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Science News for April 12, 2018


For repeat-spawning steelhead, more than once is worth the risks

New research shows steelhead trout that spawn repeatedly have greater lifetime reproductive success than those that spawn only once. However, this strategy comes with risks, including the dangers of the ocean and predation. The study's findings could lead to more effective conservation efforts for steelhead populations.

SourceOregon State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 12, 2018

For fewer cast-related ailments in dogs, researchers find taller casts a better fit

Researchers at Colorado State University's Veterinary Teaching Hospital found that taller casts distribute pressure evenly over the leg, reducing pressure sores and soft tissue complications. The study suggests that veterinarians should fit dogs with longer casts to minimize secondary injuries and improve healing outcomes.

SourceMorris Animal Foundation·JournalAmerican Journal of Veterinary Research·DateApr 12, 2018

UNH researchers find combination for small data storage and tinier computers

Researchers at UNH have found a novel material combination that enables more stable perpendicular anisotropic energy, leading to larger amounts of data storage in smaller environments. This breakthrough has the potential to revolutionize information technology, enabling smaller and safer computers.

SourceUniversity of New Hampshire·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 12, 2018

Signs of early aging more likely among adolescent & young adult cancer survivors

Research found higher prevalence of frailty, pre-frailty, and comorbidities like depression & anxiety among adolescent & young adult cancer survivors. Lifestyle factors, including smoking & obesity, contributed to this risk, as did delay in care due to lack of health insurance.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Adolescent and Young Adult Oncology·DateApr 12, 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.

Actual fossil fuel emissions checked with new technique

A team of researchers led by Imperial College London has developed a new technique to estimate CO2 emissions from fossil fuels using atmospheric measurements. The study found that the reported and actual emissions matched up well in California, suggesting the technique could be used globally.

SourceImperial College London·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateApr 12, 2018

A simple tool for doubling down on disease control

Researchers at Georgetown University Medical Center have created a web-based tool to integrate control measures for co-endemic diseases like schistosomiasis and malaria. The tool allows users to assess the outcome of combining control measures based on local conditions and political constraints.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 12, 2018

Tiny microbes make a surprisingly big contribution to carbon release

Researchers estimate that 67% of organic carbon within bedrock is released during erosion, with certain microbe populations using the carbon for nourishment. The findings suggest that this process could negate geological carbon dioxide consumption and impact Earth's climate.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateApr 12, 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.

Team finds a mechanism for the composition of liquid droplets in cells

A team of researchers has found that RNA molecules recognize specific 3D shapes to condense into the same droplet. This mechanism is essential for forming RNA-protein condensates that may serve as 'crucibles' for enhancing biological reactions. The discovery provides insight into the formation of liquid droplets in cells and their pote...

SourceMarine Biological Laboratory·JournalScience·DateApr 12, 2018

Student develops gaming technology for environmental scientific research

A PhD student at The University of Manchester has developed a new method and software for using computer game technology to simulate complex scientific and engineering applications. Using powerful graphics cards, he can run large-scale simulations over 100 times faster than conventional computers, reducing costs from hundreds of thousa...

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalComputer Physics Communications·DateApr 12, 2018

NASA still eyeing ex-Tropical Cyclone Iris' remnants

The remnant low-pressure area of Tropical Cyclone Iris continues to linger in the South Pacific, approximately 285 nautical miles north-northeast of Willis Island, Australia. Global computer forecast models predict the system will remain weak, but there is a possibility it could develop into a weak tropical cyclone after 84 hours.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateApr 12, 2018

First real-world studies report glecaprevir/pibrentasvir to be effective and well tolerated in chronic HCV infection

Two real-world studies from Italy and Germany report high rates of viral suppression and favourable safety profiles for glecaprevir/pibrentasvir in patients with chronic HCV infection. The treatment was found to be effective across a range of different patient types, with over 98% achieving sustained virological response.

SourceEuropean Association for the Study of the Liver·DateApr 12, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

The secret to being cool: Try smiling

A study by Caleb Warren and colleagues found that participants rated smiling models as cooler than inexpressive models in print advertisements. The exception was competitive situations where an inexpressive athlete was rated more cool and dominant.

