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Science News for October 7, 2013


Nearly 1 in 10 young people report perpetrating sexual violence

A study of 1,058 young people aged 14-21 found nearly 9% reported coercive or forced sex, with males more likely to start at a younger age. The study suggests monitoring adolescents' consumption of violent media and implementing bystander intervention programs to prevent victim blaming.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateOct 7, 2013
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Methane seeps of the deep sea: A bacteria feast for lithodid crabs

A team of researchers discovered that lithodid crabs subsist on bacterial mats at cold sea methane seeps. Crabs were observed grazing on the mats for 400 hours, taking up chemically-produced carbon, and even showing signs of photosynthesis in their bodies.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel (GEOMAR)·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 7, 2013

Minute traits and DNA link grass species from Old and New Worlds

Researchers have discovered a link between grass species from Africa and America through DNA analysis, revealing unique traits such as 'clavicorniculate' hairs. The four species are now classified in the same genus, Disakisperma, shedding new light on plant taxonomy.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalPhytoKeys·DateOct 7, 2013

What makes triathletes so tough?

Researchers at Tel Aviv University found that triathletes experience lower pain intensity and have a higher pain tolerance due to a combination of physiological and psychological factors. They were able to withstand pain for longer periods and had better pain regulation, which may be attributed to their attitude towards pain.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalPain·DateOct 7, 2013

South Africa reverses mortality trend in children under 5

South Africa has made significant progress in reducing child mortality rates, mainly due to improved HIV/AIDS care. The country's under-five mortality rate has decreased by six to 10 percent per year since 2006, with the proportion of deaths due to AIDS falling from 39% to between 11 and 24%.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalAIDS·DateOct 7, 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.

Sending multiple sclerosis up in smoke

Tel Aviv University researchers discover that compounds found in marijuana can prevent inflammation in the brain and spinal cord, which is a hallmark of multiple sclerosis. The study uses mice with MS-like symptoms to demonstrate the anti-inflammatory effects of CBD and THC.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalJournal of Neuroimmune Pharmacology·DateOct 7, 2013

'White graphene' halts rust in high temps

Researchers have discovered that sheets of hexagonal boron nitride can protect metals from oxidizing even at very high temperatures, such as 1,100 degrees Celsius. The ultrathin films are made of just a few atoms thick and have potential applications in industries like turbines, jet engines, and oil exploration.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 7, 2013

Seniors in long-term care residences: high risk of head injuries

Falls account for more than 60% of hospital stays for traumatic brain injury in seniors over age 65. Researchers found that hand impact occurred in 74% of falls, highlighting the need for exercises to strengthen upper limbs and design safer environments.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateOct 7, 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.

Facial recognition is more accurate in photos showing whole person

A study published in Psychological Science found that humans rely on non-facial cues like body shape and build to identify people in challenging viewing conditions. Participants accurately identified images of the same person even when only their bodies were shown.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalPsychological Science·DateOct 7, 2013

Babies learn to anticipate touch in the womb

Fetuses show increased sensitivity to mouth movements as pregnancy progresses, suggesting anticipation rather than reaction. This could be an indicator of healthy development and preparedness for feeding, social interaction, and self-soothing.

SourceDurham University·JournalDevelopmental Psychobiology·DateOct 7, 2013

Long-term care seniors at high risk of head injuries

A study by Simon Fraser University researchers found nearly 40% of seniors who fall experience head impact, with linoleum or tile flooring being the most common cause. The team suggests designing safer environments, improving procedures for detecting brain injuries, and promoting strengthening exercises to reduce falls.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateOct 7, 2013

Health-care providers should aggressively treat unhealthy lifestyles

The American Heart Association recommends treating unhealthy behaviors like smoking and poor diet as aggressively as high blood pressure. Healthcare providers should implement the five A's to connect patients with specialists and arrange follow-up care to promote significant behavior changes.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalCirculation·DateOct 7, 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.

Study: Lance Armstrong failed social media, too

A study found that Lance Armstrong used Twitter to employ image-repair strategies, including attacking the accuser and bolstering his image, but neglected to do so after admitting to doping. The research suggests that athletes should be prepared with strategies for navigating traditional and social media platforms.

SourceClemson University·JournalCommunication & Sport·DateOct 7, 2013

Vaccination campaign doubles HBV mutations

A universal infant vaccination campaign in China has led to a doubling of Hepatitis B virus (HBV) mutations, which may enable the virus to evade the vaccine. The mutations have risen from 6.5% in 1992 to nearly 15% in 2005, necessitating new vaccination strategies.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalJournal of Virology·DateOct 7, 2013

Dog's mood offers insight into owner's health

Researchers at Newcastle University developed a technology that tracks dog behavior to detect potential health issues in owners. The system uses movement sensors and machine learning algorithms to identify changes in canine behavior that may indicate declining health or boredom.

