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Science News for March 21, 2016


Tiny water flea, big cost: Scientists say invasive species impacts much worse than thought

A new study reveals that invasive species in the Great Lakes have a much greater economic and ecological impact than previously thought. Researchers found that a single non-native species can rack up millions of dollars in damages, highlighting the need to recalculate the cost of invasive species.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 21, 2016

Island foxes may need genetic rescue

A recent study found that the San Nicolas Island fox population has extremely low genetic variation, making it vulnerable to extinction. Genetic rescue from other island fox subspecies could be necessary to preserve this important ecosystem member.

SourceColorado State University·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateMar 21, 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.

Even with higher education, obese women run greater risk of depression

A new study by Rice University researchers found that obese women, even those with higher education, are double the risk of depression compared to normal-weight women. The study used a large population-based sample of healthy women and controlled for various factors, including diet and lifestyle.

SourceRice University·JournalObesity Research & Clinical Practice·DateMar 21, 2016

New way to treat cancer and vessel diseases

Cell biologists from Lomonosov Moscow State University discovered a new way to regulate cell motility, enabling the development of new medicines for cancer and vessel diseases. The study found that protein kinase LOSK regulates dynactin, a complex protein necessary for retrograde intercellular transport.

SourceLomonosov Moscow State University·JournalCytoskeleton·DateMar 21, 2016

Grass and flowers sourced locally

A joint study by Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research found that using locally sourced seed from the same region as the future grassland improves plant growth and flowering. The researchers tested seven common grassland plants across eight German regions, discovering a correlation between genetic differences and regional climate...

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateMar 21, 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.

Autism genes are in all of us, new research reveals

New research suggests genetic risk underlying autism spectrum disorders affects a range of behavioral and developmental traits across the population. Those diagnosed with ASD represent a severe presentation of these traits, which also occur in unaffected individuals.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNature Genetics·DateMar 21, 2016

Bacteria's Achilles heel uncovered by single molecule chemistry

Scientists at the University of Copenhagen have discovered a previously unknown weakness in bacteria, known as an 'Achilles heel', which is a proton leak state. This discovery may lead to the development of novel antibiotics by targeting this safety valve in bacterial energy metabolism.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMar 21, 2016

Free pap screening did not increase participation

A study from Sahlgrenska Academy found that free gynecological pap test screenings did not increase participation among women in socioeconomically disadvantaged areas. Despite a low fee of SEK 11, the results showed only a slight difference in participation rates between those offered free screening and those who paid the usual fee.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 21, 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-NOAA's Suomi NPP satellite sees Emeraude weakening

Tropical Cyclone Emeraude is weakening due to a partially exposed low-level circulation center and moderate vertical wind shear. The storm will continue to lose strength over the next couple of days as it moves westward through the open waters of the Southern Indian Ocean.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 21, 2016

Reverse your diabetes -- and you can stay diabetes-free long-term

A new study from Newcastle University found that people who reverse their Type 2 diabetes and keep their weight down remain free of the condition. The research shows that even patients with diabetes for up to 10 years can reverse their condition by removing fat from their pancreas.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalDiabetes Care·DateMar 21, 2016

Plants boost extreme temperatures by 5°C

Researchers found that plants' water-use strategies significantly impact temperature increase, with needleleaf forests and agricultural land experiencing the largest changes. The study's results are more than half the change forecast by the IPCC under a business-as-usual model.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 21, 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.

Skin regeneration in technicolor

Researchers have developed a system called Skinbow that labels individual skin cells in zebrafish with different colors, allowing for real-time tracking of cell populations. This technology enables the study of skin regeneration and cellular behavior in high resolution, providing insights into the dynamics of wound healing.

SourceCell Press·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateMar 21, 2016

Video: Morphing metal shapes future of soft robotics

Cornell University engineers have developed a hybrid material combining stiff metal and soft rubber foam for dynamic shape changes, self-healing and improved load-bearing capabilities. The material features a unique ability to melt and reform, mimicking the flexibility of an octopus.

