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Science News for April 20, 2016


Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Alaskan seismologists re-evaluate region's Earthquake potential after Iniskin

A magnitude 7.1 earthquake in January's Iniskin event shook the Cook Inlet region of Alaska, prompting seismologists to revise their estimates of intermediate-depth earthquakes in the area. The quake's unusual depth of 123 km below the surface resulted in minimal damage, but could affect future hazard risk estimates in southern Alaska.

SourceSeismological Society of America·DateApr 20, 2016

Stomach cancer diagnostics: New insights on stage of tumor growth

Researchers at Kazan Federal University and the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine have identified correlations between superoxide, nitric oxide levels and matrix metalloproteinase activity in gastric cancer patients. This discovery could lead to more accurate diagnostics and personalized treatment plans for stomach cancer.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalCancer Microenvironment·DateApr 20, 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.

A new player revealed in nerve growth process

University of Louisville researchers have identified CD2AP as a crucial player in neural growth, which could lead to therapies for various neurological conditions. The protein orchestrates the branching of nerve axons, creating new connections, but excessive growth can be harmful.

SourceUniversity of Louisville·DateApr 20, 2016

Mice flown in space show nascent liver damage, says CU Anschutz researcher

Researchers found that mice flown aboard the space shuttle developed early signs of liver disease, including increased fat storage and changes to genes responsible for breaking down fats. This study has implications for future missions to Mars, highlighting the need for further research on the impact of spaceflight on human physiology.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 20, 2016

School affects girls' chances of being diagnosed with an eating disorder

Research from the University of Oxford found that schools with higher proportions of female students and university-educated parents have more eating disorders among their students. Eating disorders affect 5.7% of adolescent girls in Sweden, with serious consequences including early death.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalInternational Journal of Epidemiology·DateApr 20, 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.

Unconventional antibody defends blood vessels against sepsis

A new study reveals an unconventional antibody that targets the patient's vascular response to sepsis, converting a harmful protein into a protective one. This approach stabilizes blood vessels, strengthens barrier function, and quells systemic inflammation, prolonging survival in mice with sepsis.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateApr 20, 2016

Researchers identify new functional biomarker for autism in boys

Researchers developed a new method to map and track brain circuits affected by autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in boys using brain imaging. This approach provides a physical measure of progress with behavioral and/or drug treatments, a tool previously elusive in ASD treatment.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateApr 20, 2016

Land grant university programs helped keep farmers on the farm

The cooperative extension program has been instrumental in keeping farmers on the farm, with the federal program helping to retain over 137,000 agricultural businesses. By leveraging research from land grant universities, the program provides education and learning opportunities to farmers and citizens alike.

SourcePenn State·JournalApplied Economic Perspectives and Policy·DateApr 20, 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.

Making biodiesel with used cooking oil and a microwave

Researchers develop a new method to convert waste cooking oil into biodiesel, reducing production costs and increasing efficiency. The process involves heating the oil with catalyst-coated beads in a microwave oven, resulting in a nearly 100% conversion rate.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnergy & Fuels·DateApr 20, 2016

Brain stem cell quiescence needs to be actively maintained in Drosophila

Biologists at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz discovered that the Hippo signaling pathway controls quiescence in Drosophila neural stem cells, regulating growth and cell division. The pathway's activation is necessary to maintain resting phases and prevent premature cell formation.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 20, 2016

Gene therapy pioneered at St. Jude shows early success against 'Bubble Boy' disease

A novel gene therapy developed at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital has shown promising results in rebuilding the immune system of young adults with X-linked severe combined immunodeficiency disease (SCID-X1). The treatment, which combines lentivirus gene therapy with busulfan conditioning, resulted in improved health and reduced c...

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateApr 20, 2016

Brighter prospects for chronic pain

Scientists at McGill University used optogenetics to reduce the sensitivity of mice to touch and heat by shining yellow light on specific neurons. The research offers new hope for treating chronic pain without the side effects of traditional medication.

