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Science News for July 14, 2014


CRISPR system can promote antibiotic resistance

Researchers found that a mutated CRISPR system in Francisella novicida bacteria makes them more vulnerable to antibiotics and immune responses. The study suggests the regulatory role of Cas9 in envelope integrity and membrane permeability, potentially impacting bacterial virulence.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 14, 2014

Study: Young women with sexy social media photos seen as less competent

A study from Oregon State University found that young women with sexy social media photos are viewed by their peers as less physically and socially attractive. The research suggests that posting such photos may have negative consequences, including reduced task competence.

SourceOregon State University·JournalPsychology of Popular Media Culture·DateJul 14, 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.

Changes in generic pill color and shape disrupt use

Researchers found that variation in generic drug appearance is associated with a greater risk of patients stopping their essential post-heart attack medications. Changes in pill color and shape are linked to increased odds of non-adherence, highlighting the need for healthcare professionals to warn patients about potential changes.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJul 14, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Weighty issue: Stress and high-fat meals combine to slow metabolism in women

A new study at Ohio State University found that experiencing stress before consuming a high-fat meal slows the body's metabolism, potentially contributing to weight gain. The researchers measured the metabolic rate and blood sugar levels of 58 women who reported one or more stressors during the previous day.

SourceOhio State University·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateJul 14, 2014

Bonuses for doctors do little to improve cancer screening in Ontario

Researchers found that bonuses did not improve breast and cervical cancer screening rates, but increased colorectal cancer screening by 4.7% per year. The study suggests alternative strategies like targeted outreach and public advertising campaigns may be more effective in improving cancer screening rates.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateJul 14, 2014

Best for bees to be stay-at-homes

Research by Aarhus University scientists reveals that locally adapted honey bees are better equipped to handle environmental challenges and produce more honey. The study found that colonies with local queen strains lived 83 days longer than those with foreign queens, suggesting a critical role for genetic adaptation in bee survival.

SourceAarhus University·JournalJournal of Apicultural Research·DateJul 14, 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.

Study examines dietary fatty acid intake, risk for Lou Gehrig disease

Researchers found a significant association between higher dietary intakes of total ω-3 PUFAs and reduced risk for ALS. Consuming both α-linolenic acid (ALA) from plant sources and marine ω-3 PUFAs contributed to this protective effect, while ω-6 PUFA intake was not linked to ALS risk.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateJul 14, 2014

Capturing cancer: A powerful new technique for early diagnosis

Researchers have developed a innovative technique called immunosignaturing to capture disease complexity, offering a marked improvement in detection over traditional methods. The technique uses a microarray to profile antibodies circulating in blood, demonstrating high accuracy in identifying multiple diseases.

SourceArizona State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 14, 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 rebuts negative reputation of 'No Child Left Behind'

A recent study published in Educational Evaluation and Policy Analysis found that No Child Left Behind (NCLB) does not have a significant impact on teacher job satisfaction or commitment to the profession. Instead, NCLB has increased autonomy and support for teachers.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalEducational Evaluation and Policy Analysis·DateJul 14, 2014

Timing is not only ticking

Researchers used transgenic zebrafish and multidimensional time-lapse microscopy to visualize gene expression waves and segment formation. They found that the timing of segmentation is influenced by a Doppler effect caused by shortening embryonic tissue, which modulates the wave profile.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience·DateJul 14, 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.

Using competitors' brand name as a keyword can backfire, INFORMS study finds

A new INFORMS study finds that buying competitors' brand names as keywords on search engines can backfire if the advertising brand is inferior to the rival. The authors provide a framework for choosing keywords among brand names, offering advertisers a way to optimize their search ads.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalMarketing Science·DateJul 14, 2014

Neuropeptide Y protects cerebral cortical neurons

Researchers found that Neuropeptide Y prevents excessive production of cytokines, reduces microglial reactivity, and inhibits N-methyl-D-aspartate current in rat cortical neurons. This study suggests a potential neuroprotective role for Neuropeptide Y in cerebral cortical neurons.

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateJul 14, 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.

