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Science News for May 1, 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.

SOBP recognizes Simons Foundation with 2017 Humanitarian Award

The Society of Biological Psychiatry recognized the Simons Foundation with the 2017 Humanitarian Award for its leadership in decreasing stigma, advancing awareness, and contributing to research advancements. The $5,000 award prize was presented by Dr. Kerry Ressler on May 19, 2017.

SourceParthenon Management Group·DateMay 1, 2017

Gauging 5-year outcomes after concussive blast traumatic brain injury

A study published in JAMA Neurology found that 72% of patients with concussive blast TBI experienced a decline in disability over five years. Satisfaction with life and psychiatric symptom severity were worse in these patients compared to combat-deployed service members without TBI.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateMay 1, 2017

A glow stick that detects cancer?

Researchers have created a new chemiluminescent probe that can detect cancerous cells with improved sensitivity, using a novel mechanism developed at Tel Aviv University. The probe has potential applications in medical diagnosis and analysis of cellular activity.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalACS Central Science·DateMay 1, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Novel gene editing approach to cancer treatment shows promise in mice

Researchers used CRISPR genome editing technology to target unique DNA sequences formed by fusion genes, cutting out mutated DNA and replacing it with a gene that leads to cancer cell death. This approach improved survival rates in mouse models of aggressive liver and prostate cancers.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateMay 1, 2017

Kansas State University continues to lead effort to battle citrus greening

Citrus greening, caused by Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus, starves trees of nutrients and damages roots. Researchers are developing novel therapies to kill insects or block bacteria transmission. A $6 million grant supports the project, which aims to establish a research pipeline and deploy treatments in greenhouses and groves.

SourceKansas State University·DateMay 1, 2017

Earthquakes can make thrust faults open violently and snap shut

Researchers from Caltech discovered that fast ruptures along thrust faults can cause one side of the fault to twist away from the other, opening a gap that then snaps shut. This mechanism has the potential to change our understanding of how tsunamis are generated.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateMay 1, 2017

Rock samples indicate water is key ingredient for crust formation

Researchers examined rock samples from the Earth's mantle and found that water penetrated deep into the crust and upper mantle, cooling almost instantly. The discovery supports one side of a long-standing debate on crust formation and could have implications for fighting climate change.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalEarth and Planetary Science Letters·DateMay 1, 2017

Propagation research on rare trees expands species recovery potential

New propagation methods for rare tropical tree species, like Serianthes nelsonii, are being developed at the University of Guam. These methods enable the production of more propagules every year, supporting conservation goals and expanding species recovery potential.

SourceUniversity of Guam·JournalTropical Conservation Science·DateMay 1, 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.

New coral bleaching database to help predict fate of global reefs

A new global coral bleaching database has been developed to predict future bleaching events and assess changes in mass bleaching frequency. The database contains 79% more reports than the existing voluntary database, with two-thirds showing moderate or severe bleaching.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 1, 2017

Developing climate-resilient wheat varieties

A recent study suggests that fructans in wheat plants hold the key to developing climate-resilient varieties with increased nutritional value. The authors propose using fructans as a breeding target to create healthier and more resilient wheat varieties.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalCrop Science·DateMay 1, 2017

Device allows users to manipulate 3-D virtual objects more quickly

Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a user-friendly, inexpensive device called CAPTIVE that allows users to manipulate 3D virtual objects in six degrees of freedom. With minimal latency and cost, CAPTIVE offers a significant improvement over existing technologies.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·DateMay 1, 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.

Preschoolers' story comprehension similar for print and digital books

A new study by NYU Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development found that preschoolers comprehend stories equally well in print and digital formats. The research suggests that the content of a children's book, rather than its medium, plays a significant role in story comprehension.

SourceNew York University·DateMay 1, 2017

New roadmap provides blueprint to tackle burden of asthma

A new European Respiratory Society roadmap identifies key areas for investment to address the impact of asthma on individuals, healthcare systems, and economies. The document outlines 15 research priorities to improve mortality and morbidity rates, including primary care, triggers, personalised medicine, and self-management.

SourceEuropean Respiratory Society·JournalEuropean Respiratory Journal·DateMay 1, 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.

Team discovers a new invasive clam in the US

A new invasive Asian clam species has been discovered in the Illinois River near Marseilles, Illinois. The researchers used genetic tests to confirm its uniqueness, raising concerns about the impact on native clams and the ecosystem as a whole.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalBioInvasions Records·DateMay 1, 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.

