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Science News for March 16, 2016


Maternal instincts

A study on Caenorhabditis elegans reveals that mothers who experienced normoxic conditions early on tend to provision their young with more glycogen, equipping the embryos with tools to survive oxygen deprivation. This adaptation leads to improved hatchability and survival rates in offspring.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMar 16, 2016

'Disruptive device' brings xenon-NMR to fragile materials

Scientists at Berkeley Lab have developed a device that enables NMR spectroscopy with hyperpolarized xenon gas to analyze molecular interactions in viscous solutions and fragile materials without disrupting their order. This breakthrough could help improve advanced polymers, filters, catalysts, and liquid-crystal displays.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateMar 16, 2016

Mitochondrial metabolism linked to acute kidney injury

A recent study published in Nature has discovered that mitochondria play a key role in kidney injury, with the gene PGC1 alpha providing protection through NAD. The study suggests that manipulating NAD levels could lead to new therapies for acute kidney injury.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalNature·DateMar 16, 2016

Lasers help speed up the detection of bacterial growth in packaged food

A new technique enables rapid and accurate measurement of bacteria levels in packaged food and medical samples without physical contact. The method uses tunable diode laser absorption spectroscopy and can provide real-time analysis, reducing the risk of food poisoning and improving blood quality.

SourceOptica·JournalApplied Optics·DateMar 16, 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.

Fat worker ants survive starvation five times longer than skinny foragers

Researchers found that forager ants with less body fat died first from malnutrition when food was scarce. In contrast, stay-at-home workers could survive in the nest for up to 100 days without food, and even some foragers on a well-balanced thin soup diet survived for over 300 days.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateMar 16, 2016

New material could make aircraft deicers a thing of the past

Scientists have developed a liquid-like substance called self-lubricating organogels (SLUGs) that can make wings and surfaces so slippery that ice cannot adhere. The SLUGs technology has potential applications beyond aircraft, including antifouling coatings in packaging, paints, and more.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateMar 16, 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.

'Invulnerable' coatings for cutting tools from gas

Tomsk Polytechnic University scientists create composite coating based on diamond and cubic boron nitride to improve durability and protect against high temperatures. The coating integrates the properties of diamond and nitride coatings, making it applicable to most metals.

SourceTomsk Polytechnic University·DateMar 16, 2016

Monster mystery solved

Field Museum scientists, along with colleagues, have solved the mystery of the Tully monster, a bizarre aquatic animal found in Illinois 307 million years ago. The team determined that the monsters are jawless fish similar to today's lampreys, based on analysis of over 2,000 specimens from the Field's collection and X-ray scans.

SourceField Museum·JournalNature·DateMar 16, 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.

Human challenge promises to speed up dengue vaccine development

A controlled human challenge study shows a dengue vaccine candidate can fully protect healthy volunteers from infection. The results support further evaluation of the vaccine and may help identify promising candidates and eliminate poor ones.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMar 16, 2016

New technique tracks 'heartbeat' of hundreds of wetlands

Researchers have developed a new method to track the hydrology of Eastern Washington's wetlands, providing insights into their behavior seasonally. The technique uses satellite images to identify structural elements of wetlands and delineate them from other parts of the landscape.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalRemote Sensing of Environment·DateMar 16, 2016

Amping antimicrobial discovery with automation

Researchers adapted high-throughput screening technology to identify effective antimicrobial compounds against the bacterium Streptococcus mutans. The automated system delivered results indistinguishable from human-led experiments and reduced testing time by a third, paving the way for potential new antibiotics.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalAMB Express·DateMar 16, 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.

Rat problems in poor neighborhoods linked to depressive symptoms

A study by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health finds a significant link between rodent infestations and depressive symptoms in low-income residents. Residents in neighborhoods with rats are more likely to experience acute depressive symptoms, despite having similar perceptions of rats as those in other neighborhoods.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalJournal of Community Psychology·DateMar 16, 2016

Counterattack of the hepatitis B virus

Researchers discovered how hepatitis B virus (HBV) counterattacks the host's defense system by destroying a protective protein complex. This finding suggests new avenues for developing innovative therapeutic agents targeting the X protein.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature·DateMar 16, 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.

Scaling mental resilience more effectively

Researchers at the University of Zurich developed a revised Sense of Coherence Scale to improve mental resilience assessments. The new questionnaire yields more accurate and objective results, revealing that individuals with greater resilience suffer less from depression and bereavement pain.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalEuropean Journal of Psychological Assessment·DateMar 16, 2016

Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in Europe 2014

A record number of 40,829 hematopoietic stem cell transplantations (HSCT) were performed globally in 2014, with 36,469 patients treated. This represents a continued increase in HSCT rates, both allogeneic and autologous, over the past two decades.

