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Science News for April 5, 2016


A better fix for torn ACLs

Researchers at the University of Missouri have developed a model showing a newer surgical technique results in a stronger, more natural ACL repair. The new suspensory fixation method reduces cell and tissue damage to the graft, allowing for full functional healing.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalArthroscopy The Journal of Arthroscopic and Related Surgery·DateApr 5, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Automated thinner benefits romaine lettuce size, uniformity

Field studies show that automated thinners increase plant size and uniformity, leading to larger plant and heart weight compared to hand-thinning methods. The technology optimizes in-row spacing, allowing growers to increase crop yields.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateApr 5, 2016

What can Frizzled7 reveal about breast cancer development?

A study reveals that Frizzled7 is uniquely controlled by the Notch signaling pathway in human breast epithelial cells. This interaction may provide a new target for treating breast cancer. The researchers hope their findings will help identify an underlying cause of breast carcinogenesis.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalStem Cells and Development·DateApr 5, 2016

NUS-led research team discovers novel way of transferring magnetic information

A NUS-led research team has discovered a new method for transferring magnetic information between two thin layers of magnetic materials by adding a special insulator. This breakthrough enables faster data transmission rates and paves the way for the development of devices that operate in the terahertz frequency range.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 5, 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.

A lesson from wheat evolution: From the wild to our spaghetti dish

Scientists studied wheat evolution from wild to emmer and durum wheat, finding initial domestication reduced unsaturated fatty acids. Secondary domestication changed amino acid content, suggesting yield-related traits may have prioritized adaptation over nutrition.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateApr 5, 2016

Can urban gardeners benefit ecosystems while keeping food traditions alive?

A study found that urban gardens in Chicago's African American, Chinese-origin, and Mexican-origin communities provide important ecosystem services. The researchers identified non-native crops and synthetic fertilizers as potential issues, but also noted the cultural significance of gardening for food security and community connection.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalRenewable Agriculture and Food Systems·DateApr 5, 2016

Indiana University-led researchers identify objective predictors of suicidality in women

Researchers at Indiana University have identified blood-based biomarkers and developed questionnaire-based apps that can help clinicians identify female patients at greatest risk of suicidal ideation or behavior. The study found that these tools were able to predict future instances of suicidal thoughts with high accuracy, suggesting p...

SourceIndiana University·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateApr 5, 2016

Altered circadian rhythm worsens Parkinson's disease, Temple researchers show

Researchers at Temple University Health System found that disturbances in circadian rhythm exacerbate motor and learning deficits in Parkinson's disease. Altering circadian rhythm through daily light exposure can accelerate cell death and worsen neuroinflammation, potentially speeding disease progression.

SourceTemple University Health System·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateApr 5, 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.

Scientists to crack the genetic code of the Y chromosome in malaria mosquitoes

A team of scientists has successfully assembled and analyzed the genetic code of the Y chromosome in malaria mosquitoes for the first time. The research reveals that the Y chromosome consists mainly of repetitive sequences with few genes, and may have crossed species boundaries.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 5, 2016

Screening for COPD not recommended

The US Preventive Services Task Force recommends against routine screening for COPD in asymptomatic adults due to lack of evidence on benefits and potential harms. Screening may divert resources from other preventive services, such as smoking cessation.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateApr 5, 2016

Hard whale heads sink ships -- or can they?

Research suggests that the sperm whale head's connective tissue partitions could function as a shock absorber, reducing impact stress and protecting the skull from failure. The study's findings may have implications for understanding aggressive behavior in other species.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalPeerJ·DateApr 5, 2016

Invading the brain to understand and repair cognition

Scientists are using new brain-machine interfaces to restore motor function, while developing tools to repair and improve cognition. New electrophysiology techniques allow for a sharper view of the brain's activity, enabling researchers to study human brains in real-time.

