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Science News for March 5, 2019


Weather-responsive intersections could ease traffic congestion

Researchers at the University of Waterloo found that adjusting traffic light timing in response to weather conditions can significantly reduce intersection delays. By analyzing video data and running computer simulations, they determined that weather-responsive signal plans could ease congestion and improve safety during snowstorms.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalJournal of Traffic and Transportation Engineering·DateMar 5, 2019

Rethinking old-growth forests using lichens as an indicator of conservation value

Researchers propose using lichens to assess old-growth forest conservation value, offering a more nuanced approach to measuring biodiversity. This method, developed by Dr. Troy McMullin and Dr. Yolanda Wiersma, uses suites of lichen species associated with old-growth areas to develop an index of ecological continuity.

SourceCanadian Museum of Nature·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateMar 5, 2019

Scientists develop a tunable bio-imaging device using terahertz plasmonics

Researchers at Tokyo Institute of Technology have developed a frequency-tunable plasmonic-based THz device for non-invasive biological imaging. The new device shows improved ability to distinguish between different tissues, opening up possibilities for enhanced diagnostic imaging tools.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 5, 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.

Study shows success of measles vaccine campaigns in India

A mass measles vaccination campaign in India saved an estimated 41,000 to 56,000 children's lives between 2010 and 2013, according to a study published in eLife. The campaigns significantly reduced child mortality rates in the affected districts, with mortality rates falling by 27% compared to non-campaign states.

SourceeLife·DateMar 5, 2019

BU conducts first experimental evaluation of pharmaceutical industry-led access program

A new study by Boston University School of Public Health evaluates the Novartis Access program in Kenya, demonstrating that robust, 'gold standard' methods can be used to assess major pharmaceutical companies' access programs. The study found that the program significantly increased availability of two medicines in health facilities bu...

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalThe Lancet Global Health·DateMar 5, 2019

US-East Asia predoctoral program expands with $1.2 million grant

The USC Dornsife Korean Studies Institute has launched a new predoctoral exchange program to support young scholars working on US-East Asia relations. The initiative aims to enhance understanding of the security environment in East Asia and promote policy issues.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·DateMar 5, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Nanoparticles help realize 'spintronic' devices

Researchers have demonstrated a new way to perform functions essential to future computation at speeds trillions of times faster than current commercial devices. The team created a nanoscale spintronic semiconductor device that can partially switch between specific magnetic states in under a picosecond.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateMar 5, 2019

NREL pioneers cleaner route to upcycle plastics into superior products

Researchers at NREL discovered a way to transform discarded plastics into high-quality composite materials, exhibiting twice the strength of petroleum-based FRPs. The process reduces energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, offering a promising solution for boosting recycling efforts worldwide.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·JournalJoule·DateMar 5, 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.

Capturing bacteria that eat and breathe electricity

Researchers at Washington State University captured heat-loving bacteria that can 'eat' pollution by converting toxic pollutants into less harmful substances and generating electricity. The discovery was made possible by a cheap portable potentiostat invented by graduate student Abdelrhman Mohamed, who worked with Professor Haluk Beyenal.

SourceWashington State University·JournalJournal of Power Sources·DateMar 5, 2019

Nitric acid and ammonia electrosynthesis

Researchers at Tianjin University have developed an alternative strategy for synthesizing nitric acid and ammonia through electrochemical reactions using air and waste nitrate combined electrocatalytic process. This approach offers a more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly method compared to traditional industrial processes.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateMar 5, 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.

Discovering the next generation of catalysts

The development of a new generation of catalysts is crucial to meet the world's demand for clean energy. Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have made a breakthrough in finding better, cheaper catalysts using high-entropy alloys, which can aid the conversion of chemical substances in chemical reactions.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalJoule·DateMar 5, 2019

Molecular puzzle reveals unknown stages of fetal development

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet discovered previously unknown cellular stages of fetal development using gene analysis on individual cells from early mouse embryos. The study revealed a molecular road-map of the events that control cell differentiation, shedding new light on the early development of the embryo.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalCell Reports·DateMar 5, 2019

$23 million from NIH lets translational research institute speed new treatments

The integrated Translational Health Research Institute of Virginia has been awarded a five-year grant to advance innovative ideas from discovery to implementation. The institute brings together partners with established strengths in biomedical research, data science, and clinical trials to transform translational research.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·DateMar 5, 2019

1 in 3 students with ADHD receive no school interventions, study finds

A national study of youth with ADHD reveals that at least one in five students with ADHD receive no school services despite experiencing significant academic and social impairment. The study found that middle and high school students with ADHD were significantly less likely to receive any type of school service, despite similar or wors...

