Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for April 13, 2016


Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Scientists report on novel method for extending the life of implantable devices in situ

Researchers at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center report a breakthrough in extending the life of implantable devices by rapidly regenerating molecular constituents in situ. The new approach, using an enzyme called Staphylococcus aureus Sortase A, enables repeated regeneration of bioactive films without device removal.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 13, 2016

Fresh look at trope about Eskimo words for snow

A study published in PLOS ONE challenges the notion that Inuit and other Arctic groups have a vast number of words for snow, instead revealing that languages from warmer regions tend to use one word for both snow and ice

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 13, 2016

Certain types of polyps may warrant keeping closer tabs on the colon

A study found patients with flat adenomas are more likely to have large and advanced adenomas as well as multiple adenomas. This may require more frequent screenings for these patients. Colonoscopy is an effective screening test for colon cancer, allowing doctors to remove precancerous polyps.

SourceAmerican Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy·JournalGastrointestinal Endoscopy·DateApr 13, 2016
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.

Understanding ocean processes

Using satellite data and subsurface observations, researchers aim to better understand the ocean's biological carbon pump and its response to climate change. The study's findings have significant implications for predicting CO2 levels and understanding the Earth's climate.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·DateApr 13, 2016
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.

Using data to protect coral reefs from climate change

A global index detailing vulnerable corals and their susceptibility to thermal stress is now available. The index, based on nearly half a century of historical data, will help conservationists and scientists understand the effects of climate change on coral reefs.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateApr 13, 2016

Detection of atomic scale structure of Cooper-pairs in a high-TC superconductor

A team of scientists from Seoul National University and the Center for Correlated Electron Systems has made the first-ever observation of Cooper-pair density waves at an atomic level. The detection was achieved using Scanning Josephson Tunneling Microscopy, allowing researchers to directly measure Cooper-pairs in atomic resolution.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature·DateApr 13, 2016

Elusive state of superconducting matter discovered after 50 years

Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory have produced direct evidence of a predicted state of electronic matter in superconductors. The discovery, confirmed through the use of scanning tunneling microscopy, reveals periodic variations in Cooper pair density across space, validating the 50-year-old prediction.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalNature·DateApr 13, 2016
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.

The economic crisis has worsened the hard lives of homeless people

A study by the University of the Basque Country found that the economic crisis has worsened the lives of homeless people, especially those who are foreign. The research revealed a rise in homelessness, primarily due to difficulties accessing jobs and cuts to financial aid, leading to increased duration of integration into society.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalEuropean Journal of Social Work·DateApr 13, 2016

New imaging technique reveals vulnerability of coral reefs

A novel imaging technique using µCT scans has revealed that coral reefs are more vulnerable to bioerosion than previously thought, with changes in ocean pH having a significant impact on reef growth and breakdown. The study provides new insights into the complex relationships between environmental conditions and reef processes.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 13, 2016

Anti-fibrotic peptide shows early promise against interstitial lung disease

Researchers at the Medical University of South Carolina discovered that the M10 peptide protects against fibrotic damage in a mouse model of ILD and is likely due to its modulation of the TGF-β1 pathway. The anti-fibrotic effects of M10 may also be effective in treating other forms of pulmonary fibrosis.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalTranslational Research·DateApr 13, 2016

Headdress reconstruction throws light on hunter-gatherer rituals

A research team used traditional techniques to create replicas of ritual headdresses made by hunter-gatherers 11,000 years ago in North Western Europe. The study suggests that expedient manufacturing techniques were employed, involving packing the skull with damp clay and placing it in a bed of embers.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 13, 2016
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.

Changes in state policies impact fatal and non-fatal assaults of law enforcement officers

A new study by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health researchers found that three-strikes laws increase fatal and non-fatal assaults on officers by 33% and 62%, respectively. In contrast, permit-to-purchase handgun laws appear to protect law enforcement officers against handgun assaults, with Missouri's repeal associated with...