SourceEuropean Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation·JournalBone Marrow Transplantation·DateMar 16, 2016

Climate variations analyzed 5 million years back in time

Researchers studied temperature measurements, ice core data, and ocean sediment cores to analyze fractal patterns in natural climate variations. They found that the natural climate is chaotic and can be difficult to predict, with greater fluctuations during ice ages.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Niels Bohr Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 16, 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.

Why some tumors withstand treatment

A new study from MIT reveals that certain cancers develop a backup system to evade treatment, which can be detected in blood samples. Combining kinase inhibitors with another drug shows promise in improving results, according to researchers.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalCancer Discovery·DateMar 16, 2016

Last piece of dengue vaccine puzzle found effective in small trial

Researchers found a promising single-dose dengue vaccine effective in preventing human volunteers from contracting the virus, protecting against infection. The study's findings could be the final piece in developing an effective vaccine against dengue, which infects nearly 400 million people annually.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMar 16, 2016

Wetland enhancement in Midwest could help reduce catastrophic floods of the future

A recent study published in Ecological Engineering suggests that restoring wetlands in the Midwest can reduce peak river flows during floods by up to 17.5 percent. This approach could provide a natural and ecological option for flood management, serving as an additional tool for mitigating the impact of climate change.

SourceOregon State University·JournalEcological Engineering·DateMar 16, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New explosion gas-signature models can help inspectors locate and identify underground nuclear tests

Scientists at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory have developed new gas signature models to aid in locating and identifying underground nuclear tests. The models use computer simulations and field experiments to track the evolution of gases from UNEs, potentially helping inspectors identify clandestine sites within a search area.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 16, 2016

Physical activity found to decrease risk of dying in COPD

A new study found that moderate to vigorous physical activity can significantly reduce the risk of death in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) after hospitalization. Patients who were active had a 47% lower risk of death compared to inactive patients.

SourceEuropean Respiratory Society·JournalERJ Open Research·DateMar 16, 2016

Setting a national agenda for surgical disparities research

Leading researchers identify five priorities for surgical disparities research, focusing on improving communication, community outreach, and care quality. The national agenda aims to reduce disparities in surgical procedures and improve patient-centered care.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateMar 16, 2016

Within six families, a path to personalized treatment for an immune disorder

Researchers discovered a new class of common variable immunodeficiency disorder (CVID) caused by IKAROS gene mutations, enabling definitive genetic diagnosis and potential personalized treatment. The study found six unrelated families sharing similar symptoms and changes in the same gene, highlighting the need for early intervention.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 16, 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.

Viruses 'piggyback' on host microbes' success

Researchers found that viruses opt for 'piggyback-the-winner' strategy, integrating into hosts to reduce replication and avoid immunity defenses. This model better explains virus-host dynamics during microbial population booms.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalNature·DateMar 16, 2016

Generating electricity with tomato waste

Researchers developed a microbial electrochemical cell that harnesses tomato waste to generate electric current. The process also helps purify the tomato-contaminated solid waste and associated wastewater. With an expected scale-up, the electrical output could be increased by several orders of magnitude.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateMar 16, 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.

Evolution meets biochemistry to better understand how dopamine receptors work

Baylor College of Medicine researchers have developed a new mathematical tool that combines biochemistry and computational analysis to identify specific structural changes in the dopamine 2 receptor, which helps maintain its structure and function throughout an evolutionary time scale. This discovery opens the possibility for better dr...

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 16, 2016

Hope for veterans with an overlooked form of post-traumatic stress disorder

A clinical study found that veterans with subclinical PTSD experience a 29% drop in symptoms after treatment, compared to 14% for those with full PTSD. This discovery highlights the potential benefits of early-stage PTSD treatment and could lead to cost-effectiveness in treating this common disorder.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalJournal of Anxiety Disorders·DateMar 16, 2016

10-minute urine test can measure specific compounds from food consumed

Researchers at Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center have developed a method to quickly evaluate specific food compounds in human urine. The new tool looks for isothiocyanates found in cruciferous vegetables and could help scientists identify the most beneficial anticancer foods.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·DateMar 16, 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.

Unexpected changes of bright spots on Ceres discovered

A team of astronomers using HARPS spectrograph detected the motion of bright spots on Ceres, suggesting they are composed of volatile materials that evaporate in sunlight. The study revealed unexpected variations in the spots' brightness due to the action of solar radiation.

