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Science News for April 12, 2017


Silk clothing offers no benefit for children with eczema, study finds

A recent study led by the University of Nottingham found that wearing silk clothing does not reduce the severity of eczema in children with moderate to severe eczema. The study involved recruiting hospitals across the UK and assessed the effectiveness of specialist silk garments against standard treatment.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateApr 12, 2017

Oklahoma is laboratory for research on human-induced earthquakes

Researchers study Oklahoma's earthquakes to understand human-induced seismicity and its link to wastewater injection from oil and gas production. New seismic stations deployed across the state provide better insight into fore-and aftershocks and earthquake sequences.

SourceSeismological Society of America·DateApr 12, 2017

Researchers release first chemical map of dyes from historic dye library

The researchers created a cheminformatics map of the 2,700 dyes in the Max A. Weaver Dye Library, identifying 150 chemically unique dyes representative of the library. These dyes are now publicly available in the ChemSpider database, offering potential solutions for human health and environmental issues.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalChemical Science·DateApr 12, 2017
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.

SLU heart failure expert pens editorial for New England Journal of Medicine

In a recent editorial, Saint Louis University cardiologist Paul J. Hauptman emphasizes the need for patient-centric symptom relief as a primary goal in treating worsening heart failure. His review of the TRUE-AHF trial suggests that ularitide has limited short-term effects and may not improve longer-term survival.

SourceSaint Louis University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateApr 12, 2017

Prescribed fires consume Kansas landscape

In Kansas, controlled burns by farmers to manage land produce smoke with various chemicals and particles, posing an issue for air quality. Air quality alerts are in place due to the drift of smoke from burning grass.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateApr 12, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New method for 3-D printing extraterrestrial materials

Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a novel 3D printing method that uses simulants of Martian and lunar dust to create flexible, elastic, and tough structures. The method, known as 3D-painting, enables the creation of functional objects such as habitats and building blocks using local resources.

SourceNorthwestern University·DateApr 12, 2017

Targeting blood vessels to improve cancer immunotherapy

Researchers reprogram tumor blood vessels to block tumor growth and facilitate T cell arrival, improving cancer immunotherapy efficacy. A2V therapy inhibits metastasis and promotes anti-tumor immunity, which can be enhanced by PD-1 checkpoint blockade.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateApr 12, 2017

Ants rescue their injured

African Matabele ants have developed a unique rescue behavior where injured individuals are carried back to the nest and treated. This unexpected finding highlights the importance of social insects' investment in colony care.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 12, 2017
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

NSU researchers studying how to disrupt bacteria to better treat infections

Researchers at NSU discovered that shaking bacteria can create confusion, preventing them from coordinating an attack. This strategy has promise in reducing the need for antibiotics and combating antibiotic resistance. The team plans to test their theory in more species of bacteria and eventually in mice.

SourceNova Southeastern University·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 12, 2017

Study finds Pokemon Go players are happier, friendlier

Researchers found that Pokemon Go users were more likely to be physically active, experience positive emotions, and make new social connections. The study, published in Media Psychology, suggests that augmented reality games can have a positive impact on players' emotional and social lives.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalMedia Psychology·DateApr 12, 2017

Common factor links neurodegenerative disease in young and old

Scientists identify a common mechanism in two forms of neurodegeneration affecting young adults and the elderly, linked to progranulin protein mutations. The discovery advances efforts to find better treatments and cures for these diseases, including frontotemporal dementia and neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateApr 12, 2017

A big-picture look at the world's worst Ebola epidemic

An international effort analyzed 1,610 Ebola virus genomes from the 2013-2016 West African epidemic, revealing insights into factors that sped or slowed the outbreak. The study found that cities played a major role in the magnitude of the epidemic and that distance between cities was key to sparing nearby regions from severe epidemics.

SourceFred Hutchinson Cancer Center·JournalNature·DateApr 12, 2017
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 Infectious Diseases: Post-SARS, infection rates in China have steadied, but fast-growing and common infections now need attention

A new study tracks infectious disease trends in China over ten years, finding that while overall incidence has declined, some diseases like hydatid disease and hepatitis C are on the rise. The study highlights the need for improved prevention and control measures, particularly in remote border regions.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateApr 12, 2017
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.

