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Science News for April 25, 2018


BU: Obese patients underrepresented in cancer clinical trials

A new review by Boston University School of Public Health researchers found that less than one-fifth of participants in cancer-related clinical trials are obese. Obesity was associated with an increased risk of progression, recurrence, and death for specific cancer types.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalAnnals of Oncology·DateApr 25, 2018

When the weather is good, we are happier on social networks

Researchers analyzed billions of Twitter and Facebook posts to find that people express happier sentiments when the weather is warm and sunny. The study found a significant correlation between good weather and increased positivity, which could be used to tailor advertising campaigns and content to users' emotional states.

SourceUniversidad Carlos III de Madrid·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 25, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

UCLA research may explain some causes of infertility and miscarriage

A new study has identified a critical stage in human embryonic development that may contribute to infertility and miscarriage. The research, led by UCLA biologist Amander Clark, reveals that epigenomic changes in early embryonic stem cells play a crucial role in determining embryo viability.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateApr 25, 2018

We still don't know how strange celibate animals evolve

A new study casts doubt on a leading theory for bdelloid rotifers' evolution, suggesting DNA repair following desiccation may not be key to their success. The researchers found no evidence of the predicted differences between species that can and cannot survive desiccation.

SourceImperial College London·JournalPLOS Biology·DateApr 25, 2018

Cell membrane inspires new ultrathin electronic film

Japanese researchers have developed a new method to build large areas of semiconductive material just two molecules thick. The films function as thin film transistors with potential applications in flexible electronics or chemical detectors. Researchers used geometric frustration, a molecular shape that makes it difficult for molecules...

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateApr 25, 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.

Exercise could make the heart younger

Researchers found that exercising mice produced over four and a half times more new heart muscle cells than sedentary counterparts. The study suggests exercise can stimulate the heart to regenerate tissue after a heart attack.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 25, 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.

Telemedicine aided people hit by hurricanes Harvey and Irma

A new study finds that telemedicine can offer aid to people hit by hurricanes Harvey and Irma by providing routine medical care in the days following the disaster. The top diagnosis during this time included acute respiratory illnesses and skin problems, similar to national trends.

SourceRAND Corporation·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateApr 25, 2018

How do marine mammals avoid the bends?

A new study reveals that marine mammals' unusual lung architecture allows them to avoid the bends by creating a ventilation-perfusion mismatch. This adaptation helps to minimize nitrogen uptake and reduce the risk of decompression sickness. However, excessive stress caused by human-made sound can disrupt this system.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·DateApr 25, 2018

Agent 007: Organic molecules as bearers of secrets

Researchers design chemical compounds to serve as passwords for encrypted data, utilizing a conventional encryption method combined with chemistry. The developed approach enables secure information storage and transmission using highly robust and easy-to-recover organic molecules.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 25, 2018

Assembly of massive galaxy cluster witnessed for the first time

Astronomers have observed a colossal cluster of galaxies for the first time, containing at least 14 galaxies packed into an area four times the diameter of the Milky Way's galactic disk. The cluster is churning out stars at an incredible pace, with rates ranging from 50 to 1,000 times higher than expected for solitary galaxies.

SourceSimons Foundation·JournalNature·DateApr 25, 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.

Ancient galaxy megamergers

Astronomers have observed gargantuan cosmic pileups, the impending collisions of young starburst galaxies, when the Universe was only half its current age. These ancient systems are thought to be building the most massive structures in the known Universe: galaxy clusters.

SourceESO·JournalNature·DateApr 25, 2018

New uses for existing antiviral drugs

A team of scientists identified 7 compounds that show new effects against HIV-1, Zika virus, and Rift Valley Fever, expanding the available therapeutics for viral disease treatment. The researchers believe these broad-spectrum antiviral drugs could save resources and time needed for development of novel drugs.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalAntiviral Research·DateApr 25, 2018

Nanowires could make lithium ion batteries safer

Researchers have found that adding nanowires to solid-state electrolytes can increase conductivity, reduce stress, and prevent fires in lithium-ion batteries. The addition of nanowires also improves the battery's rate performance and cyclic capacity, making it a safer alternative.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalNano Letters·DateApr 25, 2018

Targeting telomerase as therapeutic strategy for melanoma

Researchers found targeting telomerase and inhibiting mitochondrial function synergistically killed NRAS-mutant melanoma cells, inducing extensive cell death and DNA damage. Combination therapy also improved survival in a mouse model.