SourceNewcastle University·DateOct 7, 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.

Improving the quality of clinical ethics consultants

The American Society for Bioethics and Humanities (ASBH) has proposed a method for assessing the knowledge, skills, and practice of clinical ethicists. A two-step process evaluates candidates based on their portfolio and oral examination.

SourceThe Hastings Center·JournalHastings Center Report·DateOct 7, 2013

Budnik gets EUREKA grant to study communication between nucleus and cytoplasm

Dr. Vivian Budnik is studying a novel mechanism of communication between the nucleus and cytoplasm, called nuclear envelope budding, which may lead to new understandings for various tissue dystrophies and aging disorders. Understanding this process could provide insights into diseases such as muscular dystrophies and Herpes virus-type ...

SourceUMass Chan Medical School·DateOct 7, 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.

Death rates higher among middle aged and elderly when economy is booming

A long-term analysis of economic cycles found that death rates increased for middle-aged and elderly people when the economy was growing. The study suggests that factors like job stress and road traffic accidents may not fully explain these trends, but social support changes could play a role.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·DateOct 7, 2013

Study casts light on addressing domestic violence among female US veterans

A new study examines how healthcare providers respond to emotional, sexual, and physical violence experienced by female US veterans at the hands of their intimate partners. The research highlights the need for routine screening and direct inquiry to disclose experiences of intimate partner violence.

SourceSpringer Science+Business Media·JournalJournal of Family Violence·DateOct 7, 2013

New drug candidate found for fungal lung infections

Researchers have found a new compound that targets the fungus without harming humans, offering hope for safer treatment options for life-threatening fungal lung infections. The discovery has potential to combat histoplasmosis and cryptococcosis, which can cause flu-like symptoms and severe complications.

SourceMediaSource·JournalAntimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy·DateOct 7, 2013

Study explains why diabetic retinopathy is difficult to treat

Researchers investigated how drug treatment affects signal carriers in diabetic retinas, finding half of proteins normalized by metformin treatment. However, other essential proteins remained unchanged despite improved blood glucose levels, suggesting a need for further combination therapies to effectively treat diabetic retinopathy.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalDiabetologia·DateOct 7, 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.

Legislation may cause data deficit for researchers, small businesses

Researchers warn that eliminating local economic data could harm small businesses and entrepreneurs, who rely on this data to understand market trends and identify opportunities. The loss of data could also limit policymakers' ability to anticipate and respond to community needs.

SourcePenn State·JournalEuroChoices·DateOct 7, 2013

Explosive dynamic behaviour on Twitter and in the financial market

A study by the University of Copenhagen's Niels Bohr Institute reveals common features in user activity on Twitter and stock market transactions. The analysis shows that events in society trigger collective behaviour among large groups, leading to sudden and intense online activity.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Niels Bohr Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 7, 2013

Delayed aging is better investment than cancer, heart disease

A new study reveals that investing in delayed aging research would yield better population health and economic returns than advances in individual fatal diseases like cancer or heart disease. The analysis predicts an additional 11.7 million healthy adults over 65 by 2060, with significant benefits over the long term.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalHealth Affairs·DateOct 7, 2013

Research shows 'advergames' promote unhealthy foods for kids

A Michigan State University study found that advergames on food marketer websites often promote high-fat, high-sugar, and high-sodium products. These games can be engaging and fun for children, but they also contribute to unhealthy diets and a less-than-active lifestyle.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalPreventing Chronic Disease·DateOct 7, 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 more effective antimicrobials might rise from old

Researchers at UC San Diego School of Medicine have created over 650 new compounds that restore or improve effectiveness against drug-resistant pathogens in animal models. The findings could have major impact in the struggle against antimicrobial resistance, which threatens public health globally.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 7, 2013

New microfluidic approach for the directed assembly of functional materials

Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a new microfluidic approach to assemble functional materials, including polypeptides and nanostructures. The technique uses tailored flows in microfluidic devices to control the assembly process, enabling reproducible fabrication of advanced materials.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateOct 7, 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.

Overhauling confusing prescription medicine labels

A new study is testing a standardized labeling system that prescribes medications at four specific times of the day (morning, noon, evening, and bedtime), with the goal of improving patients' understanding and proper use of their medications. The study aims to reduce confusion and neglect among patients taking multiple medications.

