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Science News for May 14, 2019


A combination of two bacteria genera improves plants' health

Researchers from the University of Malaga have found that combining 'Bacillus subtilis' and 'Pseudomonas' bacteria can improve plant growth and health. This study reveals that these bacteria can live in harmony, increasing their positive effects when used together.

SourceUniversity of Malaga·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 14, 2019

Generating high-quality single photons for quantum computing

The new design achieves around 95% indistinguishability and three times higher efficiency than traditional cavities. It enables the production of high-quality single photons necessary for practical quantum computing, solving problems intractable for classical computers.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMay 14, 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.

Newly identified bacteria-killing protein needs vitamin A to work

A study published in Cell Host & Microbe identifies a previously unknown bacteria-killing protein RELMα that requires dietary vitamin A to work. The researchers found that mice fed a diet deficient in vitamin A made no RELMα, and those missing the protein were more susceptible to infection.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateMay 14, 2019

NEOMED receives $500,000 OhioMHAS grant

Northeast Ohio Medical University has received a $500,000 grant from the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services to collaborate with other Ohio medical schools on developing a comprehensive curriculum for pain management and opioid use disorder treatment. The project aims to improve systems of prevention and treatment f...

SourceNortheast Ohio Medical University·DateMay 14, 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.

Progress against child mortality lags in many Indian states

Despite great progress in reducing under-five mortality rates, India still has a long way to go to meet the UN MDG target of 39 deaths per 1,000 live births. Infectious diseases such as pneumonia and meningitis account for a significant proportion of child deaths.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalThe Lancet Global Health·DateMay 14, 2019

Postpartum depression: For impoverished mothers of color, it takes a community

A University at Buffalo researcher emphasizes the importance of considering community realities and resources in treating postpartum depression among low-income mothers of color. The study's findings highlight the need for social workers to advocate for expanded services, including childcare, transportation, and access to healthcare.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalFamilies in Society The Journal of Contemporary Social Services·DateMay 14, 2019

High-tech pets designed to care for seniors

Researchers at the University of Cincinnati have created a lifelike robotic dog that can provide care in addition to companionship for older adults. The new prototype offers features such as fall detection, connectedness to caregivers and loved ones, vital sign monitoring, and helpful reminders.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateMay 14, 2019

Electrode's 'hot edges' convert CO2 gas into fuels and chemicals

A team of scientists has created a bowl-shaped electrode that efficiently converts CO2 from gas into carbon-based fuels and chemicals. The innovative design addresses two major obstacles in the conversion process, achieving higher conversion efficiency and sensitive detection of molecules.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry A·DateMay 14, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New research identifies patterns of tree distribution in African savannas

A new study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences reveals that tree distributions in African savannas follow distinct patterns, regardless of environmental factors. The research used LiDAR data to identify power law distributions that capture significant statistical correlations at large scales.

SourceArizona State University, Center for Global Discovery and Conservation Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 14, 2019

May/June 2019 Annals of Family Medicine tip sheet

A study found that 623,000 US parents with opioid use disorder live with children under 18, with few receiving treatment. Meanwhile, healthcare accounts for between 5-15% of premature death variation, with behavioral factors driving more mortality variation.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateMay 14, 2019

Conquering cancer's infamous KRAS mutation

Scientists have identified a promising compound, PHT-7.3, that shrinks KRAS-driven tumors in mice by targeting the protein's partner, Cnksr1. The study provides a potential treatment for KRAS-positive cancers, which currently have no effective therapy.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalCancer Research·DateMay 14, 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.

Native forest plants rebound when invasive shrubs are removed

Researchers found that removing invasive shrubs restores native understory plant growth, with an unexpected ability and vigor to recolonize open spots. Native plants can thrive in areas previously occupied by invasive species, taking over with minimal additional effort.

SourcePenn State·JournalInvasive Plant Science and Management·DateMay 14, 2019

Accelerating quantum technologies with materials processing at the atomic scale

Scientists create precise nitrogen-vacancy colour centres in diamonds using a new method, enabling the production of arrays of single NV centres with exactly one colour centre at each site. This facilitates the engineering of integrated devices and paves the way for the delivery of compact and robust quantum technologies.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalOptica·DateMay 14, 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.

