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Science News for July 9, 2014


What drives a child to abuse alcohol?

Researchers used brain structure and function, personality, life experiences, and genetics to predict binge drinking with 70% accuracy. The study identified factors such as impulsivity, hopelessness, and a family history of drug use as key contributors.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalNature·DateJul 9, 2014

Urban heat -- not a myth, and worst where it's wet

A new study reveals that urbanization reduces convection efficiency by 58 percent in wetter climates, leading to a significant rise in daytime temperatures. This finding challenges the long-held belief that vegetation loss is the primary cause of the urban heat island effect.

SourceYale School of the Environment·JournalNature·DateJul 9, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Study cracks how the brain processes emotions

Researchers at Cornell University have discovered that the human brain uses fine-grained patterns of neural activity to represent emotions in a standardized code. This code allows individuals to share similar emotional experiences, regardless of personal perspectives or cultural backgrounds.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateJul 9, 2014

Study finds kidney donation safe for healthy older adults

A new study published in the American Journal of Transplantation found that older kidney donors experience similar longevity and cardiovascular health as healthy individuals. The research, led by Dr. Peter Reese, suggests that donation does not significantly increase the risk of death or heart disease among older adults.

SourceWiley·JournalAmerican Journal of Transplantation·DateJul 9, 2014

Young Hispanics often obese, at higher risk for heart diseases

Severe obesity is associated with considerable excess risk for cardiovascular diseases in young Hispanic adults, according to a new study. Young adults with severe obesity are more likely to develop high blood pressure and diabetes, both risk factors for heart disease.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateJul 9, 2014

One secret of ancient amber revealed

Researchers use new technique to analyze amber's molecular structure, discovering succinic acid plays a crucial role in its stability and longevity. This finding sheds light on the gemstone's extreme durability, which has puzzled scientists for decades.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateJul 9, 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.

Minimally invasive heart stents prove safer

Researchers found a 42% reduction in preventable post-operative complications and a 72% reduction in mortality for minimally invasive surgery compared to open repair. The study analyzed 70,946 cases of abdominal aortic aneurysm repair over seven years.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateJul 9, 2014

RUB chemists develop novel catalyst with 2 functions

Researchers at Ruhr-University Bochum developed a new type of catalyst that can facilitate two opposite reactions: electrolysis of water and combustion of hydrogen with oxygen. This catalyst has the potential to make regenerative fuel cells and rechargeable metal-air batteries more cost-efficient.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJul 9, 2014

Immune function predicts infection risk among child trauma patients

A study by Nationwide Children's Hospital researchers found that an immune marker can predict which critically ill children with traumatic injuries are at risk of developing a hospital-acquired infection. The study suggests that immune system function plays a critical role in preventing infections in these patients.

SourceNationwide Children's Hospital·JournalShock·DateJul 9, 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.

Signal may send cancer's cellular factories into overdrive

Research identifies TOR signalling pathway as key driver of endoplasmic reticulum expansion in cancer cells, enabling constant protein and lipid production. The findings may uncover future targets for cancer treatment.

SourceBiotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 9, 2014

How antioxidants can accelerate cancers, and why they don't protect against them

Recent research suggests that antioxidant supplements and foods may not reduce cancer risk, but instead accelerate cancer development. The study proposes that antioxidants accumulate at distant sites in cells, leaving tumor-promoting ROS relatively unperturbed, which can stimulate cancer cell growth.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJul 9, 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.

New paths into the world of quasiparticles

Researchers at the University of Innsbruck have developed a platform to investigate quasiparticles and entanglement propagation in quantum many-body systems. They can precisely initialize, control, and measure the states and properties of quasiparticle excitations.

SourceUniversity of Innsbruck·JournalNature·DateJul 9, 2014

Sunshine vitamin ups bowel cancer survival odds, study finds

A new study by the University of Edinburgh has found that bowel cancer patients with high levels of vitamin D in their blood are more likely to survive the disease. Patients with the highest levels of vitamin D have half the risk of dying compared to those with the lowest levels, according to the research.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateJul 9, 2014

Human cells' protein factory has an alternate operating manual

Researchers at the University of Maryland have discovered a new process in human genes that can alter protein contents and functions. This process, known as programmed ribosomal frameshifting, may help the body regulate its immune response and prevent harmful side effects.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalNature·DateJul 9, 2014

Scientists watch photosynthesis in action

An international team recorded still frames of photosystem II as it splits water into hydrogen and oxygen, revealing large conformational changes and overall structure alterations. The study paves the way for optimizing catalytic reactions and creating molecular movies of biochemical processes.

SourceDeutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY·JournalNature·DateJul 9, 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.

BU researchers relate arrests with HIV risk environment

A study by BU researchers found that people arrested by police were more likely to share needles and overdose, increasing HIV transmission and mortality. The study suggests that policing practices contribute to the HIV risk environment and recommends prevention programs and policy changes to address this issue.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the International AIDS Society·DateJul 9, 2014

Lung cancer study hints at new treatments

Researchers have uncovered mutations in a cell-signaling pathway that plays a role in forming tumors. These genetic changes may expand treatments for patients, as drugs targeting some of these pathways are already available or in clinical trials.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNature·DateJul 9, 2014

Not at home on the range

Researchers found that Kellet's whelk hosts living beyond their historic Point Conception boundary have neither the amount nor diversity of parasites as those in southern counterparts. This suggests that the northern whelks may have escaped their parasites due to low host densities and limited parasite transmission.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalJournal of Biogeography·DateJul 9, 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.

Controlling contamination in open algae ponds for biofuels

Researchers present integrated approach incorporating pest identification, tracking, and management to mitigate contamination in open pond algae systems suitable for producing biofuel. The solution illustrates its use in cultivating a strain of algae with potential for biofuel production.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalIndustrial Biotechnology·DateJul 9, 2014

Nasal mucosal inhalation of AD vaccine attenuates Aβ1-42-induced cytotoxicity

A novel AD vaccine, Plp-Adeno-X-CMV-(Aβ3-10)10-CpG, was administered via nasal mucosal inhalation to AD transgenic mouse models, producing strong T helper 2 humoral immune responses and reducing Aβ1-42-induced cytotoxicity. This approach offers a promising therapeutic strategy for Alzheimer's disease.

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateJul 9, 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.

Study of dermatology on YouTube shows new ways science reaches public

Researchers at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus found that YouTube is a promising platform for disseminating research in dermatology. The study analyzed 100 videos with over 47 million views, driving 6,325 subscriptions to distinct user pages.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalDermatology Online Journal·DateJul 9, 2014

Biologists link sexual selection and placenta formation

Researchers found that species with placentas tend to have smaller males with reduced bright colors and courtship displays. This discovery links sexual selection and placenta formation, suggesting that the evolution of complex organs like placentas is influenced by mating strategies.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature·DateJul 9, 2014

Mode of delivery following a perineal tear and recurrence rate in subsequent pregnancies

A study found that women who experienced a third or fourth degree perineal tear in a previous delivery have a five-fold increased risk of severe tearing in subsequent births. The study analyzed data from over 639,000 first-time mothers and revealed that elective caesarean sections were more common among those with a previous tear.

SourceWiley·JournalBritish Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology·DateJul 9, 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.

MyChart use skyrocketing among cancer patients, UT Southwestern study finds

A study by UT Southwestern found a five-fold increase in cancer patients using MyChart from 2009 to 2015, with those over 60 making up the majority of frequent users. The technology's convenience and ease of use contribute to its widespread adoption among this demographic.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalJournal of Oncology Practice·DateJul 9, 2014

'Nano-pixels' promise thin, flexible, high resolution displays

Researchers at Oxford University have developed a new discovery of nano-pixels that can be electrically switched on and off to create high-resolution images. The tiny 'nano-pixels' are just 300 nanometres in size and can be used for applications such as smart glasses, synthetic retinas, and foldable screens.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalNature·DateJul 9, 2014

Cosmic grains of dust formed in supernova explosion

A team of researchers from the Niels Bohr Institute and Aarhus University discovered that cosmic dust grains can form through shock interaction during a supernova explosion. The grains can grow to sizes large enough to survive the violent shockwaves, providing insight into their origin.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Niels Bohr Institute·JournalNature·DateJul 9, 2014

Discovery of a new means to erase pain

Researchers at Université Laval developed a new method to alleviate chronic pain by rekindling pain and then erasing it. By injecting capsaicin and administering a protein synthesis inhibitor, they induced temporary pain hypersensitivity, which was subsequently reversed.

SourceUniversité Laval·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateJul 9, 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.

