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Science News for January 9, 2018


Can CranioSacral therapy improve symptoms of concussion & mild TBI among football players?

A preliminary study suggests that CranioSacral Therapy can improve range of motion, pain, sleep, and cognitive function in ex-NFL players with concussion and mild TBI. More clinical research data is needed to understand its effectiveness in treating post-concussive syndrome and potentially chronic traumatic encephalopathy.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalThe Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine·DateJan 9, 2018

Women survive crises better than men

Researchers found that women are more likely to survive crises like famines and epidemics due to biological factors, not behavioral differences. Newborn girls are particularly hardy, outliving newborn boys by up to 50%.

SourceDuke University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 9, 2018

Grocery store program improves farmers' adoption of environmental practices

A new study by Stanford researchers found that Woolworths' Farming for the Future program drove increased adoption of environmental practices among its large-scale fruit, vegetable and flower growers. The program combines annual auditor feedback with individual farmer needs, leading to significant shifts in farming practices.

SourceStanford's School of Earth, Energy & Environmental Sciences·JournalGlobal Environmental Change·DateJan 9, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Between the lines: Tree rings hold clues about a river's past

Researchers at Utah State University analyzed tree rings to reconstruct monthly streamflow trends for three rivers in Northern Utah. The study provides a new tool for understanding seasonal patterns and droughts, enabling more informed water use and management decisions.

SourceUtah State University·JournalJournal of Hydrology·DateJan 9, 2018

Climate change drives collapse in marine food webs

A new study demonstrates how climate change can drive the collapse of marine food webs by altering trophic flows and promoting cyanobacterial proliferation. This can lead to reduced food availability for top predators, negatively impacting marine species diversity and fisheries productivity.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJan 9, 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.

PolyU develops rapid authentication method of Chinese medicines

A new authentication method using direct ionization mass spectrometry has been developed by PolyU to quickly identify genuine and counterfeit species of Lingzhi and Tianma. The method can differentiate between wild and cultivated types, as well as geographical origins.

SourceThe Hong Kong Polytechnic University·JournalAnalytica Chimica Acta·DateJan 9, 2018

Engineers grow functioning human muscle from skin cells

Duke researchers successfully grew functioning human skeletal muscle from induced pluripotent stem cells, offering a promising path for cellular therapies, drug discovery, and studying rare diseases. The technique allows for the growth of far more muscle cells and provides an easier route to genome editing and individualized models.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 9, 2018

Headlines to cover at the AAAS Annual Meeting in Austin, Texas

The AAAS Annual Meeting will explore various scientific breakthroughs, such as regenerating organs for patient transplants and advances in immunotherapy treatments for cancer. The conference also features free public lectures on the International Space Station and science-informed responses to climate change.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·DateJan 9, 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.

The silver lining: Scientists examine how aerosol types influence cloud formation

Researchers have discovered that different aerosol types can act as cloud condensation nuclei, affecting cloud behavior and resulting precipitation. The study highlights the importance of considering aerosol type in understanding cloud formation and precipitation interactions.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateJan 9, 2018

Cluster of resistant tuberculosis pathogen discovered

A multidrug-resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis was found in eight refugees arriving in Europe, highlighting the need for early detection and isolation. The study's findings led to the development of a rapid PCR test and an EU-wide alert system to prevent further transmission.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateJan 9, 2018

Dirt-like skin condition is described

Terra firma-forme dermatosis is a hyperpigmented skin disease with a dirt-like appearance, found on trunks of 28% patients and extremities of 27%. Recognizing the condition helps avoid unnecessary testing and treatment.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateJan 9, 2018

Patients who receive prescription opioids are more satisfied with care than other patients

Patients with musculoskeletal conditions who receive prescription opioids are more satisfied with their care than those without. However, they often experience increased pain and reduced health outcomes, highlighting the need for further investigation into the complex relationship between opioid use and patient satisfaction.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateJan 9, 2018

Genomic data suggest two main migrations into Scandinavia after the last ice age

A new study published in PLoS Biology suggests two main migrations into Scandinavia after the last glacial maximum: one from the south and another from the north-east. The research team analyzed genomic data from seven individuals, revealing a surprisingly large number of genetic variants in Scandinavian hunter-gatherers.

SourceUppsala University·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJan 9, 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.

