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Science News for December 8, 2014


Evidence of life on Mars?

The Curiosity rover has taken samples of Martian rocks and soils using the CheMin instrument, which has provided insights into processes on Mars. The analysis reveals a complex mineralogy, including aqueous alteration and hydrated sulphates.

SourceInternational Union of Crystallography·DateDec 8, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

World record for compact particle accelerator

Researchers at Berkeley Lab achieved a world record energy for laser-plasma accelerators, accelerating electrons to 4.25 giga-electron volts in just 9-centimeter long plasma tube. The setup marks a significant breakthrough in particle acceleration technology, offering potential for shrinking traditional accelerators.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateDec 8, 2014

Study offers future hope for tackling signs of aging

A team of scientists at the University of Leicester has identified novel markers to detect senescent cells, which are associated with aging. These markers have shown promise in predicting increased survival in certain types of cancer, particularly breast cancer.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalCell Death and Disease·DateDec 8, 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.

Dunes on Titan need firm winds to move, experiments at ASU show

New research at Arizona State University's Planetary Aeolian Laboratory found that wind speeds necessary to move sand-size particles on Titan are about 40 percent too low. Dune particles on Titan need winds of at least 3.2 miles per hour to start moving, contradicting previous estimates.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature·DateDec 8, 2014

Study finds Affordable Care Act leaves many children without important benefits

The study highlights a state-by-state patchwork of coverage for children and adolescents, excluding services for kids with developmental disabilities. The analysis suggests four policy steps to improve pediatric benefits under the ACA, including revising the essential health benefit standard and incorporating medical necessity.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalHealth Affairs·DateDec 8, 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.

Many memories, many rooms

A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that rats can create a unique map for every environment, allowing them to remember distinct locations without mixing up similar events. This discovery sheds light on the brain's storage capacity and memory organization.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 8, 2014

New therapy holds promise for restoring vision

A new genetic therapy has restored light response to the retinas of blind mice and dogs, offering hope for future clinical trials in humans. The therapy uses a virus to insert a gene into normally blind cells, followed by photoswitches that activate the cells when exposed to light.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 8, 2014

Vaccine holds hope of preventing antibiotic resistant skin infections

Researchers at LA BioMed have developed a novel vaccine, NDV-3, that can protect against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) skin infections. The vaccine enhances molecular and cellular immune defenses of the skin in response to MRSA and other S. aureus bacteria.

SourceLA BioMed·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 8, 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 treatment strategy for epilepsy

Researchers found that a specific protein's conformational defect causes Autosomal Dominant Lateral Temporal Lobe Epilepsy, a form of familial epilepsy. Treatment with chemical chaperone LGI1 mutant protein was shown to ameliorate seizure susceptibility in mice.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalNature Medicine·DateDec 8, 2014

New model helps boost fishery profits and sustainability

A new model developed by economists at Duke University and the University of Connecticut helps fishermen boost profits by identifying the most efficient fishing practices and behaviors. The model found that in some cases, congestion can actually increase potential late-season profits and reduce the risk of fishery depletion.

SourceDuke University·JournalAmerican Economic Review·DateDec 8, 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.

Bougainvillea's response to deficit irrigation tested

Researchers found that Bougainvillea can tolerate moderate deficit irrigation, reducing water consumption while improving plant quality. The study tested three varieties of potted Bougainvillea under full and deficit irrigation treatments.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateDec 8, 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.

Genes that cause pancreatic cancer identified by new tool

A new technique has uncovered large sets of previously unknown pancreatic cancer genes by introducing DNA transposons into mouse genomes. The study found that the Foxp1 gene drives cancer progression and is highly expressed in human cancers that have metastasised.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalNature Genetics·DateDec 8, 2014

UT Arlington team proposes new model for snake venom evolution

A UT Arlington team developed a new model for snake venom evolution, suggesting that venom genes evolved independently in distinct lineages of reptiles. The study found similar expression levels of venom gene families in python oral glands and brain tissue, challenging the traditional view of a core venom system developing first.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateDec 8, 2014
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

