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Science News for March 29, 2017


Bullies and their victims obsessed with weight-loss

Teenagers involved in bullying have a higher preoccupation with weight loss than their peers, with 42% of bullies and 55% of victims showing extreme obsession. Clinicians should target emotional wellbeing and self-esteem issues when treating victims of bullying.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalInternational Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity·DateMar 29, 2017

From Beethoven to Bieber, why playing music to chimps is falling on deaf ears

A study by University of York researcher Emma K Wallace found that captive chimpanzees did not benefit from being played classical or pop/rock music, nor did they show preferences for specific genres. The research suggests that music may be a uniquely human trait and should not be considered a form of enrichment for these animals.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 29, 2017

Penn Medicine's Carl June, M.D., named 2017 Fellow of the AACR Academy

Carl June, a renowned immunotherapy pioneer, has been recognized as a Fellow of the American Association for Cancer Research Academy. He designed chimeric antigen receptor T cell immunotherapy for chronic lymphocytic leukemia treatment. June's work has had a significant impact on cancer research and treatment.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·DateMar 29, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Vanderbilt study finds natural chemical helps brain adapt to stress

A Vanderbilt study found that increasing the supply of a natural chemical called 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) in the brain promotes resilience to acute stress exposure. The study suggests that boosting this signaling system could represent a new treatment approach for mood and anxiety disorders, including PTSD.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 29, 2017

How to measure potentially damaging free radicals in cigarette smoke

Researchers developed a standardized protocol for measuring gas-phase and particulate-phase free radicals in cigarette smoke. The study found that levels of these radicals varied widely across cigarette types, with highly ventilated cigarettes producing lower levels.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical Research in Toxicology·DateMar 29, 2017

Mechanism for hMTH1's broad substrate specificity revealed

Researchers at Kumamoto University have discovered the key to hMTH1's ability to hydrolyze multiple oxidized dNTPs with high efficiency. The protonation state of specific aspartate residues plays a crucial role in this process, allowing for targeted inhibition of cancer cells.

SourceKumamoto University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateMar 29, 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.

Penn studies find promise for innovations in liquid biopsies

Researchers at Penn School of Medicine have made significant advancements in liquid biopsies, a non-invasive method for detecting cancer. Studies focus on using fluid in the lungs to test immunotherapy treatments and circulating tumor cells in prostate cancer patients.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·DateMar 29, 2017

Giving brown fat a green light

Researchers at Joslin Diabetes Center identified a lipid molecule that signals brown fat cells to activate in mice, improving metabolism. The molecule, 12,13-diHOME, may also be used as a biomarker for brown fat activation in humans.

SourceJoslin Diabetes Center·JournalNature Medicine·DateMar 29, 2017

An LED-based device for imaging radiation induced skin damage

A new imaging device developed by Modulated Imaging Inc. uses low-power LEDs to project light onto the breast, measuring absorption and scattering properties to quantify skin health. The device aims to predict acute and late skin damage effects from radiation therapy in breast cancer patients.

SourceOptica·DateMar 29, 2017

Teacher encouragement has greatest influence on less advantaged children

A new study from the University of Cambridge found that teacher encouragement has a significant influence on university access for students from disadvantaged backgrounds. On average, rates of entry into post-16 education were eight percentage points higher in students who received encouragement compared to those who did not. The effec...

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalResearch in Higher Education·DateMar 29, 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.

Social bees have kept their gut microbes for 80 million years

Researchers discovered five species of bacteria that have been passed down from generation to generation in social bees for 80 million years. These symbiotic bacteria are a key part of the biology of social bees and can cause health problems if disrupted.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 29, 2017

Genetic errors associated with heart health may guide drug development

Researchers found a link between partial loss of the ANGPTL3 gene and lower cholesterol levels, as well as a reduced risk of coronary artery disease and heart attack. The study suggests that inhibiting ANGPTL3 could lead to new therapies for preventing heart attacks.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateMar 29, 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.

