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Science News for March 17, 2016


Enzyme controls food intake and drives obesity

Researchers identified O-GlcNAc transferase (OGT) as a key enzyme regulating food intake in mice. Deletion of OGT caused mice to overeat and become obese, suggesting a new treatment target for human obesity.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMar 17, 2016

The linguistics of signifying time: The human gesture as clock

Researchers found that Nheengatú speakers communicate time of day by pointing at the sun's position in the sky, similar to saying 'nine o'clock' in English. This practice shows that users of auditory languages can develop visual language like sign languages.

SourceLinguistic Society of America·JournalLanguage·DateMar 17, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

School breakfasts contribute to healthy weight, study finds

A new study published in Pediatric Obesity found that eating a second breakfast at school is associated with healthier weights and reduced risk of obesity among middle school students. The study, which tracked 584 students over two years, found that students who ate double breakfasts were less likely to be overweight or obese compared ...

SourceYale University·JournalPediatric Obesity·DateMar 17, 2016

Biodiesel from sugarcane more economical than soybean

A recent study by University of Illinois researchers demonstrates that biodiesel produced from sugarcane can be more economical than soybean-based biodiesel. With sugarcane producing up to 12% oil, it offers a promising solution for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and dependence on foreign oil.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·DateMar 17, 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.

New research shows how nanowires can be formed

Scientists have successfully formed nanowires using a combination of atomic layer arrangements and real-time monitoring. The breakthrough discovery aims to control the properties of materials, enabling more efficient electronic devices and future generations of transistors.

SourceLund University·JournalNature·DateMar 17, 2016

Children's Hospital Los Angeles awarded $7.1 million by CIRM

The Saban Research Institute at Children's Hospital Los Angeles has received a $7.1 million grant from the California Institute of Regenerative Medicine to develop an 'off-the-shelf' cellular therapy for enteric neuropathies, which affect the digestive system. The goal is to create nerve cells from human induced pluripotent cells to tr...

SourceChildren's Hospital Los Angeles·DateMar 17, 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.

Drones revolutionize ecological monitoring

Researchers at Monash University found that drones are more precise than traditional ground counts for monitoring seabird colonies. Drones' down-facing perspective reduces the likelihood of missing birds and provides a more accurate count.

SourceMonash University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 17, 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 report reveals hundreds still dying in detention

A new report by the Equality and Human Rights Commission reveals hundreds of non-natural deaths in detention, with a lack of specialist mental health services and oversight contributing to the problem. The report calls for improvements in police custody, prisons, and psychiatric hospitals to address these concerns.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·DateMar 17, 2016

The flexible way to greater energy yield

A team of international scientists found that feeding biogas reactors at longer intervals produces more biogas, increasing methane and total biogas yields by up to 14% and 18%, respectively. The flexible feeding management approach has no negative effect on the stability of the biogas production process.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateMar 17, 2016

How 'salt' MRI scans could give a clearer picture of disease

Researchers at The University of Nottingham are developing Sodium MRI technology to provide more detailed tissue health and disease information. The technique uses naturally occurring sodium ions, which can offer greater clarity than current hydrogen-based MRI scans.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·DateMar 17, 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.

Green Gitmo

Researchers propose transforming Guantánamo Bay into a marine research center and international peace park, uniting the US and Cuba in joint management. The proposal aims to protect coral reefs, marine life, and promote sustainable development.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalScience·DateMar 17, 2016

Calcium controls sleep duration in mice

Researchers at the University of Tokyo discovered that calcium ions control sleep duration in mice by regulating the inflow and outflow of calcium ions into neurons. This finding has implications for understanding and treating neurodegenerative diseases associated with sleep disorders.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNeuron·DateMar 17, 2016

Researchers identify molecule needed for sperm activation

Researchers have discovered a molecule that boosts sperm cell activity, allowing them to reach the egg. This finding may lead to new options for male contraception and treatments for infertility related to sperm mobility issues.

SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·JournalScience·DateMar 17, 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.

Older women lose much of their advantage in living active lives

A new study reveals that older women have lost their advantage in living active lives, with a four-year decrease in active life expectancy at age 65 compared to men. Despite longer lives, women can now expect only two-and-a-half years free from disability after age 85.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateMar 17, 2016

Weaving for lightweight construction

A textile engineer at Technische Universität Dresden has developed a flexible weaving technology for producing three-dimensional textile structures with excellent structural mechanical properties. The technology can be used in various applications such as aircraft fuselage, car bodies, and machine enclosures.

SourceTechnische Universität Dresden·DateMar 17, 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.

Successful mentoring programs begin with focus, training

A University of Houston study found that 'intentionally brief' middle school mentoring programs increased math and English grades, as well as life satisfaction and reduced absences. The program provided mentor training and utilized social science theories to support student outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalAdvances in School Mental Health Promotion·DateMar 17, 2016

Researchers generate whole-genome map of fruit fly genetic recombination

Researchers at Stowers Institute have mapped where genetic recombination occurs in fruit flies, providing insights into understanding chromosomes and inheritance mechanisms. The study reveals separate mechanisms for crossovers and non-crossovers, with varying distributions and rules for each chromosome arm.

SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·JournalGenetics·DateMar 17, 2016

Measuring chemistry: Local fingerprint of hydrogen bonding captured in experiments

Scientists have successfully mapped the potential surface of a small molecule, acetone, using resonant inelastic X-ray scattering. This technique provides direct access to the ground state potential energy surface around selected atomic sites, enabling researchers to study hydrogen bonding and its effects on molecular behavior.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 17, 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.

Reprogramming bone tumors

Researchers at Kyoto University's Yamada lab created a mouse model to study the EWS-FLI1 gene's role in bone cancer. The model revealed that other mutations are necessary for cancer development and that correcting osteogenic cell differentiation could prevent bone cancers.

SourceCenter for iPS Cell Research and Application - Kyoto University·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateMar 17, 2016

Democratizing high-throughput single molecule force analysis

Researchers developed an inexpensive method to analyze thousands of similar molecules simultaneously, using programmable DNA nanoswitches with a miniaturized Centrifuge Force Microscope. This approach allows for highly reliable tool to observe single molecule complexes under mechanical forces in parallel.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 17, 2016

Wrangler Supercomputer speeds through big data

The Wrangler Supercomputer utilizes 600 terabytes of flash memory to process massive datasets, enabling scientists to analyze thousands of files quickly. This allows researchers to explore new questions and drive previously unattainable discoveries in fields such as gene analysis and building energy efficiency.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·DateMar 17, 2016

Rare form of diabetes may require alternate treatment

Patients with maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY1) benefit from therapies targeting a specific pathway regulating insulin secretion, not oral medications linked to beta-cell destruction. Research suggests MODY1 patients may become dependent on insulin injections sooner due to cellular stress levels.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateMar 17, 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.

Ancient Denisovan DNA excavated in modern Pacific Islanders

Researchers have excavated substantial genomic remnants of the extinct Denisovans in Oceania populations, shedding light on early human history. The study identified genes inherited from Neanderthals and Denisovans that conferred advantages to the ancestors of modern Island Melanesians.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalScience·DateMar 17, 2016

Keep an eye on children's calories, researchers say

A new study suggests that caregivers can lower children's meal calories by choosing lower-calorie products and strategic portion sizes. By serving larger portions of lower-calorie foods with smaller portions of higher-calorie foods, children's overall caloric intake can be substantially reduced.

SourcePenn State·JournalPhysiology & Behavior·DateMar 17, 2016

Biological field stations: Keeping a pulse on our planet

The paper inventories 1,268 biological field stations globally, highlighting their importance for long-term data collection, education, and public engagement. The author emphasizes the need for sustainable frameworks, improved governance, and increased public awareness to ensure these stations' success.

