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Science News for April 24, 2017


T cell revival correlates with lung cancer response to PD-1 immunotherapy

Researchers found that patients with increased PD-1+ CD8 T cells in their blood after starting treatment experienced better clinical outcomes. The study's results suggest that monitoring activated T cells may help oncologists and patients decide whether to continue or combine treatments.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 24, 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.

Nature plants a seed of engineering inspiration

Seeds from plants like Pelargonium self-burrow into soil using a helically coiled awn that responds to humidity. The team developed mathematical models to understand the mechanism, which has direct applications to current and next-generation robotics.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateApr 24, 2017

Research from Sandia shows brain stimulation during training boosts performance

Research from Sandia National Laboratories shows that brain stimulation combined with working memory training improves cognitive performance. Volunteers who received non-invasive brain stimulation while training showed significant improvements in verbal and spatial tasks, as well as problem-solving ability.

SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·JournalNeuropsychologia·DateApr 24, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

NASA's Fermi catches gamma-ray flashes from tropical storms

Scientists analyzed dozens of TGFs launched by tropical storms, confirming that storm intensity alone is not the key factor for producing these events. Most TGFs occurred as systems intensified, with stronger electric fields driving clouds higher into the atmosphere.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateApr 24, 2017

Study identifies hundreds of genes that influence timing of puberty

A new study published in Nature Genetics has identified 389 genetic signals linked to the timing of puberty, including associations with an increased risk of breast, ovary, and endometrial cancers in women, and prostate cancer in men. The research also suggests that earlier puberty timing may have negative effects on later health.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Genetics·DateApr 24, 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.

The initial collision between Indian and Asian continental

Researchers propose a new model for the initial India-Eurasia continental collision, which led to the formation of the Tibetan Plateau. The model suggests an earlier collision timing between 65 Ma and 63 Ma, resulting in large-scale continental subduction and deformation across central Asia.

SourceScience China Press·DateApr 24, 2017

Self-assembled nanostructures can be selectively controlled

Scientists create programmable nanostructures using pH-sensitive DNA locks to control the optical properties of plasmonic metamolecules. This technology has potential applications in sensors, optical switches, and phase shifters with tailored functionalities.

SourceAalto University·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 24, 2017

Researchers develop eco-friendly, 4-in-1 catalyst

The team created a nanocatalyst that can perform four separate chemical reactions in one container to produce compounds useful in making a wide range of pharmaceutical products. The new catalyst reduces waste and uses more environmentally friendly solvents.

SourceBrown University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateApr 24, 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.

Photosynthesis in the dark? Unraveling the mystery of algae evolution

A recent study by Waseda University researchers found that the glaucophyte Cyanophora paradoxa has metabolic interactions with respiration similar to those in cyanobacteria. This suggests that cyanelles retain many characteristics of their ancestral cyanobacteria, challenging current understanding of algae evolution.

SourceWaseda University·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 24, 2017

Savior of T-cells may be enemy of liver immune cells

A study by Houston Methodist researchers found that the surface protein OX40, which helps keep T-cells alive, can trigger the death of liver immune cells. This leads to a chain reaction causing liver inflammation and disease. The research suggests a potential new avenue for intervention, such as OX40 inhibitors or blockers.

SourceHouston Methodist·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 24, 2017

The fading American dream: Economic mobility has nearly halved since 1940

The probability of children attaining a higher income than their parents has dropped dramatically since 1940, from over 90% to 50%. Restoring economic mobility would require greater economic redistribution. Policies such as fostering productivity growth and increasing the minimum wage can help achieve this goal.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateApr 24, 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.

Robot radiology: Low-cost AI could screen for cervical cancer better than humans

A new AI-based image detection method has shown promise in screening for cervical cancer, detecting abnormalities with higher sensitivity and specificity than traditional methods. The technique, developed by Lehigh University researchers, could be used to improve early detection and treatment of the disease in resource-poor regions.

