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Science News for January 29, 2014


Study uncovers molecular keys to invasive bladder cancer

Researchers have identified 32 genes with recurring defects in muscle-invasive bladder cancer, offering a roadmap for targeted treatments. The study also found frequent alterations in chromatin regulation and viral DNA involvement in bladder cancer development.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalNature·DateJan 29, 2014

A digital test for toxic genes

Tel Aviv University researchers developed a computer algorithm that predicts which genetic genes are lethal to cells when overexpressed. The new algorithm, called Expression Dependent Gene Effects (EDGE), helps guide metabolic engineering to produce new chemicals in more efficient ways.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 29, 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.

Single gene separates queen from workers

Researchers have identified a single gene, Ultrabithorax (Ubx), that determines the distinct leg features of worker honey bees, enabling them to collect and transport pollen. The gene plays a critical role in the evolution of social behavior among honey bees, separating queens from workers.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalBiology Letters·DateJan 29, 2014

Neanderthal lineages excavated from modern human genomes

A substantial fraction of the Neanderthal genome persists in modern human populations, with over 20 percent surviving in DNA from 665 people in Europe and East Asia. This finding suggests that significant amounts of population-level DNA sequences may be obtained from extinct groups without fossilized remains.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalScience·DateJan 29, 2014

ADHD medication saves lives on the road

A large registry study found that up to half of transport accidents involving adult men with ADHD could be avoided if they were taking medication. The results demonstrate a significant decrease in risk of serious transport accidents among men with ADHD who received medication, with a 45% increased risk compared to those without ADHD.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateJan 29, 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.

Clinical study finds 'bubble CPAP' boosts neonatal survival rates

A clinical study published in PLOS ONE found that the low-cost 'bubble CPAP' device increased neonatal survival rates by 27% compared to standard care, saving an estimated 178,000 lives annually. The technology, developed by Rice University students, is a cheaper alternative to conventional CPAP machines.

SourceRice University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 29, 2014

Sponge bacteria, a chemical factory

Researchers have discovered a new type of bacterium in sponges that produces bioactive substances, including polyketides and peptides. The discovery, published in Nature, sheds light on the complex symbiotic relationships between sponges and bacteria, and could lead to breakthroughs in medical treatment.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature·DateJan 29, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Identified a subgroup of schizophrenia patients with motor disorders

Researchers have identified a subgroup of schizophrenia patients with motor disorders, characterized by low levels of A2A adenosine receptors in the basal ganglia. The study proposes a specific combination therapy involving antipsychotics and A2A agonists to reduce symptoms.

SourceIDIBELL-Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute·JournalPsychiatry Research·DateJan 29, 2014

Obesity-induced fatty liver disease reversed in mice

Researchers discovered that valproic acid activates AMPK, which reduces fat accumulation in the liver and lowers blood sugar levels in obese mice. Treated mice showed decreased blood sugar levels and a stabilization of weight.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalMolecular Pharmacology·DateJan 29, 2014

Protein synthesis and chance

Researchers at SISSA have developed a mathematical model of protein synthesis, revealing that the process is more stochastic than previously thought. This new understanding sheds light on the random component influencing protein translation times, which can affect the efficiency of the process.

SourceInternational School of Advanced Studies (SISSA)·JournalPhysical Review E·DateJan 29, 2014

Autism Speaks study finds advances towards universal early screening

A new study from Autism Speaks found that a multipronged approach is needed to assess children for autism, increasing early detection rates. However, challenges remain, including limited follow-up care and shortages of specialists and therapy programs.

SourceAutism Speaks·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateJan 29, 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: Neuroscientists use lightwaves to improve brain tumor surgery

Researchers developed a method using Raman spectroscopy to distinguish normal brain tissue from brain tumor tissue, achieving up to 99.5% accuracy in distinguishing between the two. The technique has the potential to improve outcomes for patients undergoing surgery to remove glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), a deadly type of brain tumor.

