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Science News for April 30, 2019


Too much smiling in a sales pitch could kill the deal

A recent study published in the Academy of Management Journal found that overconfidence and prolonged joy can lead to decreased funding. Presenters who flashed their biggest smiles for three seconds received more funding than those who did so for just two seconds, but those who smiled for four seconds lost funding

SourceUniversity of South Florida·JournalAcademy of Management Journal·DateApr 30, 2019

Do 'microglia' hold the key to stop Alzheimer's disease?

Researchers studied how microglia cells in the brain respond to toxic proteins associated with Alzheimer's disease. The study found that age, sex, and genetics affect microglial response, suggesting that modulating this response could lead to new treatments.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 30, 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.

Twelve-year follow-up after peptide receptor radionuclide therapy

A 12-year retrospective clinical study shows the long-term effectiveness of PRRT, allowing patients to maintain a high quality of life. The overall response rate is about 70-80 percent, and prognosis is generally favorable for patients who respond to therapy.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateApr 30, 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.

A promising new treatment for infants with Noonan syndrome

Researchers at Université de Montréal found that MEK inhibitor trametinib can reverse hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and valvular obstruction in patients with RIT1-associated NS. Dramatic improvement was seen in two infants treated with the drug, suggesting a new treatment option for life-threatening heart disease.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateApr 30, 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.

Lines blurring between human herpes simplex viruses

Research found that HSV-1 and HSV-2 are mixing together to result in several new, different recombinant versions of herpes. This blurring of lines has important implications for HSV vaccine development.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateApr 30, 2019

Keto diet has potential in military, researchers say

A new study published in Military Medicine found that a ketogenic diet can lead to significant weight loss and improvements in insulin sensitivity among military personnel. Participants on the keto diet lost an average of 17 pounds and reduced their body fat by 5%, while those on a normal diet experienced no such changes.

SourceOhio State University·JournalMilitary Medicine·DateApr 30, 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.

Consumers prefer pork cooked to 145 degrees, study says

Pork enthusiasts can improve taste, juiciness, and tenderness by cooking chops to the new USDA standard of 145 degrees Fahrenheit. Consumers strongly prefer pork chops cooked to 145 over the old standard of 160 degrees.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Animal Science·DateApr 30, 2019

Researchers identify causes and mechanisms of polycystic ovary syndrome using family-based genetic analysis

A study using family-based genetic analysis has identified the DENND1A gene as playing a major role in PCOS, enabling personalized medicine approaches and better disease prediction. The findings suggest that rare genetic variants in this gene contribute to the disorder's distinctive hormonal profile.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateApr 30, 2019

Breaking open the gates of antibiotic resistance

Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University have discovered a way to target both of a bacteria's defenses with one hit, weakening its ability to develop antibiotic resistance. By interfering with a specific type of tRNA molecule, the team was able to make bacteria more susceptible to antibiotics.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalCell Systems·DateApr 30, 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.

Argonne helps provide platform for future advanced nuclear reactor

The Versatile Test Reactor will allow scientists to test various fuels, coolants and reactor components to evaluate new technologies for future generations of advanced nuclear reactors. The reactor's experimental configurations will provide key information to scientists as they work to develop innovative reactor designs.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·DateApr 30, 2019

Tracking small things in cells

Researchers created SCOTfluors, a class of small fluorophores that can be attached to common metabolites and emit light in the visible to near-infrared range. This allows for the observation of metabolite trafficking in living cells without destroying them.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateApr 30, 2019

Study shows high phenolic acid intake -- associated with a healthy diet -- is associated with reduced breast cancer risk

A high intake of phenolic acids associated with a healthy diet is linked to a decreased risk of postmenopausal breast cancer. The study found that women who consumed the most hydroxycinnamic acids, particularly chlorogenic acids found in coffee and fruits, had a 62% lower risk of developing breast cancer compared to those with low intake.

