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Science News for April 3, 2019


Samuel Huang, M.D., receives Pfizer/ACMG Foundation Next Generation Award

Dr. Samuel Huang receives the Pfizer/ACMG Foundation Clinical Genetics Combined Residency Fellowship Award to enhance his clinical research training and expertise in biochemical genetics and therapeutics. He aims to improve patient care through translational genomics and policy changes.

SourceAmerican College of Medical Genetics and Genomics·DateApr 3, 2019

Racial disparities persist in access to kidney transplants

Racial disparities in access to kidney transplants continue, with patients from underserved groups more likely to be listed as inactive and less likely to receive transplants than white patients. A new study analyzing data from 2014-2016 found significant inequities despite a system aimed at increasing access for vulnerable populations.

SourceYale University·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateApr 3, 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.

Order hidden in disorder

Scientists found that amorphous systems converge to hyperuniformity, a hidden order on large scales, as they optimize individual cells' geometrical properties. This discovery has implications for the development of novel materials, including photonic metamaterials and block copolymers.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 3, 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.

People with obesity often 'dehumanized,' study finds

Research at the University of Liverpool found that people with obesity are stigmatized and explicitly considered to be less human than those without obesity. This blunt dehumanization was linked to support for health policies that discriminate against individuals due to their weight.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalObesity·DateApr 3, 2019

Researchers test new imaging method for first time on human patients

Researchers have successfully tested a new ultrasound technology on human patients, enabling detailed images of internal structure and blood flow. The vector flow imaging method provides advanced detail of blood flow patterns within cardiac chambers, across valves, and in the great arteries.

SourceUniversity of Arkansas·JournalProgress in Pediatric Cardiology·DateApr 3, 2019

Gene levels could help predict prognosis for colorectal cancer

Researchers at Medical College of Georgia found that higher levels of CCR4 gene are associated with better survival rates and longer lifespan in patients with colorectal cancer. The gene helps the immune system differentiate between good cells and bad cells.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·DateApr 3, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Dr. Roger E. Stevenson receives Rimoin Lifetime Achievement Award from ACMG Foundation

Dr. Roger E. Stevenson, a senior clinical and research geneticist at the Greenwood Genetic Center, has received the 2019 ACMG Foundation David L. Rimoin Lifetime Achievement Award. The award recognizes his vision in founding the center, groundbreaking research on X-linked intellectual disability, and leadership in establishing programs...

SourceAmerican College of Medical Genetics and Genomics·DateApr 3, 2019

Discrimination may affect adolescents' sleep quality

Research suggests that discrimination during the day is linked to poor sleep quality at night. Minority youth, particularly Black and Latinx adolescents, experience disrupted sleep patterns and increased daytime symptoms.

SourceWiley·JournalChild Development·DateApr 3, 2019

The whisper room: Moderates on Twitter are losing their voice

A study by MU researcher Michael Kearney found that moderate users are avoiding politics on Twitter, potentially creating a void in the middle. This amplifies the existing trend of partisan users forming highly partisan networks.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalNew Media & Society·DateApr 3, 2019

Racial bias associated with disparities in disciplinary action across US schools

A study by Princeton University researchers found that racial bias contributes to disciplinary disparities in US schools, with black students experiencing higher rates of suspension and expulsion. The study analyzed data from over 3,100 counties and found a correlation between county-level measures of racial bias and disciplinary action.

SourcePrinceton School of Public and International Affairs·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 3, 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.

Structure of the molecular machine that links carbohydrate and lipid metabolism

A team of scientists has unraveled the three-dimensional structure and molecular mechanism of ATP citrate lyase, a key enzyme in fatty acid and cholesterol production. The findings offer new insights into the origins of cellular respiration and have potential therapeutic implications for metabolic diseases and cancer.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalNature·DateApr 3, 2019

A soft spot for stem cells helps cornea healing

Researchers at Newcastle University develop a potential revolutionary way to treat eye injuries and prevent blindness by using an enzyme to soften the tissue hosting stem cells. This approach has important implications for developing new ways to heal corneal damage, which affects almost 500,000 people worldwide.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 3, 2019

New campaign encourages organ and tissue donation to advance medical research

The Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine has launched a new effort to encourage people to become organ and tissue donors, helping scientists save human lives and reduce animal experiments. Human tissue is used in various scientific advancements, including disease progression, drug development, and medical procedures.

