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Science News for February 6, 2012


Odds of living a very long life lower than formerly predicted

Research by Leonid Gavrilov and Natalia Gavrilova reveals that mortality rates do not flatten out above age 80, contrary to previous assumptions. The study uses accurate data from the Social Security Administration Death Master File to correct misunderstandings about the mortality rate of oldest citizens.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalNorth American Actuarial Journal·DateFeb 6, 2012

Working memory and the brain

Researchers found that visual working memory follows a more general pattern of brain activity than previously thought, activating a wider area in the front of the brain for all types of visual stimuli. This study provides support for current models of memory as being located in distributed networks rather than specific brain modules.

SourceAmerican Physiological Society·JournalJournal of Neurophysiology·DateFeb 6, 2012
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Invasive alien predator causes rapid declines of European ladybirds

A new study shows that the arrival of the Harlequin ladybird has led to a rapid decline in historically-widespread species of ladybird in Britain, Belgium, and Switzerland. The research found that five out of eight studied species declined substantially since the Harlequin's arrival.

SourceUK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology·JournalDiversity and Distributions·DateFeb 6, 2012

Fossil cricket reveals Jurassic love song

A fossilized bushcricket from the Jurassic period has revealed a new species' musical call, shedding light on the acoustic environment and potential auditory capacity of other animals. The song was reconstructed using biomechanical principles and is believed to have been used for long-distance communication.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 6, 2012

Grading the online dating industry

A new scientific report concludes that online dating offers some benefits but falls short of its potential. The authors suggest that existing matching algorithms neglect crucial factors in predicting long-term relationship well-being, leading to limited effectiveness.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science in the Public Interest·DateFeb 6, 2012
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.

Online dating research shows cupid's arrow is turning digital

A new analysis of research on online dating reveals its growing popularity and convenience, but warns of pitfalls such as unrealistic expectations and a 'shopping' mentality. The study found that online dating has become the second-most-common way for couples to meet, behind only meeting through friends.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalPsychological Science in the Public Interest·DateFeb 6, 2012

Teen school drop-outs 3 times as likely to be on benefits in later life

A study of nearly 9,000 Norwegian teenagers found that school drop-outs were three times more likely to receive benefits than their peers who completed their education. The findings suggest a strong link between poor health and higher rates of social exclusion in young adulthood.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·DateFeb 6, 2012

New virtual tool may provide more accurate diagnosis of genetic mutations

A new web-based application, Pyromaker, has been developed to accurately identify complex genetic mutations. The tool uses simulated pyrograms to generate a virtual trace of the expected signal, allowing for clearer interpretation of ambiguous results from current testing methods.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Molecular Diagnostics·DateFeb 6, 2012

Penn researchers uncover a mechanism to explain dune field patterns

Researchers at University of Pennsylvania uncover unifying mechanism to explain dune patterns in White Sands National Monument, revealing how wind interacts with dunes and impacts vegetation growth. The findings may hold implications for understanding tipping points in dune landscapes under climate change.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalNature Geoscience·DateFeb 6, 2012
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.

3 'targeted' cancer drugs raise risk of fatal side effects

A new analysis found that targeted cancer drugs increase the risk of fatal side effects, including bleeding and heart attacks. The study recommends caution when using these drugs in patients at high risk for complications.

SourceDana-Farber Cancer Institute·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateFeb 6, 2012

Gene mutation discovery sparks hope for effective endometriosis screening

Researchers at Yale University have discovered a new gene mutation that provides hope for new screening methods to identify women at risk of developing endometriosis. The study found that 31% of women with endometriosis carried the mutation, compared to 5.8% of the general population.

SourceYale University·JournalEMBO Molecular Medicine·DateFeb 6, 2012

JCI online early table of contents: Feb. 6, 2012

Research by Sheila Collins and colleagues found that cardiac natriuretic peptides cause white fat cells to take on characteristics of brown fat cells, increasing energy usage. In another study, Anne Müller's team identified a cellular mechanism by which Helicobacter pylori protects against asthma by modulating immune cells.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateFeb 6, 2012

Geometry, not gender

A recent study published in the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery found that women and some men with non-contact ACL injuries share a common geometry on their knee joints, which may explain why women are at greater risk for ACL injuries. The study suggests that this geometry, characterized by a shorter and more rounded tibial plateau, ...