Catch me if you can

Researchers at Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown identify apterous neurons as key indicators of female receptivity in fruit flies. The discovery links a female's walking speed to her willingness to mate, with silencing these neurons reducing her receptivity.

SourceChampalimaud Centre for the Unknown·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 12, 2017

Timely augmentation to triple oral antihyperglycemic therapy

A new study found that adding a third oral antihyperglycemic agent to metformin and sitagliptin can improve glycemic control in type 2 diabetes patients, overcoming 'clinical inertia' and allowing more than 60% of patients to reach the target HbA1c level. The study, which included over 7,800 participants, also found that the addition o...

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Life Sciences·DateApr 12, 2017

Embryo development, gene scissors and self-squeezing sponges

Three TU Dresden scientists, Prof. Stephan Grill, Frank Buchholz, and Stefan Kaskel, receive significant ERC Advanced Grants to advance research in embryo development, efficient genetic surgery, and pressure amplifying materials with potential applications in energy and environmental technologies

SourceTechnische Universität Dresden·DateApr 12, 2017
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.

Vitamin B diminishes effects of air pollution-induced cardiovascular disease

Researchers found that vitamin B supplements nearly reversed negative effects on heart rate, white blood count, and lymphocyte count in healthy non-smokers exposed to fine particle pollution. The findings suggest a potential preventive pharmacological intervention using B vitamins to contain air pollution health effects.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 12, 2017

How to color a lizard: From biology to mathematics

Researchers at Université de Genève discovered that a lizard's skin color pattern forms a cellular automaton, a natural process generated by biological evolution, using a computational system invented by John von Neumann. Computer simulations implemented the discretisation of Turing's equations, which linked the biology-driven mechanis...

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature·DateApr 12, 2017
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.

Restrictions on trans-fatty acid consumption associated with decrease in hospitalization for heart attack

A study published in JAMA Cardiology found that New York counties with trans-fatty acid (TFA) restrictions on eateries experienced a significant decrease in hospitalization rates for heart attacks and strokes compared to counties without restrictions. The study, which included data from 2002 to 2013, suggests that TFA restrictions may ...

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateApr 12, 2017

UM-Palmitoylethanolamide can slow down Parkinson's disease

Researchers found UM-Palmitoylethanolamide to slow down Parkinson's disease progression and disability, improving non-motor and motor aspects of daily living. The study used ultra-micronized palmitoylethanolamide as an add-on therapy in advanced PD patients, with significant reductions in symptoms.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCNS & Neurological Disorders - Drug Targets·DateApr 12, 2017

New 3-D printing method creates shape-shifting objects

Researchers have developed a new 3D printing method that allows for the creation of objects with permanent shape-shifting capabilities. The method uses shape memory polymers and can achieve significant time and material savings.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 12, 2017

American Association of Anatomists awards Lifetime Achievement in Anatomy

The American Association of Anatomists (AAA) has honored several individuals with lifetime achievement awards for their outstanding contributions to the field of anatomy. Wojciech Pawlina received the Henry Gray Distinguished Educator Award, while H. Joseph Yost was awarded the Henry Gray Scientific Achievement Award for his groundbrea...

SourceAmerican Association for Anatomy·DateApr 12, 2017

Struggling with different work identities? Your work may suffer

A new study suggests that employees who believe their different work identities enhance each other are more productive, while those in conflict see a hit to their performance. The research found that employees who think their roles complement each other have better sales and intrinsic motivation.

SourceOhio State University·JournalAcademy of Management Journal·DateApr 12, 2017
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.

