Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for June 2, 2016


Walnuts may improve your colon health

Eating walnuts changes the gut microbiome in a way that suppresses colon cancer, with male mice developing 2.3 times fewer tumors when fed walnuts as part of a Western diet. This effect is likely due to walnut's anti-inflammatory properties and ability to promote a diverse gut flora.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalCancer Prevention Research·DateJun 2, 2016

Skaggs family gives $2 million for new TSRI graduate program endowment

The TSRI graduate program has received a new $2 million gift from the Skaggs family to support exceptional students in advanced training at the intersection of biology and chemistry. The gift will enhance research programs and provide financial support, including a first-year stipend and up to $5,000 in subsequent years.

SourceScripps Research Institute·DateJun 2, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

NASA studies details of a greening Arctic

A NASA study has found that nearly a third of the land cover in the Arctic is turning green, with western Alaska and Quebec experiencing significant changes between 1984 and 2012. The study used high-resolution Landsat data to track vegetation trends across a 4.1 million square-mile area.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalRemote Sensing of Environment·DateJun 2, 2016

Current apps on weight management have not been certified by health authorities and there are no published data on their effectiveness

Only 17 weight management apps have been developed by certified health organisations or universities, with no published data on their effectiveness. Researchers recommend transferring professionally-designed online materials into app form to ensure content-quality and evidence-based weight control.

SourceEuropean Association for the Study of Obesity·DateJun 2, 2016

Low risk of dengue infection predicted for foreign visitors to Rio Olympics

Researchers predict a low risk of dengue infection among foreign visitors to the Rio Olympics, with estimates suggesting as few as three symptomatic cases and potentially no asymptomatic infections at all. The predictions are based on sophisticated mathematical modeling techniques and data from Brazil's Health Ministry.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalBMC Infectious Diseases·DateJun 2, 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.

Highly tuned catalytic controls

Researchers at the University of Delaware have developed a new process that triggers targeted reactions using red or near-infrared light or a tiny dose of an enzyme. This breakthrough has significant implications for medicine and engineering, particularly in drug delivery and tissue engineering.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJun 2, 2016

Meta-lens works in the visible spectrum, sees smaller than a wavelength of light

Researchers from Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences have demonstrated the first planar lens that works with high efficiency within the visible spectrum of light. The lens can resolve nanoscale features separated by distances smaller than the wavelength of light.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalScience·DateJun 2, 2016

Florida drug database and 'Pill Mill' reg curbed state's top opioid prescribers

In the first year of two Florida laws aimed at reducing opioid prescriptions, the state's top prescribers wrote significantly fewer pain medication prescriptions, with a 6.2% drop in volume and 5.1% decrease in patients. Despite this, most physicians did not change their prescribing patterns.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence·DateJun 2, 2016

Pregnant women may need more information about medicine use

Research reveals pregnant women often avoid medication due to perceived risks, with UTIs being a significant concern. Women's fears and beliefs about medication use during pregnancy highlight the need for better information and training for pharmacists.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalInternational Journal of Clinical Pharmacy·DateJun 2, 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.

European identity continues to grow

A new study finds that EU-15 citizens increasingly identify as European, with the proportion rising to 61% in 2013. The study also shows that younger cohorts are more likely to have multiple identities, which will continue to increase as they replace older generations.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalPopulation and Development Review·DateJun 2, 2016

Gut microbes' metabolite dampens proliferation of intestinal stem cells

Research at Washington University School of Medicine found that a metabolite produced by beneficial gut microbes restricts the proliferation of intestinal stem cells. This limits the intestine's ability to repair itself after injury or damage, potentially hampering treatment for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalCell·DateJun 2, 2016

Nanotubes' 'stuffing' as is

A scientist at Lomonosov Moscow State University studied the influence of carbon nanotube 'stuffing' on their electronic properties. The researcher identified four main reasons why this method is promising for tailoring electronic properties.

