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Science News for September 16, 2013


Chemistry magic promises better medicine with fewer side-effects

A new gentler chemistry method developed by the University of Copenhagen aims to create safer pharmaceuticals. The method allows for dual functionalization of peptides, reducing the risk of side effects and increasing the predictability of medicinal effects.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalChemical Communications·DateSep 16, 2013

New insights solve 300-year-old problem: The dynamics of the Earth's core

Researchers at the University of Leeds have cracked a centuries-old puzzle about the Earth's core by linking inner-core superrotation to outer-core behavior. The study reveals that the planet spins faster in one direction due to its geomagnetic field, generating eastward motion and westward drift.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 16, 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.

Brain injury studies aim for new treatment targets

Researchers will study TSPO's role in microglia and astrocytes to understand its function in brain injury and inflammation. The goal is to discover new therapeutic targets for treating inflammation and brain injury.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·DateSep 16, 2013

Rensselaer researchers create accurate computer model of RNA tetraloop

Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute have created a computational model that accurately simulates the complex twists of RNA as it folds into a critical hairpin structure. The new model can simulate the folding of three known versions of a tetraloop, accurate to within one ten-billionth of a meter.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 16, 2013

Study recommends strategies for improved management of fresh market spinach

Scientists evaluated spinach nutrient uptake and water use to improve nitrogen fertilizer management, recommending soil NO3 testing at planting and midseason application. The study found that optimal fertilizer timing and rate can significantly reduce nitrate losses from production fields.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateSep 16, 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.

Environmentally friendly cement is stronger than ordinary cement

Researchers from the Niels Bohr Institute found that adding sugar cane ash to cement makes it stronger, more durable and crumbles less. The ash helps bind water in the cement, saving energy and reducing pollution from cement production.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Niels Bohr Institute·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 16, 2013

Nursing program grows with $1m grant

The SDSU-Imperial Valley School of Nursing program is expanding its efforts to recruit and retain minority nurses. With a $1 million grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the program will provide scholarships and stipends to 70 nursing students over three years.

SourceSan Diego State University·DateSep 16, 2013

On the road to fault-tolerant quantum computing

Researchers from China's Tsinghua University and the US Department of Energy's Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory have demonstrated high-temperature superconductivity in a topological insulator. This breakthrough is essential for creating 'fault-tolerant' quantum computers, which can solve complex problems much faster than current m...

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Physics·DateSep 16, 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.

Doing research in the pub

Researchers analyzed customer behavior in pubs and clubs to determine effective signals for ordering a drink. They found that positioning themselves directly at the bar counter is a successful signal, while avoiding these behaviors indicates non-ordering intentions.

SourceBielefeld University·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateSep 16, 2013

TV drug ads: The whole truth?

Researchers found that six out of ten claims made by TV drug ads are potentially misleading, leaving out important information or exaggerating benefits. The study analyzed advertisements for prescription and over-the-counter drugs aired between 2008 and 2010 and found that most claims were either false or misleading.

SourceDartmouth Health·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateSep 16, 2013

Study examines Parkinsonism in 1 county in Minnesota

A study of residents in Olmsted County, Minn., over 15 years found the incidence of dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) and Parkinson disease dementia (PDD) to be higher among older adults. The study also identified age-related increases in both DLB and PDD rates.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateSep 16, 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.

Establishing world-class coral reef ecosystem monitoring in Okinawa

The OceanCube Observatories are designed to understand changes in species, nutrients, and energy within a controlled cube-shaped volume of water. The system provides real-time data on temperature, salinity, and other chemical, biological, and physical data critical to understanding coral reef ecosystem health.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·DateSep 16, 2013

Study examines sex differences in presentation of acute coronary syndrome

A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that women with acute coronary syndromes are more likely to present without chest pain, despite it being the most common symptom for both sexes. The study also showed that women without chest pain had fewer symptoms overall compared to those with chest pain.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateSep 16, 2013

Prescription drug expenses in Canada are a health-care barrier

High drug expenses in Canada hinder treatment access and outcomes due to copayments and limited coverage. A universal drug program could address these issues with a national agency implementing a comprehensive solution.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateSep 16, 2013
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Automated telephone calls improve blood pressure control

A Kaiser Permanente study found that automated telephone calls increased controlled hypertension among patients, especially those with multiple chronic conditions. The program also showed benefits for female patients with higher incomes and improved health outcomes for both patients and healthcare systems.