SourceCognitive Neuroscience Society·DateApr 5, 2016

Study shows certain gastrointestinal tumors associated with higher mortality

Researchers at University of California, San Diego School of Medicine found that certain groups of gastrointestinal stromal tumors result in a much higher mortality rate than expected. The study analyzed data from 378 patients with malignant GISTs and discovered significant variability in size and malignant behavior.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJournal of Gastrointestinal Surgery·DateApr 5, 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.

NREL reveals potential for capturing waste heat via nanotubes

Researchers at NREL have developed a thermoelectric power generator using carbon nanotubes, enabling the capture and use of waste heat. The material's unique properties allow it to retain high thermopower while maintaining low thermal conductivity.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·JournalNature Energy·DateApr 5, 2016

Cost-effective production of hydrogen from natural resources

Researchers at Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST) have developed a cost-effective method for producing high-purity silicon nanosheets, which are essential for the mass production of hydrogen. The new technique uses natural clay and salt to synthesize these nanosheets, significantly reducing production costs.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalNPG Asia Materials·DateApr 5, 2016

Can your fitness tracker save your life in the ER?

A recent case report found that a patient's activity tracker and smartphone helped identify the onset time of his atrial fibrillation, allowing for timely electrical cardioversion. The device provided critical information to medical providers, enabling more effective treatment decisions.

SourceAmerican College of Emergency Physicians·JournalAnnals of Emergency Medicine·DateApr 5, 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.

Researchers show corals struggle to grow under multiple stressors

A new study found that corals preconditioned to high CO2 levels before increased temperatures showed 44% lower growth rates compared to unconditioned corals. This suggests that elevated CO2 worsens coral response to thermal stress, potentially exacerbating climate change impacts on coral reefs.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·JournalMarine Ecology Progress Series·DateApr 5, 2016

Study: The science behind bodily secretions

Researchers discovered that all four parts of the IP3 receptor must be activated for calcium to increase and initiate fluid secretion. This finding has broad implications for understanding human secretory disorders like Sjögren's syndrome, which causes dry mouth and affects quality of life.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalScience Signaling·DateApr 5, 2016

Research finds evidence of lung abnormalities in light-use waterpipe smokers

A study of young, light-use waterpipe smokers found marked changes in airway cells and increased particles shed by endothelial cells. These biological changes indicate early lung damage, highlighting the need for large epidemiologic studies to assess the harmful effects of waterpipe smoking.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateApr 5, 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.

General practice in England nearing 'saturation point'

General practice workloads in England have increased by 16% over seven years, with more frequent and longer consultations, according to a large-scale analysis. The study's findings suggest the system is approaching saturation point due to low recruitment rates and an ageing population with complex needs.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalThe Lancet·DateApr 5, 2016

Risk of breaking a bone depends on where you live

A new study found that bone fracture rates differ significantly across the UK, with Scotland and Northern Ireland having the highest rates. The risk is also influenced by age, sex, ethnicity and socioeconomic status.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalBone·DateApr 5, 2016

Controlling cell turnover in the intestinal lining

A study by Children's Hospital Los Angeles researchers found that epidermal growth factor (EGF) negatively regulates epithelial cell shedding in the intestine through a selective MAPK-dependent signaling pathway. This insight could identify potential targets for correcting pathological shedding in diseases like IBD.

SourceChildren's Hospital Los Angeles·JournalJournal of Cell Science·DateApr 5, 2016

Breaking metamaterial symmetry with reflected light

A group of UK researchers discovered a new type of optical activity by breaking the symmetry of metamaterials with reflected light. This enables novel applications such as polarization rotating and circularly polarizing beam splitters and mirrors, as well as optical isolators for circularly polarized light.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateApr 5, 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.

