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Science News for June 26, 2018


Social awkwardness scuppers standing meetings

Research from King's College London and Brunel University London found that standing in meetings can be difficult due to social pressure, with participants feeling awkward about breaking rules. However, some reported increased engagement and motivation when standing, and suggested ways for employers to encourage active meetings.

SourceKing's College London·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 26, 2018

Lynxes in danger

Research shows that illegal lynx hunting is a major factor in declining populations in the Šumava national park, with mortality rates increasing from 3-4% to 15-20% between 1998-2014. The study suggests that stopping hunting and preserving habitats are crucial to maintaining the population.

SourceForschungsverbund Berlin·JournalBiological Conservation·DateJun 26, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging announces 2018 Fellows

The Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging (SNMMI) announced the selection of 14 new Fellows, recognizing their excellence in volunteer service, scientific discovery, and clinical practice. The SNMMI Fellowship is one of the most prestigious formal recognitions available to long-time members.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·DateJun 26, 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.

Minority Health and Health Disparities Research Innovation Award

The National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities (NIMHD) has selected recipients for its 2018 William G. Coleman Jr., Ph.D., Minority Health and Health Disparities Research Innovation Award, supporting innovative research in minority health disparities. The awarded projects focus on key determinants of health inequities...

SourceNIH/National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities·DateJun 26, 2018

There is more going on in myotonic dystrophy type 1 than just alternative splicing

A team of researchers has developed a mouse model of myotonic dystrophy type 1, revealing multiple mechanisms beyond alternative splicing. The study found a clear association between specific signaling pathways and muscle loss, as well as the upregulation of protein AMPK-alpha and the reduction of PDGFR-beta signaling activity.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalHuman Molecular Genetics·DateJun 26, 2018

Baboons shed light on antimicrobial resistance

A study involving wild and captive baboons found evidence of antibiotic resistance in their gut microbiomes, even without human-produced antibiotic exposure. The researchers used functional metagenomics to identify resistance genes, revealing a surprising enrichment of Actinobacteria in wild baboon populations.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmSystems·DateJun 26, 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.

Women know what they want; men get pickier with age

A study of over 41,000 Australians found that women are more particular about the education level of their partners, especially under 40, while men become more selective after age 40. The research suggests that women's preferences for education level increase with age due to cultural associations between education and social status.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalPsychological Science·DateJun 26, 2018

Flu's response to new drug explored

Researchers at EMBL Grenoble investigate how Xofluza, a new anti-influenza drug, works and explore possible mechanisms for viral resistance. They found that a specific mutation in the virus's polymerase enzyme makes it less susceptible to the drug.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 26, 2018

Marshall School of Medicine research team defines possible anti-aging intervention

A study published in Scientific Reports reveals that the Na/K-ATPase oxidant amplification loop plays a key role in aging and may be targeted for anti-aging interventions. Researchers successfully demonstrated the therapeutic potential of pNaKtide, a synthetic peptide, in improving impaired physiological functions.

SourceMarshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 26, 2018

Majority of teenagers need food safety education

A new study from the University of Waterloo found that fewer than 50% of recommended food-handling practices were followed by Ontario high school students. The researchers observed significant improvements in thermometer use after a training program, but many students continued to engage in risky behaviors.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalJournal of Food Protection·DateJun 26, 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.

Zika in high resolution

Researchers have created the highest-resolution image yet of the Zika virus, providing a detailed atomic model that enables efficient vaccine and antiviral compound design. The discovery was made possible by the stability of the Zika virus compared to its flavivirus cousins.

SourceCell Press·JournalStructure·DateJun 26, 2018

Women TEDx speakers receive more polarized comments than men

A recent study published in PLOS ONE found that female presenters receive more polarized comments on TEDx and TED-Ed videos than male presenters. The research team attributed this to historical gender norms and the online community's tendency to respond harshly to women in traditionally male fields.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 26, 2018

New regulatory axis revealed for the cancer relevant matrix metalloprotease MMP14

A new regulatory axis involving the transcription factor Prox1 has been revealed to negatively regulate MMP14 protein levels, which plays a significant role in cancer progression and metastasis. This discovery provides new insights into the mechanisms governing MMP14's function in physiological processes such as wound healing.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 26, 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 audiovisual integration of material information in preverbal infants

Researchers found that infants aged 4- to 8-months hold a primary cerebral representation of audiovisual integration in their right hemisphere, with the number of processed materials increasing with experience. This study sheds light on the trajectory of acquiring general knowledge about objects.