SourceLehigh University·JournalMedical Image Analysis·DateApr 24, 2017

Bright future for self-charging batteries

Scientists have made a breakthrough in self-charging battery technology, enabling devices to harness and store energy using light. The technology has the potential to power portable devices such as phones indefinitely, eliminating the need for frequent recharging.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 24, 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.

Researchers aim to eliminate malaria in southeast Asia

Researchers at Penn State have received a $9 million NIH grant to investigate malaria transmission in Southeast Asia and work toward the disease's elimination. They will examine how environmental changes affect disease transmission, genetic resistance to insecticides, and counterfeit drugs.

SourcePenn State·DateApr 24, 2017

How walking benefits the brain

Researchers found that walking significantly increases blood flow to the brain, comparable to running, but less dramatic than cycling. The study uses non-invasive ultrasound to measure internal carotid artery blood velocity waves and arterial diameters.

SourceExperimental Biology·DateApr 24, 2017

Most new to Medicaid have no other option if Affordable Care Act repealed

A new study by Ohio State University researchers found that 95% of newly enrolled Medicaid beneficiaries in Ohio would be left without a viable insurance option if the Affordable Care Act is repealed. The expansion primarily affects older, low-income whites with less education, who rely on Medicaid for healthcare and basic needs.

SourceOhio State University·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateApr 24, 2017

Revealing polymeric fluids behavior at the microscopic scale

Using microfluidics, researchers can stretch and shear polymers at will, allowing them to study behavior at the microscopic scale. This enables the creation of a catalogue of diverse polymeric fluids with known relaxation times, facilitating the alignment and separation of molecules in biological fluids.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalJournal of Rheology·DateApr 24, 2017

Patients in team-based practices less likely to visit ED after hospital discharge

A study published in CMAJ found that team-based primary care practices in Quebec had lower rates of emergency department visits and death among older or chronically ill patients after hospital discharge. The researchers attributed this to better coordination of care, which reduces hospital readmission and death.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateApr 24, 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.

Facial expressions: How brains process emotion

Caltech researchers discovered that the amygdala has distinct neurons that judge the intensity and ambiguity of facial expressions, providing insights into autism and anxiety. The study found two groups of neurons: one for detecting emotion intensity and another for coding emotional ambiguity.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 24, 2017

Recommendation against inhaled flu vaccine is good -- for now

A new analysis suggests that the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) recommendation against the inhaled flu vaccine may not be detrimental if it becomes effective. The study found that close surveillance will be needed to ensure the vaccine continues to do more good than harm.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateApr 24, 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.

Was that climate change?

A new study outlines a four-step framework for testing whether global warming contributed to record-setting weather events. The research found that human-caused climate change increased the odds of hottest events across over 80% of the globe, while also posing risks for vulnerable communities and ecosystems.

SourceStanford's School of Earth, Energy & Environmental Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 24, 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.

Hormone-influenced social strategies shape human social hierarchy, study shows

High testosterone levels are associated with competitive, status-seeking social behaviors, while low testosterone is linked to cooperative behaviors. Researchers found that mixed populations with a balance of high and low-testosterone individuals are more likely to form effective social hierarchies.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalHormones and Behavior·DateApr 24, 2017

Guts and glory for RMIT smart pills

Researchers at RMIT University have successfully completed phase one human trials of ingestible capsules that measure gas levels in the gastrointestinal tract. The technology has demonstrated thousands of times more sensitivity to gut gases than alternative methods, offering a reliable diagnostic tool for colon cancer.

SourceRMIT University·JournalACS Sensors·DateApr 24, 2017

Scientists reveal a new mechanism mediating environment-microbe-host interactions

Scientists have identified a molecular mechanism by which E. coli bacteria regulate lipid storage in C. elegans, leading to increased fat accumulation and mitochondrial fragmentation. This discovery reveals unsuspected connections between bacteria and mitochondria, suggesting a new language for communication between the two.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateApr 24, 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.

Implanted scaffold with T cells rapidly shrinks tumors

Researchers at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center developed a synthetic scaffold loaded with cancer-fighting T cells that shrank tumors more effectively than traditional injection methods. The scaffold created a homey environment for the T cells to survive and proliferate, outwitting self-defense chemicals released by tumors.