New mouse model to aid testing of Zika vaccine, therapeutics

Researchers have established a mouse model that mimics aspects of Zika virus infection in humans, allowing for the testing of vaccines and therapeutics. The model shows high levels of the virus in the brain, spinal cord, and testes of male mice, supporting clinical data on sexual transmission.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateApr 5, 2016

Major new project maps out woodland biodiversity

Researchers assess impact of past land use change on current biodiversity by analyzing woodlands planted over 160 years. The project provides a unique opportunity to study the effects of historical land use on modern ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of Stirling·JournalEcology and Evolution·DateApr 5, 2016

New database gives scientists hope for helping coral reefs

A new global database allows scientists to quickly address unresolved questions about coral reefs. The Coral Trait Database houses physiological, morphological, ecological, phylogenetic, and biogeographic trait information.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·JournalScientific Data·DateApr 5, 2016

Promising new method inhibits TB-causing bacteria

Scientists have discovered a new way to inhibit the growth of Mycobacterium tuberculosis by using modified cholesterol as an energy source. This breakthrough holds promise for the development of new treatments for tuberculosis, a highly infectious lung disease that kills one person every 21 seconds.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateApr 5, 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.

New laser technique promises super-fast and super-secure quantum cryptography

Researchers have developed a new method to overcome issues in implementing quantum cryptography, enabling 'unbreakable' encryption at rates of up to 1 megabit per second. This breakthrough promises faster and more secure data transmission, with potential applications in sensitive information sharing.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Photonics·DateApr 5, 2016

Risk allele for side effects induced by Clozapine identified

A significant association has been found between HLA-B*59:01 and Clozapine-induced agranulocytosis and granulocytopenia, suggesting the allele may serve as a marker for prioritizing patients at low risk of developing these severe side effects. Further analysis is needed to clarify the mechanism behind this association.

SourceOsaka University·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateApr 5, 2016

NASAs New Horizons fills gap in space environment observations

New Horizons provided three years of measurements of the solar wind, filling a crucial gap between what other missions see closer to the sun and what Voyager spacecraft see further out. The data helps round out our picture of the sun's influence on space, including the origins of radiation hazards for astronauts.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalAtherosclerosis·DateApr 5, 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.

Live fast, die young

Scientists studying ancient mammal relatives known as therapsids found that they had shorter life expectancies and bred at younger ages to survive the drastic climate change. This adaptation allowed them to thrive in the aftermath of the Permo-Triassic Mass Extinction, which pushed billions of tons of carbon into the atmosphere.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 5, 2016

Online comment sections may influence readers' opinions on health issues

A study published in Health Affairs found that one-sided comments on online news articles can shape readers' opinions on health topics. The researchers discovered that participants who viewed balanced comments or no comments expressed a neutral opinion, while those exposed to polarized comments held extreme views.

SourceUniversité Laval·JournalHealth Affairs·DateApr 5, 2016

Saving lives through real-time flood forecasting

Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin developed a new system to predict floods in real-time using advanced computing resources. With the National Flood Interoperability Experiment (NFIE), they can forecast floods continually, improving the accuracy and speed of flood warnings for communities nationwide.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·DateApr 5, 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.

Fighting fiddler crabs call each other's bluff

Male fiddler crabs use deception to their favour by blurring the line between original and regrown claws. They adapt their combat strategies based on claw strength, opting for smaller opponents with weakened regrown claws to avoid injury.

SourceSpringer·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateApr 5, 2016

Researchers discover new fish virus that threatens global tilapia stocks

Researchers discovered a new fish virus, Tilapia Lake Virus (TiLV), causing mass die-offs in Ecuador and Israel, affecting wild and farmed tilapia populations. The team identified the virus's genetic sequence and showed it replicates in fish cells, providing a foundation for developing a vaccine.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmBio·DateApr 5, 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.

Fossil discovery suggests size poor predictor of maturity in ancient reptiles

New research on Asilisaurus fossils reveals that early dinosaurs grew at a faster rate than previously thought and didn't follow the expected pattern of size being a predictor of maturity. The study found that muscle scars on fossil bones were more related to growth patterns than sex differences.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalJournal of Vertebrate Paleontology·DateApr 5, 2016

Trophoblasts resistant to Zika/Zika in the mouse

Human placental trophoblasts resistant to Zika virus proliferation and release an antiviral molecule called type III interferon to stop viral replication. Mouse models show high virus levels in brain, spinal cord, and testes after inoculation through skin.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateApr 5, 2016

Impossible superconductors gone live

A team of Russian scientists has measured the temperature dependences of two energetic gaps in iron-based superconductors, a breakthrough that could help solve questions about their appearance. The discovery confirms the existence of two-gap superconductivity, which was previously doubted, and highlights the complexity of this phenomenon.

