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Science News for December 2, 2014


Why does physical activity during childhood matter?

Research finds that physically active children outperform their inactive peers in the classroom and on tests of achievement. Physical activity is associated with larger brain volumes, increased concentration, and enhanced attention spans.

SourceSociety for Research in Child Development·JournalMonographs of the Society for Research in Child Development·DateDec 2, 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.

Nanotubes may restore sight to blind retinas

A groundbreaking study published in Nano Letters describes a revolutionary novel device that has the potential to treat a number of eye diseases. The proof-of-concept artificial retina is more efficient, flexible, and can stimulate neurons more effectively than previous designs.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalNano Letters·DateDec 2, 2014

UNH research: On environment, Republicans closer to Independents than Tea Party

Non-Tea Party Republicans' views on science and environmental issues are closer to those of Independents than Tea Party supporters, according to new research. The study found significant divisions between Tea Party supporters and Republicans, but fewer divisions between non-Tea Party Republicans and Independents.

SourceUniversity of New Hampshire·JournalEnvironmental Politics·DateDec 2, 2014

Managing reefs to benefit coastal communities

A new study highlights the importance of inclusive reef management policies to address unequal access to reef benefits. Coral reefs provide essential resources such as food and income opportunities, but not everyone has equal access to them.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 2, 2014

Overweight and obesity in pregnancy linked to greater risk of infant death

A Swedish-US research team analyzed over 1.8 million births to find that maternal overweight and obesity increase infant mortality risk, with grade 2-3 obesity linked to more than doubled infant deaths. The study found modest increased risks for overweight mothers and significant increases for those with severe obesity.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateDec 2, 2014

Inflammatory discovery sheds new light on skin disease

Researchers at the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute discovered that inflammatory skin diseases such as psoriasis are linked to abnormal apoptosis, while necroptosis is associated with systemic inflammation. This finding could lead to the development of new treatments for these conditions.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·DateDec 2, 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.

Meteorology meets metrology: Climate research high up in the clouds

Researchers have developed a highly accurate airborne hygrometer, HAI, which simultaneously measures the amount of water present in the atmosphere as vapour, condensation, droplets, or ice. The device provides precise data on natural and anthropogenic cloud formation processes and their influence on climate development.

SourcePhysikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB)·DateDec 2, 2014

Study of deadly bat disease finds surprising seasonal pattern of infections

A new study found that the fungus responsible for white-nose syndrome, which causes bat populations to crash, can infect nearly every bat in a colony during hibernation. Bats that survive the winter can clear the infection after they become active again, but this leads to high mortality rates at the end of winter.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·DateDec 2, 2014

University of Illinois researchers develop inexpensive hydrolysable polymer

Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a cheap, hydrolysable polymer called poly(hindered urea)s (PHUs), which can be designed to degrade over time. This material has potential applications in drug delivery, tissue engineering, and packaging, offering advantages over traditional hydrolyzable polymers.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateDec 2, 2014

Another case against the midnight snack

Researchers at Salk Institute discover that confining caloric consumption to an 8- to 12-hour period can significantly reduce weight gain, improve body composition, and even reverse obesity and diabetes in mice. The study's findings add to mounting evidence highlighting the importance of time-restricted eating for overall health.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalCell Metabolism·DateDec 2, 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.

Heavier newborns show academic edge in school

Research from Northwestern University found that heavier newborns have higher test scores from third through eighth grade. Even among twins, heavier-born twins have higher average test scores. However, other factors such as maternal education can be a larger predictor of academic achievement.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalAmerican Economic Review·DateDec 2, 2014

Losing air

Researchers found that tens of thousands of small impacts could efficiently jettison Earth's entire primordial atmosphere, while giant impacts would be less effective. The team's calculations suggest that the early Earth was likely devoid of its original atmosphere, with Venus and Mars also experiencing significant atmospheric loss.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalIcarus·DateDec 2, 2014

NASA sees Tropical Storm Hagupit as Micronesia posts warnings

Tropical Storm Hagupit has become a Category One typhoon with maximum sustained winds near 70 knots, posing threats to islands in Micronesia. The storm is expected to continue moving west-northwest through the region and intensify before weakening on December 6.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateDec 2, 2014

People putting their lives at risk by dismissing cancer symptoms

A study by Cancer Research UK found that people often dismiss cancer symptoms as less serious and attribute them to other causes. Only two per cent thought cancer was a possible cause, despite experiencing red-flag symptoms such as unexplained coughs or persistent changes in bowel habits.