Blood test unlocks new frontier in treating depression

A new blood test measures C-reactive protein levels to guide depression treatment, potentially improving success rates. Researchers found a strong correlation between CRP levels and medication regimens, providing a biological explanation for treatment selection.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalPsychoneuroendocrinology·DateMar 29, 2017

Researchers identify genes that give cannabis its flavor

Researchers have identified approximately 30 terpene synthase genes that contribute to diverse flavors in cannabis. These genes play a role in producing natural products like limonene, myrcene, and pinene, which are responsible for the plant's characteristic aromas.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 29, 2017

Making cows more environmentally friendly

A study by Royal Botanic Gardens Kew suggests that plants growing in warmer conditions are tougher and have lower nutritional value to grazing livestock, potentially inhibiting milk and meat yields and raising the amount of methane released. This vicious cycle threatens to further exacerbate climate change.

SourceRoyal Botanic Gardens Kew·JournalBiogeosciences·DateMar 29, 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.

A faster single-pixel camera

Researchers at MIT Media Lab describe a new technique that makes image acquisition using compressed sensing 50 times as efficient. The technique enables the development of novel imaging systems without lenses, opening new prospects for design and applications in harsh environments or non-visible spectrum wavelengths.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalIEEE Transactions on Computational Imaging·DateMar 29, 2017

Pharmacist care for Canadians with hypertension would save more than $15.7 billion

A new study found that comprehensive pharmacist care can improve health outcomes and save significant money for Canada's healthcare system. The research estimates that full scope pharmacist care could prevent over 130,000 strokes, 260,000 heart attacks, and save nearly a million years of life.

SourceCanadian Pharmacists Association·JournalCanadian Pharmacists Journal / Revue des Pharmaciens du Canada·DateMar 29, 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.

Asthmatic schoolchildren are 'uncomfortable' using their inhalers

Nearly half of secondary schoolchildren with asthma are not controlling their symptoms optimally, and nearly a third experience discomfort using inhalers. The study calls for increased clinical monitoring and targeted interventions to address poor asthma control in UK schools.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalJournal of Asthma·DateMar 29, 2017

'KinderMining:' Tackling big data sets by keeping things simple

KinderMiner, a Morgridge Institute for Research team's algorithm, scans Europe PubMed Central and provides ranked associations for select target terms and key phrases. The tool identifies relevant transcription factors in top 20 hits, significantly speeding up scientific process.

SourceMorgridge Institute for Research·DateMar 29, 2017

NASA sees ex-Tropical Cyclone Debbie over Queensland

NASA's Suomi NPP satellite captured an image of Ex-Tropical Cyclone Debbie over Queensland on March 29, 2017. The system's clouds stretched from Townsville to Brisbane along the coast, with heavy rainfall expected in central and southeastern regions.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 29, 2017

Choosing a simpler path to drug discovery

A team of scientists from Kyoto University has developed a simpler approach to drug discovery using decision trees, achieving high predictive ability with reduced data sets. The new method could lead to significant cost savings in the drug development process.

SourceKyoto University·JournalFuture Medicinal Chemistry·DateMar 29, 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.

Heroin use rises significantly among young whites

Heroin use has increased five-fold among Americans since 2001, with significant rises in white males with low income and education. The prevalence of heroin use disorder also increased, particularly among younger individuals, with whites ages 18-44 experiencing a more pronounced increase than non-whites and older adults.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateMar 29, 2017

Building trust, not hate

Researchers found that when participants knew each other, they were more likely to cooperate in the prisoner's dilemma game. The findings suggest that knowing others can promote cooperation and reduce hate and fake news on social networks.

SourcePotsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 29, 2017

Steering towards grazing fields

A 16-year Nebraska study found minimal negative impacts of grazing cattle on corn stubble on soil properties, except for slight compaction. Grazing may even have a slightly positive effect on soil microbial community structure due to the addition of nutrient-rich manure.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalSoil Science Society of America Journal·DateMar 29, 2017

A new marker for the most common form of ALS

A molecule called polyGP accumulates in the CSF and blood cells of patients with C9ORF72 ALS, offering a potential pharmacodynamic marker for therapeutic responses. Detection of polyGP in asymptomatic carriers may help identify patients at risk before symptoms appear.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMar 29, 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.