SourceLomonosov Moscow State University·JournalJournal of Superconductivity and Novel Magnetism·DateApr 5, 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.

Financial incentives are highly effective in helping pregnant women quit smoking

Financial incentives have been shown to be highly effective in aiding smoking cessation among pregnant and post-partum women, especially those economically disadvantaged. According to Stephen T. Higgins, Ph.D., financial incentives in the form of vouchers for retail goods are a cost-effective alternative.

SourceUniversity of Vermont College of Medicine·JournalCurrent Addiction Research·DateApr 5, 2016

Insomnia linked to damage in brain communication networks

Researchers found abnormalities in white matter tracts of patients with insomnia, affecting sleep regulation and cognitive function. The thalamus, which regulates consciousness and sleep, was particularly affected.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateApr 5, 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.

Biomechanics team discovers how insects repair their 'bones'

A biomechanics team at Trinity College Dublin discovered how insects construct internal bandages to mend damaged limbs, restoring approximately two-thirds of their original strength. This innovative repair mechanism allows insects to function almost normally after a cut, promoting survival in the wild.

SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalInterface·DateApr 5, 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.

Pain and physical function improve after weight-loss surgery

A study of 2,221 adults with severe obesity who underwent bariatric surgery found that approximately 50-70% experienced clinically significant improvements in pain and physical function over 3 years. Younger age, male sex, and weight loss were associated with greater improvements.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateApr 5, 2016

Plant gases can counteract Arctic climate change

Researchers found that plant gases released in response to climate changes can form clouds that reflect incoming solar radiation, cooling the ground and mitigating temperature rises. This effect is more sensitive than CO2 release through plant respiration, with a 20-fold increase in sensitivity to temperature rise.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalNature Geoscience·DateApr 5, 2016

Changing the color of single photons in a diamond quantum memory

Scientists successfully shifted the frequency of a single photon, opening up new possibilities for wavelength division multiplexing in optical quantum communication. The breakthrough uses a room-temperature diamond quantum memory to manipulate light at extremely short pulse lengths.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 5, 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.

Few children get 60 minutes of vigorous physical activity daily

Only 15% of children met the daily recommendation for moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, and girls were even less likely to meet the guideline. Overweight and obese children were also less active overall and achieved fewer minutes of MVPA during school, out-of-school, and on weekends.

SourceTufts University, Health Sciences Campus·JournalInternational Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity·DateApr 5, 2016

Radical solution could avoid depletion of natural resources

Researchers suggest targeting over-exploitation of resources like forests and fisheries by partitioning ecosystems into specialized harvesting niches. This approach could lead to higher sustainable quotas and productive industrial systems.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalEcological Applications·DateApr 5, 2016

Back to basics with thermoelectric power

Researchers found that electron diffusivity plays a crucial role in harnessing thermoelectric power from waste heat. The study sheds light on the fundamental physical process behind this phenomenon.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal Plus·DateApr 5, 2016

Insulator-superconductor transition of copper-oxide compound studied in fine detail

Researchers create thin films of a copper-oxide compound to study its electronic behavior at near absolute zero. They find that decreasing doping levels or increasing magnetic fields suppresses superconductivity, while Hall resistivity measurements reveal quantum fluctuations and electronic memory.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 5, 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.

New in the Hastings Center Report

The Hastings Center Report explores bioethics' racial dimensions, including medical racism and conscientious care. The article discusses approaches to mitigate the effects of laws that raise moral conflicts, such as abortion regulations in North Carolina. Two 'Other Voices' essays also examine the role of conscience in healthcare.