Postcards from the photosynthetic edge

Scientists at Berkeley Lab and SLAC have taken detailed snapshots of the four photon-step cycle of photosynthetic water oxidation in photosystem II. The study provides information that should be useful for designing artificial solar-energy based devices to split water, a crucial step towards clean energy.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 9, 2014

DARPA awards UCLA $15 million to restore lost memory

A team of experts at UCLA will collaborate to create, implant, and test a memory prosthesis to help restore lost memory functions in brain-injured individuals. The project aims to stimulate the entorhinal area, a key region involved in learning, memory, and Alzheimer's disease.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·DateJul 9, 2014

AAN: Doctors have ethical obligation to educate, protect athletes from concussion

The American Academy of Neurology has released a new position paper emphasizing the importance of educating and protecting athletes from concussion. The statement calls for doctors to safeguard athletes' mental and physical health and recommends wider use of baseline cognitive testing and mandatory concussion reporting.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateJul 9, 2014

Climate change provides good growing conditions for charcoal rot in soybeans

Charcoal rot, caused by fungi like Macrophomina phaseolina, thrives in hot and dry conditions, exacerbating crop yields. Researchers are now focusing on breeding drought-resistant soybean lines that can combat the disease.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalPlant Molecular Biology Reporter·DateJul 9, 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.

The 'yin and yang' of malaria parasite development

Researchers have completed a comprehensive study on the role of protein phosphatases in malaria parasite development and differentiation. The study, published in Cell Host and Microbe, identifies 16 genes that are crucial for parasite growth and could be future drug targets.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateJul 9, 2014

Short circuit in the food web

Researchers discovered how viruses affect phytoplankton, like Emiliania huxleyi, altering global carbon cycle and marine food chain. Viruses rewire host lipid metabolism, diverting fixed carbon from traditional food web, with implications for ocean ecosystems.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateJul 9, 2014

No extra mutations in modified stem cells, study finds

Researchers have found that using gene-editing techniques on stem cells does not increase the overall occurrence of mutations, easing previous safety concerns. The study's results were published in the journal Cell Stem Cell and provide new hope for the development of therapies for genetic diseases.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateJul 9, 2014

Letrozole may help women with PCOS become pregnant

A nationwide study found that letrozole increased live births by 27.5% compared to clomiphene, and improved ovulation rates and reduced twin pregnancies. Fewer side effects were reported with letrozole, but further research is needed for safety clarification.

SourcePenn State·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJul 9, 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.

Rehabilitation helps prevent depression from age-related vision loss

A new study led by Dr. Barry Rovner shows that a type of rehabilitation therapy can cut the risk of depression from age-related macular degeneration (AMD) in half. The therapy, called behavior activation, helps people focus on activities they enjoy and maintain an active social life to reduce disability and prevent clinical depression.

SourceNIH/National Eye Institute·JournalOphthalmology·DateJul 9, 2014

Protein pushes breast cancer cells to metastasize

Researchers at Rockefeller University have identified a protein called TARBP2 that triggers breast cancer's spread by blocking other proteins linked to neurodegeneration. This finding suggests new cancer therapies targeting this 'master regulator' could be effective.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalNature·DateJul 9, 2014

VLT clears up dusty mystery

Astronomers used the VLT to observe SN2010jl nine times soon after its explosion and found that dust grains form rapidly in the dense material surrounding the star. The observations revealed surprisingly large grain sizes that are resistant to destruction, answering a long-standing question about cosmic dust formation.

SourceESO·JournalNature·DateJul 9, 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.

USF study: Amphibians can acquire resistance to deadly fungus

Researchers at the University of South Florida found that frogs can develop immunity against a deadly chytrid fungus by learning to avoid it after just one exposure. This acquired resistance could aid in conservation efforts and even offer protection for other animals threatened by fungal pathogens.

SourceUniversity of South Florida (USF Health)·JournalNature·DateJul 9, 2014

Adolescents from southern Europe are less fit and more obese than central-northern European peers

A study by the University of Granada found that teenagers in Spain, Italy, and Greece have lower cardiorespiratory capacity, strength, and speed-agility than their northern European peers. The researchers also discovered higher levels of total and abdominal fat among southern adolescents, which may be linked to reduced physical activity.

SourceUniversity of Granada·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateJul 9, 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.

Even geckos can lose their grip

Researchers at Linköping University have demonstrated that geckos and spiders lose grip due to the effect of heat on van der Waals forces. This phenomenon has significant industrial benefits, particularly in the production of graphene, where detachment from the substrate is crucial.

