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Science News for January 23, 2018


Enzyme with surprising dual function

Scientists at the University of Bonn have found that ceramide synthase not only produces vital lipids but also regulates gene activity, particularly in response to nutritional status. The enzyme's homeodomain plays a crucial role in adapting gene expression to energy requirements.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalCell Reports·DateJan 23, 2018

Reduced attention to audiovisual synchrony in infancy predicts autism diagnosis

A new study suggests that infants who pay little attention to synchronous sights and sounds may be at elevated risk for developing autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The researchers found significant group differences in the infants' gaze patterns, with those with ASD showing no preference for audiovisual synchrony.

SourceUppsala University·JournalJournal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry·DateJan 23, 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.

Drones learn to navigate autonomously by imitating cars and bicycles

Researchers developed DroNet, an algorithm that enables drones to safely navigate through urban environments using a normal camera and powerful artificial intelligence. The drones learned to respect safety rules and adapt to new environments, paving the way for fully autonomous drones in various applications.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalIEEE Robotics and Automation Letters·DateJan 23, 2018

Princesses and action heroes are for boys and girls

A study found that children exposed to counter-stereotypic peers in magazines were more flexible in their attitudes about who should play with certain toys. This counters the idea that gender segregation is inevitable in young children.

SourceSpringer·JournalSex Roles·DateJan 23, 2018

Married veterans more at risk of suicide than single soldiers

A new study finds that married veterans are more likely to experience suicidal thoughts and behaviors compared to their single counterparts. The research, which analyzed responses from 772 recently returned veterans, also highlights the importance of addressing spiritual struggles in veteran suicide prevention efforts.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalArchives of Suicide Research·DateJan 23, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

UNIST startups selected for prestigious tech incubator program for startup

Six UNIST startups, including RecensMedical and SuPine Therapeutics, have been selected for the Tech Incubator Program for Startup (TIPS) to receive business incubation spaces and funding. The program aims to promote technological innovation and support talent in growing their businesses.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·DateJan 23, 2018

International organizations partner to spread awareness of revised lung cancer staging criteria

International organizations IASLC and BTOG are partnering to spread awareness of revised lung cancer staging criteria. The new system takes effect this month and aims to provide better care for patients. Key findings highlight improved prognostic factors, tumor size measurements, and coding systems for lung cancers with multiple lesions.

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateJan 23, 2018

Reaching the breaking point

A new study from the University of Utah suggests that repeated stress from everyday activities like walking can cause microdamage to bones in older adults, leading to a higher risk of breakage. This theory, known as 'cyclic loading,' challenges the common-held belief that bone breaks are caused by single impacts or forces.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateJan 23, 2018

Study explores how propaganda recruits terrorists

A study at UMass Lowell aims to predict behavioral outcomes based on propaganda type and viewer personality. The research will produce training materials and educational content to counter terrorist recruitment techniques.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Lowell·DateJan 23, 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.

Researchers aim to save key branches of shark and ray tree of life

Scientists created a fully-resolved family tree for shark, ray, and chimaera species to quantify their evolutionary distinctness. This research identified five priority hotspots for conservation, helping to preserve up to 26 million years of unique evolutionary history.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalNature·DateJan 23, 2018

Interacting Antarctic glaciers may cause faster melt and sea level contributions

A new study by Stanford researchers found that a large and unstable Antarctic glacier may be melting farther inland than previously thought, posing a threat to global sea levels. The Pine Island Glacier's Southwest Tributary could trigger or accelerate ice loss in Thwaites Glacier, potentially speeding the rate of sea-level rise.

SourceStanford's School of Earth, Energy & Environmental Sciences·JournalAnnals of Glaciology·DateJan 23, 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.

The big picture of Great Lakes mercury pollution

A study led by Michigan Technological University explores mercury pollution in the Great Lakes, particularly in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. The research focuses on policy scenarios to reduce mercury emissions and provides insights into regional remediation efforts and fish safety for local communities.

SourceMichigan Technological University·DateJan 23, 2018

Flexibility and arrangement -- the interaction of ribonucleic acid and water

The study reveals that water molecules at the RNA surface perform tipping motions, known as librations, which influence the structure and dynamics of RNA. The findings show a complex scenario where water fluctuations are transferred to RNA vibrations, essential for avoiding local overheating.

