Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for August 18, 2014


Red eye feels endless? Blame the Internet

A Tel Aviv University study reveals a direct link between online price competition and longer flight times. The research found that the shift to online distribution channels has changed the way airlines compete for customers, prioritizing price over performance.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalThe Review of Economics and Statistics·DateAug 18, 2014
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.

A new species of endemic treefrog from Madagascar

A new species of Boophis rappiodes group, Boophis ankarafensis, has been described from the hidden streams of Ankarafa Forest in northwest Madagascar. The species is characterized by high genetic divergence and a unique call with a double click.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalZooKeys·DateAug 18, 2014

Electroacupuncture attenuates neuropathic pain after brachial plexus injury

A study published in Neural Regeneration Research found that electroacupuncture can significantly attenuate chronic neuropathic pain in rats with brachial plexus injuries. The treatment was shown to increase β-endorphin expression, which may contribute to its analgesic effects.

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateAug 18, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Proteins critical to wound healing identified

Researchers found that mice lacking specific vascular system proteins developed normally but healed poorly from injuries. Increasing FGF signaling may improve wound healing, while inhibiting it in the eye could help patients with age-related macular degeneration or diabetic retinopathy.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 18, 2014
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.

Men viewed more favorably than women when seeking work-life balance

A new study by Christin Munsch found that men who requested flexible work arrangements for childcare-related reasons were viewed more favorably than women with similar requests. Those who made flexible work requests for childcare were perceived as more respectable and likable, leading to greater support and approval from employers.

SourceAmerican Sociological Association·DateAug 18, 2014
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.

Why aren't pregnant women getting flu vaccine?

A statewide survey in Oregon found that most doctors recommend flu vaccine to healthy pregnant patients, but only half of American women receive the vaccine while pregnant. Doctors who see more pregnant patients or are younger are more likely to recommend vaccination.

SourceGroup Health Research Institute·JournalMaternal and Child Health Journal·DateAug 18, 2014

Invasion of the Americas by mosquito-borne virus likely

A recent study published in Clinical Microbiology and Infection warns of the high risk of Chikungunya virus spread in the Americas and Europe due to mosquito-borne transmission. The disease can cause severe symptoms, including fever, joint pain, and muscle aches, with no available treatment.

SourceWiley·JournalClinical Microbiology and Infection·DateAug 18, 2014
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.

Vaccines can cut the spread of meningitis by nearly 40 percent

Two new vaccines have been shown to prevent the transmission of meningitis bacteria from person to person, reducing carriage rates by up to 39% and 20-30%. This discovery could provide a degree of herd protection against meningitis if implemented in a campaign.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalThe Lancet·DateAug 18, 2014

StopInfo for OneBusAway app makes buses more usable for blind riders

The StopInfo program, developed at the University of Washington, integrates with OneBusAway to provide crucial information on bus stops, including location, safety features, and stop closures. The app has been found to be generally helpful for blind riders, promoting spontaneous travel and confidence while riding.

SourceUniversity of Washington·DateAug 18, 2014

Taking the pulse of aging

New technique reveals correlations between arterial health and cognitive decline in older adults, highlighting the importance of cerebrovascular well-being for healthy aging. The study also explores the impact of stress on arterial stiffness and its consequences for brain function.

SourceBeckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology·JournalPsychophysiology·DateAug 18, 2014
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.

Fighting unfairness

A new study by Harvard University researchers found that children as young as six exhibit in-group favoritism when reacting to unfair behavior, but by eight years old, they are more likely to intervene regardless of group affiliation. The study suggests that fairness norms may be universal and not specific to Western culture.

SourceHarvard University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 18, 2014
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 reveals immune system is dazed and confused during spaceflight

Researchers found that spaceflight temporarily alters the immune system of crew members, leading to depression in cell function and heightened activity. This can result in asymptomatic viral shedding, increased allergy symptoms, and persistent rashes.