SourceSociety for Consumer Psychology·JournalJournal of Consumer Psychology·DateApr 12, 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.

Tiny probe can see and take body temperatures

Researchers at the University of Adelaide have developed a tiny fibre-optic probe that can measure temperature and see deep inside the body. The probe has potential to help study drug-induced hyperthermia and provide insights into other diseases, such as optimising thermal treatment for cancers.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalOptics Letters·DateApr 12, 2018

The neurons the power parenting

Researchers found that individual aspects of parenting, such as motor behaviors and motivation, are controlled by distinct pools of galanin neurons. This discovery sheds new light on why some people appear to be natural parents while others exhibit abusive behavior.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature·DateApr 12, 2018

Screening for hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with hepatitis C-related cirrhosis achieving sustained virological response is likely to be cost effective

A Canadian study found that biannual ultrasound screening for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients with hepatitis C-related liver cirrhosis after achieving a sustained virological response (SVR) to direct-acting antiviral agents is likely to be cost-effective. However, surveillance is unlikely to be cost-effective in patients wit...

SourceEuropean Association for the Study of the Liver·DateApr 12, 2018
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.

Night owls have higher risk of dying sooner

A new study published in Chronobiology International found that night owls have a 10% higher risk of dying than morning larks. This is the first study to look at mortality risk and highlights the importance of allowing evening types greater flexibility in working hours.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalChronobiology International·DateApr 12, 2018

Dialysis providers' awareness of racial disparities in transplantation is low

A recent study reveals that dialysis providers' awareness of racial disparities in kidney transplant waitlisting is low. Healthcare providers play a crucial role in reducing these disparities, but education and training are necessary to improve equity in access to transplantation.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateApr 12, 2018

Children's gestures, and what they mean

The EcoGest project aims to understand how children's gestures are connected to communication, with a focus on iconic gestures that pertain to the forms, functions, and movements of objects. Researchers will record children aged 4-5 years old in various communicative situations to analyze their gesturing patterns.

SourceBielefeld University·DateApr 12, 2018

Keeping an eye on the health of structures

Researchers used synthetic-aperture radar data from four satellites to analyze the Lake Urmia Causeway in Iran, finding accelerated deformation due to soil consolidation and human activity. They also developed a predictive model for future deformation, highlighting the potential of space-based monitoring for critical structures.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 12, 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.

Hepatitis E virus infections can be life threatening and transmitted through blood products

Researchers found that hepatitis E virus (HEV) infections can be fatal in immunocompromised individuals and are linked to blood-borne transmission, highlighting the importance of HEV RNA screening of all blood products destined for transplant or immunosuppressed patients. The studies also show that HEV infection has been increasing ste...

SourceEuropean Association for the Study of the Liver·DateApr 12, 2018

Marker substance for research into brain diseases

Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a marker substance to visualize NMDA receptors on nerve cells using positron emission tomography (PET). This will aid in researching various brain diseases like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and depression. The PET tracer may also help determine the correct dosage of drugs influencing NMDA receptor ...

SourceETH Zurich·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateApr 12, 2018

Sexual objectification influences visual perception

Researchers found that symmetrical stimuli are less likely to trigger an inversion effect when targets are sexualized, suggesting a cognitive mechanism behind human sexual objectification. Visual exploration strategies may play a role in this phenomenon, with lower fixations on the face region of sexualized targets.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 12, 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.

RAND identifies new strategies for countering Russian social media

A new RAND Corporation report reveals Russia's sophisticated social media campaign targeting the Baltics, Ukraine, and nearby states. The report recommends strengthening tracking, blocking, and tagging of Russian propaganda, offering alternative media, and developing compelling arguments to align populations with Western values.

SourceRAND Corporation·DateApr 12, 2018

How social media helps scientists get the message across

A new study published in PeerJ found that scientists who communicate their research through social media, particularly Twitter, tend to receive more citations. This positive correlation suggests that science communication can help increase the reach of scientific discoveries.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalPeerJ·DateApr 12, 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.