SourceKaiser Permanente·JournalJournal of Clinical Hypertension·DateSep 16, 2013

'Vicious cycle' shields, spreads cancer cells

Cancer cells exploit a vicious cycle of mucus production to protect themselves from the immune system and promote tumor growth. Researchers at Rice University have identified a potential therapeutic target in rosiglitazone, a diabetes medication that can attenuate this cycle.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of Cellular Biochemistry·DateSep 16, 2013

Misread heart muscle gene a new clue to risk of sudden cardiac death

Researchers have discovered that a drug increasing sudden cardiac death risk interacts with mistranslated protein-coding genes in heart muscle. The study provides insight into how cardiac death risk might be increased by these drugs, opening the way for further research.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalChemical Communications·DateSep 16, 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.

Wide-faced men make others act selfishly

Researchers found that individuals behave more selfishly when interacting with men with wider faces, leading to a social feedback loop. The study's findings suggest that people may need to reconsider how they use power and make helpful decisions.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 16, 2013

Flame cultivation promising as weed control method for cranberry

A study published in HortScience found that flame cultivation can be a promising alternative to traditional weed control methods for cranberries. The method was tested on three types of handheld propane torches and showed minor response differences between cranberry varieties.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateSep 16, 2013

Research project to capture infrared view of distant universe

A team of astronomers from UC Riverside and three other universities will conduct a large survey of galaxies using the MOSFIRE instrument. The survey will study how galaxies evolved over time, including their conversion of gas into stars and the formation of heavier elements.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateSep 16, 2013

Weather, yield compared for horticultural crops in Wisconsin, southern Ontario

Researchers from the University of Guelph compared 55 years of Wisconsin and Ontario data to determine associations between weather and crop yields. Key findings indicate that hot days during June-July-August and rainfall were significant factors affecting yield, with heat tolerance being crucial for breeding purposes.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateSep 16, 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.

Food technologies deliver global public health solutions

Innovative food ingredients showcase significant health benefits, including reduced sodium intake and improved bowel health. Studies demonstrate the potential impact of sodium reduction technology and added fibre on reducing hypertension and increasing calcium absorption.

SourceFoodMinds LLC·DateSep 16, 2013

Researchers identify novel biomarker for diabetes risk

A novel biomarker, 2-aminoadipic acid (2-AAA), has been identified that can predict diabetes risk up to 12 years in advance. Individuals with high levels of 2-AAA concentrations had a fourfold risk of developing diabetes compared to those with lower levels.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 16, 2013

JCI early table of contents for Sept. 16, 2013

Researchers have identified a metabolite as a biomarker of diabetes risk, revealing that individuals with increased levels are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes. Additionally, the study found that a specific genetic mutation affects muscle performance in elite endurance athletes by altering calcineurin signaling.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 16, 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.

Heart attacks in young women -- not all have chest pain

A study by McGill University Health Centre found that one in five young women (under 55) experiencing a heart attack do not exhibit chest pain as a symptom. The absence of this common indicator did not correlate with reduced disease severity, highlighting the need for more nuanced assessments and training for healthcare professionals.

SourceMcGill University Health Centre·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateSep 16, 2013

Dartmouth researchers discover how and where imagination occurs in human brains

Researchers found a widespread neural network responsible for human imagery manipulations, resembling the 'mental workspace' theorized to facilitate creative thinking and problem-solving. The discovery may help advance artificial intelligence by understanding how humans create new ideas and think flexibly.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 16, 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.

U of M researchers discover early-warning system to prevent fishery collapse

Researchers at the University of Minnesota have developed an early-warning system to predict fishery collapse decades in advance, enabling conservation measures to be taken. The 'Eventual Threat Index' uses minimal data to identify conditions that would eventually cause a species to be overharvested.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 16, 2013

Noggin and bFGF: Which is better to induce neural differentiation?