A-maize-ing double life of a genome

Researchers captured a genetic snapshot of maize 10 million years ago and traced how it used copied genes to cope with domestication pressures. These gene copies played a vital role in optimizing photosynthesis in maize leaves.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalGenome Research·DateJul 14, 2014

Proof: Parkinson's enhances creativity

A new Tel Aviv University study confirms that Parkinson's sufferers exhibit greater creative energy than healthy individuals. Researchers found that Parkinson's patients offered more original answers and thoughtful interpretations during testing.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalAnnals of Neurology·DateJul 14, 2014

Sierra Leone samples: Ebola evidence in West Africa in 2006

Researchers analyzed clinical samples from suspected Lassa fever cases in Sierra Leone and found nearly 9% tested positive for Ebola virus. The study demonstrates that Ebola has been circulating in the region since at least 2006.

SourceUS Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases·JournalEmerging Infectious Diseases·DateJul 14, 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.

Elsevier announces launch of new journal: Current Opinion in Insect Science

The first issue of Current Opinion in Insect Science is now available for free online on ScienceDirect, featuring articles on insect body size, genetics, and social structure. The journal aims to provide a unique platform for specialists to keep up-to-date with the expanding volume of information published in the field of insect science.

SourceElsevier·JournalCurrent Opinion in Insect Science·DateJul 14, 2014

Domestication syndrome: White patches, baby faces and tameness

A new hypothesis proposes that breeding for tameness causes changes in diverse traits, including floppier ears, patches of white fur, and more juvenile faces, due to impaired development or migration of neural crest cells. This unified explanation ties together several components of the domestication syndrome.

SourceGenetics Society of America·JournalGenetics·DateJul 14, 2014

Flower development in 3D: Timing is the key

A team of scientists monitored 14 developmental stages of Arabidopsis thaliana flowers using micro-computed tomography and mass spectrometry, revealing distinct metabolic profiles for each stage. These findings provide new insights into the interaction between developmental processes and metabolism in plant development.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalNew Phytologist·DateJul 14, 2014

Labs characterize carbon for batteries

A new theoretical model predicts how carbon components will perform in lithium-ion batteries, providing a tool for fine-tuning electrodes. The study found a universal linear relationship between lithium binding energy and states-filling work, allowing scientists to quickly evaluate material performance without expensive computations.

SourceRice University·DateJul 14, 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.

'Noisy' memory in schizophrenia

Researchers found that schizophrenia patients exhibit altered brain activity in the ventro-lateral prefrontal cortex, leading to impaired ability to control working memory. This deficit is characterized by increased activation of irrelevant information, hindering cognitive function.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateJul 14, 2014

Rutgers chemists develop technology to produce clean-burning hydrogen fuel

Researchers have developed a novel catalyst that efficiently catalyzes the production of clean-burning hydrogen fuel, outperforming cost-prohibitive platinum and other less-expensive alternatives. The technology, based on carbon nanotubes, could make electrolysis reactions commercially viable using renewable energy sources.

SourceRutgers University·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJul 14, 2014

Prostate cancer is focus of 2 studies, commentary

Two studies suggest that primary androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) for low-risk prostate cancer is not associated with improved survival rates. Alternative treatments may be more effective for patients, but must consider the potential adverse effects and costs of ADT.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJul 14, 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.

University of Illinois researchers demonstrate novel, tunable nanoantennas

A team from the University of Illinois developed a novel, tunable nanoantenna that enables plasmonic field enhancement to actuate mechanical motion. The researchers demonstrated tunability down to 5nm and showed that an electron beam can be used to deform individual p-BNAs or groups with velocities as large as 60 nm/s.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 14, 2014

Molecular mechanisms underlying the prevention of autoim-munity by Roquin revealed

A team of scientists has revealed the molecular mechanisms underlying Roquin's role in preventing autoimmune diseases. The study found that Roquin recognizes a range of RNA binding partners to control T-cell functions, regulating a larger number of genes than previously thought.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateJul 14, 2014

Pre-diabetes label 'unhelpful and unnecessary'

Researchers from UCL and the Mayo Clinic argue that labelling people with moderately high blood sugar as pre-diabetic has no health benefits. The term could create significant burdens on healthcare systems without conferring any long-term health benefits.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalThe BMJ·DateJul 14, 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.

Study finds diagnosing physicians influence therapy decisions for prostate cancer patients

A new study found that physicians play a crucial role in determining whether older men with low-risk prostate cancer receive treatment or undergo active surveillance. Researchers identified significant variations in treatment and observation rates among urologists, with urologist characteristics accounting for more than double the rate...

