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Science News for December 10, 2014


Far-reaching technology for aircraft manufacture that pollutes less

Researchers explore applying additive manufacturing techniques to aero engine market, reducing environmental costs and fuel consumption. The project aims to demonstrate the potential of metal components laser-based additive manufacturing to contribute to the reduction of air transport environmental impact.

SourceElhuyar Fundazioa·DateDec 10, 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.

Analogues of a natural product are drug candidates against malaria

Scientists at IRB Barcelona have identified two derivatives of borrelidin that completely remove the parasite load from mice and confer immunological memory to fight future infections. These compounds act on the protein production machinery of the parasite, making them efficient in all phases of infection.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 10, 2014

NASA study shows 13-year record of drying Amazon caused vegetation declines

A 13-year decline in vegetation in the eastern and southeastern Amazon has been linked to a decade-long rainfall decline in the region. The study used new satellite instruments to measure greenness and found a 0.8% decline in the Amazon, affecting over half the continental United States' area.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 10, 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.

Researchers demonstrate new way to plug 'leaky' light cavities

Researchers at UC San Diego have developed a more efficient method to trap light by harnessing bound states in the continuum. This innovation addresses the major challenge of trapping and utilizing light for optical computing circuits.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalPhysical Review B·DateDec 10, 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.

Internet searches can predict volume of ER visits

A study published in Annals of Emergency Medicine found that Internet searches on a regional medical website can predict emergency department visits with an error rate of 4.8%. This correlation was strongest for the entire county, suggesting that Internet data may be used to forecast emergency department demand.

SourceAmerican College of Emergency Physicians·JournalAnnals of Emergency Medicine·DateDec 10, 2014

Next-generation treatment for urinary tract infections may focus on fitness genes

Researchers have identified bacterial genes that help UTIs spread, providing a potential new target for treating UTIs. The study reveals the specific genes expressed by E. coli bacteria in human urinary tract infections, which can be attacked to promote survival of the bacteria.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 10, 2014

A better biomonitor for children with asthma

A team of researchers at Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center developed an Induced Sputum (IS) technique to assess the effect of pollution on urban asthmatic children. The study found that IS is a more physiologically sensitive biomonitoring method than environmental sampling stations, detecting hazardous particles like mercury in the lungs.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalInternational Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health·DateDec 10, 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.

Study finds eczema, short stature not associated overall

A study published in JAMA Dermatology analyzed data from nine population-based studies and found no overall association between eczema and short stature. However, a small group of children with severe eczema who experienced sleep disturbances showed potentially reversible growth impairment.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Dermatology·DateDec 10, 2014

Organic electronics could lead to cheap, wearable medical sensors

Researchers at UC Berkeley have developed a new organic optoelectronic sensor that can accurately measure blood-oxygen levels and is thin, flexible, and disposable. The device uses red and green light to detect changes in oxygen saturation levels, making it potentially cheaper and more convenient than conventional pulse oximeters.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 10, 2014

Biomarker discovery sheds new light on heart attack risk of arthritis drugs

Researchers at Imperial College London discovered a possible way to identify which patients should avoid using COX-2 inhibitors, a type of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), due to increased heart attack risk. The study found that COX-2 inhibitors raise levels of ADMA, an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease.

SourceImperial College London·JournalCirculation·DateDec 10, 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.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Students design workstations that accommodate groups and individual

A team of Penn State engineering students designed workstations that allow users to share space while maintaining their own work areas. The researchers used simulations to determine optimal table shapes and sizes for accommodating groups of different sizes, ultimately publishing their findings in Applied Ergonomics.

SourcePenn State·JournalApplied Ergonomics·DateDec 10, 2014

Drug developed at Pitt proves effective against antibiotic-resistant 'superbugs'

A treatment pioneered at the University of Pittsburgh Center for Vaccine Research is far more effective than traditional antibiotics in inhibiting the growth of drug-resistant bacteria. The new drug, called engineered cationic antimicrobial peptides (eCAPs), inhibited growth in about 90% of test bacterial strains.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalAntimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy·DateDec 10, 2014

Prenatal exposure to common household chemicals linked with substantial drop in child IQ

A recent study published in PLOS ONE found a significant link between prenatal exposure to di-n-butyl phthalate (DnBP) and di-isobutyl phthalate (DiBP) and substantial drops in child IQ scores. Children exposed during pregnancy to these chemicals had IQ scores on average six points lower than those exposed at lower levels.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 10, 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.

