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Science News for April 22, 2019


Lessons from Hurricane Maria: Doctors offer tips to better prepare clinics for catastrophe

Radiation oncologists provide guidance on preparing for and responding to natural disasters, including creating emergency operations plans, providing patients with access to treatment plans via flash drives, and identifying alternative sources of power. The tips aim to minimize treatment delays during a disaster.

SourceAmerican Society for Radiation Oncology·JournalPractical Radiation Oncology·DateApr 22, 2019

Study: Reducing energy required to convert CO2 waste into valuable resources

University of Illinois researchers have developed a new electrolysis technology that uses glycerol to reduce the energy consumption of converting CO2 waste into valuable resources. The process reduces energy requirements by 53% and has potential for carbon neutrality or negativity, depending on grid setup.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Energy·DateApr 22, 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.

Catalyst renders nerve agents harmless

Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory have developed a catalyst that efficiently decomposes nerve agents like sarin, eliminating their harmful effects. The multimodal approach used in the study identifies the active site of the catalyst and validates its effectiveness in real-life conditions.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·DateApr 22, 2019

Brain regions linked to memory and emotion help humans navigate smell

Researchers found that humans can learn to navigate through a two-dimensional environment using odor information, with brain activity resembling grid-cell models previously discovered in animals. The study used a unique 'smellscape' of pine and banana scents to guide participants' mental navigation.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalNeuron·DateApr 22, 2019

DNA is managed like climbers' rope to help keep tangles at bay

Researchers have identified two sets of proteins that work together to keep DNA strands unknotted and tangle-free. These proteins, known as SMC and TopoII, use a mechanism similar to a belay device on climbers' rope to resolve knots and links in DNA.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 22, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New insight into how obesity, insulin resistance can impair cognition

A new study reveals that obesity and insulin resistance can break down the protective blood brain barrier in the brain, leading to problems with learning and memory. Blocking Adora2a receptors in a model of diet-induced obesity maintained barrier function, suggesting that controlling inflammation may prevent cognitive impairment.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·DateApr 22, 2019

Researchers find high-risk genes for schizophrenia

A team of scientists has identified 104 high-risk genes for schizophrenia, which may lead to the development of targeted treatments. The study's framework could also help track down genetic suspects in other complex diseases.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateApr 22, 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.

Sand tiger sharks return to shipwrecks off N.C. coast

A new study reveals that female sand tiger sharks exhibit site fidelity to shipwrecks off the North Carolina coast, using them as rest stops or potential mates. The finding suggests that the wrecks are crucial habitats for this endangered shark species, which experienced significant population drops in the last century.

SourceDuke University·JournalEcology·DateApr 22, 2019

With abdominal etching, plastic surgeons help patients get 'six-pack abs'

A novel method of sculpting an ideal abdomen using power-assisted liposuction achieves greater definition of abdominal muscles. After the procedure, patients maintain good results with minimal postoperative complications for up to six years, thanks to comprehensive follow-up care and personalized nutrition and exercise plans.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery·DateApr 22, 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.

Artificial intelligence can diagnose PTSD by analyzing voices

A new study uses AI to analyze voice patterns and diagnose post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in veterans. The tool was able to distinguish between the voices of those with or without PTSD with high accuracy, suggesting a potential breakthrough in telemedicine approaches.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalDepression and Anxiety·DateApr 22, 2019

Natural, nonbiological light-harvesting system on Earth

Researchers have discovered naturally occurring photocurrents in iron and manganese mineral coatings on rocks in China. These coatings exhibit stable photocurrents under steady illumination and rapid changes with illumination fluctuations, suggesting a potential role in biogeochemical processes.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 22, 2019

From coal to gas: How the shift can help stabilize climate change

A recent study by the National Institute for Environmental Studies suggests that transitioning from coal to natural gas can help stabilize climate change. The study found that natural gas power plants have smaller short- and long-term impacts than coal power plants, even when considering high methane leakage rates or uncertainty issues.