SourcePhysicians Committee for Responsible Medicine·DateApr 3, 2019

New $22 million project targets deadly viruses

The Prometheus Center for Excellence in Translational Research aims to develop antibody-based therapies against four highly lethal viruses with no approved vaccines or treatments. The project will leverage existing research on ebolavirus and apply it to other emerging viruses, focusing on virus transmission from animals to humans.

SourceAlbert Einstein College of Medicine·DateApr 3, 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.

Gorillas gather around and groom their dead

Researchers observed mountain gorillas gathering around the bodies of deceased group members, spending time in contact with their corpses, and even grooming them. These behaviors were surprisingly similar across different gorilla groups and suggest a complex understanding of death among these animals.

SourcePeerJ·JournalPeerJ·DateApr 3, 2019

FDA-approved drug effectively treats rare chronic immune disorders

A small NIH clinical trial found benralizumab, a FDA-approved asthma medication, improves HES symptoms with low side effects. The study showed significant reduction in eosinophils and HES-related symptoms, allowing some participants to taper off other therapies.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateApr 3, 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.

UTA researchers to study Foundation High School Program outcomes

Researchers are studying the Texas Foundation High School Program to assess its impact on student graduation, college choice, and degree attainment. The study aims to provide insights into how endorsements affect student performance and inform future research and policy.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateApr 3, 2019

Dermatology students improve Wikipedia entries on skin disease

A group of medical students from the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus improved Wikipedia articles on skin-related diseases, increasing their visibility by millions of views. They added evidence-based information from Cochrane Reviews to make the articles more complete and accurate.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Dermatology·DateApr 3, 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.

How understanding animal behavior can support wildlife conservation

Researchers developed a behavior recognition model using biomechanical principles to accurately determine an animal's activity, such as resting or searching for food. The model uses wearable accelerometer signals to provide detailed information about specific behaviors, which can inform conservation efforts.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalMethods in Ecology and Evolution·DateApr 3, 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.

New formula better predicts speed of tumor growth in 12 cancers

Researchers developed a new method to predict tumor growth rates using progression-free survival plots, reducing errors found in current methods. This improvement enables clinicians to schedule optimal screenings and set effective dosing regimens.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalThe AAPS Journal·DateApr 3, 2019

Think the tick threat grows with the grass? Not necessarily!

A study by Lerman and D'Amico found that less frequent lawn mowing in suburban areas has no detectable effect on blacklegged tick populations. In fact, the researchers documented 111 bee species across 16 lawns, highlighting a viable habitat for native bees.

SourceUSDA Forest Service - Northern Research Station·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 3, 2019

Anti-inflammatory plant-based diet helps reduce gingivitis

A randomized trial found that a plant-based whole food diet reduced gingival bleeding and increased vitamin D values in patients with gingivitis. The experimental group also experienced weight loss and showed significant benefits without changes to plaque values.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal Of Clinical Periodontology·DateApr 3, 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.

Nanomaterials give plants 'super' abilities (video)

Researchers have created plants that can produce metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), a type of nanomaterial, which can be used to detect chemicals and protect against harmful UV rays. The augmented plants could potentially perform useful new functions and may lead to applications in agriculture and space exploration.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateApr 3, 2019

Fungal mating: Next weapon against corn aflatoxin?

A new study shows that using safe, native strains of Aspergillus flavus can be as effective, or even more effective, than commercial strains in reducing aflatoxin levels in corn crops. Native strains may perform better due to their adaptation to soil type and weather conditions.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalAgronomy Journal·DateApr 3, 2019

Widely used public health surveys may underestimate global burden of childhood diarrhea

Researchers found that a one-week recall period in public health surveys yields higher estimates of childhood diarrhea prevalence than the traditional two-week period. The study suggests that future versions of the Demographic and Health Surveys should use a one-week recall period to improve accuracy.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalInternational Journal of Epidemiology·DateApr 3, 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.

