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Science News for March 29, 2019


New way of optical visualization of nano objects proposed

Researchers have developed a new way to visualize nano objects using superlenses and titanium oxynitride films, achieving spatial resolutions of 8 nm and 80 nm. This breakthrough enables non-destructive analysis and 3D visualization without the need for fluorescent labels.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalNanoscale·DateMar 29, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Odd reaction creates a stir in the lab

Researchers at Rice University discovered that PTFE stir bars react with chemicals in an unexpected way, affecting the modification of nanotubes. This discovery highlights the importance of choosing inert materials in laboratory settings.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Omega·DateMar 29, 2019

Supercomputers help supercharge protein assembly

Researchers designed proteins that can assemble into complex structures using supercomputers and artificial charges. The stacked octamer structure consists of 16 proteins, resembling a braided ring with highly ordered and specific interactions.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·JournalNature Chemistry·DateMar 29, 2019

Quantum optical cooling of nanoparticles

Physicians at the University of Vienna have developed a novel method to cool nanoparticles using quantum optics, enabling unprecedented control over particle motion in ultra-high vacuum. The approach, inspired by atomic physics, harnesses scattered light from an optical tweezer to effectively cool particles' kinetic energy.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 29, 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.

Engineering for high-speed devices

A team at the University of Delaware has engineered a silicon-graphene device that can transmit radiofrequency waves in less than a picosecond, enabling faster communications. The device combines the benefits of silicon and graphene, with improved carrier mobility and electrical properties.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalACS Applied Electronic Materials·DateMar 29, 2019

Hollow structures in 3D

Scientists at University of Freiburg create three-dimensional hollow structures in quartz glass using Glassomer process. This breakthrough enables the production of optical waveguides and microfluidic channels, previously difficult to manufacture due to glass's chemical resistance.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 29, 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.

New methodology enable solid state lighting to measure and self-adjust based on conditions

Researchers have developed a new methodology that allows solid state lighting to measure and self-adjust its spectral power distribution based on environmental conditions. This enables the system to maintain consistency and stability over time, making it suitable for applications requiring precise light spectra.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalOptical Engineering·DateMar 29, 2019

Quantum physics and origami for the ultimate get-well card

Researchers use metal nanoparticles to detect single target molecules in paper-based tests, overcoming limitations of conventional dyes. The results enable ultra-sensitive diagnostics with limitless applications in medicine, forensics, and environmental safety.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology·DateMar 29, 2019

New plant breeding technologies for food security

Genome editing enables crop development with resistance to pests, diseases, drought, and heat, reducing losses and chemical pesticide sprays. However, regulatory hurdles in Europe may hinder the adoption of these technologies, posing a risk to developing countries.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalScience·DateMar 29, 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.

Hubble spots flock of cosmic ducks

Astronomers estimate that Messier 11 formed 220 million years ago and will disperse in a few million years as its stars are ejected by stronger gravitational forces.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 29, 2019

Scientists develop way to perform supercomputer simulations of the heart on cellphones

Researchers from Rochester Institute of Technology and Georgia Tech developed a new approach to simulate the heart's electrophysiology in real-time, allowing doctors to better discuss life-threatening heart conditions with patients. This method uses WebGL code to repurpose graphics cards for faster scientific computing applications.

SourceRochester Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 29, 2019

Changes in public perception of e-cigarettes, cigarettes

A nationwide survey analysis found that more Americans view e-cigarettes as harmful as, or more so than, traditional cigarettes. The shift in perception may have led to fewer smokers switching to e-cigarettes, highlighting the need for accurate risk communication.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMar 29, 2019
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

The mystery of touch and how we feel about it

A team of researchers found that people differ substantially in how they perceive roughness, with different relationships between skin vibrations, friction, and grain size. The study aims to understand individual differences in tactile sensation and develop an estimation model for perceptual roughness ratings.

SourceNagoya Institute of Technology·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 29, 2019

Call for unis and others to consider women juggling research/childcare

A study by QUT researchers found that women caring for children experience a negative impact on their research output, visibility, and ability to network. Institutions should adjust publication and citation benchmarks to cater for women who have cared for children to ensure fair career advancement and funding opportunities.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 29, 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.

Making waves: Researchers shed light on how cilia work

A team of researchers found that cilia's most efficient beating occurs at a natural length of 10-12 microns, but surprisingly lacks synchronization. The study provides insight into human cilia and defects leading to diseases such as primary ciliary dyskinesia.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateMar 29, 2019

Study highlights need to increase diversity within genetic data sets

Polygenic scores developed using European data are more accurate for people of European ancestry than those of African or East Asian ancestry. Researchers recommend increasing minority population representation and making data accessible to improve healthcare outcomes.