SourceLinköping University·JournalPhysical Review E·DateJul 9, 2014

Fun or exercise?

Researchers at Cornell Food & Brand Lab found that adults who viewed their exercise as fun ate less chocolate pudding and M&Ms afterwards. Viewing exercise as a chore led to overeating as a reward.

SourceCornell Food & Brand Lab·JournalMarketing Letters·DateJul 9, 2014

USC scientists discover immune system component that resists sepsis in mice

Researchers at USC's Keck School of Medicine have identified a key component of the immune system that is essential for preventing deadly inflammation. Mice lacking this component are completely resistant to sepsis, a potentially fatal complication of infection.

SourceUniversity of Southern California - Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateJul 9, 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.

Penn mesothelioma program receives $8 million NCI grant

Researchers at Penn Medicine will conduct a clinical trial on patients with malignant pleural mesothelioma to test the efficacy of photodynamic light therapy (PDT). The study aims to understand how PDT works in the body and what can be done to improve its response.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·DateJul 9, 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.

Most prescription labels fail to meet guidelines, risking dosage errors

A recent study by the University of Waterloo found that most prescription labels in Canada do not follow recommended guidelines for legibility. The researchers suggest that improving label appearance can be achieved without new technologies or larger labels, and recommends a patient-centered approach to labelling standards.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalCanadian Pharmacists Journal / Revue des Pharmaciens du Canada·DateJul 9, 2014

Figuring out methane's role in the climate puzzle

Research casts doubt on methane's climate-friendliness, despite its potential for burning cleaner than coal. Methane emissions from oil and gas operations are estimated to be significant, with varying levels of release into the atmosphere.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateJul 9, 2014

Study identifies novel genomic changes in the most common type of lung cancer

Researchers have identified novel mutations in a well-known cancer-causing pathway in lung adenocarcinoma, expanding therapeutic targets and potentially identifying treatable mutations. The study found that 75% of patients with lung adenocarcinoma have actionable mutations that can be treated with existing or under-development drugs.

SourceNIH/National Cancer Institute·JournalNature·DateJul 9, 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.

Odor communication in wild gorillas

A study published in PLOS ONE found that silverback gorillas use odor to communicate socially, with extreme levels of emission linked to interactions between groups. This suggests that chemo-communication may play a crucial role in the social behaviors of non-human great apes.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 9, 2014

Polar bears from space

A study published in PLOS ONE uses satellite images to estimate polar bear population sizes, finding similar results to aerial and ground surveys. The technology holds promise for tracking Arctic wildlife, despite logistical challenges.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 9, 2014

Children on dairy farms less likely to develop allergies

A study by University of Gothenburg researchers found that children raised on dairy farms have a lower risk of developing allergies. The study suggests that delayed maturation of the immune system may be a risk factor for allergic disease. Researchers plan to examine specific factors on dairy farms that promote immune system maturity.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalThe Journal of Immunology·DateJul 9, 2014

New technology illuminates colder objects in deep space

A Northwestern University team has developed a new technology using indium arsenide/indium arsenide antimonide (InAs/InAsSb) for stable infrared detection, enabling the observation of cooler objects in deep space. This advancement paves the way for enhanced exploration and unlocking the mysteries of these cooler objects.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateJul 9, 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.

UC Riverside microbiologist receives national recognition

Jason Stajich, a UC Riverside microbiologist, has been awarded the 2014 Alexopoulos Prize for his groundbreaking research on fungal biology and evolution. His work focuses on building new methods for comparative and evolutionary genomics.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateJul 9, 2014

Adults with special needs see gains, challenges with long term oral care

A retrospective study found that adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities experienced a significant decrease in cavity rates as they received regular dental care. However, gum disease rates increased over time, highlighting the need for effective solutions to address these challenges.

SourceTufts University, Health Sciences Campus·JournalSpecial Care in Dentistry·DateJul 9, 2014

Nearly 50 percent of grade 12 students in Ontario report texting while driving

The Ontario Student Drug Use and Health Survey found that over one-third of licensed drivers in grades 10 to 12 reported texting while driving, with 46% of grade 12 students admitting to this behavior. The survey also revealed alarming trends in risk behaviors, physical health, mental health, and home life among Ontario students.

SourceCentre for Addiction and Mental Health·DateJul 9, 2014

Bacteria hijack plentiful iron supply source to flourish

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University identified a promising new pathway to disabling bacterial infection: blocking bacteria's access to iron in the body. They found that bacteria can feed on iron supplied by both bacterial and mammalian siderophore, allowing them to proliferate and make the host ill.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateJul 9, 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.

