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Science News for May 10, 2016


US must step-up forest pest prevention, new study says

A new study highlights the urgent need for the US to step up forest pest prevention measures, as imported pests cause over $2 billion in damages annually. Strengthening prevention efforts could alleviate economic burdens on homeowners and municipalities while safeguarding US trees.

SourceCary Institute of Ecosystem Studies·JournalEcological Applications·DateMay 10, 2016

Unsafe sex is fastest-growing risk for ill health in teens

A new report by The Lancet Commission on Adolescent Health and Wellbeing reveals that unsafe sex has become the fastest-growing risk factor for ill health among young people aged 10-24 years. Guaranteeing access to free quality secondary education is identified as a single best investment to improve adolescent health.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalThe Lancet·DateMay 10, 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.

Psychology has important role in helping older Americans as they age

The American Psychological Association's special issue explores the importance of psychology in promoting healthy aging, preventing dementia, and ensuring retirement security. Researchers examine the impact of ageism, financial exploitation, and family dynamics on older adults' well-being.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalAmerican Psychologist·DateMay 10, 2016

What studying hand-washing is teaching about compliance

Research from Washington University in St. Louis found that electronic monitoring significantly increased hand-hygiene compliance among healthcare workers. However, compliance rates dropped when monitoring was stopped, highlighting the need for a broader strategy to sustain improvement.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalManagement Science·DateMay 10, 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.

Berkeley Lab scientists brew jet fuel in 1-pot recipe

Researchers at Berkeley Lab engineered a strain of bacteria that enables a one-pot method for producing advanced biofuels from plant material, simplifying the production process and potentially lowering costs. The breakthrough could help make biofuels a viable competitor to fossil fuels.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalGreen Chemistry·DateMay 10, 2016

Acidification and low oxygen put fish in double jeopardy

A new study finds that acidification can make low oxygen even more deadly for fish, forcing them to use coping mechanisms at higher oxygen levels. This doubles the threat, as fish are also vulnerable to predators and equilibrium loss when exposed to both stressors.

SourceSmithsonian·JournalMarine Ecology Progress Series·DateMay 10, 2016

Graphene flakes to calm synapses

Researchers have discovered a new approach to modulating synapses using graphene flakes, which buffer activity without acting on the brain or neurosurgery. The method is selective for excitatory synapses and could be used to target certain diseases with non-invasive treatments.

SourceInternational School of Advanced Studies (SISSA)·JournalACS Nano·DateMay 10, 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.

Research shows youth sports hazing victims often in denial

A review of scientific literature found that only 8% of student athletes who experienced hazing labeled the behavior as such. Meanwhile, 71% reported negative consequences, including physical and psychological issues. Experts stress the importance of educating athletes to distinguish between hazing and positive team building.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·DateMay 10, 2016

Intraocular therapy prevents or reverses diabetic retinopathy in mice

A novel intraocular therapy has been shown to prevent or reverse diabetic retinopathy in mice by increasing ACE-2 expression. The study found that the therapy reduced pro-inflammatory cells and reversed vascular degeneration, suggesting a potential new treatment for blindness and other vascular diseases.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateMay 10, 2016

Nation's beekeepers lost 44 percent of bees in 2015-16

The US saw a significant loss of honey bee colonies, with commercial and small-scale beekeepers losing 44.1% of their colonies over the course of the year. The main cause of these losses is the varroa mite, which can easily spread between colonies.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·DateMay 10, 2016

New device steps toward isolating single electrons for quantum computing

Researchers at University of Chicago have developed a new device that captures trapped electrons and manipulates them using superconducting quantum circuits. The team successfully holds electrons in place for up to 12 hours, leveraging the unique properties of liquid helium to isolate individual electrons.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalPhysical Review X·DateMay 10, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Long-term survival achieved in metastatic melanoma with personalized vaccine

Two patients with liver metastasis from melanoma survived for at least 8.5 and 12 years after receiving patient-specific immunotherapeutic vaccines. The vaccines were derived from the patients' own dendritic cells loaded with proteins isolated from their tumors. Co-Editor-in-Chief Donald J. Buchsbaum, PhD, describes these results as