SourceForschungsverbund Berlin·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·DateJan 23, 2018

PCOS may reduce gut bacteria diversity

A new study published in the Endocrine Society's Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that women with PCOS have less diverse gut bacteria, which may influence the development of the condition and its impact on quality of life. Elevated testosterone levels in women with PCOS were linked to these changes.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateJan 23, 2018

A superficial relationship: Soap on water

Researchers at OIST Graduate University studied the Marangoni effect, which causes soap to spread on water's surface. They developed a method to quantify the phenomenon through three independent measurements, showing that surfactant dissolution and spreading affect its behavior.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJan 23, 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.

Racial and ethnic disparities in live donor kidney transplants

Despite policies to increase diversity, racial/ethnic minority patients are less likely to receive live donor kidney transplants. The study found that disparities worsened over the last two decades, with black patients receiving only a quarter of the number of live donor transplants as white patients.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJAMA·DateJan 23, 2018

Deaf children learn words faster than hearing children

Children with cochlear implants learn words faster than their hearing counterparts, thanks to earlier exposure to spoken language and better-developed brain structures. Researchers found that these children build up word pools at an accelerated rate.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 23, 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.

How plants see light

A team of scientists has identified two proteins, PCH1 and PCHL, that regulate the activity of phytochrome B, a key photoreceptor protein in plants. This discovery allows plants to adapt their light sensitivity to different environmental conditions, enabling them to optimize photosynthesis and growth.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 23, 2018

Premature births linked to changes in mother's bacteria

A recent study published in BMC Medicine suggests that premature births are associated with an imbalance of bacteria in the mother's reproductive tract. The researchers found that subtle changes in vaginal microbiota were strongly linked to early water breakage and preterm birth, which can increase the risk of sepsis for newborns.

SourceImperial College London·JournalBMC Medicine·DateJan 23, 2018

A new therapeutic avenue for Parkinson's disease

Researchers at the Buck Institute for Research on Aging have identified a potential therapeutic avenue for Parkinson's disease by clearing senescent astrocytes, which stop dividing and secrete deleterious factors. This approach shows promise in preventing symptoms of the incurable neurological disorder.

SourceBuck Institute for Research on Aging·JournalCell Reports·DateJan 23, 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.

Scientists find oxidized iron deep within the Earth's interior

Researchers found highly oxidized iron in garnets from diamonds at a depth of 550 km below the Earth's surface, contradicting expectations about iron oxidation in the mantle. This discovery suggests that molten carbonate may have oxidized rocks to form diamonds.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJan 23, 2018

Viral probe gives ringside view of cell-to-cell combat

Researchers used a plant virus to study how plants defend themselves against invading pathogens, revealing key receptor proteins that regulate RNA interference. The findings also identified a suppressor protein named C4 used by the virus to disarm the plant's defence mechanism.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 23, 2018

Smart baby pillows for flat head syndrome prevention

A smart baby pillow has been introduced to prevent and correct mild cases of flat head syndrome. The device features an embedded air volume control system and a real-time soft tactile sensor to monitor the baby's head position.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·DateJan 23, 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.

Opening the cavity floodgates

Researchers at the University of Freiburg have identified a specific position on TatC that can be chemically altered by DCCD, inhibiting contact with the Tat substrate. This finding reveals the mechanism of how TatC and TatB components assemble into an active transporter, creating a cavity for protein insertion.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJan 23, 2018

Study: Cells of 3 advanced cancers die with drug-like compounds that reverse chemo failure

Researchers at Southern Methodist University have discovered three drug-like compounds that successfully reverse chemotherapy failure in three of the most commonly aggressive cancers. The compounds were tested on micro-tumors and showed effectiveness against specific cancers, giving hope for developing new drugs to fight cancer.

SourceSouthern Methodist University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 23, 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.

Only 1 in 10 patients with anxiety disorders receives the right treatment

The study found that only 27.6% of individuals with anxiety disorders received appropriate treatment, with the remaining cases receiving inadequate care. The low treatment rate is attributed to factors such as lack of awareness, health system weaknesses, and stigma surrounding mental illnesses.

SourceIMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute)·JournalDepression and Anxiety·DateJan 23, 2018

Starving tumors: New target discovered

Scientists at German Cancer Research Center have discovered a new target for anti-angiogenic tumor therapy by deleting a signaling molecule in mice, leading to delayed tumor growth and limited metastases. The receptor Tie1 plays a crucial role in angiogenesis and is overexpressed in tumors.