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalInjury Prevention·DateApr 13, 2016

Chemical weathering controls erosion rates in rivers

New research finds that chemical weathering can weaken rock structures in river beds, making them more susceptible to erosion. The study reveals a positive feedback loop where high precipitation rates maintain high erosion rates despite continuously exposing 'fresh rock'.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalNature·DateApr 13, 2016

Computers in your clothes? A milestone for wearable electronics

Ohio State University researchers develop functional textiles that can transmit digital information, enabling applications such as smart clothing, health monitoring, and brain implants. The technology reduces material cost by 24 times, making it more accessible for widespread adoption.

SourceOhio State University·JournalIEEE Antennas and Wireless Propagation Letters·DateApr 13, 2016
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.

How LSD can make us lose our sense of self

A new study using fMRI images has found that LSD causes regions of the brain involved in higher cognition to become heavily over-connected, leading to a sense of ego dissolution. This phenomenon is also seen in certain psychiatric and neurological disorders.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 13, 2016

Fast food may expose consumers to harmful chemicals called phthalates

A study by George Washington University researchers found that people who ate more fast food had higher levels of phthalates in their urine, which have been linked to reproductive damage and infertility. The study also discovered that grain and meat items were significant contributors to phthalate exposure.

SourceGeorge Washington University Milken Institute School of Public Health·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateApr 13, 2016
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.

New research explains why HIV is not cleared by the immune system

Scientists at UNC School of Medicine and Sanford Burnham Prebys discovered a human protein, NLRX1, that represses the innate immune response to HIV. This finding provides critical insight into improving HIV antiviral therapies and has implications for cancer treatment.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateApr 13, 2016

On-the-go diagnosis of HIV and HCV co-infections

The researchers created a portable, paper-based electrochemical 'immunosensing' platform for rapid diagnosis of HIV and HCV co-infections. The device can detect HIV and HCV antibodies at lower concentrations than existing tests, with high accuracy and sensitivity.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalBiomicrofluidics·DateApr 13, 2016

Bubbles lead to disaster

Researchers used computer models and laboratory experiments to study bubble behavior in magma reservoirs. They found that bubbles accumulate faster in crystal-rich zones, leading to overpressurization and potential sulfur emissions. This discovery sheds light on the underlying mechanisms of super-volcanic eruptions.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature·DateApr 13, 2016

University research reveals greatest Formula One driver of all time

A statistical analysis by the University of Sheffield ranks Juan Manuel Fangio as the greatest Formula One driver in history, with teams playing a significant role in success. The study found that teams are around six times more important to success than individual drivers.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalJournal of Quantitative Analysis in Sports·DateApr 13, 2016
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.

Trap and neutralize: A new way to clean contaminated groundwater

Researchers have discovered a chemical method to immobilize uranium in contaminated groundwater, which could lead to more precise water remediation efforts. The technique involves adding specific amounts of phosphate to form a calcium phosphate barrier that traps uranium, rendering it inert.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateApr 13, 2016

After 18 million years, a new species of extinct rodent discovered in Israel

A new species of extinct rodent, Sayimys negevensis, has been discovered in Israel's Negev desert, providing insights into the early dispersal route of mammals from Asia to Africa. The discovery bridges the gap between primitive ctenodactylines and gundis, highlighting Israel's unique paleogeographic position.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 13, 2016
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.

Drug candidate halts crippling excess bone growth in animal model of a rare bone disease

Scientists have found that palovarotene, a previously tested emphysema drug, prevents multiple skeletal problems caused by fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP) and maintains normal limb motion in lab animals. The drug has potent effects, preventing heterotopic ossification and preserving bone growth.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·DateApr 13, 2016

Michael Gage and Arnold Pizer receive 2016 AMS Impact Award

WeBWorK, created by Michael Gage and Arnold Pizer, has made an invaluable contribution to teaching mathematics through its open-source online homework system. The system provides immediate feedback to students and is used in mathematics classes across the country, covering courses from college algebra to linear algebra.

SourceAmerican Mathematical Society·DateApr 13, 2016
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.

