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Science News for September 27, 2018


Feeding ants dopamine might make them smarter foragers

Researchers found that treating ants with dopamine increased individual foraging trips and sensitivity to humidity. The team also used a dopamine inhibitor to verify their results, showing that increased dopamine levels led to more foraging and improved colony behavior.

SourceCell Press·JournaliScience·DateSep 27, 2018

Keeping things cool with a paint-like polymer

Researchers have developed a paint-like polymer that can cool down surfaces by reflecting sunlight and heat back into the sky. The PDRC polymer reflects over 96% of sunlight and achieves sub-ambient temperature reductions of approximately 6° Celsius in hot climates.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateSep 27, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Scientists show polar 'polynya' supported marine life during last Ice Age

Researchers found a small ice-free 'polynya' in the Arctic that sustained microscopic marine life for at least 5,000 years. This discovery provides insight into how marine ecosystems adapted to extreme climate conditions during the last Ice Age, highlighting their vulnerability and resilience.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 27, 2018

Ride-hailing increases vehicle miles traveled

A study published in Transportation found that ride-hailing services such as Uber and Lyft contribute to increased vehicle miles traveled due to empty miles from drivers going without passengers. For every 100 miles carrying passengers, Uber and Lyft drivers travel an additional 69 miles without a passenger.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Denver·JournalTransportation·DateSep 27, 2018

Following the path of chemicals through the soil

Researchers used visible/near-infrared spectroscopy to predict breakthrough curves of dissolved chemicals in intact soil columns. The new technology estimated mass transport with a high degree of accuracy and has potential for cost-effective and efficient monitoring of dissolved chemical transport.

SourceAarhus University·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 27, 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.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

NASA's close up of Hurricane Rosa shows hint of an eye

Hurricane Rosa shows a cloud-filled eye with two wrapping thunderstorm bands. The National Hurricane Center notes a defined eye structure beneath the overcast. Rosa is expected to strengthen and weaken before landfall in Baja California on Oct. 2.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 27, 2018

New invasive bryozoan arrives in Alaskan waters

A new invasive species, Bugula neritina, has been detected in the Ketchikan region of Alaska, along with three other non-native species. The discovery highlights the importance of early detection and monitoring to control the spread of invasive species in Alaskan waters.

SourceSmithsonian·JournalBioInvasions Records·DateSep 27, 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.

Virtual reality motion sickness may be predicted and counteracted

Researchers can predict cybersickness severity using balance control measures, allowing for targeted interventions to reduce symptoms. The study's findings have significant implications for industries adopting virtual reality technology, such as gaming and medicine.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalJournal of Neurophysiology·DateSep 27, 2018

New Cluster of Excellence to unravel the 'physics of life'

The Cluster of Excellence PoL aims to understand the organization of living matter and its mechanisms. The researchers hope to shed light on tissue formation and structure, which will provide solutions to pressing bioengineering and health issues.

SourceTechnische Universität Dresden·DateSep 27, 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.

Antimicrobial resistance of uropathogenic Escherichia coli from elderly patients

A study of 768 E. coli isolates from elderly patients with urinary tract infections found a high prevalence of resistance to β-lactams and other antimicrobials. Independent risk factors for multi-resistant E. coli included diabetes, recurrent infections, hospitalization, and exposure to β-lactams.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalThe Open Infectious Diseases Journal·DateSep 27, 2018

Scientists propose a new model for the specialization of cells

Researchers developed a model that explains how cell specialization arises in response to resource constraints. The model considers the influence of environmental factors and initial differentiation of cells, providing a more realistic understanding of cellular specialization.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 27, 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.

How Sacred Ibis mummies provided the first test of evolution

The discovery of mummified Sacred Ibises in France after Napoleon's conquest of Egypt played a significant role in delaying the acceptance of evolutionary theory. The debate between Georges Cuvier and Jean-Baptiste Lamarck over these birds' classification highlighted the influence of charismatic personalities on scientific thought.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateSep 27, 2018

New digital tool sparks enthusiasm among metal detectorists

A new digital platform DIME has been launched in Denmark to register and make accessible the growing number of metal detector finds. This initiative aims to strengthen collaboration between amateur archaeologists and museums, allowing for a broader sharing of knowledge and promoting democratic cultural heritage management.

SourceAarhus University·DateSep 27, 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.

