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Science News for April 24, 2018


Stem cells from adults function just as well as those from embryos

A new review concludes that stem cells derived from adult body tissues can differentiate into mature body cells with similar efficiency to those from younger donors. This validates induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) as a viable alternative to embryonic stem cells in regenerative medicine.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine·DateApr 24, 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.

Early childhood interventions show mixed results on child development

A new study published in PLOS Medicine found that early childhood interventions may have some efficacy in boosting measures of child health and development, particularly in language skills. However, the interventions did not significantly impact cognition, motor skills, or adaptive behavior, highlighting the need for further research o...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateApr 24, 2018

Commonly prescribed heartburn drug linked to pneumonia in older adults

Researchers found a statistical link between long-term PPI use and pneumonia in older adults, highlighting the need for caution. The study analyzed data from medical records and identified over 75,000 patients who received PPIs, suggesting that these medications may not be as safe as previously thought.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateApr 24, 2018

New app could make cannabis use safer

Researchers developed an 'Am I Stoned' app that helps users understand their impairment through phone-based tasks. The app showed promise in detecting THC-induced impairments in a natural setting, paving the way for future use in assessing individual performance.

SourceExperimental Biology·DateApr 24, 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.

Rhythm crucial in drummed speech

The Boras extend their language reach by a factor of 100 using drummed speech with rhythmic units encoded in pauses between beats. Drummed speech allows them to convey meaning and distinguish words through tone and rhythm.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateApr 24, 2018

Mammary stem cells challenge costly bovine disease

Mammary stem cells from dairy cows may help heal damaged tissue and combat bacterial infections, potentially reducing antibiotic use and improving milk quality. The secreted factors of these cells have been shown to promote tissue regeneration, form new blood vessels, and protect epithelial cells from damage.

SourceCornell University·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 24, 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.

Researchers use smart phone to make a faster infection detector

Researchers have developed a low-cost, portable laboratory on a phone that works nearly as well as clinical laboratories to detect common viral and bacterial infections. The device was tested with 771 patient samples and found to be accurate in detecting 12 common diseases such as mumps, measles, herpes, and Lyme Disease.

SourceWashington State University·JournalClinica Chimica Acta·DateApr 24, 2018

What can a tasty milkshake teach us about the genetics of heart disease?

A study of 800 participants who consumed milkshakes found new uncommon gene variants affecting patients' responses to a cholesterol drug. The variants were associated with changes in triglyceride and LDL-cholesterol levels after consuming high-fat meals and taking the medication.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalJournal of Lipid Research·DateApr 24, 2018

Significant advances detected in knowledge about renal cancer

Researchers have identified key molecular events and genomic profiles in clear-cell renal carcinoma, a type of kidney cancer. The study's findings could lead to the prediction of metastasis patterns and potentially inform new treatment strategies.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalCell·DateApr 24, 2018

New studies show dark chocolate consumption reduces stress and inflammation

Two new studies presented at the Experimental Biology 2018 meeting found that consuming dark chocolate with a high concentration of cacao (minimally 70% cacao) has positive effects on stress levels, inflammation, mood, memory and immunity. The flavonoids in cacao are believed to support cognitive, endocrine and cardiovascular health.

SourceLoma Linda University Adventist Health Sciences Center·DateApr 24, 2018

Carbon consumers

A team of researchers discovered that deep ocean aquifers can break down more refractory carbon than previously thought. Microbes in the aquifer consume carbon, changing the composition of the surrounding seawater. This finding has the potential to reshape our understanding of carbon cycling in the deep ocean.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature Geoscience·DateApr 24, 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.

Getting a better look at living cells

A new device has been developed to reduce radiation exposure in nanoscale-level imaging of living cells, allowing for more accurate and undamaged images. This innovation enables the study of biological, chemical, and materials science samples in their near-native environments.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 24, 2018

AWI researchers measure a record concentration of microplastic in Arctic sea ice

Researchers at the Alfred Wegener Institute found higher amounts of microplastic in arctic sea ice, with concentrations up to 12,000 particles per litre. The unique composition and layering of plastic particles suggest sources such as the Pacific Ocean's garbage patch and intensified shipping and fishing activities.

SourceAlfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 24, 2018

Malaria study reveals gene variants linked to risk of disease

A large-scale study has revealed two gene variants linked to increased malaria risk and one variant that protects against other childhood diseases. The study found that the Sl2 mutation in the CR1 gene offers protection against cerebral malaria, but only if alpha-thalassaemia is not present.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·DateApr 24, 2018

Attacks on healthcare in Syria are likely undercounted

Researchers found more than 200 attacks on healthcare in Syria in 2016, resulting in 112 health worker and 185 patient deaths. A new mobile reporting tool improved data collection accuracy, highlighting the need for consistent methods to quantify these attacks.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateApr 24, 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.

Billions of gallons of water saved by thinning forests

New research finds that thinning forests due to wildfires can reduce water stress and save up to 17 billion gallons of water annually. This approach may help offset the costs of forest restoration, which could increase water flow from Sierra Nevada watersheds by as much as 10 percent.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalEcohydrology·DateApr 24, 2018

Novel pathway identified in development of acute myeloid leukemia with poor prognosis

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) has a poor five-year survival rate of less than 20%. Researchers at the National University of Singapore identified a novel molecular pathway involving circadian clock gene SHARP1, which causes AML growth. Removing or reducing SHARP1 levels can stop leukemic cell growth.

SourceNational University of Singapore, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 24, 2018

Exposure to domestic violence costs US government $55 billion each year

A groundbreaking study by Case Western Reserve University estimates that exposure to domestic violence carries significant long-term consequences for children and society. The research found that the average cost to the national economy over a child's lifetime is nearly $50,000, including increased medical costs, violent crimes, and pr...

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalJournal of Family Violence·DateApr 24, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

How can animals sense danger?

Researchers at the National Institute of Genetics have elucidated a neuronal population essential for fear conditioning in zebrafish, revealing a functional equivalent of the amygdala in mammals. This discovery has significant implications for understanding fundamental neural circuits and their evolution.

SourceResearch Organization of Information and Systems·JournalBMC Biology·DateApr 24, 2018

The 'missing link' in conducting molecules, butadiene -- solved

Scientists have solved the puzzle of trans 1,3-butadiene's electronic-structural dynamics using ultrafast laser spectroscopy. The research reveals an ultrafast competition between ethylenelike and polyenelike dynamics in butadiene.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateApr 24, 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.

Cheap 3-D printer can produce self-folding materials

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University used an inexpensive 3D printer to produce self-folding plastic objects that can be heated to assume predetermined shapes. The process utilizes a common printing defect, warpage, which is typically considered a problem with these printers.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·DateApr 24, 2018

Airborne dust threatens human health in Southwest

Researchers estimate that airborne dust levels could increase by 10-30% due to drought conditions, resulting in a 20-130% rise in premature deaths and a 60-300% growth in hospitalizations. The US Southwest is projected to experience severe and persistent droughts by 2100, posing a substantial public health burden.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateApr 24, 2018

Heart disease may only be a matter of time for those with healthy obesity

A new study found that nearly half of people with metabolically healthy obesity (MHO) developed metabolic syndrome within 10 years, increasing their risk for cardiovascular disease and diabetes. MHO is defined as a body mass index of more than 30 and two or fewer risk factors.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateApr 24, 2018

3-D printed food could change how we eat

Researchers have developed a platform for 3-D printing food with customized texture and body absorption characteristics, enabling personalized nutrition. The technology has the potential to reduce food waste and meet the increasing demands of a growing world population.

SourceExperimental Biology·DateApr 24, 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.

Climate change not the key driver of human conflict and displacement in East Africa

A new study by UCL found that socio-political factors are the primary cause of conflict and displacement in East Africa, with climate change playing a significant but secondary role. The research suggests that stable governance, economic growth, and reduced population growth can help reduce conflict and displacement.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalPalgrave Communications·DateApr 24, 2018

Mental, not physical, fatigue affects seniors' walking ability

Research suggests that mental fatigue, rather than physical fatigue, has a significant impact on older adults' walking ability. Volunteers performed physically and mentally tiring tasks, with their gait speed and stride length decreasing significantly in those who reported more cognitive fatigue.