SourceChuo University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 26, 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.

Defining the brain mosaic in fruit flies and humans

Researchers have identified a novel form of calcium signaling called store-operated calcium entry (SOCE) as the key to expressing specific proteins on individual neurons. This discovery has implications for understanding brain development, behavior, and disease, including neurodegenerative disorders such as spinocerebellar ataxia 15.

SourceNational Centre for Biological Sciences·JournalFrontiers in Molecular Neuroscience·DateJun 26, 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.

Relational mobility may influence your interpersonal behaviors

A large-scale analysis found higher relational mobility in North America, Europe, and Latin America compared to Asia and the Middle East, associated with increased personal self-esteem, closeness in friendship, and proactive behavior. Societal threats and subsistence style also influenced relational mobility scores.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 26, 2018

Research shows graphene forms electrically charged crinkles

Researchers at Brown University discovered that graphene forms sharp, saw-tooth kinks called quantum flexoelectric crinkles, which produce intense electrical charges. These charges can be used to direct nanoscale self-assembly and manipulate biomolecules like DNA.

SourceBrown University·DateJun 26, 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.

Twisted meta-molecules as they really are

Researchers have devised a highly sensitive method to test the chirality of materials, overcoming false positives from competing effects. By using twisted meta-molecules, they separated chirality from sources of error, allowing for accurate measurement and potential applications in fields like telecommunications and pharmaceuticals.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalACS Nano·DateJun 26, 2018

What caused the mass extinction of Earth's first animals?

Researchers from Arizona State University study the Ediacaran-Cambrian transition and find a severe marine anoxic event coincided with the decline of early animals. The team integrated geochemical data and fossil records to precisely match evolutionary and environmental events, shedding light on this pivotal moment in Earth's history.

SourceArizona State University·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 26, 2018

Frankfurt physicists set limits on size of neutron stars

Researchers set limits on neutron star sizes by analyzing billions of theoretical models, refining estimates to within 1.5 kilometers. The study also explores the possibility of 'twin stars' with exotic properties, which are statistically rare and unlikely to be deformed during mergers.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJun 26, 2018

New diagnosis method could help spot head and neck cancers earlier

Researchers have developed a new method to diagnose oral squamous cell carcinomas (OSCCs) earlier, using the mechanical properties of cancer cells. By testing the relaxation behavior after stress release, they found that OSCC cells are 'softer' and exhibit faster contraction than benign cells.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalConvergent Science Physical Oncology·DateJun 26, 2018

Novel genetic method improves efficiency of enzyme

Researchers developed a new genetic engineering technique to improve an enzyme's ability to break down biomass. The EASy method enables accelerated evolution of desirable traits in microorganisms, leading to more efficient conversion of lignin into fuels and plastics.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 26, 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.

The origins of fine-particle pollution in Guangzhou, China

Historical data analysis reveals significant differences in source region contributions to haze under unfavorable weather systems. Policymakers can develop more efficient control plans by incorporating weather system analysis when haze events occur.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateJun 26, 2018

Chemotherapy-induced diarrhea traced to immune cells

Macrophage receptors trigger intestinal contractions, leading to severe diarrhea in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. The discovery opens up new avenues for developing targeted treatments for this debilitating side effect.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalImmunity·DateJun 26, 2018

OU professor to study new possibilities in quantum networking

A University of Oklahoma physics professor is using a National Science Foundation grant to explore the potential of spatial degree of freedom in long-distance quantum communications and imaging. The research could bring about a revolution in quantum information science by enabling large-scale quantum information transmission.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·DateJun 26, 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.

Food insecurity has greater impact on disadvantaged children

A new study published in the Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior found that food insecurity has a greater impact on behavior problems and poor cognitive outcomes in vulnerable children, particularly those born to single mothers living in urban neighborhoods.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·DateJun 26, 2018

Scientists explore how high blood pressure hurts cognition

Scientists investigate how high blood pressure affects the balance between blood flow and neuron activity in the brain. High blood pressure can lead to increased calcium levels in astrocytes, which may trigger inflammation and alter protective mechanisms.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·DateJun 26, 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.