SourceLomonosov Moscow State University·JournalProgress in Materials Science·DateJun 2, 2016

Lack of diagnosis creates added risks for those with dementia

A Johns Hopkins study found that undiagnosed dementia patients are nearly twice as likely to engage in potentially unsafe activities, such as driving and cooking. Those without a diagnosis, however, were less frequently engaging in these activities compared to those with possible or no dementia.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateJun 2, 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.

Genetic code of red blood cells discovered

The study found that only four genes are necessary to reprogram skin cells into producing red blood cells, offering a potential solution for blood transfusions and anaemia treatment. This breakthrough could lead to personalized red blood cells for patients with rare blood types.

SourceLund University·JournalCell Reports·DateJun 2, 2016

Discovering how cyanobacteria form patterns for nitrogen fixation

Researchers have discovered how cyanobacteria create patterns to optimize nitrogen fixation, a process vital for life. The patterns allow cells to distribute fixed nitrogen efficiently, enabling complex life forms like humans to survive.

SourceUniversidad Carlos III de Madrid·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 2, 2016

Inflammation of the placenta interferes with fetal development

Research reveals lower CD74 receptors on placental macrophages disrupt fetal nourishment, leading to abnormal placentas and preeclampsia. This discovery opens new possibilities for long-term therapy targeting root causes of the disease.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalCirculation Research·DateJun 2, 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.

Dentin nanostructures -- a super-natural phenomenon

Researchers found that dentin's mechanical coupling between collagen protein fibers and mineral nanoparticles allows it to withstand extreme forces. The nanostructure design enables dentin to last longer than synthetic filling materials.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalChemistry of Materials·DateJun 2, 2016

Scientists discover oldest plant root stem cells

Researchers at Oxford University have identified the oldest known population of plant root stem cells, preserved in a 320 million-year-old fossil. These ancient stem cells provide unique insights into the evolution of roots and their role in shaping the Earth's climate.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 2, 2016

New in the Hastings Center Report

The article explores the negative effects of medical industry gifts on physicians, arguing that well-intentioned actions can be perniciously infected by industry presence. It also examines Medicare's new policy on advance planning and its limitations, as well as the quarantine controversy surrounding Ebola nurse Kaci Hickox's case.

SourceThe Hastings Center·JournalHastings Center Report·DateJun 2, 2016

Scripps Florida scientists discover a new protein crucial to normal forgetting

Researchers uncover Scribble protein's role in orchestrating intracellular signaling processes for forgetting, which could lead to selective memory removal or inhibition of Alzheimer's disease progression. The study uses Drosophila fruit flies as a model, showing that reducing Scribble expression enhances memory retention.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalNeuron·DateJun 2, 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 experimentally confirm electron model in complex molecules

Researchers have experimentally confirmed a mathematical model describing the distribution of delocalized electrons in molecules and crystals. The study uses X-ray diffraction data to demonstrate the approach's ability to detect electron delocalization, paving the way for new understanding of chemical bonding.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalActa Crystallographica Section B·DateJun 2, 2016

The rules of the game for children with ADHD

Researchers studied children with ADHD playing a game with changing rules, finding they struggled to adjust their behavior. Typically developing children adapted quickly, while those with ADHD showed only slight changes.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalJournal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry·DateJun 2, 2016

Reading between the genes

Researchers at TUM and MPI have developed a method to identify active regulatory DNA regions controlling genes. This breakthrough enables scientists to study how genes are controlled in different cell types, shedding light on gene regulation and its role in diseases.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalScience·DateJun 2, 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.

Underwater 'lost city' found to be geological formation

Researchers found that an underwater site off the coast of Greece was actually a natural geological formation, not the ruins of a lost civilization. The site's unique structure was created by mineralization at hydrocarbon seeps, with microbes using methane as fuel to form a type of natural cement.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalMarine and Petroleum Geology·DateJun 2, 2016

Researchers uncover how 'silent'genetic changes drive cancer

New research suggests that fluctuations in tRNA levels can have a dramatic impact on cellular function, driving metastatic breast cancer. The study found that two specific tRNAs were associated with increased metastasis, leading to changes in gene expression and protein production.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalCell·DateJun 2, 2016

Microplastic particles threaten fish larvae

Larval fish exposed to microplastic particles displayed changed behaviors, such as ignoring natural food sources and failing to respond to predators. This led to increased mortality rates and potentially severe consequences for marine ecosystems.