The ups and downs of support from friends when teens experience peer victimization

A new study finds that support from friends generally influences the effects of peer victimization on maladjustment, differing depending on the form of victimization and relationship with peers. Teenagers who suffered relational victimization experienced lower feelings of depression with more supportive friendships.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of Psychopathology and Behavioral Assessment·DateDec 10, 2014

Successful explorer of active compounds

Professor Christian Hertweck has been awarded the prestigious Leibniz Prize for his groundbreaking research on biologically active compounds. His team discovered that endosymbiotic bacteria living within fungal cells are responsible for producing toxins, challenging the long-held belief that fungi produce these toxins.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·DateDec 10, 2014

Three steps to better gift card giving

Researchers found that givers tend to choose specific gift cards that recipients may not prefer. To avoid this, consider focusing on what recipients want rather than who they are. This approach can lead to more versatile gift cards being chosen, resulting in better redemption rates.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateDec 10, 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.

Physicists explain puzzling particle collisions

Researchers revised a mathematical description of particle interactions, considering two forces unified under extreme conditions like the Large Hadron Collider. They simplified one description of elementary particles' behavior, predicting specific events that future experiments should observe.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateDec 10, 2014

Breakthrough simplifies design of gels for food, cosmetics and biomedicine

Researchers at University of Strathclyde and City University of New York have developed a screening method to accurately predict how peptides can combine to form stable gels. This breakthrough simplifies the discovery of functional gels for various applications, including food, cosmetics, and biomedicine.

SourceUniversity of Strathclyde·JournalNature Chemistry·DateDec 10, 2014

Commonly prescribed painkiller not effective in controlling lower back pain

A new study published in Neurology found that pregabalin is not effective in controlling the pain associated with lumbar spinal stenosis. The most common type of chronic lower back pain in older adults, this condition affects millions worldwide and often leads to surgery or stronger pain medications.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalNeurology·DateDec 10, 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.

Defects are perfect in laser-induced graphene

The study finds that laser-induced graphene (LIG) has a unique structure with five- and seven-atom rings, which can store charges and make it suitable for supercapacitors. Researchers developed a scalable one-step process to create LIG in detailed patterns.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 10, 2014

Higher rate of asthma seen in toddlers who share a bed with their parents

A new study published in the European Respiratory Journal suggests that toddlers who share a bed with their parents are more likely to develop asthma in later childhood. Researchers found an association between bed-sharing at two years old and increased wheezing symptoms in early childhood.

SourceEuropean Respiratory Society·JournalEuropean Respiratory Journal·DateDec 10, 2014

Limiting internet congestion a key factor in net neutrality debate

A study published in the RAND Journal of Economics found that price discrimination by ISPs can lead to increased web congestion, as consumers adjust their behavior to take advantage of faster services. The researchers argue that relaxing net neutrality rules would ultimately benefit ISPs at the expense of consumers.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley Haas School of Business·JournalThe RAND Journal of Economics·DateDec 10, 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.

Crowdfunding 101

A study by USCB researchers determined that building an audience and engaging it during crowdfunding is crucial for success. The most important networks were those that were scalable, such as Twitter and email, which helped bring people to the projects.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 10, 2014

Molecular tag team revealed to control cell division

Researchers at the University of Manchester discovered a molecular 'tag team' controlling cell division in yeast cells. This relay system ensures proper regulation of mitotic exit, a critical step in preventing abnormal growth and cancer development.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalNature·DateDec 10, 2014

Brain reward circuits respond differently to 2 kinds of sugar

A study using fMRI found that fructose triggers greater activation in the nucleus accumbens and higher ratings of hunger compared to glucose, suggesting it may promote overeating. The findings have important public health implications for a society with high-sugar foods and tempting stimuli.

SourceAmerican College of Neuropsychopharmacology·JournalNeuropsychopharmacology·DateDec 10, 2014

How to achieve health equity

The article highlights the persistent health gap between whites and blacks, despite improvements in care access. Effective strategies for closing this gap include reporting clinical performance data by race, offering tailored interventions, and creating risk-adjusted scores.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateDec 10, 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.