Gene editing curbs autism symptoms in mice

Researchers at UT Health San Antonio used gene editing to decrease repetitive behaviors in mice with fragile X syndrome, an inherited cause of autism spectrum disorders. The approach resulted in significant reduction of symptoms, including digging behavior slowed by 30 percent and leaping behavior reduced by 70 percent.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateJun 26, 2018

Narcissistic adolescents may perform better at school -- Queen's University Belfast researcher

A study by Dr Kostas Papageorgiou at Queen's University Belfast found that adolescents with subclinical narcissism may be more mentally tough and perform better at school. The research suggests a positive correlation between narcissism and mental toughness, which can lead to improved academic achievement.

SourceQueen's University Belfast·JournalPersonality and Individual Differences·DateJun 26, 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 family physicians are paid is linked to their rate of referral to specialists

Researchers found a significant increase in specialist referrals among family physicians switching to blended capitation models, highlighting unintended consequences of policy changes. The study's findings suggest that increased referrals may not be entirely necessary and could result in higher costs for the healthcare system.

SourceUniversity of Western Ontario·JournalHealth Economics·DateJun 26, 2018

Texas A&M research opens doors to expanded DNA studies

Researchers at Texas A&M University have discovered how methylation affects DNA's mechanical properties, revealing new insights into how cells behave. The study opens doors to analyzing other types of DNA or RNA modifications and their behavior under different conditions.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateJun 26, 2018

Early treatment of advanced prostate cancer with radioligand therapy prolongs life

A study presented at the SNMMI Annual Meeting found that early treatment of advanced prostate cancer with lutetium-177 radioligand therapy can significantly prolong life, with a median overall survival of 27 months. Patients who received first-line therapy also had the longest survival rates.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateJun 26, 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.

A new link between cancer and aging

Hollings Cancer Center researchers discovered that cancer cells protect their telomeres from damage to prevent cell death, contributing to their long lifespan. By inhibiting this mechanism, the researchers hope to develop a new treatment for cancer and potentially delay aging.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJun 26, 2018

History of side-necked turtle diversification revealed

A new phylogeny of the Pleurodira suborder, including the Yellow-spotted Amazon River turtle, provides insights into the evolutionary history and biogeographical distribution of side-necked turtles. The study found that Pleurodira fossils are scattered across continents, with the oldest species dating back to 125 million years ago.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateJun 26, 2018
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

New study links poor sleep quality to atrial fibrillation

A recent study has found that poor sleep quality is an independent risk factor for atrial fibrillation (AF), which can lead to symptoms like heart palpitations and shortness of breath. The researchers also discovered that disruptions in sleep patterns, such as reduced REM sleep, predict a higher risk of AF.

SourceElsevier·JournalHeart Rhythm·DateJun 26, 2018

Of hearts and giants: Moving a cardiac regulatory protein to the right place

International researchers led by Tokyo Medical and Dental University investigated the RSRSP stretch of the regulatory protein RBM20, finding it essential for nuclear localization and splicing regulation. The study suggests that phosphorylation of specific serine residues in this region is crucial for RBM20's function.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 26, 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.

USC researchers find kids sneak smoking substitute into school

A new study by USC researchers found that high school, middle school, and elementary school students in the US are using JUUL vaporizers to get hooked on nicotine. The discreet devices are being used undetected on school grounds, with over 1 in 25 tweets mentioning their use.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence·DateJun 26, 2018

Closing the gap: On the road to terahertz electronics

A team at TUM has succeeded in generating ultrashort electric pulses on a chip using tiny plasmonic antennas, operating above the surface and reading them in again. This breakthrough closes the terahertz gap, enabling frequencies up to 10 terahertz.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 26, 2018

High-strength MRI may release mercury from amalgam dental fillings

Researchers found that ultra-high-strength MRI releases high levels of mercury from amalgam fillings, but lower strength MRI does not cause significant leakage. The study suggests further research is needed to evaluate the relationship between high-field MRI and mercury release.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateJun 26, 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.