Cancer targeted with reusable 'stinging nettle' treatment

Researchers at the University of Warwick have developed a new line of attack against cancer using an organic-osmium compound, JPC11, which targets a metabolic process relied on by cancer cells. The treatment can be recycled and reused within cancer cells to attack them repeatedly.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalNature Chemistry·DateJan 9, 2018

New method stabilizes siRNAs without affecting gene silencing activity

Researchers have developed a new method to stabilize small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) by introducing phosphoramidate modifications, which enhances their stability and therapeutic potential. The study shows that the modified siRNAs maintain their gene silencing activity, making them suitable for various therapeutic applications.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalNucleic Acid Therapeutics·DateJan 9, 2018

Bio-based compound offers a greener carbon fiber alternative

Researchers have developed a new process to manufacture acrylonitrile, the precursor to carbon fiber, from renewable biomass. The bio-based process produces less heat and toxic byproducts than traditional methods.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·JournalScience·DateJan 9, 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.

Younger patients constitute half of hospital-acquired pneumonia cases, most of which originate outside of the ICU, study finds

A new study reveals that younger patients account for half of hospital-acquired pneumonia cases, most of which occur outside the ICU. The research highlights gaps in pneumonia preventive measures as a contributing factor to the increased risk. Standardizing protocols for preventive care can help reduce rates of NV-HAP.

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal of Infection Control·DateJan 9, 2018

Study finds source of toxic green algal blooms and the results stink

Researchers found that human wastewater nitrogen from septic systems is a significant contributor to the high nitrogen concentrations in the estuary and downstream coastal reefs. The study suggests that septic-to-sewer programs can help mitigate future harmful algal blooms by removing nutrients and improving water quality.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalHarmful Algae·DateJan 9, 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.

Lake Michigan waterfowl botulism deaths linked to warm waters, algae

A study found that warm waters and algae growth are associated with an increase in botulism-related bird deaths on Lake Michigan. The researchers used satellite data to monitor environmental conditions and found a correlation between warmer waters and higher levels of algae, which can lead to the growth of toxin-producing bacteria.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateJan 9, 2018

Researchers seek blood test for early lung cancer detection

A research team at Rush University Medical Center is working on a simple blood test to detect non-small cell lung cancer with 90% accuracy. The goal is to identify biomarkers that can detect the disease earlier and reduce late-stage diagnoses, improving treatment outcomes.

SourceRush University Medical Center·DateJan 9, 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.

Targeting breast cancer through precision medicine

University of Alberta researchers found that the RYBP protein prevents DNA repair in cancer cells, including breast cancer. This discovery could lead to precision medicine by tailoring treatment to individual patients' DNA.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalCell Reports·DateJan 9, 2018

HKBU and CUHK discovered that human-perceived temperature is rising faster than actual air temperature

Research found that human-perceived temperature (AP) increased 0.04oC per decade faster than actual air temperature (AT), with projected increases of up to 0.17oC per decade in low-latitude areas. AP is expected to continue rising, posing bigger threats to cities and communities, especially in tropical and sub-tropical regions.

SourceHong Kong Baptist University·JournalNature Climate Change·DateJan 9, 2018

'Gyroscope' molecules form crystal that's both solid and full of motion

Researchers at UCLA have successfully formed a crystalline solid with moving parts, dubbed 'amphidynamic', which could have wide-ranging applications in technology and science. The creation of BODCA-MOF, a metallo-organic framework containing spherical molecules, demonstrates the potential for rapid motion inside a solid crystal.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 9, 2018

Deep sea creatures provide a guiding light in the quest to develop cancer therapies

Scientists at the Keck School of Medicine of USC developed a test using marine animal luciferases to measure cell death in response to cancer immunotherapies. The Matador assay detected cell death in as little as 30 minutes, exceeding existing assays and offering a fast, inexpensive alternative.

SourceUniversity of Southern California - Health Sciences·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 9, 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.

New tipping point prediction model offers insights to diminishing bee colonies

A new method predicts when sudden change occurs in complex systems like bee colonies, which could help prevent colony collapse disorder. The model uses dimension reduction to accurately predict tipping points and informs control strategies to delay or prevent their occurrence.

SourceArizona State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 9, 2018

The road to recovery

A recent study by Clayton Lamb and colleagues found that higher road density in British Columbia leads to lower grizzly bear density, compromising the species' recovery. Closing roads can reduce the negative impact of roads on habitats, allowing bears to recolonize and recover.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateJan 9, 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.