SourceNational Institute for Environmental Studies·JournalNature Climate Change·DateApr 22, 2019

Study suggests overdiagnosis of schizophrenia

A study published in the Journal of Psychiatric Practice found that about half of patients referred to a specialized schizophrenia clinic were misdiagnosed with schizophrenia. Anxiety and hearing voices were common reasons for incorrect diagnoses, highlighting the importance of second opinions from psychiatry specialists.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Psychiatric Practice·DateApr 22, 2019

One woman's cancer fight: A case study in structural racism

A case study illustrates how institutional and cultural embedded racial hierarchies prevent people of color from meeting their basic needs. The authors suggest that identifying structural racism in healthcare can lead to improved outcomes, such as reducing disparities in breast cancer mortality.

SourceRush University Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateApr 22, 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.

Advance in CAR T-cell therapy eliminates severe side effects

A new CAR molecule has been developed that kills cancer cells with less toxicity, allowing for remissions without serious side effects. Researchers have produced no severe side effects in patients with lymphoma, showing promise for a safer version of the therapy

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalNature Medicine·DateApr 22, 2019

Diet, microbiome, and stress

Researchers found that a diet enriched with ω-3 PUFAs and vitamin A can normalize gut microbiome composition and hippocampal protein levels, leading to improved emotional and memory performance in stressed rats. The study also suggests long-term links between diet and cognitive function.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 22, 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.

Biomimetics: Artificial receptor distinguishes between male and female hormones

Chemists at Tokyo Tech design a capsule-shaped synthetic receptor that exhibits high binding affinity towards male steroid hormones, enabling ultrasensitive detection of testosterone. The receptor's unique cavity structure contributes to its selectivity and is promising for medical and sports applications.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 22, 2019

Skipping breakfast associated with increased risk of cardiovascular death

A recent study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that skipping breakfast significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular death. Eating breakfast regularly is associated with lower mortality rates from heart disease and stroke.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateApr 22, 2019

Heterogeneous catalyst goes enzymatic

Researchers have developed an enzyme-like heterogeneous TiO2 photocatalyst with high catalytic activity for hydrogen production. The catalyst's unique enzymatic characteristics enable it to efficiently convert light energy into H2, rivaling the performance of expensive Pt-TiO2 photocatalysts.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Materials·DateApr 22, 2019

Sugar entering the brain during septic shock causes memory loss

Research reveals that sugar released into bloodstream enters brain during septic shock, causing premature mental aging and memory loss. The study provides a clear target for drug therapy: binding to the sugar or converting it to non-impairing compounds.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 22, 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.

New genomics tool ECCITE-seq expands multimodal single cell analysis

ECCITE-seq allows researchers to profile different types of biomolecules from thousands of single cells in parallel, offering a breadth of information that can be used as readout in CRISPR-based pooled genetics screens. This technique enables fine dissection of specific cell subtypes and helps reveal a transcriptomic signature of malig...

SourceNew York Genome Center·JournalNature Methods·DateApr 22, 2019

The kids are alright

Researchers found higher rates of adaptive evolution in genes involved in resource allocation, particularly in seeds and endosperm tissues. This suggests that conflicts among kin can lead to rapid evolution, supporting the idea of an evolutionary arms race within plant families.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 22, 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.

Study shows zoos and aquariums increase species knowledge index 800%

A study published in PNAS confirms that zoos and aquariums hold critical information about more than 98% of known species, including fertility and survival rates. By analyzing data from the Zoological Information Management System (ZIMS), researchers were able to fill large gaps in demographic knowledge for these species.

SourceSpecies360·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 22, 2019

How slippery surfaces allow sticky pastes and gels to slide

Researchers at MIT have created liquid-impregnated surfaces that can significantly reduce friction for yield-stress fluids like gels and pastes. These coatings enable the efficient processing of materials in industries such as food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals, reducing waste and improving product quality.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateApr 22, 2019

Climate change has worsened global economic inequality

A new Stanford University study reveals that global warming has increased economic inequality globally. The study shows that most poor countries are poorer without climate change, while rich countries are richer. Economic growth in tropical countries is decreased by 17-30% due to warming.