Nanopores could map small changes in DNA that signal big shifts in cancer

A new study by University of Illinois researchers describes a method to detect and map tiny additions to DNA called methylations, which can be a warning sign of cancer. The method uses nanopores with an electrical current running through an atomically thin sheet of material.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·Journalnpj 2D Materials and Applications·DateApr 12, 2017

US streams carry surprisingly extensive mixture of pollutants

A new study reveals that US streams contain complex blends of organic pollutants, including pesticides, pharmaceuticals, and byproducts from their degradation. The findings suggest that these chemical combinations could harm aquatic life and potentially impact human health.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateApr 12, 2017

A whiff of warning at the pool

Researchers from FAU identified substances responsible for smelly toys, including cyclohexanone and isophorone, which may cause physiological concerns. The study aims to further examine the effects of these substances on consumers, manufacturers, and retailers over longer periods.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalAnalytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry·DateApr 12, 2017

Ethics study: Inconsistent state laws may complicate medical decision-making

A comprehensive analysis of US state laws reveals a complex and conflicting system that poses barriers to safeguarding patients' choices. Inconsistent laws create ambiguity about who is responsible for decision-making, adding stress to an already emotionally challenging moment.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateApr 12, 2017
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.

Ethics study: Inconsistent state laws may complicate medical decision-making

A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine highlights the confusing nature of state laws governing medical decision-making for incapacitated patients. The research found a complex and conflicting system that poses barriers to safeguarding patients' choices in their most vulnerable moments.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateApr 12, 2017

Are wolves becoming domesticated again?

Researchers explore effects of human-provided foods on large predators, finding changes in social structures, movements, and behavior. Human-fed populations often form distinct genetic subgroups, potentially leading to future speciation events.

SourceAmerican Institute of Biological Sciences·JournalBioScience·DateApr 12, 2017

Lab on a chip designed to minimize preterm births

Researchers at Brigham Young University have developed a lab on a chip that can predict preterm births with up to 90% accuracy. The device takes a finger-prick's worth of blood and measures biomarkers associated with preterm birth, providing an early warning system for doctors.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalElectrophoresis·DateApr 12, 2017
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.

Both too much, too little weight tied to migraine

A meta-analysis of 288,981 participants found that obesity and being underweight are associated with a higher risk of migraine. Obese individuals were 27% more likely to have migraine than those of normal weight, while underweight individuals were 13% more likely.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateApr 12, 2017

A simple sniff

Researchers developed a non-invasive nanoparticle delivery method that can target the brain via the nasal cavity, reaching it within minutes. The approach uses aerosol science and engineering principles to generate monodisperse nanoparticles that pass through the brain-blood barrier.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 12, 2017

Geography and culture may shape Latin American and Caribbean maize

A recent study published in PLOS ONE analyzed 194 native Latin American maize populations, revealing three distinct geographic groups of maize in Mexico and four groups in South America and the Caribbean. The findings suggest that genetic variation in maize populations may reflect human migration patterns and agricultural development.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 12, 2017

Exercise associated with improved heart attack survival

Research found that participants who exercised had a lower risk of dying from a heart attack, with a dose-response relationship between exercise level and mortality rate. Regular physical activity may help develop collateral blood vessels and improve blood flow to the heart.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Journal of Preventive Cardiology·DateApr 12, 2017

Human cognitive map scales according to surroundings

A new study at the University of Texas at Austin reveals that humans have an adaptive coordinate system that rescales its internal map according to the environment's size. This flexibility allows humans to navigate diverse places with ease. The research provides valuable insights into the human memory and spatial navigation, shedding l...

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 12, 2017
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.

Early school starts pit teens in a conflict between society, biology

Research by Mary Carskadon shows that teenagers need more sleep than they get due to conflicting societal expectations. Studies have found that as children age, their circadian rhythms shift later, making it harder for them to wake up early. This can lead to sleep disorders and decreased academic performance.

SourceBrown University·DateApr 12, 2017

Mapping food color regulations in the EU and the US

A new study reviews EU and US food colouring legislation to find ways to reduce regulatory barriers to international trade. Key findings include differing rules on colour additives, labelling requirements, and natural vs synthetic colours.

SourceEuropean Commission Joint Research Centre·DateApr 12, 2017

Surprisingly long lifetime of high adhesion property of plasma-treated PTFE

Researchers at Osaka University report heat-assisted plasma treatment can modify PTFE to improve its adhesive properties, making it suitable for medical procedures. The treatment recovers the surface layer, strengthening the adhesion between PTFE and rubber, allowing for stable and non-toxic lubrication.