Scorpion toxin insights may lead to a new class of insecticides

Research has identified molecular clues driving the effectiveness of scorpion toxins, including the tuning that makes them more toxic to insects. The study found eight protein hot spots indicative of adaptive evolution, which could lead to promising new candidates for insecticides.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateApr 13, 2016

What Flint's water crisis could mean for the rest of the nation

Aging lead pipes pose health risks across the US, with federal funding called for to address concerns sparked by the Flint water crisis. Scientists recommend replacing deteriorating infrastructure to prevent lead leaching into drinking water supplies.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Chemical Education·DateApr 13, 2016

Expanding insurance for single-embryo IVF could improve pregnancy outcomes

A national survey of IVF cycles found that elective single-embryo transfer results in fewer adverse outcomes and ideal pregnancy outcomes, including single, full-term babies of normal birth weight. The study also shows that insurance coverage for infertility treatment is associated with increased use of elective single-embryo transfer.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalFertility and Sterility·DateApr 13, 2016
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.

Physicists gain new view of superconductor

Researchers directly observed waves in superconductivity for the first time using scanning tunneling microscopes. They found relatively modest wave amplitude, but discovered that tuning different materials could produce more dramatic results.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalNature·DateApr 13, 2016

Exposure to American Indian mascots activates stereotypes

A new study published in the Journal of Consumer Psychology found that exposure to American Indian sports mascots can strengthen negative stereotypes, especially among liberal individuals. The researchers also discovered that a person's political identity can predict how susceptible they are to adopting stereotypes associated with bran...

SourceThe University of Montana·JournalJournal of Consumer Psychology·DateApr 13, 2016

Ice streams can be slowed down by gas hydrates

A study suggests that gas hydrates in sediments slowed down an ice stream in the Barents Sea during the last ice age. The sticky spots under the ice act like hook and loop fasteners, creating friction and lubrication that can stop or slow the flow of the ice stream.

SourceUiT The Arctic University of Norway·JournalNature Geoscience·DateApr 13, 2016
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

City moths avoid the light

A new study by Swiss zoologists found that urban moths have learned to avoid light due to high mortality rates in rural populations. The researchers observed a significant decrease in flight-to-light propensity among moths exposed to heavy light pollution.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalBiology Letters·DateApr 13, 2016

Genetic diversity helps to limit infectious disease

Research by University of Exeter academics reveals that genetic diversity in bacterial populations can help control the spread of diseases. By generating a diverse CRISPR-Cas immune system, host diversity limits parasite evolution, leading to rapid extinction of viruses on mixed-population hosts.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature·DateApr 13, 2016
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.

Some frogs are adapting to deadly pathogen

Researchers found that some frogs in Arizona are rapidly adapting to the fungal pathogen Batrachochrytrium dendrobatridis, which causes chytridiomycosis. The study identified a specific genetic variant, allele Q, that confers immunity to the disease, and showed that these variants were being rapidly inherited and evolving.

SourceCornell University·DateApr 13, 2016

Biophysics: Sorting the wheat from the chaff

Temperature gradients within pore channels in rock can separate primitive biopolymers based on their sequences, enabling the formation of self-replicating systems. This process is thought to have played a key role in the origin of life.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateApr 13, 2016

GPM sees heavy rain in Tropical Cyclone Fantala

Tropical Cyclone Fantala intensified with sustained winds near 80 knots, prompting heavy rainfall of up to 189 mm/h. The Joint Typhoon Warning Center predicts further intensification and potential impact on northern Madagascar.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateApr 13, 2016

Spotting DNA repair genes gone awry

Scientists have identified 182 genome instability suppressing (GIS) genes in yeast and over 400 previously unknown cooperating GIS genes. These findings suggest a complex genetic network maintaining genome integrity and highlight potential therapeutic targets for cancer treatment.