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalCancer Biotherapy and Radiopharmaceuticals·DateMay 10, 2016

Alcohol accelerates liver damage in people living with hepatitis C

A new study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine found that excessive alcohol use can accelerate liver damage in people living with hepatitis C. The research suggests that comprehensive approaches to care are needed for these patients, including increased diagnosis and effective interventions to reduce alcohol use.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateMay 10, 2016

Highlights from the 2nd European Stroke Organisation Conference 2016

Researchers presented findings from the SOCRATES trial, which tested ticagrelor against aspirin for reducing further strokes. The study showed that ticagrelor did not significantly reduce second strokes or death. In contrast, a lower dose of intravenous rtPA reduced serious brain bleeding by two-thirds and improved survival rates. Addi...

SourceEuropean Stroke Organisation (ESO)·DateMay 10, 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.

How does robotic video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery compare to VATS for treating lung cancer?

A new study published in Journal of Laparoendoscopic & Advanced Surgical Techniques shows that robotic video-assisted lung resection achieves comparable outcomes to conventional VATS and preserves more healthy lung tissue. The robotic approach allows for fewer conversions to open thoracotomy and more lymph nodes retrieved for testing.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Laparoendoscopic & Advanced Surgical Techniques·DateMay 10, 2016

Researchers discover first safe way to deliver drugs to the placenta

Researchers at the University of Manchester have devised a method to selectively deliver drugs to a pregnant woman's placenta without harming the foetus. This breakthrough could help prevent some premature births and treat conditions such as pre-eclampsia by improving placental function and benefiting the growing baby.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 10, 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.

CNIC researchers discover the molecular mechanisms that produce the heart's contractile structure

Researchers at CNIC have discovered a crucial mechanism underlying the contractile structures in both hearts and skeletal muscles. The study reveals how Chd4/NuRD acts as a molecular key to shut down one muscle program in another, leading to hybrid striated muscles that can cause severe myocardiopathies and polymyositis-type myopathies.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P.)·JournalCell Metabolism·DateMay 10, 2016

Intravenous ketamine may rapidly reduce suicidal thinking in depressed patients

A study by Massachusetts General Hospital found that repeat ketamine infusions decreased and, for some, eliminated suicidal thoughts in outpatients with treatment-resistant depression. Seven participants achieved complete remission of suicidal thoughts, and two maintained remission throughout the follow-up period.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJournal of Clinical Psychiatry·DateMay 10, 2016

Distance wireless charging enhanced by magnetic metamaterials

Scientists have developed a system that can efficiently transfer electrical energy between separated circuits using metamaterials. This breakthrough enables wireless charging of mobile devices at longer distances than current technology.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateMay 10, 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.

Winter is coming! New sensors could cut millions from gritting costs

Researchers have developed low-cost temperature sensors to help local authorities make targeted gritting decisions. The sensors can detect significant temperature differences across a county, enabling localized decisions about when and where to apply salt, potentially saving £100 million per year.

SourceEngineering and Physical Sciences Research Council·DateMay 10, 2016

Junk food causes similar high blood sugar levels as type 2 diabetes

A recent study found that junk food diets can cause significant damage to the kidneys, similar to type 2 diabetes. The research used animal models and found that certain glucose transporters were present in higher numbers in rats with type 2 diabetes, but also increased after consuming high-fat or junk food diets.

SourceThe Physiological Society·JournalExperimental Physiology·DateMay 10, 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.

Study suggests new treatment for seizures

Researchers discovered a new factor in seizure escalation: estrogen synthesis in the brain. Aromatase inhibitors showed promise in suppressing seizures without negative side effects, promising a novel therapeutic approach.

SourceeLife·DateMay 10, 2016

Increase seen in the BMI associated with lowest risk of death

A study published in JAMA found that the BMI value associated with lowest all-cause mortality has increased by 3.3 points over three decades, from 1976-1978 to 2003-2013. The risk for all-cause mortality decreased among obese individuals, with an optimal BMI of 27 or greater found in recent cohorts.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateMay 10, 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.