SourceMcGill University·JournaleNeuro·DateApr 20, 2016

AACR: Targeting cancer with engineered T cells

Researchers at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center are developing engineered T cells to recognize and attack cancer cells. Preliminary data from a clinical trial shows promising results in treating acute myeloid leukemia, with patients experiencing stable disease and significant tumor regression. Next-generation strategies aim to improve ant...

SourceFred Hutchinson Cancer Center·DateApr 20, 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.

Researchers discover moving, electrically 'silent' source initiates brain waves

A traveling spike generator has been found to initiate brain waves in the hippocampus, a part of the brain associated with memory. The generator appears to move across the region while generating brain waves, but produces no electrical signal. This discovery may provide new insights into epilepsy treatment and memory consolidation.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·DateApr 20, 2016

NRL reveals novel uniform coating process of p-ALD

Scientists at NRL devised a novel combination to achieve uniform nanometer-thick shell on core particles, regardless of core size. This breakthrough technology creates new designer core/shell particles for multifunctional nanocomposites.

SourceNaval Research Laboratory·JournalJournal of Vacuum Science & Technology A Vacuum Surfaces and Films·DateApr 20, 2016

Farming amoebae carry around detoxifying food

Research reveals that social amoeba Dictyostelium discoideum relies on its symbiotic bacteria to protect itself from environmental toxins, despite having fewer detoxifying sentinel cells. The bacteria help shield the amoebae from toxins, enabling them to thrive even in toxic environments.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·DateApr 20, 2016

Detecting when the most common skin cancer turns dangerous

A biomarker associated with basal cell carcinoma, EZH2, has been identified in a study published in JAMA Oncology. Higher levels of EZH2 and Ki67 were found in more aggressive tumors, suggesting that the protein may serve as a marker for increased cancer recurrence or tumor aggressiveness.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateApr 20, 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.

Zip software can detect the quantum-classical boundary

Researchers use compression software to reveal quantum correlations in experimental data, detecting evidence of entanglement between particles. The technique shows a value exceeding zero, proving the system has crossed the classical-quantum boundary.

SourceCentre for Quantum Technologies at the National University of Singapore·JournalNew Journal of Physics·DateApr 20, 2016

All powered up

Researchers at University of California, Irvine have invented a nanowire-based battery material that can be recharged hundreds of thousands of times without cracking. The breakthrough work uses a gold nanowire coated in a manganese dioxide shell and encased in an electrolyte made of a gel-like substance.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·DateApr 20, 2016

A targeted agent to mitigate sepsis

Researchers at IBS Center for Vascular Health have created a new targeted agent to mitigate sepsis progression by strengthening and protecting blood vessels. This approach, utilizing the Tie2 receptor and anti-angiopoietin-2 antibody ABTAA, has shown enhanced survival rates in severe sepsis models up to 70%.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateApr 20, 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.

Seismologists ask: How close are we to an eruption?

Researchers use new tools to detect patterns of seismic activity before volcanic eruptions, comparing them to past eruptions to determine when a particular volcano might erupt. The study also examines swarms of small earthquakes that appear to precede many eruptions, aiming to learn more about magma movement.

SourceSeismological Society of America·DateApr 20, 2016

The origin of heart dysfunctions in myotonic dystrophy identified

Myotonic dystrophy causes wasting of skeletal muscles and arrhythmia due to mutated RNA sequences that alter gene regulation. Researchers identify altered SCN5A splicing as key factor in cardiac dysfunctions, paving way for potential treatment restoration of normal heart function.

SourceINSERM (Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale)·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 20, 2016

Herbicide resistance in waterhemp continues to grow

A recent University of Illinois study found that waterhemp populations in the Midwest are resistant to multiple classes of herbicides, including HPPD-inhibitors and ALS-inhibitors. Researchers recommend using integrated pest management strategies, such as mechanical soil preparation and seed control, to reduce resistance.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalWeed Technology·DateApr 20, 2016

IADR/AADR publish advances issue on ICCC recommendations

The IADR/AADR published an issue on International Caries Consensus Collaboration's (ICCC) recommendations for managing carious lesions, focusing on evidence-based, patient-centered guidelines. The recommendations support less invasive carious lesion management by preserving tooth tissue and retaining teeth long-term.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·JournalAdvances in Dental Research·DateApr 20, 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.

