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Science News for February 27, 2017


Study shows stem cells fiercely abide by innate developmental timing

A recent study published in Developmental Biology reveals that stem cells adhere strictly to their unique species' developmental clocks. The research paves the way for accelerated stem cell differentiation and faster cell growth, potentially solving various diseases such as Parkinson's, Multiple Sclerosis, and Alzheimer's.

SourceMorgridge Institute for Research·JournalDevelopmental Biology·DateFeb 27, 2017

Taking aim at a key malaria molecule

Scientists have created a way to measure the heme levels within malaria parasites, which could help develop more effective treatments. The discovery could provide insights into how the parasites control their own heme levels and may lead to the development of new antimalarial drugs that target these mechanisms.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 27, 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.

Sponge bacterium found to encapsulate arsenic drawn from environment

A Tel Aviv University study finds a unique biological model of arsenic detoxification in the Entotheonella bacterium, which inhabits Theonella swinhoei sponges. The bacterium accumulates and neutralizes toxic elements, transforming them into inert products within its cells.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 27, 2017

Autism risk genes linked to evolving brain

Researchers found that genetic variants linked to autism spectrum disorders are also associated with enhanced cognition and intellectual achievement, suggesting positive selection during human evolution. The study analyzed over 5,000 cases of ASD and identified common variants that contribute to both conditions.

SourceYale University·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateFeb 27, 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.

Puzzle of the Maya pendant

A large carved jade pendant, once belonging to an ancient Maya king, was discovered in southern Belize. The pendant, inscribed with a historical text, is now believed to have been buried during a time of crisis due to climate change and the collapse of the Maya civilization.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateFeb 27, 2017

$2.5 million fund available for climate change adaptation projects

The Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) has launched a $2.5 million fund to support projects that help wildlife adapt to climate change in wild landscapes and urban areas. The fund will focus on enhancing ecological processes and ecosystem functions, rather than just conserving or restoring historic conditions.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·DateFeb 27, 2017

Volcanic hydrogen spurs chances of finding exoplanet life

A new study suggests that volcanic hydrogen can warm planets, making them more likely to harbor life. With this discovery, distant stars could expand their habitable zones by 30-60%, adding many previously icy worlds to the list of potential candidates for hosting life.

SourceCornell University·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateFeb 27, 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.

Triboelectric nanogenerators boost mass spectrometry performance

Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology have developed triboelectric nanogenerators to charge molecules in mass spectrometers, dramatically boosting sensitivity and allowing for smaller sample volumes. The technology enables controlled ionization and eliminates waste, opening new avenues for scientific applications.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateFeb 27, 2017

Chemoselective acetalization by a bifuncional cerium phosphate catalyst

A bifunctional CePO4 catalyst facilitates the non-dissociative activation of electrophiles and nucleophiles, allowing for chemoselective acetalization of biomass-derived HMF with alcohols. The reaction proceeds under extremely mild conditions, yielding a wide range of industrially important acetals including solketal.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalChemical Science·DateFeb 27, 2017

WSU research advances energy savings for oil, gas industries

A Washington State University research team has developed a more efficient catalytic reaction to convert methane into useful products, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and energy waste. The innovation could lead to significant energy savings in the oil and gas industry.

SourceWashington State University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateFeb 27, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Largest study of factors affecting African-Americans with cancer announced in Detroit

The Detroit Research on Cancer Survivors (Detroit ROCS) study aims to better understand the major factors affecting cancer progression, recurrence, mortality and quality of life in African American cancer survivors. The five-year, $9 million study will include 5,560 cancer survivors to identify key risk factors and develop intervention...

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·DateFeb 27, 2017

Inactivity, excess weight linked to hard-to-treat heart failures

Research from UT Southwestern Medical Center found that inactivity and excess weight are strongly associated with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction, which has a poor five-year survival rate of around 30-40%. Increasing physical activity levels and reducing weight may be crucial for combating this growing disease.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateFeb 27, 2017

New standards for better water quality in Europe

New EU Water Framework Directive recommendations aim to improve monitoring, assessment, and management of water quality. The directive suggests effect-based methods instead of individual substance analysis and proposes a reversed burden of proof for data collection.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateFeb 27, 2017

Spontaneous 'dust traps': Astronomers discover a missing link in planet formation

Researchers propose that dust traps, high-pressure regions where dust grains accumulate and avoid fragmentation, play a key role in planet formation. These spontaneous traps concentrate grains from outer disk regions, helping to form planets and addressing the long-standing problem of how pebbles join together to create planetary cores.