Identical twins can share more than identical genes

Researchers discover epigenetic supersimilarity in identical twins, influencing biological characteristics and cancer risk. This phenomenon is associated with a relatively small group of genes, but many are linked to several types of cancer.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalGenome Biology·DateJan 9, 2018

Mass extinctions remove species but not ecological variety

A study by University of Chicago scientists found that mass extinctions removed species but retained ecological variety, whereas environmental changes lead to significant losses in functional diversity. The researchers analyzed two major mass extinctions and discovered a pattern of survival among functional groups.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 9, 2018

Planets around other stars are like peas in a pod

A recent study published in The Astronomical Journal found that exoplanets orbiting the same star are often similar in size and have regular orbital spacing. This pattern could suggest that most planetary systems have a different formation history than our solar system.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·DateJan 9, 2018

Sleeping for longer leads to a healthier diet

A King's College London study found that extending sleep hours by up to 1.5 hours per night resulted in a 10-gram reduction in reported free sugar intake. The researchers also noticed trends for reduced total carbohydrate intake among participants in the sleep extension group.

SourceKing's College London·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateJan 9, 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.

Illnesses caused by recreation on the water costs $2.9 billion annually in the US

A US study estimates that 90 million cases of waterborne illnesses occur each year through recreational activities, costing $2.9 billion annually. The most common illnesses are gastrointestinal and respiratory in nature, with adults aged 20-54 experiencing mild illness and children under 10 experiencing moderate illness.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalEnvironmental Health·DateJan 9, 2018

Lyndra announces publication of feasibility study of oral once-weekly drug delivery system for HIV antiretroviral therapy in Nature Communications

A recent study published in Nature Communications presents a proof-of-concept for an oral, once-weekly drug delivery platform for HIV antiretroviral therapy. The platform demonstrates sustained oral delivery of potent anti-HIV therapies, offering a potential solution to non-adherence issues.

SourcePure Communications Inc.·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 9, 2018

Climate change drives collapse in marine food webs

A new study by University of Adelaide scientists demonstrates how climate change drives the collapse of marine food webs, potentially leading to decreased food availability for top predators and negative impacts on marine species.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJan 9, 2018

Family physicians in South Africa strengthen district hospital care

District hospitals with family physicians in South Africa exhibit better availability of essential services and improved child and neonatal health. In contrast, community health centers with family physicians have lower scores for health system performance and continuity of care.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateJan 9, 2018

Genetic alteration can cause obesity among Greenlanders

Researchers have identified a specific gene, ADCY3, that predisposes Greenlanders to obesity and diabetes when it is inactive. The study, published in Nature Genetics, found that 4.4% of test subjects had the gene inactive, leading to significant weight gain and increased risk of diabetes.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalNature Genetics·DateJan 9, 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.

Scouting the eagles: Proof that protecting nests aids reproduction

A study published in the Journal of Applied Ecology found that protecting bald eagle nests from human disturbance increased breeding activity and led to a 37% rise in breeding pairs. The research, conducted at Voyageurs National Park, used a modeling framework to analyze data on nest occupancy, success, and reproductive output.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateJan 9, 2018

Bad air quality along Utah's Wasatch Front causes more than 200 pneumonia cases each year

A study by University of Utah Health and Intermountain Healthcare found that bad air quality in the region causes more than 200 pneumonia cases each year, with older adults being particularly vulnerable. The research also estimates that improving air quality could save up to $1.6 million in healthcare costs annually.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalAnnals of the American Thoracic Society·DateJan 9, 2018

Leading organizations in prenatal screening and diagnosis issue new consensus statement on genome se

The International Society for Prenatal Diagnosis, Perinatal Quality Foundation, and Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine issued a joint position statement on the use of diagnostic genome-wide sequencing for fetal diagnosis. The consensus opinion emphasizes that routine use of genome-wide sequencing as a diagnostic test is not currently ...

SourceSociety for Maternal-Fetal Medicine·JournalPrenatal Diagnosis·DateJan 9, 2018

Neighborhood factors may predict heart failure

A study of 27,078 middle-aged whites and African-Americans found that residents in socioeconomically deprived areas were at highest risk for heart failure. After adjusting for other factors, researchers found that neighborhood factors accounted for 4.8% of the variance in heart-failure risk.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateJan 9, 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.

