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Science News for June 26, 2014


Risk factors for chronic kidney disease are present decades before diagnosis

A study published in the Journal of the American Society of Nephrology found that risk factors for chronic kidney disease are present and identifiable 30 years before diagnosis. The researchers identified significant associations between obesity, high blood pressure, and diabetes with future CKD development.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateJun 26, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Capturing CO2 emissions needed to meet climate targets

A global study suggests that capturing CO2 emissions is essential to meet ambitious climate targets. Bioenergy and Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) technologies can help reduce non-electric energy-related emissions, but their risks need to be investigated further.

SourcePotsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)·JournalClimatic Change·DateJun 26, 2014

A versatile joystick for animation artists

A Swiss research team created an innovative joystick for animation artists, consisting of modular building blocks that can be assembled into any virtual character shape. The device features integrated sensors that track joint movements, enabling smooth character articulation.

SourceETH Zurich·DateJun 26, 2014

US should re-evaluate definition of skilled workers in immigration policy

A new study suggests the US should broaden its definition of skilled workers to include informal skills acquired by migrant workers. The research found that many migrants acquire skills through job interactions and observation rather than formal education, which are often hidden and valuable to US labor markets.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal on Migration and Human Security·DateJun 26, 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.

Shaken, not stirred -- mythical god's capsules please!

Scientists from Norway, France, and Poland develop a method to produce Janus capsules, which can transport drugs and lead to innovative materials. The capsules are created by merging two drops coated with different particles in an electric field, resulting in a hollow structure with two shells of varying properties.

SourceInstitute of Physical Chemistry of the Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 26, 2014

New insights could help in battle to beat Parkinson's disease

Scientists have identified a genetic change that impairs protein transport in cells, potentially leading to nerve cell loss and Parkinson's disease. A VPS35 gene mutation is linked to the disease, affecting cargo proteins and their correct destinations.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 26, 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.

Do people with autism struggle with driving?

A new study published by Drexel University found significant differences in self-reported driving behaviors and perceptions of driving ability among autistic adults compared to non-autistic adults. Adults with autism reported driving less frequently, restricting their behaviors, and experiencing more traffic violations.

SourceDrexel University·JournalJournal of Autism and Developmental Disorders·DateJun 26, 2014

Deeper insights into protein folding

Scientists develop a new statistical mechanics model to explain protein folding and unfolding in an aqueous environment. The study confirms the validity of their calculations using experimental measurements for two proteins, providing insights into high-energy ions therapy on biological cells.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal D·DateJun 26, 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.

Fighting parasitic infection inadvertently unleashes dormant virus

A new study shows that specific immune system signals repel a common parasite but also cause a dormant herpes virus to become active again in mice. The findings highlight complex interactions between infectious agents and the immune system, which can lead to unexpected consequences.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalScience·DateJun 26, 2014

You can't teach speed: Sprinters break 10-year rule

Grand Valley State University researchers found that world-class sprinters are recognized as exceptionally fast prior to formal training. Most sprinters achieved world-class performances in less than five years, with over half of Olympic champions reaching this level in three years or fewer.

SourceGrand Valley State University·JournalPeerJ·DateJun 26, 2014

A breakthrough for organic reactions in water

Researchers at McGill University have discovered a catalytic system that enables direct metal-mediated reactions between aryl halides and carbonyl compounds in water. This breakthrough could streamline synthetic sequences and make chemical products safer and more efficient.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 26, 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.

Salmonella's Achilles' heel: Reliance on single food source to stay potent

Researchers found that blocking the activation of five genes responsible for transporting fructose-asparagine could be a new strategy to fight Salmonella infections. The nutrient is composed of a sugar and amino acid, and its identification alone is unusual since it has never been discovered as a nutrient for any organism.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateJun 26, 2014

Eco-friendly versatile nanocapsules developed

Researchers at IBS developed polymer nanocapsules with metal nanoparticles, offering high stability, dispersibility and catalytic activity in water. This technology replaces toxic liquid solvents with environmentally preferable ones, enabling sustainable catalysis.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJun 26, 2014

Researchers identify brain circuits involved in stress-induced fevers

The study found that inhibiting neurons in specific brain regions eliminated stress-induced heat production and increased body temperature in rats. Stimulating these neurons caused the opposite effect, highlighting a key neural circuit connection in the development of psychological stress-induced hyperthermia.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateJun 26, 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.

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.