SourceHenry Ford Health·JournalJournal of Neuro-Oncology·DateJan 29, 2014

A sensor detects salt on the road to avoid excess

A sensor has been developed to detect residual salt on road surfaces, allowing for preventive action to avoid excess salt application. This can reduce financial waste and minimize environmental impact by protecting vegetation and aquifers.

SourceUniversidad Carlos III de Madrid·JournalSensors and Actuators B Chemical·DateJan 29, 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.

Measuring brain activity in premature infants

Researchers have developed a new methodology to measure brain activity in newborns and children, particularly those born prematurely. The technique uses Event-Related Potential (ERP) and is child-friendly, allowing for the investigation of cortical processing of touch and speech sounds.

SourceThe Journal of Visualized Experiments·JournalJournal of Visualized Experiments·DateJan 29, 2014

Connectedness, human use of buildings shape indoor bacterial communities

A study published in PLOS ONE found that architectural design characteristics, human use, and ventilation sources influence bacterial community structure in buildings. Dust samples revealed over 30,000 types of bacteria, with distinct communities found in high-traffic areas and restrooms containing organisms associated with the human gut.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 29, 2014

Study finds mammography beneficial for younger women

A study found that routine screening mammography in women aged 40-49 leads to earlier diagnosis of smaller tumors and reduced chemotherapy use. The researchers concluded that annual screenings starting at age 40 saves lives by identifying breast cancers in initial stages.

SourceUniversity Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·DateJan 29, 2014

DNA nanoarchitecture research underway at Rutgers-Camden

A Rutgers-Camden scholar is working on a Multidisciplinary University Research Initiative project to create artificial DNA nanoarchitectures that mimic natural functions. The goal is to aid in disease diagnostics and improve energy conversion, such as converting cellulose or sugar into energy.

SourceRutgers University·DateJan 29, 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.

Designer proteins provide new information about the body's signal processes

Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have created 22 semi-synthetic designer proteins that can regulate specific biochemical tasks. The discovery provides unique molecular understanding of protein interactions, which could lead to more effective pharmaceuticals targeting stroke, pain, and depression.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 29, 2014

Cambridge and Norwich win major boost for synthetic biology

A new UK synthetic biology centre, OpenPlant, has been awarded £12 million funding to create a climate of openness in the field. The centre aims to develop and share new tools and libraries of plant DNA, fostering innovation in sustainable agriculture and medicine.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·DateJan 29, 2014

Two stressed people equals less stress

A new study from the USC Marshall School of Business found that sharing feelings with someone having a similar emotional response to a threatening situation can help decrease stress. By discussing their emotions, individuals can experience reduced levels of stress-related hormones like cortisol.

SourceUSC Marshall School of Business·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·DateJan 29, 2014

Vaccine used to treat cervical precancers triggers immune cell response

Researchers have developed a vaccine that triggers an immune cell response within the damaged tissue itself, potentially providing a more accurate way to evaluate its effectiveness. The vaccine has shown promise in treating cervical precancers, with some patients experiencing complete regression of lesions.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJan 29, 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.

Prostate cancer signal reawakens 'sleeper agent' cells in bones

Dormant prostate cancer cells in bone tissue can be reactivated to form secondary tumors when exposed to the signaling molecule RANKL. Researchers have discovered that this reactivation process may lead to metastatic prostate cancer in bones, and targeting it could prevent metastasis and improve survival rates.

SourceBioScientifica Limited·DateJan 29, 2014

Weapons tied to repeat domestic abuse

A new MSU study found that the use of knives, guns, or vehicles in initial abuse incidents is a key predictor of ongoing domestic violence. Women who experienced such incidents were more likely to make follow-up calls to police for physical and nonphysical abuse.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalViolence Against Women·DateJan 29, 2014

Sea level variations escalating along eastern Gulf of Mexico coast

Research reveals a significant increase in summer sea level rise and decrease in winter sea level drop along the eastern Gulf Coast, leading to a greater seasonal difference. This change threatens coastal ecosystems, increases flood risk from hurricanes, and may disrupt salt balance in sensitive wetlands.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJan 29, 2014

Rise in wildfires may significantly degrade air quality, health in the future

A study published in Environmental Science & Technology suggests that increased wildfires due to climate change will have significant impacts on air quality and human health. By 2100, emissions from wildfires in California are expected to grow by 19-101%, posing challenges for agriculture and ecosystems.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJan 29, 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.

