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Science News for January 27, 2014


Good outcomes with staged surgery for epilepsy in children

A staged approach to epilepsy surgery in children is a safe and effective treatment option, with complications decreasing as surgeons gain experience. The study found that the benefits of staged surgery outweigh the risks, making it an important treatment option for complex cases of childhood epilepsy.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalNeurosurgery·DateJan 27, 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.

Study on DSM-5 shows effects on autism diagnosis and prevalence

A new study found that combining autism with social communication disorder (SCD) would decrease estimated prevalence under DSM-5 criteria. The researchers discovered that 83% of children diagnosed with autism under the DSM-IV would also receive the diagnosis under DSM-5, while 14% were diagnosed with SCD.

SourceAutism Speaks·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateJan 27, 2014

Put a plastic bag in your tank

Researchers in India have developed a low-temperature process to convert LDPE into liquid fuel, releasing carbon-rich molecules that are similar to conventional petrochemical fuels. The process uses kaolin catalyst and can produce up to 700 grams of liquid fuel per kilogram of waste plastic.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Environment and Waste Management·DateJan 27, 2014

How did we get 4 limbs? Because we have a belly

Researchers propose that fins and limbs develop from the area surrounding the belly due to the interaction of ectodermal tissues with mesoderm layers. This model, published in Evolution & Development, suggests that epigenetic factors play a crucial role in shaping embryonic development and ultimately giving rise to paired appendages.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalEvolution & Development·DateJan 27, 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.

Pesticide exposure linked to Alzheimer's disease

A Rutgers University study links pesticide exposure to increased Alzheimer's disease risk, particularly in those over 60. Higher levels of the DDT compound were found in late-onset Alzheimer's patients' blood compared to controls.

SourceRutgers University·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateJan 27, 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.

U of Tennessee research finds link between alcohol use and domestic violence

Studies conducted by University of Tennessee researchers found a strong link between alcohol consumption and increased risk of physical, psychological, and sexual abuse in intimate partner relationships. In contrast, marijuana use was not associated with an increased risk of violence. The findings suggest that domestic violence prevent...

SourceUniversity of Tennessee at Knoxville·JournalPsychology of Addictive Behaviors·DateJan 27, 2014

Cannabis during pregnancy endangers fetal brain development

A study published in the EMBO Journal found that cannabis consumption during pregnancy can lead to defective nerve cell development, affecting higher cognitive functions and memory formation. The study identified THC as a key contributor to these developmental deficits.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalThe EMBO Journal·DateJan 27, 2014

New biomedical diagnostics using personalized 3-D imaging

Researchers at Universidad Carlos III de Madrid have developed a new biomedical diagnostic tool using personalized 3D imaging, enabling faster and more precise images of living organisms. This innovative technology has the potential to revolutionize medicine and basic research applications.

SourceUniversidad Carlos III de Madrid·JournalOptics Express·DateJan 27, 2014

Health care savings: Reducing inappropriate antibiotic prescriptions

A new study at the University of Southern California found that a signed commitment letter in exam rooms lowered inappropriate antibiotic prescriptions for cold symptoms by nearly 20%. This simple intervention, displayed in both English and Spanish, saved $70 million/year in drug costs alone.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJan 27, 2014

Do brain connections help shape religious beliefs?

A new study found that causal brain networks involved in fear regulation, imagery, and affect are also used for cognitive processing of religious beliefs. These basic networks evolved to mediate complex beliefs like those contained in religious practice.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalBrain Connectivity·DateJan 27, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Annals of Internal Medicine tip sheet for Jan. 27, 2014

The American College of Physicians has published new research on MERS, highlighting the need for better understanding and collaboration to combat its potential as a major public health threat. Guidelines for cholesterol treatment have also been released, sparking debate among physicians, while expert advice is offered on effective scre...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJan 27, 2014

Unexpected player in regulation of blood cholesterol levels

Researchers discovered that kinesin KIF13B concentrates at the cell membrane where LDL is taken up, and promotes endocytosis of LRP1 through caveolae. This unexpected role for a motor protein reveals a new mechanism for regulating blood cholesterol levels.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateJan 27, 2014

Expanding our view of vision

Researchers have noninvasively mapped human brain activity with unique accuracy, identifying both location and timing of brain processes. The study used a novel brain-scanning technique combining fMRI and MEG data to pinpoint when the brain recognizes objects and categorizes them.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateJan 27, 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.