Finnish forest management guidelines fail to protect the flying squirrel

A new study found that Finnish forest management guidelines do not adequately protect old growth forests where flying squirrels live. The guidelines were compared to the recently amended Forest Act and resulted in an extremely low occurrence of female flying squirrels, highlighting a large gap between science and policy.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalForest Ecology and Management·DateJun 26, 2018

New insights into pruning

Researchers at the University of Münster have discovered a correlation between the spatial organization of a nerve cell and its process degeneration. The study found that specific arrangement of cytoskeleton components influences the direction of dendrite degeneration in fruit flies.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalDevelopment·DateJun 26, 2018

UA genetics research verifies purity of the Mexican wolf

A recent study by researchers at the University of Arizona has found no evidence of domestic dog ancestry in the Mexican wolf population. The analysis of 87 Mexican wolves using genomic technology revealed a low percentage of genetic similarity with domestic dogs, suggesting that the species is genetically pure.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalJournal of Heredity·DateJun 26, 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.

Serotonin speeds learning

A recent study published in Nature Communications reveals that serotonin plays a crucial role in learning by influencing an animal's decision-making strategies. When the interval between trials was short, mice relied on their working memory, while longer intervals activated their long-term memory, allowing them to learn from past rewar...

SourceChampalimaud Centre for the Unknown·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 26, 2018

Do abortion-related complications differ based on facility where done?

A study of 49,287 women found that performing an abortion in an ambulatory surgery center was not associated with a significant difference in infection, hemorrhage, or other complications. The research aimed to address the lack of evidence on abortion-related complications at ASCs compared to office-based settings.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateJun 26, 2018

Detection of arboreal feeding signs by Asiatic black bears

Research in Japan found that Asiatic black bears create arboreal feeding signs (AFS) on trees with large mast energy values, indicating a cost-benefit analysis for climbing. AFS are also more likely during poor mast years when competition for hard mast is high.

SourceTokyo University of Agriculture and Technology·JournalJournal of Zoology·DateJun 26, 2018

Fluorescence imaging technique goes from micro to macro, moves closer to clinic

Researchers have developed a macroscale fluorescence imaging technique, known as macro-FLIM, that can analyze whole mouse tumors with cellular resolution. The new approach enables observation of biochemical processes taking place within the sample, and could potentially find use in clinical settings to identify tumor edges during surgery.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Letters·DateJun 26, 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.

New studies illustrate need for rigorous review of infection preventionist staffing models across healthcare systems

Two new studies highlight the critical need for evaluating and updating standards for infection preventionist (IP) staffing levels, citing severe gaps in staffing and outdated coverage benchmarks. The studies found that actual IP labor needs are 31-66% higher than current benchmarks, indicating a greater need for IP oversight.

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal of Infection Control·DateJun 26, 2018

Researchers develop synthetic T cells, mimics form and function of human version

Researchers at UCLA have developed synthetic T cells with near-perfect facsimiles of human T cells, which could lead to more effective treatments for cancer and autoimmune diseases. The artificial cells can boost the immune system and interact with immune cells, making them a promising tool in the fight against infections.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJun 26, 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.

A Fox code for the face

Researchers discovered that Fox genes play a crucial role in directing stem cells to form cartilage and teeth during facial development. The study found that mutations in these genes can cause diseases such as cancer and language disorders.

SourceUniversity of Southern California - Health Sciences·JournalDevelopment·DateJun 26, 2018

Progress toward improved Wilson's disease drug

A new compound, DPM-1001, has shown promise in reducing copper levels in cells and improving symptoms of Wilson's disease. The study confirmed that the compound is orally available and specifically targets copper, reducing unwanted side effects.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenes & Development·DateJun 26, 2018

Anger overlooked as feature of postnatal mood disorders: UBC study

A UBC study suggests that anger is a significant feature in postpartum mood disturbances, contributing to feelings of powerlessness and unmet expectations. Ignoring anger in women with postnatal mood disorders may exacerbate symptoms and negatively impact mothers, children, and families.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalBirth·DateJun 26, 2018

More woodland management needed to help save dormice

Researchers call for active woodland management to create a 'mosaic' of trees with varied ages and sizes. Dormouse numbers are falling in Britain due to changes in climate and habitat composition, with more broadleaf woodland needed to support the species.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalForest Ecology and Management·DateJun 26, 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.