SourceESO·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateMar 16, 2016

IADR/AADR Publish Inaugural Issue of JDR Clinical & Translational Research

The IADR/AADR have released the first issue of JDR Clinical & Translational Research, a journal focusing on the translation of research into clinical practice. The inaugural issue covers various topics in applied oral health research, with an emphasis on rapid dissemination and application.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·JournalJDR Clinical & Translational Research·DateMar 16, 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.

Identifying priorities for surgical disparities research

Researchers from Brigham and Women's Hospital identified five research priorities to address health care disparities in surgical care. The top priorities include leveraging electronic health records, improving patient-provider communication, and evaluating regionalization of care.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateMar 16, 2016

Advanced energy storage material gets unprecedented nanoscale analysis

Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have developed a technique to track ion movement in the MXene material, revealing important insights into its energy storage properties. The study's findings suggest that ion insertion and diffusion play a crucial role in the material's exceptional performance.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·DateMar 16, 2016

Coral on a chip cracks coral mysteries

A new experimental platform is providing new insights into the complex problem of coral decline. The 'coral on a chip' system allows scientists to examine living coral polyps in the lab under controlled conditions.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 16, 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.

Solving the mystery of the Tully Monster

A Yale-led team of paleontologists has determined that the Tully Monster, a 300-million-year-old animal with teeth at the end of a narrow head extension and eyes on either side of a long bar, was a vertebrate with gills and a notochord. The discovery sheds light on the creature's likely predatory lifestyle.

SourceYale University·JournalNature·DateMar 16, 2016

Electrical brain stimulation could support stroke recovery

Researchers at Oxford University found that transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) significantly improved motor skills in stroke patients. The study showed that tDCS reinforced training, leading to greater recovery and increased brain activity in relevant areas.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMar 16, 2016

Race and income affect responses to FDA drug safety warnings

A study found that white patients and those with lower incomes were slower to discontinue diabetes medication rosiglitazone after a FDA safety alert. Patients living in higher- versus lowest-socioeconomic status communities discontinued the drug significantly earlier.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalMedical Care·DateMar 16, 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.

Selfish bumblebees are not prepared to share

Bumblebees are unable to share their pollinating knowledge with less experienced bees, according to a study published in PLOS ONE. The researchers set up an outdoor flight cage with artificial flowers and found that more experienced bees frequently attacked newcomers who tried to copy their foraging routes.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 16, 2016

Higher volume radiation facilities associated with better survival rates

A new study by Brigham and Women's Hospital found that patients with high-risk prostate cancer who received radiation treatment at a facility with higher volumes performed better than those treated at lower-volume facilities. The study analyzed data from 19,565 patients and found improved 7-year overall survival rates.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·DateMar 16, 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.

Two MD Anderson faculty members honored with highest distinctions from ASCO

Physician-scientists Ethan Dmitrovsky and Waun Ki Hong recognized for their efforts in cancer prevention and control. Dmitrovsky's work on retinoids has led to a significant impact on leukemia treatment, while Hong's research in cancer chemoprevention and personalized therapies has advanced the field.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·DateMar 16, 2016

Allowing women to extend labor reduces rate of cesarean delivery

A study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology found that allowing women to extend labor by four hours instead of three resulted in a significant reduction of cesarean deliveries. The incidence of cesarean delivery was about 19.5 percent in the extended labor group, compared to 43 percent in the usual labor group.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateMar 16, 2016

IBS cleave few-layer samples of magnetic material NiPS3

The IBS Center for Correlated Electron Systems has successfully created monolayer and multilayer samples of the magnetic Van der Waals material NiPS3. This achievement lays the foundation for the development of high-speed, low-energy consuming semiconductors that can be integrated into various devices.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 16, 2016

Computer simulations may help golfers tame the sport's 'scariest 155 yards'

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University have developed a computer model to analyze wind conditions on the Masters' notorious 12th hole, revealing that tall tree canopies significantly impact accuracy. The system can predict wind direction and speed's effect on golf shots, aiding golfers in choosing clubs and aiming strategies.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·DateMar 16, 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.

Time to eat

Researchers found that circadian changes in mitochondria regulate energy levels and sugar use for energy production. The study suggests that timing of meals affects metabolic health.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 16, 2016

Making electronics safer with perovskites

Researchers at Hokkaido University are developing perovskite ceramic capacitors with improved insulating properties. The process involves sintering and annealing the material to exhibit ferroelectricity, a promising dielectric property for multi-layered ceramic capacitors.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalChemistry of Materials·DateMar 16, 2016

Bacterial resistance to copper in the making for thousands of years

A new study finds that genetic changes in bacteria have enabled them to develop resistance to copper's antibacterial properties. This increased resistance poses an infection risk for people, particularly in areas with high copper use, such as animal feed and hospital equipment.