'Big data' technique improves monitoring of kidney transplant patients

A new data analysis technique uses big data to predict poor kidney function after transplant, allowing doctors to intervene earlier and improve recovery periods. The study analyzed blood samples from 18 patients before and after transplants, revealing vital clues in molecular level data.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateJun 26, 2014

Leslie Greengard to deliver The John von Neumann Lecture

Dr. Leslie F. Greengard has been awarded the 2014 John von Neumann Lecture prize for his transformative contributions to computational science. He will receive the award and deliver a keynote lecture on Fast, Accurate Tools for Physical Modeling in Complex Geometry at the SIAM Annual Meeting in Chicago.

SourceSociety for Industrial and Applied Mathematics·DateJun 26, 2014

We speak as we feel -- we feel as we speak

A team of researchers found that the articulation of vowels systematically influences our feelings and vice versa. The study revealed that words containing the long 'i' vowel tend to occur in positive emotional contexts, while those with the long 'o' vowel are associated with negative emotions.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalEmotion·DateJun 26, 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.

Iowa State engineers turn LEGO bricks into a scientific tool to study plant growth

Researchers at Iowa State University have developed a novel method for studying plant growth using LEGO bricks, creating controlled micro-environments that can be easily replicated worldwide. The innovative approach allows for the simultaneous testing of various environmental factors, such as nutrients, water, and oxygen gradients.

SourceIowa State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 26, 2014

Victoria's volcano count rises

Three previously unrecorded volcanoes have been found in southeastern Australia, adding to the Newer Volcanics Province's 400 volcanoes. The discovery provides new insights into an area of volcanic centres already known to geologists.

SourceMonash University·JournalAustralian Journal of Earth Sciences·DateJun 26, 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.

Controlling movement with light

MIT researchers successfully control muscle movement in awake and alert mice by applying blue light to their spinal cords via optogenetics. This technique reveals the function of inhibitory interneurons that form complex circuits with other neurons, allowing for precise control over specific subsets of neurons.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 26, 2014

New NASA images highlight US air quality improvement

The new NASA images demonstrate a significant reduction in nitrogen dioxide levels across the United States over the past decade, indicating improved air quality. This decrease is attributed to regulations, technological advancements, and economic changes, despite increasing population and vehicle numbers.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJun 26, 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.

Water-cleanup catalysts tackle biomass upgrading

Rice University researchers have successfully developed palladium-gold nanocatalysts that convert glycerol, a waste byproduct of biodiesel production, into valuable chemicals. The catalysts produce a 'Goldilocks' effect, striking the perfect balance between palladium and gold to achieve faster conversion rates.

SourceRice University·JournalChemical Science·DateJun 26, 2014

New infections cause dormant viruses to reactivate

Researchers discovered that interactions with other infections later in life can trigger dormant herpes viruses to resurface and cause disease. This finding highlights the complex relationships between pathogens and the immune system, which could lead to new strategies for combating these infections.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalScience·DateJun 26, 2014

Slaying bacteria with their own weapons

A WUSTL scientist has developed a drug delivery system that exploits bacterial siderophores to target specific pathogens, potentially reviving abandoned antibiotics and making it harder for bacteria to develop resistance. The system uses tiny Trojan horses linked to siderophore molecules to smuggle antibiotics into bacterial cells.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·DateJun 26, 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.

Awareness month spurs web searches for autism

Researchers at Drexel University found a significant spike in Google searches for autism in April, with an average increase of 26 percent between March and April. The study analyzed web search trends from 2004 to 2014 and also found a long-term increasing trend for Asperger's disorder searches.

SourceDrexel University·JournalJournal of Autism and Developmental Disorders·DateJun 26, 2014

Decoding characteristic food odors

Researchers identify 230 key odorants responsible for encoding the typical smell of individual foodstuffs, with each foodstuff having its own unique odor code. The mapping of odor codes opens up new possibilities for biotechnology applications in crop breeding and industrial-scale production of high-quality food odorants.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJun 26, 2014

Lab monitoring tests not always ordered per recommendations

A study found that lab monitoring tests are not always ordered as recommended, with factors such as specialist status, age, and general health influencing the use of these tests. The research suggests that interventions to improve laboratory monitoring should focus on areas with the greatest potential for improvement.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateJun 26, 2014

Cambridge team breaks superconductor world record

Researchers from Cambridge University have broken a world record by trapping a strong magnetic field in a high-temperature superconductor. The achievement demonstrates the potential of these materials for various applications, including energy storage and transportation systems.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalSuperconductor Science and Technology·DateJun 26, 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.

