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Science News for June 4, 2019


Solving the sun's super-heating mystery with Parker Solar Probe

Researchers believe a zone of preferential heating surrounds the sun's surface, with temperatures rising and individual elements heated to different levels. The Parker Solar Probe will test this theory by entering the zone in 2021, providing direct measurements of processes behind solar wind acceleration.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateJun 4, 2019

Civility still matters to some in cyberspace

Researchers analyzed over 400,000 sets of questions and answers on Stack Exchange to discover a 'politeness bias' where users prefer respectful responses, even when content isn't the most useful. The study's findings suggest that Q&A platforms should display more votes and consider renaming the 'best answer' feature to reduce bias.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalMIS Quarterly·DateJun 4, 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.

Facial bones of black adults age differently than other races, Rutgers study finds

A Rutgers study has found that facial bones in black adults maintain higher mineral density as they age, resulting in fewer changes to their facial structure. This difference can affect how plastic surgeons approach facial rejuvenation, with black individuals seeking cosmetic procedures double the amount of whites.

SourceRutgers University·JournalJAMA Facial Plastic Surgery·DateJun 4, 2019

Researchers discover cells that change their identity during normal development

Zebrafish have been found to have a type of pigment cell that can transform into another cell type during normal development, challenging the long-held dogma that once a cell has completed its development, it stays that way. This discovery sheds light on how cells differentiate and may hold implications for regenerative medicine.

SourceUniversity of Virginia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 4, 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.

Smartphone relaxation app helps some manage migraine

A new study published in Nature Digital Medicine found that smartphone-based relaxation technique RELAXaHEAD can reduce migraine headache days by four per month. The app's success rate increased from 51% to 29% after three months, suggesting its potential as a treatment option.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·DateJun 4, 2019

The epic search for oldest ice in Antarctica is starting

Experts from 10 European Countries and 16 Research Institutions aim to drill for and recover ice from up to 1.5 Million years ago in Antarctica to study greenhouse gases during the Middle Pleistocene Transition. The project, led by Carlo Barbante, will take 6 years and cost around €11 million.

SourceUniversità Ca' Foscari Venezia·DateJun 4, 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.

Limiting warming to 2 degrees C will require emission cuts across entire food system

A new review finds that agriculture and food systems must undergo significant changes to limit warming to 2 degrees C. Efforts should focus on reducing emissions from agriculture, food loss and waste, and meat and dairy production, while supporting smallholder farmers through climate-smart agriculture and social safety nets.

SourceThe Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture·JournalSustainability·DateJun 4, 2019

A combination of insecticides and mite weakens honeybees

A recent study published in Scientific Reports found a negative combination between neonicotinoid insecticides and the Varroa mite, weakening honeybee colonies. The researchers observed a synergistic effect on body mass and survival rates, particularly in winter bees, compromising colony survivorship.

SourceUniversity of Bern·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 4, 2019

Labels of US probiotic products lacking, researchers find

Researchers found that only 35% of probiotic products were supported by clinical evidence, highlighting the need for clearer labeling. Products with fewer strains and lower cost were more likely to be backed by evidence, but consumers must still do their own legwork to find trustworthy products.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateJun 4, 2019

You survived a heart attack -- now what about the depression?

Research shows that heart attack patients with prolonged depression or anxiety are at a higher risk of death. Patients who experienced chronic emotional distress were more likely to die from cardiovascular and non-cardiovascular causes during follow-up.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Journal of Preventive Cardiology·DateJun 4, 2019

Researchers develop superconducting quantum refrigerator

The superconducting quantum refrigerator utilizes the principles of superconductivity to create an environment conducive to generating unique properties that defy classical physics. Researchers successfully demonstrate a practical way to use the device, paving the way for advancements in quantum technologies and ultrafast computing.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalPhysical Review Applied·DateJun 4, 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.

Plan Universal calls on funders to encourage preprints

Plan Universal proposes funding organizations require preprint posting for supported researchers. This would increase accessibility and speed up research by allowing experts to build on others' work quickly.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJun 4, 2019

Could boosting the gut microbiome be the secret to healthier older age?

A new study by immunologists at the Babraham Institute has shown that fecal transplants from young mice can replenish and boost the gut microbiome of older mice, rejuvenating their immune system. The research suggests that targeting the gut microbiome could be a way to treat age-related symptoms and facilitate healthy aging.