SourceExperimental Biology·DateApr 24, 2018

Children are as fit as endurance athletes

Researchers found that children's muscles are more fatigue-resistant and recover faster than those of untrained adults and even well-trained endurance athletes. This discovery may lead to better understanding of how our bodies change from childhood to adulthood and inform the development of athletic potential in children.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Physiology·DateApr 24, 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.

Escalation of competition leads to conflict in competitive networks of F1 drivers

A new study reveals that similar-status F1 drivers are more prone to collide, especially when they are age-similar, performing well, and feeling safe. The research team found structural equivalence triggers antagonism among interactants, leading to increased conflict.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 24, 2018

$11.2 million federal grant to support microorganism and disease research

The University of Louisville will receive a five-year, $11.2 million federal grant to establish an interdisciplinary research program focused on the microbiome, inflammation, and disease development. Researchers will study various diseases, including inflammatory bowel disease, periodontitis, and neurological disorders.

SourceUniversity of Louisville·DateApr 24, 2018

Changes in breast tissue increase cancer risk for older women

Researchers identified age-related differences in breast tissue that contribute to increased risk of developing breast cancer in older women. The study found that accumulation of multipotent progenitor cells leads to defective luminal cells, which may be related to the increased susceptibility to breast cancer with age.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 24, 2018

How colorectal cancer cells spread to the liver

Researchers at Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute discovered that PKC zeta deficiency promotes liver metastasis through the inactivation of enzyme ADAR2, leading to increased secretion of miR-200s. Treatment with a compound inhibiting miR-200s reduced liver metastasis in mice with colorectal cancer.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 24, 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.

Land use and pollution shift female-to-male ratios in snapping turtles

Increasing temperatures and mercury pollution shift female-to-male ratios in snapping turtles, favoring male offspring in agricultural habitats. Field experiments found that temperature profiles and soil moisture content influenced sex determination, while mercury levels correlated with the development of more male offspring.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalBiological Conservation·DateApr 24, 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.

Collapse of the Atlantic Ocean heat transport might lead to hot European summers

A new study suggests that a partial collapse of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) could lead to extreme warming in European summers. This phenomenon, known as the 'cold-ocean-warm-summer' feedback, is linked to atmospheric blocking and has been observed in recent record-breaking cold ocean temperatures.

SourceStockholm University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 24, 2018

Power of negative example

Teens prioritize family as the most important factor in happiness, but many don't consider their own family a positive example. Researchers believe this may contribute to high divorce rates and unpreparedness for married life.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalRussian Education & Society·DateApr 24, 2018

Engaging in physical activity decreases people's chance of developing depression

A global meta-analysis found that engaging in physical activity decreases the chance of developing depression in people of all ages and geographical regions. The study pooled data from over 250,000 individuals and found consistent evidence that higher levels of physical activity are protective against future depression.

SourceKing's College London·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateApr 24, 2018

By 2040, artificial intelligence could upend nuclear stability

A new RAND Corporation paper warns that AI's potential to encourage risky behavior and undermine strategic stability poses a significant threat to global security. Improved sensor technologies and the rise of first-strike capabilities could erode mutual assured destruction, making nuclear war more likely.

SourceRAND Corporation·DateApr 24, 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.

Effect of a home-based exercise program with wearable activity monitor, telephone coaching on walking endurance for peripheral artery disease

A randomized clinical trial of 200 patients with PAD found that a home-based exercise program with a wearable activity monitor and telephone coaching did not improve walking endurance. The results suggest that traditional in-person exercise programs may be more effective in improving walking ability for this patient population.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateApr 24, 2018

Scientists unearth vital link between fat, immunity and heat regulation

Researchers find gamma delta T cells in fat play a crucial role in regulating body temperature and protecting against cold shock. These immune cells, known as gd T cells, help turn white fat into brown fat to generate heat, leading to potential weight loss therapies for obesity patients.

SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalNature Immunology·DateApr 24, 2018

'Incompatible' donor stem cells cure adult sickle cell patients

Doctors at the University of Illinois Hospital have cured seven adult patients with sickle cell disease using compatible donor stem cells. The new transplant protocol allows for half-matched donors, significantly increasing potential donors and improving treatment outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalBiology of Blood and Marrow Transplantation·DateApr 24, 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.