SourceFred Hutchinson Cancer Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 24, 2017

Banded mongooses target family members for eviction

Researchers found that dominant banded mongooses target close female relatives for eviction due to their ability to resist, reducing competition for offspring. This behaviour is in contrast to expected social norms and highlights the importance of latent threats on social behavior.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 24, 2017

Brain circuit enables split-second decisions when cues conflict

Researchers at MIT discovered a brain circuit that governs how we respond to conflicting environmental cues, shedding light on the neural mechanisms behind rapid decision-making. The study suggests that information flow between the amygdala and prefrontal cortex is critical for coordinating behavior in the face of competing signals.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateApr 24, 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.

Mayo research shows surgery adds years for kidney cancer patients

A recent study published in The Journal of Urology found that surgery to remove secondary tumor growths, called metastases, significantly improves survival rates for patients with late-stage kidney cancer. Patients who underwent surgery had a life expectancy of three to 12 years, compared to eight months and two years without surgery.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalThe Journal of Urology·DateApr 24, 2017

What can we learn from dinosaur proteins?

Researchers can extract proteins from 80-million-year-old dinosaur bones, providing information on evolution, biomaterials, and potential applications for drug development. The study also explores the age and environment of samples, as well as the functions of ancient proteins.

SourceExperimental Biology·DateApr 24, 2017

Freezing lithium batteries may make them safer and bendable

Researchers at Columbia University developed a new method using ice-templating to create solid electrolytes for lithium batteries, which are safer, have longer battery life, and are bendable. This approach could improve energy density by replacing the graphite layer with lithium metal.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalNano Letters·DateApr 24, 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.

NASA's Cassini, Voyager missions suggest new picture of sun's interaction with galaxy

New data from NASA's Cassini mission, combined with measurements from Voyager spacecraft and IBEX, suggests that the sun's magnetic field creates a rounded heliosphere, rather than a comet-shaped structure. The study reveals that the heliosphere is nearly symmetrical, which could impact how cosmic rays reach the inner solar system.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalNature Astronomy·DateApr 24, 2017

Ice plant to help fight global warming effects on bioenergy crops

A gene atlas for the ice plant will aid in finding ways to make bioenergy feedstocks more resilient to salinity and drought. The project aims to understand how environmental stress controls the expression of CAM photosynthesis, a water-conserving pathway that helps plants survive in arid climates.

SourceUniversity of Nevada, Reno·DateApr 24, 2017

Clarifying the mechanism for suppressing turbulence through ion mass

Scientists clarify relationship between ion mass and plasma performance improvement. Turbulence suppression through electron-ion collisions leads to increased confinement and particle heat management. Zonal flows play a crucial role in suppressing turbulence, grinding eddies and waves that improve plasma performance.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 24, 2017

Aerobic and resistance exercise combo can boost brain power of over 50s

Combining aerobic and resistance exercises can significantly enhance the brain power of older adults. The analysis showed that exercise improves cognitive abilities, with aerobic exercise enhancing global cognition and resistance training having a pronounced effect on executive function, memory, and working memory.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·DateApr 24, 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.

'Race tests' may be fueling segregation in white evangelical churches

A new study explores why white evangelical churches remain racially segregated despite nominally welcoming themselves. Researchers found that clergy and congregants execute 'race tests' on incoming people of color, coercing them into leaving or forcing them to serve the interests of whites.

SourceWiley·JournalSociological Inquiry·DateApr 24, 2017

Skin stem cells used to generate new brain cells

Researchers at UCI have developed a method to generate human microglia cells from skin stem cells, providing a powerful new approach to study and potentially treat neurological diseases like Alzheimer's. This discovery marks an important step in using induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells for targeted approaches.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalNeuron·DateApr 24, 2017

New strategy produces stronger polymers

MIT researchers found a way to reduce loops in polymer networks, which weaken materials, by slowly adding components. This technique can improve material strength by up to 600 percent.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 24, 2017

From abundant hydrocarbons to rare spin liquids

Researchers at Tohoku University and the University of Liverpool have successfully created quantum spin liquids from polyaromatic hydrocarbons using alkali metals. This achievement marks a significant step towards understanding exotic phenomena in materials science, with potential applications in superconductivity and quantum computing.

