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Science News for February 18, 2014


Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Agricultural productivity loss as a result of soil and crop damage from flooding

The recent Ohio River flood of 2011 caused significant agricultural land damage, with approximately 1,000 acres flooded. However, due to the timing of the flood, cultivated soils were not severely impacted, resulting in minimal loss of soil productivity and yield reduction. The study highlights the need for reevaluation and implementat...

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Soil and Water Conservation·DateFeb 18, 2014

A new system accelerates verification of printed electronic documents

A new system called Valid@doc speeds up bureaucratic procedures by automatically verifying and validating printed electronic documents. It uses a universal CSV code to unify generation, presentation, and automated reading processes, increasing security and accessibility for both administration and citizens.

SourceUniversidad Carlos III de Madrid·DateFeb 18, 2014

When a black hole shreds a star, a bright flare tells the story

Researchers used computer simulations to explore the destruction of a star by a black hole, finding that hydrogen lines are highly ionized and don't appear in spectra. The study provides new insights into the origin of emission lines in tidal disruption events and sheds light on the role of accretion disks.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·DateFeb 18, 2014

NREL scientist named AAAS Fellow

David S. Ginley, a materials scientist at NREL, has been recognized for his distinguished contributions to renewable energy and sustainability. He is honored for his work on photovoltaics, batteries, and fuel cells, as well as his efforts in developing materials and forums for student interactions.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·DateFeb 18, 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.

Rife with hype, exoplanet study needs patience and refinement

Despite recent advances, reliable information about exoplanet atmospheres is scarce due to flawed methods like photometric interpretations. New techniques like spectrometry hold promise for a more comprehensive understanding of exoplanets.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 18, 2014

Study on methane emissions from natural gas systems indicates new priorities

A recent study published in Science reveals that methane emissions from natural gas systems can have a significant impact on the climate benefits of switching to natural gas. The research suggests that more efforts should be made to reduce methane leaks and improve measurement tools for policy-making. Additionally, the study identifies...

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·JournalScience·DateFeb 18, 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.

The thousand-droplets test

Scientists create a cost-efficient way to set up thousands of experiments simultaneously using tiny droplets. Their experiment shows that oscillations in the individual droplets differ strongly, with small drops displaying stronger variations than large ones.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature Chemistry·DateFeb 18, 2014

The secret of fertile sperm

A team of Bay Area researchers explores factors that differentiate fertile sperm from infertile sperm, identifying crucial proteins known as ion channels critical for sperm fertility. The discovery may lead to the development of new diagnostic testing and treatments for male infertility.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·DateFeb 18, 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.

Frequent school moves can increase the risk of psychotic symptoms in early adolescence

Research shows that frequent school moves during childhood can increase the risk of psychotic-like symptoms in early adolescence by up to 60%. School mobility is strongly associated with mental health problems, including psychotic disorders and suicide. Schools should develop strategies to help students adapt to new environments.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateFeb 18, 2014

University of Illinois study of 2011 flood will lead to better preparedness

Researchers mapped landscape vulnerabilities ahead of time to help communities prepare for extreme flooding. The study used high-resolution data and computer modeling to analyze erosion, deposition, and soil characteristics, finding that areas with certain vegetation patterns were more vulnerable to flooding.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·DateFeb 18, 2014

Understanding heart failure at the cellular level

A team of researchers used a multidisciplinary approach to study the effects of heart failure on electrical activity and calcium release in heart cells. They found increased variability in Ca2+ transient kinetics, indicating an uncoupling between membrane depolarization and Ca2+-release.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·DateFeb 18, 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.

Increase in Arctic cyclones is linked to climate change, new study shows

A new study finds a statistically significant, minor increase in extreme Arctic cyclone frequency since the middle 19th century, with strongest increases near Iceland and the Aleutian Islands. Climate change may drive stronger shifts in polar climate, leading to more storminess and erosion of Arctic coastlines.

SourceWiley·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateFeb 18, 2014

Workers, get up and move

A University of Iowa study reveals police work is primarily sedentary, with officers expending energy comparable to washing dishes or ironing. The findings highlight the need for workplaces to encourage movement and introduce low-cost aids like standing computer workstations.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalJournal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine·DateFeb 18, 2014

What cooperation and conflict in an insect's society can teach us about social acceptance

A new study by University of Miami biologist Floria Mora-Kepfer Uy explores the acceptance of non-related individuals in highly organized and adaptable societies. Young, unfamiliar individuals were accepted more frequently than old ones and those in late-stage colonies, suggesting that social context and immediate needs mediate accepta...

