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Science News for January 8, 2018


North American waterways are becoming saltier and more alkaline

Freshwater salinization syndrome caused by various salts is linked to increased alkalinization, posing risks to drinking water supplies and ecosystems. The study highlights the need for better regulation of these substances.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 8, 2018

'Hide or get eaten,' urine chemicals tell mud crabs

Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology have identified two urinary chemicals, trigonelline and homarine, that trigger a warning response in mud crabs when exposed to blue crab urine. This finding has implications for understanding ecological balances in marine ecosystems and informing better management of fisheries.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 8, 2018

Camelina oil improves blood lipid profile

A new study from the University of Eastern Finland found that camelina oil reduces overall and LDL cholesterol levels in individuals with impaired glucose metabolism. Camelina oil, rich in alpha-linolenic acid, showed a positive effect on blood cholesterol levels but had no similar effects for fatty or lean fish.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalMolecular Nutrition & Food Research·DateJan 8, 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.

Helix to help expand Healthy Nevada Project

The Renown Institute for Health Innovation is partnering with Helix to offer DNA sequencing to an additional 40,000 Nevadans through the Healthy Nevada Project. This phase will utilize Helix's proprietary Next Generation Sequencing technology to provide unparalleled access to genetic data.

SourceDesert Research Institute·DateJan 8, 2018

ACA Medicaid expansion resulted in fewer hospital closures, especially in rural areas

The ACA Medicaid expansion was positively associated with improved hospital performance and a reduced likelihood of hospital closure, particularly in rural markets. This is due to increased access to healthcare for previously uninsured adults, resulting in better health outcomes and less need for emergency care from hospitals.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalHealth Affairs·DateJan 8, 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.

Agricultural fungicide attracts honey bees, study finds

Honey bee researchers found that foragers prefer sugar syrup laced with the fungicide chlorothalonil over a control at low concentrations, but avoid it at higher doses. The unexpected finding highlights the complex relationship between honey bees and environmental toxins.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 8, 2018

The Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine issues guidance on informal milk sharing

The Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine has published guidelines for safe informal milk sharing, emphasizing medical screening and safe handling practices. Informal breast milk sharing is recommended only for healthy term infants, with mothers taking steps to reduce infection risk through home pasteurization.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalBreastfeeding Medicine·DateJan 8, 2018

Brain-cell 'antenna' may be key to understanding obesity

Researchers at UCSF have discovered that primary cilia on brain cells play a crucial role in signaling appetite control. Mutations in the MC4R gene, found in nearly all cases of severe obesity, are linked to impaired communication between neurons via primary cilia.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature Genetics·DateJan 8, 2018

Belief in group malleability and intergroup conflict resolution

A field experiment found that a belief in group malleability reduces negative attitudes and increases willingness to make concessions with Palestinians. The intervention achieved sustained long-term reductions compared to the control group.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 8, 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.

Novel PET tracer clearly identifies and tracks bacterial infection in lungs

A new radiotracer, 18F-FDS, has been developed to identify and track bacterial infections in the lungs. The tracer was tested on mice with live bacteria or dead bacteria to induce inflammation, and it successfully differentiated between lung infection and inflammation.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateJan 8, 2018

Air pollution alerts without enforceable actions may be inadequate in protecting public health

A study published in The Lancet Planetary Health found that air quality alert programs, like Toronto's, had limited effects on protecting public health. However, the authors suggest that collective and enforceable actions, such as improved urban planning and emission control, may be more effective in reducing health risks from air poll...

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Planetary Health·DateJan 8, 2018

US rivers and streams are compromised by increasing salt loads

A new study finds that 37% of US drainage areas experienced significant increases in salinity and alkalization, with consequences for pipe stability and drinking water quality. Strategies like pre-wetting salt and monitoring aging pipes are recommended to mitigate effects on public health.

SourceCary Institute of Ecosystem Studies·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 8, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Waterborne cues and predator detection

Scientists discovered that specific metabolites in blue crab urine suppress mud crab foraging by 60% and 67%, respectively. This finding has significant implications for understanding chemically mediated interactions in marine ecosystems.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 8, 2018

Recreational marijuana legalization: Do more youth use or do youth use more?

