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Science News for July 29, 2013


BIDMC study suggests worsening trends in back pain management

Researchers found a significant rise in discordant treatments, such as advanced imaging and narcotics, while NSAIDs or acetaminophen use declined. This trend may lead to increased healthcare costs and potential disparities in pain management.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJul 29, 2013

New modular vaccine design combines best of existing vaccine technologies

A new modular vaccine design called MAPS technology may generate vaccines conferring strong immunity at reduced cost and risk. The method allows for rapid construction of new vaccines that activate multiple arms of the immune system simultaneously against one or more pathogens, reducing the risk of adverse effects.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 29, 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.

'Cowcatcher' enzyme fixes single-strand DNA

University of Texas Medical Branch researchers have figured out how mammalian cells repair damaged bases in the single-stranded genome. The 'cowcatcher' enzyme, NEIL1, rides in front of the replication complex to scout for damage and stalls machinery until it's repaired.

SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 29, 2013

Essential clue to Huntington's disease solution found by McMaster researchers

Researchers at McMaster University have developed a method to measure the shape of the huntingtin protein in living cells, revealing a key clue to solving Huntington's disease. The team discovered that the mutant huntingtin protein causing disease changes shape and can be corrected with chemicals.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 29, 2013

Graduate student awarded NIH fellowship to study electronic cigarettes

A graduate student at UC Riverside has received a $90,000 NIH fellowship to investigate the cytotoxic effects of e-cigarette aerosols on human cell health. The research aims to better understand the potential risks of e-cigarettes and improve their effectiveness as smoking cessation devices.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateJul 29, 2013

Hospital screening tool for suicide risk among self-harmers should be ditched

A screening tool used to detect suicide risk among patients who have self-harmed fails to accurately identify those in need of admission or treatment. The SADPERSONS Scale only picked up a small percentage of patients at high risk of further self harm, highlighting the need for more accurate assessment methods.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalEmergency Medicine Journal·DateJul 29, 2013

Examination of lymph nodes provides more accurate breast cancer prognosis

Researchers at Lund University found that lymph nodes provide a more accurate picture of breast cancer prognosis than breast tissue alone. Analyzing the proliferation, hormone receptor status, and HER2 status of lymph nodes showed significantly improved results in predicting metastases and disease recurrence.

SourceLund University·JournalBreast Cancer Research and Treatment·DateJul 29, 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.

Friendships reduce risky behaviors in homeless youth

A new study from the University of California - San Francisco found that friendships play a crucial role in reducing risky behaviors among homeless youth. Homeless young women were found to have lower condom use and a higher likelihood of sex with intravenous drug users, leading to higher rates of STIs.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateJul 29, 2013

Plant-based compound may inhibit HIV

Researchers at George Mason University have discovered that genistein, found in soybeans, can inhibit HIV infection by blocking cellular signals. The study's early findings suggest that genistein may be used as a complement treatment for HIV infection, potentially addressing drug toxicity issues.

SourceGeorge Mason University·JournalRetrovirology·DateJul 29, 2013

Most ward nurses say time pressures force them to 'ration' care

Research published in BMJ Quality & Safety found that most ward nurses report rationing care due to time pressures, with 86% saying they couldn't complete at least one care activity on their last shift. The study suggests that hospitals could use 'missed care' episodes as an early warning system for inadequate nurse staffing levels.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Quality & Safety·DateJul 29, 2013

Are you hiring the wrong person?

A new study by Berkeley-Haas Associate Professor Don Moore found that hiring managers tend to ignore the context of past performance when making judgments about job candidates. This systematic bias in thought, known as correspondence bias, can lead to poor hiring decisions.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley Haas School of Business·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 29, 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.