SourceNorthwestern University·DateOct 7, 2013

No 'weekend effect' seen following appendix removal operations

A new study by American College of Surgeons found that appendectomy patients who undergo surgery on weekends do not experience more postoperative complications compared to weekday patients. However, they pay $419 more in hospital charges on average. The study analyzed nearly 826,000 appendectomies performed between 2006 and 2009.

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·DateOct 7, 2013

Scientists find soaring variety of malaria parasites in bats

Researchers uncover a wide variety of malaria parasites in West African bats, including those closely related to rodent-infecting pathogens. The study reveals two bat-infecting parasites that made evolutionary jumps from rodents into bats and then likely back again.

SourceAmerican Museum of Natural History·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 7, 2013

Scientists invent a better way to make antibody-guided therapies

Chemists at Scripps Research Institute develop new technique to create more stable antibody-drug conjugates, reducing toxicity and increasing efficacy. The new method uses a novel Thiol-Click reaction to form stronger linkages with cysteine amino acids.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateOct 7, 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.

Meals for more seniors could save some states money

A new study by Brown University researchers projects that expanding home-delivered meal programs to 1% more seniors would save most states money, with Pennsylvania seeing the greatest net savings of $5.7 million annually. This expansion would enable 1,722 more Medicaid recipients to avoid nursing homes and improve their quality of life.

SourceBrown University·JournalHealth Affairs·DateOct 7, 2013

Boston University researchers test effectiveness of treatments for alcoholism and anxiety

A study published in Behaviour Research and Therapy found that Transdiagnostic cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) was more effective than progressive muscle relaxation therapy (PMR) in reducing heavy drinking among anxious alcoholics. The addition of medication to either CBT or PMR did not decrease alcohol consumption.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalBehaviour Research and Therapy·DateOct 7, 2013

Infanticide linked to wet-nursing in meerkats

Researchers found that subordinate female meerkats who have recently lost litters or been evicted are more likely to wet-nurse the dominant female's pups. This behavior may provide a survival benefit for the nursed offspring and the mother of the pups, allowing the subordinate female to remain in the group.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalAnimal Behaviour·DateOct 7, 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.

Adult ADHD undertreated despite effective interventions

Adults with ADHD frequently experience significant psychosocial impairments due to persistent symptoms. Current guidelines recommend a multimodal treatment approach, including pharmacotherapy, psycho-education, and occupational rehabilitation.

SourceEuropean College of Neuropsychopharmacology·DateOct 7, 2013

Study identifies possible biomarker for Parkinson's disease

A study published in Neurology found that alpha-synuclein, a protein associated with Lewy bodies, is elevated in the skin of people with Parkinson's disease. This could lead to the development of a biomarker for early diagnosis and improved treatment options.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalNeurology·DateOct 7, 2013

Plastic waste is a hazard for subalpine lakes too

New research finds subalpine lakes contaminated with microplastics, which can enter food webs through freshwater invertebrates. Microplastic particles can also adsorb toxic pollutants and transport them to other habitats.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateOct 7, 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.

Scientists unlock secret of cattle ticks' resistance to pesticide

Researchers have identified the genetic basis for resistance to amitraz in cattle ticks, which can cause devastating diseases. The discovery paves the way for a new genetic test that will help farmers make informed management decisions.

SourceUniversity of Glasgow_·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 7, 2013

Innovative wideband ring voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO) by UNIST undergraduate

A new wideband ring voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO) was proposed by UNIST undergraduate student Seyeon Yoo, enabling stable operation of IR-UWB-based Doppler radar systems. The VCO's digital tuning allows for scalable frequency control within a 2-8 GHz band.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalIEEE Microwave and Wireless Components Letters·DateOct 7, 2013

Microsatellites are repetitive, but the lab work doesn't have to be

A new protocol developed by researchers at the University of Cincinnati significantly reduces the need for repetitive lab work in microsatellite-based research. By increasing the efficiency of primer testing and allowing for flexible experimentation, this method streamlines the development process, making it quicker and cheaper.

SourceBotanical Society of America·JournalAmerican Journal of Botany·DateOct 7, 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.

Fruit science: Switching between repulsion and attraction

A team of researchers found that a single gene controls the shift between repulsion and attraction in strawberry fruit, influencing ripening and pest defense. The enzyme anthocyanin reductase plays a crucial role in this process.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNew Phytologist·DateOct 7, 2013

Targeting canine bloat, a major killer of dogs

Canine bloat is a leading cause of death in dogs, with Great Danes being the most prone. Researchers are investigating the relationship between motility and bloat risk, as well as genetic factors, to develop diagnostic tools and potentially prevent the disease. SmartPill, a non-invasive diagnostic tool, will be used to measure acidity ...