A recent Oregon Research Institute study found that recreational marijuana legalization had no significant effect on the number of youth who used marijuana, but increased the frequency of use among those already using it. The study suggests that community sales policies may not reduce teenage marijuana use and highlights the need for p...

SourceOregon Research Institute·JournalPsychology of Addictive Behaviors·DateJan 8, 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.

One-step production of aromatic polyesters by E. coli strains

Researchers developed a novel strategy to produce aromatic polyesters from Escherichia coli strains using microbial fermentation and synthetic biology. The engineered E. coli strain can produce various high-valued aromatic polyesters from renewable biomass, offering a sustainable alternative for the bio-plastic industry.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 8, 2018

Continental freshwater salinization

A century-long study reveals freshwater salinization affects 37% of US drainage areas, with 90% increase in stream pH, primarily due to human salt inputs and accelerated weathering

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 8, 2018

New long-acting, less-toxic HIV drug suppresses virus in humanized mice

Researchers developed a long-acting compound that targets HIV's replication, suppressing the virus and protecting immune cells. The compound works synergistically with current treatments, enhancing their potency and potentially improving treatment for 37 million people worldwide affected by HIV.

SourceYale University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 8, 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.

How prevalent is severe obesity among young children enrolled in WIC?

A recent study found modest declines in severe obesity prevalence among young children enrolled in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC), suggesting progress in addressing this public health concern. The study analyzed data from 22.6 million children aged 2-4 and reported an increase in obesit...

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateJan 8, 2018

Self-defense for plants

Researchers found that SOBER1, a plant protein, removes acetyl groups added by bacterial proteins, preventing the plant's immune response. This discovery could lead to strategies to boost plants' natural immunity or contain infections threatening agricultural crops.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 8, 2018

Interactions between simple molecular mechanisms give rise to complex infection dynamics

A team of scientists discovered that beneficial viruses can integrate into bacteria carrying restriction-modification systems, which protect them from lethal infections. The study showed that these systems offer a temporary respite, allowing bacterial populations to grow and increasing the chances of acquiring beneficial viruses.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateJan 8, 2018

How do we taste sugar, bacon and coffee? Science finds a surprising answer

Researchers found that TRPM4 performs a similar role to TRPM5 in the taste system, enabling the detection of sweet, bitter and umami foods. This discovery challenges existing dogma and has implications for understanding human health and regulating appetite.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 8, 2018

Nutrition Today publishes expert commentary on high-quality carbohydrates and physical performance

A report on high-quality carbohydrates and physical performance suggests that balanced diets rich in natural, carbohydrate-rich foods like potatoes may be optimal for improving athletic performance. The report aligns with decades of studies showing the primary importance of carbohydrates in sustaining and improving athletic performance.

SourceFleishman-Hillard, Inc.·JournalNutrition Today·DateJan 8, 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.

A biological solution to carbon capture and recycling?

Scientists at the University of Dundee developed a process that enables E. coli bacterium to act as an efficient carbon capture device, converting CO2 into formic acid with high efficiency and speed. This breakthrough could lead to a new way to store or recycle carbon dioxide, a key solution to global warming.

SourceUniversity of Dundee·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJan 8, 2018

Proper exercise can reverse damage from heart aging

A new study found that exercising four to five times a week can improve maximum oxygen intake during exercise by 18% and elasticity of the left ventricular muscle of the heart by over 25%. The research suggests that beginning exercise in late middle age can help reverse damage to sedentary hearts.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalCirculation·DateJan 8, 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.

What species is most fit for life? All have an equal chance, scientists say

A study published in Nature Ecology & Evolution found that all organisms are nearly equally fit for survival due to a universal tradeoff in energy allocation. This means that each species contributes the same amount of energy per gram of parent to the next generation, regardless of size or life history.

SourceSUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateJan 8, 2018

Powerful Tropical Cyclone Irving examined with GPM

Tropical Cyclone Irving was hurricane-force in the Southern Indian Ocean, with heavy rainfall rates of over 93 mm/h reported by GPM's DPR Ku Band. The storm's 3-D precipitation structure was examined, revealing powerful storms at altitudes of up to 17 km.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 8, 2018

How bacteria turbocharged their motors

Researchers at Imperial College London have discovered how bacteria evolved molecular motors to optimize their swimming. By building a 'family tree' of bacterial motors using 3D imaging and DNA analysis, the team found that sophisticated species had more stators than primitive species, with some having as many as 17 stators.

