Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for March 15, 2018


SOMMa Spanish research institutions to safeguard scientific competitiveness

The SOMMa alliance aims to increase national and international visibility, promote collaboration and networking, and have a voice in scientific policy. The position paper highlights three administrative issues that require urgent attention, including VAT deduction, personnel hiring regulations, and public-tenders law.

SourceCenter for Genomic Regulation·DateMar 15, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Study of nearly 300,000 people challenges the 'obesity paradox'

A study of nearly 300,000 people found that being overweight or obese increases the risk of heart disease, with a BMI above 22-23 kg/m2 and increased waist circumference also linked to higher cardiovascular disease risk. Maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise can help minimize this risk.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateMar 15, 2018

Cell-sized mold makes gelatin gels (jelly) 10 times stiffer

Researchers at Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology have developed a cell-sized mold to create gelatin gels that are 10 times stiffer than regular gels. The findings reveal that the increase in β sheet structure from interaction with lipid membranes is the key factor behind this increased stiffness.

SourceTokyo University of Agriculture and Technology·JournalACS Central Science·DateMar 15, 2018

Large racial and ethnic disparity in world's most common STI

A new study by Johns Hopkins Medicine reveals a significant racial and ethnic disparity in Trichomonas vaginalis (TV) infection rates in the US population. TV infection disproportionately affects black individuals, with higher prevalence rates among black males and females, particularly those living below poverty level.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateMar 15, 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.

The view from inside supersonic combustion

Researchers used numerical modeling to study the dynamics of supersonic flow, revealing two induced combustion modes and a local quasi detonation mode due to incident shock waves. The simulations provide valuable insights for scramjet engine design, enabling the optimization of mixing and combustion processes.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateMar 15, 2018

A small protein with many applications

Researchers at Aarhus University have developed a llama-antibody, or nanobody, that can prevent the cleavage of the C3 protein, which plays a crucial role in the innate immune system. This breakthrough could lead to new treatments for kidney diseases and conditions where the immune system is overactive.

SourceAarhus University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateMar 15, 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.

Faulty cellular membrane 'mix' linked to Parkinson's disease

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have uncovered a link between a genetic mutation in the GBA1 gene and the formation of fatty plaques in the brain that contribute to Parkinson's disease. The study found that changes in the mixture of fatty molecules cause protein pieces to stick together, forming 'dead zones' in the brain.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 15, 2018

Scientists map the portal to the cell's nucleus

Researchers at Rockefeller University have mapped the architecture of the nuclear pore complex in yeast cells, revealing a massive cylindrical configuration with flexible components. The study provides insights into cell transport and may aid efforts to understand and treat diseases linked to defects in the pore complex.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalNature·DateMar 15, 2018

The truth behind St. Patrick's Day: Celebrations did not originate in Boston

Historian J. Michael Francis discovered a 1601 gunpowder expenditure list from St. Augustine that confirms the city's residents held a St. Patrick's Day procession in honor of San Patricio, the Spanish name for St. Patrick. The records also reveal that St. Patrick was identified as the patron saint of the city's maize fields.

SourceUniversity of South Florida (USF Health)·DateMar 15, 2018

Democratizing single-cell analysis

Scientists at Allen Institute and University of Washington developed scalable SPLiT-seq method to characterize RNA in individual cells, enabling identification of various cell types in the brain. The technique significantly lowers the cost barrier for labs that want to perform single-cell profiling.

SourceAllen Institute·JournalScience·DateMar 15, 2018

Large-scale climatic warming could increase persistent haze in Beijing

A recent study links Beijing's persistent haze events to large-scale climatic warming and changes in the East Asian winter monsoon system. The research found a significant positive trend of haze events in Beijing from 1980 to 2016, correlating with weakened regional atmospheric circulation.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAtmospheric Chemistry and Physics·DateMar 15, 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.