SourceOsaka University·JournalRSC Advances·DateApr 12, 2017
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.

Gut microbes contribute to age-associated inflammation: Mouse study

A mouse study reveals that gut microbes play a crucial role in age-associated inflammation and premature death. Imbalances in the gut microbiome lead to leaky intestines and trigger inflammation. Researchers hope to develop drugs or probiotics to restore gut barrier function and reduce age-related inflammation.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateApr 12, 2017

Collisions generate gas in debris disks

Research finds atomic carbon in young star systems' debris disks, indicating minimal hydrogen presence. This suggests the gas is generated through collisions rather than being primordial.

SourceRIKEN·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateApr 12, 2017

Retraining the brain to see after stroke

Researchers at the University of Rochester Medical Center developed a personalized visual training program to reroute visual information around damaged areas of the brain. Patients regained large swaths of rudimentary sight, with some able to recover vision enough to drive again.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalNeurology·DateApr 12, 2017
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.

Tackling Ebola, from supportive care to vaccines in clinical development

Researchers analyzed a patient's progression through Ebola virus disease and recovery to identify distinct phases of physiological responses. The study also characterized serum from healthy volunteers receiving the rVSV-ZEBOV vaccine, identifying six markers that predict adverse reactions.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateApr 12, 2017

New, persistent opioid use common after surgery

A study published in JAMA Surgery found that approximately 6% of patients continued to use opioids more than three months after surgery. Risk factors for persistent opioid use included preoperative tobacco use, alcohol and substance abuse disorders, mood disorders, anxiety, and preoperative pain disorders.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateApr 12, 2017
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.

Report reveals prevalence of sexual assault in nursing homes

A systematic review of 15 studies found that most vulnerable nursing home residents are at risk of becoming victims, while legal examinations are often infrequent due to administration complexities. The report also highlights the underreporting of sexual assaults in nursing homes, with only 1% of staff-to-resident incidents reported.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalThe Gerontologist·DateApr 12, 2017

Elephants' 'body awareness' adds to increasing evidence of their intelligence

Researchers tested Asian elephants' body awareness, finding they stepped off a mat to pass a stick to an experimenter 42 times on average, significantly more often than during a control test. This demonstrates their understanding of their bodies as obstacles, similar to young children's understanding at around two years old.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 12, 2017

Look to lactate to help predict ill cats' prognoses, Penn Vet study says

Researchers found cats with normal lactate levels had better survival rates than those with high lactate levels, with a five-day survival rate of 57% compared to 17%. The study suggests lactate can be a helpful measure in evaluating prognosis and making treatment decisions for critically ill cats.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalJournal of the American Veterinary Medical Association·DateApr 12, 2017
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.

More than a 'gut feeling' on cause of age-associated inflammation

Researchers at McMaster University found that imbalances in gut microbes lead to intestinal leakage, triggering inflammation, impaired immune function, and reduced lifespan. The study suggests targeting age-associated inflammation may improve immune health and reduce the risk of chronic conditions.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateApr 12, 2017

Tick tock, stay ahead of the aging clock!

Researchers at Babraham Institute and European Bioinformatics Institute identified a mouse epigenetic ageing clock, which shows age-related changes in DNA methylation. The accuracy of the mouse clock is surprisingly similar to humans, with lifestyle interventions affecting ticking rate.

SourceBabraham Institute·JournalGenome Biology·DateApr 12, 2017

On-the-range detection technology could corral bovine TB

A new assay allows for direct measurement of pathogen biomarkers in bovine blood, enabling discrimination between exposure and infection. This breakthrough supports the global One Health strategy and has potential applications for diagnosing diseases in cattle, elephants, and other species.

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·JournalAnalytical Sciences·DateApr 12, 2017

SERIS develops world's first full-size IBC bifacial solar module

The Solar Energy Research Institute of Singapore (SERIS) has developed the world's first full-size IBC bifacial solar module, capable of producing up to 400 Watts of electric power. The module features a double-glass structure, low-temperature interconnections, and high-efficiency ZEBRA solar cells.