SourceThe Hastings Center·JournalHastings Center Report·DateApr 5, 2016

Scientists net virus behind tilapia die-offs in Israel and Ecuador

A novel virus, Tilapia Lake Virus (TiLV), has been identified as the cause of massive tilapia die-offs in Israel and Ecuador, with significant implications for the global aquaculture industry. The discovery provides critical genomic and protein sequences necessary for disease detection, containment, and vaccine development.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalmBio·DateApr 5, 2016

How to survive extinction: Live fast, die young

Researchers found that ancient mammal relatives, therapsids, had shorter life expectancies and bred at younger ages after a mass extinction event. This adaptation allowed them to survive and thrive in the new environment, with simulations showing a 40% increase in survival chances.

SourceField Museum·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 5, 2016

Touching a robot can elicit physiological arousal in humans

Researchers at Stanford University discovered that touching a robot's intimate areas triggers physiological arousal in humans. The experiment used Aldebaran Robotics' NAO human-shaped robot and measured skin conductance and reaction time.

SourceInternational Communication Association·DateApr 5, 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.

Scientists reveal endocardial origin of liver vasculature

Researchers found that part of the liver vasculature is derived from the endocardium in the developing heart, with endocardial VEGF/VEGFR2 signaling playing a crucial role in liver angiogenesis and organogenesis. The discovery provides new insights into liver development and regeneration.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Genetics·DateApr 5, 2016

Promising results reported in study of AAV-based gene delivery to treat methylmalonic acidemia

A new study in patients with methylmalonic acidemia found lower than expected levels of antibodies against adeno-associated viral vectors, suggesting encouraging implications for gene delivery as a treatment. The absence of AAV antibodies in most patients who lack the deficient enzyme has promising results for gene therapy.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalHuman Gene Therapy·DateApr 5, 2016

Autism Science Foundation announces Spring 2016 grant recipients

The Autism Science Foundation has awarded $2.3 million in grants to support innovative autism research and training programs. The funding will go towards pre- and post-doctoral fellowships, undergraduate summer research grants, and other initiatives aimed at improving our understanding of autism and developing effective treatments.

SourceRubenstein Associates, Inc.·DateApr 5, 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.

NREL, SLAC scientists pinpoint solar cell manufacturing process

Researchers at NREL and SLAC pinpoint the chemical and physical changes that occur during the firing step in silicon solar cell manufacturing. They found that between 500-650 degrees Celsius, lead oxide etches the antireflective coating on the solar cell, while above 650 degrees, silver dissolves into the molten glass frit.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 5, 2016

Researchers document how broadbills make loud wing song

Broadbills make loud sounds with their wings to mark territory and attract females. Researchers found that it's not the outermost wing feathers but those just inside them that produce the klaxon-like sound.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateApr 5, 2016

New study reports on suicidal thinking among US veterans

A study of over 2,000 US veterans found nearly 14% reported suicidal thinking at one or both survey phases, challenging past findings that suggest it's a longer-term problem. Social connectedness was linked to remission, while addressing psychiatric and physical health issues may be more critical for those with chronic suicidal thinking.

SourceVeterans Affairs Research Communications·JournalJournal of Affective Disorders·DateApr 5, 2016

Long-term response to selection predictable regardless of genetic architecture

Research resolves debate on gene interactions and adaptation by showing that the long-term response can be predicted in two scenarios: when genetic drift or selection dominate. Epistasis affects long-term response only if it changes sign during adaptation, regardless of initial trait variance components.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 5, 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.

