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Science News for April 18, 2019


Late dinner and no breakfast is a killer combination

A study published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology found that people who skip breakfast and eat dinner near bedtime have a four to five times higher likelihood of death, another heart attack, or angina within 30 days after hospital discharge for heart attack. Late-night dinner eating was also associated with poorer outc...

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Journal of Preventive Cardiology·DateApr 18, 2019

Giant tortoises migrate unpredictably in the face of climate change

Researchers tracked the migration patterns of Galapagos giant tortoises over multiple years using GPS technology. The study found that these tortoises do not adjust their migration timing based on current environmental conditions such as fog, rain, and temperature, unlike many other migratory species.

SourceEcological Society of America·JournalEcology·DateApr 18, 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.

Flies smell through a Gore-Tex system

A research group has identified the gene responsible for the formation of nanopores in fruit flies, allowing them to detect chemicals in the air. The gore-tex gene plays a crucial role in envelope curvature and odor receptivity, essential functions for insects.

SourceRIKEN·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 18, 2019

Newly proposed system of measurement could help determine community sustainability

A new system of measurement called CSAS aims to comprehensively assess community sustainability by addressing three pillars: economic vitality, environmental quality and social equity. The researchers propose a multi-level approach to measure sustainability, starting from neighborhoods and moving up to regions and greater levels.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalSustainability·DateApr 18, 2019

Certain strains of bacteria associated with diabetic wounds that do not heal

Researchers identified specific strains of Staphylococcus aureus associated with non-healing wounds, while another microbe Alcaligenes faecalis was linked to quicker healing. The study suggests monitoring wound microbes could help doctors develop new treatment strategies for impaired wound healing.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateApr 18, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

In vivo super-resolution photoacoustic computed tomography by localization of single dyed droplets

Researchers at Caltech Optical Imaging Laboratory created a technique to break the acoustic diffraction limit in PACT by localizing single dyed droplets flowing in blood vessels, achieving six-fold finer resolution. The droplets provide excellent tracers for super-resolution imaging and enable tracking of blood flow speed.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateApr 18, 2019

Adding human touch to unchatty chatbots may lead to bigger letdown

Researchers found that chatbots with human-like features but low interactivity disappointed people, while those with high interactivity were better received. Improving interactivity without adding human-like cues can also lead to a more positive user experience.

SourcePenn State·JournalComputers in Human Behavior·DateApr 18, 2019

Decline in measles vaccination is causing a preventable global resurgence of the disease

A recent commentary warns of a preventable global resurgence of measles due to declining vaccination rates. Measles is an extremely contagious illness that can cause severe complications and death in vulnerable populations. Without renewed focus on measles vaccination efforts, the disease may rebound in full force.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateApr 18, 2019

Cell-killing proteins suppress listeria without killing cells

Researchers at North Carolina State University discovered that key cell-killing proteins can block certain bacterial infections like Listeria without harming the host cells. The RIPK3 and MLKL proteins recognize the bacteria's chemical composition and bind to it, preventing its spread while keeping the host cells alive.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateApr 18, 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.

Folding faults and seismic risk in the Kunlun range, Northwest Tibet

Researchers investigated surface deformation caused by a 6.5 magnitude earthquake using field investigations, geologic data, seismic reflection profiles, and earthquake relocation results. The study suggests the Pishan earthquake is a folding event that occurred in the upper crust.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeosphere·DateApr 18, 2019

Fish under threat release chemicals to warn others of danger

Research by the University of Saskatchewan found that fish release 'disturbance cues' to signal nearby dangers like predators. This voluntary chemical release can trigger a 'fright response' in fish, promoting defensive behavior.

SourceUniversity of Saskatchewan·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·DateApr 18, 2019

Electric skyrmions charge ahead for next-generation data storage

A team of researchers has observed chirality in polar skyrmions for the first time in a material with reversible electrical properties. The discovery could lead to applications like more powerful data storage devices that continue to hold information even after being powered off.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature·DateApr 18, 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.