As scientists take to Twitter, study shows power of 'visual abstract' graphics

A study by Michigan Medicine researchers found that 'visual abstract' graphics on Twitter can nearly triple the number of people who click the link in a tweet to read a full research paper. The study showed that tweets with visual abstracts were retweeted more than eight times as often and seen by nearly eight times as many people.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalAnnals of Surgery·DateMay 1, 2017

Personalized psychiatry matches therapy to specific patients with depression

A new study found that body mass index (BMI), sex of the patient, and symptom profile can help doctors select the most effective antidepressant. Patients with higher BMI had a better response to treatment, particularly for women, while those with lower BMI were more likely to remit on venlafaxine-XR.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalPersonalized Medicine in Psychiatry·DateMay 1, 2017

'Valleytronics' advancement could help extend Moore's Law

Researchers at University at Buffalo have discovered a new way to split energy levels between electron valleys in 2D semiconductors, increasing separation by a factor of 10. This could lead to more efficient computer chips and extend Moore's Law, predicting the end of transistor density increase

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateMay 1, 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.

When single-family homes killed L.A.'s urban forest

In Los Angeles, single-family home add-ons and paved property features led to a 14-55% loss of green cover. Urban forests' benefits, such as reduced energy use and improved health, were compromised.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalUrban Forestry & Urban Greening·DateMay 1, 2017

Stenciling with atoms in 2-dimensional materials possible

Scientists at Penn State report breakthroughs in stenciling 2D materials with atomic precision, enabling new chip functionality and overcoming substrate effects. The simple technique involves exposing photoresist to UV light and washing away exposed areas, allowing precise placement of high-quality materials.

SourcePenn State·Journal2D Materials·DateMay 1, 2017

Paternal age at conception may influence social development in offspring

A study found that children of very young and older fathers differ in acquiring social skills from early childhood until adolescence. The researchers suggest that social skills may be a key domain affected by paternal age, with the effects being more subtle than clinical disorders.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateMay 1, 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.

Study: Medicaid patients wait longer to see doctors

A new study by MIT researchers found that Medicaid patients wait 4.6 minutes on average to start an appointment, compared to 4.1 minutes for privately insured patients. The disparity in wait times is largely due to the type of provider seen, with Medicaid recipients more likely to visit practices with longer wait times.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalHealth Affairs·DateMay 1, 2017

Brain tissue structure could explain link between fitness and memory

Researchers discovered that the microstructure of the hippocampus, particularly its viscoelasticity, is correlated with fitness and memory performance. The study used magnetic resonance elastography to measure the structural integrity of the hippocampus in healthy young adults.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNeuroImage·DateMay 1, 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.

Dr. Li-Ru Zhao receives 2017 Bernard Sanberg Memorial Award from ASNTR

Li-Ru Zhao, PhD, MD, receives the 2017 Bernard Sanberg Memorial Award for her research contributions in acute and chronic stroke, vascular dementia, traumatic brain injury, and Alzheimer's disease. Her work has significantly advanced our understanding of SCF and G-CSF in slowing Alzheimer's progression.

SourceCell Transplantation Center of Excellence for Aging and Brain Repair·DateMay 1, 2017

Grant helps Baycrest launch Canada's first cross-institutional memory clinic

The Baycrest Memory Clinic will pool anonymous medical records from clinics across Toronto to accelerate dementia research and provide access to better integrated care for patients. The database will allow TDRA researchers to share research data across institutions and access a greater pool of volunteer research participants.

SourceBaycrest Centre for Geriatric Care·DateMay 1, 2017

MIT wireless device can see through walls to detect walking speed

A new MIT-developed device can accurately measure walking speed using wireless signals, providing insights into cognitive decline, cardiac disease, and other health issues. The system has 95-99% accuracy and can be placed on a person's home wall without intruding on daily life.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology, CSAIL·DateMay 1, 2017

Novel antibacterial wound cover could prevent thousands of infections each year

Researchers develop a bacteria-fighting wound dressing made from the shells of crustaceans, which could prevent up to tens of thousands of infections annually. The dressing combines chitosan, an antibacterial and biodegradable substance extracted from crustacean shells, with hydrogel dressings to create a durable and elastic solution.