Symbionts as lifesavers

A recent study has found that endosymbionts in amoebae significantly influence the proliferation and spread of Legionella pneumophila. The researchers discovered that these bacteria weaken the infectivity of Legionella by competing for nutrients, ultimately leading to slower multiplication and reduced virulence.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalmBio·DateMay 14, 2019

Novel study discovers 'metabolic fingerprint' to help treat, diagnose and prevent cervical cancer

Researchers at the University of Arizona have discovered a 'metabolic fingerprint' that distinguishes patients with cervical cancer from healthy women. The study identified three compounds that distinguish cervical cancer patients from healthy women, showing promise for future diagnostics, interventions or therapies.

SourceUniversity of Arizona Health Sciences·JournalEBioMedicine·DateMay 14, 2019

New theory of dissemination and implementation shifts direction of practice change

A new theory in dissemination and implementation science empowers primary care practices to discover and enact their own wisdom, shifting the source of change from outside-in to inside-out. The authors highlight three pioneer practices that developed innovative business models and clinical care approaches, achieving success without dis...

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateMay 14, 2019

Women's leadership potential for top jobs overlooked in favor of men

A recent study by University of Kent researchers found that women are consistently ranked lower than men when considering leadership roles. The study suggests that women must demonstrate high performance to be considered for senior positions, while men are given preference due to their perceived potential.

SourceUniversity of Kent·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateMay 14, 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.

Does health care help us live longer?

Estimates suggest health care accounts for between 5% and 15% of the variation in premature death, while behavioral and social factors account for a much higher percentage. Health experts advocate for a diversified portfolio of national investments to generate a higher health yield.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateMay 14, 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.

What happens when your picky eater becomes a teenager?

Research found that persistent picky eaters at age 3 had similar dietary differences by age 10, but these reduced by age 13. The diets of all children, including non-picky eaters, showed low fruit and vegetable intake, despite efforts to encourage healthy eating habits.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNutrients·DateMay 14, 2019

Transplanted cells reveal early signs of type 1 diabetes

Transplanting islets of Langerhans into mice reveals early autoimmune markers of type 1 diabetes, allowing for intervention before beta cell destruction. The study's findings offer hope for developing new drugs and clinical transplantation strategies to prevent damage.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalDiabetologia·DateMay 14, 2019

New method enables 'photographing' of enzymes

Scientists at the University of Bonn have developed a new method to study enzymes in action, allowing for the measurement of spatial positions and conformational changes. This breakthrough enables better understanding of biomolecules and potential insights into enzyme disorders.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalChemistry - A European Journal·DateMay 14, 2019

Inappropriate prescribing can lead to adverse outcomes

A meta-analysis found that inappropriate prescribing in primary care is associated with emergency room visits, adverse drug events, and functional decline. The study highlights the need for effective interventions to address this issue and its impact on older adults' quality of life.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateMay 14, 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.

Scientists develop ultrasensitive organic phototransistors based on novel hybrid-layered architecture

Researchers create high-performance organic phototransistors using a novel hybrid-layered architecture that combines charge-trapping effect and efficient carrier transport, enabling enhanced photodetection performance. The devices show excellent flexibility and reliability in photosensitive imaging systems.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateMay 14, 2019

Brain changes linked with Alzheimer's years before symptoms appear

Scientists at Johns Hopkins Medicine identified average brain changes linked to Alzheimer's disease that occur 3-10 years before symptoms appear. Researchers found subtle cognitive test score changes and protein increases in cerebrospinal fluid an average of 34.4 years before cognitive impairment onset.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalFrontiers in Aging Neuroscience·DateMay 14, 2019

Unexplored neural circuit modulates memory strength

A new study reveals that a previously unknown neural circuit, PPL2, plays a crucial role in regulating the strength of memories in fruit flies. The researchers found that activating this circuit can strengthen or weaken memories, depending on the context.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalCell Reports·DateMay 14, 2019

How potatoes could become sun worshippers

Researchers at FAU have discovered a small RNA that prevents potato tuber formation at high temperatures. They created heat-resistant potato plants by deactivating this RNA, which can withstand temperatures above 29 degrees during the day or night. This breakthrough offers hope for securing crop yields in the face of climate change.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMay 14, 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.