Preschoolers with chronic constipation tend to be picky eaters

Children with chronic constipation exhibit heightened sensory sensitivity, particularly in oral processing, leading to feeding problems and avoidance behaviors. This association could transform clinical practice by incorporating sensory considerations into treatment plans.

SourceAnn & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·DateApr 18, 2019

When the physics say 'don't follow your nose'

Engineers at Duke University create a smart robotic system that uses physics-based models and path planning algorithms to locate gaseous leaks in complex environments. The system can handle multiple sources and measure contamination rates, offering a more robust approach than existing heuristic methods.

SourceDuke University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Robotics·DateApr 18, 2019

Glowing millipede genitalia help scientists tell species apart

Researchers at the Field Museum used UV light to reveal differences in millipede genitals, enabling them to identify eight separate species, four fewer than previously recognized. The discovery has implications for environmental monitoring and understanding climate change.

SourceField Museum·JournalZoological Journal of the Linnean Society·DateApr 18, 2019

From nata de coco to computer screens: Cellulose gets a chance to shine

Researchers at Osaka University have measured cellulose's intrinsic birefringence with unprecedented precision, paving the way for sharper TV, computer, and smartphone screens. The team envisions using cellulose nanofiber films as light compensation materials for liquid crystal displays.

SourceOsaka University·JournalACS Macro Letters·DateApr 18, 2019

IPOs help communities prosper, new research shows

Researchers found that IPOs lead to an increase in home prices and consumer spending in surrounding areas, with each $10 million in proceeds generating 0.7 new businesses and 41 new local jobs. However, IPO activity can also lead to gentrification and price out middle-to-lower-income residents.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of Financial and Quantitative Analysis·DateApr 18, 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.

Barrow researcher discovers critical RNA processing aberrations

Researchers at Barrow Neurological Center discovered aberrant RNA processing in ALS and FTD patients, led by Dr. Rita Sattler's team finding ADAR2 mislocalization affects disease pathways, potentially leading to neuronal loss and neurodegeneration.

SourceSt. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center·JournalActa Neuropathologica·DateApr 18, 2019

Can science writing be automated?

A team of scientists at MIT developed a neural network that can read scientific papers and generate a plain-English summary. The system, called RUM, uses vectors rotating in multidimensional space to represent words and improve memory and recall capabilities.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalTransactions of the Association for Computational Linguistics·DateApr 18, 2019

Multistep self-assembly opens door to new reconfigurable materials

University of Illinois engineers found that adding salt to water triggers a multistep assembly process, allowing for complex architectures and reconfigurable materials. This discovery may enable the development of new technologies such as solar cells and catalysis.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 18, 2019

Experimental antiplatelet compound for acute stroke shows promise

A new experimental compound inhibits clot formation without raising the risk of bleeding, providing an effective and safer alternative to current therapies. The study found that the drug is well-tolerated at high doses and has a rapid, specific, and reversible action on platelets.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateApr 18, 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.

Triplet superconductivity demonstrated under high pressure

Researchers at Tohoku University and Université Grenoble Alpes have demonstrated triplet superconductivity in the uranium-based material UBe13 using high pressure and magnetic fields. This phenomenon involves electrons forming parallel spin pairs, unlike conventional superconductors where opposite spins pair together.

SourceTohoku University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 18, 2019

Rare genetic change provides clues to pancreas development

Researchers discovered a key clue into pancreas development by studying rare patients born without a pancreas. A previously unexpected pathway was identified, confirming its role in human and mouse pancreas formation.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateApr 18, 2019

Why language technology can't handle Game of Thrones (yet)

Researchers evaluated four state-of-the-art tools for recognizing names in text and found solutions to boost accuracy from 7% to 90%. They also extracted social networks from novels to explore differences in story structure. The study highlights the challenges faced by NLP tools in handling names in popular fiction.

SourcePeerJ·JournalPeerJ Computer Science·DateApr 18, 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.