The search for obesity drugs targets hunger's complex chemistry

Scientists are shifting focus to combination therapies targeting multiple appetite control system components, driven by understanding of protein sensors and neurotransmitters. This approach aims to better regulate body's appetite, potentially leading to more effective obesity treatments.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateMar 29, 2017

Adding grads and going green can brighten economic outlook

A study by Penn State economists found that a combination of college graduates and high-quality-of-life amenities significantly contributes to economic growth. Rural counties, which often struggle with growth, may particularly benefit from this approach.

SourcePenn State·JournalApplied Economics·DateMar 29, 2017

Officials dedicate OSC's newest, most powerful supercomputer

The Owens Cluster is the most powerful supercomputer in Ohio Supercomputer Center history, featuring a peak performance of 1.5 petaflops. It provides a massive increase in computing power and storage space for researchers, enabling them to make extraordinary discoveries and innovations.

SourceOhio Supercomputer Center·DateMar 29, 2017

IUPUI researcher lays groundwork for new ways to prevent youth violence in Caribbean

A recent study by IUPUI researcher Carolyn Gentle-Genitty has laid the groundwork for new approaches to preventing youth violence in five Caribbean countries. The research highlights key differences in gender and age-related behaviors, suggesting that a comprehensive approach targeting risk and protective factors is needed.

SourceIndiana University·JournalJournal of Human Behavior in the Social Environment·DateMar 29, 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.

Reliable molecular toggle switch developed

Researchers at Karlsruhe Institute of Technology have created a molecular toggle switch that can be operated as often as desired without physical degradation. The switch is made from individual molecules and measures just a nanometer in size, enabling future circuits to be integrated into spaces smaller by up to 100 times.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 29, 2017

Manufacturing, global trade impair health of people with no stake in either

A study published in Nature found that air pollution mortality is disproportionately felt by people living near producing regions, often far from where goods are consumed. The researchers estimated that 22% of fine-particulate-matter air pollution deaths were related to goods produced elsewhere.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalNature·DateMar 29, 2017

Immunologic changes point to potential for clinical investigation of combination immunotherapy for deadly kidney cancer

A new study found that combining nivolumab and bevacizumab resulted in a 53% complete or partial response rate for patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma. The combination therapy showed promising clinical activities and measured immunological changes, suggesting potential for improved treatment outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·DateMar 29, 2017

Researchers track perfluorinated chemicals in the body

Scientists have developed a method to track perfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS) in the body, with the highest amounts recorded in the stomach and liver. The study found that PFAS accumulate in multiple organs, including the lungs, kidney, heart, brain, skin, muscle, and bone.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·DateMar 29, 2017

Team highlights work on tuning block polymers for nanostructured systems

The Epps group has made significant strides in tuning and characterizing block polymers for various applications. They aim to optimize materials design by manipulating phase behavior, thermal transitions and mechanical properties. The goal is to create high-performance materials that reduce defects and mitigate environmental concerns.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalMacromolecular Chemistry and Physics·DateMar 29, 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.

Hepatitis B and C may be linked to increased risk of Parkinson's disease

A recent study published in Neurology found that people with hepatitis B are 76% more likely to develop Parkinson's disease than those without the virus. Those with hepatitis C have a 51% increased risk. The research linked both viruses to an increased risk of Parkinson's disease, contradicting previous findings on hepatitis B.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateMar 29, 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.

Can childhood obesity be prevented before conception?

Researchers aim to reduce body fat, improve glucose and lipid metabolism in overweight women planning pregnancy with the Lifestyle Intervention in Preparation for Pregnancy (LIPP) program. The goal is to prevent childhood obesity and related health issues in women and their children.