SourceTohoku University·JournalNature Chemistry·DateApr 24, 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.

Methadone may reduce need for opioids after surgery

A new study published in Anesthesiology found that methadone significantly reduces the need for opioids after spinal fusion surgery. Patients treated with methadone required less intravenous and oral opioids to manage postoperative pain, reported lower pain scores, and had improved global satisfaction.

SourceAmerican Society of Anesthesiologists·JournalAnesthesiology·DateApr 24, 2017

How fear of death affects human attitudes toward animal life

A study from the University of Arizona found that reminding people of their mortality increases their willingness to kill animals. The researchers used terror management theory, which suggests that humans use self-esteem as a buffer against fear of death. When participants received a self-esteem boost, the effect of the death prime was...

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateApr 24, 2017

Chip-based nanoscopy: Microscopy in HD quality

Researchers at Bielefeld University and the University of Tromsø have developed a photonic chip that enables superresolution light microscopy with conventional microscopes. This breakthrough method produces images with a resolution of about 20 to 30 nanometres, ten times that of conventional light microscopy.

SourceBielefeld University·JournalNature Photonics·DateApr 24, 2017

Lyme disease researchers seek consensus as number of cases grows

Despite gaps in scientific understanding, Lyme disease researchers have identified key areas of agreement and promising strategies for controlling the disease. These include reducing deer populations to impact tick abundance and using acaricides to target host animals.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London (B )·DateApr 24, 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.

UTA, UT Southwestern findings challenge current approach to Glut1 deficiency

Researchers discovered that early diagnosis and alternative dietary therapies can significantly improve patient outcomes for patients with Glucose Transporter Type 1 Deficiency. The study's results, published in JAMA Neurology, highlight the importance of addressing this disease through a comprehensive approach.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateApr 24, 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.

Citizens can productively change politics by taking the law to court

Research by Santa Fe Institute Omidyar Fellow Marion Dumas shows that citizen lawsuits can re-shape how policies are implemented on the ground, forging a more just and representative middle ground. This process weakens polarized lawmakers' bargaining positions, leading to legislative moves towards a middle ground.

SourceSanta Fe Institute·JournalAmerican Journal of Political Science·DateApr 24, 2017

New guideline published on uncommon risk of death in epilepsy

The American Academy of Neurology and the American Epilepsy Society have developed a new guideline to address Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP), which is rare but can occur in people with epilepsy. The guideline suggests that controlling seizures, especially tonic-clonic seizures, may reduce SUDEP risk.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateApr 24, 2017

New Canadian guideline: No screening for hepatitis C in adults not at increased risk

The Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care recommends against routine screening for chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) in low-risk adults due to lack of direct evidence on benefits and harms. The guideline aims to focus healthcare resources on individuals at elevated risk, where treatment is proven to be beneficial.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateApr 24, 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.

Tiny 'cages' could keep vaccines safe at high temperatures

Researchers have created a technique to encase proteins in silica cages, keeping them intact at high temperatures up to 100°C. This method, called ensilication, has the potential to revolutionize vaccine storage and transportation, particularly for remote or resource-constrained areas.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 24, 2017

Mystery of the missing mercury at the Great Salt Lake

Researchers found that the closure of Union Pacific railway culverts led to a 88% decrease in methylmercury levels in the lake's deep brine layer and sediments. However, waterfowl carcasses showed no significant change in mercury levels, indicating that the source of methylmercury in wetlands remains unknown.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateApr 24, 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.