NIH fellowships to help grad students study heart health

Two graduate students have won National Institutes of Health fellowships to study heart health, with Tristan Raisch focusing on electrical conduction and Carissa James exploring protein synthesis in gap junctions. The awards strengthen Virginia Tech's training in biomedical sciences.

SourceVirginia Tech·DateJan 9, 2018

Study finds diversity boosts innovation in US companies

A recent study by NC State University found that fostering diversity increases innovation, resulting in more patents and new products. The study analyzed data from the largest publicly traded companies and found a causal link between diverse workforces and improved innovation.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalFinancial Management·DateJan 9, 2018

General anesthetics do more than put you to sleep

Research reveals general anesthetics disrupt synaptic connectivity, affecting communication between neurons across the entire brain. This disruption allows for effective anesthesia while patients experience grogginess and disorientation after surgery.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalCell Reports·DateJan 9, 2018

Smoke from wildfires can tip air quality to unhealthy levels

Wildfire smoke plumes spread across the US, causing devastating effects on air quality and health. Researchers found that smoke from wildfires can tip air quality to unhealthy levels, particularly in urban areas with high population densities.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of Exposure Science & Environmental Epidemiology·DateJan 9, 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.

Tropical Cyclone Irving appears elongated in NASA imagery

Tropical Cyclone Irving appears elongated due to wind shear, with persistent development thunderstorms around its center. The storm is expected to weaken as it interacts with a trough of low pressure, rapidly transitioning into an extratropical system by Jan. 11.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 9, 2018

New biomarkers predict outcome of cancer immunotherapy

Researchers identified biomarkers in blood samples that predict response to immunotherapy, allowing for personalized treatment decisions. High-dimensional cell analysis and computer-aided pattern recognition enabled the detection of subtle immune responses and molecular patterns associated with therapy success.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature Medicine·DateJan 9, 2018

Heart health at risk for Latinas over worries about deportation

A recent study published in Annals of Behavioral Medicine found that worry about deportations is associated with multiple cardiovascular health risk factors in Latinas. The study, which gathered data from 545 women enrolled in the CHAMACOS cohort, found that those who were more concerned had higher waist circumferences and blood pressure.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalAnnals of Behavioral Medicine·DateJan 9, 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.

How good bacteria control your genes

Researchers at the Babraham Institute have discovered that good bacteria in the gut can control gene expression by producing short chain fatty acids, which increase crotonylations and affect gene activity. This process may help prevent cancer and fight infections, highlighting the importance of a healthy diet and gut bacteria.

SourceBabraham Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 9, 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.

Promise of new antibiotics lies with shackling tiny toxic tetherballs to bacteria

Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin have developed a novel method called SLAY to screen hundreds of thousands of potential antibiotics. The method involves genetically engineering bacteria to produce and test molecules that are potentially toxic to themselves, allowing for rapid screening and efficient testing.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalCell·DateJan 9, 2018

Sun, wind, and power trading

Renewable energy generation causes grid frequency fluctuations due to variable wind speeds and photovoltaic feed-in. Power trading appears more significant in grid frequency fluctuation than renewable feed-in, with small grids showing larger fluctuations.

SourceForschungszentrum Juelich·JournalNature Energy·DateJan 9, 2018

More than five percent of family physicians did not attempt recertification

More than five percent of family physicians failed to recertify, with increased risk among international medical graduates, men, and older doctors. Attrition from board certification may indicate burnout or a transition out of primary care, prompting calls for new interventions to minimize its impact.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateJan 9, 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.

Slow-release pill developed to deliver HIV therapeutics

Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital have developed a slow-release pill that can deliver HIV therapeutics once weekly, improving adherence rates and preventing thousands of new infections. The pill uses an ingestible mini pill box to release medication slowly over time, reducing the need for daily doses.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 9, 2018

Artificial muscles power up with new gel-based robotics

Researchers at Shinshu University have designed a wearable robot that utilizes plasticized polyvinyl chloride (PVC) gel to provide assistance for individuals with weakened muscles and mobility issues. The system consists of mesh electrodes and applied voltage, enabling natural movement while decreasing muscular activity.

SourceShinshu University·JournalSmart Materials and Structures·DateJan 9, 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.

