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Science News for January 16, 2014


Arctic cyclones more common than previously thought

A new study of vast weather data reveals hundreds of smaller storms that had previously escaped detection, increasing the number of Arctic cyclones by 40% to around 1,900 per year. This finding is important for understanding current weather patterns and potential climate change in the future.

SourceOhio Supercomputer Center·DateJan 16, 2014

BUSM study associates pro-inflammatory molecules with early death in HIV patients

A study found that pro-inflammatory molecules were strongly associated with increased mortality in alcohol-abusing HIV patients. IL-6 was identified as the molecule most closely linked to mortality, regardless of antiretroviral therapy use. This research may inform strategies to improve mortality rates among this vulnerable population.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalAIDS·DateJan 16, 2014

Narcissism and leadership: Does it work to be a jerk?

A recent study finds that narcissistic leaders face a double-edged sword, with extremely high or low levels of narcissism leading to poorer organizational outcomes. Moderation is key, as confidence without antisocial tendencies can lead to effective leadership.

SourceUniversity of Nebraska-Lincoln·JournalPersonnel Psychology·DateJan 16, 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.

Fighting flies

A team of researchers from Caltech identified specific brain cells in male fruit flies that release a hormone promoting aggression. These findings suggest that aggression is genetically controlled and may be linked to personality disorders in humans. The study validates the use of fruit flies as a model for studying human aggression.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalCell·DateJan 16, 2014

Big-headed fossil flies track major ecological revolution

Three new extinct fossil species of big-headed flies were discovered in Eocene epoch fossil beds, dating back 49-52 million years. These finds show early evolution parallels a significant ecological revolution, which formed modern natural communities.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalThe Canadian Entomologist·DateJan 16, 2014

Typhoid fever -- A race against time

Researchers at the University of Basel have discovered how Salmonella bacteria outsmart the host's immune cells, allowing them to survive and spread infection. This knowledge may lead to new treatments for typhoid fever, a life-threatening disease affecting millions worldwide.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateJan 16, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

International recognition for Queen's microneedles research

The Queen's team received the award for their paper on polymeric microneedle arrays prepared by a novel laser-based micromoulding technique. Their breakthrough research has developed tiny projections that can painlessly penetrate the skin and deliver medication or monitor drug levels without drawing blood.

SourceQueen's University Belfast·JournalPharmaceutical Research·DateJan 16, 2014

Stem cells overcome damage in other cells by exporting mitochondria

Researchers have identified a protein that enables the transfer of mitochondria from stem cells to damaged epithelial cells, rejuvenating their health. This discovery could lead to more effective therapies for lung disease in humans by engineering mesenchymal stem cells to produce healthy mitochondria.

SourceEMBO·JournalThe EMBO Journal·DateJan 16, 2014

Study reveals the role of sex in spread of deadly disease

Researchers have discovered Leishmania parasites reproduce sexually in wild sand flies, leading to a better understanding of the disease's spread. This breakthrough sheds light on how the parasite becomes genetically adapted for successful transmission by sand flies, resulting in human disease.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateJan 16, 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.

Ice-loving sea anemones discovered in Antarctica

Researchers with the ANDRILL Program discovered thousands of small sea anemones burrowed into the underside of the Ross Ice Shelf, a first for a species to live in ice. The newly identified species, Edwardsiella andrillae, can be found hanging from the ice surface, with no clear mechanism for survival or reproduction.

SourceUniversity of Nebraska-Lincoln·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 16, 2014

Research sheds new light on heritability of disease

A recent study has made significant progress in understanding the role of DNA in predisposing individuals to diseases such as type 2 diabetes. The research integrated computational methodology with experimentation to identify genetic variants that promote disease by interfering with gene regulation and altering fat cell function.