SourceNASA/Johnson Space Center·JournalJournal of Interferon & Cytokine Research·DateAug 18, 2014
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

12th tropical depression appears huge on satellite imagery

The 12th tropical depression of the hurricane season has formed in the Eastern Pacific, with satellite imagery showing it is significantly larger than nearby Tropical Storm Karina. The depression spans approximately 800 nautical miles in diameter, dwarfing typical sizes of around 350 miles/600 km.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 18, 2014

Resistant hypertension: A review for physicians

Resistant hypertension is a condition affecting 20% of Canadian adults with high blood pressure, characterized by elevated blood pressure despite treatment. Structured approaches, including medication optimization and lifestyle modifications, are recommended for effective management.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateAug 18, 2014

Clinical practice guidelines: Trying to get them right the first time

Researchers found that clinical practice guidelines for beta-blockers were adopted quickly despite later studies showing no difference in postoperative outcomes. The case study highlights the importance of critically evaluating guideline development processes to ensure reliable and safe medical practices.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalBMJ Quality & Safety·DateAug 18, 2014

Family members of victims pose a growing challenge for capital punishment

Annulla Linders' research reveals that family members of victims witnessing executions has transformed the process and audience, re-personalizing executions with emotional satisfaction for families. Currently, 18 US states allow intimates to witness executions, complicating arrangements and public perception.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateAug 18, 2014

Queen's scientists in hospital superbugs breakthrough

Researchers at Queen's University Belfast have developed the first innovative antibacterial gel that acts to kill Pseudomonas aeruginosa, staphylococci, and E. coli using natural proteins. The gels target and break down biofilms, a thick jelly-like coating that makes bacteria resistant to current therapies.

SourceQueen's University Belfast·JournalBiomacromolecules·DateAug 18, 2014
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.

Club cells are 'bad guys' during flu infection

Researchers discovered that club cells, which normally protect against inhaled microbes, contribute to prolonged inflammation during flu infection. Targeting these cells may help shorten flu symptoms by reducing lung damage.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateAug 18, 2014
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.

Older coral species more hardy, UT Arlington biologists say

A recent study published in PLOS ONE has found that older Caribbean coral species exhibit fewer diseases and better immunity than newer species. Researchers examined 140 samples of 14 species, including the ancient Porites astreoides coral, which has been around for over 200 million years.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 18, 2014

Hand gestures improve learning in both signers and speakers

Researcher Susan Goldin-Meadow found that hand gestures play a crucial role in language learning for both hearing and deaf children. Gestures help children develop language skills and can even become a primary means of communication in the absence of a spoken or sign language.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London (B )·DateAug 18, 2014

Smoking during pregnancy may affect grandchildren's growth

A UK study found that smoking during pregnancy affects grandkids' growth, with paternal grandmother's smoke increasing daughters' height and both sexes' bone mass. Maternal grandmother's smoke, however, linked to sons' increased weight and muscle mass during adolescence.

SourceWiley·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Biology·DateAug 18, 2014
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.

Study reveals sex differences in experiencing orgasms

Women experience less predictable and varied orgasms compared to men, with an average of 63% of sexual activity resulting in orgasm. Lesbian women have a significantly higher probability of orgasm than heterosexual or bisexual women.

SourceWiley·JournalThe Journal of Sexual Medicine·DateAug 18, 2014

Neighborhood ethnic composition and problem drinking among older Mexican-American men

Researchers found that older Mexican-American men are less likely to experience problem drinking when living in neighborhoods predominantly inhabited by other Mexican-Americans. This is attributed to factors such as inter-household family networks, residential stability, and shared norms regarding alcohol abuse. The study also discover...

SourceLouisiana State University·JournalJournal of Immigrant and Minority Health·DateAug 18, 2014
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.

Neglected boys may turn into violent adolescents

Physical neglect during childhood is a stronger predictor of male adolescent violence than physical abuse, according to Penn State researchers. The study suggests that understanding neglect's role in influencing violent behavior can lead to better education and care for at-risk youths.