SourceEuropean Association for the Study of Obesity·DateApr 30, 2019

Responding to extremist attacks: For Muslim leaders, 'It's damned if you do, damned if you don't'

A University of Michigan study found that expressing empathy for victims after an extremist attack can alleviate negative responses from non-Muslims. However, accepting group responsibility can cultivate perceptions of collective guilt and backfire, increasing the perception that Muslim Americans are to blame for terrorist acts.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalMedia Psychology·DateApr 30, 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.

Crisis and suicide prevention services struggle with demand after celebrity suicides

The NIH study found that a sudden increase in demand for suicide prevention services occurs after celebrity suicides, with a significant spike in calls to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. The researchers emphasize the need for increased funding and efficient allocation of existing resources to ensure surge capacity.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Mental Health·JournalPsychiatric Services·DateApr 30, 2019

Anti-stress brain chemical is related to PTSD resilience after trauma

A recent study published in Biological Psychiatry has discovered a relationship between the anti-stress brain chemical nociceptin and PTSD symptom severity. Women with less severe PTSD symptoms had fewer receptors for the chemical in regions of the brain involved in the threat alarm system, suggesting a potential marker for resilience.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateApr 30, 2019

Middle Pleistocene human skull reveals variation and continuity in early Asian humans

A Middle Pleistocene human skull found in southeastern China exhibits morphological similarities to other East Asian archaic human remains but also foreshadows later modern human forms. The discovery provides evidence for regional continuity in human evolution during the region's Pleistocene era.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 30, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Advanced detection tool to limit the spread of devastating tree pathogens

A new detection tool has been developed to identify quarantine tree pathogens, reducing analysis time and enabling prompt reactions. The tool can be used by non-scientists and is crucial in preventing the spread of devastating pathogens like Xylella fastidiosa, Ceratocystis platani, and Phytophthora ramorum.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalAMB Express·DateApr 30, 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.

SwRI using drones with machine learning to automate methane leak detection

Researchers at Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) are developing a system to automate methane leak detection using drones equipped with infrared cameras and machine learning algorithms. The system can identify small methane leaks and substantially reduces false positives, making it more effective than conventional detection systems.

SourceSouthwest Research Institute·DateApr 30, 2019

Can the brain help heal the heart?

Research on brain-heart interactions may lead to life-saving therapies for heart failure and arrhythmia by manipulating specific nerves to emit electrical signals. Dr. Cheng's lab is developing a comprehensive map of neurons and their connections to the heart.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·DateApr 30, 2019

Guidelines proposed for newly defined Alzheimer's-like brain disorder

A newly recognized brain disorder called Limbic-predominant Age-related TDP-43 Encephalopathy (LATE) has been defined with recommended diagnostic criteria. LATE is characterized by cognitive impairment and hippocampal sclerosis, similar to Alzheimer's disease, but progresses more gradually.

SourceNIH/National Institute on Aging·JournalBrain·DateApr 30, 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.

Study shows that controlling or 'wiping out' obesity and excess weight could avoid substantial numbers of premature deaths

A new study published at the European Congress on Obesity highlights the significant impact of obesity and excess weight on premature mortality from non-communicable diseases. According to the research, controlling or 'wiping out' obesity and overweight could reduce premature deaths by up to 31% in some countries.

SourceEuropean Association for the Study of Obesity·DateApr 30, 2019

Cryptographic breakthrough helps spies to shake hands

Researchers at Stevens Institute of Technology have developed a new encryption system called matchmaking encryption, which allows for secure and private communication. The system uses real-time interactions to verify participants' identities, enabling messages to be sent on a 'dead drop' basis and read at a later date.

SourceStevens Institute of Technology·DateApr 30, 2019

Analysis of old people's civic participation

A 55-year study found that older citizens' civic participation improves their cognitive function, physical and mental health. The research highlights the need for more diverse data from non-English speaking countries to design effective policies promoting civic participation.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalThe Gerontologist·DateApr 30, 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.