SourceLudwig Institute for Cancer Research·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 13, 2016
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

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

A new roundworm species from India is a link between 2 genera

A new roundworm species discovered in India is a bridge between two genera, Acrostichus and Diplogastrellus. The species exhibits intermediate characteristics, such as a narrow mouth cavity and robust male copulatory organs, making it a transitional species.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalBiodiversity Data Journal·DateApr 13, 2016

Repairing DNA damage in the human body

Researchers found increased mutations at gene promoter sites are caused by a compromised nucleotide excision repair system. This highlights the need for further research into gene promoter mutations and their role in cancer development.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalNature·DateApr 13, 2016

Scientists grow a material based on hafnium oxide for a new type of non-volatile memory

Researchers have successfully grown ultra-thin ferroelectric films based on hafnium oxide, which could potentially be used to develop non-volatile memory elements. The films' ferroelectric properties are compatible with silicon technology, paving the way for the creation of new non-volatile memory devices.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateApr 13, 2016

Animal study paints picture of the earliest immune responses to HIV

Researchers exposed monkeys to SIV, the monkey equivalent of HIV, and found that the virus triggers early host responses that suppress antiviral immunity. This early inflammation promotes viral replication, highlighting the need for effective prevention tools.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalCell·DateApr 13, 2016

Drug candidate stops extra bone growth in animal model of rare, genetic disease

A preclinical study shows that palovarotene, a repurposed drug, inhibits extra bone growth and preserves normal skeletal bone growth in mice with fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP). The drug balances the effects of the FOP mutation, effectively restoring near-normal growth.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·DateApr 13, 2016
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.

Scientists discover how to control heart cells using a laser

Researchers have found a way to control heart muscle cells using laser radiation, which could lead to new treatments for arrhythmia. The study used azoTAB molecules and found that controlling the ion channels in cardiomyocytes can reduce abnormal heart rhythms.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 13, 2016

Study discovers link between cancer and autism

Researchers found patients with autism have higher gene mutations that drive cancer, but lower cancer rates. Autistic patients have significantly higher rates of DNA variation in oncogenes and are less likely to have a co-occurring diagnosis of cancer.

SourceUniversity of Iowa Health Care·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 13, 2016

Study links gang membership and depression

A recent study found that gang membership is associated with increased levels of depression and suicidal thoughts among middle- and high-school students. The research, conducted by Michigan State University and Bowling Green State University, highlights the negative impact of gang involvement on mental health outcomes.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalCriminal Justice and Behavior·DateApr 13, 2016
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.

High rate of cancer recurrence found in certain hepatitis C patients

A new study found that patients with Hepatitis C virus who took direct-acting antiviral treatments had a 'high rate' of re-developing their illness, including liver cancer. The study suggests that these patients require close monitoring due to the high risk of recurrence.

SourceEuropean Association for the Study of the Liver·DateApr 13, 2016

Differing perspectives on antiviral treatment efficacy in patients co-infected with HIV and HCV

Studies presented at The International Liver Congress 2016 show differing perspectives on direct-acting antiviral (DAA) treatment efficacy in patients co-infected with HIV and HCV. While one study found lower SVR12 rates in co-infected patients, another study showed no statistically significant impact of HIV co-infection on DAAs.

SourceEuropean Association for the Study of the Liver·DateApr 13, 2016
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.

Maple syrup protects neurons and nurtures young minds

Researchers discovered that maple syrup, rich in polyphenols, can prevent the development of ALS in C. elegans worms by protecting neurons from toxic proteins. The study found that a combination of sugar and polyphenols may have a neuroprotective effect.

SourceUniversity of Montreal Hospital Research Centre (CRCHUM)·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateApr 13, 2016

Gene defect may point to solution for Alzheimer's

Researchers at the University of Bergen have found a link between a gene defect and Alzheimer's disease, identifying protein PITRM1 as a crucial factor in disease development. The study suggests that reduced levels of this protein may lead to increased amyloid deposition in the brain.

SourceThe University of Bergen·JournalEMBO Molecular Medicine·DateApr 13, 2016

Satellite images reveal dramatic tropical glacier retreat

Scientists have obtained high-resolution satellite images revealing the dramatic retreat of tropical glaciers in the Pacific, particularly in West Papua New Guinea. The Carstenz Glacier has almost completely disappeared, while the East North Wall Firn has split into smaller fragments.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalRemote Sensing·DateApr 13, 2016
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.

