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Science News for August 21, 2014


A NASA satellite double-take at Hurricane Lowell

Hurricane Lowell strengthened into a Category One hurricane with sustained winds of 75 mph after being observed by NASA satellites. The storms' cloud top temperatures exceeded -63F, indicating high thunderstorms with potential heavy rainfall.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 21, 2014

Mouse model for epilepsy, Alzheimer's gives window into the working brain

Scientists have developed a genetically engineered mouse line that allows them to study calcium levels in living brain cells, enabling new research on epilepsy, Alzheimer's, and other neurological diseases. This breakthrough opens up possibilities for new treatments and a deeper understanding of the immune system's role in brain function.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalNeuron·DateAug 21, 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.

Recombinant adenovirus-mediated DHCR24 inhibits neural apoptosis

Researchers successfully constructed an adenovirus that induces DHCR24 specifically in neuronal cells, demonstrating its neuroprotective effects against amyloid beta-induced apoptosis. This breakthrough paves the way for further studies on DHCR24 gene therapy and neuronal functional research.

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateAug 21, 2014

Losing weight lowers health care costs for adults with type 2 diabetes

A new study found that overweight individuals with type 2 diabetes who lose weight through dieting and physical activity can reduce their healthcare costs by an average of over $500 per year. Those in the intensive lifestyle intervention group had fewer hospitalizations, shorter hospital stays, and used fewer prescription medications.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalDiabetes Care·DateAug 21, 2014

UW-Madison chosen for federally funded cloud computing research

The University of Wisconsin-Madison has been selected to participate in the National Science Foundation-funded CloudLab project, which aims to develop cloud infrastructure and support high-level research. The $2.3 million grant will enable researchers to evaluate novel cloud technologies in a realistic environment.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·DateAug 21, 2014

Alternate mechanism of species formation picks up support, thanks to a South American ant

A newly discovered species of ant, Mycocepurus castrator, has been found to support the theory of sympatric speciation, where a new species develops within a single colony. The research team found that the parasitic ants were genetically close to their host, but no longer reproductively compatible and had stopped reproducing together 3...

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 21, 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.

When it comes to how pizza looks, cheese matters

Researchers found that elasticity, free oil, moisture, water activity, and transition temperature influence color uniformity of cheeses. Mozzarella can be combined with less burnt cheeses like Gruyere or provolone to create a gourmet pizza.

SourceInstitute of Food Technologists·JournalJournal of Food Science·DateAug 21, 2014

Feeling bad at work can be a good thing (and vice versa)

Researchers found that negative emotions like anger can be used as a force for good when motivated by moral standards, while excessive positivity can lead to complacency and superficiality. In some team situations, negativity can actually enhance discussion and effectiveness.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalHuman Relations·DateAug 21, 2014

Arctic sea ice influenced force of the Gulf Stream

Reconstruction of sea ice changes in the Fram Strait reveals that Arctic sea ice cover decline led to significant weakening of the Gulf Stream. This change had a direct impact on European climate, with cooling occurring twice in the past 30,000 years.

SourceAlfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research·JournalEarth and Planetary Science Letters·DateAug 21, 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.

Coping with smart phone threats

A Canadian team outlines possible coping mechanisms for lost or stolen mobile devices, highlighting the importance of user awareness and organization security measures. The researchers found that many users are either unaware or unwilling to use security countermeasures, leaving them vulnerable to data loss risks.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Mobile Communications·DateAug 21, 2014

Water window imaging opportunity

Researchers develop theoretical framework to generate coherent radiations in the water window range, enabling high-contrast imaging of biological samples. The study extends previous work on hydrogen and applies it to argon atoms, paving the way for improved spectroscopy techniques.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal D·DateAug 21, 2014

Extracorporeal support can significantly increase number of organs for transplant

Using Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) has increased the number of organs available for transplant after circulatory death by 20%. This technology improves organ viability, particularly for kidneys, livers, and pancreases, making more life-saving organs available for patients waiting for transplants.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalTransplantation·DateAug 21, 2014

Study shows steep decline in tooth loss, increase in socioeconomic disparities

A new study projects a continued decline in US edentulism prevalence through 2050, with high-income households experiencing the steepest reduction. However, tooth loss remains disproportionately prevalent among low-income populations, highlighting a need for targeted public health measures to address this issue.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·JournalJournal of Dental Research·DateAug 21, 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.

Electric sparks may alter evolution of lunar soil

A University of New Hampshire and NASA study suggests that high-energy particles from solar storms can charge the moon's polar soil, creating sparking and potentially altering its composition. This process could have significant implications for our understanding of planetary surfaces in extremely cold regions.

