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Science News for April 10, 2019


New electron microscopy technique limits membrane destruction

Researchers at Purdue University have developed a new electron microscopy technique called cryoAPEX that accurately tracks membrane proteins in well-preserved cells. This breakthrough method combines the benefits of high-pressure freezing and chemical fixation techniques to produce high-quality images of protein structures.

SourcePurdue University·JournalJournal of Cell Science·DateApr 10, 2019

Research reveals how the most common ALS mutation dooms cells

Researchers found that the most common genetic cause of ALS, C9orf72 mutation, leads to toxic dipeptide repeat polypeptides (DPRs) disrupting nucleolar assembly. Longer DPRs are more toxic to cells, highlighting a potential prognostic value for ALS patients.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalMolecular Cell·DateApr 10, 2019

Identification of lymph node cells that may play important roles in immune tolerance

Researchers at Kanazawa University identified a new type of cell in lymph nodes that may play a crucial role in maintaining immune tolerance. These Aire ILC3-like cells are similar to innate lymphoid cells found in the gut and have been shown to eliminate auto-reactive T cells, suggesting they may help prevent autoimmune diseases.

SourceKanazawa University·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateApr 10, 2019

Cancer: Central role of cell 'skeleton' discovered

Research shows that branched actin transmits information to cells about their environment and regulates growth, a mechanism that can be targeted to fight certain types of cancer. Inhibiting branched actin formation prevents the growth of melanoma cells, offering new therapeutic options.

SourceCNRS·JournalCell Research·DateApr 10, 2019
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.

New quantum material could warn of neurological disease

Researchers have developed a new quantum material that can automatically detect hydrogen levels in the brain, offering potential early detection of neurological diseases like Parkinson's. The material uses ionic currents to identify molecules, such as glucose and dopamine, which serve as indicators of brain health.

SourcePurdue University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 10, 2019

Releasing an immune system brake could help patients with rare but fatal brain infection

A small-scale NIH-led clinical study found that pembrolizumab can slow or stop the progression of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), a fatal brain infection caused by the JC virus. The treatment resulted in improved symptoms and reduced viral levels in five patients with PML.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateApr 10, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Novel strategy hits 'reset button' for disease-causing genetic duplications

A new approach to gene editing has been developed by scientists at UMass Medical School, allowing for the correction of microduplications associated with 143 different diseases. The strategy uses CRISPR/Cas9 and harnesses the homology-directed repair pathway to remove duplicated sequences and restore functional genes.

SourceUMass Chan Medical School·JournalNature·DateApr 10, 2019

Ultrasound aligns living cells in bioprinted tissues

North Carolina State University researchers have created a technique called ultrasound-assisted biofabrication (UAB) to align living cells during the bioprinting process. This allows for the creation of tissues with characteristics similar to natural tissues, such as a knee meniscus with aligned cell structures.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalBiofabrication·DateApr 10, 2019
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.

International astronomers reveal first image of event horizon of super-massive black hole

A team of international astronomers, including those from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, have successfully captured the first direct image of a supermassive black hole's event horizon. The image reveals the black hole at the center of Messier 87, a massive galaxy 55 million light-years from Earth.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateApr 10, 2019

Scientists identify a key gene in the transmission of deadly African sleeping sickness

Researchers have identified phosphodiesterase-B1 as a critical gene for the transmission of African sleeping sickness, a disease transmitted by tsetse flies. The study reveals that the parasite's movement from the fly's midgut to the salivary gland is controlled by this gene, providing new insights into the disease-causing mechanism.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 10, 2019

Active lifestyles may help nerves to heal after spinal injuries

Scientists discovered that providing rodents with more space, exercise and toys before a spinal cord injury can 'prime' their cells, making it more likely for damaged nerves to regenerate. Researchers also found a key molecule called CREB-Binding Protein (CBP) that may be effectively reprogramming nerve cells.

SourceImperial College London·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateApr 10, 2019
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.

Evolution from water to land led to better parenting

A study of over 1000 frog and toad species found that those living on land invested more time and effort in parental care, leading to increased survival rates and colonization of terrestrial habitats. The research also discovered diverse parenting behaviors, including male involvement in egg protection and female nourishment.

SourceUniversity of Bath·DateApr 10, 2019
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.

Pesticide cocktail can harm honey bees

A recent study found that pesticide cocktails can harm honey bees, reducing their survival and causing abnormal behavior. The research, led by the University of California San Diego, showed that combining Sivanto with a common fungicide can synergistically harm bee behavior and survival, depending on seasonality and bee age.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateApr 10, 2019

New study finds higher C-section infection risk for mothers on Medicaid

A new study published in Infection Control & Hospital Epidemiology found that mothers delivering via cesarean section covered by Medicaid had a 1.4 fold increase in surgical site infection compared to those covered by private insurance. The risk of infection may be linked to factors such as patient health literacy, provider variability...

SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateApr 10, 2019

New technology to empower Parkinson's patients

A new service in the UK uses wearable technology to monitor Parkinson's symptoms, enabling patients and specialists to identify and implement changes to therapy remotely. The project aims to reduce healthcare burden and improve quality of life for people with Parkinson's.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·DateApr 10, 2019

Human activities shift dominant tree-fungi pairing in North America

The study found a shift towards arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) trees in the eastern US due to climate change, increased nitrogen deposition, and fire suppression. This change can accelerate nutrient cycling, potentially affecting carbon storage in North American forests.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 10, 2019

Adenosine kinase deficiency makes liver more susceptible to carcinogen

Researchers discovered that reduced adenosine kinase expression in the liver makes it more susceptible to carcinogenic damage and liver cancer. In a study published in Journal of Caffeine and Adenosine Research, scientists found that 64% of patients with liver cancer had lower adenosine kinase expression levels.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Caffeine and Adenosine Research·DateApr 10, 2019
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.

'Deep learning' casts wide net for novel 2D materials

Rice University engineers employ neural networks to rapidly model the characteristics of new 2D materials, significantly reducing computational time. The technique enables accurate predictions with minimal data, facilitating bottom-up design and discovery.

SourceRice University·JournalSmall·DateApr 10, 2019

Birds' surprising sound source

Researchers found that the syrinx's position at the end of the airway enhances vocal efficiency, allowing birds to communicate more effectively. This unique feature enables birds to amplify their sounds using their long necks as resonators, giving them an advantage in attracting mates and warning off predators.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalPLOS Biology·DateApr 10, 2019

New algorithm optimizes quantum computing problem-solving

Researchers at Tohoku University developed an algorithm to improve the D-Wave quantum annealer's ability to solve complex combinatorial optimization problems. The new algorithm allows for larger subproblems, leading to more optimal solutions efficiently.

SourceTohoku University·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 10, 2019
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.

Falling levels of air pollution drove decline in California's tule fog

A study by UC Berkeley scientists found that falling levels of air pollution are causing the decline in California's tule fog, which may help improve traffic safety in the region. The researchers analyzed data from 1930 to 2016 and found a strong correlation between air pollutant emissions and fog frequency.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·DateApr 10, 2019

New center founded to develop more efficient flexible solar cells

Researchers at the Center for Self-Assembled Organic Electronics will integrate chemical synthesis, theory, and simulations to develop next-generation materials capable of converting sunlight into electricity. The goal is to create lightweight and flexible solar cells that can be deployed in various environments and scenarios.

SourcePenn State·DateApr 10, 2019

Dartmouth researchers offer new insights into how maternal immunity impacts neonatal HSV

Researchers found that vaccinated mothers can protect their newborns from neonatal herpes, a disease that can cause brain damage and death. The study also identified two scenarios that are particularly dangerous for newborns: acquiring genital herpes late in pregnancy or exposure to the virus through non-protected contact.

SourceThe Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateApr 10, 2019
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.

CSI meets conservation

Researchers at Stanford University and India's National Centre for Biological Sciences have developed a new approach to extract genetic clues from degraded DNA samples. This method uses a sequencing technique that amplifies small bits of DNA with unique differences in each sample, allowing for the use of contaminated or mixed samples. ...

SourceStanford University·JournalMethods in Ecology and Evolution·DateApr 10, 2019

Human iPSC-derived MSCs from aged individuals acquire a rejuvenation signature

Researchers have discovered that human iPSC-derived MSCs (iMSCs) from aged individuals acquire a rejuvenation-associated 50-gene signature, which is also expressed in pluripotent stem cells. This finding highlights the potential of iMSCs to act via paracrine signalling and circumvent drawbacks associated with adult MSCs.

SourceHeinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf·JournalStem Cell Research & Therapy·DateApr 10, 2019
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Water that never freezes

Researchers at ETH Zurich have identified a novel way to prevent water from forming ice crystals by creating a new class of lipids that form a 'soft' biological matter. This material confines water in narrow channels, preventing it from freezing even at extreme sub-zero temperatures.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateApr 10, 2019
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.

More than a strip of paint needed to keep cyclists safe

A study published in Accident Analysis and Prevention found that marked on-road bicycle lanes and parked cars do not provide enough space for safe passing. The research, which analyzed over 18,000 vehicle passing events, suggests that a single stripe of paint is insufficient to protect cyclists.