SourceThe Wistar Institute·JournalOncogene·DateApr 25, 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.

Nuclear radiation detecting device could lead to new homeland security tool

A Northwestern University research team has developed a new semiconductor device that can detect gamma rays and identify radioactive isotopes at room temperature. The device, made of cesium lead bromide, offers high spectral resolution and can be scaled up for widespread use in biomedical imaging, astronomy, and spectroscopy.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 25, 2018

Startup advances carbon-zero fuels through UConn partnership

Mattershift, a UConn-backed startup, has developed carbon nanotube technology for mass-producing carbon-zero fuels, fertilizers, and pharmaceuticals. The company aims to remove CO2 from the air and convert it into usable fuels at a lower cost than fossil fuels.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 25, 2018

Sunlight reduces effectiveness of dispersants used to clean up oil spills

A new study shows that sunlight transforms oil into different compounds that dispersants cannot easily break up, reducing their effectiveness by at least 30 percent. The findings suggest that responders should factor in sunlight when determining the window of opportunity to use dispersants effectively.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·DateApr 25, 2018

Researchers redefine the origin of the cellular powerhouse

Researchers identify new position of mitochondria by analyzing environmental sequencing data and reconstructed genomes of alphaproteobacteria. The findings suggest that mitochondria evolved from an ancestor that later gave rise to all recognized Alphaproteobacteria groups, contradicting previous theories.

SourceUppsala University·JournalNature·DateApr 25, 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.

Hospital staff experience 'sea change' in addressing substance use disorder

A new study finds that a hospital-based addiction medicine team significantly reduces burnout and frustration among healthcare providers, while improving patient engagement and care. The team's approach fundamentally reframes substance use disorder as a treatable chronic disease.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalJournal of Hospital Medicine·DateApr 25, 2018

Study: Drug-filled, 3-D printed dentures could fight off infections

A study by University at Buffalo researchers found that drug-filled 3D printed dentures can reduce fungal growth in the mouth. The innovative technology uses microscopic capsules to release Amphotericin B, an antifungal medication, which can help prevent infection while dentures are in use.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalMaterials Today·DateApr 25, 2018

Students' social relationships in the last year of secondary education

The study found that having a less cohesive personal network in high school makes students more open to new relationships at university. Students who were more rooted in their hometowns experienced difficulties adapting to university life and relied on maintaining weak contact with old schoolmates through digital media.

SourceUniversity of Seville·JournalUniversitas Psychologica·DateApr 25, 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.

Lab-on-a-chip delivers critical immunity data for vulnerable populations

A team of researchers from the University of Toronto has developed a portable, reconfigurable lab-on-a-chip diagnostic platform that can gauge immunity to vaccine-preventable diseases among vulnerable populations. The platform was validated at a refugee camp in Kenya and showed promising results in detecting measles and rubella.

SourceUniversity of Toronto Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateApr 25, 2018

Synaptic communication controls neuronal migration

Researchers discovered that subplate neurons form transient synapses with newborn neurons, controlling their migration during fetal brain development. This finding sheds light on the mechanisms regulating neuronal migration and its implications for mental disorders such as autism and schizophrenia.

SourceTokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science·JournalScience·DateApr 25, 2018

Astronomers witness galaxy megamerger

Astronomers have observed a gargantuan cosmic collision of 14 young galaxies, poised to merge and form a colossal galaxy cluster. This protocluster is located 12.4 billion light-years away, offering an unprecedented opportunity to study the early stages of cluster formation.

SourceNational Radio Astronomy Observatory·JournalNature·DateApr 25, 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.