HIV medications dialogue differs by race, ethnicity

A new study found differences in doctor-patient dialogue about HIV drug adherence depending on patients' race and ethnicity. Black patients experienced significant provider dominance, while Hispanic patients had more extensive dialogues about adherence.

SourceBrown University·JournalAIDS and Behavior·DateJan 27, 2014

New method rescues DNA from contaminated Neandertal bones

A new statistical model has been developed to isolate ancient DNA from fossils contaminated with modern-day DNA. This method allows for the recovery of complete mitochondrial genomes from Neandertal and anatomically modern human bones, enabling scientists to study these individuals in detail.

SourceUppsala University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 27, 2014

Solving a 30-year-old problem in massive star formation

A team of researchers has confirmed a long-standing puzzle about the birth of massive stars, showing that dense filamentary structures absorb ultraviolet radiation and shield surrounding gas. The findings provide new insights into how massive stars form and influence their host galaxies.

SourceAmerican Museum of Natural History·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateJan 27, 2014

A silk coat for diamonds makes sleek new imaging and drug delivery tool

Researchers have developed new silk-coated diamond particles that can be injected into living cells to provide a novel technique for biological imaging and drug delivery. The silk coating enhances the brightness of the nanodiamonds while preserving their optical properties, making them safe for use in the body.

SourceOptica·JournalBiomedical Optics Express·DateJan 27, 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.

Protecting the skin from sun exposure

Researchers have identified a specific protein involved in mediating the skin's response to UVR and found that the signal transduction cascade resembles a light-activated pathway in the eye. This new insight into the molecular pathway underlying UVR detection could lead to improved sun protection methods.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of General Physiology·DateJan 27, 2014

A trigger for muscular diseases

Researchers found that increasing titin's stiffness can be a trigger for pathological changes in skeletal muscles. The team used a mouse model lacking nine titin Ig domains to investigate the effects of increased stiffness, revealing that this can lead to muscle atrophy and contractility changes.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of General Physiology·DateJan 27, 2014

Visual system can retain considerable plasticity after extended blindness

A study by Mass Eye and Ear researchers found significant plasticity in the visual system after extended blindness, leading to improvements in contrast sensitivity tests. The findings suggest that the critical period for vision development may be longer than previously thought.

SourceMass Eye and Ear·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 27, 2014

Successful regeneration of human skeletal muscle in mice

Researchers at Kennedy Krieger Institute have successfully developed a humanized preclinical model for FSHD, mirroring gene expression and biomarker profiles of human tissue. The model enables the study of muscle regeneration over time and prediction of clinical response to therapeutic drugs.

SourceKennedy Krieger Institute·JournalHuman Molecular Genetics·DateJan 27, 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.

Research uncovers historical rise, fall and re-emergence of plague strains

Researchers discovered two devastating pandemics, the plague of Justinian and the Black Death, were caused by distinct strains of the same pathogen. The strain that helped bring an end to the Roman Empire faded out on its own, while the other led to worldwide re-emergence in the late 1800s.

SourceNorthern Arizona University·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateJan 27, 2014

A natural sugar delivers DNA aptamer drug inside tumor cells

Researchers have developed a natural polysaccharide-based delivery system that enhances the targeting of DNA aptamers to vimentin in tumor cells, leading to increased cell death. The study uses arabinogalactan from the larch tree as a carrier and shows improved efficacy when combined with the aptamer drug.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalNucleic Acid Therapeutics·DateJan 27, 2014

Animate, inanimate, but also social

Researchers found a functional distinction between social groups, which are processed separately from animate and inanimate objects. The study used patients with dementia to demonstrate the double dissociation of these functions.