SourceBabraham Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 4, 2019

Killing the unkillable cancer cells

Researchers discovered a molecular mechanism that allows cancer cells to regenerate and evade therapy, but found treatments that can target these cells. The study provides a new logic for identifying therapies that can kill hard-to-kill cancer cells.

SourceTechnische Universität Dresden·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateJun 4, 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.

For Latinos with diabetes, new study looks at ways to improve medication adherence

A new study has identified several potential approaches for improving medication adherence among Latinos with diabetes, including simple measures like pillboxes and family member education. The study also highlights specific challenges faced by underserved Latino communities, such as difficulty understanding medications and managing mu...

SourceUniversity of Southern California - Health Sciences·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateJun 4, 2019

Exomoons may be home to extra-terrestrial life

Researchers found that gravitational forces of an unseen moon outside the rings could cause gaps in the ring structure, but the effect is unlikely to be caused by a currently unseen moon.

SourceUniversity of Lincoln·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJun 4, 2019

Using physics to print living tissue

Scientists are using the laws of physics and predictive computer modeling to improve bioprinting techniques, which can create living tissues like muscle and bone. The new approaches aim to overcome trial-and-error methods and achieve more controlled printing processes.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Reviews·DateJun 4, 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.

Lymphoma trial finds combination targeted therapy effective prior to chemotherapy

A Phase II clinical trial conducted at MD Anderson Cancer Center revealed an 84.6% overall response rate and 38.5% complete response rate when combination targeted therapy was given prior to chemotherapy for newly diagnosed patients with a specific type of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. The findings suggest that patients who respond to...

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·DateJun 4, 2019

Deep learning techniques teach neural model to 'play' retrosynthesis

Researchers at Columbia University have developed a new technique using reinforcement learning to train a neural network model to plan synthetic routes to any target molecule. This approach is more successful than existing strategies and can optimize user-specified objectives such as cost, time, and sustainability.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalACS Central Science·DateJun 4, 2019

Choosing the right drug to fight cancer

Researchers at Université de Montrêal discovered a molecular indicator for cancer progression, enabling precision medicine. They found that SRC kinases chemically modify SOCS1, leading to uncontrolled cell proliferation in cancers.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalCancer Research·DateJun 4, 2019

'Cannibalism' is a double-whammy for cell health

Researchers discover that cell cannibalism contributes to the concentration of harmful substances, leading to a 'double-whammy' for cell health. This process can perpetuate disease transmission and exacerbate conditions like atherosclerosis.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·DateJun 4, 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.

Home exercise program reduces rate of falling in at-risk seniors

A 12-month home exercise program reduced fall rates by 36% in high-risk seniors with a history of falls and mobility impairments. The study found improved cognitive function as a secondary benefit, reducing risk of injury and loss of independence for older adults.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalJournal of the American Medical Association·DateJun 4, 2019

Vulnerability to Ebola and Lassa fever can now be properly assessed

Researchers developed a new methodology to calculate vulnerability based on adaptive capacity, which can help international bodies allocate resources. The study found that the most vulnerable states are not necessarily those with high confirmed cases, but rather those that struggle to cope with the disease.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London (B )·DateJun 4, 2019

New approach optimizes use of future wave electricity generators during disaster

Researchers have developed a strategy for using floating ocean devices to provide emergency electricity to affected areas, potentially reducing recovery time. The new approach uses variational calculus to optimize the deployment of multiple wave energy devices in a daisy chain configuration.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Renewable and Sustainable Energy·DateJun 4, 2019

Early lives of Alaska sockeye salmon accelerating with climate change

Climate change is speeding up Alaska sockeye salmon's growth rate in freshwater, causing them to migrate to the ocean faster. However, this shift may not benefit the species long-term, as it takes an extra year at sea, where they face increased competition with hatchery-raised salmon.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateJun 4, 2019

Tolerance to stress is a 'trade-off' as fruit flies age

Fruit flies' stress tolerance is linked to aging, with higher levels of PKG conferring protection but costing locomotor activity later in life. The study reveals a novel role for the PKG pathway in healthy aging and senescence.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateJun 4, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Would you eat genetically modified food if you understood the science behind it?

A recent study published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology found that people's existing knowledge about genetically modified food is a significant determining factor of their attitudes towards it. Learning the underlying science leads to more positive attitudes, a greater willingness to eat them, and a lowered perception of GM...