SourceElsevier·JournalRadiation Physics and Chemistry·DateMay 1, 2017

Pain reliever may help relieve the vision damage of glaucoma

Researchers at Medical College of Georgia are exploring the potential of (+)-pentazocine to prevent vision damage in glaucoma patients by activating sigma-1 receptors in astrocytes. The study aims to understand how increased pressure affects astrocyte behavior and develop new therapies to protect neurons.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·DateMay 1, 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.

Men need more frequent lung cancer screening than women

A study of 46,766 patients found that men developed lung cancer 2.0 years earlier and had a higher stage at diagnosis compared to women. The researchers suggest that annual screening for women may be too frequent, with every 2-3 year intervals potentially being more suitable.

SourceEuropean Society for Medical Oncology·DateMay 1, 2017

IU scientists identify therapy with potential to eliminate dialysis need

Researchers at Indiana University identified a therapy that rapidly restores blood flow in the organ, reduces inflammation and improves overall kidney function after acute kidney injury. The therapy has the potential to eliminate the need for dialysis treatment.

SourceIndiana University·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateMay 1, 2017

Study finds gender bias in open-source programming

A study at North Carolina State University found that women's pull requests are accepted more often than men's, but with a lower acceptance rate for identifiable female programmers. This suggests strong self-selection among women who submit pull requests.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalPeerJ Computer Science·DateMay 1, 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.

Thinking strategically about study resources boosts students' final grades

College students who participated in a self-administered intervention prompting them to reflect about their use of classroom resources had final grades significantly higher than their peers. The intervention involved reflecting on how to use learning resources effectively, leading to better performance and reduced negative emotion.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateMay 1, 2017

Photoluminescent display absorbs, converts light into energy

Researchers developed a laser phosphor display that can absorb ambient light, generating power while displaying high-resolution images. The system achieves up to 71% energy harvesting, but face challenges with ghost images and design optimization.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Photonics for Energy·DateMay 1, 2017

Smoking-related heart disease tied to effects of a single gene

Researchers found a genetic explanation for how smoking contributes to coronary heart disease, revealing a single gene variant that loses its protective effect in smokers. This discovery opens doors to new therapeutic targets and personalized approaches to preventing CHD.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalCirculation·DateMay 1, 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.

Care management program reduced health care costs in Partners Pioneer ACO

A study published in Health Affairs found that Partners Pioneer ACO's care management program reduced avoidable hospitalizations and emergency department visits among patients with elevated but modifiable risks. The program achieved a $101 per participant monthly reduction in Medicare spending, a 6% decline.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalHealth Affairs·DateMay 1, 2017

Scientists surprised to discover lymphatic 'scavenger' brain cells

Scientists at the University of Queensland have identified a new type of lymphatic brain cell in zebrafish that surrounds the brain and clears damaging cellular waste. This discovery provides insight into how the brain forms and functions, potentially leading to new treatments for neurological diseases like stroke and dementia.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateMay 1, 2017

Is alternate-day fasting more effective for weight loss?

A randomized clinical trial of 100 obese adults found that alternate-day fasting resulted in similar weight loss to daily calorie restriction (5.3% vs 6.0%). The study suggests that daily calorie restriction may be a more effective option for weight maintenance and cardiovascular disease risk reduction.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateMay 1, 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.

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.

Combination therapy could provide new treatment option for ovarian cancer

Researchers have identified a new combination therapy that may improve survival for women with ovarian cancer by eradicating chemotherapy-resistant tumors. The treatment, involving carboplatin and birinapant, showed promise in mice and human tumor models, with 50% of samples responding to the therapy.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·DateMay 1, 2017

The immune system may explain skepticism towards immigrants

Research reveals that strong feelings about immigrants are controlled by the immune system, particularly in people with a hypersensitive behavioral immune system. This leads to misconceptions about infection risks and a reluctance to interact with immigrants, blocking integration paths.

SourceAarhus University·JournalAmerican Political Science Review·DateMay 1, 2017

Paying online community members to write product reviews backfires badly

A study found that paying users to write product reviews suppresses the number of reviews on social platforms, especially among those who are socially well-connected. The authors argue that this approach undermines the intrinsic motivation for honest reviews and increases the likelihood of fake reviews.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalMarketing Science·DateMay 1, 2017

Karl Deisseroth receives Inaugural SOBP Distinguished Redelsheimer Award

Karl Deisseroth received the inaugural Distinguished Redelsheimer Award for his transformative work on optogenetics and CLARITY, revolutionizing brain manipulation and visualization. His laboratory's advancements have significantly contributed to understanding how brain circuitry contributes to behavior in neuropsychiatric diseases.