Less than half of children treated for anxiety achieve long-term relief

According to a new study, nearly half of children treated for anxiety achieve significant improvement and are disease-free after six years. However, the same number of children do not fare well and require ongoing mental health therapy. The research emphasizes the importance of vigilant follow-up and monitoring to mitigate anxiety's lo...

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateJan 29, 2014

Better sweet corn research, better production

Researchers in sweet corn production emphasize the need for accurate measurement of crop responses to improve decision-making. The current approach often focuses on yield, whereas processor variables like recovery and case production are crucial for productivity.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalField Crops Research·DateJan 29, 2014

Penguin future uncertain in the face of climate change

A study published in PLOS ONE suggests that penguins' ability to respond to changes in sea ice concentrations is disrupted by extreme environmental events. Adélie penguins can cope with reduced summer sea ice, but extreme events like giant icebergs reduce their access to prey and overall efficiency.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 29, 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.

UCSF receives $50 million gift

The University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) has received a $50 million gift from the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation to establish its first dedicated women's hospital at Mission Bay. The new hospital will offer integrated care for women, including cancer treatment and reproductive care.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·DateJan 29, 2014

Puzzling question in bacterial immune system answered

Researchers have determined how Cas9, a bacterial enzyme, identifies and degrades foreign DNA during viral infections and induces site-specific genetic changes. The presence of short DNA sequences known as PAM is critical to the ability of Cas9 to target and cleave DNA sequences.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature·DateJan 29, 2014

UA researchers trace bat killer's path

Researchers at the University of Akron identify fungi closely related to WNS, predicting future of North American bats; a single bat can eat thousands of insects, critical to controlling agricultural pests. The fungus can survive in caves without bats, making reintroduction attempts doomed to failure.

SourceUniversity of Akron·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 29, 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.

UF researchers develop blood test for devastating disease of boas and pythons

Researchers have developed a simple immune-based screening test for inclusion body disease (IBD) in snakes, a debilitating condition that affects boa constrictors and pythons. The test uses a monoclonal antibody to detect the presence of IBD in snakes, offering a potential solution for managing the spread of the disease.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 29, 2014

China's reliance on lower-paid contract nurses may compromise patient care

A recent study from Columbia University School of Nursing found that hospitals with a high number of contract nurses had significantly higher levels of patient dissatisfaction and lower quality ratings. The study suggests that equal pay for equal work is essential for better patient outcomes, as low job satisfaction among contract nurs...

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalHuman Resources for Health·DateJan 29, 2014

'Rogue' asteroids may be the norm

A new asteroid map reveals that rogue asteroids, once considered anomalous, are actually diverse and widespread throughout the main asteroid belt. The study suggests that the early solar system underwent dramatic changes, potentially affecting planetary migration and Earth's water development.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateJan 29, 2014

Study: Oropharyngeal cancer on the rise in young adults

A new study reveals a significant increase in oropharyngeal cancers among young adults, with human papillomavirus (HPV) identified as a possible cause. The five-year survival rate for this age group is 54%, with African Americans facing poorer outcomes compared to other races.

SourceHenry Ford Health·DateJan 29, 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.