SourceCleveland Clinic·DateMar 29, 2017

'On-off switch' brings researchers a step closer to potential HIV vaccine

University of Nebraska-Lincoln researchers engineer an on/off switch into a weakened form of HIV to enhance vaccine safety and effectiveness. The team demonstrates that flipping the switch allows weakened HIV to replicate at a level likely to generate immunity in a host, while also allowing for controlled replication.

SourceUniversity of Nebraska-Lincoln·JournalACS Synthetic Biology·DateMar 29, 2017

Microscopic muscles: How non-muscle cells find the strength to move

Researchers discovered ordered arrangement of myosin-II filaments in actin cables of non-muscle cells, enabling slow contractility and movement through connective tissue. This organisation allows for dynamic assembly and disassembly of protein cables, providing the necessary strength to interact with the microenvironment.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateMar 29, 2017

New smart system to reduce queues at roundabouts

Researchers propose a smart system to reduce long queues at certain roundabout approaches, using magnetic detection devices under the road surface to activate traffic metering signals. The system can delay and length of vehicle lines up by up to 60% while also reducing pollutant emissions as motorists stop less frequently.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalTransportation Research Record Journal of the Transportation Research Board·DateMar 29, 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.

Poor outlook for biodiversity in Antarctica: Study finds

An international study led by Monash scientists found that Antarctica and the Southern Ocean's biodiversity management is lagging behind the global average in some areas, but exceling in others. The study's findings have significant implications for conservation efforts globally.

SourceMonash University·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMar 29, 2017

Inflammation awakens sleepers

Researchers at ETH Zurich found that inflammation triggers the transfer of phage genes to Salmonella bacteria, increasing their pathogenicity. Vaccination can prevent this process, alleviating the risk of phage release.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience·DateMar 29, 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.

TBI in emergency departments a substantial economic burden

A new study estimates that traumatic brain injuries in emergency departments had a total cost of $945 million over the lifetimes of those patients. Medical treatments and lost productivity accounted for $292 million and $653 million, respectively.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalCanadian Journal of Neurological Sciences / Journal Canadien des Sciences Neurologiques·DateMar 29, 2017

Kids' wildlife preferences differ from island to mainland

Children from island locations in the Bahamas prefer invasive species like feral cats and pigs, while mainland children prefer mammals. Island children also show a greater preference for native species, highlighting the need to consider human factors in conservation decisions.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalEnvironmental Conservation·DateMar 29, 2017

Vaping and withdrawal

Researchers aim to determine whether quitting e-cigarettes causes withdrawal symptoms, with a focus on nicotine levels and potential health risks. A National Cancer Institute-funded study is recruiting long-term e-cigarette users for an eight-week experiment involving nicotine withdrawal reporting and breath/urine sampling.

SourceUniversity of Vermont College of Medicine·DateMar 29, 2017

Researchers control soft robots using magnetic fields

A team of engineers has developed a technique to control soft robots using magnetic fields, enabling the creation of devices with complex functions and simple designs. The new method involves embedding iron microparticles in liquid polymer mixtures and applying magnetic fields to induce chain formation.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateMar 29, 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.

Brain scans show dopamine levels fall during migraine attacks

Researchers used PET scans to study dopamine levels in patients with migraines and healthy individuals. The study found that dopamine levels fell significantly during migraine attacks, which may contribute to increased sensory sensitivity. This suggests that dopamine-based therapies could be effective in managing migraines.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNeurology·DateMar 29, 2017

Tests can help quantify automatic empathy and moral intuitions

A team of psychologists developed new tests to capture automatic moral and empathetic judgments. The studies found that certain situations trigger instant moral assessments, even when participants are instructed to counteract those feelings. These measures could help criminologists and psychologists understand pathological behavior.

SourcePenn State·JournalCognition·DateMar 29, 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.