SourceGerman Cancer Research Center (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ)·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 23, 2018

Lifting the veil on 'valence,' brain study reveals roots of desire, dislike

A new study maps distinct neighborhoods where feelings are assigned to experience in the basolateral amygdala, revealing a region with diverse and dynamic neurons that interact with each other. The findings shed light on how valence assignment works and may provide insights into mental health disorders.

SourcePicower Institute at MIT·JournalCell Reports·DateJan 23, 2018

Retrospective test for quantum computers can build trust

A Singapore-Japan research team developed a new scheme to verify quantum computations after they're completed, allowing customers to check results and protect companies from dishonest users. The 'post-hoc verification' method can be done with or without specialized hardware.

SourceCentre for Quantum Technologies at the National University of Singapore·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJan 23, 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.

Warning follows report into online child sexual abuse risk

A new report commissioned by IICSA highlights the growing risk of online child sexual abuse and exploitation. Researchers found that vulnerability characteristics include adverse childhood experiences, disability, and above-average internet use, while digital skills and openness can protect children from unwanted experiences.

SourceLancaster University·DateJan 23, 2018

Women with polycystic ovary syndrome have less bacterial diversity in gut

Researchers found that women with PCOS have less diverse gut bacteria compared to those without the condition. Elevated testosterone levels in PCOS may contribute to these changes, suggesting a potential link between the microbiome and the development of PCOS.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateJan 23, 2018

Scientists emulate the human blood-retinal barrier on a microfluidic chip

Researchers have developed a microfluidic device that emulates the human blood-retinal barrier, allowing for the study of its structure and physiological conditions. The device enables cells to communicate and interact with each other like in a living organ, making it an essential tool for boosting in vitro experimentation.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalLab on a Chip·DateJan 23, 2018

NREL research determines integration of plug-in electric vehicles

Research by NREL found that up to 3% of PEVs on the road (7.5 million vehicles) does not significantly increase residential power demand. However, uncoordinated charging in clusters may overload distribution transformers, requiring infrastructure upgrades.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·JournalNature Energy·DateJan 23, 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.

Cognitive training helps regain a younger-working brain

Researchers found that cognitive training improved neural activity in older adults, making their brains more energy-efficient. The study suggests that this non-pharmacological intervention could help counteract age-related cognitive decline and enhance brain health.

SourceCenter for BrainHealth·JournalNeurobiology of Aging·DateJan 23, 2018

Lifesaving microbubbles

Researchers developed stable, self-disrupting microbubbles to carry oxygen in the blood, reducing the risk of embolism. The microbubbles were shown to increase survival rates in rodents with cardiac arrest, providing a potential lifesaving treatment.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJan 23, 2018

Incentive to move

Researchers have identified the structure of a central protein used by archaea to determine direction, revealing significant differences from bacteria. This discovery sheds light on how archaea can adapt to extreme environments and colonize new habitats.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 23, 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.

Flu infection study increases understanding of natural immunity

A new study published in mBio found that people with higher levels of anti-HA stem antibodies have less viral shedding when they get the flu, but do not have fewer or less severe signs of illness. The study suggests that these antibody levels are not independent predictors of whether someone becomes sick or how severely.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalmBio·DateJan 23, 2018

A new architecture for miniaturization of atomic clocks

A new architecture miniaturizes atomic clocks using piezoelectric thin film vibration, achieving 30% reduction in chip area and 50% reduction in power consumption. The technology enables high-end frequency standards to be incorporated into wireless devices like smartphones.

SourceNational Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT)·DateJan 23, 2018

Study compares risks between methods of sterilization

A study comparing hysteroscopic and laparoscopic sterilization methods found that hysteroscopic sterilization was associated with a higher risk of gynecological complications, but not with an increased risk of medical outcomes. The study followed 105,357 women in France for one to three years after sterilization.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateJan 23, 2018

Tiny crystals could help predict volcanic eruptions

Researchers have discovered tiny crystals forming deep in volcanoes can signal impending eruptions, offering hope for more effective evacuations and early warning systems. The study, led by Dr. Teresa Ubide, uses a new laser technique to examine the composition of these crystals, which may hold the key to predicting volcanic activity.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 23, 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.