Researchers found that Noggin accelerates and increases the differentiation of neural precursors, outperforming basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF). Noggin's greater effect was observed in inducing neural precursor differentiation from human embryonic stem cells.

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateSep 16, 2013

New world map for overcoming climate change

Scientists have created a vulnerability map to help governments and organizations invest in protected area establishment and restoration efforts in the most vulnerable regions. The map assesses ecosystems' intactness and stability under future climate change predictions, identifying southern Asia, Europe, and Australia as high-risk areas.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalNature Climate Change·DateSep 16, 2013

Birth of Earth's continents

Scientists found that continent nuclei formed as a byproduct of mountain-building processes, stacking up slabs of cold oceanic crust to create thick 'keels' in the mantle. This process supported the overlying crust and enabled continents to form.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalNature Geoscience·DateSep 16, 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.

Rare gene variant linked to macular degeneration

A recent study has identified a rare gene mutation linked to age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the leading cause of blindness in Americans over 50. The C3 gene variant contributes to AMD risk by interfering with the complement pathway's normal function.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNature Genetics·DateSep 16, 2013

Whole DNA sequencing reveals mutations, new gene for blinding disease

Researchers used whole genome sequencing to identify unique mutations and a previously undescribed disease gene NEK2 associated with retinitis pigmentosa. The study highlights the importance of rare structural DNA variations in Mendelian diseases.

SourceMass Eye and Ear·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 16, 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.

New study evaluates the risk of birth defects among women who take antihistamines in pregnancy

A new study from Boston University's Slone Epidemiology Center found no evidence to support suggestions of increased risks of certain birth defects associated with antihistamine use in pregnancy. The study considered over 20,000 new mothers and commonly-used antihistamines available OTC or by prescription.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateSep 16, 2013

'Kaesong industrial zone will not change much in North Korea'

Despite Kaesong industrial zone reopening, North Korean scholar Dr. Sang-Yi O-Rauch expects no improvement in human rights due to the regime's control and terror system. The country's brutal oppression of its people is rooted in Kim Jong-un's power struggle, with an estimated 200,000 people detained in camps.

SourceUniversity of Münster·DateSep 16, 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.

Vaccinating cattle against E. coli O157 could cut human cases of infection by 85 percent, say scientists

Scientists found that vaccinating cattle against E. coli O157 could reduce human cases of infection by nearly 85%, a significant improvement over previous estimates. The researchers used veterinary, human, and molecular data to estimate the impact of vaccinating cattle and predict that it would have a major public health benefit.

SourceUniversity of Glasgow_·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 16, 2013

Varenicline helps smokers with depression to quit smoking

In a Pfizer-sponsored clinical trial, varenicline was found to help smokers with depression quit smoking, with 36% of participants quitting during treatment and 20% remaining abstinent after 40 weeks. The study suggests that varenicline may improve efforts by depressed smokers to quit tobacco use.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateSep 16, 2013

Overexpression of cytoglobin gene increases neuronal hypoxic tolerance

Researchers from China Medical University discovered that overexpressing the cytoglobin gene in SH-SY5Y cells enhances their resistance to cobalt chloride-induced hypoxia. This breakthrough finding has significant implications for developing gene therapy treatments for hypoxic-ischemic neurological diseases.

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateSep 16, 2013

10-year project redraws the map of bird brains

Researchers have created a new map of bird brains based on a decade-long exploration of gene expression across eight species. The findings suggest that bird brains have commonalities with human brains, including columnar organization and forebrain regions similar to mammals.

SourceDuke University·JournalJournal of Comparative Neurology·DateSep 16, 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.