SourceRoyal Astronomical Society·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateFeb 27, 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.

Tracking the movement of cyborg cockroaches

Researchers tracked the movement of cyborg cockroaches to understand their navigation patterns in unfamiliar territory. The study found that unguided biobots preferred to hug the wall, but randomly stimulating them increased movement time, speed, and likelihood of exploring open space.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·DateFeb 27, 2017

Planned protection area would help basking sharks

A proposed Marine Protected Area (MPA) in the Sea of the Hebrides, Scotland, would provide essential conditions for basking sharks to forage and possibly breed. Satellite tracking data from 36 sharks showed 86% residency within the proposed area.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalBiological Conservation·DateFeb 27, 2017

How your brain makes articles go viral

Studies reveal that brain activity in self-related and mentalizing regions combine unconsciously to produce a signal about an article's value, predicting its likelihood of going viral. Brain scans from a small group of people can accurately predict the virality of health articles among real New York Times readers.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 27, 2017

Could community-based 'Change Clubs' improve heart health in black women?

A pilot study found that community-based 'Change Clubs' improved measures of heart health in Black/African American women, including a decrease in systolic blood pressure. The clubs empowered individuals to make behavioral changes through nutrition and exercise education.

SourceTufts University, Health Sciences Campus·JournalBMC Public Health·DateFeb 27, 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.

A sustained and controllable insulin release system

The study focuses on combining SPRA technology with polypseudorotaxane (PPRX) technology to create a sustained and controllable insulin release system. Four types of PPRXs were developed, showing improved blood glucose reduction times and safety profiles.

SourceKumamoto University·JournalCarbohydrate Polymers·DateFeb 27, 2017

Kinase discovery sheds new light on several disease processes

A study published in PNAS reveals details about Apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1 (ASK1), a signaling protein controlling cellular behavior. The research found unexpected parts of ASK1's structure that help control its activity, shedding new light on disease processes such as Parkinson's and melanoma.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 27, 2017

Study opens new questions on how the atmosphere and oceans formed

A new study by Australian National University has found evidence of seawater cycling as deep as 2,900km into the Earth's mantle, raising questions about how the atmosphere and oceans formed. The research suggests alternative theories, such as icy comets or meteorites bringing water to Earth, could be plausible.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalNature Geoscience·DateFeb 27, 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.

How protein misfolding may kickstart chemical evolution

Protein misfolding may have kickstarted chemical evolution, enabling the creation of complex systems and potentially leading to the emergence of life. The study designed multi-phase dynamic chemical networks and self-propagating peptide assemblies with remarkable functions.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalNature Chemistry·DateFeb 27, 2017

ZeitZeiger: Computer tells the time according to your body clock

Researchers developed a computer method called ZeitZeiger that uses genome-wide expression data to predict a person's 'internal' time of day. The method demonstrates accurate predictions using 15 genes from across the human genome, including non-core clock genes.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalGenome Medicine·DateFeb 27, 2017

Dogs, toddlers show similarities in social intelligence

Studies suggest that dogs and humans share a common type of social intelligence, which could help scientists better understand human evolution. Researchers found that dogs who excel in one social skill tend to perform well in related skills, similar to children, but not chimpanzees.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalAnimal Behaviour·DateFeb 27, 2017

It may not have been too late to save 'extinct' pigeon

A team of researchers found that captive breeding efforts were unnecessary if hunting controls had been implemented to save the species. The study dispels the theory that the Passenger Pigeon underwent functional extinction before its actual extinction in the early 20th century.

SourceUniversity of Kent·JournalConservation Biology·DateFeb 27, 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.

