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Science News for April 21, 2017


When liver immune cells turn bad

Research found that liver CD8+ T cells become highly activated and inflammatory under specific conditions, reprogramming themselves into disease-driving cells. The study sheds light on markers of activation and inflammation in these cells and the Interferon-1 pathway.

SourceUniversity Health Network·JournalScience Immunology·DateApr 21, 2017

That's what friends are for

A new study by Dr. Rebecca Graber reveals that best friendships play a vital role in building resilience to adversity and surviving difficult times. The research found that participants who had high-quality best friendships experienced improved psychological resilience over time.

SourceBritish Psychological Society·DateApr 21, 2017

Patients with asthma give doctors their thoughts on treatment goals

Researchers used extensive interviewing and focus group methods to explore asthma treatment goals. A three-step qualitative process identifies patient-relevant concepts, ranks them, and refines assessment questions for concept measurement. The study suggests assessing symptom improvement, medication access, medication use, and asthma k...

SourceSociety for Academic Emergency Medicine·JournalAcademic Emergency Medicine·DateApr 21, 2017

New digital map shows changing racial diversity of America

A new interactive map shows the shifting racial composition of US neighborhoods over two decades, providing a detailed view of urban segregation and demographic changes. The map allows users to explore regional disparities and trends in census data.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 21, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Weight expectations: Context and distraction skew what we predict and remember

A recent study by Kevin Trewartha at Michigan Technological University explores how context and distraction influence our memories of weight expectations. The research found that the brain maintains multiple representations of size-weight relationships, with limited crosstalk between unconscious and conscious memories.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalCognition·DateApr 21, 2017

Study identifies a distinct type of common gastrointestinal bleeding

A unique bleeding syndrome associated with chronic gastrointestinal bleeding has been identified by researchers at MUSC. The syndrome, characterized by acute bleeding and presence of iron deficiency anemia, is recognized as a common condition that practicing physicians should be aware of.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalJournal of Investigative Medicine·DateApr 21, 2017

Stanford scientist's new approach may accelerate design of high-power batteries

A Stanford scientist's new mathematical model could accelerate the design of high-power electrical storage devices, including car batteries and supercapacitors. The model aims to improve material performance and reduce costs, paving the way for more efficient energy storage solutions.

SourceStanford's School of Earth, Energy & Environmental Sciences·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateApr 21, 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.

A better way to predict the environmental impacts of agricultural production

A new life-cycle assessment, LUCI-LCA, integrates regional land composition for more detailed predictions. The study found that bio-plastic products from different sources had significantly different environmental impacts, highlighting the need for companies and policymakers to adopt this approach.

SourceStanford University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 21, 2017

The protein CHIP unfurls anti-aging activity

A recent study reveals that protein CHIP regulates insulin receptor turnover, leading to anti-aging activity. In its absence, premature aging occurs due to uncontrolled protein breakdown. The researchers are now exploring mechanisms to control CHIP's activity for potential treatments.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalCell·DateApr 21, 2017

Facebook plays vital role in reducing government corruption, researchers find

A Virginia Tech researcher found that social media, particularly Facebook, is negatively correlated with corruption across over 150 countries. The study shows how Facebook serves as a peer to the press, spreading unbiased information and facilitating multi-way communication that is harder for governments to control.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalInformation Economics and Policy·DateApr 21, 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.

AATS consensus statement helps manage treatment of coronary anomalies

The American Association for Thoracic Surgery has released guidelines for identifying and treating anomalous aortic origin of a coronary artery (AAOCA) in young athletes. AAOCA can increase the risk of sudden cardiac death due to ischemia and arrhythmias, especially during intense exercise.

SourceAmerican Association for Thoracic Surgery·JournalJournal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery·DateApr 21, 2017

USDA announces $18 million to educate the future agricultural science workforce

The USDA's National Institute of Food and Agriculture is providing $18 million in funding to support the next generation of agricultural science professionals. The program aims to strengthen pathways for students and researchers in agriculture-related fields, from primary school STEM education to fellowships for new scientists.

SourceNational Institute of Food and Agriculture·DateApr 21, 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.

Using CRISPR to reverse retinitis pigmentosa and restore visual function

Researchers at University of California San Diego use CRISPR/Cas9 to reprogram mutated rod photoreceptors into functioning cone photoreceptors, reversing cellular degeneration and restoring visual function in two mouse models of retinitis pigmentosa. The approach shows promise for advancing human clinical trials.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalCell Research·DateApr 21, 2017

Atomic-level motion may drive bacteria's ability to evade immune system defenses

A recent study from Indiana University found that tiny changes in protein atom movement can significantly impact bacterial function and evolution. Researchers discovered that atomic motions play a major role in controlling protein activity, allowing bacteria to rapidly evolve new ways to overcome medical treatment.