SourcePenn State·DateAug 18, 2014

Study suggests hatha yoga boosts brain function in older adults

A study suggests that practicing hatha yoga for eight weeks can improve cognitive tasks in older adults, including information recall, mental flexibility, and task-switching. The findings indicate that yoga may boost brain function by reducing stress and anxiety.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·DateAug 18, 2014

Children's drawings indicate later intelligence

A study by King's College London found that children's drawings at age 4 are moderately associated with their intelligence at ages 4 and 14. The researchers also measured the heritability of figure drawing, finding a strong genetic link between drawing ability and cognitive development.

SourceKing's College London·JournalPsychological Science·DateAug 18, 2014
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.

Blood pressure medication does not cause more falls

A comprehensive study in patients with type 2 diabetes found no evidence that blood pressure medication increases the risk of falling and breaking bones. In fact, results showed possible trends towards fewer fractures in intensive treatment groups.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateAug 18, 2014

Tropical Storm Karina: Status quo on infrared satellite imagery

NASA satellite data shows Tropical Storm Karina's consistent strength and thunderstorm development since weakening from hurricane status. The storm's cloud pattern has remained relatively unchanged, with strong thunderstorms circling the center, especially on the northern edge.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 18, 2014

Researchers inspired by marine life to design camouflage systems

A team of researchers has developed a technology that allows materials to automatically read their environment and adapt to mimic their surroundings. The optoelectronic camouflage system was inspired by the skins of cephalopods, which can change coloration quickly for camouflage and warning purposes.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 18, 2014
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.

Ocean warming could drive heavy rain bands toward the poles

A study published in Geophysical Research Letters found that ocean warming causes atmospheric circulation changes, leading to increased heavy rain bands and extreme precipitation events at mid- and high-latitudes. This shift could result in more common, but intense storms in previously rare regions.

SourceWiley·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateAug 18, 2014

New tool makes online personal data more transparent

Researchers developed XRay, a first step in understanding online personal data transparency. The tool analyzes data inputs and outputs to detect abusive practices, revealing sensitive topics and obscure targeting behaviors.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·DateAug 18, 2014

Engineering long-lasting joint lubrication by mimicking nature

Johns Hopkins scientists develop a new material that binds slippery molecules, potentially delivering long-lasting lubrication and easing painful joints. The material, inspired by natural functions lost in synthetic materials, has shown promise in animal tests.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNature Materials·DateAug 18, 2014
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.

Muscle for all: Athletes to the elderly

A University of Kansas professor is leading a grant project investigating the effects of nitric oxide synthase on muscle growth. The study aims to understand how this compound can be used to promote muscle growth in various populations, including athletes and the elderly.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·DateAug 18, 2014

Pigs' hearts transplanted into baboon hosts remain viable more than a year

Researchers successfully transplanted genetically engineered pig hearts into baboons, achieving prolonged survival of over 200 days. The use of target-specific immunosuppression and human genes in the pigs enabled the hearts to remain viable without complications.

SourceAmerican Association for Thoracic Surgery·JournalJournal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery·DateAug 18, 2014

Hope for healthy hearts revealed in naked mole rat studies

Researchers discovered that naked mole rats maintain youthful heart function until age 90, offering insights into preventing debilitating cardiovascular disease. The rodents' natural habitat and stress resistance may hold the key to understanding these protective mechanisms.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·DateAug 18, 2014

Compromise needed on roads through sensitive wild areas

Compromise solutions are needed when building roads through sensitive tropical and subtropical areas, say experts. The authors propose four measures to mitigate tensions between roads and protected areas, including early involvement of infrastructure engineers and natural resource managers.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 18, 2014

IU study: Parents' vaccine intentions influenced by how benefits are communicated

A national online survey of 802 parents found that parents who viewed informational material highlighting direct benefits to their own child were the most likely to indicate that they would have their baby vaccinated for MMR. Combining details about societal benefits had a similar impact on vaccine intentions, with mentioning direct po...

SourceIndiana University·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateAug 18, 2014
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.