A yardstick to measure the malignancy of prostate cancer

Researchers discovered a protein called BAZ2A that influences epigenetic patterns in prostate cancer cells, leading to increased malignancy and tumor growth. High levels of BAZ2A expression were linked to more advanced tumors, metastases, and poor patient outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature Genetics·DateDec 8, 2014

High photosensitivity 2-D-few-layered molybdenum diselenide phototransistors

Researchers at Toyohashi University of Technology developed back-gated field-effect phototransistors made of MoSe2 crystals. The devices exhibited excellent performance, with a measured photoresponsivity of 97.1 AW-1 and a theoretical external quantum efficiency 280-fold higher than commercial Si and InGaAs photodiodes.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalNanotechnology·DateDec 8, 2014

Detecting gases wirelessly and cheaply

Researchers have developed a new sensor that can detect gaseous ammonia, hydrogen peroxide, and cyclohexanone wirelessly using a smartphone. The sensors, made from modified NFC tags, require almost no energy and can function at ambient temperatures.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 8, 2014

The winds of Titan

Researchers used NASA wind tunnel to study threshold speeds for particle movement on Titan, finding higher speeds than predicted from Earth-based models. The findings can help understand atmospheric forces on icy moons and planets with thin or thick atmospheres.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalNature·DateDec 8, 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.

New technique allows low-cost creation of 3-D nanostructures

Researchers from North Carolina State University have developed a new lithography technique that uses nanoscale spheres to create three-dimensional structures. The new method reduces the cost of nanolithography and allows for the creation of complex nanostructures without expensive equipment.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalSmall·DateDec 8, 2014

Does smoking hamper treatment for alcohol abuse?

A new study by University at Buffalo Research Institute on Addictions found that smoking is associated with difficulties in alcohol treatment. Tobacco smokers had shorter treatment durations and were less likely to achieve their alcohol-related goals compared to non-smokers.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalSubstance Use & Misuse·DateDec 8, 2014

Hookah smoking increases risk of subsequent cigarette smoking among adolescents

A Dartmouth study found that hookah smoking increased the probability of trying cigarette smoking over two years by 19%. Hookah and snus use are associated with later cigarette smoking in non-cigarette smoking adolescents and young adults. The study highlights the need for FDA regulation to restrict manufacturers' ability to flavor, pa...

SourceThe Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateDec 8, 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.

Preeclampsia during mother's pregnancy associated with greater autism risk

A large study found that mothers of children with autism were over twice as likely to have had preeclampsia pregnancies. Children with autism and developmental delay also showed greater cognitive impairment when their mothers experienced preeclampsia. The study suggests a potential link between preeclampsia and autism development.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateDec 8, 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.

Chesapeake Bay region streams are warming

Researchers found a significant warming trend in air and water temperatures over 51 years, with impacts on water quality, eutrophication, and aquatic life. Rising temperatures will lead to increased nutrient runoff and shifts in plant and animal distributions in the bay's freshwater rivers and streams.

SourceU.S. Geological Survey·JournalClimatic Change·DateDec 8, 2014

Heat-shock protein enables tumor evolution and drug resistance in breast cancer

Researchers found that HSP90 inhibition increases the ability of anti-estrogen agents to block cell cycle progression, thereby thwarting replication of tumor cells. The study provides a strong rationale for combining HSP90 inhibitors with hormonal therapy in ER+ breast cancer treatment.

SourceWhitehead Institute for Biomedical Research·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 8, 2014

New research will help robots know their limits

A collaborative project between UK researchers will focus on developing formal verification techniques for autonomous systems. The goal is to ensure robots make decisions that are safe, ethical, and follow legislation, with applications in industries such as automotive and manufacturing.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·DateDec 8, 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.

Impossible? Can researchers develop 100 drugs in 10 years?