SourceCancer Research UK·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 2, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Tailor-made pharmaceuticals as basis for novel antidepressants

Researchers at Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry developed the first potent and highly selective inhibitor of FKBP51, called SAFit-ligand. This inhibitor enhances neuronal cell growth and improves stress-coping behavior in mice, providing a structural and functional basis for mechanistically novel antidepressant treatment.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateDec 2, 2014

Tracking elephants, ecstasy, and emerging diseases

Research highlights the surge of infectious disease in northern latitudes, driven by climate change and close contact between species. The study also explores the use of accelerometers to track an animal's internal state, including emotions and diseases.

SourceEcological Society of America·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateDec 2, 2014

Alcohol abuse linked to newly identified gene network

A study published in Molecular Psychiatry has identified a network of genes associated with alcohol dependence. The researchers found that certain sets of genes were co-expressed together in individuals who consumed the most alcohol, but not in non-alcoholics. This discovery could lead to better screenings and treatments for alcoholism.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateDec 2, 2014

Do concussions have lingering cognitive, physical, and emotional effects?

A study of US Marines who suffered concussions found persistent post-concussive symptoms and lingering cognitive effects are due to concussion-related brain trauma. Multiple concussions were associated with worse emotional and post-concussive symptoms, an important finding for military and civilian settings.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Neurotrauma·DateDec 2, 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.

A novel technique for gene insertion by genome editing

A novel gene knock-in technique using PITCh enables accurate and efficient insertion of exogenous genes into human cells, silkworms, frogs, and other organisms. This method overcomes technical hurdles associated with homologous recombination in cultured cells and organisms.

SourceHiroshima University·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 2, 2014

Health boost for fitness centers

Millions die each year from obesity-related issues, with Australia projected to be third fattest nation by 2020. Fitness facilities can mitigate risks by implementing pre-activity screening, automated defibrillators, regular inspections, and staff training.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Business Continuity and Risk Management·DateDec 2, 2014

Crime Victims' Institute investigates human trafficking

Human sex trafficking is a significant public health issue affecting the US, with an estimated 600,000 to 800,000 victims worldwide annually. The average age of entry into the sex trade for children is between 12 and 14, with lasting mental and physical health consequences.

SourceSam Houston State University·DateDec 2, 2014

New techniques for estimating Atlantic bluefin tuna reproduction

Researchers used a new endocrine-based approach to determine the age at sexual maturity for wild stocks of western Atlantic bluefin tuna, finding they mature at a considerably younger age than currently assumed. This discovery could lead to changes in fisheries scientists' estimates of population size.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 2, 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.

Cutting F-35 manufacturing costs, time earns ONR top award

The Office of Naval Research has developed an automated process to make F-35 canopies, saving $125 million over the life of the program. The new method uses a control system with cameras to ensure uniform shape formation and eliminates worker exposure to hot ovens.