Chili peppers and marijuana calm the gut

Researchers discovered that capsaicin in chili peppers and anandamide in marijuana interact with the same receptor in the stomach, calming the immune system and reducing inflammation. The study holds promise for new therapies for diabetes and colitis, as well as understanding the relationship between the gut, brain, and immune system.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 24, 2017

Facing nightmare scenarios before discharge lifts confidence of parents of babies in NICU

A University at Buffalo study found that simulations of daily care and nightmare scenarios increased the confidence of parents of newborns in the NICU by nearly 30%. The Neonatal Home Environment Learning Program (HELP) used infant simulators to recreate real-life situations, allowing parents to rehearse and experience behaviors, conse...

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalMCN The American Journal of Maternal/Child Nursing·DateApr 24, 2017

3 small energy firms to collaborate with PNNL

Three small businesses will collaborate with PNNL on projects addressing technical challenges in bio-coal and hydrogen transportation. The collaborations aim to overcome critical technology hurdles and gain a global competitive advantage for advanced energy products.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·DateApr 24, 2017

Motion sickness drug worsens motion perception

A study by Massachusetts Eye and Ear researchers found that oral promethazine temporarily worsened vestibular perception thresholds by 31 percent. This increase in thresholds could lead to poorer balance performance and a higher risk of falling.

SourceMass Eye and Ear·JournalJournal of the Association for Research in Otolaryngology·DateApr 24, 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.

New approach to improve detection of landfill-related pollution

A new laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) approach refines detection of mercury in landfill leachate, offering rapid results without generating hazardous chemicals. The technique's sensitivity is improved through a double-pulse setup, allowing for the detection of lower mercury concentrations.

SourceOptica·JournalApplied Optics·DateApr 24, 2017

Prostate cancer screening rates appear to level after recent drop

A new study by the American Cancer Society found that prostate specific antigen (PSA) testing rates among men 50 years or older have leveled off at 32.1%. This trend is notable given previous declines in PSA screening rates, which dropped from 37.8% in 2010 to 30.8% in 2013.

SourceAmerican Cancer Society·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateApr 24, 2017

Patients with drug-resistant malaria cured by plant therapy developed at WPI

A new and inexpensive treatment option for drug-resistant malaria has been developed using plant therapy made from dried leaves of the Artemisia annua plant. The treatment, known as DLA, was tested on 18 critically ill patients in a Congo clinic and showed a 100% recovery rate, including a five-year-old child who had lapsed into a coma.

SourceWorcester Polytechnic Institute·JournalPhytomedicine·DateApr 24, 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.

Maternal high-fat diet may increase offspring risk for liver disease

A new mouse study found that exposure to a high-fat diet in the womb and immediately after birth may increase offspring risk for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease later in life. The offspring of pregnant mice that consumed a high-fat diet developed liver fibrosis, a type of tissue scarring that is a sign of more serious disease.

SourceExperimental Biology·DateApr 24, 2017

How do patients, clinicians feel about collecting sexual orientation data?

A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that patients are more likely to disclose their sexual orientation than previously thought, with nearly 78% of clinicians believing patients would refuse. Nonverbal self-report is the preferred method for collecting sexual orientation data, according to both patients and clinicians.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateApr 24, 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.

Researchers solve the century-old mystery of Blood Falls

A research team solved the century-old mystery of Blood Falls by using radar technology to detect brine feeding the famous red waterfall. They discovered that liquid water can persist inside extremely cold glaciers, challenging previous thought on this phenomenon.

SourceUniversity of Alaska Fairbanks·JournalJournal of Glaciology·DateApr 24, 2017

Images of health risks make indoor tanning messages more effective

A new study suggests that adding images depicting the longer-term impacts of indoor tanning can be an effective health risk communication strategy. Messages with images showed greater negative emotional reactions and were perceived as more effective in discouraging tanning than text-only messages.

SourceUNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center·JournalJournal of Health Communication·DateApr 24, 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.