SourceMichigan State University·DateOct 7, 2013

Exceptional fossil fish reveals new evolutionary mechanism for body elongation

A team of paleontologists discovered a new evolutionary mechanism for body elongation in early ray-finned fishes, characterized by the doubling of vertebral arches. The exceptionally preserved form, Saurichthys curionii, had a unique two-vertebral arch per myomeric segment, resulting in an overall elongate appearance and flexibility.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 7, 2013

Unexpected genomic change through 400 years of French-Canadian history

Researchers have discovered an unprecedented change in the French-Canadian genomic signature over 400 years, with rare mutations accumulating at an alarming rate. This finding has significant implications for understanding population-specific diseases and conservation genetics.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateOct 7, 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.

Poor nutritional status before bladder operation causes higher risk of complications

A new study by the University of North Carolina School of Medicine has identified low preoperative albumin levels as an independent risk factor for surgical-related health problems after radical cystectomy. Patients with a low albumin level before surgery are 2.1 times more likely to experience complications within 30 days.

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateOct 7, 2013

UltraHaptics -- it's magic in the air

UltraHaptics allows users to experience multi-point haptic feedback above an interactive surface without touching a device. The system projects tactile sensations through a screen and directly onto the user's hands using ultrasonic vibrations.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·DateOct 7, 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.

Air pollution and psychological distress during pregnancy

A recent study published in Pediatrics found a strong link between air pollution exposure during pregnancy and increased risk of behavioral problems in children. Maternal psychological distress also played a significant role, with children experiencing anxiety, depression, attention problems, and aggressive behavior.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateOct 7, 2013

USC study: Unlocking biology with math

Scientists at USC created a mathematical model to predict the biological process creating antibody diversity. The research, a collaboration between Myron Goodman and Chi Mak, explains how an enzyme initiates hypermutations in immunoglobulin genes, generating robust immune systems.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateOct 7, 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.

Battling defiant leukemia cells

A study finds that chronic myeloid leukemia cells with activating beta-catenin mutations are highly aggressive and resistant to Imatinib. Combined treatment with drugs restoring IRF8 expression and inactivating beta-catenin may prevent fatal leukemia progression.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateOct 7, 2013

Making a better, cheaper green-energy magnet

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University have developed a new eco-friendly material for better power-converting magnets in wind turbines and electric cars. The material reduces neodymium-iron-boron production costs from $60 per kilogram to around $10 per kilogram, improving the magnetic remanence of the resulting magnets.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·DateOct 7, 2013

Virtual simulation program to train home health workers

A virtual simulation program is being developed to train home health workers in recognizing and responding to risks. The program will use realistic scenarios and interactive elements to equip workers with the skills to evaluate home environments and adapt their tasks to protect themselves.

SourceUniversity of Louisville·DateOct 7, 2013

Abusive parenting may have a biological basis

Research finds abusive mothers experience stress and physiological responses when attempting warm parenting, leading to increased hostility. The study suggests a biological basis for aversive parenting patterns, making it harder for interventions to succeed.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·DateOct 7, 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.

3-D printed microscopic cages confine bacteria in tiny zoos for the study of infections

Scientists create tiny houses for bacteria using a novel 3D printing technology, enabling precise control over bacterial interactions and growth. The method reveals that certain bacterial communities become more resistant to antibiotics when contained together, providing new insights into infection mechanisms.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 7, 2013

UAlberta medical research team designing new drug for common heart condition

A team of UAlberta medical researchers has developed a potential new treatment for atrial fibrillation, a common heart rhythm problem affecting 1 in 200 people. The new drug, based on the resveratrol compound found in red wine and nuts, regulates electrical activity in the heart and reduces abnormal heart-rhythm episodes.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalBritish Journal of Pharmacology·DateOct 7, 2013

Just 5 in every 1,000 NHS doctors prompt performance concerns each year

A study analyzing 11 years of data found that less than 1% of NHS doctors prompt performance concerns each year. Doctors in the late stages of their career are six times more likely to be referred for remedial help, highlighting a need for greater attention to mental wellbeing among staff.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Quality & Safety·DateOct 7, 2013

USPSTF updates recos on youth blood pressure screening

The USPSTF found no conclusive evidence to support routine blood pressure screening in asymptomatic youth. However, there is a growing concern about the increasing rates of childhood obesity and its potential impact on adult cardiovascular health.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateOct 7, 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.