The complex journey of red bloods cells through microvascular networks

A team of researchers used a state-of-the-art simulation code to study the behavior of red blood cells flowing through physiologically realistic microvascular networks. They observed that red blood cells frequently jam for brief periods before proceeding downstream, causing temporary increases in vascular resistance. The findings have ...

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateMar 15, 2018

Ludwig study extends potential for personalized immunotherapy to large variety of cancers

Researchers developed a new method to identify highly reactive killer T cells in ovarian tumors, showing they can be selectively grown for personalized cell-based immunotherapies. The approach overcomes limitations of existing methods, enabling the use of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes for treating low-mutational load tumors.

SourceLudwig Institute for Cancer Research·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 15, 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.

Students who are old for their grade more likely to enroll in college

A study of over 10,000 Australian students found that those who were older for their grade had higher academic self-confidence and were more likely to enroll in college. The study suggests that strict regulations on school starting ages may have unintended consequences for younger students.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Educational Psychology·DateMar 15, 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.

Metal-organic frameworks cut energy consumption of petrochemicals

Researchers developed a straightforward method to synthesize high-quality, ultrathin metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) for efficient propylene-propane separation. The new MOF membranes showed one of the best separation performances recorded to date, reducing energy consumption in petrochemical industries.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateMar 15, 2018

Startup promises minimally invasive heart repair

A newly launched startup has acquired exclusive rights to develop a minimally invasive surgical device that can repair holes in the heart without complications. The technology uses deployable soft structures and offers a non-invasive approach to tissue repair, facilitating clinicians' access to difficult-to-reach organs.

SourceHarvard University·DateMar 15, 2018

The Protein Society announces 2018 award recipients

The Protein Society has awarded three researchers with prestigious prizes: Jane and Dave Richardson, Yifan Cheng, and Susan Marqusee. The winners have made groundbreaking contributions in protein structure determination, cryo-EM, and protein folding. Their work has significantly advanced our understanding of biology.

SourceThe Protein Society·DateMar 15, 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.

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.

How maximizing fish stocks in the long-term will reduce bycatch

Researchers found that sustainably managing fisheries can halt declines of seven to 13 bycatch populations, but not eliminate bycatch completely due to other factors. Maximizing fish stocks can increase global fishing yields by up to 15% and associated profits by as much as 80%.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMar 15, 2018

False beliefs about MMR vaccine found to influence acceptance of Zika vaccine

A new study found that people's misconceptions about the association between the MMR vaccine and autism significantly influence their willingness to receive a Zika vaccine. The study also revealed that individuals who believe in science's power to solve problems are more likely to intend to use a Zika vaccine.

SourceAnnenberg Public Policy Center of the University of Pennsylvania·JournalJournal of Public Health·DateMar 15, 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.

Measuring electrical conductance across a single molecule

Researchers developed a stable mechanical setup to measure electrical current across individual molecules on a noble metal surface. The study provides fresh ideas for electronic devices and opens opportunities for new studies on nanocontacts, dynamics, and transport of molecules at room temperature.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateMar 15, 2018

Improved capture of cancer cells could aid in disease tracking

Researchers have developed a method to capture circulating tumor cells, which could provide an additional way to track treatment progress or screen for disease. The technology shows promise in reducing the number of circulating tumor cells during successful radiation therapy, suggesting potential as a predictive biomarker.

SourceUNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateMar 15, 2018

Joint supplement speeds melanoma cell growth

A dietary supplement commonly used to strengthen joints can also speed the growth of a type of melanoma, according to preclinical research. Chondroitin sulfate boosts growth in melanoma cells carrying the V600E mutation, but not other types, and may pose risks for people with elevated melanoma risk.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalMolecular Cell·DateMar 15, 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.

Scientific misconduct harms prior collaborators

A study by Prof. Katrin Hussinger and Dr Maikel Pellens found an average drop in citations of 8-9% for previous colleagues of fraudulent scientists, impacting their career success and funding opportunities.

