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Science News for April 18, 2018


Ultrafast electron oscillation and dephasing monitored by attosecond light source

A collaborative team of YNU and NTT researchers successfully observed petahertz electron oscillation, achieving the fastest measured in direct time-dependent spectroscopy. They characterized individual dephasing times and revealed benefits for controlling optical phenomena in electronic and photonic devices.

SourceYokohama National University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 18, 2018

Why don't kids use their asthma medicines?

Researchers found that children with asthma often miss their daily medication due to barriers such as forgetfulness and running out of medication. The study suggests that improving communication among patients, families, and pediatric clinicians is crucial to ensure consistent use of daily anti-inflammatory medication.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Asthma·DateApr 18, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Gene therapy for blood disorder ends need for transfusions

A new gene therapy has successfully treated transfusion-dependent thalassemia, a blood disorder that requires frequent red blood cell transfusions. The treatment produced positive outcomes in an interim analysis of two international clinical trials, with most patients becoming transfusion-free.

SourceAnn & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateApr 18, 2018

Key workflow interruptions in emergency departments identified

A study from the University of Missouri found that electronic medical record documentation and direct patient care are the most common workflow interruptions in emergency departments, leading to increased workloads and decreased efficiency. The research suggests that changes in workflow could improve patient care and nurse productivity.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalInternational Journal of Human-Computer Studies·DateApr 18, 2018

Cities and communities in the US losing 36 million trees a year

The study found that between 2009 and 2014, tree cover in urban areas declined by 0.7 percent, resulting in the loss of 36 million trees. This decline has significant impacts on air quality, energy costs, noise reduction, and human health. The annual benefits derived from US urban forests are estimated at $18 billion.

SourceUSDA Forest Service - Northern Research Station·JournalUrban Forestry & Urban Greening·DateApr 18, 2018

Can estimates from forensic handwriting experts be trusted in court?

A new study found that forensic handwriting experts are marginally better than novices at estimating the frequency of specific features in handwriting samples, but with large overall error rates. The researchers advise courts to take a cautious approach when using experience-based likelihood ratios as evidence.

SourceSpringer·JournalPsychonomic Bulletin & Review·DateApr 18, 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.

How mental health diagnosis should be more collaborative

A new study published in The Lancet Psychiatry offers practical guidance for doctors to approach diagnosis in a sensitive and individualized way. The research found that service-users prefer their diagnosis to be given face-to-face, with helpful information, and clearly leading to reciprocal discussions about care-needs and treatment.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalThe Lancet Psychiatry·DateApr 18, 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.

Football scuffles, auto injuries may raise risk for Parkinson's

Researchers at UCSF found a 56% increased risk of Parkinson's disease among veterans with concussion compared to those without traumatic brain injury. The study followed over 300,000 veterans for an average of 4.6 years and adjusted for age, sex, and other health conditions.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNeurology·DateApr 18, 2018

Psoriasis treated with compound derived from immune cells

A compound derived from immune cells has been found to treat psoriasis in mice, with the potential to be effective against other autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis. The study suggests that the compound suppresses an inflammatory pathway that is overactive in these conditions.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNature·DateApr 18, 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.

Low-cost anti-hookworm drug boosts female farmers' physical fitness

A low-cost deworming drug has been shown to improve physical fitness in female farmers with hookworm infections, even at low infection levels. The benefits of the drug albendazole could be especially important in regions where women are the primary food producers.

