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Science News for April 5, 2017


Stem cell patch shows early promise in treating heart failure

Researchers used patient's own muscle stem cells to create patches that were surgically glued onto the surface of patients' hearts. One year after treatment, patients showed improvements in exercise capacity and heart function, suggesting this cell patch may be a viable therapy for treating heart failure.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateApr 5, 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.

No sugar coating, but sweet nonetheless

A research team from the University of Freiburg has developed a new method to create microprobes that can grow into neural tissue without causing inflammation. These probes can deliver strong signals even after twelve weeks, opening up new possibilities for diagnoses and treatments for conditions like Parkinson's.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalBiomaterials·DateApr 5, 2017

Nearly 1 billion people still smoke daily

The prevalence of daily smoking declined globally between 1990 and 2015, but the number of daily smokers continues to rise year-over-year. Robust tobacco control programs have led to progress in reducing smoking rates, but more efforts are needed to prevent new smokers and encourage quitters.

SourceInstitute for Health Metrics and Evaluation·JournalThe Lancet·DateApr 5, 2017

Cancer burden for aging US HIV population projected to shift

As the US HIV population ages, cancer incidence rates for AIDS-defining cancers are expected to decline due to effective treatment with modern antiretroviral therapies. However, frequencies of other cancers such as lung and prostate cancer are projected to increase.

SourceUNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center·DateApr 5, 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.

Regular exercise, not BMI, before stroke may predict disability later

A new study published in Neurology suggests that regular exercise, not body mass index, predicts a person's level of disability after a stroke. Exercise was defined as vigorous physical activity three times a week or more, and participants who exercised regularly were more likely to be independent before and after stroke.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateApr 5, 2017

'Spiderman' worm-snails discovered on Florida shipwreck

Scientists have discovered a new species of snail that filter-feeds like whales and shoots webs like Spiderman. The 'Spiderman' worm-snails could play a significant role in coral reef restoration efforts, but their presence also poses risks to corals and other reef organisms.

SourceField Museum·JournalPeerJ·DateApr 5, 2017

Simulations of DIII-D experiments shed light on mysterious plasma flows

Researchers at PPPL and General Atomics simulated a self-organized flow of superhot plasma that fuels fusion reactions. The findings show that sufficient heating can drive instabilities leading to plasma rotation, which may be used to improve fusion device performance. High-energy beams traditionally injected into the plasma are replac...

SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 5, 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.

Artificial topological matter opens new research directions

Researchers have created a structure that allows tuning of topological properties, enabling the control of current flow and opening up possibilities for circuits based on topological behaviors. The discovery presents a new artificial crystal lattice structure for studying quantum behaviors.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 5, 2017

Probiotics benefit in schizophrenia shaped by yeast infections

Researchers found that Candida yeast infections contribute to bowel difficulties in men with schizophrenia. Probiotics also decreased delusions and hallucinations in participants without a history of yeast infections. Larger studies are needed to validate these findings and determine their effectiveness for women with schizophrenia.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·DateApr 5, 2017

New technology could offer cheaper, faster food testing

Researchers at MIT have developed a new method for detecting foodborne pathogens like E. coli using specialized droplets that can bind to bacterial proteins, allowing for fast and affordable testing with smartphones.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalACS Central Science·DateApr 5, 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.

Catch shares slow the 'race to fish'

A study by Duke University economists found that catch shares reduce the 'race to fish' that compresses fishing seasons. This allows fishers to time their catches with market demand, reducing occupational hazards and improving fish quality. While exceptions exist, benefits still outweigh negatives.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature·DateApr 5, 2017

Researchers develop Marburg virus treatment effective five days after infection

A successful antibody treatment protected nonhuman primates against the deadly Marburg and Ravn viruses even when given five days after becoming infected. Monoclonal antibodies show promise in providing protection during advanced stages of disease with highly dangerous viruses.

SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateApr 5, 2017

Stanford study explores risk of deforestation as agriculture expands in Africa

African forests, which feed and provide subsistence means to at least 100 million people, are being cleared at a rate of over 10% by 2025 due to expanding agricultural production. The study recommends policies that prioritize forest conservation and local control of land to mitigate deforestation.

SourceStanford University·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateApr 5, 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.

One monoclonal antibody protects against 2 lethal viruses

A new study reports that one human monoclonal antibody therapy, MR191-N, protected nonhuman primates from the lethal effects of both Marburg and Ravn viruses. The treatment showed success in clearing the viruses and preventing death in infected animals.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateApr 5, 2017

Research shows global photosynthesis on the rise

Research at UC Merced found a chemical record of global photosynthesis spanning hundreds of years, indicating a significant increase in plant growth since the industrial revolution. The findings suggest that rising atmospheric CO2 levels and climate change may be driving this trend.

SourceUniversity of California - Merced·JournalNature·DateApr 5, 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.

Genes key to killer bee's success

Researchers sequenced Africanized bee genomes to understand their success. They identified a region linked to ovary size and foraging strategy, key traits for adaptation and dispersal. Hybridization between different populations led to the creation of new genetic variants, contributing to the bees' exceptional abilities.

SourceUppsala University·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateApr 5, 2017

Tumor necrosis factor found to directly regulate blood pressure

Researchers discovered that tumor necrosis factor (TNF) regulates small blood vessel function and blood pressure by acting as a mechanosensor. TNF controls blood pressure, and drugs that interfere with TNF signaling can dramatically reduce it.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 5, 2017

UH receives USDA grant to fight obesity in nearby neighborhoods

The University of Houston has received a $281,475 grant from the USDA to launch the HOUSTON Academy, providing fellowships to undergraduate students to address obesity and nutrition concerns. The program will focus on community outreach, food demonstration workshops, and health fairs to promote healthy lifestyles.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateApr 5, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Predicting -- and preventing -- psychiatric morbidity after ARDS

A new study by Michigan Medicine researchers identified that younger age, female gender, higher severity of illness, fewer days of corticosteroid treatments, and treatment with GM-CSF were associated with more severe psychiatric symptoms. The study found that more days of corticosteroid treatments seemed to be protective from anxiety, ...

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalAnnals of the American Thoracic Society·DateApr 5, 2017

Unexpected protein structure findings could lead to new therapies

USC scientists discovered unexpected characteristics of the AT2 protein, which interacts with the angiotensin II hormone regulating blood pressure. The study reveals potential new paths to drugs controlling cardiovascular disease and pain, offering an important first step towards targeted therapies.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalNature·DateApr 5, 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.

FDA approves drugs more quickly than peer agency in Europe

A Yale researcher found that the FDA reviews and approves new medicines in a shorter timeframe than its peer agency in Europe. The study compared review times for new drugs approved by the FDA and EMA between 2011 and 2015, classifying them by therapeutic areas and 'orphan' drugs.

SourceYale University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateApr 5, 2017

Are biobank donor families worried about a confidentiality breach?

A new study examines how well biobank donor families understand the risk and implications of a potential confidentiality breach. Families who donate tissue are often willing to trade access to research results for absolute confidentiality.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalGenetic Testing and Molecular Biomarkers·DateApr 5, 2017

Lego figures don't stand a chance against time reversal

Physicists at Brigham Young University have developed an acoustic technique called time reversal that uses targeted sound vibrations to knock over Lego figures. This technology has far-reaching implications for fields like private communication, targeted noise cancelation, and even medical treatments such as destroying kidney stones.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalThe Journal of the Acoustical Society of America·DateApr 5, 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.

