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Science News for September 21, 2018


The link between cognitive function and sexuality in older adults

Researchers analyzed data from the National Social Life, Health, and Aging Project to study the relationship between sexual behavior, function, and cognition. The study found that nearly half of men with dementia were sexually active, as well as 18% of women.

SourceAmerican Geriatrics Society·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateSep 21, 2018

Study: Emissions from most diesel cars in Europe greatly exceed laboratory testing levels

A new MIT study finds that 10 major European auto manufacturers produced diesel cars emitting up to 16 times more NOx on the road than in lab tests, resulting in approximately 2,700 premature deaths per year across Europe. Improving emissions control technologies could prevent up to 1,900 premature deaths annually.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalAtmospheric Environment·DateSep 21, 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.

Helping parents decide on care for children with minor head trauma

A new information tool helps parents make informed decisions about their children's care after minor head trauma, leading to increased parent knowledge and reduced healthcare utilization. However, the tool did not reduce the rate of CT imaging in emergency departments.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateSep 21, 2018

MSU-Spectrum Health researchers identify new genetic disorder

Researchers identified a rare genetic disorder in a human patient caused by mutations in the ornithine decarboxylase 1 (ODC1) gene. The disorder is characterized by large birth weight, hair loss, and developmental delays, and may be treatable with the FDA-approved drug DFMO.

SourceCorewell Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Medical Genetics·DateSep 21, 2018

Tobacco display ban linked to fewer children buying cigarettes in shops

A new study from Imperial College London found that removing tobacco displays from shops reduced the proportion of children buying cigarettes by 17 percent. However, more than two-thirds of child smokers reported being refused cigarettes when trying to buy them, suggesting that enforcement is still crucial.

SourceImperial College London·JournalTobacco Control·DateSep 21, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Insulin shows great potential against chronic colitis

A new study finds that injecting insulin into the rectum can effectively treat chronic bowel inflammation in humans like Colitis Ulcerosa. The treatment strengthens bowel cells' own defence, reducing inflammation and improving symptoms such as weight loss and bloody diarrhoea.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·DateSep 21, 2018

Ocean acidification may reduce sea scallop fisheries

A new model predicts that ocean acidification could reduce the US sea scallop population by more than 50% in 30 to 80 years, but proactive climate policy may mitigate this impact. The study combines four major factors, including future climate change scenarios, ocean acidification impacts, fisheries management policies, and fuel costs.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 21, 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.

Three NASA missions return first-light data

The TESS mission captured a detailed picture of the southern sky with its four wide-field cameras, while Parker Solar Probe and GOLD returned initial data on their instruments and science potential. The three missions offer new perspectives on exoplanets, solar activity, and space weather.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 21, 2018

New battery gobbles up carbon dioxide

A new type of battery developed by MIT researchers can convert carbon dioxide into a solid mineral carbonate as it discharges. This approach could potentially reduce the cost of carbon capture systems and make them more economically viable. The battery is made from lithium metal, carbon, and an electrolyte that incorporates captured CO2.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJoule·DateSep 21, 2018

New study estimates the caregiving costs for families

A new study estimated the costs of informal care provided by daughters to their mothers, finding that these costs are similar to those associated with full-time institutional care. The study also highlighted the impact of memory-related diseases on caregiving costs and experience.

SourceAmerican Geriatrics Society·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateSep 21, 2018

Scientists have discovered how to predict life of implants without animal testing

Researchers from NUST MISIS and TU Dortmund University developed a technology to study orthopedic implants in laboratory conditions close to the human body without involving lab animals. The technology uses biomimetic UHMWPE and synthetic plasma to accelerate wear tests, allowing for predictions of implant life.

SourceNational University of Science and Technology MISIS·JournalJournal of the Mechanical Behavior of Biomedical Materials·DateSep 21, 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.

Barrow Researchers deploy novel clinical trial regimen for glioblastoma

Researchers at Barrow Neurological Institute have developed a new clinical trial regimen for treating glioblastoma, a complex brain tumor. The study demonstrates the ability of the drug AZD1775 to penetrate brain tissue and provide clinically-relevant activity against human glioblastoma.

SourceSt. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateSep 21, 2018

Checklist helps assess early feeding skills in premature infants

A new study evaluates the Early Feeding Skills (EFS) checklist as a valid and reliable tool for assessing the emergence of feeding skills in preterm infants. The EFS provides a comprehensive assessment of oral feeding skills, including respiratory regulation, swallowing coordination, and staying engaged with feeding.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalAdvances in Neonatal Care·DateSep 21, 2018

Scientists discovered 20 new gnat species in Brazil

Scientists have identified 20 new gnat species in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest, shedding light on the region's rich biodiversity. The discovery highlights the importance of this ecosystem in hosting endemic species.