SourceYale University·JournalAmerican Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene·DateApr 18, 2018

Building crystals on a very hot surface

Researchers at KAUST have developed a novel induction heating structure that improves the efficiency and uniformity of MOCVD reactors. This innovation enables the production of high-quality boron nitride and aluminum nitride materials, which are crucial for flexible electronics, ultraviolet optoelectronics, and power electronics.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalJournal of Crystal Growth·DateApr 18, 2018

An artificial mole as an early warning system

A synthetic gene network implanted under the skin monitors blood calcium levels to detect four common types of cancer, triggering a visible mole when a threshold is exceeded. Early detection increases survival chances by up to 98%, significantly improving treatment outcomes.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateApr 18, 2018

Many European countries are not ready to stop viral hepatitis

Many European countries have shortcomings in policies and programmes to support viral hepatitis elimination efforts, with notable gaps in national coordination and public awareness. The Hep-CORE study highlights the need for governments to address these issues and incorporate civil society perspectives into monitoring strategies.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalJournal of the International AIDS Society·DateApr 18, 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.

Craigslist, other online exchanges, may be good for the environment

A Penn State researcher suggests that using online exchanges like Craigslist can reduce municipal solid waste by 2-6% annually, leading to millions of dollars in savings for large cities. This reuse behavior could also eliminate millions of tons of waste and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

SourcePenn State·JournalManagement Science·DateApr 18, 2018

Casey Strale Foundation tops $150,000 in gifts to TGen

The Casey Strale Foundation has raised over $150,000 for TGen ACC research, supporting life-changing work by Dr. Sunil Sharma and his team in developing new treatments for this rare cancer. The foundation's efforts aim to honor the memory of teenager Casey Strale, who lost his battle with ACC.

SourceThe Translational Genomics Research Institute·DateApr 18, 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.

Green digitization: Botanical collections data answer real-world questions

The digitization of botanical collections data is revolutionizing the field of botany, making valuable information accessible for computational analysis. Methods and challenges for extracting data from specimens have been discussed, as well as applications for collections data once digitized.

SourceBotanical Society of America·JournalApplications in Plant Sciences·DateApr 18, 2018

Researchers design 'soft' robots that can move on their own

Researchers have created soft robots with adaptable bodies, inspired by nature, to aid in search and rescue efforts, surgery, and rehabilitation. These flexible robots can crawl through narrow spaces and respond to environmental changes.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateApr 18, 2018

Coho salmon die, chum salmon survive in stormwater runoff research

A recent study found that coho salmon became ill and nearly died after exposure to polluted stormwater, while chum salmon showed no signs of distress. The researchers are now investigating the physiological differences between the two species to understand why chum salmon are more resistant to toxic runoff.

SourceWashington State University·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·DateApr 18, 2018

Gene therapy for beta-thalassemia safe, effective in people

A new gene therapy approach has been shown to reduce the need for blood transfusions in patients with severe beta-thalassemia. The treatment, known as LentiGlobin BB305 vector, was effective in eliminating the need for transfusions in 73% of patients, paving the way for potential treatment.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateApr 18, 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.

Study suggests social workers could help families navigate foreclosure

A recent study published in Families in Society The Journal of Contemporary Social Services found that social workers have the capability to mitigate impending financial calamity before it happens. Further training could strengthen their abilities to stave off foreclosure, supporting families in connecting with resources.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalFamilies in Society The Journal of Contemporary Social Services·DateApr 18, 2018

Revisiting existing drugs finds molecules that control body clocks

A team of researchers has discovered compounds that can regulate the circadian rhythm in human cells, including a well-known anti-aging supplement. The supplement was found to reduce jet lag symptoms in mice, providing hope for the treatment of circadian clock disorders arising from jet lag and shift work.

SourceInstitute of Transformative Bio-Molecules (ITbM), Nagoya University·JournalEMBO Molecular Medicine·DateApr 18, 2018

Root exudates affect soil stability, water repellency

Researchers found that root exudates enhance soil aggregation and water repellency, particularly in sandy loam soils. The study sheds light on the complex interactions between plants and their surrounding soil, highlighting the importance of exudate production in plant nutrition and soil stability.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalVadose Zone Journal·DateApr 18, 2018

New light shed on how bone marrow niches keep stem cells thriving

Japanese researchers at Osaka University have identified a key cellular protein, Ebf3, involved in maintaining the bone marrow niche. The study found that Ebf3-deficient CAR cells take on bone-synthesizing properties, which has significant clinical implications for regenerative therapies.