SourceCornell University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateMar 21, 2016

UT center continues quest for low-cost, high-quality bioenergy

Researchers at the University of Tennessee Center for Renewable Carbon explore feedstock supply and logistical issues to develop cost-competitive biofuels and bio-based products. The study aims to determine if blending feedstocks can increase performance while lowering costs.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture·DateMar 21, 2016

New international research reinforces the link between public policy and life expectancy

A new study by the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health reveals that policy changes in three countries led to significant declines or gains in life expectancy. The research found that effective substance use policies can reverse declining trends, while failed policies can lead to abrupt and drastic drops in life expectancy.

SourceCentre for Addiction and Mental Health·JournalBMC Medicine·DateMar 21, 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.

Engineers adapt laser method to create micro energy units

Engineers at the University of Missouri have developed a method to transfer energy sources to virtually any shape using an efficient laser-writing technique. This technique enables the fabrication of microbatteries and micro fuel cells that are more environmentally friendly, highly designable, and thin.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry A·DateMar 21, 2016

Long-acting injectable protects against vaginal HIV transmission

Researchers developed a new long-acting formulation of raltegravir for pre-exposure prophylaxis, showing significant protection against multiple strains of HIV in animal models. The study found that the injectable provided strong suppression of viral load and could potentially improve adherence to medication regimens.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalAntimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy·DateMar 21, 2016

Caught for the first time: The early flash of an exploding star

Astronomers capture shock breakout of a supernova for the first time in visible light, revealing unexpected diversity in cataclysmic stellar events. The observations, made using NASA's Kepler space telescope, matched up well with mathematical models of Type II explosions.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·DateMar 21, 2016

The center of the Milky Way

A team of researchers has found evidence for a particle accelerator in the center of the Milky Way that can accelerate protons to petaelectronvolt energies. The discovery sheds new light on the origin of galactic cosmic rays and challenges existing theories.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalNature·DateMar 21, 2016

Nanoparticle-based cancer therapies shown to work in humans

Researchers at Caltech demonstrate that nanoparticles can selectively target tumors while leaving adjacent healthy tissue intact. The study's findings suggest the presence of the EPR effect in humans, which could lead to more effective cancer therapies with fewer side effects.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 21, 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.

The weight of rejection

Research reveals anticipated rejection due to weight stigma negatively impacts heavier women's emotional well-being. Participants who expected rejection experienced lower self-esteem, increased feelings of shame and embarrassment, and greater stress.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalJournal of Experimental Social Psychology·DateMar 21, 2016

Scientists say many plants don't respond to warming as thought

A comprehensive global study suggests that plant respiration rates slow predictably with increasing temperatures, reducing estimates of carbon release from plants. The research found uniform patterns across various habitats and plant types, shedding light on the complex planetary carbon cycle.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 21, 2016

Many species now going extinct may vanish without a fossil trace

A recent study by three paleontologists reveals that over 85% of mammal species at high risk of extinction lack a fossil record. The researchers found that body size and geographical range are key factors in determining whether a species will leave behind a fossil legacy.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalEcology Letters·DateMar 21, 2016

CU study: Fires, drought in changing climate affecting high-altitude forests

A CU study found that large fires in the West followed by drought conditions are affecting high-elevation forests, leading to lower tree densities and increased patchiness. The research team measured tree species, numbers, sizes, and ages of post-fire seedlings in nearly 200 forest plots.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalGlobal Ecology and Biogeography·DateMar 21, 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.

Protecting 30 percent of the ocean has many benefits, study suggests

A study suggests that setting aside at least 30 percent of the ocean for protection could have numerous benefits for conservation, fisheries, and other stakeholders. The research found a surprising consensus among previous studies on an ambitious target for ocean protection.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalConservation Letters·DateMar 21, 2016

Global warming pushes wines into uncharted terroir

A study finds that global warming has largely removed drought from the centuries-old early-harvest equation, pushing French grape growers to adapt to hotter climates. As a result, some regions may no longer be suitable for traditional wine varieties, forcing vineyards to change their methods or relocate.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalNature Climate Change·DateMar 21, 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.