SourceCary Institute of Ecosystem Studies·JournalBioScience·DateMar 17, 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.

Could bread mold build a better rechargeable battery?

Researchers have discovered that a specific type of bread mold, Neurospora crassa, can transform manganese into a mineral composite with favorable electrochemical properties. This process has the potential to create more sustainable electrochemical materials for use in rechargeable batteries.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 17, 2016

NASA examines powerful Tropical Cyclone Emeraude's winds, clouds

NASA captured infrared temperature data of Tropical Cyclone Emeraude's clouds and measured its surface wind speed, revealing strong storms with potential to generate heavy rain. The storm intensified rapidly from a tropical storm to a Category 4 hurricane on March 17.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 17, 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.

UNC researchers uncover how kappa opioid receptors drive anxiety

Researchers at UNC discovered that kappa opioid receptors inhibit the release of neurotransmitter glutamate in a brain region regulating emotion, leading to increased anxiety. The study found that activating KORs suppresses an anxiety-reducing pathway, making them potential targets for treating anxiety disorders.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalCell Reports·DateMar 17, 2016

PERK-opathies: Stress mechanism underlying neurodegeneration

PERK's involvement in neurodegeneration is established through pathologic, genetic, and molecular links to various disorders. Long-term PERK activity triggers pro-apoptotic cascades, while current efforts to inhibit PERK show promising results in in vivo models of tauopathy.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCurrent Alzheimer Research·DateMar 17, 2016

Breakthrough: Microbes protect plants with plant hormones

Researchers have identified a novel mechanism by which beneficial microbes produce plant hormones to control plant diseases. The study found that bacteria can efficiently control pathogen infections in model plants by producing cytokinin, allowing the plants to maintain tissue integrity and biomass yield.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 17, 2016

Five papers provide new data from flyby of Pluto

Five studies on New Horizons' flyby of Pluto uncover a wide variety of geological features, including tectonics, glacial flow, and cryovolcanoes. The dwarf planet's interaction with the solar wind and icy surfaces also provides insights into its space environment.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMar 17, 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.

Tailored protein binding opens possibilities for nerve, tissue treatments

Biomedical engineers at the University of Toronto have identified an up-and-coming technique called affinity-controlled release, which allows proteins to stay at treatment sites for longer periods. This technology has potential applications in treating a range of medical conditions, including diabetes and stroke.

SourceUniversity of Toronto Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering·JournalScience·DateMar 17, 2016

A better surveillance system for tracking police homicides

A recent study from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found that official counts of police homicides are significantly undercounted, with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's National Violent Death Reporting System (NVDRS) providing more accurate data compared to two other national systems.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateMar 17, 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.

White delinquent youth more likely to abuse hard drugs than blacks

A comprehensive study of delinquent youth found that non-Hispanic whites are 30 times more likely to abuse cocaine than African Americans. Substance use disorders were common among both males and females, with marijuana being the most prevalent substance use disorder during young adulthood.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateMar 17, 2016

Replacement for silicon devices looms big with ORNL discovery

A new processing technique has been developed to create low-power, high-efficiency electronic devices using layered ferroelectric materials. This discovery could potentially replace silicon in some applications and enable the creation of flexible electronics.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateMar 17, 2016

Modern Melanesians have retained Denisovan DNA

A recent study reveals that modern Melanesians harbor significant Denisovan genetic ancestry, representing between 1.9% and 3.4% of their genome. This discovery sheds light on the characteristics of Denisovan DNA that persist in humans today, providing new insights into human evolution and gene flow.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMar 17, 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.

Study: Divided parties rarely win presidential elections

A recent study by University of Georgia researchers found that national party division and divisive state primaries significantly impact general election outcomes. In the current election cycle, a divided Republican Party could lose up to 4.5% of the general election vote, compared to a unified party.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalPolitical Behavior·DateMar 17, 2016

VLA shows earliest stages of planet formation

Astronomers have observed the inner portion of a protoplanetary disk surrounding HL Tau, with VLA images showing a distinct clump of dust containing roughly 3-8 times the mass of Earth. The region is thought to be where Earth-like planets would form.