SourceUniversity of Luxembourg·JournalResearch Policy·DateMar 15, 2018

Scientists illuminate mechanism at play in learning

Researchers modelled molecular basis of learning in cerebellum, a brain region coordinating voluntary movements. The study reveals communication must occur in both directions across synapses to control learning, with an automatic off-switch allowing the system to return to its resting state.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalCell Reports·DateMar 15, 2018

Women choose more effective contraception when cost not an issue

A recent study by Penn State researchers found that women are choosing more effective, long-term methods of contraception when cost is not an issue. Since the Affordable Care Act mandate required private health insurance plans to cover all FDA-approved contraceptive methods without cost-sharing, privately insured women have been using ...

SourcePenn State·DateMar 15, 2018

The Protein Society's Best Paper Award

The Protein Society has awarded Minfei Su and Chang-Ting Lin the 'Best Paper' award for their research on autophagy, a critical process in eukaryotic cells. The winners' work investigates the structural and thermodynamic details of protein interactions, shedding light on cellular homeostasis and evolution.

SourceThe Protein Society·DateMar 15, 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.

The coffee cannabis connection

A Northwestern University study found that coffee consumption decreased endocannabinoid system metabolites, which regulate stress response, cognition, and appetite. The study also suggests coffee may facilitate the excretion of steroids, potentially affecting diseases such as cancers.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJournal of Internal Medicine·DateMar 15, 2018

New methods find undiagnosed genetic diseases in electronic health records

A new method developed by researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center identifies rare genetic diseases in patients with heart failure, stroke, infertility, and kidney failure. The study found that phenotype risk scores can help predict the presence of disease-causing genetic variants.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalScience·DateMar 15, 2018

Attacks on 4G LTE networks could send fake emergency alerts

Researchers from Purdue University have identified several new vulnerabilities in 4G LTE networks that could be exploited by hackers to forge the location of a mobile device and fabricate messages. The attacks, including authentication relay and denial of service attacks, were validated through experimentation on a real testbed.

SourcePurdue University·DateMar 15, 2018

Powerful new device for studying puzzling process

The Facility for Laboratory Reconnection Experiment (FLARE) has successfully produced the first plasma, marking a significant milestone in research into magnetic reconnection. This process is crucial for understanding Northern Lights, solar eruptions, and geomagnetic storms.

SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·DateMar 15, 2018

Epigenetic analysis: Giving the right name to a tumor

Researchers developed a new molecular classification method using DNA methylation patterns to differentiate 82 types of CNS tumors. The method improved diagnostic accuracy in some cases, with over 12% of cases corrected after analysis.

SourceHeidelberg University Hospital and Medical Faculty·JournalNature·DateMar 15, 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.

Little creek, big impact

A study found that restoring Putah Creek in California increased the bird population by twice as much, with more common riparian birds visiting in increasing numbers. The restoration also improved the ecosystem's function and had benefits beyond the water's edge.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalEcological Restoration·DateMar 15, 2018

Thermally driven spin current in DNA

Researchers have discovered a way to control the spin current in double-stranded DNA molecules using temperature gradients. They found that the inherent chirality feature in dsDNA enables spin selection and can act as a filter for spin transport.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateMar 15, 2018

Studying DNA of ancient humans from Morocco reveals ancestral surprises

Researchers studied 15,000-year-old human DNA from Morocco's Iberomaurusian culture, finding no European ancestry. Instead, they identified genetic ties to ancient Near Easterners and sub-Saharan Africans, suggesting a pre-agricultural connection between the regions.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMar 15, 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.

Core elements identified for successful transitions in care for older adults with dementia

Researchers identified five essential themes for consistent and supported care transitions, including preparing individuals with dementia and their caregivers, evaluating preferences and goals, and creating inter-professional collaborative team environments. The findings suggest that person-centered care is crucial for achieving outcom...

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Nursing·JournalThe Gerontologist·DateMar 15, 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.

Viral hideout

The study found that the CTCF protein helps herpes simplex virus regulate its own sleep-wake cycle, enabling it to establish latent infections in sensory neurons. By preventing CTCF from binding to viral DNA, the virus's ability to reactivated was weakened.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalmBio·DateMar 15, 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.