A cancer in the family: One spouse's diagnosis can lower household income

A study by researchers from the University of Georgia found that a spouse's cancer diagnosis results in a significant decline in household income, with men experiencing a 5% reduction and women experiencing a 9% reduction. The caregiver effect plays a crucial role in this decline, as spouses reduce their employment to support each other.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalJournal of Health Economics·DateApr 24, 2017

Researchers invent process to make sustainable rubber, plastics

Researchers have developed a new method to produce butadiene, a key chemical component in plastics and rubber, from biomass-derived sugars. The process, called dehydra-decyclization, uses a novel catalyst to convert sugars into butadiene with high yield and selectivity.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·DateApr 24, 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.

Disney method enables more realistic hair simulation

A new innovative method developed by Disney Research makes it possible to realistically simulate hair by observing real hair in motion. The framework considers the dynamics of hair and can be used with a wide variety of simulation methods.

SourceDisney Research·DateApr 24, 2017

A CSIC scientist discovers that wax worms eat plastic

A research scientist at CSIC has discovered that wax worms can quickly biodegrade polyethylene, a material difficult to break down. The worm's ability is attributed to its similarity in composition to beeswax and may involve an enzyme-based mechanism.

SourceSpanish National Research Council (CSIC)·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 24, 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.

Study: Stressing about finances can be harmful to a baby's health

A new study suggests that financially strained pregnant women may be at a higher risk of having a low-birth-weight infant. Researchers found that pregnancy-specific distress was a key factor in this connection, and interventions such as meditation and breathing exercises could help mitigate the effects.

SourceMediaSource·DateApr 24, 2017

Forging new defenses against diabetic kidney disease

Scientists at Joslin Diabetes Center have found that healthy individuals with diabetes develop protective enzymes against damage from high blood sugar levels. The researchers identified an enzyme called PKM2 and showed that activating it can stop abnormalities in mouse podocytes and delay diabetic kidney disease progression.

SourceJoslin Diabetes Center·JournalNature Medicine·DateApr 24, 2017

New insight into brain development disorder

The ASPM protein collaborates with katanin to regulate cell division and specialization into nerve cells, crucial for healthy brain development. A study published in Nature Cell Biology provides new insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying microcephaly.

SourceUtrecht University·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateApr 24, 2017

Interdisciplinary studies reveal relationship between solar activity and climate change

Researchers have found a significant relationship between solar wind speed and North Atlantic Oscillation, suggesting a faster mechanism of solar influence on atmospheric systems. The team also developed a physical model to depict the interdecadal response of air-sea systems to solar activity.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAtmospheric and Oceanic Science Letters·DateApr 24, 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.

Does the microbiome play a role in the effectiveness of colorectal cancer treatment?

A UMass Medical School study found that the bacteria in the gut microbiome can affect how sensitive worms are to chemotherapy drugs. The researchers used Caenorhabditis elegans, a roundworm, and fed them different types of bacteria to see which ones made them more or less sensitive to the drug floxuridine, used to treat colorectal cancer.

SourceUMass Chan Medical School·JournalCell·DateApr 24, 2017

Elsevier announces the launch of Personalized Medicine in Psychiatry

Personalized Medicine in Psychiatry aims to increase treatment efficacy and reduce adverse effects by considering individual patient characteristics. The journal will publish research on endophenotypes, pharmacologic approaches, and education, with the goal of identifying predictors of response and tailoring treatments.

SourceElsevier·JournalPersonalized Medicine in Psychiatry·DateApr 24, 2017

Discovery offers new hope to repair spinal cord injuries

Researchers at Gladstone Institutes create stem cell-derived V2a interneurons that transmit signals in the spinal cord, potentially repairing spinal cord injuries. These cells integrate with existing cells and restore movement in mice, offering new hope for spinal cord injury treatment.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 24, 2017

Solving the hepatitis C epidemic among people with substance abuse disorders

Hepatitis C patients with substance use disorders face barriers to care, including lack of access to conventional healthcare and fear of stigmatization. Innovative approaches, such as integrated screening and treatment in methadone clinics and telehealth techniques, are being developed to improve outcomes for this population

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateApr 24, 2017

Russian scientists create new system of concrete building structures

Researchers at Peter the Great Saint-Petersburg Polytechnic University developed a new construction technology using nanostructured high-strength lightweight concrete. The system increases load-carrying capacity by over 200% and offers enhanced corrosion resistance, frost resistance, and seismic activity tolerance.

