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Science News for March 28, 2017


Impacts of school choice on segregation

Penn State researchers found that black and Latino students tend to move into charter schools with higher racial isolation, while white students move to more diverse schools. This study highlights the need for educational equity and raises questions about school-choice policy's effects on fostering racially diverse schools.

SourcePenn State·JournalEducation Policy Analysis Archives·DateMar 28, 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.

Female menstrual cycle in a dish

Scientists at Northwestern University have developed a miniature female reproductive tract that can test new drugs for safety and effectiveness in women. The EVATAR system, made with human tissue, mimics the body's dynamics and will help understand diseases such as endometriosis, fibroids, and cancer.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 28, 2017

Legos and origami inspire next-generation materials

A team of researchers has designed a standard set of building-blocks to assemble complex structures and engineer arbitrary 3D metamaterials. The breakthrough aims to overcome the bottleneck in translating scientific progress to commercial applications.

SourceTianjin University of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 28, 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.

About time! Predicting midge seasonality key to reducing livestock diseases

Ecologists at the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology have led a study that informs optimal strategies for controlling devastating midge-borne diseases like bluetongue and Schmallenberg virus. The model predicts that timing insecticide treatments over the Autumn midge peak has the greatest effect on population suppression.

SourceUK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology·JournalParasites & Vectors·DateMar 28, 2017

Cortisol excess hits natural DNA process and mental health hard

A study on patients with Cushing's Syndrome found that cortisol excess was associated with reduced DNA methylation, leading to persistent psychiatric problems. The researchers hope that targeting DNA methylation may lead to new treatment possibilities for stress-related conditions.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 28, 2017

Evidence insufficient to screen for celiac disease

The US Preventive Services Task Force found inadequate evidence on celiac disease screening accuracy, benefits and harms of screening, and treatment effects. Current evidence is insufficient to assess balance of benefits and harms of screening for asymptomatic individuals.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateMar 28, 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.

Study finds that elevating women's status lowers dependence on solid fuels

A recent study by Lehigh University sociologist Kelly Austin finds that countries with higher gender equality have lower rates of solid fuel use and female exposure to indoor air pollution. The research highlights the importance of female empowerment in reducing this global health issue, which claims 4.3 million premature deaths annually.

SourceLehigh University·JournalPopulation and Environment·DateMar 28, 2017

Cornering endangered species

Researchers at UC Santa Barbara found that as certain species decline in number, their geographic areas of occupation also shrink. This makes them easier targets for hunters and fishermen, increasing the risk of extinction. The study highlights the importance of well-managed harvests to prevent overharvesting.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 28, 2017

Asian dust providing key nutrients for California's giant sequoias

Researchers have found that dust from the Gobi Desert is providing more phosphorus than previously thought for plants in the Sierra Nevada mountains, including giant sequoias. The study suggests that dust may be shaping this iconic California ecosystem and could help predict forest response to climate change.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 28, 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.

Why don't Americans have a name for the color 'light blue?'

Researchers found that Japan has unique color terms like 'mizu' and 'kon', while the US uses words like 'teal' and 'lavender'. The study reveals differences in color language between modern societies, highlighting the evolution of color terminology through interaction.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Vision·DateMar 28, 2017

New type of sensor material developed

Researchers at Hokkaido University have created a nickel complex that changes color and magnetism when exposed to methanol vapor. The material exhibits vapochromic properties, making it suitable for chemical sensing applications.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateMar 28, 2017

Igniting a solar flare in the corona with lower-atmosphere kindling

Researchers use new telescope images to reveal the emergence of small-scale magnetic fields in the corona, which may trigger solar flares. The study suggests that these magnetic field structures are linked to the onset of a main flare and could help predict flares with more precision.

SourceNew Jersey Institute of Technology·JournalNature Astronomy·DateMar 28, 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.

Stop eating! You are full

Researchers have discovered a molecule sent by fat cells to the fly brain that signals when energy stores are sufficient, inhibiting feeding behavior. This finding suggests a potential appetite-suppression mechanism in humans and may lead to new weight management strategies.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMar 28, 2017

The physics of wealth inequality

A Duke University professor proposes that wealth inequality is governed by a physical law, where systems evolve to increase access to flow. This natural tendency governs the distribution of wealth in economies, with hierarchical movement leading to greater disparities.