Software finds the best way to stick a Mars landing

Researchers at MIT have developed a software tool that automatically generates maps of favorable landing sites on Mars, taking into account scientific priorities and engineering constraints. The program uses fuzzy logic to deal with imprecision in the data and can explore different landing and exploratory scenarios.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalEarth and Space Science·DateSep 27, 2018

When neglected children become adolescents

A new study on children from the Bucharest Early Intervention Project found that those who remained in institutions experienced cognitive problems, depression, anxiety, and disruptive behavior. In contrast, children placed with high-quality foster families showed improved outcomes, particularly at ages 12 and 16.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateSep 27, 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.

DARPA funds Carnegie Mellon team for Subterranean Challenge

The Carnegie Mellon team will leverage its expertise in modularity to develop robots that can adapt to various environments, including small spaces and large structures. The team aims to create robots capable of rapid mapping, exploring, and exploiting complex underground environments.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·DateSep 27, 2018

Shake, rattle, and roll to high efficiency photovoltaics

Researchers at Penn State discover unique properties of halide perovskites that enable efficient conversion of sunlight into electricity, guiding the development of next-generation solar cells. The study's findings provide insights into how to improve the performance and stability of these materials.

SourcePenn State·JournalChem·DateSep 27, 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.

NASA-NOAA satellite looks into Typhoon Trami's ragged eye

Typhoon Trami showed a wide and ragged eye with deep convection and developing thunderstorms in NASA-NOAA's Suomi NPP satellite image on Sept. 27, 2018. The storm was located near latitude 22.2 degrees north and longitude 128.6 degrees east, with maximum sustained winds of 90 knots.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 27, 2018

Plasma thruster: New space debris removal technology

A new plasma thruster technology has been developed to remove space debris, decelerating it with a force imparted from the satellite. The system uses bi-directional ejection of plasma plumes, controlled by a magnetic field and gas injection, for efficient removal in three operational modes.

SourceTohoku University·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 27, 2018

Polymer coating cools down buildings

Researchers create high-performance exterior PDRC polymer coating with nano-to-microscale air voids, which reflects sunlight and radiates heat to the sky. The coating can be fabricated, dyed, and applied like paint on various surfaces, achieving cooling capabilities in both desert and tropical climates.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalScience·DateSep 27, 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.

UM research to focus on muscles of bird flight

Researchers will explore how smooth muscles control feathers and aid birds in flight, a novel approach that could reveal the role of smooth muscle in limb control for the first time. By studying body contour feathers and wing movement, they aim to transform our understanding of bird flight.

SourceThe University of Montana·DateSep 27, 2018

Where are they?

A team of UCSB students, led by Philip Lubin, are searching for signs of alien life in Andromeda using a suite of telescopes and photonic technology. They aim to detect potential signals from civilizations using optical beams that could be visible across the universe.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·DateSep 27, 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.

New study hints at potential antibiotic breakthrough

Researchers develop structure-disrupting peptides to target bacterial proteins' structural core, reducing likelihood of resistance development. The study finds promising results in inhibiting multidrug-resistant bacteria growth and treating gonococcal infections.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateSep 27, 2018

Can we teach heart cells to grow up?

Researchers have identified serum response factor (SRF) as a critical regulator of cardiomyocyte maturation. SRF plays a key role in organizing contractile structures and regulating gene expression, but its level affects cell maturity. The study provides new insights into heart muscle development and regeneration.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 27, 2018

Silver fox study reveals genetic clues to social behavior

A new Cornell University-led study has identified genes that were altered in tame animals in two areas of the brain involved with learning and memory. Genes impacting serotonergic and glutaminergic neurons, important for learning and memory, were clearly affected by selection toward tameness.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 27, 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.

Certain reflux and ulcer medications linked with bone fractures in dialysis patients

A new study finds that proton pump inhibitors are associated with a 19% higher risk of hip fractures in dialysis patients, regardless of usage level. Histamine-2 receptor antagonists were not linked to increased fracture risk. The findings highlight the need for individualized assessment and caution in PPI use among hemodialysis patients.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateSep 27, 2018

UBC study: Publicizing a firm's security levels may strengthen security over time

A new UBC study found that publicizing a firm's security levels can lead to reduced spam and strengthened security over time. The research quantified the security levels of over 1,200 Pan-Asian companies, revealing that firms were more likely to prioritize security improvements when cyberattacks were less likely to directly harm them.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia - Sauder School of Business·DateSep 27, 2018

Chinese researchers discover how bird feathers resist tearing

Bird feathers have been found to resist tearing due to a sophisticated cascaded slide-lock system, composed of flexible hooklets and spines. This discovery overturns centuries-old explanations and provides insight into the design of smart textiles.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 27, 2018

How a sleeping cancer awakens and metastasizes

Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory found that sustained lung inflammation can awaken dormant breast and prostate cancer cells, leading to metastasis. A new antibody approach may block this signaling pathway, preventing cancer recurrence.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalScience·DateSep 27, 2018

The persistent killer of killer whales

A new study models the impact of PCBs on killer whale populations, finding that high concentrations in key regions could lead to collapse within a century. The model simulates accumulation and transfer of the chemical to offspring, tying population size and sustainability to proximity to PCB production.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateSep 27, 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.