A team at Recursion Pharmaceuticals aims to accelerate the development of therapies for rare diseases by leveraging custom-designed software and human cellular models. The approach has already led to the identification of potential treatments for cerebral cavernous malformation, a rare hereditary vascular disease.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalCirculation·DateDec 8, 2014

Glucokinase activation enhances sugar craving in rodents

Activation of glucokinase in the arcuate nucleus of rodents increased food intake and body mass, as well as preference for glucose. Inhibition of glucokinase decreased food consumption and glucose intake, indicating that glucokinase dysfunction may underlie glucose cravings.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 8, 2014

NASA-funded FOXSI to observe X-rays from Sun

The FOXSI mission will observe high-energy X-rays from the Sun, helping scientists understand solar flares and the sun's atmosphere. By detecting these faint events, researchers aim to confirm the existence of nanoflares, which are thought to occur constantly but are difficult to detect.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateDec 8, 2014

Debate on safety of e-cigarettes continues

A recent article collection in BMC Medicine examines the safety of e-cigarettes, with two experts offering differing views on their impact. Peter Hajek argues that e-cigarettes are orders of magnitude safer than conventional cigarettes, while Charlotta Pisinger believes they can be less harmful but still pose health risks.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Medicine·DateDec 8, 2014

Experimental gene therapy successful in certain lymphomas and leukemia

Researchers have successfully treated patients with advanced CD19-positive hematologic malignancies using CAR T cells, achieving complete remission in some cases. The study used the Sleeping Beauty non-viral transduction system to modify T cells, demonstrating further promise in treating lymphoid malignancies.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalBlood·DateDec 8, 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.

Punishing kids for lying just doesn't work

Researchers discovered that punishing children for lying can have the opposite effect, making them less likely to tell the truth. Children are more likely to lie if they're afraid of punishment than if they believe it's the right thing to do.

SourceMcGill University·JournalJournal of Experimental Child Psychology·DateDec 8, 2014

Scientists reveal parchment's hidden stories

Researchers at Trinity College Dublin and the University of York used genetic sequencing techniques to analyze DNA from parchment samples, revealing insights into livestock breeding history. The study sheds light on how agricultural development shaped animal genetics across centuries.

SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London (B )·DateDec 8, 2014

Older breast cancer patients still get radiation despite limited benefit

A recent study published in Cancer journal reveals that older breast cancer patients continue to receive radiation therapy despite evidence suggesting limited benefits. The study analyzed data from a national health database and found that only about one-third of eligible women no longer receive radiation therapy.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalCancer·DateDec 8, 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.

Cell division induces tissue ordering

A recent study found that cell division in endothelial cells leads to the formation of large, ordered eddies in tissue, which may help widen blocked blood vessels and aid healing. The researchers used phase-contrast microscopy to observe the movement of new cells and found characteristic turbulence patterns.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Niels Bohr Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 8, 2014

High tunnels found effective for finishing cold-tolerant annuals

A study found unheated high tunnels to be an effective method for finishing cold-tolerant annuals, reducing plant mortality and delays in days to flower. The use of high tunnels also led to improvements in measures of plant quality, such as shorter, more compact plants.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateDec 8, 2014

Scientists pinpoint a new line of defence used by cancer cells

Researchers identified a critical pathway that enables cancer cells to survive despite DNA errors, relying on the PKCƐ signal pathway. Disrupting this pathway could trigger cancer cells to self-destruct, offering a new strategy to beat the disease.

SourceCancer Research UK·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 8, 2014

PRM-151 therapy well tolerated in patients with advanced myelofibrosis

A study at MD Anderson Cancer Center found PRM-151 to be well-tolerated in patients with advanced myelofibrosis, showing encouraging trends in clinical and histologic aspects of the disease. The therapy demonstrated reduced bone marrow fibrosis and improved hematologic parameters, suggesting potential for further development.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalBlood·DateDec 8, 2014

Primary care doctors report prescribing fewer opioids for pain

A survey of primary care physicians suggests a decrease in opioid prescriptions, with 58% reporting reduced prescribing habits. The study highlights the growing concern among doctors about the risks of prescription opioid use, including addiction and death by overdose.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateDec 8, 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.

UH Case Medical Center experts present data at ASH Annual Meeting

A novel biochip has been developed to evaluate red blood cell properties in sickle cell patients, providing a potential tool for monitoring and managing the disease. The research aims to identify and predict flare-ups, allowing for earlier treatment and prevention of complications.