SourceOsaka University·JournalGenes & Development·DateApr 18, 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.

UTA expands efforts to develop water recycling technologies

The University of Texas at Arlington has developed a modular, multi-step water treatment system that can transform unconventional oil and gas waste into reusable water. The system requires multiple treatment modalities to remove contaminants, making it difficult to accomplish effectively and economically.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateApr 18, 2018

Role of intravascular ultrasound imaging in detection of acute aortic syndrome

Acute aortic syndrome is a group of conditions that can be challenging to diagnose due to similar clinical manifestations. Intravascular ultrasound imaging has been found to be useful in discerning the different forms of acute aortic syndrome, including aortic intramural hematoma.

SourceCardiovascular Innovations and Applications·JournalCardiovascular Innovations and Applications·DateApr 18, 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.

People waste nearly a pound of food daily

A new study finds that Americans waste nearly a pound of food per person each day, with the amount of wasted food corresponding to harvests produced using 780 million pounds of pesticide and 1.8 billion pounds of nitrogen fertilizer annually. The study also found that higher quality diets were associated with higher levels of food waste.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 18, 2018

New research seeks to optimize space travel efficiency

A team of researchers has developed a framework to optimize fuel and resource usage in space travel. By considering multiple missions together, or campaigns, they can minimize launch mass and cost. The study also explores the use of propellant depots in space, which could significantly reduce fuel needs for future missions.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalJournal of Spacecraft and Rockets·DateApr 18, 2018

For young adults with blood cancer, pediatric centers may improve survival

A new study suggests that adolescents and young adults with acute leukemia have a survival advantage when receiving treatment at pediatric cancer centers versus adult centers, particularly those affiliated with the National Cancer Institute. This is due to the more experienced care teams in these settings.

SourceAmerican Society of Hematology·JournalBlood Advances·DateApr 18, 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.

Improved method of delivering anti-cancer drugs

Researchers at Cardiff University have developed a new non-toxic method for delivering anti-cancer drugs to specific parts of the body, reducing harsh side effects. The new nanotube delivery method was found to be effective in treating breast cancer, with reduced rates of metastasis and tumour growth.

SourceCardiff University·JournalNanoscale·DateApr 18, 2018

Keeping the excitement under control

Researchers at Max Delbrück Center found that a single spike from pyramidal cells can cause parvalbumin-expressing neurons to fire efficiently and even silence neighboring cells. This mechanism helps the brain filter subtle but important stimuli amidst noise, leading to better signal detection.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 18, 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.

Unique protein is a vulnerability in the malaria parasite

Researchers at Radboud University Medical Center have identified a unique protein in the malaria parasite's mitochondrion that could be targeted for a new vaccine. The protein, known as 'prohibitin,' plays a crucial role in the parasite's survival and is not present in human cells.

SourceRadboud University Medical Center·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 18, 2018

Study: How to calculate pricing and resources for cloud computing

Researchers at University at Buffalo School of Management developed a new algorithm to establish pricing and allocate resources for cloud computing. The study provides practical formulas that companies can use to determine necessary resources and set charges for their customers.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalInformation Systems Research·DateApr 18, 2018

Screen reader plus keyboard helps blind, low-vision users browse modern webpages

A new approach developed by engineers at the University of Washington and Carnegie Mellon University uses the keyboard as a two-dimensional way to access tables, maps and nested lists. The tool, Spatial Recognition Interaction Techniques (SPRITEs), lets blind and low-vision users navigate these kinds of sites much more successfully tha...

SourceUniversity of Washington·DateApr 18, 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.

Personalized letter improves pregnancy weight for women with gestational diabetes

A new study published in Diabetes Care found that a tailored letter with personalized weight-gain recommendations improved pregnancy weight gain among women with gestational diabetes. The intervention, delivered via electronic health record data, resulted in a higher proportion of women meeting national weight-gain guidelines.