SourceHebrew SeniorLife Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research·JournalCell·DateJan 16, 2014

Cleveland Clinic, CWRU School of Medicine team discovers key mechanisms to inhibit

Researchers identified critical complex mechanisms involved in TNBC metastasis, including the interaction between WAVE3 and TGF-β proteins. The discovery has the potential to develop new treatments to kill metastatic tumors in TNBC, with the goal of moving into clinical trials within three years.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalBreast Cancer Research and Treatment·DateJan 16, 2014

Large numbers of patients in South Africa with untreatable tuberculosis are discharged into community with potential for spread of infectionare discharged into community with potential for spread of infection

A study in South Africa found that nearly half of XDR-TB patients discharged into the community were treatment failures, posing a significant risk to public health. The study also revealed that these patients could survive for months or even years, allowing them to infect others.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateJan 16, 2014

Important discovery for the diagnosis of genetic diseases

Researchers at IRCM, in collaboration with McGill University, reveal the importance of DNA architecture in controlling gene activity, especially during embryonic development. This discovery could significantly impact genetic disease diagnosis and treatment.

SourceInstitut de recherches cliniques de Montreal·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateJan 16, 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.

Stem cell therapy following meniscus knee surgery may reduce pain, restore meniscus

A novel study found that a single stem cell injection following meniscus knee surgery can provide significant pain relief and aid in meniscus regrowth. The treatment showed no 'clinically important' safety issues, with some patients experiencing strong improvement in pain and meniscal regrowth.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateJan 16, 2014

JCI early table of contents for Jan. 16, 2014

New research reveals that macrophage populations mediate tumor cell removal following monoclonal antibody treatment. Additionally, targeting the p57Kip2 pathway in adults with type 2 diabetes may improve β cell function and expand β cell mass.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 16, 2014

How metabolism and brain activity are linked

A recent study by McGill University researchers discovered a direct link between brain metabolism and signaling, which may explain why seizures in some epilepsy patients can be controlled with a specially formulated diet. The research also found that the mitochondria of brain cells play a crucial role in energy production and signaling.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 16, 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.

Drinking and driving: Unsafe at any level

A US study found that drivers with a blood alcohol content (BAC) as low as 0.01% are more likely to be blamed for accidents than sober drivers. Drivers in this range were 46% more likely to be solely blamed by accident investigators.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalInjury Prevention·DateJan 16, 2014

How vision captures sound now somewhat uncertain

Duke researchers found that neurons in the superior colliculus use two different strategies when responding to visual and auditory stimuli, contradicting previous theories. This discovery opens up a mystery regarding the underlying mechanism of how vision captures sound.

SourceDuke University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 16, 2014

Scientists discover 2 proteins that control chandelier cell architecture

Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory have discovered two proteins that control the structure of chandelier cells, a type of inhibitory neuron important in epilepsy and schizophrenia. The study found that DOCK7 and ErbB4 regulate axonal projections, allowing one cell to block or modify hundreds of other cells.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalCell Reports·DateJan 16, 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.

Early warning: Internet surveillance predicts disease outbreak

Researchers found that internet-based surveillance can detect infectious diseases like Dengue Fever and Influenza up to two weeks earlier than traditional methods. This early detection enables timely public health responses, potentially reducing the spread of epidemics.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateJan 16, 2014

NASA satellite imagery shows some punch left in System 94S

System 94S continues to track over Western Australia and the Northern Territory, with NASA's Aqua satellite detecting powerful thunderstorms northwest of the low-pressure center. Heavy rainfall warnings have been issued for the region, with some storms potentially producing heavy rain rates.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 16, 2014

Scientists reveal steps leading to necrotizing fasciitis

Researchers discovered how Group A streptococcus turns deadly and found a potential new treatment using asparaginase, a protein that digests asparagine. This study opens the way to possible new treatments for bacterial infections.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalCell·DateJan 16, 2014

EU could cut emissions by 40 percent at moderate cost

A new multi-model analysis suggests that achieving a 40% reduction in EU emissions by 2030 is feasible and would require little to no additional costs. The study, led by the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research, found that technological innovation could help reduce costs and meet long-term climate targets.

SourcePotsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)·JournalClimate Change Economics·DateJan 16, 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.

Waterfowl poisoning halved by lead shot prohibition

The use of lead-free steel shot in Spanish wetlands has significantly reduced waterfowl poisoning, with a 50% decrease in lead accumulation detected. Researchers attribute this to the change in material from lead to steel shot.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalEnvironment International·DateJan 16, 2014

5,900 natural gas leaks discovered under Washington, D.C.

Researchers from Duke University and Boston University found over 5,900 natural gas leaks under Washington, D.C., with concentrations as high as 500,000 parts per million. The leaks pose explosion risks and release high levels of methane, a powerful greenhouse gas.

SourceDuke University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJan 16, 2014

Study identifies drug that could improve treatment of PTSD

Researchers at MIT have discovered a potential new treatment for PTSD by using an HDAC2 inhibitor to make brain memories more malleable. This approach may be more effective than traditional psychotherapy alone in treating patients with well-established traumatic memories.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalCell·DateJan 16, 2014

Genomes of modern dogs and wolves provide new insights on domestication

The study sheds light on the genetic overlap between modern dogs and wolves, suggesting interbreeding after dog domestication. Dogs are more closely related to each other than wolves, regardless of geographic origin, indicating a shared ancestry that diverged in recent past.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateJan 16, 2014

Carbon nanotube sponge shows improved water clean-up

A new study presents a carbon nanotube sponge that can absorb water contaminants, such as fertilizers, pesticides, and pharmaceuticals, with improved efficiency. The sponge's porous structure and rough surface enable it to absorb oils and solvents up to 150 times its initial weight.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalNanotechnology·DateJan 16, 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.

45 years on: How serotonin makes schistosome parasites move

A study published in PLOS Pathogens has identified a key player in the movement of schistosome parasites: serotonin receptors. The discovery opens up new avenues for developing targeted treatments against this parasitic flatworm, which affects millions worldwide and kills an estimated 250,000 people annually.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateJan 16, 2014

New discovery on Giant Cell Arteritis sheds light on cause

Researchers discovered that despite apparent signs of improvement, GCA patients' neutrophils become severely altered after steroid therapy, potentially leading to stroke or blindness. This finding could lead to better clinical insight into disease progression and therapeutic control for GCA patients.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalCirculation Research·DateJan 16, 2014

Silencing inhibitor of cell replication spurs beta cells to reproduce

Researchers replicated human pancreatic beta cells in a mouse model using a silencing inhibitor, showcasing their ability to replicate while maintaining mature properties. The study's findings have implications for developing treatments to enhance beta-cell mass and insulin production for both type 1 and 2 diabetic patients.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 16, 2014

The life cycle of a jellyfish (and a way to control it)

Researchers discovered a novel metamorphosis hormone that triggers the transformation of moon jellyfish from polyps to medusas in response to cold temperatures. This understanding may offer new methods for controlling moon jellyfish blooms and preventing ecological damage.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJan 16, 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.

Fires in South Australia Jan. 16, 2014

Severe bushfires swept across South Australia, driven by record-breaking heat and strong winds. Firefighters struggled to control complex fires in rural areas, aided by additional water bombers from Queensland and Victoria.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 16, 2014

Dartmouth-led team gets $8 million grant to research arsenic in children

A Dartmouth-led team has received an $8 million grant to study the effects of arsenic exposure on children's health, including allergies, infections, growth, and neurobehavioral development. The research aims to deepen understanding of environmental contaminants' impact on early life exposure and their long-term health consequences.

SourceDartmouth College·DateJan 16, 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.

1 step at a time, researchers learning how humans walk

Scientists have made a breakthrough in understanding human walking by identifying two phases: alleviation and launching. The ankle tendons release stored elastic energy to propel the leg forward with minimal energy loss.