SourceInternational School of Advanced Studies (SISSA)·JournalCognitive Neuroscience·DateJan 27, 2014

Temple researchers shed new light on double-lung transplants

Temple researchers have shown that identical or compatible blood types between donor and recipient do not affect rejection rates in double-lung transplants. The study confirms excellent post-transplant lung function and comparable mortality rates for compatible donors.

SourceTemple University Health System·DateJan 27, 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.

New method increases supply of embryonic stem cells

A new method allows for large-scale generation of high-quality human embryonic stem cells from excess IVF embryos, increasing the supply for potential therapies. This breakthrough method enables production of stem cells without destroying embryos, making it a significant step forward for stem cell research.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 27, 2014

Rare genetic variations may account for severe reaction to LABA drugs in some people

Researchers found that rare gene variants significantly increased the risk of hospital admission for severe asthma episodes and urgent outpatient visits among patients treated with long-acting beta agonists. Non-Hispanic whites with these variants were more than twice as likely to experience uncontrolled symptoms during LABA therapy.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalThe Lancet Respiratory Medicine·DateJan 27, 2014

Study shows researchers' status helps some scientific papers gain popularity

A new study found that high-status authors receive more attention for their work, with a 12% increase in citations. The effect is more pronounced for recent papers and those published in lower-profile journals. This phenomenon, known as the 'Matthew Effect,' highlights the impact of author reputation on scientific discovery.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalManagement Science·DateJan 27, 2014

300,000-year-old hearth found

A 300,000-year-old hearth discovered in the Qesem Cave provides conclusive evidence of repeated fire building over time, hinting at advanced social structure and intellectual capacity. The find suggests that early humans had a sophisticated understanding of space organization and social order.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalJournal of Archaeological Science·DateJan 27, 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.

Migrants' children as well integrated as Swedes' children

Research by Linköping University's Alireza Behtoui reveals that migrant children have less education but equal job prospects to Swedish-born peers when adjusted for parent's education level. The difference in salaries remains, but decreases with factors such as education and family status.

SourceLinköping University·JournalEthnic and Racial Studies·DateJan 27, 2014

Yoga can lower fatigue, inflammation in breast cancer survivors

Practicing yoga for three months can significantly reduce fatigue and lower inflammation in breast cancer survivors, according to new research. The study found that women who practiced yoga experienced a 57% reduction in fatigue and up to 20% lower inflammation compared to those who did not practice yoga.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateJan 27, 2014

Early tumor response from stereotactic radiosurgery predicts outcome

A study of 52 patients with metastatic brain tumors found that early tumor shrinkage after stereotactic radiosurgery indicates a positive outcome, reducing the need for further monitoring. Tumors that did not respond initially were more likely to recur or require additional treatment.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalNeurosurgery·DateJan 27, 2014

Critical protein discovered for healthy cell growth in mammals

Researchers at Penn State University have identified a critical protein required for the growth of cilia on cell surfaces. This discovery has significant implications for understanding and treating diseases related to cilium development, such as polycystic kidney disease, blindness, and neurological disorders.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 27, 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.

Permanent changes in brain genes may not be so permanent after all

A study published in Nature Neuroscience reveals that non-CpG methylation occurs later and more dynamically in neurons than previously thought, acting as a system of gene regulation. This finding challenges the long-held idea that once genes are silenced by methylation, they remain so forever.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateJan 27, 2014

Tufts Medical Center approved for PCORI funding award

Tufts Medical Center has been awarded a PCORI funding award to develop a method for patient-centered enrollment in comparative effectiveness trials. The project, led by Dr. Harry P. Selker, will use data from electronic health records to identify patients who may benefit from clinical trials.

SourceTufts Clinical and Translational Science Institute·DateJan 27, 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.