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateFeb 6, 2012

How autoreactive T cells slip through the cracks

Researchers found that autoreactive T cells from patients with multiple sclerosis and type 1 diabetes bound their targets more weakly than helpful T cells. These autoaggressive T cells may slip through safety screens by failing to notice their targets, suggesting a new mechanism for autoimmune disease progression.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateFeb 6, 2012
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Behavioral prevention model appears to reduce bullying, peer rejection

A widely used behavioral prevention model in schools appears to reduce bullying and peer rejection. The School-wide Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (SWPBIS) model promotes positive changes in staff and student behaviors, reducing the likelihood of engaging in bullying behavior.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateFeb 6, 2012

Nanorod-assembled order affects diffusion rate and direction

Researchers used 3D computer simulations to study the diffusional behavior of nanoparticles on surfaces. They found that ordered nanorods can facilitate faster diffusion than disordered ones, with channels between rods enabling particles to speed through.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry B·DateFeb 6, 2012

Metabolic 'breathalyzer' reveals early signs of disease

A new metabolic 'breathalyzer' technology can detect early signs of disease by analyzing changes in glucose metabolism, offering a potential breakthrough in disease diagnosis. The method uses isotopic signatures of carbon-containing metabolic byproducts to distinguish between healthy and diseased states.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalMetabolism·DateFeb 6, 2012
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.

East views the world differently to West

A recent study finds that Easterners process visual information holistically, taking context and situation into account, whereas Westerners focus on key features. This difference affects face recognition, leading to varying levels of eye contact, and has implications for smooth cross-cultural interactions.

SourceEconomic & Social Research Council·DateFeb 6, 2012

What drives public opinion on climate change?

A new study published in Climatic Change identifies political mobilization by elites and advocacy groups as the driving factor behind public opinion on climate change. The research found that information-based science advocacy has a minimal effect on public concern, while elite cues and economic factors play a crucial role.

SourceSpringer·JournalClimatic Change·DateFeb 6, 2012

Revised criteria could reclassify many with mild Alzheimer dementia

According to a study published in Archives of Neurology, revised criteria for mild cognitive impairment (MCI) may reclassify patients with very mild or mild Alzheimer's disease dementia. The new guidelines allow for more flexibility in defining functional independence, potentially affecting diagnostic approaches and treatment options.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Neurology·DateFeb 6, 2012

Redder ladybirds more deadly, say scientists

Research by the Universities of Exeter and Liverpool reveals that redder ladybirds are more poisonous than their paler peers, with better-fed individuals producing stronger warning signals and toxic chemicals. This variation in coloration is linked to diet in early life, making redder ladybirds less likely to be eaten by predators.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalFunctional Ecology·DateFeb 6, 2012
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.

Smallest tools could give biggest results in bone repair

Researchers have developed modular growth factors that can stimulate bone and blood vessel growth in sheep, showing promise for treating orthopedic injuries and defects. The approach uses flexible proteins to activate specific signaling pathways, reducing the risk of unwanted side effects like cancer.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·DateFeb 6, 2012

Sharp images from the living mouse brain

Researchers at Max Planck Institute have recorded detailed live images inside the brain of a living mouse using STED microscopy, making minute structures visible for the first time. This breakthrough could help decipher fundamental processes in the brain and shed light on illnesses caused by synapse malfunction.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience·DateFeb 6, 2012
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.

Group schema therapy for borderline personality disorder

Recent studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of group schema therapy in treating borderline personality disorder, with a 94% recovery rate over an 8-month period. The approach combines theoretical, conceptual, and practical information, including therapist tips and patient workbook materials.

SourceInternational Society of Schema Therapy·DateFeb 6, 2012

Do patients pay when they leave against medical advice?

A study found that patients leaving hospitals against medical advice do not have to pay the full cost of their stay, as insurance companies typically cover the expenses. However, many physicians and some consent forms incorrectly inform patients that they may be held financially responsible if they leave AMA.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateFeb 6, 2012
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.

