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Science News for February 4, 2013


Low vitamin D levels may increase risk of Type 1 diabetes

Researchers found that white, non-Hispanic young adults with higher serum levels of vitamin D had about half the risk of developing Type 1 diabetes than those with lower levels. The study suggests that inadequate vitamin D intake may be an important risk factor for autoimmune diseases.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Epidemiology·DateFeb 4, 2013
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

University of Leicester announces discovery of King Richard III

The University of Leicester has discovered the remains of King Richard III using a wealth of evidence including DNA, radiocarbon dating and skeletal analysis. The skeleton was found in Leicester city centre and matches two of Richard III's maternal line relatives, confirming his identity.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·DateFeb 4, 2013

New study finds water tubing-related injuries up 250 percent

A recent study found that water tubing-related injuries increased by 250% over a 19-year period, with 65+ injuries treated in U.S. emergency departments daily during summer. The most common types of injuries were sprains and strains, followed by soft tissue injuries.

SourceNationwide Children's Hospital·JournalJournal of Physical Activity and Health·DateFeb 4, 2013

Study highlights important role that patients play in determining outcomes

A University of Oregon study finds that patients with higher levels of motivation, knowledge, and confidence in managing their health have substantially lower healthcare costs. The researchers recommend assessing patient activation scores to support more engaged patients and improve outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalHealth Affairs·DateFeb 4, 2013

NOAA: Tortugas marine reserve yields more, larger fish

The NOAA report reveals that 'no-take' protections in the Tortugas Ecological Reserve have boosted fish populations and fisheries, including a resurgence of spawning mutton snapper. Commercial catches of reef fish have increased without financial losses for regional fishers.

SourceNOAA Headquarters·DateFeb 4, 2013

Scientists prevent development of deafness in animals engineered to have Usher syndrome

Researchers have developed a novel therapeutic approach to treat deafness and balance impairment by injecting mice with an antisense oligonucleotide that targets a specific gene mutation. The treatment, which was tested on mice engineered to model human Usher syndrome, successfully rescues hearing and cures balance problems.

SourceRosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science·JournalNature Medicine·DateFeb 4, 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.

3D printing breakthrough with human embryonic stem cells

Researchers have successfully printed human embryonic stem cells using a novel valve-based technique, enabling the creation of three-dimensional tissues and structures. The breakthrough could speed up drug testing and pave the way for transplantable organs without donation.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalBiofabrication·DateFeb 4, 2013

AB blood type strong risk factor for venous blood clots

A large study found that ABO blood type is a strong risk factor for venous blood clots. The research, published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal, also identified other genetic mutations associated with an increased risk of these conditions.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateFeb 4, 2013

Annals of Internal Medicine tip sheet for Feb. 5, 2013

A recent study published in Annals of Internal Medicine suggests that exercising regularly earlier in life can significantly lower the risk of developing dementia later in life. Researchers analyzed data from over 19,000 adults and found a strong association between midlife fitness levels and reduced risk of all-cause dementia. Additio...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateFeb 4, 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.

USC scientists design mouse with more human-like immune response

USC researchers create genetically engineered mice with CD1d molecules similar to humans to trigger natural killer T cells and potentially develop effective immunotherapies. The discovery aims to improve the efficacy of existing drugs and vaccines against human diseases.

SourceUniversity of Southern California - Health Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 4, 2013

Survey reveals fault lines in views on climate change

A new survey by a University of Alberta researcher found that 99% of respondents agree the climate is changing, but disagree on causes. The study identified five distinct beliefs on climate change and found common points of interest to promote collaboration.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalOrganization Studies·DateFeb 4, 2013

Biodiversity exploration in the 3-D era

A team of researchers from Hellenic Centre for Marine Research used X-ray computed tomography to create detailed 3D representations of tiny animals, facilitating the study of morphology and improving taxonomy. The method enables virtual rotation, magnification, and dissection of specimens, extracting new scientific information.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalZooKeys·DateFeb 4, 2013

Monogamous birds read partner's food desires

Researchers found that male Eurasian Jays can share food with their female partner according to her current desire, suggesting a 'state-attribution' ability. This behavior is crucial for species living in long-term relationships and may improve mate bonding.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 4, 2013

Scientists turn toxic by-product into biofuel booster

Researchers develop bi-functional enzyme to increase alkane output in bacteria and plants, eliminating hydrogen peroxide inhibition. The combo enzyme boosts reaction efficiency by producing oxygen, a key component required for activity.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 4, 2013
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.