SourceParthenon Management Group·DateMay 1, 2017

First US success of nonhuman primate gene editing

Scientists have demonstrated the effectiveness of gene editing in rhesus monkey embryos, paving the way for new therapies and treatments. The breakthrough opens up possibilities for human disease research, including neurological and reproductive conditions.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalHuman Molecular Genetics·DateMay 1, 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.

Pancreatic cancer patients may live longer by traveling to academic hospital for operation

A new study published in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons found that pancreatic cancer patients who travel to academic medical centers for surgery have longer overall survival rates and better quality care. For thyroid cancer patients, traveling also results in more adherence to evidence-based treatment guidelines.

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateMay 1, 2017

To sell more healthy food, keep it simple

According to research by Cornell's Food and Brand Lab director Brian Wansink, retailers can increase healthy food sales through small, low-cost in-store changes. A health predisposition pyramid suggests that different marketing interventions are more successful with various shopper groups.

SourceJournal of Retailing at New York University·JournalJournal of Retailing·DateMay 1, 2017

Get ready: Your future surgery may use an automated, robotic drill

Researchers developed an automated drill that can make complex cranial surgeries 50 times faster than standard procedures, reducing time and increasing safety. The drill uses software to set safe cutting paths and has an automatic emergency shut-off switch.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalNeurosurgical FOCUS·DateMay 1, 2017

Global aid for health leaves older adults out in the cold

A new study reveals that 90% of global health development assistance funds target individuals under the age of 60, while those aged 70 and older receive less than half as much. The majority of this funding goes to children under the age of 5, highlighting a significant gap in support for older adults.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalHealth Affairs·DateMay 1, 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 gene that starts it all

Researchers find that members of the DUX family of proteins, specifically DUX4, trigger gene expression program in human embryos. DUX4 stimulates expression of genes induced during zygotic genome activation by binding to their regulatory regions.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Genetics·DateMay 1, 2017

It's all in the math: New tool provides roadmap for cell development

Researchers created a new tool that analyzes RNA sequencing data using topology, providing insights into cellular differentiation and development. The approach identifies connections between cellular states and genes active during development, offering potential discoveries in understanding cell identity and guiding cellular development.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateMay 1, 2017

California handgun sales spiked after 2 mass shootings, study finds

After two high-profile mass shootings, California's handgun sales spiked by 53% and 85% in the following weeks. The study found that these spikes were driven by increased concern over personal security, with many individuals motivated to acquire firearms for self-protection.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMay 1, 2017

Study: Better memory makes people tire of experiences more quickly

A new study published in Journal of Consumer Research found that individuals with larger working memory capacities tend to feel like they've had an experience more often, leading to faster satiation. This could have implications for marketers and consumers seeking to manage cravings for unhealthy foods.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateMay 1, 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.

Supercomputers assist in search for new, better cancer drugs

Researchers at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center used TACC's advanced computers to discover a potential new cancer drug, mebendazole, which can selectively inhibit TNIK enzyme activity. Virtual screening and molecular modeling approaches identified this compound as a strong candidate for further exploration.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·DateMay 1, 2017

SOBP honors Stephanie Solso with 2017 Ziskind-Somerfeld Research Award

Stephanie Solso received the award for her paper on diffusion tensor imaging and axonal overconnectivity in autism spectrum disorder toddlers. The study revealed abnormal brain development and age-related changes in brain regions involved in social, language, and behavioral control functions.