Tasting fructose with the pancreas

Researchers at Sanford-Burnham Medical Research Institute discovered that beta cells in the pancreas use taste receptors to sense fructose, a type of sugar. This finding suggests that fructose plays a role in insulin release, amplifying the effect of glucose and potentially impacting metabolic diseases like obesity and diabetes.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 6, 2012

Smoking associated with more rapid cognitive decline in men

A recent study published by Archives of General Psychiatry found a strong association between smoking and more rapid cognitive decline in men. The study analyzed data from over 5,000 men and women in the Whitehall II cohort study, revealing that continued smoking was linked to greater cognitive decline.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of General Psychiatry·DateFeb 6, 2012

Cleveland Clinic, Case Western Reserve University form research consortium

The Cleveland Traumatic Neuromechanics Consortium (TNC) will investigate and develop better protection and treatment strategies for head, neck and spinal injuries. The center will combine engineering and clinical expertise from both institutions to make a significant positive difference in people's lives.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·DateFeb 6, 2012

PET techniques provide more accurate diagnosis, prognosis in challenging breast cancer cases

Researchers use molecular imaging to improve diagnosis and treatment decisions for estrogen-receptor positive breast cancer patients, detecting bone metastases and predicting therapy response. PET imaging with 18F-FES and 18F-FDG improves diagnostic information and prompts changes in treatment for 88% and 48% of subjects respectively.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateFeb 6, 2012

Survey of elementary school student access to food in vending machines, snack bars, other venues

A survey of US elementary school students found that about half have access to competitive food venues like vending machines and snack bars, where sugary foods are commonly sold. However, healthier options like salads and fruits were less accessible, with many schools prioritizing lower-fat products over whole grains and low-fat dairy.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateFeb 6, 2012
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.

The right recipe: Engineering research improves laser detectors, batteries

A Kansas State University researcher has developed a new method to create ceramic carbon nanotube material, which improves laser detector performance. The material also addresses four key areas for improving rechargeable batteries: capacity, life, recharging speed, and power output.

SourceKansas State University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateFeb 6, 2012

Whole-genome sequencing of 2011 E. coli outbreaks in Europe provides new insight

Researchers used whole-genome sequencing to analyze E. coli bacteria from outbreaks in Germany and France, discovering small differences among strains. The study found that the German isolates were nearly identical, while French strains showed greater diversity, suggesting a bottleneck or uneven seed distribution.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 6, 2012

Positive parenting during early childhood may prevent obesity

A new study found that children who received family intervention during early childhood had significantly lower rates of obesity compared to those in the control group. The intervention, ParentCorps, helped parents develop more effective discipline strategies and increase positive interactions with their children.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateFeb 6, 2012

Scientists make strides toward fixing infant hearts

Researchers at Rice University and Texas Children's Hospital have successfully derived vessel-forming stem cells from amniotic fluid, offering hope for repairing infant hearts. The breakthrough could lead to growing tissue patches using the infant's own cells, potentially replacing defective tissue with beating heart tissue.

SourceRice University·JournalTissue Engineering Part A·DateFeb 6, 2012
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.

Combined asthma medication therapy shown to reduce attacks

Researchers found that using LABAs in combination with ICS reduces asthma attacks as well as or better than corticosteroids alone. The study showed the greatest benefits to African-American patients, males, and those with moderate to severe asthma.

SourceHenry Ford Health·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateFeb 6, 2012

Navy to begin tests on electromagnetic railgun prototype launcher

The Navy is testing an electromagnetic railgun prototype launcher, a long-range weapon that can fire projectiles at speeds of up to 5,600 mph. The technology has the potential to provide Sailors with multi-mission capability for tasks such as naval surface fire support and cruise missile defense.

SourceOffice of Naval Research·DateFeb 6, 2012

Spinning sessions trigger the same biochemical indications as heart attacks

A short spinning session can increase cardiac biomarkers, similar to a heart attack, but levels return to normal within 24 hours. Researchers hope to raise awareness among emergency treatment teams about the need for accurate assessment in patients with chest pains after exercise.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalScandinavian Cardiovascular Journal·DateFeb 6, 2012

CIHR invests in Queen's-led study on end-of-life decision making

A multi-center study, DECIDE, aims to improve end-of-life decision making amongst hospital-based physicians and nurses. The study will assess processes for improving communication and explore staff views on fulfilling care goals with seriously ill patients and their families.

