survival of these owl species.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalAvian Conservation and Ecology·DateJan 11, 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.

New antifungal provides hope in fight against superbugs

A new antifungal compound has been shown to effectively treat drug-resistant Candida auris, a major contributor to hospital outbreaks and deadly infections. The novel mechanism of action suggests the potential for broader treatment applications across fungal species.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalAntimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy·DateJan 11, 2018

Nanotube fibers in a jiffy

Researchers have created a method to rapidly align and twist carbon nanotubes on a slide, producing short, high-strength fibers. The technique reduces production time from hours to minutes, enabling quicker testing and analysis of the fibers' properties.

SourceRice University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJan 11, 2018

Failed outpatient sterilization procedures not associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes: Study

Researchers found that women who underwent failed outpatient sterilization procedures were more likely to experience a live birth and less likely to have an ectopic pregnancy compared to those who had surgical options. The study, published in Obstetrics & Gynecology, included data from nearly 1,000 pregnancies after sterilization failure.

SourceBoston Medical Center·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateJan 11, 2018

New biomarkers for colorectal cancer

Researchers at the University of Luxembourg have discovered a new promising biomarker for colorectal cancer. The biomarker, MYO5B, has been found to decrease in concentration as the disease progresses, indicating lower chances of disease- and metastasis-free survival.

SourceUniversity of Luxembourg·JournalBritish Journal of Cancer·DateJan 11, 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.

Multiple sites rich in water ice found on Mars

Scientists have identified eight locations on Mars with significant water ice deposits, providing insights into the planet's climate history and habitability. The ice is found to be cohesive and strong, with distinct layers that could help understand changes in Mars' climate over time.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJan 11, 2018

As climate is warming up, more bird nests are destroyed in Finnish farmland

A new study reveals that birds have advanced their breeding time, laying eggs on fields still to be sown, increasing the risk of nest destruction. This mismatch is likely fatal for bird nests, highlighting the need for conservation efforts and effective schemes like Agri-environment schemes.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalBiological Conservation·DateJan 11, 2018

New insight into climate impacts of deforestation

A study led by the University of Leeds found that reactive gases emitted by forests have a net cooling effect, outweighing their warming impact. This means deforestation could lead to higher temperatures than previously anticipated, highlighting the need for better understanding of forest climate impacts.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 11, 2018

Closed marriage: An orchid that never blooms

A new species of orchid has been found to be a different identity from previously thought Lecanorchis nigricans var. patipetala. The closed-flower variety has smaller flowers and distinct petal features that set it apart from the open-flower variety.

SourceKobe University·JournalPhytoKeys·DateJan 11, 2018

Hiding from a warmer climate in the forest

Research found that forest density significantly affects near-ground temperatures, with dense forests creating cooler microclimates. The study's maps can aid conservation and land-use planning efforts to protect cold-adapted species.

SourceStockholm University·JournalAgricultural and Forest Meteorology·DateJan 11, 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.

Surprise: A virus-like protein is important for cognition and memory

A recent study by University of Utah Health researchers has discovered a novel protein, Arc, that resembles viral proteins and plays a significant role in cell-to-cell communication in the brain. The protein facilitates the transfer of genetic material between neurons, potentially altering our understanding of how memories are formed.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalCell·DateJan 11, 2018

Northern corn leaf blight genes identified in new study

Scientists have identified two fungal genes that cause disease in corn, which could lead to the development of more resistant hybrid varieties. The discovery provides insight into how the fungus outsmarts corn's defenses and may enable researchers to create plant varieties that can detect and resist specific pathogens.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalPhytopathology·DateJan 11, 2018

BU medical student develops new solutions to stop spread of Zika virus

Karen Cheng, a third-year medical student at Boston University School of Medicine, has created an automated device that kills mosquito larvae in rooftop water tanks, reducing the spread of Zika and other viruses. The invention was recognized with a $3,500 award from the Clinton Global Initiative University Conference Innovation Fund.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·DateJan 11, 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.

New AI technology significantly improves human kidney analysis

A new AI model based on convolutional neural networks (CNN) significantly improves the analysis of kidney biopsy images, enabling accurate quantification of kidney damage and prediction of life remaining in the kidney. This technology has the potential to act as a surrogate nephropathologist, particularly in resource-limited settings.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalKidney International Reports·DateJan 11, 2018

Cuttlefish hear bow wave of looming danger

Researchers discovered that cuttlefish can detect low-frequency vibrations from approaching predators, allowing them to avoid capture by swimming in the same direction as the water flow. In a controlled experiment, cuttlefish were found to be aware of the disturbance and changed their skin patterns in response.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateJan 11, 2018

MDI Biological Laboratory discovery could lead to new therapies for diabetics

Research identifies common molecular mechanism underlying diabetes-induced nerve damage, paving way for potential drug candidates. The study found that reactive oxygen species play a key role in the process and that pharmacological inhibition of ROS can prevent nerve damage.