Novel scale correlates children's snacking behaviors with external food cues

A new scale has been created to assess preschool-age children's behavior towards external food cues, such as marketing and social influence. The scale shows a positive association with overeating behaviors, highlighting the importance of understanding how young children's environment impacts their eating habits.

SourceDartmouth Health·JournalAppetite·DateMay 14, 2019

A step towards probabilistic computing

Scientists at the University of Konstanz have demonstrated how skyrmions can be used for probability-based computing. They successfully developed a material where skyrmions can form and exploited thermal diffusion to create a reshuffler, a crucial component for probabilistic computing.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateMay 14, 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.

How proteins help influenza A bind and slice its way to cells

Researchers have gained insight into how influenza A virus particles utilize the balance between HA and NA proteins to penetrate host mucus barriers. The proteins are organized asymmetrically, enabling persistent directional motion that allows the virus to effectively overcome its first line of defense.

SourceeLife·DateMay 14, 2019

Digital quantum simulators can be astonishingly robust

Researchers have shown that digital quantum simulations can be more robust and stable than previously assumed. By considering only relevant system values, a sharp threshold is reached where the Trotter error has limited impact, allowing for longer simulations of larger systems.

SourceHeidelberg University·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 14, 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.

Taming defective porous materials for robust and selective heterogeneous catalysis

Researchers at the University of the Basque Country have developed a new method for producing 1-butene via ethylene dimerization using metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) without activators or solvents. The catalysts exhibit high selectivity and stability, making them a promising alternative to traditional homogeneous catalysis.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 14, 2019

Tooth fossils fill 6-million-year-old gap in primate evolution

A new monkey species, Alophia, has been discovered in Africa at 22 million years old, bridging the 6-million-year gap in primate evolution. The discovery sheds light on the evolution of Old World monkeys and their dietary changes over time.

SourceUniversity of Nevada, Las Vegas·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 14, 2019

How Nigerian music can help you choose a ripe watermelon

Researchers found a surprising similarity between Nigerian drum sounds and the tapping of ripe watermelons. The team used pitch-pattern analysis to measure internal ripeness and quality, achieving an 60% level of efficiency. This innovative method utilizes traditional music elements to aid in everyday decision-making.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateMay 14, 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.

How stressed-out bacteria may trigger autoimmune response

A study published in mSystems found that stress caused changes in intestinal bacteria that stimulated immune cells, increasing the likelihood of an autoimmune attack. The researchers also identified specific bacterial species and genes associated with autoimmunity.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmSystems·DateMay 14, 2019

Online intervention reduces mothers' intentions to visit doctor for respiratory tract infection

An online intervention with real-time information on locally circulating viruses reduced mothers' intentions to visit the doctor for a respiratory tract infection. Participants in the intervention group had lower intentions than those in the control group, according to the study published in The Annals of Family Medicine.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateMay 14, 2019

A new sensor for light, heat and touch

Researchers at Linköping University developed a sensor that combines pyroelectric and thermoelectric effects with nano-optical phenomena, enabling rapid and stable detection of temperature variations from warm objects or sunlight. The sensor is also pressure-sensitive and can distinguish between different materials.

SourceLinköping University·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateMay 14, 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.

Solvent additive-free ternary polymer solar cells with 16.27% efficiency

Researchers from Fujun Zhang's group have reported ternary polymer solar cells with 16.27% efficiency, surpassing binary systems without solvent additives. The addition of a third component enhances photon harvesting and optimizes exciton distribution, paving the way for industrialization of organic photovoltaics.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience Bulletin·DateMay 14, 2019

A nerve cell serves as a 'single' for studies

Scientists at the University of Bonn and Amsterdam created a novel human nerve cell model consisting of a single nerve cell from pluripotent stem cells, providing highly standardized conditions for investigating nerve cell functions. The model was tested with various stimulation experiments and demonstrated highly reproducible data.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalCell Reports·DateMay 14, 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.