Scientists discover genetic basis for how harmful algal blooms become toxic

A team of researchers has identified the genetic basis for the production of domoic acid, a potent neurotoxin produced by harmful algal blooms. The study's findings suggest that changes in oceanic conditions, such as phosphate limitation and increased carbon dioxide levels, can trigger toxin production.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience·DateSep 27, 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.

Hospital privacy curtains may harbor dangerous germs: New study

A pilot study found that hospital privacy curtains became increasingly contaminated with MRSA over time, especially when placed in patient rooms. The study recommends regular cleaning or replacing curtains to prevent healthcare-associated infections.

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal of Infection Control·DateSep 27, 2018

Narrowing sexual health equity gap for Puerto Rican adolescents

A Penn Nursing study found that parents with lower education levels were more likely to access a web-based health program, but still struggled with computer and internet access. The research highlights the need for culturally sensitive digital health resources to address health disparities among Puerto Rican adolescents.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Nursing·JournalNursing Research·DateSep 27, 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.

Skin is a battlefield for mutations

Researchers have discovered that mutant skin cells in humans compete with each other for survival, leading to only the fittest mutants progressing to form cancer. This study reveals that normal human skin is more resilient to cancer than previously thought, and can function normally despite a battle between mutated cells.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateSep 27, 2018

A protein prevents plants from premature flowering

Researchers at UNIGE have identified a protein called RUP2 that blocks the effect of UV-B radiation on plant flowering, allowing plants to regulate their growth in response to seasonal changes. This discovery has significant implications for agriculture and our understanding of plant development.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalGenes & Development·DateSep 27, 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.

The brain diet

Researchers found a relationship between high FGF23 levels and structural compromise in the brain, particularly in the frontal lobes, which control learning and complex cognitive functions. Elevated FGF23 levels were also associated with increased disconnection in the brain, indicating problems with brain health in those areas.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 27, 2018

Ledumahadi mafube -- South Africa's new jurassic giant

Ledumahadi mafube, a 12-tonne giant plant-eater, was the largest land animal alive when it lived nearly 200 million years ago. The new species' fossil reveals insights into its evolution and geographic history.

SourceUniversity of the Witwatersrand·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 27, 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.

Unusual case of father-to-son HIV transmission reported

A 4-year-old boy was infected with HIV-1 after accidental exposure to the virus through his father's skin blisters during seroconversion, a period of viral replication and immune response. The transmission highlights the importance of understanding HIV transmission in atypical ways.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalAIDS Research and Human Retroviruses·DateSep 27, 2018

Large stretches of coral reefs can be rehabilitated

Researchers found that installing small hexagonal structures called 'spiders' across 5 acres of reef increased live coral cover from less than 10% to over 60%. This cost-effective method has the potential to inform other large-scale coral reef restoration efforts.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalRestoration Ecology·DateSep 27, 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.

Illinois research accurately predicts US end-of-season corn yield

Researchers at the University of Illinois have created a new method to predict US end-of-season corn yields, outperforming the USDA's current estimations. The new system uses a combination of seasonal climate prediction and satellite data for more accurate predictions.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·DateSep 27, 2018

What drove the unusually intense hurricane season in 2017?

A study suggests that a warmer tropical Atlantic and increased greenhouse gas concentrations may have driven the 2017 Atlantic hurricane season. The researchers predict higher numbers of major hurricanes in future seasons, with a continued risk over the Caribbean, US Coast, and northern North Atlantic.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateSep 27, 2018

Vitamin D supplements may promote weight loss in obese children

A study of 232 obese children found that vitamin D supplementation led to significant reductions in body mass index and body fat. This suggests a potential role for vitamin D in reducing the risk of serious health problems, such as heart disease and diabetes, later in life.

SourceEuropean Society for Paediatric Endocrinology·DateSep 27, 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.

The warm glow of kindness is real -- Sussex study confirms

A major study from University of Sussex confirms that acts of kindness activate the brain's reward network, regardless of personal benefit. The research found distinct neural responses to altruistic and strategic kindness, with some areas more active during pure altruism.

SourceUniversity of Sussex·JournalNeuroImage·DateSep 27, 2018

Lidar survey 'compels' revaluation of aspects of ancient Maya society

A lidar survey of over 2,000 square kilometers in northern Guatemala has revalued aspects of ancient Maya society, estimating that up to 11 million people lived in the region during the Late Classic Period. The study also found extensive agricultural modification and networks of roadways connecting distant cities.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateSep 27, 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.