Products can be pals when you're lonely, but it may cost you, study finds

A new study published in the Journal of Consumer Research suggests that humanlike electronic products can replace human contact for lonely individuals. However, this phenomenon has limits, and certain cues can snap participants back to reality, highlighting the need for consumers to be aware of potential pitfalls.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateMar 29, 2017

Reading between the lines of highly turbulent plasmas

Researchers develop an iterative simulation model that accurately predicts changes to line shape in strong plasma turbulence, providing a system for assessing plasma turbulence. The study finds that the width of hydrogen lines increases in presence of strong turbulence, with oscillating waves at plasma frequency.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal D·DateMar 29, 2017

Discovery may help patients beat deadly pneumonia

Researchers have found that a hormone called hepcidin helps fight off bacterial pneumonia by limiting the spread of bacteria in the blood. Stimulating hepcidin production could be lifesaving for vulnerable patients, including those with iron overload or liver disease.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalJCI Insight·DateMar 29, 2017

Adults with disabilities screened less often for colorectal cancer

Researchers found that individuals with blindness, intellectual disability, or spinal cord injury are less likely to receive recommended colorectal screenings. The study's findings emphasize the importance of increased awareness and advocacy efforts to ensure all individuals are screened appropriately for this preventable cancer.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateMar 29, 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.

Financialization's negative effect on the American solar industry

A new study reveals that financialization in the US impaired its emerging solar industry, while Japan's photovoltaics manufacturers thrived. This case study highlights the conflicting relationship between finance and production, and calls for policies that bring productive and financial capital together to support low-carbon industries.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 29, 2017

Virtual reality therapy helps decrease pain in hospitalized patients

A new study published in JMIR Mental Health found that virtual reality therapy significantly reduced pain scores in hospitalized patients. Patients who wore VR goggles experienced a 24% drop in pain, while those who viewed standard video content saw a 13.2% decrease.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalJMIR Mental Health·DateMar 29, 2017

Vulnerability to psychosis: How to detect it

A new study has identified an early vulnerability brain marker for psychosis in late adolescence, which can be detected through exaggerated emotional responses to non-threatening cues. This finding could lead to the development of new intervention strategies for at-risk youth.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateMar 29, 2017

Organic-inorganic heterostructures with programmable electronic properties

Scientists develop self-assembled organic molecular lattices with controlled geometry and atomic precision on top of graphene, inducing periodic potentials and unprecedented electrical, magnetic, piezoelectric, and optical functionalities. The approach allows for pre-programming and adjustment of the induced potentials.

SourceTechnische Universität Dresden·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 29, 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.

Quantum communication: How to outwit noise

Researchers at the University of Innsbruck and TU Wien have developed a new quantum communication protocol that can reliably transfer quantum information even in the presence of detrimental noise. The protocol uses an additional quantum oscillator to couple qubits, allowing for precise separation of the noisy signal from the weaker qua...

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 29, 2017

Painting fingernails with silver and gold

Researchers have developed a simple way to integrate metal nanoparticles in nail polish, resulting in durable, transparent polishes with metallic sheen. The technique could also be used to create coatings for medical devices.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalIndustrial & Engineering Chemistry Research·DateMar 29, 2017

Cost of neurological disease in US approaching $800 billion a year

A US study reveals that the annual cost of neurological diseases in the US is nearly $800 billion, with an estimated $600 billion to be spent on stroke and dementia treatment by 2030. The study emphasizes the need for increased funding to develop treatments and cures for these conditions.

SourceUniversity of South Florida (USF Health)·JournalAnnals of Neurology·DateMar 29, 2017

Atomic 're-packing' behind metallic glass mystery

Researchers have solved a decades-long puzzle about metallic glasses' atomic structure using a new method combining various techniques. The study revealed a hidden amorphous phase within a certain temperature range, linked to metals' ability to form glass and potentially enabling the development of stronger novel materials.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 29, 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.

