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Science News for March 27, 2017


Longer telomeres may shield mice from age-related human diseases

A recent study found that longer telomeres in mice may shield them from age-related human diseases. Researchers used mice with shortened telomeres to examine a genetic defect causing an age-associated congenital heart disease in humans. The findings suggest that decreasing telomere length contributes to the onset of age-related diseases.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 27, 2017

Unrestricted improvements in fishing technology threaten the future of seafood

A new study suggests that advances in fishing technology pose a significant threat to the global fishery, with potential long-term consequences. The research found that improvements in technology led to an increase in fish catches, but ultimately resulted in the depletion of fish populations and collapse of fisheries.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 27, 2017

Proteomics helps to understand the influence of genetic variations

Researchers used mass spectrometric methods to identify proteins influenced by SNPs relevant to type 2 diabetes and AMD. This study provides insights into the molecular mechanisms modulated by regulatory SNPs, contributing to personalized medicine.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateMar 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.

Evolving 'lovesick' organisms found survival in sex

A new theory suggests that sexual reproduction evolved as a way to resist disease-causing microbes and adapt to constantly changing environments. Researchers used computer simulations to demonstrate the benefits of sex in nematode worms co-evolving with a highly pathogenic bacterium, providing evidence for the Red Queen theory.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalJournal of Evolutionary Biology·DateMar 27, 2017

Psychologists enlist machine learning to help diagnose depression

Researchers have used machine learning to analyze brain imaging data and identify patterns predictive of depression. The study found that DTI-derived fractional anisotropy maps can accurately classify depressed or vulnerable individuals versus healthy controls.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·DateMar 27, 2017

Nanocages dramatically facilitate structure formation of biomolecules

Researchers at Kyoto University discovered that nanocages facilitate the fast folding and stability of G-quadruplexes, a type of biomolecule. This breakthrough has potential applications in understanding diseases, cancers, and allergies, as well as developing new drug treatments.

SourceKyoto University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateMar 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.

Ant-plant symbioses: Adapting to changes in partner abundance

Researchers found that ant-plant symbioses break down at least 12 times over the past few million years, as plants adjust their host selection criteria based on altitude and potential tenants. Higher-altitude species tend to form domatia with larger access holes.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 27, 2017

With health insurance at risk, community health centers face cut-backs

Repeal of key ACA provisions and failure to renew critical funding streams would result in significant funding losses for community health centers. Nearly 80% of centers estimate financial losses exceeding 20%, with many at risk of laying off staff, cutting services, or shutting down clinical sites.

SourceGeorge Washington University Milken Institute School of Public Health·DateMar 27, 2017

Is personal adversity contributing to political polarization?

A recent study found that personal adversity, such as illness or relationship stress, can lead to increased polarization in political attitudes. The research team analyzed data from over 1,600 Americans and discovered a strong correlation between repeated experiences of adversity and extreme conservative attitudes.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·DateMar 27, 2017

Zika virus protein mapped to speed search for cure

A recent study by Indiana University researchers has mapped a key protein of the Zika virus, enabling the analysis of existing drugs and compounds that can disrupt its spread. The study's findings offer hope for finding effective treatments against the disease, which causes birth defects and neurological disorders in infants and adults.

SourceIndiana University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 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.

A new test to rapidly identify worldwide TB infections

A new rapid blood test to diagnose and quantify the severity of active TB cases has been developed by a team of researchers from Arizona State University. The NanoDisk-MS assay can detect minute blood levels of two proteins that are released only during active infections, providing faster results than current tests.

SourceArizona State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 27, 2017

NASA spacecraft investigate clues in radiation belts

The Van Allen Probes detected an increase in oxygen particles speeding around Earth's dayside after a geomagnetic storm, shedding light on particle origins. The unique double observations help untangle the complex workings of Earth's magnetic environment.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 27, 2017

Weather extremes: Humans likely influence giant airstreams

A recent study suggests that human-made climate change is likely influencing giant planetary waves, which can transport heat and moisture around the globe. These waves can stall, causing droughts or floods. The research found that warming caused by greenhouse-gases from fossil fuels creates favorable conditions for such events.

SourcePotsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 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.

How randomness helps cancer cells thrive

A study published in Nature Genetics reveals that large regions of the human genome have built-in variability in reversible epigenetic modifications, which enables cancer cells to proliferate and adapt. This variation can make cancer cells more resistant to chemotherapy and treatment.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNature Genetics·DateMar 27, 2017

Health problems may increase as young people infected with HIV at birth get older

A new study has found that U.S. youth infected with HIV around the time of their birth are at higher risk for experiencing serious health problems, poor control of the HIV virus, or death as they age. The study highlights the need to strengthen services for these patients, taking into account their developmentally specific needs.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateMar 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.

Farming becoming riskier under climate change

Climate change will make farming more difficult due to reduced planting windows and increased drought risk, affecting crop yields and food security. The University of Illinois study forecasts that the typical planting window for corn will no longer be workable, with April and May being too wet to work fields in most parts of Illinois.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 27, 2017

Unique wheat passes the test

Scientists developed a unique type of wheat that can increase the digestibility of phosphorus and other minerals, improving health for undernourished populations. The new wheat, HIGHPHY, was tested in broilers and demonstrated improved digestion coefficients for calcium and phosphorus.

SourceAarhus University·Journalanimal·DateMar 27, 2017

Transport of molecular motors into cilia

Dynein motors are actively transported into cilia via the intraflagellar transport system and adaptor protein ODA16. The crystal structure of ODA16 shows how it recognizes dynein motors and binds the IFT complex, enabling their import into cilia.

SourceAarhus University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateMar 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.

Patent analysis highlights importance of bioactives of saffron

The patent analysis highlights the importance of saffron bioactives in treating multiple disorders, including neurological and metabolic conditions. Novel derivatives of safranal show promise in treating infectious diseases.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalRecent Patents on Biotechnology·DateMar 27, 2017

ACP issues recommendations to prevent and treat substance use disorders

The American College of Physicians recommends treating substance use disorders as chronic medical conditions with evidence-based public and individual health initiatives. The guidelines aim to improve access to care and reduce the societal burden of these disorders.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMar 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.

GW study finds social media course impacts online behavior in first-year medical students

A study published in Teaching and Learning in Medicine found that a social media course had a significant impact on the online behavior of first-year medical students, with 94% reporting increased awareness of their social media habits. The course aimed to empower students to use social media professionally and responsibly.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalTeaching and Learning in Medicine·DateMar 27, 2017

New rice strain could help farmers predetermine harvest time

Scientists have developed a new rice strain that flowers within a certain period after being sprayed with commercial chemicals, enabling farmers to control harvest timing. The research, led by Professor Takeshi Izawa at the University of Tokyo, uses a genetic approach to manipulate flowering time in cereal crops.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature Plants·DateMar 27, 2017

Protein transport: The quickest route to the tip

A new theoretical model suggests that proteins diffuse most of the way and 'hop on the bus' to reach their destinations faster. The study found that steric hindrance between motor proteins reduces active transport rates, leading to traffic congestion and slower progress.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 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.

Requirements for AEDs in US schools need improvement

The American College of Cardiology analysis found that over half of US states have no requirements for AEDs in schools, leaving nearly 35 million public elementary and secondary students at risk. Only 5 states offer funding for purchasing AEDs, highlighting the need for comprehensive implementation plans.

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

'Medicinal food' diet counters onset of type 1 diabetes

A diet high in short-chain fatty acids produced by gut bacteria has been found to protect against the onset of type 1 diabetes. The study, published in Nature Immunology, suggests that this special diet can improve immune tolerance and reduce inflammation.

SourceMonash University·JournalNature Immunology·DateMar 27, 2017

Group investigates how phototherapy combats neuropathic pain

Researchers found that phototherapy improved behavioral responses and recovered myelin sheaths in rat models of diabetic neuropathy. The treatment also reduced the migration of astrocytes to the site of injury, which release inflammatory mediators.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalLasers in Medical Science·DateMar 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.