Einstein's 'spooky action' goes massive

Researchers at Aalto University have successfully generated and detected entanglement in massive mechanical oscillators, opening doors for new quantum technologies. The achievement uses a theoretical innovation developed by Dr. Matt Woolley and Prof. Aashish Clerk to stabilize exotic quantum states.

SourceAalto University·JournalNature·DateApr 25, 2018

In China, traits related to traditional rice or wheat farming affect modern behavior

Researchers found interdependent behaviors in customers from rice-growing regions and individualistic behaviors in those from wheat-growing regions. Historical farming legacies play a significant role in shaping everyday behavior, contradicting the idea that wealthier cultures become more individualistic.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 25, 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.

An ionic black box

Researchers at UCSB are developing a chip that uses ionic memristor technology to create a physically unclonable device, rendering it vulnerable to cyber attacks. The technology aims to prevent cloning and hijacking of devices in networks, making them ideal for securing IoT devices.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNature Electronics·DateApr 25, 2018

SCAI releases consensus guidelines for PVD device selection

The Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions (SCAI) has released new guidelines for selecting specific categories of devices in endovascular therapy. The guidelines provide device-focused recommendations based on a review of comparative effectiveness data, including safety and efficacy of femoral-popliteal devices.

SourceSociety for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions·JournalCatheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions·DateApr 25, 2018

Weather associated with sentiments expressed on social media

Researchers found temperature, precipitation, humidity, and cloud cover associated with positive or negative expressed sentiments. Positive expressions increased up to 20 degrees Celsius before declining over 30 degrees Celsius, while high humidity and cloud cover were linked to negative expressions.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 25, 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.

Implantable islet cells come with their own oxygen supply

A new implantable device could help insulin-producing cells live longer after transplant and improve treatment of type 1 diabetes. The device, developed by MIT researchers, supplies oxygen to transplanted islet cells, allowing them to remain viable for several months and maintain normal blood glucose levels.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 25, 2018

Purdue archaeologists on ancient horse find in Nile River Valley

A well-preserved horse burial at Tombos has provided new insights into the social significance of equids in the Nile Valley during the Third Intermediate Period. The discovery suggests that horses represented symbols of a larger social, political and economic movement in ancient Nubian culture.

SourcePurdue University·JournalAntiquity·DateApr 25, 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.

Maternal binge drinking linked to mood problems and alcohol abuse in offspring

A recent study found that maternal binge drinking during pregnancy and lactation can impair the mental health of their offspring, leading to mood disturbances and increased vulnerability to alcohol abuse as adolescents. The research suggests that even occasional heavy drinking can have a depressive effect on the mother and pass on chan...

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychiatry·DateApr 25, 2018

Researchers 3-D print electronics and cells directly on skin

A new 3D printing technique allows for the direct printing of electronics on human skin, with potential applications in military technology and medical treatments for skin disorders. The printer uses computer vision to adjust to small movements of the body during printing and can be used to print temporary sensors or solar cells.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateApr 25, 2018

Brain cell's Achilles' heel may prompt hydrocephalus

Researchers discovered that mature ependymal cells require continuous Foxj1 production to maintain shape and function, but viruses can shut down this process, leading to hydrocephalus. This study may lead to alternative treatments for the condition.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 25, 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.

What happens to stolen guns?

According to Philip Cook's analysis, gun thefts represent only about one percent of all gun transactions in the US. In Chicago, only a tiny proportion of crime guns were ever reported stolen to the Police Department.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of Urban Health·DateApr 25, 2018

New natural gas catalyst would boost clean transportation

A new natural gas catalyst aims to reduce methane emissions from vehicle exhaust, a potent greenhouse gas. The US Department of Energy-funded project will develop and optimize a lower-cost, more efficient catalyst to eliminate unreacted methane, making natural gas a cleaner-burning fuel option.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateApr 25, 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.

