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Science News for April 13, 2018


Blocking matrix-forming protein might prevent heart failure

Researchers used an experimental therapy to block fibronectin protein, reducing scarred muscle tissue and saving mouse models from heart failure. The treatment restored function in damaged heart cells and reduced fibrosis.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalCirculation·DateApr 13, 2018

Links between eating red meat and distal colon cancer in women

A study published in the International Journal of Cancer found that regularly eating red meat increases the risk of distal colon cancer in women, with those on a red meat-free diet experiencing lower rates. The research suggests that a diet free from red meat significantly reduces the risk of this type of colon cancer.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalInternational Journal of Cancer·DateApr 13, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Lack of sleep may be linked to risk factor for Alzheimer's disease

A new study found that losing one night of sleep led to an increase in beta-amyloid, a protein linked to Alzheimer's disease. The study also showed that participants with larger increases in beta-amyloid reported worse mood after sleep deprivation.

SourceNIH/National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 13, 2018

Long-term obeticholic acid treatment leads to reversal or stabilization of fibrosis/cirrhosis in patients with PBC

The study confirms that long-term OCA treatment leads to reversal or stabilization of fibrosis/cirrhosis in patients with primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) who have had an incomplete response to ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA). The majority of patients improved or maintained their histological stage, while two patients deteriorated.

SourceEuropean Association for the Study of the Liver·DateApr 13, 2018

Tungsten 'too brittle' for nuclear fusion reactors

Researchers at the University of Huddersfield have found that tungsten, a favored metal in nuclear fusion reactors, becomes brittle due to radiation damage. This discovery hinders the use of tungsten as a structural material, prompting the development of new alloys that can prevent embrittlement.

SourceUniversity of Huddersfield·JournalScripta Materialia·DateApr 13, 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.

Scientists find positive workplace experiences among Americans with disabilities

A national survey by Kessler Foundation reveals that 69% of people with disabilities are striving to work, overcoming barriers through job preparation and negotiation. The study also finds that many employees report experiencing and successfully addressing obstacles such as negative attitudes and pay disparity.

SourceKessler Foundation·JournalJournal of Vocational Rehabilitation·DateApr 13, 2018

Measuring the risks of extreme temperatures on public health

A new study found that extreme cold increases mortality and morbidity risks for people with cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, while extreme heat is risky for those with renal diseases. The research aims to develop tailored public service risk communication strategies.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalRisk Analysis·DateApr 13, 2018

The secret behind a choice cuppa or a perfect pint -- a mathematician

Professor William Lee's research uses mathematical modeling to investigate topics such as Guinness bubbles and filter coffee machines. His work has led to the development of a mathematical model for coffee brewing that can aid machine design, and he is now exploring the link between strength and flavor in espresso.

SourceUniversity of Huddersfield·JournalAmerican Journal of Physics·DateApr 13, 2018

Crowded urban areas have fewer songbirds per person

Research by the University of Exeter and the British Trust for Ornithology found that people in crowded urban areas see fewer songbirds but more nuisance birds. In contrast, green and leafy suburbs have up to three and a half times more songbirds and woodpeckers, associated with positive human wellbeing.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateApr 13, 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.

Two MDC scientists receive ERC grants worth several million euros

Researchers Gary Lewin and Norbert Hübner are investigating the molecular mechanisms underlying neurological and heart diseases. They hope to identify ion channel anchors and characterize them at the molecular level, laying the groundwork for therapies that address tactile disorders and heart failure.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·DateApr 13, 2018

Newly identified bacteria may help bees nourish their young

Researchers at UCR have isolated three new bacterial species from wild bees that may inhibit fungi growth in pollen provisions. These Lactobacillus strains could help preserve nectar and pollen for larvae, promoting bee health.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SYSTEMATIC AND EVOLUTIONARY MICROBIOLOGY·DateApr 13, 2018

Automated analysis of biopsy samples enables rapid and reproducible quantification of NASH disease activity

A new study has reported a good correlation between an automated image analysis system and an expert reviewer for the identification of key markers of NASH disease activity in a pre-clinical model. The study used deep-learning algorithms applied to open-source pathology software (QuPath1) to accurately identify cell histology patterns ...

