Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for April 11, 2018


Digital addiction increases loneliness, anxiety and depression

A new study published in NeuroRegulation found that smartphone overuse is associated with higher levels of loneliness, anxiety and depression. The study suggests strategies such as turning off push notifications, scheduling focused work periods and engaging in face-to-face interactions to combat digital addiction.

SourceSan Francisco State University·JournalNeuroRegulation·DateApr 11, 2018

Unusual climate during Roman times plunged Eurasia into hunger and disease

A recent study published in Scientific Reports found that a series of volcanic eruptions in the mid-500s CE resulted in a prolonged period of cold and darkness, making it difficult for humans to survive. The poor climate conditions significantly reduced food production and vitamin D levels, further weakening the already hungry population.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 11, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

There's a better way to screen for cervical cancer

A new study suggests that high-quality cervical cancer screening can be effectively done using automated technology, which could improve coverage in underserved regions. The researchers developed a novel risk score algorithm based on computer-scanned liquid-based slide features to separate HPV-positive women for treatment.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateApr 11, 2018

New glaucoma treatment could ease symptoms while you sleep

Researchers at University of British Columbia developed a new hydrogel-based eye drop that effectively treats glaucoma by quickly absorbing and reaching the back of the eye. The treatment, which contains cannabigerolic acid, was tested on donated pig corneas and showed promising results.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalDrug Delivery and Translational Research·DateApr 11, 2018

Steven Harrison, Ph.D. receives 2018 Richard King Award

Dr. Steven Harrison received the 2018 Richard King Trainee Award for his article on resolving variant interpretations submitted to ClinVar, published in Genetics in Medicine. The award recognizes high-quality research by trainees in genetics and genomics.

SourceAmerican College of Medical Genetics and Genomics·DateApr 11, 2018

An immunological memory in the brain

Researchers found that microglia's immune response to inflammation can create a 'memory' that worsens Alzheimer's and stroke. The study suggests that environmental factors could trigger long-term changes in the brain's immune cells, leading to increased disease severity.

SourceDZNE - German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases·JournalNature·DateApr 11, 2018
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.

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.

Nature-based solutions can prevent $50 billion in Gulf Coast flood damages

A new study reveals that restoring coastal wetlands and oyster reefs can significantly reduce flood risks on the US Gulf Coast, with potential benefits exceeding $7 in direct flood-reduction benefits for every $1 spent on restoration. Nature-based solutions can be more cost-effective than traditional 'gray' measures like seawalls.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 11, 2018

Stronger evidence for a weaker Atlantic overturning

The Atlantic overturning has slowed down by 15% since the middle of the 20th century due to human-caused global warming. This weakening causes widespread cooling in the northern Atlantic and shifts the Gulf Stream northwards.

SourcePotsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)·JournalNature·DateApr 11, 2018

Fossil study sheds light on ancient butterfly wing colors

A team of researchers has discovered new evidence for color in Mesozoic fossils, revealing that intricate microstructures created the metallic bronze to golden colors found on ancient butterfly wings. This study extends the evidence for light-scattering structures in insect fossil records by over 130 million years.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 11, 2018

Thyroid tumors in Alaska natives are larger and more advanced at diagnosis

A new study of 45 years reveals that Alaska Natives have a similar incidence of thyroid cancer as the U.S. white population, but their tumors tend to be larger and have spread beyond a localized area. The study suggests that differences in access to healthcare may contribute to these discrepancies.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalThyroid·DateApr 11, 2018
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.

Faba fix for corn's nitrogen need

Researchers found that faba bean cover crops can add a significant amount of nitrogen to the soil, reducing the need for commercial fertilizer by up to half. The timing and management of faba bean residues also play a crucial role in maximizing the benefits of this practice.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalAgronomy Journal·DateApr 11, 2018

Brain activity can predict success of depression treatment

Researchers at McLean Hospital have identified a method to predict depressed patients' treatment prognosis by analyzing brain activity in the rostral anterior cingulate cortex. The study showed that patients with higher activity before treatment are more likely to respond positively, allowing clinicians to tailor treatment approaches.

