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Science News for January 21, 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.

Source of Galapagos eruptions is not where models place it

A University of Oregon study discovers the source of Galapagos eruptions to be a plume 150 kilometers southeast of Fernandina Island, contradicting previous modeling. This finding sheds light on volcanic activity in the islands and raises questions about plate tectonics and Earth's internal convection.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJan 21, 2014

New sequencing tools give up close look at yeast evolution

Researchers sequenced genomes of 42 yeast strains, revealing more variation in S. cerevisiae than its wild relative, S. paradoxus. Subtelomeric regions harbor genome variation contributing to differences in traits between strains.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateJan 21, 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.

NREL working to clean air in fracking process

Scientists at NREL are working on a biological process to convert methane from fracking into liquid diesel fuel, which could lower dependence on foreign oil and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The process uses microbes that can digest methane and produce lipids, the precursor to fuel.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·DateJan 21, 2014

New Penn index detects early signs of deviation from normal brain development

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have developed a brain development index from MRI scans that captures normal brain maturation patterns. The study shows a relationship between cognitive development and physical changes in the developing young brain, allowing for early detection of subtle developmental abnormalities.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalCerebral Cortex·DateJan 21, 2014

Not safe at home

A new study found that tag plays at home plate have the highest injury rate in professional baseball, occurring 4.3 times more often than other base-running plays. The researchers suggest adopting the collegiate rule to reduce collisions and protect both catchers and baserunners.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalInternational Journal of Sports Medicine·DateJan 21, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Research backs more strategies for children with autism

A new report from the National Professional Development Center on Autism Spectrum Disorders identifies 29 evidence-based practices for children and youth with autism, including technology-aided instruction and exercise. These practices can help reduce costs and improve outcomes for individuals with autism.

SourceFrank Porter Graham Child Development Institute·DateJan 21, 2014

New test targets salmonella

Researchers at Rice University have developed a novel biosensor that can detect multiple strains of salmonella pathogens in food quickly and easily. The sensor uses microcantilevers decorated with peptides to identify the presence of specific bacteria, delivering results within minutes and outperforming existing standard tests.

SourceRice University·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateJan 21, 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.

NREL model licensed to improve accuracy of battery simulations

The NREL Equivalent Circuit Battery Model enhances RadTherm software for dynamic analysis of battery performance and optimization of multi-cell pack designs. This improved simulation capability accelerates the development of next-generation electric-drive vehicle batteries.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·DateJan 21, 2014

Large amounts of folic acid shown to promote growth of breast cancer in rats

Research published in PLOS ONE found that high doses of folic acid supplements promote the growth of existing breast cancer cells in rats. The study suggests a potential link between folic acid consumption and increased risk of developing breast cancer, particularly among women taking multivitamins or supplements.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 21, 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.

Deaths higher for heart attack patients at night and weekends

A systematic review and meta-analysis of 48 studies involving 1,896,859 patients found that presenting with a heart attack during off-hours (weekends and nights) is associated with a 5% relative increase in mortality. This results in an estimated 6,000 extra deaths per year in the US alone.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateJan 21, 2014

UT Austin engineer converts yeast cells into 'sweet crude' biofuel

Researchers developed a new source of renewable energy by genetically engineering yeast cells to produce lipids that can be used in place of petroleum-derived products. The platform produces the highest concentration of oils and fats reported through fermentation, enabling up to 90% of cell mass to become lipids.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 21, 2014

Physicist honored by the Australian Academy of Science

Professor Geoff Pryde from Griffith University's Centre for Quantum Dynamics has been recognized for his pioneering contributions to quantum information science, including the first entangling optical quantum computer logic gate and fundamental experimental studies of quantum entanglement.

SourceGriffith University·DateJan 21, 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 brain's RAM

A research team led by Mathew Diamond found that rats have a 'working memory' system, conceptually similar to humans', which enables them to recognize and interact with environmental stimuli.

SourceInternational School of Advanced Studies (SISSA)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 21, 2014

Bigger (data) is better and can improve decision making

Researchers found that certain behaviors may not be observable without massive data, highlighting the importance of considering data quantity in predictive modeling. The study suggests that sweeping assumptions about bigger being better can be dangerous and that the power of analytic tools depends on their appropriate use.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalBig Data·DateJan 21, 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.