SourceImperial College London·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 8, 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.

Climate warming and host-parasite dynamics

Researchers developed an epidemiological model to study the effect of climate warming on host-parasite dynamics in Eurypanopeus depressus and its parasitic barnacle Loxothylacus panopaei. Infection prevalence declined at a 1°C temperature increase, with localized extinction occurring at 2°C warming in the southeastern United States.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 8, 2018

Growing opioid epidemic forcing more children into foster care

A study by University of South Florida researchers found a significant link between opioid prescriptions and child removal from homes due to parental neglect. The analysis revealed a 129% increase in such removals since 2012, with an estimated annual state fiscal cost of $40 million.

SourceUniversity of South Florida (USF Health)·JournalHealth Affairs·DateJan 8, 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.

New approach can save up to 95 percent of energy used for pipelines

A team of researchers has developed a new method to eliminate turbulence in fluid flows, which can save up to 95% of the energy required to pump fluids through pipes. The approach involves creating a 'flat' velocity profile that prevents turbulent eddies from forming.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalNature Physics·DateJan 8, 2018

Twitter, Trump and sexual assault: A call to men for action

A Twitter campaign against Donald Trump's comments on sexual assault found a large number of tweets calling for boys and men to shut down degrading conversations. The study urges men to resist engaging in or shutting down conversations that are degrading to women, finding it makes an impact on preventing sexual assault and harassment.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalViolence Against Women·DateJan 8, 2018

Boston University School of Medicine students selected for STARS Program

The STARS (Students and Trainees Advocating for Resource Stewardship) program at Boston University School of Medicine aims to help medical students develop skills to identify the appropriate amount of patient care. Through the program, students will review ABIM Foundation's Choosing Wisely value-based care campaign and use tools like t...

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·DateJan 8, 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.

Amphetamine abuse disrupts development of mouse prefrontal cortex

A study published in eNeuro found that amphetamine exposure during adolescence impairs the development of the mouse prefrontal cortex. This region is critical for decision-making and other complex functions. The researchers observed reduced synapses and axon growth, suggesting a lasting impact on brain structure.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·JournaleNeuro·DateJan 8, 2018

DNA evidence is putting rhino poachers behind bars, study shows

A new DNA-based system is successfully linking seized rhino horns to specific crime scenes where rhinoceros carcasses were left behind. The Rhino DNA Index System (RhODIS) has been used in over 5,800 forensic cases and has led to convictions in more than 120 cases.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJan 8, 2018

Tropical Cyclone Ava moving away from Madagascar

Tropical Cyclone Ava is located in the Southern Indian Ocean, southeast of Europa Island. The storm is expected to maintain strength for the next day before weakening due to increasing vertical wind shear and cooler sea surface temperatures.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 8, 2018

Many Midwestern retailers sell mislabeled invasive vines

Many Midwestern retailers are selling oriental bittersweet, an invasive species, as native American bittersweet. Researchers found that 54% of plants labeled 'American bittersweet' were actually oriental bittersweet, which can outcompete and harm the native plant.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalInvasive Plant Science and Management·DateJan 8, 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.

Trawl of Red Sea surface waters finds little plastic

A team of researchers from KAUST found that the Red Sea has a relatively low amount of plastic debris in its surface waters. The majority of collected rubbish was rigid fragments of broken objects, with only small amounts of plastic film and fishing lines.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·DateJan 8, 2018

New catalyst for making fuels from shale gas

Researchers at UCL and Tufts University developed a platinum-copper alloy catalyst that breaks carbon-hydrogen bonds in methane with reduced energy consumption. The new catalyst is resistant to coking, rendering it more effective than traditional materials.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Chemistry·DateJan 8, 2018

Researchers call for true picture of domestic violent crime

Researchers at Lancaster University warn that a new counting method for domestic violent crime may mask the true extent of the problem. The method limits coercive and controlling behavior to one crime per victim, despite statistics showing one in 20 victims experience more than 10 domestic violence crimes a year.

SourceLancaster University·DateJan 8, 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 discover molecule that could revert cellular aging

Researchers at Instituto de Medicina Molecular found a specific non-coding RNA molecule, Zeb2-NAT, which can be reduced to regenerate old cells. By manipulating this molecule, it's possible to induce cellular regeneration and potentially treat diseases associated with cellular aging.