SourceMcLean Hospital·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateApr 11, 2018

Research brief: Vaccines to treat opioid abuse and prevent fatal overdoses

Researchers have developed vaccines against heroin and prescription opioids that target the brain's opioid receptors, preventing addiction-relevant behaviors. The vaccines appear safe and effective in blocking opioid distribution to the brain, potentially helping prevent fatal overdoses.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalJournal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics·DateApr 11, 2018
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Does age at menopause affect memory?

A study of over 1,300 women found that entering menopause at a later age was associated with better verbal memory skills. After adjusting for other factors, the researchers found a small but significant difference in memory scores, recalling an average of 0.09 additional words per year.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateApr 11, 2018

Double hit on melanoma unlocks barrier to immunotherapy

A study published in Science Translational Medicine reveals that macrophages suppress the activity of CD8 T cells, a type of immune cell that recognizes and kills melanoma cells. By disrupting macrophages, researchers found improved efficacy for immunotherapy in experimental models of melanoma.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateApr 11, 2018
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.

3-D printed active metamaterials for sound and vibration control

The new 3D printed metamaterials, developed by researchers at the University of Southern California, can block sound waves and mechanical vibrations remotely using a magnetic field. They have the potential to be used for noise cancellation, vibration control, and sonic cloaking.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateApr 11, 2018

Study explores new strategy to develop a malaria vaccine

Researchers at Yale University have developed a serum that reduces malaria infection in mice by targeting a protein in the saliva of infected mosquitoes. The novel approach could potentially be used to enhance existing malaria vaccines and has implications for other mosquito-borne infections.

SourceYale University·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateApr 11, 2018

Specific bacteria in the small intestine are crucial for fat absorption

A new study found that specific bacteria in the small intestine play a key role in fat absorption and digestion, with certain microbes multiplying in response to high-fat foods. The findings suggest that these microbes facilitate the production and secretion of digestive enzymes, enabling rapid absorption of calorie-dense foods.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateApr 11, 2018

Student class engagement soars when they use personal data to learn

A Brigham Young University study found that students who analyzed their own microbiome data spent 31% more time on coursework and reported increased confidence in scientific reasoning abilities. This approach may increase student engagement in science education, inspiring lifelong learning.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 11, 2018
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.

Babies make the link between vocal and facial emotion

Researchers from UNIGE found that six-month-old babies can differentiate between happiness and anger based on voices and facial expressions. The study, published in PLOS ONE, shows that babies look longer at an angry face with a happy voice than at a neutral face or one expressing anger.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 11, 2018

US public companies have increasingly shorter lifespans, IU research says

Research from Indiana University's Kelley School of Business found that US publicly listed companies' chances of surviving over five years have declined significantly since the 1960s. The study suggests that traditional views on company age may no longer predict organizational success, as organizations become increasingly temporary.

SourceIndiana University·JournalAcademy of Management Annals·DateApr 11, 2018

Scientists discover a role for 'junk' DNA

Researchers found that satellite DNA, once thought to be 'junk,' is essential for holding the genome together and ensuring cell survival. This conserved function is critical for chromosomes to bundle correctly inside the nucleus.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·DateApr 11, 2018

Mutant ferrets offer clues to human brain size

Researchers created a genetically engineered ferret with a mutation linked to abnormally small human brain size, revealing an evolutionary mechanism governing cerebral cortical size. The study suggests that genes responsible for centriole function played a crucial role in the expansion of human brains over time.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalNature·DateApr 11, 2018
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.

Personalized tumor vaccine shows promise in pilot trial

A new type of cancer vaccine made from patients' own immune cells has yielded promising results in an initial clinical trial. The vaccine triggers a broad anti-tumor T-cell response, with half of the vaccinated patients showing signs of improved survival and one patient remaining disease-free for five years.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateApr 11, 2018

It's not your fitness tracker -- it's you

A recent study published by the University of Southern California found that people from different countries have vastly different perceptions of their physical activity. The study, which tracked participants in the US, Netherlands, and England, revealed that Americans tend to overestimate their activity levels while Europeans underest...