Recycling experts hit milestone in quest for zero-waste phone

Researchers developed a gravity separation process to cleanly lift organic resins from inorganic fibreglass, making it possible to recycle non-metal parts of cellphones. The process has the potential to create raw materials for construction and insulation.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalWaste Management·DateApr 12, 2018

Study suggests ways to close CEO pay gap

Researchers examined how cultural perceptions affect compensation of female CEOs in China, where women earn significantly less than men. Female CEOs can narrow the pay gap by exhibiting agentic qualities or working in female-dominated industries, but not both.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalJournal of Business Ethics·DateApr 12, 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.

Equal earnings help couples say 'I do' and stay together

A recent study by Patrick Ishizuka at Cornell University suggests that cohabitating couples are more likely to get married when they earn as much as their married peers. When both partners have equal earnings, they are less likely to separate. The study validates a theory called the marriage bar, which states that couples who reach a c...

SourceCornell University·JournalDemography·DateApr 12, 2018

Remnants of antibiotics persist in treated farm waste, research finds

Research reveals that advanced treatment technologies on dairy farms do not fully remove antibiotics from manure, leaving behind concerning levels of antibiotic residues. Composting and multistep processes may help reduce these levels, according to lead researcher Diana Aga.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·DateApr 12, 2018

How mitochondria cope with too much work

Researchers discovered that mitochondria employ the mitoCPR response to handle overwhelming protein imports, involving increased expression of PDR3 and genes facilitating protein clearance. The mechanism's existence in higher eukaryotes like humans remains unknown.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateApr 12, 2018

St. Jude Cloud launches for researchers worldwide

Researchers worldwide can now access the world's largest public repository of pediatric cancer genomics data via St. Jude Cloud. The platform offers accelerated data mining, analysis, and visualization capabilities, enabling faster progress toward cures for catastrophic diseases of childhood. By harnessing collective power, global rese...

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·DateApr 12, 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.

Study explores carbohydrates' impact on head, neck cancers

A new study reports that consuming high amounts of carbohydrates and sugar prior to treatment for head and neck cancer may increase patients' risks of cancer recurrence and mortality. However, moderate fat and starchy food consumption after treatment appears to have protective benefits, reducing disease recurrence and death rates.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalInternational Journal of Cancer·DateApr 12, 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.

Optical tweezers steer a chemical reaction from just 2 atoms

Scientists have successfully trapped and manipulated two individual sodium and cesium atoms using optical tweezers, resulting in the creation of a new sodium-cesium molecule. This technique enables precise control over chemical reactions, paving the way for studying complex molecules and designer molecules for quantum applications.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateApr 12, 2018

'Scaffolding' method allows biochemists to see proteins in remarkable detail

UCLA biochemists have developed a new technique called cryo-electron microscopy that allows them to view large biomolecules like viruses in extraordinary detail. Using this method, they have successfully imaged the smallest protein ever seen by this technique, paving the way for better understanding of disease-causing proteins.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 12, 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.

Cytochrome P450 3A4 induction: Lumacaftor versus ivacaftor?

Research by Dr Elena K Schneider investigates the pharmacology of cystic fibrosis medications, specifically cytochrome P450 3A4 induction. The study finds that lumacaftor induces cytochrome CYP3A4 activity more than ivacaftor, potentially reducing plasma concentrations and affecting treatment efficacy.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalDrug Metabolism Letters·DateApr 12, 2018

What makes someone believe or reject science?

A new study found that poor-quality audio negatively affects perception of scientists and their research, while style triumphs over substance in communicating science. Researchers highlight the need to consider not only content but also delivery features.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalScience Communication·DateApr 12, 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.

Understanding a cell's 'doorbell'

A multi-institutional project has provided new understanding of how GPCRs regulate in response to physiological ions like sodium, calcium, and magnesium. This research could lead to more effective drugs for controlling pain, hunger, and other conditions by targeting the receptors' function.

