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Science News for March 1, 2016


Lifetime breakthrough promising for low-cost and efficient OLED displays and lights

Researchers at Kyushu University developed a modification to increase the lifetime of organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) by nearly 8 times, making them more suitable for practical applications. The modification involves adding thin layers of a lithium-containing molecule, reducing degradation and increasing efficiency.

SourceKyushu University, OPERA·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 1, 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 Goddard network maintains communications from space to ground

Goddard's Network Integration Center coordinates communications for Near Earth and Space Networks, ensuring reliable data transmission from space to ground. The center has been operational since Project Mercury and supports human spaceflight missions, including those in low-Earth orbit and beyond.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 1, 2016

Pregnancy vitamin D supplementation may help winter baby's bones

A new study found that vitamin D supplementation during pregnancy can increase bone mass in babies born during the winter months, potentially leading to stronger bones and a reduced risk of osteoporosis. The supplement showed no difference in overall bone mass but had a positive impact on children born during the colder months.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·DateMar 1, 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.

Moments of acute stress can cause molecular alterations in immune response

A study involving skydiving participants found that acute stress can cause molecular alterations in the immune response, leading to increased risk of stress-related conditions. The researchers identified specific genes and pathways involved in both innate and adaptive immune responses that were dysregulated after the jump.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateMar 1, 2016

A new way to stretch DNA

Researchers have developed a new way to controllably manipulate biomolecules like DNA using acoustic force spectroscopy. The technique stretches molecules by applying varying forces in a precise way, shedding light on chemical bonding and mechanical properties.

SourceBiophysical Society·DateMar 1, 2016

Identity unearthed

A new study published in American Anthropologist reveals the transformation of Egyptian and Nubian culture through cultural entanglement. The researchers found that individual choices played a significant role in shaping the development of the Nubian state, allowing it to eventually conquer Egypt.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalAmerican Anthropologist·DateMar 1, 2016

DTC genetic tests create conundrum for physicians, unrealistic expectations for patients

Direct-to-consumer genetic testing raises concerns about physicians' preparedness to discuss test results and potential downstream effects on the healthcare system. A study found that only a minority of consumers share their results with their doctor, often due to physician's inability to answer questions and address patient concerns.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMar 1, 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.

NREL collaboration boosts potential for CdTe solar cells

Researchers at NREL have improved the maximum voltage available from CdTe solar cells, breaking the 1V barrier and enabling more efficient electricity generation. The innovation could significantly reduce manufacturing costs and make solar energy more cost-competitive with traditional energy sources.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·JournalNature Energy·DateMar 1, 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.

Long-term stress erodes memory

Researchers at Ohio State University found that sustained stress impairs memory and cognitive function in mice, with inflammation caused by the immune system being a key factor. The study suggests potential targets for pharmacological or behavioral treatment to interrupt inflammation and improve memory.

SourceOhio State University·DateMar 1, 2016

Imaging shows impact of PTSD in earthquake survivors

A new study using MRI found that adult earthquake survivors with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) had greater cortical thickness in certain brain regions and reduced volume in others compared to healthy survivors. Cortical thickness was positively correlated with PTSD severity, particularly in the left precuneus region.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateMar 1, 2016

Zika virus medical countermeasures, challenges and opportunities

The Zika Response Working Group provides recommendations for countermeasures against the Zika virus, highlighting the need for open-minded responses and collaboration. Key findings include the potential of currently marketed drugs to have anti-Zika activity and the challenges of rapid vaccine development.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateMar 1, 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.

New climate study argues for carbon fee

A new study finds that climate change is becoming noticeable at mid-latitudes, especially in summer, with extreme events more frequent due to rising temperatures. The researchers argue that a carbon fee is needed to spur the transition to clean energy and reduce fossil fuel emissions.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateMar 1, 2016

New method to stop Argentine ants

Researchers at UC Riverside have found a more environmentally friendly way to control the spread of Argentine ants by adding their pheromone to bait. The pheromone-infused gel bait reduced ant activity by 74%, compared to 42% with traditional baits, and is an inexpensive modification to existing products.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalJournal of Economic Entomology·DateMar 1, 2016

Better biopsies through biofluidics

Researchers have developed a new method to acquire three-dimensional atlases of tissue that provide much more information, incorporating data on tissue structure and molecular profile. The new technique enables doctors or researchers to peer into the tissue and identify specific proteins within cells throughout the whole tissue.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalBiomicrofluidics·DateMar 1, 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.

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.

