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Science News for April 18, 2016


Thanks, actin, for the memories

Researchers at Rice University suggest that actin filaments play a key role in forming and storing long-term memories by stabilizing soluble cytoplasmic polyadenylation element binding proteins (CPEB) into longer, insoluble prion-like fibers. This process is thought to aggregate and encode memories in neurons' synaptic regions.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 18, 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.

Psilocybin reduces psychological pain after social exclusion

Researchers found that psilocybin decreases the brain's reaction to social exclusion and pain, which can help improve therapy for social problems in psychiatric disorders. The study used fMRI and MRS to investigate the effects of psilocybin on the brain's processing of social conflicts.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 18, 2016

New technique could improve detection of concealed nuclear materials

Researchers have developed a novel technique to detect special nuclear materials in cargo containers using low-energy neutron and photon imaging. This method can simultaneously measure density and atomic number, while confirming the presence of nuclear materials through unique delayed neutron emission signatures.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 18, 2016

Mechanics of the cell

Researchers developed a synthetic cell model to investigate fundamental principles of cellular mechanics, revealing the interplay between cytoskeleton and cell membrane is key to changes in form. The model cells demonstrate that protein interactions are essential for biological functions and can alter shape through deformation mechanisms.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 18, 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.

Presidential elections: Electoral College increases ad spending in typical election

A study published in Springer's journal Quantitative Marketing and Economics found that the Electoral College system increases advertising spending in typical presidential elections. The researchers modeled voters' decisions using a simple aggregate market share model and found that advertising would be spread more evenly across states...

SourceSpringer·JournalQuantitative Marketing and Economics·DateApr 18, 2016

Controlling integrated optical circuits using patterns of light

Scientists at the University of Southampton have developed a method for reconfigurable optical elements using multimode interference devices. The team shows that intricate interplay between modes can be dynamically controlled, allowing to freely route light in a static silicon element.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalOptica·DateApr 18, 2016

Do we judge distance based on how a word sounds?

A new study by the University of Toronto reveals that people intuitively pair front vowel sounds with things close by and back vowel sounds with distances away. This knowledge can inform marketing strategies, such as choosing names for products or brands that align with their intended distance from customers.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalCognition·DateApr 18, 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.

The P tax cometh

A new study warns that intensive farming in tropical regions may require vast amounts of phosphorus fertilizer, which is a limited natural resource. The researchers estimate that if global demand for food continues to rise, the phosphorus tax imposed by these soils could double by 2050.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalNature Plants·DateApr 18, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Penn researchers find females more resistant to organ damage following kidney transplant

A new study by Penn researchers found that female mice experience less renal ischemia reperfusion injury compared to male mice, suggesting a potential benefit of estrogen treatment. Human data also supports this finding, with female recipients experiencing less delayed graft function after kidney transplantation.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 18, 2016

Patients triaged as nonurgent in ED get diagnostics, procedures, admitted

A study of nonurgent ED visits found that diagnostic services and procedures were provided in a significant percentage of cases, suggesting potential overuse or uncertainty among patients and healthcare professionals. The findings also highlighted similarities between nonurgent and urgent visit symptoms and diagnoses.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateApr 18, 2016

New nanodevice shifts light's color at single-photon level

Scientists at NIST have developed a miniaturized device to convert photons between frequencies, addressing two critical problems in quantum communication. The new device consumes low power and produces minimal noise, making it suitable for future experiments with single-photon sources.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalNature Photonics·DateApr 18, 2016

Lowered birth rates one reason why women outlive men

A study of 140,600 individuals from the Utah Population Database found that lowered birth rates contribute to women's longer lifespan compared to men. The research suggests that reduced reproduction costs in females benefit their lifespan.

SourceUppsala University·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 18, 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.

Mapping a path to improved cassava production

A team of researchers has sequenced the cassava genome to identify genetic diversity and improve breeding strategies. The study reveals that past breeding programs have reduced genetic diversity in Africa, affecting crop yields.