SourceKaiser Permanente·JournalDiabetes Care·DateApr 18, 2018

SwRI's Martian moons model indicates formation following large impact

A new model predicts that the Martian moons Phobos and Deimos were formed from debris left over after a large impact between proto-Mars and a dwarf-planet-sized object. The model suggests that the moons' compositions will be similar to Mars, but they are expected to be dry due to lost water vapor.

SourceSouthwest Research Institute·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 18, 2018

Artificial pancreas is a safe and effective treatment for type 1 diabetes

A review of 41 trials involving over 1000 people with type 1 diabetes found that artificial pancreas systems provided almost two and a half extra hours of normal blood glucose levels per day. The treatment also reduced time spent in both hyperglycaemia and hypoglycaemia compared to other types of insulin-based therapy.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateApr 18, 2018

Argonne selects innovators from across nation to grow startups

The Chain Reaction Innovations program at Argonne National Laboratory aims to accelerate the development of sustainable energy technologies. Eighty-three innovators from 26 states have been selected to participate in a two-year program focused on enhancing energy efficiency or sustainability, and overcoming complex scientific challenges.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·DateApr 18, 2018

Republicans more persuasive than scientists on climate change

A new study found that Republicans are more persuasive than scientists in correcting misinformation about climate change, despite being associated with denial. The researchers suggest that citing Republican elites endorsing the scientific consensus may be an effective way to persuade citizens.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalClimatic Change·DateApr 18, 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.

Ischemic mitral regurgitation

Researchers present a case study on ischemic secondary mitral regurgitation, highlighting the importance of multidisciplinary teams in managing this complex condition. Newer technologies provide new hope for patients, improving outcomes and treatment options.

SourceCardiovascular Innovations and Applications·JournalCardiovascular Innovations and Applications·DateApr 18, 2018

A robot by NTU Singapore autonomously assembles an IKEA chair

The NTU Singapore robot assembled an IKEA chair with precision and speed, demonstrating its capabilities in dexterous manipulation. The robot uses a 3D camera and robotic arms equipped with grippers to pick up objects and execute tasks.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalScience Robotics·DateApr 18, 2018

Global warming is transforming the Great Barrier Reef

A new study found that corals on the northern Great Barrier Reef experienced a catastrophic die-off following the extended marine heatwave of 2016. The amount of coral death was closely linked to the amount of bleaching and level of heat exposure, with the northern third of the reef being the most severely affected.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·JournalNature·DateApr 18, 2018

Molecular scaffolding aids construction at the nanoscale

Researchers have designed and synthesized molecules that can interact together to assemble complex molecular structures at the nanoscale. By mimicking biological self-assembly processes, chemists can learn new methods of chemical synthesis for nano/micro-structures.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateApr 18, 2018

This 2-D nanosheet expands like a Grow Monster

Researchers have discovered a new material science concept that uses light to expand a two-dimensional nanosheet at incredible speeds. The nanosheet can expand up to 5.7% of its original size in sub-milliseconds, making it potentially useful for artificial muscles and soft robotic systems.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 18, 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.

Iron Age breeding practices likely influenced lack of stallion lineages in modern horses

Ancient European horse breeding practices likely contributed to the limited paternally-inherited Y chromosome diversity in modern horses. Selective breeding during the Iron Age may have reduced genetic variation, as humans prioritized reproductive success of selected stallions. The Roman Empire's shift towards male-based selective bree...

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 18, 2018

NYITCOM at A-State professor lends anatomy expertise to solve ancient mystery

Researchers used computer-based methods to compare the physiological behavior of Neanderthals to today's humans, finding that their noses were able to transport twice as much air to the lungs than modern humans. This unique feature allowed Neanderthals to thrive in Ice Age environments and power their more strenuous lifestyle.

SourceNew York Institute of Technology·DateApr 18, 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.