Penn study confirms no transmission of Alzheimer's proteins between humans

A new Penn study found no evidence to support concerns that abnormal disease proteins are infectious and can be transmitted from one person to another. Researchers analyzed data from a cohort of patients who received human growth hormone therapy and found no cases of Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, or other neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateFeb 4, 2013

Experimental therapy crosses blood-brain barrier to treat neurological disease

Researchers have developed an experimental molecular therapy that crosses the blood-brain barrier to reverse neurological lysosomal storage disease in mice. The therapy uses a modified enzyme called IDUAe1, which penetrates the blood-brain barrier and delivers large-molecule therapeutic agents to treat brain diseases.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 4, 2013

Avoiding a cartography catastrophe

A systematic review assesses the reliability of global mapping of infectious diseases, finding that only a small percentage have been mapped reliably. The study suggests using novel solutions like crowdsourcing to gather data, such as analyzing Twitter messages about disease.

SourceNational Institute for Mathematical and Biological Synthesis (NIMBioS)·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London (B )·DateFeb 4, 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.

Cells predict onset of graft-versus-host disease in men receiving BMTs from female donors

Researchers discovered a specific B lymphocyte marker that indicates the onset of cGVHD, a devastating syndrome where the patient's tissues are attacked by transplanted immune cells. This easily measured marker could help guide new therapies to mitigate or prevent cGVHD, which affects half of all bone marrow transplant procedures.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 4, 2013

Polar bear researchers urge governments to act now and save the species

Polar bears face an imminent threat from rapid Arctic ecosystem changes, which could lead to population declines of up to 50%. Governments must develop conservation plans to mitigate the effects of climate change. The authors' study suggests that a single severe ice year could erase half of a polar bear population in a single year.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalConservation Letters·DateFeb 4, 2013

Sunlight may help ward off rheumatoid arthritis in women

Regular sunlight exposure is linked to lower risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis in older women due to increased production of vitamin D. However, younger women who cover up with sunscreen may not experience the same protective benefits, according to a large-scale study.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalArchives of Disease in Childhood·DateFeb 4, 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.

Could the humble sea urchin hold the key to carbon capture?

Experts at Newcastle University have discovered a way to convert CO2 into harmless calcium or magnesium carbonate using Nickel nanoparticles. This process has the potential to significantly reduce CO2 emissions from industries such as power stations and chemical processing plants.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalCatalysis Science & Technology·DateFeb 4, 2013

Tropical rainfall patterns varied through time

Researchers analyzed lake sediment to reconstruct climate patterns in Nicaragua during the Medieval Climate Anomaly and Little Ice Age. The study found that factors currently producing drier climates resulted in wetter conditions a few hundred years ago.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalGeology·DateFeb 4, 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.

Men are fromMarsEarth, women are fromVenusEarth

A recent study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology reveals that men and women share a significant number of psychological traits, with most characteristics falling along a linear gradation for both genders. The authors conclude that traditional gender categories are not as rigid as stereotypes suggest.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateFeb 4, 2013

Birds may need a hand to weather climate change

A new study predicts that climate change will lead to significant declines in suitable climates for many bird species, requiring enhanced protection and management of key sites. Conservation efforts will need to adapt to assist birds in moving to climatically suitable areas, with some species facing relocation in extreme cases.

SourceDurham University·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateFeb 4, 2013

Scientists notch a win in war against antibiotic-resistant bacteria

Researchers at Harvard's Wyss Institute used sophisticated computer modeling and biotechnology to target ROS production in E. coli, rendering the bacteria more susceptible to existing antibiotics. The study provides a promising approach to boost the global antibiotic arsenal against deadly superbugs like tuberculosis.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateFeb 4, 2013

TV viewing, exercise habits may significantly affect sperm count

A new study led by Harvard School of Public Health found that sedentary TV viewing can nearly halve sperm counts, while moderate to vigorous exercise may boost them. Men who watched more than 20 hours of TV weekly had a 44% lower sperm count, while those who exercised for 15 or more hours weekly had a 73% higher sperm count.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·DateFeb 4, 2013

Paired genes in stem cells shed new light on gene organization and regulation

A recent study published in PNAS reveals that DNA transcription produces mRNA and long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) pairs, which are transcribed coordinately as stem cells differentiate into other cell types. The finding could redefine our understanding of gene organization and regulation.

SourceWhitehead Institute for Biomedical Research·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 4, 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.

High-dose Vorinostat effective at treating relapsed lymphomas

A phase 1 clinical trial found that high-dose Vorinostat, combined with standard chemotherapy, was effective in treating relapsed lymphomas, particularly Hodgkin and diffuse large B-cell lymphomas. The study resulted in a 70% response rate, including complete responses in some patients.