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalJournal of Environmental Psychology·DateJun 4, 2019

New process to rinse heavy metals from soils

A research team at Stanford University has developed a new method to clean contaminated soils by rinsing them with a mixture of water and EDTA, a chemical that attracts heavy metals. The process involves percolating the mixture through the soil, collecting the toxic brew, and filtering it to capture the heavy metals.

SourceStanford University·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 4, 2019

'Citizen scientists' help track foxes, coyotes in urban areas

Researchers found a significant amount of overlap between their data and citizen sightings, with roughly 65% for red foxes and 56% for coyotes. The study highlights the potential of citizen science to inform urban canid management and monitor human-carnivore interactions.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalLandscape and Urban Planning·DateJun 4, 2019

Researchers study surveillance MRI in breast cancer survivors

A large study published in Radiology found that breast MRI screening for breast cancer survivors leads to higher cancer detection rates, but also results in more unnecessary biopsies. The study analyzed data from over 13,000 women and found no significant differences in sensitivity between breast MRI and mammography.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateJun 4, 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.

Zebrafish capture a 'window' on the cancer process

Researchers observed micro-perforations in the basement membrane zone, allowing inflammatory cells to access and feed growing cancer cells. This 'window' into the cancer process enables targeting of these weak spots with cancer therapeutics.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalCell Reports·DateJun 4, 2019

NASA-NOAA satellite sees system 91L's eeach into the western gulf of Mexico

System 91L is a tropical low pressure system located in the Bay of Campeche, spanning across Mexico's Yucatan state and surrounding states. The system has a 40% chance to develop into a depression over the next two days, producing heavy rainfall over eastern Mexico, southeastern Texas, and the Lower Mississippi Valley.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJun 4, 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.

Do images of food on kids' clothes influence eating behavior?

A U-M study analyzed 3,870 clothing items and found that one in 11 featured food graphics, with two-thirds being unhealthy. The analysis suggests that food graphics on kids' clothes may influence children's eating habits and reinforce obesity-promoting messaging.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalEating Behaviors·DateJun 4, 2019

Building blocks of the Earth

A research team from the University of Cologne has recalculated the distribution of volatile elements on Earth, finding that some building blocks have a chemical composition similar to primitive meteorites. The study suggests an alternative source for vital components such as water and carbon.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJun 4, 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.

Beta blockers reduce stress-induced irregular heart rhythm

A new study by Yale researchers found that beta blockers can minimize the impact of negative emotions on heart rhythm in individuals with a history of atrial fibrillation. The medication reduced the risk of AFib episodes triggered by stress and anger, while still having an effect on those taking beta-blockers.

SourceYale University·JournalHeartRhythm Case Reports·DateJun 4, 2019

Red and white meats are equally bad for cholesterol

A new study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition finds that red and white meats raise low-density lipoproteins (LDLs) by the same amount, regardless of meat type. Plant proteins show the best cholesterol benefit and should be prioritized for heart health.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateJun 4, 2019

Separation anxiety no more: A faster technique to purify elements

Berkeley Lab scientists develop faster technique to purify elements, opening door to faster discovery of new elements and easier nuclear fuel reprocessing. The method achieves separation factors many orders of magnitude higher than current state-of-the-art methods, reducing contaminants and increasing efficiency.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 4, 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.

How chronic inflammation may drive down dopamine and motivation

A new study suggests that chronic inflammation disrupts the brain's dopamine system, leading to motivational impairments in depression, schizophrenia, and other disorders. The researchers developed a computational method to test their theory, which may yield insights into treating cases of depression and behavioral disorders.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalTrends in Cognitive Sciences·DateJun 4, 2019

It's alive! UNH researchers create innovative 'living' bridge

The Memorial Bridge in New Hampshire has been outfitted with data sensors to transform it into a self-diagnosing bridge. The sensors capture information about the bridge's health, environmental conditions, and traffic patterns. This innovation aims to create the next generation of bridges with maximum safety, reliability, and efficiency.

SourceUniversity of New Hampshire·DateJun 4, 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.

Exposing modern forgers

A new process uses chemical methods to purify samples and detect modern forgeries by analyzing binding agents, providing a clear result. This method was tested on a famous case and proved effective in detecting a fake painting from the 20th century.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 4, 2019

Chemists could make 'smart glass' smarter by manipulating it at the nanoscale

Colorado State University chemists developed a new design for eco-friendly smart glass that works faster and lasts longer. By optimizing nanoparticle spacing, the tinting behavior can be improved, leading to enhanced performance in applications such as windows, batteries, and sensors.