SourceDOE/Joint Genome Institute·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateApr 18, 2016

Magnetic vortices defy temperature fluctuations

A team of researchers from Germany and the UK used high-resolution electron microscopy to study magnetic vortices in magnetite minerals, revealing that they are surprisingly resilient to temperature changes. The findings have significant implications for understanding the Earth's magnetic field history and plate tectonics.

SourceForschungszentrum Juelich·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 18, 2016

UT Southwestern research shows 98 percent cure rate for prostate cancer using SBRT

A five-year study shows that Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT) offers a higher cure rate than traditional approaches, with a 98.6% cure rate for prostate cancer patients. The treatment involves high-dose radiation beams delivered in just five treatments, resulting in fewer side effects and quicker recovery times.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalEuropean Journal of Cancer·DateApr 18, 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.

HAWC Gamma-ray Observatory reveals new look at the very-high-energy sky

The HAWC Gamma-ray Observatory has released a new survey of the sky made from the highest energy gamma rays ever observed, revealing new high-energy sources within our own Milky Way galaxy. The observatory has also provided more detail on known sources, offering a deeper understanding of high-energy processes taking place in our galaxy...

SourceUniversity of Maryland·DateApr 18, 2016

UAlberta & Little Warriors change the trajectory of child sexual abuse victims

The four-week intervention program significantly reduces psychological impacts of child sexual abuse, with a 25% reduction in PTSD scores and fewer children experiencing depression and anxiety. The Be Brave Ranch offers comprehensive treatment to child survivors, providing individual and group therapies alongside peer support.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalJournal of Child and Adolescent Behaviour·DateApr 18, 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.

Penn and Rutgers researchers discover new pathway that may trigger asthma

Researchers at Penn and Rutgers have identified a biological pathway that explains why current asthma therapies don't work well in many cases. The discovery highlights the potential for targeting non-inflammatory aspects of asthma, with neuropeptide Y emerging as a key player.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 18, 2016

Unexpected discovery leads to a better battery

A team of researchers at PNNL has made an unexpected discovery in rechargeable batteries, leading to a more efficient and environmentally friendly alternative for storing renewable energy. The new battery, which uses zinc-manganese oxide materials, can store energy with higher density and lower cost than conventional car batteries.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalNature Energy·DateApr 18, 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.

NASA examines Category 5 Tropical Cyclone Fantala near Madagascar

Tropical Cyclone Fantala reached Category 5 status in the Southern Indian Ocean, with wind speeds exceeding 30 meters per second. The storm had a wide eye and powerful thunderstorms wrapping around it, according to NASA's observations from the RapidScat instrument and MODIS satellite.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateApr 18, 2016

Protein found to play key role in the spread of pancreatic cancer

Researchers at the University of Liverpool have identified a critical role for stromal cells in the spread of pancreatic cancer to the liver. The study found that the protein granulin plays a key role in facilitating this process, and that targeting its expression may hold the key to stopping cancer from spreading.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateApr 18, 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.

NASA's Fermi telescope poised to pin down gravitational wave sources

The detection of a brief gamma-ray burst consistent with the same part of the sky as gravitational waves offers a unique window into the universe. By analyzing this event, scientists can gain insights into the dynamics leading up to black hole mergers and shed light on the nature of gravity.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateApr 18, 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.

Preeminent experts provide roadmap for future melanoma research

The white paper outlines key takeaways, including the importance of proper sunscreen use to reduce melanoma risk by up to 50%, developing more precise diagnosis methods, and overcoming immunotherapy resistance. The research aims to advance treatment and potentially cure melanoma by understanding its unique characteristics.

SourceWiley·JournalPigment Cell & Melanoma Research·DateApr 18, 2016

What screens are made of: New twists (and bends) in LCD research

Scientists have discovered a tightly wound spiral molecular arrangement in liquid crystals, which could improve LCD performance and help unravel its formation. The study uses a pioneering X-ray technique to confirm the twisted structure, revealing unusual optical properties that warrant further research.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 18, 2016

Nanoparticle acts like Trojan horse to halt asthma

A biodegradable nanoparticle acts like a Trojan horse to convince the immune system not to attack an allergen, shutting down allergic reactions and preventing asthma attacks. The technology also shows promise in treating food allergies.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 18, 2016

Copper gives an answer to the rise of oxygen

Researchers discovered a significant shift in copper isotopic composition, indicating the Great Oxidation Event's gradual increase in atmospheric oxygen. This finding provides a tool to track fluctuations in oxygen levels throughout Earth's history and sheds light on the evolution of life.