Antimicrobial paints have a blind spot

Researchers tested spore-forming bacteria on antimicrobial paint surfaces and found that most died, but a few strains, like Bacillus timonensis, survived. This raises concerns about the effectiveness of these paints and potential risks to human health.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalIndoor Air·DateApr 18, 2019

Turning an old enemy into a helpful friend

A study by EPFL researchers found that the KRAB domain-containing zinc finger protein Zfp30 initially repressed a retrotransposon, but later evolved to activate genes involved in fat-cell formation instead, surprising scientists

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 18, 2019

Research finds pregnant women feel pushed out of their jobs

Research from Florida State University finds that pregnant women are more likely to feel 'pushed out' of their workplaces, leading them to opt-out. The study confirms inherent biases against expectant mothers and highlights the need for employers to provide equal career support to both men and women with children.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalJournal of Applied Psychology·DateApr 18, 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.

New UCI-led study defines best time to exercise to get the most rejuvenating results

Researchers found that exercising in the morning resulted in higher utilization of carbohydrates and ketone bodies, as well as the breakdown of fats and amino acids. The study suggests that timing of exercise is a critical factor for metabolic benefits, contradicting previous assumptions that focused on food intake timing.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalCell Metabolism·DateApr 18, 2019

General anesthesia hijacks sleep circuitry to knock you out

Scientists at Duke University discovered that general anesthesia works by hijacking the neural circuitry responsible for sleep and hormone regulation. The study found that certain anesthetic drugs activate a cluster of cells at the base of the brain, leading to unconsciousness and offering potential new avenues for developing pain-free...

SourceDuke University·JournalNeuron·DateApr 18, 2019

A history of the Crusades, as told by crusaders' DNA

A team of researchers analyzed the DNA of nine 13th-century Crusaders, revealing a genetically diverse group that intermixed with local populations. The findings provide insights into the history of the Crusades and highlight the importance of ancient DNA in understanding historical events.

SourceCell Press·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateApr 18, 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.

Bioengineers program cells as digital signal processors

Researchers have developed a system that allows living cells to perform analog-to-digital signal processing, enabling precise control over cellular responses. This breakthrough expands the toolkit for synthetic biologists, who can now use genetic circuitry to process complex signals and make informed decisions.

SourceRice University·JournalScience·DateApr 18, 2019

A mother lode of protection

A new study found that a maternal vaccine can effectively protect against HSV-1 and HSV-2 infections in mouse offspring, transferring infection-fighting antibodies to their nervous system. The vaccine has shown promise in preclinical animal models and phase 1 human trials, offering new hope for preventing neonatal herpes infections.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateApr 18, 2019

New method to detect off-target effects of CRISPR

A team of scientists at the Gladstone Institutes has developed a reliable method to identify potential off-target effects in therapeutically relevant cell types. The DISCOVER-Seq technique uses DNA repair factors to pinpoint exact sites where CRISPR cuts occur, enabling more accurate genome editing.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalScience·DateApr 18, 2019

Harmonization of resting-state functional MRI data across multiple imaging sites

Researchers developed an effective harmonization method to reduce site-related differences in resting-state fMRI data, reducing bias by 29% and improving signal-to-noise ratios by 40%. This allows for the development of practical brain-circuit-based biomarkers of psychiatric disorders regardless of imaging site.

SourceATR Brain Information Communication Research Laboratory Group·JournalPLOS Biology·DateApr 18, 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.

Tiny, fast, accurate technology on the radar

Researchers at KAUST have developed a compact radar with short wavelengths to enhance close-range detection capabilities. The device is capable of target detection, speed estimation, and tracking at ranges of up to 12 meters, making it suitable for visually impaired people and unmanned devices.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalIEEE Aerospace and Electronic Systems Magazine·DateApr 18, 2019

Data mining digs up hidden clues to major California earthquake triggers

A comprehensive new earthquake catalog has identified 1.81 million quakes in southern California, 10 times more than previously detected, providing a more precise picture of stress evolution in fault systems. The catalog will help researchers detect and locate quakes more precisely, identifying key physical and geographic details to pr...

