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Science News for December 9, 2013


Study examines drug labeling and exposure in infants

A study by researchers found that only 46% of neonatal labeling changes made clear the drug was approved for safety and effectiveness in infants. Few drugs were used in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) with most studied drugs not tested in over 60 neonates.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateDec 9, 2013
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.

High chair-related injuries to children on the rise

A study by Nationwide Children's Hospital found nearly all high chair-related injuries involve a fall, with 93% of cases reporting a child climbing or standing in the chair. The annual number of injured children increased by almost 90%, with closed head injuries and facial injuries being most common.

SourceNationwide Children's Hospital·JournalClinical Pediatrics·DateDec 9, 2013

Oregon scientists offer new insights on controlling nanoparticle stability

Researchers at the University of Oregon have captured fundamental new insights about the stability of gold nanoparticles, which could enhance or destabilize their properties depending on use. Smaller nanoparticles exhibit better structural integrity than larger ones, making them suitable for applications where stability is crucial.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry C·DateDec 9, 2013

Ovarian cancer discovery deepens knowledge of survival outcomes

Researchers at Cedars-Sinai have discovered a 10-gene biomarker panel that can identify the aggressiveness of ovarian cancer, predict survival outcomes, and inform novel therapeutic strategies. The study suggests that this biomarker panel may have predictive value and biological relevance for treating patients with ovarian cancer.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateDec 9, 2013

A stopwatch for electron flashes

Researchers at the Laboratory for Attosecond Physics have developed a system to precisely measure the duration of energetic electron pulses using laser fields. This allows for the investigation of ultrafast processes in atoms and molecules, providing insights into nature's smallest scales.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature Photonics·DateDec 9, 2013
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Network theory to strengthen the banking system

A recent study published in PLoS ONE analyzes how financial connections affect economic crises and suggests modifying links between entities to increase robustness. The research highlights the importance of addressing relationships between banks, rather than just focusing on individual entity capital requirements.

SourceUniversidad Carlos III de Madrid·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 9, 2013

Recycled plastic proves effective in killing drug-resistant fungi

Researchers at IBN and IBM have developed a novel biocompatible material from recycled PET that effectively kills drug-resistant fungi and their biofilms. The material targets fungal cells without harming surrounding healthy cells, displaying great potential as an antifungal agent.

SourceAgency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 9, 2013
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

New insights into the immune system of the gastrointestinal tract

The study reveals how lymphotoxins control the production of immunoglobulin A (IgA) in the gut, maintaining immunological balance. Lacking lymphotoxins can lead to reduced or halted IgA production and changes in intestinal flora.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalScience·DateDec 9, 2013

UNH scientists launch 'CubeSats' into radiation belts

Researchers launched two small satellites, FIREBIRD, into the outer radiation belt to investigate microbursts, which can pose a risk to spacecraft. The mission aims to improve our understanding of the radiation belts and design more resilient satellites.

SourceUniversity of New Hampshire·DateDec 9, 2013

Neural prosthesis restores behavior after brain injury

Scientists have successfully restored behavior in rats using a neural prosthesis after brain injury. The device, a closed-loop microelectronic system, recorded signals from one part of the brain and stimulated another to facilitate repair. Two weeks after implantation, rat models recovered nearly all function lost due to injury.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 9, 2013
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Ancient fresh water lake on Mars could have sustained life

Researchers from NASA's Curiosity rover mission found evidence of a calm and fresh-watered lake on Mars that may have supported simple microbial life. The team believes the lake may have lasted for tens or hundreds of thousands of years, providing perfect conditions for chemolithoautotrophs to thrive.

SourceImperial College London·JournalScience·DateDec 9, 2013

Elsevier announces the launch of a new journal: Mental Health & Prevention

The new journal Mental Health & Prevention aims to provide a platform for researchers and practitioners to present their work and keep up-to-date with the latest advances in mental health promotion. The journal will publish high-quality reviews, original research, and other papers related to prevention strategies.