'Bin chicken' plays unique role in story of evolution

A French scientist's discovery of ibis mummies in Egypt led to a pivotal debate on evolution, with naturalist Georges Cuvier opposing Lamarck's emerging ideas. The study highlights the significance of considering dominant personalities' biases in scientific research.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalPLOS Biology·DateSep 27, 2018

Smart devices could soon tap their owners as a battery source

Researchers at University of Surrey develop innovative Triboelectric Nanogenerators (TENGs) that capture energy from human movements, wind, and machine vibration. The study provides a step-by-step guide on constructing efficient energy harvesters, paving the way for a future with free and renewable energy.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·DateSep 27, 2018

Success in the Excellence Competition: Three clusters for TU Dresden

TU Dresden has secured funding for three new Clusters of Excellence, including PoL: Physics of Life, ct.qmat: Complexity and Topology in Quantum Materials, and CeTI: Center for Tactile Internet. This achievement confirms the university's continuous development and commitment to cutting-edge research.

SourceTechnische Universität Dresden·DateSep 27, 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.

Lack of science support fails Brazil

A catastrophic fire at Brazil's National Museum destroyed biodiversity and cultural artifacts, highlighting the need for improved museum infrastructure. Scientists are now calling on governments to safeguard collections before suffering further losses.

SourceCalifornia Academy of Sciences·JournalScience·DateSep 27, 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.

First-born children more likely to learn about sex from parents

A new study found that first-born children are more likely to report parental involvement in sex education than later-born children. The study also revealed significant gender disparities in parental involvement, with men consistently reporting lower levels of parental engagement.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalSex Education·DateSep 27, 2018

In the battle of cats vs. rats, the rats are winning

Researchers monitored microchipped rats in the presence of feral cats, finding that rats avoided cats and spent more time in burrows, contradicting popular opinion about cat-rat interactions. The study adds to growing evidence that releasing cats to control city rats is outweighed by threats to urban wildlife.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and Evolution·DateSep 27, 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.

New gene variants associated with chronic back pain

Researchers have discovered three genetic variants associated with chronic back pain, which may provide clues for understanding its occurrence. The study found that these variants are linked to genes controlling skeletal development and spinal cord function.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateSep 27, 2018

A simple measurement of abdominal obesity

A simple measurement of abdominal obesity index (ABOI) has been developed to determine central obesity, focusing on abdominal fat content rather than total body weight or shape. ABOI can be calculated by measuring abdominal circumference and chest circumference, providing a more accurate assessment of abdominal obesity.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalThe Open Nutrition Journal·DateSep 27, 2018

New study probes the ancient past of a body plan code

A new study reveals that Hox genes play a role in regulating the body plan of radially symmetrical animals like sea anemones. The research found that disrupting Hox gene function led to defects in segmentation and tentacle patterning, suggesting an ancestral role for these genes in controlling body development.

SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·JournalScience·DateSep 27, 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.

New study examines 'strategic retention' of teachers by effective principals

A new study by Vanderbilt University researchers found that highly rated principals use 'strategic retention' to keep high-performing teachers and remove low-performing ones. Effective principals focus on teacher observation scores to identify underperformers, using informal methods such as counseling out.

SourceAmerican Educational Research Association·JournalAmerican Educational Research Journal·DateSep 27, 2018

Vampire bats found to carry infectious bacteria at high rates

A study found that 67% of vampire bats in Belize and Peru are infected with Bartonella bacteria, which can cause endocarditis. The research suggests transmission may occur through bites or environmental contamination, highlighting the risk of cross-species transmission.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateSep 27, 2018

Composite significantly reduces electromagnetic pollution

Researchers synthesized PANI/Zn ferrite composites, showing excellent microwave absorption performance. The fluffy structure and dielectric loss capabilities contribute to the attenuation of microwave energy, making this composite a good microwave absorber.

SourceWorld Scientific·JournalNANO·DateSep 27, 2018

People can die from giving up the fight

Researchers describe five stages of give-up-itis, a condition characterized by progressive psychological decline and apathy, leading to potentially life-threatening consequences. The condition is triggered by severe trauma and affects the anterior cingulate circuit, governing motivation and goal-directed behavior.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalMedical Hypotheses·DateSep 27, 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.

Genetic analyses hone risk prediction for coronary disease

A recent study has shown that adding genetic factors to existing risk assessments can help predict future major coronary events in people with type 2 diabetes. The genetic score provides a significant improvement in correctly predicting cardiovascular risk, particularly when used early in life.