Consuming too much fructose during pregnancy raises the child's risk for heart disease

A study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology found that consuming high fructose during pregnancy increases the child's risk for heart disease. The research, conducted by UTMB researchers, showed that female offspring had higher peak glucose levels, blood pressure, and insulin resistance.

SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateApr 20, 2016

New material combines useful, typically incompatible properties

A team of engineers and physicists at the University of Wisconsin-Madison created a compound that combines polar and metallic properties, defying scientific conventions. The new material exhibits both insulating and conducting properties, paving the way for devices with simultaneous electrical, magnetic, and optical functions.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalNature·DateApr 20, 2016

Targeted missiles against aggressive cancer cells

Researchers at Lund University have developed a method to target and destroy aggressive cancer cells using 'missiles' that can deliver lethal cell toxins. The study identified specific proteins on the surface of stressed cancer cells, which can be used as targets for delivering drugs into the cells, leaving healthy tissue unharmed.

SourceLund University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 20, 2016

Exposure to routine viruses makes mice better test subjects

A new study reveals that laboratory mice infected with common human viruses develop an immune system similar to newborn humans, but unlike adult humans. This finding suggests that the lack of infection may be a reason why research mice differ from humans.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateApr 20, 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.

Cellphone principles help microfluidic chip digitize information on living cells

Using a simple circuit pattern with three electrodes, researchers assign unique digital identification numbers to each cell passing through the channels on the microfluidic chip. This technique captures information about cell sizes and movement speeds, allowing for automated counting and analysis of cells sorted on the chip.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalLab on a Chip·DateApr 20, 2016

New black fly species discovered in Indonesia

A new species of black fly, Simulium kalimantanense, has been discovered in Indonesia's Kalimantan state. The newly identified species belongs to the family Simuliidae and is part of a larger group known to carry filariasis-causing parasites.

SourceEntomological Society of America·JournalJournal of Medical Entomology·DateApr 20, 2016

Should the food industry fund health research?

Leading experts argue that food industry funding can support health research, but only if safeguards are in place to prevent bias. Anna B Gilmore and Simon Capewell suggest that industry funding distorts the research agenda and produces biased results. In contrast, Paul Aveyard and Derek Yach recommend co-funding with clear guidelines.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateApr 20, 2016

Promiscuity may help some corals survive bleaching events

Researchers discovered that some corals can acquire new types of algae from their environment, making them more heat-tolerant and enhancing recovery. This phenomenon, known as 'symbiont switching,' was previously thought to occur only in juvenile corals or during bleaching events.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalThe ISME Journal·DateApr 20, 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 better understanding of bananas could help prevent blindness

Researchers have gained a better understanding of how bananas produce and store carotenoids, which are converted into vitamin A in the liver. The findings could lead to the development of banana varieties with enhanced health benefits to combat vitamin A deficiency., which causes blindness in millions of children worldwide.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateApr 20, 2016

Recent warmer winters may be cooling climate change concern

Researchers from NYU and Duke University found that 80% of Americans live in counties with more favorable weather conditions since the 1970s. However, future climate change projections suggest that nearly 90% of the US public will experience less pleasant weather by the end of the century due to rising temperatures.

SourceNew York University·JournalNature·DateApr 20, 2016

Ancient DNA reveals evolution of giant bears in the Americas

Researchers from the University of Adelaide used ancient DNA to study the evolution of giant bears in both North and South America. The study found that these bears belonged to a distinct subfamily (Tremarctinae) and had independently evolved from small herbivorous bears.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalBiology Letters·DateApr 20, 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.