New way to control particle motions on 2-D materials

Researchers have discovered a new way to manipulate plasmons on graphene and TMDs using circularly polarized light, enabling separation of particle streams without magnetic fields. This breakthrough could lead to novel electro-optical devices and applications in chip-scale optical isolation.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review B·DateMar 21, 2016

New gravity map gives best view yet inside Mars

The new gravity map provides a detailed view of Mars' interior, revealing a liquid outer core and massive seasonal precipitation. The improved resolution helps understand the formation of specific regions and confirms previous indications about Martian tides.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalIcarus·DateMar 21, 2016

Why did we invent pottery?

Researchers found that pottery was used mainly for cooking marine and freshwater animal species, with little evidence of plant processing or deer cooking. This suggests cultural influences played a bigger role than expected in the widespread adoption of pottery.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 21, 2016

The evolution of altruistic defense in enslaved ants

New research reveals that kin selection drives altruistic defense in enslaved Temnothorax longispinosus ant workers. The study found that slaves rebel against their oppressors' offspring, benefiting relatives living nearby.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Evolutionary Biology·DateMar 21, 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.

Of warming and wine

Researchers analyzed over 500 years of harvest records, finding that climate change has caused winegrape harvests in France to occur two weeks earlier than in the past. The trend is expected to continue due to increasing temperatures, which can negatively impact wine quality.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature Climate Change·DateMar 21, 2016

Truckers with sleep apnea who do not follow treatment have greater crash risk

Researchers have found that truckers with obstructive sleep apnea who do not adhere to treatment have a significantly higher crash risk. The study, which analyzed over 1,600 drivers, found that these drivers were more than five times as likely to be involved in a severe crash compared to those who followed the treatment program.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalSLEEP·DateMar 21, 2016

Lehigh scientists extend the reach of single crystals

Researchers at Lehigh University have made a breakthrough in creating single crystals from glasses, which could enable the use of disordered materials in high-tech applications like lasers and LEDs. The new method uses a novel heating strategy to convert glass into a single crystal without unwanted crystals forming.

SourceLehigh University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 21, 2016

Back to the essence of medical treatment in oncology

The new WHO Model List of Essential Medicines includes tumour-specific indications for 46 essential medicines, empowering oncologists to demand quality care. The list aims to reduce disparities in survival outcomes and bring cancer care to developing worlds.

SourceEuropean Society for Medical Oncology·JournalESMO Open·DateMar 21, 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.

Supporting the bioimaging revolution

EMPIAR provides valuable data for developing new approaches to data processing and interpretation, facilitating archiving and quality control. The resource accommodates large datasets, including four related 3D SEM entries showing different stages of infection by a malaria parasite.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory - European Bioinformatics Institute·JournalNature Methods·DateMar 21, 2016

Out-of-hospital births are on the rise

US out-of-hospital birth rates increased to nearly 1.5% of total births in 2014, with non-Hispanic white women experiencing the largest growth. Many women face difficulty accessing insurance coverage for out-of-hospital births, leading to high self-pay rates.

SourceWiley·JournalBirth·DateMar 21, 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.

The invisible world of human perception

A study published in Attention, Perception, & Psychophysics reveals that people can intentionally exclude objects from their mental model of their environment. Test observers were faster at finding a target when the objects matched the color of the rectangle, but not when they did not, indicating top-down control over attention.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·DateMar 21, 2016

Parasites reveal how evolution has molded an ancient nuclear structure

A research team has mapped the structure of a unique nuclear pore complex found in trypanosomes, an ancient parasite species diverged from yeast and humans. The study reveals that the architecture of the inner ring is similar across different eukaryotes, while the outer ring exhibits distinct features, suggesting an ancient origin.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMar 21, 2016

Tiny, ancient galaxy preserves record of catastrophic event

Astronomers discovered a tiny, ancient galaxy that contains seven stars with heavy elements formed through rapid neutron captures, a process more common in rare cosmic collisions. The findings suggest that the heaviest elements on Earth originated in neutron star mergers.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalNature·DateMar 21, 2016

Seeing isn't required to gesture like a native speaker

A study comparing blind and sighted participants reveals that language learning shapes gesture patterns, with Turkish speakers producing more separated sentence units. The findings suggest that speech carries the imprint of the language, marking it as a source of cross-linguistic variation in gestures.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateMar 21, 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.