Tiny DNA pyramids enter bacteria easily -- and deliver a deadly payload

Researchers created nanopyramids made of DNA that can flag and kill bacteria, with a success rate of 65% for Staphylococcus aureus and 48% for Escherichia coli compared to traditional medicine. The innovation offers a new approach to delivering drugs directly into bacterial cells.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateJul 9, 2014

New medication shows promise in treating common skin disease

A new medication called dupilumab has shown promising results in treating atopic dermatitis, a chronic and debilitating skin disease. Dupilumab blocks the action of two proteins involved in inflammation, leading to a marked improvement in disease activity and itch.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJul 9, 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.

Wake-up call for more research into cell metabolism

A review article by scientists from VIB and KU Leuven suggests that thorough research into the cell metabolism of stromal cells, endothelial cells, and immune cells could result in new treatment options for these diseases. This would also improve current cancer treatments.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalNature·DateJul 9, 2014

My brother's keeper

A study by Concordia University found that siblings naturally teach each other skills like counting, building towers, and recognizing shapes. The researchers observed spontaneous interactions between two children aged four and six, revealing that both older and younger siblings initiate learning activities.

SourceConcordia University·JournalJournal of Cognition and Development·DateJul 9, 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.

Depressed men with prostate cancer are diagnosed later stage, get less effective therapies

A UCLA study found that depressed men with localized prostate cancer were more likely to be diagnosed with aggressive cancer, received less effective treatments, and had shorter survival times. The study identified demographic factors that contributed to the disparity in treatment and outcomes.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateJul 9, 2014

Smokers with mental health issues cost UK nearly £2.5 billion a year

Research published in Tobacco Control finds that people with mental health issues who smoke incur significant economic costs due to premature death, lost productivity, and healthcare expenses. The total estimated annual cost is around £2.5 billion, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to help this group quit smoking.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalTobacco Control·DateJul 9, 2014

Making a more healthful, low-fat hot dog without giving up texture

Researchers developed olive oil 'bulking agents' to replace pork fat in hot dogs, maintaining texture and reducing calories. The substitutes contain 55% olive oil, which contains more healthful unsaturated fats, making them suitable for summer BBQs.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateJul 9, 2014

Night-time brilliance lights up political patronage

A new study by Monash University researchers links night-time light intensity to regional favouritism and GDP growth, finding that countries where political leaders were born tend to have higher night-time light levels and regional GDP. The study also highlights the impact of authoritarian leadership on foreign aid distribution.

SourceMonash University·JournalThe Quarterly Journal of Economics·DateJul 9, 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.

Thyroid hormone protects hippocampal cholinergic neurons in normal aged animals

Levothyroxine treatment improved cognitive and learning abilities in naturally aged mice by increasing choline acetyltransferase and acetylcholine levels. The supplement also enhanced superoxide dismutase activity and synapse function, suggesting a potential therapeutic strategy for age-related cognitive deficits.

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateJul 9, 2014

Vasectomy may increase risk of aggressive prostate cancer

A study from Harvard School of Public Health found that vasectomy is associated with an increased risk of prostate cancer, including advanced and lethal forms. The association remained even among men who received regular PSA screening, suggesting a potential link between the procedure and aggressive prostate cancer.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateJul 9, 2014

Projecting a 3-dimensional future

Researchers at Tel Aviv University have developed a new holography technology based on nanoantennas, enabling dynamic and complex three-dimensional projections without replotted images. The technology has vast applications in security, medical, recreational, and scientific research.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalNano Letters·DateJul 9, 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.

Food imagery ideal for teaching doctors... who must have strong stomachs

A range of food descriptors is used in medicine to identify conditions and ailments, from 'anchovy sauce' to 'oat cell carcinoma.' Dairy products and fruit also feature prominently in the medical lexicon., These time-honored allusions serve as a lively learning inducement for generations of physicians.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalMedical Humanities·DateJul 9, 2014

Bee foraging chronically impaired by pesticide exposure: Study

A study published in Functional Ecology found that long-term pesticide exposure hampers bumblebees' ability to collect pollen. Bees exposed to neonicotinoid pesticides became less successful at collecting pollen and developed different flower preferences over time.

SourceUniversity of Guelph·JournalFunctional Ecology·DateJul 9, 2014