SourceOregon State University·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateJan 16, 2014

Medicaid expansion improves health care services for prison population

A nationwide survey of state prison administrators found that Medicaid enrollment increased in preparation for release, improving access to basic health services. Most systems provided assistance with reenrollment, but termination policies were common, making it challenging for prisoners to access care upon release.

SourceLifespan·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateJan 16, 2014

NASA sees deadly System 91W still soaking Philippines

System 91W continues to bring floods and heavy rainfall to the central and southern Philippines, causing 31 deaths and 36 injuries. The Joint Typhoon Warning Center predicts a high chance of System 91W becoming a tropical depression within 24 hours.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 16, 2014

Meltwater from Tibetan glaciers floods pastures

Scientists reveal that Tibetan glaciers are losing mass, with a clear loss of around 16 gigatons per year. However, some glaciers in the central and north-western part of the plateau have grown in mass, contradicting previous data.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateJan 16, 2014

Soil microbes alter DNA in response to warming

Scientists found that warming soil by 2 degrees Celsius alters microbial DNA to enhance carbon handling. The study reveals complex interactions between plants and microbes, impacting climate change predictions.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateJan 16, 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.

Silver nanowire sensors hold promise for prosthetics, robotics

Researchers at NC State University have developed wearable, stretchable sensors using silver nanowires that can measure strain, pressure, human touch, and bioelectronic signals. These sensors hold promise for creating responsive prosthetics and robots that can interact with their environment.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNanoscale·DateJan 16, 2014

In the blink of an eye

Researchers at MIT found that the human brain can identify concepts in images presented for 13 milliseconds, challenging previous assumptions about visual processing speed. The study suggests that

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateJan 16, 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.

Prion discovery could help keep deadly brain diseases in check

Scientists have discovered a natural protective response in brain cells that can minimize the production of diseased prion proteins, potentially helping to prevent or delay neurological diseases such as Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease. The study also found that this mechanism may be relevant to other neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 16, 2014

Fetal exposure to nicotine increases long-term risk of obesity

Research reveals that fetal exposure to nicotine increases long-term risk of obesity and metabolic syndrome in offspring, as the liver produces more triglycerides. The study found that pregnant rats exposed to nicotine had an increased risk of developing these conditions later in life.

SourceUniversity of Western Ontario·JournalToxicology and Applied Pharmacology·DateJan 16, 2014

Brain on autopilot

Researchers analyzed 1.6 billion connections within the brain and found highest agreement between structure and information flow in the default mode network, responsible for inward-focused thinking. The study suggests that the structural architecture of the brain ensures automatic switching to something useful when not being used.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNeuroImage·DateJan 16, 2014

Targeting a cell cycle inhibitor promotes beta cell replication

Researchers found that silencing the gene encoding p57 Kip2 in adult human islets promotes beta cell replication. These new cells exhibit properties associated with normal beta cells, providing a potential explanation for excessive beta cell expansion in children with focal hyperinsulinism.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 16, 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.

Natural 3-D counterpart to graphene discovered

Researchers at Berkeley Lab have found a new form of quantum matter called a three-dimensional topological Dirac semi-metal (3DTDS) in sodium bismuthate, promising faster transistors and compact hard drives. The discovery features intriguing non-saturating linear magnetoresistance.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateJan 16, 2014

Loss of biodiversity limits toxin degradation

A moderate loss of soil microbes may compromise key ecosystem functions and lower toxin degradation. Research found that specialized bacterial functions are not as effective without a rich diversity of soil bacteria.

SourceWiley·JournalEnvironmental Microbiology·DateJan 16, 2014

Sludge as new sentinel for human health risks

A study by Arjun Venkatesan and Rolf Halden found that sludge contains 123 distinct CECs, including high-production volume chemicals like flame-retardants and antimicrobials. Analysis of these chemicals in sludge may provide a useful surrogate for assessing human exposure and bioaccumulation.