SourceNational Radio Astronomy Observatory·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateMar 17, 2016

Adaptation to increasing flood risk in Europe should aim to reduce impact

A JRC-led research highlights four adaptation measures to reduce flood risk in Europe, prioritizing vulnerability reduction and relocation over traditional protection methods. The study suggests a combination of measures is more effective than individual actions, and recommends optimizing these strategies at the river basin level.

SourceEuropean Commission Joint Research Centre·JournalClimatic Change·DateMar 17, 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.

Systemic antibody responses to oral bacteria with aging

Research shows that aging alters antibody responses to oral bacteria, with significant positive correlations observed across the population. Specifically, antibody levels to Porphyromonas gingivalis and Treponema denticola increased with age, while those to Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans did not.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateMar 17, 2016

Manipulators less convincing online than in person, UBC research shows

Research from UBC's Okanagan campus found that traditionally successful manipulators lack compelling online messages, making face-to-face negotiations more effective. Higher-ranking DT participants were 12.5% less successful in online negotiations than those ranking lower on the spectrum.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalPersonality and Individual Differences·DateMar 17, 2016

New golden frog species discovered in Colombia

A new golden frog species has been discovered in Colombia's cloud forests, with the discovery highlighting the country's rich biodiversity. The newly identified species is part of a diverse group of frogs that includes 465 recognized species, with many still awaiting description and classification.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·DateMar 17, 2016

CRISPR-based method tracks RNA

Researchers have developed a CRISPR-Cas9 based method to track the movement of RNA in living cells. This approach enables the study of disease-related RNA processes and may support therapeutic approaches to correct disease-causing RNA behaviors.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateMar 17, 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.

Temporary disconnects shed light on long-term brain dysfunction

Researchers used optogenetics to temporarily disconnect long-range axons, shedding light on the brain's internal communication. This study contributes to a better understanding of brain connectivity and its role in mental health diseases.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateMar 17, 2016

Brain calcium controls how long we sleep

Researchers at RIKEN have discovered that calcium inside neurons regulates slow-wave sleep, with seven genes identified as critical for controlling sleep duration. The study's findings could lead to new treatments for sleep disorders and neurologic diseases associated with them.

SourceRIKEN·JournalNeuron·DateMar 17, 2016

An implant to prevent Alzheimer's

EPFL scientists have created an implantable capsule that can deliver antibodies to target and clear amyloid beta protein plaques in the brain, potentially treating Alzheimer's disease. The device has been tested on mice with great success, reducing Abeta plaque load and phosphorylation of tau protein.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalBrain·DateMar 17, 2016

Even diversity-friendly employers discriminate against racial minority job seekers

A new study from the University of Toronto found that minority applicants may fare worse in resumes sent to diversity-friendly companies than those sent to non-diversity companies. Hiding one's race by 'whitening' their resumes improved minorities' chances of landing an interview.

SourceUniversity of Toronto, Rotman School of Management·JournalAdministrative Science Quarterly·DateMar 17, 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.

Women with impaired stress hormone before pregnancy have lower-birthweight babies

A recent study by the UCLA-led research team found that women with impaired cortisol levels before pregnancy are more likely to give birth to lower-weight babies. Elevated maternal cortisol can deprive the fetus of oxygen and nutrients, leading to lower birth weight and increased risk of infant mortality.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalHealth Psychology·DateMar 17, 2016

Researchers find ancient DNA preserved in modern-day humans

Researchers have discovered substantial amounts of Neandertal and Denisovan DNA in the genomes of modern-day Melanesians, providing new insights into human evolutionary history. The study suggests that these archaic lineages may soon be cataloged due to accumulating genome-scale data from worldwide populations.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalScience·DateMar 17, 2016

Belief in God strengthened by imagining how life would be different

Researchers found that thinking about how life might be worse if an event hadn't occurred led to increased faith and a stronger belief in God. This suggests that counterfactual thinking can play a role in shaping religious convictions, even for those who do not believe in a deity.