Managing chronic pain with light

Scientists at EMBL Rome developed a light-sensitive chemical that selectively binds to nerve cells causing neuropathic pain, leading to pain relief. The method avoids targeting single molecules and shows promise for managing chronic pain in humans.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 24, 2018

Thousands of mobile apps for children might be violating their privacy

A large-scale international study found that 57% of kids' apps collect and share personal data with third parties without parental consent. Many apps, including popular ones like Disney's 'Where's My Water?' and Gameloft's 'Minion Rush', may be infringing US Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) rules.

SourceIMDEA Networks Institute·DateApr 24, 2018

Girls with type 2 diabetes have a high rate of irregular periods

A new study published in the Endocrine Society's Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that girls with recently diagnosed type 2 diabetes had a high rate of menstrual irregularities. Many of these girls also had high testosterone levels, suggesting PCOS as an underlying cause.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateApr 24, 2018

Five ways to help cancer patients avoid the emergency room

Researchers at University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have identified five strategies to reduce unplanned acute care for cancer patients, including leveraging advanced big data analytics, team-based care, and early palliative care. These best practices aim to improve patient experience and reduce hospital utilization.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Oncology Practice·DateApr 24, 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.

Magma ocean may be responsible for the moon's early magnetic field

Scientists propose a new model where a heavy layer of molten rock sits on top of the Moon's metal core, driving the dynamo and creating a strong magnetic field. This model explains the Moon's early strong magnetic field and its subsequent weakening.

SourceArizona State University·JournalEarth and Planetary Science Letters·DateApr 24, 2018

Natural barcodes enable better cell tracking

Researchers at Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard developed a new genetic analysis technique that harnesses natural barcodes in human genomes. This allows for faster, cheaper, and simpler tracking of cell identities across experiments, enabling large pools of cells from multiple people to be analyzed.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalGenome Medicine·DateApr 24, 2018

Early treatment for leg ulcers gets patients back on their feet

Treating leg ulcers within two weeks improves healing rates by 12% compared to standard treatment, with a success rate of 85.6%. Early intervention helps patients recover quicker and reduces the risk of complications such as amputation.

SourceImperial College London·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateApr 24, 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.

A non-coding RNA lasso catches proteins in breast cancer cells

A Danish-German research team has identified a novel long non-coding RNA, A-ROD, that enhances the production of specific proteins with involvement in cancer. The RNA functions as a lasso that brings transcription factors to specific sites in DNA to enhance gene expression.

SourceAarhus University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 24, 2018

Cognitive behavioral therapy can improve emotion regulation in children with autism

A study from York University shows that cognitive behavioral therapy can significantly improve children's emotional regulation, including anxiety and other emotional challenges. The intervention, involving a computer program and family support, led to improved mental health outcomes in children with autism.

SourceYork University·JournalJournal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry·DateApr 24, 2018

Opioid prescribing at veterans hospitals varies widely in treating chronic pain

A recent study found that Veterans Health Administration (VHA) facilities have varying care practices for military veterans with chronic pain, leading to inconsistent rates of long-term opioid therapy. Facilities with a wider range of non-opioid treatment options had lower rates of opioid use among veterans.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateApr 24, 2018

Hospitals often missing dementia despite prior diagnosis

A UCL-led study found that hospitals are more likely to diagnose dementia in patients who have been admitted for another reason. However, missed diagnoses persist, with one-third of people with dementia discharged without recognition, highlighting the need for better record-sharing and culturally appropriate assessments.

SourceUniversity College London·DateApr 24, 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.

Engineers create social media infrastructure for emergency management

Purdue researchers have developed an online platform called the Social Media Analytics and Reporting Toolkit (SMART) that filters social media content according to key words and geographic regions. The tool is being used by first responders to analyze both live and historical data, helping them attend to certain areas faster.