Siberian scientists suggested a new method for synthesizing a promising magnetic material

Scientists from Siberian Federal University have developed a new method for synthesizing iron-dysprosium garnet, a promising magnetic material. This method uses anion resin exchange precipitation, allowing for the production of materials with controlled properties and no high temperatures or aggressive substances.

SourceSiberian Federal University·JournalMaterials Science and Engineering A·DateJan 23, 2018

Using epigenetic signatures and machine learning to improve diagnosis

Researchers identified unique epigenetic signatures for nine neurodevelopmental disorders, enabling better diagnosis with minimal clinical overlap. The signatures can be used to screen for multiple syndromes simultaneously and distinguish between similar cases.

SourceGreenwood Genetic Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateJan 23, 2018

Sugar tax on soft drinks might drive up alcohol consumption

A sugar tax on soft drinks might increase alcohol consumption due to similar sugar content in many alcoholic beverages. Research suggests that a more nuanced approach to pricing across a range of beverages may be more effective than a single tax.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·DateJan 23, 2018

Frozen in time: Glacial archaeology on the roof of Norway

Researchers have recovered over 2000 artefacts from the edges of contracting glacial ice in Norway, dating back to 4000 BC. The finds suggest a pattern of increased activity in the Late Antique Little Ice Age and again during the Viking Age, likely driven by changes in climate and human migration.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateJan 23, 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.

Earth BioGenome project to sequence all life

The Earth BioGenome Project will map the DNA of all known eukaryotic species, including plants, animals, and single-celled organisms. The ambitious 10-year project is expected to cost $4.7 billion.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·DateJan 23, 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.

Study shows how fetal infections may cause adult heart disease

Research connects preterm birth to adult heart disease by showing that fetal infection and inflammation disrupt genes crucial for normal heart development. This study uses a preterm animal model to demonstrate how inflammation can lead to incomplete heart development, increasing the risk of abnormal heart rhythms and heart failure.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·DateJan 23, 2018

Drought defense

A recent study published in PNAS reveals that plants with diverse root microbiomes are more resilient to drought, while those with similar microbial communities struggle. The research also found that recruiting specific bacteria can improve drought resistance.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 23, 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.

Brain reorganization supports recovery of function in hand transplant recipients

Researchers found that higher-level brain regions can compensate for persistent changes in sensory and movement areas following a hand transplant. The study suggests that non-invasive brain stimulation may improve recovery from nerve injury, paving the way for new approaches to neurorehabilitation for amputees and stroke patients.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·DateJan 23, 2018

So much depends on a tree guard

Researchers at Columbia University found that tree guards can improve street trees' ability to absorb stormwater runoff. The study shows that protected pits absorbed water six times faster than unprotected ones, reducing the load on city sewers.

SourceColumbia University·JournalEcological Engineering·DateJan 23, 2018

Short-course treatment for combat-related PTSD offers expedited path to recovery

Researchers have developed a new, expedited course of treatment for combat-related PTSD that is as effective as traditional eight-week therapy. The study found that prolonged exposure (PE) therapy administered over two weeks resulted in significant symptom reduction and remission rates among active-duty military personnel.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJAMA·DateJan 23, 2018

Rethinking environmental legislation to include the conservation ideas of tomorrow

A new study by ZSL and Utah State University argues that rewilding is a crucial approach to address global biodiversity loss. The research calls for revised legislation to facilitate the inclusion of rewilding in conservation efforts, with a focus on monitoring progress and understanding social impacts.

SourceS.J. & Jessie E. Quinney College of Natural Resources, Utah State University·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateJan 23, 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.

Updated guideline for molecular testing and targeted therapies in lung cancer

A panel of experts has issued new guidelines for molecular diagnostic testing and treatment decisions in lung cancer. The updates reflect recent advancements and decades of work to identify the genetic underpinnings of lung cancer, helping oncologists match patients with effective therapies.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalArchives of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine·DateJan 23, 2018

WSU study to test sleep technology in chronic insomnia

Researchers at Washington State University are testing a low-cost sleep measurement technology to improve sleep patterns in individuals with chronic insomnia. The technology, known as S+, measures timing, quantity and quality of sleep and provides personalized suggestions for improvement.