SourceMDI Biological Laboratory·JournalJournal of Diabetes and its Complications·DateJan 11, 2018

NASA team first to demonstrate X-ray navigation in space

A NASA team has demonstrated fully autonomous X-ray navigation in space, utilizing millisecond pulsars to precisely determine the location of an object moving at thousands of miles per hour. This technology offers a new option for deep-space navigation that could work in concert with existing spacecraft-based radio and optical systems.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 11, 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.

New technology will create brain wiring diagrams

Researchers at Caltech developed TRACT, a method to visualize neural connections in real-time within living flies, enabling the creation of brain wiring diagrams. This technique could help scientists understand neurological and psychiatric conditions by monitoring neuronal connections in the brains of hundreds of flies daily.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·DateJan 11, 2018

The nanoscopic structure that locks up our genes

New research reveals heterochromatin is less dense than previously thought and features a velcro-like protein called HP1 that allows genes to be locked down. The study's findings have implications for understanding higher-order structures like nucleosome strings.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalMolecular Cell·DateJan 11, 2018

Students more engaged and attentive following outdoor lesson in nature

A study found that outdoor lessons in nature increase student engagement and attention span, reducing the need for teacher redirection. Teachers can now teach uninterrupted for almost twice as long after an outdoor lesson, leading to potential improvements in academic achievement.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateJan 11, 2018

Super-adsorbent MOF captures twice its weight in water

Researchers have developed a superporous solid that can absorb up to 200% of its own weight in atmospheric moisture, overcoming challenges of existing porous solids. The material, Cr- soc -MOF-1, maintains its structural integrity and performance over multiple water vapor adsorption-desorption cycles.

SourceCell Press·JournalChem·DateJan 11, 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.

Tracing how disaster impacts escalate will improve emergency responses

A team of researchers proposes a scenario mapping approach to test disaster preparedness and response to unknown, complex events. They found common vulnerabilities triggered similar cascading effects, suggesting that highly-developed countries are susceptible to M.OR.D.OR scenarios.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalSafety Science·DateJan 11, 2018

Tropical Cyclone Joyce soaking northwestern Australia coast

NASA's JPSS-1 satellite captured visible images of Tropical Cyclone Joyce as it moved south along the northwestern Australian coast on January 11. The cyclone had maximum sustained winds near 45 knots and was forecast to make landfall near Wallal Downs mid-day local time on January 12.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 11, 2018

Pulses of light to encrypt data and protect security of cryptocurrencies

Researchers at USC Viterbi School of Engineering developed a new, energy-efficient frequency comb that can be used to encrypt data and protect the security of cryptocurrencies. The comb requires 1000x less power than traditional combs, making it suitable for mobile applications.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 11, 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.

Are women really under-represented in clinical trials?

A recent review of US Food and Drug Administration registration data reveals that the proportion of women participating in clinical trials gradually increases from phase 1 to phase 2/3 trials. The analysis of 38 drugs with over 185,000 trial participants shows no systemic significant under-representation of women.

SourceWiley·JournalBritish Journal of Clinical Pharmacology·DateJan 11, 2018

Clothes make the woman: Less empathy towards women showing more skin

Researchers found that altering the clothing worn by actresses affected empathic responses, with reduced feelings towards objectified women and reduced brain activity in empathy-related areas. The study suggests a link between objectification and diminished emotional understanding.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalCortex·DateJan 11, 2018

Researchers engineer ultra-sensitive temperature sensor

Developed in Brazil, the device measures temperatures in a wide band between 80-750 kelvin using spectroscopy and has applications in manufacturing and biological processes. It can be used in electronic equipment identification and detection of viral or bacterial infections.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 11, 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.

Hormone therapy may reduce eating disorder symptoms in transgender people

A study found that hormone therapy can alleviate eating disorder symptoms in transgender individuals, particularly those who identify as female. The research, which analyzed over 560 patients, suggests that hormone treatment improves body satisfaction and reduces perfectionism, anxiety, and depression.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalEuropean Eating Disorders Review·DateJan 11, 2018

Developing a secure, un-hackable net

A new method of securely communicating between multiple quantum devices has been developed, enabling a large-scale, un-hackable quantum network. The approach uses quantum laws to ensure security and can work for any device, regardless of manufacturer, bridging the gap between theory and practical implementation.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJan 11, 2018

All in the family: Focused genomic comparisons

A team of researchers sequenced and annotated the genomes of six Aspergillus species, identifying biosynthetic gene clusters for secondary metabolites of interest. The study highlights a new analysis method that pinpointed candidate genes for diverse compounds, providing potential tools for improving biofuel production.