SourceStanford's School of Earth, Energy & Environmental Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 22, 2019

Bacteria use their enemy -- phage -- for 'self-recognition'

Researchers discovered that bacteria can distinguish themselves from closely related competitors through the use of a virus. A novel phage, SW1, controls formation of a demarcation line by utilizing one of the host's cryptic prophage proteins, providing conditional benefits to E. coli K-12.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 22, 2019

Hole-forming protein may suppress tumor growth

Researchers discovered that gasdermin E forms holes in cell membranes, leading to cell death and suppressing tumor growth. The protein's expression is lower in many types of cancer, suggesting it may be a useful target for improving cancer therapy.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 22, 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.

Modified 'white graphene' for eco-friendly energy

Researchers from TPU, Germany, and US successfully functionalized 'white graphene' using eco-friendly photopolymerization without altering its properties. The new material was used as a catalyst for splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen, offering a promising alternative to expensive platinum or gold.

SourceTomsk Polytechnic University·JournalSmall·DateApr 22, 2019

Promise of liquid biopsy in cancer biomarker detection and prenatal screening

The article discusses the potential of liquid biopsy in cancer diagnosis, focusing on targeted disease diagnosis and detection of cancer biomarkers. Researchers have successfully detected specific genetic mutations using digital PCR, identifying promising biomarkers for various cancers, including melanoma and lung squamous cell carcinoma.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalGenetic Testing and Molecular Biomarkers·DateApr 22, 2019

Transgender adults more likely to report worse health-related quality of life

A large national health survey found that transgender adults are more likely to experience poor health, fewer days of combined physical and mental well-being, and greater activity limitations. The study highlights the need for all states and territories to use a sexual orientation and gender identity module to inform policies affecting...

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateApr 22, 2019

Wristband samplers show similar chemical exposure across three continents

A study by Oregon State University researchers found that 14 common chemicals were detected in over 50% of wristbands from three continents. The wristbands, which absorb chemicals from the air and skin, are an excellent screening tool for population exposures to organic chemicals.

SourceOregon State University·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateApr 22, 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.

Metformin may help patients maintain weight loss long-term

A study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that metformin helped patients maintain weight loss over a period of 15 years. The researchers identified being older and losing a greater amount of weight in the first year as key predictors of lasting weight loss.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateApr 22, 2019

Researchers outline how humans reduce uncertainty in social situations

A team of Brown University scientists has developed a framework to apply mathematical models of uncertainty to social scenarios, proposing three interrelated methods people use to reduce social uncertainty. The first method, automatic inference, involves predicting another person's behavior based on appearance and social norms, while t...

SourceBrown University·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateApr 22, 2019

Wakeup call: Pervasiveness of sexual harassment and its effect on female physics students

A survey of 471 undergraduate women physicists found that nearly three-quarters had experienced gender harassment, leading to diminished sense of belonging and imposter phenomenon. The study emphasizes the need for a cultural shift in physics departments to address sexual harassment and promote diversity and inclusion.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·JournalPhysical Review Physics Education Research·DateApr 22, 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.

Droplet trains reveal how nature navigates blood traffic

Researchers at IBS report discovering spontaneous oscillations in microfluidic droplet networks, similar to our blood capillaries. Adding irregularities to the network relieves blood traffic cloggings, suggesting cell collisions or diameter variations help avoid dangerous oscillations.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Physics·DateApr 22, 2019

Nursing, dental, and medical students train together to improve kids' oral health

A new study at New York University finds that team-based clinical experiences significantly improve interprofessional competencies among nursing, dental, and medical students. Students who participated in the program showed improvements in communication, collaboration, conflict management, and patient-centered approaches.

SourceNew York University·JournalJournal of Dental Education·DateApr 22, 2019

Detecting and editing DNA methylation in oocytes

Researchers developed a method to detect and edit DNA methylation in individual mouse oocytes, enabling predictions of offspring phenotype. The technique allows for correction of genetic disorders, such as Angelman syndrome, and may facilitate study of epigenetic information.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 22, 2019

Economic inequality and global warming

A new study reveals a strong connection between global warming and rising economic disparities worldwide. The research, led by Noah S. Diffenbaugh and Marshall Burke, suggests that long-term climate change has decreased economic growth in poor countries while increasing it in wealthy nations.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 22, 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.