Rewards facilitate human cooperation under natural selection

Researchers at University of Vienna investigate how voluntary reward funds can help coordinate cooperators in threshold public good games. Their study finds that rewards can lead to high levels of cooperation and even 100% cooperation in certain conditions.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalBiology Letters·DateJan 29, 2014

Universe's early galaxies grew massive through collisions

Scientists discovered that massive galaxies in the early universe were formed by explosive star formation triggered by galaxy collisions. This theory contradicts the traditional view that galaxies grew larger over time through constant star formation and mergers.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Niels Bohr Institute·DateJan 29, 2014

Clemson researcher to present at Connecticut's youth concussion conference

Clemson University researcher Jimmy Sanderson will present on communication strategies for managing concussions in sports at the Connecticut Concussion Conference. The conference aims to discuss solutions for schools and youth sport organizations to mitigate concussions and legal risks, a topic of growing public health concern.

SourceClemson University·DateJan 29, 2014

NYU researchers take magnetic waves for a spin

Researchers at New York University have created a method to generate short-wavelength spin waves, which can efficiently transfer energy and information in magnetic materials. This breakthrough has the potential to improve communication and electronic devices by offering faster and more energy-efficient alternatives to traditional elect...

SourceNew York University·JournalNanotechnology·DateJan 29, 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.

Researchers discover treatment for rare blood cancer

Researchers at University of British Columbia have discovered a potential new treatment for Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinemia (PNH), a rare blood cancer that causes red blood cells to become vulnerable to the body's complement immune system. The treatment, aurin tricarboxylic acid (ATA), restores blood cell resistance and may also of...

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 29, 2014

Oregon researchers show how building design impacts indoor bacteria

A team of biologists and architects found that building design influences microbial communities, with variations depending on architectural choices. The study analyzed DNA from over 30,000 types of bacteria, revealing distinct communities in different rooms, such as bathrooms and offices.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 29, 2014

Improved ultrasound imaging provides alternate way to visualize tumors

Researchers at UNC School of Medicine have developed a new ultrasound imaging technique that can visualize tumors using a contrast agent composed of tiny bubbles paired with an antibody. This method improves resolution and tumor-detecting ability, potentially leading to lower costs and increased accessibility for cancer treatment.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 29, 2014

Lighting up in uniform

A new study published in Annals of Behavioral Medicine found that smoking behavior in soldiers is linked to war zone stress and unit support. The study, which examined data from over 1,000 US Army soldiers, found that soldiers who started smoking while in war zones were more likely to consume alcohol and hold junior ranks.

SourceSpringer·JournalAnnals of Behavioral Medicine·DateJan 29, 2014

U of Maryland study: Partnership may help address cancer, health disparities

A new partnership between the University of Maryland Medical Center and a rural health education center has shown that empowering underserved communities can lead to increased participation in clinical trials and biospecimen donations. The partnership aims to address racial, income- and geographically-based health disparities by foster...

SourceUniversity of Maryland Medical Center·DateJan 29, 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.

Closing mental-illness gap in Vietnam

A Simon Fraser University researcher is traveling to Vietnam to study the lack of accessible services for people with mental disorders. The project aims to understand how health workers can be integrated into primary care to provide effective interventions.

SourceSimon Fraser University·DateJan 29, 2014

Neanderthals' genetic legacy

Researchers found that Neanderthal DNA is associated with genes affecting type 2 diabetes, Crohn's disease, and lupus. Additionally, they discovered that certain areas of the modern non-African human genome are rich in Neanderthal DNA, suggesting potential benefits for human survival.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNature·DateJan 29, 2014

Deaths attributed directly to climate change cast pall over penguins

A 27-year study found that climate change is a major cause of chick death in Magellanic penguin colonies, with an average of 65% of chicks dying per year. The rising frequency of storms and heatwaves is particularly detrimental to young penguins, who struggle to regulate their body temperature.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 29, 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.

Disappearing snow increases risk of collapsing ice shelves in Antarctica

A new study suggests that Antarctica's ice shelves are at risk of collapsing due to global warming. The disappearance of the snow layer on top of the ice shelves could lead to a rapid increase in sea levels. Researchers warn that urgent action is needed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate this threat.

SourceBritish Antarctic Survey·JournalJournal of Glaciology·DateJan 29, 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.