SourceMonash University·JournalAccident Analysis & Prevention·DateApr 10, 2019

Sexual behavior may influence gut microbiome

A study by CU Anschutz researchers found that men who have sex with men have unique gut microbiomes that drive immune activation and may increase their risk of HIV infection. The study suggests a direct link between microbiome composition and immune activation in HIV-negative and HIV-positive MSM.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateApr 10, 2019
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.

Long-lived bats could hold secrets to mammal longevity

Researchers found four bat lineages that live at least four times longer than other mammals and identified life history features predicting extended life spans. Hibernating bat species in higher latitudes are found to live longer, possibly due to their ability to adjust body temperature.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalBiology Letters·DateApr 10, 2019
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.

Breast milk analyses show new opportunities for reducing risk of childhood obesity

New research finds differences in breast milk composition between normal weight and overweight mothers, with specific metabolites identified as risk factors for childhood obesity. The study suggests that a tailored mix of nutrients in breast milk could be therapeutic targets to protect children from obesity.

SourceJoslin Diabetes Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateApr 10, 2019

Physical activity prepares neurons to regenerate in case of spinal cord injury

Research in mice and rats reveals a molecular pathway stimulated by physical activity that promotes nerve regeneration after spinal cord injury. A key molecule called CREB-Binding Protein (CBP) is identified as a therapeutic target to increase regeneration, with promising results in animal models.

SourceSpanish National Research Council (CSIC)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateApr 10, 2019

MOFs can sense and sort troublesome gases

Researchers at KAUST developed a new sensor using fluorinated metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) that can detect critical gas parameters for human comfort and safety. The MOFs can selectively remove sulfur dioxide from flue gas with high affinity, making them suitable for carbon capture and storage applications.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 10, 2019
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

New imaging reveals previously unseen vulnerabilities of HIV

Researchers visualize HIV's shape and vulnerabilities using single-molecule Förster resonance energy transfer (smFRET) technology. The study provides a direct means of seeing the dynamic machine-like structure of the HIV envelope, which can be targeted by antibodies to eliminate infected cells.

SourceUniversity of Montreal Hospital Research Centre (CRCHUM)·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateApr 10, 2019

Living transplant donors need long-term monitoring, too

A study by UCSF researchers found that nearly one in seven kidney donors experience potentially adverse events related to their donation. Long-term systematic renal monitoring and routine checkups for living kidney donors are recommended to prevent renal failure and cardiovascular issues.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 10, 2019

Low cholesterol linked to higher risk of bleeding stroke in women

A new study has found that women with low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels below 70 mg/dL may be at a higher risk of hemorrhagic stroke. The study also found that women with the lowest triglyceride levels had an increased risk of bleeding strokes compared to those with the highest triglyceride levels.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateApr 10, 2019
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.

Where will flooded fields best replenish groundwater?

A new study from Stanford University suggests a way to map precisely where and how to use groundwater recharge to refill aquifers and stop sinking in California's Central Valley. The model, based on remote sensing data, indicates areas of high subsidence risk and optimal recharge locations.

SourceStanford's School of Earth, Energy & Environmental Sciences·JournalWater Resources Research·DateApr 10, 2019

The protein p38gamma identified as a new therapeutic target in liver cancer

Researchers at CNIC have discovered that the protein p38gamma plays an essential role in initiating cell division in liver cells, making it a promising therapeutic target for liver cancer. The study found that inhibiting p38gamma slows down the development of liver cancer in mice, suggesting potential treatment options.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P.)·JournalNature·DateApr 10, 2019
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.

Astronomers capture first image of a black hole

The Event Horizon Telescope project has captured the first-ever image of a black hole, located at the heart of galaxy Messier 87. The image reveals a ring-like structure with a dark central region, confirming our understanding of general relativity.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateApr 10, 2019

Climate scientists partner with San Francisco to be ready for future storms

Climate scientists are partnering with the City and County of San Francisco to assess how climate change may influence the intensity of atmospheric rivers and associated precipitation. Using high-resolution climate simulations at a resolution of 3 km, researchers aim to provide more accurate predictions about extreme weather events in ...

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·DateApr 10, 2019

Astronomers capture first image of a black hole

The Event Horizon Telescope (EHT) has captured the first direct visual evidence of a supermassive black hole, located 55 million light-years from Earth. The image reveals the black hole's mass is 6.5-billion times that of the Sun.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateApr 10, 2019

New research reveals climate change secrets hidden in the Yukon permafrost

A study from U of T Mississauga uses new techniques to reconstruct summer temperatures over the last 13,600 years, confirming current global warming trends. The research reveals that recent climate warming in the central Yukon region has surpassed the warmest temperatures experienced in the previous 13,600 years.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 10, 2019

UBC researchers say eggs for breakfast benefits those with diabetes

A UBC study found that a high-fat, low-carb breakfast can prevent large blood sugar spikes and improve glycemic control. Participants with well-controlled Type 2 Diabetes experienced reduced glucose exposure and improved stability of glucose readings after consuming a low-carb breakfast.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateApr 10, 2019
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.