DNA as a weapon of immune defense

Scientists have found that a social amoeba uses both phagocytosis and DNA nets to defend against bacteria, similar to the human immune system. This discovery could lead to new treatments for chronic granulomatous disease and other immune disorders.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 1, 2016

Twin study: Genetics and environment affect different regions of the brain

Researchers found that genetics play a major role in the bilateral parietal lobes and left temporal lobe, while environment dominates other brain regions. This study provides insights into how nature and environment interact to shape our brains, potentially informing the development of neurological and psychiatric disorders.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateMar 1, 2016

Study highlights need for better characterized genomes for clinical sequencing

A new study assesses genome-sequencing technologies and finds medically significant regions prone to systematic errors. The researchers call for methods to benchmark performance in all sequenced regions, essential for accurate diagnosis and prevention of false positives and negatives.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalGenome Medicine·DateMar 1, 2016

Using old drugs to treat new viruses

Researchers discovered that common drugs for psychosis and depression can prevent certain viruses from infecting cells by blocking potassium ion channels. This breakthrough finding has potential to stop deadly viruses from spreading and causing human disease.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateMar 1, 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.

Engineered hydrogel scaffolds enable growth of functioning human breast tissue

Whitehead Institute researchers develop hydrogel scaffolds that support human mammary tissue growth from patient-derived cells, providing insights into normal breast development and cancer progression. The scaffold responds to hormones and allows for the study of gene perturbations.

SourceWhitehead Institute for Biomedical Research·JournalBreast Cancer Research·DateMar 1, 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.

Can't sleep? Street lights may be keeping you awake

A study of 15,863 people found that nighttime light exposure was significantly associated with sleep duration and disturbances. People living in urban areas with intense street lights were six percent more likely to sleep less than six hours per night.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·DateMar 1, 2016

Whole-exome sequencing: A rational approach for 'diagnostic odyssey' patients

A clinical study from Mayo Clinic found whole-exome sequencing to be a viable diagnostic approach for identifying rare genetic conditions, resolving diagnostic odysseys and improving patient management. The study reported a success rate of 29%, twice that of conventional genetic evaluations, with insurance coverage existing for the test.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateMar 1, 2016

Neutrophils 'vacuum' microbes away from the brain

Researchers discovered that neutrophils can internalize C. neoformans in the brain vasculature and circulate them back into the bloodstream for removal. This process enables the prevention of cryptococcal meningoencephalitis, a deadly brain infection.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalJournal of Leukocyte Biology·DateMar 1, 2016

From backyard pool chemical to nanomaterial

Researchers at McGill University discover that cyanuric acid can coax DNA into forming a triple helix, unlike the familiar double helix. This breakthrough could lead to the creation of new DNA structures with unique properties.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature Chemistry·DateMar 1, 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.

Less connectivity improves innovation

In this experiment, participants were asked to discover successive innovations to produce a virtual remedy and stop the spread of a virus. The results show that fully connected groups performed well in the short-run but rapidly converged toward the same solutions.

SourceArizona State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 1, 2016

The overlooked commotion of particle motion in the ocean

Most aquatic species sense sound via particle motion, yet few studies have included measurements. Researchers from the University of Exeter and others have developed user-friendly tools to maximize its uptake and understand the impact of man-made noise on aquatic life.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalMethods in Ecology and Evolution·DateMar 1, 2016

Hey boss: Workers prefer consistent jerk to loose cannon

A recent study published in the Academy of Management Journal found that employees who work for consistently unfair supervisors are less stressed and more satisfied than those with erratic bosses. The researchers suggest that prioritizing self-discipline and careful thinking can help deliver leaders who treat employees fairly most of t...

SourceMichigan State University·JournalAcademy of Management Journal·DateMar 1, 2016

Penguin brains not changed by loss of flight

Researchers analyzed the oldest known penguin fossil and found no significant changes in brain structure compared to modern penguins. The study suggests that becoming flightless did not directly impact brain anatomy, contradicting previous assumptions.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalJournal of Anatomy·DateMar 1, 2016

New research helps solve the riddle of the ocean carbon conundrum

Scientists have made significant breakthroughs in understanding the ocean's role in absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Using satellite and ship measurements, they found that around a quarter of the CO2 released into the atmosphere ends up in the oceans, equivalent to two million double-decker buses or 72,000 Boeing 747s annu...

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalJournal of Atmospheric and Oceanic Technology·DateMar 1, 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.