White, straight women leading surge in infertility treatments

A recent study published by the American Psychological Association found that white, straight women are more likely to seek fertility help than racial or sexual minority women. Lack of insurance is a significant factor in lower rates of fertility assistance for lesbian and bisexual women, especially in recent years.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalHealth Psychology·DateAug 18, 2014

Visual 'gist' helps us figure out where a crowd is looking

Researchers at University of California, Berkeley and University of Denver discovered that we rely on a specialized visual process known as 'ensemble coding' to perceive where a crowd is looking. This enables us to tell where a group of people is looking even after just a fraction of a second.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateAug 18, 2014
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Artificial cells act like the real thing

Researchers design a network-like cell system that reproduces dynamic behavior of protein synthesis, allowing for control over genetic content and protein production. The system enables the study of gene network design and emerging protein dynamics, potentially paving the way for controlling protein synthesis for various applications.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalScience·DateAug 18, 2014

Bacterial nanowires: Not what we thought they were

Scientists at USC have discovered that bacterial nanowires are not pili, but rather membrane extensions equipped with electron-transfer proteins called cytochromes. This finding challenges the previous understanding of these 'electric bacteria' and opens up new avenues for research on their potential applications in bioelectronic devices.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 18, 2014

Rettsyndrome.org invests $1.5 million in new 2014 awards

Rettsyndrome.org has awarded $1.5 million to support translational research and launch of the neuro-habilitation therapeutic program, focusing on cognitive therapies, physical therapies, and speech therapies to aid in skill development in Rett syndrome. The grants also fund clinical research to identify effective pharmacologic treatments.

SourceRettsyndrome.org·DateAug 18, 2014

New study reveals vulnerability in photo-ID security checks

A new study by psychologists from Aberdeen, York, and Sydney found that Australian passport office staff have a 15% error rate in matching people to their photos, equivalent to several thousand fake passports. The researchers suggest that security measures would be enhanced if passports carried multiple images of a person.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 18, 2014
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.

UM research improves temperature modeling across mountainous landscapes

Researchers at the University of Montana have improved computer models for estimating temperature across mountainous landscapes by creating a new climate dataset. This dataset uses weather station data, atmospheric weather model data, and satellite-based observations to estimate daily temperatures from 1948 to 2012.

SourceThe University of Montana·JournalInternational Journal of Climatology·DateAug 18, 2014

New mouse model points to therapy for liver disease

A new mouse model closely resembles human non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and demonstrates that interfering with key inflammatory proteins inhibits disease development and cancer progression. The study uses a genetically modified mouse strain to show the effectiveness of anti-inflammatory compounds in preventing NASH.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalCancer Cell·DateAug 18, 2014

Recycling old batteries into solar cells

A system proposed by MIT researchers recycles materials from discarded car batteries to produce long-lasting solar panels, providing emissions-free power. The production process uses a compound called perovskite, which has achieved power-conversion efficiency of over 19 percent.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateAug 18, 2014
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.

Worm virus details come to light

The research reveals the viral capsid structure, showing similarities to other viruses, and identifies potential binding sites for modification. The findings may lead to new information on host-virus interactions and the development of custom-made viruses to target parasitic or pathogenic worms.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 18, 2014

Pygmy phenotype developed many times, adaptive to rainforest

Researchers found that the pygmy phenotype in Africa and Southeast Asia is a result of multi-gene adaptation, making individuals better suited for their challenging environments. The study suggests that this adaptation may have occurred independently in different regions.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 18, 2014

Quasi-legal drug 15 times stronger than heroin hides in plain sight

Emergency physicians face a growing concern of acetyl fentanyl overdoses due to its potency and potential for adulteration in street drugs marketed as heroin. The lack of regulation around acetyl fentanyl creates an environment where it can be easily distributed through networks, posing a significant risk to users.

SourceAmerican College of Emergency Physicians·JournalAnnals of Emergency Medicine·DateAug 18, 2014

Did an exceptional iceberg sink the Titanic?

A new study suggests that exceptional icebergs and weather conditions outside human control contributed to the sinking of the Titanic in 1912. The paper notes an increase in iceberg discharge from glaciers since the 1980s, which is linked to global warming.

SourceWiley·JournalSignificance·DateAug 18, 2014

Study identifies 'bonus effect' for certain multiracial daters

A new study has identified the 'bonus effect' for certain multiracial daters, where they are viewed as more desirable than individuals from all other racial groups. Three multiracial groups - Asian-white women, Asian-white and Hispanic-white men, and black-white daters - were found to be on the receiving end of this preference.