Novel technique achieves 32-fold increase in nanometric bactericide's activity

A Brazilian research team has developed a novel technique to produce high-performance silver nanoparticles with 32 times the bactericidal capacity of existing materials. The new method uses pulsed laser irradiation and reduces production costs, making it economically feasible for large-scale applications.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 25, 2018

Drinking baking soda could be an inexpensive, safe way to combat autoimmune disease

Medical College of Georgia scientists found that drinking baking soda encourages the spleen to promote an anti-inflammatory environment, reducing destructive inflammation in autoimmune diseases. This shift was observed in rats and healthy people, with a reduction in pro-inflammatory cells and an increase in anti-inflammatory macrophages.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalThe Journal of Immunology·DateApr 25, 2018

Want new medicines? You need fundamental research

Eight out of ten transformative medicines in the US between 1985 and 2009 originated from fundamental discoveries, with an average time to approval of 30 years. Curiosity-driven science is essential for discovering new medicines.

SourceHarvard University·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateApr 25, 2018

World's smallest optical implantable biodevice

Researchers at Nara Institute of Science and Technology have developed the world's smallest wireless optical biodevice, measuring just 1 mm³ and 2.3 mg in volume and weight. The device converts infrared light into blue light to control neural activity, offering a promising solution for optogenetics applications.

SourceNara Institute of Science and Technology·JournalAIP Advances·DateApr 25, 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.

Human impact on sea urchin abundance

Researchers found that changing water temperature and algal blooms affected sea urchin populations, leading to abnormal development of their larvae. The study provides valuable insights into the importance of long-term monitoring for detecting ecological changes and understanding their causes.

SourceKyoto University·JournalEcological Indicators·DateApr 25, 2018

Napping can help tired teens' performance in school

Researchers found that regular mid-day naps improve neurocognitive function and daytime attention in adolescents. The ideal nap duration is between 30-60 minutes, and routine napping is associated with better nighttime sleep quality.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalBehavioral Sleep Medicine·DateApr 25, 2018

Balancing nuclear and renewable energy

Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory found that nuclear power plants can adjust to changing demand for power, enabling the use of more renewable energy. This flexibility can lower electricity costs for consumers and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalApplied Energy·DateApr 25, 2018

CU Anschutz Medical Campus wins $46.5 million NIH grant to accelerate research discoveries

The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus has received a $46.5 million NIH grant to enhance its translational science workforce and research environment. The grant will support the development of novel methodologies and resources to tackle rare diseases, improve health screenings in underserved communities, and reduce mortalit...

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·DateApr 25, 2018
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Study examines denigration when people call a place a 's---hole'

Researchers traced Twitter tweets using the word 'shithole' to identify who engages in stigmatizing discourse and how places are stereotyped. The study found that men and women experience living in a place differently, with 38% of tweets maligning their own hometown.

SourceWiley·JournalTransactions of the Institute of British Geographers·DateApr 25, 2018

Ultrahigh-pressure laser experiments shed light on super-Earth cores

Researchers simulated conditions inside a planet three times larger than Earth using high-powered laser beams. The study revealed that the crystal structure of iron-silicon alloys changes with higher silicon content under extreme pressures, providing new insights into the nature of super-Earths and their cores.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 25, 2018

New breath and urine tests detect early breast cancer more accurately

Researchers developed a new method for early and accurate breast cancer screening using electronic nose gas sensors and GC-MS analysis, achieving 95% average accuracy in detecting breast cancer biomarkers from breath samples. Urine samples also yielded 85% average accuracy with this technology.

SourceAmerican Associates, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalComputers in Biology and Medicine·DateApr 25, 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.

Belief in fake causes of cancer is rife

A survey found that over 40% of people in England believe stress, food additives, and electromagnetic frequencies cause cancer despite a lack of scientific evidence. Those with better knowledge of proven cancer causes were more likely to make healthier lifestyle choices.

SourceCancer Research UK·JournalEuropean Journal of Cancer·DateApr 25, 2018

Mediterranean diet boosts beneficial bacteria

A recent study published in Frontiers in Nutrition found that a Mediterranean-type diet enhances the good bacteria living in the gut, increasing diversity by up to 7% compared to a Western diet. The study used an animal model and analyzed fecal samples to confirm these findings.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalFrontiers in Nutrition·DateApr 25, 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.