SourceUppsala University·JournalScience·DateJun 2, 2016

Tiny lasers enable next-gen microprocessors to run faster, less power-hungry

Scientists have successfully integrated tiny high-performance lasers directly onto silicon wafers, overcoming a decades-old semiconductor industry challenge. This breakthrough enables faster and more energy-efficient data transmission, paving the way for on-chip integration of photonics with electronics.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateJun 2, 2016

At the cradle of oxygen: Brand-new detector to reveal the interiors of stars

Researchers at University of Warsaw develop new particle detector to study stellar oxygen formation, with ELI-NP facility set to launch in 2018. The eTPC detector will observe collisions between high-energy photons and oxygen nuclei to fine-tune theoretical models of thermonuclear synthesis.

SourceUniversity of Warsaw, Faculty of Physics·JournalActa Physica Polonica B·DateJun 2, 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.

How to organize a cell: Novel insight from a fungus

Researchers have found that random distribution of organelles in cells is an energy-dependent activity, utilizing ATP to transport organelles along cytoskeleton fibers. This study has implications for understanding human disorders, such as Zellweger syndrome, and highlights the importance of interdisciplinary research.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 2, 2016

A CRISPR system for editing RNA

A CRISPR system targeting RNA has been developed and tested, allowing for precise editing of single-stranded RNA. This breakthrough holds implications for various biological applications, including RNA modification and regulation.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJun 2, 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.

Brain power

Researchers at UC Santa Barbara have pinpointed a specific long non-coding RNA that regulates neural development and drives human brain expansion. The lncRNA, called lncND, binds to microRNAs and regulates the expression of Notch proteins, which are critical for cell differentiation and development.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNeuron·DateJun 2, 2016

Stampede 2 drives the frontiers of science and engineering forward

The University of Texas at Austin has received a $30 million NSF award to build and deploy Stampede 2, a new large-scale supercomputing system that will provide high-performance computing capabilities for thousands of researchers across the U.S. The system is expected to deliver peak performance of up to 18 Petaflops.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·DateJun 2, 2016

Study of UK diabetic patients suggests obesity surgery could save National Health Service almost £100,000 per patient

A small study suggests that obese UK diabetics who undergo bariatric surgery can save the NHS around £95,000 over their lifetime due to reduced medication costs. The study found that 44 patients with type 2 diabetes who no longer required treatment after surgery resulted in significant outpatient and inpatient savings.

SourceEuropean Association for the Study of Obesity·DateJun 2, 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.

FTIR and microarrays: Enabling more information from less sample

By combining FTIR spectroscopy with microarrays, researchers can extract detailed information about protein structures and bonding, allowing for precise quantification and analysis of proteins in minute amounts. This breakthrough enables label-free detection and high-throughput analysis of hundreds of proteins in a few minutes.

SourceIOS Press·JournalBiomedical Spectroscopy and Imaging·DateJun 2, 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.

Study reveals incarceration's hidden wounds for African-American men

Research finds that former inmates empathize less with incarcerated family members due to 'empathetic inurement', a loss of emotional connection. This phenomenon affects African American men disproportionately, contradicting existing sociological theories.