SourceLehigh University·JournalJournal of Attention Disorders·DateMar 5, 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.

Location and competition

A UC Santa Barbara study reveals that proximity to highly trafficked areas, shopping centers, and freeways leads to higher gas prices. The researchers also found that market competition can override the effect of location, with nearby gas stations influencing pricing behavior.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalAsia-Pacific Journal of Regional Science·DateMar 5, 2019

Singing for science: How the arts can help students who struggle most

A new study by Johns Hopkins University found that incorporating the arts into science lessons can help low-achieving students retain more knowledge. The study, which analyzed data from over 350 students, discovered that arts-integrated classes improved content retention by an average of 105%.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalTrends in Neuroscience and Education·DateMar 5, 2019

HIV remission achieved in second patient

A second person has experienced sustained remission from HIV-1 after ceasing treatment through a stem cell transplant. The patient remained undetectable after stopping antiretroviral therapy (ARV) and his immune cells continue to lack the CCR5 receptor, making it difficult for the virus to enter host cells.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature·DateMar 5, 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.

Computer science professor Omri Weinstein wins NSF Career Award

Omri Weinstein, assistant professor at Columbia University, has won a National Science Foundation CAREER Award to explore data structures and information retrieval. His research aims to develop new mathematical tools for proving lower bounds on data structure efficiency and scalable storage applications.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·DateMar 5, 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.

Sacrificing accuracy to see the big picture

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania propose that humans' ability to detect patterns stems from the brain's desire for simplicity. By prioritizing overall structure over individual details, people can more quickly recognize complex patterns and anticipate what comes next. The study's findings have significant implications for ...

SourceAmerican Physical Society·DateMar 5, 2019

Sleep tight! Researchers identify the beneficial role of sleep

Researchers at Bar-Ilan University identified a beneficial role of sleep in clearing out DNA damage accumulated during waking hours. Sleep increases chromosome dynamics, which helps to repair and maintain the integrity of individual neurons.

SourceBar-Ilan University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 5, 2019

New Regenstrief studies report drug focused approach insufficient to manage ICU delirium

Recent clinical trials conducted by the Regenstrief Institute found that traditional drug-focused approaches are ineffective in managing delirium in ICU patients. Implementing deprescribing strategies and exploring alternative methods, such as waking and mobilization, may be more effective in reducing delirium severity and duration.

SourceRegenstrief Institute·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateMar 5, 2019

Giving a voice to society's maintainers

Researchers Lee Vinsel and Andrew Russell aim to improve the lives of maintenance professionals through a global network and recognition. They received a $189,193 grant from the Alfred Sloan Foundation to connect leaders with maintainers in various industries.

SourceVirginia Tech·DateMar 5, 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.

Women scientists get less federal funding than men

A new study from Northwestern Medicine and the Kellogg School of Management found that women principal investigators received an average grant amount of $126,615 compared to $165,721 for men. Despite equal backgrounds, women face a significant funding disadvantage that can impact their career advancement.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJAMA·DateMar 5, 2019

Social and behavioral sciences for the intelligence community

A new report by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine highlights the importance of social and behavioral sciences in advancing intelligence analysis. The report identifies key opportunities for research to strengthen intelligence assessments and prepares the IC for evolving security threats.

SourceNational Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine·DateMar 5, 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.

Menstrual cycle phase influences cocaine craving

A new study reveals that the menstrual cycle phase may contribute to differences between men and women in cocaine seeking and vulnerability to relapse after quitting. Female rats exhibited stronger cravings for cocaine during estrus, a phase associated with ovulation, compared to non-estrus.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateMar 5, 2019

FAU receives $3 million grant for dementia prevention initiative

FAU's Dementia Prevention Initiative aims to identify novel biomarkers and peripheral predictors of disease, enabling personalized evaluation and prevention plans. The $3 million grant will enable researchers to follow patients for three years, share data with other investigators, and provide training.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·DateMar 5, 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.