SourceDuke University·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateMar 28, 2017

Seabird bones, fossils reveal broad food-web shift in North Pacific

Scientists analyzed seabird bones to find evidence of a significant change in the North Pacific's food web, likely caused by human activities such as industrial fishing. The study found that petrels' trophic level had declined over time, suggesting a shift in the structure of the ocean's ecosystem.

SourceSmithsonian·DateMar 28, 2017

Abuse accelerates puberty in children

New Penn State research reveals that childhood sexual abuse can accelerate physical growth and maturation in adolescents, increasing the risk of behavioral and mental health problems. The study found that young girls with a sexual abuse history were more likely to transition into higher puberty stages earlier than non-abused peers.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateMar 28, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

SHSU study examines death penalty support in Mexico

A recent study by Sam Houston State University researchers found that Mexican citizens are more likely to support the death penalty than previously thought. Contrary to U.S. studies, Catholics in Mexico were found to be more likely to support capital punishment, while older Mexicans and those living in states bordering the U.S. were le...

SourceSam Houston State University·JournalCrime & Delinquency·DateMar 28, 2017

Rogue breast tumor proteins point to potential drug therapies

Researchers analyzed proteins in breast tumors and found multiple protein targets that could respond to drugs, including PI3K inhibitors and mTOR inhibitors. The study also identified potential benefits for HER2 positive breast cancer patients if analysis of tumor proteins is taken into consideration.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 28, 2017

Biomechanical analysis of head injury in pediatric patients

A new study analyzed the biomechanics of head injury in pediatric patients with concussions, using physical and computational models to simulate impacts. The researchers found that youths are at higher risk of concussive injury at lower event severities, but no clear predictors for persistent symptoms were identified.

SourceJournal of Neurosurgery Publishing Group·DateMar 28, 2017

A molecular on/off switch for CRISPR

Researchers have discovered how viruses disable CRISPR-Cas systems, a sophisticated defense mechanism against bacterial infections. Anti-CRISPR proteins lock down the system's ability to identify and attack viral DNA, making them 'exceptionally clever' evolutionary tools.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalCell·DateMar 28, 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.

Sharing expert experimental knowledge to expedite design

A new SBOL repository has been created to optimize metabolic processes and facilitate design of useful synthetic biological systems. The repository contains thousands of chemical compounds, enzyme classes, and metabolic reactions from nearly 4000 organisms.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalACS Synthetic Biology·DateMar 28, 2017

How does oxygen get into a fuel cell?

Researchers at TU Wien have found a way to explain the reasons why oxygen does not always enter fuel cells effectively. By making targeted alterations to the surface of fuel cells on an atomic scale and taking measurements simultaneously, they discovered that strontium atoms cause problems and cobalt can be useful in fuel cells.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalNature Materials·DateMar 28, 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.

It's not too late to conserve water resources in rapidly urbanizing areas

A UMass Amherst study suggests that conserving water resources in rapidly urbanizing areas is crucial due to climate change and population pressure. By adopting green infrastructure design and water conservation incentives, towns can reduce surface runoff and improve water quality.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalJournal of Water and Climate Change·DateMar 28, 2017

Subaru telescope detects the shadow of a gas cloud in an ancient proto-supercluster

Researchers used Subaru Telescope to create extensive map of neutral hydrogen gas in ancient proto-supercluster. The study revealed the region is rich in gas, which is a major building block of galaxies. Gas distribution does not align perfectly with galaxies' distribution within the proto-supercluster.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateMar 28, 2017

5,000 and counting: Penn Medicine celebrates reconstruction milestone

The division has achieved this milestone through its focus on breast reconstruction, head and neck surgeries, and leg surgeries, providing patients with a more natural appearance. The team's growth has also enabled them to conduct more research, publishing nearly five times as many papers in peer-reviewed journals.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·DateMar 28, 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.

Brain stimulation improves schizophrenia-like cognitive problems

A study from the University of Iowa Health Care found that cerebellar stimulation in rats with schizophrenia-like thinking problems restored normal brain activity in the frontal cortex and corrected timing deficits. The researchers used optogenetics to stimulate the rats' cerebellar region, which led to improved cognitive function.