SourceAmerican Sociological Association·DateAug 18, 2014
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.

Sun's activity influences natural climate change

Researchers have reconstructed solar activity at the end of the last ice age, showing a persistent link between solar activity and Greenland climate. The study suggests that reduced solar activity could lead to colder winters in Northern Europe, while warmer winters are seen in Greenland with greater snowfall.

SourceLund University·JournalNature Geoscience·DateAug 18, 2014

Passport study reveals vulnerability in photo-ID security checks

A recent study published in PLOS ONE found that passport officers struggled with face matching tasks, making errors comparable to those of untrained university students. The researchers suggest that selecting staff based on their aptitude for visual tasks could significantly improve security checks.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 18, 2014
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.

Bionic liquids from lignin

Researchers at JBEI have developed bionic liquids from lignin and hemicellulose, which can efficiently dissolve biomass and represent a renewable platform for biomass pretreatment. The new liquids outperform current imidazolium-based ionic liquids in terms of sugar yields, making them a significant step towards cost-competitive biofuels.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 18, 2014
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.

Targeted brain stimulation aids stroke recovery in mice, Stanford scientists find

Stanford researchers found that targeted brain stimulation using optogenetics significantly improved motor ability and weight regain in mice affected by strokes. The study's findings have potential implications for developing new clinical therapies for stroke recovery, including the placement of electrical brain-stimulating devices.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 18, 2014

Upgrading electronic monitoring, downgrading probation

A new electronic monitoring system is being implemented in England and Wales, combining GPS tracking and radio frequency technology. This system aims to improve the reliability and credibility of offender management, with a focus on reducing recidivism rates.

SourceSAGE·JournalEuropean Journal of Probation·DateAug 18, 2014

Antibiotics in early life may alter immunity long-term

Researchers found that antibiotics can alter the gut's bacterial ecosystem, increasing susceptibility to diseases like hypersensitivity pneumonitis. The study suggests that probiotics could be used to boost helpful bacteria and prevent disease.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateAug 18, 2014
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.

High-intensity exercise found safe and effective in long-term heart transplant recipients

A new study published in the American Journal of Transplantation found that high-intensity interval training is safe and more efficient than moderate intensity exercise for improving exercise capacity and blood pressure control in stable heart transplant recipients. VO2 max increased by 17% in patients performing high-intensity interva...

SourceWiley·JournalAmerican Journal of Transplantation·DateAug 18, 2014

New research explores the red v. blue state knowledge about abortion

A new national survey reveals that only 13% of respondents demonstrated high knowledge of abortion, with no correlation between state or politics. The study suggests that comprehensive and evidence-based sexual reproductive health education is needed to address lack of informed decision-making.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateAug 18, 2014

Training the next generation of cancer nanomedicine scientists

A five-year, $1.15 million grant supports Northeastern's 'CaNCURE' program, offering 75 undergraduate students hands-on research experience with leading cancer nanomedicine experts. The program aims to address cancer disparities and motivate students to pursue careers in cancer research and clinical practice.

SourceNortheastern University·DateAug 18, 2014

Study at Deepwater Horizon spill site finds key to tracking pollutants

Scientists from University of Miami's Rosenstiel School conducted a drifter experiment to study small-scale ocean currents, revealing their crucial role in pollutant dispersion. The findings provide new information for predicting oil and pollutant movements in the ocean, with immediate practical applications.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 18, 2014
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Breast Cancer Breakthrough Award funds search for new treatments

Researchers, led by UC Santa Cruz's Seth Rubin, are developing a new class of drugs to treat breast cancer by targeting the inactivated retinoblastoma tumor suppressor protein. The innovative approach may have fewer toxic side effects and be less vulnerable to drug resistance.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·DateAug 18, 2014

U-Michigan Water Center to help lead national estuary research program

The U-Michigan Water Center is joining the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to oversee research at a nationwide network of 28 coastal reserves. The program aims to improve stewardship of economically significant estuaries facing water-quality degradation, habitat loss, and climate change.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·DateAug 18, 2014