Virginia Tech researcher develops energy-dense sugar battery

A Virginia Tech research team has developed a battery that runs on sugar, boasting an unmatched energy density and potentially replacing conventional batteries. The new battery could power cell phones, tablets, and other electronic gadgets in as little as three years.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 21, 2014

Calcium absorption not the cause of evolution of milk digestion in Europeans

A new study published in Molecular Biology and Evolution found that calcium absorption was not the primary reason for the evolution of milk tolerance in Europeans. The researchers discovered that fermented milk products, such as yoghurt and cheese, played a significant role in the rapid emergence of lactase persistence.

SourceUppsala University·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateJan 21, 2014

Genetic counseling via telephone as effective as in-person counseling

A new study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology found that telephone genetic counseling is comparable to in-person counseling. The study, led by Georgetown University Medical Center, involved 669 women and showed that phone counseling reduces costs and expands access to genetic testing for rural areas.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateJan 21, 2014

Study: 'Icy' technique improves robotic kidney transplants

Researchers successfully transplanted kidneys into 50 recipients using a robot-assisted procedure that cools the organ with sterile ice during operation. This innovative method reduces post-operative pain and complications compared to traditional open surgery.

SourceHenry Ford Health·JournalEuropean Urology·DateJan 21, 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.

All FDA drug approvals not created equal

A study published in JAMA found that more than one-third of FDA-approved drugs were approved based on a single clinical trial, without replication. The study analyzed the strength of clinical trial evidence supporting drug approvals from 2005 to 2012 and found significant variability in trial design and duration.

SourceYale University·JournalJAMA·DateJan 21, 2014

Turkeys inspire smartphone-capable early warning system for toxins

Researchers developed a mobile app and biosensors that can detect volatile chemicals by analyzing color patterns on the sensor's surface. The biosensors use a turkey-inspired design that changes color when exposed to different chemicals, allowing for easy identification of toxins.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 21, 2014

Staying cool in the nanoelectric universe by getting hot

A University at Buffalo research paper found that nanodevices in microcircuits can protect themselves from heat generation, preserving device function. This discovery could allow for more powerful smartphones and laptops without overheating issues.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJan 21, 2014

Guys: Get married for the sake of your bones, but wait until you're 25

A new UCLA study found that married men who waited until 25 or older to get married had stronger bones than those who got married earlier. In contrast, women with supportive partners had greater bone strength, regardless of their age at marriage. The study suggests that marriage quality plays a significant role in bone health.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalOsteoporosis International·DateJan 21, 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.

Study: Electric drive vehicles have little impact on US pollutant emissions

A new study from North Carolina State University indicates that increasing electric drive vehicle use will have little impact on reducing carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen oxide emissions. The researchers found that even if EDVs made up 42 percent of passenger vehicles, there would be limited emission reductions.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJan 21, 2014

Study examines reasons for delay, denial of new drugs by FDA

A study examines reasons for delay and denial of new drugs by the FDA, finding that preventable deficiencies in clinical trials account for significant delays. The study highlights the need for early dialogue between the FDA and drug sponsors to improve drug development strategies.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateJan 21, 2014

A 21st century adaptation of the Miller-Urey origin of life experiments

Researchers at the Georgia Institute of Technology and NASA have developed a simplified approach to the Miller-Urey experiment, which aims to recreate the conditions under which organic molecules could have formed on early Earth. The study successfully forms amino acids, building blocks of life, under primitive Earth conditions.

SourceThe Journal of Visualized Experiments·JournalJournal of Visualized Experiments·DateJan 21, 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.

Predatory organisms at depth

In deep, old, and nutrient-poor marine sediments, viruses outnumber microbes by up to 225 times, controlling the size and composition of microbial communities. Viruses produce new viruses that remain in sediment for longer periods due to limited enzymatic destruction, leading to a high turnover rate.

