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Science News for April 26, 2018


Tailoring blood cells in the laboratory

Scientists have engineered red blood cell lines to express fewer antigens, making them less immunogenic for patients with rare blood types. This breakthrough could lead to the development of more universal blood sources for transfusion patients.

SourceEMBO·JournalEMBO Molecular Medicine·DateApr 26, 2018

New clinical trial shows second generation drug-eluting stents are safe and effective

The PERSPECTIVE trial presents a comprehensive review of the safety, efficacy, and durability of Zotarolimus-Eluting Stents in treating chronic total occlusion. Treatment with second-generation drug-eluting stents resulted in lower occurrence of adverse events compared to previous DES trials.

SourceSociety for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions·JournalCatheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions·DateApr 26, 2018

Hidden costs of skin cancer caused by workplace sun exposure revealed

New research estimates total and per-case costs of newly diagnosed non-melanoma skin cancers in Canada in 2011 due to workplace sun exposure. The study found that the two most common types of non-melanoma skin cancer cost $5,760 and $10,555 per case respectively.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalJournal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene·DateApr 26, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Penn bioinformatics researcher receives grant from Chan Zuckerberg Initiative

A global project is underway to map every type of cell in the human body as a resource for investigating health and disease. Penn bioinformatics researcher Casey Greene will use this funding to develop open, shared computational tools and algorithms to analyze large data sets without being instructed what features to look for.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·DateApr 26, 2018

Smartphone app keeps an 'eye' on daily tuberculosis therapy

A smartphone video-based app substitutes for in-person daily visits required for tuberculosis treatment, with patients showing similar adherence rates as traditional DOT. The app offers a more private and cost-effective option for monitoring medication intake, but further research is needed to assess its full impact.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalOpen Forum Infectious Diseases·DateApr 26, 2018

Hearing aids linked to fewer hospital and ER visits by older adults

A new study finds that older adults with severe hearing loss who use hearing aids are less likely to visit the hospital or emergency room, despite high costs of the devices themselves. The association is significant, even considering factors such as income and education level.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·DateApr 26, 2018

MSU-based scientists explained the survivability of viruses

Researchers analyzed the survivability of RNA-containing viruses, discovering that inaccurate genetic copying helps them adapt to adverse conditions. The study found that viruses can repair damaged elements or evolve new properties to compensate for damage, ensuring their survival and persistence.

SourceLomonosov Moscow State University·JournalMicrobiology and Molecular Biology Reviews·DateApr 26, 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.

Blood cancer precursor found in 9/11 firefighters

A study found that New York City firefighters exposed to the 9/11 World Trade Center disaster site are at an increased risk for developing myeloma precursor disease, which can lead to the blood cancer multiple myeloma. The prevalence of MGUS was nearly twice as high in firefighters compared to a non-exposed group.

SourceAlbert Einstein College of Medicine·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateApr 26, 2018

Bacteria in the small intestine indispensable for fat absorption

A recent study published in Cell Host and Microbe found that bacteria in the small intestine play a vital role in fat digestion and absorption. The researchers discovered that high-fat Western diets stimulate the growth of beneficial microbes in the small intestine, which then produce digestive enzymes to break down dietary fat.

SourceMidwestern University·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateApr 26, 2018

Prosthetic arms can provide controlled sensory feedback, study finds

Researchers have developed a control algorithm that regulates electrical current to provide steady sensation in prosthetic arms. The system reduces painful shocks and improves user experience, enabling users to feel touch and pressure, even with electrodes peeling off or sweat building up.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalScience Robotics·DateApr 26, 2018

Mw 5.4 Pohang earthquake tied to geothermal activity?

A 2017 Mw 5.4 Pohang earthquake in South Korea is believed to have been triggered by fluid injection at a nearby Enhanced Geothermal System (EGS) site, the largest-induced quake ever recorded at an EGS location.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateApr 26, 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.