Oldest horned dinosaur species in North America found in Montana

Researchers have identified the first definite horned dinosaur species from the Early Cretaceous period in North America, known as Aquilops americanus. This discovery sheds light on the biogeography of neoceratopsian dinosaurs and suggests a late Early Cretaceous intercontinental migratory event between Asia and North America.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 10, 2014

New Notre Dame study examines important Ebola protein

A new study by University of Notre Dame researchers found that the most abundant protein in the Ebola virus, VP40, mediates replication and interacts with human cell lipids. This discovery may lead to novel therapeutics for combating Ebola.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateDec 10, 2014

Testosterone may contribute to colon cancer tumor growth

Researchers at the University of Missouri found evidence suggesting testosterone contributes to colon cancer tumor growth. Higher levels of testosterone in post-menopausal women may be associated with increased colon cancer risk.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 10, 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.

Worms' mental GPS helps them find food

Scientists have developed a mathematical theory based on roundworm foraging that predicts how animals decide to switch from localized to very broad searching. The theory could explain animal behavior in a more unified way, including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and extraterrestrial behavior.

SourceSalk Institute·DateDec 10, 2014

No laughing matter: Nitrous oxide rose at end of last ice age

A study analyzing ancient polar ice cores reveals a significant increase in atmospheric nitrous oxide concentrations from 16,000 to 10,000 years ago. The rise was caused by changes in environmental conditions, contributing to the warming at the end of the ice age and melting of large ice sheets.

SourceOregon State University·JournalNature·DateDec 10, 2014

Proteins stepping on 'landmines': How they survive the immense heat they create

Researchers discovered that enzymes dissipate heat by rapidly accelerating immediately after a reaction, generating a pressure wave called a chemoacoustic wave. This finding explains how proteins cope with the immense heat generated during enzyme reactions without breaking apart.

SourceIndiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis School of Science·JournalNature·DateDec 10, 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.

'Smart windows' have potential to keep heat out and save energy

Researchers have developed a new type of smart window that can respond to heat cues, blocking unwanted heat from entering buildings while still allowing natural light to pass. The new design uses microscopic soft beads suspended in a liquid and has shown promise in reducing energy consumption on hot days.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalIndustrial & Engineering Chemistry Research·DateDec 10, 2014

Discovery links shift in metabolism to stem cell renewal

Researchers find that embryonic stem cells can modify their metabolism to keep their entire genome accessible, allowing them to renew themselves. This discovery could lead to breakthroughs in regenerative medicine and a better understanding of cancer.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalNature·DateDec 10, 2014

Patient's own stem cells could clear a cloudy cornea, Pitt team says

Scientists at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine have made a groundbreaking discovery in treating corneal injuries by using stem cells from a patient's own eye. The study found that these cells can regenerate healthy corneal tissue, clearing the cloudy surface and restoring vision.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateDec 10, 2014

As in a cloud

Physicists at Goethe University Frankfurt have used the COLTRIMS reaction microscope to demonstrate that the structure of the helium-3 molecule is a 'cloud' rather than a solid structure. The results resolve a long-standing dispute in theoretical physics and show that all possible configurations are equally probable.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 10, 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.

Alcohol interferes with body's ability to regulate sleep

Researchers found that alcohol interferes with the body's natural sleep-regulating mechanism, altering sleep patterns and causing disrupted sleep. The study suggests that drinking alcohol to fall asleep can have negative consequences on sleep quality and overall health.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalAlcohol·DateDec 10, 2014

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor agonists may treat alcohol dependence

Researchers suggest that peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) agonists may be effective in treating alcohol dependence. The study found that PPARα or PPARγ agonists, such as fenofibrate, reduced alcohol intake and preference in mice, indicating potential for repurposing these drugs for human treatment.

SourceAlcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research·DateDec 10, 2014

Can poor sleep lead to dementia?

A new study published in Neurology found that people with sleep apnea or reduced deep sleep are more likely to have brain abnormalities associated with dementia. The study also discovered that those who spent less time in slow wave sleep had loss of brain cells, a risk factor for Alzheimer's disease.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateDec 10, 2014

Dragonflies on the hunt display complex choreography

Scientists have discovered that dragonflies employ a sophisticated system of movement and prediction to catch their prey. By analyzing the intricate movements of their heads and bodies, researchers found that dragonflies use internal models to guide their behavior and anticipate the movements of their prey.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalNature·DateDec 10, 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.