Performance of the RegCM4 regional climate model over China

The RegCM4 model simulates China's climate well, reproducing present-day climatology and interannual variabilities. However, it exhibits biases in winter temperatures and precipitation, with underestimation of heavy rainfall events and overestimation of consecutive dry days.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateApr 5, 2017

New initiative explores obesity-brain connection

The Obesity Research Initiative aims to study the brain's role in regulating body weight and metabolic disorders like diabetes. The initiative will promote collaborative research across disciplines, including neuroscience, genetics, and metabolism.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·DateApr 5, 2017

Overactive bladder drug linked with increased risk of depression

A recent study found that women with overactive bladder who received antimuscarinics were 38% more likely to develop depressive disorder within three years. The use of these drugs was associated with a higher risk of depression despite their ability to improve bladder symptoms by blocking muscarinic receptors.

SourceWiley·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Pharmacology·DateApr 5, 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.

An unbalanced microbiome on the face may be key to acne development

Researchers found that acne is associated with an imbalance of skin bacteria, including increased levels of virulence-associated genes and reduced beneficial bacteria. Targeted treatments, such as probiotic supplementation or phage therapy, may be more effective than antibiotics in maintaining a healthy bacterial balance.

SourceMicrobiology Society·DateApr 5, 2017

A mother's voice may help stabilize preterm infants

A recent review of published research found that hearing their mother's voice can benefit the health of preterm infants. The study linked maternal voice exposure to physiological and behavioral stabilization, including fewer cardiorespiratory events.

SourceWiley·JournalActa Paediatrica·DateApr 5, 2017

WSU researchers find a 'sleep gene'

Researchers at Washington State University have identified a key gene involved in the quality of sleep experienced by humans and animals. The study found that a variant of the gene FABP7 is associated with poorer sleep quality, suggesting its importance in regulating sleep across species.

SourceWashington State University·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 5, 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.

Ideal for kangaroos -- out of the pouch, but still living at home

Young kangaroos who spend more time alone with their mothers have a higher chance of surviving in the wild. They also tend to be larger and heavier than their peers when they spend more time with their mother, according to a recent study published in Springer's journal Behavioral Ecology and Sociobiology.

SourceSpringer·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateApr 5, 2017

Fruits and vegetables' latest superpower? Lowering blood pressure

A recent study published in the American Journal of Physiology - Endocrinology and Metabolism suggests that increasing dietary potassium intake can have an equally important effect on hypertension as decreasing sodium intake. Eating foods high in potassium, such as sweet potatoes, avocados, and spinach, may help lower blood pressure.

SourceUniversity of Southern California - Health Sciences·DateApr 5, 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 redomestication of wolves

Gray wolves and other large predators are adapting to human-modified environments by changing their social structures, movements, and behavior to acquire anthropogenic resources. This phenomenon has serious implications for wider conservation efforts, including wolf reintroduction programs.

SourceAmerican Institute of Biological Sciences·JournalBioScience·DateApr 5, 2017

Peering into black holes using an Earth-sized telescope

Researchers are creating the first images of a supermassive black hole's event horizon using an Earth-sized telescope. The project aims to test predictions from Einstein's general relativity theory by studying the shadow, mass, and spin of the black hole.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·DateApr 5, 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.

Could targeting oxtyocin help treat opioid addiction?

A new review suggests targeting the oxytocin system could be an important target for developing medications to treat opioid addiction. Oxytocin-based therapies show promise in preventing relapse and may provide a novel effective approach to treating drug dependence.

SourceWiley·JournalBritish Journal of Pharmacology·DateApr 5, 2017

Self-harm linked to violence towards others

A Swedish registry study found that individuals who self-harm are at a five-fold risk of being convicted for a violent crime compared to those who have never received clinical care. Self-harm behaviour and violent criminality may be manifestations of a common underlying vulnerability.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateApr 5, 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.

Carbon nanotubes self-assemble into tiny transistors

Researchers have developed a method to select semiconducting carbon nanotubes from a solution and make them self-assemble on gold electrodes, resulting in tiny transistors with nearly 100% purity. The process uses polymers with thiol side chains to bind the tubes to the electrodes.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateApr 5, 2017

Study shows health insurance plans too complicated to understand

A new survey reveals that many patients in Connecticut struggle to understand their private health insurance plans, leading to delays in care and unexpected medical bills. The study highlights the need for simplified language and increased education to address health disparities among minority groups.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·DateApr 5, 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.