New heart attack test better informs of underlying condition

A new blood test developed by University of Alberta physician Peter Hwang promises to eliminate the guesswork in diagnosing apparent heart attacks. By analyzing fragmented troponin levels, clinicians can better determine the extent of cardiac damage and make informed decisions about treatment options.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·DateMar 15, 2018

Virtual coaches, fitness trackers help patients stay fit after cardiac rehab

A small pilot study suggests that virtual oversight can keep patients motivated to exercise after cardiac rehab. The study found that participants who used wearable fitness trackers and call-in sessions with a health coach maintained and even gained fitness, whereas those in the usual care group lost ground.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalAmerican Heart Journal·DateMar 15, 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.

How royal jelly helps honeybee larvae defy gravity and become queens

Research reveals that royal jelly's acidity changes its consistency, enabling it to cling to the ceiling of queen cells and support the growth of future queens. This property is essential for the survival of honeybees, as larvae destined to become queens need a stable environment to develop.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 15, 2018

Modern humans interbred with Denisovans twice in history

Researchers discovered two distinct episodes of Denisovan genetic intermixing between modern humans and Denisovans. The genomes of modern Papuan individuals contain approximately 5% Denisovan ancestry, while East Asians have a second set of Denisovan ancestry not found in South Asians and Papuans.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateMar 15, 2018

Reconsidering damage production and radiation mixing in materials

Researchers have developed two new equations to correct the Kinchin-Pease equation's limitations, providing accurate predictions of radiation damage in materials. The new equations consider athermal recombination and replacements-per-atom, improving the usable lifetime of materials in nuclear reactors and other environments.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 15, 2018

CRISPR genetic editing takes another big step forward, targeting RNA

Salk Institute scientists have developed a CRISPR-based tool called CasRx that targets RNA to correct protein imbalances in cells from dementia patients. The tool showed 80% effectiveness in rebalancing tau protein levels, opening up new avenues for treating RNA and protein-related diseases.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalCell·DateMar 15, 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.

Rutgers student on front lines of orangutan conservation, research

Didik Prasetyo, a Rutgers doctoral student, is dedicated to understanding and protecting endangered great apes through his research. His recent study estimates that over 100,000 Bornean orangutans have been lost between 1999 and 2015, highlighting the urgent need for conservation action.

SourceRutgers University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 15, 2018

Ultrashort laser pulses make greenhouse gas reactive

Researchers at the University of Bonn used ultrashort laser pulses to create a highly reactive variant of carbon dioxide, which can form new bonds with other molecules. This breakthrough has the potential to change ideas about extracting and using greenhouse gases for chemical industry.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateMar 15, 2018

Infants can't talk, but they know how to reason

A study shows preverbal infants can make logical deductions by conducting process of elimination, as seen in toddlers. Infants stare longer at unexpected outcomes and their pupils dilate when watching movies requiring rational thinking.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMar 15, 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.

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.

Medicinal cannabis is safe and effective -- it's time to reboot research

A new special issue of the European Journal of Internal Medicine presents a comprehensive overview of current evidence for medical cannabis and derived products. The studies highlight its effectiveness in pain relief and potential benefits for elderly patients, calling for further research to improve the evidence base.

SourceElsevier·JournalEuropean Journal of Internal Medicine·DateMar 15, 2018

Study shows shorter hepatitis C regimen effective in black patients

A new study by Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute found that an eight-week treatment regimen for hepatitis C may be just as effective as a 12-week course in black patients. The study suggests that more people could take advantage of the shorter treatment duration, benefiting access and reducing costs.

SourceHarvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute·JournalClinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology·DateMar 15, 2018

Study addresses barriers to kidney disease screening among black Americans

A study of Black Americans found that participant factors such as knowledge of kidney disease and spiritual/religious beliefs, as well as logistical factors like convenience and awareness of scheduling, were identified as barriers to screening. The research aims to guide efforts to address important kidney-related disparities in the US.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateMar 15, 2018

How fungi grow: A movie from inside the cell

Researchers at KIT used high-resolution microscopy to observe the growth of mold fungi in living cells, gaining a comprehensive model for directed cell growth. The study reveals the role of vesicle transport in polar growth and has implications for understanding fungal growth and its applications.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 15, 2018

Improved capture of cancer cells in blood could help track disease

Improved methods for capturing circulating tumor cells (CTCs) in blood have been developed, enabling the accurate tracking of treatment response and potential screening for cancer. Researchers were able to identify large numbers of CTCs in cancer patients undergoing radiation therapy.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateMar 15, 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.

A certain type of neurons is more energy efficient than previously assumed

A team of researchers at IST Austria found that the specialized ion channels in PV+-BCs neurons are gated to optimize both fast signalling and energy efficiency. This discovery resolves a major contradiction about how these neurons generate signals, finding that they are more energy-efficient than previously thought.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalNeuron·DateMar 15, 2018

'Frequency combs' ID chemicals within the mid-infrared spectral region

A team of researchers at NIST developed a new laser source, called frequency combs, to detect chemicals with greater sensitivity. These lasers can pass through samples without direct contact, enabling remote spectroscopy and high-sensitivity measurements for applications such as breath analyzers, cancer detection, and explosives tracking.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAPL Photonics·DateMar 15, 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.

Potential RNA Markers of abnormal heart rhythms identified in circulating blood

A study published in Circulation Journal identified four microRNA molecules in the bloodstream that could predict the onset of atrial fibrillation. The researchers found that these microRNAs were significantly upregulated in the serum of patients with AF and diseased mice, suggesting their potential use as biomarkers for disease.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalCirculation Journal·DateMar 15, 2018

A new use for graphene: Making better hair dyes

Researchers have developed a graphene-based hair dye that adheres to the surface of hair, forming a coating resistant to at least 30 washes without chemicals. This coating also dissipates static electricity, eliminating flyaways.

SourceCell Press·JournalChem·DateMar 15, 2018

Getting lost: Why older people might lose their way

Researchers at DZNE found unstable activity in a key spatial navigation area of older adults' brains, leading to navigational difficulties. This may open up new ways for detecting Alzheimer's disease and designing therapies against age-related cognitive decline.

SourceDZNE - German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 15, 2018

Early puberty linked with increased risk of obesity for women

Research from Imperial College London found that girls who start puberty earlier are more likely to be overweight as adults. The study used genetic variants to investigate the causal link between early puberty and body mass index (BMI) in women, suggesting that early puberty itself is a risk factor for obesity.

SourceImperial College London·JournalInternational Journal of Obesity·DateMar 15, 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.

Potential new way to limit antibiotic resistance spreading

Researchers at EMBL have unraveled the molecular basis of a major antibiotic resistance transfer mechanism and developed molecules to block its movement. This could help control the spread of antibiotic resistance genes in bacteria, including those that are part of our normal microbiome.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalCell·DateMar 15, 2018

Major study shows x5 greater suicide rate in patients with urological cancers

Patients with urological cancers, such as prostate and bladder cancer, are five times more likely to commit suicide than the general population. The study found that severe psychological stress is a major side-effect of cancer diagnosis and treatment, leading to higher rates of depression, PTSD, and suicidal intent in this patient group.

SourceEuropean Association of Urology·DateMar 15, 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.

Half a degree more global warming could flood out 5 million more people

A study published in Environmental Research Letters found that a 1.5C temperature increase could lead to the permanent inundation of lands home to about 5 million people by 2150. The research team used global tide gauges and sea level projection frameworks to explore differences in storm surge events across three scenarios.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateMar 15, 2018

Reducing collateral damage

A new UC Santa Barbara-led study found that ending overfishing can promote population recoveries for many endangered species caught incidentally as bycatch. In about half the cases, overexploiting these mammals, turtles and birds occurs because we're also overexploiting the target species.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalScience·DateMar 15, 2018