First weather map of brown dwarf

A team of astronomers has successfully mapped the surface features of Luhman 16B, a brown dwarf located six light-years from Earth. The new results reveal dark and light patches on the surface, which can be used to study weather patterns in other solar systems.

SourceESO·JournalNature·DateJan 29, 2014

Dinosaur fossils from China help Penn researchers describe new 'Titan'

A new sauropod species, Yongjinglong datangi, has been discovered in northwestern China, providing insights into the diversity of Titanosaurs. The fossil remains suggest that the animal was a juvenile or subadult, with features indicating potential for growth and increased size in adults.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 29, 2014

Study measures how well Asian carp prevention effort will work

Experts estimate that hydrologic separation and electric barriers can prevent up to 95-100% and 85-95% of Asian carp introductions, respectively. Physical separation is found to be the most effective method, with a high probability of preventing introduction into Lake Michigan.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJan 29, 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.

Jamming in tumors

Scientists at Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research find that interferon-beta inhibits neutrophil migration into tumors, reducing new blood vessel formation and tumor growth. This discovery could improve treatment options for certain cancers.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Infection Research·JournalInternational Journal of Cancer·DateJan 29, 2014

Cooperative SO2 and NOx aerosol formation in haze pollution

Research explores cooperative transition of SO2 and NOx into secondary aerosols in China's haze pollution, showing positive feedback mechanism that accelerates air pollution. Authors conclude that controlling precursor gases is crucial to reduce PM2.5 concentrations.

SourceScience China Press·DateJan 29, 2014

When populations collide

Researchers found that humans in east Asia have more of their genome originating from Neanderthals than Europeans, while Africans have little or none. The genetic changes most often inherited from Neanderthals were disproportionately in genes related to keratin, a component of skin and hair.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalNature·DateJan 29, 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.

Imaging autoimmune diabetes

Lund University researchers have created a method to visualize inflammatory processes in the pancreas during type 1 diabetes. This allows them to study the body's response to new treatment strategies and potentially develop a model for human immune system diseases.

SourceLund University·JournalDiabetologia·DateJan 29, 2014

Don't forget the customers after mergers

A recent study found that companies that successfully achieve a dual emphasis of improving efficiency and customer satisfaction experience the highest increase in long-term financial performance. The research suggests that ignoring customers during mergers can lead to missed opportunities and decreased value for firms.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of Service Research·DateJan 29, 2014

Intuitive number games boost children's math performance

Researchers found that practicing intuitive numerical exercises can enhance children's ability to solve math problems. Children who practiced evaluating the number of objects performed better on arithmetic tests immediately afterward than those who evaluated other qualities.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalCognition·DateJan 29, 2014

Kindergarten weight strong indicator of childhood obesity

A recent study by Emory researchers found that kindergarten weight is a strong indicator of childhood obesity. Overweight kindergartners were four times more likely to become obese by the 8th grade, highlighting the importance of early intervention.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJan 29, 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.

Oral immunotherapy for children's peanut allergy moves a step closer

A new study shows that oral immunotherapy can enable children with severe peanut allergies to consume large amounts of peanut protein without experiencing allergic symptoms. After six months of treatment, 62% of participants were able to tolerate a daily dose of 1400mg of peanut protein, significantly improving their quality of life.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateJan 29, 2014

UFO cross-section gives snakes a lift

Researchers used a 3D printer to recreate the snake's UFO-like cross-section and found that it generates sufficient lift at most angles. However, they also discovered a massive spike in lift when tilting the model at 35 degrees and an unexpected vortex sucking the rod down.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateJan 29, 2014

Scientists shine spotlight on Herdwicks' origins

A new study reveals Herdwicks contain a 'primitive genome' from ancient founder flocks in Sweden, Finland, and the Orkney Islands. The research also found that these breeds have lower risk of infection to Maidi Visna virus, providing potential genetic traits for future sheep farming.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 29, 2014

£3m drug safety center investment

The Medical Research Council Centre for Drug Safety Science at the University of Liverpool has received £3m in new funding to continue reducing the impact of adverse reactions to medicinal drugs. Adverse drug reactions result in significant healthcare costs and pose a major challenge for the pharmaceutical industry.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·DateJan 29, 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.