SourceParthenon Management Group·DateMay 1, 2017

NIH research improves health for people with asthma

The National Institutes of Health is finding solutions to improve the health of nearly 25 million Americans with asthma. Research funded by NIEHS, NHLBI, and NIAID has demonstrated the importance of healthy school environments and explored the complex role of the immune system in asthma.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences·DateMay 1, 2017

New imaging method may predict immunotherapy response early

A noninvasive PET imaging method measuring granzyme B can distinguish responders from nonresponders to immune checkpoint inhibitors. The method accurately predicted treatment outcomes in both mice and human melanoma samples.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalCancer Research·DateMay 1, 2017
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

New model could speed up colon cancer research

Researchers at MIT have developed a new CRISPR-based model for colon cancer that enables rapid simulation of the disease's progression and testing of new treatments. The model uses genetic mutations with CRISPR to recreate human-like tumors in mice, providing a valuable tool for scientists studying colon cancer.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateMay 1, 2017

Common antibiotics linked to increased risk of miscarriage

A new study published in CMAJ found that many common antibiotics increase the risk of miscarriage, with a 60% to two-fold increased risk. Erythromycin and nitrofurantoin were not associated with an increased risk.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateMay 1, 2017

Heart disease risks experienced in childhood impact cognition later in life

A new study found that childhood and adolescent cardiovascular risk factors are associated with worse midlife cognition, regardless of adulthood exposure. High blood pressure and high cholesterol in childhood, adolescence, and young adulthood, as well as smoking in adolescence and young adulthood, were linked to impaired cognitive perf...

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateMay 1, 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.

Finding real rewards in a virtual world

A study by RIKEN Brain Science Institute found that remembering goal locations in virtual reality requires the same brain parts as in real life, using a mouse model. The researchers used virtual reality to test how mice learned spatial routes, finding that mice with a protein deficiency performed poorly.

SourceRIKEN·JournaleNeuro·DateMay 1, 2017

SNMMI publishes appropriate use criteria for V/Q imaging in pulmonary embolism

The Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging (SNMMI) has published appropriate use criteria for ventilation/perfusion imaging in pulmonary embolism. The guidelines aim to promote cost-effective and appropriate utilization of advanced diagnostic imaging services, affecting approximately 300,000 Americans each year.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateMay 1, 2017

Zapping bacteria with sanitizers made of paper

A Rutgers-led team has invented a promising technology for killing microbes using paper-based sanitizers, which can eliminate more than 99 percent of bacteria cells. The devices consist of paper with thin layers of aluminum and hexagon/honeycomb patterns that produce plasma to kill microorganisms.

SourceRutgers University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 1, 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.

Smoke-free policies help decrease smoking rates for LGBT population

Researchers found that LGBT individuals living in smoke-free communities are more likely to want to quit smoking than those in non-smoke-free areas. The study, published in Nicotine and Tobacco Research, also reveals a higher prevalence of smoking among the LGBT population compared to heterosexual adults.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalNicotine & Tobacco Research·DateMay 1, 2017

National study shows interventions like telephone calls can reduce suicides

A national study found that phone calls to suicidal patients following ED discharge led to a significant reduction in future suicide attempts. The year-long trial, involving 1,376 patients nationwide, provided specialized screening, safety planning guidance and follow-up telephone calls.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateMay 1, 2017

New porous solids may lead to better drugs

A new discovery in chemistry could lead to more specific and desired forms of drugs, with the creation of chiral molecular sieves that can sort and create left- and right-handed molecules. This breakthrough has broad implications for pharmaceutical companies and may improve medications such as ibuprofen.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 1, 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.

'Silent seizures' discovered in patients with Alzheimer's disease

Researchers have identified 'silent seizures' in the brains of patients with Alzheimer's disease, a discovery that could lead to new treatments. The findings suggest that these non-convulsive hippocampal seizures may contribute to or accelerate the degenerative process underlying the disease.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalNature Medicine·DateMay 1, 2017

Physicists breeding Schroedinger cat states

Researchers at CIFAR have successfully bred Schrödinger cat states in optics, amplifying classical states of light beyond microscopic limits. This breakthrough could lead to applications in quantum communication, teleportation, and cryptography.

SourceCIFAR·JournalNature Photonics·DateMay 1, 2017

Cities provide paths from poverty to sustainability

A new study from the Santa Fe Institute proposes a quantitative index to measure sustainable development in cities, revealing systematic correlations between urbanization and poverty reduction. The research also highlights persistent inequalities in access to housing and services across neighborhoods.

SourceSanta Fe Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 1, 2017

Women should continue cervical cancer screening as they approach age 65

A new study found that cervical cancer incidence rates among women without a hysterectomy increase with age until 70 and do not begin to decline until 85. Many women over 65 have inadequate screening history, highlighting the need for continued surveillance.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateMay 1, 2017

SOBP honors Stephen Strakowski with the 2017 George N. Thompson Award

The Society of Biological Psychiatry honored Dr. Stephen Strakowski with the 2017 George N. Thompson Award for his leadership and service to the organization. Dr. Strakowski, Inaugural Chair of Psychiatry at the University of Texas at Austin, was recognized for his contributions to promoting the welfare of SOBP.