Computational model of a human kinase may provide insights for cancer treatment

Researchers have developed a computational model for human MEK1, a protein with potential as a drug target for various human cancers. The model provides insights into the structure and function of MEK1, which can help develop new classes of inhibitors for cancer therapeutics.

SourceCalifornia Polytechnic State University·JournalJournal of Chemical Information and Modeling·DateApr 3, 2019

Transparent wood can store and release heat (video)

Researchers developed a new type of transparent wood that absorbs, stores and releases heat, potentially saving energy costs in eco-friendly homes. The material is biodegradable, strong and can bear heavy loads, opening the door for its eventual use in modern architecture.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateApr 3, 2019

Stress in childhood and adulthood have combined impact on hormones and health

Research finds that childhood stress can have a lasting impact on cortisol levels in adulthood, increasing the risk of negative health outcomes. The study, published in Psychological Science, suggests that early life stress can recalibrate the brain's stress-response system, making it more sensitive to stressors later in life.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateApr 3, 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.

The future of agriculture is computerized

Researchers at MIT's Media Lab have created basil plants with enhanced flavor and potential health benefits using computer algorithms. The team used hydroponic containers with controlled environmental conditions to grow the plants, which were then analyzed for volatile compounds. Machine learning algorithms evaluated millions of possib...

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 3, 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.

Making lead pipes safe (video)

Researchers present a quick and affordable solution to restore protective coatings in lead pipes, reducing toxic lead leaching into water supply. The new electrochemical approach could be applied to existing pipes with minimal disruption and cost savings.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateApr 3, 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.

Researchers pinpoint origin of photons in mysterious gamma-ray bursts

Using simulations, researchers found that photons in long gamma-ray bursts originate from the photosphere of relativistic jets emitted by exploding stars. This discovery provides a promising explanation for the emission mechanism and could help unlock insights into dark matter and dark energy.

SourceRIKEN·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 3, 2019

Opioid epidemic is increasing rates of some infectious diseases

The opioid epidemic is driving a surge in infectious diseases such as HIV/AIDS, hepatitis, heart infections, and skin and soft tissue infections. Comprehensive treatment that addresses both substance use disorder and underlying infections can improve outcomes for patients.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateApr 3, 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.

NICE drops social and ethical values from revised Social Balue Judgements document

A commentary published in the Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine warns that removing explicit ethics and values from NICE's revised Social Value Judgements document undermines the organization's innovative approach. Experts argue that this revision leaves patients and clinicians struggling to understand NICE's decisions.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of the Royal Society of Medicine·DateApr 3, 2019

Study illuminates the brain's inner workings

A new study assesses how large-scale patterns of brain activity relate to different cognitive systems, revealing variations between individuals. The research uses computational modeling to simulate brain activity and identify repeatable patterns in some cognitive systems.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 3, 2019

Counselors may find that focusing on the human-nature connection may help clients

A new study in the Journal of Humanistic Counseling found strong relationships between ecowellness measures and overall wellness among participants aged 19-84. Counselors can integrate this research by asking clients about ecowellness and incorporating nature-based activities into treatment plans to help them feel effective and whole.

SourceWiley·JournalThe Journal of Humanistic Counseling·DateApr 3, 2019

Newly discovered mechanism of plant hormone auxin acts the opposite way

Researchers have discovered a novel gene expression pathway triggered by auxin accumulation at the inner bend of seedling, leading to growth inhibition rather than stimulation. This finding helps explain the formation of apical hooks that aid seedlings in breaking through the soil.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalNature·DateApr 3, 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.

Through machine learning, new model holds water

Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory developed a new molecular model of water using machine learning, achieving high accuracy and reducing computational cost. The coarse-grained model replicates the behavior of water at the atomic scale, with applications in fields like materials science and climate modeling.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 3, 2019

People with autism have an altered sense of self

A study by Anglia Ruskin University found that people with autism lack the 'full body illusion', a test simulating an out-of-body experience. This is linked to a smaller peripersonal space, defining the boundaries of self, which may explain social difficulties and impaired empathy.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalAutism·DateApr 3, 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.

Experimental Biology highlights -- Environment and public health

Recent studies have shed light on the impact of environmental toxins, food additives, and pain management on human health. Research has found that certain antioxidants can protect cells from harm caused by hexavalent chromium, while other substances may weaken the immune system or cause dental damage.