Put down the protein shake: Variety of protein better for health

A new study suggests that consuming a variety of protein sources, rather than relying on a single type, can have numerous health benefits. The research found that excessive consumption of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) from popular protein powders may reduce lifespan and negatively impact mood and weight gain.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalMetabolism·DateApr 30, 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.

Innovative treatment restores sight in patient

Researchers have developed an innovative treatment using long-acting steroid implants to improve vision and reduce symptoms in patients with melanoma-associated retinopathy. After three years of monitoring, the patient's visual acuity remained stable at 20/20, marking a significant breakthrough in treating this debilitating ailment.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateApr 30, 2019

Keeping fit is more than physical: It's a state of mind

A new study in Heliyon reveals that individuals who engage in solo or group exercise activities are more motivated by social connectedness than those exercising alone. Exercise motivation, self-control styles, and personality traits also predict participation frequency, with CrossFit participants ranking highest in intrinsic motivation.

SourceElsevier·JournalHeliyon·DateApr 30, 2019

Do you smell what I smell?

A recent study from the Monell Center sheds light on individual differences in odor perception, finding that small changes in olfactory receptor genes can significantly impact how strong and pleasant an odor is. The research used high-throughput sequencing technology to identify genetic variations affecting odor perception.

SourceMonell Chemical Senses Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 30, 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.

When a 'she' becomes an 'it'

A study published in Scientific Reports found that the human brain perceives women less humanity and more like an object when they are dressed in a swimsuit or underwear. This perception might trigger treatments typically observed in interactions with objects, leading to gender violence.

SourceUniversità di Trento·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 30, 2019

Expert: Justin Trudeau's French isn't bad; Quebecers just don't think he belongs

A professor at Binghamton University analyzed Quebec's criticism of Justin Trudeau's French, finding it stems from linguistic purism and a bias towards monolingual French speakers. Bosworth argues that language is used to position Trudeau as an outsider in Quebec, despite his strong identification with French.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalThe American Review of Canadian Studies·DateApr 30, 2019

EGLN inhibitor protects normal tissue and enables RT in mouse model of pancreatic cancer

In a mouse model of unresectable pancreatic cancer, administration of the EGLN inhibitor FG-4592 prior to ablative radiotherapy provided protection against fatal gastrointestinal bleeding and improved survival. The study found that FG-4592 effectively mimicked hypoxia in normal tissues, protecting them from radiation damage.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalCancer Research·DateApr 30, 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.

Researchers define Alzheimer's-like brain disorder

Limbic-predominant Age-related TDP-43 Encephalopathy (LATE) is a newly-defined brain disorder resembling Alzheimer's disease but caused by misfolded TDP-43 protein. It affects 25% of individuals over 85 years old, causing gradual cognitive decline and impacting daily life.

SourceRush University Medical Center·JournalBrain·DateApr 30, 2019

Excessive rainfall as damaging to corn yield as extreme heat, drought

A recent US study found that excessive rainfall can reduce corn yield by up to 34% relative to expected yields, similar to the impact of extreme heat and drought. The research highlights the need for improved crop insurance models to address climate change-driven extreme weather events.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateApr 30, 2019

Isle Royale winter study: 13 new wolves, 20 radio-collared moose

The annual Winter Study report chronicles the effects of wolf reintroductions on the island's ecosystem, with 13 new wolves and 20 radio-collared moose providing valuable data. Researchers expect a slowing down of moose population growth due to severe vegetation damage, while wolf pups may be possible this year.

SourceMichigan Technological University·DateApr 30, 2019

What can be done to prevent another CRISPR crisis?

A new article recommends explicit management of conflict of interests, banning exclusive rights to research results, and enhanced informed consent to guide germline gene editing. The author argues that regulation and penalties are necessary to ensure public trust in science.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateApr 30, 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.

Bots exploiting blockchains for profit

Researchers found that bots use time delays to make trades faster than humans, allowing them to frontrunning and take advantage of human error. High fees paid to prioritize transactions pose a security threat to the entire blockchain.