Activated T-cells drive post-heart attack heart failure

Activated T-cells play a crucial role in promoting heart failure after a heart attack by attacking heart muscle tissue. Targeting specific T-cell subsets at defined stages of disease may represent a better therapeutic approach to improve heart failure outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·DateFeb 27, 2017

Humans sparked 84 percent of US wildfires, increased fire season over 2 decades

Researchers found that human-ignited wildfires accounted for 84% of all US wildfires over a 21-year period, tripling the length of the average fire season. The study highlights the importance of considering where ignitions start and how they contribute to wildfire risk.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 27, 2017

Super resolution imaging helps determine a stem cell's future

Researchers at Rutgers and other universities created a new way to identify stem cells' state and fate, allowing for better manipulation of cells for therapy. The approach uses super-resolution microscopy to analyze epigenetic modifications, identifying changes that signal a cell's future type.

SourceRutgers University·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 27, 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.

Effects of genes often influenced by network

Researchers at Uppsala University found that genes frequently collaborate in large clusters or networks to regulate traits. This study highlights the importance of considering gene interactions when predicting genetic effects on individuals.

SourceUppsala University·JournalNature Genetics·DateFeb 27, 2017

Novel syndrome highlights the importance of rare disease research

A group of researchers discovered a rare deafness-dystonia syndrome, named Siddiqi syndrome, in a family living in remote Pakistan. The condition is characterized by hearing impairment and delayed motor development, and has been linked to a single homozygous nonsense mutation in the FITM2 gene.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalDisease Models & Mechanisms·DateFeb 27, 2017

Common bacterium may help control disease-bearing mosquitoes

Researchers at Yale University and Vanderbilt University have discovered a common bacterium that can be used to sterilize male insects, potentially controlling disease-bearing mosquitoes and agricultural pests. The discovery of two genes encoded by Wolbachia bacteria can completely sterilize male fruit flies.

SourceYale University·JournalNature Microbiology·DateFeb 27, 2017

Kidney transplant success rates improve in children and infants

A new study reports improved kidney transplant success rates in children and infants over the past 53 years. The study found that young children now experience better long-term transplant success than adults, with almost 100 percent patient survival rate.

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateFeb 27, 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.

Preventing and treating smoking in children and youth

The Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care recommends that physicians provide brief information and advice to prevent or treat tobacco smoking in children and youth. Research shows that raising the minimum legal age for access to tobacco can significantly reduce smoking rates among young people.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateFeb 27, 2017

Study finds biomarker for lung cancer detection in the nasal passages of smokers

Researchers at Boston University School of Medicine have found a genomic biomarker in the nasal passage that can accurately determine lung cancer likelihood. This non-invasive test may spare patients from costly and risky procedures by identifying those at low probability for having lung cancer.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateFeb 27, 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.

Do we look like our names? New research says yes

Researchers found that observers correctly identified a person's real name based on their facial appearance even when controlling for age and ethnicity. The study suggests that self-fulfilling prophecy plays a role in matching faces with names, as people may choose hairstyles associated with stereotypes.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateFeb 27, 2017

Woodstoves are good for the soul, bad for the heart

A McGill University and Health Canada study found that air pollution from wood burning increases the risk of heart attacks in seniors by 19% during cold seasons. The researchers suggest that tackling air pollution caused by fireplaces and woodstoves may improve public health.

SourceMcGill University·JournalEpidemiology·DateFeb 27, 2017

New tool for combating mosquito-borne disease: Insect parasite genes

Researchers from Vanderbilt University have identified specific genes that make Wolbachia, a parasitic bacterium, effective in controlling mosquito-borne diseases like dengue and Zika. The 'super-Wolbachia' gene can be used to genetically engineer insects to spread the bacteria more rapidly.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalNature·DateFeb 27, 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.

Stars regularly ripped apart by black holes in colliding galaxies

Astronomers found that stars are ripped apart by supermassive black holes much more often than previously thought, with rates dramatically increasing during galaxy collisions. This new understanding could lead to locating and studying dim black holes in the Milky Way.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalNature Astronomy·DateFeb 27, 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.

