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Science News for December 22, 2014


Weight training appears key to controlling belly fat

A new study by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health researchers found that weight training can help reduce age-related abdominal fat in healthy men. Combining weight training with aerobic activity led to the most optimal results, while aerobic exercise alone was associated with less weight gain compared to weight training.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalObesity·DateDec 22, 2014

Consumer purchases of cakes, cookies and pies have decreased by 24 percent

Despite efforts to reformulate RTE GBDs, nutritional content remains unchanged, but overall consumer purchases have declined by 24%. The study highlights the need for public health officials and manufacturers to work together to shift consumer purchases towards healthier products.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics·DateDec 22, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Coral reveals long-term link between Pacific winds, global climate

New research suggests that Pacific trade winds played a key role in twentieth-century climate variation, coinciding with globally warming temperatures. The study found that weaker winds allowed warming to accelerate, while stronger winds prevented it. This natural process has been linked to the current slowdown in global warming.

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·JournalNature Geoscience·DateDec 22, 2014

Cells 'feel' their surroundings using finger-like structures

Researchers discovered that filopodia, finger-like structures on cell membranes, can extend, contract, and bend in dynamic movements. A twist-based mechanism involving the actin internal 'skeleton' enables these movements, allowing cells to interact with their environment.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Niels Bohr Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 22, 2014

Universality of charge order in cuprate superconductors

Researchers have observed the universal pattern of charge order in cuprate superconductors, revealing a complex relationship between charge carriers and the formation of superconducting states. The discovery provides important insights into the phenomenon of high-Tc superconductivity.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 22, 2014

Shedding new light on the diet of extinct animals

Scientists used magnesium isotopes to analyze the diet of living mammals in Gabon's equatorial forest. This method provides a strong basis for inferring the diet of extinct animals. The study's findings offer new insights into ancient ecosystems and interactions between organisms.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 22, 2014

News from Dec. 23, 2014, Annals of Internal Medicine

A systematic review published in Annals of Internal Medicine suggests that blood pressure-lowering therapy can reduce stroke, cardiovascular deaths, and total deaths in patients with mild hypertension. Ambulatory monitoring may also improve the diagnostic accuracy of office screening for high blood pressure.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateDec 22, 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.

Clarithromycin-statin mix can cause drug interactions, requiring hospitalization

Researchers found that combining clarithromycin with certain statins increases the risk of acute kidney injury or high potassium levels, potentially leading to hospital admission. The study suggests that alternative antibiotics like azithromycin may help prevent these adverse events.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateDec 22, 2014

Oregon study links physical violence, stress hormone in women

A new study found that daily fluctuations in cortisol levels are disrupted in women who experience physical violence from male partners. The researchers also found a correlation between violence and cortisol levels in women, suggesting that the HPA-axis regulatory system may be adversely influenced by violence.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalPsychoneuroendocrinology·DateDec 22, 2014

Piezoelectricity in a 2-D semiconductor

Researchers at Berkeley Lab have observed piezoelectricity in a free-standing single layer of molybdenum disulfide, a potential successor to silicon. The discovery has the potential to lead to tunable piezo-materials and devices for extremely small force generation and sensing.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateDec 22, 2014

Intelligent façades generating electricity, heat and algae biomass

A new EU project, LaWin, aims to develop functional façades and window modules that can generate electricity, heat, and algae biomass. The project, coordinated by Jena University, will create an integrated production process for these innovative materials, with the goal of achieving an unmatched readiness to market.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·DateDec 22, 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.

Bone loss drugs may help prevent endometrial cancer

Researchers found that bisphosphonate users were half as likely to develop endometrial cancer, suggesting a potential preventive effect. The study suggests that women taking bone-strengthening medications with increased endometrial cancer risk may benefit from nitrogen-form bisphosphonates.

SourceWiley·JournalCancer·DateDec 22, 2014

Lightweight skeletons of modern humans have recent origin

Researchers found that modern human skeletons have significantly lower bone density than other animals and even ancient ancestors. The decrease is especially pronounced in lower limbs, suggesting a link to humans' shift from foraging to agricultural lifestyles.