Biodiversity brings disease resistance: Novel study

A novel study has found that higher biodiversity reduces infectious disease severity in a Tibetan alpine meadow, supporting the dilution hypothesis. Artificial fertiliser weakens this effect, increasing disease load.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalEcology·DateMar 21, 2016

US heart disease rates decline overall; some Southern areas see less progress

US heart disease death rates have declined overall since the 1970s, but there are significant differences in rates among US counties, with weaker declines found south of the Mason-Dixon Line. The study's findings emphasize the importance of geography for heart disease prevention and treatment, suggesting that social and economic condit...

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalCirculation·DateMar 21, 2016

Penn vet study identifies mechanism explaining female bias in autoimmunity

Researchers discovered that female lymphocytes lack proper X chromosome inactivation, leading to increased expression of immunity-related genes. This incomplete activation may contribute to autoimmune conditions like lupus, which affects 85% of female patients.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 21, 2016

Biological factors predict which viruses will cause human epidemics

A study in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences identified biological factors predicting viral transmission efficiency among humans. Low host mortality and extended survival time increase a virus's ability to spread, while envelope structures and insect vectors hinder emergence.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 21, 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.

Pumping up energy storage with metal oxides

Researchers at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory have discovered that certain metal oxides increase the capacity and cycling performance of lithium-ion batteries. The team created graphene-metal oxide nanocomposites and found two of them greatly improved reversible lithium storage capacity.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry A·DateMar 21, 2016

Details revealed for how plant creates anticancer compounds

Researchers at Kobe University have discovered a previously unknown mechanism regulating organic compound creation and distribution in plants. This finding could help develop new methods for synthesizing valuable compounds like those found in Catharanthus roseus.

SourceKobe University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 21, 2016

Review and view of future in cancer in adolescents, young adults

The narrative review discusses current status of adolescent and young adult cancer, highlighting areas for improvement and opportunities for progress. The authors emphasize the need for increased accrual to therapeutic clinical trials and enhanced investment in psychological support.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateMar 21, 2016

Nanolight at the edge

Graphene-based technologies enable ultra-small optical nanodevices by capturing light in record-small volumes. The researchers identified two types of plasmons - edge and sheet modes - with unique properties that can channel electromagnetic energy in one dimension.

SourceElhuyar Fundazioa·JournalNature Photonics·DateMar 21, 2016

Plants take on fungal tenants on demand

Researchers discovered that thale cress plant tolerates fungus when it needs help obtaining phosphate, rejecting it otherwise. The plant controls interaction through its immune system linked to a sensor for phosphate availability.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalCell·DateMar 21, 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.

Stress management may enhance cardiac rehab, improve recovery

A new study found that adding stress management to cardiac rehabilitation programs significantly reduces cardiac events and improves recovery rates for heart patients. After a median follow-up of over three years, researchers found that patients who underwent cardiac rehab plus stress management achieved greater benefits than rehab alone.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalCirculation·DateMar 21, 2016

Breakthrough technology to improve cyber security

A research team at the University of Sydney has developed a major breakthrough in generating single photons, enabling the creation of secure cyber security systems. This innovation resolves a key issue holding back password exchange and can be scaled up to generate single photons with 100% probability.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 21, 2016

Uncovering bacterial role in platinum formation

Researchers have found that bacteria play a crucial role in the dispersion and re-concentration of platinum group elements in surface environments. The study, published in Nature Geoscience, suggests that bacterial processes can reform nuggets of platinum at the surface, shedding new light on the formation of these valuable metals.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalNature Geoscience·DateMar 21, 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.

Production of butter from shea trees in West Africa pushed back 1,000 years

Anthropologists at the University of Oregon have discovered evidence of shea tree harvesting dating back to A.D. 100 in western Burkina Faso, challenging previous estimates of around A.D. 1100. The study reveals a long history of sustainable farming practices and the importance of wild foods in early agricultural diets.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalJournal of Ethnobiology·DateMar 21, 2016

Old tourist photos show seabird's rise over the last century

Researchers analyzed old tourist photos to reconstruct the rise and fall of common guillemot populations on Stora Karlsö. The study found a significant increase in population size, with numbers more than five times bigger than in the early 20th century.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 21, 2016

Temple scientists eliminate HIV-1 from genome of human T-Cells

Researchers at Temple University Health System have successfully eliminated HIV-1 from the DNA of human T-cells using a specialized gene editing system. The technology not only removes the virus but also protects infected cells against reinfection, holding promise for an eventual cure for patients with HIV.