New study sheds light on 'lung sparing effect'

A new study suggests that severe acute malnutrition in early childhood may prioritize lung development over other less vital growth, resulting in shorter leg lengths and a higher risk of being severely short for their age. The findings have significant implications for the long-term health of children affected by malnutrition.

SourceEuropean Respiratory Society·JournalEuropean Respiratory Journal·DateApr 5, 2017

Bright future ahead for African plant biosecurity network

The African Plant Biosecurity Network has gained strong commitments from members, partners, and regional agencies to ensure its long-term success. The network aims to improve national and regional quarantine and plant protection capacity, lifting crop yields and enabling safe regional trade.

SourcePlant Biosecurity Cooperative Research Centre·DateApr 5, 2017

Yoga helps patients with ulcerative colitis

A clinical trial found that yoga significantly improved quality of life and reduced colitis activity in patients with ulcerative colitis. Regular yoga practice is considered a valuable adjunct to conventional medical therapies for managing the condition.

SourceWiley·JournalAlimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics·DateApr 5, 2017

A one-two punch hits pancreatic cancer where it hurts

Australian scientists have discovered a novel strategy to treat pancreatic cancer by softening tumors with Fasudil before chemotherapy, doubling survival time and improving treatment efficacy. The sequential approach also slows cancer spread to other tissues.

SourceGarvan Institute of Medical Research·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateApr 5, 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.

Addressing addictions

A new study by Queen's University researcher Susan Brogly found that 25% of women suffering from prenatal opioid dependence were not being treated for their addiction. This is a concerning finding, as it can lead to poor birth outcomes and increased healthcare costs.

SourceQueen's University·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateApr 5, 2017

Curbing alcohol to fight HIV could save money in Kenya

A new study projects that a culturally adapted cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) program promoting alcohol abstinence among HIV-infected residents in Kenya could save $628,000 over five years. The program uses trained paraprofessionals with limited training to deliver the intervention, which boosts alcohol abstinence rates to 69 percent.

SourceBrown University·JournalBMC Health Services Research·DateApr 5, 2017

Researchers develop novel flu test to speed up respiratory treatment

A new point-of-care testing strategy has been developed to quickly diagnose respiratory infections, including flu, allowing for faster treatment and reduced risk of antibiotic overuse. The test, which can deliver results within an hour, has shown promising results in trialling patients with acute respiratory illnesses.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalThe Lancet Respiratory Medicine·DateApr 5, 2017

Scientists determined the time of extinction of ancient porcupines

Researchers from Russia and US collaborate on radiocarbon dating of ancient porcupine fossils, revealing a 40,000-year-old record in the Urals. The study shows thermophilic porcupines disappeared from the region around 27,000 years ago due to climate change.

SourceNational Research Tomsk State University·JournalQuaternary Science Reviews·DateApr 5, 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.

Fish eyes to help understand human inherited blindness

Researchers have identified a key gene in zebrafish that causes congenital blindness, which could hold the key to treating a similar disease in humans. The study found that the gene affects cone photoreceptors and leads to degeneration without impacting rod cells.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 5, 2017

Seaweed: From superfood to superconductor

Researchers have developed a seaweed-derived material to improve the performance of superconductors, lithium-ion batteries and fuel cells. The material has shown high capacitance as a superconductor material and can be used in zinc-air batteries and supercapacitors.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateApr 5, 2017

Algorithms can exploit human perception in graph design

Researchers have developed an algorithm to automatically improve the design of scatterplots by exploiting models and measures of human perception. The optimized designs effectively communicate relationships between two data variables, reducing unintended miscommunication.

SourceAalto University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Visualization and Computer Graphics·DateApr 5, 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.

Charting the skies of history

Researchers at Kyoto University and Japan's National Institute of Polar Research used ancient texts to track past solar events, including prolonged auroras. They found clear patterns in solar activity and discovered that auroras were more prevalent during maximal solar cycles.