SourceAmerican Museum of Natural History·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 22, 2014

Methane is leaking from permafrost offshore Siberia

Scientists have found significant methane releases at depths of 20-50 meters off the West Yamal Peninsula in Siberia. The findings suggest a smaller, more fragile seal than previously thought, and a continuous thawing process driven by geothermal heat flux.

SourceUiT The Arctic University of Norway·DateDec 22, 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.

Suppressing a protein reduces cancer spread in mice

Researchers found that decreasing CHI3L1 levels slows the spread of two different kinds of cancer to the lungs of mice. This suggests addressing dysregulation is key in fighting metastasis and may lead to new treatments, such as preventing or delaying cancer spread after surgery.

SourceBrown University·JournalCancer Research·DateDec 22, 2014

Study: Industrial clusters fuel economies

A new MIT study reveals that industrial clusters across various industries drive economic growth by fostering job creation, innovation, and the formation of new industries. The research suggests that regions can improve their economic performance by investing in and extending their comparative advantage rather than chasing global hotsp...

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalResearch Policy·DateDec 22, 2014

Scientists find drug that helps Huntington's disease-afflicted mice -- and their offspring

A new study from The Scripps Research Institute suggests a drug compound can benefit not only parents but also their children by changing genetic expression, leading to improved memory and motor skills in offspring with Huntington's disease. This breakthrough discovery offers promising potential for treating the inherited disorder.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 22, 2014

Study links suicide risk with insomnia, alcohol use

A new study reveals a significant association between alcohol use and suicide risk among women, with insomnia symptoms playing a mediating role. The study suggests that assessing and treating specific sleep problems may help reduce suicide risk in this population.

SourceAmerican Academy of Sleep Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Sleep Medicine·DateDec 22, 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.

Effects of state legislation on health care utilization for kids with concussion

A study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that state concussion legislation is associated with a significant increase in healthcare utilization for children with concussions. Between 2008-2009 and 2011-2012, states with legislation saw a 92% rise in concussion-related healthcare usage, compared to a 75% increase in states without laws.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateDec 22, 2014

Disadvantaged men more likely to do 'women's work' reveals new study

A new study reveals that men from disadvantaged groups are disproportionately represented in low-paid, part-time jobs traditionally associated with women. The research found that disabled men are three times more likely to have a disability and be in the lowest income bracket than women.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalSex Roles·DateDec 22, 2014

Mysteries of 'molecular machines' revealed

Researchers are developing new software to visualize molecular machines, revealing their inner workings and structures. The Phenix software uses X-ray diffraction spots to create 3-D images of protein molecules.

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·JournalNature Methods·DateDec 22, 2014

Using light to understand the brain

Researchers at UCL have developed a technique that combines two cutting-edge technologies to read and write electrical activity in the brain. By using flashes of light, they can both observe and control brain activity in mice, opening up new possibilities for understanding neurological conditions such as autism and dementia.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Methods·DateDec 22, 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.

Variety is the spice of humble moth's sex life

A new study reveals the gold swift moth's intricate mating patterns and sexual positions, showcasing a 'Karma Sutra' of insect behavior. The research suggests that this complexity is an adaptation to the scarcity of mating grounds, driving the development of varied courtship strategies.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalBiological Journal of the Linnean Society·DateDec 22, 2014

Survival rates higher in obese heart failure patients

A new study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that obese heart failure patients have better survival rates than normal-weight patients. Over a 10-year follow-up period, 38% of obese and 45% of overweight patients died compared to 51% of normal weight patients.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateDec 22, 2014

Ninety-eight new beetle species discovered in Indonesia

A total of 98 new species of the Trigonopterus genus were discovered in Indonesian islands, shedding light on the region's vast insect fauna. The discovery highlights the importance of conservation efforts to protect these vulnerable species from habitat changes.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalZooKeys·DateDec 22, 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.