A new way to wind the development clock of cardiac muscle cells

Researchers at University of Wisconsin-Madison find pIC accelerates cellular maturation, leading to more mature and functional cardiac muscle cells. The compound activates epigenetic changes, including increased expression of the JAG1 gene, resulting in improved contractility and electrical efficiency.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalStem Cells Translational Medicine·DateMay 14, 2019

New study boosts understanding of how ocean melts Antarctic Ice Sheet

Scientists have developed a novel mission to collect year-round measurements of the ocean near Antarctica, revealing that deep water driving melting at the Totten Glacier is warmer and thicker in winter than summer. The study suggests the glacier might melt more rapidly in winter, with potential implications for future sea level rise.

SourceUniversity of Tasmania·DateMay 14, 2019

NIAAA honors Dr. Geoffrey K. Mumford with Senator Harold Hughes Award

Dr. Geoffrey K. Mumford received the Senator Harold Hughes Memorial Award for his work in promoting evidence-based findings and improving prevention and treatment of alcohol use disorders. His efforts have bridged communities across the field, fostering a stronger connection between research and policy.

SourceNIH/National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism·DateMay 14, 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.

NASA finds tropical cyclone Ann over the great barrier reef

Tropical Cyclone Ann is moving over the Great Barrier Reef in the Coral Sea, bringing strong winds and heavy rainfall to northeast Queensland. The Australian Bureau of Meteorology has issued severe weather warnings for areas including Peninsula, North Tropical Coast and Tablelands, Herbert and Lower Burdekin Forecast Districts.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMay 14, 2019

Producing food whilst preserving biodiversity

Researchers at the University of Göttingen advocate coordinated approaches that combine nature conservation and agricultural production in sustainably managed landscapes. This approach enables the highest species diversity, promotes ecosystem services such as pollination and biological pest control, and benefits people.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalPeople and Nature·DateMay 14, 2019

Preschoolers who watch TV sleep less

A study published in Sleep Health found that preschoolers who watch TV sleep significantly less than those who don't. The research suggests that TV use affects the quality and duration of sleep, and even stimulates or violent adult programming can interfere with children's ability to fall asleep.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·DateMay 14, 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.

How the sun pumps out water from Mars into space

Numerical modeling explains the escape of hydrogen atoms from Martian atmosphere into outer space due to water photodissociation. Seasonal winds and dust storms affect water circulation, but not in an obvious way.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateMay 14, 2019

Is a broadly effective dengue vaccine even possible?

A broadly effective dengue vaccine is still a substantial challenge due to the disease's complexity. However, experts suggest that rethinking existing concepts and developing live attenuated vaccines could lead to more effective solutions.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalViral Immunology·DateMay 14, 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.

Relay station in the brain controls our movements

Researchers have identified two cell populations in the substantia nigra that control distinct phases of locomotion. The study reveals a critical role for these populations in maintaining correct movement, and their dysfunction may contribute to Parkinson's disease symptoms.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalCell Reports·DateMay 14, 2019

Pelvic exercises may beat bedroom blues

A study by James Cook University found that pelvic floor exercises can effectively manage erectile dysfunction (ED) and premature ejaculation (PE) in men, with cure rates as high as 47% for ED and 83% for PE. Physiotherapists recommend non-invasive exercises to build strength and control.

SourceJames Cook University·JournalPhysiotherapy·DateMay 14, 2019

Small, hardy planets most likely to survive death of their stars

Astrophysicists from the University of Warwick have modelled the chances of different planets being destroyed by tidal forces when their host stars become white dwarfs. Small, hardy planets packed with dense elements are most likely to survive and reside just outside of the destruction radius.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateMay 14, 2019

Early in vitro testing for adverse effects on embryos

Scientists have developed a new test to examine a drug's embryotoxicity in cell cultures instead of animals. The test uses human liver tissue and embryoid bodies, allowing for early detection of substances harmful to embryos.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalAdvanced Science·DateMay 14, 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.

Smoking risk in children has fallen since tobacco display ban

A University of Stirling study found that the UK's tobacco display ban has reduced smoking susceptibility among 11-16 year olds, making cigarettes seem unappealing and unacceptable. The ban also led to a decrease in cigarette brand awareness, with 90% of young never smokers supporting the policy.