SourceBroad Institute of MIT and Harvard·JournalNature Genetics·DateMar 29, 2019

Major step towards individual cancer immunotherapy

Scientists create vaccine that strengthens immune defences by multiplying cancer-repelling T cells, promising treatment for individualized cancer immunotherapy and potential application in autoimmune diseases. Laboratory tests conducted on tumours in mice show effectiveness of approach.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Immunology·DateMar 29, 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.

New study models the proposed reintroduction of the Eurasian lynx to Scotland

Experts have developed a model to identify suitable locations for the reintroduction of Eurasian lynx in Scotland, suggesting that the Kintyre Peninsula is the most suitable site. The study found that Scotland possesses sufficient habitat for population establishment and spread, with the Central Belt acting as a barrier to colonization.

SourceUniversity of Stirling·JournalBiological Conservation·DateMar 29, 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.

Fluorescence discovered in tiny Brazilian frogs

Researchers found that tiny Brazilian frogs, called pumpkin toadlets, have fluorescent patterns on their backs and heads when exposed to UV light. These patterns are created by bony plates beneath a thin layer of skin, allowing the frog's skeleton to glow under UV illumination.

SourceNew York University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 29, 2019

People can survive organ failure, a review explores how

A review explores how two cell populations respond to organ failure, with one type relying on endoreplication and the other on cell regeneration. This cooperative response allows organs to recover from failure, but also presents tradeoffs that can impact long-term health.

SourceCell Press·JournalTrends in Molecular Medicine·DateMar 29, 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.

When cash is your enemy

A study by Rod Duclos and Mansur Khamitov found that individuals who receive cash are more likely to opt for immediate gratification, leading to lower savings rates. Activating a mindset focused on long-term goals can increase patience and tolerance for parting with cash.

SourceSociety for Consumer Psychology·JournalJournal of Consumer Psychology·DateMar 29, 2019

66-million-year-old deathbed linked to dinosaur-killing meteor

Scientists have discovered a unique fossil site in North Dakota that preserves the remains of hundreds of fish and other organisms killed instantly by a massive asteroid impact 66 million years ago. The site, dubbed Tanis, provides conclusive evidence of the impact's devastating effects on Earth's ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 29, 2019

Cancer researchers highlight clinical potential of liquid biopsy using droplet digital PCR technology at the 2019 AACR Annual Meeting

Researchers presented studies on the clinical utility of liquid biopsy powered by ddPCR technology to measure blood-based tumor biomarkers in a reproducible way. Studies demonstrated correlations between ctDNA mutations and response to abemaciclib in breast cancer patients and found potential as a predictor for surgery success in malig...

SourceCG Life·DateMar 29, 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.

Movement toward a poop test for liver cirrhosis

Researchers at UC San Diego identified unique bacterial features in the stool of people with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and their twins, allowing for 92% accurate diagnosis of liver cirrhosis. The test also showed promise in detecting previously undiagnosed cases with 87% accuracy.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 29, 2019

Three Konstanz researchers win prestigious Human Frontiers grants

Konstanz researchers Dina Dechmann, Alex Jordan, and Ariana Strandburg-Peshkin receive HFSP grants to study seasonal brain change in shrews, coordination in animal groups, and network design inspired by plant societies. The projects aim to uncover new approaches to fundamental biology problems.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·DateMar 29, 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.

How do species adapt to their surroundings?

Researchers found that species with high adaptability tend to have longer lifespans, as they can better cope with environmental changes. The study also discovered that reversible phenotypic plasticity, where individuals can switch between different traits, is key to survival in changing environments.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 29, 2019

Doctors more likely to prescribe preventive therapy if prompted by EMR

A new study found that using an electronic dashboard linked to patients' medical records increased the prescription of preventive therapy by 18% among cardiac patients. The study suggests that education alone is not enough and that technology-assisted nudge approaches can be effective in improving prescribing rates.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalThe Joint Commission Journal on Quality and Patient Safety·DateMar 29, 2019

Illinois professor contributes to improved care for NICU babies

Researchers developed a wireless, battery-free sheath that can be laid on the skin and gently peeled off when needed. The patch gathers medical data and processes it locally to reduce information sent wirelessly. Since deployment at two hospitals, 90 babies have used the patches, validating them as a feasible alternative to current tec...

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalScience·DateMar 29, 2019

Over a million UK businesses see Brexit as major obstacle to success

A recent study found that nearly a quarter of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the UK view Brexit as a major obstacle to their success, with investment and exporting being significantly affected. SMEs are disproportionately impacted by uncertainty and have lower resilience to unexpected shocks.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalRegional Studies·DateMar 29, 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.