SourceGFZ GeoForschungsZentrum Potsdam, Helmholtz Centre·JournalThe ISME Journal·DateJan 21, 2014

White, green or black roofs? Berkeley Lab report compares economic payoffs

A new study by Berkeley Lab researchers found that white roofs are the most cost-effective option over a 50-year time span, with savings of $2 per square foot compared to black roofs. Green roofs, while more expensive upfront, offer environmental and amenity benefits that may mitigate their financial burden.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalEnergy and Buildings·DateJan 21, 2014

New transparent display system could provide heads-up data

Researchers at MIT have developed a new transparent display system that can project images onto glass while maintaining transparency, enabling wide-angle views. The system uses nanoparticles to scatter specific wavelengths of light, allowing for clear visibility through the display.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 21, 2014

How the genetic blueprints for limbs came from fish

Researchers discovered similar DNA organization in fish and mice, indicating a shared genetic mechanism for limb formation. The study suggests that digits evolved by modernizing an existing regulatory mechanism in fish, rather than through a radical change.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJan 21, 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.

Princeton model anticipates ecological impacts of human responses to climate

A Princeton University research team created a model to evaluate how human response to climate change may alter the agricultural utility of land. The study found that most conservation lands have low agricultural utility due to rugged terrain, but some areas could become more valuable for farming in the future.

SourcePrinceton School of Public and International Affairs·JournalConservation Biology·DateJan 21, 2014

Main intestinal disease bacteria to be sequenced

Scientists will analyze 510 archived isolates of Campylobacter from human faeces to better understand its sources and transmission routes. The study aims to prevent Campylobacter-related illnesses, which cause over 21,000 hospital admissions and 100 deaths in the UK each year.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·DateJan 21, 2014

Curtin researchers to hide our splashes from sharks

Researchers will characterize and compare shark behavior when human noises are detectable versus masked, aiming to disrupt detection of humans. They plan to use speakers or personal maskers to broadcast artificial signals that mimic or mask the detected sound cue.

SourceCurtin University·DateJan 21, 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.

Miriam Hospital study links intimate partner violence and risk of HIV

Researchers found that women in violent relationships fear asking their partners to use condoms due to concerns about violent consequences, leading to inconsistent condom use. The study suggests that health providers should address IPV and fear of IPV when providing HIV prevention services.

SourceLifespan·JournalWomen & Health·DateJan 21, 2014

New avenue to treat diabetes-related vision problems

Researchers discovered that dopamine-restoring drugs can improve visual function in animal models of diabetes. The study found that L-DOPA and dopamine receptor agonists improved acuity and contrast sensitivity, offering new avenues for treating diabetic retinopathy.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·DateJan 21, 2014

Live feed into our bodies

A device called MEDIC combines engineering and biochemistry to monitor specific drug levels in the bloodstream, offering potential for tailored prescriptions. The device uses microfluidic chambers lined with gold electrodes to detect target molecules in real-time.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJan 21, 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.

Subterranean 'sedimentary bathtub' amplifies earthquakes

A study reveals that the Georgia Basin, a rigid soil bowl beneath Vancouver, can amplify earthquake effects, causing potential devastation beyond building codes' preparedness. The basin's unique geography traps and amplifies seismic waves, predicting extended shaking times for shallow quakes.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalBulletin of the Seismological Society of America·DateJan 21, 2014

Are anti-poaching efforts repeating the mistakes of the 'war on drugs'?

New research questions the effectiveness of increased enforcement measures against poaching, citing a potential increase in organized crime involvement. The authors argue that addressing the root causes of poaching, such as growing wealth gaps between African supply areas and Asian demand centers, is crucial to conservation efforts.

SourceWiley·JournalConservation Letters·DateJan 21, 2014

How the genetic blueprints for limbs came from fish

Researchers discovered similar 3D DNA organization in fish and mouse clusters, indicating the main mechanism for patterning tetrapod limbs was present in fish. The study suggests that digits evolved by modernizing an ancestral regulatory mechanism.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJan 21, 2014

Students remember more with personalized review, even after classes end

A computer-based individualized study schedule has been shown to significantly improve students' memory of material presented months earlier. Personalized review helped students remember more material on tests given at the end of the semester and a month later, with benefits also seen in long-term educational outcomes.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateJan 21, 2014
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Study finds decreased life expectancy for multiple sclerosis patients

A large-scale US study reveals that people with multiple sclerosis have a decreased life expectancy compared to the general population. The median lifespan of MS patients was found to be 6 years less than that of non-MS individuals, with annual mortality rates being significantly higher.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalMultiple Sclerosis and Related Disorders·DateJan 21, 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.