SourceKyoto University·JournalSpace Weather·DateApr 5, 2017

Biomarker could lead to personalized therapies for prostate cancer

Researchers at the University of Missouri have discovered a new biomarker, TSPYL5, that can help identify prostate cancer progression and predict treatment response. The testis-specific protein varied between normal patients and tumor tissues with different Gleason scores, allowing clinicians to make rational decisions in treating the ...

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalBMC Cancer·DateApr 5, 2017

What are common dermatologic features of classic movie villains?

Researchers analyzed top 10 film heroes and villains, finding six villains had facial skin issues, including alopecia and hyperpigmentation. The study suggests unfair portrayals of dermatologic conditions may contribute to prejudice and cultural misunderstandings.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Dermatology·DateApr 5, 2017

Newly discovered chemical reaction in eye may improve vision

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University discovered a self-renewing mechanism to help retina sense light using biochemically manipulated vitamin A. This mechanism could lead to improved therapeutics for treating people with vision impairment and other nerve cell disorders.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 5, 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.

X-ray study reveals long-sought insights into potential drug target

Researchers discovered new structural details of an angiotensin II receptor called AT2, which could be a target for new medicines. The information uncovered could give drug developers a new path for compounds that combat pain and inflammation or promote tissue regeneration.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalNature·DateApr 5, 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.

Wikipedia articles on plane crashes show what we remember -- or forget

A study of nearly 1,500 Wikipedia articles on airplane crashes found that recent incidents trigger collective memory of past events, forming an interconnected network. The number of deaths and date of the crash significantly impact view flow, while prior viewership of target articles also play a role.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 5, 2017

Cover, crimp, cultivate?

Researchers explored three organic methods to suppress weeds: using cover crops instead of disks, turning them under, or flatening with a crimper. While some found cover crops to be effective in reducing weeds, the team also noted that unexpected weather conditions and soil fertility issues impacted results.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalAgronomy Journal·DateApr 5, 2017

Innovative sensor can screen toxic drugs, help develop biomaterials, and much more

UCR researchers developed an inexpensive sensor that can weigh microgram-sized biological samples in fluids, expanding applications in toxicity research, plant sciences, and biomaterials engineering. The sensor uses a simple glass tube and off-the-shelf electronics to measure mass, volume, and density of tiny samples.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 5, 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.

Ready for the new kelvin!

Scientists from PTB have determined the Boltzmann constant with an accuracy of 1.9 ppm, fulfilling a key condition for the redefinition of the kelvin unit. This achievement will enable the kelvin to be based on fundamental constants, providing a more stable and reliable definition.

SourcePhysikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB)·JournalMetrologia·DateApr 5, 2017

Neonicotinoids detected in drinking water in agricultural area

Researchers detected neonicotinoid pesticides in drinking water in an agricultural area, highlighting concerns over their impact on human health. A new study found that a specific treatment method can effectively remove these substances from water.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·DateApr 5, 2017

New function discovered for compound that may help slow aging

Researchers at Oregon State University have discovered a new function for rapamycin that may help prevent neurologic damage and some related diseases. The compound appears to stop cellular senescence, a stage cells reach where they get old and start secreting damaging substances.

SourceOregon State University·JournalAging Cell·DateApr 5, 2017

A novel method for the fabrication of active-matrix 3-D pressure sensors

Researchers at UNIST created a three-dimensional tactile sensor that detects wide pressure ranges from human body weight to finger touch. The novel method uses foldable substrates and air-dielectric layers, enabling simultaneous detection of position and intensity of pressure.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 5, 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.