SCAI updates consensus on length of stay for percutaneous coronary intervention

The Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions has updated its consensus guidelines to allow for flexibility in length of stay after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), prioritizing patient-centered care. The new guidelines assess readiness for discharge along three lines: procedural, patient, and programmatic factors.

SourceSociety for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions·JournalCatheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions·DateApr 25, 2018

A Yellowstone guide to life on Mars

A University of Cincinnati geology student, Andrew Gangidine, is developing a marker for ancient bacterial life on Mars to aid NASA's search. He's studying microbial life in silica hot springs at Yellowstone National Park to create a useful indicator of life on the red planet.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateApr 25, 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.

Retirement transition increases sitting during free time

A study by University of Turku researchers found that retirement transition leads to a significant increase in sitting during free time, averaging six hours per day. This increase was especially noted among women and individuals with pre-existing health conditions.

SourceUniversity of Turku·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·DateApr 25, 2018

New study: What happens when sea levels rise and coastal land gets flooded?

Researchers at University of Southern Denmark found that flooding coastal land can create well-functioning marine ecosystems, attracting visitors and wildlife. The Gyldensteen Coastal Lagoon, a 214-hectare area in Denmark, has shown promise as a carbon sink and is developing into a diverse ecosystem.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 25, 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.

World's oldest insect inspires a new generation of aerogels

A team of international scientists has created a new form of highly-efficient, low-cost insulation based on the wings of a dragonfly. The material is ultralight and porous, with a piece weighing less than a kilogram, and can be replicated at an affordable cost.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateApr 25, 2018

Sunlight works against oil clean-up efforts

Researchers found that sunlight has a significant impact on oil clean-up efforts, decreasing dispersant effectiveness by four-fold. The study's findings suggest that photochemical oxidation, triggered by sunlight, is a dominant weathering process that should be considered in future field manuals and oil spill response guides.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·DateApr 25, 2018

Switch controls light on a nanoscale for faster information processing

Purdue researchers design a compact switch that enables reliable confinement of light to small computer chip components, bypassing unwanted absorption of photons using surface plasmons. The development paves the way for hybrid photonic and electronic nanocircuitry, potentially leading to faster information processing in supercomputers.

SourcePurdue University·JournalNature·DateApr 25, 2018

Turning graphene into light nanosensors

Researchers embedded graphene in a photonic crystal to enhance its light-absorbing capabilities. By varying the external temperature, they can tune the material's optical characteristics, leading to potential applications in light sensors and ultra-fast lasers.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal B·DateApr 25, 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.

NIH study: No chronic wasting disease transmissibility in macaques

A National Institutes of Health (NIH) study has found no evidence of transmissibility of chronic wasting disease in cynomolgus macaque monkeys. The research, published in the Journal of Virology, involved exposing 14 macaques to brain matter from CWD-infected deer and elk over a period of up to 13 years.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalJournal of Virology·DateApr 25, 2018

Study suggests older surgeons produce lower mortality rates in emergency procedures

Research from UCLA and Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found that surgeries performed by older surgeons (age 50 and up) have lower patient mortality rates than those performed by younger surgeons. The study also showed that female surgeons in their 50s had the lowest patient mortality rate, regardless of age group or gender.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalThe BMJ·DateApr 25, 2018

Rabies trick could help treat Parkinson's disease

Researchers use rabies virus machinery to deliver deferoxamine, a metal-grabbing compound, directly to brain cells, reducing iron buildup and reversing disease symptoms. The therapeutic agent is composed of nanoparticles stuffed with deferoxamine and is already approved for use in the clinic.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Nano·DateApr 25, 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.

Novel ecosystems provide use for some native birds

A study published in Ecosphere found that native birds can successfully nest in non-native plants in altered ecosystems, challenging traditional views on habitat restoration. The research suggests that controlling non-native plants may not yield benefits for all nesting bird species.