Fluciclovine PET/CT locates recurrent prostate cancer and advises management

A clinical trial found that 59% of patients with biochemical recurrence of prostate cancer had their clinical management changed by fluciclovine PET/CT imaging. The study detected disease in the prostate, pelvic lymph nodes, and less commonly, bone, guiding treatment decisions for men with recurrent prostate cancer.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateJun 26, 2018

Engineer creates new design for ultra-thin capacitive sensors

A new capacitive sensor design created by Binghamton University professor Ron Miles allows for efficient sound sensing in devices without significant electrostatic forces. The flexible sensor can move with small air movements, addressing issues with existing sensors and expanding possibilities for applications.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalIEEE Sensors Journal·DateJun 26, 2018

More post-acute care isn't always better, study finds

A new study published in PLOS Medicine found that patients covered under Medicare's fee-for-service plan spent more time in nursing homes after hip fracture hospitalization, yet saw slightly worse health outcomes. In contrast, those covered under Medicare Advantage had shorter stays and similar or better health outcomes.

SourceBrown University·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJun 26, 2018

Mindfulness helps injured athletes improve pain tolerance and awareness

A study by the University of Kent found that mindfulness meditation can increase pain tolerance and mindful awareness in injured athletes. The research used Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) as an intervention for recovery, showing promising results. The study has major implications for treating sporting injuries at all levels.

SourceUniversity of Kent·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateJun 26, 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.

Research on cancer-frying nanoparticles heats up

Scientists at the University at Buffalo have developed heated magnetic nanoparticles that can selectively target and destroy tumors with significant amounts of heat under low-magnetic fields. The new technology has potential benefits over other treatments, including minimal side effects and deeper penetration into hard-to-reach body pa...

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalSmall·DateJun 26, 2018

Novel micropacemaker takes new approach to faulty heart rhythms

Researchers at Children's Hospital Los Angeles and USC have developed a minimally invasive micropacemaker system that can treat faulty heart rhythms in children and adults. The device, implanted through a single incision, offers a new approach to cardiac pacing without the need for traditional pacemakers.

SourceChildren's Hospital Los Angeles·DateJun 26, 2018

Substance found in grapes prevents agglomeration of a mutant protein that leads to cancer

Researchers found that resveratrol inhibits mutant p53 protein aggregation, preventing breast cancer cell migration and proliferation. This breakthrough could lead to a treatment for over half of malignant tumors, targeting novel strategic targets in cancer research.

SourceInstituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia de Biologia Estrutural e Bioimagem (INBEB)·JournalOncoTargets and Therapy·DateJun 26, 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.

VHIO scientists reveal novel drug-target to strangle sleeping cancer cells

Researchers identify epigenetic enzyme TET2 as a key player in controlling dormant tumor cells that can lead to cancer recurrence. A novel biomarker, 5-Hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC), is also discovered to detect these treatment-resistant cells and predict patient outcomes.

SourceVall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJun 26, 2018

Blockade at the receptor

Researchers found that Chlamydia trachomatis deactivates immune cells by activating a protein that cleaves key receptors, allowing the bacterium to evade detection. This discovery holds promise for developing targeted therapies against Chlamydia infections.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalNature Microbiology·DateJun 26, 2018

Study solves mystery of genetic-test results for patient with suspected heart condition

Researchers have developed a technique to determine the significance of gene variants of uncertain significance in patients with suspected heart conditions. By using advanced genetic-editing tools and stem cell technology, they were able to confirm that a patient had a mild case of long QT syndrome and rule out another condition.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateJun 26, 2018

NASA catches a view of a fading Tropical Cyclone Daniel

Tropical Storm Daniel weakened as it passed over NASA's Terra satellite on June 24, revealing a small area of strong storms around its center. By the next day, the storm had degenerated into a remnant low-pressure area, forecast to dissipate by Wednesday night with maximum sustained winds near 30 mph

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJun 26, 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.

In search of biomarkers to detect patients with latent 'Plasmodium vivax' infection

A study by ISGlobal reveals the presence of proteins from hypnozoites in circulating extracellular vesicles, providing a potential diagnostic tool for asymptomatic patients. This breakthrough could help identify and stop malaria vivax transmission, an essential requirement to achieve the WHO's target of eliminating malaria by 2030.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateJun 26, 2018

Why popcorn tastes better when you eat it with chopsticks

Researchers found that using chopsticks while eating popcorn, finding novel ways to drink water, or watching a video with hand-goggles all intensified the experience and made it more enjoyable. These unconventional methods help focus on what's enjoyed about the product, making experiences feel brand new.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateJun 26, 2018

Computational model analysis reveals serotonin speeds learning

Researchers developed a computational model that found serotonin boosts learning rates in mice, particularly in slow decision-making systems. The study suggests a possible link between serotonin and cognitive behavioral therapy, which is often effective when combined with SSRIs.