Study examines probiotics to prevent or treat excessive infant crying

A systematic review of 12 trials found that probiotics reduced crying in six out of the 12 trials. Probiotics were effective in treating colic in breastfed babies, but had limited effectiveness in formula-fed babies. Larger and more rigorous clinical trials are needed to confirm these findings.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateOct 7, 2013

Bile salts -- sea lampreys' newest scent of seduction

New research reveals that sea lampreys utilize bile salts as pheromones to entice mates, akin to humans' evolution of perfume. This scent has evolved to serve as the invasive species' primary sex signal, distinguishing it from native fauna.

SourceMichigan State University·DateOct 7, 2013

On the political fringes, feelings of superiority abound

A new study published in Psychological Science found that individuals on the extreme ends of the political spectrum are equally likely to believe their opinions are superior to others', but for distinct political issues. Conservatives tend to feel more confident in their views on issues like voter ID laws and tax rates, while liberals ...

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateOct 7, 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.

GABA inverse agonist restores cognitive function in Down's syndrome

Researchers have found that a selective GABA inverse agonist can potentiate learning and memory performances in mice with Down's syndrome, reversing learning impairments. The drug also restored normal levels of gene expression in disregulated pathways, suggesting its therapeutic potential.

SourceEuropean College of Neuropsychopharmacology·DateOct 7, 2013

How JC Polyomavirus invades cells

The study reveals that JC polyomavirus uses specific serotonin receptors to gain entry into cells, contrary to initial hypotheses. This discovery could lead to improved treatment options for patients with PML by informing how existing drugs work.

SourceBrown University·JournalJournal of Virology·DateOct 7, 2013

Iron melt network helped grow Earth's core, Stanford study suggests

A new Stanford study proposes that an iron melt network played a key role in forming the early Earth's internal structure, lending credence to a theory first proposed nearly half a century ago. The team recreated ancient Earth conditions and found evidence that percolation, previously thought impossible, could have helped funnel molten...

SourceStanford University·JournalNature Geoscience·DateOct 7, 2013

For liberals and conservatives, 'belief superiority' is bipartisan

A Duke University study discovered that people with extreme political views tend to feel superior about their beliefs, regardless of whether they are liberal or conservative. The research found that those at the extremes of both sides experience 'belief superiority' when discussing certain hot-button issues.

SourceDuke University·JournalPsychological Science·DateOct 7, 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.

Penn State to lead cyber-security Collaborative Research Alliance

The five-year collaborative research alliance will focus on detecting adversaries and attacks, measuring and managing risk, and altering environments to achieve best results at the least cost. Researchers will develop predictive models to make real-time decisions that lead to mission success.

SourcePenn State·DateOct 7, 2013

Smoking affects molecular mechanisms and thus children's immune systems

Researchers have discovered a link between prenatal exposure to tobacco smoke and increased risk of allergies in children. High levels of microRNA-223 were found in pregnant women exposed to cigarette smoke, correlating with low regulatory T-cell numbers in their babies' cord blood.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateOct 7, 2013

Study tracks factors linked to creation of accountable care organizations

Accountable care organizations, formed by consolidating doctors and hospitals into large networks, are more common in regions with payment risk sharing at hospitals and larger integrated hospital systems. These organizations aim to improve quality and cut costs without offering lower premiums to consumers.

SourceRAND Corporation·JournalHealth Affairs·DateOct 7, 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.

People mean most for our collective happiness

A recent study analyzing Swedish news articles found that words related to happiness often appear with personal pronouns and names, highlighting the importance of relationships in collective happiness. The research also found that words like iPhone and Google rarely appear with the word for happiness.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·DateOct 7, 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.

Food addiction a step closer to formal diagnostic status -- or not?

The concept of food addiction is being debated as a potential mental disorder, with some studies suggesting that certain obese individuals exhibit addictive-like behavior towards food. However, more evidence is needed to support inclusion in the DSM, and experts caution against over-diagnosing disorders.

SourceEuropean College of Neuropsychopharmacology·DateOct 7, 2013

Better robot vision

A new robot-vision algorithm based on the Bingham distribution can identify object orientations more accurately than existing algorithms, with a 50% improvement in cases of poor visual information. The algorithm combines probabilities from different sources and has been successfully tested in cluttered scenes.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateOct 7, 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.

Cells prefer nanodiscs over nanorods

Researchers discovered that mammalian cells prefer disc-shaped nanoparticles over rod-shaped ones under typical culture conditions. The study's findings could help design better therapies for various diseases by understanding how nanoparticle shape affects transport into cells.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 7, 2013