CWRU scientists find key to vitamin A metabolism

Researchers at CWRU School of Medicine discovered the mechanism behind enzyme Lecithin: retinol acyltransferase (LRAT) storing vitamin A, essential for vision. The study reveals that modifying LRAT's enzymatic activity can be used to transport small molecule drugs to the eye, reducing systemic side effects.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateDec 10, 2014

Study shows no lead pollution in the oil sands region of Alberta

Researchers found lower concentrations of lead and other heavy metals in moss samples from the oil sands area, contrary to current scientific knowledge. The study, published in Environmental Science and Technology, suggests that other factors may be affecting lead pollution levels.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·DateDec 10, 2014

Saving old information can boost memory for new information

Research suggests that saving previous information helps free up cognitive resources, improving memory for new information. By 'offloading' old data, individuals can allocate mental resources to learn and remember new material.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateDec 10, 2014

Revolutionary new procedure for epilepsy diagnosis unlocked by research

Scientists at the University of Exeter have developed a new method to diagnose epilepsy using mathematical modeling and brain electrical activity analysis. This approach reveals subtle differences in brain network properties that enhance susceptibility to seizures in people with idiopathic generalized epilepsies.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalFrontiers in Neurology·DateDec 10, 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.

NSF funds Kent State study of human chromosome

Researchers will use techniques like molecular scalpels and laser tweezers to study G-quadruplex structures in human telomeres. The goal is to understand how these units are structured and distributed, which could lead to new anti-cancer drugs.

SourceKent State University·DateDec 10, 2014

New technology tracks carcinogens as they move through the body

Researchers have developed a method to track the movement of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) through the human body, shedding light on their role as carcinogens. The technology uses accelerator mass spectrometry to detect tiny amounts of PAHs in blood and explore how they are processed by humans.

SourceOregon State University·JournalChemical Research in Toxicology·DateDec 10, 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.

Research aims to improve hip and knee replacement success

Washington State University researchers are working on a five-year NIH grant project to develop new bone-like coating materials that will allow titanium-based implants to integrate better into the body. The goal is to improve implant success rates, particularly for younger patients and those undergoing revision surgeries.

SourceWashington State University·DateDec 10, 2014

Fungus-growing ants selectively cultivate their crops

Researchers reconstructed how fungus-growing ants improved their clonal crops into a robust farming system. The ant farmers lost the ability to produce vital amino acids and enzymes themselves, relying on the fungus for delivery.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 10, 2014

New insight into cancer defense mechanism

A recent study published in Nature Communications sheds light on chromosome segregation and its impact on cancer development. Researchers discovered that mutations in the BubR1 protein can cause cancer by disrupting correct chromosomal passage.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 10, 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.

Ancient creature discovered in the depths of the Arctic Ocean

Scientists from USGS and Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History discover new genus and species of bivalve mollusk, Wallerconcha, in deep-water sediment cores from the Beaufort Sea. The discovery is named after Dr. Thomas R. Waller and Sara Powell, co-authors of the study.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalZooKeys·DateDec 10, 2014

Rare gene mutations raise risk of early heart attack

Researchers identified rare APOA5 gene mutations linked to high triglycerides and increased heart attack risk. The study found that these mutations also raise LDL receptor mutation prevalence, underscoring the role of triglyceride metabolism in early-onset heart attacks.

SourceBroad Institute of MIT and Harvard·JournalNature·DateDec 10, 2014

Link between power lines and ill-health called into question

A recent study by the University of Manchester has investigated the effects of weak magnetic fields on human proteins, including those crucial for health. The research found no detectable impact on key proteins, suggesting that power lines and other electrical devices may be safer than previously thought.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateDec 10, 2014

New breast cancer classification based on epigenetics

Researchers identified two subtypes of breast cancer, Epi-Basal and Epi-Luminal B, which differ in their epigenetic patterns. The subtype Epi-Luminal B is associated with reduced survival rates and requires adjuvant chemotherapy.

SourceIDIBELL-Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute·JournalMolecular Oncology·DateDec 10, 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.

Scientists create food ingredient that will make you feel fuller

Researchers at Imperial College London discovered an ingredient, inulin-propionate ester (IPE), that stimulates gut hormones to reduce hunger and prevent weight gain. The study found that IPE supplementation reduced body weight and fat accumulation in overweight volunteers.

SourceImperial College London·JournalGut·DateDec 10, 2014

NYIT study: Thyroid hormones reduce animal cardiac arrhythmias

A new NYIT study reveals that rats treated with thyroid hormones had a reduced risk of developing dangerous heart arrhythmias following a heart attack. The findings could have important implications for future treatment of human patients with heart failure, who often suffer from atrial fibrillation.

SourceNew York Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Cardiac Failure·DateDec 10, 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.