SourceUniversity of Iowa Health Care·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateMar 28, 2017

New strategy identifies potential drugs and targets for brain repair

Researchers have discovered small molecule drugs that activate signaling pathways leading to specific adult brain cell types from stem cells. These findings provide new insights into neural development and repair, identifying several new approved drugs with potential therapeutic value for brain injury repair.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMar 28, 2017

Which self-help websites actually improve health? New research yields a list

Researchers compiled a list of over 40 online programs with evidence from randomized controlled trials, finding nearly 80% were unavailable to the public. The sites address various health issues, including depression, weight loss, and chronic pain, and offer interactive modules and assignments to complete.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·DateMar 28, 2017

Sex-shifting fish: Growth rate could determine sea lamprey sex

A USGS and Michigan State University study discovered that slower sea lamprey growth rates during the larval phase increase the odds of becoming male. In productive environments, only 56% of sea lampreys were male after three years, whereas in unproductive lakes, 78% became male.

SourceU.S. Geological Survey·DateMar 28, 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.

A basis for the application of drought indices in China

A recent study evaluates the regional applicability of seven drought indices in China, including PDSI, SPI, SPEI, and SWI. The results show that some indices perform well in certain regions, while others may not be suitable for specific areas due to empirical parameters or sensitivity to temperature anomalies.

SourceScience China Press·DateMar 28, 2017

Scientist pioneers technology new to MSU, maps giant virus

A team of MSU scientists mapped a giant Samba virus using DIY cryo-electron microscopy technology, revealing its structure and biological mechanisms. The breakthrough could lead to new treatments for diseases caused by similar viruses.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalViruses·DateMar 28, 2017

NASA sees Tropical Cyclone Debbie make landfall in Queensland

Tropical Cyclone Debbie made landfall in Queensland bringing heavy rainfall and hurricane-force winds. NASA's satellite imagery showed a large area of cloud top temperatures in thunderstorms around the storm's eye, indicating potential for heavy rainfall.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 28, 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.

Lead exposure in childhood linked to lower IQ, lower status

A long-term study of over 500 children found that higher blood lead levels in childhood were associated with lower IQ points and lower adult occupational standing. The effects are slight but significant, suggesting that even small amounts of lead exposure can have lasting impacts on cognitive abilities.

SourceDuke University·JournalJAMA·DateMar 28, 2017

Protein identified as potential druggable target for pancreatic cancer

Researchers at the University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center have identified arginine methyltransferase 1 (PRMT1) as a potential therapeutic target for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), a deadly form of pancreatic cancer with limited treatment options. PRMT1 plays a crucial role in tumor development and maintenance, and i...

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·DateMar 28, 2017

Viruses in the oceanic basement

Scientists have discovered novel viruses in oceanic basement fluids, infecting microorganisms and influencing the chemical balance of oceans. The study provides insights into the origins of life and the role of viruses in shaping life on Earth.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalmBio·DateMar 28, 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.

Novel approach can reveal personalized breast cancer treatments

Researchers developed a new method to design more effective breast cancer treatments by combining patient-derived xenografts and proteogenomic integration. This approach allows for the identification of potential targets for drugs and has shown promise in suppressing tumor growth in laboratory models.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 28, 2017

Information storage with a nanoscale twist

A team of scientists has discovered a new rotational force inside magnetic vortices that makes it easier to design ultra-high capacity disk drives. The finding was made using intense x-rays and revealed a non-adiabatic spin-transfer torque that is crucial for electrical manipulations.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 28, 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.

TSRI researchers develop new method to 'fingerprint' HIV

Scientists at TSRI have developed a method to analyze the glycan shield on HIV's protective outer glycoprotein, enabling the creation of a 'fingerprint' to identify potential vaccine targets. The new method saves time and has revealed that the glycoprotein does not have as many holes as previously predicted.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 28, 2017

New quantum gadget could make contactless payment more secure

Researchers at Oxford University have developed a system to transmit quantum keys, ensuring data security and detecting eavesdropping. The prototype uses movable mirrors and ultrafast LEDs to send secret pin-codes over short distances, improving the security of contactless transactions.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalOptics Express·DateMar 28, 2017

Broad support exists for larger warnings on cigarette packs

A new study published in PLOS ONE found that over 78% of US adults supported larger health warnings on cigarette packs, even among smokers. The researchers suggest that these findings support the implementation of larger pack warnings as required by the 2009 Tobacco Control Act.

SourceUNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 28, 2017

Researchers find video games influence sexist attitudes

A new study of over 13,000 adolescents found a link between video game exposure and sexism. The research suggests that repeated exposure to media influences how we perceive social realities, and that video games can shape attitudes towards women.

SourceIowa State University·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateMar 28, 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.

Entrepreneurs love their companies like parents love their children

A study by the University of Helsinki found that entrepreneurs exhibit similar brain behavior to parents when viewing images of their own companies, suggesting that emotional attachment plays a crucial role in entrepreneurial success. This attachment is linked to confidence levels and can impact risk perception.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalHuman Brain Mapping·DateMar 28, 2017

Poor outlook for biodiversity in Antarctica

A new study by an international team of scientists has found that Antarctica's biodiversity and conservation management are similar to those globally. Despite some areas of improvement, such as invasive species management, overall progress is lagging behind global targets.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMar 28, 2017

Early use of marijuana can increase its negative health impacts

A new study by James McIntosh suggests that early marijuana use can lead to negative impacts on physical and mental health, including cognitive impairment, memory loss, and increased risk of respiratory diseases. Young users who start using marijuana before the age of 15 are more likely to experience these effects.

SourceConcordia University·JournalHealth·DateMar 28, 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.

Why does the same exercise exert effects on individuals differently?

A study at Kanazawa University found that individuals with higher selenoprotein P levels exhibit reduced responses to physical exercise. The research team demonstrated that mice deficient in selenoprotein P showed improved exercise capacity and reduced blood glucose levels after exercise training. Furthermore, women with high selenopro...

SourceKanazawa University·JournalNature Medicine·DateMar 28, 2017

Key research priorities for agricultural microbiomes identified

Researchers call for a coordinated effort to understand plant-microbiome interactions to improve plant health and agricultural productivity. Five key research priorities are proposed to address nutrient use, stress tolerance, disease resistance, microbiome assembly, and functional mechanisms.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMar 28, 2017

Women with insurance coverage for IVF more likely to have live birth

A recent study published in JAMA Network found that women with insurance coverage for IVF were more likely to attempt the procedure again and had a higher probability of live birth compared to those who self-paid. The research, conducted at Washington University in St. Louis, included 1,572 women and observed them through four cycles.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateMar 28, 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.

NIST physicists show ion pairs perform enhanced 'spooky action'

Physicists at NIST have confirmed that particles of matter can exhibit 'spooky action' through quantum entanglement. The experiment closed two loopholes in conventional Bell tests, demonstrating the high quality of entangled states.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 28, 2017

ASCO and Cancer Care Ontario update guideline on radiation therapy for prostate cancer

The ASCO and Cancer Care Ontario have updated their clinical practice guideline on brachytherapy for patients with prostate cancer. The new guidelines recommend different treatment options for patients with varying risk levels, including low-risk, intermediate-risk, and high-risk prostate cancer. For eligible patients, brachytherapy is...

SourceAmerican Society of Clinical Oncology·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateMar 28, 2017

Malaria parasites 'walk through walls' to infect humans

Scientists have identified two parasite proteins that allow Plasmodium falciparum malaria parasites to quickly traverse human cells and infect liver cells. This discovery could lead to the development of new antimalarial treatments and vaccines to combat the disease.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalCell Reports·DateMar 28, 2017

Hair spacing keeps honeybees clean during pollination

Researchers at Georgia Tech studied the honeybee cleaning process and found that hair spacing is essential for removing up to 15,000 particles in three minutes. The unique spacing allows the forelegs to collect as much pollen as possible with each swipe.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalBioinspiration & Biomimetics·DateMar 28, 2017

Case Western Reserve University researchers turn urine into research tools

Case Western Reserve University researchers have developed a breakthrough technique to create durable stem cells directly from urine, providing an ethically sound and clinically relevant model for studying Down syndrome. The new method represents a significant improvement in induced pluripotent stem cell technology.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalStem Cells Translational Medicine·DateMar 28, 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.

Unraveling the functional diversity of longevity gene SIRT1

Researchers at TIFR have identified a specific region within SIRT1 that determines its interaction with other cellular regulators, enabling it to choose which factors to interact with. This discovery provides new insights into the longevity factor's functional diversity and may lead to targeted therapies against age-related diseases.