Eating peanuts may lead to supple arteries and healthy hearts

A study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that eating peanuts with a meal can help prevent arterial stiffening and keep blood vessels healthy. The researchers observed a 32% reduction in triglyceride levels after peanut consumption compared to a control group.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Nutrition·DateMar 29, 2017

Electronic health records improve weekend surgery outcomes

A Loyola Medicine study found that electronic health record (EHR) systems can mitigate the weekend effect in urgent general surgery patients. Patients at hospitals with high-speed EHR connectivity and electronic bed management systems experienced lower hospital stays and mortality rates, with reductions of up to 35%.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateMar 29, 2017

Reusable carbon nanotubes could be the water filter of the future, says RIT study

A new class of enhanced single-walled carbon nanotubes offers a more effective approach to water treatment and remediation, with the potential for regenerating filters by heating them in a microwave. The technology works because nanotubes dislike water, allowing only organic contaminants to stick to them.

SourceRochester Institute of Technology·JournalEnvironmental Science Water Research & Technology·DateMar 29, 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.

The last 'caimans' living in Spain

Researchers uncover 16 million-year-old fossils of a small crocodile, Diplocynodon ratelii, which is similar to modern-day caimans. The discovery provides new insights into the early Miocene ecosystem in Catalonia, Spain.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalComptes Rendus Palevol·DateMar 29, 2017

Penn State study shows aphasia may not solely be a language disorder

A recent Penn State study suggests that aphasia may be a broader cognitive disorder affecting not just language, but also hearing, vision, motor processing, attention, and executive functions. The findings imply that treating aphasia requires a more holistic approach, considering these interconnected brain networks.

SourcePenn State·JournalFrontiers in Human Neuroscience·DateMar 29, 2017

Wrong-way asteroid plays 'chicken' with Jupiter

Asteroid Bee-Zed, orbiting the wrong way around the sun, has been playing a cosmic game of chicken with Jupiter for a million years. The asteroid's retrograde motion allows it to maintain a stable orbit despite its unusual path, thanks to Jupiter's gravity deflection.

SourceUniversity of Western Ontario·JournalNature·DateMar 29, 2017

Every £1 spent on public health in UK saves average of £14

A systematic review found that UK public health interventions return an average ROI of £14.30 on every £1 spent, with national policies producing even higher returns. The study warns that recent cuts to public health budgets will cost the NHS and economy 'billions'.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·DateMar 29, 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.

Journal: Researchers can track hazardous chemicals from fast-food wrappers in the body

Researchers developed a new method to track perfluorinated and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFASs) from fast-food wrappers in the body, linking them to various health issues. The study found PFASs were detected in all tested organs, including liver, stomach, lungs, kidney, heart, skin, muscle, brain, and others.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalJournal of Environmental Science and Technology·DateMar 29, 2017

How should the UK approach Brexit?

A study by Oxford University Press USA outlines strategies for the UK to adopt in future trade negotiations with the European Union. The authors propose four guidelines: giving something of value to trading partners, starting from a favorable position, using bargaining power effectively, and investing in negotiating capacity.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalOxford Review of Economic Policy·DateMar 29, 2017

Making bones stronger

A mathematical model shows that injections of peptide CK2.3 can increase bone formation and decrease bone degradation, potentially treating osteoporosis. The researchers used a combination of biological and mathematical models to calculate ideal dosages for humans and mice, aiming to develop a promising remedy for the condition.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalCPT Pharmacometrics & Systems Pharmacology·DateMar 29, 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.

Solving the mystery of the Arctic's green ice

Researchers from Harvard SEAS developed a mathematical model explaining the emergence of phytoplankton blooms under Arctic sea ice. The study found that thinning ice and increased melt ponds allow more sunlight to penetrate, creating conditions favorable for plankton growth.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 29, 2017

Scientists predict reading ability from DNA alone

Researchers at King's College London used a genetic scoring technique to predict reading performance throughout school years from DNA alone. Genetic scores explained up to 5% of the differences in reading ability between children, with students having highest and lowest genetic scores differing by two years in reading performance.

