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Science News for July 30, 2014


Mapping the optimal route between 2 quantum states

Researchers from the University of Rochester and others have developed a theory to predict the most likely path a system will take between two quantum states. By tracking millions of quantum trajectories, they were able to demonstrate good agreement between theory and experiment.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalNature·DateJul 30, 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.

Senescence in adipose-derived stem cells and its implications in nerve regeneration

Researchers investigated the impact of cellular senescence on adipose-derived stem cell morphology and function. The study found that senescence compromises the clinical application of these cells for peripheral nerve regenerative cell therapy. Senescence modulating factors influence adipose-derived stem cell behavior.

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateJul 30, 2014

Scientists call for new strategy in pursuit of HIV-free generation

Infants born to HIV-infected mothers are at risk due to limited access to formula and breastfeeding challenges. Researchers advocate for immune-based interventions, including vaccines and nutritional supplements, to prevent postnatal HIV-1 transmission. The development of novel prophylaxis strategies is crucial to achieving an HIV-free...

SourceCell Press·JournalTrends in Microbiology·DateJul 30, 2014

Classic Lewis Carroll character inspires new ecological model

A new ecological model, called a mean field model for competition, incorporates the 'Red Queen Effect' and improves understanding of species evolution. The model predicts that new species with competitive advantages will evolve and outcompete current species.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalEcology Letters·DateJul 30, 2014

Early detection and transplantation provide best outcomes for 'bubble boy' disease

A study analyzing 10 years of data on children with severe combined immune deficiency (SCID) found that early detection through newborn screening and transplantation significantly improves survival rates. Children transplanted before 3.5 months old had excellent survival, regardless of donor source or infection status.

SourceDana-Farber Cancer Institute·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJul 30, 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.

Study: Marine pest provides advances in maritime anti-fouling and biomedicine

Researchers from Clemson University have discovered that lipids play a crucial role in the adhesion mechanism of barnacle cyprid larvae, paving the way for novel anti-fouling paint for ships and boats. The findings also provide insight into the development of new bio-adhesives for medical and industrial applications.

SourceClemson University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 30, 2014

Antarctic ice sheet is result of CO2 decrease, not continental breakup

Researchers from the University of New Hampshire found that decreased carbon dioxide levels led to the initiation of Antarctic glaciation 34 million years ago, contradicting a long-held theory. The study suggests that CO2-driven cooling played a crucial role in generating the ice sheet.

SourceUniversity of New Hampshire·JournalNature·DateJul 30, 2014

Nature inspires a greener way to make colorful plastics

Researchers create colored plastics by designing surface structures at the nanoscopic level, manipulating light to produce a wide spectrum of colors. This new approach reduces the need for dyes and pigments, decreasing plastic waste and improving recyclability.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalNano Letters·DateJul 30, 2014

Hope for more accurate diagnosis of memory problems

Researchers at the University of East Anglia have developed a new diagnostic tool to distinguish between different types of dementia and memory damage. The model takes into account both semantic and autobiographical memories, leading to better approaches for rehabilitation.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalJournal of Cognitive Neuroscience·DateJul 30, 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.

Young binary star system may form planets with weird and wild orbits

Astronomers discovered a young binary star system with wildly misaligned planet-forming disks, providing the clearest picture yet of protoplanetary disks around a double star. The system's unique configuration suggests that planets may be influenced by the gravitational pull of a second star, leading to unusual orbits.

SourceNational Radio Astronomy Observatory·JournalNature·DateJul 30, 2014

Older adults are at risk of financial abuse

A study of over 4,100 New York State residents aged 60+ found that 2.7% were financially exploited in the past year, with 78% having their money or property stolen. Family members, particularly adult children, are the most common perpetrators.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateJul 30, 2014

Money talks when it comes to acceptability of 'sin' companies, study reveals

A new study from the University of Toronto's Rotman School of Management found that institutional investors and analysts tend to overlook social norms when investing in 'sin' companies, such as tobacco, alcohol, and gaming firms. However, when performance expectations rise, these investors become more willing to compromise on their val...

SourceUniversity of Toronto, Rotman School of Management·DateJul 30, 2014

Chinese mosquitos on the Baltic Sea

Ancient insect inclusions in Baltic Sea amber reveal a surprising similarity with Asian forms, dating back 40-50 million years. This discovery fills a long-standing gap in the understanding of species migration between continents.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJul 30, 2014

Drug-resistant malaria has spread to critical border regions of Southeast Asia

Drug-resistant malaria parasites have spread to critical border regions of Southeast Asia, posing a significant threat to global malaria control efforts. The study found artemisinin resistance in several countries, including Cambodia, Thailand, Vietnam, and Myanmar, with signs of emerging resistance in other areas.