SourceFred Hutchinson Cancer Center·DateFeb 4, 2013

Study shows Facebook unfriending has real life consequences

A study by University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus researcher Christopher Sibona found that 40% of people would avoid someone who unfriended them in real life. The factors predicting avoidance include the person's emotional response, geographical distance, and the strength of the relationship before the unfriending.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·DateFeb 4, 2013

Your history may define your future: Tell your doctor

A study published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine found that patients who use a web-based risk appraisal tool are more likely to have important family history documented, leading to better cancer screening and reduced mortality. The tool may help increase communication between physicians and patients about their risk factors.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateFeb 4, 2013

Researchers pioneer treatment for viral infection common in children

Scientists at Imperial College London have discovered a new way to treat Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) infections in children. By boosting the accumulation of T cells and selectively attracting regulatory T cells, they aim to reduce inflammation and fight infection.

SourceImperial College London·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 4, 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.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

NOAA adds red tide alerts to Beach Hazards Statements

Red tide alerts have been added to Beach Hazards Statements by NOAA, providing public warnings for moderate or high respiratory impacts and environmental threats in southwest Florida. The new service aims to broaden awareness about harmful algal blooms and their potential impacts on human health.

SourceNOAA Headquarters·DateFeb 4, 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.

Injection-free vaccination technique could address global vaccine challenge for HIV, malaria

Researchers at King's College London have developed an injection-free vaccine technique that uses dried live vaccines delivered to the skin without needles, offering a potential solution to global vaccine challenges. The technique has been shown to be effective in inducing immune responses comparable to traditional needle-based methods.

SourceKing's College London·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 4, 2013

Imaging biomarker predicts response to rapid antidepressant

A study found that a biomarker based on brain activity in the visual cortex can predict response to scopolamine, an experimental rapid-acting antidepressant. Patients with depression showed lower visual cortex activity, which correlated with treatment response.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Mental Health·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateFeb 4, 2013

The last Neanderthals of southern Iberia did not coexist with modern humans

A new study in PNAS challenges the long-held theory that Neanderthals persisted in southern Iberia alongside modern humans. Researchers used a novel radiocarbon dating technique to date bone samples from two sites, finding that Neanderthal occupation occurred approximately 45,000 years ago, rather than later than previously thought.

SourceUNED National Distance Education University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 4, 2013

Grooming helps insects keep their senses sharpened

Researchers at North Carolina State University found that insect grooming, particularly antennal cleaning, helps maintain sharp olfactory senses. Grooming removes both environmental pollutants and chemicals produced by insects themselves, enabling them to detect food, danger, and potential mates effectively.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 4, 2013

Some cancer mutations slow tumor growth

Researchers found that passenger mutations can slow or halt tumor growth when they accumulate. These deleterious mutations can tip the balance in favor of their effects, leading to reduced cell fitness. The study suggests a new approach to treating cancer by enhancing the impact of these mutations.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 4, 2013
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.

Gene variants found to affect human lifespan

Researchers identified seven gene variants associated with human longevity, including deletions and duplications that impact alternative splicing. These variations may provide protection against diseases, allowing individuals to live longer.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 4, 2013

20 NASA balloons studying the radiation belts

The BARREL mission uses balloons to collect data on radiation belt particles, complementing NASA's Van Allen Probes. The team tracks particle movement and behavior, aiming to understand where radiation escapes the belts.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateFeb 4, 2013

Poor mental health leads to unhealthy behaviors among low-income adults

Low-income adults with poor mental health are more likely to engage in unhealthy behaviors such as binge drinking and smoking. The study found that symptoms of depression and anxiety, rather than unhealthy behaviors, predict later levels of these health-compromising actions.

SourceSpringer·JournalTranslational Behavioral Medicine·DateFeb 4, 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.

Osaka Basin map: Identifies high-rise buildings at risk from quakes

A new map created by Japanese researchers helps identify high-rise buildings in the Osaka Basin vulnerable to long-period strong ground motions that last minutes. The map provides useful information for engineers to design earthquake-resistant buildings.

SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalBulletin of the Seismological Society of America·DateFeb 4, 2013

UCLA Pediatric Medical Home to study new ways to reduce healthcare costs

Researchers at UCLA's Pediatric Medical Home will study ways to reduce preventable hospital admissions and emergency room use among children with medically complex illness, aiming to decrease healthcare expenditures. The study will analyze root causes of preventable hospitalizations and design cost-saving strategies.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·DateFeb 4, 2013

New study shows that gases work with particles to promote cloud formation

Researchers at Columbia University and Georgia Institute of Technology found that certain volatile organic gases can enhance aerosol activity, promoting cloud droplet formation. This discovery will improve climate modeling by incorporating gas-phase surfactants into cloud formation models.