SourcePurdue University·DateApr 24, 2018

High immune function tied to stunted growth

A University of Oregon-led project found that high immune function during childhood is associated with significant growth reduction. Chronic exposure to parasitic worms was linked to reduced stature and lower-leg growth, highlighting the metabolic cost of a robust immune system.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 24, 2018

Bariatric surgery successes lead to type 2 diabetes treatment

Bariatric surgery induces changes in alpha cells to produce beneficial GLP-1, combating insulin resistance and islet dysfunction associated with type 2 diabetes. Researchers aim to develop a drug mimicking this effect, making surgery's benefits more accessible.

SourceCornell University·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 24, 2018

Research explains link between exercise and appetite loss

Researchers at Albert Einstein College of Medicine found that intense exercise reduces appetite by activating temperature-sensitive receptors in the hypothalamus, a region of the brain that regulates metabolism and weight. The study provides evidence that body temperature can act as a biological signal that regulates feeding behavior.

SourceAlbert Einstein College of Medicine·JournalPLOS Biology·DateApr 24, 2018

Study shows newspaper op-eds change minds

A study by Yale University researchers found that newspaper op-eds have a lasting impact on people's views, regardless of their political affiliation or initial stance. The study, which included experiments with the general public and elites, showed that op-eds can change minds on policy issues for a cost-effective estimated $0.50 to $...

SourceYale University·JournalQuarterly Journal of Political Science·DateApr 24, 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.

Fruit fly study identifies new gene linked to aortic aneurysms

Researchers have identified a new gene, ari-1, linked to aortic aneurysms in humans through a fruit fly study. The study found that mutations in the ari-1 gene disrupt mechanical sensing mechanisms in the body, leading to abnormal nuclei shapes and potentially contributing to the development of aortic aneurysms.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateApr 24, 2018

Electrode shape improves neurostimulation for small targets

A fractal-shaped electrode design enhances charge delivery for smaller neural stimulation targets, potentially prolonging device lifespan and improving resolution. The new shape facilitates faster Faradaic charge transfer, resulting in more efficient energy use.

SourcePurdue University·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 24, 2018

Millennials aren't getting the message about sun safety and the dangers of tanning

A new study from Oregon State University-Cascades found that millennials are not getting the message about sun safety and the dangers of tanning. The research suggests that those with lower self-esteem and higher narcissism rates are more likely to exhibit addictive tanning behavior, driven by a desire for improved appearance.

SourceOregon State University·JournalJournal of Consumer Affairs·DateApr 24, 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.

Killer whale genetics raise inbreeding questions

A new genetic analysis reveals that two male whales fathered over half of the calves born since 1990, indicating inbreeding in the Southern Resident killer whale population. The limited breeding number reduces the population's resilience to change, potentially compromising individual animals' survival.

SourceNOAA Fisheries West Coast Region·JournalAnimal Conservation·DateApr 24, 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.

Genetic transcription 'pause' is focus of NASA grant

Researchers aim to determine when the pause in transcription first appeared in evolution by studying various organisms and plant life. They hope this investigation will help narrow down the origin of the pause, shedding light on how complicated life arose on Earth.

SourceCornell University·DateApr 24, 2018

Mining the data

The fifth Act 54 five-year report assesses the impact of long-wall, room-and-pillar, and retreat mining methods on surface structures and water resources. The study provides vital information for environmental remediation and restoration efforts in Pennsylvania.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·DateApr 24, 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.

Soaking in hot tub improves health markers in obese women

Researchers found improved measures of cardiovascular health, beneficial changes in fat tissue, and reduced risk of diabetes in obese women with PCOS who used a hot tub regularly. Heat therapy may reverse some of the inflammation in fat that causes metabolic health impairment.

SourceExperimental Biology·DateApr 24, 2018

Study identifies overdose risk factors in youth with substance use disorders

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry found that over a quarter of young people seeking treatment had a history of at least one overdose. Factors associated with increased overdose risk included alcohol, cocaine, and amphetamine use, as well as psychiatric conditions like depression and anxiety disorders.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJournal of Clinical Psychiatry·DateApr 24, 2018

Winter wave heights and extreme storms on the rise in Western Europe

Average winter wave heights have increased by more than 10mm/year along Scotland and Ireland's coastlines, leading to higher wave heights during extreme weather conditions. The study's findings are crucial for predicting future wave heights and protecting coastal communities across Western Europe.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateApr 24, 2018

Organoids reveal how a deadly brain cancer grows

Salk Institute researchers have generated aggressive glioblastoma multiforme tumors in human cerebral organoids using CRISPR-Cas9 tool. The new model could be used to study tumor progression, investigate new drugs or personalize treatments for patients.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 24, 2018

Flavins keep a handy helper in their pocket

Researchers at the University of Freiburg have discovered how flavins work with oxygen to activate enzyme cofactors, shedding light on their role in metabolic processes and biotechnological applications.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 24, 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.