Subtle steric differences reveal a model for Ni cross-coupling success

Researchers at Princeton University have developed a predictive model for Ni cross-coupling success based on subtle steric differences in ligand parameters. The study found that remote steric hindrance enhances reaction yields, which could help explain why Pd-based ligands are less effective on the smaller Ni atom.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalNature Chemistry·DateMar 27, 2017

Scientists discover mechanism that causes cancer cells to self-destruct

Researchers at Tel Aviv University find that modifying specific proteins during cell division unleashes a natural killing mechanism that targets rapidly proliferating cancer cells. The discovery may lead to the development of new treatments for aggressive cancers, including pancreatic and triple negative breast cancer.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalOncoTargets and Therapy·DateMar 27, 2017

Emotion: An important link to HIV prevention in black adolescents with mental illnesses

A new study published in the Journal of Child and Family Studies suggests that psychoeducation and skills building can help sever the emotion-behavior link contributing to HIV/STI risk among black adolescents with mental illnesses. The study found that improving coping mechanisms to regulate emotions may be crucial for preventing HIV/S...

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Nursing·JournalJournal of Child and Family Studies·DateMar 27, 2017

Tracking real-time proton induced radiation chemistry in water

Researchers use picosecond time resolution to investigate ultrafast radiation chemistry occurring immediately after protons interact with water. The new approach allows for high detail capture of rapid chemical evolution, revealing a delay in the formation of absorption bands after proton exposure.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateMar 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.

New finding could lead to earlier liver cancer diagnosis

Researchers at MIT have developed a way to detect aflatoxin exposure by sequencing DNA of liver cells, potentially leading to earlier diagnosis and treatment. The technique can identify rare mutations caused by aflatoxin long before tumors form.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 27, 2017

ERC Advanced Grant for Sitta von Reden

Von Reden plans to develop a comprehensive model of exchange between ancient empires, investigating economic systems, cultural exchange, migration, and border regions. Her project aims to avoid eurocentricity and challenge existing historical narratives.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·DateMar 27, 2017

Renewable energy has robust future in much of Africa

The study suggests that choosing wind sites to match electricity demand reduces system costs and enhances equitable distribution of renewable energy. Countries can save hundreds of millions to billions of dollars per year by pursuing low-cost, accessible, and environmentally friendly solar and wind farms.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 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.

Liver fully recovers from a low protein diet

Researchers found that a 65% decrease in liver volume and 46% reduction in hepatocyte size occurred in mice on a low protein diet. The liver's ability to regenerate itself was demonstrated after reintroducing a normal protein diet, with an 85% increase in liver volume.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalNutrition·DateMar 27, 2017

Friction shapes zebrafish embryos

Researchers found that friction between moving tissues generates force that shapes the nervous system of zebrafish embryos. This force is a key mechanism for regulating morphogenesis during embryo development. The study's findings indicate a previously unrecognized mechanism underlying birth defects in humans.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateMar 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.

Graphene-based neural probes probe brain activity in high resolution

Researchers created graphene-based neural probes to record brain activity in high resolution while maintaining a high signal-to-noise ratio. The devices successfully detected small electrical signals associated with brain activities, such as sleep and visual light stimulation, without inducing inflammation or toxicity.

SourceGraphene Flagship·Journal2D Materials·DateMar 27, 2017

How do some opioids cause severe itching?

UNC School of Medicine scientists pinpoint MRGRPX2, a receptor protein on mast cells, as the key to understanding opioid-induced itching. The researchers created a chemical probe to interact with this receptor, potentially leading to the development of an antagonist to reduce itching side effects.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateMar 27, 2017

Implementing large-scale teleretinal diabetic retinopathy screening program

A new article published by JAMA Internal Medicine describes the successful implementation of a large-scale primary care-based teleretinal diabetic retinopathy screening program in Los Angeles County. The program eliminated the need for over 14,000 specialty visits and reduced wait times for screening by 89.2%.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateMar 27, 2017

Researchers crack structure of key protein in Zika virus

Researchers at UC Riverside have determined the crystal structure of the Zika virus NS5 protein, enabling a better understanding of its replication mechanism. The discovery provides a strong basis for developing potential inhibitors against ZIKV infection.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 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.