SourceAmerican Sociological Association·JournalJournal of Health and Social Behavior·DateJun 2, 2016

Finely tuned electrical fields give wound healing a jolt

Researchers found that electrical fields enhanced macrophage migration and phagocytosis, cleaning the wound site and boosting healing ability. This discovery may have wide-reaching implications for diseases where macrophages play a role.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalJournal of Leukocyte Biology·DateJun 2, 2016

Swirling ammonia lies below Jupiter's thick clouds

New observations reveal a widespread view of activity below Jupiter's clouds, including hot spots and dry regions devoid of clouds and condensable gases. The detected ammonia plumes swell up in wave patterns, suggesting motion deep within the atmosphere.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJun 2, 2016

Tobacco control experts awarded NCI grant

A five-year NCI grant has been awarded to a consortium of researchers studying the impact of government policies on tobacco use behaviors and the evolving nicotine delivery market. The project aims to assess the likely impact of current and potential future policies on vaporized nicotine products.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·DateJun 2, 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.

Detecting an early biomarker for pancreatic cancer in blood

Researchers identify human satellite II (HSATII) RNA as a promising early detection method for pancreatic cancer, with significantly higher levels found in patients' blood serum. A pilot study validated the test's ability to detect pancreatic cancer and a precancerous lesion in two cohorts of patients.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJCI Insight·DateJun 2, 2016

Unusual combo reduces health risk from atypical antipsychotic

A study published in Scientific Reports found that vitamin D lowers the risk of developing hyperglycaemia when taken with atypical antipsychotics like quetiapine. The researchers also confirmed this finding using mouse tests, revealing that vitamin D defends against the insulin-lowering effects of quetiapine.

SourceKyoto University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 2, 2016

$10 million endowment for health disparities work

San Diego State University has received a $10 million endowment from the National Institutes of Health to improve its research infrastructure and support population health and health disparities research. The funding will enable researchers to collaborate across disciplines and institutions, fostering innovations in research programs w...

SourceSan Diego State University·DateJun 2, 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.

Genetically modified Golden Rice falls short on lifesaving promises

A new study from Washington University in St. Louis finds that genetically modified Golden Rice is still years away from field introduction due to scientific challenges. The research suggests that GMO opponents have not been the problem, but rather the rice's inability to yield well and meet its nutritional goals.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalAgriculture and Human Values·DateJun 2, 2016

Prevention may be essential to reducing racial disparities in stroke

A NIH-funded study found that blacks between 45-54 die of strokes at a rate three times greater than whites due to higher incidence, not worse outcomes. Improved stroke prevention measures, such as controlling hypertension and diabetes, are crucial in reducing racial disparities.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournalStroke·DateJun 2, 2016

NASA looks at rainfall in Texas and Oklahoma flooding

Heavy rainfall totals of over 20 inches were reported in parts of southeastern Texas, with IMERG estimating 431 mm (17 inches) during a week of major flooding. Flooding resulted in at least 6 deaths and a state of disaster was declared in 31 Texas counties.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJun 2, 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.

How the Great Recession weighed on children

Researchers found a strong association between increasing unemployment rates and weight gain among public school students in California from 2008-2012. The study suggests that economic troubles can have long-term health consequences for children, with an increased risk of becoming overweight by up to 21%.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·DateJun 2, 2016

Olfactory receptor discovered in pigment cells of the skin

Researchers at Ruhr-University Bochum have discovered an olfactory receptor in melanocytes, which can be activated by Beta-Ionone to regulate enzyme activity and cell growth. This finding offers new potential for treating melanoma and other pigmentation disorders.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJun 2, 2016

UMass Amherst research tackles major highbush blueberry disease

Researchers will study pollinators at various sites to identify the insects responsible for spreading mummy berry disease and investigate how variations in insect visitation affect resistance levels among blueberry varieties. The study aims to reduce reliance on fungicides and help growers cope with the disease.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·DateJun 2, 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 study finds that vaccinating mothers against flu can protect newborns

A new study found that vaccinating mothers against flu can significantly reduce the risk of their infants getting flu during the first four months after birth by 70 percent. This breakthrough could help reduce flu-related deaths, particularly in poor developing countries where access to healthcare is limited.