Graying, but still golden

Researchers found that older adults' acquired financial knowledge and experience can compensate for declining fluid intelligence, leading to more efficient financial decision-making. The study used credit scores and cognitive tests to demonstrate the importance of crystallized intelligence in finance.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 22, 2014

Limit imaging scans for headache? Neurosurgeons raise concerns

Recent guidelines aiming to reduce neuroimaging tests for patients with headaches may overlook diagnoses of brain tumors. Neurosurgeons warn that these limits could delay or even prevent diagnosis in up to 30% of cases, leading to delayed treatment and poorer outcomes.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalNeurosurgery·DateDec 22, 2014

Light-emitting e-readers before bedtime can adversely impact sleep

Researchers found that reading an e-book before bed can lead to reduced melatonin secretion, delayed circadian rhythms, and decreased morning alertness. The use of light-emitting electronic devices can suppress melatonin levels, impacting sleep quality and duration.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 22, 2014

Guilt complex

Research suggests that highly guilt-prone people are valuable work partners who outwork colleagues, demonstrate effective leadership, and contribute to team success. However, they may avoid forming partnerships with more competent individuals to prevent feelings of guilt.

SourceUSC Marshall School of Business·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateDec 22, 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.

Decision 'cascades' in social networks

Researchers develop algorithm to optimize timing strategy for cascading behavior in social networks, considering individual preferences and network structure. The study reveals the importance of timing in catalyzing cascades, with effective strategies increasing likelihood of widespread adoption.

SourceSociety for Industrial and Applied Mathematics·JournalSIAM Journal on Computing·DateDec 22, 2014

New non-invasive method can detect Alzheimer's disease early

Researchers have developed a non-invasive MRI approach that can detect Alzheimer's disease in its earliest stages, identifying toxic amyloid beta brain toxins. The technique has the potential to improve diagnosis and treatment of the disease, which affects one out of nine people over 65.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateDec 22, 2014

Startling benefit of cardiology meetings

Research published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that high-risk patients admitted to hospitals during cardiology meetings are more likely to survive than on non-meeting days. The study suggests that a less intensive approach for these patients may be beneficial.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateDec 22, 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.

Penn researchers model the mechanics of cells' long-range communication

Penn researchers developed mathematical models of collagen matrix stiffness, providing insights into fibrosis, cirrhosis, and certain cancers. The models show that nonlinear elasticity can arise from the ECM's fibrous structure, allowing for long-range force transmission and bridging formation.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateDec 22, 2014

Study finds cardiorespiratory fitness improves memory among older adults

A recent study published in Journal of Gerontology reveals that cardiorespiratory fitness has a positive impact on long-term memory in older adults. The research found that participants with higher levels of physical fitness performed better on cognitive tasks and showed improved executive function.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Gerontology·DateDec 22, 2014

Blocking Notch pathway leads to new route to hair cell regeneration to restore hearing

Scientists have discovered that blocking the Notch pathway enables cochlear progenitor cells to proliferate and regenerate hair cells, potentially leading to new treatments for hearing loss. The study reveals a new function of Notch signaling in limiting proliferation and regeneration potential of postnatal cochlear progenitor cells.

SourceMass Eye and Ear·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 22, 2014

Use with caution: High doses of vancomycin fuel risk of kidney damage in children

A Johns Hopkins Children's Center study found that high-dose IV infusions of the antibiotic vancomycin to treat drug-resistant bacterial infections can cause an increased risk for kidney damage in hospitalized children. The researchers emphasize the need for careful dosing and monitoring of kidney function in pediatric patients.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalAnnals of Pharmacotherapy·DateDec 22, 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.

New concussion laws result in big jump in concussion treatment

A University of Michigan study found a 92% increase in children seeking medical assistance for concussions in states with concussion laws. The legislation, combined with heightened public awareness, has led to significant increases in concussion treatment rates among school-age athletes.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateDec 22, 2014

Diverse autism mutations lead to different disease outcomes

A large-scale analysis of hundreds of patients and nearly 1000 genes found that diverse genetic mutations lead to different disease outcomes in autism spectrum disorder. The study revealed that more damaging mutations usually result in worse outcomes, while high-IQ cases are often triggered by milder mutations.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateDec 22, 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.