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·DateApr 11, 2018

The neural circuitry of parental behavior

Researchers have identified a network of brain cells that orchestrate parental behavior in mice, including hormonal changes and altered social behaviors. The discovery could one day help develop treatments for postpartum depression and other related conditions.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalNature·DateApr 11, 2018
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.

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.

The dinosaur menu, as revealed by calcium

Researchers studied fossilized remains from Morocco and Niger to reconstruct the past's food chains, explaining how large predators coexisted. Calcium isotope analysis showed that carnivores shared resources by subtly hunting different prey types, such as herbivorous dinosaurs or fish.

SourceCNRS·DateApr 11, 2018

Swansea scientists discover greener way of making plastics

Researchers at Swansea University's Energy Safety Research Institute have found a way to convert CO2 into ethylene, the basis of making plastics, at room temperature. This process has the potential to offset global carbon emissions and utilise half a billion tonnes of emitted CO2 annually.

SourceSwansea University·JournalACS Catalysis·DateApr 11, 2018

New bioinformatics tool identifies and classifies CRISPR-Cas systems

A new bioinformatics tool, CRISPRdisco, has been developed to identify and classify CRISPR-Cas systems in genome assemblies. The software detects CRISPR repeats and accurately assigns class, type, and subtypes, enabling researchers to distinguish between complete and incomplete CRISPR systems.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalThe CRISPR Journal·DateApr 11, 2018
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.

Scientists find excess mitochondrial iron, Huntington's disease link

Researchers found mice engineered with Huntington's disease have excessive mitochondrial iron accumulation, leading to dysfunction and neuronal death. This study identifies a pathway for the neurodegenerative disease and has implications for related disorders like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's.

SourceUniversity of Wyoming·JournalFree Radical Biology and Medicine·DateApr 11, 2018
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.

Do Democratic and Republican doctors treat patients differently at the end of life?

A new Harvard Medical School study published in The BMJ found that a doctor's political affiliation has no bearing on clinical decisions at the end of life. Despite previous research suggesting personal beliefs influence decisions, this analysis of nearly 1.5 million Medicare beneficiaries reveals no differences in treatment patterns b...

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalThe BMJ·DateApr 11, 2018

From property damage to lost production: How natural disasters impact economics

The study highlights how natural disasters can disrupt industries and regions, causing significant economic losses. Intersectoral and interregional linkages contribute to these losses, which can be up to 50-70% of standard estimates for major metropolitan areas.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalEarth System Dynamics·DateApr 11, 2018

ACMG Foundation announces recipients of 2018 Shire/ACMG Foundation Next Generation Awards

The ACMG Foundation for Genetic and Genomic Medicine announced four recipients of the 2018 Shire/ACMG Foundation Next Generation Fellowship Awards. These awards provide funding for clinical genetics and genomics residency fellowships as well as medical biochemical genetics specialty fellowships, supporting training in medical genetics.

SourceAmerican College of Medical Genetics and Genomics·DateApr 11, 2018

Snowfall patterns may provide clues to Greenland Ice Sheet

A new study from University of Wisconsin-Madison scientists describes a method using cloud characteristics to quantify snowfall on the Greenland Ice Sheet. The research found two distinct cloud types producing snow at Summit Station, with mixed-phase clouds accounting for 51% of snow accumulation.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalAtmospheric Chemistry and Physics·DateApr 11, 2018
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.

Scientists to build the avian tree of life

Scientists are creating a comprehensive evolutionary tree of over 10,000 bird species using cutting-edge technologies and public data release. The OpenWings project will provide unparalleled insights into avian diversity and evolution.

SourceLouisiana State University·DateApr 11, 2018

'Everything-repellent' coating could kidproof phones, homes

A new 'omniphobic' coating repels liquids, including oil and alcohol, while remaining clear and durable. The coating could be used in various industries, including childcare, refrigeration and power generation, to increase efficiency.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateApr 11, 2018

Biodiversity: All the colors of the rainbow

Researchers have discovered three new species of chameleons in Madagascar, showcasing the island's extraordinary biodiversity. The newly found Calumma uetzi features vibrant display colors when males interact with females, while a second species, Calumma juliae, is found only in a protected forest fragment under threat from deforestation.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalZoological Journal of the Linnean Society·DateApr 11, 2018

Plants 'hedge their bets' in germination: The route to better crop yields

Researchers at the University of Birmingham have discovered a way for plants to 'hedge their bets' by germinating seeds at different times, reducing variability in agriculture. By understanding this process, farmers may be able to increase potential yields and address agronomic challenges.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateApr 11, 2018
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.