A tough childhood can lead to a shorter life for baboons

A new study from the University of Notre Dame finds that wild baboons who experience multiple misfortunes during their first years of life have a significantly shorter adult lifespan, with life expectancy cut short by up to 10 years. The 'bad luck' babies also had fewer surviving offspring.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 20, 2016

Does a 'triple package' of traits predict success?

A new study by Union College psychology professors Joshua Hart and Christopher Chabris found that a 'triple package' of traits, including intelligence, conscientiousness, and economic advantage, are more likely to predict success than previously thought, contradicting Amy Chua's theory.

SourceUnion College·JournalPersonality and Individual Differences·DateApr 20, 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.

The contrarian dance of DNA

Research by Georgia Institute of Technology's Harold Kim reveals DNA's movements defy intuition, with entropic forces prevailing over elastic ones. The study improves understanding of how DNA snaps free from proteins and may help predict the lifespans of DNA loops.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review E·DateApr 20, 2016

OU team investigates microbe-climate interactions in greenhouse gases

The OU research team aims to improve understanding of microbial community diversity, structure, and function on greenhouse gas emissions from grasslands and croplands. The project will develop a multi-scale observation and modeling framework to estimate greenhouse gas emissions across landscape scales.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·DateApr 20, 2016

Newly identified host defense mechanism protects cells from viral infection

Researchers have discovered a novel host defense mechanism that protects cells from viral infection by sequestering virions near the nucleus. This discovery has implications for new drug discovery and therapeutic gene delivery, and may lead to improved strategies for rAAV-based gene therapy.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalHuman Gene Therapy·DateApr 20, 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.

Model makes designing new antennas orders of magnitude faster

Researchers at NC State developed a model that expedites design of MIMO antennas, reducing calculation time from days to minutes. The model identifies efficient configurations for antenna designs, saving designers an enormous amount of time.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Antennas and Propagation·DateApr 20, 2016

Seismic networks can be the backbone for 21st century firefighting

A seismic network in Nevada is being used to monitor wildfires and provide early intelligence on more than 25 fires during the last fire season. The technology has the potential to remake firefighting by allowing for tactical suppression and scaling resources appropriately, saving time and money.

SourceSeismological Society of America·DateApr 20, 2016

Study establishes lung health response to cement dust exposure

A new study establishes a link between long-term cement dust exposure and decline in lung volumes. The research found that workers exposed to higher levels of dust experienced significant decreases in lung function over time.

SourceEuropean Respiratory Society·JournalEuropean Respiratory Journal·DateApr 20, 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.

New method enlists electricity for easier, cheaper, greener chemistry

Scientists at Scripps Research Institute have developed a new electrochemistry-based method for allylic oxidation reactions, which are used in pharmaceuticals, flavor, and fragrance industries. The new method uses inexpensive, safe chemicals and is scalable, producing better yields and reducing toxic waste.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalNature·DateApr 20, 2016

Team builds first quantum cascade laser on silicon

A team of researchers has successfully built the first quantum cascade laser on silicon, paving the way for applications in chemical bond spectroscopy, gas sensing, astronomy, and free-space communications. The breakthrough integrates lasers directly on silicon chips, overcoming challenges posed by silicon's indirect bandgap.

SourceOptica·DateApr 20, 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.

Eco-friendly store brands are a 'win-win-win situation'

Concordia University research reveals that higher prices and ethical marketing improve sales of private label brands. The study shows that consumers expect products with environmental attributes to come with a higher price tag.

SourceConcordia University·JournalJournal of Retailing·DateApr 20, 2016

Study finds explanation for some treatment-resistant breast cancers

Researchers identified gene alterations that may explain treatment resistance in TNBC, suggesting a potential role for JAK2 inhibitors. The study found that JAK2 amplification was more frequent in chemotherapy-treated tumors and associated with poorer outcomes.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateApr 20, 2016

Accounting for volcanoes using tools of economics

A new technique combines economics and volcano science to identify past eruptions from tree-ring temperature reconstructions, potentially pinpointing previously unknown eruptions. The method may help separate volcanic impacts on climate from random variability, informing policy and scientific applications.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalJournal of Economic Surveys·DateApr 20, 2016

Antimatter helps to unveil the secrets of liquid crystals

Researchers at the Institute of Nuclear Physics in Krakow used antimatter to study liquid crystals. The measurements revealed that positronium forms in nanopores with a diameter of approximately six angstroms, confirming a new model variant. This provides insight into the structure and dynamics of liquid crystals.