SourceTemple University Health System·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 21, 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.

IUPUI researchers use stem cells to identify cellular processes related to glaucoma

Researchers at IUPUI have successfully identified cellular processes related to glaucoma using stem cells derived from human skin cells. The study found that skin cells from individuals with glaucoma became unhealthy and died off faster than those of healthy individuals when reprogrammed into retinal ganglion cells.

SourceIndiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis School of Science·JournalStem Cells·DateMar 21, 2016

New study may lead to improved treatment of type 2 diabetes

A new study discovered that a common genetic defect in beta cells may underlie both form of diabetes. The research found that genetics is critical for the survival of beta cells, and a genetic predisposition for fragile beta cells may lead to diabetes development.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalNature Genetics·DateMar 21, 2016

US adults get failing grade in healthy lifestyle behavior

A recent study found that US adults are struggling to adopt healthy lifestyle behaviors, with only 2.7% meeting the criteria for a 'healthy lifestyle' and a low risk of cardiovascular disease. The study measured four key behaviors: good diet, moderate exercise, recommended body fat percentage, and non-smoking habits.

SourceOregon State University·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateMar 21, 2016

A quartet of genes controls growth of blood stem cells

A study by Lund University researchers has identified four key genes that govern the growth and multiplication of blood stem cells. The discovery sheds light on how to expand these cells for transplant and potentially develop new cancer treatments.

SourceLund University·JournalCell Reports·DateMar 21, 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.

Entanglement becomes easier to measure

Researchers have developed a new method to detect entanglement in many-particle systems, overcoming the challenge of scaling exponentially with system size. This breakthrough allows for the quantification of entanglement in macroscopic objects and has applications in quantum metrology, simulations, and solid-state physics.

SourceUniversity of Innsbruck·JournalNature Physics·DateMar 21, 2016

Technicolor zebrafish reveal how skin heals

Scientists have developed a system to track individual cells in regenerating skin tissue using color-coding, enabling the study of cellular responses to injury and tissue regeneration. The Skinbow system uses technicolor zebrafish with permanent barcodes on their cells, allowing researchers to monitor cell movements and changes over time.

SourceDuke University·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateMar 21, 2016

Parsing conservation information on cycad species

The study analyzed cycad species in The Red List, verifying 303 accepted taxa and finding no canonical description of conservation metrics. The research revealed varying threat categories among genera and geographic regions.

SourceUniversity of Guam·JournalTropical Conservation Science·DateMar 21, 2016

New tool to improve blood pressure measurement

A new prediction model uses three separate readings and basic patient characteristics to provide an adjusted blood pressure reading with high accuracy. The model correctly classified 93% of cases, outperforming existing guidelines in identifying hypertension.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalHYPERTENSION·DateMar 21, 2016

DNA markers link season of birth and allergy risk

Researchers at the University of Southampton discovered specific DNA markers linked to seasonal births and allergic disease. Epigenetic marks present at birth were found to influence gene expression for up to 18 years later.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalAllergy·DateMar 21, 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.

Wrinkles and crumples make graphene better

Researchers from Brown University found that repeatedly crumpling sheets of graphene can improve its water-repelling properties and electrochemical behavior. The process creates complex architectures with interesting patterns, including superhydrophobic surfaces and enhanced electrodes for batteries and fuel cells.

SourceBrown University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateMar 21, 2016

Adding stress management to cardiac rehab cuts new incidents in half

Research from Duke Health found that incorporating stress management into cardiac rehabilitation cuts risk of another heart incident in half. Patients who attended weekly stress-management groups had lower rates of cardiovascular events compared to those receiving only traditional cardiac rehabilitation.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalCirculation·DateMar 21, 2016

Fewer Americans now pray, believe in God

A recent study found that the percentage of Americans who prayed or believed in God reached an all-time low in 2014. The decline was particularly pronounced among young adults, with nearly twice as many saying they did not believe in God as compared to the early 1980s.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalSAGE Open·DateMar 21, 2016

Drought alters recovery of Rocky Mountain forests after fire

A new study published in Global Ecology and Biogeography finds that drought following wildfires hinders forest recovery in the Rocky Mountains. The research shows that forests are not adapting quickly enough to climate change, with subalpine tree species being negatively impacted by warm, dry conditions.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalGlobal Ecology and Biogeography·DateMar 21, 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.