Video killed the interview star

Researchers at McMaster University found that video conferencing in job interviews can lead to less likable candidates and lower ratings for interviewers. The study suggests that face-to-face interviews are essential for accurate assessments and positive evaluations.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalManagement Decision·DateJul 29, 2013

Cell phones could increase cancer risk

A Tel Aviv University study found that the saliva of heavy cell phone users showed higher oxidative stress levels, a process that damages human cells and is linked to cancer. The research adds to growing evidence that cell phone use may be harmful in the long term.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalAntioxidants & Redox Signaling·DateJul 29, 2013

Understanding why male mammals choose monogamy

Researchers found that social monogamy in male mammals arose from ancestral species with solitary females, where males formed pairs to guard their mates. This approach explains the spatial distribution of females and provides insight into the evolution of paternal care.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJul 29, 2013

When fluid dynamics mimic quantum mechanics

MIT researchers have produced the fluidic analogue of the double-slit experiment and electron confinement in a circular corral, demonstrating remarkable accuracy in statistical behavior. This discovery offers insight into rational quantum dynamics and wave-particle duality.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Fluid Mechanics·DateJul 29, 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.

Early exposure to insecticides gives amphibians higher tolerance later

A Pitt-led study found that early exposure to insecticides increases amphibian tolerance to those same insecticides later in life. The researchers also discovered that low-level carbaryl exposure stimulates the production of a key enzyme, making tadpoles more tolerant to lethal doses.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalEvolutionary Applications·DateJul 29, 2013

GOES-R satellite magnetometer boom deployment successful

The successful deployment of the GOES-R satellite's magnetometer boom will enhance space weather forecasting, predicting geomagnetic storms with greater accuracy. This technology improvement supports better protection of property, public safety, and economic development.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 29, 2013

Playing college football linked with high blood pressure risk

A small study found that college football players, especially linemen, may develop high blood pressure over the course of their first season. Researchers noted a significant increase in blood pressure levels among players after the season, with 47% considered pre-hypertensive and 14% having stage 1 hypertension.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateJul 29, 2013
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Global warming endangers South American water supply

A study by the University of New South Wales reveals that global warming may lead to a decline in seasonal water storage capacity for Argentina and Chile. The North Patagonian Ice-field, vital to maintaining this capacity, is expected to shrink due to changes in westerly winds.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 29, 2013

Could sleeping stem cells hold key to treatment of aggressive blood cancer?

Researchers found that cancer cells are putting healthy stem cells to sleep, preventing them from forming new blood cells. This discovery offers a potential new approach to treating Acute Myeloid Leukaemia (AML), which affects around 2,500 people in the UK each year.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 29, 2013

NASA sees Tropical Storm Flossie near Hawaii

Tropical Storm Flossie brings heavy rainfall and strong winds to the Hawaiian Islands, with dangerously high surf expected. Satellite data shows the storm's movement and expected impact on Kona coffee crops, with moist air causing orographic lift and rain on the windward side.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 29, 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.

Pushing microscopy beyond standard limits

Researchers create a method to convert conventional microscopes into high-resolution imaging systems that outperform standard microscopes. The new system combines the field-of-view advantage of a 2X lens with the resolution advantage of a 20X lens, producing images with 100 times more information.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Photonics·DateJul 29, 2013

Scientists from Mainz and Antananarivo describe Lavasoa Dwarf Lemur as new primate species

Researchers from Mainz and Antananarivo have identified a previously unknown primate species, the Lavasoa Dwarf Lemur, with an estimated population size of less than 50 individuals. The newly described species inhabits isolated forest fragments in southern Madagascar and is considered extremely rare and endangered.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalMolecular Phylogenetics and Evolution·DateJul 29, 2013

Study unravels genetics behind debilitating inflammatory disease Takayasu arteritis

A study by Michigan Medicine researchers has identified five genes that play a major role in the development of Takayasu arteritis, a debilitating disease causing inflammation and damage to major blood vessels. The findings may lead to new therapeutic targets for this under-studied condition.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateJul 29, 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.

Like water for batteries

A University of Pittsburgh study reveals that graphite materials are actually hydrophilic due to airborne contaminants. This discovery has significant implications for lithium-ion batteries and super capacitors, which may lead to stronger and more durable devices.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalNature Materials·DateJul 29, 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.