Results of ABATE infection trial published

The ABATE Infection Trial found that daily antiseptic bathing with nasal ointment reduced hospital-acquired bloodstream infections by 30% in patients with central venous catheters, a high-risk group. This intervention also decreased antibiotic-resistant organisms, including MRSA and vancomycin-resistant enterococcus, in this patient po...

SourceHarvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute·JournalThe Lancet·DateMar 5, 2019

Updated dietary reference intakes for sodium and potassium

The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine updates sodium and potassium intake recommendations to reflect current evidence. The report introduces a new category for sodium based on chronic disease risk reduction and establishes updated adequate intake values.

SourceNational Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine·DateMar 5, 2019

Genetic 'usual suspects' identified in researchers' new list

Scientists at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory have created a ranked list of genes that are likely to be involved in any disease, allowing researchers to distinguish between these 'usual suspects' and those unique to specific conditions. The study's findings provide valuable context for interpreting gene activity in disease onset.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 5, 2019

Integrated therapy treating obesity and depression is effective

An integrated therapy combining behavioral weight loss treatment and problem-solving therapy with antidepressant medication improved weight loss and depressive symptoms in patients with co-occurring obesity and depression. The study showed that participants receiving integrated therapy experienced a decline in body mass index and depre...

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalJAMA·DateMar 5, 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.

Dingoes should remain a distinct species in Australia

A new study confirms dingoes are a distinct species in Australia, with specific characteristics that differentiate them from domestic dogs and other wild canids. The finding highlights the importance of preserving dingo populations for their ecological role in managing invasive predators.

SourceFlinders University·JournalZootaxa·DateMar 5, 2019

Heroin users aware of fentanyl, but at high risk of overdosing

A survey of heroin users in Baltimore found that while most recognize the presence of fentanyl, they are not adequately prepared to prevent or treat overdoses. Many users reported injecting alone and lacked access to naloxone, a lifesaving medication that can reverse overdose symptoms.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalSubstance Use & Misuse·DateMar 5, 2019

Distracted drivers 29 times more likely to wreck in a highway work zone

Researchers at the University of Missouri found that drivers who are distracted while driving in a highway work zone are 29 times more likely to be involved in a collision or near-miss. The study analyzed data from over 3,000 drivers and provides recommendations for behavioral countermeasures to reduce injuries and fatalities.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalTransportation Research Record Journal of the Transportation Research Board·DateMar 5, 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.

Attitudes about health affect how older adults engage with negative health news

A study by North Carolina State University found that older adults are more willing to engage with negative health information when they have a positive attitude towards their health. Participants who completed a checklist designed to make them feel good about their lifestyle choices read more than 50% of the negative articles, compare...

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalPsychology and Aging·DateMar 5, 2019

Spin devices rev up

Researchers from University of Tokyo discover magnetic spin Hall effect in non-collinear antiferromagnet Mn3Sn, enabling efficient spin current transfer. This could lead to high-speed and high-capacity devices with improved power efficiency.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature·DateMar 5, 2019

A new way to map cell regulatory networks

Researchers at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center have developed a new mathematical method that enables the mapping of cell regulatory networks with significantly reduced biological material. This breakthrough may lead to better treatments for autoimmune diseases like multiple sclerosis, psoriasis, and inflammatory bowel dis...

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalGenome Research·DateMar 5, 2019

New reactor-liner alloy material offers strength, resilience

A new tungsten-based alloy developed at Los Alamos National Laboratory has shown outstanding radiation resistance, retaining mechanical properties after exposure to high levels of radiation. The material's unique composition and structure have been found to be key factors in its exceptional performance.

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 5, 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.

A step closer to an HIV cure

Researchers have found no rebound of HIV in two patients who stopped taking their medication after receiving stem cell transplants, providing crucial insights into the potential mechanisms of cure. The transplanted donor cells had a gene defect that made it difficult for HIV to infect cells, offering new hope for developing a cure.

SourceUniversity of the Witwatersrand·JournalNature·DateMar 5, 2019

Tissue model reveals how RNA will act on the liver

Researchers created an engineered human liver tissue model to investigate the effects of RNA interference, a process that can block specific genes in patient's cells. The model successfully tested RNA-based therapies for genetic disorders and infectious diseases, including malaria and liver disorders.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalCell Metabolism·DateMar 5, 2019

NASA's infrared vision reveals Tropical Cyclone Haleh's power

Tropical Cyclone Haleh intensified into a hurricane-force storm with cloud top temperatures as cold as minus 63 degrees Fahrenheit, indicating strong storms with the capability to produce heavy rainfall. The storm is expected to continue weakening before becoming extra-tropical in five days.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 5, 2019

Owls against owls in a challenge for survival

A new study explores the reasons behind declining northern spotted owl populations, forecasting future habitat conditions and species interactions. Researchers suggest a two-fold approach to manage spotted owl survival: short-term barred owl removal and long-term forest preservation.