SourceExperimental Biology·DateApr 3, 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.

Living near protected areas can have positive impacts on human well-being

A new study suggests that living near protected areas, particularly those with established tourism, can lead to increased wealth and reduced poverty. Children living near multiple-use protected areas also experience better health outcomes, including improved height-for-age scores and lower rates of stunted growth.

SourceOregon State University·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 3, 2019

The brain's auto-complete function

A new study reveals that hippocampal neurons provide pointers to complete memories by firing strongly during recall. This process, called reinstatement, helps the brain reconstruct associated objects from memory, similar to initial learning. The discovery has implications for understanding memory deficits and potential treatments.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 3, 2019

NIH begins first-in-human trial of a universal influenza vaccine candidate

The NIH has launched a Phase 1 clinical trial to evaluate the safety and immune response of an experimental universal influenza vaccine candidate. The vaccine, known as H1ssF_3928, is designed to induce immunity against diverse influenza subtypes by focusing on a portion of the virus that varies relatively little from strain to strain.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·DateApr 3, 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.

Virtuoso of mobile sensing technology receives ACM Prize in Computing

Patel's work has ushered in possibilities in sustainability and health, enabling widespread adoption of systems that monitor individual health with smartphones. His research closed the gap between science fiction and reality in ubiquitous computing for sustainability and health.

SourceAssociation for Computing Machinery·DateApr 3, 2019

Bid to beat rabies could benefit from oral dog vaccine, study finds

Researchers suggest an oral dog vaccine hidden in food could vaccinate millions of stray dogs daily, reducing the risk of rabies transmission to humans. The combined injectable and oral vaccination approach is estimated to be more efficient and potentially cheaper.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalVaccine X·DateApr 3, 2019

Do minerals play a role in development of multiple sclerosis?

A new study published in Neurology found no link between dietary intake of minerals like zinc, iron, and other minerals with the development of multiple sclerosis. The study involved over 80,000 female nurses and found no association between mineral intake and MS risk.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateApr 3, 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.

Patent-pending probiotic could disrupt Crohn's disease biofilms

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University have identified a novel probiotic mix that can weaken and break apart stubborn microbial biofilm communities in the gut, which are often resistant to antibiotics. The study suggests this probiotic could help patients with gastrointestinal diseases avoid harmful biofilms that worsen symptoms.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalmBio·DateApr 3, 2019

Researchers demonstrate latest neurotechnologies at international conference

Researchers showcase cutting-edge neurotechnology systems, including BrainFlight, which uses online neurofeedback to modify an individual's arousal state. The system aims to improve performance in demanding tasks and has potential applications in treating mental conditions like PTSD.

SourceU.S. Army Research Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 3, 2019

Crowdsourcing speeds up earthquake monitoring

A new method combines seismic data with crowdsourced information from the internet, smartphones, and Twitter to detect earthquakes more quickly. This approach reduces detection time for felt earthquakes to just 1-3 minutes, improving situational awareness.

SourceGFZ GeoForschungsZentrum Potsdam, Helmholtz Centre·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 3, 2019

Predicting the uphill battle

Researchers developed a series of models that strongly predict how terrain slope affects human travel rates, accounting for variability in movement. The study used crowdsourced fitness-tracking data from nearly 30,000 people, resulting in more advanced models than previous ones.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalApplied Geography·DateApr 3, 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.

Global centers of unsustainable harvesting of species identified

The study identifies regions under high-intensity threat from commercial harvesting of species, highlighting urgent need for sustainable use and protection. High-risk areas contain 82% of impacted species, with only 16% covered by protected areas on land.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 3, 2019

New insights on liver injury in men taking body building supplements

Researchers found that men taking bodybuilding supplements experienced prolonged and difficult-to-treat liver injuries, often accompanied by jaundice and generalized itching. The study also revealed that many products contained illicit anabolic steroids not accurately listed on the label.