SourceColumbia University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 4, 2013

NASA sees the falling of Cyclone Felleng

Cyclone Felleng formed over the Mozambique Channel and transitioned into a cold core low pressure area, with NASA's TRMM satellite capturing its rainfall rates. The storm dissipated in the next couple of days as it moved south-southeast in the open waters of the Southern Indian Ocean.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateFeb 4, 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.

Finding the way to memory

A new study from McGill University reveals that the DCC receptor is essential for normal synaptic function and plasticity, leading to progressive degeneration of synapses and defects in memory formation. The absence of DCC leads to memory loss similar to Dr. Brenda Milner's famous subject HM.

SourceMcGill University·JournalCell Reports·DateFeb 4, 2013

Physicians' roles on the front line of climate change

Climate change affects human health, prompting physicians to take action; doctors can lobby governments, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and clinical waste. Immediate wise action is necessary to mitigate disastrous consequences.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateFeb 4, 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.

Human brain is divided on fear and panic

Researchers have identified multiple brain regions responsible for generating fear and panic, including the amygdala, brainstem, diencephalon, and insular cortex. The findings suggest that an intact amygdala normally inhibits panic, and its absence can lead to anxiety-related conditions.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateFeb 4, 2013

Research suggests meerkat predator-scanning behaviour is altruistic

Research suggests that meerkat predator-scanning behaviour is driven by a desire to protect the group rather than personal safety. When young pups are present, adult meerkats exhibit increased vigilance and sentinel behaviour, indicating a strong sense of cooperation and altruism.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalAnimal Behaviour·DateFeb 4, 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.

Chemical reaction keeps stroke-damaged brain from repairing itself

Researchers discovered nitric oxide inhibits ERK1/2 signaling pathway, shutting down brain's ability to self-repair after stroke. The study found that excessive nitric oxide production contributes to the severity of stroke and other neurological disorders.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 4, 2013

Defying the laws of Mendelian inheritance

Researchers found that Arabidopsis thaliana plants exhibit genetic traits from older generations, contradicting Mendelian inheritance. New experiments support these findings, providing evidence for novel DNA-based genetic phenomena and implications for plant biology and agriculture.

SourceFaculty of 1000·JournalF1000Research·DateFeb 4, 2013

Study finds it actually is better (and healthier) to give than to receive

Researchers found that providing tangible assistance to others significantly reduced mortality rates among the helpers, buffering the negative effects of stress. The study's findings contradict previous research, which failed to establish similar benefits for recipients of social support.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateFeb 4, 2013

Researchers develop Rx for deafness, impaired balance in mouse model of Usher syndrome

A new therapy called an antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) has been developed by researchers at LSU Health Sciences Center, which partially corrects gene and protein expression and rescues hearing and balance in a mouse model of Usher syndrome. This breakthrough suggests the potential for treating deafness and balance disorders.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalNature Medicine·DateFeb 4, 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.

Mini stroke symptoms quickly fade, but patients remain at risk

A study published in Expert Review of Neurotherapeutics found that 10-15% of people experiencing transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) will suffer full strokes within three months. Rapid evaluation and treatment can reduce the risk of subsequent strokes by up to 80%.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalExpert Review of Neurotherapeutics·DateFeb 4, 2013

Monell scientists identify elusive taste stem cells

Researchers at Monell Chemical Senses Center have identified progenitor cells in taste tissue that can differentiate into functional taste cells, potentially helping treat clinical taste dysfunction. The discovery opens up new areas for studying taste cell renewal and contributes to stem cell biology.

SourceMonell Chemical Senses Center·JournalStem Cells·DateFeb 4, 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.

New kind of extinct flying reptile discovered by scientists

A new kind of pterosaur, Eurazhdarcho langendorfensis, has been identified by scientists from the Transylvanian Museum Society, University of Southampton, and Museau Nacional. The fossilized bones are approximately 68 million years old and belong to the azhdarchids group.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 4, 2013

The impressive aerial maneuvers of the pea aphid

Researchers found that pea aphids can land upright on their feet, using passive rotation to right themselves during free fall. The insects' ability to adapt to extreme situations has been studied in detail and published in Current Biology.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateFeb 4, 2013

Amyloid imaging shows promise for detecting cardiac amyloidosis

A new PET test using 11C-PIB offers a non-invasive method to visualize amyloid deposits in the heart, providing valuable information for disease prognosis and treatment monitoring. The study demonstrated positive uptake of 11C-PIB in patients with cardiac amyloidosis.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateFeb 4, 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.