SourceOregon State University·JournalEcosphere·DateApr 25, 2018

Back in black for singletons trying to find love

A new study based on the TV series First Dates found that singles wear more black than red on first dates. Black was associated with increased attractiveness and perceived fashion sense, while red was linked to increased sexual receptivity.

SourceUniversity of Lincoln·JournalEvolutionary Psychology·DateApr 25, 2018

Cheaper and easier way found to make plastic semiconductors

Researchers at the University of Waterloo have developed a method to produce conjugated polymers using a dehydration reaction, resulting in cheap and environmentally friendly plastics. This breakthrough aims to streamline production and bring affordable electronics to market.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalChemistry - A European Journal·DateApr 25, 2018

Geologists assist in solving the mystery of a gold treasure

Researchers used laser ablation and plasma mass spectrometry to analyze ancient gold items from the Carambolo treasure, discovering a local gold deposit within 2 km of the site. This breakthrough provides new insights into the origin of the metal and its possible connections to ancient trade routes.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalJournal of Archaeological Science·DateApr 25, 2018

NIST team shows tiny frequency combs are reliable measurement tools

Scientists at NIST and partners developed a miniaturized device that generates precise frequencies of light, tracing back to an international measurement standard. The breakthrough reduces the size of optical frequency synthesizers from tabletop instruments to three silicon chips.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalNature·DateApr 25, 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.

Consuming protein supplements with meals may work better for weight control

A systematic review found that consuming protein supplements with meals was associated with greater reductions in fat mass and improvements in lean to fat mass ratio compared to consuming them between meals. This strategy may be beneficial for adults looking to improve their health status through resistance training.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalNutrition Reviews·DateApr 25, 2018

Transparent eel-like soft robot can swim silently underwater

Researchers at UC San Diego developed a soft eel-like robot that can swim silently in salt water using artificial muscles filled with water. The robot's undulating swimming motion is generated by electrical charges that activate the muscles, allowing it to move without making any sound.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience Robotics·DateApr 25, 2018

Antibody 'cocktail' can prevent Zika infection but is not effective for treatment of fetuses

A collaborative study led by the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine found that a monoclonal antibody cocktail therapy was effective in clearing the virus from pregnant women's blood but failed to prevent fetal transmission and treat infected fetuses. Researchers are now working on engineering antibodies to target the fetus.

SourceUniversity of Miami Miller School of Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 25, 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.

Watching nanomaterials form in 4-D

Scientists have developed a novel TEM technique that captures dynamic reactions at the nanoscale, allowing researchers to study material transformations in real-time. This breakthrough enables better control over nanoscale properties and has significant implications for designing materials with desired properties.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalACS Central Science·DateApr 25, 2018

Protect forest elephants to conserve ecosystems, not DNA

Forest elephant populations across Central Africa exhibit genetic similarity, highlighting the importance of conserving this critically endangered species. Conservation efforts can save many species by protecting one, as forest elephants play a vital role in maintaining plant diversity and ecosystem balance.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalEcology and Evolution·DateApr 25, 2018

Racial disparity in premature deaths has narrowed since 1990

A study analyzing extensive death records data from 1990 to 2014 found that years of life lost declined by 28% among blacks, primarily due to decreasing heart disease, HIV, and cancer mortality. This improvement is attributed to public health interventions.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 25, 2018

Engineers get a grip on slippery surfactants

Researchers at Rice University have extended a 100-year-old modeling formula to account for complex surfactants in enhanced oil recovery. The new model, developed by Walter Chapman and Xiaoqun Mu, incorporates temperature, pressure, composition, and other conditions to provide a more accurate prediction of oil behavior in wells.

SourceRice University·JournalIndustrial & Engineering Chemistry Research·DateApr 25, 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.