Cell therapy could improve brain function for Alzheimer's disease

Researchers found that genetically improving inhibitory interneurons and transplanting them into the brain of a mouse model with Alzheimer's disease can restore brain rhythms and cognition. This approach could lead to new treatment options for patients with Alzheimer's disease.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalNeuron·DateMar 15, 2018

Well-child visits are effective time to help moms, study shows

Researchers found that new mothers attended 92.7% of their babies' appointments, creating a significant window to discuss maternal health. The IMPLICIT ICC model screened for tobacco use, depression, contraception use, and multivitamin use, with notable intervention rates.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalThe Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine·DateMar 15, 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.

Higher doses of radiation don't improve survival in prostate cancer

A new study published in JAMA Oncology found that higher doses of radiation therapy did not improve survival rates for patients with intermediate-risk prostate cancer. However, the study did show lower rates of recurrence and tumor growth in the group receiving the higher dose, which could lead to better quality of life.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateMar 15, 2018

New model links yellow fever in Africa to climate, environment

Researchers developed a new model that quantifies yellow fever dynamics across Africa using seasonal climatic measures, confirming the risk varies throughout the year. The model accurately captured geographic and temporal heterogeneities in transmission and offers insights for early interventions.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateMar 15, 2018

Study suggests that cancer survivors are more easily fatigued

A study found that adults with a history of cancer treatment exhibit higher levels of fatigue and reduced endurance compared to those without a cancer history. The researchers discovered a significant association between a history of cancer treatment and increased fatigability, particularly in older adults.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalCancer·DateMar 15, 2018

Childhood aggression linked to deficits in executive function

Primary school children with lower executive function skills are more likely to show increased aggression in middle childhood, including physical and relational types. The study suggests that improving executive function could reduce aggression, and training programs may be effective in achieving this.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Behavioral Neuroscience·DateMar 15, 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.

Topsy-turvy currents key to removing nitrate from streams, UCI-led study finds

A new study calculates a 'speed limit' for nitrate removal in streams, allowing for tailored restoration efforts to maximize its removal and protect ecosystems. The researchers found that the rate of nitrate transport by turbulence controls its removal in pristine streams, but processes within sediment prevail in polluted ones.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalScience·DateMar 15, 2018

How cells protect themselves against mechanical stress

Researchers have discovered that Piezo channels are highly sensitive to changes in membrane voltage, which helps cells protect themselves from mechanical overstimulation. This mechanism has been found to exist in humans, mice, flies, and fish, and is even more pronounced in older species.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 15, 2018

New automatic methods for generating and classifying music

Researchers at the UPV/EHU develop two new methods for generating and classifying music, one based on genre classification using similar bertso melodies. These methods also enable the automatic generation of new melodies in various styles.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 15, 2018

Blunt products more popular in states where marijuana is legal

Cigars used for blunt-making dominate the marketplace in states where recreational marijuana is legal, with fruit-flavored and small pack sizes being particularly popular. This finding highlights the need for stricter regulations on tobacco products to reduce public health risks associated with their use.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence·DateMar 15, 2018

Clearing clumps of protein in aging neural stem cells boosts their activity

Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine have found that young neural stem cells store large protein aggregates in lysosomes. Clearing these aggregates rejuvenates the cells' ability to activate and makes new neurons. The study highlights the importance of maintaining precise control over protein production and disposal.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalScience·DateMar 15, 2018

UH scientists investigating mysterious dark matter

Researchers at University of Houston are working with DarkSide program to detect dark matter using weakly interacting massive particles (WIMPs) and liquid argon technology. The team has improved the sensitivity of their detector, DarkSide-50, by switching to low-radioactivity liquid argon.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 15, 2018

H7N9 influenza vaccine clinical trials begin

Two new clinical trials are enrolling volunteers to test an experimental H7N9 influenza vaccine candidate in the US. The Phase 2 studies will evaluate different dosages and vaccination schedules of the inactivated vaccine, as well as an adjuvant to boost immune responses.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·DateMar 15, 2018