20 hours of TV a week almost halves sperm count

A study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that watching TV for more than 20 hours a week can almost halve sperm count, while exercising 15 or more hours a week can improve it by 73%. Moderate to vigorous exercise also has a positive impact on semen quality.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·DateFeb 4, 2013

Hoodoos -- key to earthquakes?

Researchers studied two hoodoos in Red Rock Canyon to estimate the force necessary to break sandstone shafts, shedding light on ground motion during recent earthquakes. The study suggests median or low-level ground motion despite large quakes in the area, providing valuable constraints for probabilistic seismic hazard assessments.

SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalBulletin of the Seismological Society of America·DateFeb 4, 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 criteria for automated preschool vision screening

The American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus has revised its guidelines for automated preschool vision screening, focusing on detecting amblyopia risk factors in young children. The new criteria include separate thresholds for different age groups, lower referral rates for young children, and the use of tradition...

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus·DateFeb 4, 2013

JoVE expands scientific video publication into chemistry

JoVE's new Chemistry section publishes a novel experimental approach to study antifreeze proteins, showcasing the potential for these proteins in cryopreservation and tissue preservation. By visualizing dynamic processes, JoVE aims to facilitate reproducible chemistry research.

SourceThe Journal of Visualized Experiments·JournalJournal of Visualized Experiments·DateFeb 4, 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.

Chili peppers spark discovery

Researchers at Washington State University have made a breakthrough in repairing damaged brain cells using the active compound of chili peppers. The discovery has potential to provide relief for concussions and other health effects seen in athletes and head-injury victims.

SourceWashington State University·DateFeb 4, 2013

MU scientists build harness for powerful radiation cancer therapy

Researchers at the University of Missouri have developed a gold nanoparticle that can transport alpha particles directly to small cancer tumors, reducing damage to healthy organs. The nanoparticle design enables researchers to keep more than 80% of the element inside for extended periods.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 4, 2013

Can cancer be turned against itself?

Researchers found that melanoma cells can transfer proteins to the immune system, allowing it to gather crucial intelligence and develop cytokines to kill cancer cells. This process, called positive feedback loop, tips the scales in favor of the immune cells.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalThe Journal of Immunology·DateFeb 4, 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.

New effort to find why replacement hips and knees go bad

A Case Western Reserve University researcher is creating ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene with embedded magnetic nanoparticles to monitor degradation and wear. The goal is to make implants more resistant to the environment inside the body.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·DateFeb 4, 2013

Into the quantum Internet at the speed of light

A research team at the University of Innsbruck has successfully transferred quantum information from an atom to a single photon, paving the way for the construction of a quantum internet. This breakthrough enables the transfer of quantum information over optical channels between quantum computers.

SourceUniversity of Innsbruck·JournalNature Photonics·DateFeb 4, 2013

Mutations in ASXL3 cause problems similar to Bohring-Opitz syndrome

Researchers discovered a novel syndrome caused by mutations in the ASXL3 gene, characterized by non-specific symptoms and intellectual disability. The study provides a molecular definition of this condition, which is difficult to distinguish from Bohring-Opitz syndrome, and highlights the importance of sharing genomic data.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalGenome Medicine·DateFeb 4, 2013
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.

Vitamin C supplements linked to kidney stones

A large population-based study of men found that those taking vitamin C supplements are twice as likely to develop kidney stones as non-supplement users. The risk increased with the frequency of supplement use. Conversely, multivitamin use was not associated with an increased risk of kidney stones.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateFeb 4, 2013

Tuberculosis in Nunavut can be controlled

A combined strategy of door-to-door visits and education campaigns is proposed to combat TB in Nunavut. The territory's TB rate is 66 times higher than the general Canadian population, but control can be achieved through a community approach combined with clear performance targets.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateFeb 4, 2013

A little tag with a large effect

A recent study found that the epigenetic marker 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC) plays a vital role in the selective expression of genes, particularly in healthy brain cells. The study also discovered that changes in 5hmC distribution are associated with gene silencing and may contribute to cancer development.

SourceLudwig Institute for Cancer Research·JournalCell·DateFeb 4, 2013

Study finds incentive price for reducing HIV risk in Mexico

A study found that conditional cash transfer programs can improve behavior among gay men and male sex workers in Mexico City. Gay men would participate at a rate of over 75% if offered $7-8.75/month, while male sex workers would participate for significantly less, $156/year.

SourceBrown University·JournalThe European Journal of Health Economics·DateFeb 4, 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.