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateApr 18, 2019

A hole in one for holographic display

Researchers at KAIST have designed an ultrathin display that can project dynamic, multi-colored 3D holographic images using tiny pinholes in a thin film. The system is small and scalable, paving the way for widespread applications of 3D holographic displays.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 18, 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.

Ocean circulation likely to blame for severity of 2018 red tide

A new study by the University of South Florida finds ocean circulation was the major determinant of Florida's 2018 red tide blooms. The study used ocean circulation models and autonomous underwater gliders to pinpoint the initiation zone for the blooms, which were likely carried to the coastline by a rare upwelling circulation.

SourceUniversity of South Florida·JournalJournal of Geophysical Research Oceans·DateApr 18, 2019

Brain wiring differences identified in children with conduct disorder

Researchers have found distinctive differences in white matter pathways among young people with conduct disorder, linked to callous behavior and reduced empathy. The study may help clinicians diagnose the condition more accurately and guide effective interventions.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateApr 18, 2019

In rare cases, immune system fails despite HIV suppression

Despite effective antiretroviral therapy (ART), five individuals experienced extreme immune decline, a rare phenomenon known as EXID, where CD4+ T cell levels declined by an average of 157 cells per microliter. Gene mutations and HIV strain variations may contribute to this paradoxical response.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalJCI Insight·DateApr 18, 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.

Disappearing bumblebee species under threat of extinction

A new study led by York University reveals the American Bumblebee is critically endangered due to a 70% reduction in its area of occurrence and an 89% decrease in relative abundance. Immediate conservation action may save the species from extinction, similar to the fate of the Rusty-patched Bumblebee.

SourceYork University·JournalJournal of Insect Conservation·DateApr 18, 2019

Crusaders made love and war, genetic study finds

A recent study of ancient DNA from Crusader skeletons confirms they intermingled with local populations, forming families and fighting alongside them. The researchers found that the Crusaders' genetic presence was short-lived, with no lasting impact on Lebanese genetics.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateApr 18, 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.

Investigators incorporate randomized trial within dialysis care delivery

A recent clinical trial found that longer hemodialysis sessions did not improve patient outcomes, while also highlighting the need for effective strategies to engage clinicians and patients in trials embedded within routine care. The study's findings suggest a pressing need for data-driven guidance in dialysis practice.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateApr 18, 2019

Cutting-edge discovery points to potential treatment for NEC in preemies

Researchers at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago have discovered a protein that causes intestinal permeability in NEC, which can lead to sepsis or death. Inhibiting a special molecule called ROCK may prevent this process, offering a new potential treatment strategy.

SourceAnn & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 18, 2019

Study shows female managers don't mean higher pay for women

A recent study published in the European Sociological Review found that having a female manager does not lead to higher earnings for women. Despite increasing representation of women in management positions, the gender gap in earnings remains significant, with women earning an average of 7% less than men.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalEuropean Sociological Review·DateApr 18, 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.

Taming the genome's 'jumping' sequences

Researchers found that KZFP proteins domesticate regulatory sequences in transposable elements, minimizing their impact on early embryonic development. This process allows for the incorporation of transposable element-based controlling sequences into transcriptional networks.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateApr 18, 2019

New concept for novel fire extinguisher in space

A research team at Toyohashi University of Technology has developed a novel fire extinguisher concept called Vacuum Extinguish Method (VEM), which uses vacuum to suck in flames and combustion products. This method is suitable for enclosed spaces like spacecraft or submarines, where traditional extinguishers can spread harmful gases.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalFire Technology·DateApr 18, 2019

New CRISPR tool executes multiple edits simultaneously, leading to unique partnership to deliver more precise cancer treatments

A breakthrough CRISPR gene-editing tool allows for the simultaneous execution of multiple edits in DNA extracted from human cells. This technology, developed by the Gene Editing Institute and licensed to NovellusDx, can rapidly reproduce an individual patient's cancer tumor genetic features and identify driver mutations.