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 12, 2018

All pooped out -- this is how norovirus does it

Researchers have identified tuft cells as the primary target of norovirus infection, a discovery that could pave the way for new treatments. The study found that administering immune signaling proteins IL-4 and IL-25 increased viral transmission and abundance in mice.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateApr 12, 2018

The Trolley Problem version of autonomous vehicles

Wiseman and Grinberg propose a system to evaluate collision potential and choose the least harmful course of action for autonomous vehicles. The system uses Spatial Data Structures and Bounding Volumes to analyze possible crashes and decide on the most destructive option.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalThe Open Transportation Journal·DateApr 12, 2018

Imagining an object can change how we hear sounds later

Research suggests that imagining an object can produce the ventriloquist illusion and its aftereffect, changing future perception of sound. The brain integrates information from multiple senses to produce a coherent experience of the world, making it difficult to distinguish between real and imagined stimuli.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateApr 12, 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.

Deep learning: A superhuman way to look at cells

A groundbreaking study by Gladstone and Google AI uses deep learning to analyze cell images, identifying features that humans can't detect. The method uncovers important information that was previously impossible or problematic for scientists to obtain.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalCell·DateApr 12, 2018

Researchers optimize lung stem cell engineering process

CReM researchers engineered two new categories of lung epithelial cells in vitro using pluripotent stem cells. The study used single-cell RNA sequencing to generate comprehensive profiles of air sack-like and airway-like cells, which can be used to create lung tissue in vitro.

SourceBoston Medical Center·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateApr 12, 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.

Italy: Ongoing hepatitis A virus outbreak among men who have sex with men is linked to current outbreaks in Europe

A study found that the Italian outbreak is predominantly caused by strains linked to recent European outbreaks, highlighting the risk of acute HAV infection via sexual transmission in high-risk groups like MSM. The study also emphasizes the importance of hepatitis A vaccine coverage and awareness campaigns for prevention.

SourceEuropean Association for the Study of the Liver·DateApr 12, 2018

Protein moonlighting

Researchers at UCSB discovered that syntaxin 3S, a soluble form of SNARE protein, regulates gene expression in the nucleus, potentially playing a role in cancer progression. This finding opens up a new field of research into the moonlighting properties of proteins.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateApr 12, 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.

Sitting is bad for your brain -- not just your metabolism or heart

A study by UCLA researchers found that sedentary behavior is a significant predictor of thinning in the medial temporal lobe, a region critical for memory formation. Regular physical activity, even at high levels, is insufficient to offset the harmful effects of prolonged sitting.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 12, 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.

Healthy soil lifts animal weight

A new study by Rothamsted Research reveals that well-designed grazing practices can improve animal growth and wellbeing, linked to soil health and pasture value. The study developed a method to measure individual fields' contribution to animal performance, providing insights into sustainable production.

SourceRothamsted Research·Journalanimal·DateApr 12, 2018

New study finds genetic evidence that magnetic navigation guides loggerhead sea turtles

A new study by UNC-Chapel Hill biologists found that loggerhead sea turtles genetically similar to one another nest on beaches with similar magnetic fields. The research implies that turtles can mistakenly nest at different beaches with similar magnetic fields, even if it's geographically far away from their hatching beach.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 12, 2018

Art is in the eye of the beholder

A study published in Acta Psychologica found that people's personality traits influence their eye movements when viewing abstract artwork. Volunteers who tended towards neuroticism spent more time looking at the left side of images, while those with schizophrenia-like traits looked less often at the top.

SourceJames Cook University·JournalActa Psychologica·DateApr 12, 2018

Scientists unlock path to use cell's own nanoparticles as disease biomarkers

Researchers at University of Sydney establish method to identify individual extracellular vesicles (EVs) using resonance-enhanced atomic force microscope infrared spectroscopy. This allows for biomarkers for diverse diseases such as cancers, cardiovascular, kidney and liver disease, dementia, and multiple sclerosis.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalNanoscale Horizons·DateApr 12, 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.