Opioid addiction treatment in teens focus of new project

A new research project aims to investigate how opioid use is treated in adolescence, a significant public health problem. The study will analyze insurance claims data to identify patterns of opioid use leading up to addiction and long-term treatment outcomes.

SourcePenn State·DateApr 10, 2019

New species of early human found in the Philippines

Researchers have uncovered the remains of a new species of human, Homo luzonensis, in the Philippines. The fossil discovery provides significant insights into human evolution across Southeast Asia, with unique skeletal features compared to other known hominin species.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalNature·DateApr 10, 2019

Tiny traces of neonicotinoid pesticides impair insects' ability to spot predators

Researchers at the University of Saskatchewan found that even tiny amounts of neonicotinoid pesticides can severely impact flying insects' motion detection abilities. The study's results suggest that very low doses of these widely-used neurotoxins can profoundly affect a flying insect's ability to detect movement, making it crucial for...

SourceUniversity of Saskatchewan·JournalNeuroToxicology·DateApr 10, 2019
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.

Experimental drug delivers one-two punch to vision loss

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have found that AXT107 stops abnormal blood vessels in the eye from leaking vision-blocking fluids. The compound strengthens connections between cells, creating a watertight barrier and preventing fluid permeation into surrounding tissue.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 10, 2019

Genome analysis shows the combined effect of many genes on cognitive traits

Researchers analyzed genetic information from 7,026 UK children to find polygenic scores that predict up to 11% of the difference in intelligence and 16% of the difference in educational achievement. The study used multivariate genomic approaches to increase predictive power and found improved accuracy when analyzing multiple traits.

SourceSpringer·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateApr 10, 2019

Protein pileup affects social behaviors through altered brain signaling

Scientists found that disrupted autophagy leads to protein accumulation, causing neuronal communication problems and behavioral changes resembling human autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and schizophrenia. The study confirms a link between mTOR-autophagy and GABA signaling in the development of social behavior deficits.

SourceRIKEN·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 10, 2019
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.

How much nature is lost due to higher yields?

A recent UFZ study analyzed 10,000 studies on yield and biodiversity in intensification measures, finding a 20% increase in yield but a 9% species loss. Medium-intensity areas showed the highest increase in yield and greatest species loss.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateApr 10, 2019

How severe drought influences ozone pollution

Researchers analyzed data from Fresno and Bakersfield before, during, and after the California drought to understand its impact on ozone air quality. They found that severe drought conditions led to a 20% decrease in ozone production due to reduced isoprene concentrations and altered VOCs.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateApr 10, 2019

CBT can provide better long-term relief for IBS symptoms

Researchers at the University of Southampton found that Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) tailored specifically for IBS is more effective in relieving symptoms than current standard care. CBT sessions delivered over the telephone or through an interactive website improved patients' quality of life and reduced symptoms after 12 months.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalGut·DateApr 10, 2019

Researchers interpret Cherokee inscriptions in Alabama cave

Cherokee inscriptions found in Manitou Cave reveal evidence of secluded ceremonial activities, including stickball and ritual events. The inscriptions provide a direct link to how some Native Americans viewed caves as sacred places.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee at Knoxville·JournalAntiquity·DateApr 10, 2019
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.

Hurricane Harvey provides lessons learned for flood resiliency plans

Researchers used satellite radar data to map the extent of standing water and measure land subsidence in the Houston-Galveston area, revealing large flooded areas fell outside FEMA designated flood zones. The study highlights the need for revising flood hazard zone maps and resilience plans in coastal regions.

SourceArizona State University·JournalRemote Sensing of Environment·DateApr 10, 2019

UNH researchers find unusual phenomenon in clouds triggers lightning flash

Scientists at the University of New Hampshire have documented a unique event called fast negative breakdown, which shows that lightning can form in clouds through an upward pathway. This discovery provides new insight into how lightning begins and spreads, and may lead to a better understanding of this natural phenomenon.

SourceUniversity of New Hampshire·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 10, 2019
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 non-antibiotic strategy for the treatment of bacterial meningitis

Researchers at Lund University developed a new approach to treating bacterial meningitis by cutting up neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) with DNase, exposing bacteria to the immune system and antibiotics. This method has shown promise in reducing bacterial loads without antibiotic intervention.