Findings point to potential treatment for virus causing childhood illnesses

Scientists have identified a potential treatment mechanism for the EV71 virus, which causes severe brain swelling and paralysis in children. The discovery was made by creating antibodies that can neutralize the virus by inducing genome release, rendering it non-infectious.

SourcePurdue University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 29, 2014

VIB scientists find new strategy to combat bacterial infections

Researchers at VIB have identified a chemical substance that can disarm pathogenic bacteria, allowing them to treat urinary tract infections without destroying beneficial bacteria. This approach could provide a lower risk of resistance development and spread.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalJournal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy·DateJan 29, 2014

A faster way to flag bacteria-tainted food -- and prevent illness

Scientists have developed a faster and more specific method to detect bacteria-tainted food, using nanomechanical cantilevers that can identify eight different types of Salmonella. The technique has the potential to prevent food poisoning and save thousands of lives annually.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateJan 29, 2014

Real glass that bends but doesn't break

Researchers at McGill University have developed a technique to increase the toughness of glass by creating patterns of micro-cracks, mimicking the structure of nacre. This process increases glass's resistance to shattering and can be easily scaled up for larger glass sheets.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 29, 2014

Infection control practices not adequately implemented at many hospital ICUs: study

A nationwide survey of 1,534 hospital ICUs found uneven compliance with infection prevention policies, with only 27-68% reporting policies for catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTI). The use of checklists and ventilator bundles was reported by most hospitals, but clinician adherence rates were low, ranging from 6-71%.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Infection Control·DateJan 29, 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.

Engineer brings new twist to sodium-ion battery technology

A Kansas State University engineer has developed a composite paper that can efficiently store sodium atoms and serve as a flexible current collector in sodium-ion batteries. The paper offers stable charge capacity and eliminates the need for polymeric binders and copper current collectors.

SourceKansas State University·JournalACS Nano·DateJan 29, 2014

Decibels and democracy

Researchers at the University of Iowa found that a single loud voice can skew the result of voice votes, a common decision-making feature in American public life. The study suggests adjusting voting locations or controlling sound levels to minimize bias.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalThe Journal of the Acoustical Society of America·DateJan 29, 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.

Slow reaction time linked with early death

Researchers found that people with slower reaction times were 25% more likely to die within 15 years compared to those with average reaction times. The study, published in PLOS ONE, controlled for age, sex, and lifestyle factors.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 29, 2014

Asteroid diversity points to a 'snow globe' solar system

The asteroid belt's diverse composition suggests that giant planets' migrations reshaped the solar system, potentially delivering water to Earth and influencing its habitability. Small asteroids show particularly varied compositions, suggesting a complex history of collisions and re-deposition.

SourceCenter for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian·JournalNature·DateJan 29, 2014

New theory may lead to more efficient solar cells

Researchers at the University of Houston and Universite de Montréal have developed a new theoretical model that may improve the efficiency of solar cells. The model explores quantum-mechanical effects in polymeric semiconductors, which could lead to more efficient materials with blends of semiconducting polymers and fullerenes.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 29, 2014

Altruistic acts more common in states with high well-being

A new study suggests that subjective well-being may 'nudge' adults into altruistic acts like kidney donation. States with higher per capita donation rates tend to have higher levels of well-being, and the link holds even after accounting for regional variation in other factors.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateJan 29, 2014

Elsevier announces the launch of open access journal: Pathogenesis

The new open access journal Pathogenesis will publish peer-reviewed original research and high-quality reviews in various areas of pathology. It aims to provide a platform for researchers and clinicians to share their work quickly and widely, promoting excellence in pathology.

SourceElsevier·JournalPathogenesis·DateJan 29, 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.