The raw power of human motion

KAUST researchers create triboelectric nanogenerators that capture mechanical energy from human movements and convert it into electricity. They also engineer a wearable self-powered bracelet that can store converted energy for operating electronic devices.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateApr 12, 2018

The fewer the deadlier

Researchers discovered that HTLV-1 survives by evading immune surveillance through transient Tax expression in infected cells. This unique strategy allows the virus to maintain a population of infected leukemic cells, making it a potential target for new therapies.

SourceKyoto University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 12, 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.

Newly identified gene mutation results in intellectual disability and developmental delay

Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory have discovered a genetic mutation associated with intellectual disability, developmental delays, autism spectrum disorder, and congenital cardiac anomalies. The mutation, in the NAA15 gene, is linked to Ogden syndrome, a more severe condition also caused by a mutation in the NAA10 gene.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateApr 12, 2018

An unexpected discovery in a central line

A 6-year-old boy with intestinal pseudo-obstruction and chronic health issues develops a rare fungal infection Mucor velutinosus in his central line. He is successfully treated with an antifungal drug, highlighting the importance of thorough investigation and good antibiotic stewardship.

SourceChildren's National Hospital·JournalJournal of the Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society·DateApr 12, 2018

Look! Down in the petri dish! It's a superplatelet!

A University of British Columbia bioengineer has created platelets with extra powers to aid in the coagulation process, potentially rescuing blood from massive bleeding. The modified platelets showed improved clotting times and stronger clots in various blood samples.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalJournal of Thrombosis and Haemostasis·DateApr 12, 2018

Research shows how genetics can contribute for advances in 2G ethanol production

Researchers have identified key genes involved in enzymatic degradation of sugarcane biomass by three fungal species. The study, supported by FAPESP, provides insights into the genetic mechanisms controlling enzyme secretion and expression, paving the way for more efficient biomass breakdown and production of biofuels.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 12, 2018

Complexity, fidelity, application

Researchers in UCSB/Google group aim to demonstrate quantum supremacy with superconducting qubits, overcoming challenges of decoherence and error correction. Their goal is to build a qubit system capable of exploring complex states efficiently, enabling applications in condensed matter physics, chemistry, and materials.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalScience·DateApr 12, 2018
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.

Dietary lipids play diverse roles in disease

Recent studies in the Journal of Lipid Research reveal that dietary lipids can either treat or exacerbate diseases, depending on their type. The ketogenic diet has shown mixed results as a cancer therapy, while polyunsaturated fats like omega-3 and omega-6 have different effects on inflammation and brown fat formation.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalJournal of Lipid Research·DateApr 12, 2018

New affordable hepatitis C combination treatment shows 97 percent cure rate

The new treatment combination including ravidasvir and sofosbuvir has shown extremely high cure rates, even among hard-to-treat patients, with a 97% success rate reported in the Phase II/III trial. The treatment is priced affordably at $300 for a 12-week course, offering an alternative to existing treatments.

SourceDrugs for Neglected Diseases Initiative·DateApr 12, 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.

Overestimated mutation rate

Researchers at ETH Zurich found that initial estimates of Ebola's genome change rate were due to biased computer models and limited virus sample data. The team's new calculations show a slower, more accurate mutation rate over time.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 12, 2018

Viruses can evolve in parallel in related species

Researchers found parallel genetic changes in closely related species, making them vulnerable to viral jumps. This raises concerns about emerging infectious diseases like HIV and SARS coronavirus.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateApr 12, 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.

One string to rule them all

Scientists have engineered an extremely low loss nanostring that vibrates for minutes with a period of a microsecond, allowing them to 'hear' the sound of photons in a laser beam. The researchers hope to use this technology to detect weak light forces and potentially cool mechanical objects to absolute zero.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalScience·DateApr 12, 2018

Bad antibodies made good: The immune system's secret weapon uncovered

Researchers at Garvan Institute of Medical Research found that a population of 'bad' antibodies, usually silenced due to harm to the body, can be activated to fight disease. The 'redeemed' antibodies become powerful weapons to combat diseases evading the immune system by disguising themselves as normal body tissue.

