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Science News for January 17, 2018


New 'Buck' naked barley: Food, feed, brew

Researchers at Oregon State University developed a new 'Buck' naked barley variety with high yields and nutrition, making it suitable for human consumption, animal feed and brewing. The barley's unique characteristics enable it to thrive with less fertilizer and water.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalJournal of Plant Registrations·DateJan 17, 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.

Researchers discover structure of anti-aging hormone

The study reveals how fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) signals to cells through its receptor and alpha-Klotho, reversing previous conjecture on alpha-Klotho's anti-aging role. The findings also shed light on kidney disease leading to heart hypertrophy.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalNature·DateJan 17, 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.

Default setting in electronic medical records 'nudged' emergency department physicians to limit opioid prescriptions to 10 tablets

A new study published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine found that implementing a default option for lower opioid tablet quantities in electronic medical records increased compliance with prescribing guidelines, resulting in fewer prescriptions written for larger quantities.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateJan 17, 2018

Scientists shed light on a key molecular mechanism of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases

A study published in Immunity reveals that the immunomodulatory cytokine IL-23's pro-inflammatory activity critically depends on structural activation of the cytokine by its receptor, IL-23R. The findings provide new insights into autoimmune and inflammatory diseases such as psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, and Crohn's disease.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalImmunity·DateJan 17, 2018

Scientists on the road to discovering impact of urban road dust

Scientists have found that urban road dust reacts with sunlight to produce singlet oxygen, a reactive form of oxygen that can influence other chemical reactions. The study aims to understand the impact of these reactions on human health and the environment.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·DateJan 17, 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.

Presurgical targeted therapy delays relapse of high-risk stage 3 melanoma

Researchers found that patients who received a combination of BRAF and MEK inhibitors before and after surgery had a six-fold increase in time to progression compared to standard-of-care surgery. The study suggests that presurgical targeted therapy may improve outcomes for patients with high-risk stage 3 melanoma.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·DateJan 17, 2018

Novel chip-based gene expression tool analyzes RNA quickly and accurately

A novel chip-based gene expression tool has been developed to analyze RNA levels in cancerous tissue samples quickly and accurately, while preserving spatial information. The technique allows for the analysis of entire tissue samples and identification of cancer cells in under two hours.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 17, 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.

Magnetic liquids improve energy efficiency of buildings

Researchers at Friedrich Schiller University Jena developed smart windows that can change light permeability with a button press, while also harnessing solar heat. These 'large-area fluidic windows' offer a cost-effective alternative to traditional air conditioning systems and daylight regulation.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalAdvanced Sustainable Systems·DateJan 17, 2018

Study: Patients benefit from one-on-one PT education before joint replacement

A study at Hospital for Special Surgery found that patients who received one-on-one physical therapy education and access to a web-based microsite prior to joint replacement surgery achieved physical therapy goals more quickly. This personalized approach improved their outcomes, including reduced hospital stay and increased confidence.

SourceHospital for Special Surgery·JournalClinical Orthopaedics and Related Research·DateJan 17, 2018

Reducing sessions of trauma-focused psychotherapy does not affect effectiveness

A randomized controlled trial analyzed 126 adults with PTSD, concluding that trauma-focused therapy WET was just as effective as CPT in reducing symptoms. The findings have important implications for treating PTSD, addressing a significant barrier to care by identifying time-efficient treatment options.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateJan 17, 2018

Scale-eating fish adopt clever parasitic methods to survive

Researchers studied four species of scale-eating fish, finding that each employed distinct strategies to pry scales off prey. The study highlights the diversity of life on Earth and sheds light on the evolution and behavior of these unusual carnivorous grazers.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateJan 17, 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.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Small but fast: A miniaturized origami-inspired robot combines micrometer precision with high speed

The milliDelta robot overcomes the miniaturization challenge of Delta robots, operating at millimeter scale with high speed and precision, making it suitable for micromanipulation tasks in manufacturing and medicine. Researchers demonstrated its potential as a hand tremor-cancelling device and explored its use in retinal microsurgeries.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalScience Robotics·DateJan 17, 2018

Majority of US physicians say they're burned out or depressed

A recent Medscape report found that nearly two-thirds of US physicians experience burnout or depression, with higher rates reported by women and mid-career physicians. The majority of physicians cited their work as the cause of their feelings of depression, which can impact patient care and relationships.