Low vitamin D predicts aggressive prostate cancer

A new study by Northwestern University research found that low levels of vitamin D are associated with aggressive prostate cancer in men. Men with dark skin or limited sun exposure should get their vitamin D levels checked and supplement if necessary to reduce the risk of aggressive prostate cancer.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateMar 1, 2016

NASA finds drought in Eastern Mediterranean worst of past 900 years

A new NASA study reconstructs the Mediterranean's drought history using tree rings, finding that the eastern region has experienced its worst drought in 900 years. The research provides a 'fingerprint' for identifying human-induced climate change contributions and will improve computer models simulating climate change.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateMar 1, 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.

What if extraterrestrial observers called, but nobody heard?

Scientists René Heller and Ralph Pudritz suggest focusing on Earth's transit zone, where our planet passes in front of the sun, to maximize the chances of detecting signals from extraterrestrial observers. The proposed method involves studying the dimming of starlight as a planet crosses its host star's face.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalAstrobiology·DateMar 1, 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.

More than half of lawn mower injuries to children require an amputation

A recent study found that 53% of lawn mower injuries to children require amputation. The most common injury sites were the lower extremity and collisions with mower blades. To mitigate these risks, researchers recommend increased education campaigns for parents on how to keep their children safe from lawn-mower injuries.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateMar 1, 2016

Campuses need safety planning to protect abuse victims, study finds

A recent study by Sam Houston State University found that up to half of college students experience intimate partner violence, emphasizing the need for campus safety planning. The research brief highlights the importance of educating students on personal safety strategies and providing access to resources for victims of abuse.

SourceSam Houston State University·DateMar 1, 2016

Better targeting of treatment gives hope to people with severe asthma

A new study is exploring whether the drug Omalizumab can be targeted at specific patients with severe asthma, who are expected to benefit most from the treatment. This research aims to identify biomarkers that will enable more effective treatment and improve symptoms for those suffering from severe asthma.

SourceNIHR Office for Clinical Research Infrastructure·DateMar 1, 2016

Severe anemia linked with risk of serious intestinal disorder among VLBW infants

A recent study found that severe anemia is a significant risk factor for necrotizing enterocolitis in VLBW infants, while red blood cell transfusion was not significantly related to the development of NEC. This suggests that preventing severe anemia may be more important than minimizing RBC transfusion exposure as a strategy to decreas...

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateMar 1, 2016

Why celestial bodies come in different sizes

Researchers propose that a universe with diverse body sizes reduces gravitational tension faster due to the natural tendency of systems to evolve toward reduced tension. This phenomenon is a manifestation of the Constructal Law, which states that natural systems facilitate flow.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateMar 1, 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.

Cardiovascular risk profile linked to profession in older workers

A study of 5,566 older workers found that those in sales, office-support and service occupations had more risk factors for heart disease and stroke than management or professional jobs. Workers in these professions had higher rates of smoking, poor eating habits and lower levels of physical activity

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateMar 1, 2016

Study calls into question current MERS vaccine strategy

A new study suggests that Middle East Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) develops mutations that make the virus less virulent during an outbreak, challenging current vaccine strategies. The study found two specific point mutations in the viral spike protein that impaired fitness and virulence.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmBio·DateMar 1, 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.

Vitamin D supplements in pregnancy do not improve bone health

A randomized controlled trial found that vitamin D supplements during pregnancy have no significant effect on the bone density of babies. However, further analysis suggests that supplementation may counteract the seasonal drop in vitamin D levels caused by lack of sunlight, potentially improving bone health in winter-born babies.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·DateMar 1, 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.

Researchers' new advance in quest for second generation biofuels

Scientists have made a breakthrough in understanding enzymes that break down tough biomass, crucial for producing biofuels from renewable sources. The discovery could lead to improved efficiency and environmental sustainability in industrial biofuel production.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateMar 1, 2016

New discovery opens doors to manipulating fat production in the body

Scientists have discovered that some human fat cells originate from stem cells in bone marrow, which could lead to new strategies for preventing and reversing fat-related chronic diseases. By manipulating the production of these cells, researchers hope to reduce the risk of conditions like cardiovascular disease and obesity.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateMar 1, 2016

Is conservation aid preventing deforestation?

A recent study by University of Illinois researchers found that conservation aid alone has not prevented deforestation in sub-Saharan Africa. The study suggests that in some cases, conservation aid may have exacerbated forest loss due to displacement of forest clearing activities outside protected areas.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateMar 1, 2016

A 10 percent price change could prevent heart disease and death

Researchers found that reducing fruit and vegetable prices could decrease cardiovascular deaths by 1.2% in five years, while increasing sugary drink prices could lead to a 0.25% decrease in heart attacks. Implementing such policies nationwide could potentially prevent 515,000 deaths from cardiovascular disease.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateMar 1, 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.