Beyond DNA: TGen points the way to enhanced precision medicine with RNA sequencing

Researchers at TGen highlight the advantages of using RNA sequencing in disease detection and management, including its potential for non-invasive diagnosis and guiding treatment selection. The analysis reveals the promise of RNA-based measurements for broad application across diverse areas of human health.

SourceThe Translational Genomics Research Institute·JournalNature Reviews Genetics·DateMar 21, 2016

Discussing older adults' values, goals helps guide healthcare providers during illnesses

A study of 146 veterans with life-threatening illnesses found that exploring their values can help set effective goals for healthcare and treatment plans. The researchers identified five key themes: self-sufficiency, life enjoyment, connectedness and legacy, balancing quality and length of life, and engagement in care.

SourceAmerican Geriatrics Society·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateMar 21, 2016

How yeast makes heads or tails of itself

Researchers at the University at Buffalo discovered how yeast cells decide their direction of growth, revealing the concept of polarity and its role in propelling single-celled organisms forward. The study found that Bud proteins play a crucial role in determining cell orientation, adapting to changes in nutrient availability.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 21, 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.

Crash risk soars among truck drivers who fail to adhere to sleep apnea treatment

The largest study on sleep apnea and crash risk among commercial motor vehicle drivers found that failing to adhere to sleep apnea treatment increases truck driver crash risk by 5 times. The study supports establishing obstructive sleep apnea screening standards for all drivers through the commercial driver's medical exam.

SourceAmerican Academy of Sleep Medicine·JournalSLEEP·DateMar 21, 2016

Survival of the hardest working

Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis created a quality-control tool called PopQC to ensure hard-working cells dominate in microbial fermentation processes, resulting in threefold enhanced production of free fatty acid and tyrosine. This innovation addresses the universal problem of biological noise, which affects the work ...

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateMar 21, 2016

High-risk lung cancer patients may not need annual screenings

Researchers found that high-risk lung cancer patients who are cleared of disease in their initial test do not need annual low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) screenings. The study suggests that reducing the frequency of screening could save millions in healthcare costs and spare patients from radiation exposure and false positive results.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·DateMar 21, 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.

Yellow as the sunrise

Researchers from the University of Vienna have successfully characterised aurone synthase, a catechol oxidase with hydroxylase activity. The study provides insights into the mechanism of plant polyphenol oxidases and has potential applications in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and agriculture.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 21, 2016

Record-breaking ultraviolet winds discovered near black hole

Astronomers have discovered the fastest ultraviolet winds ever seen near a supermassive black hole, with wind speeds of over 200 million miles per hour. This breakthrough study sheds light on quasar outflows and their role in galaxy formation.

SourcePenn State·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateMar 21, 2016

Lighting up disease-carrying mosquitoes

Researchers have developed a technique called QUASR that can detect RNA from West Nile and chikungunya virus in mosquito samples in under half an hour, speeding up disease diagnosis. The method amplifies the positive signal up to 10 times brighter than a negative one, allowing for simultaneous screening of multiple targets.

SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateMar 21, 2016

Improving therapy for a very common disorder, generalized anxiety

Researchers found that integrating motivational interviewing (MI) with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) improves long-term patient improvement rates for severe generalized anxiety disorder. MI helps patients address ambivalence and resistance, leading to better outcomes over a one-year follow-up period.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalJournal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology·DateMar 21, 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.

Smaller corn particle size means more energy for pigs, lower costs for producers

Research at the University of Illinois found that finer corn particle sizes increase energy derived from corn, allowing producers to reduce added fat without affecting growth performance or carcass characteristics. This enables producers to decrease feed costs.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Animal Science·DateMar 21, 2016

Mothers and daughters

Researchers at EMBL have observed the elimination of centrioles from starfish egg cells, a process essential for viable embryo development. The study reveals the role of appendages in directing centriole expulsion and provides insights into the molecular logic underlying this mechanism.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateMar 21, 2016

Sleep suppresses brain rebalancing

A recent study published in Cell reveals that sleep suppresses brain rebalancing, a mechanism crucial for neural activity regulation. This finding contradicts previous theories on the role of sleep in memory consolidation and homeostatic plasticity.