Archaeologists find world's oldest axe in Australia

The discovery of the world's oldest-known axe in Australia pushes back the date of hafted axes by thousands of years. Early Aboriginal technology was not as simple as previously thought, with evidence suggesting it developed in Australia after people arrived around 50,000 years ago.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalAustralian Archaeology·DateMay 10, 2016

Good nutrition positively affects social development, Penn research shows

A new study from University of Pennsylvania researchers found that proper nutrition during childhood has a positive impact on social behaviors and development. The study analyzed 1,795 3-year-old children in Mauritius and found that those with better nutritional status had improved social behavior and cognitive function.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalMaternal and Child Nutrition·DateMay 10, 2016

Heartburn drug damages blood vessel cells in lab finding

Researchers found that long-term PPI use damages blood vessel cells by accelerating biological aging and impairing acid production. The study suggests that PPIs may not be suitable for extended treatment and highlights the need for re-evaluation of their safety and specificity.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalCirculation Research·DateMay 10, 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.

Enhancing lab-on-a-chip peristalsis with electro-osmosis

Indian researchers have conducted analyses to electrically increase liquid flow in pump-free microfluidic devices. By implementing an electric field component, they can enhance on-the-fly controllability of the flow rate, aiding studies on targeted drug delivery and biophysical fluid transport.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateMay 10, 2016

New study: Has HDL, the 'good' cholesterol, been hyped?

Researchers found that HDL is not uniformly predictive of cardiovascular risk, with triglycerides and LDL modifying the incidence of CVD in both low- and high-level HDL. High levels of LDL or TG can increase cardiovascular risk by 30-60% compared to isolated low HDL.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Medical Center·DateMay 10, 2016

When the physical world is unreliable

Researchers found that individuals with schizophrenia have impaired ability to process visual and touch stimuli, leading to distorted perception of reality. The study's findings suggest a new way to identify the disease at an early stage, potentially allowing for earlier intervention.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalTranslational Psychiatry·DateMay 10, 2016

Study links parental depression to brain changes and risk-taking in adolescents

A new study found that parental depression is linked to increased brain activity in areas responsible for risk taking in adolescent children, leading to more rule-breaking behaviors. The study suggests that even mild depressive symptoms in parents can influence teens' behavior through changes in the brain's response to rewards.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalSocial Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience·DateMay 10, 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.

Breast cancer detection rates of mammogram readers don't decline over time

A study by Dr Sian Taylor-Phillips and her team found no decline in mammogram readers' accuracy, despite previous theories suggesting a 'vigilance decrement.' The researchers analyzed 1.2 million women's x-rays and found that cancer detection rates stayed constant throughout each batch of approximately 35 readings.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalJAMA·DateMay 10, 2016

Major global study identifies a safer treatment of acute stroke

A major global study has identified a safer treatment for acute stroke, revealing that a modified dosage of the controversial clot-busting drug rtPA can significantly reduce serious bleeding in the brain while improving survival rates. The trial involved over 3,000 patients in 100 hospitals worldwide and showed promising results.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 10, 2016

Patients and doctors in Brazil need better education on leprosy

A study led by the University of Birmingham found that delays in diagnosis of more than 10 years have been reported in Brazil. The research also indicates that reducing social stigma could encourage sufferers to seek early treatment for leprosy.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateMay 10, 2016

Scientists identify new route of TB transmission

Researchers identified a novel tuberculosis pathogen, Mycobacterium mungi, transmitted through environmental urine and anal gland secretions in banded mongooses. This discovery radically changes the understanding of TB transmission, with implications for wildlife and livestock health.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmBio·DateMay 10, 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.