SourceUniversity of Miami·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateFeb 18, 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.

Transgender patients discriminated against for health care services

A recent study by Daphna Stroumsa calls for policy change and equal access to quality health care for transgender patients. The medical establishment should provide coverage of care, including sex reassignment surgery, while patients make the physical transition to their gender identity.

SourceHenry Ford Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateFeb 18, 2014

New drug candidate starves dormant cancer cells

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have identified a new drug candidate, VLX600, that selectively kills dormant cancer cells in solid tumors by starving them. The drug works by inhibiting mitochondrial respiration, causing the cells to die from starvation. A clinical study is planned to take place this year.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 18, 2014

Stimulating discussion over unnecessary medical tests, procedures: Choosing Wisely Canada

Choosing Wisely Canada aims to reduce harm by promoting evidence-based medical practices, encouraging patients and doctors to 'think twice' before ordering unnecessary tests and treatments. Eight Canadian societies will release their lists in April 2014, featuring evidence-based recommendations for common procedures.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateFeb 18, 2014

Unusual new HIV drug resistance mechanism revealed

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine have discovered a unique mechanism of drug resistance in HIV-1 reverse transcriptase. The discovery provides new insights into how therapy-induced point mutations confer drug resistance and may lead to the design of new NNRTI drugs.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·DateFeb 18, 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.

Asian elephants reassure others in distress

Researchers observed captive Asian elephants showing signs of consolation towards distressed peers through physical contact and vocalizations. These behaviors resemble empathy and emotional contagion, suggesting a complex cognitive ability in elephants.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalPeerJ·DateFeb 18, 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.

Antidepressant holds promise in treating Alzheimer's agitation

A clinical trial found that antidepressant citalopram significantly relieved agitation in patients with Alzheimer's disease, with 40% of patients experiencing considerable relief. However, the drug also had decreased cognitive function and longer QTc intervals, a measure of abnormal heart function.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJAMA·DateFeb 18, 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.

In fight against teen prescription drug abuse, one-two punch wins

A new study of 11,000 teenagers found that combining school-based Life Skills Training with home-based Strengthening Families program significantly reduced prescription drug abuse rates by 10%. The six-year study also identified the most cost-effective programs, with Life Skills Training costing just $15 per child.

SourceDuke University·JournalPreventive Medicine·DateFeb 18, 2014

NASA sees Tropical Cyclone 15S form in the Mozambique Channel

Tropical Cyclone 15S has formed in the Mozambique Channel, with cloud top temperatures indicating powerful thunderstorms and potential for heavy rainfall. The cyclone is expected to strengthen into a hurricane-force storm over the next few days, generating 10-foot high waves.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateFeb 18, 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.

Investment bankers lead businesses to better mergers, acquisitions

A new study from the University at Buffalo School of Management found that companies with investment banking directors are more likely to make better acquisitions, resulting in increased shareholder value. These directors help firms select better targets, accurately determine their value, and negotiate lower advisory fees.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalJournal of Financial Economics·DateFeb 18, 2014

Two NYU faculty win Sloan Foundation research fellowships

Two NYU faculty members, Roozbeh Kiani and Nicholas Stavropoulos, have been awarded Sloan Foundation fellowships for their innovative research in neuroscience and sleep. Their work has the potential to lead to new medical interventions for mental and cognitive disorders and improve understanding of human sleep and its regulation.

SourceNew York University·DateFeb 18, 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.

Controlling magnetism with an electric field

Scientists have developed a new method to control magnetism using an electric field, reducing heat generation and increasing memory density. This innovation has significant implications for the development of more efficient electronic devices, such as MRAM and logic chips.

SourceUniversity of Miami·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 18, 2014

Magnesium may protect against hip fractures

A study found that magnesium protects against hip fractures for both men and women, but calcium has no independent protective effect. Enriching drinking water with dolomite may also be beneficial, according to the researchers.

SourceNorwegian Institute of Public Health·JournalBone·DateFeb 18, 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.

Computer arranges pictures based on their artistic aspects

Researchers at Saarland University have developed a method to arrange numerous pictures fast based on visual characteristics like size and intensity. Users can interactively click and drag images to create an order that creates a harmonious overall picture.

SourceSaarland University·JournalACM Transactions on Graphics·DateFeb 18, 2014

Chance of falling after knee replacement not increased by regional anesthesia

Research using nearly 200,000 patient records found that regional anesthesia types do not make patients more prone to falls after knee replacement surgery. Spinal or epidural anesthesia may even decrease the risk of falls compared to general anesthesia, according to a study published in Anesthesiology.