SourceUniversity of Stirling·JournalTobacco Control·DateMay 14, 2019

Serious adverse outcomes from respiratory tract infection are rare but predictable

Researchers from the University of Southampton analyzed predictors of severe outcomes in uncomplicated lower respiratory tract infections. The study found that certain patient characteristics and factors can increase the risk of severe illness, highlighting the importance of early detection and treatment.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateMay 14, 2019

Study: Treats might mask animal intelligence

A new Johns Hopkins University study found that rewards can improve learning incrementally but mask the true knowledge animals have attained. The researchers trained mice, rats, and ferrets on various tasks with and without rewards, revealing a distinction between knowledge and performance.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 14, 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.

Coffee addicts really do wake up and smell the coffee

Researchers at the University of Portsmouth found habitual coffee drinkers are faster and more sensitive to coffee aromas compared to non-coffee drinkers. The more they crave coffee, the better their ability to detect its scent.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalExperimental and Clinical Psychopharmacology·DateMay 14, 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.

Five rules to tackle antibiotic resistance

A leading scientist proposes five rules to tackle antibiotic resistance, including protecting new drugs and using diverse antimicrobials. The World Health Organisation warns of a post-antibiotic era, and the study aims to provide a roadmap for integrated microbial management.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalEvolutionary Applications·DateMay 14, 2019

Dead zones in circadian clocks

Researchers from Kanazawa University discovered that saturation of transcription or translation generates a dead zone in the circadian clock system, enabling it to remain insensitive to light signals during daytime. This finding highlights the fundamental properties of circadian clocks determined at the single-cell level.

SourceKanazawa University·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateMay 14, 2019

Being wise is good for your health -- review looks at emerging science of wisdom

A review in the Harvard Review of Psychiatry suggests that wisdom is a complex concept that contributes to mental health and happiness. The authors propose that wisdom can be defined as a complex human trait with several specific components, including social decision making, emotion regulation, and self-reflection.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalHarvard Review of Psychiatry·DateMay 14, 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.

New tool measures primary care as a whole

A new measure of primary care evaluates vital functions through patient and clinician perspectives, reducing measurement burden. The Person-Centered Primary Care Measure assesses 11 domains, including accessibility, continuity, and goal-oriented care.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateMay 14, 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.

It's in the weeds: Herbicide linked to human liver disease

A recent study published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology found a significant association between glyphosate exposure and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in human subjects. The study, led by Paul J. Mills, PhD, examined urine samples from patients with NAFLD and healthy individuals, revealing higher levels of glypho...

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalClinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology·DateMay 14, 2019

Children in Quebec are not diagnosed early enough with type 1 diabetes

A new study reveals that over 25% of Quebec children diagnosed with type 1 diabetes already have diabetic ketoacidosis, a life-threatening complication. The number of cases has increased by two percent per year since 2001, highlighting the need for awareness campaigns and earlier diagnosis.

SourceMcGill University Health Centre·JournalCMAJ Open·DateMay 14, 2019

SUTD researchers demystify centralization in cryptocurrency mining

Researchers from Singapore University of Technology and Design uncovered a negative feedback loop in terms of decentralization in public blockchain philosophy. The findings indicate that incentives for miners to merge and act as single entities contribute to centralization, revealing a need for further research.

SourceSingapore University of Technology and Design·DateMay 14, 2019

Colonial policies can result in economic growth

A new study found that areas near historical Dutch sugar factories in 19th century Java are more developed today, with higher per-capita consumption and better schooling. The research suggests that the creation of a colonial manufacturing industry led to a more modern economy, with places near factories having more public infrastructure.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalThe Review of Economic Studies·DateMay 14, 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 the snail's shell got its coil

Researchers have identified a single gene, Lsdia1, responsible for snail shell coiling in a species of freshwater snail. The study reveals that this gene controls left-right asymmetry from the earliest stages of development.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalDevelopment·DateMay 14, 2019

Healthy habits could avoid 27% of cancer cases in Brazil

A new study estimates that lifestyle risk factors, such as smoking and unhealthy diet, account for 114,497 annual cancer cases in Brazil, representing 27% of all cancer cases. Eliminating these risk factors could halve the number of certain types of cancer cases, according to Brazilian researchers.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalCancer Epidemiology·DateMay 14, 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.