The Lancet: Link between weekend hospital staffing and patient deaths represents 'major oversimplification', say two new studies

Two new studies published in The Lancet find no association between weekend senior doctor staffing levels and mortality, instead highlighting variations in quality of care throughout the week. Researchers suggest that policies to address weekend quality of care alone represent a major oversimplification of the problem.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·DateMay 10, 2016

Potential target in treatment of oral cancer discovered

Researchers at Boston University School of Medicine have discovered a reliable marker (PDGFRβ) to detect carcinoma-associated fibroblasts in oral cancer tissues. This finding could lead to the development of more effective cancer therapies by combining anti-PDGFRβ treatment with existing tumor treatments.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 10, 2016

How algae could save plants from themselves

Researchers discovered a protein, EPYC1, that enables green algae to efficiently capture CO2 from the air. This finding is crucial for harnessing algae's power in agriculture, which could enhance crop yields by up to 60%.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 10, 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.

When you take acetaminophen, you don't feel others' pain as much

Researchers found that participants who took acetaminophen rated others' pain as less severe and showed reduced empathy in various social scenarios. The study suggests that the popular painkiller may blunt not only physical but also emotional responses to others' misfortunes.

SourceOhio State University·JournalSocial Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience·DateMay 10, 2016

Common antacid linked to accelerated vascular aging

Research found chronic use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) accelerates vascular aging in humans, leading to increased cardiovascular disease, vascular dementia, and renal failure. PPIs like esomeprazole are widely used but not approved for long-term use.

SourceHouston Methodist·DateMay 10, 2016

How US police departments can clear more homicides

A new study by Michigan State University examines how successful US police departments clear more homicides. Departments that achieve this goal work closely with the community, adopt modern investigative tools, and employ a team approach to investigations.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalHomicide Studies·DateMay 10, 2016

Why cancer drugs can't take the pressure

Researchers discovered that high-pressure environments in solid tumors, fueled by hyaluronic acid, hinder drug delivery. Treatment with an enzyme that breaks down hyaluronic acid can restore vessel expansion and improve treatment outcomes for drug-resistant cancers.

SourceCell Press·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateMay 10, 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.

Public reporting measures fail to describe the true safety of hospitals

A study from Johns Hopkins Medicine found that common measures of hospital safety do not accurately capture quality care, with only one out of 21 measures meeting scientific criteria. The researchers argue that patients deserve valid measures of quality and safety, and call for public rating systems to use clinical rather than billing ...

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalMedical Care·DateMay 10, 2016

Study examines use of telemedicine among rural medicare beneficiaries

Despite a significant increase in telemedicine visits, only 0.7% of rural Medicare beneficiaries received a telemedicine visit in 2013, according to a study published in JAMA. The majority of visits were for mental health conditions, and rural beneficiaries who received telemedicine were more likely to be younger or have disabilities.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateMay 10, 2016

Performing cellular surgery with a laser-powered nanoblade

Researchers have developed a nanoblade that can slice through cell membranes to insert mitochondria, with successful transfer rates of up to 2%. This technology holds promise for studying mitochondrial diseases and advancing fields like infectious diseases research.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateMay 10, 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.

Scientists digitally mimic evolution to create novel proteins

Researchers at UNC School of Medicine develop a method called SEWING that stitches together pieces of existing proteins to create novel proteins with diverse structural features. This approach enables designing proteins with specific functions, such as catalysts, biosensors, and therapeutics.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalScience·DateMay 10, 2016

Swept up in the solar wind

Researchers at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center have found that the slow solar wind originates from magnetic reconnection in the sun's hot atmosphere. The team used newly processed observations to determine the source of the slow wind, which is important for understanding space weather around Earth.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateMay 10, 2016

Why bad experiences are remembered out of context

A new UCL study found that bad experiences are strongly remembered, but surrounding context is weakly recalled due to reduced activity in the hippocampus. This imbalance can lead to strong but fragmented memory for traumatic content, contributing to post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalSocial Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience·DateMay 10, 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.