Imagining a positive outcome biases subsequent memories

A study published in Psychological Science found that imagining a positive outcome for an upcoming event can color one's memory of the event, leading to a rosier reflection. Participants who imagined scenarios in a positive light also rated actual events more positively, suggesting that optimism can transfer to a more positive recall.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateApr 24, 2018

The Matryoshka effect: USU researchers describe underwater phenomenon

Researchers at Utah State University studied the physics behind a unique underwater phenomenon resembling the Matryoshka doll. They developed a new dimensionless number, the Matryoshka number, which predicts the formation of nested cavities under certain conditions.

SourceUtah State University·JournalJournal of Fluid Mechanics·DateApr 24, 2018

Gender inequality is 'drowning out' the voices of women scientists

Research by Dr Heather Ford and colleagues found that female scientists are at a disadvantage in presenting their research, particularly in early career stages, where men dominate senior roles. The study calls for increased opportunities for students and early-career researchers to present at conferences.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 24, 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.

Getting electrons to move in a semiconductor

Researchers have created a wide-bandgap semiconductor called gallium oxide (Ga2O3) that can be engineered into nanometer-scale structures to facilitate high-speed electronics. The new material has demonstrated record mobilities and quantum transport properties.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateApr 24, 2018

NASA teams study the agency's future in astrophysics

NASA is studying four potential flagship missions to explore the universe, including direct imaging of Earth-like planets and investigation of first black holes. The agency will use advanced tools to overcome technical challenges and achieve unprecedented picometer-level stability.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateApr 24, 2018

More than 1 in 20 US children and teens have anxiety or depression

According to a nationwide analysis, approximately 2.6 million American children and adolescents had diagnosed anxiety and/or depression in 2011-12. This represents about 5.3% of the population, with current anxiety or depression affecting around 65,000 parents about their children aged six to 17 years.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics·DateApr 24, 2018

Engineered Chinese shrub produces high levels of antimalarial compound

Researchers in China have engineered a Chinese shrub to produce high levels of artemisinin, a potent antimalarial compound. The study's findings provide new insights into the metabolic pathway involved in artemisinin biosynthesis and offer a potential solution to address global malaria-related deaths.

SourceCell Press·JournalMolecular Plant·DateApr 24, 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.

Healthcare costs for adults with autism more than double those for general population

Researchers found that adults on the autism spectrum have increased use of primary care, mental health services, and laboratory services, but lower use of gynecology visits and cervical cancer screening. The study highlights the importance of considering autism throughout the lifespan and emphasizes the need for better access to afford...

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalAutism in Adulthood·DateApr 24, 2018

Availability of orphan medicines varies between European countries

The study found that five to nine orphan medicines were available in ten European countries, while all ten medicines were only accessible in three countries: the Netherlands, Malta, and Poland. The availability of these medicines varied significantly across different countries.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalEuropean Journal of Clinical Pharmacology·DateApr 24, 2018

Uncovering the secret law of the evolution of galaxy clusters

An international team found a fundamental law regulating galaxy cluster growth using gravitational lensing data from NASA's Hubble Space Telescope and Subaru Telescope. The law indicates that clusters are still growing by drawing surrounding substances with their strong gravity.

SourceOsaka University·DateApr 24, 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.