SourceDKC·DateJan 17, 2018

Research into terahertz signals and friction-optimized metals

Scientists at KIT create friction-optimized metal alloys using a unique approach that combines friction experiments with non-destructive testing methods, data science algorithms, and high-resolution electron microscopy. The goal is to develop materials with tailored friction and wear behavior, which could lead to significant energy sav...

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·DateJan 17, 2018

CU researcher reviews effect of general anesthesia on developing brain

A recent review by CU researcher Vesna Jevtovic-Todorovic examines the effects of general anesthesia on developing brains, revealing that multiple, shorter-lasting exposures during vulnerable periods cause significant impairments. The study's findings have important implications for pediatric surgery and anesthesia practices.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalAnesthesiology·DateJan 17, 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.

Morbid obesity: Gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy are comparable

Researchers from the University of Basel found that gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy surgeries result in similar weight loss outcomes, with patients losing two-thirds of excess weight. Additionally, gastric bypass showed better results in reducing symptoms of gastric acid reflux.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalJAMA·DateJan 17, 2018

New study validates clotting risk factors in chronic kidney disease

A new study by Boston University researchers confirms the link between chronic kidney disease and increased risk of blood clots, identifying specific tryptophan metabolites as key players. The findings provide a promising approach for risk stratification and potential treatment strategies for CKD patients.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateJan 17, 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.

Recording a thought's fleeting trip through the brain

Scientists used electrocorticograhy (ECoG) to record electrical activity on the brain surface, finding that the prefrontal cortex coordinates activity to help us act in response to a perception. The brain requires several seconds to respond to complex tasks, with the prefrontal cortex recruiting other areas, including memory networks.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateJan 17, 2018

Microwaves could be as bad for the environment as cars suggests new research

A new study by the University of Manchester reveals that microwaves emit significant amounts of carbon dioxide equivalent to 6.8 million cars annually in the EU. The research also found that microwaves consume substantial electricity, equivalent to three large gas power plants, and contributes to resource depletion and climate change.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateJan 17, 2018

Uncovering decades of questionable investments

Researchers at University of Texas at Austin analyzed 40 years of stock prices, finding that high-beta stocks do not outperform those with low betas. Controlling for lottery-like characteristics, the seminal theory is empirically supported, revealing price pressure from investors as the main cause of the anomaly.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·JournalJournal of Financial and Quantitative Analysis·DateJan 17, 2018

Fresh approach to TB vaccine offers better protection

A new TB vaccine has shown promising results in a study of nonhuman primates, providing 41% protection and reducing overall disease by 68%. The vaccine uses a weakened form of a common Herpes virus to create high immunity against the pathogen.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalNature Medicine·DateJan 17, 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.

First surface-based estimation of the aerosol indirect effect over China

Ground-based measurements over southeastern China reveal significant aerosol indirect effects, but satellite studies have large uncertainties due to inherent limitations. The study provides a comprehensive investigation into the AIE and highlights the importance of using ground-based measurements for accurate quantification.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateJan 17, 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.

Scientists zoom in to watch DNA code being read

Researchers used Cryo-EM to capture images of molecular machinery called RNA Polymerase III in unprecedented detail, revealing five key stages in which the complex reshapes itself to successfully transcribe the DNA code. This discovery could open up new approaches to cancer treatment by targeting the complex's activity.

SourceInstitute of Cancer Research·JournalNature·DateJan 17, 2018

DIPG tumor patterns offer new insight on survival

Researchers analyzed over 500 cases of DIPG and related tumors to find that tumors with histone mutations that haven't invaded surrounding brain tissue have better outcomes. Patients with non-invasive tumors had approximately 4-5 times longer survival rates compared to those with invasive tumors.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalActa Neuropathologica·DateJan 17, 2018

Lessons in nature boost classroom engagement afterward, researchers report

A study by University of Illinois researchers found that third-graders who spend a class session in a natural outdoor setting are more engaged and less distracted in their regular classroom afterward. The effect was large and occurred week after week, regardless of teacher expectations.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateJan 17, 2018

Symptoms of depression before undergoing heart procedure and outcomes

A study found that depression symptoms among older adults undergoing aortic valve replacement procedures were associated with a higher rate of death. Screening for depression may be justified for these patients, highlighting the importance of mental health screening in cardiovascular care.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateJan 17, 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.