SourceIndiana University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 21, 2017

Daring declaration

Researchers from Harvard University have identified a rare manuscript copy of the Declaration of Independence in a British archive, dated to the 1780s. The document, commissioned by James Wilson of Pennsylvania, features reordered names of signers, symbolizing unity and community.

SourceHarvard University·JournalThe Papers of the Bibliographical Society of America·DateApr 21, 2017

Electrochemical performance of lithium-ion capacitors

Researchers developed a novel approach to lithium-ion capacitors using internal short-circuiting, achieving high energy storage capacity. The pre-lithiated multiwalled carbon nanotube anode showed improved performance, enabling the devices to store approximately 5 times more energy than conventional EDLCs.

SourceWorld Scientific·JournalNANO·DateApr 21, 2017

Focused issue on vascular disease in women available now

A new issue of Vascular Medicine dedicated to vascular disease in women highlights sex-related differences in risk factors, clinical manifestations, and therapeutic outcomes. The collection includes original research articles and reviews on topics such as peripheral artery disease, venous thromboembolism, and aortic disease.

SourceSAGE·JournalVascular Medicine·DateApr 21, 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.

Promising mouse model for a devastating genetic deficiency

Researchers have created a promising mouse model for the devastating genetic disorder NGLY1 deficiency. The double-deletion mice survive and exhibit symptoms analogous to humans with the condition, making them useful for testing potential therapies.

SourceRIKEN·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateApr 21, 2017

Origins of Indonesian hobbits finally revealed

A comprehensive study on the bones of Homo floresiensis has found that they most likely evolved from an African ancestor and share a common ancestor with Homo habilis. The findings contradict the popular theory that Homo floresiensis evolved from Homo erectus.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalJournal of Human Evolution·DateApr 21, 2017

Report recommends ways to improve response to toxic inhalation disasters

The report highlights the need for improved medical responses to toxic inhalation disasters, citing challenges such as limited research data and high costs of FDA approval. The panel recommends developing new laboratory models, extrapolating pathophysiologic mechanisms from similar lung diseases, and creating a robust global infrastruc...

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAnnals of the American Thoracic Society·DateApr 21, 2017

Systematic review confirms longstanding caffeine intake recommendations

A new systematic review confirms that moderate to high levels of caffeine intake (up to 400 mg/day) are not associated with adverse health effects in healthy adults. The review also highlights the need for further research on sensitive populations, such as pregnant women and children.

SourceFoodMinds LLC·JournalFood and Chemical Toxicology·DateApr 21, 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.

Hubble's cosmic bubbles

A large, wispy shell of gas, Sh2-308, is blown out by intense radiation from the extreme Wolf-Rayet star EZ Canis Majoris. The star's ongoing activity pushes the bubble to grow bigger and farther apart.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateApr 21, 2017

NIH funds 7 international Centers of Excellence for malaria research

The NIH has awarded $9 million to seven international centers focused on malaria research, aiming to understand complex interactions between human hosts and mosquito vectors. The 7-year awards will support vital research to control, eliminate, and eventually eradicate malaria, a global health threat that claims millions of lives annually.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·DateApr 21, 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.

Quantum mechanics are complex enough, for now...

Researchers have tested an alternative version of quantum mechanics that uses hyper-complex numbers, predicting new effects and commutation properties. The study found no need for these alternative rules to describe the experiment, but emphasizes the need for further testing.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 21, 2017

Two-dimensional melting of hard spheres experimentally unravelled after 60 years

Researchers from Oxford's Department of Chemistry experimentally elucidated the melting process of two-dimensional solid hard spheres. The study resolves one of condensed matter science's most fundamental issues and provides the cornerstone for further understanding and development of two-dimensional materials.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 21, 2017

Nanoimprinted hyperlens array: Paving the way for practical super-resolution imaging

Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology have developed a scalable fabrication process for large-scale hyperlens devices using nanoimprint lithography. This breakthrough enables the creation of sub-diffraction features down to 160 nm, paving the way for practical super-resolution imaging in various fields.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 21, 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.