SourceCornell University·DateApr 30, 2019

Reef engineers

Marine scientists investigate the relationship between bumphead parrotfish and their coral reef habitat using molecular analysis, finding that coral rock contains more calories than live coral. The study sheds light on the complex dynamics of coral reef ecology and the role of bumphead parrotfish in shaping their environment.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalCoral Reefs·DateApr 30, 2019

Designer drugs to inhibit hepatitis A virus

Researchers have identified a promising compound, golvatinib, that inhibits hepatitis A virus infection. The discovery was made possible by combining high-resolution cryogenic electron microscopy and molecular modeling to understand the structural basis of neutralization.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateApr 30, 2019

Poor, crowded cities lack access to opioid reversal drug, Rutgers study finds

Rutgers researchers analyzed 90 retail pharmacies in 10 New Jersey cities and found that naloxone was available in 60-70% of more affluent communities but less than 25% of lower-income areas. The city's population, affluence, and opioid-related hospital visits over five months were correlated with naloxone availability.

SourceRutgers University·JournalJournal of Medical Toxicology·DateApr 30, 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.

Star with strange chemistry is from out of town

Researchers found a star in the Milky Way Galaxy with low magnesium levels and high Europium levels, indicating it formed elsewhere, likely in a now vanished dwarf galaxy. The discovery suggests galaxy evolution models are supported by the presence of similar chemical signatures in other stars from dwarf galaxies orbiting the Milky Way.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalNature Astronomy·DateApr 30, 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.

Brain mapping: New technique reveals how information is processed

Scientists have developed a new method to quickly map brain connections, enabling systematic study of connection patterns within single individuals. The technique, combining infrared laser stimulation with functional MRI, reveals the direction of information flowing in the brain, critical for understanding brain processing.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 30, 2019

Pest-killing fungi could protect NYS grapes, apples from invasive insect

Two fungal pathogens, Batkoa major and Beauveria bassiana, have been found to decimate spotted lanternfly populations near Reading, Pennsylvania. These native fungi could be used to develop environmentally-friendly control methods for the invasive species.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 30, 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.

Gender impacts brain activity in alcoholics

Research from Boston University School of Medicine found that alcoholic men have diminished brain activity in emotional processing regions compared to women. The study suggests that gender-specific prevention and treatment approaches may be necessary for effective management of Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD).

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·DateApr 30, 2019

Deadly box jellyfish antidote discovered using CRISPR genome editing

Researchers at University of Sydney have discovered an antidote to the deadly Australian box jellyfish sting, blocking necrosis, skin scarring and pain. The medicine was developed using CRISPR genome editing techniques, which identified a pathway in human cells that can be targeted by a known cholesterol-blocking drug.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 30, 2019

Study reveals how glial cells may play key epilepsy role

Researchers at MIT's Picower Institute found that excess calcium in glia cells causes them to hyper-activate a molecular pathway leading to seizures. They identified calcineurin and sandman proteins as key players in the process, suggesting a promising avenue for future drug development.

SourcePicower Institute at MIT·DateApr 30, 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.

Brain signaling proteins hit the road running

Researchers found that resting state of signaling proteins are highly mobile and dynamic, affecting how they respond to drugs. This new understanding may explain previous disappointments in drug development for neurological diseases.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNeuron·DateApr 30, 2019

Children with high BMI who don't become obese adults do not appear to be at increased risk of type 2 diabetes

Research suggests that children with high BMI in childhood are at increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes, but this risk disappears if they don't become obese adults. A meta-analysis of over 25,000 children found associations between BMI and type 2 diabetes were not influenced by educational or lifestyle factors.

SourceEuropean Association for the Study of Obesity·DateApr 30, 2019

Only some people get one health benefit from social support

A new study suggests that social support only benefits those with a positive attitude about themselves, but not those with low self-esteem. People with high self-esteem already have advantages compared to those with low self-esteem, and social support only helps them more.