SourcePeter the Great Saint-Petersburg Polytechnic University·JournalMagazine of Civil Engineering·DateApr 24, 2017

Brain's power to adapt offers short-term gains, long-term strains

After a head injury, the brain can form new connections between damaged areas, known as hyperconnections. While this adaptation may provide short-term benefits, it can also lead to chronic inefficiencies and strain the brain's resources. Chronic inefficiencies may cascade into serious brain disorders, including Alzheimer's Disease.

SourcePenn State·JournalTrends in Cognitive Sciences·DateApr 24, 2017

Military service boosts resilience, well-being among transgender veterans

A study by the University of Washington finds that military service is associated with improved mental health and quality of life among transgender older adults. This contradicts previous expectations, suggesting that military experience may be a protective factor for this population.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalThe Gerontologist·DateApr 24, 2017

Climate change clues revealed by ice sheet collapse

Researchers reconstructed the evolution of Iceland's last ice sheet, revealing rapid changes occurred when temperatures rose by 3°C in just 500 years. This period mirrors modern-day ice sheet behavior and provides evidence for significant sea level rise.

SourceUniversity of Stirling·JournalEarth-Science Reviews·DateApr 24, 2017

Limiting patient mobility in hospitals may do more harm than good

Researchers warn that hospital policies to restrict patient mobility may worsen health outcomes, citing increased risk of falls and medical adverse events. Promoting mobility with supervised walks and trained staff could help prevent these issues.

SourceHebrew SeniorLife Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateApr 24, 2017

Gene may hold key to hearing recovery

Researchers found that a protein called Forkhead Box O3 (Foxo3) protects outer hair cells from damage, allowing some individuals to recover from noise-induced hearing loss. The study could provide new hope for preventing or treating hearing impairment.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 24, 2017

Next-generation microscopy

Pharmacoscopy enables fast and accurate analysis of immune cell interactions, identifying previously unknown immunomodulatory effects of approved drugs. The technique has the potential to revolutionize personalized medicine by visualizing individual patient responses to various drugs.

SourceCeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateApr 24, 2017

Disney projection system shines makeup on actors during live performances

The Disney Research team has developed a new system called Makeup Lamps that can track an actor's facial movements and apply light-based makeup in real-time. This technology enables the creation of stunning transformations without physical makeup, with potential applications in theater, film, and other creative fields.

SourceDisney Research·DateApr 24, 2017

The placebo effect can mend a broken heart too, CU Boulder study shows

A recent CU Boulder study found that the placebo effect can significantly reduce emotional pain and brain activity associated with social rejection. The study used fMRI to track brain responses in volunteers who had recently experienced a breakup, finding that placebos reduced physical pain and emotional distress.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·DateApr 24, 2017

A plastic-eating caterpillar

Researchers have found a way for a caterpillar to break down polyethylene, a common type of plastic. The larvae of the Galleria mellonella moth can digest and chemically transform polyethylene into ethylene glycol, offering a potential solution to managing plastic waste.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 24, 2017

Climate change predicted to increase Nile flow variability

Researchers at MIT predict an increase in Nile River flow variability due to climate change, which will lead to more extreme years of drought and flood. The study finds that the El Niño/La Niña cycle will become stronger, resulting in a 50% rise in annual flow variation.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Climate Change·DateApr 24, 2017

Pediatric clinic support boosts mental health for youth

A new study by SDSU researchers found that providing brief behavioral therapy in pediatric primary care settings can significantly improve anxiety and depression symptoms among young people. Latino youth saw the most significant improvement, with over three-quarters showing improvement.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateApr 24, 2017

New breakthrough in battery charging technology

A new class of monolithically integrated, portable PV-battery systems has been developed using high-efficiency silicon solar cells and printed solid-state lithium-ion batteries. The device can power electric devices under sunlight or in the absence of light, offering exceptional photo-electrochemical performance and design compactness.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateApr 24, 2017