The economic case for wind and solar energy in Africa

A new assessment by the Department of Energy's Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory finds that wind and solar resources in Africa are plentiful, low-impact, and cost-effective. The research highlights the importance of strategic siting and grid interconnections to reduce system costs and impacts.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 27, 2017

New insight into superfluids reveals a storm at the surface

Mathematicians from Newcastle University discovered a new 'storm' layer in superfluid Helium that 'sticks' to surfaces like ordinary fluid. The layer is created by mini tornadoes tangling together, slowing the flow. This finding changes past assumptions about superfluids and their use as coolants and precision measurement devices.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 27, 2017

A big leap toward tinier lines

A team of researchers at MIT and University of Chicago has developed a self-assembly technique to produce narrow wires on microchips, breaking through fundamental limits in manufacturing processes. The new method uses block copolymers and could be scaled up for mass manufacturing with standard equipment.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateMar 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.

Stars born in winds from supermassive black holes

Astronomers have observed stars forming within powerful outflows of material blasted out from supermassive black holes. The discovery provides new insights into galaxy properties and evolution, shedding light on how galaxies obtain their shapes and become enriched with heavy elements.

SourceESO·JournalNature·DateMar 27, 2017

Insight into cause of brain disorders may aid quest for treatments

Researchers at the University of Edinburgh discovered molecular details of Rett syndrome and related intellectual disabilities by studying protein interactions. The study sheds light on how flaws in key proteins can prevent brain function, paving the way for new treatments.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 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.

The electric sands of Titan

Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology found that Titan's non-silicate granules become electrically charged when kicked up by wind, causing them to cling together and resist further motion. This property helps explain the formation of large sandy dunes on Titan's surface, which are unlike anything seen on Earth.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Geoscience·DateMar 27, 2017

Improving memory with magnets

Scientists at McGill University used magnetoencephalography and electroencephalography to study the relationship between theta waves and auditory memory. They found that applying transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) at the same frequency as natural theta waves improved memory performance, while arrhythmic TMS had no effect.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNeuron·DateMar 27, 2017

Cookbooks give readers (mostly) bad advice on food safety

A recent study found that bestselling cookbooks offer little useful advice on reducing food-safety risks. Only 89 out of 1,497 recipes provided relevant and safe cooking temperatures. Recipes often perpetuate unreliable methods such as checking for juices to run clear or using subjective indicators like cooking time.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalBritish Food Journal·DateMar 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.

Transgenic plants against malaria

Researchers from CRAG and Sequentia Biotech have developed transgenic plants that produce twice as much artemisinin as traditional plants. The study identifies the AaMYB1 gene involved in artemisinin synthesis and trichome formation, offering a potential solution to reduce production costs and make antimalarial drugs more accessible.

SourceCentre for Research in Agricultural Genomics (CRAG)·JournalThe Plant Journal·DateMar 27, 2017

Nitrogen foraging ability of plants relies on mobile shoot-root hormone signal

Research at Nagoya University reveals that phloem-specific polypeptides act as mobile descending shoot-to-root signals in response to nitrogen status, triggering compensatory nitrogen uptake by roots. This sophisticated signaling system enables plants to maximize nutrient efficiency and improve fertilizer application.

SourceNagoya University·JournalNature Plants·DateMar 27, 2017

New international banking rules would not prevent another financial crisis

Researchers argue that new international banking regulations would not be effective in reducing the risk of financial crises. Instead, they propose restructing financial networks to increase resilience while avoiding efficiency loss. A state-of-the-art model suggests capital surcharges are insufficient to control systemic risk.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalJournal of Economic Dynamics and Control·DateMar 27, 2017

Saint Louis University researchers predict Zika hot spots in the US

Saint Louis University researchers identified high-risk areas for Zika transmission in the US, including the Mississippi delta, southern states, and California. The study projected up to 41.7 million people at risk of contracting the virus, with pregnant women being the highest at-risk group.

SourceSaint Louis University·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateMar 27, 2017

NASA sees tiny Tropical Cyclone Caleb fading

NASA's Aqua satellite captures last burst of strength from Tropical Cyclone Caleb before it weakens and dissipates. The storm had strong thunderstorms with cloud top temperatures as cold as -56.6 degrees Celsius.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 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.