SourceQueen's University·DateFeb 6, 2012
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.

School closures slow spread of pH1N1

A McMaster University study finds that closing schools can significantly reduce the spread of pH1N1, with a 50% reduction in transmission observed. The research used high-quality data from Alberta to demonstrate the effectiveness of school closures as a control measure during pandemic outbreaks.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateFeb 6, 2012

NASA watches a Gulf Weather system for unusual subtropical development

A low-pressure area in the Gulf called System 90L is being watched for possible development into a subtropical depression, although chances are now considered slim. The system is expected to bring widespread heavy rainfall and gusty winds to northern Cuba, the Florida Keys, and south Florida.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateFeb 6, 2012

The heart can make 'bad' fat burn calories

Researchers discovered that cardiac natriuretic peptides can convert white fat cells into brown fat cells in mice and humans, increasing energy usage and potentially aiding in weight loss. The study suggests a new approach to combating the obesity epidemic.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateFeb 6, 2012
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.

Embargoed news for Annals of Internal Medicine

The American College of Physicians recommends metformin as the initial drug treatment for most patients with type 2 diabetes who have failed lifestyle modifications. Additionally, a study found that women are more likely to experience complications after implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) placement compared to men. Meanwhile,...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateFeb 6, 2012

Study: Rapid bone loss as possible side effect of anti-obesity drug now in clinical trials

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center found that fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) causes significant and rapid bone loss in mice, promoting fat cell growth but inhibiting bone cells. The study suggests a potential tradeoff between the anti-obesity benefits of FGF21 and its risk of osteoporosis.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 6, 2012

Global extinction: Gradual doom as bad as abrupt

A new study reveals that the deadliest mass extinction, 'The Great Dying', was not a sudden event but occurred gradually. The researchers found evidence of gradual decline in marine life, with some species dying up to 100,000 years before the main extinction event.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalGeological Society of America Bulletin·DateFeb 6, 2012

Hormel Institute study makes key finding in stem cell self-renewal

A University of Minnesota-led research team has proposed a mechanism for controlling embryonic stem cell proliferation and differentiation. The study reveals that two enzymes, ERK1 and ERK2, inactivate the protein Klf4, allowing cells to differentiate into adult cells.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateFeb 6, 2012
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Antidepressant-suicide link in youths absent in new analysis

A new analysis of clinical trial data found that treatment with fluoxetine did not increase or decrease suicidality in children compared to placebo. The study also showed that two different antidepressant drugs were effective at reducing suicidal behavior and depressive symptoms in adult and geriatric patients.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalArchives of General Psychiatry·DateFeb 6, 2012

It's not solitaire: Brain activity differs when one plays against others

Researchers used fMRI to track brain activity in competitive game players, finding differing patterns of activity during social interactions. The study sheds light on how the brain processes information in competitive settings and may aid understanding of neuropsychiatric illnesses.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 6, 2012

LSUHSC research identifies new prostate cancer drug target

Researchers at LSU Health Sciences Center have identified a new protein called ARD1 that plays a critical role in the development and growth of prostate cancer. Inactivating this protein completely suppresses cancer growth, making it a potential target for new treatments.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 6, 2012
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Optimism and humour can help to combat dental fear

Researchers at the University of Gothenburg found that adopting an optimistic mindset and using humour can significantly improve a patient's experience during dental treatment. These strategies can reduce stress, increase well-being, and create a pleasant atmosphere.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalEuropean Journal Of Oral Sciences·DateFeb 6, 2012

Donation opens new opportunities for more effective diabetes treatment

The Stichting af Jochnick Foundation is funding research into the fundamental causes of diabetes at Karolinska Institutet, aiming to develop more effective treatments for the disease. The project will use unique methods to study insulin regulation in living organisms and identify new targets for drugs.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·DateFeb 6, 2012

Gender wage gap shrunk faster than previously thought

A new University of Georgia study reveals the gender wage gap has decreased sharply over 30 years, with a decline of nearly 50%, after accounting for common biases in survey data. The research found that men and women tend to underestimate income when reporting on someone else's behalf.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalSocial Science Research·DateFeb 6, 2012
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.