SourceEstonian Research Council·JournalZootaxa·DateSep 21, 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.

AFib linked to family history in blacks, Latinos

Researchers have identified a genetic predisposition to early-onset atrial fibrillation in black and Latino populations. A large registry of patients found that there is a significant family history of AFib in these groups, particularly among younger patients.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateSep 21, 2018

Patient-centered visual aid helps physicians discuss risks, treatments with parents

A visual aid designed for parents of children with minor head injuries helped them communicate with emergency medicine physicians and make informed decisions about their child's care. Parents who used the decision aid had better understanding of symptoms, relative risk of brain injury, and pros and cons of CT scans.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateSep 21, 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.

FDA researchers report first evidence of ESBL producing E. coli in US retail meat

A new study found all ESBL-producing E. coli isolates from US retail meat were resistant to at least three antimicrobial classes, carrying various types of CTX-M type ESBL genes. The presence in food-producing animals and retail meat supplies may contribute to a greater incidence of infections.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalMicrobial Drug Resistance·DateSep 21, 2018

Light pollution makes fish more courageous

Exposure to artificial light at night increases fish's willingness to take risks, emerging quicker from hiding places and swimming in riskier areas. However, it does not affect their social behavior or swimming speed.

SourceForschungsverbund Berlin·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 21, 2018

Outbreak of preventable eye infection in contact lens wearers

A new outbreak of Acanthamoeba keratitis has been identified in contact lens wearers, with a threefold increase in cases since 2011. Poor hygiene, contaminated water, and improper use of contact lenses are linked to the risk of developing the disease.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalBritish Journal of Ophthalmology·DateSep 21, 2018

Advancing life sciences research with the internet of things

A new SLAS Technology special issue showcases life sciences researchers who are using IoT technologies to optimize laboratory systems. The articles explore various applications of IoT in laboratories, including end-to-end sample tracking, automation, and instrument design.

SourceSLAS (Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening)·JournalSLAS TECHNOLOGY·DateSep 21, 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.

New robot picks a peck of peppers and more

The SWEEPER robot, developed by an international research consortium, can harvest ripe fruit in 24 seconds with a success rate of 62 percent. Additional research is needed to increase work speed and reach higher harvest success rates.

SourceAmerican Associates, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev·DateSep 21, 2018

New nanotherapy offers hope in treating drug-resistant renal cell carcinoma

Researchers at Wayne State University have developed a nanoplatform technology that works in combination with existing chemotherapeutic drugs to reverse drug-resistance in renal cell carcinoma. The technology uses tumor hypoxia-directed nanoparticles to target the root cause of the problem and has shown promising results in animal trials.

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·JournalBiomaterials·DateSep 21, 2018

Brown researchers teach computers to see optical illusions

Researchers developed a neural-network model that perceives contextual optical illusions like humans, advancing knowledge of human visual system. The model includes feedback connections between neurons, which improve artificial vision by addressing context-dependent weaknesses.

SourceBrown University·JournalPsychological Review·DateSep 21, 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.

DNA vaccine leads to immune responses in HPV-related head and neck cancer

Researchers found that 86% of patients with advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma showed elevated T cell activity after receiving the DNA vaccine. The study also describes a patient who developed metastatic disease but achieved remission after anti-PD-1 immunotherapy.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateSep 21, 2018

Cooking with wood or coal is linked to increased risk of respiratory illness and death

A study published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine found that using solid fuels for cooking is linked to a higher risk of hospitalization or death from respiratory diseases. The research, conducted in China, suggests that switching to clean-burning fuels can significantly lower this risk.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateSep 21, 2018

EACS issues position paper to improve cancer research and care

The European Academy of Cancer Sciences (EACS) has issued a position paper to improve cancer research and care in Europe. The paper emphasizes the need for coordinated efforts between researchers, healthcare systems, and policymakers to decrease cancer incidence and increase cure rates.

SourceWiley·JournalMolecular Oncology·DateSep 21, 2018

In zebrafish, a way to find new cancer therapies, targeting tumor modulators

Scientists at Boston Children's Hospital have identified a potential new treatment for adenoid cystic carcinoma by targeting the MYB gene in zebrafish. The study found that retinoic acid derivatives effectively shut off the MYB gene, slowing tumor growth and validating its efficacy in human cells.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateSep 21, 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.