SourceColorado State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 4, 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.

Frogs find refuge in elephant tracks

A new study found that rain-filled tracks of Asian elephants provide temporary habitat for breeding and connect frog populations. The tracks can persist for a year or more, serving as stepping stones for the frogs during the dry season.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalMammalia·DateJun 4, 2019

Deaths from falls increase among older US adults

Death rates from falls for US adults 75 or older rose significantly from 2000 to 2016, with a 128% increase in absolute deaths and a 131% increase in death rates per 100,000 people. This trend was observed across different age groups, particularly among men aged 75-79 and women aged 95 or older.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateJun 4, 2019

Nitric oxide-scavenging hydrogel developed for rheumatoid arthritis treatment

A team of researchers has developed a nano-sized hydrogel that can scavenge nitric oxide and effectively treat rheumatoid arthritis. The hydrogel was shown to be more effective than current therapeutic drugs in suppressing the onset of the disease, with minimal side effects.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalNano Letters·DateJun 4, 2019

Pathogens may have facilitated the evolution of warm-blooded animals

Recent research suggests that pathogens may have driven the evolution of warm-blooded animals by providing a selective advantage. By maintaining stable body temperatures, mammals and birds can prime their immune systems to withstand virulent pathogens, making endothermy a more favorable strategy than ectothermy.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalIdeas in Ecology and Evolution·DateJun 4, 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.

Fear of 'killer shrimps' could pose major threat to European rivers

Researchers found that the mere presence of Dikerogammarus villosus can reduce the effectiveness of its prey, causing them to expend more energy avoiding the predator. This phenomenon, known as a non-consumptive effect (NCE), has major localized effects on river ecosystems and may impact their recovery following perturbation.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalActa Oecologica·DateJun 4, 2019

New genes out of nothing

Scientists explore the emergence of novel genes and functional proteins from random DNA sequences, revealing peptides that confer high resistance to aminoglycosides. The study demonstrates how de novo evolution can be studied experimentally in the laboratory.

SourceUppsala University·JournalmBio·DateJun 4, 2019

Study: Cholesterol in eggs tied to cardiac disease, death

A large-scale study found that consuming high amounts of cholesterol from eggs is associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular disease and death. The researchers also noted that even healthy diets can have negative effects when eggs are consumed excessively, emphasizing the importance of moderation and balance in daily eating habits.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Lowell·JournalJournal of the American Medical Association·DateJun 4, 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.

Ant reactions to habitat disruptions inform a result of evolution, according to Conco

Researchers want a standardized approach to studying how ants react to environmental changes, with insights suggesting all ant communities respond strongly to openness in their habitats. This heterogeneity is due to millions of years of biogeographic and evolutionary history, leaving a signature on contemporary ant community structure.

SourceConcordia University·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·DateJun 4, 2019

Extra finger 'birth defect' could provide blueprint for robotic extra limbs

Researchers studied polydactyly, a condition where people are born with extra fingers or toes. They found that the brain allocates dedicated areas to the extra digits, making them as useful as standard digits. This discovery could provide a blueprint for developing artificial limbs and digits.

SourceImperial College London·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 4, 2019

Sticking to sports can help kids adjust

Children who engage in organized physical activity at a young age are less likely to experience emotional difficulties by 12, according to a new study. The research suggests that consistent participation in sports can promote global development and socio-emotional benefits.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalPediatric Research·DateJun 4, 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.

Mathematicians work out how to predict success in show business

Researchers analyzed 1.5 million actor and actress careers to discover that the most productive year is typically early in a career, with around 85% accuracy in predicting peak success. The study also found that most careers last only one year, and that actors are more likely to find work after a cold streak.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 4, 2019

Researchers develop breakthrough process to create cancer-killing drugs

Researchers at Dartmouth College developed a new strategy for drug discovery and development, enabling the creation of targeted therapies against cancer and neurodegeneration. The technique produces potent compounds selectively toxic to glioblastoma while showing minimal harm to healthy brain cells.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 4, 2019

New DOE program connects fusion companies with national labs, taps ORNL to lead

The Innovation Network for Fusion Energy (INFUSE) program aims to accelerate fusion energy development through research collaborations between industry and DOE's national laboratory complex. ORNL will manage the program, leveraging its expertise in plasma experimentation, materials development, and computer modeling of fusion systems.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·DateJun 4, 2019

Researchers identify link between more frequent, intense heat events and deaths in Las Vegas

A study by Desert Research Institute researchers found a clear correlation between extreme heat and mortality rates in Las Vegas over the last decade. The study identified adults over 50 as particularly vulnerable to heat-related deaths, which often occurred due to pre-existing heart disease.