Organic agriculture boosts biodiversity on farmlands

A recent study found that organic farms support more plant and bee species than conventional farms, particularly in arable fields. However, adding structural elements like woods and hedges can increase habitats and promote biodiversity on farms.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 26, 2014

Not much force: Berkeley researchers detect smallest force ever measured

Researchers at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory and the University of California detected a force of approximately 42 yoctonewtons using a unique optical trapping system and ultracold atoms. The detection surpassed the Standard Quantum Limit, achieving sensitivity consistent with theoretical predictions.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateJun 26, 2014

A simple solution for big data

Researchers from SISSA developed an efficient algorithm to categorize big data, grouping similar data points in clusters. The algorithm uses a heuristic approach to identify cluster centers, achieving optimal performance in recognizing individuals and eliminating outliers.

SourceInternational School of Advanced Studies (SISSA)·JournalScience·DateJun 26, 2014

Telemedicine catches blinding disease in premature babies

A NIH-funded study found that telemedicine screening for ROP in premature infants can correctly identify cases with 90% accuracy. The approach, which involves sending photos of baby eyes to a distant image reading center, could help ease strain on hospitals and improve care for underserved areas.

SourceNIH/National Eye Institute·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateJun 26, 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.

Traffic light labels can give a false sense of security

A study by TUM researchers found that traffic light labeling can lead to a false sense of security and result in consumers ignoring more complex product information. This effect is particularly pronounced in financial products where the labeling influences consumer trust in specific attributes, such as flexibility or state guarantee.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalInternational Journal of Consumer Studies·DateJun 26, 2014

Rosin up that bow, maestro. And thank your genes

Researchers found that genes influenced the propensity to practice and music accomplishment in musicians, with genetics becoming more important as individuals practiced. The study challenged the theory that innate ability can be overcome with enough training.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalPsychonomic Bulletin & Review·DateJun 26, 2014

The social psychology of nerve cells

A new study by UC Santa Barbara researchers demonstrates that a particular neuron creates a 'personal space' in the retina, similar to human behavior. The study identifies a genetic contributor to this feature, pituitary tumor-transforming gene 1 (Pttg1), and shows that it is heritable.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 26, 2014

Small changes to US kidney allocation policy may help reduce geographic disparities

A study suggests that small changes to US kidney allocation policies can help alleviate geographic disparities in transplantation. Implementing local sharing strategies like the Statewide Sharing variance adopted by Tennessee and Florida has been shown to significantly reduce disparities, while other states saw increased disparities.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateJun 26, 2014

Men and women use mental health services differently

A new study from St. Michael's Hospital and ICES found that women with chronic physical illnesses are 10% more likely to use mental health services than men. Women also seek out mental health services on average six months earlier than men, highlighting a significant gender divide in care.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·DateJun 26, 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.

First-grade teachers using ineffective instruction for math-challenged students

A study found that first-grade teachers in classrooms with more students who struggle with math were more likely to use non-traditional, ineffective instructional practices. In contrast, traditional teacher-directed instruction was associated with achievement gains for students with mathematics difficulties.

SourceAmerican Educational Research Association·JournalEducational Evaluation and Policy Analysis·DateJun 26, 2014

New test predicts the risk of non-hereditary breast cancer

Researchers identified an epigenetic signature in blood samples from women with a BRCA1 mutation that increased cancer risk and lower survival rates. The same signature was found in women without the mutation who developed breast cancer, indicating it may predict breast cancer risk several years before diagnosis.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalGenome Medicine·DateJun 26, 2014

Sequencing electric eel genome unlocks shocking secrets

The discovery of the electric eel genome sequence sheds light on the genetic blueprint used to evolve complex, novel organs. Researchers found that fishes with electric organs have evolved six times in history to produce electricity outside their bodies.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalScience·DateJun 26, 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.

Notorious pathogen forms slimy 'streamers' to clog up medical devices

Researchers discovered Staphylococcus aureus creates biofilm streamers using a biological glue, which can rapidly clog up medical devices. The bacteria's ability to form these slimy structures is crucial in understanding the mechanism of infections associated with medical devices.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalNew Journal of Physics·DateJun 26, 2014

Continued use of low-dose aspirin may lower pancreatic cancer risk

A study published by the American Association for Cancer Research found that low-dose aspirin significantly reduces the risk of pancreatic cancer. The longer a person takes low-dose aspirin, the lower their risk of developing pancreatic cancer, with some evidence suggesting a greater reduction in risk over time.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·DateJun 26, 2014

Penn study shows changing roles of physicians with MBAs

A Penn study shows that MD/MBA graduates increasingly pursue leadership roles and experience greater career acceleration. They report enhanced credibility in multidisciplinary domains beyond clinical practice.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalAcademic Medicine·DateJun 26, 2014

Foul fumes derail dinner for hungry moths

Researchers found that natural plant odors and human sources of pollution can conceal the scent of sought-after flowers, leading to energy and time losses for pollinators. The study used a chemical detection device to track flower odors in the wild and showed remarkable similar results in a lab wind tunnel test.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalScience·DateJun 26, 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.