SourceArizona State University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 16, 2014

Renewable chemical ready for biofuels scale-up

Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison have developed a process to create concentrated sugar streams using gamma valerolactone, which can be converted into cellulosic ethanol and drop-in biofuels. The process converts 85-95% of starting material to sugars suitable for yeast fermentation.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalScience·DateJan 16, 2014

Thousands of potentially harmful natural gas leaks found in Washington, DC

Researchers have mapped nearly 6,000 pipeline leaks in Washington, D.C., with high concentrations found at 19 sites, including some manholes with methane levels up to 500,000 parts per million. The study highlights the need for financial incentives and targeted programs to reduce leaks and replace old cast-iron pipes.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJan 16, 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.

Unraveling misfolded molecules using 'reprogrammed' yeast protein

Researchers have discovered a way to unravel misfolded proteins using 'reprogrammed' Hsp104, a common yeast protein. The study found that minor mutations in the middle domain of Hsp104 can unlock its clump-busting capabilities, offering a potential therapeutic opportunity for brain diseases such as ALS and Alzheimer's.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalCell·DateJan 16, 2014

The symphony of life, revealed

A new study uses a technique developed by UB physics professor Andrea Markelz to observe lysozyme protein vibrations, finding they persist in molecules like the 'ringing of a bell'. This discovery opens up a whole new way of studying life's basic cellular processes.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 16, 2014

Increased mobility thanks to robotic rehab

A new study by ETH Zurich researchers shows that robotic therapy outperforms conventional physiotherapy in improving sensory-motor function and arm mobility. Robot-assisted therapy enables patients to carry out exercises independently and motivates them via computer game elements, leading to better results in terms of mobility.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalThe Lancet Neurology·DateJan 16, 2014

Findings bolster fiber's role in colon health

Researchers found that fiber activates Gpr109a receptors, which reduce inflammation in the colon and prevent cancer. Mega-doses of niacin may also help protect the colon and prevent conditions like ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalImmunity·DateJan 16, 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.

CCNY team models sudden thickening of complex fluids

The CCNY team created a model that predicts how resistance changes in relation to stirring speed, which can help improve the processing of materials in suspension. The model modifies classical fluid mechanics approaches to include forces resulting from friction, allowing for accurate reproduction of experimental observations.

SourceCity College of New York·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJan 16, 2014

Study: University rankings influence number and competitiveness of applicants

A study found that university rankings, such as Princeton Review and U.S. News & World Report, affect the number of applications received by colleges and their competitiveness. Academic reputations play a significant role in recruitment efforts, while unfavorable ratings can decrease application pools.

SourceAmerican Educational Research Association·JournalEducational Evaluation and Policy Analysis·DateJan 16, 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.

Altering the community of gut bacteria promotes health and increases lifespan

A study published in Cell found that altering the symbiotic relationship between bacteria and intestinal cells can promote health and increase lifespan in flies. The research highlights the importance of maintaining a balanced gut microbiome and suggests that this may be key to enjoying a long healthy life.

SourceBuck Institute for Research on Aging·JournalCell·DateJan 16, 2014

How much does it cost to have a baby in a hospital?

A UCSF study found significant variations in hospital charges for uncomplicated vaginal deliveries and C-sections, with estimated discounts ranging from 37% to $71,000. The study highlights the opacity of healthcare pricing in the US, affecting both uninsured and insured patients.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalBMJ Open·DateJan 16, 2014

Kids teased in PE class exercise less a year later

A new study found that children who were bullied during P.E. class exercise less a year later. Children who experienced teasing also reported a lower perceived health-related quality of life. Even healthy-weight kids who were bullied tended to exercise less often one year later.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalJournal of Pediatric Psychology·DateJan 16, 2014

Research finds finds potential treatment for drug-resistant H7N9 influenza virus

New research conducted at Kansas State University's Biosecurity Research Institute shows promise in fighting the deadly H7N9 influenza virus. The study reveals that Alferon N can inhibit the replication of wild type and Tamiflu-resistant H7N9 virus strains, providing a potential treatment option.