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJul 14, 2014

New combination drug controls tumor growth and metastasis in mice

Researchers have created a combination drug that controls both tumor growth and metastasis by combining a COX-2 inhibitor and an epoxide hydrolase (sEH) inhibitor. The study found that the dual inhibitor blocked angiogenesis, limiting tumor growth and metastasis in human lung and breast tumors.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 14, 2014

Squishy robots

A phase-changing material developed by MIT researchers allows robots to transform between a rigid and soft state, enabling them to navigate through tight spaces without damaging organs or vessels. The material can also self-heal and repair damage, making it suitable for applications such as surgical robotics and search-and-rescue opera...

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalMacromolecular Materials and Engineering·DateJul 14, 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.

Older adults nearly twice as likely to have memories affected by distractions

A new study from Rice University found that older adults are nearly twice as likely as their younger counterparts to have memories affected by environmental distractions, leading to decreased memory accuracy and speed. This research provides valuable insights into how the brain is affected by environmental interference, critical inform...

SourceRice University·JournalPsychology and Aging·DateJul 14, 2014

Protective effect of α-synuclein knockdown on dopaminergic neurons

Knocking down α-synuclein in a methamphetamine-induced model of Parkinson's disease reduced depression manifestations, increased striatal dopamine and tyrosine hydroxylase levels, and decreased reactive oxygen species. This suggests that α-synuclein may exacerbate oxidative stress and apoptosis in dopaminergic neurons.

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateJul 14, 2014

Meet the gomphothere: UA archaeologist involved in discovery of bones of elephant ancestor

Researchers from the University of Arizona have discovered two juvenile gomphotheres at an archaeological site in northwestern Mexico, dating back 13,400 years. The findings suggest that early humans in North America likely hunted and consumed gomphotheres, expanding our understanding of their diet and behavior.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 14, 2014

The ADC does not reflect cytotoxic edema on the uninjured side after TBI

Researchers found that ADC values accurately reflect changes on the injured side but not on the uninjured side, indicating a delay in pathological changes. This study suggests that ADC measurements may not be reliable for detecting cytotoxic edema on the unaffected brain tissue after traumatic brain injury.

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateJul 14, 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.

Fungicides for crops: Worrying link to fungal drug resistance in UK warns scientists

Research found Aspergillus fungus resistant to life-saving drugs in UK rural areas treated with fungicides. The study highlights a worrying link between fungicide use and the emergence of multi-resistant fungal strains posing a significant threat to transplant patients and those with weakened immune systems.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalJournal of Global Antimicrobial Resistance·DateJul 14, 2014

July/August 2014 Annals of Family Medicine tip sheet

A recent study in Iowa found that nearly all adolescents aged 11-16 had ridden an ATV, with most engaging in risky behaviors like riding daily or weekly and not wearing helmets. The authors conclude that prevention efforts should be prioritized to reduce the risk of pediatric ATV crashes.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateJul 14, 2014

The power of making amends

A recent study from researchers at the University of Miami found that peacemaking efforts such as apologies, offers of compensation, and owning up to one's responsibility increase forgiveness and reduce anger by making the aggressor seem more valuable as a relationship partner. The study suggests that humans have a psychology for confl...

SourceUniversity of Miami·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 14, 2014

Acute glaucoma discovered to be an inflammatory disease

Researchers have discovered that acute glaucoma is an inflammatory disease caused by high eye pressure, leading to vision loss. The study found that a rapid increase in eye pressure triggers an immune response that damages retinal cells.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 14, 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.

MD Anderson researchers discover new route for ovarian cancer spread

Researchers at MD Anderson Cancer Center have discovered that circulating tumor cells (CTCs) rely on the HER3 receptor protein to metastasize to the omentum, a fatty tissue covering abdominal organs. High expression of HER3 is associated with shorter survival in ovarian cancer patients.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalCancer Cell·DateJul 14, 2014

Expert collaboration is the key to sustainable fish and shellfish farming

Researchers propose 'One Health' model to guide sustainable growth of aquaculture industry, addressing animal health and environmental impacts. The model connects experts from various fields to develop sustainable operations ensuring adequate human nutrition and healthy environments.