SourceJoslin Diabetes Center·JournalDiabetes Care·DateSep 27, 2018

Stillbirth reduction strategy remains unproven, study finds

A care package aimed at reducing the risk of stillbirth showed a marginal drop in rates, but effects were too small to prove its benefits. The study suggests other interventions will likely be needed to reduce stillbirth rates worldwide.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalThe Lancet·DateSep 27, 2018

Enhanced rehab for stroke doubles movement recovery

Researchers developed targeted plasticity therapy (TPT) to pair physical movements with vagus nerve stimulation, accelerating brain reorganization and recovery. The study found TPT to be twice as effective as traditional rehabilitation alone in doubling upper limb recovery rates.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalStroke·DateSep 27, 2018

True burden of stillbirths in Europe vastly underestimated

A study of 2.5 million babies in 19 European countries found that around one-third of stillbirths occur before 28 weeks of pregnancy but are not officially recognized, with significant gaps in knowledge of the burden of stillbirth. Improvements in reporting and policy can help acknowledge the loss of these parents' children.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·DateSep 27, 2018

Non-small cell lung cancer patients see improved survival with durvalumab

A new clinical trial has found that durvalumab improved progression-free survival by 17.2 months compared to placebo in patients with stage 3 non-small cell lung cancer. Overall survival rates also increased, with 66.3% of patients surviving at two years, compared to 55.6% on placebo.

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateSep 27, 2018

Therapy applied directly inside the eye best for treating uveitic macular edema

A comparative clinical trial found that delivering corticosteroids directly into the eye is more effective than injecting them adjacent to the eye in treating uveitic macular edema. The treatment led to significant reductions in macular edema and improvements in visual acuity, with intravitreal triamcinolone and dexamethasone implant s...

SourceNIH/National Eye Institute·JournalOphthalmology·DateSep 27, 2018

Physical exercise improves the elimination of toxic proteins from muscles

Researchers found that exercise stimulates autophagy, a cellular process responsible for removing damaged proteins and toxins from muscles. The study shows that regular physical activity can reduce the buildup of toxic proteins in muscles, leading to improved muscle function and reduced wasting.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 27, 2018

Putting noise to work

Researchers have demonstrated that noise can induce coherence resonance in nonlinear systems, allowing for the detection of weak signals without a reference signal. The results show promise for developing passive lock-in amplifiers with reduced integration times and operating range.

SourceForschungsverbund Berlin·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateSep 27, 2018

One hundred percent success

The University of Freiburg has been granted two Clusters of Excellence, CIBSS and livMatS, with funding of up to 100 million euros over seven years. The clusters will focus on biological signalling studies and bioinspired materials research.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·DateSep 27, 2018

PCB pollution threatens to wipe out killer whales

A new study published in the journal Science reveals that killer whale populations are severely affected by PCBs, with over half of studied populations showing significant declines. The research predicts that these populations may disappear within 30-50 years if current levels of pollution persist.

SourceAarhus University·JournalScience·DateSep 27, 2018

Educating the next generation of medical professionals with machine learning is essential

A new course at Boston University School of Medicine aims to educate students and trainees on machine learning concepts, preparing them for the growing data science revolution in healthcare. The authors emphasize the need for embedding ML curriculum into medical education to enhance clinical decision-making and management.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·Journalnpj Digital Medicine·DateSep 27, 2018

'Cellular memory' of DNA damage in oocyte quality control

New research reveals that Rnf212 helps create a 'cellular memory' of DNA damage in oocytes, allowing cells to assess the severity of defects and prevent defective eggs from being formed. This process ensures that only high-quality eggs are selected for the ovarian reserve.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalMolecular Cell·DateSep 27, 2018

Why a 'cuckoo in the nest' can go undetected

Some species are unable to recognize genetic differences between their own offspring and those of intruders, leading to acceptance. Genetic features associated with recognition may have died out due to the disadvantage of being different, making it impossible for parents to reject parasitic offspring.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 27, 2018

Viruses discern, destroy E. coli in drinking water

Researchers at Cornell University have developed a new test that employs a bacteriophage to detect the presence of E. coli in drinking water. The test can provide results within hours, rather than days, allowing for faster action to be taken in case of contamination.

SourceCornell University·DateSep 27, 2018

Decoding multiple frames from a single, scattered exposure

Researchers at Duke University have developed a new technique to reconstruct sequence of diffuse images from one long photographic exposure. By using a coded aperture, they can extract individual frames from a single, scattered exposure, overcoming limitations such as motion and constant scattering medium.

SourceDuke University·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 27, 2018