From 3-D nano-probes to the porosity of paper

The Christian Doppler Lab for the Direct-Write Fabrication of 3D Nano-Probes focuses on novel 3D printing technology. The CD lab for Location-Aware Electronic Systems explores radio-based positioning systems for applications where satellite systems are not available.

SourceGraz University of Technology·DateApr 26, 2018

Study could spawn better ways to combat crop-killing fungus

A study led by Rutgers University scientists has found that a fungus causing devastating rice disease became harmful 21 million years ago. The researchers identified key genes and proteins that promote the infection process, offering insights into developing new fungicides and quarantines to combat crop diseases.

SourceRutgers University·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 26, 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.

VA delivers higher quality care than other health providers, study finds

The VA health care system performs similarly to or better than non-VA systems on most measures of inpatient and outpatient care quality, according to a new study. The findings suggest that the VA needs targeted quality improvement efforts to ensure uniform high-quality care at all facilities.

SourceRAND Corporation·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateApr 26, 2018

Study sheds light on bacterial propeller assembly

A Japanese research team has uncovered new molecular details and provided a model explaining how stepwise flagellar assembly occurs in bacteria. The proposed model suggests that subtle changes in the ring's shape determine which proteins are exported to the growing flagellum, enabling its construction.

SourceOsaka University·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 26, 2018

From one, many

Researchers have developed a system to profile every cell in developing zebrafish and frog embryos, revealing the comprehensive landscape of gene expression events that mark new cell states and types. This work provides a significant resource for studying developmental biology and disease.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalScience·DateApr 26, 2018

Largest-ever study of thyroid cancer genetics finds new mutations, suggests immunotherapy

A large-scale study of thyroid cancer genetics has identified specific genes driving the disease and found that certain cancers can benefit from immunotherapy. The research also found amplifications of key receptor tyrosine kinases in anaplastic thyroid cancers, suggesting a potential target for treatment with lenvatinib.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateApr 26, 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.

Proof of water wires motivated by a biological water channel

A team of researchers led by Georges Belfort has discovered water wires in an imidazole molecule, which could lead to the development of artificial aquaporin membranes for efficient desalination. The study shows that the imidazole's ring structure enables water molecules to self-assemble into a highly oriented linear chain structure.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 26, 2018

100-million-year-old liverwort mimicry in insects

Researchers uncovered a new lacewing species with anatomical modifications mimicking coeval liverworts, demonstrating the first record of liverwort mimicry by fossil insects. The larvae's foliate lateral plates and unique morphological features aid their survival and likely enable stealthy hunting or ambush predation.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 26, 2018

Be wary of cosmetic surgeons' online reviews

A Northwestern University study found that online ratings for cosmetic breast augmentation surgeries are highly polarized, with some reviews written by non-patients. The importance of interactions with the doctor's support staff is highlighted as a key factor in patient satisfaction.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery·DateApr 26, 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.

ONR grants to UTA's Advanced Materials and Structures Lab top $1.4 million

The lab will upgrade its unique computed tomography facilities to enable high-resolution, in situ, three-dimensional material characterization with unprecedented three-dimensional imaging quality and efficiency. The research aims to study physics phenomena governing manufacturing irregularities or defects in composite parts.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateApr 26, 2018

'Infinitely' recyclable polymer shows practical properties of plastics

Chemists at Colorado State University have discovered a polymer with high molecular weight, thermal stability, and mechanical properties comparable to conventional plastics. The new material can be recycled back to its original state under mild lab conditions, paving the way for a circular materials life cycle.

SourceColorado State University·JournalScience·DateApr 26, 2018

RNA editing study shows potential for more effective precision cancer treatment

A multi-center study discovered how adenosine to inosine (A-to-I) RNA editing contributes to protein diversity in breast cancer, increasing cancer cell proliferation and invasion. The findings suggest that individualizing therapies for each patient is reliant upon a better understanding of the protein genome.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalCancer Cell·DateApr 26, 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.