SourceOhio State University·JournalHealth Psychology·DateApr 30, 2019

New study finds river wildlife contain cocaine, pharmaceuticals and pesticides

A new study has found cocaine, pharmaceuticals and pesticides in UK river wildlife, highlighting the presence of 'invisible' chemical pollution that poses a risk to wildlife health. The study detected illicit drugs and banned pesticides in freshwater shrimp, revealing a surprising occurrence in smaller rural catchments.

SourceKing's College London·JournalEnvironment International·DateApr 30, 2019

How the brain integrates sensory input

Researchers identify brain areas where flexible sensory integration takes place, including the parietal lobe and frontal lobe. The study's findings could be useful for understanding diseases affecting sensory processing, such as autism.

SourceBielefeld University·JournalNeuron·DateApr 30, 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.

Right combination of diet and bacteria limits cancer progression

A combination of prebiotics and probiotics reduces the expression of pro-carcinogenic genes and may help treat colorectal cancer. The study used a unique gut-on-a-chip model to investigate diet-microbiome-host interactions, revealing a mechanistic basis for the observed beneficial effects.

SourceUniversity of Luxembourg·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 30, 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.

To boldly go or anxiously hang back?

Scientists at UCSF have discovered a type of neuron called VIP interneurons that play a crucial role in anxiety-driven decision-making. By shutting off signals from these cells, researchers found they can reduce anxious behavior, offering potential insights into treating brain disorders.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNeuron·DateApr 30, 2019

Nanomaterials mimicking natural enzymes with superior catalytic activity and selectivity

A KAIST research team synthesized a peroxidase-mimicking nanozyme with superior catalytic activity and selectivity, overcoming the limitations of natural enzymes. The nanozymes can accurately detect target materials like hydrogen peroxide and acetylcholine, paving the way for early diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalACS Nano·DateApr 30, 2019

Fat cell discovery could help combat obesity-related health issues

Scientists have identified three specific subtypes of precursor cells that go on to become fat cells, which may help determine an individual's health risk. The discovery could lead to the development of new treatments that target 'fast burning' fat cells to prevent weight gain and metabolic disease.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 30, 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 space rock that hit the moon at 61,000 kilometers an hour

Astronomers captured a meteorite hitting the moon's surface during January's total lunar eclipse, creating a crater up to 15 meters across. The impact was recorded using eight telescopes in Spain and revealed an object measuring 30-60cm in diameter, traveling at 61,000 kilometers per hour.

SourceRoyal Astronomical Society·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateApr 30, 2019

Low income is a risk factor for 'catastrophic' amputation after knee joint replacement

A study published in Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research found that low-income patients are at higher risk of above-knee amputation after periprosthetic joint infection. The researchers analyzed data from a nationally representative hospital database and found that patients living in areas with lower incomes were 58% more likely...

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalClinical Orthopaedics and Related Research·DateApr 30, 2019

'Seeing the light' behind radiation therapy

Researchers have developed a system to accurately deliver precise doses of radiation to cancer tissues while minimizing exposure to healthy ones. The new system uses specialized polymer gel to visualize the spatial location and dose of treatment in real-time.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·DateApr 30, 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.

The new 'runner's high'? MJ users often mix weed, workouts

A study of 600 adult marijuana users found that cannabis use motivates exercise, improves enjoyment, and boosts recovery. While cannabis may not enhance performance, it could serve as a benefit to exercise engagement.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalFrontiers in Public Health·DateApr 30, 2019

Regenstrief, IU Health study helps chaplains provide proactive care to families in crises

A new model developed by the Regenstrief Institute provides chaplains with a framework to deliver better care to families of patients in intensive care settings. The Spiritual Care Assessment and Intervention (SCAI) framework helps chaplains provide proactive, semi-structured spiritual care to meet family members' needs.

SourceRegenstrief Institute·JournalJournal of Health Care Chaplaincy·DateApr 30, 2019

Amid genomic data explosion, scientists find proliferating errors

Researchers found large numbers of errors in publicly available genomic data, including mistakes in gene annotation that resulted in truncated or missing sequences. The errors are due to human and technological factors, such as imperfect DNA sequencing technology and confusion about protein function.