Three solutions to maximize the clinical benefit and affordability of targeted cancer drugs

To address escalating costs of targeted cancer drugs, a Penn-led group proposes three solutions: defining minimum clinically meaningful effect sizes for FDA approval, Medicare negotiating prices for targeted cancer drugs, and prioritizing effective treatments by clinical benefit and price. The recommendations aim to balance clinical be...

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJAMA·DateApr 18, 2018

Charge density wave inhomogeneity and pseudogap in 1T-TiSe2

A new study reveals the existence of a pseudogap state in 1T-TiSe2, which shares similarities with high-Tc cuprates. The discovery indicates that CDW and superconductivity do not compete in this material, providing insight into the superconducting mechanism and its interplay with CDW.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience Bulletin·DateApr 18, 2018

New study improves 'crowd wisdom' estimates

A new study developed a mathematical correction to improve crowd estimates by accounting for individual bias and social information. Researchers found that collective intelligence is highly predictable and can be improved with the right rules for collective estimation.

SourceSanta Fe Institute·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateApr 18, 2018

A single concussion may increase risk of Parkinson's disease

A large population of U.S. veterans with mild, moderate, or severe traumatic brain injury were found to have a higher risk of developing Parkinson's disease. Those with mild traumatic brain injury had a 56% increased risk, while those with moderate to severe injuries had an 83% and 71% increased risk respectively.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateApr 18, 2018

Why is it harder for females to gain weight?

Researchers found that female POMC neurons fire faster than male's due to the expression of gene TAp63, leading to increased energy expenditure and protection against weight gain. This novel mechanism may facilitate future gender-specific therapeutic strategies for obesity and related disorders.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 18, 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.

Salt boosts creation of 2-D materials

Rice University scientists discovered that salt reduces the temperature at which elements interact in a chemical vapor deposition furnace, making it easier to form atom-thin layers. This process allows for the creation of novel materials with customized properties.

SourceRice University·JournalNature·DateApr 18, 2018

How does the Pacific Walker circulation respond to strong tropical volcanism?

A recent study found that the Pacific Walker circulation (PWC) weakens significantly after strong tropical volcanic eruptions (SVEs), leading to changes in rainfall patterns and extreme climate events worldwide. The research suggests that the cooling effect of SVEs on the Maritime Continent plays a dominant role in weakening the PWC.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateApr 18, 2018

Study reveals new Antarctic process contributing to sea level rise and climate change

A new study reveals a previously undocumented process where melting glacial ice sheets further accelerate ice melt and sea level rise by making the ocean's surface layer less salty and more buoyant. Fresh glacial meltwater prevents deep mixing in winter, allowing warm water at depth to retain its heat and cause further glacial melting.

SourceUniversity of Tasmania·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 18, 2018

UTSA researcher and team launch diabetes support program

The Building a Healthy Temple Diabetes Self-Management Support program integrates spirituality and health education to help Hispanics with type 2 diabetes manage the disease. The 14-week program aims to prevent complications such as amputation, kidney failure, and blindness by providing a supportive community.

SourceUniversity of Texas at San Antonio·DateApr 18, 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.

En route to the optical nuclear clock

Researchers at PTB have successfully measured some important properties of the thorium-229 nucleus using optical methods, bringing scientists closer to developing an optical nuclear clock. This breakthrough uses laser excitation to monitor the nucleus's behavior and could lead to a more precise atomic clock.

SourcePhysikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB)·JournalNature·DateApr 18, 2018

Graphene changes elastic properties depending on applied force

Researchers found that graphene's Poisson ratio, which determines material capability to shrink or extend in transverse dimension, varies depending on the applied tensile force. This discovery could help create new materials with required exotic properties and improve existing technologies.

SourceAKSON Russian Science Communication Association·JournalPhysical Review B·DateApr 18, 2018

Study shows men and women tear ACL the same way in non-contact injury

New research from Duke University Medical Center found that ACL tears occur the same way in women and men, contradicting previous theories. The study used forensic analysis to examine bone bruises on knees of athletes with torn ACLs, revealing no significant difference in injury mechanism between sexes.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·DateApr 18, 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.