Neonicotinoids may alter estrogen production in humans

Researchers from INRS published a study demonstrating the potential effects of neonicotinoids on human health by disrupting hormonal systems. The study found an increase in aromatase expression and changes in its pattern similar to those observed in certain breast cancers.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateApr 26, 2018

Dinosaurs' tooth wear sheds light on their predatory lives

Researchers studied the teeth of carnivorous dinosaurs and found that different species used varying biting strategies to capture and consume their prey. The study reveals that some dinosaurs, like Dromaeosaurus, were adapted for handling struggling prey or processing bone, while others, like Troodon, preferred softer fare.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 26, 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.

Mid-life chronic inflammation may be linked to frailty later

A study of nearly 6,000 Americans found that mid-life chronic inflammation may be linked to an increased risk of frailty and overall poorer health decades later. Having high levels of inflammation in middle age was associated with a 39% higher odds of frailty approximately 24 years later.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Gerontology·DateApr 26, 2018

Who am I? How cells find their identity

A team of scientists led by Alex Schier has developed a new method to trace the entire history of individual cell differentiation. They discovered that cells can leave their initial path and change their identity, leading to a more flexible developmental program than previously thought.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalScience·DateApr 26, 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.

The complicated biology of garlic

Researchers argue that garlic's unique flavor comes from sulfur compounds, which are biologically active within mammalian cells. However, the complexity of preparing garlic affects which sulfur compounds are consumed, leading to inconsistent results in human intervention studies.

SourceCell Press·JournalTrends in Pharmacological Sciences·DateApr 26, 2018

Curiosity is key to early childhood success in math and reading

A study found that curiosity is a small but significant contributor to academic achievement in kindergarten-age children. Children from lower socio-economic backgrounds may particularly benefit from fostering their curiosity as an alternative intervention strategy.

SourceSpringer·JournalPediatric Research·DateApr 26, 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.

Studies find more patients admitted to hospitals with cardiac conditions in winter months

Researchers found a significant increase in hospitalizations for aortic dissection and ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarctions (STEMI) during winter months. The studies, presented at the SCAI 2018 Scientific Sessions, used the Nationwide Inpatient Sample database to analyze seasonal variations in cardiac-related hospitalizations.

SourceSociety for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions·JournalCatheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions·DateApr 26, 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.

Want to remember your dreams? Try taking vitamin B6

Research from the University of Adelaide found that high-dose vitamin B6 supplements improved dream recall in participants. The study revealed no effects on vividness, bizarreness, or sleep patterns, suggesting a potential role for vitamin B6 in lucid dreaming and controlling dreams.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalPerceptual and Motor Skills·DateApr 26, 2018

Noninvasive brain tumor biopsy on the horizon

Researchers have developed a groundbreaking technique to detect tumor biomarkers in brain tumors through a simple blood test, potentially eliminating the need for surgical biopsies. The method uses focused ultrasound and tiny bubbles to release tumor-specific biomarkers into the bloodstream.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 26, 2018

Community efforts to prevent teen problems have lasting benefits

Researchers found that communities using a coordinated approach to prevention were more likely to reduce substance use, violence, and other antisocial behaviors in young adults. The study, conducted among 4,400 youth participants, showed significant long-term effects of Communities That Care (CTC) programs.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateApr 26, 2018

What's the best way to accelerate: Muscles or springs?

Researchers identified principles for efficient mechanical systems that generate and amplify kinetic energy. Shorter latch release times amplify power, while longer durations eliminate it, explaining why small spring-based systems are more effective.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateApr 26, 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.