Prototype of most advanced quantum memory presented by two Kazan universities

Researchers from Kazan Federal University and Kazan Quantum Center have developed a multiresonator broadband quantum memory-interface with a record-breaking 16.3% efficiency at room temperature. The innovation has the potential to create universal memory solutions for quantum computers on superconducting qubits.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 11, 2018

Synchrotron science could give soybeans a boost

Scientists have gained insight into how soil bacteria sense oxygen levels, which could help develop new treatments for promoting crop growth and tackling disease. The findings focus on the FixL/FixJ protein system in soybean nodule bacteria, essential for nitrogen supply.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalScience Signaling·DateApr 11, 2018

Repeat spawning comes with tradeoffs for trout

Steelhead trout that spawn multiple times have higher lifetime reproductive success, but at the cost of increased mortality and energy expenditure. The study found that single spawners die after reproduction, while repeat spawners save energy for later migrations.

SourcePurdue University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 11, 2018

WHOI among first funding recipients of The Audacious Project

The Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution will study the ocean's twilight zone using next-generation robotic vehicles and sensors. The project aims to understand the region's ecosystem, its potential benefits for humanity, and its impact on climate regulation.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·DateApr 11, 2018
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.

Training the immune system to fight ovarian cancer

A new personalized vaccine has shown promise in boosting immune responses and increasing survival rates in patients with advanced ovarian cancer. The vaccine combines different immunotherapies to better tackle the disease, which is often diagnosed at later stages and lacks curative treatment options.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateApr 11, 2018

Old proteins tell tales of historical artifacts and the people who touched them

Researchers have developed a technique to analyze old proteins on historical artifacts, providing insight into past lifestyles and medical conditions. This method, using chromatography resins, can identify biomarkers like morphine and kidney disease indicators, shedding light on the lives of those who created or used these items.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateApr 11, 2018
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Hormone imbalance causes treatment-resistant hypertension

Researchers from Queen Mary University of London have identified a hormone imbalance as the underlying cause of treatment-resistant hypertension in around 10% of patients. The discovery highlights the potential benefits of spironolactone and amiloride in managing resistant hypertension.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·DateApr 11, 2018
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.

How to catch a fish genome with big data

Scientists successfully assembled and annotated the genome of California Yellowtail fish, a high-value species in the sashimi industry. The study improves understanding of sex determination and provides insights into developing more palatable farmed fish and optimizing aquaculture practices.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·JournalBMC Genomics·DateApr 11, 2018

Study reveals declining Central American frog species are bouncing back

A study published in Science reveals that some Central American frog species are recovering from a deadly fungal pathogen, with skin secretions showing improved antimicrobial defenses. The research suggests that the pathogen remains lethal, but frogs' natural defenses appear to be more effective than before the epidemic.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalScience·DateApr 11, 2018

The secret life of teeth: Evo-devo models of tooth development

Researchers found a simple patterning cascade model that accounts for shifts in molar evolution during hominin origins, predicting variations in molar configuration based on embryonic signaling cells. The study suggests small, subtle tweaks to developmental toolkit can result in complex anatomy.

SourceArizona State University·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 11, 2018

Genetic variant might be a better marker for heart disease

Researchers have found a newly identified subset of a known genetic variant associated with an increased risk of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in individuals of South Asian descent. The study suggests that this genetic variant and its subset may be better markers for carriers of heart dysfunction in this population.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateApr 11, 2018
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.