Arginine therapy shows promise for sickle cell pain

A recent clinical study found that arginine therapy significantly reduces the need for pain medication and lowers pain scores in children with sickle cell disease. The treatment also shows promise as a potential cure for acute pain episodes, with no safety concerns reported.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalHaematologica·DateSep 16, 2013

Model of dangerous bee disease in Jersey provides tool in fight against honeybee infections

Researchers at the University of Warwick have developed a model of the American foulbrood disease outbreak in Jersey, which helps understand how the disease spreads and simulates various control interventions. The study found that just under half of the infection spread was attributed to transmission by beekeepers between their own hives.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateSep 16, 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.

Specific sugar molecule causes growth of cancer cells

Scientists at the University of Copenhagen have identified a specific sugar molecule that aids in the growth of cancer cells. The discovery, published in PNAS, could lead to new ways to diagnose and treat cancer.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 16, 2013

Potential treatment for a specific kind of pancreatic cancer

A study published in Genome Medicine has identified a specific subtype of pancreatic cancer that expresses high levels of the HER2 gene, which could be treated with existing breast and gastric cancer therapies. The research suggests using personalized medicine strategies to target this subtype, potentially improving patient outcomes.

SourceGarvan Institute of Medical Research·JournalGenome Medicine·DateSep 16, 2013

Diminishing fear vicariously by watching others

Researchers found that watching a movie clip of someone safely interacting with a feared object can significantly reduce the fear response and prevent relapse. This type of vicarious social learning may be more effective than direct personal experience in extinguishing phobic fears.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateSep 16, 2013

Gut microbes closely linked to proper immune function, other health issues

Research suggests that gut microbes play a crucial role in immune function and are linked to various health issues, including autoimmune disease, depression, and obesity. Understanding the microbiome can help personalize therapies to restore balance, and identifying new types of probiotics could mitigate antibiotic misuse.

SourceOregon State University·JournalClinical Reviews in Allergy & Immunology·DateSep 16, 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.

Yale researchers see decline in hospitalizations for serious heart infection

Hospitalizations for endocarditis have declined in recent years, but a disparity in outcomes persists among black patients. The study suggests that a reduction in antibiotic use may be contributing to the decline, and clinicians should consider individual risks and benefits on a case-by-case basis.

SourceYale University·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateSep 16, 2013

Genotype influences muscle performance

Research reveals how genetic mutations in α-actinin-3 affect fast-twitch muscles, leading to increased endurance capacity and enhanced response to training. The study provides insight into the skeletal muscle adaptations advantageous to elite endurance athletes.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 16, 2013

Sensors allow for efficient irrigation, give growers more control over plant growth

Researchers found that soil moisture sensors can help horticultural growers control plant growth, leading to improved water conservation. The study suggests that sensor-controlled irrigation systems can reduce the need for pruning and fertilizer applications, making them a promising solution for commercial growers.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateSep 16, 2013

Cold sore linked to mutation in gene, study suggests

Researchers at the University of Edinburgh have found a link between cold sore susceptibility and a mutated gene, revealing why some people are more prone to the virus that causes them. The study identifies IL28b as the affected gene, which plays a crucial role in mounting an immune response against the herpes simplex virus.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateSep 16, 2013

Graphene photodetector integrated into computer chip

Researchers at Vienna University of Technology have successfully integrated a graphene photodetector with a standard silicon chip, allowing for the conversion of light to electrical signals. This breakthrough enables faster data transmission and reduced energy consumption in computer chips.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalNature Photonics·DateSep 16, 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.

Cognitive enhancers do not help mild cognitive impairment

A review of 8 trials found no long-term benefits from cognitive enhancers like donepezil and rivastigmine for patients with mild cognitive impairment. These medications were associated with increased nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and headaches, but no cognitive improvement.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateSep 16, 2013

Cognitive enhancers don't improve cognition, function in people with mild cognitive impairment

A new study by St. Michael's Hospital researchers found that cognitive enhancers do not improve cognition or function in people with mild cognitive impairment in the long term. Patients on these medications experienced significantly more nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and headaches, highlighting the potential risks of these drugs.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateSep 16, 2013

Subduction channel processes: New progress in plate tectonic theory

Scientists have made significant findings on continental subduction, revealing the processes that occur within subduction channels and their impact on collision orogeny. These studies focus on the interaction between the deeply subducted crust and the overlying mantle wedge under ultrahigh pressure conditions.