Strengths and challenges in interactions with newly diagnosed diabetes patients

Primary care clinicians display strengths in communicating with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes patients, including high levels of communication skills and coordination of services. However, challenges persist, such as unapplicable health promotion advice and inadequate time coordination between healthcare providers.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateJan 9, 2018

Winter road salt, fertilizers turning North American waterways increasingly saltier

A new study finds significant increases in salinity and alkalinization of freshwater across the US and southern Canada, driven by road salt and fertilizer use. This growing problem threatens drinking water supplies and natural ecosystems, highlighting the need for better regulation of salty compounds.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 9, 2018

For city kids with asthma, telemedicine and in-school care cut ER visits in half

New research from the University of Rochester Medical Center shows that children with asthma who received a combination of telemedicine support and school-based medication therapy were almost half as likely to need an emergency room or hospital visit. The program, which expanded on previous research, demonstrated its effectiveness in r...

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateJan 9, 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.

Emperor penguins may shorten record fast by snacking

Researchers found that emperor penguins from colonies close to the sea-ice edge can dive before laying eggs, suggesting shorter fasts compared to inland birds. They also observed these penguins feeding during pre-nuptial activities.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateJan 9, 2018

At least 3 out of 5 people who try a cigarette become daily smokers

A recent study found that at least 61% of people who try their first cigarette become daily smokers, suggesting the need to prioritize efforts to reduce cigarette experimentation among adolescents. The study analyzed data from over 215,000 survey respondents and published in the journal Nicotine & Tobacco Research.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalNicotine & Tobacco Research·DateJan 9, 2018

Advances in Atmospheric Science launches special issue on cloud studies

A new special issue of Advances in Atmospheric Science explores the effects of aerosols on climate, with studies focusing on aerosol-cloud interactions, cloud-base height, and fine aerosol particles. The research aims to improve weather forecasting and climate models, shedding light on a crucial topic despite years of inquiry.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateJan 9, 2018

Dead trees are alive with fungi

A study found that fungi communities on dead trees are much more diverse than previously thought, with over 1,200 species identified. The researchers discovered distinct fungal communities on different tree species, suggesting a complex coevolution between trees and fungi.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ·JournalThe ISME Journal·DateJan 9, 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.

Oversimplifying beliefs about causes of mental illness may hinder social acceptance

A Baylor University study found that combining biological and non-biological beliefs about mental illness causes can lead to increased stigma. The researchers suggest that addressing these complex views in public campaigns and policy initiatives could help reduce stigma, particularly for conditions like depression and schizophrenia.

SourceBaylor University·JournalSociety and Mental Health·DateJan 9, 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.

Physicians use complex process in addressing non-patient requests

Family physicians manage medical requests from family and friends by orienting themselves to the situation and considering relationships and potential consequences. Developing facilitated group discussions can help residents gain confidence in addressing these issues.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateJan 9, 2018

MSU scientists created a magnetic trap for neutrons

Researchers at MSU develop a magnetic waveguide to sort and store neutrons based on their quantum state, enabling spintronics research. The breakthrough uses magnetic reflection to separate neutrons with different spins, opening up new possibilities for studying electronic devices.

SourceLomonosov Moscow State University·JournalPhysical Review B·DateJan 9, 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 biennial rainfall relationship in the tropical western hemisphere has weakened in recent decades

A recent study found that the biennial rainfall relationship between Central America and equatorial South America has weakened remarkably since 2000. This weakening is attributed to changes in El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and tropical North Atlantic sea surface temperature (SST) patterns.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAtmospheric and Oceanic Science Letters·DateJan 9, 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 quickly can children learn routes?

A new study published in the Journal of Experimental Child Psychology found that children aged 8-12 can learn routes quickly and efficiently with minimal repeated experience. The research suggests that young children's brains are capable of learning complex spatial information, even with a large number of turns.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalJournal of Experimental Child Psychology·DateJan 9, 2018

Jeans made with child labor? People choose willful ignorance

Researchers found that consumers conveniently forget or misremember products with unethical origins, such as child labor. A study involving college students and a national sample of people showed that participants were more likely to remember the quality attributes than the ethical ones.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJan 9, 2018

Human antibodies manufactured in cattle for treatment of MERS are found safe in first phase 1 study

Human antibodies manufactured from transchromosomic cattle have been found safe in healthy volunteers, suggesting a potential novel technique for rapidly producing antibodies for passive immunotherapy against emerging infectious diseases like MERS. The treatment, SAB-301, was well-tolerated and showed promise in countering the virus.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateJan 9, 2018

The bright side of an infectious protein

Researchers discovered that a yeast protein's prion domain acts like a stress sensor, triggering the formation of protective droplets and gels to help cells recover from stress. This finding suggests that prion domains have a positive function beyond their association with disease-causing aggregates.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience·DateJan 9, 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.