Darker emoji skin tones promote diversity, Twitter study shows

A study of a billion Twitter posts found that users with darker skin tones modified emojis more often to express their identity, while users with light skin were less likely to make changes. The results also showed that darker skin tones were underrepresented globally, but still widely used.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·DateApr 11, 2018

NASA finds wind shear slamming Tropical Cyclone Keni

Tropical Cyclone Keni is being battered by vertical wind shear, with NASA-NOAA's Suomi NPP satellite revealing clouds and storms pushed southeast of the center. Sea surface temperatures are too cool to support a tropical cyclone, making Keni an asymmetric and elongated storm.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateApr 11, 2018

NASA sees ex-Tropical Cyclone Iris now better organized

The remnant low pressure area of Tropical Cyclone Iris appears more circular and organized, with a consolidating banding of thunderstorms. The storm's remnants are forecast to turn southwest and may regenerate in the next few days, potentially regaining tropical cyclone status.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateApr 11, 2018

Reconstruction of major North Atlantic circulation system shows weakening

The Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) has slowed down by about 15 percent since the 1950s, with recent years showing a record low. This weakening is linked to rising carbon dioxide levels and impacts fish distributions, ocean temperatures, and fisheries in the Northeast U.S. Shelf.

SourceNOAA Northeast Fisheries Science Center·JournalNature·DateApr 11, 2018
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.

Swamp microbe has pollution-munching power

A Princeton University researcher has discovered a bacterium that can break down toxic metal pollutants in the absence of oxygen. This microbe, Acidimicrobiaceae bacterium A6, can perform chemical conversion in anaerobic conditions, potentially providing an efficient alternative to costly oxygen-dependent methods.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 11, 2018

Fungi in fashion

Researchers at the University of Delaware created a biodegradable shoe using mushrooms, chicken feathers, and textile waste. The shoe's sole is made from a bio-composite material that can be composted, reducing waste in the fashion industry.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·DateApr 11, 2018

Can you really be obese yet healthy?

A new paper challenges the concept of 'healthy obesity,' arguing that it is flawed and misleading. Researchers propose further investigation into factors such as early life events, smoking, and obesity duration to understand why some obese individuals are healthy while others develop diseases.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalAnnals of Human Biology·DateApr 11, 2018

200-million-year-old insect color revealed by fossil scales

Fossil insects from Jurassic and mid-Cretaceous periods exhibit structural colors due to wavelength-selective scattering of light. The discovery provides insight into the evolution of lepidopteran scales and their optical properties.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 11, 2018

TESS readies for takeoff

The Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) will survey nearly the entire sky for signs of passing planets. The spacecraft aims to detect thousands of stars hosting transiting planets and measure the masses of at least 50 small planets less than four times that of Earth.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateApr 11, 2018
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.

Alcoholic liver disease replaces hepatitis C infection as the leading cause of liver transplantation in patients without hepatocellular carcinoma in the USA

Alcoholic liver disease has become the leading cause of liver transplantation in the US, surpassing hepatitis C infection, according to two studies. Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis is also on the rise, ranking second as a cause of liver transplantation due to chronic liver disease.

SourceEuropean Association for the Study of the Liver·DateApr 11, 2018

Surprising discovery: Sweet tooth gene connected with less body fat

Research found that a genetic variation in FGF21 is associated with lower body fat percentage and increased blood pressure. The study of over 450,000 individuals suggests that people with this genetic predisposition tend to consume more sugar than others.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 11, 2018
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.

New technology could wean the battery world off cobalt

Researchers at UC Berkeley have developed a new technology that uses manganese instead of cobalt to increase lithium-ion battery capacity. This breakthrough could reduce the world's reliance on cobalt, which is mined by hand and has raised concerns about child labor.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNature·DateApr 11, 2018

The emotions we feel may shape what we see

Researchers found that participants saw a neutral face as smiling more when paired with an unseen positive image. The study suggests that our emotional experiences shape our perception of the world.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateApr 11, 2018

Mental disorders among leading causes of illness in children worldwide

Global rates of mental disorders among children remain stable, with prevalence high and constant across emerging regions. Mental disorders surpassed infectious diseases as main causes of disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) in children, according to a new study.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalChild and Adolescent Psychiatry and Mental Health·DateApr 11, 2018
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.

The brain combats dementia by shifting resources

Researchers discovered that patients with Primary Progressive Aphasia use different brain regions to process language, compensating for damaged areas. This finding holds hope for targeted treatments and earlier disease assessments.