Future wearable device could tell how we power human movement

Researchers at UW-Madison have developed a new approach to noninvasively measure tendon tension while a person is engaging in activities like walking or running. The technology uses vibrational characteristics to assess tendon force, providing insights into motor control and mechanics of human movement.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 24, 2018

Burning tumors away

Researchers have developed a real-time thermal imaging method to guide minimally invasive brain tumor treatments. This technology enables doctors to precisely deliver the right dose to the right location, reducing risks and costs associated with follow-up imaging studies.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalIEEE Transactions on Biomedical Engineering·DateApr 24, 2018

Biophysics -- lighting up DNA-based nanostructures

Researchers use DNA-PAINT technique to visualize individual strands in DNA origami nanostructures, revealing the robustness of assembly and incorporation efficiency of staple strands. The results show that variations in structure formation speed have little influence on overall quality, but some sites remain unoccupied.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 24, 2018

Milky Way's supermassive black hole may have 'unseen' siblings

A new study suggests that galaxies similar to the Milky Way should host multiple supermassive black holes, as predicted by a state-of-the-art cosmological simulation. The wanderings of these black holes are unlikely to affect our solar system due to their vast distances and low accretion rates.

SourceYale University·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateApr 24, 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.

Brain activity linked to stress changes chemical codes

A new study implicates a role for light-induced electrical activity in controlling chemical codes in the brain, potentially leading to chemical imbalances underlying mental illness. The researchers found that manipulating brain electrical activity prevented neurotransmitter switching associated with anxious and depressed behavior.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 24, 2018

New study explains antibiotic resistance in apple, pear disease

A new study published in Molecular Plant-Microbe Interactions reveals the mechanism by which antibiotics kasugamycin and blasticidin S kill fire blight bacteria in apple and pear trees. The researchers found that the antibiotics target a critical gene, ksgA, leading to bacterial death.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalMolecular Plant-Microbe Interactions·DateApr 24, 2018

New mechanism of radio emission in neutron stars revealed

Researchers from ITMO University have discovered a new mechanism for neutron star radio emission, based on the transitions of particles between gravitational states. This phenomenon is similar to laser amplification and was first observed in electrons on the surface of neutron stars, consistent with real experimental observations.

SourceITMO University·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·DateApr 24, 2018

Blinded by the light: Climate change, the sun, and Lake Superior

Research led by Dr. Soren Brothers found that Lake Superior absorbs atmospheric CO2 from May to October, but expels it during winter due to El Niño events and climate change. The study, published in Limnology and Oceanography, suggests a potential marine-atmospheric feedback loop with global warming.

SourceS.J. & Jessie E. Quinney College of Natural Resources, Utah State University·JournalLimnology and Oceanography·DateApr 24, 2018

Fungus senses gravity using gene borrowed from bacteria

The pin mold fungus Phycomyces blakesleeanus uses a gene from bacteria to create large gravity-sensing crystals that help it grow upright. Genetic analysis reveals the role of horizontal gene transfer in acquiring this unique trait, providing insights into the evolution of adaptation.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateApr 24, 2018

Artificial leaf as mini-factory for medicine

Researchers at Eindhoven University of Technology have developed an artificial leaf that can produce chemicals using sunlight, increasing efficiency by 20%. The 'mini-factory' uses a clever feedback system costing less than 50 euros to automatically adjust production levels.

SourceEindhoven University of Technology·JournalGreen Chemistry·DateApr 24, 2018

Radiotherapy offers new treatment option for liver cancer

A novel technique called radiation segmentectomy (RS) uses yttrium-90 to destroy tumors while sparing surrounding tissue. The procedure has shown positive response in 71% of patients and improved survival outcomes, with a median overall survival of 6.7 years.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateApr 24, 2018

Soccer heading -- not collisions -- cognitively impairs players

Research at Albert Einstein College of Medicine found that frequent soccer ball heading is associated with poorer performance on psychomotor speed and attention tasks. Players who headed the ball more frequently showed subtle reductions in neuropsychological function, which may lead to microstructural changes in the brain.

SourceAlbert Einstein College of Medicine·JournalFrontiers in Neurology·DateApr 24, 2018

UNC-Chapel Hill and partners awarded $58.1 million to accelerate research discoveries

The UNC-Chapel Hill-led Clinical and Translational Science Award Program will broaden its reach across North Carolina by continuing its alliance with RTI International and NC A&T State University and adding a formal partnership with North Carolina State University. The grant will support the advancement of clinical and translational re...

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - Office of Research Communication·DateApr 24, 2018