SourceBurness·JournalThe CRISPR Journal·DateApr 18, 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.

Intentions attributed to other people change how we see their actions

Researchers found that when we watch people perform actions, our expectations distort our perception of their behavior. However, this distortion does not occur with inanimate objects. The study suggests that our attributions of intention play a key role in shaping our understanding of others' actions.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 18, 2019

Ocean currents bring good news for reef fish

Researchers discovered that reef fish rely heavily on food from the open ocean, with some species relying on more than 400 grams of plankton per kilogram of fish produced. The study found that areas of the reef exposed to the open ocean produce the largest quantities of fish, offering hope for resilient reefs.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 18, 2019

BRB-seq: The quick and cheaper future of RNA sequencing

BRB-seq, a novel approach to RNA sequencing, preserves strand-specificity and detects the same number of genes as gold standard methods. The technique is 25 times less expensive than commercial RNA sequencing technologies, enabling bulk RNA sequencing of large sets of samples.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalGenome Biology·DateApr 18, 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.

Study shows promise in repairing damaged myelin

A scientific breakthrough provides new hope for people with multiple sclerosis, as researchers have developed a compound that stimulates repair of the protective sheath that covers nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. The study, published in JCI Insight, shows promising results in repairing damaged myelin without severe side effects.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalJCI Insight·DateApr 18, 2019

Young children judge others based on facial features as much as adults do

Research published by the American Psychological Association found that children as young as 5 use facial information to determine how to behave toward people. The study also showed that children's judgments from faces have consequences for behavior, similar to adults.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalDevelopmental Psychology·DateApr 18, 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.

The secret to a stable society? A steady supply of beer doesn't hurt

Researchers recreated ancient brewing techniques to analyze ceramic beer vessels from Cerro Baúl. They found that the vessels were made of clay from nearby sources and that the beer was made of pepper berries, a drought-resistant ingredient. This steady supply of beer helped keep Wari society stable by forming unity among populations.

SourceField Museum·JournalSustainability·DateApr 18, 2019

Media alert: new articles in The CRISPR Journal

The CRISPR Journal publishes research on gene editing technologies, including base editors that enable precise base substitutions without DNA cleavage. A new method for multiplex site-directed mutagenesis also offers great promise for studying gene function.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalThe CRISPR Journal·DateApr 18, 2019

Management and outcomes of aortic dissection in pregnancy with Marfan Syndrome

A systematic review of 631 pregnant women with Marfan Syndrome found an estimated 5.3% prevalence of acute aortic dissections during or after pregnancy. Conservative management with beta-blockers is recommended for type B dissections, while emergency surgical intervention is indicated for type A dissections.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCurrent Vascular Pharmacology·DateApr 18, 2019

Light and peptides: New method diversifies natural building blocks of life

Researchers have developed a novel method to functionalize peptides using light-activated catalysis, allowing for the creation of new therapeutic agents. The method enables selective modification of the C-terminal position in peptides, opening up new possibilities for drug development.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateApr 18, 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.

Samarium-doped crystals with 'giant' piezoelectricity

Researchers introduce trace amounts of samarium into PMN-PT crystals, significantly enhancing their piezoelectric properties. The results show nearly double the performance of traditional materials.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateApr 18, 2019

Researchers use genetic profiles to predict obesity risk at birth

Researchers have developed a scoring system based on genetic markers to predict an individual's inborn risk for obesity. The score accurately predicted BMI and obesity in over 300,000 individuals, with those in the top 10% being 29 pounds heavier on average and 25 times more likely to develop severe obesity.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateApr 18, 2019

Could computer games help farmers adapt to climate change?

Researchers developed a web-based game, Maladaptation Game, to improve understanding of climate change methods and adaptation strategies among Nordic farmers. The game presents players with four agricultural challenges and requires strategic decisions, providing a summary of potential negative outcomes.