Pulsating star sheds light on exoplanet

A team of researchers has developed a new method to measure the internal properties of stars, enabling more accurate assessments of their orbiting planets. By using asteroseismology, they were able to determine the mass and rotation rate of a pulsating star, confirming the existence of an exoplanet in its orbit.

SourceNew York University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 29, 2013

Borneo's orangutans are coming down from the trees

Researchers in Borneo have found orangutans regularly coming down from trees to forage or travel, comparable to ground-dwelling macaques. The reason for this behavior remains a mystery, but habitat loss and transformation may be driving the adaptation.

SourceWiley·JournalAmerican Journal of Primatology·DateJul 29, 2013

New coating may help joint replacements bond better with bone

Researchers at Ohio State University have developed a new coating for medical implants that can boost bone cell growth by nearly 80%, potentially leading to faster healing of joint replacements and broken bones. The coating, made of tiny metal oxide wires, allows bone cells to cling more easily and form a stronger bond with the implant.

SourceOhio State University·JournalCeramics International·DateJul 29, 2013

UCLA researchers double efficiency of novel solar cell

The new device achieves a conversion rate of 7.3%, nearly double the original 4% rate, due to its two-layer design and novel materials. Researchers envision solar-powered windows and smartphone displays that can generate energy while maintaining transparency.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateJul 29, 2013

Hope for tigers lives in Sumatra

A recent study has discovered an unexpected density of six tigers per 100km2 in Tambling, a privately managed concession in Sumatra. This estimate is nearly double the highest recorded for the island to date, making it a critical site for tiger conservation.

SourcePanthera·DateJul 29, 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.

Intent to harm: Willful acts seem more damaging

Participants in studies estimated higher monetary damages for intentional harm than unintentional harm, suggesting people perceive intentional harm as more damaging. This finding has implications for legal and policy-related judgments, potentially leading to over-allocation of resources to prevent highly intentional harms.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateJul 29, 2013

Brain implant aims to stifle drug highs

Researchers are developing a brain implant that senses dopamine levels and suppresses reward signals to treat and possibly cure drug abuse. The device will be tested on anesthetized laboratory rats next month.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·DateJul 29, 2013

Looking at outcomes important to patients may improve results of cataract surgery

A study found that using well-designed tools to assess patient-reported outcomes can lead to new insights for improving cataract care. Patient-reported measures were affected by clinical measures such as visual acuity and ocular comorbidity, but also by factors related to better or worse patient-reported outcomes.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalOptometry and Vision Science·DateJul 29, 2013

NIH math model predicts effects of diet, physical activity on childhood weight

A new mathematical model developed by the NIH predicts how weight and body fat in children respond to adjustments in diet and physical activity. The results suggest that obese children may require more calories per pound of extra weight than adults, and may have therapeutic windows for weight management.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·DateJul 29, 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.

Major changes urged for cancer screening and treatment

A scientific panel recommends personalized strategies to reduce cancer overtreatment by classifying indolent tumors and improving screening strategies. The goal is to detect consequential cancer while avoiding inconsequential disease.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJAMA·DateJul 29, 2013

Topical analgesic may provide pain-free 'skin glue' repair of cuts in children

A randomized controlled trial found that over 50% of children who received a topical analgesic experienced no pain during wound repair with tissue adhesive. The study suggested early application of the analgesic to all minor cuts may decrease children's pain during these procedures.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJul 29, 2013

X chromosomes: Undoing a hairpin doubles gene activity

Researchers found a new switch involved in dosage compensation, which doubles gene activity on the male X chromosome. This switch, revealed to be a hairpin structure, must be unwound by an enzyme before MSL proteins can bind, allowing for functional assembly of the Dosage Compensation Complex.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalMolecular Cell·DateJul 29, 2013

Hot flashes? Thank evolution

A study comparing mortality and fertility patterns among wild apes and monkeys to humans shows that human females are unique in living beyond their childbearing years. Half of women experience menopause by age 50, and fertility declines earlier than the rest of the body.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 29, 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.