SourceStockholm University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 18, 2016

New study examines the effect of ecstasy on the brain

A recent study by researchers at the University of Liverpool analyzed data from 157 ecstasy users and 148 controls to examine the effect of ecstasy on the brain. The study found significant reductions in serotonin transport in ecstasy users, which may contribute to cognitive deficits and mood changes.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalNeuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews·DateApr 18, 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.

Bigger brains led to bigger bodies in our ancestors

New research suggests that human brain size and body size are genetically linked, with increased brain size leading to a correlated response in body size. This phenomenon played a significant role in the evolution of larger brains and bodies in humans.

SourceAmerican Museum of Natural History·JournalCurrent Anthropology·DateApr 18, 2016

Three years and counting on atezolizumab for stage 4 CRC patient, Rodney Bearfoot

The phase 1b clinical trial of atezolizumab has reported promising results in 23 patients with metastatic colorectal cancer. Fifty-two percent responded to treatment, and median progression-free survival was 14.1 months. Another patient, Rodney Bearfoot, has remained on the study for over three years despite a stage 4 diagnosis.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·DateApr 18, 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.

NIH study: Healthy diet may reduce high blood pressure risk after gestational diabetes

A study by the National Institutes of Health found that a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can reduce the risk of high blood pressure among women who had pregnancy-related (gestational) diabetes. Women who adhered to such a diet were 20% less likely to develop high blood pressure than those who did not.

SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·JournalHYPERTENSION·DateApr 18, 2016

Brain caught 'filing' memories during rest

Memories formed in one part of the brain are replayed and transferred to another area for consolidation, according to a new UCL study. The process, essential for tackling Alzheimer's disease, involves the transfer of memories from the hippocampus to the entorhinal cortex.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateApr 18, 2016

Quantum computing closer as RMIT drives towards first quantum data bus

RMIT researchers have successfully trialled a quantum processor capable of routing quantum information from different locations, opening a pathway towards the first quantum data bus. This breakthrough has significant implications for future quantum technologies, including quantum computing and secure communication.

SourceRMIT University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 18, 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.

Monitoring sugar metabolism in liver may be a key to cancer diagnosis

A study at the University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center found that normal liver cells metabolize dietary fructose differently than cancerous cells, revealing a potential diagnostic marker for liver cancer. The researchers discovered a gene called KHK that is expressed differently in healthy and tumor tissues.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateApr 18, 2016

Researchers find possible treatment for suppressed immunity from spine injuries

Researchers identified an underlying cause of immune suppression in spinal cord injuries and proposed a possible treatment using chemogenetic agents. Chemogenetic silencing reversed the immune suppressive reflex, reversing spleen atrophy and increasing white blood cell counts in mouse models.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateApr 18, 2016

ACP urges immediate global action to avert devastating effects of climate change

The American College of Physicians calls for immediate global action to combat the health impacts of climate change, including heat-related illnesses and malnutrition. A new policy paper highlights the need for physicians to educate themselves and their patients about climate change's effects on human health.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateApr 18, 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 computer program can help uncover hidden genomic alterations that drive cancers

Researchers developed a new computer algorithm called REVEALER to identify groups of genetic variations associated with cancer cell activation and treatment responses. Using large tumor genomics database The Cancer Genome Atlas, REVEALER revealed new gene mutations linked to cancer development and treatment resistance.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateApr 18, 2016

A new way to get electricity from magnetism

Scientists have successfully converted spin current into electric current in several organic semiconductors, including carbon-60 buckyballs. The 'inverse spin Hall effect' method has potential for use in future electronic devices like batteries and solar cells.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalNature Materials·DateApr 18, 2016

Trees' internal water pipes predict which species survive drought

A team of researchers identified traits that best protect trees against death from drought, finding that xylem stress is a key predictor of survival. The study provides a foundation for improving predictions of drought-induced tree mortality across diverse forests.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 18, 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.

