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Science News for March 10, 2014


National study reveals urban lawn care habits

A new national study found that urban lawn care practices vary significantly across cities, despite uniformity in appearance. The research suggests that local climate and social factors play a more significant role than initially expected, requiring tailored solutions to address environmental challenges. Understanding these patterns is...

SourceCary Institute of Ecosystem Studies·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 10, 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.

Outside the body our memories fail us

Studies show that when participants experience an 'out-of-body' illusion, their memories are fragmented and stored improperly. The research suggests a close relationship between body experience and memory, with implications for understanding psychiatric conditions such as PTSD and schizophrenia.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 10, 2014

New organ transplant strategy aims to better prevent rejection

Researchers have developed a novel treatment strategy that targets transplanted tissue, allowing over 70% of mice to accept transplants without lifelong immunosuppressive drugs. The approach also shows promise in treating autoimmune diseases like type 1 diabetes.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalAmerican Journal of Transplantation·DateMar 10, 2014

Emergency alert in the cell

Researchers uncover an entire network of cellular helpers to mitigate damage, identifying new regulatory mechanisms for the heat shock response. The study's findings may also offer insights into neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalCell·DateMar 10, 2014

Computer system simulates the behavior of tax evaders

A computer system called SIMULFIS was developed to simulate the behavior of tax evaders, incorporating conditions such as fairness and social influence. The study found that improving tax inspections is a more effective measure against tax evasion than increasing fines.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalAdvances in Complex Systems·DateMar 10, 2014

Lower IQ in teen years increases risk of early-onset dementia

A recent study by the University of Gothenburg found that men with poorer cardiovascular fitness and/or lower IQ at age 18 are more likely to develop early-onset dementia before age 60. This increased risk remains even when controlled for other factors, highlighting the importance of physical exercise in maintaining cognitive health.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalBrain·DateMar 10, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Doctors often uncertain in ordering, interpreting lab tests

A national survey of primary care physicians found they often experience uncertainty in ordering and interpreting clinical laboratory tests, with missing results and confusing report formats being major challenges. Physicians reported that improved electronic decision-support tools and access to lab personnel would help reduce this unc...

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalThe Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine·DateMar 10, 2014

A shocking diet

Researchers identified a microbe that can take up electrons from minerals in soil and sediment using natural conductivity. The microbes rely on sunlight and iron to generate energy, but have developed an unusual strategy to reach the iron through naturally occurring conductive minerals.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 10, 2014

Smokers' brains biased against negative images of smoking

Chronic smokers have altered emotional reactions when exposed to negative and positive images associated with tobacco. They are more aroused by positive images and affected by aversive non-smoking related images than by images of specific negative consequences.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalProgress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry·DateMar 10, 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.

UV light aids cancer cells that creep along the outside of blood vessels

A recent study by UCLA scientists and colleagues reveals that UV light significantly enhances the ability of melanoma cells to creep along the outside of blood vessels, leading to increased metastasis. The research demonstrates that exposure to UV radiation triggers inflammation, attracting immune cells that promote this process.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalNature·DateMar 10, 2014

All paths lead to Rome, even the path to condensed matter theory

Carlo Di Castro reflects on the development of theoretical condensed matter physics in Rome, highlighting key areas like superfluid helium, quantum systems, and high-temperature superconductors. He shares personal anecdotes about his research policy experiences and the evolution of his field.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal H·DateMar 10, 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.

Shade will be a precious resource to lizards in a warming world

A new study by UBC researchers found that cold-blooded animals worldwide have similar heat tolerance limits, with tropical species relying on behavioral thermoregulation. The authors recommend protecting migration corridors and habitats that provide shade, especially in the tropics.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 10, 2014

March/April 2014 Annals of Family Medicine tip sheet

Research found azithromycin and levofloxacin therapies associated with higher mortality risks compared to amoxicillin. Levofloxacin use also linked to increased serious arrhythmia risk. Only one quarter of primary care patients with mild cognitive impairment progress to dementia within three years, according to study.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateMar 10, 2014

JCI online ahead of print table of contents for March 10, 2014

Scientists identified a broadly neutralizing HIV-1 antibody in a lupus patient, which could be used to target rapidly mutating viruses. Researchers also developed a workflow to evaluate protein turnover kinetics, revealing previously unknown alterations in disease development.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 10, 2014

Early pregnancy alcohol linked to heightened premature and small baby risk

Research suggests that drinking alcohol during early pregnancy may heighten the risk of premature birth and low birth weight, with even moderate consumption increasing the likelihood of these outcomes. Women from more affluent backgrounds were found to be more likely to drink excessively.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·DateMar 10, 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.