Cells move as concentration shifts

Researchers found that cells displace due to changing morphogen concentration levels, attracting cells through chemotaxis. This understanding can improve wound healing and artificial tissue engineering.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateJul 29, 2013

Human cells respond in healthy, unhealthy ways to different kinds of happiness

Human cells respond in healthy ways to eudaimonic well-being but in unhealthy ways to hedonic happiness. Research found a significant decrease in stress-related gene expression profiles for those experiencing eudaimonic well-being, while hedonic well-being was linked to an increase.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 29, 2013

Young cannabis-smokers aware of the health risks

A study of 12,000 young Swiss men found that those who consume addictive substances like alcohol, tobacco, or cannabis are more likely to seek information on these topics. Despite this, prevention campaigns may not be effective due to the complexity of individual knowledge and behaviors.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalInternational Journal of Public Health·DateJul 29, 2013

Evolution of diverse sex-determining mechanisms in mammals

Researchers found a genetic process among rodents that challenges assumptions about sex determination and the pace of evolution. A novel protein domain added to the Sry gene acts as a genetic capacitor, providing protection against mutations but also allowing for rapid evolutionary change.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 29, 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.

Cockatoos know what is going on behind barriers

Researchers found that Goffin cockatoos solve spatial memory tasks comparable to those of great apes and four-year-old human toddlers. The birds' performance was surprising, given the complexity of these tasks and their potential ecological implications.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalJournal of Comparative Psychology·DateJul 29, 2013

Study looks beyond averages to track variability in a bacterial population

A recent study by University of Illinois researchers identified behavioral subtypes within a modeled Escherichia coli population based on gene regulation and protein distributions. The findings suggest that tracking specific genes may be sufficient to capture most of the metabolic variability in the entire population.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 29, 2013

The invisible driver

A team of engineers at the Technical University of Munich has successfully demonstrated remote control driving on public roads using Visio.M e-mobility project technology. The system uses video cameras, computer encoding, and LTE connectivity to transmit images, sound, and control data between the driver and the vehicle.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·DateJul 29, 2013

Study predicts potential surge in medically-attended injuries

New research from The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia estimates a potential surge in medically-attended injuries, particularly among currently uninsured young adults who will now be able to access affordable care. The study predicts an increase in demand for treatment among younger patients with mild and moderate injuries.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalClinical Pediatrics·DateJul 29, 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.

Make it yourself and save -- a lot

A Michigan Technological University researcher predicts that personal manufacturing with 3D printing will enter the mainstream, offering consumers significant cost savings. The study analyzed 20 common household items and found that making them with a 3D printer could save up to $1,944 compared to buying them online.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalMechatronics·DateJul 29, 2013

Researchers identify genetic mutation linked to congenital heart disease

A team of Nationwide Children's Hospital researchers identified a genetic mutation in the FOXP1 gene that contributes to congenital heart disease. The study found that a rare mutation in FOXP1 affects Nkx2.5 transcription factor expression, which is implicated in congenital heart disease.

SourceNationwide Children's Hospital·JournalHuman Mutation·DateJul 29, 2013

Ice-free Arctic winters could explain amplified warming during Pliocene

Researchers found that year-round ice-free conditions in the Arctic could explain amplified warming during the Pliocene Epoch, with warmer temperatures and reduced seasonal cycles. The study used climate models to simulate the effects of ice-free winters and summers, revealing a possible mechanism for Pliocene warming.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·DateJul 29, 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.

NASA keeping an eye on Dorian's remnants

Tropical Storm Dorian's remnants are producing showers and thunderstorms northeast of the Northern Leeward Islands. The low pressure area is moving westward towards Puerto Rico and the Bahamas, with a medium chance (40%) of regeneration into a tropical cyclone.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 29, 2013

Saliva samples can reveal serious illnesses

Researchers at Malmo University found that saliva samples can reveal traces of serious illnesses, such as cancer and diabetes. This breakthrough could lead to earlier diagnosis and treatment with a simple saliva test.