SourceThe Henryk Niewodniczanski Institute of Nuclear Physics Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalPhysical Review E·DateApr 20, 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.

Chemical exposure could lead to obesity, UGA study finds

Researchers found that benzyl butyl phthalate (BBP) causes larger lipid droplet accumulation in cells, potentially leading to obesity. The study's results suggest a possible link between BBP exposure and adipogenesis, a process contributing to fat cell development.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalToxicology in Vitro·DateApr 20, 2016

Non-inflammatory destructive periodontal disease

Non-inflammatory destructive periodontal disease (NIDPD) is a severe destructive periodontal disease marked by generalized gingival recession and periodontal pocket development. The disease's etiology is linked to endogenous opportunistic bacteria, anatomical factors, occlusion pattern, emotional stress, and mouth breathing condition.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalThe Open Dentistry Journal·DateApr 20, 2016

Mexican researchers observe natural insect control without pesticides

Researchers found that six known predators, including beetles and lacewings, naturally controlled cochineal scale insects on prickly pear plants, regulating their growth. Autonomous biological pest control may be a viable alternative to chemical pesticides under specific ecological conditions.

SourceEntomological Society of America·JournalEnvironmental Entomology·DateApr 20, 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.

Childhood obesity, malnutrition connected to mom's perception of child's weight

A study from the University of Houston finds that mothers' perceptions of their children's weight status are closely tied to their own weight status and concerns. Mothers who perceive their child as healthy are more likely to underestimate their weight, highlighting the need for healthcare providers to broaden their health screenings.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalPublic Health Nursing·DateApr 20, 2016

Taking the fight against risky pain pill use to the ER: Study shows promise

A new study suggests that a single half-hour session with a trained therapist during an ER visit can motivate people to reduce their use of prescription opioid painkillers and lower their risk of overdose. The study found a significant reduction in risky behaviors among those who received the intervention, compared to those who did not.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence·DateApr 20, 2016

York U brain study on memory delay explains visuomotor mistakes

A recent York University brain study found that a one-second delay in frontal cortex processing can lead to errors in high-accuracy tasks, such as tennis. The researchers recorded signals in the frontal cortex during memory delays and analyzed visual responses and motor activity.

SourceYork University·JournaleNeuro·DateApr 20, 2016

Newly funded UQ project aims to help in managing Great Barrier Reef

A new UQ project aims to improve Great Barrier Reef management by developing maps and a monitoring program to identify areas most likely to benefit from conservation efforts. The research will focus on the reef's ecological integrity and address local and global stressors threatening its survival.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·DateApr 20, 2016

Fatty diets lead to daytime sleepiness, poor sleep

A new study published in Nutrients found that high-fat diets are associated with increased risk of daytime sleepiness and poor sleep quality in Australian men. The research, which analyzed data from over 1,800 men aged 35-80, also linked high fat intake to a higher incidence of sleep apnea.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalNutrients·DateApr 20, 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.

Why you can't teach an old mouse new tricks

Researchers found that an age-related decline in a brain circuit impairs mice's ability to adjust to environmental changes, causing interference between old and new learning. This decline leads to motivation problems and potentially cognitive decline and dementia.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·DateApr 20, 2016

New report calls for effort to reduce negative attitudes toward people with disorders

A new report from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine recommends a multipronged evidence-based national strategy to reduce stigma toward people with mental and substance use disorders. The report highlights the need for coordinated efforts supported by government, long-term funding, and ongoing evaluation.