Scientists open window into psychotic mind

Researchers aim to identify brain mechanisms related to psychosis by studying corollary discharge signals in individuals with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. They will use an fMRI scanner to investigate the oculomotor system, which is thought to support a subjective sense of agency in these patients.

SourceMichigan State University·DateJan 17, 2018

Future climate change revealed by current climate variations

A new study published in Nature has reduced the uncertainty around climate sensitivity by 60%, offering a more accurate picture of long-term climate change. The research team analyzed year-on-year global temperature fluctuations to derive a measure of climate sensitivity, revealing a range of 2.8+/-0.6°C.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature·DateJan 17, 2018

Will there be enough public health workers when baby boomers retire?

Researchers estimate that nearly one quarter of the governmental public health workforce plans to leave or retire in coming years. While there are enough highly-educated students to meet this challenge, concerns remain about the sector's ability to compete with private sector for qualified candidates.

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateJan 17, 2018

How living systems compute solutions to problems

Research at the Santa Fe Institute shows that living systems use collective computation to make decisions, with individuals contributing their own opinions and preferences. The system can produce accurate distributions of power, even in complex environments like primate social groups.

SourceSanta Fe Institute·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 17, 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.

Clean and green: A moss that removes lead from water

Researchers at RIKEN Center for Sustainable Resource Science found that moss Funaria hygrometrica can absorb up to 74% of lead from water. The moss's cell walls contain polygalacturonic acid, which is responsible for absorbing the metal.

SourceRIKEN·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 17, 2018

Study says some nursing homes gaming the system to improve their Medicare star ratings

A new study by Florida Atlantic University found that some nursing homes in California inflate their self-assessment reporting to improve their Medicare star ratings. The researchers identified key predictors of inflating ratings, including financial gain and lack of direct correlation with on-site inspection results.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalProduction and Operations Management·DateJan 17, 2018

Dulling cancer therapy's double-edged sword

Conventional cancer therapy can create an inflammatory cascade in the body, leading to aggressive tumor progression and recurrence. However, resolvins have been shown to counteract these effects, enhancing the body's clearance of cell debris and reducing tumor growth.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateJan 17, 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.

How your brain remembers what you had for dinner last night

Scientists at UC San Diego report that distinct, sparse sets of hippocampal neurons encode episodic memories, recollections of past events. The findings provide significant insights into the mechanisms of memory and have implications for health-related reasons, including Alzheimer's disease.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 17, 2018

Nearly imperceptible fluctuations in movement correspond to autism diagnoses

Researchers at Indiana University and Rutgers University found a correlation between subtle changes in movement and autism diagnoses, suggesting a potential biomarker for early detection. The study assessed volunteers' arm movements using high-speed sensors, revealing hidden fluctuations that corresponded to previous autism diagnoses.

SourceIndiana University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 17, 2018

Bioengineered soft microfibers improve T-cell production

Researchers have developed a biomaterials-based system that uses soft microfibers to activate and expand T cells, increasing their number by nearly an order of magnitude. This approach simplifies processing compared to existing systems and has the potential to bring new hope to cancer patients for T-cell therapy.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalAdvanced Biosystems·DateJan 17, 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.

A step toward ridding register receipts of BPA

A team of researchers has developed potentially safer polymers that could replace BPA in thermally printed receipts and labels, reducing environmental and health concerns. The new polymers, called BPAF-N-type, have similar properties to BPA and are suitable for various applications.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalIndustrial & Engineering Chemistry Research·DateJan 17, 2018

Mantis shrimp size each other up before ceding a fight

Researchers found that mantis shrimp engage in predictable sparring matches to assess their rivals' abilities before deciding whether to fight or retreat. Heavyweight winners typically emerge victorious, but fights often follow a similar course, with both opponents trading blows and rarely de-escalating.