SourceEuropean Association for the Study of the Liver·DateApr 13, 2018

Hepatitis C virus elimination programs report encouraging results: Is elimination within reach?

Two nationwide hepatitis C elimination programs in Georgia and Iceland have reported high levels of engagement, initiation of direct-acting antiviral agents, and cure among patients chronically infected with HCV. In Georgia, over 90% of diagnosed individuals were cured, while in Iceland, the prevalence of active HCV infection among peo...

SourceEuropean Association for the Study of the Liver·DateApr 13, 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.

Hubble catches a colossal cluster

The Hubble Space Telescope has imaged a massive galaxy cluster, revealing its intricate structure and the presence of dark matter. The cluster is comprised of thousands of galaxies held together by gravity, with most of its mass existing in non-luminous dark matter.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateApr 13, 2018

Quantum physicists achieve entanglement record

Researchers have successfully entangled 20 calcium atoms in an ion trap experiment, demonstrating controlled multi-particle entanglement between neighboring groups of particles. The achievement holds significant promise for practical applications such as quantum simulations and information processing.

SourceUniversity of Innsbruck·JournalPhysical Review X·DateApr 13, 2018

Tiny structures -- huge impact

Researchers at Friedrich Schiller University Jena have successfully created tailored surface structures on curved carbon fibers using laser technology, enabling new applications in composite materials and optical devices. The method allows for precise control over the structure's size and shape, opening up possibilities for improving m...

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalCarbon·DateApr 13, 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.

Temperature affects insecticide efficacy against malaria vectors

A study published in Malaria Journal found that ambient temperature impacts the toxicity of commonly used insecticides against malaria vectors. The researchers explored the effect of temperature on pyrethroid and carbamate insecticides, revealing that temperature affects their efficacy differently for resistant and susceptible strains.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalMalaria Journal·DateApr 13, 2018

Sustained virological response to oral hepatitis C virus treatment associated with reduced mortality in an Italian cohort

A real-world study found that patients with chronic hepatitis C virus infection who achieve a sustained virological response (SVR) after direct-acting antiviral agent (DAA) treatment have lower all-cause mortality. Achieving SVR reduced mortality from both liver-related and unrelated causes at all stages of disease.

SourceEuropean Association for the Study of the Liver·DateApr 13, 2018

Polymer synthesis gets a jolt of caffeine

Researchers at MIT and Brigham and Women's Hospital have developed biocompatible gels for drug delivery using caffeine as a catalyst, eliminating the need for hazardous metal catalysts.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalBiomaterials·DateApr 13, 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.

Observing biological nanotransporters

Researchers shed light on functional mechanism of ABC exporters, which transport a wide range of molecules out of cells. This understanding could lead to new therapeutic approaches by specifically influencing or inhibiting these processes.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateApr 13, 2018

Similar charges are attracted to each other

Researchers at NUST MISIS developed a theory explaining how latent state formation occurs in layered tantalum disulfide, leading to ultra-fast memory capabilities. The material's nano-structural mosaics and charged vacancies contribute to its switching and memory effects.

SourceNational University of Science and Technology MISIS·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 13, 2018

Sensor strategy a boon for synthetic biology

Rice University scientists introduce a new technique to fine-tune two-component biological sensors, enabling tailor-made biosensors for diagnostic gut bacteria and environmental pollutant detection. The approach uses phosphatase activity to alter the sensitivity of these pathways, promising a major breakthrough in synthetic biology.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 13, 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.

Omega-3s from fish oil supplements no better than placebo for dry eye

A well-controlled trial found that omega-3 fatty acid supplements taken orally proved no better than placebo at relieving symptoms or signs of dry eye. Despite insufficient evidence establishing the effectiveness of omega-3s, clinicians and patients have been inclined to try the supplements for various conditions, including dry eye.