Hands on: Crafting ultrathin color coatings

Scientists have developed a technique to coat metallic objects with an extremely thin layer of semiconductor, producing vibrant optical effects on paper and other flexible materials. The ultrathin coatings can produce bright, solid colors using the same two metals, applied with only a few atoms' difference in thickness.

SourceHarvard University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateDec 22, 2014

Distribution of fish on the northeast US shelf influenced by both fishing and climate

Scientists studied four commercial and recreational fish stocks in Northeast U.S. waters and found that climate change affects their distribution, while fishing pressure has significant impacts on a more immediate time scale. The study shows that different species respond differently to temperature and fishing pressure.

SourceNOAA Northeast Fisheries Science Center·JournalICES Journal of Marine Science·DateDec 22, 2014

Russian scientists 'map' water vapor in Martian atmosphere

Researchers from Russia and international partners map water vapor distribution on Mars, revealing seasonal variations and global sandstorm impacts. Water vapor concentrations peak at 60-70 microns during northern summer, decreasing significantly during sandstorms.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalIcarus·DateDec 22, 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.

Ecosystems need maths not random nature to survive

Researchers discovered a universal mathematical property called Trophic Coherence that explains how ecosystems maintain stability and grow larger, unlike previous thought. This finding has implications for conservation efforts and may apply to finance and engineering fields.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 22, 2014

The psychology of gift-giving and receiving

Researchers studied gift-giving, focusing on picky recipients, who are less motivated to shop for. Gift cards hit a sweet spot as a flexible alternative to cash. Personalized gifts can be problematic if they're not versatile; givers should focus on recipient preferences rather than traits.

SourceSociety for Personality and Social Psychology·DateDec 22, 2014

An existing drug, riluzole, may prevent foggy 'old age' brain

Researchers found that riluzole treatment boosted spatial memory and communication between neurons in aging rats. The drug promoted the growth of thin spines, which are rapidly adaptable, and increased synaptic clustering.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 22, 2014

Store remodelling benefits bottom line

Research from Monash University found that store remodelling increases retail sales by nearly 50%, with new customers driving a 43-44% increase in sales. Existing customers see a 7-10% boost. The study suggests remodelling should be viewed as a marketing investment to retain and attract new customers.

SourceMonash University·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateDec 22, 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.

PNAS study: Devising a way to count proteins as they group

Researchers have developed a theoretical methodology to solve the 'counting problem,' allowing for the analysis of protein groups in living cells. The study's findings could lead to advancements in disease diagnosis and understanding of protein function.

SourceIndiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis School of Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 22, 2014

Fast-food consumption linked to lower test score gains in 8th graders

A nationwide study suggests that frequent fast-food consumption in fifth grade is associated with lower reading, math, and science test scores by eighth grade. Researchers controlled for various factors, including exercise, TV watching, family socioeconomic status, and neighborhood characteristics, to find this link.

SourceOhio State University·JournalClinical Pediatrics·DateDec 22, 2014

UTA physicist offers new research, tool for identifying habitable zones

A University of Texas at Arlington astrophysicist has created a new online tool called BinHab that can calculate the regions of binary systems favorable for life. The tool uses a comprehensive mathematical approach to consider both stellar radiation and gravitational influence, directly relevant to NASA's Kepler mission.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateDec 22, 2014

Muddy forests, shorter winters present challenges for loggers

A study finds that frozen ground has declined by an average of two to three weeks since 1948, impacting logging operations. The decline is linked to climate change, causing uncertainty in winter harvests and increased costs for equipment and insurance.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalJournal of Environmental Management·DateDec 22, 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.