SourceUniversity of New Hampshire·DateAug 21, 2014

Some anti-inflammatory drugs affect more than their targets

Researchers discovered that commonly used NSAIDs alter the activity of enzymes within cell membranes, which can lead to unwanted side effects. This finding provides a basis for a test to predict and avoid these side effects in new medicines.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalCell Reports·DateAug 21, 2014

USC Eye Institute study shows Native American ancestry a risk factor for eye disease

A new study from USC Eye Institute reveals that Native American ancestry is a significant risk factor for vision-threatening diabetic retinopathy among Latinos with Type 2 diabetes. The research found individuals with more than 50% Native American ancestry had an 87% higher chance of developing severe diabetic retinopathy.

SourceUniversity of Southern California - Health Sciences·JournalInvestigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science·DateAug 21, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Severe drought is causing the western US to rise

Scientists at UC San Diego's Scripps Institution used GPS technology to track uplift caused by the severe drought, estimating a water deficit of 62 trillion gallons. This has resulted in an average uplift of 4 millimeters across the western US and up to 15 millimeters in California's mountains.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience·DateAug 21, 2014

Of bees, mites, and viruses

Researchers found that Deformed Wing Virus (DWV) is the most affected virus species by Varroa infestation, while Kashmir Bee Virus (KBV) peaks two years after initial infestation and disappears. The study highlights the importance of beekeeper awareness, mite monitoring, and efficient Varroa control.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateAug 21, 2014

Hacking Gmail with 92 percent success

A team of researchers, including a UC Riverside assistant professor, developed a method to attack apps on Android and other operating systems with high success rates. They tested the method on six popular apps, including Gmail, and found it was successful between 82-92% of the time.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateAug 21, 2014

Liberal democracy is possible in Muslim-majority countries

A new study by University of Toronto researchers explores the relationship between Islam and liberal democracy in Muslim-majority countries. They found that while people in these countries are less tolerant on average than those in Western nations, socio-economic conditions and political regimes play a significant role.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalCanadian Review of Sociology/Revue canadienne de sociologie·DateAug 21, 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.

Enabling a new future for cloud computing

The NSF awards two $10 million projects to create cloud computing testbeds, enabling the academic research community to develop and experiment with novel cloud architectures. Chameleon and CloudLab will support real-time and safety-critical applications in medical devices, power grids, and transportation systems.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·DateAug 21, 2014

In our digital world, are young people losing the ability to read emotions?

A UCLA study suggests that excessive digital media use is linked to declining social skills in children, as they spend less time engaging in face-to-face interactions. The research found that sixth-graders who went device-free for five days showed significant improvements in recognizing human emotions compared to their peers.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalComputers in Human Behavior·DateAug 21, 2014

JILA team finds first direct evidence of 'spin symmetry' in atoms

Researchers at JILA have confirmed the presence of spin symmetry in strontium atoms, which could lead to breakthroughs in simulating exotic materials and understanding quantum phenomena like superconductivity. The discovery was made possible by an ultra-stable atomic clock, allowing for precise measurements of atom interactions.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalScience·DateAug 21, 2014

Climate change could see dengue fever come to Europe

Research suggests that climate change could lead to an increased risk of dengue fever in Europe, particularly in coastal areas along the Mediterranean and Adriatic seas. The disease is spread by mosquitoes, which thrive in warm and humid conditions, making these regions most at risk.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Public Health·DateAug 21, 2014

Cause of global warming hiatus found deep in the Atlantic Ocean

Researchers at University of Washington found that heat absent from Earth's surface is plunging deep into the North and South Atlantic Ocean, part of a naturally occurring cycle. This explains the global average air temperature flatlining since 1999 despite greenhouse gases.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalScience·DateAug 21, 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.

Learning to play the piano? Sleep on it!

Researchers at the University of Montreal found that sleep improves performance on piano tasks by increasing communication between subcortical brain regions. After a night of sleep, these regions function with greater synchrony, enabling better motor learning and memory consolidation.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·DateAug 21, 2014

Laser device may end pin pricks, improve quality of life for diabetics

Researchers at Princeton University developed a laser-based method to measure blood sugar levels without needing frequent pricking. The technique uses mid-infrared light and is currently 84% accurate, with potential applications beyond glucose detection.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalBiomedical Optics Express·DateAug 21, 2014

Primary care physicians can be critical resource for abused women in rural areas

Despite their crucial position, primary care physicians in rural communities rarely screen women for intimate partner violence (IPV). Women experiencing IPV in these areas often face limited resources and support. Providing training to PCPs, educating the community, and improving access to referral services can help address this issue.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Interpersonal Violence·DateAug 21, 2014

Yale's cool molecules

Yale physicists have successfully cooled strontium monofluoride to near absolute zero using magneto-optical trapping, enabling new research in quantum chemistry and particle physics. The discovery opens doors for experimentation in precision measurement, quantum simulation, ultracold chemistry, and tests of the standard model.