With food, similar substitutes are less satisfying

A study published in Psychological Science found that people tend to prefer options that are most similar to what they can't have, but often choose less-similar alternatives that are actually more satisfying. This bias occurs when mental comparisons between wanted and available options lead to dissatisfaction with the chosen substitute.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateMay 10, 2016

Out of mind, out of sight

The frontal cortex plays a crucial role in controlling vision, actively constructing the visual scene and making decisions about it. The research found that the brain's organization of perception can lead to distractions like texting while driving, which can impair vision and increase the risk of accidents.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 10, 2016

New investigation of endovenous laser ablation of varicose veins

Researchers from Kazan Federal University and Ogarev Mordovia State University conducted an in vitro study on endovenous laser ablation of varicose veins using solid-state laser radiation. The results confirmed that a heated carbonized layer on the fiber end face increases efficiency, paving the way for process optimization.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalLasers in Medical Science·DateMay 10, 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.

Young women in STEM fields earn up to one-third less than men

Research suggests that women with Ph.D.s in science and engineering fields tend to be clustered in lower-paying fields, earning an average of 31% less than their male counterparts. When controlling for family status, the pay gap disappears. The study highlights the importance of addressing family-friendliness in STEM careers.

SourceOhio State University·JournalAmerican Economic Review·DateMay 10, 2016

Genetic variations that boost PKC enzyme contribute to Alzheimer's disease

Researchers have identified genetic variations in the PKC alpha enzyme that boost its activity and contribute to the development of Alzheimer's disease. These variants were found in five families with late-onset Alzheimer's disease and are associated with increased PKC alpha activity.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience Signaling·DateMay 10, 2016

World's oldest axe fragment found in Australia

A team of archaeologists from the University of Sydney has discovered a piece of the world's oldest axe, which dates back to a Stone Age period of 45,000 to 49,000 years ago. The axe fragment was found in Western Australia and reveals that the first Australians were technological innovators.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalAustralian Archaeology·DateMay 10, 2016

Genetic testing proves Bene Israel community in India has Jewish roots

A recent genetic study from Tel Aviv University and Cornell University reveals that the Bene Israel community in India has strong Jewish roots. The research, published in PLOS ONE, analyzed DNA data from 18 individuals and found that they are an 'admixed' population with both Jewish and Indian ancestry.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 10, 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.

Breast cancer screening accuracy and time spent evaluating mammograms

A study published in JAMA found that longer periods of film readers interpreting screening mammograms did not result in a reduced rate of breast cancer detection. The researchers investigated the impact of changing the order in which two experts examined digital mammograms on cancer detection rates, but found no significant difference.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateMay 10, 2016

Hijacked cell division helped fuel rise of fungi

Researchers found that fungi acquired a protein from a virus that hijacked their cell division control machinery, allowing them to grow and divide uncontrollably. This discovery could lead to the development of new antifungal drugs that target only fungal cells, not plant or animal hosts.

SourceDuke University·DateMay 10, 2016

New design of primitive quantum computer finds application

Scientists at the University of Bristol have developed a new method to simulate a 'quantum walk' on a primitive quantum computer, which they claim can solve problems that classical computers cannot. The study suggests that these smaller quantum processors could outperform classical computing for specific tasks, such as 'Boson Sampling'.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 10, 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.

Researchers integrate diamond/boron nitride crystalline layers for high-power devices

Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a new technique to deposit diamond on the surface of cubic boron nitride, creating a single crystalline structure. This integration enables the creation of high-power devices and addresses material limitations such as oxidation and compatibility issues with steel tools.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateMay 10, 2016

Further clues in the fight against chronic fatigue syndrome

Researchers at Griffith University identified significant impairments in cellular function of CFS patients. They found dysfunctional signalling may contribute to impaired cell activity, aligning with symptoms. The study provides further evidence for the pathology of this disabling illness.

SourceGriffith University·JournalJournal of Translational Medicine·DateMay 10, 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.