SourceSociety for Personality and Social Psychology·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·DateMar 17, 2016

Documenting obesity and underweight in clinical dental settings

The workshop reviews literature on body weight and oral health, teaching participants to measure and interpret weight, height, and other body size indices. It highlights the importance of documenting obesity and underweight in dental settings to identify risk factors for periodontal diseases and dental caries.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateMar 17, 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.

Drug makes stem cells become 'embryonic' again

Researchers have developed a drug that can erase epigenetic markers on chromatin to restore the original state of stem cells in mice. The study shows that over half of mouse epiblast stem cells treated with the drug regained embryonic pluripotency, opening up new possibilities for regenerative medicine.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateMar 17, 2016

Baby monkeys grow faster to avoid being killed by adult males

A study by University of Toronto researchers found that baby monkeys in groups with higher risks of infanticide develop faster. This accelerated growth may be triggered by stress hormones in maternal milk, allowing mothers and infants to better survive.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalAnimal Behaviour·DateMar 17, 2016

Stem cell therapy reverses age-related osteoporosis in mice

A study published in STEM CELLS Translational Medicine found that stem cell therapy can restore normal bone structure in mice with age-related osteoporosis. The treatment involves injecting healthy mesenchymal stem cells into the mice, which can then produce new bone tissue.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalStem Cells Translational Medicine·DateMar 17, 2016

How rocks shaped the Civil War

Geologists explore how various rock types, particularly carbonates, influenced Union and Confederate commander's decisions. The rolling terrain of Gettysburg and other battlefields was limited by carbonate rocks, which provided natural defensive positions.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeosphere·DateMar 17, 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.

New cytoplasmic role for proteins linked to neurological diseases, cancers

A team of researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center has identified a second role for RNA-binding proteins, which may contribute to neurological diseases such as autism and epilepsy. The study suggests that these proteins play a key regulatory role in translating messenger RNA into proteins.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateMar 17, 2016

Common painkillers are more dangerous than we think

A new study reveals that older types of arthritis medicine, like Diclofenac, are associated with an increased risk of heart attacks, similar to other NSAID types taken off the market. The study recommends reduced consumption and alternative treatments for patients at high risk of cardiovascular diseases.

SourceAarhus University·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateMar 17, 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.

Mercury rising?

A new study by UC Santa Barbara researchers identified how flooding frequency and duration affect mercury biogeochemistry along a 40-mile stretch of the Yuba/Feather River system. The study found that about 5 percent of the total mercury in this lower section has the potential to become toxic.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateMar 17, 2016

Research proves it -- the smell of alcohol makes it hard to resist

A study published in Psychopharmacology found that the smell of alcohol can reduce a person's ability to inhibit their behavior, particularly when it comes to pressing buttons. The researchers, led by Dr. Rebecca Monk, used a computer-based experiment to test this hypothesis and found significant evidence supporting their claim.

SourceSpringer·JournalPsychopharmacology·DateMar 17, 2016

A new recessive disease identified

Researchers at the University of Geneva identified a new recessive disease caused by the failure of a single gene, PIGG, which affects protein production and leads to intellectual disability, epilepsy and hypotonia. The discovery provides hope for early detection and prevention through personalized genetic diagnosis.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateMar 17, 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.

Immune study shows how gut keeps deadly infections at bay

A study led by the University of Edinburgh's MRC Centre for Inflammation Research discovered a mechanism to keep bacteria in the gut. The researchers found that PGE2 activates innate lymphoid cells, which help maintain the gut barrier and prevent body-wide inflammation.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalScience·DateMar 17, 2016

Strathclyde student wins Schmidt MacArthur Fellowship

A Strathclyde PhD student has been awarded a place on the prestigious Schmidt MacArthur Fellowship, an international programme on the circular economy. The fellowship provides valuable support for his studies and research on networks of innovation in the circular economy.