SourceKing's College London·JournalScientific Studies of Reading·DateMar 29, 2017

Infant vitamin B1 deficiency leads to poor motor function and balance

A Tel Aviv University study found that infants fed thiamine-deficient formula suffered from severe motor function difficulties, with long-term consequences for their health. The researchers emphasize the critical role of vitamin B1 in child development and stress the need for regulatory control of breast milk substitutes.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalMaternal and Child Nutrition·DateMar 29, 2017

Study reveals amount of premature deaths linked to international trade

A new study estimates that 12% of global premature deaths related to PM2.5 pollution are caused by emissions in a different region, while 22% are associated with goods produced for consumption in another region. The study highlights the need for international cooperation to reduce air pollution and its health impacts.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalNature·DateMar 29, 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.

Legends of the lost reservoirs

Researchers uncover sophisticated irrigation and water-management techniques used by ancient Puebloans in the American Southwest, including the use of corn as a water-intensive crop. The team's findings shed light on how past societies managed their environment and survive in dry deserts, informing modern sustainability strategies.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateMar 29, 2017

Surgery to remove unaffected breast in early breast cancer increases

A study found nearly half of young breast cancer patients in five states undergo preventive mastectomy to remove the unaffected breast. The proportion of women receiving this procedure increased significantly between 2004 and 2012, particularly among those under 45, with regional variations across states.

SourceAmerican Cancer Society·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateMar 29, 2017

New research into light particles challenges understanding of quantum theory

Researchers at the University of East Anglia discovered a new mechanism for creating paired light particles, which could have significant implications for quantum physics. The findings suggest that photon pairs can be emitted from spatially separated points, introducing positional uncertainty of fundamental quantum origin.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 29, 2017

Harnessing brain's internal reserves might help treat epilepsy

Researchers have discovered that activating the endocannabinoid system of the brain can reduce or completely suppress epileptic activity in test animals. This finding has significant implications for developing new treatments for temporal lobe epilepsy, a common form of the condition.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalBrain Research·DateMar 29, 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.

Best-looking politicians lean right, best-looking scholars lean left

A recent study found that Right-leaning politicians tend to be considered more attractive, whereas Left-leaning scholars are viewed as more physically appealing. This effect was observed despite similar factors such as age and education level between the two groups.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalPersonality and Individual Differences·DateMar 29, 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.

NIH designates $42.7 million for food allergy research consortium

The National Institutes of Health has designated $42.7 million for the Consortium of Food Allergy Research (CoFAR) over seven years to continue evaluating new approaches to treat food allergy. CoFAR scientists are working on immunotherapy approaches to reduce immediate allergic symptoms and bring about long-term relief.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·DateMar 29, 2017

Trauma and stress in teen years increases risk of depression during menopause, Penn study shows

A new Penn study reveals that women who experience multiple traumatic events during childhood or adolescence are more likely to develop depression during perimenopause. Women who experienced their first traumatic event in their teens are particularly susceptible, even if they had previously never had depression.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Psychiatry·DateMar 29, 2017

Fred Hutch scientists to cover advances in immunotherapy, proteomics at AACR

Researchers from Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center are presenting new developments in immunotherapy and proteomics at the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting. A new adoptive T-cell therapy for ovarian cancer has shown promising results, while a vaccine adjuvant has boosted immune responses to sarcomas.

SourceFred Hutchinson Cancer Center·DateMar 29, 2017
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

A novel molecular link between cholesterol, inflammation and liver cancer

A new study links protein c-Fos to liver carcinogenesis, highlighting the importance of maintaining healthy cholesterol levels in preventing liver cancer. The research suggests that statins may also prevent deleterious changes in hepatocytes caused by hypercholesterolemia and reduce inflammation.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·DateMar 29, 2017

Building trust, not hate

When anonymity is lifted, cooperation increases significantly due to mutual understanding. Participants who knew each other were more likely to cooperate rather than engage in retaliatory sentiments or punishment.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 29, 2017