SourceWashington State University·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateApr 30, 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.

Field study finds pellet-fed stoves cut air pollutant emissions 90%

A North Carolina State University study finds that compressed wood pellet-fed stoves reduce air pollution by about 90% for a range of contaminants associated with health problems and climate change. The stoves performed well in real-world conditions, with drastic cuts in pollutant emissions.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateApr 30, 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.

Making glass more clear

Researchers have developed an energy renormalization algorithm to predict glass' mechanical behavior at varying temperatures. This approach enables the design of dynamic materials with optimal properties, scaling molecular simulations up by roughly a thousand times.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 30, 2019

Genetic testing has a data problem; new software can help

TeraPCA, a new tool developed by Purdue University researchers, is designed to analyze large genetic datasets more efficiently. By making approximations of top principal components and leveraging multithreading, TeraPCA can process data in five or six hours compared to two days with existing methods.

SourcePurdue University·JournalBioinformatics·DateApr 30, 2019

MUSC psychologists release results of survey of 'Maria generation' kids

A recent study found that over 7% of surveyed children in Puerto Rico exhibited clinically significant symptoms of PTSD, with 45% having damage to their own homes and 58% experiencing a friend or family member leaving the island. Social connections and timing of surveys may be protective factors against higher PTSD rates.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 30, 2019

NC study: Warmer water linked to higher proportion of male flounder

Researchers found that warmer water temperatures during early development increase the proportion of male southern flounder, with up to 94% in some cases. This could threaten wild populations and commercial fishing industries that rely on larger female flounder.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 30, 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.

Sleep and exercise affect new moms differently than new dads

A study found that new mothers who slept more had greater well-being, while fathers who slept more reported lower overall well-being. The researchers also discovered that on days when fathers exercised more, there was a lower likelihood of arguments with their partners.

SourcePenn State·JournalMonographs of the Society for Research in Child Development·DateApr 30, 2019

New forecasting system alerts residents of New Delhi about unhealthy air

A new forecasting system provides 72-hour forecasts of fine particulates in New Delhi, helping officials and residents plan to reduce exposure to unhealthy air. The system uses measurements, computer modeling, and statistical techniques, improving accuracy but requiring refinement for precise pollutant levels.

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·DateApr 30, 2019

Changing climate may affect animal-to-human disease transfer

Researchers from The University of Queensland and Swansea University have found that environmental conditions play a key role in animal-to-human disease transfer. This new understanding could help predict the spread of emerging infectious diseases and prepare for future outbreaks.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalTrends in Parasitology·DateApr 30, 2019

Antibiotics may treat endometriosis

Researchers discover that metronidazole reduces lesions caused by endometriosis in mice, suggesting a potential treatment for the painful condition. The study also reveals that gut microbiota may play a role in driving or preventing endometriosis progression.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalHuman Reproduction·DateApr 30, 2019

Pregnancy shifts the daily schedule forward

A new study finds that women and mice experience changes in their daily schedules and activity levels during the first third of pregnancy. The study suggests that these changes may be related to hormonal influences and could have implications for preterm birth prevention.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalJournal of Biological Rhythms·DateApr 30, 2019

Chatterbox parents may boost tots' intelligence

A new study by the University of York found that young children who hear a large amount of adult speech tend to have better cognitive skills. The researchers also discovered that high-quality adult speech can benefit children's linguistic development and positive parenting styles can reduce restless behavior.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalDevelopmental Psychology·DateApr 30, 2019

Study: Health care providers split on who should prescribe HIV prevention drug

A new study by University at Buffalo researchers found that health care providers are divided on who should prescribe PrEP, with some arguing primary care physicians should take the lead. Meanwhile, pharmacy students showed a positive attitude towards PrEP, with 89% agreeing it can be a cost-effective tool to prevent HIV infection.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalJournal of the Association of Nurses in AIDS Care·DateApr 30, 2019