Gene mutation leads to poorly understood birth defects

Researchers have identified a group of proteins that form the base for functioning cilia, allowing cell-to-cell communication. Mutations in these genes result in ciliopathies, which affect various birth defects and can be lethal.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalNature Genetics·DateMay 10, 2016

Three lessons gut microbes have taught us about antibiotics

Antibiotics disrupt gut microbiome communication with the immune system, impairing immune function. New approaches aim to restore balance by targeting infectious bacteria or modifying the microbiota, such as using bacteriocins, CRISPR-CAS9 gene editing, or fecal material transplants

SourceCell Press·JournalTrends in Molecular Medicine·DateMay 10, 2016

Study points to challenges, hopes of helping vulnerable patients avoid stroke

A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that ticagrelor, a commonly used antiplatelet medication, did not significantly reduce stroke risk in patients with transient ischemic attacks or minor strokes. The study suggests that combination therapies may be needed to better prevent strokes in this vulnerable pati...

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 10, 2016

Political lobbying, connections may help airlines profits take off

A Penn State researcher found that political lobbying is linked to increased airline profits, but may harm the effectiveness of government regulation. The study analyzed data from 46 companies over 15 years, revealing a positive correlation between lobbying efforts and profitability.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Air Transport Management·DateMay 10, 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.

Black students more likely to be identified as gifted if teachers are black

Research by Indiana University and Vanderbilt University found that African-American children are three times as likely to be placed in gifted-education programs if they have a black teacher. Black teachers are more likely to see black students as gifted, regardless of student scores or demographic factors.

SourceIndiana University·JournalJournal of Public Administration Research and Theory·DateMay 10, 2016

Telemedicine use increases among rural Medicare beneficiaries

The use of telemedicine is on the rise among rural Medicare beneficiaries, with over 40,000 people receiving visits in 2013. Disabled beneficiaries with mental illness were the most likely to receive these services, indicating potential for improved health care access and quality for vulnerable populations.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalJAMA·DateMay 10, 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.

Britain slow to adjust to gender equality in work-family roles

Research found a fifth of families rely on the father as the sole full-time breadwinner despite growth in dual earning households and non-standard working patterns. The study suggests a shift towards gender balance but notes that societal infrastructure still promotes traditional models

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·DateMay 10, 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.

Exploring the mathematical universe

Researchers have cataloged over 20 million objects, each with its unique L-function, providing a framework for understanding the underlying relationships between mathematical entities. The project aims to accelerate progress in number theory, physics, and computer science by making these connections visible.

SourceAmerican Institute of Mathematics·DateMay 10, 2016

Obesity less dangerous than 40 years ago

Research reveals a decrease in excess mortality risk associated with obesity since the 1970s, with normal weight individuals now facing higher mortality rates. The study's findings suggest revising overweight categories based on updated data.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalJAMA·DateMay 10, 2016

Building compact particle accelerators: Bunching electrons can get more done

A team of researchers from China, South Korea, and the US proposes a novel way to minimize the energy spread of electrons in laser wakefield accelerators. By inserting a plasma compressor, they can reduce the energy spread to the one-thousandth level, making new applications for laser wakefield accelerators possible.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Plasmas·DateMay 10, 2016

Nuclear physics' interdisciplinary progress

Nuclear physicists can extend methods and observations from solid state physics to study the atomic nucleus. This collaboration has led to new understanding of Cooper pair tunneling, a phenomenon not possible in solid state physics. The authors encourage further interdisciplinarity to enrich nuclear physics research.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal A·DateMay 10, 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.

Rapid diagnostics for multidrug resistant organisms in combat-related infection

Researchers at Denver Health have developed a new diagnostic tool to identify multidrug-resistant organisms in combat-related infections, allowing for faster treatment. The test can characterize multiple pathogens within 2 hours, including MRSA, and determine antibiotic susceptibility with high accuracy.

SourceUS Department of Defense Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs·JournalJournal of Microbiological Methods·DateMay 10, 2016

Loss of chromosome 8p governs tumor suppression and drug response

Researchers created cell lines with targeted chromosomal deletions to study the role of specific chromosomal losses in cancer development. The findings suggest that chromosomal engineering is a more effective approach than studying individual genes or micro-RNAs.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalCancer Cell·DateMay 10, 2016

Dartmouth-Stanford study finds health advertorials misleading but persuasive

A Dartmouth-Stanford study examines the cognitive processing and persuasive effects of health product-related advertorials on over 670 people. It found that unlabeled advertorials were less likely to trigger consumer awareness, but increased favorable attitudes toward advertising messages and purchase intention.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalCommunication Research·DateMay 10, 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.