SourceNational Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine·DateApr 20, 2016

Study finds genes linked to happiness, depression and neuroticism

A multi-institutional team of over 190 researchers analyzed genomic data from nearly 300,000 people to identify genetic variants associated with subjective well-being, depressive symptoms, and neuroticism. The study found three genes linked to happiness, two genes linked to depression, and 11 genes linked to neuroticism.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalNature Genetics·DateApr 20, 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.

Indian monsoon: Novel approach allows early forecasting

Scientists predict Indian monsoon's onset two weeks earlier and its withdrawal six weeks earlier than before. The new method uses network analysis of regional weather data to improve prediction accuracy, particularly for years affected by El Nino-Southern Oscillation.

SourcePotsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateApr 20, 2016

Researchers develop new semiconducting polymer for forthcoming flexible electronics

Researchers developed a new n-type semiconducting polymer with superior electron mobility and oxidative stability, boosting charge transport in polymer semiconductors. The modified polymer formed a superstructure composed of polymer backbone crystals and side-chain crystals, resulting in high semicrystalline order.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateApr 20, 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.

High prevalence of Vitamin D deficiency in large population of kids with type 1 diabetes

A study published in Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice reveals that children with type 1 diabetes are at risk of low vitamin D levels, affecting bone health, glucose metabolism, and immune function. The research emphasizes the importance of vitamin D screening for all children with type 1 diabetes.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Nursing·JournalDiabetes Research and Clinical Practice·DateApr 20, 2016

Grassroots tactics could improve global environmental policies

A new study from Michigan State University found that local perceptions of illegal biodiversity exploitation and environmental insecurity can help predict buy-in for risk-management strategies. Understanding local attitudes and behaviors is crucial to addressing wildlife crime and its ramifications.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 20, 2016

Scientist models Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome in adult stem cells

Researchers from Sanford Research successfully modeled Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome using induced pluripotent stem cells, highlighting the role of Wnt/β-catenin defects in cholesterol synthesis. The study provides new insights into the underlying cellular mechanisms of this rare developmental disorder.

SourceSanford Health/Sanford Research·JournalNature Medicine·DateApr 20, 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.

Improving CO2 storage using hospital scanner

Researchers at the University of Bergen have identified PET scanning as an effective tool for improved oil production and CO2 storage. The technology uses radioactive tracers to visualize the flow of liquid or gas in rock samples, increasing the efficiency of CO2 storage and oil production.

SourceThe University of Bergen·DateApr 20, 2016

Wapiti whistles sound like Ringwraith shrieks

Scientists discovered that wapitis produce two mechanisms to create their eerie calls: a low-pitched roar matching their size and a high-pitched whistle using nasal cavities. This unusual adaptation allows wapitis to communicate accurately despite their large size.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateApr 20, 2016

Mapping neurons to improve the treatment of Parkinson's

Caltech researchers have mapped out a circuit of neurons that control motor impairment in patients with Parkinson's disease. The study used two laboratory techniques to identify the pathways of cholinergic neurons in the brainstem, revealing their role in both locomotion and reward-based behaviors.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalNeuron·DateApr 20, 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.

Senior adults can see health benefits from dog ownership

A study found that older adults who form strong bonds with their dogs tend to exercise longer and more often, leading to improved physical health. Additionally, dog walking offers a means to socialize with pet owners and others, making it an accessible way for seniors to stay active and connected.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalThe Gerontologist·DateApr 20, 2016

Strength training helps older adults live longer

A large analysis found that older adults who met strength-training guidelines had significantly lower mortality rates, even when controlling for demographic variables and health behaviors. The study suggests that strength training is beneficial beyond improving muscle strength and physical function.

SourcePenn State·JournalPreventive Medicine·DateApr 20, 2016

Computers play a crucial role in preserving the Earth

NSF-funded researchers develop computational sustainability to tackle ecological and economic problems. A new field combines computer science with environmental sciences to address challenges such as wildlife management and poverty-reduction.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·DateApr 20, 2016

Bringing nitrogen out to pasture

Researchers discover that tree legumes can significantly contribute nitrogen to silvopastoral systems, benefiting both livestock and the environment. The study found two types of legume trees with different decomposition rates and nutrient cycles, but both show promise as alternatives to industrial fertilizers.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalCrop Science·DateApr 20, 2016

Micro heart muscle created from stem cells

Researchers at Gladstone Institutes develop a new method to create three-dimensional human heart tissue from stem cells, addressing limitations of existing techniques. This breakthrough enables scientists to study heart cells in their proper context, enhancing the discovery of treatments for heart disease.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 20, 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.