SourceDe Gruyter·JournalOpen Agriculture·DateApr 18, 2019

Research provides important insight on the brain-body connection

Researchers found that neurons in the motor cortex divide into externally focused and internally focused groups, with externally focused neurons controlling different body parts and internally focused neurons communicating only within the group. The study's findings have implications for brain disorders such as Rett Syndrome, which may...

SourceUniversity of Arkansas·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 18, 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.

Infection biology: Gut microbe helps thwart Salmonella

Researchers have identified a gut microbe, Mucispirillum schaedleri, that helps protect against Salmonella infections. The bacterium competes with Salmonella for nutrients, such as nitrate, and prevents the growth of pathogens by reducing their ability to express virulence factors.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateApr 18, 2019

Weak honey bee colonies may fail from cold exposure during shipping

A US Department of Agriculture study found that cold exposure can cause weak honey bee colonies to fail during long-distance hauling. Colonies with fewer than 10 frames are more likely to lose bees and struggle to maintain stable temperatures, increasing the risk of failure and chilling.

SourceUS Department of Agriculture - Agricultural Research Service·JournalEnvironmental Entomology·DateApr 18, 2019

Green material for refrigeration identified

Researchers have discovered a green material that can replace polluting gases used in most refrigerators and air conditioners. The plastic crystal of neopentylglycol achieves huge cooling effects comparable to conventional coolants.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 18, 2019

How do we make moral decisions?

A recent study published in Nature Communications challenges prior research on moral decision-making by showing that people's moral behavior can shift depending on the context. The researchers identified four moral strategies: inequity aversion, guilt aversion, greed, and moral opportunism, which involves switching between these strate...

SourceDartmouth College·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 18, 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.

The FASEB Journal: DNA repair gene linked to male infertility

A recent animal study published in The FASEB Journal found that a deficiency of the DNA repair gene XRCC1 leads to impaired spermatogenesis and infertility in male mice. The researchers observed lower sperm concentration and motility, as well as disrupted stemness, DNA damage, oxidative stress, and apoptosis in XRCC1-knockout mice.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateApr 18, 2019

CEBAF turns on the charm

Jefferson Lab's CEBAF facility has confirmed the production of charm quarks in J/ψ particles following a recent upgrade to its operating energy. This achievement expands the realm of precision nuclear physics research with electron beams at higher energies.

SourceDOE/Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility·DateApr 18, 2019

Cataloging Southern California's tiny hidden earthquakes

A new study catalogs nearly 1.8 million tiny tremors in Southern California, filling gaps in the earthquake record and shedding light on geophysical processes. The analysis reveals that about 495 earthquakes occur each day in the region, with most being small and imperceptible.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateApr 18, 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.

Better performance for mixed tin-lead perovskite solar cells

Researchers improved mixed tin-lead perovskite solar cells using guanidiinium thocyanate, enhancing carrier lifetimes and optoelectronic properties. This led to all-perovskite tandem solar cells achieving efficiencies of up to 25% with over 88% efficiency maintained after 100 hours of continuous operation.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateApr 18, 2019

Kidney transplant patients need even better aftercare!

Kidney transplant patients face a higher risk of cardiovascular complications and mortality due to existing damage and immunosuppressive drug side effects. The current post-transplantation care is fragmented, leading to undertreatment of modifiable cardiovascular risk factors.

SourceERA – European Renal Association·JournalNephrology Dialysis Transplantation·DateApr 18, 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.

Coincidence helps with quantum measurements

A new method for characterizing complex quantum states has been developed, enabling quantum simulations on larger systems. This method is based on the repeated measurement of randomly selected transformations of individual particles and provides information about the degree of entanglement.