UCLA research suggests that gut bacteria could help prevent cancer

A UCLA study found that anti-inflammatory gut bacteria can slow or stop the development of certain types of cancer. Researchers discovered that a specific bacterium, Lactobacillus johnsonii 456, reduced gene damage and inflammation in mice with cancer, leading to a lower risk of tumor formation.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 13, 2016

Spreading seeds by human migration

Researchers at the University of California, Riverside, found that corn grown in home and community gardens in Southern California has higher genetic diversity than commercial seeds. This discovery highlights the importance of preserving genetic resources through diverse farming practices.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalEconomic Botany·DateApr 13, 2016
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Study suggests link between obesity and kidney cancer

A study published by the University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center found a link between obesity and kidney cancer recurrence, with leptin receptors playing a key role in tumor formation. The research suggests that obesity may also impact prognosis for patients with renal cell carcinoma.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·DateApr 13, 2016

Affordable Care Act payment reform achieves early gains

Accountable care organizations that joined the Medicare Shared Savings Program achieved modest savings while maintaining or improving quality of patient care. Independent primary care groups participating in the program achieved significantly greater savings than hospital-integrated groups.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateApr 13, 2016
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.

Immunosuppressive medication effectively treats ocular graft-versus-host-disease

A clinical trial found that patients treated with tacrolimus experienced equal relief of ocular symptoms as those treated with methylprednisolone, with fewer negative serious side effects. The study suggests that tacrolimus is an effective therapeutic option for ocular GVHD without the known hypertensive effects of steroids.

SourceMass Eye and Ear·JournalOphthalmology·DateApr 13, 2016

UA team revs up connected-vehicle technology

Researchers at the University of Arizona have developed a connected-vehicle technology that enables vehicles to communicate with each other and infrastructure in real-time. This technology has the potential to significantly change how traffic is managed and how drivers experience the road, aiming to reduce crashes and pollution.

SourceUniversity of Arizona College of Engineering·DateApr 13, 2016

New Medicare primary care improvement results: U-M expert available to comment

The Comprehensive Primary Care Initiative has shown modest improvements in patient experience, with costs and quality measures remaining largely unchanged. To truly improve care, efforts must extend beyond primary care and integrate it with specialty care and hospital care.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateApr 13, 2016

Location data on two apps enough to identify someone, says study

A team of researchers has identified new privacy concerns by demonstrating that geotagged posts on just two social media apps are enough to link accounts held by the same person. The study found that individuals can be identified with a high degree of confidence by matching their movements across two data sets.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·DateApr 13, 2016

Vital nutrient has key role in keeping body clocks running on time

Researchers found that levels of magnesium rise and fall in a daily cycle, controlling the cells' internal clocks and impacting metabolism. This discovery may aid the development of chronotherapy and crop varieties with increased yields or adjustable harvesting seasons.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalNature·DateApr 13, 2016
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.

Why bearcats smell like buttered popcorn

A new study finds that binturongs release a popcorn-like aroma from their urine, containing the compound 2-acetyl-1-pyrroline, to mark territories and attract mates. Researchers analyzed urine samples from 33 binturongs and identified 29 chemical compounds, with 2-AP being present in every sample.

SourceDuke University·DateApr 13, 2016

Helping asthma patients breathe easier

Dr. Harissios Vliagoftis has been appointed as the GSK-CIHR Chair in Airway Inflammation, focusing on protease-activated receptor 2 (PAR2) research to help patients with asthma breathe easier. His work aims to develop biomarkers and treatments that can minimize discomfort and side effects.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·DateApr 13, 2016

Hospitals could reduce healthcare burden of alcohol related harm by simple routine screening

A new study finds that universal screening for alcohol misuse among hospital admissions can identify patients at greatest risk and provide targeted treatment, reducing the healthcare burden of alcohol-related harm. The UK researchers screened over 53,000 admissions and found that simple screening is achievable and effective in targetin...

SourceEuropean Association for the Study of the Liver·DateApr 13, 2016

New asthma biomarkers discovered, could ease detection

Researchers at Penn State College of Medicine have identified new asthma biomarkers in blood that can predict asthma with 91% accuracy. The discovery may lead to the development of a diagnostic blood test and more targeted treatments for asthma.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateApr 13, 2016
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Testosterone therapy decreases hospital readmissions in older men with low testosterone

A large-scale population-based study found that older men using testosterone therapy had lower rates of hospital readmissions compared to non-users. The study, published in Mayo Clinic Proceedings, analyzed data from over 6,000 men and showed a 9.8% rate of 30-day hospital readmissions among testosterone users versus 13% for non-users.

SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateApr 13, 2016

Innovative Exeter research pioneers nanotechnology for gas sensing

A team of scientists at the University of Exeter has created a new type of device that emits light in the infrared spectrum, enabling efficient gas sensing. The innovative device uses a sandwich of 2D materials and can operate for over 1000 hours in air, paving the way for practical applications.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateApr 13, 2016

Thick-skinned bed bugs beat commonly used bug sprays

New research reveals bed bugs have developed thicker cuticles to resist insecticides, making control efforts more challenging. Understanding this resistance mechanism could lead to the development of new strategies for effective bed bug control.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 13, 2016

Powerful mass spectrometer opens new vistas for scientists

A powerful new mass spectrometer has been made available to scientists worldwide to study molecular processes in the environment, biology and energy. The 21 Tesla Ultra-High-Resolution Mass Spectrometer can distinguish between molecules that differ by almost unimaginably small nuances.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·DateApr 13, 2016

Sugary drinks tax would offer big benefits

A new study shows a 20% tax on sugar-sweetened drinks could reduce annual health expenditure by up to $29 million. The tax would also result in an estimated 800 fewer new Type 2 diabetes cases each year.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 13, 2016
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.

Discovered a protein that spreads cancer

A team of researchers has identified a protein called PITPNC1 that characterizes aggressive cancer cells. This protein enables cancer cells to spread through the blood vessels by penetrating tissue, allowing for earlier detection and potentially more effective treatments.

SourceThe University of Bergen·JournalCancer Cell·DateApr 13, 2016
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.

Device allows paralyzed man to swipe credit card, perform other movements

A device called NeuroLife has enabled a paralyzed man to perform complex movements such as swiping a credit card and playing a guitar video game with his fingers and hand. The technology, developed by Battelle and Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, interprets brain signals and bypasses the spinal cord to stimulate muscles.

SourceMediaSource·JournalNature·DateApr 13, 2016
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.

Mysterious 'four-dimensional' iron oxide explained

Researchers describe the complex structure and proposed explanation for the unusual properties of Fe4O5, a recently discovered iron oxide that exhibits a four-dimensional crystal structure. The material shows similarities to magnetite but lacks ferroelectric properties, sparking interest in its potential practical applications.

SourceLomonosov Moscow State University·JournalNature Chemistry·DateApr 13, 2016

Only half of advanced rectal cancer patients receiving standard therapy

A new study found that only 50% of patients with locally advanced rectal cancer in the US receive the recommended standard therapy, which has increased over the past decade. Socioeconomic factors such as facility volume, race/ethnicity, insurance status, and education level are associated with a lower chance of receiving this treatment.

SourceAmerican Cancer Society·JournalCancer·DateApr 13, 2016

Iowa State physicist analyzes first electron neutrino data from NOvA Experiment

The NOvA Experiment has successfully detected the first electron neutrino data, confirming its design and providing valuable insights into fundamental neutrino properties. The discovery, led by Iowa State physicist Mayly Sanchez, marks a major milestone in the experiment's mission to understand neutrino behavior and oscillations.

SourceIowa State University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 13, 2016

Are humans the new supercomputer?

A recent study by Jacob Sherson and his team at Aarhus University found that humans excel in approaching problems heuristically and solving them intuitively, a skill computers struggle with. The research used an online game called Quantum Moves to analyze player solutions and identified common features in human intuition.