Researchers can identify you by your brain waves with 100 percent accuracy

A team of researchers at Binghamton University recorded the brain activity of 50 people while they looked at images, finding that participants' brains reacted differently to each image. This allowed a computer system to identify each volunteer's unique 'brainprint' with 100% accuracy.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Information Forensics and Security·DateApr 18, 2016

Is my brand image green or healthy? No need for costly surveys, just ask Twitter!

Researchers from Illinois Institute of Technology analyzed over 200 brands on Twitter, finding that fans of eco-friendly, luxury, and nutrition brands tend to follow environmentally focused accounts, resulting in a positive brand image. This approach offers a cost-effective alternative to traditional surveys.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalMarketing Science·DateApr 18, 2016

Could global warming's top culprit help crops?

A new study suggests that increased carbon dioxide levels could help mitigate the negative impacts of rising temperatures on crop yields, particularly in regions with suitable conditions. The research projects a 10% increase in average yields of certain crops, while water consumption would decrease by a corresponding amount.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalNature Climate Change·DateApr 18, 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.

Shining light on brain tumors

Researchers have developed a method that uses laser pulses to identify brain tumors without labeling or staining, providing histological detail comparable to conventional techniques. The technique allows for fast and accurate diagnosis in the operating room, potentially enabling real-time tumor detection before surgery.

SourceOptica·JournalBiomedical Optics Express·DateApr 18, 2016

Why do older asymptomatic patients have carotid imaging

A study found that most patients with asymptomatic carotid disease underwent unnecessary carotid imaging tests ordered for uncertain or inappropriate indications. The majority of these patients received endarterectomy, while others had stenting performed.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateApr 18, 2016

Scientists identify biological pathway that could explain why asthma therapies fail

Researchers have identified a biological pathway in mice that explains the ineffectiveness of current asthma therapies. The discovery highlights the role of neuropeptide NPY in airway hyper-responsiveness and constriction. Inhibiting NPY activity may help alleviate asthma symptoms, providing hope for millions of patients.

SourceRutgers University·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 18, 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.

Baylor study reveals role for oxidized mitochondrial DNA in lupus

Researchers found that SLE neutrophils release oxidized mitochondrial DNA, stimulating type I interferon production and contributing to disease pathogenesis. Targeting pathways for oxidized DNA degradation may offer new treatment options for chronic autoimmune disease.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateApr 18, 2016

Palliative care study exposes stigma, calls for rebranding

A recent study reveals that cancer patients and families perceive palliative care as synonymous with death, despite its benefits in improving quality of life. The researchers call for a rebranding of palliative care to address the stigma and promote earlier access to supportive care.

SourceUniversity Health Network·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateApr 18, 2016

Study provides structural basis for development of new antibioticsacific

Researchers at Duke University have discovered the structure of MraY enzyme, revealing a hidden binding pocket that can be targeted by muraymycin. This breakthrough provides a platform for designing broad-spectrum antibiotics that could combat antibiotic-resistant infections and save millions of lives.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature·DateApr 18, 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.

Smartphone users are redefining privacy in public spaces

A Tel Aviv University study found that smartphone technology has led to diminished overall privacy, as individuals voluntarily share personal data and location information. The researchers developed an Android application to collect data and discovered a correlation between the type of space and willingness to share information.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalUrban Studies·DateApr 18, 2016

Vegetables irrigated with treated wastewater expose consumers to drugs

A new study found that consuming produce grown in treated wastewater-irrigated soil leads to higher levels of carbamazepine excretion. The researchers discovered that the production and consumption of such veggies pose a potential risk for consumers, despite the low quantities involved.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateApr 18, 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.