SourceDesert Research Institute·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Science and Technology·DateJun 4, 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.

Scientists crack origin of the Persian walnut

The Persian walnut is the result of a 3.45 million-year-old hybridization between two long-extinct species. Using whole-genome sequencing, researchers found evidence of this ancient hybridization and provided insight into the evolution of walnuts.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateJun 4, 2019

Sleepless nights linked to high blood pressure

A study published in Psychosomatic Medicine found that a bad night's sleep can lead to a spike in blood pressure, even on the following day. Researchers wore portable blood pressure cuffs and actigraphy monitors on participants to measure the impact of sleep efficiency on cardiovascular health.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalPsychosomatic Medicine·DateJun 4, 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.

'Only the stressed die young'

Research on Drosophila reveals that Ets21c promotes intestinal epithelial renewal, but its loss accelerates tissue turnover and makes flies vulnerable to stress. The study contributes to understanding regenerative processes under favourable and stressful conditions.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalCell Reports·DateJun 4, 2019

Gene mutation evolved to cope with modern high-sugar diets

A gene mutation that became more common in humans after cooking and farming emerged as a potential adaptation to modern high-carb diets. The variant is associated with improved blood sugar regulation and may have helped ancient humans manage food scarcity.

SourceUniversity College London·DateJun 4, 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.

Dowsing for electric fields in liquid crystals

Physicists Pawel Pieranski and Maria Helena Godinho have found that the 'dowser texture' in nematic liquid crystals responds differently to electric fields in various materials. This phenomenon, known as electro-osmosis, enables detection of subtle electrical effects.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateJun 4, 2019

Should STEMI patients recover in the ICU?

A new Michigan Medicine research found that intensive care unit admission was associated with improved 30-day mortality rates for patients who had a STEMI heart attack and weren't clearly indicated for an ICU or non-ICU unit. The study analyzed Medicare data from over 100,000 patients hospitalized with STEMI and showed a clear benefit ...

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalThe BMJ·DateJun 4, 2019

Opioids are not sleep aids, and can actually worsen sleep research finds

A systematic review found that opioids have a small improvement in sleep quality, but this is not consistent with results from sleep assessment technologies. Patients on opioid therapy are also at risk of excessive daytime sleepiness and increased risks of sleep apnea. The study calls for better research into the effects of painkillers...

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalSleep Medicine Reviews·DateJun 4, 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.

New material with magnetic shape memory

Researchers developed a new composite material with magnetic shape memory activated by magnetism, offering advantages in medicine and robotics. The material consists of polymer and droplets of magnetorheological fluid, increasing stiffness up to 30 times.

SourcePaul Scherrer Institute·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJun 4, 2019

Speeding up potato cultivation by using new methods

Researchers at HHU are developing tools for genomic selection in potatoes to breed disease-resistant, climate-adapted varieties with higher nutrition values. The PotatoTools project aims to create generally applicable methods and tools for genetic analysis, despite the absence of a reference genome sequence.

SourceHeinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf·DateJun 4, 2019

Many kids with pneumonia get unnecessary antibiotics, chest X-rays

A study by Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago found that nearly 74% of preschool children with community-acquired pneumonia receive unnecessary antibiotics, while 43% undergo chest X-rays despite guidelines against routine use. This overuse contributes to antibiotic resistance and side effects.

SourceAnn & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago·JournalJournal of the Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society·DateJun 4, 2019

Beta blockers can block the effects of stress and anger in patients prone to emotion-triggered atrial fibrillation

A new study found that beta blockers can reduce the triggering effect of anger and stress on atrial fibrillation in patients prone to emotion-triggered AF. Patients taking beta blockers experienced fewer AF episodes, with a reduced pro-arrhythmic effect of anger or stress compared to those not taking these medications.

SourceElsevier·JournalHeartRhythm Case Reports·DateJun 4, 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.