SourceUniversity of Innsbruck·JournalScience·DateApr 18, 2019

New fiber-shaped supercapacitor for wearable electronics

Researchers designed a novel fiber electrode to improve electron supply and ion accessibility, achieving high specific capacitance and rate capability. The amphiphilic core-sheath structure enhances interactions between functional groups and PANI molecules, resulting in greater pseudocapacitance utilization.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Materials·DateApr 18, 2019

Ginkgo seed extracts show antibacterial activity on skin pathogens

Researchers at Emory University found that Ginkgo seed extracts inhibit the growth of skin pathogens like Cutibacterium acnes, Staphylococcus aureus, and Streptococcus pyogenes. The study suggests ginkgo seeds could be used as a topical antimicrobial treatment for skin disorders.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateApr 18, 2019

Growing a cerebral tract in a microscale brain model

Researchers at The University of Tokyo have grown a working model of a cerebral tract in the lab, mimicking the connections between neurons in the brain. The model, created using induced pluripotent stem cells, demonstrates how axons can grow and form bundles to connect separate cognitive tasks.

SourceInstitute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo·JournaliScience·DateApr 18, 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.

Making digital tissue imaging better

Researchers from Case Western Reserve University have developed an open-source quality-control tool to assess the quality of digital tissue slides. The tool, called Histo-QC, incorporates measurements and classifiers to flag corrupted images and retain high-quality slides for analysis by computers.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalJCO Clinical Cancer Informatics·DateApr 18, 2019

Pig experiment raises ethical questions around brain damage

A groundbreaking experiment has successfully restored some functions and structures in donated pig brains for up to four hours after they were butchered. The result challenges the notion that mammalian brains are fully and irreversibly damaged by a lack of oxygen, raising questions about when to save patients and organs.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalNature·DateApr 18, 2019

Asian nations in early tobacco epidemic: study

Researchers analyzed 20 prospective cohort studies in Asian countries to find that smoking patterns are similar to those in the US, leading to an increased risk of lung cancer mortality and other health problems. The study calls for immediate action to implement comprehensive tobacco control policies in all Asian countries.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 18, 2019

New variety of zebra chip disease threatens potato production in southwestern Oregon

A new variety of zebra chip disease has been identified in potatoes grown in the Klamath Basin of southwestern Oregon, posing a significant threat to local potato production. The disease, caused by Candidatus Liberibacter solanacearum, can result in yield losses of up to 100% and economic damage estimated at millions annually.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalPlant Disease·DateApr 18, 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.

How to hack your deadline: Admit it's uncertain

Researchers at the University of Michigan have devised a method for working with uncertainty in deadlines. By mapping out the uncertainty and incorporating it into a project management system, managers can improve their success rates. This technique can help managers save time and resources by focusing on less uncertain requirements.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalEuropean Journal of Operational Research·DateApr 18, 2019
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.

Mount Sinai researchers discover that diabetes drug may reverse heart failure

Empagliflozin improved heart function, reduced pulmonary congestion, and enhanced systolic function in pigs with induced heart failure. The drug addressed heart failure by improving cardiac metabolism, boosting energy production and reducing glucose consumption.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateApr 18, 2019

Searching for the surface of water through a single molecule

Researchers have isolated single H2O molecules using cryogenic ion spectroscopy and observed individual frequencies of related OH groups. The vibrational frequencies demonstrate site-dependent behavior and reveal that bound OH companions account for lower energy bands in the spectrum.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateApr 18, 2019

Estimating the efficacy and cost of curative gene therapy for beta-thalassemia

A new study compares the effectiveness and cost of gene therapy to allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) in patients with major beta-thalassemia. Gene therapy was found to be associated with fewer complications and hospital admissions over 2 years, but was nearly twice as costly.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalHuman Gene Therapy·DateApr 18, 2019

Lasers make magnets behave like fluids

Scientists at CU Boulder discovered that zapped magnets exhibit fluid-like behavior, with spins changing orientation like waves in an ocean. This phenomenon occurs after a short laser pulse, leading to the formation of 'droplets' with consistent magnetic properties.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 18, 2019

Researchers use 3D printer to print glass

Researchers have successfully 3D printed chalcogenide glass using a modified 3D printer, enabling the creation of complex optical components and fibers for low-cost sensors, telecommunications components, and biomedical devices. This breakthrough could pave the way for efficient manufacturing of infrared optical components at a low cost.

SourceOptica·JournalOptical Materials Express·DateApr 18, 2019