Lawn care practices across the nation vary more than expected

Research reveals disparate fertilizer and irrigation practices among different age groups, socioeconomic statuses, and climates in urban, suburban and rural areas. The study found that lawncare varies more within a city than expected, suggesting that one sustainability message may not fit all.

SourceUSDA Forest Service - Northern Research Station·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 10, 2014

Turing's theory of chemical morphogenesis validated 60 years after his death

Scientists from Brandeis University and the University of Pittsburgh validate Alan Turing's theory of morphogenesis, demonstrating that identical cell-like structures can differentiate into various patterns through intercellular reaction-diffusion. The research has implications for biological development, materials science, and soft ro...

SourceBrandeis University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 10, 2014

Natural selection has altered the appearance of Europeans over the past 5,000 years

Research suggests that natural selection has altered European appearance over the past 5,000 years, with ancient DNA revealing darker skin, hair, and eye pigmentation. This phenomenon is comparable to other examples of adaptive evolution, such as malaria resistance and lactase persistence.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 10, 2014

Mongol Empire rode wave of mild climate, says study

A recent study using ancient tree rings reveals that the Mongol Empire's rapid expansion was facilitated by a period of unusually mild and wet weather in central Asia. The findings suggest that this favorable climate allowed for increased grass production, which in turn enabled the Mongols to build their powerful horse-riding army.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 10, 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.

New sugar-test to reduce false-positive cancer diagnoses

A new glycoprofiling test has been developed to halve the number of false-positives in ovarian cancer diagnoses, sparing women from unnecessary worry and further testing. The test targets a specific sugar molecule on the CA125 protein, which is only present in women with ovarian cancer.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalJournal of Proteome Research·DateMar 10, 2014

Bread, cereal drive UK children's high salt diet

A recent UK study found that children in London eat an unhealthy amount of salt on a daily basis, with cereal- and bread-based products accounting for over a third of their diets. The study's results highlight the need for increased efforts to reduce salt intake in foods, particularly among teens.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateMar 10, 2014

Diagnosing diseases with smartphones

University of Houston researchers create a system to diagnose diseases in real time using smartphones and $20 lens attachments. The device uses gold nanoholes to detect chemical interactions between disease-causing agents and antibodies, providing quick and affordable readouts.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalACS Photonics·DateMar 10, 2014

A tale of 2 data sets: New DNA analysis strategy helps researchers cut through the dirt

Researchers have developed a simple yet elegant solution to analyze large amounts of soil DNA data, reducing computational requirements by up to 200-fold. This breakthrough enables scientists to extract more science from the noise, paving the way for new discoveries in fields like agriculture and carbon cycling.

SourceDOE/Joint Genome Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 10, 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.

Parkinson's disease: Quickly identifying patients at risk of dementia

Researchers at the University of Montreal have identified potential markers for dementia in Parkinson's disease patients with mild cognitive impairments. These markers include thinning in certain cortical areas and subcortical atrophy in grey matter, which may serve as a warning sign for developing dementia.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalBrain·DateMar 10, 2014

PSA-testing and early treatment decreases risk of prostate cancer death

Research from Umeå University and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center found that frequent PSA testing in areas with high incidence rates results in lower prostate cancer mortality. However, this is offset by increased risk of overtreatment, which can lead to side effects such as erectile dysfunction and urinary incontinence.