SourceWellcome Trust·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJul 30, 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.

How is depression related to dementia?

A new study indicates that depression is a true risk factor for dementia and that targeting depression may help prevent cognitive decline. People with mild cognitive impairment were more likely to have higher levels of depression symptoms before diagnosis.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateJul 30, 2014

How black truffles deal with the jumpers in their genome

The black truffle genome contains a high rate of methylation, with transposon elements being more likely to be methylated than genes. Reversible epigenetic processes allow the truffle to adapt to its surroundings, increasing its plasticity and potentially playing a role in controlling traits like aroma and color.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalGenome Biology·DateJul 30, 2014

Our genes have made us susceptible to atherosclerosis, while our environment determines its speed and severity

A study published in Global Heart explores the prevalence of atherosclerosis across ancient populations, revealing that genetic susceptibility is present in all cultures. Environmental factors such as diet, lifestyle, and physical activity play a crucial role in determining when and how quickly atherosclerosis develops.

SourceWorld Heart Federation·JournalGlobal Heart·DateJul 30, 2014

Income is a major driver of avoidable hospitalizations across New Jersey

A Rutgers study found that household income is the primary factor influencing avoidable hospital visits in New Jersey, with higher incomes associated with lower rates of hospitalizations. The research also identified some low-income areas where hospital systems perform better than expected, suggesting that social determinants such as a...

SourceRutgers University·DateJul 30, 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.

Many depressed preschoolers still suffer in later school years

A new study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry found that depressed preschoolers are more likely to suffer from depression in elementary and middle school years. The researchers followed 246 children and found that those diagnosed with depression as preschoolers were 2.5 times more likely to develop the condition later on.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateJul 30, 2014

Soy may help women's hearts if they start early

A new study published in Menopause finds that lifelong soy consumption helps prevent atherosclerosis and improves cholesterol levels in premenopausal monkeys. After menopause, switching to a soy diet can also improve cholesterol levels, but has limited effect on plaque progression.

SourceThe Menopause Society·JournalMenopause·DateJul 30, 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.

Spin-based electronics: New material successfully tested

Scientists demonstrate SmB6's insulating properties with 100% efficiency at low temperatures, marking a breakthrough in spintronics technology. The discovery paves the way for new electronic technologies that utilize electron spin, which is a key property of topological insulators.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 30, 2014

Fear of losing money, not spending habits, affects investor risk tolerance, MU study finds

A recent study at the University of Missouri-Columbia found that investors' willingness to take risks is primarily driven by their fear of losing money, rather than spending habits. The researchers analyzed data from a risk tolerance survey and found that loss aversion plays a significant role in shaping investors' risk tolerance.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalFinancial Services Review·DateJul 30, 2014

Exploring 3-D printing to make organs for transplants

Scientists are developing 3D printing technology to create working tissues and organs on-demand, addressing the organ shortage. They discovered that adding more cells in bioinks reduces droplet size and dispensing rate, advancing the technology.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalLangmuir·DateJul 30, 2014

Supportive moms and sisters boost female baboon's rank

A study of dominance in female baboons found that close ties with mom and supportive sisters play a crucial role in determining social status. Females born to high-ranking mothers tend to reach higher ranks, while those with more sisters are more likely to rise within their family group.

SourceDuke University·JournalAnimal Behaviour·DateJul 30, 2014

Bees able to spot which flowers offer best rewards before landing

Bumblebees can form associative relationships between floral features and pollen quality, allowing them to quickly select the best flowers for food. This ability enables bees to efficiently find nutritious pollen, crucial for rearing their young, by recognizing color cues on petals.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateJul 30, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Dimly lit working environments: Correcting your body clock is possible!

Researchers at Inserm found that artificial light with blue wavelengths can synchronize the body clock and activate non-visual functions in extreme lighting conditions. This breakthrough has practical applications for dimly lit workplaces, enabling design of lighting strategies to maintain staff health, productivity, and safety.

SourceINSERM (Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale)·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 30, 2014

New catalyst converts carbon dioxide to fuel

Researchers have synthesized a catalyst that improves their system for converting waste carbon dioxide into syngas, a precursor of gasoline and other energy-rich products. The new catalyst uses molybdenum disulfide and an ionic liquid to reduce carbon dioxide in a chemical reaction, improving efficiency and lowering cost.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 30, 2014

Chronic infection, smoke inhalation, or yet to be discovered causes could explain why ancient men and women had atherosclerosis

Research suggests that ancient cultures may have been plagued by atherosclerosis due to chronic infection, inflammation, or exposure to smoke. The study of mummies from various cultures reveals a high incidence of the disease, which contradicts the expectation that modern lifestyles are the primary cause.

SourceWorld Heart Federation·JournalGlobal Heart·DateJul 30, 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.