SourceUniversity of Maryland School of Medicine·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateJun 2, 2016

Microplastics alter hatching, growth and feeding of European perch

A new study found that microplastic particles negatively impact European perch larvae, reducing hatching success and survival rates. Exposure to high concentrations of plastics also alters feeding preferences and prevents fish from responding to predatory cues.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJun 2, 2016

Use of neighborhood environment can help overweight adolescents increase physical activity

A pilot study at Massachusetts General Hospital found that using everyday environments to increase physical activity led to significant gains in daily activity. Adolescents who participated in the program showed a 7.7-minute increase in moderate-to-vigorous activity, compared to half a minute for control group participants.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateJun 2, 2016

We've got tapeworms and scabies! And reproducible research

Two new research papers on scabies and tapeworms showcase a collaboration with protocols.io to share scientific methods, improving reproducibility. The articles provide detailed and complete methodology descriptions, enabling researchers to easily access and build upon the studies.

SourceGigaScience·JournalGigaScience·DateJun 2, 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.

Study provides new clues to leukemia resurgence after chemotherapy

Researchers discovered leukemia cells harvest mitochondria from normal cells during chemotherapy, allowing them to survive and thrive. This finding offers new hope for developing better treatments for acute myeloid leukemia by targeting the energy-boosting mechanism.

SourceAmerican Society of Hematology·JournalBlood·DateJun 2, 2016

Scientists need your help to spot ladybirds

Researchers are seeking volunteers to help investigate the impact of harlequin ladybirds on UK insects, including a wasp parasite. By spotting seven-spot ladybirds in gardens and parks, participants can help track the lifecycle of the wasp and its effects on native species.

SourceUniversity of Stirling·DateJun 2, 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.

'Bitter brake' activates gut hormones and suppresses food intake

A new bitter plant extract, Amarasate™, has been shown to activate gut peptide hormones involved in appetite regulation and suppress subsequent feeding behavior. The study found significant reductions in energy intake following ingestion of the extract.

SourceEuropean Association for the Study of Obesity·DateJun 2, 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.

Repurposing an old drug to treat cystic fibrosis airway disease

Researchers have found that tromethamine, a drug approved to treat metabolic acidosis, can raise the pH of the airway surface liquid (ASL) and enhance bacterial killing activity in cystic fibrosis patients. This suggests that tromethamine may be beneficial in treating CF airway disease.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJCI Insight·DateJun 2, 2016

Declining dopamine may explain why older people take fewer risks

A new study of over 25,000 people found that declining levels of dopamine in the brain may be responsible for older people's reduced willingness to take risks for potential rewards. Older adults were less likely to choose risky gambles to win points, but not to avoid losing points.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 2, 2016

Researchers mine Twitter to reveal Congress' ideological divide on climate change

Researchers analyzed US senators' Twitter accounts to find a divide in their views on climate change, with Democrats following science-related organizations three times more often than Republicans. However, the study also identified 15 Republican senators who bridged the gap and displayed interest in science.

SourceNortheastern University·JournalClimate Change Responses·DateJun 2, 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.

Mayo Clinic uncovers how 1 gene, protein suppresses tumor formation

Researchers discovered that Pten's phosphatase activity counteracts PI3 kinase activity, leading to uncontrolled cell proliferation and survival. Mutant mice lacking critical amino acids form tumors at high frequency, making them susceptible to targeted cancer therapy.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateJun 2, 2016

A new energy source within the cells

Researchers at Center for Genomic Regulation discover a new pathway generating energy in the cell nucleus to deal with stressful situations and high levels of DNA damage. The key enzyme NUDIX5 is identified as crucial for nuclear ATP synthesis, which could lead to targeted cancer medicine and biomarker development.

SourceCenter for Genomic Regulation·JournalScience·DateJun 2, 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.

Wiretapping the senses

Researchers monitored nerve impulses in awake mice to study the flow of information between sensory perception and behavior. They discovered that different layers of the cortex handle impulses in unique ways while remaining coordinated with each other.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalCell Reports·DateJun 2, 2016

Researchers unlock new CRISPR system for targeting RNA

Researchers have characterized a new CRISPR system that targets RNA, enabling temporary changes to be made with greater specificity. This approach has the potential to accelerate progress in understanding, treating, and preventing disease by manipulating gene function more broadly.