Deadly disinfection in ant colonies

Ants kill fungus-infected pupae to stop the pathogen's lifecycle and prevent infection in the colony. The ants detect sick colony members using chemical cues and perform 'destructive disinfection' to eliminate them.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·DateJan 9, 2018

New discovery could improve brain-like memory and computing

Researchers at the University of Minnesota demonstrate a new kind of magnetoresistance involving topological insulators, which could lead to improvements in future computing and computer storage. The discovery doubles magnetoresistance performance at 150 Kelvin compared to heavy metals.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 9, 2018

Some leukemia patients may be missing out on new treatments

A recent study by Queen Mary University of London found that protein markers are a more accurate predictor of patient responses to midostaurin, a new leukemia treatment. This breakthrough could lead to double the number of patients being treated and improve outcomes for those with acute myeloid leukemia.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalLeukemia·DateJan 9, 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.

Fiber OLEDs, thinner than a hair

Researchers at KAIST developed fiber OLEDs that surpass existing plansar substrates in terms of luminance and current efficiency values. The new technology also allows for the fabrication of OLEDs on ultra-thin fibers, with diameters as low as 90?, enabling the creation of wearable displays.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalNano Letters·DateJan 9, 2018

Controlling superconductivity using spin currents

A KAIST research team used electron microscopy and scanning tunneling microscope to study the connection between magnetism and superconductivity. They found that low-energy spin fluctuations cannot mediate pairing between electrons, a critical step for superconductivity. This breakthrough enables the development of novel antiferromagne...

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJan 9, 2018

Language access plans are key as US demographics change

Medical professionals in the US should use trained medical interpreters to ensure patients with limited English proficiency receive accurate communication. Language access plans involving professional interpreters improve health outcomes, ethical patient care, and patient satisfaction, reducing costly repeat visits.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateJan 9, 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.

Four practice characteristics facilitate integration of community health workers

Leaders who champion community health workers and a culture of innovation are key to their integration into medical home care teams. Community health workers' diverse roles, including outreach, education, and system navigation, can improve patient outcomes despite growing awareness needs.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateJan 9, 2018

Moms of obese children use different words to restrict eating

A new study found that caregivers of children with obesity used more direct statements to restrict their child's eating, unlike mothers of healthy-weight children who relied on indirect comments. This discovery has important implications for practice guidelines and future research.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·DateJan 9, 2018

New stem cell method sheds light on a tell-tale sign of heart disease

A new stem cell method creates human arterial endothelial cells from cord blood and adult bone marrow, revealing two distinct states: healthy and compromised. The compromised state is linked to arteriosclerosis and can be used to study a major risk factor for heart disease.

SourceMorgridge Institute for Research·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateJan 9, 2018

New drug capsule may allow weekly HIV treatment

Researchers at MIT and Brigham and Women's Hospital have developed a capsule that can deliver a week's worth of HIV drugs in a single dose. The new design allows for gradual release of the drug throughout the week, improving patient adherence and potentially preventing infections by up to 20 percent.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 9, 2018

State administrative data can help identify children's adverse experiences

Researchers linked Washington State Medicaid data with parent information to identify social complexity risk factors. The study found that co-occurring risk factors were common and increased the rate of emergency department visits independently of medical complexity.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateJan 9, 2018

Extraterrestrial Hypatia stone rattles solar system status quo

Researchers analyzed the Hypatia stone, a pebble found in Egypt, and discovered unique minerals that suggest it originated from pre-solar material. The stone contains polyaromatic hydrocarbons, metallic aluminum, phosphides, and moissanite, which are uncommon in our solar system.

SourceUniversity of Johannesburg·JournalGeochimica et Cosmochimica Acta·DateJan 9, 2018

Hereditary facial features could be strongly influenced by a single gene variant

A single gene variant can have a significant impact on human facial features, according to a new study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. The research found three genetic variants tied to specific facial characteristics, including those related to steroid biosynthesis and mucolipidosis type IV.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 9, 2018