SourceGarvan Institute of Medical Research·JournalScience·DateApr 12, 2018

Scientists teach computers how to analyze brain cells

A team of scientists, including those from Google, developed a computer program that can identify structures in unstained brain cells. The program learned to spot features such as cell nuclei, dead cells, and specific types of brain cells by analyzing stained images.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournalCell·DateApr 12, 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.

Punjab, India: Mass treatment of a population with chronic hepatitis C infection produces high rates of cure

A large-scale study in Punjab, India found that mass treatment of chronic hepatitis C infection using decentralized care and generic DAAs resulted in high cure rates among almost 20,000 individuals. The study validated the efficacy and safety of this approach, with over 90% of patients achieving sustained virological response.

SourceEuropean Association for the Study of the Liver·DateApr 12, 2018

Discovery of 4 subtypes of melanoma points to new treatment approaches

Researchers at UCLA have identified four distinct subtypes of melanoma with varying levels of sensitivity to ferroptosis, a type of self-inflicted cell death. These findings suggest new treatment approaches for dedifferentiated melanomas by combining ferroptosis-inducing drugs with multiple cancer therapies.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalCancer Cell·DateApr 12, 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.

The severity of neurocognitive impairment

Cognitive deficits affect 40-65% of MS patients, impacting daily living and employment status. Cognitive abilities decline when patients convert from RRMS to SPMS, particularly in learning new information and mental processing speed.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalThe Open Neurology Journal·DateApr 12, 2018

Immune-engineered device targets chemo-resistant lymphoma

Researchers at Cornell University developed a device that exposes human lymphomas to fluid flow similar to that in the lymphatics and parts of the lymph node. The team found that certain subsets of DLCBL lymphoma respond differently to fluid forces, regulating expression levels of adhesion proteins known as integrins and B-cell receptors.

SourceCornell University·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 12, 2018

Deep learning transforms smartphone microscopes into laboratory-grade devices

Researchers at UCLA Samueli School of Engineering have demonstrated that deep learning can enhance microscopic details in photos taken by smartphones, approaching the quality of laboratory-grade microscopes. This technique could bring high-quality medical diagnostics to resource-poor regions, using inexpensively produced attachments.

SourceUCLA Samueli School of Engineering·JournalACS Photonics·DateApr 12, 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.

The hidden health cost of that extra drink

A new study published in The Lancet found that regular drinking above the recommended UK guidelines for alcohol could take years off one's life. Drinking more than 5 drinks per week was linked to a higher risk of stroke, fatal aneurysm, heart failure, and death.

SourceBritish Heart Foundation·JournalThe Lancet·DateApr 12, 2018

'Killer' kidney cancers identified by studying their evolution

Researchers discovered three evolutionarily distinct types of kidney cancer, each with its own evolutionary path. The study sheds light on the fundamental principles of cancer evolution and could lead to future clinical tests for more accurate prognoses and personalized treatment.

SourceThe Francis Crick Institute·JournalCell·DateApr 12, 2018

Wiggling atoms switch the electric polarization of crystals

Researchers have discovered that atomic vibrations can modulate the macroscopic electric polarization of ferroelectric materials. The study uses ultrafast x-ray diffraction to track charge dynamics and link them to macroscopic properties, paving the way for high-speed electronics.

SourceForschungsverbund Berlin·JournalStructural Dynamics·DateApr 12, 2018

Cure for fission yeast genes could have bigger things ahead

Researchers at OIST Graduate University found rapamycin can 'cure' cells with genetic defects, restoring normal cell function. The study identified 12 genes responsible for temperature-triggered defects in fission yeast cells.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalOpen Biology·DateApr 12, 2018

Understanding barriers to mental health care for urban black men who experience trauma

A recent study from the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing explores how injured black men in Philadelphia perceived their psychological symptoms after injury and the factors that guided their decisions to seek professional mental health help. The study found that despite suffering from severe psychological symptoms, very few ...