SourceBroad Institute of MIT and Harvard·JournalScience·DateJun 2, 2016

Genetic variant may help predict risk of kidney damage after heart surgery

A genetic variant in the HO-1 gene is highly associated with development of AKI following cardiac surgery, leading to decreased expression and iron toxicity. Testing for this variant may help identify patients at risk, enabling therapeutic strategies to mitigate kidney damage.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateJun 2, 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.

Prevention is key to closing racial disparity gap in stroke

African-Americans are more likely to die of stroke at younger ages, with no disparity observed after age 85. Researchers emphasize the importance of preventing strokes through addressing risk factors like high blood pressure and diabetes in African-American communities.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateJun 2, 2016

3-D-printed weather stations fill gaps in developing world

The first wave of low-cost weather stations have been installed in Zambia, providing critically needed information for farmers and residents. The stations, built with 3D-printed parts, transmit temperature, rainfall, wind, and other weather parameters.

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·DateJun 2, 2016

Emergent, NSF-funded biotech at 2016 BIO Innovation Zone

Fifty NSF-funded biotech companies will exhibit innovative products and processes, including diagnostics and monitoring technologies, drug discovery platforms, and engineering biology innovations. These early-stage companies have the potential to transform the US healthcare system with novel high-tech solutions.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·DateJun 2, 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.

Novel compound shows promise against breast cancer

A new compound called Fasnall has been discovered to impede the proliferation of breast cancer cells in mice. By inhibiting the normal activity of fatty acid synthase, an enzyme that regulates cell growth and proliferation, Fasnall also contributed to the death of existing cancer cells.

SourceOhio State University·JournalCell Chemical Biology·DateJun 2, 2016

New free web service for deep study of cell functions

GAM is a free web service that identifies links between changes in metabolism and genes, enabling better understanding of complex biological processes. The program can analyze entire maps of metabolic pathways in cells, revealing mechanisms of tumor growth and shedding light on autoimmune pathologies.

SourceITMO University·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateJun 2, 2016

Prosthetic limb LegBank receives $1m Google grant

LegBank, a social enterprise company, has received a $1 million grant from Google.org to produce and distribute high-quality prosthetic limbs to amputees in need. The grant will enable production expansion and distribution to Colombia, where it aims to help an estimated 15,000 amputees with limited access to prosthetic care.

SourceUniversity of Strathclyde·DateJun 2, 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.

Did ancient wolves befriend humans twice?

A new study reveals a deep split in the genetic data of ancient European and East Asian dogs, suggesting two independent dog domestication events occurred thousands of years apart. The findings support the idea that dogs were domesticated separately in Europe and Central Asia, with some breeds showing mixed ancestry from both regions.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJun 2, 2016

Patient trial confirms Wearable Artificial Kidney proof of concept

A wearable artificial kidney has been shown to effectively clear waste products from the blood while maintaining electrolyte balance. The device, still requiring redesign for technical issues, offers an alternative to conventional hemodialysis, providing greater patient satisfaction and mobility.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalJCI Insight·DateJun 2, 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.

NASA's Hubble finds universe is expanding faster than expected

Astronomers refine universe's expansion rate with unprecedented accuracy, reducing uncertainty to 2.4 percent. The new value of 73.2 kilometers per second per megaparsec indicates the distance between cosmic objects will double in 9.8 billion years.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·DateJun 2, 2016

Web panels build customer loyalty

Researchers found that web panel participants made 17% more purchases and increased cross-buying by 14%. The profit per customer also rose by 36%, demonstrating the economic benefits of these panels.