Taking aspirin could increase cancer survival by 20 percent

A systematic review of scientific literature found that taking low-dose aspirin alongside cancer treatment can reduce mortality and cancer spread by up to 20%. Researchers from Cardiff University suggest this may be due to a mutation in PIK3CA, which appears to explain the reduction in colon cancer mortality.

SourceCardiff University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 20, 2016

First North American monkey fossils are found in Panama Canal excavation

The discovery of seven fossil teeth in the Las Cascadas Formation reveals a long-lost monkey species on the North American continent before the Isthmus of Panama connected it to South America. The new species, Panamacebus transitus, was named after Panama and its movement across the ancient seaway.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalNature·DateApr 20, 2016

In gaming, player behavior reflects roles -- even when no roles are given

A new study from North Carolina State University finds that players' behavior in narrative role-playing games (RPGs) consistently reflects specific character roles, regardless of whether the role is assigned or chosen. The researchers also found that players without explicit role information still tend to exhibit role-based behavior.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·DateApr 20, 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.

Early abnormalities of Alzheimer's disease: It takes 2 (proteins) to tango

Researchers at McGill University find that the combination of amyloid and tau proteins causes brain damage in cognitively intact individuals, offering new insights into Alzheimer's disease progression. The study's findings suggest that therapeutic strategies targeting both proteins may be effective in preventing or stabilizing AD.

SourceMcGill University·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateApr 20, 2016

Physicists build 'electronic synapses' for neural networks

Researchers at MIPT create electronic synapses based on HfO2 memristors, exhibiting properties similar to biological synapses. The devices can model complex learning mechanisms, including LTP and LTD, and demonstrate spike-timing-dependent plasticity.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalNanoscale Research Letters·DateApr 20, 2016

Building a CRISPR rainbow

Researchers have developed a new technology using CRISPR/Cas9 to label and track up to seven different genomic locations in live cells. This allows for real-time study of chromosome dynamics and gene expression, enabling better understanding of biological processes and health outcomes.

SourceUMass Chan Medical School·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateApr 20, 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.

Military sexual trauma linked to higher risk of homelessness among veterans

A study published in JAMA Psychiatry found that U.S. veterans who experienced military sexual trauma were at a higher risk of postdeployment homelessness. The study analyzed data from over 601,000 veterans and found that those with positive MST screens had significantly higher rates of homelessness compared to those without.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateApr 20, 2016

Identifying a genetic mutation behind sporadic Parkinson's disease

Researchers use CRISPR/Cas9 to analyze genome-wide association study results and pinpoint a genetic mutation in the alpha-synuclein gene that increases risk of sporadic Parkinson's disease. The discovery could lead to better understanding of complex diseases with genetic causes.

SourceWhitehead Institute for Biomedical Research·JournalNature·DateApr 20, 2016

Online program reduces bullying behavior in schools, tests show

Researchers found a significant reduction in bullying behavior among students who completed the online program StandUp, which teaches verbal, physical, sexual, and cyberbullying prevention. The program increased the use of healthy relationship skills and reduced bystander passivity to both emotional and physical bullying.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalChildren & Schools·DateApr 20, 2016

New tool calculates economic costs of methane leak detection

A new tool, FEAST, calculates economic costs of different methane leak detection technologies and identifies the most cost-effective methods. The study found that selectively targeting super-emitters can help mitigate methane leakage at lower costs, while expensive instruments can be used if leak detection is performed rapidly.

SourceStanford's School of Earth, Energy & Environmental Sciences·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateApr 20, 2016