SourceBaycrest Centre for Geriatric Care·DateApr 11, 2018

Novel mosquito net provides children with greater protection against malaria

A two-year trial showed that a long-lasting insecticidal net treated with piperonyl butoxide reduced malaria prevalence by 44% and 33% compared to standard nets. The study also demonstrated unprecedented control through indoor residual spraying, reducing infection by 48%. WHO has revised its recommendations for the use of these novel n...

SourceLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine·JournalThe Lancet·DateApr 11, 2018

Sensing interactions between molecules

Physicists and chemists at the University of Münster have developed a microscopic method to image organic molecules with exceptional resolution. The technique uses an atomically defined probe tip that greatly increases imaging resolution by reducing undesired interaction between atoms.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateApr 11, 2018

New methodology helps study of promising targeted drug delivery scaffold

Researchers develop SyMAPS technique to study self-assembling virus shells, which can be used for disease detection, drug delivery and vaccinations. The technique allows testing of nearly 2,600 versions of the protein, providing insight into how mutations change the scaffolding.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 11, 2018
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

How life generates new forms

A recent study found that gene regulation by protein transcription factors is the most likely mechanism for generating evolutionary change. This discovery challenges previous assumptions and sheds light on the process of evolutionary adaptation.

SourceSanta Fe Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 11, 2018

NIST's new quantum method generates really random numbers

Researchers at NIST developed a quantum method to generate random numbers guaranteed by quantum mechanics. The new technique surpasses previous methods and enhances security in cryptographic systems. By analyzing correlations between distant photons, the researchers certified and quantified randomness available in the data.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalNature·DateApr 11, 2018

Synthesizing a deadly mushroom toxin

Scientists have successfully synthesized α-amanitin, a deadly mushroom toxin with potential anti-cancer properties. The breakthrough could lead to improved production methods and potentially attenuate the toxin's toxicity.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateApr 11, 2018

Recent land loss in Mississippi Delta vastly exceeds prehistoric land gain

The Mississippi Delta has experienced high net land loss over the past century due to human activities and sea level rise. A new study reveals that only a small portion of the delta will be sustainable in the future, as growth rates were much lower than current land loss rates.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 11, 2018
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Nasal mist vaccine suppresses peanut allergy in mice

Researchers developed a nasal spray vaccine that shifts the immune response toward peanut tolerance in mice with established allergies. The vaccine's nano-emulsion adjuvant promotes a strong infection-fighting response that suppresses allergic reactions.

SourceFood Allergy Research & Education·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateApr 11, 2018

Road salt pollutes drinking water wells in suburban New York state

A study by the Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies found that distance to roads and amount of nearby pavement significantly influence well water salinity. Hotspots with high salinization were identified, particularly near sharp turns, steep grades, and narrow streets.

SourceCary Institute of Ecosystem Studies·JournalJournal of Environmental Quality·DateApr 11, 2018
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.

Cactus roots inspire creation of water-retaining material

Scientists have developed a material that mimics cactus roots' ability to absorb and retain vast amounts of water with minimal evaporation. The material, called CRIM, can absorb water nearly 930 times faster than it loses through evaporation.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Macro Letters·DateApr 11, 2018

BU medical student receives Fulbright Award to India

Nina Gummadi, a third-year medical student at Boston University School of Medicine, has received a Fulbright Scholar Award to conduct research on mental health issues in orphaned children in India. Her project aims to characterize barriers to mental health care and develop screening protocols for this at-risk population.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·DateApr 11, 2018

Novel drug shows promise against acute myeloid leukemia

A clinical trial is underway to test an experimental peptide drug, ALRN-6924, which has shown promise against acute myeloid leukemia (AML) by tripling the median survival rate in animal models. The drug targets p53 and MDMX/MDM2 proteins, blocking tumor growth in both mature and immature AML cells.