SourceDOE/Joint Genome Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 11, 2018

Undetectable=Untransmittable: Gay/bisexual men are skeptical but attitudes are on the rise

A study by Dr. Jonathon Rendina and Dr. Jeffrey Parsons found that 70% of HIV-positive and 36% of HIV-negative men perceive the 'Undetectable = Untransmittable' message as accurate, with rates increasing since earlier studies. Regular testing and PrEP use are associated with higher accuracy perceptions.

SourceThe City University of New York·JournalJournal of the International AIDS Society·DateJan 11, 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.

Nurse staffing levels linked to patient satisfaction

Hospital patients believe inadequate nursing staff negatively impact their care experience. The study highlights the importance of sufficient nurse-to-patient ratios in improving patient satisfaction and overall hospital quality.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Nursing·JournalBMJ Open·DateJan 11, 2018

The Lancet Oncology: Survival for young women treated for breast cancer is the same whether or not they carry a BRCA mutation

A prospective cohort study found that young women diagnosed with breast cancer who carry a BRCA mutation have the same chances of survival as women without the mutation. After treatment, women with early breast cancer and BRCA mutations do not have a significant difference in overall survival compared to those without the mutation.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·DateJan 11, 2018

GBT detection unlocks exploration of 'aromatic' interstellar chemistry

The discovery of benzonitrile marks a significant milestone in understanding the source of the Milky Way's mysterious infrared glow. The detection provides chemical breadcrumbs from simple molecules to larger PAHs, shedding light on their ubiquity in interstellar space.

SourceNational Radio Astronomy Observatory·JournalScience·DateJan 11, 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.

How the malarial parasite is evading our arsenal of drugs

Researchers identify hundreds of genetic changes that enable malaria parasite resistance to multiple drugs. The study provides insights into the development of drug-resistant strains, highlighting potential targets for novel treatment options.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJan 11, 2018

Cell biology: Positioning the cleavage furrow

Researchers from Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München have identified a signaling pathway that restricts cleavage furrow formation to the mid-plane of the cell. This pathway involves the enzyme Aurora A, which is activated on astral microtubules and diffuses to the cell membrane at the poles to suppress contractile ring formation.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateJan 11, 2018

Evolution acceptance in children linked to aptitude, not belief

UK schoolchildren's evolution acceptance is linked to their scientific aptitude, not psychological conflicts with belief systems. The study found that lower-aptitude students struggled to understand science concepts and responded poorly to teaching on both evolution and genetics.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateJan 11, 2018

James N. Moum selected as Fellow of The Oceanography Society

Dr. James N. Moum selected as a Fellow of The Oceanography Society for his outstanding contributions to widely used observational techniques and understanding of ocean mixing over a broad range of processes and scales. His work has elucidated the impact of turbulence on various spatial and temporal scales.

SourceThe Oceanography Society·DateJan 11, 2018

Cycling does not damage men's sexual or urinary functions

A new study published in The Journal of Urology found that cycling does not negatively impact men's sexual and urinary health. Contrary to previous studies, recreational and intense cycling were shown to have no detrimental effects on erectile function or prostate health.

SourceElsevier·JournalThe Journal of Urology·DateJan 11, 2018

Re-programming innate immune cells to fight tuberculosis

A team of Canadian researchers has discovered a way to re-program innate immune cells to kill tuberculosis. The innovative work aims to make vaccines more effective against TB and other infectious diseases like the flu. By targeting stem cells in the bone marrow, scientists were able to boost the killing efficiency of macrophages.

SourceMcGill University·JournalCell·DateJan 11, 2018

Experts raise concerns over raw meat diets for cats and dogs

A study published in Veterinary Record found that commercial raw meat diets (RMDs) are contaminated with zoonotic bacteria and parasites, which can be transmitted to humans. The research highlights the need for pet owners to be aware of these risks and take proper hygiene measures to minimize exposure.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalVeterinary Record·DateJan 11, 2018

Older adult-friendly emergency department staff help reduce hospital admissions

A study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that older adults who received transitional care nurse (TCN) services at emergency departments had lower rates of hospital admissions compared to those who did not receive such services. The GEDI WISE program, which includes TCNs, helps patients transition to the...

SourceAmerican Geriatrics Society·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateJan 11, 2018

UCLA scientists make cells that enable the sense of touch

Researchers have successfully coaxed human stem cells into becoming sensory interneurons, responsible for relaying information from throughout the body to the central nervous system. This breakthrough could lead to a cell-based treatment that restores sensation in paralyzed people without immune suppression.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateJan 11, 2018

Do less harm: E-cigarettes a safer option than smoking

A new study suggests that e-cigarettes can reduce premature deaths and life years lost compared to smoking, making them a promising alternative for smoking cessation. The authors argue that harm minimization is essential and that nicotine replacement therapies like gum or patches are more appealing but less effective.

SourceNew York University·JournalAnnual Review of Public Health·DateJan 11, 2018