Water dynamics indicate tumor status

Researchers developed a method to measure proton nuclear resonance dispersion profiles at low magnetic fields, revealing the water exchange rate of tumor cells. This enables direct assessment of tumor status and metabolic activity, which is characteristic of aggressive and highly metastatic tumors.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateApr 18, 2018

Pepper plant sops up personal care product antibiotic

Researchers found that pepper plants metabolize triclocarban, an antibiotic commonly used in personal care products, into other molecules. The study suggests that these metabolites may have negative health effects, highlighting the need for further research on the impact of environmental triclocarban exposure on human health.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateApr 18, 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.

Overcoming bias about music takes work

Researchers found that simply being told a musician is professional changes the way the brain responds to music, with more activity in pleasure and reward regions for 'professional' recordings. Overcoming this bias requires conscious effort, as participants who resisted the bias showed increased executive control.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 18, 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.

T cell antigen receptors act alone: Longstanding immunological mystery solved

Researchers at TU Wien and Medical University of Vienna have discovered that T cell antigen receptors operate alone, contrary to previous assumptions. This groundbreaking finding has significant implications for understanding immune responses and developing effective therapies against cancer and autoimmune diseases.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalNature Immunology·DateApr 18, 2018

World-first research into injury rates among people released from prison

A world-first study found that people released from prison who have both mental illness and substance use problems are at a significantly increased risk of suffering injury. The research, conducted by the University of Melbourne, identified hospital records for 1307 people released from seven Queensland prisons over a five-year period.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalThe Lancet·DateApr 18, 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.

Great Welsh science helps solve pollinator puzzle

A new study by Swansea University researcher Andrew Lucas reveals vital behaviors of hoverflies in plant pollination. The research helps identify the plants hoverflies visit and provides advice to landowners on species-rich grasslands.

SourceSwansea University·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·DateApr 18, 2018

Ebola media coverage impacted how the public perceived the disease and survivors

A MU study found that news coverage of Ebola focused on individual stories to humanize those affected, increasing public understanding and awareness. The researchers suggest that reporters covering health crises should consider writing human interest stories that also share helpful information.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalAtlantic Journal of Communication·DateApr 18, 2018

Deep learning predicts drug-drug and drug-food interactions

A Korean research team developed a deep learning-based framework, DeepDDI, to predict 86 types of drug-drug and drug-food interactions. The model accurately predicts interactions for drug-pair constituent pairs with a mean accuracy of 92.4%.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 18, 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.

Bees and cuckoos will bring savings to airlines

A Polish-Colombian team developed software using bee and cuckoo behavior to optimize flight routes, achieving measurable financial and environmental savings. The algorithm allows real-time modification of routes, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and operating costs.

SourceInstitute of Physical Chemistry of the Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalCogent Engineering·DateApr 18, 2018

Leptin's neural circuit identified

Researchers at Tufts University have identified the neural circuit in the hypothalamus that mediates leptin's anti-obesity and anti-diabetes effects. The study reveals two distinct mechanisms underlying leptin's inhibition of appetite, providing important insight into how leptin works and how resistance to it develops.

SourceTufts University, Health Sciences Campus·JournalNature·DateApr 18, 2018

Harvesting water from fog with harps (video)

Researchers have developed a type of 'harp' to collect fresh water from fog, outperforming traditional mesh devices. The new harp technology consistently collected more water than equivalent meshes at all wire diameters, with the finest wires collecting over three times the amount.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateApr 18, 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.

Fossilized algae hold promise for improved food safety testing

Researchers used fossilized algae to develop a sensitive method for detecting harmful contaminants in food, reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses. The new technique utilizes photonic crystal features to amplify optical detection signals, enabling rapid identification of toxins like histamine in fish and meat.