SourceScience China Press·JournalChinese Science Bulletin·DateSep 16, 2013

Diet is associated with the risk of depression

A healthy diet characterized by vegetables, fruits, berries, whole-grains, poultry, fish and low-fat cheese was associated with a lower prevalence of depressive symptoms. Increased intake of folate from sources like vegetables, fruits, and whole grains was also linked to a decreased risk of depression.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalPsychotherapy and Psychosomatics·DateSep 16, 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.

Low level blast explosions harm brain, says new study in Journal of Neurotrauma

A new study published in the Journal of Neurotrauma found that low-level blast explosions can cause symptoms similar to sports concussions, including neurocognitive deficits and self-reported symptoms. The research, conducted on a group of soldiers called 'breachers', identified biomarkers capable of detecting changes in this population.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Neurotrauma·DateSep 16, 2013

Depletion of 'traitor' immune cells slows cancer growth in mice

Researchers at the University of Washington have developed a method to target and eliminate harmful macrophages that dampen the immune response to cancer. By depleting these 'traitor' immune cells, tumor growth is slowed and survival rates are improved in mice with cancer.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 16, 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.

Sanford-Burnham researchers identify new target for melanoma treatment

Researchers identify phosphoinositide-dependent kinase-1 (PDK1) as a critical regulator in melanoma development and metastasis. Inhibiting the PDK1 enzyme delays tumor growth and almost completely abolishes metastasis, offering new therapeutic opportunities for this life-threatening disease.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalOncogene·DateSep 16, 2013

Study indicates space weather may be to blame for some satellite failures

A recent MIT study found that high-energy electron activity in space may contribute to failures in geostationary satellites. The research team analyzed data from eight satellites and found that most failures occurred during declining phases of the solar cycle, particularly when Kp index was three or less.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalSpace Weather·DateSep 16, 2013

It's a shock: Life on Earth may have come from out of this world

Scientists confirm that impact synthesis of prebiotic material can yield life-building compounds, expanding the inventory of locations where life could potentially originate. The team found that icy bodies with similar compounds to those created by comet impacts may be present in the outer solar system.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory·JournalNature Geoscience·DateSep 16, 2013

SF State researchers steer light in new directions

A team of researchers led by Weining Man has developed a two-dimensional disordered photonic band gap material that can manipulate the flow and radiation of light. The material breaks away from traditional photonic crystals, allowing for arbitrarily shaped paths to steer light.

SourceSan Francisco State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 16, 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.

Obese stomachs tell us diets are doomed to fail

Research suggests that obese individuals' stomachs become desensitized to fullness signals, making it difficult to maintain weight loss. This could explain why many people regain weight after dieting. The study's findings have strong implications for those struggling with obesity and weight management.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalInternational Journal of Obesity·DateSep 16, 2013

Why do young adults start smoking?

Researchers at the University of Montreal identified three risk factors associated with young adult smoking onset: impulsivity, poor school performance, and higher alcohol consumption. This study suggests that targeted prevention campaigns for young adults aged 18-24 could help prevent smoking initiation.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateSep 16, 2013

Could oxytocin be useful in treating psychiatric disorders?

Research suggests oxytocin could improve social cognition and reduce repetitive behaviors in patients with autism spectrum disorders. In schizophrenia, some studies have reported encouraging effects on severity and social cognition.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalHarvard Review of Psychiatry·DateSep 16, 2013

Sandia Labs harnessing the sun's energy with tiny particles

Falling particle receiver technology uses ceramic particles to capture and store heat at higher temperatures, enabling greater thermal-to-electric efficiency. The system aims to achieve efficiencies of 50% or more, potentially leading to lower energy storage costs.

SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·DateSep 16, 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.