SourceSwedish Research Council·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 29, 2013

Tetrapod nanocrystals light the way to stronger polymers

Researchers develop a technique using fluorescent tetrapod quantum dots to measure polymer fiber tensile strength without altering its mechanical properties. The tQDs act as non-perturbing probes that provide detailed stress monitoring, enabling the creation of stronger and more durable materials.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNano Letters·DateJul 29, 2013

Evolution of monogamy in humans the result of infanticide risk

The study reveals that male infanticide is the key driver of monogamy in humans and other primates. By caring for young, fathers can protect infants from rival males and share childcare burdens. This leads to a reduction in infant dependency and allows females to reproduce more quickly.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 29, 2013

National Eye Institute grant aims to protect sight from diabetes

Researchers aim to prevent diabetes-related damage to blood vessels in the retina by modulating the arginase enzyme. By stabilizing arginase levels, they hope to restore a healthy relationship between enzymes and reduce oxidative stress. This new approach may not only protect sight but also have broader benefits for cardiovascular health.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·DateJul 29, 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.

$20,000 APS Foundation grant helps fund TGen2School education initiative

The APS Foundation has awarded a $20,000 grant to the Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen) to support its TGen2School initiative. The grant will provide science kits and instructional materials for teachers, helping to improve overall scientific literacy and prepare students for careers in STEM fields.

SourceThe Translational Genomics Research Institute·DateJul 29, 2013

Annals of Internal Medicine tip sheet for July 30, 2013

Screening asymptomatic high-risk adults for lung cancer using low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) may significantly reduce mortality, according to a systematic review. The US Preventive Services Task Force reviewed 67 articles and found that LDCT screening can detect lung cancer at an earlier stage, leading to lower mortality rates.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJul 29, 2013

Social amoebae travel with a posse

Scientists have discovered that social amoebae can cultivate two bacterial strains, one edible and the other toxic, which differ by only one key mutation. This mutation altered the expression of genes in the non-food strain, making it edible, while the food strain retained its defense mechanisms.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 29, 2013

Parents don't fully understand biobank research, study finds

A study found that more than half of parents misunderstood key concepts of genetic biobanking consent, highlighting the need for clearer explanations and inclusive consent models. Researchers are exploring alternative methods of consent delivery to improve understanding and empower families as partners in genetic research.

SourceNationwide Children's Hospital·JournalGenetics in Medicine·DateJul 29, 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.

PTSD after traumatic events: Which teens are at risk?

A large study from Boston Children's Hospital found that 61% of teenagers had been exposed to at least one potentially traumatic event, with girls more likely to develop PTSD than boys. Risk factors for developing PTSD include lack of both biological parents in the home and pre-existing mental disorders like ADHD.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateJul 29, 2013

Experimental quest to test Einstein's speed limit

Researchers used dysprosium to measure electron velocity and found the maximum speed of an electron is consistent with the speed of light. The experiment pushes the limits of Einstein's theory, potentially revealing new insights into particle physics.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJul 29, 2013

Head hits can be reduced in youth football

Researchers found that limiting contact in practice reduced the number and force of head hits in young football players. The study, which measured head impacts over an entire season, showed that teams with restricted practices had significantly fewer head hits, on average, than teams without such restrictions.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalAnnals of Biomedical Engineering·DateJul 29, 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.

NIH researchers identify therapy that may curb kidney deterioration in patients with rare disorder

Researchers at the National Human Genome Research Institute identified biomarkers of kidney damage and demonstrated that antioxidant therapy protected kidney function in mice. These findings offer new tools for monitoring disease progression and may pave the way for clinical trials for patients with methylmalonic acidemia.

SourceNIH/National Human Genome Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 29, 2013

Sharing the wealth with loyal workers

A new study by Michigan State University found that worker loyalty is positively correlated with higher earnings, with employees who are committed to the company's mission earning up to an additional year of experience. The research also identified factors that promote worker loyalty, including learning new skills and job security.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalEvidence-based HRM a Global Forum for Empirical Scholarship·DateJul 29, 2013

The best of 2 worlds: Solar hydrogen production breakthrough

Researchers have developed a highly efficient solar fuel device that can produce hydrogen from sunlight, with a potential to store energy for later use. The device uses a metal oxide photo anode and a cobalt phosphate catalyst to split water into hydrogen and oxygen.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 29, 2013

Monogamy evolved as a mating strategy

Social monogamy emerged as a mating strategy due to male competition for resources. Males with limited access to food rely on monogamy to increase reproductive success.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalScience·DateJul 29, 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.