Earth probably began with a solid shell

Scientists found evidence of an ancient solid shell on Earth's surface using thermodynamic calculations and rock samples from Western Australia. The 'stagnant lid' model supports this theory, which contradicts the long-held assumption that plate tectonics began immediately after Earth formed.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalNature·DateFeb 27, 2017

Following dietary recommendations leads to modest heart health improvements

Researchers found that providing individuals with dietary recommendations and support led to small increases in the intake of healthy foods. Small reductions in body weight, waist circumference, and blood pressure were observed, while high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels rose over time.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateFeb 27, 2017

Humans responsible for more wildfires than lightning, longer season and larger fire niche

A recent analysis reveals that human-started fires account for 84% of all wildfires, tripled the length of the fire season, and dominated an area seven times greater than lightning-caused fires. Human ignitions have expanded the fire niche into areas with historically low lightning strike density.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 27, 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.

How after-hours trading sheds light on investor sentiment

A new study by UC Berkeley's Haas School of Business found that overnight market activity provides insight into investor sentiment at the firm level. Short-term price persistence was observed, with high and low overnight returns outperforming over the long term.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley Haas School of Business·JournalJournal of Financial and Quantitative Analysis·DateFeb 27, 2017

Pregnancy-specific β1-glycoproteins

PSGs are recognized as trophoblast quality and embryo viability markers, with immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory functions. The discovery of PSG receptors and interactions with integrins suggests new avenues for drug design and therapeutic intervention.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCurrent Medicinal Chemistry·DateFeb 27, 2017

Nano 'sandwich' offers unique properties

Rice University researchers simulate a nanoscale sandwich of graphene and magnesium oxide, offering unique properties for molecular sensing, catalysis, and bio-imaging. The hybrid material has tunable band gaps and optical properties, making it suitable for various applications.

SourceRice University·JournalNanoscale·DateFeb 27, 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.

World-first genetic clues point to risk of blindness

Australian scientists have discovered five key genetic regions that increase the risk of developing Macular Telangiectasia type 2 (MacTel), a degenerative eye disease leading to blindness. The findings will help researchers understand the disease and explore ways to prevent or treat its progression.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalNature Genetics·DateFeb 27, 2017

Sound-shaping super-material invented

Researchers have invented a super-material that bends, shapes and focuses sound waves, pushing the boundaries of metamaterials. This innovation has the potential to revolutionize medical imaging and personal audio, allowing for precise control over sound waves.

SourceUniversity of Sussex·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 27, 2017

New studies illustrate how gamers get good

Researchers analyzed data from thousands of online Halo and StarCraft matches to understand skill development patterns. They found that players who spaced out their activity and used consistent hotkeys habits improved most efficiently, while elite players warmed up with meaningless dummy commands to get into peak performance mode.

SourceBrown University·JournalTopics in Cognitive Science·DateFeb 27, 2017

Research could lead to better vaccines and new antivirals

Researchers at Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute have identified K-homology splicing regulatory protein (KHSRP) as a regulator of the innate immune response. Depleting KHSRP improves immune signaling and reduces viral replication, suggesting that drugs inhibiting the protein may have therapeutic value.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalNature Microbiology·DateFeb 27, 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.

First CRISPR single-nucleotide edited transgenic mice

Researchers successfully produced the first transgenic mice with a single nucleotide difference in the dystrophin and tyrosinase genes, demonstrating a new gene editing technique that can substitute one nucleotide into another without DNA deletion. This breakthrough could potentially lead to the correction of genetic defects in humans.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateFeb 27, 2017

Increased physical activity, lower BMI may lower heart failure risk

A recent study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology suggests that increased physical activity and lower body mass index (BMI) are associated with a reduced risk of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), a subtype of heart failure. The research, which pooled data from three cohort studies invol...

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateFeb 27, 2017

Better communication key to cutting earthquake death toll, experts say

Researchers found that involving interdisciplinary partners improved risk communication and public safety during earthquakes. Key recommendations include engaging with decision makers, developing clear warning messages, and minimizing negative impacts of inaccurate messages.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalJournal of Applied Communication Research·DateFeb 27, 2017

Matching up fruit flies, mushroom toxins and human health

Researchers from Michigan Technological University found that fruit flies' resistance to mushroom toxins corresponds to the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway, regulating cell physiology and metabolism in humans. This discovery opens up new avenues for studying diseases like cancer, obesity, type 2 diabetes, depression, and n...