SourceDuke University·DateJan 17, 2018

Scientists develop a new material for manipulating molecules

Scientists have developed a novel porous material with controlled porosity, which can store and separate molecules. This breakthrough material has the potential to improve catalysis, gas adsorption, and electronic conductivity, marking a significant turning point in various scientific fields.

SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalScience·DateJan 17, 2018

Breakthrough enables screening millions of human antibodies for new drug discovery

Researchers at the University of Kansas have developed a method to screen millions of human antibodies for rapid therapeutic discovery, overcoming limitations of single-cell cloning. The breakthrough technology identifies highly potent antibodies and provides insights into human immune responses to vaccines and infections.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateJan 17, 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.

The brain's creativity controls

A Harvard researcher found that specific brain network patterns are associated with creativity, including the default mode network for imagination and the salience network for information filtering. The study's predictive model showed accuracy in estimating creative potential based on brain scan data.

SourceHarvard University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 17, 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.

Cutting the cord is easier said than done

A study by Bar-Ilan University researchers found that difficult relationships are common, especially within families and workplaces. The study, based on data from the University of California Network Study, reveals that social norms and institutional constraints often force people to retain challenging connections.

SourceBar-Ilan University·JournalAmerican Sociological Review·DateJan 17, 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 explore psychological effects of climate change

A new study by researchers at the University of Arizona found that people with high levels of biospheric concern are more likely to experience stress and depression due to climate change. Those who show concern for the environment, animals, and plants tend to have a planetary outlook and think about bigger picture issues.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalGlobal Environmental Change·DateJan 17, 2018

When the dose doesn't make the poison

A new study finds that surgery patients taking opioids for extended periods are at higher risk of abuse and overdose, while the duration of treatment is a more potent predictor than dosage. Researchers analyzed over half a million records to quantify opioid misuse following surgery.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalThe BMJ·DateJan 17, 2018

Should all patients be asked about their sexual orientation?

Health experts debate the importance of asking patients about their sexual orientation to improve services for non-heterosexual patients. While some argue that it's necessary for fair healthcare, others believe it's an invasion of privacy and should be left up to individual judgement.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateJan 17, 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.

Prebiotics in infant formula could improve learning and memory and alter brain chemistry

A study found that prebiotics in infant formula can enhance memory and exploratory behavior in piglets, suggesting a potential link between gut health and brain development. The researchers also discovered changes in volatile fatty acid concentrations and serotonin levels in the brains of pigs fed with prebiotic supplements.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalNutritional Neuroscience·DateJan 17, 2018

Timothy Ray Brown, cured of HIV, rallies public to support research funding

Timothy Ray Brown, the first person cured of HIV, continues to advocate for research funding and education on the impact of an HIV cure. Despite disappointment over decreased public desire for a cure, he remains optimistic that a functional cure can be achieved with proper funding.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalAIDS Research and Human Retroviruses·DateJan 17, 2018

The world's first all-Si laser

Researchers have successfully created an all-silicon laser based on silicon nanocrystals, which achieves high optical gains and demonstrates reliable lasing characteristics. The development of this technology paves the way for electrically pumped all-Si lasers.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience Bulletin·DateJan 17, 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.

Building blocks to create metamaterials

Researchers at Caltech and ETH Zürich created a systematic design method for metamaterials using quantum mechanics. They can engineer materials to manipulate incoming waves, such as bending light or reflecting sound waves. This breakthrough could lead to widespread use of metamaterials in various applications.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Materials·DateJan 17, 2018

Prospective birth control pill for men has its origin in an arrow poison

Researchers develop a new male birth control pill by modifying ouabain, an African plant-based heart-stopping poison. The derivative binds strongly to α4 protein in sperm cells, interfering with fertilization. The compound has shown no toxicity in rats and may offer reversible contraception.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Medicinal Chemistry·DateJan 17, 2018

Brain protein changes could explain how concussions affect patients

A recent study published in ACS' Journal of Proteome Research reveals that signaling molecules play a crucial role in mild concussions. The research provides insights into the mechanisms underlying brain injury and recovery, potentially leading to the development of new treatments for traumatic brain injuries.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Proteome Research·DateJan 17, 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.