SourceWiley·JournalAlimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics·DateApr 3, 2019

Adiponectin, the hormone that protects women against liver cancer

Researchers at CNIC have discovered a hormone called adiponectin that protects the liver from liver cancer, which affects more men than women. Adiponectin is produced in higher amounts in women and slim people, with levels declining after puberty in men.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P.)·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateApr 3, 2019

Detecting eye and brain disease earlier

Scientists at the University of Illinois Chicago are developing functional optical coherence tomography and OCT angiography to study minute changes in the retina indicating early stages of brain diseases. The technique, led by Xincheng Yao, aims to detect neurovascular coupling changes that precede clinical symptoms.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·DateApr 3, 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.

Shorter stays in a skilled nursing facility tied to higher risk for readmission

A new study by NYU School of Medicine found that shorter stays in skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) are associated with a higher risk of hospital readmission among elderly heart failure patients. Patients who stayed at SNFs for two days or less had a risk four times higher than those who stayed longer.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Medical Directors Association·DateApr 3, 2019

Structure of the molecular machine that links carbohydrate and lipid metabolism

Researchers have unraveled the three-dimensional structure of ATP citrate lyase (ACLY), a central metabolic enzyme crucial for fatty acid and cholesterol production. The study's findings provide new insights into ACLY's role in metabolism, evolution, and potential therapeutic targeting of cancer and metabolic diseases.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalNature·DateApr 3, 2019

Advance boosts efficiency of flash storage in data centers

Researchers have designed a new flash-storage system called LightStore that modifies SSDs to connect directly to a data center's network, enabling more efficient data storage operations. In experiments, the system was found to run twice as efficiently as traditional storage servers and required less than half the physical space.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateApr 3, 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.

Unique patterns of brain activity predict treatment responses in patients with PTSD

A neuroimaging study identified unique brain activity patterns that predict poorer responses to talk therapy in patients with PTSD. Patients with impaired verbal memory and VAN function had poorer outcomes after psychotherapy, while those with intact verbal memory or normal VAN function were more responsive.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateApr 3, 2019

New family of glass good for lenses

Penn State researchers develop a novel zinc germanosilicate glass with high transparency, UV shielding, and favorable forming properties, making it an ideal material for lens applications. The new glass composition overcomes roadblocks associated with achieving high refractive index, such as crystallization and toxicity.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Non-Crystalline Solids·DateApr 3, 2019

Strong link between air pollution in Southwestern Ontario and adverse birth outcomes

A study by Lawson Research Institute found evidence of a strong association between exposure to sulfur dioxide during pregnancy and adverse birth outcomes, including low birthweight and preterm birth. Pregnant women were 3.4 times more likely to have a low birthweight baby for every 1-part per billion increase in sulfur dioxide.

SourceLawson Research Institute·JournalEnvironmental Research·DateApr 3, 2019

Sunscreen application has better face coverage than SPF moisturizers

A study published in PLOS ONE found that SPF moisturizer users incompletely cover their eyelid regions during application. The researchers compared sunscreen and moisturizer application and found significantly better coverage with sunscreen. This highlights the importance of using sunscreen for optimal sun protection.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 3, 2019

Thirteen new ant species discovered in Hong Kong

A team of researchers from the University of Hong Kong has added 13 new species to the existing list of ants, including three miniature trap-jaw ants and five non-native species. These discoveries highlight the importance of monitoring insect populations in Hong Kong and beyond.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalZooKeys·DateApr 3, 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.

Ushering in ultrafast cluster electronics

Researchers at Hokkaido University developed a computational approach to predict the behavior of clusters of molecules, enabling faster electronic devices with on/off switching and reversible conductivity. This method could lead to the creation of cluster molecular electronics, a new field of science.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 3, 2019

Insect-deterring sorghum compounds may be eco-friendly pesticide

Researchers found that flavonoids, produced by sorghum plants to defend against insect feeding, are effective in repelling corn leaf aphids. The compounds are not present in the phloem but in epidermal cells, where they can be taken up by insects and lead to their demise.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Chemical Ecology·DateApr 3, 2019

Coral study traces excess nitrogen to Maui wastewater treatment facility

A new study connects excess nutrients in West Maui's coastal waters to a sewage treatment facility that injects treated wastewater into the ground. The researchers developed a procedure for analyzing nitrogen isotopes in coral skeletons, providing a 40-year record of changes in nitrogen sources over time.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 3, 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.