Brain biomarker shows promise in heart

Researchers found elevated levels of translocator protein 18 kDa (TSPO) in patients with myocarditis and mice, suggesting its potential as a biomarker for heart inflammation. TSPO's role in driving disease progression and prognosis is also being explored.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalJournal of Cardiovascular Translational Research·DateJan 27, 2014

Scientists reveal cause of one of the most devastating pandemics in human history

Researchers uncover that two devastating plagues were caused by distinct strains of the same pathogen, which may lead to a better understanding of modern infectious disease dynamics. The study also raises questions about why a highly deadly pathogen died out and could potentially inform responses to future pandemics.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateJan 27, 2014

Researchers motivate diabetics to adopt healthy lifestyle

A study involving 186 Type II diabetes patients found that health coaching significantly improved oral health by reducing biological markers for periodontitis by 50% and long-range blood sugar levels. The coaching group also showed increased self-efficacy in handling illness and health issues.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalClinical Oral Investigations·DateJan 27, 2014

New, unusually large virus kills anthrax agent

Researchers have discovered a new bacteriophage that infects the bacterium causing anthrax, offering potential solutions for detection and treatment. The phage, named Bacillus phage Tsamsa, is unusually large and can target not only anthrax but also closely related bacteria.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 27, 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.

Bluebirds struggle to find happiness on island paradise

Research reveals that Bermuda bluebirds have distinct physiological differences compared to their continental counterparts, with lighter weights and longer wings. The study also found that island nestlings grow slower and face higher mortality rates than their mainland peers.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalPhysiological and Biochemical Zoology·DateJan 27, 2014

ORNL study advances quest for better superconducting materials

Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory created a framework to understand the interplay of superconductivity and inhomogeneity. The work reveals that strong superconductivity comes from highly doped regions in the crystal where dopants are clustered, potentially leading to higher performance superconductors.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJan 27, 2014

HRT therapy may increase risk of acute pancreatitis

A new study found that postmenopausal hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may increase the risk of acute pancreatitis. The risk was higher among women who used systemic therapy and those who had used HRT for more than 10 years.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJan 27, 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.

Is there an ocean beneath our feet?

Deep-sea fault zones in subduction zones can transport large amounts of water from the Earth's oceans to the upper mantle. Researchers estimate that these zones could carry up to three and a half times the total amount of ocean water to the mantle.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalGeology·DateJan 27, 2014

University of Montreal study analyzes content of nightmares and bad dreams

A University of Montreal study analyzed 10,000 dream narratives to compare nightmares and bad dreams, finding that nightmares have greater emotional impact than bad dreams and often feature themes such as fear, sadness, guilt, or disgust. The researchers also found that women's nightmares more frequently involve interpersonal conflicts.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalSLEEP·DateJan 27, 2014

Fiber optics pioneer to present at esteemed international conference

Clemson professor Roger Stolen was selected to present at a special session titled "Pioneers of Fiber Optics" at SPIE Photonics WEST 2014. He is being honored for his pioneering work in nonlinear fiber optics, which has played an important role in modern high-capacity optical communication systems.

SourceClemson University·DateJan 27, 2014

Study casts doubt on theory that retired NFL players suffer CTE

A study by Loyola Medicine neuropsychologist Christopher Randolph challenges the widely-held theory that retired NFL players suffer from chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). Despite high rates of Alzheimer's disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, the study found little conclusive evidence to support CTE as a distinct disease.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalCurrent Sports Medicine Reports·DateJan 27, 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.

The science of baby-making still a mystery for many women

A Yale University study found that 50% of women of reproductive age have never discussed their reproductive health with a provider, while 30% visit providers less than once a year or not at all. The study also revealed knowledge gaps on fertility concerns and optimal conception methods.

SourceYale University·JournalFertility and Sterility·DateJan 27, 2014

Asian ozone pollution in Hawaii is tied to climate variability

Research by Meiyun Lin and colleagues found that Asian ozone pollution reaching Hawaii is relatively low in spring but rises significantly in autumn due to changes in atmospheric circulation. This shift has significant implications for understanding surface ozone levels globally.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJan 27, 2014

GSA Bulletin covers the US, Italy, Iran, Jamaica, Chile, and Argentina, and China

Articles in GSA Bulletin explore the impact of geological processes on rivers and coastlines. Researchers examined river morphology in Oregon, coastal responses to sea-level changes in Brazil, and aditification differentiation in NE Iran, providing insights into the effects of tectonics and environmental changes.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeological Society of America Bulletin·DateJan 27, 2014

Preventing and treating the common cold: Nothing to sneeze at

Handwashing and zinc are likely effective in preventing colds, with some evidence suggesting they also work for adults. Antihistamines combined with decongestants and pain medications can provide relief from symptoms, while ibuprofen and acetaminophen help with pain and fever.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJan 27, 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.