SourceNational University of Singapore·DateApr 12, 2017

Study identifies effects of EU expansion on labor, research

A study by UC Merced Professor Alexander M. Petersen and Michelangelo Puliga found that the EU expansion facilitated the inter-European circulation of highly skilled workers in various fields, including medicine, technology, education, science, engineering, and business.

SourceUniversity of California - Merced·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 12, 2017
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.

Naked DNA in water tells if fish have arrived

Researchers have recorded spring fish migrations by analyzing DNA in water samples, providing a harmless and economical alternative to traditional methods. The study's findings suggest that environmental DNA can be used to monitor fish populations, estimate abundance, and track distribution.

SourceTerry Collins Assoc·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 12, 2017

Developing a microinsurance plan for California earthquakes

A new microinsurance plan for California earthquakes aims to provide financial support to residents who fall into a 'payout zone' after an earthquake. The plan, developed by Kate Stillwell, uses data on seismic shaking intensity to create a payout zone defined by census blocks and shaking intensities.

SourceSeismological Society of America·DateApr 12, 2017

Tool for checking complex computer architectures reveals flaws in emerging design

Researchers at Princeton University discovered over 100 errors in RISC-V instruction specification that could cause software running on chips to perform calculations using incorrect values. The findings highlight the importance of correcting these issues to ensure the reliability and safety of systems relying on RISC-V processors.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·DateApr 12, 2017
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 of sleep apps finds room for improvement

A study of 35 popular phone-based sleep apps found that most help users set sleep-related goals and track their sleep patterns, but few provide general information about sleep or its benefits. The analysis suggests that there is room for improvement in the development of these apps to educate users about the importance of sleep.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalPreventive Medicine Reports·DateApr 12, 2017
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.

Is there something up with stinky inflatable pool toys?

Researchers found that common odour compounds like cyclohexanone, isophorone and phenol are present in high concentrations in inflatable pool toys. These chemicals have potential health risks, including irritation and carcinogenic effects.

SourceSpringer·JournalAnalytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry·DateApr 12, 2017

Surprising brain change appears to drive alcohol dependence

A new study by Scripps Research Institute reveals a key difference in the brains of alcohol-dependent and nondependent rats. Alcohol increases activity in the central amygdala through two distinct brain signaling pathways, which can be targeted for personalized treatments.

SourceScripps Research Institute·DateApr 12, 2017

Why treating animals may be important in fighting resurgent tropical disease

A University of Washington study suggests that monitoring and potentially treating monkeys that co-exist with humans in affected areas may be part of the global strategy for eradicating yaws, a tropical disease. The researchers found that infected monkeys were more common in regions experiencing recent upsurges in reported cases.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalEmerging Infectious Diseases·DateApr 12, 2017

More than $16 billion spent on cosmetic plastic surgery

In 2016, Americans spent over $16 billion on cosmetic plastic surgery, with a national average cost of $3,719 for breast augmentation. The report also highlights the increasing popularity of minimally-invasive procedures like botulinum toxin type-A injections and hyaluronic acid fillers.

SourceAmerican Society of Plastic Surgeons·DateApr 12, 2017
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.

Physicians' misunderstanding of genetic test results may hamper mastectomy decisions

A recent survey found that half of women with breast cancer who undergo genetic testing do not have high-risk mutations. This highlights the need for genetic counselors to help patients and physicians understand genetic test results. Many physicians surveyed in the study stated they manage patients with uncertain significance in the sa...

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateApr 12, 2017

Predicting a patient's future firearm violence risk in the emergency department

Researchers developed a clinical risk index tool to gauge future firearm violence risk among urban youth, considering peer and partner violence, community exposure, and family influences. The SaFETy score demonstrates superior predictive power, helping emergency physicians identify high-risk individuals and tailor preventative services.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateApr 12, 2017

UBC researchers connect common fats to a lazy lifestyle and diabetes

A new study published in PLOS One found a significant correlation between the consumption of n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and sedentary behavior in pre-teen girls. The research also suggests a weak association between PUFA intake and diabetes risk among adult women in Europe. Researchers recommend further studies to confirm ...