9 and 60 ways of particle tracking

A contest for the best particle tracking technique found that each method has its own strengths, but none were deemed unequivocally superior. The challenge, which aimed to track hundreds of intracellular organelles, was marked by oversimplification in image series, limiting algorithm performance on real data.

SourceLomonosov Moscow State University·JournalNature Methods·DateJan 21, 2014

2014 Louis-Jeantet Prize for Medicine

Elena Conti wins the prize for her work on understanding the mechanisms governing RNA quality, transport, and degradation, while Denis Le Bihan receives it for his innovative brain imaging technique that has revolutionized stroke diagnosis and treatment. Both researchers will use the prize money to further their research.

SourceEMBO·DateJan 21, 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.

Older brains slow due to greater experience, rather than cognitive decline

New research suggests that older brains may take longer to process increasing amounts of knowledge, leading to slower performance on cognitive tests. This finding challenges traditional assumptions about cognitive decline in older adults, and instead highlights the role of experience in shaping brain function.

SourceWiley·JournalTopics in Cognitive Science·DateJan 21, 2014

Peekaboo... I see through!

A new approach to produce transparent projection screens has been developed by a MIT team, enabling wide viewing angle, scalability to large size, and low cost. The technology uses color-sensitive nanoparticles to create a material that lets most ambient light pass through while scattering specific colors for high-resolution images.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology, Institute for Soldier Nanotechnologies·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 21, 2014

Hospitals and nursing homes can learn much from hospice care

A study found that training hospital staff in basic hospice strategies led to improved end-of-life care, including more orders for pain medication and the removal of nasogastric tubes. The intervention also increased the presence of advance directives, reducing distress for patients and families.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateJan 21, 2014

Study: Possible new druggable target in Ewing's Sarcoma

Researchers identified microRNA-22 as a key player in Ewing's Sarcoma, regulating KDM3A gene expression. Targeting KDM3A with small-molecule inhibitors may provide new therapeutic options for the disease.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalOncogene·DateJan 21, 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.

Desire to reproduce drives active nightlife of birds

A study found that yellow-breasted chat males visit multiple territories at night to search for partners during their fertile period, increasing reproductive success. The researchers used radio transmitters and triangulation software to track the birds' movements, revealing a previously unknown behavior in diurnal species.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalAnimal Behaviour·DateJan 21, 2014

Cancer diagnosis doesn't increase a child's risk of post-traumatic stress disorder

A study by St. Jude Children's Research Hospital found that childhood cancer patients are no more likely to develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) than their healthy peers. Despite a life-threatening diagnosis, young cancer patients reported benefits from the experience, including greater empathy and closer relationships with fa...

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateJan 21, 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.

E-whiskers

Researchers at Berkeley Lab created highly sensitive tactile sensors using composite films of carbon nanotubes and silver nanoparticles, 10 times more sensitive than previous pressure sensors. These e-whiskers can be integrated into various systems to enable robots to 'see' and 'feel' their surroundings.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 21, 2014

Small elliptical exercise device may promote activity while sitting

Researchers at Penn State College of Medicine found that using a compact elliptical device while sitting can lead to significant weight loss and prevention of weight gain. The study involved 32 participants who used the device for one hour daily, resulting in an average weight loss of 5.2 pounds per year.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Science and Medicine in Sport·DateJan 21, 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.

UM study finds wolf predation of cattle affects calf weight in Montana

A recent study by University of Montana faculty and graduate students found that wolf predation contributes to lower weight gain in calves on western Montana ranches. The study quantifies the economic impact of weight loss after a confirmed wolf kill, finding a $6,679 loss at sale for an affected ranch.

SourceThe University of Montana·JournalAmerican Journal of Agricultural Economics·DateJan 21, 2014

Polar bear diet changes as sea ice melts

Researchers found that some polar bears in the western Hudson Bay population are using flexible foraging strategies, such as prey-switching and eating plants and animals. This behavior may help them survive in a rapidly changing environment where sea ice is melting earlier and freezing later.

SourceAmerican Museum of Natural History·JournalBMC Ecology·DateJan 21, 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.