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Nursing·JournalEthnicity and Health·DateApr 12, 2018

How advanced nanotechnology can improve cancer care

A recent study by Tel Aviv University and Harvard University researchers highlights the challenges of nanoparticle-based cancer-targeting strategies. They suggest ways to refocus collaborative work, emphasizing personalized nanocarriers based on cancer type and biomarker profile.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 12, 2018

First seeds of kidney cancer sown in adolescence

Scientists identified critical genetic changes that can lead to kidney cancer, with the first mutation occurring in childhood or adolescence. The findings suggest that early detection and intervention may be possible, particularly for high-risk groups.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalCell·DateApr 12, 2018

Large wildfires bring increases in annual river flow

Research analyzing 30 years of data reveals that large wildfires significantly increase annual river flow, but also lead to increased contaminants like sediment and nutrients. Prescribed burns, on the other hand, show no significant impact on river flows.

SourceOregon State University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 12, 2018

Deeper understanding of species roles in ecosystems

Researchers at Linköping University developed new methods to predict ecological roles of species in ecosystems. They found that a species' environment influences its role, particularly in predator-prey interactions. The study focuses on marine ecosystems but may inspire research on land-based habitats.

SourceLinköping University·JournalEcology Letters·DateApr 12, 2018

Lung stem cells repair airways after injury

Researchers at the University of Iowa have discovered glandular myoepithelial cells that can regenerate airways after severe injury. These reserve stem cells can develop into new replacement cells in both submucosal glands and the lining of the airway, offering a potential therapeutic target for lung diseases.

SourceUniversity of Iowa Health Care·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateApr 12, 2018

Mountain erosion may add CO2 to the atmosphere

A new study found that mountain erosion can also release CO2 into the atmosphere, far faster than it's absorbed by newly-exposed rock. Tiny microbes in mountain soils 'eat' ancient organic carbon, spewing out CO2.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalScience·DateApr 12, 2018

Theoreticians finally prove that 'curly arrows' tell the truth about chemical reactions

Researchers bridge the gap between organic and theoretical chemistry by proving the validity of 'curly arrows' in depicting chemical reactions. The study provides a new method to model electronic structure during chemical reactions, connecting traditional depictions with state-of-the-art quantum chemical calculations.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence in Exciton Science·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 12, 2018

Faster, cheaper wastewater treatment through improved oxidation reactions

UCR researchers have developed a cost-effective way to improve the removal of pollutants from wastewater using Advanced Oxidation Processes. By adding a co-catalyst, they can dramatically reduce the amount of hydrogen peroxide and ferrous catalyst needed, preventing the formation of an iron-containing sludge.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalChem·DateApr 12, 2018

Peptide-based biogenic dental product may cure cavities

Researchers at the University of Washington have designed a convenient and natural product that uses proteins to rebuild tooth enamel and treat dental cavities. The new technology restores mineral structure found in native tooth enamel, enabling daily use as part of preventive dental care routine.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalACS Biomaterials Science & Engineering·DateApr 12, 2018

Why alcohol, sugar lead to thirst

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center identify a hormone that stimulates thirst in response to nutrient stresses, challenging traditional views on hydration. The study's findings suggest that FGF21 works through a novel pathway to increase water intake, potentially limiting alcohol consumption and protecting against its effects.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalCell Metabolism·DateApr 12, 2018

The background hum of space could reveal hidden black holes

Researchers have developed a way to detect gravitational waves from faint black hole mergers, allowing them to study populations of black holes at vast distances. The new method is estimated to be one thousand times more sensitive than previous techniques, and will enable the detection of thousands of previously hidden black holes.

SourceMonash University·JournalPhysical Review X·DateApr 12, 2018

Is the 'queen bee' phenomenon a myth?

Researchers analyzed 8.3 million organizations and found that female leaders increased the number of women in top- and middle-management positions in public organizations.

SourceElsevier·JournalThe Leadership Quarterly·DateApr 12, 2018

Better quality of life and cancer patients' satisfaction with a coordinating nurse

A study found that patients with a treating pivot nurse had higher patient satisfaction scores and better quality-of-life outcomes compared to those without such support. The coordinated care improved patients' understanding of their disease, treatment side-effects, and overall strength in fighting cancer.

SourceEuropean Society for Medical Oncology·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateApr 12, 2018