SourceAmerican Society of Anesthesiologists·JournalAnesthesiology·DateFeb 18, 2014

Baby hearts need rhythm to develop correctly

Researchers at Vanderbilt University have discovered that mechanical forces generated by the rhythmic expansion and contraction of cardiac muscle cells play an active role in the initial stage of heart valve formation. This study provides a new perspective on the process, shedding light on how to create artificial heart valves.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalBiomaterials·DateFeb 18, 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.

Metal in the heart is non-hazardous to health

A long-term study by University of Jena scientists found that nickel-titanium alloy implants release low levels of nickel over time, posing minimal health risk. The research used a longer testing period than usual to examine the metal's behavior and concluded that it is safe for patients with no adverse effects.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalActa Biomaterialia·DateFeb 18, 2014

Healthy Lunchbox Challenge helps influence healthy eating habits in children

Researchers developed the Healthy Lunchbox Challenge, a low-cost program that encourages parents and staff to bring healthier foods to summer day camps. The program resulted in significant increases in fresh fruit, vegetables, and water consumption among children, while decreasing sugary snack intake.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·DateFeb 18, 2014

Food & moods

Researchers found that individuals in positive moods prefer healthy foods for long-term health benefits, while those in negative moods opt for indulgent foods for immediate mood management. The studies suggest that perspective on time plays a crucial role in food choice, with people in positive moods considering future health outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalJournal of Consumer Psychology·DateFeb 18, 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.

COXEN model picks the best drug for ovarian cancer

A University of Colorado study used a COXEN model to match tumors with optimal drugs, significantly extending patient survival. The model analyzed genetic data from thousands of tumor samples to identify response patterns.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 18, 2014

'Legal highs,' PMMA and zombie panic

A recent study published in Drug Science Policy and Law finds a significant rise in PMA/PMMA contamination in ecstasy pills from 2001 to 2007, resulting in deaths in both countries. The authors advocate for harm reduction strategies and education over criminalisation of new drugs.

SourceSAGE·JournalDrug Science Policy and Law·DateFeb 18, 2014

Medicare beneficiaries return to emergency rooms after nursing home discharge

A recent study found that nearly 22% of Medicare patients require emergency care within 30 days of discharge from a nursing facility, highlighting the need for improved transitions. Factors such as race, diagnosis, and previous hospitalizations are associated with a higher risk of rehospitalization.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateFeb 18, 2014

Nanodiamond-embedded contact lenses may improve glaucoma treatment

Researchers from UCLA have developed a drug delivery system that may improve glaucoma management by reducing side effects and increasing patient compliance. The nanodiamond-drug compound was released into the eye through contact lenses, showing great promise for sustained treatment.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalACS Nano·DateFeb 18, 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.

Molecular biology mystery unravelled

Researchers at the University of Bristol and EMBL have identified the 'holo-translocon' as the machinery responsible for inserting proteins into cell membranes. This breakthrough could lead to the design of new anti-bacterial drugs and applications in synthetic biology.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 18, 2014

Evolution stuck in slime for a billion years

Researchers in Tasmania reveal ancient conditions that stifled evolution for a billion years, but then oxygen levels surged, triggering the 'Cambrian explosion of life'. The study uses a new technique to analyze ancient seafloor rocks, shedding light on the emergence of life and its impact on Earth.

SourceScience in Public·JournalEarth and Planetary Science Letters·DateFeb 18, 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.

Probiotic treatment for vaginal thrush on the way

Researchers are testing probiotic pessaries containing 'good' bacteria against Candida infections. The study shows that a combination of two strains can kill or restrict growth of yeast cells, offering a viable alternative to precious antimicrobial drugs.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Applied Microbiology·DateFeb 18, 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.

'It takes a village' -- Community-based methods for improving maternal and newborn health

A series of studies published in the Journal of Midwifery & Women's Health highlights the effectiveness of community-based interventions in improving maternal and newborn health in rural Ethiopia. The Maternal and Newborn Health in Ethiopia Partnership initiative has reduced mortality rates by increasing demand for focused maternal and...

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Midwifery & Women s Health·DateFeb 18, 2014

Bats inspire 'micro air vehicle' designs

Researchers at Virginia Tech used experimental measurements and analysis software to understand how fruit bats use their wings to manipulate airflow. They found that bat wings can generate forces up to two-to-three times greater than a static airfoil wing, making them ideal for designing micro air vehicles with flapping wings.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateFeb 18, 2014

Ticks may cause double trouble, Stanford scientists find

Researchers have discovered two bacteria, Borrelia miyamotoi and Borrelia burgdorferi, in nearly every park sampled throughout the region. The findings raise questions about the prevalence of B. miyamotoi infections in California residents and highlight the need for improved diagnostic tests.