SourceElsevier·JournalMental Health & Prevention·DateDec 9, 2013

NASA eyes Tropical Cyclone Madi's rainfall

Tropical Cyclone Madi is expected to make landfall in southern India on December 12. The storm's heaviest rainfall was observed north of its center, with rates reaching up to 2 inches per hour.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateDec 9, 2013

Kids movies send mixed messages about eating habits and obesity

Research analyzed top-grossing children's movies from 2006-2010, finding 70% included weight-related stigmatizing content. The study also reveals that 26% of movie segments showed exaggerated portion sizes and 51% depicted unhealthy snacks.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalObesity·DateDec 9, 2013
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.

Penicillin equally effective as 'big gun' antibiotics for treating less severe childhood pneumonia

Narrow-spectrum antibiotics, such as ampicillin and penicillin, are equally effective as broad-spectrum antibiotics in treating less severe childhood pneumonia. The study, published in Pediatrics, compared outcomes among children hospitalized with pneumonia between 2005 and 2011, receiving either narrow-spectrum or broad-spectrum antib...

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateDec 9, 2013

New brief therapy eases symptoms of combat-related psychological trauma

A new study suggests that accelerated resolution therapy (ART) is a safe and effective treatment for combat-related psychological trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among veterans. The therapy, which combines evidence-based psychotherapies with eye movements, was found to be shorter and more likely to be completed than co...

SourceUniversity of South Florida (USF Health)·JournalMilitary Medicine·DateDec 9, 2013

SwRI scientists publish first radiation measurements from the surface of Mars

The Radiation Assessment Detector measured radiation on Mars' surface, revealing an average GCR dose equivalent rate of 0.67 millisieverts per day. The findings also show that most mission radiation exposure will occur during outbound and return travel, posing a challenge for future human exploration.

SourceSouthwest Research Institute·JournalScience·DateDec 9, 2013

Partnership in cancer trials brings hope for patients

A new clinical trial, sponsored by Cancer Research And Biostatistics (CRAB), has been launched to test innovative treatments for lung cancer. The trial, which combines efforts from frontline treating oncologists and pharmaceutical companies, aims to improve patient outcomes and extend overall survival.

SourceCancer Treatment Centers of America·DateDec 9, 2013

Measuring life's tugs and nudges

Researchers at Harvard University have created a new method to quantify the mechanical forces produced by living cells, which shape tissues and organs. By injecting tiny oil droplets into 3D tissues and embryos, scientists can measure the forces exerted by individual cells, shedding light on the role of mechanics in development and dis...

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalNature Methods·DateDec 9, 2013
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.

Scientists scale terahertz peaks in nanotubes

In a breakthrough discovery, Rice University researchers found that free electrons in metallic and doped carbon nanotubes create plasmons at terahertz frequencies, enabling the potential for advanced optoelectronic devices. This finding clarifies the origin of the previously observed terahertz peak in nanotubes.

SourceRice University·JournalNano Letters·DateDec 9, 2013

System 90L no longer suspect for development

System 90L's chances of tropical development dismissed after hostile upper-level winds and diminished showers; no longer considered a threat by NASA. Upper-level conditions made it difficult to identify the low-pressure system, leading to its fizzling out.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateDec 9, 2013

Researchers develop world's highest quantum efficiency UV photodetectors

The development of UV photodetectors has been driven by numerous applications in the defense, commercial, and scientific arenas. The researchers have brought this AlxGa1-xN-based device closer to reality by developing a compact photodetector with the world's highest quantum efficiency.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateDec 9, 2013
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.

Study offers economical solutions for maintaining critical delta environments

A new study by Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution researchers documents the historic sediment record along the Danube River delta and offers simple and inexpensive strategies to maintain delta environments. The team analyzed sediment cores and found that mimicking natural distributaries can help keep sediment on flood plains, rather ...

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalAnthropocene·DateDec 9, 2013

JCI early table of contents for Dec. 9, 2013

Researchers discovered an association between oncometabolite 2-hydroxyglutarate (2-HG) levels and DNA methylation patterns with breast cancer prognosis. Chloroquine treatment was found to limit osteoclast generation, suggesting potential therapeutic applications.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 9, 2013

Awkward Facebook encounters

A Northwestern University study found that individuals with high self-monitoring and diverse social networks are more likely to strongly experience face threats on Facebook. People who felt they had a high level of Facebook skills reported experiencing these kinds of threats less severely.