Mouse in the house tells tale of human settlement

Researchers found that human settlement led to the dominant presence of house mice in the Middle East around 15,000 years ago. The populations of house mice rose and fell based on human mobility patterns, out-competing wild mice in some areas.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 27, 2017

New genetic risk factors identify 2 distinct glioma subtypes

Researchers have identified two distinct glioma subtypes associated with specific genetic markers, expanding the understanding of glioma susceptibility. The study found that these genetic markers increase the risk of developing brain tumors, but each marker only provides a modest increase in risk.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalNature Genetics·DateMar 27, 2017

Researchers show p300 protein may suppress leukemia in MDS patients

Scientists at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center have found that p300 protein acts as a tumor suppressor, preventing myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) from developing into acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Eliminating p300 in mice results in rapid leukemia development.

SourceUniversity of Miami Miller School of Medicine·JournalLeukemia·DateMar 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.

More than 100 years of flooding and erosion in 1 event

A study by Colorado State University researchers found that an extreme flooding event in 2013 eroded over 500,000 cubic meters of sediment, equivalent to 115 years of weathering products. The flood also discharged large amounts of organic carbon and wood into reservoirs, affecting water storage capacity.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeology·DateMar 27, 2017

Rocks that tell our industrial history

Scientists have discovered beachrocks along the Biscay coast with records of human activity, including industrial waste, trapped within their matrix. This finding provides evidence for the Anthropocene epoch and offers valuable insights into climate change.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateMar 27, 2017

Our aging scientific workforce raises concerns

The study estimates that the average age of US scientists will increase by another 2.3 years in the near future, primarily due to the baby boomer generation getting older and scientists working longer. Despite concerns about productivity and creativity with aging, the research found no significant impact from demographic changes.

SourceOhio State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 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.

Paid medical malpractice claims decrease

US physicians saw a 55.7% drop in paid malpractice claims over the 22-year period, with pediatricians experiencing the largest decline of 75.8%. The rate of payments also increased by 23.3%, while the amount of payment varied significantly among specialties.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateMar 27, 2017

Wall lizard becomes accustomed to humans and stops hiding

Researchers found that adult male common wall lizards exposed to humans become habituated and hide less, with yellow lizards being the most tolerant. In contrast, red lizards exhibit increased sensitivity to potential attacks, suggesting a relationship between coloration and antipredator response.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalAnimal Behaviour·DateMar 27, 2017

A little nudge may provide a big boost to flu vaccination rates

A new study from the University of Pennsylvania found that a simple behavioral economics technique, known as 'active choice,' can increase flu vaccination rates by up to 37%. By programming electronic health records to alert care providers when a patient is eligible for a flu vaccine, clinics saw significant increases in vaccinations. ...

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateMar 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.

Satellites reveal bird habitat loss in California

A Duke University-led study using satellite images shows the Sacramento Valley in California has lost nearly all its wetlands, which are crucial for millions of migratory shorebirds. The habitat loss is threatening the survival of these birds, highlighting the need for conservation efforts.

SourceDuke University·JournalRemote Sensing of Environment·DateMar 27, 2017

High burden of iodine deficiency found in Israel's first national survey

A high burden of iodine deficiency has been found in Israel's first national survey, with 62% of school-age children and 85% of pregnant women having low iodine intakes. The study highlights a serious public health concern, with implications for maternal and fetal hypothyroidism and impaired neurological development.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·DateMar 27, 2017

Children, youth born in Canada at higher risk of unintentional gun injury than immigrants

A study published in CMAJ found that Canadian-born children and youth are at a higher risk of unintentional gun injury compared to immigrant children and youth. The study identified certain subgroups of immigrants as being at higher risk of assault-related injury, particularly those from Africa and Central America.

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

Clarifying how lithium ions ferry around in rechargeable batteries

Researchers observe ultrafast bonding of lithium ions with solvents, challenging existing theory on ion diffusion. The study reveals dynamic restructuring of the solvent shell during ion transport, indicating that electrolytes play an active role in transporting lithium ions.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 27, 2017

During late life, what's important changes

A study by Allina Health researchers reveals that both patients and healthcare providers tend to delay conversations about serious illness. The study's findings emphasize the need for clinicians to discuss patients' social, emotional, and spiritual priorities to provide better end-of-life care.