SourceStanford University·JournalEmerging Infectious Diseases·DateFeb 18, 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.

Kidney cancer care improves with vaccine-based approach

A new Phase III clinical trial at Cedars-Sinai Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute aims to provide kidney cancer patients with long-term control of their disease. The vaccine-based approach uses a patient's own immune system to fight the disease, potentially improving survival outcomes and quality of life.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·DateFeb 18, 2014

More women receiving breast reconstruction after mastectomy, study finds

A study found that breast reconstruction rates have increased significantly since 1998, with a six-fold increase in bilateral mastectomies and three-quarters of women receiving reconstruction. However, radiation therapy is less likely to be followed by reconstruction, raising concerns about the impact on patient outcomes.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateFeb 18, 2014

Artificial cells and salad dressing

A team of researchers developed methods to screen thousands of synthetic molecular oscillators in small droplets, finding diverse behavior in terms of period, amplitude and phase. This diversity will play a crucial role in engineering complex behaviors in artificial cells.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Chemistry·DateFeb 18, 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.

Regenerating orthopedic tissues within the human body

Duke researchers have successfully used gene therapy to induce stem cells to produce growth factor proteins, overcoming the challenge of delivering these proteins after implantation. The technique allows for long-term delivery and could be applied to various orthopedic tissues, presenting a significant step toward commercialization.

SourceDuke University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 18, 2014

Crowdsourced testers prefer new cyber search method

A new tool, Conjunctive Exploratory Navigation Interface (CENI), combines two search modes to provide a more focused search and retrieve the most pertinent information. CENI outperformed traditional keyword-based lookup interfaces in a study involving crowdsourced testers.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·DateFeb 18, 2014

One-quarter of high risk patients denied anticoagulation after AF ablation

A recent survey found that 25% of high-risk patients were not taking anticoagulants one year after atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation, despite a success rate of 74%. This highlights the need for improved follow-up and cooperation between centers to ensure appropriate treatment.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateFeb 18, 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.

Study points out inequalities in prescribing blood pressure meds

A study by the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health found that young adults with hypertension are less likely to be prescribed antihypertensive medication, even when they have regular primary care visits. This delay can increase the risk of future cardiovascular events.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateFeb 18, 2014

A stretchable highway for light

A team of Belgian researchers successfully developed a stretchable optical interconnection that can be bent and stretched without losing its light-gathering ability. The new material consists of a transparent core surrounded by a lower refractive index layer, which traps light and causes it to propagate along its length.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Express·DateFeb 18, 2014

Mandel Foundation awards $13 million grant to Ben-Gurion U.

The Mandel Foundation awards Ben-Gurion University of the Negev a $13 million grant to establish the Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel Institute for Social Leadership. The gift will support the development of a new honors program in social leadership, incorporating existing academic programs and research initiatives.

SourceAmerican Associates, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev·DateFeb 18, 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.

Almost 13 million smoking deaths could be prevented in China by 2050

New estimates suggest that China can prevent over 13 million smoking-related deaths by 2050 through effective tobacco control measures. Implementing World Health Organization guidelines could lead to a relative reduction in smoking of over 40 percent, resulting in significant public health gains.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateFeb 18, 2014

Can marijuana protect the immune system against HIV and slow disease progression?

Chronic THC administration has been shown to increase survival of T cell populations and reduce overall cell death in the gut of monkeys infected with simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV). This finding suggests that marijuana may have a protective effect against HIV-related inflammation and disease progression.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalAIDS Research and Human Retroviruses·DateFeb 18, 2014

Breakthrough development of flexible 1D-1R memory cell array

Researchers at KIST developed a 64-bit, non-volatile memory cell array using flexible and twistable carbon nano material and organo-polymer compound. The 1D-1R architecture enables accurate data storage and retrieval in a curved state.

SourceKorea Institute of Science and Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 18, 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.

Scientists identify 'long distance scanner' for DNA damage

Researchers discovered a mechanism preventing mutation in genes involves long distance scanning of DNA by Mfd protein, detecting damage within active genes. This discovery sheds light on the complicated genome-wide patterns of mutation underlying species evolution and cell behavior changes.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 18, 2014

Can you boost your brain power through video?

A study found that watching videos of tasks before performing them can boost brain structure and increase motor skills in healthy adults. The group who completed this type of training showed significantly improved motor skill abilities compared to those who watched landscape videos.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·DateFeb 18, 2014

Researchers propose a better way to make sense of 'Big Data'

Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory have proposed a new method for analyzing Big Data using mutual information, which can reveal patterns without prior assumptions. This approach challenges the latest statistical tools and has the potential to greatly benefit modern data analysis in biology and other fields.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 18, 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.