SourceYale University·JournalNature·DateAug 21, 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.

Despite a significant reduction in smog-producing toxins, the Greater Toronto Area still violates Canada's standards for ozone air pollution

A new study shows that the Greater Toronto Area has reduced some smog precursors by at least 20% since 2004, but still exceeds Canada's ozone standards due to high sunshine and calm winds. The research found that lower ozone levels between 2008 and 2011 were offset by a record-high summer ozone concentration in 2012.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalAtmospheric Chemistry and Physics·DateAug 21, 2014

Influenced by self-interest, humans less concerned about inequity to others

Researchers at Georgia State University found that humans are strongly influenced by self-interest and do not protest being overcompensated, even in situations where others are unfairly disadvantaged. This suggests that humans' sense of unfairness is affected by their own outcomes, indicating a recently evolved propensity.

SourceGeorgia State University·JournalBrain Connectivity·DateAug 21, 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.

Researchers map quantum vortices inside superfluid helium nanodroplets

Researchers successfully characterized quantum vortices in helium nanodroplets for the first time, revealing unique features and opening new avenues to study quantum rotation. The discovery confirms that helium nanodroplets are superfluid throughout and exhibit a single quantum object behavior.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateAug 21, 2014

Delivery by drone

MIT researchers have created an algorithm that enables a drone to monitor its health in real-time, allowing it to take proactive measures during delivery missions. The approach simplifies planning by separating vehicle-level and mission-level tasks, resulting in more efficient and reliable deliveries.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateAug 21, 2014

Ice cream goes Southern, okra extracts may increase shelf-life

A new study by the Institute of Food Technologists found that okra extracts can be used as a stabilizer in ice cream, improving texture and extending shelf life. The naturally extracted stabilizers offer an alternative to traditional stabilizers, making them suitable for the ice cream industry.

SourceInstitute of Food Technologists·JournalJournal of Food Science·DateAug 21, 2014

Overexpression of Notch1 in temporal lobe epilepsy

Overexpression of Notch1 in temporal lobe epilepsy is associated with reduced seizure frequency and brain discharges. The study found increased presence of Notch 1 and hairy and enhancer of split-1 in intractable temporal lobe epilepsy patients, suggesting potential therapeutic targets for treating the condition.

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateAug 21, 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.

Sunlight, not microbes, key to CO2 in Arctic

A new study finds that sunlight, not bacteria, is the key to converting carbon stored in Arctic permafrost into carbon dioxide. As climate change alters the timing and pace of thawing, this process could significantly impact global CO2 levels.

SourceOregon State University·JournalScience·DateAug 21, 2014

Shaping the future of nanocrystals

Researchers at Berkeley Lab have observed the direct formation of facets on platinum nanocubes, revealing that a long-held scientific principle breaks down at the nanoscale. This breakthrough enables the control of a nanocrystal's geometric shape and its subsequent chemical and electronic properties.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateAug 21, 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.

How hummingbirds evolved to detect sweetness

Researchers discovered how hummingbirds detected sugar by analyzing their taste receptors, which expanded to respond to carbohydrates. The study revealed that a single mutation drove behavior changes in the birds.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalScience·DateAug 21, 2014

Research offers insight into cellular biology of colorectal cancer

A study by researchers at the University of Kansas reveals a new function for APC in protecting against chronic colitis-induced inflammation and tumor development. The team found that functional nuclear APC is necessary to suppress Wnt signaling pathway, controlling goblet cell differentiation.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalCarcinogenesis·DateAug 21, 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.

Playing hunger games: Are gamified health apps putting odds in your favor?

A new study by Brigham Young University researchers suggests that gamification in health and fitness apps may not lead to sustainable behavior change. The study analyzed over 2,000 apps and found that most popular apps feature gamification as a key motivator, but this approach may be limited and demotivating in the long run.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·DateAug 21, 2014

Sequence of rare kidney cancer reveals unique alterations involving telomerase

A team of scientists sequenced chromophobe renal cell carcinoma tumors and found unique alterations involving telomerase, a gene that plays a critical role in cell division. This discovery provides new clues about the disease's biology and may lead to the development of targeted therapies for this rare type of kidney cancer.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalCancer Cell·DateAug 21, 2014

CHEST releases new expert guidance in care of the critically ill and injured

The American College of Chest Physicians has released a consensus statement providing evidence-informed suggestions for preparing and managing the critically ill and injured during large-scale disasters and pandemics. The document aims to guide ethical decision-making, coordination of care, resource conservation, and research in crises.