SourceInstituto de Medicina Molecular·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 8, 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.

Gene test to predict breast cancer recurrence less cost effective in real world practice

A new study by Georgetown University Medical Center researchers found that a widely used gene expression profile test to predict breast cancer recurrence is less cost-effective in real-world practice. The test, Oncotype DX, was initially considered cost-effective but its accuracy and implementation in community settings make it less so.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateJan 8, 2018

Feel anxious? Have trouble sleeping? You may be traveling for business too often

A study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that frequent business travelers experience more symptoms of anxiety and depression. The study also showed a link between extensive business travel and unhealthy behaviors like smoking, sedentary behavior, and substance abuse.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalJournal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine·DateJan 8, 2018

Severe obesity linked to newly identified gene mutations

Researchers have discovered a link between ADCY3 gene mutations and severe obesity, which can lead to appetite control abnormalities, diabetes, and anosmia. This finding offers new hope for the development of targeted treatments for obesity.

SourceImperial College London·JournalNature Genetics·DateJan 8, 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.

An exercise program provides mobility benefits to all seniors

A structured exercise program reduces major mobility disability in both frail and nonfrail patients, benefiting all older adults. Researchers found that physical activity can improve the ability to rise from a chair and reduce the risk of frailty.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJan 8, 2018

Monthly brain cycles predict seizures in patients with epilepsy

Researchers at UCSF have discovered monthly cycles of brain activity linked to seizures in patients with epilepsy. By analyzing data from implanted brain stimulation devices, the team identified patterns of electrical discharges known as 'brain irritability' that are associated with higher seizure risk.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 8, 2018
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

New research reveals how gardeners can dig for health, not injury

A study from Coventry University and the Royal Horticultural Society found that bad digging techniques can double the load on joints, increasing risk of osteoarthritis. Good gardening practice involves regular, repetitive motion to minimize back bends and large knee bends.

SourceCoventry University·JournalHortTechnology·DateJan 8, 2018

Vision, sensory and motor testing could predict best batters in baseball

Researchers at Duke University Medical Center found players with higher scores on vision and motor tasks completed on large touch-screen machines had better on-base percentages, more walks, and fewer strikeouts. High scores in perception-span task were associated with an increased ability to get on base.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 8, 2018

Improved blood stabilization should expand use of circulating tumor cell profiling

A new blood stabilization method developed at Massachusetts General Hospital significantly prolongs the lifespan of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) in whole blood samples. This approach allows for the preservation of high-quality RNA suitable for demanding molecular assays, opening up potential for personalized drug testing and expandin...

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 8, 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.

Common birth control shot linked to risk of HIV infection

A comprehensive review of available evidence suggests that replacing the DMPA contraceptive shot with alternative methods could help protect women from becoming infected with HIV. The study found that some other forms of contraception do not show the same deleterious effect on immune function as DMPA.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalEndocrine Reviews·DateJan 8, 2018

How amyloid plaques spread in the brain

Researchers analyze brain slices from patients with Alzheimer's and cerebral amyloid angiopathy, finding distinct amyloid-beta prion strains associated with different disease types. Mutant amyloid-beta adopts self-propagating prion structure, imparting pathological conformation to normal amyloid-beta.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 8, 2018

Activity monitors only effective when users set goals

Researchers at Oregon Health & Science University found that activity monitors have no impact on physical activity when used without a goal. However, tracking steps and moderate intensity activity with clear objectives can lead to significant increases in physical activity and improved heart health.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·DateJan 8, 2018

Swallowable sensors reveal mysteries of human gut health

The ingestible capsule detects and measures gut gases, revealing a potentially new immune system and mechanisms in the human body that have never been seen before. The technology offers a game-changer for gastrointestinal disorders and could lead to fewer invasive procedures like colonoscopies.

SourceRMIT University·JournalNature Electronics·DateJan 8, 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.