Modern genetics confirm ancient relationship between fins and hands

Researchers found that non-model fish, the spotted gar, shares genetic machinery with mammals for building autopod structures. This study provides regulatory support for an ancient origin of Hox expression responsible for building tetrapod limbs.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 22, 2014

Smoke signals: New evidence links air pollution to congenital defects

A nationwide study in Israel found exposure to air pollutants PM10 and NOX during full-term pregnancies is associated with an increased risk of congenital malformations. The research also discovered that exposure to SO2 and O3 in ART pregnancies are linked to a higher risk of congenital defects.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalEnvironmental Research·DateDec 22, 2014

Tales from a Martian rock

A new study of the ALH84001 Martian meteorite provides valuable insights into Mars' early climate and potential habitability. The analysis suggests that smaller seas existed on Mars billions of years ago, rather than vast oceans.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 22, 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.

Patient outcomes when cardiologists are away at national meetings

A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that cardiologists' absence at national meetings did not negatively impact patient outcomes. High-risk patients with heart failure or cardiac arrest experienced lower 30-day mortality when admitted during meeting dates.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateDec 22, 2014

Average temperature in Finland has risen by more than two degrees

The study found that Finland's temperature rose in two phases: from the 1930s to the late 1960s, and then faster from the 1970s onwards. The annual average temperature has risen by more than 2 degrees Celsius over the past 40 years.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalStochastic Environmental Research and Risk Assessment·DateDec 22, 2014

Researchers discover new genetic anomalies in lung cancer

Researchers discovered new gene fusions in lung cancers with worse outcomes than patients with fewer fusions. The study identified several new genetic anomalies, including those found in smokers, which could be targets for developing new treatments.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 22, 2014

Skin patch could help heal, prevent diabetic ulcers, study finds

Researchers have developed a safe and effective skin patch to deliver a drug that enhances the healing of diabetes-related ulcers. The patch has been shown to accelerate wound healing and prevent ulcer formation in mice, offering new hope for millions of people with diabetes.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 22, 2014

Fear of terrorism increases resting heart rate and risk of death

A new study found that long-term exposure to terrorism threat increases resting heart rates and mortality risk in Israelis. The study, conducted on 17,300 healthy subjects, reveals a link between fear of terror and elevated heart rates.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 22, 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 cell marking technique to help understand how our brain works

Scientists at the University of Southampton have created a new technique called multicolour RGB tracking to mark individual brain cells. This approach allows researchers to color-code and distinguish between cells that were previously indistinguishable.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 22, 2014

Acoustic tweezers manipulate cell-to-cell contact

Researchers develop acoustic tweezers that can precisely position groups of cells for study, eliminating the risk of cell damage. The device achieves a throughput of thousands of cells and enables precise control over cell-to-cell contact, paving the way for studies on cellular communication and information transfer.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 22, 2014

Light-emitting e-readers detrimentally shift circadian clock

Researchers found that reading from light-emitting e-readers before bed suppresses melatonin release and shifts the circadian clock, leading to longer sleep latency and reduced REM sleep. Exposure to short-wavelength-enriched blue light disrupts natural sleep patterns.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 22, 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.

Study: Extra income boosts health of elderly in poor countries

A study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that providing additional $67 per month to elderly residents in poor countries improves their health outcomes. Participants who received this supplement showed significant improvements in lung function and memory, as well as increased access to healthcare services.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 22, 2014

Study pumps up the volume on understanding of marine invertebrate hearing

A new study by Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution researchers has identified the acoustic range and minimum sound sensitivity of cuttlefish. The study found that cuttlefish hear in the same frequency range as fish and can react to sounds in a graded manner, using different behaviors to avoid predators.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateDec 22, 2014

New technology makes tissues, someday maybe organs

A new instrument called BioP3 allows assembly of larger structures from small living microtissue components, potentially making whole organs like livers or kidneys. The device uses pre-assembled living building parts with functional shapes and a thousand times more cells per part.

SourceBrown University·DateDec 22, 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.

Study: An alternative for pain control after knee replacement surgery

A new study found that injecting liposomal bupivacaine during knee replacement surgery reduces pain scores and improves knee function compared to traditional methods. The injection technique optimizes early pain control without side effects, allowing patients to walk comfortably within hours after surgery.

SourceHenry Ford Health·DateDec 22, 2014