SourceUniversity Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center·DateDec 8, 2014

Penn State shares in NSF Critical Zone collaboration grant

The new Science Across Virtual Institutes project will create a shared platform for broader research at the nation's 10 CZO locations and international counterparts. This will enable scientists to establish common experiments and measurements, providing training for graduate students and post-doctoral fellows.

SourcePenn State·DateDec 8, 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.

New research suggests Caribbean gorgonian corals are resistant to ocean acidification

A new study found that Caribbean gorgonian corals can calcify and grow under elevated CO2 concentrations, suggesting they may be more resistant to ocean acidification. The research also challenges the idea that all high-magnesium calcite-secretors are susceptible to ocean acidification.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·JournalCoral Reefs·DateDec 8, 2014

Shedding new light on the formation of emotional fear memories

A new study identifies a neural mechanism for translating unpleasant experiences into fear memories by changing amygdala connections. The findings suggest that Hebbian plasticity is partially correct but requires concurrent activation of noradrenaline to form memories.

SourceRIKEN·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 8, 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.

Experience counts with radiation therapy for head and neck cancer, study shows

A study by Ohio State University researchers found that patients treated at highly-experienced radiation oncology centers had better survival rates and fewer cancer recurrences compared to those treated at less experienced centers. The study analyzed data from 470 patients treated with radiation therapy between 2002-2005.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateDec 8, 2014

Injectable 3-D vaccines could fight cancer and infectious diseases

Researchers have developed injectable 3D vaccines using programmable biomaterials that can induce an immune response to fight cancer and infectious diseases like HIV. The vaccines recruit dendritic cells, which then trigger an immune response to attack harmful cells.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateDec 8, 2014

Asbestos: An ongoing challenge to global health

The global spread of asbestos is a pressing concern, with over 50 countries banning the substance due to its deadly health risks. India and the US remain among the largest producers and importers of asbestos, contributing to the ongoing challenge to global health.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAnnals of Global Health·DateDec 8, 2014

Rule of 3: Hormone triplet offers hope for obesity and diabetes

Researchers have successfully designed a substance combining three metabolically active hormone components (GLP-1, GIP, and glucagon) to fight metabolic diseases. The triple hormone reduces body weight by around 30 percent while improving insulin sensitivity, essentially curing obesity and diabetes in animal models.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalNature Medicine·DateDec 8, 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.

Study finds early warning signals of abrupt climate change

A new study has found early warning signals of a reorganisation of the Atlantic Ocean's circulation, which could impact the global climate system. The researchers used a complex model to analyze the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), finding that these signs are present up to 250 years before it collapses.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 8, 2014

Turning biological cells to stone improves cancer and stem cell research

Scientists have developed a method to transmute living cells into more permanent materials that defy rot and can endure high-powered probes. This technique is widening research opportunities for biologists developing cancer treatments and materials scientists creating commercially useful shapes.

SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 8, 2014

HPV vaccine, riskier sexual activity not linked researchers say

A recent study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal has found that HPV vaccination does not lead to increased risky sexual behavior in young girls. The study followed 260,493 girls and found no significant increase in pregnancies or sexually transmitted infections among those who received the vaccine.

SourceQueen's University·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateDec 8, 2014

Hummingbird's hover surprisingly easy to hack

University of British Columbia researchers found that hummingbirds lose positional stability when exposed to moving visual patterns, even with prolonged exposure or combination of moving and stationary stimuli. This discovery highlights the complex relationship between a hummingbird's visual field and its ability to hover in place.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 8, 2014

Seasonal flu vaccines boost immunity to many types of flu viruses

A study found that seasonal flu vaccines can induce strong immune responses against multiple flu virus subtypes, including some not included in vaccine formulations. This could provide protection against emerging pandemic strains from avian populations.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmBio·DateDec 8, 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.

Elsevier announces the launch of a new journal: Extreme Mechanics Letters

The new journal aims to bridge the gap in publication options for the mechanics community, featuring short articles on cutting-edge research in various disciplines. It is edited by three distinguished scientists and offers immediate publication of papers without waiting for other articles.