Working out makes hydrogels perform more like muscle

Researchers created hydrogels that mimic muscle properties through mechanical training, producing strong, soft, and fatigue-resistant materials for medical implants and engineering applications. The trained hydrogels demonstrate improved tensile strength, soft flexibility, and high water content.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 22, 2019

Rurality, social identity is driving polarization in Iowa

A new Iowa State University study found that rurality, education, and race significantly predicted the change from Democrat to Republican in Iowa. White, rural voters without a college education were more likely to switch to Republican. The research counters the narrative that economic anxiety was the reason for this shift.

SourceIowa State University·JournalSociological Quarterly·DateApr 22, 2019

Photonics: The curious case of the disappearing cylinders

Researchers at Tokyo Institute of Technology have discovered a way to make submicron-sized cylinders disappear using optical frequency illumination. This breakthrough could lead to new kinds of detectors and sensors for the medical and aerospace industries, without the need for expensive metamaterial coatings.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalApplied Physics Express·DateApr 22, 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.

Preschool health program successful in instilling heart healthy habits

A new study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that a preschool health program significantly increased healthy habit awareness among children from an underserved community. The program resulted in a 2.2-fold higher score on overall knowledge, attitudes and habits towards a healthy lifestyle.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateApr 22, 2019

Mauritian medical herbs possess antitumor properties

Researchers have identified three medicinal plants from Mauritius with effective inhibitors of esophageal cancer cells, stopping their growth and contributing to their death. The extracts contain natural chemical compounds that restrain the G2/M stages transition in malignant tumor cells by activating AMPK signaling pathway.

SourceFar Eastern Federal University·JournalActa Naturae·DateApr 22, 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.

Snake-inspired robot slithers even better than predecessor

Researchers developed a new snake-inspired soft robot using programmable kirigami metamaterials, enabling responsive surfaces and smart skins. The robot can now change its shape in response to programmed sequences of pop-ups, improving speed and accuracy.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 22, 2019

Survey shows half of all American workplaces offer health and wellness programs

The survey found that nearly half of American workplaces, including small employers, now offer some level of health promotion or wellness programs. Comprehensive workplace health promotion programs are more common in larger employers with a budget, experience, and assigned responsibility.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalAmerican Journal of Health Promotion·DateApr 22, 2019

Loss of Greenland Ice Sheet mass

Researchers reconstructed Greenland Ice Sheet mass changes from 1972 to 2018 using data on ice velocity, thickness, and surface elevation. The study found a significant increase in ice loss, with an average of 290 Gt per year during 2010-2018, contributing to a 13.7 mm rise in global sea level.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 22, 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.

Slime mold absorbs substances to memorize them

Researchers found that slime molds can store knowledge of salty environments through absorption, allowing for up to a month of retention. The study suggests that the substance itself supports the slime mold's memory, rather than just the environment.

SourceCNRS·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London (B )·DateApr 22, 2019

Physical activity may offset mortality risk caused by too much sitting

A study found that increasing physical activity can eliminate the association between sedentary behavior and increased mortality risk. Replacing sitting with standing or vigorous physical activity was more consistently associated with risk reduction in high sitters.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateApr 22, 2019

Study highlights global burden of emergency diseases and conditions

A study by Johns Hopkins Medicine researcher Junaid Razzak found a 6% increase in deaths due to emergency conditions between 1990 and 2015. The mortality burden was highest in low-income countries, with injuries, heart attacks, lung infections, and strokes being the top causes.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalBMJ Global Health·DateApr 22, 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.

Older adults starting dialysis die at higher rates than previously thought

A new study by Harvard Medical School researchers found that nearly half of older adults who start dialysis die within a year, with death rates being almost twice as high as previously reported statistics. The study's results can help inform patient decisions and physician choice of treatment for end-stage kidney disease.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateApr 22, 2019

Asia's diabetes epidemic preferentially kills women, the middle-aged: Study

A multinational study led by Vanderbilt University researchers has found that diabetes has reached epidemic proportions in Asia, dramatically increasing the risk of premature death, especially among women and middle-aged people. The study highlights the urgent need for tailored diabetes management programs for Asian populations.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 22, 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.