SourceAmerican College of Chest Physicians·DateAug 21, 2014

Polio: Mutated virus breaches vaccine protection

Scientists have isolated a mutated polio virus that can evade the immune system and render vaccinations ineffective. This discovery is alarming as it threatens to undermine progress made in eradicating polio, which has been nearly eradicated thanks to effective vaccination.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 21, 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.

Measuring calcium buildup to predict heart disease in those with chronic kidney disease

A new study finds that calcium buildup in coronary arteries is a strong indicator of heart disease risk in individuals with chronic kidney disease. This measure outperforms other commonly used tests in predicting cardiovascular disease among CKD patients, who are at high risk for heart disease.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateAug 21, 2014

TeleStroke units improve stroke care in underserved areas

Researchers found that TeleStroke Units improved stroke care in rural Bavaria, Germany, by increasing the number of patients receiving tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) from 2.6% to 15.5%. The median time between arrival and tPA administration fell from 80 minutes to 40 minutes.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateAug 21, 2014

Adherence to diet can be measured from blood

A study published in The Journal of Nutrition found that a blood sample can be used to assess dietary compliance. The researchers identified biomarkers in the blood that reflected consumption of key components of a healthy Nordic diet, including fatty fish, vegetables, and whole grains.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalJournal of Nutrition·DateAug 21, 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.

New DNA test for diagnosing diseases linked to childhood blindness

A new DNA test can identify the exact genetic cause of congenital cataracts in 75% of cases, allowing for earlier treatment and genetic counseling. The targeted next-generation sequencing test has been shown to be effective in diagnosing rare diseases associated with childhood blindness.

SourceAmerican Academy of Ophthalmology·JournalOphthalmology·DateAug 21, 2014

Toothpaste fluorine formed in stars

Researchers at Lund University found that toothpaste fluorine is formed in stars similar to our sun, supporting a theory about its origins. By analyzing light emitted by stars, they calculated the amount of fluorine present and compared it with predictions.

SourceLund University·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateAug 21, 2014

Electric sparks may alter evolution of lunar soil

Researchers propose that high-energy particles from solar storms can create sparking, altering the moon's polar soil and potentially reactivating permanently shadowed regions. This 'breakdown weathering' process could change our understanding of planetary evolution in extremely cold regions.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 21, 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.

NIH scientists establish new monkey model of severe MERS-CoV disease

Researchers at the NIH have developed a new animal model of severe Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) infection in marmosets. This model closely mimics the severe pneumonia experienced by people infected with MERS-CoV, making it an ideal option for testing potential treatments.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateAug 21, 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.

Children with autism have extra synapses in brain

A study found that children with autism have a surplus of synapses in the brain due to a slowdown in synaptic pruning during development. The researchers discovered that administering a drug called rapamycin can improve autistic-like behaviors in mice, even when given after the behaviors have appeared.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalNeuron·DateAug 21, 2014

Novel recycling methods: The fluorescent fingerprint of plastics

Researchers developed a technique that uses fluorescence lifetime measurements to automatically sort plastics, reducing contamination levels and increasing re-use efficiency. The new method can process up to 1.5 tons of plastic per hour, meeting industrial scale requirements.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalGreen and Sustainable Chemistry·DateAug 21, 2014

Coronary calcium predicts heart disease risk in patients with chronic kidney disease

Researchers found that calcium build-up in coronary artery walls is a more useful indicator of heart disease risk in patients with CKD than traditional measures of atherosclerosis. The study suggests that this finding could help safeguard the heart health of millions of people globally who have chronic kidney disease.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateAug 21, 2014

Biologists reprogram skin cells to mimic rare disease

Researchers have developed a new method to create patient-specific neural crest cells from skin cells, which can help study and potentially treat rare disorders. The technique accelerates the creation of these cells, allowing for more accurate predictions of disease progression and treatment efficacy.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateAug 21, 2014

X-ray laser probes tiny quantum tornadoes in superfluid droplets

Researchers have discovered a well-organized 3-D grid of quantum tornadoes inside microscopic droplets of supercooled liquid helium. This formation provides proof of the droplets' quantum state and is different from the lone whirlpool that would form in a regular liquid.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalScience·DateAug 21, 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.