SourceJournal of Retailing at New York University·JournalJournal of Retailing·DateJun 2, 2016

Two-drug immunotherapy deemed safe for lung cancer patients, Moffitt study shows

A Moffitt Cancer Center study found that combining nivolumab and ipilimumab is an active treatment option for small cell lung cancer patients who have failed initial therapy. The two-drug immunotherapy regimen resulted in responses that lasted longer than many other investigational agents, with 20% of patients showing a response.

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·DateJun 2, 2016

Watch your step -- blur affects stepping accuracy in older adults

A study published in Optometry and Vision Science found that visual blurring, like bifocals or progressive lenses, can cause errors in foot position when walking. This can contribute to the risk of tripping and falling in older adults, especially in challenging environments.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalOptometry and Vision Science·DateJun 2, 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.

Stress hormone link with psychosis

Researchers found that patients with psychosis fail to produce cortisol after waking, indicating a potential biomarker for early detection. Cortisol levels may also predict risk for other chronic diseases.

SourceJames Cook University·JournalNeuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews·DateJun 2, 2016

How to price goods and service bundles

Researchers Meyer and Shankar develop an analytical model to calculate the optimal price for hybrid bundles, considering factors such as element quality, cost, and scalability. The study finds that retailers can increase profits by pricing services higher when they are less scalable than goods.

SourceJournal of Retailing at New York University·JournalJournal of Retailing·DateJun 2, 2016

Bionic leaf turns sunlight into liquid fuel

A new system uses solar energy to split water molecules and hydrogen-eating bacteria, producing liquid fuels with improved efficiency. The 'bionic leaf' technology has the potential to be incredibly versatile, making any downstream carbon-based molecule.

SourceHarvard University·JournalScience·DateJun 2, 2016

International trial changing standard of care for advanced breast cancer

An international clinical trial led by University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute (UPCI) professor Atilla Soran found that surgery to remove the primary tumor followed by standard therapy adds months to patients' lives compared to standard therapy alone. Surgery resulted in nearly 42% of women living to five years after diagnosis.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·DateJun 2, 2016

Scientists gain supervolcano insights from Wyoming granite

Researchers used ancient granite to understand modern magma chambers, finding uniformity in biotite granite and subtle isotopic variations. The discovery could shed light on the volcanic-plutonic connection at supervolcanoes.

SourceUniversity of Wyoming·JournalAmerican Mineralogist·DateJun 2, 2016

Prodding leukemia cells with nanoprobes could provide cancer clues

Leukemia cells exhibit stiffer mechanical signatures compared to healthy cells. The study suggests that these mechanical data can be used to grade the loss of cell mechanical functions depending on leukemia progression. This approach may aid in cancer diagnosis and provide insights into disease evolution

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalPhysical Biology·DateJun 2, 2016

Quantum satellite device tests technology for global quantum network

Researchers from Singapore and UK test a compact device in space that creates and measures pairs of light particles, a precursor to entangled photons. The technology aims to connect powerful quantum computers globally, enabling secure keys for secret messaging.

SourceCentre for Quantum Technologies at the National University of Singapore·JournalPhysical Review Applied·DateJun 2, 2016

Healing function of sweat glands declines with age

Researchers found that sweat glands contribute less cells to wound closure in elderly skin, leading to delayed healing and thinner repaired epidermis. Chronic sun exposure damages skin structures supporting sweat glands, highlighting the importance of sunscreen use.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalAging Cell·DateJun 2, 2016

New radio map of Jupiter reveals what's beneath colorful clouds

Astronomers have produced the most detailed radio map yet of Jupiter's atmosphere, revealing massive movement of ammonia gas that underlies colorful bands and whirling clouds. The study sheds light on global circulation and cloud formation driven by Jupiter's internal heat source.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalScience·DateJun 2, 2016

Cancer cells become more aggressive from fat storage

Researchers at Lund University discovered that cancer cells can accumulate fat droplets, making them more aggressive and increasing their ability to spread. The fat serves as fuel for the stressed cells, allowing them to grow and spread.

SourceLund University·JournalCancer Research·DateJun 2, 2016