Eight of 10 people with cancer risk genes don't know it

A study of 50,000 people found that over 80% of those with identifiable genetic risk for breast, ovarian, prostate, and pancreatic cancer are unaware they carry the gene. The findings highlight the need for effective DNA-based screening to identify high-risk individuals before a cancer diagnosis.

SourceYale University·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateSep 21, 2018

Space-related start-up technology companies create synergistic innovation

Researchers developed innovative business models for space-related start-ups, including DIT Space, which commercialized satellite images and created competitive advantages. The study highlights the growth of space entrepreneurship worldwide, with a focus on Central America.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalNew Space·DateSep 21, 2018

Proof-of-concept HIV immunotherapy study passes Phase 1 safety trial

A new HIV immunotherapy study has demonstrated the safety and tolerability of a cell therapy approach involving ex vivo expansion of T cells. The study found that the treatment was well-tolerated with few adverse events, although no significant enhancement of the magnitude of the HIV-specific immune response was observed.

SourceCell Press·JournalMolecular Therapy·DateSep 21, 2018

Researchers explore how changes in diet alter microbiome in artificial intestine

A recent study used an artificial intestine to investigate how changes in diet affect the microbiome. The research found that a switch from a western diet to one composed exclusively of dietary fats led to increased populations of fatty-acid metabolizing bacteria and decreased production of short chain fatty acids, which are compounds ...

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateSep 21, 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.

Combining multiple CCTV images could help catch suspects

Researchers developed an image averaging method to enhance low-quality CCTV footage, significantly improving human and computer facial recognition accuracy. The technique allows for a standardized way to create digital snapshots from multiple camera angles, aiding law enforcement in suspect identification.

SourceUniversity of Lincoln·JournalApplied Cognitive Psychology·DateSep 21, 2018

Genomic study brings us closer to precision medicine for type 2 diabetes

A new genomic study reveals five distinct groups of DNA sites driving unique forms of type 2 diabetes, with potential implications for personalized treatment approaches. The research identifies subtypes based on genetics and physiology, which could help physicians tailor interventions to individual patients.

SourceBroad Institute of MIT and Harvard·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateSep 21, 2018

Breast milk may be best for premature babies' brain development

A recent study published in NeuroImage found that breast milk is associated with improved brain connectivity in premature babies. The research, conducted by the University of Edinburgh, suggests that exclusive breastfeeding for at least three-quarters of hospital days can lead to better long-term outcomes for pre-term infants.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalNeuroImage·DateSep 21, 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.

Lyme disease: A study on the speed of transmission by infected ticks

Lyme borreliosis is a vector-borne disease in Europe caused by Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato complex. A recent study found that infection can occur within 24 hours of an adult tick bite and as soon as 12 hours for nymph bites, highlighting the importance of prompt removal of infected ticks.

SourceInstitut Pasteur·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateSep 21, 2018

Spray-on antennas could unlock potential of smart, connected technology

Drexel researchers have developed a breakthrough method to create invisibly thin antennas using MXene material, which can be sprayed on flexible surfaces like fabrics or electronics. The new technology has the potential to enable seamless integration of antennas with smart devices and the Internet of Things.

SourceDrexel University·DateSep 21, 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.

How will changes in snowpack affect water rights in arid western US?

A team of researchers from five institutions will study the effects of changing mountain snowpack on water availability, agricultural risks, and economic impacts. The project aims to inform policymakers and farmers about adapting to fluctuating water availability and creating more resilient food systems.

SourceArizona State University·DateSep 21, 2018

NASA sees areas of strength in Tropical Storm Trami

Tropical Storm Trami is expected to intensify through Saturday, bringing powerful storms with cloud tops as cold as minus 70 degrees Fahrenheit. A flash flood watch has been issued for Guam and the northern Marianas due to heavy showers and thunderstorms associated with the storm.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 21, 2018

Latest research hints at predicting autism risk for pregnant mothers

Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute have developed a physiological test to predict autism risk in pregnant mothers. The study found that differences in plasma metabolites indicate an increased risk of having a child with ASD, with a relative risk of 18.7 percent vs 1.7 percent.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalResearch in Autism Spectrum Disorders·DateSep 21, 2018

USD 2.7 million to fight Clostridium difficile diarrhea

A new research project, backed by the Innovation Fund Denmark, aims to standardize fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) treatment for Clostridium difficile diarrhea. The project will develop a secure feces bank and screen future feces donors to ensure high safety and effectiveness.

SourceAarhus University·DateSep 21, 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.