SourceUniversity of Strathclyde·DateMar 17, 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.

Single brain cells reveal genes controlling formation, development

University of Wisconsin-Madison neuroscientist Xinyu Zhao has identified the genetic machinery that causes maturation in a young nerve cell, revealing four stages of gene activation. The study found hints about the origin of Alzheimer's, Parkinson's diseases and autism, suggesting a link between stem cell impairment and complex disorders.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalCerebral Cortex·DateMar 17, 2016

Harvard launches ResearchKit app to support football player health

TeamStudy, an iPhone research app built using ResearchKit, allows former NFL players and the public to engage in the study of athlete health. The app enables researchers to capture data from participants across the nation, providing insights into everyday experiences of former NFL players.

SourceHarvard Medical School·DateMar 17, 2016

Our gut microbiome is always changing; it's also remarkably stable

The gut microbiome remains healthy due to functional redundancy among microbe species, which ensure stability in the face of constant disturbance. This study highlights the importance of understanding the role of these bacteria in the human body and their contribution to clinical symptoms.

SourceCell Press·JournalTrends in Microbiology·DateMar 17, 2016

West Africa, Ebola and the threat of Zika

The Zika virus poses a significant threat to West Africa, particularly in Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Guinea, due to the recent Ebola outbreak. Rapid testing for Zika is crucial to prevent confusion between Zika and early Ebola symptoms.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalHealth Security·DateMar 17, 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.

In-car breathalyzers for DUI offenders curb drunk-driving deaths by 15 percent

A Penn study finds that states with mandatory ignition interlock laws for DUI offenders reduce alcohol-related crash deaths by 15%, comparable to airbag laws. These devices prevent intoxicated drivers from starting their vehicles, directly preventing drunk driving and saving lives.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateMar 17, 2016

TGen helps track down deadly bloodstream infection

Advanced genomic sequencing helped identify a potentially deadly fungus, Sarocladium kiliense, in tainted anti-nausea medication given to dozens of cancer patients in Chile and Colombia. The use of whole-genome sequence typing revealed nearly genetically indistinguishable isolates from patient samples and unopened medication vials.

SourceThe Translational Genomics Research Institute·JournalEmerging Infectious Diseases·DateMar 17, 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.

How HIV infection increases the risk of tuberculosis

A study published in PLOS Pathogens suggests that HIV infection disrupts the immune response to Mtb, making it harder for the body to control active TB. Researchers found that early HIV infection diminishes a specific component of the immune response called IL-10, leading to a weaker defense against Mtb.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateMar 17, 2016

2016 Protein Science Best Paper Awards

Tracy Clinton and Michael Thompson received the Protein Society's Year 2015 'Best Paper' awards for their work on Ebola drug target mimics. The researchers, who came from diverse backgrounds, were chosen for their innovative approaches to solving complex protein problems.

SourceThe Protein Society·DateMar 17, 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.

Galapagos lakes reveal tropical Pacific climate since Biblical times

Researchers reconstructed a 2,000-year record of precipitation changes in the eastern Pacific using sediments from Galapagos lakes, revealing long-term shifts in El Niño patterns. The study provides new insights into tropical climate dynamics and will help model future changes.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 17, 2016

Semiconductor-inspired superconducting quantum computing devices

Builders of future superconducting quantum computers may learn from semiconductors to simplify operation and improve qubits. Researchers found an efficient implementation using novel control approaches, eliminating costly overheads for control and reducing gate error rates.

SourceJoint Quantum Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 17, 2016

Students as teachers effective in STEM subjects

A new study at Syracuse University's College of Arts and Sciences has found that peer-led team learning significantly improves grade performance and course completion among minority students in STEM fields. The researchers hope to expand the successful model to increase participation in these crucial subjects.