SourceOhio State University·JournalGenome Biology and Evolution·DateMar 16, 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.

Scientists track down origin of bats killed by wind turbines using chemical fingerprints

Researchers used stable isotope and genetic analysis to determine the summering grounds of bats killed by wind turbines in the Appalachian region. The study found that intensive wind-energy development may affect bat species differently, with some populations better able to absorb turbine-related deaths.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Center for Environmental Science·JournalEcological Applications·DateMar 16, 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.

CU study shows how Paralympic track sprinters are slowed by curves

A University of Colorado Boulder study shows that left-leg amputee sprinters are slowed by curves on indoor tracks, losing valuable time in competition. Researchers estimate a 0.2 second difference in outdoor 200-meter races, suggesting that allowing left-leg amputees to run in outside lanes could level the playing field.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateMar 16, 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.

Re-energizing the aging brain

Researchers found that pyruvate increases brain energy reserves and improves cognitive function in mice, including enhanced exploratory behavior and spatial learning. The findings suggest potential therapeutic applications for Alzheimer's disease and other neurodegenerative disorders.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Aging Neuroscience·DateMar 16, 2016

Surface-going cave crickets actually more isolated than cave-dwelling cousins

A study by Drexel University researchers found that surface-going cave crickets show a higher degree of genetic isolation than their cave-dwelling cousins. The crickets' ability to disperse and breed with other populations was previously thought to lead to less genetic variation, but the study's findings suggest otherwise. This has imp...

SourceDrexel University·JournalJournal of Biogeography·DateMar 16, 2016

Study reports significant link between nightmares and suicidal behavior

A new study reveals a significant link between nightmares and suicidal behaviors, with nightmares acting as a stressor in individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The study found that 62% of participants who experienced nightmares reported suicidal thoughts, plans, or attempts, compared to 20% without nightmares.

SourceAmerican Academy of Sleep Medicine·JournalSLEEP·DateMar 16, 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.

Keeping ribosomes stuck may stop virulent bacteria strain in its track

Researchers developed compound inhibitors that target ribosomes in the translation phase of a virulent bacteria's genetic process. These compounds halt the bacterial rescue operation, making it difficult for the bacteria to grow and proliferate. The study's findings offer new hope against biowarfare agents and resistant pathogens.

SourcePenn State·JournalAntimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy·DateMar 16, 2016

Potential Zika virus risk estimated for 50 US cities

Researchers estimate potential Zika virus risk in 50 US cities due to warm weather and travel patterns. Cities with favorable mosquito conditions, such as southern Florida and impoverished areas in Texas, may be particularly vulnerable to local transmission.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·DateMar 16, 2016

A new opening for room temperature multiferroics

Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology have observed high coercive field and activation energy in ferroelectric polarization switching of orthorhombic GaFeO3 on cubic and hexagonal substrates. This finding explains the discrepancy between measured and predicted remanent polarization values.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalNPG Asia Materials·DateMar 16, 2016

Increased dementia risk in women -- a matter of proteins?

A recent study published in Molecular Brain reveals that dementia risk is higher in women due to changes in proteins present in the brain. The research found that degenerative protein modifications were more pronounced in women than men, particularly in the myelin basic protein.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalMolecular Brain·DateMar 16, 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.

Potential Zika virus risk estimated for 50 US cities

Research predicts increased suitability for Aedes aegypti mosquitoes in southern and eastern US cities, leading to potential Zika outbreaks. Warm weather conditions facilitate mosquito populations, especially in April, June, July, August, and September.

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·DateMar 16, 2016

High coronary calcium score may signal increased risk of cancer, kidney and lung disease

A high coronary artery calcium score may signal an increased risk of developing cancer, chronic kidney disease, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The study found that individuals with high scores had a higher risk of cancer, with a 53% increased risk of developing the disease during follow-up.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateMar 16, 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.

Capturing 'black gold' with light

Graphene, known as 'black gold', has high surface area and can effectively purify contaminated water due to its unique structure. Using light, researchers can extract the graphene and contaminants, enabling easier purification.

SourceMonash University·JournalNanoscale·DateMar 16, 2016

High standards produce mixed effects on marriages

A recent study found that high standards in marriage improve satisfaction only in strong marriages, while eroding relationships in less strong marriages. Couples who work well together are better able to meet higher standards and show high satisfaction, whereas those who don't work well together do poorly on both fronts.