Whole-population testing for breast and ovarian cancer gene mutations is cost effective

Researchers found that population testing for multiple cancer genes is the most cost-effective strategy, preventing many more ovarian and breast cancers than current screening methods. This approach could save thousands of lives by reducing risk factors through enhanced screening, medical prevention, or risk-reducing surgery.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateJan 17, 2018

Siberian chemists have improved hydrogen sensors

Scientists from Siberian Federal University and Nikolaev Institute of Inorganic Chemistry create active layers in hydrogen detectors using metal phthalocyanines and palladium membranes. This increases the sensor's sensitivity, enabling detection of hazardous gases and aiding in disease diagnosis. The researchers plan to further improve...

SourceSiberian Federal University·JournalInternational Journal of Hydrogen Energy·DateJan 17, 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.

Semiconductor breakthrough may be game-changer for organic solar cells

Researchers at the University of Michigan have found a way to enhance the conductivity of organic solar cells, enabling electrons to travel longer distances. This breakthrough could lead to the development of transparent solar cells that can be integrated into windows and other surfaces.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNature·DateJan 17, 2018

Building molecular wires, one atom at a time

Researchers at OIST have developed a simple way to create copper molecular wires of different lengths by adding or removing copper atoms one by a time. This breakthrough could lead to the creation of miniature computing devices and practical applications in microelectronics.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJan 17, 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.

No adverse health impacts from long term vaping -- Study

A 24-month clinical trial found that regular e-cigarette use does not have negative health effects on smokers. The study showed reduced nicotine withdrawal symptoms, lower exposure to cigarette smoke constituents, and no increase in body weight.

SourceAspect Consulting·JournalRegulatory Toxicology and Pharmacology·DateJan 17, 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.

Coping with climate stress in Antarctica

Researchers found that Antarctic fish can adapt to warmer waters but are unable to withstand both climate stressors simultaneously. The study suggests these fish must use their existing physiology, which is limited, to cope with the challenges.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateJan 17, 2018

Why don't turtles still have tail spikes?

A study covering 300 million years of evolutionary history found that only a few extinct animals developed tail weaponized features. The researchers identified four essential traits: large body size, armor, herbivory, and thoracic stiffness. These conditions are rarely seen in living animals, explaining the rarity of modern tail weaponry.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·DateJan 17, 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.

Nearly 25 percent of chronic ischemic heart disease patients dead or hospitalized in 6 months

A European Society of Cardiology study found that nearly a quarter of patients with chronic ischaemic cardiovascular disease are dead or hospitalised within six months. The study identified factors such as older age, history of peripheral revascularisation and chronic kidney disease as strongly associated with high risk.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Journal of Preventive Cardiology·DateJan 17, 2018

Alzheimer's disease: Neuronal loss very limited

A recent study published in Scientific Reports challenges the scientific consensus on Alzheimer's disease, suggesting that neuronal loss is relatively limited. The research found minor declines in synaptic markers in patients' prefrontal cortices, which had little impact on cognitive skills.

SourceMcGill University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 17, 2018

Light-splitting greenhouse film could improve photosynthetic efficiency

The innovative technology splits sunlight into efficient light and repurposes infrared light for water purification, improving agricultural competitiveness and reducing energy costs in greenhouses. Researchers plan to test the material in pilot greenhouse facilities and expand its application to various crops.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·DateJan 17, 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.

Study finds minority trainees are up, but not minority faculty

A study at Vanderbilt University Medical Center found that underrepresented minority (URM) trainees have increased in the biomedical sciences, but URM faculty remain scarce. The researchers identified two key points of loss: undergraduate education and postdoctoral fellowship to tenure-track faculty positions.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 17, 2018

To maximize sugarcane harvesting, use the right blade

A study by the University of Illinois found that using the right blade is crucial for maximizing sugarcane harvesting. The researchers discovered that an angled blade caused the greatest damage to sugarcane stems and roots, while a serrated-edged blade reduced stem damage overall.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·DateJan 17, 2018

How massive can neutron stars be?

Astrophysicists have determined that the maximum mass of neutron stars cannot exceed 2.16 solar masses through a combination of theoretical and observational research. The result was achieved by applying universal relations to data on gravitational-wave signals and electromagnetic radiation from merging neutron star events.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateJan 17, 2018

Baby brains help infants figure it out before they try it out

Researchers found that most babies develop new skills in irregular bursts, while their brain activity grows steadily behind the scenes. This study supports long-standing theories about infant development and provides insight into what's happening beneath the surface.