SourceKansas State University·JournalExpert Review of Anti-infective Therapy·DateJan 16, 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.

Human arm sensors make robot smarter

The system eliminates vibrations caused by human muscle co-contraction, allowing the robot to move safely and efficiently. By modeling human operators in this way, robots can actively adjust to changes in movement, improving performance and safety in manufacturing plants.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·DateJan 16, 2014

Warning! Warning labels can be dangerous to your health

A recent study by Tel Aviv University researchers found that warning labels can paradoxically promote trust in products over time, leading to increased sales. The study suggests that regulators and managers should consider the timing of when warnings are presented to consumers to maximize their effectiveness.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalPsychological Science·DateJan 16, 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.

Drugs that weaken traumatic memories hold promise for PTSD treatment

A preclinical study reveals that histone deacetylase inhibitors can enhance brain's ability to replace old traumatic memories with new ones, offering promising avenues for treating PTSD and anxiety disorders. Exposure-based therapy can be combined with HDACis to improve treatment for enduring traumatic memories.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateJan 16, 2014

Special yeast reduce alcohol, improve wine

Researchers identified a special yeast, Metschnikowia pulcherrima AWRI1149, that can produce wine with reduced ethanol concentration. Sequential inoculation of this yeast with Saccharomyces cerevisiae resulted in an alcohol content reduction of up to 1.6%.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateJan 16, 2014

Researchers 'detune' a molecule

Researchers at Rice University found that they can control the bonds between atoms in a molecule by applying a voltage and running an electric current through a single buckyball. The effect appears when the buckyball attaches to a gold surface, causing its internal bonds to undergo a subtle shift.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 16, 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.

A CNIO study finds a 'molecular scaffolding' that maintains skin structure and organisation

Researchers at CNIO discovered a connection between microtubules and cell-cell junctions that holds skin stem cells together to support skin architecture. This finding sheds light on the importance of cellular components in maintaining skin function and may lead to new regenerative or anti-cancer therapies.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateJan 16, 2014

Streamflow alteration impacts fish diversity in local rivers

The USGS study highlights the importance of streamflow characteristics in assessing fish community change and identifies areas with high risk of ecological degradation. Changes in streamflow can lead to declines in fish diversity by up to nine species, emphasizing the need for effective management decisions.

SourceU.S. Geological Survey·JournalEcohydrology·DateJan 16, 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.

Immune cells may heal an injured heart

A study in mice reveals two major pools of immune cells that promote healing and drive inflammation in the heart. Healthy hearts maintain a population of embryonic macrophages, while adult macrophages are recruited during cardiac stress, leading to inflammation. The findings provide new insights into the complex interplay between these...

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalImmunity·DateJan 16, 2014

Traditional Chinese medicines stall progression of diabetes

A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial found that traditional Chinese herbal medicine Tianqi reduced the risk of diabetes by 32.1% compared to a placebo. The study's findings suggest that Tianqi may offer a new option for managing blood sugar levels.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateJan 16, 2014

Soil production breaks geologic speed record

Researchers in New Zealand have discovered that rock can transform into soil more than twice as fast as previously thought possible. Soil production rates range from 0.1 to 2.5 millimeters per year, depending on soil thickness and location. This breakthrough has implications for the Earth's carbon cycle and weathering processes.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalScience·DateJan 16, 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.

Fathers' diet, bodyweight and health at conception may contribute to obesity in offspring

A new study published in The FASEB Journal suggests that an obese father's diet may contribute to his child's risk of developing obesity, type 2 diabetes, and chronic degenerative diseases. Researchers found altered gene expression in the pancreas and fat tissue of female offspring born to obese male rats on a high-fat diet.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateJan 16, 2014