SourceParthenon Management Group·DateMay 1, 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.

Under pressure: Understanding how portal hypertension occurs following liver injury

Investigators at MUSC have identified a critical regulatory mechanism for nitric oxide production in liver endothelial cells following liver injury. The study reveals that inhibition of CAV1 or GRK2 phosphorylation compromises complex formation and reduces eNOS activity, leading to increased portal pressure.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateMay 1, 2017

Study offers new insight into powerful inflammatory regulator

A new study in mice reveals how the protein Brd4 boosts the inflammatory response, with both beneficial and harmful effects. The findings suggest that Brd4 can protect the body from infection but also contribute to chronic inflammatory diseases.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 1, 2017

Adjusting meds may reduce fall risk in older adults

A new study suggests that adjusting psychiatric medication can reduce the risk of falls among older adults. The research found an association between depressive symptoms and falls, with moderate increases in depressive symptoms linked to a 30% higher risk of experiencing a fall over two years.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·DateMay 1, 2017

Servers perceive well-dressed diners as better tippers, study finds

A study by University of Missouri researchers found that restaurant servers rely on first impressions and stereotypes to determine which customers will leave better tips. Well-dressed customers, regardless of race or gender, were perceived as more likely to leave good tips.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalCornell Hospitality Quarterly·DateMay 1, 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.

UH graduate mathematics student earns DOE research award

Kyle Williams, a UH doctoral student in applied mathematics, has been selected for the DOE's Graduate Student Research Program. He will work at Sandia National Lab to further his research on computational fluid dynamics and Navier-Stokes equations.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateMay 1, 2017

SOBP honors Trevor Robbins with 2017 Gold Medal Award

Trevor Robbins is honored with the 2017 Gold Medal Award for his fundamental contributions to understanding cortico-striatal function and its role in psychiatric disorders. He has made significant advancements in bridging mechanisms of pathology to new treatments, including developing the CANTAB computerized neuropsychological assessment.

SourceParthenon Management Group·DateMay 1, 2017

Ill-gotten gains are worth less in the brain

A UCL-led study found that the brain responds weaker to money gained through immoral actions compared to those earned morally. The research identified a neural process that dampens the appeal of profiting at others' expense.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateMay 1, 2017

Widespread vitamin D deficiency likely due to sunscreen use, increase of chronic diseases

A study published in The Journal of the American Osteopathic Association finds that vitamin D deficiency is widespread due to sunscreen use and inadequate sun exposure. Chronic diseases like Type 2 Diabetes and malabsorption disorders can inhibit vitamin D metabolism, leading to symptoms such as muscle weakness and bone fractures.

SourceAmerican Osteopathic Association·JournalThe Journal of the American Osteopathic Association·DateMay 1, 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.

How life (barely) survived the greatest extinction?

International scientists have discovered a short-lived community of organisms that may hold clues to forces shaping our planet today. The community, which included microbial mats, trace fossils, bivalves, and echinoids, was found in a moderately deep-water setting near Shangsi in China's Sichuan Province.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalGeology·DateMay 1, 2017

Carolyn Rodriguez and Todd Gould receive SOBP 2017 A.E. Bennett Research Award

Dr. Carolyn Rodriguez, a neuroscientist and clinical psychiatrist, received the award for her discovery of ketamine's rapid therapeutic effects on OCD symptoms, while Dr. Todd Gould was recognized for his work on ketamine's antidepressant effects in treating depression. The prestigious awards come with a $5,000 cash prize.

SourceParthenon Management Group·DateMay 1, 2017

How ex-convicts should approach a job interview

Research suggests that apologizing for a past crime is the most effective strategy in reducing concerns about trustworthiness. Justifying or making excuses can lead to negative hiring decisions. Apologizing shows remorse and reduces deviant behaviors at work.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Applied Psychology·DateMay 1, 2017

The science behind making the perfect pitch

Researchers at Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences used mathematical models to determine the best way to throw an object at a target. They found that underhand throws are best for close, high targets and overhand throws are more accurate for targets below the shoulder.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateMay 1, 2017