SourceAllina Health·DateMar 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.

Researchers create artificial materials atom-by-atom

Scientists at Aalto University have developed a method to arrange individual atoms to engineer electronic properties in artificial materials. The approach enables the creation of designer quantum materials with precise control over atomic structure.

SourceAalto University·JournalNature Physics·DateMar 27, 2017

Internists issue recommendations for preventing and treating substance use disorders

The American College of Physicians (ACP) issues recommendations for preventing and treating substance use disorders involving illicit and prescription drugs. Key findings include limited access to care, with only 18% of those needing treatment receiving it, and the need for expanded public health initiatives and improved prescribing pr...

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

Study provides path for new immunotherapy approaches to prostate cancer

Researchers develop immunotherapy approach for prostate cancer by combining anti-hormonal drug with checkpoint inhibitors, driving T cells into tumors and blocking PD-L1/PD1 response. Targeting VISTA brake is also shown to inhibit immune response in human tumors.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalNature Medicine·DateMar 27, 2017

Largest ever brain cancer study reveals new secrets to inherited risk

A massive study of over 30,000 participants has identified 13 new genetic mutations that significantly increase the risk of developing glioma, the most common form of brain cancer. The research also strengthens evidence for previously known genes linked to glioma and other cancers.

SourceInstitute of Cancer Research·JournalNature Genetics·DateMar 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.

USDA announces $300,000 in funding available for youth farm safety

The USDA has announced $300,000 in funding for initiatives offering farm safety education and certification to youth in agricultural production. The program aims to provide industry-recognized credentials and ensure vocational curricula align with current regulations.

SourceNational Institute of Food and Agriculture·DateMar 27, 2017

Planetary waves, first found on Earth, are discovered on sun

A team of scientists has discovered large-scale planetary waves on the Sun, which may influence space weather and offer a new source of predictability. The discovery uses data from multiple satellites to identify and track coronal bright points, revealing bands of magnetized activity that propagate slowly across the Sun.

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·JournalNature Astronomy·DateMar 27, 2017

Playing to beat the blues: Video games viable treatment for depression

A new UC Davis study found that video game users who received reminders played more often and experienced increased time spent playing, with some games increasing feelings of control over depression. The study, using six three-minute games, showed promise in reducing symptoms of mild depression.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalComputers in Human Behavior·DateMar 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.

MicroRNA treatment restores nerve insulation, limb function in mice with MS

Researchers have restored nerve insulation and improved limb mobility in mice with multiple sclerosis by treating them with a microRNA called miR-219. The treatment reinvigorated the function of damaged cells that produce myelin, allowing it to reform and reinsulate nerves.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateMar 27, 2017

Mobile gold fingers

American researchers have characterized 'gold fingers' using ion mobility mass spectrometry and identified the exact gold binding sites. The study reveals that gold ions force zinc ions out of zinc fingers, changing their conformation. This finding could lead to new metal-based antiviral and antitumor drugs.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateMar 27, 2017

Extreme weather events linked to climate change impact on the jet stream

Researchers found a connection between climate change and extreme weather events, such as heat waves, droughts, and floods, due to the impact of warming Arctic temperatures on the jet stream. The study used historical atmospheric observations and confirmed that this temperature pattern corresponds with persistent extreme weather events.

SourcePenn State·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 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.

Research addresses the threat of Zika virus to the US blood supply

Researchers have developed effective Zika virus nucleic acid amplification technology assays to screen donated blood supplies. The methods demonstrated excellent sensitivities and were substantially more sensitive than most other laboratory-developed and diagnostic Zika virus assays.

SourceWiley·JournalTransfusion·DateMar 27, 2017

Color change test to help cancer research advance

Researchers at University of Bath have developed a simple and cheap test to measure functional levels of AMACR protein, allowing for the investigation of new cancer treatments. The test turns clear liquid bright yellow in minutes, enabling quick analysis and development of new treatments.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalChemical Communications·DateMar 27, 2017