SourceOffice of Naval Research·DateDec 2, 2014

Warming reaches maximum 10 years after carbon dioxide emission

A study by Carnegie Institution scientists Katharine Ricke and Ken Caldeira found that climate warming caused by a single carbon emission reaches its maximum effect within 10 years. This refutes the common misconception of decades-long delays and benefits current generations, not just future ones.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateDec 2, 2014

A glimmer of hope for corals as baby reef builders cope with acidifying oceans

New research reveals that baby corals can acclimate to increased atmospheric carbon dioxide levels, potentially mitigating the impact of ocean acidification. This finding suggests that staghorn corals, traditionally considered stress-tolerant, may have a limited ability to adapt.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateDec 2, 2014

Traces of Martian biological activity could be locked inside a meteorite

A new study suggests that organic carbon traces found in a Martian meteorite may have originated from biological sources. The researchers argue that the carbon content was deposited in the meteorite's fissures before it left Mars, and its isotopic ratio is consistent with biological origin.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalMeteoritics and Planetary Science·DateDec 2, 2014

West Antarctic melt rate has tripled: UC Irvine-NASA

The study reveals that the Amundsen Sea Embayment in West Antarctica is losing ice at an incredible rate, with the total amount of loss averaging 83 gigatons per year. This is equivalent to Mt. Everest's worth of water weight lost every two years over the past 21 years.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateDec 2, 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.

Even mild coronary artery disease puts diabetic patients at risk

A new study found that diabetic patients with even mild coronary artery disease are at a comparable risk of heart attacks and major adverse events to those with severe obstructive disease. Researchers used cardiac computed tomography angiography data from 14,000 patients to evaluate long-term prognostic value in diabetic patients.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateDec 2, 2014

Growing cooperation: First the carrot, then the stick

Researchers developed game-theoretical model to examine different incentive schemes, finding rewarding cooperative agents first leads to higher cooperation levels. The optimal strategy shifts to punishing wrongdoers after a sufficiently large proportion of agents cooperate, promoting highest level of cooperation at lowest cost.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateDec 2, 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.

Chemotherapy can complicate immediate breast reconstruction after mastectomy

Breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy and immediate breast reconstruction are at risk of thrombotic complications, which can delay or modify reconstructive plans. In some cases, these complications require anticoagulation therapy and may necessitate additional surgeries.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAnnals of Medicine and Surgery·DateDec 2, 2014

King Richard III -- case closed after 529 years

International research confirms King Richard III's identity to 99.999% accuracy using DNA and genealogical study. The study also reveals his likely appearance, including almost certainly blue eyes and probably blond hair, as seen in the Arched-Frame Portrait.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 2, 2014

Want to get male millennials on board with your cause? Focus on feelings

A study from Concordia University reveals that male millennials need specific emotional prods to engage with non-profits, unlike female millennials who respond to causes on an emotional level. Marketers must focus on the benefits of supporting a cause to successfully engage millennials in charitable efforts.

SourceConcordia University·JournalJournal of Nonprofit & Public Sector Marketing·DateDec 2, 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 control adhesion of E. coli bacteria

A team of scientists has created a synthetic surface that can control the adhesion of E. coli bacteria using light. By switching on and off specific wavelengths, researchers can reverseorientate carbohydrate structures to influence bacterial bonding.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateDec 2, 2014

New molecules to burst malaria's bubble: ANU media release

Scientists have identified a range of new chemicals with potent anti-malarial properties that could lead to new treatments for the disease. The compounds block a molecular salt pump at the surface of the parasite, causing it to swell and burst.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 2, 2014

The ryanodine receptor: Calcium channel in muscle cells

Researchers at Max Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology studied the three-dimensional structure of the ryanodine receptor using electron cryo-microscopy and a new technique for detecting electrons. The high-resolution structure reveals how the protein changes its shape upon binding calcium ions.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·DateDec 2, 2014

Missing ingredient in energy-efficient buildings: People

A study by Julia Day found that occupants who had effective training in using the features of their high-performance buildings were more satisfied with their work environments. The study, which examined over 50 high-performance buildings across the US, highlighted the importance of creating a culture focused on conservation.

SourceWashington State University·JournalBuilding and Environment·DateDec 2, 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.

Fighting air pollution in China with social media

Researchers found that online activism did force the Chinese government to take some actions on air pollution, but corporate and government interests largely shaped the online discussion. The study shows both the power and limits of online activism in China, highlighting the need for more nuanced approaches to addressing complex social...