Playing RFID tag with sheets of paper

Researchers in France have developed a way to deposit thin aluminum RFID tags on paper using thermal evaporation, reducing the cost of RFID tagging. This approach could enable single printed sheets or flyers to be tagged and open up RFID tagging to more systems.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Radio Frequency Identification Technology and Applications·DateFeb 6, 2012
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.

Why bad immunity genes survive

A recent study from University of Utah biologists found that the diversity of immune-system MHC genes is maintained through an 'arms race' between genes and germs, where pathogens evolve to evade the immune response, but also create new opportunities for other variants to emerge. This phenomenon helps explain why some disease-susceptib...

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 6, 2012

Combined oral contraceptive pill helps painful periods

A large Scandinavian study has found that combined oral contraceptive pills reduce painful menstrual periods by 0.3 units on the VMS scale, with a reduction of nine millimeters on the VAS scale. Increasing age also alleviated symptoms, but not as much as COC use, which had a greater effect.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalHuman Reproduction·DateFeb 6, 2012
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 bug's (sex) life: Diving beetles offer unexpected clues about sexual selection

Studies of diving beetles reveal that sperm form follows female reproductive organ function, challenging the paradigm of post-mating sexual selection. Researchers found diverse sperm shapes and structures adapted to navigate complex female reproductive tracts, suggesting females can drive evolutionary changes in male traits.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 6, 2012

Time = money = less happiness, study from Rotman School of Management finds

A new study by Rotman School of Management researchers reveals that treating time as money can undermine well-being. The study shows individuals who perceive their time as monetizable tend to experience greater impatience and lower satisfaction during leisure activities compared to those who do not.

SourceUniversity of Toronto, Rotman School of Management·JournalJournal of Experimental Social Psychology·DateFeb 6, 2012

'Test and Treat' model offers new strategy for eliminating malaria

Researchers found a proactive test-and-treat strategy significantly reduced malaria prevalence, with a sixfold decrease in 2008-2009. The strategy also provided indirect protection to household members and could be targeted to hot spots for further reductions.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 6, 2012

Copper + love chemical = big sulfur stink

Scientists at Duke University Medical Center discovered that copper is essential for detecting sulfur-containing substances, which are responsible for strong odors. The research, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, suggests a possible link between copper and drug receptor responses.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 6, 2012
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.

UNH ocean scientists shed new light on Mariana Trench

Researchers from UNH's Center for Coastal and Ocean Mapping used multibeam echo sounders to map the entire Mariana Trench, discovering four bridges spanning its depth of 10,994 meters. The bridges are thought to be formed by the collision of tectonic plates, providing new insights into Earth's complex geology.

SourceUniversity of New Hampshire·DateFeb 6, 2012

The best medicine for productivity

A new study from the University of Haifa found that emotional and instrumental support from a supervisor can significantly reduce employee absenteeism and increase productivity. The study also highlights the importance of co-worker support in mitigating the effects of stress at work, leading to improved overall well-being.

SourceUniversity of Haifa·JournalEuropean Journal of Work and Organizational Psychology·DateFeb 6, 2012

Exercise triggers stem cells in muscle

Researchers at the University of Illinois discovered that exercise can trigger adult stem cells in muscle, releasing growth factors that promote muscle regeneration. The findings may provide a link between exercise and muscle health, with potential applications for rehabilitation and preventing age-related muscle loss.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 6, 2012

Women born to older mothers have a higher risk of developing breast cancer

A new study reveals that women born to older mothers and taller, thinner girls before puberty are more likely to develop breast cancer. The research suggests that accumulated exposure to hormones during early life influences breast tissue composition and tumour development.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalBreast Cancer Research and Treatment·DateFeb 6, 2012
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.

The butterfly effect in nanotech medical diagnostics

Researchers developed a nanoparticle microfluidic color device for rapid detection of acute sepsis and other biomarkers, offering improved accuracy and speed in medical diagnostics. The device boasts high sensitivity and can detect minute quantities of biomolecules, making it a promising solution for point-of-care diagnostics.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Design Engineering·DateFeb 6, 2012

HIV-infected youth, psychiatric symptoms and functional outcomes

Researchers analyzed data from an observational study to examine the relationship between HIV illness severity and psychiatric disorders. The study found limited evidence of associations between specific antiretroviral therapy and psychiatric symptoms, but noted associations with quality of life and cognitive functioning.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateFeb 6, 2012

Children hospitalized at alarming rate due to abuse

According to a Yale University study published in Pediatrics, over 4,500 US children were hospitalized due to child abuse in 2006, resulting in 300 deaths. Children under one year old were at highest risk of hospitalization, and those on Medicaid had rates six times higher than non-Medicaid patients.