Silver lining found for making new drugs

Researchers at Queen Mary University of London have discovered a new chemical to aid drug manufacturing processes, making it more environmentally-friendly and easier to scale up for industry. The team found that a positively charged molecule known as TMA can replace silver in the manufacturing process, reducing costs and waste.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalChemical Science·DateJun 26, 2014

Bloodsucking mite threatens UK honeybees

A recent study discovered how the bloodsucking parasitic mite Varroa destructor transforms Deformed Wing Virus (DWV) into a major threat to UK honeybees. DWV is usually harmless, but when transmitted by Varroa, it amplifies a virulent form of the virus associated with disease.

SourceBiotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateJun 26, 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.

NIH scientists establish proof-of-concept for host-directed tuberculosis therapy

Researchers have discovered a potential treatment for tuberculosis (TB) by targeting the body's immune response rather than directly killing the bacteria. This new host-directed therapy has shown promise in preventing disease severity and controlling bacterial growth, offering hope for those infected with drug-resistant strains.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNature·DateJun 26, 2014

Scientists find the shocking truth about electric fish

Researchers identify regulatory molecules involved in creating powerful electrical fields in electric fish, found only in fish and evolved independently half a dozen times. The study reveals a common genetic basis for the electric organ across six diverse species, highlighting convergent evolution in these fascinating creatures.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalScience·DateJun 26, 2014

Why tech transfer brings universities 'more than money'

Academic technology transfer has a transformative impact on universities, fostering entrepreneurship, student success and real-world research participation. It also generates public benefits, economic development and increased funding opportunities.

SourceUniversity of South Florida·JournalJournal of Technology and Innovation·DateJun 26, 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.

Which interferons best control viral infections?

The review explores how RNA viruses induce Type I and III interferons, which regulate virus replication and host survival. Different types of interferons have distinct antiviral properties, playing a critical role in maintaining an optimum equilibrium between virus replication and host survival.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Interferon & Cytokine Research·DateJun 26, 2014

Researchers call for patients who receive home nutritional care to have emergency plans

The study recommends that HPEN consumers develop an emergency kit, including a basic emergency kit and an HPEN emergency kit, as well as contact lists for family, friends, physicians, and pharmacy providers. Homecare providers are advised to focus on consumer safety, minimizing service interruptions, and developing contingency plans.

SourceAmerican Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (A.S.P.E.N.)·JournalNutrition in Clinical Practice·DateJun 26, 2014

'Land grabbing' could help feed at least 300 million people, study suggests

A recent study suggests that crops grown on 'land-grabbed' areas in developing countries could feed an extra 100-550 million people worldwide. The improved infrastructure brought about by foreign investment could increase the productivity of subsistence farmlands, leading to a significant increase in global food production.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateJun 26, 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.

Virus infection supports organ acceptance

A clinical study found that a certain group of genes and an immune cell ratio can predict tolerance to liver transplants in patients with hepatitis C. This could enable patients to stop taking immunosuppressants after a certain period, reducing the burden of chronic HCV infection.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJun 26, 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.

Caltech-led team develops a geothermometer for methane formation

A Caltech-led team has developed a new technique that can determine the temperature at which natural methane samples formed. This method uses clumped isotopes to provide an independent way to say the environment where methane was formed, helping to answer questions about its formation, storage, and chemical pathways.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateJun 26, 2014

Walking the rocks: GSA Today article studies undergraduate field education

Researchers found that 89.5% of respondents believe fieldwork should be a required part of undergraduate education, but nearly two-thirds think traditional focus on bedrock mapping is unnecessary. The study calls for academia-industry dialogue and further research to test the value of field education.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGSA Today·DateJun 26, 2014

Does psychostimulant use increase cardiovascular risk in children with ADHD?

A nationwide study found a small but statistically significant cardiovascular risk associated with stimulant treatment in children with ADHD. The researchers also reported on the relationship between specific stimulant dose and risk of a cardiovascular event.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Child and Adolescent Psychopharmacology·DateJun 26, 2014