Researchers assassinate disease-causing bacteria with virus cocktail

Scientists at the University of Copenhagen have successfully targeted and killed E. coli using a cocktail of viruses, preserving the surrounding community of commensal bacteria in a simulated small intestinal microbiome. This breakthrough could lead to a new treatment method for food-borne illnesses without the use of antibiotics.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalGut Microbes·DateApr 26, 2018

Whale shark logs longest-recorded trans-Pacific migration

Researchers tracked a female whale shark's 20,142 km migration from eastern Pacific to western Indo-Pacific, the longest recorded migration. The study provides new insights into whale shark migration patterns and conservation efforts.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalMarine Biodiversity Records·DateApr 26, 2018

Diabetes UK commits £2.6 million to new research

Diabetes UK has committed £2.6 million to 19 new research projects investigating medieval remedies for foot ulcers, sleep disturbances as a predictor of Type 2 diabetes, and other forms of diabetes. The funding aims to reduce amputations, sepsis cases, and improve treatment options.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·DateApr 26, 2018

Searching for a nursing home and don't know where to turn?

A new USC study reveals that Yelp reviews of nursing homes tend to focus more on staff attitudes and responsiveness than government reviews. The study evaluated 264 Yelp reviews and grouped them into five categories, finding that nearly 53% of reviewers posted comments about staff attitude and caring.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalThe Gerontologist·DateApr 26, 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.

A simple method etches patterns at the atomic scale

Researchers at Penn State have developed a chemical-free method for etching nanoscale features on silicon wafers. The technique, called tribochemical reaction, uses a scanning probe microscope to remove single layers of atoms from the surface without damaging underlying layers.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 26, 2018

Study to explore whether cannabis compound eases severe symptoms of autism

A new study funded by a $4.7 million gift from the Ray and Tye Noorda Foundation aims to investigate the therapeutic benefits of cannabidiol for children with severe symptoms of autism spectrum disorder. The study will involve clinical assessments and basic research to better understand how CBD interacts with neural activity.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateApr 26, 2018

Loss of brain synchrony may explain working memory limits, says study

Researchers found that brain regions break down communication when trying to retain too much information in working memory. The study suggests that the 'coupling' of brain waves among three key regions breaks down when visual working memory load becomes too much.

SourceCity St George’s, University of London·JournalCerebral Cortex·DateApr 26, 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.

Who is using guns for suicide?

Research highlights gun suicides disproportionately affect older, married white men experiencing declining health. Financial stressors also play a role in younger age groups. Tailored interventions and gun ownership registry measures may help reduce mortality associated with gun suicides.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Affective Disorders·DateApr 26, 2018

Discovery of new material is key step toward more powerful computing

Researchers at Oregon State University have developed a new inorganic compound that adopts a crystal structure capable of sustaining a quantum spin liquid state. This discovery is a key step toward the creation of next-generation supercomputers, which will solve complex problems efficiently and consume less energy.

SourceOregon State University·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 26, 2018

Researchers identify 44 genomic variants associated with depression

A meta-analysis of over 135,000 people with major depression and 344,000 controls identified 44 genomic variants significantly associated with the condition. The study also found that major depression shares genetic links with schizophrenia, obesity, and sleep quality.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalNature Genetics·DateApr 26, 2018

Speeding up material discovery

Researchers have developed an algorithm that can discover and optimize thermoelectric materials in a matter of months, rather than years. The new method simplifies computational approaches for electron-phonon scattering, speeding up the process by about 10,000 times and reducing development time.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·DateApr 26, 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.

New study shows length of hospital stay impacts outcomes after TAVR procedure

A new study has found that patients who undergo TAVR procedure and stay in the hospital for more than 72 hours may be at risk of negative short and long-term outcomes. The study identified independent predictors of both early and delayed discharge, with delayed discharge associated with worse one-year outcomes.

SourceSociety for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions·JournalCatheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions·DateApr 26, 2018

Sub-sea rift spills secrets to seismic probe

A Rice University-led study has provided first clues about internal structure of the Galicia margin using a seismic probe. The data revealed seismic images of the S-reflector, a prominent detachment fault within the continent-ocean transition zone, which accommodated slipping along the zone.

SourceRice University·JournalEarth and Planetary Science Letters·DateApr 26, 2018

First-of-its-kind study associates obesity with poorer stroke outcomes in non-white patients

A recent study found that obesity contributes to poorer outcomes in non-white patients who have hemorrhagic strokes, with African-Americans being particularly vulnerable. The research highlights the need for targeted interventions to address nutritional needs and reduce the burden of obesity on recovery following stroke.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalObesity Science & Practice·DateApr 26, 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.