ORNL scientists uncover clues to role of magnetism in iron-based superconductors

ORNL scientists uncover clues to role of magnetism in iron-based superconductors, finding localized magnetism correlated with high critical temperature and influencing material performance. The study provides experimental evidence that local magnetic fluctuations can influence the behavior of iron-based superconductors.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateAug 21, 2014

Combined use of polio vaccines effective in boosting immunity

A new study suggests that combining Salk inactivated poliovirus vaccine (IPV) with Sabin live-attenuated oral poliovirus vaccine (OPV) improves mucosal immunity and reduces viral shedding. The results could help resolve the long-standing debate over vaccine choice in areas where polio is difficult to eradicate.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 21, 2014

Fungus deadly to AIDS patients found to grow on trees

Researchers at Duke University have identified three tree species as environmental hosts for the fungus Cryptococcus gattii, which causes life-threatening lung and brain infections. The study found that these tree species can serve as sources of human infections, particularly for individuals with compromised immune systems.

SourceDuke University·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateAug 21, 2014

From dandruff to deep sea vents, an ecologically hyper-diverse fungus

Malassezia fungi, linked to human skin conditions, have been found across multiple environments including Hawaiian coral reefs, arctic soils, and deep sea vents. They dominate certain marine ecosystems and are also found in marine mammals and fish, suggesting a broader ecological significance.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateAug 21, 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.

Grants will fund landmark aging research at Waterloo

Researchers at University of Waterloo are investigating factors impacting food intake in long-term care settings, with a focus on improving nutrition for older adults. The study, funded by $1.5 million in grants, aims to understand the complex relationships between meal quality, food access, and mealtime experience.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·DateAug 21, 2014

Green tea polyphenols protect spinal cord neurons against oxidative stress

Researchers found that green tea polyphenols effectively protect spinal cord neurons against hydrogen peroxide-induced oxidative stress. The study published in Neural Regeneration Research revealed that green tea polyphenols inhibit neuronal apoptosis, indicating a protective role in spinal cord neurons under oxidative stress.

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateAug 21, 2014

Mindfulness-based depression therapy reduces health care visits

A new study found that mindfulness-based cognitive therapy significantly reduced non-mental health care visits among patients who were high health service users. Over eight years, this translates to a reduction of nearly 2,500 visits to primary care physicians, emergency departments, or non-psychiatric specialists in Ontario.

SourceCentre for Addiction and Mental Health·JournalJournal of Psychosomatic Research·DateAug 21, 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.

Researchers develop models to study polyelectrolytes, including DNA and RNA

A novel modeling strategy simulates polyelectrolyte systems, enabling the prediction of desirable characteristics for various applications. The 'implicit solvent ionic strength method' reduces computational costs, allowing for quicker results and larger system complexity.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalMacromolecular Theory and Simulations·DateAug 21, 2014

Canola genome sequence reveals evolutionary 'love triangle'

The completed Canola genome sequence sheds light on its complex evolutionary history with Brassica rapa and Brassica oleracea. Researchers aim to use this knowledge to improve canola traits such as flowering time, disease resistance and nutritional content.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalScience·DateAug 21, 2014

Fossil arthropod went on the hunt for its prey

A new species of carnivorous crustacean, Thylacares brandonesis, has been identified from a 435 million-year-old fossil found in Wisconsin. The creature used long, claw-like appendages to catch prey, similar to modern remipedes.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Evolutionary Biology·DateAug 21, 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.

Researchers found an important clue to potential treatments for absence seizures

Researchers identified a key clue to treating absence seizures by deleting the T-type calcium channel CaV3.3 in mice, which suppressed burst firing and increased tonic firing. This study challenges existing hypotheses and provides a foundation for developing effective treatment methods.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 21, 2014

Researchers examine impact of race and ethnicity in motor complete spinal cord injury

A study published by Kessler Foundation found small but significant differences in self-care and mobility at discharge among patients with motor complete spinal cord injury (SCI), with non-Hispanic blacks showing less improvement compared to Hispanics and non-Hispanic whites. The study used data from the Spinal Cord Injury Model System...

SourceKessler Foundation·JournalArchives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation·DateAug 21, 2014

Insulin offers new hope for the treatment of acute pancreatitis

Acute pancreatitis is a severe condition where the pancreas digests itself, leading to abdominal pain, vomiting, and systemic inflammation. Recent research suggests that insulin may prevent toxic effects of alcohol and fatty acid metabolites on pancreatic acinar cells.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateAug 21, 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.

NASA scientists watching, studying Arctic changes this summer

Arctic sea ice covered about 2.31 million square miles on Aug. 19, falling short of the record low in 2012 but continuing a trend of decline over the past 30 years. NASA scientists are flying three airborne research campaigns to study climate-driven changes in the Arctic.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 21, 2014