SourceSociety for Personality and Social Psychology·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateMar 16, 2016

Intimate partner violence simulation training at MU is first in nation

A new training program at the University of Missouri's Sinclair School of Nursing uses simulation to equip nurses with confidence in screening patients for intimate partner violence. The program shows significant positive impact on nursing students' perceived confidence and knowledge. It may also be effective in training healthcare pro...

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalClinical Simulation in Nursing·DateMar 16, 2016

This necklace hears what you eat

Researchers developed a wearable device that tracks caloric intake by recording sounds made while eating. The AutoDietary necklace accurately identifies foods 85% of the time, holding promise for managing conditions like diabetes and obesity.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalIEEE Sensors Journal·DateMar 16, 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.

Cellular 'backpacks' could treat disease while minimizing side effects

Scientists have created cellular backpacks that can be loaded with therapeutic compounds and unloaded, targeting specific disease locations. These backpacks use immune cells as carriers, minimizing the impact on healthy cells and potentially treating a range of diseases including cancer and Parkinson's.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateMar 16, 2016

'Lost' memories can be found

A study by MIT neuroscientists suggests that early-stage Alzheimer's patients can form new memories but struggle to recall them. The researchers used optogenetics to stimulate the cells holding these memories and were able to retrieve them in mice with Alzheimer's symptoms.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateMar 16, 2016

Scientists generate a new type of human stem cell that has half a genome

Researchers at The Hebrew University of Jerusalem have successfully generated a new type of embryonic stem cell carrying a single copy of the human genome. These haploid stem cells are pluripotent and retain a single set of chromosomes, offering a powerful tool for genetic analysis and potential therapies for diseases.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalNature·DateMar 16, 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.

Biomarkers can help guide immune-suppressing treatment after organ transplantation

Researchers have identified promising biomarkers to monitor immunosuppressive drug therapy in organ transplant recipients, with the potential for individualized treatment to reduce rejection and minimize side effects. A panel of experts recommends a preliminary set of tests for use in biomarker-based immunosuppressive drug management.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalTherapeutic Drug Monitoring·DateMar 16, 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.

Threatened plant gets boost from biotech lab

Researchers at Boyce Thompson Institute developed a tissue culture procedure to propagate the rare and threatened woodland agrimony, multiplying its numbers by 1013. The study aimed to understand why this species is in decline, with results suggesting grazing deer as an important factor.

SourceBoyce Thompson Institute·JournalNative Plants Journal·DateMar 16, 2016

$3.8M grant awarded to surgeon to test transplant drug

A multi-center trial will test the effectiveness of Harvoni in treating hepatitis C virus (HCV) in liver transplant patients. The $3.8M grant, funded by Gilead Sciences, aims to evaluate the drug's cure rate and compare it to existing treatments.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·DateMar 16, 2016

Tooth loss and untreated caries predict food intake limitations

A study of 6,885 adults found that tooth loss and untreated caries are associated with limited food intake, affecting quality of life. Researchers used NHANES data to examine the relationship between dentate status and number of teeth with untreated decay on reported limited food intake.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateMar 16, 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.

CNIO scientists discover a link between psoriasis and general bone loss

Researchers from CNIO have discovered a link between psoriasis and bone loss, finding that the disease causes widespread and progressive bone tissue loss. Treating psoriasis patients with IL-17 blockers could have benefits for bone health, and the study suggests potential implications for other autoimmune disorders.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMar 16, 2016

Smart vests have construction workers' safety at heart

A new smart vest developed at RMIT University uses sensors to measure body temperature and heart rate, sending data wirelessly to a smartphone app. This innovation aims to prevent heat-related accidents on construction sites, where workers are at higher risk of death or injury than in many other occupations.

SourceRMIT University·DateMar 16, 2016

Why are some people more attached to their phones than others?

A study by psychologists Henry Wilmer and Jason Chein found that people who constantly check their phones exhibit poor impulse control and a tendency to devalue delayed rewards. This suggests that frequent smartphone use is associated with impatience and impulsivity.

SourceSpringer·JournalPsychonomic Bulletin & Review·DateMar 16, 2016

Expansion mini-microscopy: High quality magnification on the cheap

Researchers have developed Expansion Mini-Microscopy (ExMM), a technique that combines physical expansion with optical magnification to achieve high-resolution images at low costs. This innovation enables the creation of mini-microscopes from webcam and off-the-shelf components, offering a cost-effective solution for imaging biological...

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 16, 2016

Scientists generate a new type of human stem cell that has half a genome

Researchers at Columbia University Irving Medical Center have successfully generated a new type of human embryonic stem cell carrying a single copy of the human genome. These 'haploid' stem cells show potential as a powerful tool for genetic analysis in biomedical fields such as cancer research and precision medicine.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalNature·DateMar 16, 2016