First gene for grey hair found

Researchers identify IRF4 as the first gene associated with greying hair, revealing a genetic link to human aging. The study analyzed 6,000 people from diverse ancestry, uncovering additional genes influencing hair shape, curliness, and density.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 1, 2016

Air pollution linked to higher risk of preterm birth for mothers with asthma

Pregnant women with asthma may be at greater risk of preterm birth due to exposure to high levels of traffic-related air pollutants like nitrogen oxides and carbon monoxide. Early exposure, particularly in the months leading up to conception and during early pregnancy, was found to increase preterm birth risk by nearly 30%.

SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateMar 1, 2016

Around a third of workers fear for jobs and pay, research says

Research shows that 32% of workers feared losing their jobs, while 38% were anxious about pay cuts. The study found that working in the public sector made staff more likely to fear job losses, while being over 35 and working in routine or semi-routine jobs increased fears of worsening working conditions.

SourceSAGE·JournalWorld Allergy Organization Journal·DateMar 1, 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.

Project with ground-breaking sub-marine CCS experiment starts today

Scientists will simulate an emission from a submerged carbon dioxide storage reservoir in the North Sea, using acoustic and chemical sensors to detect released CO2. The goal is to develop innovative technology for detecting and quantifying CO2 emissions in the marine environment.

SourceNational Oceanography Centre, UK·DateMar 1, 2016

Link between ADHD and academic expectations identified by University of Miami researchers

A new study by University of Miami researchers identified a potential connection between attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and increased academic expectations in young children. The study found that rising academic demands since the 1970s may have contributed to the doubling of ADHD diagnoses over the past four decades.

SourceUniversity of Miami Miller School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateMar 1, 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.

The evolution of amyloid toxicity in Alzheimer's

Researchers have discovered a critical change in amyloid beta protein shape that explains why smaller bundles are more toxic than larger ones. This understanding may lead to developing drugs to treat diseases like Parkinson's and Type-II diabetes.

SourceBiophysical Society·DateMar 1, 2016

Pharmaceutical company performance improves when innovation and execution align

A study by Temple University researchers found that pharmaceutical companies can improve their performance by investing in commercial innovation and aligning their culture of execution. The study, published in the Journal of Medical Marketing, analyzed data from 26 large and medium-sized pharmaceutical companies.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of Medical Marketing Device Diagnostic and Pharmaceutical Marketing·DateMar 1, 2016

Was author of famed 'Gray's Anatomy' textbook a plagiarist?

A new survey of historical evidence reveals that Henry Gray plagiarized parts of the first edition of his book, Gray's Anatomy. The study examines traits of character that demonstrate Gray's inclination towards garnering credit at others' cost.

SourceWiley·JournalClinical Anatomy·DateMar 1, 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.

Celestial bodies born like cracking paint

A Duke University theorist proposes that the universe's varied body sizes are a result of internal tension release through hierarchical formation. This concept is rooted in Bejan's constructal law, which states that flowing systems will tend towards easier architecture by releasing tension through smaller, more numerous bodies.

SourceDuke University·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateMar 1, 2016

Bonnie J. Addario Lung Cancer Foundation and IASLC announce joint award

The ALCF-IASLC Joint Fellowship Award supports novel research with the potential to positively impact lung cancer patients. Dr. Robin Mjelle's project aims to develop a risk-prediction tool and serum poly-marker kit for early lung cancer detection, leveraging pre-diagnostic serum samples from Norway's HUNT biobank.

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·DateMar 1, 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.

Screening for impaired vision in older adults

The USPSTF found convincing evidence that visual acuity testing can identify refractive errors, but inadequate evidence on the benefits of screening and detection. Early treatment of refractive error, cataracts, and AMD improves or prevents loss of visual acuity, with small harms from early treatment.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateMar 1, 2016

Link between sleep and social participation may be key to healthy aging

A study published in Journal of Social Science and Medicine found that older adults who participate in social activities, such as attending religious events, tend to get better sleep. This suggests that engaging in social connectedness can be an important factor for promoting healthy aging.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·DateMar 1, 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.

What you know can affect how you see

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University found that expertise influences how people process visual information, with novices faster to identify letter pairs but less accurate. The study used the Arabic alphabet and showed participants 2,000 pairs of letters, revealing biases in expert perception that went beyond visual features.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalJournal of Experimental Psychology·DateMar 1, 2016

The special theory of relativity has been disproved theoretically

The special theory of relativity has been found to be theoretically disproved, leading to questions about related physics theories. The paper reveals that experiments initially thought to demonstrate relativistic effects actually show null or incorrect results.