Micropredators dictate occurrence of deadly amphibian disease

A new study reveals that micropredators naturally occurring in freshwater bodies can efficiently consume the infectious stages of the deadly chytrid skin fungus, reducing infection pressure on amphibian hosts. This natural behavior may provide a realistic method for preserving amphibians in Bd-infected areas.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJan 21, 2014

'Love hormone' oxytocin carries unexpected side effect

A study by Concordia University researchers found that oxytocin can increase emotional sensitivity in healthy young adults, leading to an overreaction to social cues. The study's lead author warns against using oxytocin as a treatment for mild social anxiety without proper medical supervision.

SourceConcordia University·JournalEmotion·DateJan 21, 2014

Probability of blindness from glaucoma has nearly halved

The probability of blindness from glaucoma has decreased by nearly half since 1980, with advances in diagnosis and therapy likely contributing to the reduction. However, a significant proportion of patients still progress to blindness, emphasizing the need for continued research and vigilant eye exams.

SourceAmerican Academy of Ophthalmology·JournalOphthalmology·DateJan 21, 2014

Pathogenic plant virus jumps to honeybees

Researchers detect Tobacco Ringspot Virus in honeybees, suggesting a link to their decline. The study reveals that infected bees can transmit the virus to each other and even their queen mother.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmBio·DateJan 21, 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.

Got milk? Evolutionary connection between milk drinking, lactose digestion, and sunlight

A new study published in Molecular Biology and Evolution suggests that strong natural selection acted on lactase persistence in Iberia over the last 7,000 years. The 'calcium assimilation hypothesis' is challenged as sunlight in Iberia allows for vitamin D synthesis, making calcium deficiency less of a concern.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateJan 21, 2014

Study could lead to 'liquid biopsy' tests for bladder cancer

A study by Loyola University Medical Center researchers could lead to the development of a 'liquid biopsy' test for bladder cancer using microscopic droplets shed by cancer cells in urine. This non-invasive test would require only a simple urine sample, potentially informing treatment decisions.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalBioMed Research International·DateJan 21, 2014

Obese children more susceptible to asthma from air pollution

Research at Columbia University Medical Center found obese children are nearly three times as likely to develop asthma when exposed to high levels of air pollutants. Rates of childhood obesity and asthma have increased dramatically over the past 30 years, with urban minority populations disproportionately affected.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalEnvironmental Research·DateJan 21, 2014

Reducing liver protein SIRT1 levels

A study led by Boston University School of Medicine found that a lack of liver protein SIRT1 is associated with lower levels of FGF21, leading to fatty liver disease and obesity. Elevated FGF21 levels, however, transformed white fat cells into brown fat cells, producing heat and burning calories.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateJan 21, 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.

Most high-risk cardiac devices in use today approved as modifications to previously-approved devices

A study from Brigham and Women's Hospital found that most cardiac implantable electronic devices were approved as changes to existing PMA-approved models without new clinical data. This raises concerns about patient safety, particularly for devices such as the St. Jude Medical Riata and Medtronic Sprint Fidelis defibrillator leads.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJAMA·DateJan 21, 2014

Disadvantaged, non-college bound young adults at risk for excessive weight gain

A new weight management intervention program has been developed specifically for disadvantaged young adults, addressing their immediate needs and priorities. The program focuses on community-based participatory research and incorporates the PRECEDE model to identify key factors that can be changed.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·DateJan 21, 2014

UH researcher finds anonymity makes a difference with online comments

A University of Houston study found that anonymous online comments are more likely to be vulgar, racist, or hateful than those posted by non-anonymous users. Non-anonymous commenters were nearly three times as likely to post civil comments following news articles, with only 15% of anonymous commenters exhibiting civil behavior.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalJournalism Practice·DateJan 21, 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.

3-D imaging provides window into living cells, no dye required

A new imaging technique called white-light diffraction tomography (WDT) provides high-resolution, three-dimensional images of living cells without the need for dyes or chemicals. This allows researchers to study cellular processes and dynamics in a non-invasive manner, enabling unprecedented insights into cell function and behavior.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Photonics·DateJan 21, 2014

Online comments can undermine anti-smoking PSAs

A Penn study found that online commentary, both positive and negative, degrades the impact of anti-smoking public service announcements. Viewers who watched PSAs with no commentary had better recall and rated them more effective overall.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania Annenberg School for Communication·JournalJournal of Computer-Mediated Communication·DateJan 21, 2014