Cows moove our understanding of the immune system

Researchers studying cow antibodies have gained insights into the diversity of human antibodies, which is crucial for recognizing and neutralizing pathogens. The unique structure of these cow antibodies may also be useful for antibody-based therapies or diagnostics.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·DateFeb 18, 2014

Sloan Research Fellowships awarded to 126 young scholars

The Alfred P. Sloan Foundation has selected 126 young researchers for the 2014 Sloan Research Fellowships, recognizing their achievements and potential as rising scientific leaders. Awarded annually since 1955, the fellowships provide $50,000 to support further research.

SourceAlfred P. Sloan Foundation·DateFeb 18, 2014

Solar-induced hybrid fuel cell produces electricity directly from biomass

Researchers at Georgia Tech have developed a low-temperature fuel cell that directly converts biomass to electricity using a catalyst activated by solar or thermal energy. The device can use various types of biomass, including starch, cellulose, and switchgrass, and operates for up to 20 hours without needing purification.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 18, 2014

Calico cats inspire X chromosome research

Scientists have visualized the inactive X chromosome in intact cells for the first time, revealing its unique substructural organization. This breakthrough could help understand gene activity and inheritance patterns, with potential implications for diagnosing and treating X-chromosome-linked diseases.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·DateFeb 18, 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.

Beyond partisanship: Engaging in debates about science and society

A study by American University researchers found that understanding public opinion goes beyond partisanship to address differences in people's perceptions about the social implications of science. Four distinct groups, including 'Scientific Optimists' and 'Disengaged', were identified as influencing opinions on stem cell research.

SourceAmerican University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 18, 2014

Prison-based education declined during economic downturn, study finds

State-level spending on prison education programs declined by an average of 6% from 2009 to 2012, with large states cutting spending by 10% and medium-sized states by 20%. The study's findings highlight the need for better focus on spending and more effective instructional models to improve outcomes for inmates.

SourceRAND Corporation·DateFeb 18, 2014

Ion beams pave way to new kinds of valves for use in spintronics

Scientists create magnetically structured materials by irradiating iron aluminum alloy with neon ions, enabling the creation of spin valves that can function as magnetic storage media. The technology uses electron charge and inherent magnetic properties for information storage and processing.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalNano Letters·DateFeb 18, 2014

Nitrogen-tracking tools for better crops and less pollution

Scientists have developed tools to observe nitrogen uptake in real-time, improving understanding of the process and potentially increasing crop yields. The technology allows for the study of transport proteins involved in nitrogen absorption, enabling the development of more efficient agricultural practices.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·DateFeb 18, 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.

Research team establishes benchmark set of human genotypes for sequencing

A team of scientists from Harvard University and Virginia Tech has established a reliable set of human genotypes to benchmark human genome sequencing. This will help researchers gain traction against human disease by refining genomic data. The findings are available online, enabling real-time benchmarking of DNA-sequencing methods.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateFeb 18, 2014

Frequent flyers, bottle gourds crossed the ocean many times

A recent study reveals that bottle gourds originated from Africa and were likely domesticated multiple times in the New World. The research found that modern bottle gourd samples from the Americas matched African genetic profiles, supporting the idea that gourds floated across the Atlantic Ocean frequently.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 18, 2014

Smartphone app aids college-age women in abusive relationships

The 'One Love My Plan' smartphone application provides college-age women in abusive relationships with personalized safety plans and confidential resources. The app, developed by University of Missouri researchers, aims to connect young women with existing services and provide immediate strategies for helping themselves or friends.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Technology in Human Services·DateFeb 18, 2014

Clemson researchers develop sticky nanoparticles to fight heart disease

Researchers at Clemson University have developed sticky nanoparticles that can deliver drugs targeting damaged arteries, providing a new method to fight heart disease. The nanoparticles, coated with a sticky protein, latch onto damaged arteries and release drugs in slow fashion, reducing the need for surgical interventions.

SourceClemson University·DateFeb 18, 2014

Medicaid's 'tube-tying' polices create roadblocks for low-income women

Current Medicaid policies create a two-tiered system of access for low-income women seeking tubal ligation. The 30-day mandatory waiting period is excessive and should be shortened or eliminated. Researchers suggest revisiting the policy to honor women's reproductive autonomy and create more equitable access.

SourcePrinceton School of Public and International Affairs·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateFeb 18, 2014