SourceUmea University·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateMar 10, 2014

Bending the light with a tiny chip

Researchers at Caltech have developed a silicon chip that can bend light waves electronically, eliminating the need for bulky optics. This technology allows for rapid image projection with a single laser diode and no mechanically moving parts.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·DateMar 10, 2014

Mapping the behavior of charges in correlated spin-orbit coupled materials

Researchers at Boston College manipulate a compound of strontium, iridium and oxygen into the metallic regime by substituting ruthenium metal ions. Scanning tunneling microscopy reveals the emergence of charge carriers, forming minute metallic puddles that coalesce to form a metal across which charges freely flow.

SourceBoston College·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 10, 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.

Predation on invertebrates by woodland salamanders increases carbon capture

Research by the USDA Forest Service finds that woodland salamander predation on invertebrates increases litter retention and carbon capture. The study, led by Dr. Hartwell Welsh Jr., suggests that these small animals play a significant role in regulating forest ecosystems.

SourceUSDA Forest Service - Pacific Southwest Research Station·JournalEcosphere·DateMar 10, 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.

Scientists build thinnest-possible LEDs to be stronger, more energy efficient

University of Washington researchers develop two-dimensional, flexible semiconductors to build the thinnest-known LED, only three atoms thick yet mechanically strong. The LED can be used in a wide range of applications, including lighting and optical communication, offering high energy efficiency and miniaturization possibilities.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateMar 10, 2014

Moffitt Cancer Center pioneers worldwide standard in diagnosing melanoma

Sentinel node biopsy has significantly improved 10-year disease-free survival rates and melanoma-free survival for melanoma patients, reducing the need for extensive lymph node surgery. The procedure has become a worldwide standard in diagnosing melanoma, thanks to Moffitt Cancer Center's pioneering role in its development and teaching.

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 10, 2014

Claim that raw milk reduces lactose intolerance doesn't pass smell test, study finds

A pilot study from Stanford Medicine found no significant difference in digestive issues between consuming raw milk and pasteurized milk among lactose-intolerant participants. The study tested 16 participants with the highest levels of lactose intolerance, but results showed no improvement in symptoms when switching to raw milk.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateMar 10, 2014

Where nothing grows anymore

Researchers found that high sodium concentrations in the soil lead to instability and increased erosion in Tuscany's Crete Senesi badlands. The presence of vegetation helps stabilize the ground, but agricultural use is eroding the landscape, threatening its disappearance in 35-40 years.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalCATENA·DateMar 10, 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.

Healthy midlife diet may prevent dementia later

A midlife healthy diet was found to reduce dementia risk by almost 90% compared to the least healthy diet. Higher intake of saturated fats linked to poorer cognitive functions and increased risk of dementia.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalDementia and Geriatric Cognitive Disorders·DateMar 10, 2014

Healthy eating may reduce the risk of preterm delivery

A study published in BMJ found that pregnant women who followed a 'prudent' diet pattern had a 15% lower risk of preterm delivery compared to those with an unhealthy diet. The researchers analyzed data from over 10,000 women and controlled for other known risk factors.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalThe BMJ·DateMar 10, 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.

Annals of Internal Medicine tip sheet for March 11, 2014

The USPSTF published its final recommendation statement on primary care interventions to prevent or reduce illicit drug and nonmedical pharmaceutical use in children and adolescents. Nearly one in 10 American adolescents use illegal drugs, with serious health consequences.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMar 10, 2014

Phantom limb pain relieved when amputated arm is put back to work

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology developed a new treatment method for phantom limb pain, using muscle signals from the amputated arm stump to drive an augmented reality system. The patient experienced drastically reduced pain and was no longer awakened by intense periods of pain at night.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalFrontiers in Neuroscience·DateMar 10, 2014

Therapy for your marriage -- without the therapy

The book provides a three-step process to help readers solve relationship issues in their own way, without the need for face-to-face therapy. By understanding their partner's perspective and accepting each other's flaws, couples can achieve lasting change through acceptance and specific changes.

SourceUniversity of Miami·DateMar 10, 2014

Impersonating poisonous prey

Prey animals adopt garish colors to live long and prosper, even if they aren't poisonous. The evolutionary benefit of mimicry works, with predators reacting to the impersonations and avoiding eating the imposters. This study used evolving populations of digital organisms in a virtual world called Avida.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 10, 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.