SourceElsevier·JournalExtreme Mechanics Letters·DateDec 8, 2014

Toughest breast cancer may have met its match

A team of researchers has discovered a way to make triple-negative breast cancer cells susceptible to chemotherapy by inhibiting the HIF protein network. The study found that HIF inhibitors can decrease tumor size and prevent relapse in mice, offering new hope for treatment-resistant patients.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 8, 2014

UBC team finds a glitch in hummingbird hovering

Researchers at UBC found that hummingbirds struggle to control their hovering when faced with visual stimuli like moving images. This phenomenon was observed in virtual reality experiments where birds were unable to adapt to dynamic visual input.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 8, 2014

News from Annals of Internal Medicine Dec. 8, 2014

A new study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that breast density notification laws substantially increase costs and save relatively few lives. The study suggests that these laws would result in limited health gains and substantially increased expenses.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateDec 8, 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 engravings rewrite human history

Scientists discovered ancient engravings from human ancestors on a 400,000 year old fossilised shell from Java. The discovery is the earliest known example of ancient humans deliberately creating pattern.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalNature·DateDec 8, 2014

New technique could harvest more of the sun's energy

Researchers at Caltech have developed a new technology to absorb and utilize infrared light, often lost in traditional solar panels. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient solar cells and sensors that detect light using electrostatic potential.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·DateDec 8, 2014

Scientists discover brain mechanism that drives us to eat glucose

A team at Imperial College London identified a brain mechanism that senses glucose levels and prompts animals to seek more if it detects a shortfall. The researchers believe this mechanism may play a role in humans' preference for sweet and starchy foods.

SourceImperial College London·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 8, 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.

A pill for obesity?

Researchers at Harvard University have developed a system using human stem cells to screen for compounds that can turn white, or 'bad', fat cells into brown, or 'good' fat cells. They have identified two compounds that can accomplish this in human cells, taking the first step towards a potential pill for obesity treatment.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateDec 8, 2014

NIH initiates 'Centers Without Walls' to study sudden unexpected death in epilepsy

The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke has launched the Centers Without Walls initiative to study Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP), which affects 1 out of 1000 people with epilepsy annually. The project aims to identify risk factors and potential therapeutic targets to prevent SUDEP.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·DateDec 8, 2014

Two papers in Health Affairs expose gaps in health coverage for children, recommend solutions

Two Health Affairs papers expose gaps in health coverage for children and recommend solutions. The studies focus on the Affordable Care Act's essential health benefit standard, which has resulted in a state-by-state patchwork of coverage with significant exclusions for children with developmental disabilities.

SourceGeorge Washington University Milken Institute School of Public Health·JournalHealth Affairs·DateDec 8, 2014

Blocking receptor in brain's immune cells counters Alzheimer's in mice

Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine found that blocking a single molecule on microglia restored their function, reversing memory loss and other Alzheimer's-like features in mice. The study suggests that microglia play a crucial role in clearing A-beta protein clusters, which contribute to the disease's progression.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 8, 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.

How pace of climate change will challenge ectotherms

Climate change is expected to surpass ectotherms' capacity for acclimation, leading to catastrophic consequences for biodiversity. The rapid fluctuations in temperature will require animals to function across a broader range of conditions.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalNature Climate Change·DateDec 8, 2014

Hookah pipes, smokeless tobacco snus associated with smoking onset

A study found that hookah pipe tobacco use and smokeless tobacco snus were associated with an increased risk of cigarette smoking among teenagers and young adults. The study also showed that individuals who used these products had a higher likelihood of becoming current or high-intensity smokers.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateDec 8, 2014

High level engagement in comment sections can curb internet trolling

A recent study found that having a journalist engage with commenters can reduce incivility and increase the use of evidence in comments. The researchers partnered with a local television news station and conducted an experiment using its Facebook community, resulting in a statistically significant effect on the tone of the comments.

SourceInternational Communication Association·JournalJournal of Computer-Mediated Communication·DateDec 8, 2014

Drawing lessons from Philadelphia's large-scale ob unit closures

A new study from Children's Hospital of Philadelphia highlights the need for better planning to improve mother-infant outcomes, reduce stress on health systems, and staff morale. The researchers found that dramatic surges in delivery volume led to overcrowding, understaffing, and fragmented care.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalHealth Affairs·DateDec 8, 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.