SourceTata Institute of Fundamental Research·JournalCell Reports·DateMar 28, 2017

Night lights, big data

Researchers developed an online tool analyzing 21 years of night-time lights data to correlate with socio-economic factors, finding strong relationships between GDP and electricity consumption. The study also found inverse correlations between light brightness and poverty, providing insights into human activities at a global scale.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 28, 2017

Tiny bacterium provides window into whole ecosystems

New research reveals Prochlorococcus' metabolism has evolved to trigger complex marine ecosystems and global changes. The study finds a cooperative system between Prochlorococcus and SAR11, with mutual recycling of waste products.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 28, 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.

When writing interferes with hearing

Researchers found that certain 'super-readers' with reorganized brain circuits perform better in tasks involving written words, while others with intact auditory-visual integration achieve more accurate results. This study highlights the crucial role of brain interactions in cochlear implant success.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 28, 2017

System better allots network bandwidth, for faster page loads

Researchers from MIT's CSAIL develop a new system called Flowtune that allocates network bandwidth more fairly in data centers, reducing lag and improving page load speeds. In tests, Flowtune completed the slowest 1% of data requests nine to 11 times as rapidly as existing systems.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateMar 28, 2017

Prostate screening often occurs without discussion of benefits, risks

A new study reveals that only 30% of men in a national survey reported having a balanced discussion with their doctor about the advantages and disadvantages of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing. This trend has become less likely since the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommended against PSA testing in 2012.

SourceBrown University·JournalUrology·DateMar 28, 2017

'Flying syringes' could detect emerging infectious diseases

Researchers discovered blood-sucking flies can act as 'flying syringes' to detect emerging infectious diseases in wild animals. The method analyzes the origin of the blood and species of malaria parasites present, with potential implications for controlling global outbreaks.

SourceeLife·DateMar 28, 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.

New method heats up ultrasonic approach to treating tumors

Researchers designed a new focusing method for HIFU therapy, generating a subwavelength-scale focal region and extremely high ultrasound intensity. The lattice Boltzmann method modeling improves acoustic simulations and provides detailed information needed for estimating transducer performance.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateMar 28, 2017

How bacteria hunt other bacteria

Researchers studied how Bdellovibrio bacteriovorus tracks down prey using high-resolution video microscopy. The study found that the bacterial predator uses hydrodynamic flow fields generated by its own swimming movements and those of its prey to bring them in close proximity, increasing the chances of a successful attack.

SourceCell Press·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateMar 28, 2017

Insurance coverage for IVF increases chance of having baby

Women pursuing IVF are more likely to give birth if they have health insurance that covers the procedure, according to research published in The Journal of the American Medical Association. Without coverage, financial constraints often prohibit women from seeking additional treatments after an initial failure.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalJAMA·DateMar 28, 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.

Can intergenerational cooperation defeat climate change?

Research highlights the potential of older adults as a resource for climate action, with individual steps such as reducing energy consumption and family leadership. The publication aims to engage this demographic in addressing climate change, leveraging their time, talent, and desire for purpose.

SourceThe Gerontological Society of America·JournalPublic Policy & Aging Report·DateMar 28, 2017

Marathon running may cause short-term kidney injury

A recent Yale-led study found that marathon running can cause short-term kidney injury in runners, with 82% of participants showing signs of Stage 1 Acute Kidney Injury after the event. The researchers attribute this to sustained rises in core body temperature, dehydration, and decreased blood flow to the kidneys.

SourceYale University·JournalAmerican Journal of Kidney Diseases·DateMar 28, 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.

Chlamydia: How bacteria take over control

Researchers from the University of Würzburg discovered that Chlamydia trachomatis influences mitochondria to prevent programmed cell death, allowing the bacteria to replicate. The study found that miR-30c-5p microRNA is increased in infected cells, downregulating tumor suppressor protein p53 and promoting mitochondrial division

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateMar 28, 2017

Fellowship aims to protect threatened Australian night parrots

A PhD student is conducting research on the Australian night parrot, a cryptic and nocturnal species from arid Australia. Preliminary data suggests low breeding success rates, but the project aims to improve conservation efforts through studies of ecology and survival in arid landscapes.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·DateMar 28, 2017

Gold standards for nanoparticles

The study reveals how simple organic citrate ions can interact with gold atoms to yield stable nanoparticles. These clusters are useful as catalysts, drug delivery systems, anti-cancer agents, and components of solar cells.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Chemistry·DateMar 28, 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.