SourceNIH/National Eye Institute·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateApr 13, 2018

Mount Sinai research on omega-3 fatty acid supplementation for dry eye

The study, funded by the National Eye Institute, tested oral omega-3 supplementation on patients with dry eye disease. Despite finding some improvement in symptoms and signs, researchers concluded that omega-3 supplements did not show a beneficial effect relative to placebo.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateApr 13, 2018

Budesonide add-on therapy improves markers of disease activity but fails to improve histology in patients with primary biliary cholangitis

A study found that budesonide add-on therapy improves biochemical markers of disease activity but fails to improve liver histology in high-risk patients with primary biliary cholangitis. Budesonide was shown to produce clinically meaningful improvements in serum alkaline phosphatase levels.

SourceEuropean Association for the Study of the Liver·DateApr 13, 2018

For racial minority adolescents, cigarette and alcohol use linked to suicidality

A recent study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine found that racial minority adolescents have a high prevalence of substance use and are at a higher risk for suicidal thoughts and behaviors. The research team analyzed data from over 20 years of national surveys and found that Pacific Islander, multiracial, and Ame...

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateApr 13, 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.

Extreme climate variability destabilizing West Coast ecosystems

A new study reveals that extreme climate variability over the last century has synchronized ecosystem behavior on the West Coast, increasing risks of extinction for marine and terrestrial organisms. This synchrony is linked to changes in winter climate patterns, such as the North Pacific High, which have become more variable over time.

SourceOregon State University·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateApr 13, 2018

Artificial intelligence accelerates discovery of metallic glass

A team of scientists has developed a machine learning algorithm that can quickly identify new blends of ingredients for metallic glass, accelerating the discovery process by 200 times. The method uses data from thousands of experiments to pinpoint potential materials and has significant implications for the future of materials science.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 13, 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.

When superconductivity disappears in the core of a quantum tube

Researchers use ultra-cold neutral lithium atoms to study conductivity in a one-dimensional quantum tube. They discover an unusual state of matter that retains its insulation regardless of particle interactions, challenging conventional theories about materials.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalPhysical Review X·DateApr 13, 2018

Germany: compensated cirrhosis substantially increases comorbidities and healthcare costs for patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease/non-alcoholic steatohepatitis

A study analyzed outcomes and costs for German patients with NAFLD/NASH who developed compensated cirrhosis, finding significant increases in comorbidities, mortality, and healthcare costs. The study highlights the need for new treatment options to improve patient outcomes.

SourceEuropean Association for the Study of the Liver·DateApr 13, 2018

Scientists use machine learning to speed discovery of metallic glass

A team of scientists has developed a method to discover new metallic glass alternatives using machine learning and accelerated experiments, reducing the discovery time from decades to hours. The approach enables researchers to quickly narrow down potential materials and get immediate feedback from AI models.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 13, 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.

Brief exposure to tiny air pollution particles triggers childhood lung infections

A new study found that brief exposure to fine particulate matter PM2.5 is associated with the development of acute lower respiratory infection (ALRI) in young children, leading to increased doctor visits and hospitalizations. The research suggests that air pollution may impair the body's ability to fight off infections or cause damage ...

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateApr 13, 2018

Brief exposure to tiny air pollution particles triggers childhood lung infections

Research found that acute lower respiratory infection (ALRI) is associated with elevated levels of fine particulate matter PM2.5 in young children, even those as young as two months old. The study, involving over 100,000 patients, suggests that air pollution may impair the immune response and increase susceptibility to infections.

SourceIntermountain Medical Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateApr 13, 2018

First global carbon dioxide maps produced by Chinese observation satellite

The Chinese observation satellite TanSat has produced its first global carbon dioxide maps, providing valuable data for future climate change research. The maps show a seasonal decrease in carbon dioxide concentration from spring to summer in the Northern Hemisphere and emission hotspots due to anthropogenic activity.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateApr 13, 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.