Study: World's primary forests on the brink

A new study reveals that only five percent of the world's pre-agricultural primary forest cover is found in protected areas, with most forests under threat from industrial logging, mining, and agriculture. Experts call for international policies to reduce pressure on primary forests, preserving their biodiversity and ecosystem services.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalConservation Letters·DateAug 18, 2014

WSU researchers find crucial step in DNA repair

Scientists at Washington State University have discovered a critical step in the DNA repair process that could lead to new therapies for hereditary diseases. They found that a specific protein must be 'unbuckled' to allow easy access for the DNA repair crew, and this discovery may lead to targeted gene therapy.

SourceWashington State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 18, 2014
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.

Innate lymphoid cells elicit T cell responses

Researchers discovered that innate lymphoid cells become activated during inflammation, inducing specific T and B cell responses. These findings open up new avenues for treating infection and chronic inflammation.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 18, 2014

More than just X and Y: A new genetic basis for sex determination

Researchers discovered a subset of microRNAs that regulate sex differences in fruit flies, with implications for understanding human developmental defects and disease. The study found that these small RNA molecules orchestrate complex genetic programs that shape the structures distinguishing males and females.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenetics·DateAug 18, 2014

500 million year reset for the immune system

Scientists at the Max Planck Institute re-activated an ancient gene, FOXN4, which led to the development of a fish-like thymus in mice. This finding suggests that the immune system's core organs may have evolved from a common ancestor with jawed fish.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalCell Reports·DateAug 18, 2014

Aspirin, take 2

Researchers at UC San Diego School of Medicine found that aspirin prompts the production of 15-HETE, which converts to lipoxin to reverse inflammation. This discovery may lead to new anti-inflammatory therapies by developing drugs based on lipoxin analogues.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 18, 2014

Annals of Internal Medicine tip sheet for Aug. 19, 2014

Two American missionaries who contracted Ebola virus in West Africa deserve special treatment for their selfless act of caring for infected patients. The author argues that limiting experimental treatment to these two patients is necessary due to the ethical concerns of exploiting vulnerable individuals during a public health outbreak.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateAug 18, 2014

New discovery: Microbes create dripstones

Researchers found microbes actively contribute to dripstone formation, with layers mirroring seasonal changes. The discovery sheds light on the role of biological life in shaping Earth's geology and has implications for understanding microbial life beyond Earth.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·JournalInternational Journal of Speleology·DateAug 18, 2014

Life after prison: Sociology professor presents findings on research

A sociology professor presented research on how ex-inmates cope with life after prison, finding that those who successfully transition address internalized anger and use it as motivation to redeem themselves. The study highlights the importance of considering unique stigma faced by this population in reentry efforts.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateAug 18, 2014

Happiness in schizophrenia

Research suggests that happiness is an attainable goal for some schizophrenia patients, associated with positive psychological and social attributes like resilience and optimism. A study found that 37% of patients reported being happy all or most of the time, regardless of severity, duration, or socioeconomic factors.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalSchizophrenia Research·DateAug 18, 2014

Leukemia drug shows promise for skin, breast and other cancers

Researchers at Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine discovered that dasatinib causes cancer cells to clump together, preventing metastasis. The drug targets a protein called BCR-ABL found in various malignancies, including breast and skin cancers.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalMolecular Carcinogenesis·DateAug 18, 2014

Oregon team to study impacts of climate change on pesky forest insect

A University of Oregon team, with NSF support, is building a computational model to probe the influence of forest governance and climate on deadly insect infestations. The research aims to improve existing knowledge on mountain pine beetle infestation by identifying large-scale patterns of forest change under various scenarios.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·DateAug 18, 2014

Implantable heart devices result in similar survival benefits among ethnic, racial group

A new UCLA-led research study has found that racial and ethnic minorities who receive implantable devices to treat heart failure derive the same substantial survival benefit as white patients. The study, involving over 15,000 patients, monitored two years of data from a registry to improve heart failure therapies in outpatient settings.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateAug 18, 2014