SourceOhio State University·JournalThe Professional Geographer·DateDec 2, 2014

Perceptions, referrals by medical providers affect mental-health treatment disparities

A large study by UC Davis researchers found that patients of different racial and ethnic backgrounds reported experiencing differing treatment approaches from medical providers, including referrals to mental-health care and medications. Asian-Americans were the least likely to be assessed or counseled for mental-health problems, while ...

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalHealth Services Research·DateDec 2, 2014

University of Chicago to establish Genomic Data Commons

The University of Chicago is establishing the nation's most comprehensive computational facility to store and harmonize cancer genomic data, expanding access for scientists. The Genomic Data Commons will provide an interactive system for researchers to analyze and identify potential therapeutic targets.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·DateDec 2, 2014

Study examines use of drugs to strengthen bones for men receiving ADT

A study found that prescriptions for bisphosphonates remain low even among men at high risk of fractures on androgen deprivation therapy. The study suggests limited awareness among clinicians about optimal bone health management, particularly in men with prior osteoporosis or fragility fracture.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateDec 2, 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.

Finding the simple patterns in a complex world: ANU media release

A new analysis method called fractal Fourier analysis breaks down complicated signals into well-understood building blocks, similar to conventional Fourier analysis. This approach could help scientists better understand natural phenomena like nerve impulses and brain waves.

SourceAustralian National University·DateDec 2, 2014

Cover crops can sequester soil organic carbon

A 12-year University of Illinois study shows that cover crops increase soil organic carbon stock without improving crop yields. The practice is found to sequester the most soil organic carbon in no-till systems with hairy vetch and cereal rye cover crops.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalOpen Journal of Soil Science·DateDec 2, 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.

Vitamin supplement successfully prevents noise-induced hearing loss

Researchers found that nicotinamide riboside (NR) prevents noise-induced hearing loss by increasing the activity of protein sirtuin 3, which is critical for mitochondrial function. NR also showed promise in preventing long-term and short-term hearing loss, regardless of when it was administered.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalCell Metabolism·DateDec 2, 2014

See it, touch it, feel it

A new technology has been developed that allows for the creation of an invisible 3D haptic shape using ultrasound. This innovation enables surgeons to explore complex medical imaging data, such as CT scans, in a more immersive and tactile manner.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalACM Transactions on Graphics·DateDec 2, 2014

A better look at the chemistry of interfaces

Researchers developed a new X-ray spectroscopy technique called SWAPPS, combining standing-wave and ambient-pressure photoelectron spectroscopy to study heterogeneous interfaces with sub-nanometer resolution. This allows for the measurement of elemental and chemical composition with enhanced sensitivity in narrow interfacial regions.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 2, 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.

Mediterranean diet linked to longer life

A Mediterranean diet high in fruits, vegetables, nuts, and olive oil has been associated with longer telomeres, a biomarker of slower aging. The study found that adherence to the diet was significantly linked to longer telomeres, corresponding to 1.5 years of telomere ageing.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateDec 2, 2014

The hacker culture: Creatively overcoming limitations in programming

This book explores how European users appropriated microcomputers and forged countercultures to challenge individual ownership and celebrate shared use. The 'ludological' element of mischief and humor played a crucial role in shaping hacker culture, offering new insights into the history of technology.

SourceSpringer·DateDec 2, 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.

Macho stereotypes put off men as well as women

A new study found that macho stereotypes discourage both men and women from pursuing traditionally masculine occupations. The research suggests that increasing the appeal of these jobs to a more diverse range of men could help attract more women, leading to greater equality in the future.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalBritish Journal of Psychology·DateDec 2, 2014

Diagnosis targets in primary care are misleading and unethical

A senior GP argues that UK government plans to extend diagnosis targets in primary care to six other conditions are problematic and unscientific. The data on which they are based is flawed, leading to potential overdiagnosis and unnecessary tests and treatments.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateDec 2, 2014

Atmospheric carbon dioxide used for energy storage products

Scientists have created an innovative way to utilize atmospheric carbon dioxide to produce high-value materials for energy storage products. This breakthrough in nanotechnology enables the creation of nanoporous graphene, which has exceptional electrical conductivity and surface area.