Dementia an extra challenge in natural disasters

A new guide from QUT's Dementia Centre aims to prepare those who care for people with dementia to cope during natural disasters. The Preparing for a Natural Disaster Guide highlights the increased risks faced by carers of people with dementia, including exacerbated symptoms and potential harm.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·DateApr 25, 2018

Corn with straw mulch builds yield, soil carbon

A five-year experiment found that corn yield was highest in the plastic mulch plot, but soil organic carbon was highest in the straw mulch plots. Straw mulch increased soil's ability to store carbon, whereas plastic mulch increased microbial activity that used up organic carbon.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalSoil Science Society of America Journal·DateApr 25, 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.

Fetal immune system rejects the mother in preterm labor

A new study from UCSF reveals the fetal immune system can trigger preterm labor when it mistakenly identifies the mother's cells as foreign. The researchers found activated immune cells in the cord blood of preterm infants and higher levels of inflammatory chemicals, leading to uterine contractions.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateApr 25, 2018

Russian Arctic glacier loss doubles as temps warm

Glacier ice mass in the Russian Arctic has nearly doubled over the last decade due to rising temperatures. The research, led by Cornell University, reveals that glaciers in Franz Josef Land are shrinking at a faster rate than previously thought.

SourceCornell University·JournalRemote Sensing of Environment·DateApr 25, 2018

Brain structure linked to symptoms of restless legs syndrome

A study found structural changes in the brain's sensory system, which processes sensations and movement, in people with restless legs syndrome. These changes may be related to symptoms such as uncomfortable sensations and an irresistible urge to move the legs.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateApr 25, 2018

E. coli -- are we measuring the wrong thing?

A recent awareness and management programme for sepsis has led to increased E. coli blood stream infection cases, raising questions about the effectiveness of existing targets. The programme's success in sepsis detection suggests considering alternative measures, such as positive-to-negative sample ratios or urine analysis.

SourceSwansea University·JournalJournal of Hospital Infection·DateApr 25, 2018

Should doctors recommend e-cigarettes to help smokers quit?

E-cigarettes may be as effective as nicotine replacement therapy in quitting smoking, but concerns over addiction and youth smoking initiation remain. However, experts argue that the risks are largely irrelevant for most vapers, and e-cigarettes can help smokers quit as part of a comprehensive anti-smoking strategy.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateApr 25, 2018

Molecular evolution: How the building blocks of life may form in space

Researchers create glycine, an essential amino acid, from simple molecules in a laboratory experiment that mimics astrophysical conditions. The study suggests that the combination of star dust and radiation could have formed life's building blocks in space, leading to their arrival on Earth via comet or meteorite impact.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateApr 25, 2018

Culprit in reducing effectiveness of insulin identified

Researchers discovered that Stromal derived factor-1 (SDF-1) secreted from adipocytes reduces insulin effectiveness and glucose uptake in cells. In SDF-1 knockout mice, insulin-induced glucose uptake increased and insulin efficacy improved.

SourceOsaka University·JournalDiabetes·DateApr 25, 2018

Efficient universal quantum channel simulation in a cloud quantum computer

Researchers demonstrate a new algorithm to simulate quantum channels using IBM's cloud quantum computer, enabling efficient open system quantum simulation and exploring its applications in quantum communication. The method reduces gate complexity compared to Stinespring dilation, making it scalable for higher dimensions.

SourceScience China Press·DateApr 25, 2018

The equine herald of a new age

A 3,000-year-old horse burial in Sudan has provided significant insights into the Kushite state formation and the role of horses in ancient Nubian culture. The discovery, dated to around 950 BC, reveals that horses were central to the state's identity and foreshadowed later developments in Nubian kingship.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalAntiquity·DateApr 25, 2018

NASA finds Tropical Cyclone Fakir weakening

NASA's Aqua satellite detected Tropical Cyclone Fakir weakening in the Southern Indian Ocean with coldest cloud top temperatures as low as minus 63 degrees Fahrenheit. On April 25, Fakir's maximum sustained winds decreased to 35 knots, and the system is moving southeast, indicating potential for heavy rainfall.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateApr 25, 2018