Breastfeeding duration appears associated with intelligence later in life

A study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that longer breastfeeding durations are associated with better receptive language at age 3 and verbal and nonverbal intelligence at age 7. Higher fish intake during lactation also appeared to strengthen the relationship between infant feeding and later cognition.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateJul 29, 2013

Aberrant splicing saps the strength of 'slow' muscle fibers

Researchers found aberrant splicing changes the form of an enzyme involved in metabolism, leaving slow muscle fibers unable to sustain exercise. This discovery may explain the muscle wasting seen in myotonic dystrophy, a disease characterized by abnormal CTG repeats.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 29, 2013

Prison reform results in strain on welfare system

A study by Rice University and Louisiana State University found that court-mandated prison reforms led to a 22% decrease in welfare spending. The researchers discovered that states that were ordered to improve living conditions spent significantly more on correctional facilities, but less on social programs.

SourceRice University·DateJul 29, 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.

Keeping your balance

McGill researchers have identified a cluster of cells in the brain that react to unexpected motion, enabling us to maintain our balance. This finding has significant implications for understanding the neural basis of motion sickness.

SourceMcGill University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJul 29, 2013

Antibiotic reduction campaigns do not necessarily reduce resistance

Reducing overall antibiotic consumption does not necessarily decrease resistance, particularly for MRSA, where some antibiotics like clindamycin and methicillin are more effective in reducing resistance. The success of antibiotic reduction programs depends on the targeted antibiotics that are reduced.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalAntimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy·DateJul 29, 2013

Mini-monsters of the forest floor

Entomologist Jack Longino identified 33 new species of predatory ants in Central America and the Caribbean. The ants were found in small patches of forest and have monster-like faces with sharp teeth and jaws. Their primitive eyes detect light, but not form images.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalZootaxa·DateJul 29, 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.

Adolescents are what they don't eat, too

A University of Pittsburgh study found that diets lacking omega-3 fatty acids can worsen effects over consecutive generations, particularly affecting teens. Adolescents with omega-3 deficiencies showed increased anxiety and hyperactivity, impaired learning and memory, and problem-solving abilities.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateJul 29, 2013

New model shows that some children can outgrow obesity without losing weight

A new model developed by researchers at the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases predicts that some children can 'outgrow' obesity during periods of rapid growth, especially boys. However, girls tend to retain more body fat during this period, making it harder for them to overcome obesity.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·DateJul 29, 2013

UK's 'super mouse' yielding major discoveries in cancer research

Researchers at the University of Kentucky Markey Cancer Center have made significant discoveries about the Par-4 gene and its role in cancer recurrence. The study found that low levels of Par-4 protein may predict breast cancer relapse, while high levels can eliminate cancer cells through apoptosis.

SourceUniversity of Kentucky·JournalCancer Cell·DateJul 29, 2013

Be happy: Your genes may thank you for it

A new UCLA study found that different types of happiness have surprisingly different effects on the human genome. People with eudaimonic well-being showed favorable gene-expression profiles in their immune cells, while those with hedonic well-being showed an adverse profile.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 29, 2013

How does hydrogen metallize?

New calculations predict hydrogen takes on a series of structures under high pressure, forming transparent metal layers that make detection difficult. The findings suggest the line between metal and non-metal in hydrogen is blurrier than previously thought, requiring advanced experimental techniques to detect.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 29, 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.

New technology allows scientists, school children to examine biological details

A new study by a University of Missouri scientist has developed 3D computer modeling that complements the study of biological systems for many species. The technology allows for the creation of interactive models that can be shared with other laboratories or used in the classroom, providing an alternative to accessing donor bodies.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 29, 2013