UMass Amherst mathematician wins 2 international prizes

The mathematician's work has led to a better understanding of how fiber optics can be made more stable and robust. His research involves marrying mathematics and physics to study the behavior of solitary waves in various structures, including optical waveguide arrays and granular crystals.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·DateJan 27, 2014

Common crop pesticides kill honeybee larvae in the hive

Four common pesticides commonly used on crops to kill insects and fungi also kill honeybee larvae within their hives. The team found that mixtures of pesticides can have greater consequences for larval toxicity than individual pesticides, with chlorothalonil being the most toxic.

SourcePenn State·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 27, 2014

NIH grantees develop way to make old antibiotic work against TB

Researchers have developed modified forms of spectinomycin that can act against TB bacteria, showing activity against multidrug-resistant and extensively drug-resistant strains in mice. The new compounds, called spectinamides, are targeted to TB bacteria without harming mammalian cells.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNature Medicine·DateJan 27, 2014

Study identifies high level of 'food insecurity' among college students

A recent study found that 59% of college students at one Oregon university experienced food insecurity, with severe implications for their academic performance, physical and emotional health. The researchers attributed this issue to rising college costs, low-income and first-generation students, and changing demographic trends.

SourceOregon State University·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·DateJan 27, 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.

Researchers find changes to protein SirT1

Studies suggest that maintaining a normal level of the protein SirT1 may be effective in preventing obesity- and age-related diseases. Researchers have demonstrated that changing three amino acids on SirT1 can produce a 'super-sirt' that functions normally despite metabolic stress.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJan 27, 2014

Scientists find genetic mechanism linking aging to specific diets

Researchers at USC identify a gene that delays aging effects depending on dietary intake, suggesting a genetic basis for individual nutritional needs. This breakthrough may lead to tailored diets based on an individual's genetic makeup, potentially enhancing overall health and longevity.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalCell Metabolism·DateJan 27, 2014

App may signal cellphone dependency

Researchers at the University of Bonn have developed an app that measures cellphone use, revealing shocking statistics. The app, dubbed Menthal, analyzes user behavior over six weeks, showing average users activate their smartphones every 12 minutes, and problematic use can lead to addiction-like symptoms.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalMedical Hypotheses·DateJan 27, 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.

Researchers tune in to protein pairs

Rice University scientists create method to quantify how mutations affect protein pairs' ability to transmit signals. The new metric helps understand crosstalk and specificity in two-component systems, essential for bioengineering applications.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 27, 2014

Magnetic switch gets closer to application

Researchers have successfully switched on and off robust ferromagnetism close to room temperature using moderate electric fields. The new magnetic switch has the potential to revolutionize spintronics and data storage technologies with its ability to control magnetization at low power.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalNature Materials·DateJan 27, 2014

Swiss cheese crystal, or high-tech sponge?

Researchers at University at Buffalo have designed a new material called UBMOF-1, which can change the shape of its pores in response to ultraviolet light. This property makes it useful for applications like drug delivery and secure storage, where control over chemical compounds is crucial.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalChemical Communications·DateJan 27, 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.

Gossip and ostracism may have hidden group benefits

A new study finds that gossiping about group members' behavior can help maintain social order and deter selfishness. In the experiment, participants who knew others' behavior were more likely to cooperate, as they could exclude those deemed untrustworthy. The researchers suggest that this mechanism is fundamental to human nature.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateJan 27, 2014

A new generation database to help ecological research on marine organisms

The Polytraits database provides a rich collection of morphological, reproductive, and behavioral characteristics of polychaetes, facilitating ecological research and conservation studies. The database's data are also integrated into the Scratchpads virtual research environment and accessible through Encyclopedia of Life's TraitBank.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalBiodiversity Data Journal·DateJan 27, 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.