SourceInternational NAC Society·JournalPhysics Essays·DateMar 1, 2016

Beta blockers may lead to new novel triple negative breast cancer treatments

Researchers found that beta-blockers can decrease the invasive growth of aggressive breast cancer cells by blocking the beta2-adrenoceptor, a cell surface protein stimulated by adrenaline. This discovery suggests beta-blockers could be a useful adjuvant therapy for some aggressive breast cancers.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateMar 1, 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.

Experts assess the impact of climate change on public health

A new review in the Annals of Global Health explores the health consequences of climate change, including increased vector-borne diseases, foodborne illnesses, and mental health problems. Experts call for decisive action to prepare for and mitigate the effects of climate change on public health.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAnnals of Global Health·DateMar 1, 2016

NIEHS funds five early career researchers for innovative science

Five exceptional early career scientists will receive new grants from NIEHS to study the effects of environmental chemicals on human health. The ONES awardees will investigate how pollutants, such as arsenic and dioxins, cause harm and promote allergies.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences·DateMar 1, 2016

OLED displays and solid-state lightings in mass production, coming soon

A team led by Prof. Tae-Woo Lee at POSTECH has fabricated highly-efficient solution-processed fluorescence organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) using pure-organic thermally-activated delayed-fluorescence (TADF) emitters. This breakthrough reduces the need for precious metals, lowering production costs.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateMar 1, 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.

No more headache after watching movies

Researchers from Lomonosov Moscow State University found over 10,000 problematic scenes in 105 Blu-ray discs, including 65 scenes with left-right view swap. This suggests a 21% probability of buying a Blu-ray 3D movie with at least one such scene.

SourceLomonosov Moscow State University·DateMar 1, 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.

State laws boost flu vaccination rates in health care workers

Research led by the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine found that state laws mandating influenza immunization for health care workers increased their vaccination rates from 22.5% to 50.9% between 2000 and 2011. The study suggests that stronger laws, including mandates and education, lead to higher vaccination rates.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalJournal of the National Medical Association·DateMar 1, 2016

Researchers uncover expansion of lone star ticks in Kansas

Researchers at Kansas State University have validated a model showing the growth of lone star ticks in Kansas, extending their range from eastern third of state to western Colby. Climate change is predicted to favor more tick-borne diseases among people and pets.

SourceKansas State University·JournalVector-Borne and Zoonotic Diseases·DateMar 1, 2016

Local environmental knowledge helps indigenous societies to adapt

Researchers found that individuals with greater local environmental knowledge (LEK) about hunting and medicinal plants reported fewer days of illness and caught more animals per hour of hunting. However, their nutritional status was not directly related to their LEK level due to sharing and reciprocity practices in the societies studied.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·DateMar 1, 2016

Photoshop filters for safer bridges

EPFL researchers have developed a new method to monitor bridge stability using optical fibers, leveraging Photoshop filters to boost signal-to-noise ratios. This approach enables more precise measurements while reducing equipment costs, paving the way for real-time monitoring of infrastructure.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 1, 2016

Drinking more water associated with numerous dietary benefits, study finds

A study of over 18,300 U.S. adults found that increasing plain water intake by 1% daily led to significant reductions in calorie intake, saturated fat, sugar, sodium, and cholesterol consumption. The study suggests universal nutrition interventions promoting plain water consumption may be effective across diverse population subgroups.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics·DateMar 1, 2016

Signposts to the muscles

Researchers have identified a crucial protein complex, ASC-1, that guides the development of motor neurons and their target muscles. This breakthrough could lead to new insights into general disease mechanisms and potentially regenerative therapies for conditions like paraplegia.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateMar 1, 2016

Journal of Dairy Science offers collection on tail docking

The Journal of Dairy Science has compiled a set of articles on the science of tail docking, addressing topics such as pain, hygiene, and biological responses. The collection includes 10 research articles published between 2000 and 2010, freely available online to inform discussion in the dairy community.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Dairy Science·DateMar 1, 2016

Improving biorefineries with bubbles

Researchers at Tohoku University developed a new pretreatment method using sodium percarbonate and hydrodynamic cavitation to improve sugar formation in biomass. The method outperformed existing ultrasonic systems in producing fermentable sugars.

SourceTohoku University·JournalIndustrial & Engineering Chemistry Research·DateMar 1, 2016

Physician empathy a key driver of patient satisfaction

A recent study at the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons meeting found that physician empathy is a key driver of patient satisfaction, explaining 65% of variation in satisfaction. Effective communication strategies can be coached and practiced to improve patient experience.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateMar 1, 2016