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 27, 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 sheds light on B.C. youths' experiences with mental health services

A study at UBC's faculty of medicine found that young people value positive interactions with peers, group therapy, and emotional support from service providers. Meanwhile, youth reported feeling pigeonholed by their mental illness and experiencing impersonal encounters with support workers.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalAdministration and Policy in Mental Health and Mental Health Services Research·DateFeb 27, 2017

Molecule stops fatal pediatric brain tumor

Researchers at Northwestern University have found a molecule that stops the growth of diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG), a fatal pediatric brain tumor. The study, published in Nature Medicine, reveals the molecule detaches proteins that enable cancer cells to grow, offering new treatment options for children under 10.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Medicine·DateFeb 27, 2017

Coming soon: Oil spill-mapping swarms of flying drones

Researchers at the University at Buffalo have developed software that allows a swarm of low-cost drones to quickly map an offshore oil spill. The system uses principles from nature, such as flock dynamics, to optimize communication and data sharing among the drones, enabling them to determine the size of the spill in just nine minutes.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·DateFeb 27, 2017

Angiography: Miniature particle accelerator saves on contrast agents

A team at the Technical University of Munich has demonstrated that using monoenergetic X-rays from a miniature particle accelerator can significantly reduce the required quantity of contrast agents in coronary angiography. This approach enables sharper images with fewer health risks, especially for patients with kidney insufficiency.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 27, 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.

New mech­an­ism un­der­ly­ing epi­lepsy found

Researchers discovered that gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) accelerates brain activity after a prolonged convulsive seizure, leading to harmful neural connections. Blocking GABA's effect with bumetanide may help prevent seizures and limit the severity of epilepsy.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalAnnals of Neurology·DateFeb 27, 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.

Transforming the carbon economy

The task force proposes strategies to recycle carbon dioxide and remove large amounts of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, complementing carbon-free approaches like electrification. These approaches aim to produce an overall emissions reduction of at least one billion tons of carbon dioxide per year.

SourceStanford University·DateFeb 27, 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.

Recovering predators and prey

A new study by University of California - Santa Barbara researchers found that synchronously restoring predator and prey species speeds recovery efforts of both. This approach is nearly always more efficient and on average about twice as fast as sequential recovery.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateFeb 27, 2017

Light beam replaces blood test during heart surgery

Researchers have developed a new technology using light to continuously monitor a surgical patient's blood, providing real-time status during life-and-death operations. This technology has the potential to replace the need for doctors to wait while blood is drawn and tested, potentially saving lives in intensive care settings.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateFeb 27, 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.

Statins do not benefit patients with lung cancer, new study shows

A new study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology found that cholesterol-lowering statins have no benefits for patients with small cell lung cancer. The largest randomized trial of its kind showed no improvement in treatment outcomes, contradicting previous claims about statin's potential role in preventing cancer development.

SourceImperial College London·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateFeb 27, 2017

What's really in the water

A new study aims to improve detection of viral pathogens in water resources by developing more accurate DNA sequencing methods. The research has the potential to enhance public health and safety, particularly in areas where conventional methods are limited due to viral diversity.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·DateFeb 27, 2017

First evidence of rocky planet formation in Tatooine system

A UCL-led team found evidence of planetary debris surrounding a double sun system called SDSS 1557, which suggests the presence of terrestrial planets like Tatooine. The discovery is remarkable because it shows a high metal content, including silicon and magnesium, indicating rocky planet assembly via large asteroids that formed.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Astronomy·DateFeb 27, 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.

A rose to store energy

Scientists have successfully created plant-based wires and supercapacitors that can store energy, opening up new possibilities for renewable energy sources. The innovative technology enables plants to absorb conducting polymer solutions, forming functional transistors and storing electrical charge.

SourceLinköping University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 27, 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.

Detailed Las Vegas earthquake site classifications could lower construction costs

A new study maps and classifies the earthquake shaking potential across most of the Las Vegas metropolitan area, revealing that much of the ground is stiffer and potentially safer than previously thought. The site classifications could lead to reduced construction costs and improved safety measures for buildings.

SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalBulletin of the Seismological Society of America·DateFeb 27, 2017

Materials that emit rainbows

Researchers at Osaka University create tri-color changing materials that exhibit efficient thermally activated delayed fluorescence and enable the production of high-performance OLEDs devices. The materials display a range of colors in response to temperature and pressure, showing promise for applications such as pressure- and temperat...

SourceOsaka University·JournalChemical Science·DateFeb 27, 2017

Collaborative diabetes clinic lowers health care costs

Researchers at the University of California San Diego found a collaborative diabetes clinic to be cost-effective, improving patient outcomes and lowering healthcare costs. The clinic's personalized medication therapy management and education led to better glycemic control and reduced medical costs for patients over three years.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJournal of Managed Care & Specialty Pharmacy·DateFeb 27, 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.

New cancer drug targets cellular garbage disposal

A new compound developed by the Deshaies group inhibits Rpn11 activity, causing massive accumulation of dysfunctional proteins in cancer cells. This leads to catastrophic stress and cell death, making it a promising alternative to existing cancer drugs.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateFeb 27, 2017

Drug combination defeats dengue, Ebola in mice, Stanford study finds

A combination of two cancer drugs has been found to inhibit both dengue and Ebola virus infections in mice, with efficacy also shown against West Nile and Zika viruses. The study identified a molecular mechanism by which the drugs disrupt RNA viruses' genetic material.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateFeb 27, 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.

Time for physicians to prepare for impending appropriate use mandate

Under the PAMA provision, physicians will need to consult CMS-approved computer-based clinical decision support mechanisms when ordering advanced imaging procedures. The CMS will collect data for two years before implementing prior authorization for 'outlier' physicians, which may limit access to these procedures.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateFeb 27, 2017

How to reduce the environmental impact of a loaf of bread?

A University of Sheffield study found that fertilizers used in wheat cultivation contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, dwarfing other production processes. The research highlights the need for sustainable solutions to reduce environmental impacts and promote food security.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalNature Plants·DateFeb 27, 2017

Slower snowmelt in a warming world

A new study by NCAR scientists finds that as the world warms, mountain snowpack will not only melt earlier but also more slowly. This shift could lead to reduced streamflow, affecting urban water supplies and riparian ecosystems.

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·JournalNature Climate Change·DateFeb 27, 2017

Good news for kids with epilepsy

A preliminary meta-analysis of studies on adults and children with primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures found positive results in both groups, suggesting a similar effectiveness of medicines.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·DateFeb 27, 2017

Gauging ACA's effect on primary care access

A new research letter analyzed changes in appointment availability and wait times for Medicaid and private insurance callers in 10 states. Medicaid callers saw significant increases in appointment availability and short waits, while private insurance callers experienced decreases in short waits and increases in long waits.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateFeb 27, 2017

Science builds bridges, not walls, diplomacy experts tell UA audience

Speakers at a University of Arizona summit on science diplomacy and policy emphasized the importance of scientific evidence in setting sound policies. Experts like Nobel laureate Peter Agre and former ambassadors shared stories of their research programs and collaborations with countries with strained diplomatic relations.

SourceUniversity of Arizona College of Engineering·DateFeb 27, 2017

Resurrecting extinct species might come at a terrible cost

A new study suggests that reviving extinct species may lead to a loss of biodiversity rather than an increase. The research found that funding conservation efforts for some revived species would come at the expense of others.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateFeb 27, 2017

New technology offers fast peptide synthesis

Researchers at MIT have developed a machine that can rapidly produce large quantities of customized peptides in about 37 seconds. This technology could help researchers generate new peptide drugs to test on various diseases and also produces customized cancer vaccines for individual patients.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateFeb 27, 2017

Publicly funding essential medicines for all Canadians could save over $4 billion a year

A new study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal suggests that publicly funding essential medicines for all Canadians could save over $4 billion a year. The researchers identified a list of 117 essential medicines that accounted for 44% of all prescriptions filled at retail pharmacies in 2015.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateFeb 27, 2017