Research into why we remember some aviation disasters and forget others

A study analyzing Wikipedia articles about airline crashes between 2008 and 2016 found that recent events trigger past memories, with a short-term attention span for recent crashes. Aviation disasters with large numbers of deaths are more memorable than reported events with fewer fatalities.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 5, 2017

Study analyzes what 'a' and 'the' tell us about language acquisition

A recent study analyzes the words 'a' and 'the' to understand language acquisition, revealing that experience is crucial for early-childhood language development. The study found that children rapidly generalize grammatical structures they hear, with a significant increase in linguistic productivity around age 2.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPsychological Science·DateApr 5, 2017

Powers of attraction could decimate deadly starfish

A research team led by Professor Bernard Degnan and Associate Professor Sandie Degnan has discovered that crown-of-thorns starfish gather in large groups due to pheromone release. The team plans to use this knowledge to develop environmentally safe baits to capture the pests, making it easier to protect coral reefs.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNature·DateApr 5, 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.

Born to love superheroes

Human infants demonstrate an innate ability to recognize heroic acts from early stages of development, drawn to figures protecting the weak. As they grow, their understanding of justice becomes more complex.

SourceKyoto University·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateApr 5, 2017

UCLA researchers discover a new cause of high plasma triglycerides

Researchers identified six people with hypertriglyceridemia whose bodies produce autoantibodies against GPIHBP1, preventing LPL from reaching capillaries. This newly discovered syndrome, dubbed the GPIHBP1 autoantibody syndrome, has life-threatening potential and may be treatable with immunosuppressive drugs.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateApr 5, 2017

Plants have been helping to offset climate change, but now it's up to us

New research confirms that global photosynthesis is stable for hundreds of years before industrial revolution, but grows rapidly with increased CO2 levels. The findings affirm estimates used in climate change models and suggest that nature's brakes are not enough to counter human emissions.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalNature·DateApr 5, 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.

As kids' weight climbs, power of healthy fat supplements drops

A new study from Ohio State University suggests that body weight plays a significant role in the effectiveness of omega-3 fatty acid supplements in children. The researchers found that the more a child weighed, the smaller the measurement was of key omega-3 fatty acids in their bloodstream.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 5, 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.

Breakthrough telescope to map origins of stars, galaxies and the 'cosmic dawn'

The Cerro Chajnantor Atacama Telescope-prime (CCAT-p) will map the sky at submillimeter and millimeter wavelengths, giving unprecedented insights into star and galaxy formation. The telescope's high-altitude location and innovative design enable faster measurements of polarized signals, revealing clues about the universe's early moments.

SourceCornell University·DateApr 5, 2017

High fat, high sugar diet during pregnancy 'programs' for health complications

A study found that a high-fat, high-sugar diet during pregnancy can disrupt metabolic processes, leading to poor glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity. This may program the mother for potential health complications, such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease, later in life.

SourceSt. John's College, University of Cambridge·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·DateApr 5, 2017

DFG establishes 17 new priority programs

The Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) has established 17 new Priority Programmes across diverse fields, including humanities, social sciences, life sciences, and engineering sciences. The programmes will receive approximately €100 million in funding for the next three years.

SourceDeutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft·DateApr 5, 2017

Sodium citrate spray could temporarily restore sense of smell

Researchers at the University of East Anglia found that sodium citrate nasal spray can temporarily restore sense of smell in people with viral-induced anosmia or hyposmia. The treatment lasted up to two hours and was most effective for patients whose ability to smell was damaged by viral infection.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalClinical Otolaryngology·DateApr 5, 2017

Into the DNA of a coral reef predator

Scientists from OIST and Australia have sequenced the COTS genome, revealing identical genetic material between Great Barrier Reef and Okinawa populations. The study identified water-borne molecules used by COTS for communication, which could be targeted to disrupt destructive spawning events.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalNature·DateApr 5, 2017

New approach developed by humanists and scientists maps evolution of literature

A new method, referred to as quantitative criticism, is used to analyze relationships among ancient Latin and Greek texts, mapping the cultural evolution of literature. The study provides new evidence for the impact of writers such as Caesar and Livy on Roman prose literature.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 5, 2017

Exploring the mysteries of the universe

The Cerro Chajnantor Atacama Telescope (CCAT-prime) will be the highest telescope of its kind, allowing scientists to study the formation of stars and galaxies in unprecedented detail. With a diameter of six meters and location at an altitude of 5,612 meters, CCAT-prime aims to solve the mystery of dark matter and dark energy.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·DateApr 5, 2017

Discovering how insulin-producing cells show their age

Researchers identified markers of aging in insulin-producing beta cells, revealing diverse populations with different lifespans. Insulin resistance accelerates beta cell aging, contributing to type 2 diabetes development.