SourceNorthwestern University·DateDec 9, 2013
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 sensor tracks zinc in cells

A new optical sensor created at MIT can track zinc within cells, shedding light on its functions and helping researchers study zinc trafficking in prostate cells. The sensor supports the theory that cancerous prostate cells banish zinc from mitochondria to produce extra energy.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 9, 2013

New long-lived greenhouse gas discovered by University of Toronto chemistry team

A novel chemical, perfluorotributylamine (PFTBA), has been found to be a long-lived greenhouse gas with the most radiatively efficient impact on climate, according to a study by the University of Toronto chemistry team. Calculated over a 100-year timeframe, PFTBA's global warming potential is equivalent to that of 7100 molecules of CO2.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateDec 9, 2013
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.

Hard rock life

Researchers find consistent types of organisms in subsurface rocks across globe, challenges imagination to think of nearly identical microbes 16,000 km apart.

SourceMichigan State University·DateDec 9, 2013

Better preparedness against Tamiflu-resistant influenza viruses

Researchers at Umea University found that Tamiflu's active metabolite can contaminate river water in Japan, making the virus resistant to antiviral medications. The team aims to develop a national knowledge center on antiviral drug effects and improve wastewater treatment to prevent pandemics.

SourceUmea University·DateDec 9, 2013

Ancient crater could hold clues about moon's mantle

Researchers found diverse mineralogy in the South Pole Aitken basin's subsurface, suggesting pre-existing diversity in the Moon's crust and mantle. The study used data from the Moon Mineralogy Mapper to analyze light reflected from central peaks of smaller craters within the basin.

SourceBrown University·DateDec 9, 2013

Balancing old and new skills

The MIT model suggests that neurons constantly change connections to explore many possible solutions, but with a balance between hyperplasticity and low signal-to-noise ratio. This allows the brain to learn new skills while retaining previously learned ones, especially if they are not similar.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 9, 2013
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.

May the cellular force be with you

A new technique developed by Otger Campas and Donald Ingber enables the measurement of mechanical forces cells generate while building tissues and organs. This breakthrough provides insights into the role of mechanics in morphogenesis and may lead to discoveries about birth defects, tumor growth, and tissue abnormalities.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNature Methods·DateDec 9, 2013

Polymers can be semimetals

Researchers from Linköping University and five universities worldwide have proven that polymers can exhibit semiconductor-like properties. The discovery paves the way for a new field of research in organic electronics.

SourceLinköping University·JournalNature Materials·DateDec 9, 2013
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.

The smoking gun: Fish brains and nicotine

A new study from Carnegie Institution researchers used zebrafish to understand the circuitry underlying nicotine addiction. The research confirmed that a specific neural pathway in fish brains responds similarly to nicotine as it does in human brains.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 9, 2013

Marketing loans for fertility treatments raises ethical concerns

The emergence of fertility loans has raised ethical concerns as doctors market them to patients with potential financial ties to lenders. Experts argue that this practice may exacerbate the anguish of infertility by promoting unsuccessful interventions.

SourceThe Hastings Center·JournalHastings Center Report·DateDec 9, 2013
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.

How a concussion can lead to depression years later

A new study suggests that a head injury can lead to depressive complications years later due to an overactive immune response and inflammation. The research found that brain cells went on 'high alert' after the injury, affecting behavior and leading to symptoms that were linked to inflammation.

SourceOhio State University·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateDec 9, 2013

Inflammation in prostate may reduce cancer risk

A study published online in Cancer found that increased inflammation in the prostate gland may predict a reduced risk of developing prostate cancer. The study's findings suggest that biopsies performed on prostates with high inflammation levels may indicate a lower risk for subsequent cancer detection.