California's current earthquake hiatus is an unlikely pause

A new study published in Seismological Research Letters found that California's current 100-year earthquake hiatus is highly unlikely, occurring at a 0.3% chance over the past 1000 years. The researchers analyzed long paleoseismic records and concluded that the gap isn't a statistical fluke, but rather an exceptional event.

SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalSeismological Research Letters·DateApr 3, 2019

Study finds lower death rates for TAVR centers that do more procedures

A study by Duke University Medical Center found that hospitals performing the highest volume of TAVR procedures have significantly lower mortality rates compared to those performing fewer procedures. This relationship held true even after accounting for the learning curve and individual proceduralist performance.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateApr 3, 2019

More CO2 than ever before in 3 million years, shows unprecedented computer simulation

A team of scientists successfully conducted the first computer simulation that matches ocean floor sediment data on climate evolution over 3 million years. The study reveals that changes in CO2 levels were a main driver of ice ages, and current greenhouse gas emissions are now triggering unprecedented climate change.

SourcePotsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 3, 2019

Children benefit from living near conservation zones

Living near protected areas designated by IUCN can have a positive impact on children's wealth levels, reducing poverty by 17% compared to those far away. Children also experience improved growth outcomes, with higher height-for-age scores and lower risk of stunted growth.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 3, 2019

Integrating infant mental health into the neonatal intensive care unit

Researchers at Children's Hospital Los Angeles implemented child-parent psychotherapy in the NICU to support infant-parent relationships. The approach has been shown to reduce post-traumatic stress symptoms and promote resilience in families.

SourceChildren's Hospital Los Angeles·JournalJournal of Clinical Psychology in Medical Settings·DateApr 3, 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.

Scientists pioneer new low-temperature chemical conversion process

Scientists have identified a way to convert cyclohexane to useful products at lower temperatures, reducing the need for energy and minimizing unwanted byproducts. The new catalysts work at temperatures as low as 100°C, protecting intermediate products from further conversion.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 3, 2019

Is adenosine the missing link in restless leg syndrome?

A study identified a common mechanism implicating adenosine in RLS symptoms, including periodic limb movements and enhanced arousal. Targeting the downregulation of the adenosine A1 receptor may be a promising therapeutic strategy for RLS.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Caffeine and Adenosine Research·DateApr 3, 2019

New study questions effects of reintroducing top predators

Researchers question the predictability of ecosystem changes when apex predators are reintroduced, citing climate change and invasive species as complicating factors. The study's findings have big implications for wildlife conservation in places like Yellowstone National Park.

SourceUniversity of Wyoming·JournalBiological Conservation·DateApr 3, 2019

Global warming disrupts recovery of coral reefs

New research reveals that global warming has made it difficult for coral reefs to recover, with a 89% decline in adult corals and a 93% drop in coral replenishment. The study's findings indicate that the Great Barrier Reef's resilience is now severely compromised by global warming.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·JournalNature·DateApr 3, 2019

It's a one-way street for sound waves in this new technology

Yale researchers have developed a new technology that allows sound to flow in one direction, enabling the control of acoustic resonators. This discovery offers possibilities for enhancing electronic devices that use these resonators. The technology also enables the controlled flow of heat from one object to another.

SourceYale University·JournalNature·DateApr 3, 2019

Doing more with less in the study of plant chemical defense

Researchers developed a new technique to measure plant biochemical responses using small tissue samples, reducing the need for large sample sizes and increasing experimental efficiency. This approach allows for more nuanced and high-resolution understanding of plant defense mechanisms.

SourceBotanical Society of America·JournalApplications in Plant Sciences·DateApr 3, 2019

Lithuanian researchers created special food for elderly patients

Researchers created a special food for elderly patients with swallowing difficulties, improving nutritional state and health indicators in just 10 days. The food is rich in unsaturated fat, vitamins, and minerals, making it easily consumable for those with swallowing issues.

SourceKaunas University of Technology·DateApr 3, 2019

Sleeping pill use linked to greater need for blood pressure medications

A study of 752 older adults found that using sleeping pills regularly was associated with an increasing number of blood pressure medications over time. The association held true regardless of sleep duration, quality, or other factors, suggesting that sleeping pill use may indicate a future need for greater hypertension treatment.