New study into life-threatening pregnancy condition calls for specialist centers

A new study has identified key steps for hospitals to improve care for pregnant mums and babies affected by congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH). The report highlights inconsistencies in care delivery, with some areas showing better patient-centered models. Key recommendations include focusing acute care on specialist centers and deve...

SourceUniversity of Leicester·DateDec 10, 2014

Climate change projected to drive species northward

A new study predicts eastern Pacific marine species will shift poleward due to climate change, altering fish communities and fishing grounds. The study suggests some species will move into habitats of other marine life to the north, while others may disappear from areas at their southern ends.

SourceNOAA Fisheries West Coast Region·JournalProgress In Oceanography·DateDec 10, 2014

Patients given less blood during transfusions do well

A new Rutgers-led research study found that patients with heart disease who receive transfusions during surgeries do just as well with smaller amounts of blood. The study measured overall mortality and found no evidence of increased mortality from cardiovascular disease or severe infection due to the amount of blood given after surgery.

SourceRutgers University·JournalThe Lancet·DateDec 10, 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.

Alcohol-control law may curb partner abuse

A new study published in the Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs suggests that laws limiting alcohol outlet density can reduce rates of intimate partner violence. Communities with fewer alcohol outlets tend to have lower rates of partner abuse, according to researchers.

SourceJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·JournalJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·DateDec 10, 2014

More holistic approach needed when studying the diets of our ancestors

Recent research on early hominid diets highlights the limitations of using modern technologies alone to understand their eating habits. A holistic approach is needed, considering factors such as habitat, anatomy, and cognitive abilities. This interdisciplinary method can provide a more accurate picture of our ancestors' diets.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalThe Quarterly Review of Biology·DateDec 10, 2014

Meniscus regenerated with 3-D printed implant

Researchers at Columbia University Irving Medical Center have developed a way to replace the meniscus with a personalized 3D-printed implant infused with human growth factors, promoting tissue regeneration in sheep. The therapy could provide an effective and long-lasting repair of damaged menisci, reducing the risk of arthritis.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateDec 10, 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.

Anyone who is good at German learns English better

Research by University of Zurich linguist Simone Pfenninger found that students with strong German language skills tend to excel in English, even if they start learning the latter at a later age. In contrast, early foreign language learning can sometimes hinder L1 development in the short term.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalInternational Journal of Bilingual Education and Bilingualism·DateDec 10, 2014

Honeybee hive sealant promotes hair growth in mice

Researchers found that propolis, a substance from honeybee hives, encourages hair growth in mice by increasing special cells involved in the process. The study suggests that propolis' anti-inflammatory compounds could help treat balding conditions.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateDec 10, 2014

Racial and ethnic disparities narrow for acute care

A study found that racial and ethnic disparities in acute care narrowed significantly as hospitals improved quality, with nine major disparities mostly disappearing by the end of 2010. Hospitals serving minorities made faster improvements and delivered more equal care to white and minority patients over time.

SourceBrown University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateDec 10, 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.

New study measures methane emissions from natural gas production and offers insights into 2 large sources

Researchers found that a small group of pneumatic devices and wells with frequent liquid unloadings are responsible for the vast majority of methane emissions from natural gas production sites. The study confirms regional differences in methane emission levels, with highest emissions in the Gulf Coast and lowest in the Rocky Mountains.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateDec 10, 2014

New way to turn genes on

Researchers at MIT have successfully turned on any desired gene in living cells using the CRISPR/Cas9 system. This breakthrough enables scientists to study gene function and identify genes involved in diseases, such as melanoma. The new method has also been used to screen for genes that confer resistance to cancer drugs.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateDec 10, 2014

How long can Ebola live?

A new study by a Pitt researcher reveals that there is limited scientific data on how long the Ebola virus can survive on surfaces, in water, or in liquid droplets. This knowledge gap makes it challenging to develop effective disinfection practices to prevent the spread of the disease.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·DateDec 10, 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.

Study examines effects of family-friendly workplace policies

A study from the University of Texas at Dallas found that family-friendly policies significantly increase productivity and are related to higher labor productivity. The study also discovered a positive relationship between unionization and increased productivity and lower turnover rates.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalPublic Personnel Management·DateDec 10, 2014

Lifestyle the key to gap in cardiac patient outcomes

Researchers at the University of Adelaide found that patients who managed their lifestyle factors were five times more likely to have long-term survival without any further heart arrhythmia. The intensive risk factor management program improved arrhythmia-free survival rates from 18% to 87% after five years.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateDec 10, 2014