SourceOregon State University·JournalNano Energy·DateDec 2, 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.

CWRU study finds girls, boys affected differently by witnessing parental violence

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University found that witnessing parental violence can trigger negative behaviors in children, with girls internalizing the trauma and boys acting out aggressively. The study highlights the importance of early interventions to help children develop emotionally and interact socially.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalJournal of Interpersonal Violence·DateDec 2, 2014

3-D mammography improves cancer detection in dense breasts

A new study found that digital breast tomosynthesis significantly increases cancer detection in women with dense breasts. In a population-based mammography screening program, tomosynthesis improved cancer detection rates by 30-40%, particularly for invasive cancers and those with fatty breasts.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateDec 2, 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.

Blows to head damage brain's 'garbage truck,' accelerate dementia

A new study reveals that traumatic brain injury can accelerate dementia by disrupting the brain's waste removal system, specifically the glymphatic system. This impaired system allows toxic proteins to accumulate in the brain, setting the stage for neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·DateDec 2, 2014

Study finds insects play important role in dealing with garbage on NYC streets

A new study from North Carolina State University reveals that insects and other arthropods consume large amounts of garbage on NYC streets, including 2,100 pounds of discarded junk food per year. The researchers found that pavement ants are particularly efficient foragers in urban environments and compete with rats to eat human garbage.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateDec 2, 2014

New cause of child brain tumor condition identified

A new study has identified the SUFU gene mutation as a major contributor to Gorlin syndrome-associated childhood medulloblastoma, significantly increasing the risk of brain tumors in children with this condition. This finding has major implications for treatment and screening protocols for children with Gorlin syndrome.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateDec 2, 2014

Sons' intelligence linked to fathers' criminal history

Research reveals that sons of fathers with criminal records have lower cognitive abilities, but the link is explained by genetic factors shared between father and son. The study suggests that having a father with antisocial behavior may not directly affect a child's cognitive development.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateDec 2, 2014

Vitamin D deficiency, depression linked in international study

Researchers found a link between vitamin D and seasonal affective disorder (SAD), suggesting vitamin D may play a regulatory role in SAD development. Vitamin D levels fluctuate seasonally with sunlight availability, which correlates with the onset of SAD symptoms.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalMedical Hypotheses·DateDec 2, 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.

The biology of anxious temperament may lie with a problem in an anxiety 'off switch'

A new study published in Biological Psychiatry suggests that deficits in the brain's 'off switch' for anxiety, neuropeptide Y receptors, are associated with anxious temperament. Researchers found decreased expression of two neuropeptide Y receptors in the central nucleus of the amygdala, a region crucial for regulating fear and anxiety.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateDec 2, 2014

Why don't children belong to the clean plate club?

New Cornell research aggregated six studies of 326 elementary school-aged children, showing they eat about 60% of what they serve themselves. Children's eating habits are still learning and developing, with parents' forcing them to finish food not being natural or encouraged.

SourceCornell Food & Brand Lab·JournalInternational Journal of Obesity·DateDec 2, 2014

Preference for gravid females makes rare iguana consumption unsustainable

A recent survey in Honduras found that residents prefer to hunt and consume female Valle de Aguán spiny-tailed iguanas carrying eggs. This unsustainable practice is threatening the species' extinction. The study recommends educating residents on sustainable harvesting methods to mitigate the impact.

SourceSan Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance·DateDec 2, 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.