SourceWashington State University·DateJan 23, 2018

Rare 450-million-year-old 'cone-shaped' fossil discovery

Researchers from the University of Leicester have discovered a unique 450-million-year-old fossil of a mysterious creature with soft body parts preserved. The discovery provides new insights into the life of the Ordovician period and expands our understanding of the planet's ancient world.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalPalaios·DateJan 23, 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.

Live tissue vs synthetic tissue training for critical procedures: No difference in performance

A study published in Academic Emergency Medicine found that training on synthetic and live tissue models did not result in a difference in performance for five critical procedures. The results suggest that further study is needed to determine the effectiveness of simulation training for emergency medicine and trauma teams.

SourceSociety for Academic Emergency Medicine·JournalAcademic Emergency Medicine·DateJan 23, 2018

Curcumin improves memory and mood, new UCLA study says

A new study by UCLA researchers found that daily consumption of curcumin improved memory and mood in people with mild, age-related memory loss. The study, which involved 40 adults aged 50-90, showed significant improvements in cognitive power and reduced amyloid and tau signals in the brain.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalAmerican Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry·DateJan 23, 2018

Leading medical organizations update lung cancer guideline

The updated guideline strengthens recommendations for patients with lung adenocarcinoma, recommending testing for ROS1 mutations and multiplexed genetic sequencing panels. The panel also reaffirmed or strengthened existing recommendations, including testing in relapse for EGFR T790M, with some notable changes.

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateJan 23, 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.

Insight into heavy periods could pave way towards new treatment

Researchers at the University of Edinburgh identified a key protein driving repair of the womb lining during menstruation, which is reduced in women with heavy periods. Boosting levels of this protein shows promise as a novel, non-hormonal treatment to reduce blood loss and improve tissue repair.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 23, 2018

Building a more flexible plastic

Researchers from the University of Pittsburgh's Swanson School of Engineering have developed a novel solution to prevent plastic waste. They propose using nano-engineering to create a recyclable material that can replace complex multi-layered packaging, mimicking nature's use of few molecular building blocks.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·DateJan 23, 2018

Energy drink use in teens has adverse effects

New research from Chapman University found that 40% of teens aged 13-19 reported an adverse effect while consuming energy drinks. The most common side effects included insomnia, jittery feelings, and heart palpitations. Additionally, some teens mix alcohol with energy drinks and use them for weight loss.

SourceChapman University·JournalTurkish Journal of Pediatric Emergency and Intensive Care Medicine·DateJan 23, 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.

Queen's University scientist unlocks gamma ray burst secrets

A team of researchers, led by Dr Gianluca Sarri from Queen's University Belfast, has created the first small-scale replica of a gamma ray burst in a laboratory. The experiment used the Gemini laser to produce a mini gamma ray burst, confirming current models' predictions for magnetic field generation and gamma-ray emission.

SourceQueen's University Belfast·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJan 23, 2018

Discovery of the 'pioneer' that opens the genome

Researchers at the University of Montreal have identified a key molecule, Pax7, which acts like a pioneer factor to open specific parts of the genome. This discovery provides insight into mechanisms of genome access and has significant implications for our understanding of cell diversification and disease prevention.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalNature Genetics·DateJan 23, 2018

Protecting piping plovers

A Michigan State University study reveals that the endangered piping plover population may decline over the next decade due to increasing predator pressure. The researchers developed an integrated population model coupled with a Bayesian population viability analysis to improve accuracy in forecasting population changes.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateJan 23, 2018

Prosecuting background check and straw purchase violations depends on state laws

A new study examined prosecutions in Pennsylvania and Maryland following changes in firearm transfer laws, finding increased prosecutions after tougher sentencing in Pennsylvania but decreased prosecutions in Maryland after a court decision redefined private firearm transfers. The study highlights the importance of proper implementatio...

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalInjury Prevention·DateJan 23, 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.

A new family of aerodynamic configurations of hypersonic airplanes

Researchers have developed a new family of aerodynamic configurations, called Hypersonic I-shaped Aerodynamic Configurations (HIAC), which aim to improve the efficiency and lift of hypersonic aircraft. The designs feature an extra wing that captures high-pressure airflow, resulting in a significant increase in lift coefficient and drag...