Deep-sea octopus has longest-known egg-brooding period

A deep-sea octopus has been found to protect and nourish its eggs for an astonishing 53 months, with 160 eggs hatching almost 4.5 years later. This record-breaking brooding period highlights the importance of parental care in producing well-developed offspring in challenging environments.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 30, 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.

Teen insomnia is linked with depression and anxiety

A study of high school students found that teen insomnia is independently linked with depression, generalized anxiety disorder, and panic disorder. Eveningness chronotype – being more active in the evenings – is also an independent risk factor for insomnia and depression among teens.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalSleep Medicine·DateJul 30, 2014

Neuro researchers advocate for a shift in thinking for stroke rehabilitation

Researchers suggest targeting higher-motor areas instead of single targets to achieve personalized, not popular science, in stroke rehabilitation. By exploring substrates and defining successes and failures, they aim to create a shift in perspective that forces a broader understanding of brain stimulation's potential.

SourceSAGE·JournalThe Neuroscientist·DateJul 30, 2014

Appreciation for fat jokes, belief in obese stereotypes linked

A study found that people who appreciate weight-related humor tend to hold negative attitudes towards obese individuals, believing in stereotypes such as laziness and unintelligence. In contrast, those who dislike the humor are less likely to believe in these stereotypes.

SourceBowling Green State University·JournalPsychology of Popular Media Culture·DateJul 30, 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.

NASA's IceCube no longer on ice

NASA has chosen a team at Goddard Space Flight Center to build its first Earth science-related CubeSat mission, known as IceCube. The tiny payload will test a new submillimeter-wave receiver that could help advance scientists' understanding of ice clouds and their role in climate change.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 30, 2014

F1000Research brings static research figures to life

The article introduces a proof-of-concept figure that generates data 'on the fly' when an online article is viewed. Readers can select parameters to alter the generated figure, allowing for self-evaluation of the data. This innovation aims to improve transparency and reproducibility in scientific publishing.

SourceFaculty of 1000·JournalF1000Research·DateJul 30, 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.

Finding quantum lines of desire

Researchers use a superconducting quantum device to record and analyze the paths a quantum system takes between two states, revealing the existence of a quantum equivalent of classical 'least action' path. The findings have implications for controlling biological and chemical systems using lasers.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalNature·DateJul 30, 2014

NSF grant to Wayne State supports new concept for manufacturing nanoscale devices

A Wayne State University professor has received a $330,000 NSF grant to explore a novel method for manufacturing nanoscale devices using solution-based processes and inexpensive raw materials. The research aims to overcome the current bottleneck in scaling up nanotechnology by connecting different functional materials into one device.

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·DateJul 30, 2014

Brain response to appetizing food cues varies among obese people

A new study found that obese individuals with a specific genetic mutation have similar brain activity when shown appetizing foods, whereas overweight individuals without the mutation showed lower response levels. This suggests a link between the MC4R pathway and food cravings.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateJul 30, 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.

Rossi Foundation pledges $1M for JAX neurobehavioral research center

The Jackson Laboratory will establish a new Neurobehavioral Biometry Center with a $1 million pledge from the Cornelia Cogswell Rossi Foundation. The Center aims to accelerate research in neurological and neurobehavioral disorders by assessing behavior related to disease characteristics and therapy responses.

SourceJackson Laboratory·DateJul 30, 2014

Saving seeds the right way can save the world's plants

A new study recommends a tailored approach to seed collections, collecting from a wide area and about 25 maternal plants per population to capture genetic diversity. This method can preserve more rare genes than traditional one-size-fits-all approaches, potentially saving rare plant species from extinction.

SourceNational Institute for Mathematical and Biological Synthesis (NIMBioS)·JournalBiological Conservation·DateJul 30, 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.

How is depression related to dementia?

A new study by Rush University Medical Center researchers found that depression is independently associated with an increased risk of developing dementia. The study suggests that targeting and treating depression could help prevent or delay cognitive decline in older adults.

SourceRush University Medical Center·JournalNeurology·DateJul 30, 2014

Dyscalculia: Burdened by blunders with numbers

A new study reveals that children with dyscalculia face significant academic and psychological challenges due to their math-related learning disability. These children often experience a negative self-image, avoidance strategies, and poor performance in subjects where they excel, limiting their opportunities for higher education.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 30, 2014

Big data confirms climate extremes are here to stay

Researchers used big data science to extract insights on climate extremes, finding that global warming may not mean fewer extreme cold snaps. The study suggests that natural processes driving weather anomalies could continue to occur in a warming future.