SourceEcological Society of America·JournalEcological Applications·DateMar 5, 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.

Matrix could ensure vital copper supplies

Researchers have identified a matrix of 12 risk categories that consider environmental, social, governance and mineralogical factors affecting the viability and accessibility of complex copper orebodies. The study found that 75% of undeveloped copper orebodies face environmental, social and governance challenges.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalJournal of Cleaner Production·DateMar 5, 2019

Alzheimer's treatment holds promise for primary progressive aphasia patients

Scientists at Northwestern University have discovered that an existing therapy used to treat Alzheimer's disease may also be effective for patients with Primary Progressive Aphasia (PPA), a type of dementia that destroys language. The study found that individuals with PPA exhibit the same loss of cholinergic neurons and axons in the fo...

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNeurology·DateMar 5, 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.

A silver lining like no other

New technology from the University of South Australia uses silver-loaded microneedle patches to create a 24-hour bacteria-free zone around the injection site, reducing infection risk. The dissolvable feature ensures no reuse and eliminates one of the greatest causes of infection.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalChemical Communications·DateMar 5, 2019

UM researchers study Alaska forest fires over past 450 years

Researchers reconstructed fire activity using lake-sediment records, finding extensive burning occurred after mature forests developed. They also saw increased fire activity with rising temperatures, particularly in the past 100 years.

SourceThe University of Montana·JournalLandscape Ecology·DateMar 5, 2019

Nutritional supplements cannot prevent depression, research shows

A new study published in JAMA found that nutritional supplements do not prevent depression, but lifestyle coaching to improve diet and eating behavior may reduce the risk. Participants who received a healthy dietary behavioral therapy experienced a reduction in depressive episodes when attending recommended sessions.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalJAMA·DateMar 5, 2019

Mighty mites give scrawny beetles the edge over bigger rivals

In a groundbreaking study, researchers found that smaller beetles can boost their fitness by partnering with tiny mites, which provide a 'warm jacket' effect during exercise. This mutually beneficial relationship allows smaller beetles to win more fights over resources, while larger rivals experience reduced fitness.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalEvolution Letters·DateMar 5, 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.

Scientists study neutron scattering for researching magnetic materials

Researchers from the University of Luxembourg have demonstrated a comprehensive understanding of neutron scattering techniques for analyzing magnetic materials. The study focuses on analysis techniques for superconductors, permanent magnets, shape-memory alloys, ferrofluids and other magnetic materials.

SourceUniversity of Luxembourg·JournalReviews of Modern Physics·DateMar 5, 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.

Creating more potent cancer therapy using 'theranostics'

Researchers created metallocorrole/protein nanoparticles that can both survive longer in the body and better snipe disease targets. The theranostics have huge chemotherapeutic potential, potentially shortening treatment duration and diminishing side effects for cancer patients.

SourceCity of Hope·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 5, 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.

Looks matter when it comes to success in STEM, study shows

A Rice University study reveals that students who look more racially stereotypical are more likely to persist in STEM fields, while those who do not fit the mold face higher drop-out rates. Asian students who look more like their racial group are more likely to complete a STEM degree, but black students who do so are less likely.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateMar 5, 2019

Nanotechnology and sunlight clear the way for better visibility

Researchers at ETH Zurich developed a new transparent material coating that greatly reduces fogging on eyewear, cameras, and windshields. The coating absorbs infrared sunlight and converts it into heat, preventing fogging by heating the surface up to 3-4 degrees Celsius.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNano Letters·DateMar 5, 2019

Life-threatening birth complication rate increasing across US racial, ethnic groups

A recent NIH-funded analysis of California hospital records found a significant increase in severe maternal morbidity among US women from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds. The study revealed substantial disparities in life-threatening birth complications, with non-Hispanic black women facing the highest rates.

SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·JournalAnnals of Epidemiology·DateMar 5, 2019

The secret behind maximum plant height: water!