New Argonne coating could have big implications for lithium batteries

Scientists at Argonne National Laboratory have developed a new cathode coating that provides extra layer of protection for battery cathodes while maintaining electrical and ionical conductivity. The coating also prevents oxygen release and promotes structural stability, leading to potential energy output increases and longer lifetimes.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature Energy·DateMay 14, 2019

In rural areas, buprenorphine is provided by primary care clinicians

A recent study reveals that buprenorphine prescribers in nonmetropolitan areas predominantly come from primary care backgrounds. These physicians tend to have more flexible practice settings and accept Medicaid, differing from specialists who dominate large metropolitan areas.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateMay 14, 2019

Impact of CO2 leakage through North Sea wells

Researchers investigated CO2 leakage through North Sea wells and found that it has detrimental effects on organisms living at the seabed. However, strong bottom currents disperse the dissolved CO2 quickly, limiting its impact.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel (GEOMAR)·JournalInternational Journal of Greenhouse Gas Control·DateMay 14, 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.

How much language are unborn children exposed to in the womb?

Researchers at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign found a wide difference in language exposure among fetuses, ranging from five hours to two hours and 45 minutes. This study aims to inform best practices for NICU care and understand the impact on early brain development.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateMay 14, 2019

IL-1 inhibitors may reduce radiation-induced vascular damage

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have found that IL-1 inhibitors can reduce chronic inflammation in blood vessels exposed to radiation, which is linked to increased risk of cardiovascular disease. The study used an animal model and gene expression analysis to support the potential treatment.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateMay 14, 2019

Learning more about opioid prescribing in primary care

A new study found that chronic opioid prescribing in primary care is associated with patient demographics, comorbidities, and clinician perspectives on pain management. Patients with higher comorbidities were more likely to receive chronic opioid prescriptions and at higher doses.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateMay 14, 2019

For-profit dialysis provider charges private insurers 4 times more than government payers

A new study has found that for-profit dialysis providers are charging private insurers up to four times more than government payers for the same treatment. DaVita alone controls 37% of the U.S. market and operates over 2,500 clinics, with annual financial statements revealing significantly higher prices paid by private insurers.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateMay 14, 2019

New doctors' DNA ages six times faster than normal in first year

A new study reveals that medical residents experience accelerated telomere shortening, a marker of aging and disease risk, due to prolonged work hours. The research suggests that reducing stress through better work-life balance could help mitigate this effect.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateMay 14, 2019

Philadelphia's sweetened drink sales drop 38% after beverage tax

A recent study by Penn Medicine researchers found that Philadelphia's beverage tax led to a 38% drop in sales of sugary drinks, with nearly 1 billion fewer ounces consumed. The tax also generated revenue for education programs, supporting universal pre-K and community schools.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJAMA·DateMay 14, 2019

'Reporter islets' in the eye may predict autoimmunity in type 1 diabetes

Researchers have discovered that transplanted islets in the anterior chamber of the eye exhibit early signs of inflammation before type 1 diabetes symptoms appear, suggesting a potential biomarker for predicting disease development. Early intervention with immunosuppressive treatments may halt disease progression, and future studies ai...

SourceDiabetes Research Institute Foundation·JournalDiabetologia·DateMay 14, 2019

Reading the dark heart of chromosomes

Researchers use cutting-edge sequencing technology and microscopy to discover the sequences of all centromeres in the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster. They found that centromeres contain a high number of transposable elements, including retroelements, which may play a role in centromere function across species.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMay 14, 2019

Illinois research team introduces wearable audio dataset

Researchers have introduced a new wearable audio dataset with up to 80 microphones, which can simulate different hearing scenarios and improve the performance of devices like smart headphones. The data set is now available for free under an open-access license, making it easier for future researchers to access and build upon.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·DateMay 14, 2019

Early term infants less likely to breastfeed

A new study published in Breastfeeding Medicine found that early term infants (born at 37-38 weeks) are less likely to breastfeed within the first hour and at one month after birth. This is due to their neurologic immaturity, which can make breastfeeding more difficult.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalBreastfeeding Medicine·DateMay 14, 2019