SourceSyracuse University·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMar 17, 2016

VCU scientists develop computer models simulating stem cell transplant recovery

Researchers at VCU have developed computer models that can simulate the recovery of the immune system in patients undergoing stem cell transplants. The models use DNA sequencing and matrix mathematics to predict which patients may suffer complications such as graft-versus-host-disease.

SourceVirginia Commonwealth University·JournalBiology of Blood and Marrow Transplantation·DateMar 17, 2016

Paying attention to words not just images leads to better image captions

A University of Rochester team has developed a system that outperforms other approaches to creating computer-generated image captions by considering the meaning and context of words, not just images. The winning approach combines top-down and bottom-up methods to create more accurate and coherent captions.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·DateMar 17, 2016

Expanding use of recycled water would benefit the environment and human health

A new study by UCLA researchers proposes expanding the use of recycled water to reduce water and energy consumption, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and improve public health. The strategy has potential global applications, particularly in addressing water scarcity and related health issues.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateMar 17, 2016

Homosexuality as common in Uganda as in other countries

A survey of nearly 3,000 Ugandan students reveals that one in three had been in love with a person of the same sex and 6-8% of men engaged in homosexual relations. The study found associations between homosexual experiences and poor mental health, sexual coercion, and drug use.

SourceLund University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 17, 2016

BU researchers discover how RNA editing may promote tumor growth

A new study provides insight into the role of RNA editing in cancer, identifying over 2,000 genes with significant changes in RNA editing levels between tumor and normal tissues. Researchers found that these changes may be linked to different clinical outcomes.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 17, 2016

Female animals look drab to avoid sexual harassment, study shows

A new explanation for why female animals are less colorful and decorated than males is that they avoid attracting unwanted male attention. Researchers propose that females signal their unattractiveness to reduce harassment, rather than simply lacking ornamentation due to camouflage or fertility concerns.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalAnimal Behaviour·DateMar 17, 2016

New role of environment in multiple sclerosis revealed

A study in east London found higher MS prevalence among Black people and South Asians compared to their ancestral countries, suggesting an increased environmental influence on the disease. The researchers propose that exposure to environmental agents or behaviors may facilitate MS development.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalMultiple Sclerosis Journal·DateMar 17, 2016

Nature conservation areas no haven for butterflies

A study of 200 years reveals a steady loss of butterfly species in nature conservation areas, which are largely ineffective in protecting them. The decline is attributed to high emissions of reactive nitrogen, promoting the growth of plants that outcompete larval host plants and alter nutrient composition.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalConservation Biology·DateMar 17, 2016

Adversity forges unlikely friendship between hyenas, wolves

Researchers observed striped hyenas joining grey wolf packs in the Negev desert, suggesting a mutually beneficial relationship. The unlikely alliance may have arisen from necessity, with hyenas utilizing their keen sense of smell and wolves leveraging their agility to tackle prey.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee at Knoxville·JournalZoology in the Middle East·DateMar 17, 2016

A molecular subtype of bladder cancer resembles breast cancer

Researchers identified a new subtype of muscle-invasive bladder cancer that resembles some forms of breast cancer, characterized by low levels of the tight junction protein claudin. These claudin-low tumors express high levels of immune-related genes but also show a strong signature of immunosuppression.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJCI Insight·DateMar 17, 2016

A new glimpse into working memory

Researchers found that neurons fire in brief, coordinated bursts as information is held in working memory, allowing for multiple items to be stored separately. This discovery fits a new model of rapid synaptic strength changes and gamma frequency oscillations.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNeuron·DateMar 17, 2016

3-D technology enriches human nerve cells for transplant to brain

Researchers developed a 3D micro-scaffold technology that promotes reprogramming of stem cells into neurons and supports growth of neuronal connections. The system improved cell-survival rates by nearly 40-fold compared to individual cell injections, enabling the potential treatment for human neurodegenerative disorders.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Biomedical Imaging & Bioengineering·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 17, 2016