SourceAlbert Einstein College of Medicine·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateApr 11, 2018

The thermodynamics of computing

Researchers found that the efficiency of information processing cannot be increased indefinitely, with thermodynamic and information theory combining to identify key factors. Better understanding and tailored software can influence the limit.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalPhysical Review X·DateApr 11, 2018

Pepper plant sops up personal care product antibiotic

Researchers found that pepper plants metabolize triclocarban, a personal care product antibiotic, leading to potential health concerns. The study's results suggest that the plant's ability to convert the substance into other molecules affects its safety assessment.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateApr 11, 2018

Study: Vaccine suppresses peanut allergies in mice

Researchers have developed a vaccine that can redirect the immune response to prevent allergic symptoms, providing extended relief from peanut allergies. The study shows promise for potential therapy of allergies in humans and may lead to long-lasting suppression of food allergies.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateApr 11, 2018

Want computers to see better in the real world? Train them in a virtual reality

Researchers developed a new method to train computers to better recognize objects in the real world by using virtual reality. A virtual dataset called ParallelEye was created, allowing for diverse and realistic images of various scenes, which significantly improved performance on object detection tasks.

SourceChinese Association of Automation·JournalIEEE/CAA Journal of Automatica Sinica·DateApr 11, 2018

The changing chemistry of the Amazonian atmosphere

Researchers from Harvard have quantified the effect of NOx pollution on OH radicals in the Amazon rainforest, finding that daytime peak OH concentrations increase by at least 250% in polluted areas. This study highlights the impact of human activities on atmospheric chemistry, with potential implications for cloud formation and rainfall.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 11, 2018

Discovery could let doctors customize brain's immune response to diseases

Scientists at University of Virginia Health System have found evidence that doctors can load custom blends of immune cells into the brain to battle diseases like Alzheimer's. The discovery enables doctors to tailor immune responses without radiation, a major breakthrough in treating neurological disorders.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateApr 11, 2018

North-exposed ice cliffs accelerate glacier melt

Glacier research suggests north-facing ice cliffs contribute significantly to melting of debris-covered glaciers in the Himalayas. Satellites show rapid mass loss, contrary to initial assumptions that debris protects the ice from direct solar radiation.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 11, 2018

Research gives new understanding of 17th century Scottish natural history

A new study re-examines a 17th-century Scottish natural history book, revealing insights into the country's pre-industrial environmental change. The research, published in the Royal Society Journal of the History of Science, highlights Scotland's lost wildlife species and its ecosystem's preservation of ancient species.

SourceSwansea University·JournalNotes and Records the Royal Society Journal of the History of Science·DateApr 11, 2018

NIH researchers crack mystery behind rare bone disorder

Researchers have identified the genetic basis of melorheostosis, a rare bone disorder characterized by excess bone formation resembling dripping candle wax. The study found that mutations in the MAP2K1 gene were responsible for the condition, offering potential treatment targets and insights into bone development.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 11, 2018

Baby fish led astray by high CO2 in oceans

Researchers found that baby fish are deterred by natural sounds in their habitats due to ocean acidification, and instead attracted to 'white noise' from irrelevant habitats. This could lead to smaller population sizes and impacts on commercial fisheries.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 11, 2018

Atlantic Ocean circulation at weakest point in more than 1,500 years

New research shows Atlantic Ocean circulation has weakened by 15-20% since the mid-1800s, posing a threat to weather patterns and sea levels. The weakening of the Global Ocean Conveyor Belt could disrupt climate regulation and lead to more rapid sea level rise on the US East Coast.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalNature·DateApr 11, 2018

Why do some children read more?

A study of over 11,000 twins found that children's reading level is highly heritable and determines their reading habits. The research highlights the importance of improving both reading skills and motivation to combat a cycle where children avoid reading due to difficulties.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry·DateApr 11, 2018

Most primitive kangaroo ancestor rediscovered after 30 years in obscurity

Scientists have identified the most primitive kangaroo ancestor, Palaeopotorous priscus, which lived around 24 million years ago and was similar to living rat-kangaroos. The discovery sheds light on the evolution of modern kangaroos and their adaptations for hopping gaits.

SourceUppsala University·JournalJournal of Vertebrate Paleontology·DateApr 11, 2018

Scientists discover first subglacial lakes in Canadian Arctic

Two newly discovered subglacial lakes beneath the Devon Ice Cap in the Canadian Arctic are thought to be the first isolated hypersaline lakes in the world. The lakes, containing water four to five times saltier than seawater, exist at temperatures below freezing and have the potential to support microbial life.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 11, 2018