Omega-3 fatty acids tied to fewer childhood asthma symptoms

A six-month study of children with asthma found that higher omega-3 fatty acid intake was associated with lower odds of daytime asthma symptoms in response to indoor air pollution. Conversely, higher omega-6 intake was linked to more severe asthma and increased inflammation. The study suggests that dietary recommendations can help prot...

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateMar 29, 2019

Just add heat to open this tiny box

Scientists have created nanocubes that can form stable cubes at specific temperatures, then scramble back into individual components when heated or cooled. This self-assembly ability mimics life's chemical processes, enabling the creation of complex systems.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 29, 2019

Lumbar spine MRI reports are too difficult for patients to understand

A study found that lumbar spine MRI reports were written at a readability level significantly above the average reading ability of US adults, with only one report meeting basic education standards. The high complexity of these reports may limit patient understanding and access to their health information.

SourceAmerican Roentgen Ray Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·DateMar 29, 2019

A new model to trial preventative treatments for schizophrenia

Researchers at The University of Queensland have created a new animal model of schizophrenia that specifically targets elevated dopamine levels in the dorsal striatum. This model enables scientists to test potential therapeutics and explore the basic changes in brain circuitry that contribute to the disease.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalSchizophrenia·DateMar 29, 2019

McSteen lab finds a new gene essential for making ears of corn

A team of scientists led by Paula McSteen identified a new gene called barren stalk2 (ba2) that affects the development of axillary meristems in corn plants. The ba2 gene interacts with another gene, barren stalk1 (ba1), to regulate ear formation.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalMolecular Plant·DateMar 29, 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.

Smoking during pregnancy increases the risk that your baby will become obese

A recent study by the University of Kentucky has identified a potential cellular mechanism that connects smoking during pregnancy with an increased risk of offspring obesity later in life. The research found that expectant mothers who smoke cigarettes during pregnancy induce distinct changes in chemerin gene expression in their offspring.

SourceUniversity of Kentucky·JournalExperimental Physiology·DateMar 29, 2019

Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids may play opposite roles in childhood asthma

Research suggests that omega-3 fatty acids can modify asthma severity and response to indoor air pollution in children, while higher levels of omega-6 may exacerbate the condition. The study found a correlation between increased neutrophils in response to particulate pollution and higher levels of omega-6 in the diet.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateMar 29, 2019

UTA biologist shows new insights into chromosome evolution, venom regulation in snakes

Researchers have made significant breakthroughs in understanding snake genomes, including the evolution of venom genes, dosage compensation mechanisms, and sex determination systems. The study provides a comprehensive genomic context for these complex biological processes, offering new insights into the unique adaptations of snakes.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalGenome Research·DateMar 29, 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.

Sweeping census provides new population estimate for western chimpanzees

A new census using the IUCN A.P.E.S. database estimates that 52,800 western chimpanzees live in western Africa, primarily outside protected areas. The study highlights the need for conservation efforts to reduce habitat loss and connectivity due to development corridors.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateMar 29, 2019

MSU lands $1.8 million NIH grant to improve brain implants

Michigan State University has landed a $1.8 million National Institutes of Health R01 grant to develop new brain implants that decipher complex chemical and electrical input and output for treating Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, depression, and traumatic injuries.

SourceMichigan State University·DateMar 29, 2019

Chronic kidney disease of undetermined causes, described originally in Central America and Sri Lanka

A new study reveals that chronic kidney disease of undetermined causes (CKDu) is present in rural India, particularly in Southern areas, and shares similar risk factors as in Central America and Sri Lanka. The disease affects mainly working-age populations and has a faster clinical evolution compared to traditional CKD.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalBMJ Open·DateMar 29, 2019

Patient factors contribute to imaging follow-up rates

A new study found that patient factors, including distance from hospital, age, and health insurance status, significantly impact follow-up imaging rates. The study also showed disparities in follow-up rates among different age groups, with younger and older patients having lower completion rates.

SourceAmerican Roentgen Ray Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·DateMar 29, 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.

Origin of Scandinavian wolves clarified

A new study from Uppsala University reveals that Scandinavian wolves originated from the Nordic region or adjacent parts of Northern Europe, rather than from hybridization with dogs. Genetic analysis shows that patrilines in Scandinavian wolves are unique and not found in dogs.

SourceUppsala University·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateMar 29, 2019

Smoking and mortality in Asia

A study of over 1 million participants from China, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Taiwan, and India found that smoking was associated with 144,366 deaths during a 12-year follow-up period. Tobacco use accounted for 56.6% of lung cancer deaths and 21.1% of total deaths among men born in the 1920s.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMar 29, 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.