SourceLund University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 10, 2019

Underrepresented UC San Diego students on a new path to STEM success

The PATHS program, funded by Chan Zuckerberg Initiative grants, aims to empower underrepresented students to succeed in STEM fields at UC San Diego. The initiative replicates successful models from UMBC's Meyerhoff Scholars Program and offers research experiences, team learning, peer counseling, and more.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateApr 10, 2019

Scientists find self-healing catalyst for potential large-scale use in hydrogen production

Researchers have developed a self-healing catalyst, SION-X, that can efficiently release hydrogen from ammonia borane, a promising energy carrier. The catalyst is based on abundant mineral Jacquesdietrichite and can be easily regenerated, stored, and handled, making it suitable for large-scale applications.

SourceNational Centre of Competence in Research (NCCR) MARVEL·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry A·DateApr 10, 2019

Scientists synthesize new nanowires to improve high-speed communication

Researchers synthesized new In0.28Ga0.72Sb nanowires with high carrier mobility and fast IR response, outperforming existing materials in terms of responsivity and decay times. The minimized crystal defects are attributed to a catalyst epitaxy technology that enables precise atom alignment.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 10, 2019
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.

Nurses use FDNY geospatial mapping of opioid overdoses to inform clinical practice in real time

Researchers from NYU Meyers College of Nursing used FDNY GIS maps to develop an educational program for nurse practitioners, which improved their care and interventions on the opioid crisis. The study found that local, real-time maps informed clinical practice and increased screenings for risk-taking behaviors in adolescent populations.

SourceNew York University·JournalJournal of Pediatric Health Care·DateApr 10, 2019

ASHG launches Human Genetics Scholars Initiative

The Human Genetics Scholars Initiative aims to increase workforce diversity in human genetics research by providing intensive mentoring, skill-building, and community-building opportunities. The program will support up to 240 diverse young researchers over five years.

SourceAmerican Society of Human Genetics·DateApr 10, 2019

Caregiving not as bad for your health as once thought, study says

A recent study published in The Gerontologist suggests that the link between caregiving and negative health effects has been overstated. After analyzing data from over three decades of research, Johns Hopkins researchers found a weak association between caregiving and immune system biomarkers.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalThe Gerontologist·DateApr 10, 2019
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.

Astronomers capture first image of a black hole

Scientists have captured the first-ever image of a black hole, which reveals the massive black hole at the center of the galaxy Messier 87. The image was achieved using the Event Horizon Telescope (EHT), an unprecedented Earth-sized virtual telescope linking telescopes around the globe.

SourceESO·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateApr 10, 2019

Reducing greenhouse gases while balancing demand for meat

A new study found that reducing meat consumption could cut greenhouse gas emissions by the most, while also increasing use of animal byproducts. By combining various strategies such as eliminating waste and finding uses for byproducts, researchers estimate a 43% reduction in emissions from the meat supply chain.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateApr 10, 2019

Is maternal vaccination safe during breastfeeding?

The article review found no risks associated with breastfeeding mothers receiving routine and standard vaccinations. In fact, there are benefits for both mothers and infants, including enhanced antibody response and reduced vaccine-related fever after infant vaccination.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalBreastfeeding Medicine·DateApr 10, 2019
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.

Simultaneous heatwaves caused by anthropogenic climate change

A recent study by ETH researchers suggests that anthropogenic climate change is causing simultaneous heatwaves across the Northern Hemisphere, affecting key agricultural regions and densely populated areas. The study found that such large-scale heatwaves first appeared in 2010 and have since become more frequent and widespread.

SourceETH Zurich·DateApr 10, 2019

Diet rich in animal protein is associated with a greater risk of death

A diet high in animal protein and meat is associated with a greater risk of death, according to a 20-year follow-up study. Men who primarily consumed animal-based proteins had a 23% higher risk of mortality compared to those with a balanced ratio of animal and plant-based proteins.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateApr 10, 2019

New cancer drug targets accelerate path to precision medicine

Researchers used CRISPR technology to disrupt every gene in over 300 cancer models from 30 cancer types, discovering thousands of key genes essential for cancer's survival. The team developed a system to prioritize and rank 600 drug targets promising for development into targeted cancer treatments.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalNature·DateApr 10, 2019
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.

Kidney disease triggers cognitive impairment, even in early stages

A recent study found that kidney disease can trigger cognitive impairment even in its early stages, affecting approximately one in two patients. The cognitive decline is not age-related and worsens with declining kidney function.

SourceERA – European Renal Association·JournalNephrology Dialysis Transplantation·DateApr 10, 2019