New results from preserve clinical trial include data on patients who underwent PCI

The Preserve clinical trial has revealed significant benefits of oral acetylcysteine and sodium bicarbonate in reducing cardiovascular complications. Researchers analyzed data from a large cohort of high-risk patients who underwent PCI, demonstrating the efficacy of this treatment approach.

SourceSociety for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions·JournalCatheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions·DateApr 26, 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.

Improving mid-infrared imaging and sensing

The new approach uses flat, artificial material composed of nanostructured optical elements to control and detect mid-IR waves, enabling cheaper, flatter, and more efficient detectors for night vision, biomedical sensing, and free-space communication. The devices can transmit up to 80% of mid-IR light with high efficiency and are made ...

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 26, 2018

Expanded registry data shows continued positive results for the mitraclip device

The MitraClip device has demonstrated improved echocardiogram measurements and six-minute walk test outcomes, with significant reductions in left ventricle volume and NYHA classification. The study also showed substantial improvement in quality of life outcomes for patients with mitral valve regurgitation.

SourceSociety for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions·JournalCatheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions·DateApr 26, 2018

BU study: Egyptian fruit bat genome yields clues to protection

A new study from Boston University has identified larger-than-expected families of genes related to the mammalian immune system in the Egyptian fruit bat. This finding may lead to a deeper understanding of virus transmission and better treatments for humans infected with deadly pathogens.

SourceBoston University·JournalCell·DateApr 26, 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.

VaxArray immunogenicity study published in Vaccine

A new study shows a predictive link between VaxArray-measured potency and vaccine-induced immunogenicity in mice. The study found strong correlations between VaxArray assays and serum levels of antibodies targeting influenza hemagglutinin and neuraminidase.

SourceInDevR, Inc.·JournalVaccine·DateApr 26, 2018

Probiotics useful in the fight against infection prevention

Two studies published in Infection Control & Hospital Epidemiology found that multi-strain probiotics reduced CDI incidence rates by about two-thirds. Probiotics were especially effective among participants taking two or more antibiotics, suggesting a potential prevention tool for hospital settings.

SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateApr 26, 2018

Upgrading the immune system to fight cancer

Researchers have developed a refined CAR-T therapy called SUPRA-CART that addresses the three major flaws of traditional CAR-T: target specificity, response strength, and adaptive capability. This new system allows for continuous alteration to target different types of cancer cells and can be deactivated in case of severe side effects.

SourceBoston University College of Engineering·JournalCell·DateApr 26, 2018

A polymer that puts plastic on a better path toward recyclability

Researchers have developed a family of synthetic polymers that can be repeatedly recycled with great efficiency. These new polymers overcome the challenges faced by existing biodegradable plastics and mechanical approaches to reusing plastic, offering a highly desirable chemical recycling method.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateApr 26, 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.

Cancer drug helps treat tuberculosis by restoring leaky blood vessels

Researchers at Duke University have discovered that a cancer drug, Marimastat, can help treat tuberculosis by improving the structural integrity of leaky blood vessels in granulomas. This allows antibiotics to penetrate and attack the disease-causing bacteria more effectively, leading to improved treatment outcomes.

SourceDuke University·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateApr 26, 2018

Researchers simulate conditions inside 'super-Earths'

Scientists at Johns Hopkins University and Princeton University simulated the deep interiors of super-Earths using intense X-ray beams, revealing insight into their crystal structure. The study's findings have significant implications for understanding planetary architecture and may lead to breakthroughs in exoplanet research.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 26, 2018

Did eating dark chocolate improve vision?