Individual impurity atoms detectable in graphene

A team of physicists has successfully imaged individual impurity atoms in graphene ribbons using atomic force microscopy. The technique allowed them to identify boron and nitrogen atoms, expanding graphene's properties for applications like transistors and circuits.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 13, 2018

Transfer learning meets livestock genomics

Researchers at Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University developed a computational method predicting harmful mutations in mammalian species. This approach enables classification of damaging mutations in other mammals, facilitating optimized animal breeding programs.

SourcePeter the Great Saint-Petersburg Polytechnic University·JournalEvolutionary Applications·DateApr 13, 2018

Cytoplasmic streaming is involved in the transmission of signals within giant cells in Chara algae

Research by Lobachevsky University and Moscow State University found that cytoplasmic streaming is involved in the transmission of signals within giant cells of Chara algae. The study showed that signal molecules formed in illuminated areas propagated with the moving cytoplasm, affecting photosynthesis and enhancing fluorescence in oth...

SourceLobachevsky University·JournalFunctional Plant Biology·DateApr 13, 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.

Breakthrough brings gene-editing medicine one step closer to patient applications

University of Alberta researchers develop a new guide molecule, bridged nucleic acid (BNA), to improve the accuracy of gene-editing technology. The BNA is shown to be much more stable and stringent in finding the correct DNA sequence to cut, promising to bring gene-editing closer to therapeutic reality.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 13, 2018

Family support networks in Peruvian barrios help to prevent child labor

A University of Seville study found that family support networks in Peruvian barrios play a crucial role in preventing child labor. The networks facilitate the exchange of information and social support between families, which helps control child labor. Schools serve as hubs for these relationships, bridging gaps to external resources.

SourceUniversity of Seville·JournalPsychosocial Intervention·DateApr 13, 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.

New qubit now works without breaks

Scientists have created a universal qubit design that can be used to build a quantum computer. The new superconductor qubit is based on a continuous superconducting nano-wire and has proven to be no worse than traditional designs in initial experiments.

SourceNational University of Science and Technology MISIS·JournalNature Physics·DateApr 13, 2018

Alzheimer plaque affects different brain cells differently

A study led by researchers at Linköping University found that amyloid beta, a protein linked to Alzheimer's disease, has different properties in different cell types. Glial cells can produce mature, less harmful forms of the protein, while neurons are more susceptible to damage.

SourceLinköping University·JournalCell Chemical Biology·DateApr 13, 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.

Engineers propose coordinated control to assist drivers

Researchers developed a coordinated control architecture for motion management in ADAS systems, demonstrating improved safety and comfort. The study showed that 'coordinated control' strategy successfully damped out deviation errors, giving much greater precision in following intended trajectories.

SourceChinese Association of Automation·JournalIEEE/CAA Journal of Automatica Sinica·DateApr 13, 2018

'Gayborhoods' still home to subtle discrimination

Research published in City and Community found that straight people living in traditionally gay neighborhoods often practice subtle forms of discrimination against their gay and lesbian neighbors. Despite claiming to support gay rights, many interact with their neighbors on the street in ways that contradict those sentiments.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalCity and Community·DateApr 13, 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.

Flaxseed-like particles can now grow bone, cartilage tissues for humans

Researchers at Texas A&M University have discovered a new class of clay nanoparticles that can direct human stem cells to become bone or cartilage cells. These nanoparticles, similar to flaxseed in shape, can grow tissue from stem cells in the absence of growth factors.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 13, 2018

A heavyweight solution for lighter-weight combat vehicles

A novel process called Friction Stir Dovetailing joins thicker aluminum alloys to steel, creating joints of superior strength and ductility. The technique inhibits intermetallic compound overgrowth, allowing for improved fuel efficiency and operational effectiveness in military combat vehicles.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalScripta Materialia·DateApr 13, 2018