SourceOregon State University·JournalMaterials·DateApr 18, 2018

Low-income HIV patients suffer with healthcare access

A 20-year Quebec study reveals socio-economic inequalities impact access to AIDS treatment, with HIV-infected individuals on social assistance struggling to initiate early ART. The study highlights the need to consider socio-economic factors in controlling the HIV epidemic, as delayed access can put patients' health at risk.

SourceMcGill University Health Centre·JournalJournal of the International AIDS Society·DateApr 18, 2018

Russian university's scientific groups receive a number of state grants

Ural Federal University has been awarded several state grants for its scientific research projects, with seven grants going to the Institute of Natural Sciences and Mathematics. The university's scientific groups are working on various topics, including remote sensing of the atmosphere and development of new hydro-metallurgical processes.

SourceUral Federal University·DateApr 18, 2018

A bioengineered tattoo monitors blood calcium levels

A bioengineered tattoo has been developed to detect elevated blood calcium levels in mice, offering a potential early diagnosis method for conditions like kidney failure and cancer. The tattoo becomes visible on the skin upon detection of high calcium concentrations, providing a proactive measure against diseases.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateApr 18, 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.

Dogs could be more similar to humans than we thought

Researchers found that dogs have a more similar gene content to humans than previously thought, with changes in diet affecting both species' gut microbiota. The study suggests dogs could be used as models for human nutrition studies, providing insights into the impact of diet on obesity and overall health.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalMicrobiome·DateApr 18, 2018

New ancestor of modern sea turtles found in Alabama

A new ancestor of modern sea turtles has been found in Alabama, dating back to the Late Cretaceous epoch. The discovery reveals two distinct species within the Peritresius clade, expanding the known evolutionary history of these marine reptiles.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 18, 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.

Writing and deleting magnets with lasers

Researchers at Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf developed a method to create and erase magnetic areas in an alloy using lasers, transforming its magnetic behavior. The process involves heating the alloy with ultra-short laser pulses, allowing it to form a magnet.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateApr 18, 2018

An eye toward regeneration

Researchers at UNLV have found that frog embryos can regenerate their entire eye within 3 to 5 days after injury, contradicting previous claims. This breakthrough has potential implications for human tissue regeneration and may lead to the development of new treatments for eye injuries.

SourceUniversity of Nevada, Las Vegas·JournalExperimental Eye Research·DateApr 18, 2018

Detailed images of tumor vasculature

The new technology, called Motion Model Ultrasound Localization Microscopy, allows for the tracking of individual microbubbles in real-time, enabling the reconstruction of fine vascular networks and monitoring of blood flow. This technique has potential applications in cancer treatment, particularly in sonoporation therapy.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 18, 2018

Delivering cancer treatment on a nanodisc helps eliminate tumors

Researchers developed a nanodisc delivery system that combines chemotherapy with immune checkpoint blockers to eliminate tumors in 85% of treated mice. The therapy also showed an excellent response rate of 88% in a challenging model, and no overt side effects were detected.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 18, 2018

Practices with poor prescribing performance more likely to prescribe homeopathy

A study by researchers at the University of Oxford and Exeter University found that general practices in England with the worst prescribing quality scores are 2.1 times more likely to prescribe homeopathy than those with the best scores. Poor prescribing performance is strongly associated with homeopathy use, but not with patient outco...

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of the Royal Society of Medicine·DateApr 18, 2018

A molecular atlas of calcific aortic valve disease

Researchers identified key molecular drivers in calcific aortic valve disease, including cells from the lamina fibrosa layer with high propensity to calcify. A precise omics-level molecular atlas of the aortic valve reveals potential therapeutic targets for developing pharmacological therapy.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalCirculation·DateApr 18, 2018

An asymptomatic patient with severe mitral regurgitation

Researchers present a case study of an asymptomatic patient with severe mitral regurgitation who underwent successful repair. The study emphasizes the importance of timely intervention to avoid irreversible left ventricular dysfunction and improve patient outcomes.