CO2 warming effects felt just a decade after being emitted

Researchers found that CO2 warming effects peak within 10 years of emission and persist for over a century. The study suggests that current efforts to reduce emissions will benefit not only future generations but also people alive today.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateDec 2, 2014

University of Toronto chemists identify role of soil in pollution control

A new study by University of Toronto atmospheric chemist Jennifer Murphy reveals that soil plays a crucial role in the production of nitrous acid, a key pollutant in air quality. The research suggests that soils can take up nitrous acid at night and release it into the atmosphere the next day through reaction with stronger acids.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalNature Geoscience·DateDec 2, 2014

E-signatures less trusted than handwritten signatures

A new study finds that people are more likely to distrust e-signatures than hand-signed documents, with those having fewer personal characteristics perceived as less valid. This lag between technological advancement and psychological reaction highlights the need for caution in adoption.

SourceSAGE·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·DateDec 2, 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.

Strange galaxy perplexes astronomers

A team of astronomers has discovered a rare type of galaxy, named J1649+2635, that has prominent 'jets' of subatomic particles propelled outward from its core at nearly the speed of light. The unusual feature is unexpected in spiral galaxies.

SourceNational Radio Astronomy Observatory·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateDec 2, 2014

New study strengthens evidence of the connection between statin use and cataracts

A recent study found a significant association between statin use and an increased risk of developing cataracts. However, experts emphasize that the benefits of statins in preventing cardiovascular disease outweigh the potential risks. The study's findings add to the accumulating knowledge on the statin-cataract connection.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalCanadian Journal of Cardiology·DateDec 2, 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.

Identifying the cellular origin of fibrosis

Fibrotic diseases cause up to 45 percent of deaths worldwide. Researchers identified Gli1 cells around blood vessels as responsible for fibrosis. Abating these cells improved organ function in mice with kidney and cardiac fibrosis.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·DateDec 2, 2014

Mediterranean diet associated with longer telomeres

Researchers found that women who follow the Mediterranean diet have longer telomeres, which are repetitive DNA sequences at the ends of chromosomes. The study, published in The BMJ, suggests that adherence to this diet may help buffer telomere shortening and promote health and longevity.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalThe BMJ·DateDec 2, 2014

Patients take control of their medical exam records

A study by RSNA found that patients who have direct access to their imaging exams report high satisfaction with improved healthcare quality and enhanced patient engagement. The use of Internet-based interoperable image exchange systems allows patients to securely store, manage, and share their imaging records.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateDec 2, 2014

Brain representations of social thoughts accurately predict autism diagnosis

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University used brain-reading techniques to identify altered 'thought-markers' of autism, detecting changes in the way certain concepts are represented in the brains of autistic individuals. This biological approach shows promise for complementing clinical assessments and enabling quicker diagnoses.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 2, 2014

Antacids linked to better survival in head and neck cancer

A study of 596 patients found that those taking antacid medications had significantly better overall survival rates than non-users. The results suggest that proton pump inhibitors and histamine 2 blockers may have a favorable impact on patient outcomes.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalCancer Prevention Research·DateDec 2, 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.

Celiac disease does not increase clinical consultations for fertility problems

A large cohort study found that women with celiac disease do not report fertility problems more often than women without the condition. However, rates of infertility were slightly higher among women diagnosed with celiac disease at a younger age, likely due to increased concern prompting earlier consultations.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateDec 2, 2014

Lung cancer risk model refines decisions to screen

A new lung cancer risk model, PLCOm2012, refines decisions to screen individuals for annual CT scans, identifying a risk threshold for selecting high-risk smokers. The study found that this threshold resulted in higher sensitivity and specificity than the USPSTF criteria.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateDec 2, 2014

Turn back the molecular clock, say Argentina's plant fossils

A team of researchers found that most fossil plant lineages from Patagonia are older than the dates predicted by molecular clocks. This study refutes a widely-held idea about how plants and animals arrived at their current distributions, suggesting that molecular clocks may be biased.

SourcePenn State·JournalNew Phytologist·DateDec 2, 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.

Chemists fabricate novel rewritable paper

Researchers have created novel rewritable paper based on color switching property of commercial chemicals, allowing for up to 20 erasures without significant loss in contrast or resolution. The paper has potential applications in meeting increasing global needs for sustainability and environmental conservation.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 2, 2014