Gillian and Hadi spell double tropical trouble around Queensland

Tropical Cyclone Gillian made its first landfall in the northwestern coast of the York Peninsula, while Tropical Cyclone Hadi lingered off the eastern coast. Gillian is expected to re-emerge in the Gulf of Carpentaria and make a second landfall near the Northern Territory/Queensland border.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 10, 2014

Malnourished children are better fed when mothers have network of peers

A University of Illinois study found that mothers participating in a vocational training program gained a network of peers, leading to increased bargaining strength and improved children's consumption of rice and dairy. The program empowered women, allowing them to exert more say over household resources.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Agricultural Economics·DateMar 10, 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.

Mecasermin (rh-IGF-1) treatment for Rett Syndrome is safe and well-tolerated

A Phase 1 clinical trial of mecasermin (rh-IGF-1) in girls with Rett syndrome demonstrated the treatment's safety and efficacy in ameliorating certain symptoms. The study suggests that IGF-1 could be a potential treatment for Rett Syndrome, paving the way for further research and possible FDA approval.

SourceRettsyndrome.org·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 10, 2014

Elsevier announces the launch of OA journal: Colloid and Interface Science Communications

The open access journal Colloid and Interface Science Communications provides an innovative channel for publishing short initial reports on new fundamental concepts, research findings, and topical applications. The journal covers topics such as nanomaterials, energy production and storage, biotechnologies, and pharmaceutical products.

SourceElsevier·JournalColloids and Interface Science Communications·DateMar 10, 2014

New prostate cancer treatment convenient, less expensive, but may be riskier

A new study by Yale University researchers found that a faster and less expensive form of radiotherapy for treating prostate cancer may come with a higher rate of urinary complications. Stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) is a newer treatment option that can be completed in one to two weeks, compared to seven to nine weeks for intens...

SourceYale University·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateMar 10, 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.

Unique individual demonstrates desired immune response to HIV virus

A person with both lupus and HIV was found to produce the correct type of neutralizing antibodies, a key component of an effective vaccine. The study provides new insights into the immune system's response to the virus and could aid in the development of vaccines capable of overcoming tolerance controls.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 10, 2014

Agroforestry can ensure food security and mitigate the effects of climate change in Africa

African smallholder farmers can benefit from agroforestry practices to increase storage of carbon, enhance agricultural productivity, and improve resilience to climate change impacts. Agroforestry is a win-win solution that addresses both mitigation and adaptation needs in food-focused production systems.

SourceWorld Agroforestry Centre (ICRAF)·JournalCurrent Opinion in Environmental Sustainability·DateMar 10, 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.

Elsevier announces the launch of a new journal: Geoderma Regional

Elsevier has launched a new journal, Geoderma Regional, which focuses on regional soil science research. The journal aims to increase understanding and scientific knowledge of soils in all regions worldwide. It will publish original research articles and reviews on various aspects of soil science.

SourceElsevier·JournalGeoderma Regional·DateMar 10, 2014

Volcanoes helped species survive ice ages

Researchers found that species near volcanoes were more likely to survive past ice ages due to the heat and steam from volcanic activity. This discovery could inform conservation efforts in icy regions as humans continue to impact the environment.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 10, 2014

NASA data shed new light on changing Greenland ice

New research using NASA data shows that only a small number of Greenland's largest glaciers are responsible for the majority of ice discharge into the ocean. The study used satellite observations and ice thickness measurements to calculate ice flow rates, providing a clearer picture of how glacier dynamics affect the Greenland Ice Sheet.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateMar 10, 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.

A tricky balancing act: Antibiotics versus the gut microbiota

Recent studies suggest that antibiotic use in childhood can lead to changes in growth and metabolic development. Low-dose antibiotics have been shown to alter body fat and tissue composition in laboratory animals, highlighting the potential impact of antibiotics on the gut microbiota.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·DateMar 10, 2014

Two-dimensional material shows promise for optoelectronics

MIT researchers have successfully created devices that harness or emit light using a novel material called tungsten diselenide, which is just a few atoms thick. This breakthrough could lead to the development of ultrathin, lightweight, and flexible photovoltaic cells, LEDs, and other optoelectronic devices.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateMar 10, 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.