SourceNorthwell Health·JournalCancer·DateDec 9, 2013

Communities across US reduce teen smoking, drinking, violence and crime

A University of Washington study found that the positive influence of Communities That Care on US teens' behavior was sustained through high school. By the end of 12th grade, 32% of teens in Communities That Care towns had never tried alcohol compared to 23% in control communities.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateDec 9, 2013
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.

Breast cancer prognosis associated with oncometabolite accumulation

Researchers found a strong association between high 2-HG levels, DNA methylation patterns, and poor survival outcomes in African-American breast cancer patients. The study identified a distinct breast cancer subtype with elevated 2-HG levels that was associated with reduced survival.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 9, 2013

Peaceful bumblebee becomes invasive

The buff-tailed bumblebee, introduced to Chile in 1998, has spread rapidly throughout South America, outcompeting native species and potentially disrupting the ecosystem. The parasite Crithidia bombi is a key factor in the decline of native bumblebees.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·DateDec 9, 2013

Aging out of bounds

A study published in Nature has cataloged 46 species with their mortality and fertility rates, revealing extraordinary diversity in aging processes. This challenges current explanations, which predict that the probability of dying rises with age, as seen in humans, but contradicted by species like the desert tortoise and white mangrove.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·DateDec 9, 2013

Morphing material has mighty potential

Researchers develop composite material that can change shape in response to temperature, enabling applications such as dynamic scaffolds and implantable materials. The material's reversible properties make it suitable for biomedical applications where shape changes need to be repeated.

SourceRice University·JournalSoft Matter·DateDec 9, 2013
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.

Study shows first link between altitude and concussion

A new study reveals that high school athletes playing at higher elevations suffer fewer concussions than those closer to sea-level. The researchers analyzed concussion statistics from athletes playing multiple sports in 497 high schools and found a significant decrease in concussion rates among all sports played above 600 feet.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalOrthopaedic Journal of Sports Medicine·DateDec 9, 2013

Researchers see added nutritional benefits in organic milk

A study by Washington State University researchers found that organic milk contains more beneficial fats and a healthier fatty acid ratio than conventional milk. Organic whole milk outperformed conventional milk in improving an individual's fatty acid profile, particularly with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.

SourceWashington State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 9, 2013

Genetic flaw in males triggers onset of liver cancer, diabetes

Michigan State University researchers discovered a genetic deficiency in male mice that triggers the development of liver cancer and type 2 diabetes. The study found altered NCOA5 gene levels led to glucose intolerance and hepatocellular carcinoma.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalCancer Cell·DateDec 9, 2013
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.

How 'sunshine vitamin' D may be helpful in fighting multiple sclerosis

A study at Johns Hopkins Medicine found that vitamin D appears to block damage-causing immune cells from migrating to the central nervous system, potentially preventing or easing symptoms of multiple sclerosis. The research suggests that vitamin D may slow a process allowing T cells to grab onto blood vessel walls.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 9, 2013

A step closer to muscle regeneration

Researchers at Monash University have isolated muscle precursor cells from pluripotent stem cells using a purification technique, allowing them to differentiate into muscle cells. This breakthrough could lead to the development of new treatments for degenerative diseases such as Muscular Dystrophy and Parkinson's disease.

SourceMonash University·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateDec 9, 2013

$2.8 million project to train more science teachers for high-need schools

Michigan State University's SETS-UP fellowship provides secondary science teaching certification and a master's degree to prepare educators for middle- and high-school science teaching careers in high-need classrooms. The five-year program aims to increase teaching retention rates in these critical schools.

SourceMichigan State University·DateDec 9, 2013

Math models enhance current therapies for coronary heart disease

Researchers devised a mathematical model to improve treatment options for coronary heart disease (CHD), which accounts for 18% of US deaths annually. The model helps explain the factors governing drug release and distribution in drug-eluting stents, providing valuable insight into developing better treatments.

SourceSociety for Industrial and Applied Mathematics·JournalSIAM Journal on Applied Mathematics·DateDec 9, 2013
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.