Study estimates economic impact of childhood food allergies

A recent study estimates that childhood food allergies result in substantial medical costs, including hospitalizations, doctor visits, and special diets. The overall economic burden is approximately $24.8 billion annually, affecting both families and the healthcare system.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateSep 16, 2013

Study shows projected climate change in West Africa not likely to worsen malaria situation

Researchers at MIT developed a new model of malaria transmission that combines global forecasts with local rainfall data, predicting minimal increase in disease incidence despite projected temperature and rainfall changes. The study aims to provide more accurate predictions for specific variables relevant to society, such as malaria in...

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateSep 16, 2013

Schizophrenia: It's in the wiring of the brain

Researchers discovered abnormalities in both myelin and axons among patients with schizophrenia, suggesting a complex relationship between the two. The findings indicate that strategies targeting both axonal health and myelin synthesis may be needed to restore normal brain functioning in this condition.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateSep 16, 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.

Biologists develop new method for discovering antibiotics

Researchers at UC San Diego have developed a revolutionary method to identify and characterize antibiotics, providing a powerful tool to combat antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The new approach enables the rapid prioritization of promising molecules, accelerating the development of new medicines.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 16, 2013

Chronic inflammation linked to less likelihood of healthy aging

A study of 3044 civil servants found that chronic exposure to high interleukin-6 levels was associated with a lower likelihood of healthy aging, including impaired musculoskeletal functioning and diabetes. Maintaining low interleukin-6 levels may facilitate successful aging by reducing the risk of these age-related diseases.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateSep 16, 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.

Lifestyle changes may lengthen telomeres, a measure of cell aging

A pilot study shows that comprehensive lifestyle changes can increase telomere length by up to 10%, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases. The study, conducted over five years, involved 35 men with prostate cancer who followed a plant-based diet and engaged in moderate exercise, stress reduction, and social support.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·DateSep 16, 2013

Immune system marker tied to improved bone marrow transplant outcomes

Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital found that patients with donor bone marrow carrying a specific KIR protein variation had improved survival and reduced disease progression after bone marrow transplantation. The study identified a 60% decrease in death risk and 62% reduction in disease progression using this approach.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateSep 16, 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.

Researchers identify a metabolite as a biomarker of diabetes risk

A new study by Robert Gerszten and colleagues has identified 2-aminoadipic acid as a biomarker for Type 2 diabetes risk. Individuals with elevated levels of this metabolite were found to be at higher risk of developing T2D, with detectable levels present up to 12 years before disease onset.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 16, 2013

New model should expedite development of temperature-stable nano-alloys

Researchers from NC State University have developed a theoretical model that can predict the grain size of nanomaterial alloys at elevated temperatures. The model allows for targeted alloy design without trial-and-error, enabling the development of temperature-stable nano-alloys.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateSep 16, 2013

Invention jet prints nanostructures with self-assembling material

A multi-institutional team of engineers has developed a new approach to fabricate nanostructures for the semiconductor and magnetic storage industries. They combine top-down advanced ink-jet printing technology with bottom-up self-assembling block copolymers, increasing resolution from approximately 200 nanometers to 15 nanometers.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateSep 16, 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.

2 NASA satellites track Typhoon Man-yi across Japan

Typhoon Man-yi made landfall in southern Japan and quickly crossed the big island, dropping heavy rainfall and causing deadly mudslides. The Joint Typhoon Warning Center forecast track predicts Man-yi will head northeast into the Sea of Okhotsk by Sept. 17.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 16, 2013

Tufts researchers identify how Yersinia spreads within infected organs

Researchers at Tufts University School of Medicine identified how Yersinia bacteria immobilizes the immune system to grow in infected organs. The study used a TEM-1 reporter system to color-code cells and found that YopH deactivates multiple proteins, blocking calcium flows vital to normal immune cell communication.

SourceTufts University, Health Sciences Campus·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateSep 16, 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.

Stanford scientists use 'wired microbes' to generate electricity from sewage

Researchers have developed a way to generate electricity from sewage using naturally-occurring bacteria that produce electricity as they digest organic material. The microbial battery is about the size of a D-cell battery and has an efficiency comparable to commercially available solar cells.

SourceStanford University School of Engineering·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 16, 2013