SourceWiley·JournalGeriatrics and Gerontology International·DateApr 3, 2019

Fellowship to further international research links in Huntington's disease

A UK researcher has been awarded a fellowship to collaborate with Chinese scientists on a novel treatment strategy for Huntington's disease. The project aims to establish sustainable research links between the UK and China, with the goal of accelerating the development of an effective therapy for this devastating neurological disorder.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·DateApr 3, 2019

Optical tweezers achieve new feats of capturing atoms

Researchers at the University of Colorado Boulder have developed a new method for trapping single atoms using optical tweezers, achieving an unprecedented 90% success rate. This breakthrough enables the efficient assembly of atom grids, a crucial step towards harnessing quantum computing power.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalPhysical Review X·DateApr 3, 2019

Study looks to iron from microbes for climate help

A new study proposes using iron powder produced by bacteria to stimulate growth of phytoplankton in the ocean, which can help remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. This approach aims to supplement decreasing carbon emissions and mitigate climate change by fertilizing microscopic ocean plants.

SourceBigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·DateApr 3, 2019

The screen interval for high cardiovascular disease risk should be individual

A study suggests that individualized screening intervals can effectively reduce cardiovascular disease risk by detecting high-risk individuals more timely. The researchers found that the current 5-yearly screenings are unnecessarily frequent for low-risk individuals and insufficiently frequent for intermediate-risk individuals.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalThe Lancet Public Health·DateApr 3, 2019

Tipping the scales

A team from TUM has successfully marked proteins with ubiquitin in a targeted manner, paving the way for exploring the inner workings of this vital regulatory system. The discovery may lead to a better understanding of protein function and its impact on diseases such as cancer and neurodegenerative disorders.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateApr 3, 2019

Lung disease bronchiectasis associated with high frequency of allergy

A recent study found that patients with lung disease bronchiectasis often display sensitivity to airborne allergens, with a particular role for fungi. The discovery highlights the importance of examining bronchiectasis patients for allergies, as existing treatments can prevent worsening of the disease.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateApr 3, 2019

Elucidation of functional mechanism of 'love hormone,' oxytocin, at molecular level

A Kanazawa University study reveals that RAGE binds to oxytocin, facilitating its transport through the blood-brain barrier and central nervous system. The findings show that oxytocin plays a crucial role in maternal nurturing behaviors, with reduced survival rates observed in offspring when mothers lack functional RAGE.

SourceKanazawa University·JournalCommunications Biology·DateApr 3, 2019

Hepatitis C-infected hearts and lungs safely transplanted

Researchers successfully transplanted hepatitis C-infected hearts and lungs, detecting no signs of the disease and good outcomes for patients treated with a short course of antivirals. The study found that nearly all patients cleared the virus within two weeks, and graft survival was comparable to non-HCV positive donors.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateApr 3, 2019

Amplifier for terahertz lattice vibrations in a semiconductor crystal

Scientists demonstrate amplification of optical phonons in a metal-semiconductor nanostructure using THz pulses, showing potential for ultrasound imaging with sub-nanometer resolution. The amplification process relies on population inversion and stimulated emission of phonons.

SourceForschungsverbund Berlin·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 3, 2019

Polysulfide donors strongly suppress inflammatory responses

Researchers at Kumamoto University have developed a new polysulfide donor that strongly suppresses inflammatory responses. The compound artificially increases reactive sulfur species in cells, leading to reduced inflammation and improved survival rates in mice with endotoxin shock.

SourceKumamoto University·JournalCell Chemical Biology·DateApr 3, 2019

High-tech material in a salt crust

Scientists from Forschungszentrum Jülich simplify production of MAX phases, a desirable material class. The new method uses a salt crust to protect raw material from oxidation at high temperatures, making industrial-scale production possible.

SourceForschungszentrum Juelich·JournalNature Materials·DateApr 3, 2019

Creating blood vessels on demand

Scientists discover a new population of immune cells that can aid in regenerative processes, enabling the creation of stable blood vessels.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateApr 3, 2019