SourceNortheastern University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 30, 2014

Journal supplement details progress in African medical education

The Medical Education Partnership Initiative (MEPI) is a $130 million NIH-funded program that has increased enrollment and broadened curricula in sub-Saharan Africa. MEPI has also improved Internet access, skills labs, and research capacity development, with significant accomplishments reported from institutions across the region.

SourceNIH/Fogarty International Center·JournalAcademic Medicine·DateJul 30, 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.

Sugar mimics guide stem cells toward neural fate

A team of scientists at the University of California, San Diego, has developed synthetic glycopolymers that mimic natural sugars on cell surfaces. These molecules successfully guided embryonic stem cells into neural rosettes, precursors to mature neural cells.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJul 30, 2014

Vocal variety in African penguins

Researchers studied the vocal behavior of African penguins, identifying four basic vocalizations used by adults for communication. Juveniles and chicks also have distinct begging calls to request food. The study provides valuable insights into the vocal repertoire of endangered seabirds.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 30, 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.

High frequency of potential entrapment gaps in hospital beds

A survey of hospital beds in Ireland revealed a high frequency of potential entrapment gaps, particularly in zones 2 and 3. The study emphasizes the importance of monitoring and maintaining bedrails to prevent head and neck entrapments.

SourceOxford University Press UK·JournalAge and Ageing·DateJul 30, 2014

Watching Schrödinger's cat die (or come to life)

Physicists at UC Berkeley have demonstrated a way to follow the 'life history' of a quantum system, allowing for continuous error correction. This technology could enable steering quantum evolution and optimizing chemical reactions.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNature·DateJul 30, 2014

The promise and profits driving our pill-popping culture

The article discusses the role of pills in modern medicine, highlighting both their therapeutic benefits and adverse effects. Coauthors suggest that pills should be used more selectively and viewed as a

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalThe Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine·DateJul 30, 2014

Tidal forces gave moon its shape, according to new analysis

A new study by researchers at UC Santa Cruz shows that most of the moon's overall shape can be explained by tidal effects acting early in the moon's history. The results provide insights into the moon's early history, its orbital evolution, and its current orientation in the sky.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalNature·DateJul 30, 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.

Decades-old amber collection offers new views of a lost world

A massive 20-million-year-old Dominican amber collection is yielding fresh insights into ancient tropical insects and their habitats. The discovery of a pygmy locust represents an intermediate stage of evolution in its subfamily, revealing vestigial wings that had lost their primary function.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalZooKeys·DateJul 30, 2014

Pesticide DDT linked to slow metabolism, obesity and diabetes

Exposure to pesticide DDT before birth is linked to increased risk of metabolic syndrome in female mice, characterized by obesity, high cholesterol, and diabetes. The study also found sex differences, with females more susceptible to these conditions.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 30, 2014

A blood test for suicide?

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have discovered a genetic alteration linked to stress reactions that could lead to suicidal thoughts and behaviors. The study suggests that a blood test based on this finding may be able to identify individuals at increased risk of suicide attempts, allowing for early intervention and prevention.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateJul 30, 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.

Resistance to key malaria drug spreading at alarming rate in Southeast Asia

Artemisinin resistance has become widespread in Southeast Asia, particularly in Cambodia, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam. A six-day course of artemisinin-based combination therapy proved highly effective in treating drug-resistant malaria cases.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJul 30, 2014

Ligaments disruption: A new perspective in the prognosis of SCI

Ligaments disruption is a new perspective in the prognosis of Spinal Cord Injury (SCI), offering a more accurate prediction of recovery outcomes. This approach has been published in Neural Regeneration Research and can be an essential tool for physicians in providing care to patients and families.

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateJul 30, 2014

New research shows lack of motivation affects cognitive performance in schizophrenia

New study reveals a significant relationship between motivational deficit and poor cognitive performance in people with schizophrenia. Lower levels of motivation are associated with greater cognitive impairment, suggesting that understanding the impact of motivational impairment is crucial for improving treatments.

SourceCentre for Addiction and Mental Health·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateJul 30, 2014

New malaria vaccine candidates identified

Researchers discovered new vaccine targets that could help combat malaria by identifying previously untested antigens and gaining insights into antigen combination. A group of infected children was followed over six months to identify combinations of antibodies providing up to 100% protection against clinical episodes.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJul 30, 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.

Fighting over proposed changes to food labels

The FDA is considering significant changes to the Nutrition Facts label, including listing added sugars, vitamin D, and potassium on every label. Industry groups are opposing these changes, arguing that they are unnecessary and could be confusing for consumers.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateJul 30, 2014

Key to aging immune system is discovered

Researchers found that blood-forming stem cells falter with age due to DNA replication problems, leading to a decline in immune function. However, even old stem cells can repair induced DNA damage efficiently and retain molecular tags associated with DNA damage.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature·DateJul 30, 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.