New technique produces longer-lasting lithium batteries

Columbia engineers develop a nano-coating of boron nitride to stabilize solid electrolytes in lithium metal batteries, increasing battery life while ensuring safety. The new method achieves record-thin protection layers without lowering energy density.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalJoule·DateApr 22, 2019

FEFU scientists are developing brand-new method to heal brain cancer

Researchers from FEFU and international partners discover potential targets for glioblastoma multiforme treatment by studying proteins in the WNT signaling pathway. The findings could lead to improved antitumor therapy outcome through suppression of cancer stem cells, accelerating tumor growth rate.

SourceFar Eastern Federal University·JournalOncology Reports·DateApr 22, 2019

No increase in complications with 'tummy tuck' in obese patients

A study published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery found that obese patients do not have a higher risk of complications after abdominoplasty, also known as tummy tuck surgery. The study included 82 patients who underwent the procedure over a seven-year period, with similar complication rates between obese and non-obese patients.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery·DateApr 22, 2019

Plant-based diets can be effective in reducing heart failure risk

A new study found that plant-based diets can lower the risk of heart failure in adults without known heart disease, while Southern diets are linked to higher risk. The study examined five dietary patterns and their association with incident heart failure hospitalizations.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateApr 22, 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.

Defying the laws of physics? Columbia engineers demonstrate bubbles of sand

Researchers at Columbia University have discovered a new family of gravitational instabilities in granular particles, where lighter grains rise through heavier grains like 'fingers' and 'bubbles'. This phenomenon sheds light on geological processes and has potential applications in pharmaceutical production and carbon capture.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 22, 2019

Human influence on climate change is traced back to the 19th century

A recent study by Duan et al. has shown that human influence on climate change can be traced back to the late 19th century based on summer-winter temperature difference. The amplitude of seasonal temperature fluctuations has been decreasing widely, and this trend can be traced back to the 1860s.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalNature Sustainability·DateApr 22, 2019

Inherited effects of exercise on the brain

A study found that exercise-induced cognitive improvements can be inherited by offspring via sperm. Exercise has been shown to increase the growth of immature neurons and improve mitochondrial function in the brain, leading to enhanced memory performance.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 22, 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.

Protecting damaged hearts with microRNAs

Researchers have identified two microRNA family members that can provide both immediate and long-term protection against heart damage. The therapy targets the miR-19a/b microRNAs, which regulate proliferation of cardiomyocytes and reduce inflammation, leading to improved heart function.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 22, 2019

A deep-learning model may help predict lung cancer survival and outcomes

A deep-learning model developed using serial image scans of tumors from patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) predicted treatment response and survival outcomes better than standard clinical parameters. The model's performance improved with the addition of each follow-up scan, predicting two-year survival with an accuracy of...

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateApr 22, 2019

Was the restaurant really that bad -- Or was it just the rain?

A study by Ohio State University found that customers left more negative remarks on comment cards on rainy days than dry days. The researchers linked this to bad moods, which were related to less positive views about the restaurants visited.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Hospitality & Tourism Research·DateApr 22, 2019

Semiconductor scientists discover effect that was thought impossible

Researchers from Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology have found superinjection to be possible in homostructures, composed of a single material. This enables the creation of mass market devices, such as ultraviolet LEDs thousands of times brighter than previously thought possible.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalSemiconductor Science and Technology·DateApr 22, 2019

Marine Skin dives deeper for better monitoring

Marine Skin, a polymer-based material with integrated electronics, revolutionizes sea life monitoring by tracking movement and diving behavior, as well as environmental health. The system can operate at unprecedented depths, with enhanced sensitivity, and plans include additional sensing capabilities.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalSmall·DateApr 22, 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.

Mixing grass varieties may reduce insect infestations in lawns

A recent study found that mixing different cultivars of St. Augustinegrass reduced fall armyworm infestations in lawns. The researchers discovered that the caterpillars preferred single-variety plantings, but when multiple cultivars were planted together, it created a more pest-resistant lawn.

SourceEntomological Society of America·JournalEnvironmental Entomology·DateApr 22, 2019

Mount Sinai study: Intervention in preschool -- an opportunity to promote healthy lifestyle

A Mount Sinai study shows that preschool intervention can improve healthy lifestyle habits in young children, with 12% increase in knowledge and attitudes towards a healthy lifestyle. The intervention group also showed improved behaviors in physical activity, diet, and emotional management.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateApr 22, 2019