Cooling chips with the flip of a switch

Researchers at Penn State University have developed a unique blend of ferroelectric polymers that can hold absorbed heat even after the external field has been switched off. This allows the material to generate cooling when the field is turned on, but no subsequent heating when the field is turned off.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateApr 5, 2016

Root water transport measured with hydraulic conductance flow meter

Researchers used a new device to measure how plants take in and transport water, finding that substrates containing wood have no impact on root water uptake. The study provides insight into plant performance and adaptability to environmental conditions.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateApr 5, 2016

Uninfected or asymptomatic? Diagnostic tests key to forecasting major epidemics

Researchers from the University of Cambridge found that diagnostic tests are crucial for forecasting major epidemics. The study shows that precise estimates of infected individuals cannot be inferred from data based on symptomatic cases alone, highlighting the need for reliable diagnostic tests to detect presymptomatic infections.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateApr 5, 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.

Childhood asthma overdiagnosed, argue leading respiratory doctors

Asthma diagnosis has swung too far in the opposite direction, with inhalers prescribed for unnecessary reasons due to side effects such as growth suppression and increased risk of respiratory infections. Key findings highlight the need for accurate diagnosis using breathing tests and objective documentation.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalArchives of Disease in Childhood·DateApr 5, 2016

Targeting the gut microbiome to fight heart disease

Researchers found that resveratrol changes the gut microbiome, reducing levels of trimethylamine-N-oxide and inhibiting TMA production, which contribute to atherosclerosis. The study suggests that resveratrol could be used as a natural treatment for cardiovascular disease.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmBio·DateApr 5, 2016

Cold mountain streams offer climate refuge: Future holds hope for biodiversity

A new study finds that cold-water species are more resilient to climate change than previously thought, with many populations expected to persist this century. Mountain landscapes play a crucial role in preserving biodiversity, giving conservationists time to complete extensive surveys and develop effective conservation strategies.

SourceU.S. Geological Survey·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 5, 2016

'It's not worth me having a long-life lightbulb'

A rare study of attitudes to death and dying amongst the very old reveals that this group is willing to discuss their end-of-life care, but rarely does so. The research found that most older people feel ready to die and would prefer a peaceful, pain-free passing.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 5, 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 movie of the microworld: Physicists create nanoparticle picture series

Researchers at Kansas State University have developed a method to capture X-ray images of nanoparticles in femtosecond sequences, providing insights into their interactions with intense laser light. The technique has applications in understanding aerosol formation, climate models, and the development of optoelectronics.

SourceKansas State University·JournalNature Photonics·DateApr 5, 2016

Record-breaking steel could be used for body armor, shields for satellites

Researchers developed a record-breaking steel alloy that can withstand impact without deforming permanently, with an elastic limit of 11.76 giga-Pascals. The material's unique structure allows it to be both hard and non-brittle, making it suitable for various applications.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 5, 2016

Significant increase seen in price of insulin

A study found that the prevalence of treated diabetes increased from 5.2% to 7.7% in the US, while estimated spending for insulin per patient rose from $231 to $736 between 2002 and 2013. Insulin prices skyrocketed, with average prices increasing by 197% over the same period.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateApr 5, 2016

Exercise counteracts sitting time

Regular exercise can counteract health problems associated with sitting all day, according to a new study published in BMC Public Health. The research found that people who are physically active have a more desirable health profile compared to those who are inactive and spend high amounts of time sitting.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalBMC Public Health·DateApr 5, 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.

Neuroscientists working to test brain training claims

Researchers are identifying who may benefit from cognitive training and new methods to result in long-lasting, positive effects on cognition. Cognitive neuroscientists are using tools like tDCS to boost working memory, with enhancements lasting over months.

SourceCognitive Neuroscience Society·DateApr 5, 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.

Landscapers benefit from organic land care extension program

A new study assesses the impact of Rutgers University's Organic Land Care Certificate Program on landscaper attitudes and practices. Survey results show significant reductions in synthetic fertilizer use and pesticide application, with a focus on holistic landscape management.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateApr 5, 2016

Sugar shock: Insulin costs tripled in 10 years, study finds

The cost of insulin more than tripled from $231 to $736 per year between 2002 and 2013, while other diabetes drugs saw a decrease. The study suggests looking again at non-insulin therapies due to the high cost-effectiveness gap.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA·DateApr 5, 2016