How a young-looking lunar volcano hides its true age

New research from Brown University suggests that lunar volcano Ina is actually around 3.5 billion years old, not within the past 100 million years as previously thought. The feature's youthful appearance was attributed to its porous surface, created by magmatic foam, which hides regolith buildup and skews crater counts.

SourceBrown University·JournalGeology·DateMar 28, 2017

Study: Dust helps regulate Sierra Nevada ecosystems

A new study found that dust provides important inputs of the plant-growth limiting nutrient phosphorus to western Sierra Nevada ecosystems. This discovery has implications for predicting forest response to changes in climate and land use.

SourceUniversity of California - Merced·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 28, 2017

Elevated blood pressure not a high mortality risk for elderly with weak grip

A study of nearly 7,500 Americans age 65 or older found that elevated blood pressure is not related to high mortality risk among those with weak grip strength. The research suggests treating high blood pressure in older patients should not follow a one-size-fits-all approach.

SourceOregon State University·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateMar 28, 2017

Physics can predict wealth inequality

Wealth distribution is closely tied to the evolutionary movement of all 'streams' of society, according to the Constructal Law. The law reveals that wealth and fuel use are increasing over time, making inequality a natural phenomenon.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateMar 28, 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.

To be or not to be ... an entrepreneur

Research finds that incorporated business owners exhibit greater self-esteem, engage in illicit activities, and are more likely to come from high-earning families. In contrast, unincorporated business owners have manual skill requirements and lower salaries before entrepreneurship. Incorporated entrepreneurs earn significantly higher m...

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley Haas School of Business·JournalThe Quarterly Journal of Economics·DateMar 28, 2017

Meet your new electronic trauma intervention

A new study found that playing a highly visual-spatial computer game like Tetris can help prevent intrusive memories after a traumatic event. The intervention, which took just 20 minutes, reduced symptoms of acute stress disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder by 62% in patients waiting for emergency care.

SourceSpringer·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateMar 28, 2017

Toward glow-in-the-dark tumors: New fluorescent probe could light up cancer

A new fluorescent probe developed by Michigan Technological University researchers has the potential to improve cancer surgery outcomes. The probe uses a near-infrared fluorescence that can penetrate deep tissues, reducing background noise and increasing precision for surgeons.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalAnalytica Chimica Acta·DateMar 28, 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.

Dunedin children's exposure to lead linked to lower IQ

A study found that New Zealand children exposed to high levels of lead in the 1970s and 1980s had lower IQs and social standing by age 38, with effects persisting for decades. The research suggests a significant impact of environmental pollutants on cognitive outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalJAMA·DateMar 28, 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.

Dementia: The right to rehabilitation

A leading dementia expert emphasizes the importance of cognitive rehabilitation for people with dementia, sharing similarities with physical rehabilitation. Rehabilitation aims to enable individuals to participate meaningfully in everyday life and family/family activities.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateMar 28, 2017

It is easier for a DNA knot...

Researchers at SISSA used computer simulations to investigate knotted DNA passage through nanopores. The study found that DNA knots can pass through pores in two distinct ways, with the knot's size not affecting the passage time.

SourceScuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 28, 2017

Rarely studied gene USF3 plays role in predisposition to thyroid cancer

A new study by Cleveland Clinic researchers found that the rarely studied gene USF3 is associated with an increased risk of developing differentiated thyroid cancer. The team discovered a compound heterozygous deletion in USF3 linked to the disease, which may lead to a potential therapeutic strategy by removing glutamine.

SourceCleveland Clinic·JournalHuman Molecular Genetics·DateMar 28, 2017

UQ opens new era in cancer research and drug development

The University of Queensland has opened a new imaging facility to study the effects of anti-cancer drugs on human and animal cancers, enabling the development of new treatments. The facility will run Australia's first comparative oncology research program, studying naturally occurring cancers in companion animals.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·DateMar 28, 2017

Mustard seeds without mustard flavor: New robust oilseed crop can resist global warming

Scientists have developed a new oilseed crop that is more resistant to heat, drought, and diseases than oilseed rape. The breakthrough technology keeps bitter defense compounds out of the seeds while maintaining them in the rest of the plant, enabling cultivation in areas previously unsuitable for oilseed crops.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateMar 28, 2017