SourceSainsbury Wellcome Centre·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 26, 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.

New tech improves ability to reflect sound back to its source

Researchers developed a device that reflects sound in its original direction, more than doubling the effective range of previous technologies. The 'retroreflector' uses engineered materials to focus incoming sound waves onto a second layer, sending them back to their source.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalPhysical Review Materials·DateJun 26, 2018

Researchers discover volcanic heat source under glacier

Scientists have discovered an active volcanic heat source beneath the Pine Island Glacier in Antarctica, which plays a critical role in the glacier's movement and melting. The finding is significant as it suggests that volcanism is an additional factor contributing to ice sheet instability, alongside climate change.

SourceUniversity of Rhode Island·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 26, 2018

In women, even mild sleep problems may raise blood pressure

A new study found that even mild sleep disturbances can lead to elevated blood pressure in women, with nearly three times more common than severe sleep disturbances. Women who slept for seven to nine hours a night were significantly more likely to have high blood pressure.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateJun 26, 2018
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

A bright light in a dark room

A team of researchers has developed a minimal logic system to bridge the gap between mathematical proofs, algorithms, and real-world outcomes in control systems. The work, published in IEEE/CAA Journal of Automatica Sinica, aims to improve the realism of theoretical mathematics by focusing on computational certainty.

SourceChinese Association of Automation·JournalIEEE/CAA Journal of Automatica Sinica·DateJun 26, 2018

UMass Amherst geoscientists offer new evidence for how the Adirondack Mountains formed

Researchers at UMass Amherst used advanced seismic imaging and data from the National Science Foundation's EarthScope program to construct a detailed model of the tectonic plate beneath the Adirondack Mountains. They discovered a 'pillow' of low-density, relatively light rock material that appears to have been squeezed up under the mou...

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJun 26, 2018

Is less more? Rehabilitation for elderly people following hip fracture

A study found that elderly patients with hip fractures who received rehabilitation under Medicare Advantage programs had shorter hospital stays and less therapy time. These patients also experienced a lower rate of readmission to the hospital within 30 days and higher successful discharge rates to the community.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJun 26, 2018

Twelfth impact structure discovered in Central Finland

Researchers have identified a new meteorite impact structure in Central Finland, measuring 2.6 km in diameter and 275 km north of Helsinki. The discovery is part of the country's growing list of confirmed impact structures, with Finland now ranking among the top countries to find these features.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalMeteoritics and Planetary Science·DateJun 26, 2018

Timings and behaviour influence worm's response to force

Researchers discovered that worms' behavior at the time of experiencing stimuli influenced how their brains interpreted information, leading to a more sophisticated understanding of mechanosensory circuitry. The study paves the way for further investigations into how simple brains interpret sensory signals and turn them into actions.

SourceeLife·DateJun 26, 2018

What nipple size means for evolutionary biology

Researchers found female nipple sizes vary significantly due to functional use in breastfeeding, contradicting previous claims. The study's findings support the idea that highly variable features result from weak evolutionary selection.

SourceSpringer·JournalAdaptive Human Behavior and Physiology·DateJun 26, 2018

When one drug fails, a new door opens for cancer treatment

Researchers discovered a molecular inhibitor that could help fight prostate cancer when resistance develops to CDK4/6 inhibitors. The study found that tumors become more aggressive and dependent on the MAPK-6 pathway when resistance occurs, making MEK inhibitors a potential therapeutic option.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateJun 26, 2018

Fatigue is a common but underestimated symptom of endometriosis

Fatigue is a common symptom of endometriosis, affecting over half of diagnosed women, with links also found to childhood abuse and neglect. The study suggests that endometriosis may cause fatigue independently of other factors, possibly due to inflammation and immune system activation.

SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·JournalHuman Reproduction·DateJun 26, 2018

New insight into how Autism might develop in human brain

A team of scientists from McGill University discovered a key role for the GRIN2B gene in early neural stem cell development and autism. They used genetic engineering to reprogram skin cells into brain cells with the patient's mutation, showing how improper protein production leads to impaired brain development.

SourceMcGill University·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateJun 26, 2018