SourceSpringer Science+Business Media·JournalCurrent Environmental Health Reports·DateJul 14, 2014

Moderate alcohol use associated with increased risk for atrial fibrillation

A new study found an association between moderate alcohol consumption and an increased risk of atrial fibrillation. The research followed 79,016 adults in Sweden over 12 years and found that binge drinking was associated with an increased risk for drinkers of wine and liquor.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateJul 14, 2014

Validity of change in DSM-5 ADHD age of onset criterion confirmed

Researchers found that levels of severity and functional impairment among children with ADHD under 7 were comparable to those with other mental disorders. The study highlights the importance of systematic study of diagnostic criteria in representative samples.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateJul 14, 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.

Cancer is avoidable as you grow older. Here's how.

Certain cancers have a characteristic age at which they occur, and their incidence decreases beyond that age. This 'developmental origin of disease hypothesis' suggests many cancers originate early in life, possibly before birth.

SourceWorld Scientific·JournalBiophysical Reviews and Letters·DateJul 14, 2014

Annals of Internal Medicine tip sheet for July 15, 2014, issue

Research shows that pill appearance can affect how patients take their medications, with a study finding that 30% of heart patients who stopped taking their medication had changed pill color or shape beforehand. In contrast, having strong social ties is associated with lower rates of suicide death among men, according to another study.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJul 14, 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.

Genome-wide analysis reveals genetic similarities among friends

A genome-wide analysis reveals that friends are genetically similar to each other, with an average of 1% DNA in common. The study suggests that social relationships can drive evolutionary advantages, such as increased immunity against diseases.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 14, 2014

Research: Business should embrace 'boomerang employees'

Research by University of Illinois expert T. Brad Harris finds that boomerang employees have distinct experiences, often leaving due to personal shock rather than job dissatisfaction. Organizations can improve re-employment performance by considering previous performance histories, exit terms, and individual circumstances.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalPersonnel Psychology·DateJul 14, 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.

A*STAR partners Roche to develop new cancer therapeutics

A*STAR's Bioprocessing Technology Institute has partnered with Roche to develop new cancer treatments using novel antibodies that can directly target and destroy cancer cells. The partnership aims to improve cancer detection and treatment, offering a potential breakthrough in cancer therapy.

SourceBiomedical Sciences Institutes (BMSI)·DateJul 14, 2014

Scientists deepen genetic understanding of eosinophilic esophagitis

Scientists have identified genetic markers associated with eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE), an inflammatory disease characterized by high levels of immune cells in the esophagus. The study found that several genes are involved in EoE development, which can cause difficulty eating and is often associated with food allergies.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNature Genetics·DateJul 14, 2014

The world's first photonic router

Researchers have successfully demonstrated a photonic router – a quantum device based on an atom that enables routing of single photons by single photons. This achievement brings closer the goal of building quantum computers, which rely on superposition and photonic communication to process data in parallel.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalScience·DateJul 14, 2014

Wisconsin scientists find genetic recipe to turn stem cells to blood

Wisconsin scientists have identified two genetic programs that can turn blank-slate stem cells into red and white blood cells. The discovery gives scientists the tools to make blood products, investigate cell development and production of clinically relevant blood products.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 14, 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.

Bothered by hot flashes? Acupuncture might be the answer

A recent study found that acupuncture can positively impact both the frequency and severity of hot flashes in women undergoing natural menopause. The analysis revealed that various forms of acupuncture, including traditional Chinese medicine and sham acupuncture, were effective in reducing hot flash frequency for up to three months.

SourceThe Menopause Society·JournalMenopause·DateJul 14, 2014

Flashes of light on the superconductor

Researchers induce pseudogap state in material and subject it to laser pulses, inducing a temporary metallic state. The study provides new insight into superconductors and offers the possibility of controlling their characteristics through laser light.

SourceInternational School of Advanced Studies (SISSA)·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 14, 2014

Manuel Serrano proposes a new vision of a process wrongly associated with ageing

Manuel Serrano proposes a new vision of cellular senescence as a mechanism to eliminate unwanted cells and promote tissue regeneration. Recent research reveals that senescence is not intrinsically negative for the organism, but rather a protective mechanism against cell damage.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalNature Reviews Molecular Cell Biology·DateJul 14, 2014

Innovative technique may transform the hunt for new antibiotics and cancer therapies

Researchers develop new technique to quickly uncover novel products produced by bacteria, reducing screening time from thousands to just a few dozen. The method uses genomics and mass spectrometry to detect reactive compounds, enabling the discovery of new antibiotics and anticancer drugs.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalACS Chemical Biology·DateJul 14, 2014