Skewed sex ratios causes single fathers to bring up the young

A new study from an international team of researchers found that an imbalance of the sexes leads to single parenting in birds. The researchers discovered that when there are more males than females or vice versa, the parenting roles shift, leaving the males to care for the chicks.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 25, 2018

Why we need erasable MRI scans

Researchers have developed next-generation contrast agents that can be turned off using ultrasound, allowing for clearer MRI scans. The new technology relies on nanoscale structures called gas vesicles, which bounce back sound waves and react differently to magnetic fields.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Materials·DateApr 25, 2018

Study shows a new approach to treating patients with stage IV Wilms tumor

A new study published in Journal of Clinical Oncology shows a four-year overall survival rate of 96 percent for patients with stage IV Wilms tumors with lung metastases, compared to 84 percent on the predecessor study. The approach resulted in sparing initial upfront lung radiation and reducing long-term risks for nearly half of patients.

SourceChildren's National Hospital·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateApr 25, 2018

One in every six deaths in young adults is opioid-related: Study

A study published in the Journal of Addiction Medicine found that opioid-related deaths among young adults in Ontario nearly tripled from 2000 to 2015. The rate of opioid-related deaths in this age group increased dramatically, with over 1 in 9 deaths being opioid-related by 2015.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalJournal of Addiction Medicine·DateApr 25, 2018

Hair products for black women contain mix of hazardous ingredients

A new report by Silent Spring Institute finds that dozens of hazardous chemicals are present in hair products marketed at Black women, including hormone-disrupting chemicals and fragrance chemicals. The study highlights the need for better disclosure of ingredients and encourages manufacturers to develop safer products.

SourceSilent Spring Institute·JournalEnvironmental Research·DateApr 25, 2018

Imaging may allow safe tPA treatment of patients with unwitnessed strokes

A new study has identified a mismatch between two MRI methods that can signify early stroke status, allowing the use of 'clot busting' drug tPA in patients with unwitnessed strokes. The study found similar outcomes to those previously reported for patients receiving tPA within 4.5 hours of witnessed strokes.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalAnnals of Neurology·DateApr 25, 2018

Stress hormones spike as the temperature rises

A new study found higher cortisol levels in medical students during the summer months than in winter. The research contradicts traditional notions of increased stress in winter and relaxed ease in summer.

SourceAmerican Physiological Society·DateApr 25, 2018

Sunlight reduces effectiveness of dispersants used in oil spills

New studies show that sunlight transforms oil on the ocean surface more significantly and quickly than previously thought, reducing the effectiveness of chemical dispersants. This process, known as photochemical weathering, alters crude oil into different compounds that dispersants cannot easily break up.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·DateApr 25, 2018

JFK was not shot from the grassy knoll, suggests new research

A new analysis of video footage supports official findings that John F. Kennedy was shot by Lee Harvey Oswald from the Texas School Book Depository building. The study uses fundamental classical mechanics to analyze the forward head snap in the Zapruder film, which shows President Kennedy's reactions after being shot in the head.

SourceElsevier·JournalHeliyon·DateApr 25, 2018

How does urban-induced warming in Beijing interact with air temperature in summer?

Researchers found that urban-induced warming in Beijing increased with urban land expansion, but the rate of increase slowed down after 2000. The study also revealed an interrelationship between urban-induced warming and heat waves, suggesting that urban expansion may heighten heat waves in urban areas.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateApr 25, 2018

Analyzing insect performance

A meta-analysis of 44 studies on neonicotinoid insecticides' effects on arthropod performance found similar negative impacts on abundance, behavior, condition, reproductive success, and survival. The research suggests that these insecticides affect not only pollinators but also detritivores and predators.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalEcological Applications·DateApr 25, 2018

There is more than just saving money when it comes to fake goods

Research reveals that Chinese young people buy counterfeit products based on cultural influences, with some viewing it as a way to express anti-corporate ideology and prudence. The study found four types of consumers: victim brand illiterates, larkers, anti-corporate activists, and status matchers.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalInternational Journal of Consumer Studies·DateApr 25, 2018