SourceCardiovascular Innovations and Applications·JournalCardiovascular Innovations and Applications·DateApr 18, 2018

Safety measures could save 250,000 lives a year in low- and middle-income countries

A new study from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health identified 11 safety measures that could potentially save over 250,000 lives annually in low- and middle-income countries. These interventions include speeding enforcement, formal swimming lessons for young children, and crèches to supervise young children.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalThe Lancet Global Health·DateApr 18, 2018

Researchers find the brain processes sight and sound in same manner

The study found that the brain uses a two-step process to learn and categorize visual and auditory stimuli, allowing for easy building on previous content to learn novel information. This discovery could lead to the development of new methods to restore sensory deficits in individuals with disabilities.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalNeuron·DateApr 18, 2018

Robot developed for automated assembly of designer nanomaterials

A Japanese research team has developed an automated robot that greatly speeds up the collection and assembly of 2D crystals to form van der Waals heterostructures. The robot can detect 400 graphene flakes an hour, stacking four layers in just a few minutes with minimal human input.

SourceInstitute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 18, 2018

ACP calls for a 'time out' to assess and revise approach to performance measurement

The American College of Physicians is calling for a revised approach to performance measurement, citing 32 valid and 30 invalid measures in Medicare's MIPS program. The ACP analyzed 86 performance measures and found that many were inadequately specified, leading to misclassification of high-quality care as low-quality care.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateApr 18, 2018

Portable device to sniff out trapped humans

Scientists have developed a portable sensor array that can detect tiny amounts of chemicals emitted by humans, even at levels as low as three parts per billion. The device is light, affordable, and compact, making it ideal for first responders to carry or drones to use in search and rescue operations.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateApr 18, 2018

Difference in gene switching discovered in different parts of brain

A study published in Science Advances reveals significant differences in molecular machinery that turns on and off gene expression between cerebellum and prefrontal cortex. The research provides insights into the molecular apparatus involved in conscious thinking and may lead to the development of drugs to treat mental illnesses.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 18, 2018

Active young adults with Type 1 diabetes have muscle complications: Study

A new study from McMaster and York universities found structural and functional changes in the power generation parts of the cell, or mitochondria, of those with diabetes. These changes could result in reduced metabolism, greater difficulty controlling blood glucose and accelerated disability development.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalDiabetologia·DateApr 18, 2018

Management of mitral regurgitation in a patient contemplating pregnancy

Researchers highlight unique challenges of managing mitral regurgitation in women contemplating pregnancy, emphasizing clinical assessment and echocardiography as critical tools. Surgical intervention is recommended for symptomatic patients and those with progressive left ventricular dilation or low ejection fraction.

SourceCardiovascular Innovations and Applications·JournalCardiovascular Innovations and Applications·DateApr 18, 2018

Brain scans may help diagnose neurological, psychiatric disorders

A new study shows that functional connectivity MRI can detect fundamental differences in how individual brains are wired, distinguishing healthy people from those with brain diseases or disorders. The technique was found to be powerful enough to distinguish people who were extraordinarily alike.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNeuron·DateApr 18, 2018

Algorithms reveal changes in stereotypes, according to new Stanford research

Researchers used word embeddings to measure changes in gender and ethnic stereotypes from 1900-2023, correlating with US Census demographic data. The study found quantifiable shifts in biases towards women and Asian Americans, highlighting the value of interdisciplinary collaboration between humanities and sciences.

SourceStanford University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 18, 2018

New research shows Transcendental Meditation empowers disadvantaged Ugandan mothers

A study published in Health Care for Women International found that Transcendental Meditation significantly improves the lives of single, illiterate mothers in Uganda by reducing stress and improving their health and ability to support themselves and their children. The research shows that the practice empowers these women to overcome ...

SourceMaharishi International University·JournalHealth Care For Women International·DateApr 18, 2018