Low birthweight linked to higher death rates in infants and adolescents

Babies born with low birthweight are at a higher risk of death from infancy through to adolescence compared to those born at normal weight. The research found that death rates were 130 times more frequent in very low birthweight infants, highlighting the importance of targeting factors contributing to low birthweights.

SourceCardiff University·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateMay 10, 2016

A personalized virtual heart predicts the risk of sudden cardiac death

A new virtual heart assessment tool developed by Johns Hopkins University predicts which patients are most likely to experience life-threatening arrhythmias. The tool, VARP, uses magnetic resonance imaging records and computer modeling techniques to gauge the risk of sudden cardiac death.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 10, 2016

Fort McMurray inferno; doctors describe medical evacuation

In June 2016, over 120 patients were evacuated as unpredictable forest fires raged in Alberta, Canada. The emergency team turned an empty space into a makeshift field hospital to care for patients, including the elderly, new mothers, and psychiatric patients.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateMay 10, 2016

LED treatments enhance lettuce phytochemicals, antioxidants

Continuous LED light significantly decreases nitrate content in preharvest lettuce, increasing nutrient contents. Researchers found that RB LED light was more effective than white LED light in facilitating lettuce growth, leading to enhanced free-radical scavenging activity and increased phenolic compound concentrations.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalJournal of the American Society for Horticultural Science·DateMay 10, 2016

Stave off cognitive decline with seafood

A study published in Neurology found that eating seafood at least once a week can help mitigate age-related cognitive decline. Participants who consumed more seafood showed slower rates of decline in semantic memory and perceptual speed, while those with the APOE-ε4 gene showed an even stronger protective association.

SourceRush University Medical Center·JournalNeurology·DateMay 10, 2016

Daffodils help inspire design of stable structures

Researchers discovered a twisted, helical shape can reduce drag by 18-23% compared to round cylinders. This design could improve stability for various structures, including antennae and skyscrapers.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateMay 10, 2016

Researchers demonstrate link between 'jumping gene' and colon cancer

Scientists have found conclusive evidence that a specific jumping gene plays a key role in generating some colon tumors. The study reveals how this gene can trigger cancer by causing mutations in other genes that suppress cancer. Researchers discovered 27 L1 insertions in the tumor, which were not found in surrounding healthy tissue.

SourceUniversity of Maryland School of Medicine·JournalGenome Research·DateMay 10, 2016

Illinois River water quality improvement linked to more efficient corn production

A new study from the University of Illinois reports a 10% reduction in nitrate load in the Illinois River from 2010 to 2014, compared to the 1980s and early 1990s. The reduction is linked to improved fertilizer management and higher corn yields, resulting in less nitrogen left in the soil and washed into the river.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Environmental Quality·DateMay 10, 2016

Silk stabilizes blood samples for months at high temperatures

Researchers at Tufts University have developed a method to stabilize blood samples for long periods without refrigeration, using air-dried silk protein. This technique has broad applications for clinical care and research, particularly for underserved populations.

SourceTufts University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 10, 2016

Radioactive isotopes reveal age of oil and gas wastewater spills

A trio of new age-dating methods developed at Duke University can determine the age of oil and gas wastewater spills and identify their origins based on radium isotope variations. The methods verify that radium's decay products, including thorium and lead isotopes, can be used to detect the age and source of spills.

SourceDuke University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·DateMay 10, 2016

Gene mutations shown to cause form of HSP

Scientists at McGill University have identified novel gene mutations that cause hereditary spastic paraplegia (HSP), a debilitating disease characterized by weakness or spasticity in the lower limbs. The discovery will aid in the development of treatments for HSP, with researchers predicting improved diagnosis and treatment options.

SourceMcGill University·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateMay 10, 2016