Phosphorus 'tax' could be huge if tropical farming intensifies

Intensifying tropical agriculture may sequester up to 1-4 million metric tons of phosphorus fertilizer annually, forcing farmers to pay a recurring 'P-tax'. Recycling phosphorus-rich livestock manure and rethinking high-meat diets could mitigate this issue.

SourceBrown University·JournalNature Plants·DateApr 18, 2016

Exposure to violence during pregnancy increases risk of prematurity and low birthweight

Exposure to violence during pregnancy may increase the risk of prematurity and low birthweight. A recent study by Queen Mary University of London and the University of Leicester found that mothers exposed to homicides had newborns with lower birthweights and higher rates of prematurity, particularly in the first trimester.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalJournal of Development Economics·DateApr 18, 2016

Stanford study ties recently discovered immune cell to disease

Researchers have identified a key role for a recently discovered immune cell in age-related inflammation and disease. The discovery sheds light on the mechanisms underlying these conditions and offers promising avenues for treatment.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 18, 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.

Palliative care viewed as a stigma, despite improving quality of life

A new study finds that patients with advanced cancer often view palliative care as a stigma due to its association with death. Experts suggest that education and rebranding could help break down this stigma, promoting a more positive view of the service.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateApr 18, 2016

When inhaling media erodes attention, exhaling provides focus

Researchers at University of Wisconsin-Madison found that heavy media multitaskers benefited from a short meditation exercise in which they sat quietly counting their breaths. Heavy media multitaskers scored worse on attention tests, but improved significantly after the exercise.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 18, 2016

Precision prevention of colorectal cancer

Researchers developed a risk prediction model integrating 19 environmental and lifestyle risk factors with 64 common genetic risk factors to identify individuals at high risk of developing colorectal cancer. The model aims to improve colonoscopies for those at higher risk, while avoiding unnecessary procedures for low-risk individuals.

SourceFred Hutchinson Cancer Center·DateApr 18, 2016

Fewer romantic prospects may lead to riskier investments

Research shows that people who face uncertain outcomes may prioritize high-risk options even when unrelated to romance. This study found that exposure to unfavorable sex ratios led participants to make riskier financial decisions, such as investing more in a single high-stakes option.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateApr 18, 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.

Immune study offers treatment hope for arthritis patients

Researchers have discovered how compounds produced by the body's immune system help to dampen inflammation and prevent damage to healthy tissues. These compounds, called alpha defensins, may act on cells of the immune system to prevent excessive inflammation.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 18, 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.

Study identifies specific work factors that predict sleep problems

A study found that specific psychological and social work factors were consistently associated with sleep problems, both concurrently and two years later. The most consistent predictors of troubled sleep included quantitative job demands, decision control, role conflict, and support from a superior in the workplace.

SourceAmerican Academy of Sleep Medicine·JournalSLEEP·DateApr 18, 2016

Dinosaurs 'already in decline' before asteroid apocalypse

Dinosaurs were already experiencing an evolutionary decline, with many species going extinct faster than new ones emerged. This suggests that the asteroid impact may not have been the sole cause of their extinction.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 18, 2016

Nanomaterial to drive new generation of solar cells: ANU media release

Researchers have discovered a new metamaterial that radiates heat in specific directions, making it ideal for use with thermophotovoltaic cells. This breakthrough could lead to highly efficient cells that harvest heat from surroundings and convert it into electricity.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 18, 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.

Cellular Trojan horse yields potential cancer treatment

A new cancer treatment approach uses microparticles and mesenchymal stem cells to deliver chemotherapy directly to tumor cells, reducing systemic toxicity. The method successfully kills tumor cells via a strong bystander effect, offering hope for targeted treatment of prostate cancer and potentially other diseases.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalBiomaterials·DateApr 18, 2016

Demand for radiotherapy will rise substantially over next 10 years

The demand for radiotherapy is expected to increase by 16% between 2012 and 2025, with prostate cancer cases projected to rise by 24%. This is due to an aging population in Europe, with four million new cancer patients expected in 2025. The study's authors aim to help policymakers plan for increased radiotherapy services.

SourceEuropean Society for Radiotherapy and Oncology (ESTRO)·JournalRadiotherapy and Oncology·DateApr 18, 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.