Molecular libraries for organic light-emitting diodes

A new screening process makes boron-doped polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) accessible for organic light-emitting diode (OLED) applications, offering a cost-efficient and resource-friendly way to achieve results.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateApr 21, 2017

New bone-in technique tests therapies for breast cancer metastasis

Researchers developed a laboratory technique to test the effectiveness of treatments for breast cancer metastases in bone, mimicking interactions between cancer cells and bone cells. The 'bone-in culture array' model found that danusertib inhibits bone metastasis while other drugs stimulate growth of slow-growing cancer cells.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 21, 2017

AERA to live-stream 31 Annual Meeting Sessions

The American Educational Research Association (AERA) will live-stream 31 Annual Meeting sessions, featuring prominent scholars and policy experts. Key topics include educating immigrant students, the role of education in politically tumultuous times, and data collection ethics. The free livestreams are open to registration.

SourceAmerican Educational Research Association·DateApr 21, 2017
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.

DGIST develops 20 times faster biosensor

The research team developed a new biosensor platform with a spider web-shaped micro-magnetic pattern, improving detection capability by 20 times compared to existing sensors. The platform uses a magnetic field to control and detect biomolecules, increasing sensitivity and speed.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalNPG Asia Materials·DateApr 21, 2017

Antibody delivery mediated by recombinant adeno-associated virus

Researchers have explored the potential of this novel therapeutic approach, demonstrating promising pre-clinical data with over 40 scientific papers. Vectored-antibody delivery using rAAV offers advantages in treatment of various chronic and infectious diseases.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCurrent Gene Therapy·DateApr 21, 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.

Heine H. Hansen Award given to Rafal Dziadziuszko

Rafal Dziadziuszko, a global leader in clinical thoracic oncology, has been awarded the Heine H. Hansen (HHH) Award by ESMO and IASLC for his lifetime contributions to lung cancer research and education globally.

SourceEuropean Society for Medical Oncology·DateApr 21, 2017

Study demonstrates the efficacy of an investigational treatment in hepatitis C subgroup

A Phase 3 study demonstrates that the co-formulation of glecaprevir/pibrentasvir results in a 95% sustained virologic response rate at 12 weeks post treatment in patients with Hepatitis C virus genotype 3. The investigational treatment was well-tolerated and showed comparable safety to sofosbuvir and daclatasvir.

SourceEuropean Association for the Study of the Liver·JournalJournal of Hepatology·DateApr 21, 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.

Nature: 3-D-printing of glass now possible

Scientists at Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) have developed a process for 3D-printing glass using stereolithography. The method creates high-purity quartz glass structures with resolutions as low as a few micrometers, enabling complex forms and applications in data technology, biological and medical technologies.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalNature·DateApr 21, 2017

Making bins more convenient boosts recycling and composting rates

A study by UBC researchers found that placing bins 1.5 metres away from suite doors increases recycling and composting rates by 141%, with a 70% increase in composting rates in apartment buildings. The study suggests that small changes in convenience can significantly impact environmental behavior.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalJournal of Environmental Planning and Management·DateApr 21, 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.

'Connshing syndrome' named as a new cause of high blood pressure

Researchers at the University of Birmingham have discovered a new cause of high blood pressure, known as Connshing syndrome, which is characterized by the overproduction of both aldosterone and cortisol. This condition can lead to increased risk of heart attack and stroke, and may require additional treatment beyond current medications.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalJCI Insight·DateApr 21, 2017

How Venus flytrap triggers digestion

When an insect touches the Venus flytrap's sensory hairs, it triggers a chain reaction involving calcium and hormone jasmonate. The plant's glands then produce acidic vesicles filled with hydrochloric acid to decompose the prey.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 21, 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.

Probing into the molecular requirements for antioxidant activity

Phenolic compounds exhibit antioxidant activity through two distinct mechanisms: breaking free radical chains and chelating abilities. The ANN model identified chemical features contributing to high DPPH* scavenging activity, including alcohol groups, molecular size, and flexibility.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCombinatorial Chemistry & High Throughput Screening·DateApr 21, 2017

Data analysis finds lower risk of infection with LASIK than with contacts over time

A meta-analysis by ophthalmologists from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center indicates that LASIK surgery has a lower risk of infection compared to contact lens wear. The study found that after one year of daily soft-contact lens wear, there were fewer microbial keratitis cases than after LASIK, approximately two fewer ca...

SourceUniversity of Tennessee Health Science Center·JournalJournal of Cataract & Refractive Surgery·DateApr 21, 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.

Treatment of HCV allows for sustained removal from the liver transplant waiting list

A new European study demonstrated that patients with chronic HCV and severe liver damage can be safely removed from the liver transplant list after successful direct-acting antiviral therapy. The study showed a favorable outcome over a year later, with only one patient dying from rapidly progressing hepatocellular carcinoma.

SourceEuropean Association for the Study of the Liver·JournalJournal of Hepatology·DateApr 21, 2017