IOF position paper reveals enormous variation in worldwide usage of FRAX

The study found that FRAX was widely used in North America and Europe, but its uptake varied greatly across countries. Countries with high FRAX use per capita included the USA, UK, Canada, and Switzerland, while many African and South East Asian countries had low or no usage.

SourceInternational Osteoporosis Foundation·JournalArchives of Osteoporosis·DateJan 27, 2014

Shadowy world of Britain's discount hitmen revealed in new study

A new study reveals the shadowy world of Britain's discount hitmen, with victims often murdered while walking their dogs or shopping in suburban neighborhoods. The study identifies four main types of contract killers, including novice, dilettante, journeyman, and master hitmen.

SourceWiley·JournalThe Howard Journal of Criminal Justice·DateJan 27, 2014

Robotic operation for heart valve reconstruction holds promise

A team of surgeons, led by Dr. T. Sloane Guy, has successfully performed a robotic operation to reconstruct the tricuspid valve in patients with infective endocarditis. The procedure uses a bioscaffold material that allows new tissue to grow, offering a potential cure for this potentially fatal bacterial disease.

SourceTemple University Health System·DateJan 27, 2014

Fragmented sleep accelerates cancer growth

A new study published in Cancer Research found that fragmented sleep accelerates cancer growth by altering the immune system's response to tumors. Well-rested mice had primarily M1-type tumor-associated macrophages, while sleep-fragmented mice had primarily M2-type macrophages that promoted tumor growth.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalCancer Research·DateJan 27, 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.

Punctured cell membranes lead to high blood pressure

A mutated protein can lead to holes in a cell's membrane, disrupting salt balance and causing high blood pressure. Researchers have discovered the mechanism behind this phenomenon, which may lead to new and better medication for high blood pressure.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·JournalBiochemistry·DateJan 27, 2014

DNA-built nanostructures safely target, image cancer tumors

Researchers at the University of Toronto have developed a method to assemble gold nanoparticles using DNA as a vehicle to deliver cancer medications or markers directly into cancerous tumors. The particles can be precisely engineered to target specific tumor types and stages.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJan 27, 2014

Nipping diabetes in the bud

Researchers at Tel Aviv University discover a simple blood test can predict diabetes risk up to five years before symptoms appear. The test uses A1c levels to identify high-risk patients, who may benefit from earlier diagnosis and treatment.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalEuropean Journal of General Practice·DateJan 27, 2014

SnT researcher Lionel Briand is engineer of the year 2013

Briand's work on model-based software verification and testing has been recognized for its outstanding contribution to reliability engineering. The award honors his efforts to deliver predictable dependable software-intensive systems within cost and time constraints.

SourceUniversity of Luxembourg·DateJan 27, 2014

Quality improvement initiative improves asthma outcomes in teens

A quality improvement initiative in a primary care setting improved asthma control and outcomes for high-risk teenagers through standardized care, self-monitoring, and care coordination. The study showed significant improvements in patients' chronic asthma not well-controlled, with increased adherence to treatment.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateJan 27, 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.

JCI early table of contents for Jan. 27, 2014

Researchers found that SGLT2 inhibitors improved muscle insulin sensitivity and lowered fasting plasma glucose levels in type 2 diabetes patients. However, the use of these inhibitors also resulted in an increase in endogenous glucose production and decreased insulin secretion.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 27, 2014

Ottawa researchers discover new combination therapy to kill cancer

Researchers have discovered a new combination therapy that leverages existing experimental therapies to speed the fight against cancer. The approach, which combines SMAC Mimetics with live virus therapies, shows a synergistic tumour-killing effect, overcoming limitations of individual agents.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateJan 27, 2014

Genomics for judges: Educating Illinois judges on how genetic info impacts court decisions

The Genomics for Judges seminar, offered by the University of Illinois, aims to educate judges on how genetic information affects court decisions. The two-day course covers DNA sequencing, gene function, and genome analysis, preparing judges to deal with legal questions involving genomics in the courts today and in the future.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·DateJan 27, 2014