In surprise finding, blood clots absorb bacterial toxin

Researchers found that blood clots actively soak up lipopolysaccharide, a toxic compound released by Gram-negative bacteria. This protective mechanism may help prevent disease and death from septic shock, which affects 300,000 people annually.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 9, 2013

Solar cell degradation observed directly for the first time

Researchers at DESY's PETRA III facility watched organic solar cells degrade in real time, revealing a mechanism of degradation that involves growth and receding of active domains. The study could lead to new approaches for increasing the stability of this promising type of solar cell.

SourceDeutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateDec 9, 2013
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.

Supervolcanoes discovered in Utah

The discovery of supervolcanoes in southern Utah reveals massive eruptions that buried a vast region, affecting areas from central Utah to Nebraska. This research has significant implications for understanding geological history and the impact of volcanic activity on ecosystems.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalGeosphere·DateDec 9, 2013

No pictures, please: Taking photos may impede memory of museum tour

A study by Linda Henkel found that participants had worse memory for objects and specific details when taking photos compared to observing them. Additionally, the data showed that zooming in on a specific detail with the camera preserved memory for the object, not just the focused area.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateDec 9, 2013
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.

How 'good cholesterol' stops inflammation

Researchers discovered HDL acts upon inflammatory processes by activating ATF3, downregulating chronic inflammation in macrophages. This finding suggests a molecular approach for treating inflammation in diseases like diabetes.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalNature Immunology·DateDec 9, 2013

Mapping the demise of the dinosaurs

Researchers at Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute create detailed map of Campeche Escarpment, a steep underwater cliff near the impact site. The maps reveal that rocks formed before, during, and after the asteroid impact are exposed along different parts of the escarpment.

SourceMonterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute·DateDec 9, 2013
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.

Astronomers solve temperature mystery of planetary atmospheres

Researchers discovered a temperature turnaround point in the atmospheres of Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune, and Titan, which may be common to billions of planets. This phenomenon occurs at a pressure of about 0.1 bar and is likely caused by infrared radiation absorption.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalNature Geoscience·DateDec 9, 2013

Promising Alzheimer's drug trialled in a large EU study

A large EU study is investigating whether nilvadipine can help patients with Alzheimer's disease by reducing the formation of amyloid plaques in animal brains. The clinical trial will involve 500 patients in nine European countries, who will be treated with nilvadipine or a placebo for eighteen months.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·DateDec 9, 2013

Hidden details revealed in nearby starburst galaxy

The Green Bank Telescope has captured detailed images of M82, highlighting streamers of material and dense molecular gas surrounding areas of intense star formation. Astronomers hope to understand the connection between dense gas and star formation by creating wide-angle maps of galaxy gas.

SourceNational Radio Astronomy Observatory·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateDec 9, 2013
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.

Home teams hold the advantage

Researchers found that home plants excel over visitors due to regional adaptations, which involve tradeoffs in performance. Genetic analysis revealed that only 15 regions of the genome are involved in adaptation, challenging the long-held view that multiple genes fuel these traits.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 9, 2013

Research team finds way to make solar cells thin, efficient and flexible

A team of researchers from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and the University of Central Florida has developed a way to create large sheets of nanotextured, silicon micro-cell arrays that are lightweight, more efficient, and bendable. This technology could lead to solar-powered homes with reliable stored energy.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·DateDec 9, 2013
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

35 year study finds exercise reduces risk of dementia

A 35-year study by Cardiff University found that regular exercise significantly reduces the risk of dementia and cognitive decline. The study identified five healthy behaviors as key to a disease-free lifestyle, with exercise being the strongest mitigating factor.

SourceCardiff University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 9, 2013

NASA's IRIS provides unprecedented images of sun

IRIS has captured detailed images of the interface region between the sun's surface and corona, revealing more violent and turbulent phenomena than previously understood. The mission's observations also provide new insights into solar eruptive events and the dynamics of the low solar atmosphere.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateDec 9, 2013

Lack of proper national policy to get UK kids more active is mass 'child neglect'

The UK's failure to implement a comprehensive national policy on childhood physical activity has severe consequences, including obesity and poor health outcomes. Experts warn that this lack of action amounts to 'mass child neglect' and demand a child-centred approach to create opportunities for all children to be active daily.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·DateDec 9, 2013
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.