SourceYale University·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateFeb 6, 2012

NYU Langone orthopaedic experts present research, clinical advances at AAOS meeting

Experts from NYU Langone Medical Center will present their latest research on diseases of the muscle, tendon, bone, and joint. The focus includes reverse total shoulder arthroplasty, platelet-rich fibrin matrix for rotator cuff healing, and effects of partial medial meniscectomy on tibiofemoral position and stability.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·DateFeb 6, 2012
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.

Study shows electron-beam irradiation reduces virus-related health risk in lettuce, spinach

A study published in Applied and Environmental Microbiology found that electron-beam irradiation can inactivate viruses on leafy greens, reducing the risk of foodborne illness. The research provides quantified data on the reduction in health risks through this technology, which could lead to greater adoption in the fresh produce industry.

SourceTexas A&M AgriLife Communications·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateFeb 6, 2012

Satellite tracking reveals sea turtle feeding hotspots

A study published in Biological Conservation found two previously unknown feeding hotspots for loggerhead sea turtles in the Gulf of Mexico. The hotspots, located off the coast of Southwest Florida and the Yucatan Peninsula, provide valuable habitat for at least three separate populations of the turtles.

SourceU.S. Geological Survey·JournalBiological Conservation·DateFeb 6, 2012

New methodology assesses risk of scarce metals

Yale researchers developed a methodology to evaluate the importance of scarce metals using supply risk, environmental implications, and vulnerability analysis. The new approach provides a standardized framework for corporations and national governments to inform strategic decision-making around resource use.

SourceYale University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateFeb 6, 2012
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 database aims to improve emergency general surgery care and outcomes

Researchers created an emergency general surgery registry (EGSR) to analyze and improve surgical outcomes for patients. The registry includes ICD-9 codes to define and evaluate EGS cases, covering a range of pathologies including appendectomy, hernia repair, and cholecystectomy.

SourceWeber Shandwick Worldwide·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateFeb 6, 2012

Individual differences in anthrax susceptibility discovered by Stanford scientists

Researchers found that variation in the level of expression of a gene called CMG2 affects the success of the anthrax toxin in gaining entry into human cells. The study highlights the importance of host genetics in determining individual susceptibility to pathogens like anthrax, HIV, and malaria.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 6, 2012

Heart hormone helps shape fat metabolism

A new study at Sanford-Burnham Medical Research Institute suggests that the heart hormone natriuretic peptides play a role in breaking down fat. The peptides turn on a molecular mechanism similar to what's activated when the body is exposed to cold and burns fat to generate heat.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateFeb 6, 2012
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.

Zinc control could be path to breast cancer treatment

Researchers have identified a key switch that releases zinc into cells, which could be used to block cancer development and halt tumor growth. Zinc levels are controlled by protein molecules called zinc transporters, and understanding how these transporters release zinc has important implications for disease treatment.

SourceCardiff University·JournalScience Signaling·DateFeb 6, 2012

Does online dating really work?

A new study by Northwestern University researchers found that ineffective algorithms and profiles hinder online dating. In contrast, mobile dating enables potential partners to meet face-to-face quickly, which is crucial for finding compatibility.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalPsychological Science in the Public Interest·DateFeb 6, 2012

Skiers and snowboarders need better helmets

Skiers and snowboarders in Canada face inadequate protection from current helmet standards, which are less stringent than US and European ones. Health experts call for stricter regulations to ensure helmets can withstand multiple impacts and provide superior protection for various head sizes and weights.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateFeb 6, 2012

Spectator rage: The dark side of professional sports

A deadly Egyptian soccer riot has highlighted the need for sports teams to assess and prevent spectator rage, which can be triggered by emotional and environmental factors. Researchers suggest that screenings and monitoring of fans during events are critical in preventing incidents.

SourceBoston College·JournalJournal of Service Research·DateFeb 6, 2012
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.