SourcePenn State·JournalChild Development·DateJan 17, 2018

California sea lion population rebounded to new highs

The California sea lion population has fully rebounded under the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA), reaching carrying capacity in 2008. The species' recovery reflects an important success for the MMPA, which recognized marine mammals as a central element of their ocean ecosystems.

SourceNOAA Fisheries West Coast Region·JournalJournal of Wildlife Management·DateJan 17, 2018

Mammogram rates increase after ACA eliminates co-payments

After the Affordable Care Act eliminated cost sharing for screening mammograms, mammogram rates increased six percentage points among older women, according to a Brown University study. The study found that eliminating copayments led to an increase in their use and was concentrated among women with more education.

SourceBrown University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJan 17, 2018

Chemical evolution: Progenitors of the living world

Scientists have shown that alternation of wet and dry conditions can drive the prebiotic synthesis of RNA nucleosides. The new experiments demonstrate a plausible route for the formation of these building blocks, which constitute the informational components of RNA.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 17, 2018

MDI Biological Laboratory develops Anecdata citizen science mobile app

The MDI Biological Laboratory has developed a new mobile phone app to help community organizations track and analyze crowd-sourced environmental data. The app, based on the Anecdata.org portal, allows citizen scientists to log data in the field and make it quick and easy to receive notifications and share observations.

SourceMDI Biological Laboratory·DateJan 17, 2018

Gorilla Glass debuts in car windshields

Chemically toughened glass is being explored for use in car windshields, providing strength and durability while reducing weight and cost. This new material has potential applications in wearable electronic devices, hurricane-resistant windows, and pharmaceutical vials.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateJan 17, 2018

A simple cell holds 42 million protein molecules, scientists reveal

A team of researchers has estimated the number of protein molecules in a simple cell for the first time, revealing around 42 million molecules. The study's findings provide insights into how cells control protein abundance and may help reveal molecular roots of disease.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalCell Systems·DateJan 17, 2018

New light on the mysterious origin of Bornean elephants

A study led by Lounès Chikhi found that Bornean elephants are likely a natural colonization of the island, dating back around 11,400 to 18,300 years. The research team used genetic data analysis and computational modeling to shed light on the animals' past demographic history.

SourceInstituto Gulbenkian de Ciencia·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 17, 2018

Lifespan of fuel cells maximized using small amount of metals

KAIST researchers have developed a new technique to improve the chemical stability of electrode materials in solid oxide fuel cells. By employing a small amount of metals, they can extend the lifespan of these energy technology devices. This innovation has the potential to improve the long-term performance and durability of fuel cells.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateJan 17, 2018

New report calls into question effectiveness of pregnancy anti-nausea drug

A new report by Dr. Nav Persaud at St. Michael's Hospital suggests that the widely prescribed nausea medication Diclectin may not be effective in reducing symptoms for pregnant women. The report reanalyzes previously unpublished clinical trial data, which found a small symptom reduction of 0.7 points on a 13-point scale.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 17, 2018

Midbrain 'start neurons' control whether we walk or run

Researchers identified midbrain 'start neurons' that control locomotion speed and context-dependent behaviors. The study uses optogenetics to activate specific neuronal groups, revealing the complex role of the Cuneiform Nucleus and pedunculopontine nucleus in controlling locomotor movements.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalNature·DateJan 17, 2018

Solving problems that matter

A Lehigh team, backed by the Canadian government and philanthropic foundations, is developing test strips for women's health issues in rural Africa. The project aims to quickly diagnose urinary tract infections and prevent premature labor, low birth weight, or spontaneous abortion.

SourceLehigh University·DateJan 17, 2018

Novel precision medicine trial for metastatic pancreatic cancer

Researchers have identified a new precision medicine approach for metastatic pancreatic cancer, analyzing tumor RNA to match patients with targeted drugs. The approach has shown clinical responses in three of four patients, targeting 'master regulator proteins' responsible for cancer cell survival.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·DateJan 17, 2018