SourceAarhus University·JournalNature·DateApr 13, 2016

UK Biobank launches world's biggest body scanning project

The £43m study will create the biggest collection of scans of internal organs, transforming the way scientists study diseases like dementia, arthritis, cancer, heart attacks, and strokes. This will give new perspectives on preventing and treating multi-faceted conditions.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·DateApr 13, 2016

Bees diversify diet to take the sting out of nutritional deficiencies

New research reveals honey bee colonies adapt their diet to counter nutritional deficiencies, prioritizing diets that complement specific amino acid deficiencies. This ability allows bees to maintain a balanced nutrition level when alternative floral resources are scarce.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateApr 13, 2016

Seeing e-cigarettes in shops may influence their use by teenagers

Adolescents who recall seeing e-cigarettes in shops are more likely to have tried them and intend to try them in the future. The study, which involved 3,808 Scottish adolescents, found a strong association between recall of e-cigarette displays at point of sale and use of e-cigarettes.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Public Health·DateApr 13, 2016

Most online liquid nicotine vendors fail to prevent sales to minors

A study by UCI and UNC found that only four of 120 online vendors validated minors' ages, while 15 marketed directly to youth. The researchers concluded that comprehensive regulation and enforcement are needed to prevent online sales to minors.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalNicotine & Tobacco Research·DateApr 13, 2016

Robots could get 'touchy' with self-powered smart skin

Scientists developed a simpler and less costly smart skin that boosts sensitivity without increasing costs, enabling robots to feel and sense their environment. The skin harnesses mechanical energy and turns it into an electric current, eliminating the need for external power sources.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Nano·DateApr 13, 2016

Some drug addicts more likely to relapse than others: Study

Researchers found that individuals who inject drugs are more likely to relapse during treatment, while those starting opioid abuse at an older age have a lower risk. The study suggests tailoring treatment to each patient's needs and targeting aggressive therapies for high-risk patients.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalSubstance Abuse Research and Treatment·DateApr 13, 2016

Rising CO2 levels reduce protein in crucial pollen source for bees

A Purdue University study found that rising carbon dioxide levels have reduced protein in goldenrod pollen, a key food source for North American bees. This decline may threaten bee health and survival, particularly during the winter months when bees must store substantial amounts of pollen to overwinter.

SourcePurdue University·DateApr 13, 2016

Electrons slide through the hourglass on surface of bizarre material

A team of researchers at Princeton University has predicted the existence of a new state of matter where current flows through surface channels resembling an hourglass. The hourglass fermion is created by tuning a property of the material, allowing for efficient transistor switching and potential applications.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalNature·DateApr 13, 2016

Complex ideas can enter consciousness automatically, SF State study shows

A new study led by San Francisco State University researcher Ezequiel Morsella demonstrates that complex mental manipulations can occur involuntarily, even with training to suppress them. The findings support the passive frame theory, suggesting consciousness is a conduit for information rather than an active creator.

SourceSan Francisco State University·JournalActa Psychologica·DateApr 13, 2016

New resource for managing the Mexican rice borer

The Mexican rice borer infestation causes significant crop loss, with potential losses of over $200 million annually in Louisiana. A new article provides information on the pest's biology and life cycle, as well as management suggestions.

SourceEntomological Society of America·JournalJournal of Integrated Pest Management·DateApr 13, 2016

Researchers open the way to new treatments for chronic pain and cancer

Case Western Reserve University researchers have discovered the full-length structure of the TRPV2 protein, a potential target for pharmaceutical research in treating chronic pain and cancer. The study reveals TRPV2's molecular mechanism in neurite growth and its involvement in malignant cancer cells.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 13, 2016

Antioxidants in antidiabetic drugs may fuel cancer spread, mouse study shows

A recent mouse study found that antioxidants in certain antidiabetic medications can accelerate the spread of colon and liver cancer. The findings suggest that these medications, which are commonly used to treat diabetes, may not be safe for diabetic patients with cancer.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateApr 13, 2016

Downwind safety on the farm

A new study provides science-based recommendations for setback distances between animal agriculture practices and fresh produce, aiming to improve food safety. The research found that produce fields should be set back at least 160 meters from areas of manure application to lower the risk of foodborne illness.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalJournal of Environmental Quality·DateApr 13, 2016

QUT leads world-first new treatment for alcohol addictions

A study led by QUT researchers has shown that pindolol, a drug already approved by the FDA, can reduce ethanol consumption and is a promising treatment option for alcohol use disorders. The preclinical study suggests that pindolol could be an inexpensive and effective approach to treating alcohol dependence.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalAddiction Biology·DateApr 13, 2016