Researchers found slight improvements in vision after eating dark chocolate, particularly in visual acuity and contrast sensitivity. The effects of dark chocolate on vision remain unknown beyond the short-term, and further studies are needed to confirm these findings.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateApr 26, 2018

Army researcher uses math to uncover new chemistry

A U.S. Army Research Laboratory researcher has developed a mathematical approach to design chemical compounds, reducing complexity and leveraging machine learning. This method could lead to the discovery of new materials with unique properties.

SourceU.S. Army Research Laboratory·JournalJournal of Mathematical Chemistry·DateApr 26, 2018

Rugosity and concentricity: In urban planning, look to edges, not just the core

Research suggests that cities like Portland and Copenhagen benefit from high-rugosity layouts, with diverse uses and green spaces supporting resilience and growth. By integrating farms and greenways, developers can accommodate more population while reducing the urban heat island effect and improving stormwater management.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalLand Use Policy·DateApr 26, 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.

Weighing single molecules with light

Researchers have developed a new method for weighing single molecules using light scattering, enabling the measurement of mass with high accuracy. This breakthrough has potential applications in fields such as protein-protein interactions, drug discovery, and point-of-care diagnostics.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalScience·DateApr 26, 2018

Study finds horses remember facial expressions of people they've seen before

A study by the Universities of Sussex and Portsmouth reveals that horses can read human facial expressions and remember specific individuals' emotional states. The research found that horses perceive people more negatively if they had previously seen them looking angry in a photograph, adapting their behavior accordingly.

SourceUniversity of Sussex·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 26, 2018

Accepted or rejected? Uncovering how fate of B cell is determined

A team of Osaka University researchers identified a specific subset of B cells with higher affinity that preferentially commit to plasma cell fate. The study suggests that stable Tfh-GC B cell contacts are key for plasma cell-prone GC cell formation, providing valuable insights for vaccine development.

SourceOsaka University·JournalImmunity·DateApr 26, 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.

Seniors stick to fitness routines when they work out together

Older adults are more likely to adhere to a group exercise program when they work out with people their own age. A recent University of British Columbia study found that participants in age-targeted groups attended an average of 9.5 more classes than those in mixed-age groups.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalHealth Psychology·DateApr 26, 2018

New study addresses the role of health in climate lawsuits

A new analysis by George Washington University researchers finds that health concerns are cited in a minority of climate lawsuits but may have critical potential for protecting communities. The study suggests that including health benefits in climate litigation could catalyze effective policy-making.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateApr 26, 2018

Obesity inhibits key cancer defense mechanism

Research reveals that obesity suppresses the epithelial defense against cancer, allowing malignant cells to remain and develop tumors. Aspirin treatment enhances this defense mechanism, suggesting a potential role in cancer prevention.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 26, 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.

How success breeds success in the sciences

A study of Dutch research grants reveals that winning an early-career grant leads to more research funding, awards, and prestigious academic appointments. The 'Matthew effect' erodes quality of scientific research due to projects being funded based on status rather than merit.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley Haas School of Business·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 26, 2018

Navigating with the sixth sense

Researchers found that desert ants look back precisely at the nest entrance while performing pirouetting motions, suggesting they use the magnetic field as an orientation cue. The ants' ability to integrate this information with other navigational cues like the sun and landmarks is still unknown.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 26, 2018

Study of bat natural immunity to Marburg virus may shed light on human disease

Scientists have identified immune-related genes in Egyptian fruit bats that suggest a different approach to viral infections. The study found expanded and diversified natural killer cell receptors, MHC class I genes, and type I interferons in bats, which may enable them to tolerate viruses without symptoms.

SourceUS Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases·JournalCell·DateApr 26, 2018

Repurposed medications enhance tuberculosis treatment in mice

Researchers found that matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) inhibitors improve blood vessel health at the sites of tuberculosis infection, enhancing delivery and retention of standard drugs. This synergy revitalize current TB treatment and reduce the risk of multi-drug resistant strains.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateApr 26, 2018

New metric defines areas of highest prostate cancer burden

Researchers developed a composite score to identify census tracts with high prostate cancer burden, considering incidence and mortality rates. The tool helps pinpoint clusters of high-risk areas that don't always align with demographics, highlighting the need for further study on underlying factors contributing to poor outcomes.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalPreventive Medicine·DateApr 26, 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.