Ibuprofen and testicular health

Researchers found that ibuprofen modified hormonal profiles through selective transcriptional repression of testicular endocrine cells, leading to a state of compensated hypogonadism. The study used testis explants and human steroidogenic cell lines to investigate the effects of ibuprofen on testicular health.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 8, 2018

Uncovering the power of glial cells

Researchers have found that brain implants can function with the help of glial cells, which are often overlooked as a potential target for treatment. The study suggests that glial cells play a critical role in maintaining optimal brain activity and suggest targeting them may improve current treatments for neurological diseases.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateJan 8, 2018

California awards UCSC Precision Medicine Funds for childhood cancer research

The UC Santa Cruz Genomics Institute's Treehouse Childhood Cancer Initiative has received a $500,000 grant to conduct a 24-month registry study evaluating the effectiveness of comparative RNA-seq analysis in pediatric cancer treatment. The project aims to assess the impact on clinical decision-making and patient outcomes.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·DateJan 8, 2018

Beta blockers may boost immunotherapy, help melanoma patients live longer

Researchers at Penn State found that melanoma patients who received immunotherapy with beta blockers lived significantly longer than those without, with five years survival rates of 70% vs. 25%. The study suggests reducing physiological stress with beta blockers can improve the effectiveness of immunotherapy.

SourcePenn State·JournalOncoImmunology·DateJan 8, 2018

Surprising result shocks scientists studying spin

Researchers at RHIC observed a significant directional preference in neutron production when protons collide with larger gold nuclei, contrasting with previous findings in proton-proton interactions. This unexpected result has implications for understanding particle production mechanisms in high-energy collisions.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJan 8, 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.

New study finds large increase in non-powder gun-related eye injuries

A new study published in Pediatrics reveals a significant increase in non-powder gun-related eye injuries among US children over a 23-year period. The rate of such injuries rose nearly 170%, accounting for 11% of all eye injuries and almost half of hospitalizations during this time.

SourceNationwide Children's Hospital·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateJan 8, 2018

Chemists discover plausible recipe for early life on Earth

Researchers at Scripps Research Institute develop theory that chemical reactions supporting life today could have occurred with ingredients likely present on early Earth. The citric acid cycle's precursor, glyoxylate, is identified as a key molecule in these reactions.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 8, 2018

A botanical mystery solved by phylogenetic testing

Researchers at the Missouri Botanical Garden used phylogenetic analysis to confirm the existence of Dracaena umbraculifera, a species thought to be extinct. The study found that the species is more closely related to Dracaena reflexa from Madagascar than to Mauritian Dracaena.

SourceMissouri Botanical Garden·JournalOryx·DateJan 8, 2018

Saliva test aims to detect HPV throat cancers

A new saliva-based diagnostic test could identify people at risk for throat cancers earlier, enabling early treatment and prevention. The test aims to detect HPV infections in a low-cost, non-invasive manner.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·DateJan 8, 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.

Researchers use AI technology to chart immune cell receptor

Scientists used AI technology to create a map of T-cell receptor diversity, discovering that patients with cancer who have a greater variety of receptors may be more likely to respond to immunotherapy. The research suggests that this variation in receptors could be key to improving treatment outcomes

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalCancer Immunology Research·DateJan 8, 2018

Noise from oil and gas operations stresses birds, hinders reproduction

A study published in PNAS found that constant noise from oil and gas operations can cause physiological stress in birds, leading to reduced egg hatching rates and stunted chick growth. The research also showed that species previously thought to be tolerant of noise were actually most affected.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 8, 2018

January/February 2018 Annals of Family Medicine tip sheet

Patients who receive prescription opioids have higher satisfaction rates than those without, but paradoxically experience more pain. Non-patient medical requests from family and friends require a nuanced response. Diabetes care emphasizes communication, coordination, and biopsychosocial approaches to engage patients.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateJan 8, 2018

Alzheimer's drug turns back clock in powerhouse of cell

Researchers discover J147, an Alzheimer's treatment that reverses aging by targeting ATP synthase, a protein found in mitochondria. The compound has shown promising results in treating Alzheimer's and potentially other age-associated diseases.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalAging Cell·DateJan 8, 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.

Multi-gene test predicts early heart disease risk

A new multi-gene test predicts a high risk for early-onset heart disease in 1 out of 53 individuals, surpassing the prevalence of a rare genetic defect. The study suggests that combining polygenic screening with current testing could identify five-fold more cases with a genetic explanation.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateJan 8, 2018