A new study found that physiological coordination between plant height and xylem hydraulic traits is linked to habitat water availability. The researchers discovered that taller plants from wet habitats exhibit greater xylem efficiency, wider conduits, and lower sapwood density.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 5, 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.

Scaling up innovative sensor installation on the Mighty Mac

Researchers from MSU and WUSTL are rolling out the next phase of testing by installing up to 2,000 sensors to explore logistics and provide useful monitoring data. The goal is to transform bridge preservation/management economics and improve maintenance with condition-based maintenance.

SourceMichigan State University·DateMar 5, 2019

Mom-to-mom phone calls lift breastfeeding rate

An Australian study found that regular telephone support from experienced breastfeeders increased breastfeeding rates among first-time mothers by 75%, compared to 69% in the control group. The program also improved mothers' ability to cope with challenges, leading to a significant increase in exclusive breastfeeding at six months.

SourceLa Trobe University·JournalEClinicalMedicine·DateMar 5, 2019

Small brains, big picture: Study unveils C. elegans' microscopic mysteries

Researchers discovered that C. elegans neurons fire action potentials, a more digital type of signaling, rather than analog signals previously thought. This finding opens doors to improved neural mapping and insights into how complicated brains operate.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 5, 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.

Kids with cochlear implants since infancy more likely to speak, not sign

Deaf children who received cochlear implants before 12 months of age learn spoken language more rapidly and are more likely to use it as their sole means of communication. This study suggests that early cochlear implantation can have a transformative impact on language development in deaf infants.

SourceAnn & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago·JournalOtology & Neurotology·DateMar 5, 2019

Electrical signals kick off flatworm regeneration

Scientists have discovered that electrical activity is the first known step in planarian flatworm regeneration, starting before genetic machinery kicks in. This breakthrough enables cells to communicate and make decisions about their position and overall organ structure.

SourceCell Press·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateMar 5, 2019

Daily intake of nutritional supplements cannot prevent depression

The MooDFOOD project found that daily intake of nutritional supplements cannot prevent depression. A healthy dietary pattern, typified by a Mediterranean style diet high in fruit and vegetables, may reduce the risk of developing depression.

SourceEuropean Association for the Study of Obesity·JournalJAMA·DateMar 5, 2019

Scientists levitate particles with sound to find out how they cluster together

Researchers from the University of Chicago and the University of Bath used acoustic levitation to study the shape of prototypical clusters that form when particles are added one by one. They found that with six particles or more, different shapes can assemble, including parallelogram, chevron, and triangle configurations.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalNature Physics·DateMar 5, 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.

When changing one atom makes molecules better

Researchers have found a way to replace hydrogen atoms with fluorine in organic molecules, increasing their metabolic stability and potentially leading to more effective pharmaceuticals. This breakthrough could lead to the development of new treatments for various diseases.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalNature Chemistry·DateMar 5, 2019

Study finds robots can detect breast cancer as well as radiologists

A new study found that AI systems can perform as accurately as radiologists in detecting breast cancer in digital mammography screening. This breakthrough suggests that AI may be a viable alternative to current methods, which are labor-intensive and facing staff shortages.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateMar 5, 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.

A new prevention strategy for college drinking

Researchers are testing a new approach to reduce college drinking by leveraging cognitive dissonance and counter attitudinal advocacy. Heavy drinkers will share their advice with younger students, who will then be motivated to change their own behavior.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateMar 5, 2019

Grant expected to push sepsis research forward

A recent grant will allow researcher Wendy Walker to study immune cell contributions to sepsis, a life-threatening disorder with a high mortality rate. Her goal is to manipulate these cells to improve clinical outcomes and potentially cure the disease.

SourceTexas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso·DateMar 5, 2019

Study confirms and quantifies Zika-microcephaly link in Brazil

A study published in PLOS Medicine has confirmed and quantified the association between Zika virus infection during pregnancy and microcephaly in Brazil. The research found that women infected with Zika virus early in pregnancy were almost 17 times more likely to have a child with microcephaly.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateMar 5, 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.

Results of trial to stem hospital-acquired bacterial infections published

A randomized clinical trial found that daily bathing with chlorhexidine (CHG) and nasal antibiotic mupirocin significantly reduced bloodstream infections and antibiotic-resistant bacteria in patients with medical devices. However, no significant benefit was seen for the overall population.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalThe Lancet·DateMar 5, 2019