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 12, 2017

How some battery materials expand without cracking

Scientists found that certain electrode materials can accommodate large volume changes by transforming into a glassy phase, making them less prone to cracking. This discovery could lead to the development of longer-lived and higher-capacity batteries.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNano Letters·DateApr 12, 2017
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

How polar bears find their prey

Researchers found that polar bears use crosswind movement to detect seals, with best conditions at night during winter. Climate change projections suggest increased winds may hinder this ability, impacting hunting success.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 12, 2017

4-D printing gets simpler and faster

A research team introduced a new approach to simplify and increase the potential of 4D printing, which allows high-resolution components to be designed, printed, and transformed into new permanent configurations using heat. This method saves time and materials by up to 90% and completely eliminates the mechanical programming process.

SourceSingapore University of Technology and Design·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 12, 2017

Gene-editing alternative corrects Duchenne muscular dystrophy

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center successfully corrected Duchenne muscular dystrophy using the gene-editing enzyme CRISPR-Cpf1. The treatment restored production of the missing dystrophin protein, providing a promising new tool for treating this progressive disease.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 12, 2017
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.

Art of paper-cutting inspires self-charging paper device

A new paper-based device harnesses mechanical energy from body movements to charge small electronics, offering an untethered alternative to traditional batteries. The lightweight, rhombic design is capable of charging devices to 1 volt in just a few minutes.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Nano·DateApr 12, 2017

Proof that magnesium could prevent fractures

Researchers found that men with lower magnesium levels had an increased risk of fractures, particularly hip fractures. Higher magnesium levels were associated with a reduced risk of fractures, with no cases reported among those with very high magnesium levels.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalEuropean Journal of Epidemiology·DateApr 12, 2017

NIH scientists advance understanding of herpesvirus infection

Researchers at NIH's National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases have identified a set of protein complexes that are recruited to viral genes to stimulate both initial infection and reactivation from latency. Environmental stresses also induce reactivation, providing new targets for the development of therapeutics.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateApr 12, 2017
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.

New MyAsthma app can help relieve the stress of asthma management

The MyAsthma app is a smartphone tool that allows users to track and manage their asthma. It captures environmental data, tracks symptoms, and provides access to clinically validated tests to monitor asthma control. The app has the potential to improve asthma self-management, reducing attacks, hospital admissions, and healthcare visits.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·DateApr 12, 2017

People suffering heart attacks near major marathons face grimmer survival odds

A recent study from Harvard Medical School found that individuals experiencing heart attacks or cardiac arrests near major marathons are more likely to die within a month. The delays in transportation to nearby hospitals, often caused by widespread street closures during races, contribute to this increased mortality rate.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateApr 12, 2017

Nuclear transfer of mitochondrial DNA in colon and rectal cancer

Researchers found somatic mitochondrial DNA inserts in colon and rectal cancer genomes, correlated with gene-rich segments and poorer patient survival. A novel Fiber-FISH technique rapidly maps mitochondrial DNA insertions in nuclear genomes.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalGenome Medicine·DateApr 12, 2017

Researchers seek new ways to improve earthquake risk communications

Researchers study public knowledge about earthquake risk and building code preferences to develop effective communication strategies. The findings highlight the importance of using plain language, discussing likely outcomes, and limiting misinformation to effectively convey earthquake risk.

SourceSeismological Society of America·DateApr 12, 2017
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.

New night lights maps open up possible real-time applications

New night lights maps offer daily, high-definition views of Earth at night, allowing for real-time monitoring of human activities, power outages, and environmental changes. The data can aid short-term weather forecasting, disaster response, and research on urbanization and economic changes.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateApr 12, 2017

NIH study of Ebola patient traces disease progression and recovery

A 2015 NIH study analyzed daily gene activation in an Ebola patient and found a marked decline in antiviral responses before virus clearance from white blood cells. The study showed host responses shifted toward cellular and organ repair, coinciding with clinical improvement.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateApr 12, 2017
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.

Researchers track fish migration by testing DNA in seawater

Scientists have successfully tracked fish migration by analyzing DNA in seawater, revealing the presence or absence of several key species. This new technique allows for cheap and non-invasive sampling, potentially improving our understanding of environmental impact on local fish populations.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 12, 2017