SourceJoslin Diabetes Center·JournalCell Metabolism·DateApr 5, 2017

Monoclonal antibody cures Marburg infection in monkeys

Scientists have successfully treated guinea pigs and rhesus monkeys with a monoclonal antibody to cure Marburg and Ravn viruses. The treatment, MR191-N, provided up to 100% protection when administered within 5 days of infection, offering new hope for preventing and treating filovirus outbreaks.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateApr 5, 2017

Green laser light probes metals for hidden damage (animation)

Researchers have developed a spectroscopic method using second harmonic generation to detect internal damage in metals. The technique uses green laser light to identify changes in metal properties, potentially distinguishing between intact and damaged parts.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateApr 5, 2017

Deep sleep may act as fountain of youth in old age

Researchers at UC Berkeley argue that restorative deep sleep is vital for warding off memory loss and a range of mental and physical disorders in older adults. The aging brain's decline in slow wave sleep and neurochemical regulation can lead to cognitive and physical impairments.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNeuron·DateApr 5, 2017

Impostor feelings fuel negative mental health outcomes for minority students, study

A new study from UT Austin found that impostor feelings worsen the effects of perceived discrimination on depression and anxiety among ethnic minority college students, especially African Americans. Researchers recommend including impostorism in mental health assessments to help overcome discriminatory experiences.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalJournal of Counseling Psychology·DateApr 5, 2017

Research links decline in hemlock forests to changes in water resources

Research by Indiana University geographers reveals a 15% increase in annual water yield resulting from forest damage caused by the hemlock woolly adelgid. The study highlights concerns about water quality as rainfall runs off more quickly, carrying higher concentrations of nutrients.

SourceIndiana University·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateApr 5, 2017

Scientists unravel effect of ENSO and Atlantic multidecadal oscillation on the East Asian winter monsoon

Researchers found that the Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation significantly modulates the Pacific SST-EAWM relationship, leading to warmer winters over East Asia when ENSO-like mode and AMO are in phase. The study suggests considering AMO phase in predicting EAWM-related climate based on ENSO variability.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalJournal of Climate·DateApr 5, 2017

Love it or hate it: Marmite may affect brain function

A study by University of York researchers found that eating Marmite daily for a month reduced brain's response to visual stimuli by 30% in participants. This effect is believed to be due to the presence of vitamin B12, which increases GABA levels in the brain.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalJournal of Psychopharmacology·DateApr 5, 2017

Nitrogen, phosphorus from fertilizers and pet waste polluting urban water

A new study by the University of Minnesota reveals that lawn fertilizers and pet waste are major sources of nitrogen and phosphorus pollutants in urban watersheds. The research highlights the need to reduce excessive fertilizer use and properly manage pet waste to mitigate pollution and eutrophication.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 5, 2017

Project Hotspot

Scientists drilled three 2-km-deep holes to explore the geology of a scientific borehole in the Snake River Plain. They found evidence of heat and older hydrothermal interactions, but no geothermal energy production due to a cool water aquifer.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalLithosphere·DateApr 5, 2017

When the doctor recommends against the surgery a breast cancer patient wants

A new study found that surgeons' recommendations against contralateral prophylactic mastectomy (CPM) did not increase the likelihood of patients seeking a second opinion or receiving surgery from a different surgeon. In fact, many patients were satisfied with their treatment despite no discussion about CPM. The study surveyed 1,140 pat...

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateApr 5, 2017