Major complications after abortion are extremely rare, study shows

A comprehensive analysis of post-abortion care found major complications occurring in under 1% of cases, with rates varying by age and abortion method. The study suggests that current regulations may be unnecessary, calling into question the need for additional safety measures.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateDec 8, 2014

Confounding factors contribute to unexpected results of trial of renal denervation

A new analysis of the SYMPLICITY HTN-3 trial reveals that variations in renal denervation procedure performance and patient medication changes significantly impacted blood pressure reduction outcomes. The study suggests that a higher number of ablations and specific procedural patterns may be key to achieving effective denervation.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateDec 8, 2014

Public servants are individually motivated to help environment

A new study by the University of Georgia found that public servants are motivated to contribute to environmental causes through discretionary eco-friendly initiatives. The researchers identified three key drivers of these behaviors: public service motivation, organizational commitment, and environmental connectedness.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalThe American Review of Public Administration·DateDec 8, 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.

Is natural gas a 'bridge' to a hotter future?

Researchers found that natural gas power plants are more efficient than coal plants, producing less warming in the long term. However, significant methane leakage can offset this benefit, making them comparable to coal plants in terms of climate impact. To mitigate this, carbon capture and storage methods may be necessary.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateDec 8, 2014

Wind farms to do not affect property values, study finds

A new study from the University of Guelph analyzed over 7,000 home and farm sales in Ontario and found that wind farms have no statistically significant impact on property values. The research used a unique method to capture property value fluctuations before, during, and after wind farm development.

SourceUniversity of Guelph·JournalCanadian Journal of Agricultural Economics/Revue canadienne d agroeconomie·DateDec 8, 2014

Organic mulch lets insect pollinators do their job

New research from The Ohio State University found that a combination of shredded newspaper and grass clippings is an effective mulch material, allowing squash bees to nest without negative impacts. This eco-friendly practice also improves plant growth and fruit production.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateDec 8, 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.

Pricing for new drugs lacks transparency

Market-access agreements for anti-cancer drugs lack transparency, leading to higher prices for patients in small and low-income countries. The financial arrangements between pharmaceutical manufacturers and health systems are kept confidential, making it difficult for these countries to negotiate lower prices.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of the Royal Society of Medicine·DateDec 8, 2014

Machine harvesting may increase apple supply for hard cider market

A new study compares machine and hand harvest techniques for specialty cider apples, finding that machine harvesting requires significantly less labor and increases apple yield. The research suggests that machine harvesting could be a viable option for US apple growers to meet growing demand for hard cider.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateDec 8, 2014

Targeting microRNA may benefit some ovarian and breast cancer patients

Researchers at MD Anderson Cancer Center discovered that targeting the non-coding microRNA miR569 can increase cell death in ovarian and breast cancers. The study also found that silencing miR569 expression improves survivability outcomes for ovarian patients.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalCancer Cell·DateDec 8, 2014

Rapid Ebola test is focus of NIH grant to Rutgers scientist

A Rutgers researcher has received a $640,000 NIH grant to develop a rapid Ebola test that can be used in remote locations where the disease has spread. The test, modeled after an existing tuberculosis test, will diagnose patients quickly and accurately, reducing the need for isolation and treatment delays.

SourceRutgers University·DateDec 8, 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.

Biomimetic dew harvesters

Researchers have discovered how a desert beetle collects dew on its back, which could lead to improved water yield in man-made dew condensers. The beetle's unique nanostructure allows for near-perfect infrared emissivity, enabling efficient cooling and dew formation.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateDec 8, 2014

MCW researchers find link between sleep deprivation and cell damage

Scientists at MCW found a link between sleep loss and cell injury, particularly in the liver, lung, and small intestine. Recovery sleep from deprivation restores balance and decreases cell injury, elucidating previous research on sleep abnormalities as risk factors for diseases like cardiovascular disease and cancer.

SourceMedical College of Wisconsin·JournalSLEEP·DateDec 8, 2014