Publication details IDRI's promising leprosy vaccine candidate

LepVax, IDRI's leprosy vaccine candidate, shows promise in pre-exposure and post-exposure prophylaxis against M. leprae infection in animals. It alleviates and delays neurologic disruptions caused by the bacteria, a major breakthrough for leprosy treatment.

SourceAccess to Advanced Health Institute·Journalnpj Vaccines·DateApr 26, 2018

Research helps frail older people in hospitals

Researchers have developed a 'risk score' to identify vulnerable older people in hospitals, enabling hospitals to provide more holistic care and improve outcomes. The 'Hospital Frailty Risk Score' was able to identify older people at increased risk of harms, longer stays, and readmission.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalThe Lancet·DateApr 26, 2018

Transplant-damaging virus comes into focus

Scientists have created a detailed image of BKV, a virus affecting kidney and bone marrow transplant patients, which may aid in developing antiviral therapies. The new structures allow researchers to visualize potential targets for blocking the virus's entry into cells or preventing its assembly.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalStructure·DateApr 26, 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.

Why a robot can't yet outjump a flea

A new mathematical model explains how small organisms like mantis shrimp and trap-jaw ants generate their powerful strikes with spring-loaded parts. This knowledge could help design more efficient robots, but it's unclear how these mechanisms work together for optimal performance.

SourceDuke University·JournalScience·DateApr 26, 2018

Treating cardiovascular disorders -- and more -- with the flips of a switch

Scientists have created a system to control gene expression with high precision using light, enabling potential treatments for cardiovascular disorders and regenerative medicine. The CaRROT system can turn genes on and off in specific locations within the genome, potentially driving stem cell differentiation into desired organs.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalACS Synthetic Biology·DateApr 26, 2018

CRISPR/Cas9 silences gene associated with high cholesterol

Researchers at Duke University successfully delivered CRISPR/Cas9 repressors to silence the Pcsk9 gene, which regulates cholesterol levels, in adult mice. The treatment resulted in reduced blood cholesterol levels and sustained gene repression for six months after a single treatment.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 26, 2018

New estimates of Mercury's thin, dense crust

A new study published in Earth and Planetary Science Letters estimates Mercury's crust to be 16 miles thick and denser than aluminum. This finding supports the theory that Mercury's crust formed largely through volcanic activity, shedding light on the planet's formation.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalEarth and Planetary Science Letters·DateApr 26, 2018

Molecule may help tame virulent bacteria and prevent infection

Researchers found that an immune-system generated molecule called nitric oxide (NO) inhibits the ability of Staphylococcus aureus to transform from a benign colonizing state to its virulent form, producing toxins. NO may play a key role in preventing staph infections by blocking quorum-sensing systems.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateApr 26, 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.

New study shows therapy for psoriasis can reduce heart plaque

A new study reveals that treating psoriasis with biologic therapy can significantly reduce coronary plaque. The research found that the treatments not only decreased plaque volume but also reduced inflammation, leading to fewer characteristics prone to rupture and cause a heart attack over time.

SourceSociety for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions·JournalCatheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions·DateApr 26, 2018

Double trouble for a coral reef

Scientists find nearly 80% of coral reefs on Upolu Island have less than 10% cover, with recent coral death and smaller fish populations. Local human activities and climate change exacerbate the issue, while protected areas show signs of effective management.

SourceCNRS·JournalMarine Pollution Bulletin·DateApr 26, 2018

Metastatic cancer gorges on fructose in the liver

Researchers found that metastatic cancer cells reprogram their metabolism to capitalize on fructose levels in the liver, leading to unchecked growth and proliferation. This discovery could lead to new therapies targeting metastatic cells and provide insight into how cancers adapt to new environments.

SourceDuke University·JournalCell Metabolism·DateApr 26, 2018