New optogenetic tool moves proteins within cells to study biological changes

Researchers developed a way to embed light-responsive switches into proteins, allowing them to manipulate protein movement and activity in real-time. This new approach enables the rapid study of biological changes and reveals that cellular processes are more dynamic than previously expected.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateApr 18, 2016

All ants on deck

Researchers found that ants form rafts with different members occupying specific positions based on experience, demonstrating collective memory and cooperation. This phenomenon has implications for our understanding of social insects and potential applications in robotics and medicine.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalThe Science of Nature·DateApr 18, 2016

RNA in stop-motion

Researchers from SISSA have developed a novel technique to visualize RNA dynamics using stop-motion animation, based on a huge international database of crystallographic images. This approach allows for the creation of coherent sequences of conformations, providing valuable insights into molecular transitions and dynamics.

SourceInternational School of Advanced Studies (SISSA)·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateApr 18, 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.

Medicaid expansion significantly boosts insurance coverage among low-income adults

Researchers found significant increases in health insurance coverage, quality of coverage, and diagnoses for chronic health conditions among low-income adults in states that expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act. The study's findings provide valuable insights for policymakers and residents in states with ACA Medicaid expansions.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateApr 18, 2016

Tuberculosis bacteria build 'edible' havens in immune cells

Researchers discovered that TB bacteria trick immune cells into building up fat to feed them, rather than destroying them. This finding provides new insights into the mechanisms of TB infection and potential treatment approaches using antisense oligonucleotides.

SourceNew York University·JournalNature Immunology·DateApr 18, 2016

The latest in cardiovascular research in a special issue of Cell Transplantation

Researchers are exploring new treatments for heart failure using transplanted umbilical cord cells, activated endogenous cardiac stem cells, and immune therapy. A clinical trial assessing the safety of allogenic umbilical cord lining sub-epithelial cells is also underway.

SourceCell Transplantation Center of Excellence for Aging and Brain Repair·JournalCell Transplantation·DateApr 18, 2016

30 years after Chernobyl, UGA camera study reveals wildlife abundance in CEZ

The study reveals that carnivore populations thrive in areas with preferred habitat and food sources, contradicting expectations of radioactive contamination. The camera survey captured 14 species, including gray wolves and raccoon dogs, which were more likely to be found in highly contaminated but suitable habitats.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateApr 18, 2016

Compound from hops lowers cholesterol, blood sugar and weight gain

A study at Oregon State University has identified a specific intake level of xanthohumol that significantly improves metabolic syndrome markers and reduces weight gain in laboratory animals. The findings suggest a possible new approach to addressing obesity, high cholesterol and elevated glucose.

SourceOregon State University·JournalArchives of Biochemistry and Biophysics·DateApr 18, 2016

Exfoliating thinner flakes of phosphorene at higher yield

Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a new process to exfoliate atomically thin phosphorene flakes with high yield and minimal degradation. The method uses deoxygenated water as an environmentally benign solvent, resulting in superior material quality and scalable fabrication.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 18, 2016

Derailed train of thought? Brain's stopping system may be at fault

Researchers found that unexpected events activate the same brain system responsible for interrupting movement, leading to impaired working memory and disrupted trains of thought. The study focuses on the subthalamic nucleus (STN), a key player in Parkinson's disease treatment.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 18, 2016

Gun hunting could lead to extinction of threatened primates on African island

A new study by Drexel University researchers found that gun hunting is driving seven monkey species toward extinction on Bioko Island. Four of the seven species are especially vulnerable and unable to adapt to hunting, with the red colobus being the most at risk due to its specialized niche and larger body size. The researchers suggest...

SourceDrexel University·JournalBiological Conservation·DateApr 18, 2016

Which trees face death in drought?

Researchers found three tree physiological traits significantly predict drought mortality, related to hydraulics. Trees with lower hydraulic conductivity and safety margins are more susceptible to embolism and death. This study can help forecast tree deaths in drought and inform climate change mitigation strategies.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 18, 2016