SourceScience China Press·DateJan 23, 2018

Civic engagement in adolescence and young adulthood beneficial for adult development

A new study found positive associations between voting, volunteering, and activism with health, education, and income outcomes in adulthood. However, activism was also associated with more risky health behaviors in adulthood. The study suggests that civic engagement can build community and fulfill social needs.

SourceSociety for Research in Child Development·JournalChild Development·DateJan 23, 2018

Function of protein 'smallish' unraveled

The protein 'smallish' plays a crucial role in regulating cell polarity, essential for shape generation and coordinated cell changes. Researchers found that smallish helps control the correct shape of cells, even when knocked out, due to stored proteins in egg cells.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateJan 23, 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.

Scientists block the siren call of two aggressive cancers

Researchers have found that blocking production of the chemical 20-HETE can control glioblastoma and breast cancer growth. The inhibitor HET0016 reduced tumor aggressiveness and invasiveness, slowing disease progression.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences·DateJan 23, 2018

When the eyes move, the eardrums move, too

Researchers at Duke University discovered that moving the eyes triggers vibrations in the eardrums, even without sound. This finding provides new understanding of how the brain coordinates visual and auditory information.

SourceDuke University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 23, 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.

Scientists suggest way to predict the behavior of invasive weeds

Researchers at Cambridge University Press suggest a way to predict invasive weed behavior and development curve by analyzing herbarium records and data on past invaders. By understanding the variation in expansion phase length across species, they can identify traits linked to aggressive growth and expansion.

SourceCambridge University Press·JournalInvasive Plant Science and Management·DateJan 23, 2018

Quantum control

Researchers have developed a quantum metamaterial composed of twin qubits, which can be used as a control element in superconducting electronic devices. The material exhibits unique properties that disappear when separated into its components, making it a promising candidate for future applications.

SourceNational University of Science and Technology MISIS·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 23, 2018

Accurate estimation of biodiversity is now possible on a global scale

Researchers have developed a new method that can accurately estimate biodiversity at a global scale, up to 10 orders of magnitude. The study used the 1999 Great Britain Countryside Survey dataset and tested over a dozen methods, with one model providing estimates within 10% of the true value.

SourceStellenbosch University·JournalEcological Monographs·DateJan 23, 2018

A weak heart due to metabolic change

Researchers discovered that a shift from fatty acid to carbohydrate-based energy sources can lead to congestive heart failure. The study identified Notch-1 receptor as key player controlling transport of fatty acids into cardiac muscle tissue.

SourceGerman Cancer Research Center (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ)·JournalCirculation·DateJan 23, 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.

Large study finds higher rates of early substance use among children with ADHD

A large study found that children with ADHD engage in substance use at a younger age than those without ADHD, with a significantly higher prevalence of regular marijuana and cigarette use. The study also found a faster progression of substance use during childhood and adolescence.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry·DateJan 23, 2018

New approach attacks 'undruggable' cancers from the outside in

Cancer researchers have developed a new approach to target 'undruggable' cancer-causing genes by attacking the proteins they produce on the cell surface. The study reveals that antibodies against specific proteins can deliver cytotoxic or immunotherapeutic compounds to Ras-mutant cancer cells.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·DateJan 23, 2018

Civic engagement can help teens thrive later in life

A study by Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center found that civic engagement in adolescence is associated with higher education levels and income as adults. Teens involved in volunteering, voting, or activism tend to perform better in health and mental well-being.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalChild Development·DateJan 23, 2018

All the buzz -- bigger honeybee colonies have quieter combs

A recent study published in Behavioral Ecology and Sociobiology found that bigger honeybee colonies have quieter combs than smaller ones. Bees actively reduce vibrations by grasping the comb, possibly through their posture, which helps them communicate with each other.

SourceCornell University·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateJan 23, 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.

C-sections linked to long-term risks and benefits

Research suggests that C-sections are associated with a decreased risk of urinary incontinence and pelvic prolapse, but an increased risk of asthma, obesity, and pregnancy complications. The study analyzed data from over 29 million participants and found mixed results on the long-term effects of C-sections.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJan 23, 2018

Genetic lung disease's molecular roots identified

Scientists have solved the puzzle of why some people with primary ciliary dyskinesia have non-functional cilia. Researchers found that mutations in non-motor proteins cause cilia to assemble incorrectly, leading to respiratory infections and other symptoms. The study offers new hope for treatment and potential screening for medications.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 23, 2018