SourceBrandeis University·JournalCell·DateMar 21, 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.

More elderly using dangerous drug combinations

A new study found that one in six older adults now regularly use potentially deadly combinations of prescription and over-the-counter medications and dietary supplements. The study identified 15 potentially life-threatening drug combinations, with nearly half involving nonprescription medications or supplements.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateMar 21, 2016

Solar fuels: A refined protective layer for the 'artificial leaf'

Scientists at Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin developed a protective layer for the 'artificial leaf' that converts 12% of incident solar energy into hydrogen. The new layer, made from graphene, enables stable and efficient water splitting.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·DateMar 21, 2016

Tracing the scent of fear

Researchers at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center have identified a tiny area of the mouse brain responsible for the innate fear response triggered by predator odors. This region, known as AmPir, is located in the olfactory cortex and plays a crucial role in perceiving smells, including those associated with fear.

SourceFred Hutchinson Cancer Center·JournalNature·DateMar 21, 2016

Better safe than sorry: Babies make quick judgments about adults' anger

Research shows that 15-month-old babies generalize an adult's angry behavior even if the social context has changed. They make snap judgments and tend to assume a person with a history of anger will become angry again in similar situations. This study highlights the importance of parents being mindful of their emotions' impact on babies.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalDevelopmental Psychology·DateMar 21, 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.

Recycling pecan wood for commercial growing substrates

Researchers found that substituting up to 100% of peatmoss with pecan wood chips in greenhouse substrates reduces leaching fractions and increases substrate pH, while also providing a positive opportunity for using the product.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateMar 21, 2016

A new model for how twisted bundles take shape

A team of researchers at UMass Amherst and Virginia Tech have identified the factors governing the final morphology of self-assembling chiral filament bundles. Their new model predicts the size and shape of these structures based on molecular-scale interactions, providing insights into protein fiber formation in various tissues.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalNature Materials·DateMar 21, 2016

For older adults with dementia, transitions in care can increase risk for serious problems

A study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that transitions in care for older adults with dementia are linked to medication errors, hospital readmissions, and increased risk of death. Receiving coordinated care and a long-term care plan can help reduce unnecessary transitions.

SourceAmerican Geriatrics Society·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateMar 21, 2016

UGA researchers find potential treatment for prostate cancer

Researchers at the University of Georgia have created a new therapeutic for prostate cancer that has shown great efficacy in mouse models. The treatment, which involves packaging and administering a small molecule called IPA-3, significantly slows the progression of cancer and forces cancerous cells to undergo apoptosis.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·DateMar 21, 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.

International team at the MDI Biological Lab is deciphering the aging code

An international team at the MDI Biological Laboratory is studying the role of dietary restriction in extending human lifespan. Researchers are investigating how lower amounts of food or food with lower energy content affect molecular regulators of gene expression, a key player in aging.

SourceMDI Biological Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 21, 2016

Psychiatric diagnoses in young transgender women

A recent study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that nearly 41% of young transgender women had one or more mental health or substance use disorders. The study also revealed a significant increase in depression, anxiety, and substance abuse among Latina young transgender women.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateMar 21, 2016

Eastern Monarch butterflies at risk of extinction unless numbers increase

The Eastern migratory monarch population declined by 84 percent from 1996-1997 to 2014-2015. Increasing the average population size is crucial to providing a buffer against extinction. Reaching six hectares of occupied area in Mexico by 2020 could reduce the quasi-extinction risk over 20 years.

SourceU.S. Geological Survey·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 21, 2016

A healthy gut could help prevent deadly side effect of bone marrow transplant

Researchers found that butyrate production is reduced in the intestinal tract of experimental mice after bone marrow transplantation, leading to an increased risk of graft vs. host disease. Increasing butyrate levels can mitigate this condition by bolstering the gut lining's resistance to the donor immune system.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalNature Immunology·DateMar 21, 2016