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Science News for October 9, 2014


Climate change alters the ecological impacts of seasons

A recent study by George Wang and Michael Dillon found that climate change has increased daily and annual temperature cycling globally. This altered temperature variability can lead to increased crop damage from pest insects and changes in plant seasonal behavior.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Climate Change·DateOct 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.

Electrically conductive plastics promising for batteries, solar cells

Researchers have developed a new type of plastic that can conduct electricity, paving the way for innovative applications such as transparent solar cells, flexible batteries, and ultrathin coatings. The plastic, called PTMA, is about 10 times more electrically conductive than common semiconducting polymers.

SourcePurdue University·JournalMacromolecules·DateOct 9, 2014

When judging art, men and women stand apart

A new study by Michigan State University researchers found that men tend to focus on an artist's background and authenticity when evaluating art, while women prioritize the artwork itself. This finding has implications for the $64 billion art market and other industries where creativity is involved.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalPsychology and Marketing·DateOct 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.

New computational approach finds gene that drives aggressive brain cancer

A new algorithm has identified KLHL9 as the driving force behind aggressive glioblastoma, a type of brain cancer. Reintroducing KLHL9 protein suppressed tumors in mice transplants, offering hope for a possible treatment strategy. The approach also revealed new genes involved in breast cancer and Alzheimer's disease.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalCell·DateOct 9, 2014

Hubble reveals most detailed exoplanet weather map ever

A team of scientists used the Hubble Space Telescope to create a detailed weather map of WASP-43b, tracing the planet's temperature and water vapor content. The study found that the exoplanet has winds that can reach up to 1500 degrees Celsius, with temperatures on the day side hot enough to melt iron.

SourceESA/Hubble Information Centre·JournalScience·DateOct 9, 2014

Plant communities in Holy Land can cope with climate change of 'biblical' dimensions

A study led by Rutgers University-Newark found that plant communities in the Holy Land can withstand significant changes in rainfall, contradicting predictions of dire ecological consequences. The research team subjected diverse ecosystems to nine years of drought and found no measurable changes in vegetation characteristics.

SourceRutgers University-Newark·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 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.

Unusual skin cancer linked to chronic allergy from metal orthopedic implant

Researchers discovered that chronic inflammation caused by metal allergy can promote the development of rare and aggressive skin cancers like Marjolin's ulcer. The study suggests that patients with metal implants near the skin may need to be monitored for this type of inflammation.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateOct 9, 2014

Dead star shines on

Astronomers have discovered a pulsating, dead star beaming with the energy of about 10 million suns. Pulsars are dense stellar remnants leftover from supernovas, and this one is the brightest ever recorded.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory·JournalNature·DateOct 9, 2014

New NIH Big Data to Knowledge center of excellence

The National Center of Excellence for Mobile Sensor Data-to-Knowledge (MD2K) aims to develop computational tools for large-scale health data analysis. Researchers will focus on inferring patient health and behavioral risk factors from mobile sensor data.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·DateOct 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.

'Data smashing' could unshackle automated discovery

Researchers at Cornell University have developed a new method called 'data smashing' that enables automated discovery without human intervention, opening doors to complex observations and expert-driven analysis.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateOct 9, 2014

A cost-effective and energy-efficient approach to carbon capture

Scientists from EPFL, UC Berkeley, and Beijing have combined solid and liquid materials to create a hybrid absorption-adsorption method that captures CO2 more efficiently than current methods. The new approach uses a slurry of ZIF-8, a metal-organic framework, with glycol, allowing for low-cost and energy-efficient carbon capture.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 9, 2014

Nanoparticles get a magnetic handle

Researchers at MIT have achieved a long-sought goal of creating particles that can emit a colorful fluorescent glow and be precisely manipulated into position within living cells using magnetic fields. The new technology could enable tracking the position of nanoparticles as they move within the body or inside a cell, and manipulate th...

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 9, 2014

Balancing birds and biofuels: Grasslands support more species than cornfields

A study found that grassland fields in southern Wisconsin supported over three times as many bird species as cornfields, including 10 imperiled species. The research suggests that diverse bioenergy crop fields could benefit birds more than less diverse fields, making grasslands an acceptable tradeoff for biomass production.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 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.

UChicago Medicine wins CDC grant to lead unique hepatitis C alliance

A $6.2 million grant will fund the Hepatitis C Community Alliance to Test and Treat (HepCCATT) program to build Chicago's capacity to test for and cure HCV infections. The initiative aims to screen 18,500 people annually and treat 2,500, with a focus on underserved communities.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·DateOct 9, 2014

Set of molecules found to link insulin resistance in the brain to diabetes

A study at Mount Sinai Hospital reveals that a set of molecules linked to insulin signaling in the brain may indicate an increased risk of developing diabetes. The researchers identified a key mechanism by which these molecules affect BCAA breakdown in the liver.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalCell Metabolism·DateOct 9, 2014

Newly discovered brain cells explain a prosocial effect of oxytocin

Researchers at Rockefeller University have identified a newly discovered class of brain cells that respond to oxytocin in female mice. These oxytocin receptor interneurons (OxtrINs) play a key role in influencing social behavior, particularly in females during their reproductive cycle, and may also contribute to human social interactions.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalCell·DateOct 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.

Researchers find RNA molecules in urine and tissue that detect prostate cancer

A new study identifies a set of RNA molecules in urine and tissue samples that can detect prostate cancer with high sensitivity and specificity. These long noncoding RNAs have the potential to serve as biomarkers for early detection and diagnosis of prostate cancer, offering a promising approach to reduce overtreatment and morbidity.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Molecular Diagnostics·DateOct 9, 2014

Nanoparticle research could enhance drug delivery through skin

Scientists at the University of Southampton have identified key characteristics that enhance a nanoparticle's ability to penetrate skin. Researchers found that positively charged nanorod-shaped nanoparticles are up to ten times more effective in penetrating skin than others, with cell penetrating peptides further enhancing penetration.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalSmall·DateOct 9, 2014

Low birth rates can actually pay off in the US and other countries

A global study from University of California, Berkeley suggests that a moderately low birth rate can actually boost a country's overall standard of living. Researchers found that families bear the costs of raising children, while governments should adjust policies to accommodate population aging.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalScience·DateOct 9, 2014

Mining big data yields Alzheimer's discovery

Researchers have identified a novel gene, MGST3, that regulates hippocampus size in both mice and humans, linked to neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. The discovery provides another biomarker for identifying those at greatest risk of developing the condition.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalBMC Genomics·DateOct 9, 2014

Scientists reveal why beer tastes good to us and to flies

Beer yeasts produce chemicals that mimic fruits to attract flies, which carry them to new food sources. This attraction allows yeast cells to disperse into broader ecosystems, influencing the flavor of beverages like beer and wine.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalCell Reports·DateOct 9, 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.

Embryos receive parent-specific layers of information, study shows

Researchers at San Francisco State University found that embryonic cells receive distinct epigenetic marks from parents, influencing development and behavior. The study identifies unique histone marks in sperm and embryos, potentially aiding proper cell division and human function.

SourceSan Francisco State University·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateOct 9, 2014

New advances in additive manufacturing using laser solid forming to produce metallic parts

Researchers have made significant advancements in additive manufacturing using laser solid forming (LSF) to produce high-performance metallic components. The LSF technique allows for the direct fabrication of metallic components with excellent mechanical properties similar to those produced by casting or forging.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·Journal3D Printing and Additive Manufacturing·DateOct 9, 2014

Manipulating memory with light

Scientists at UC Davis used optogenetics to erase specific memories in mice, showing coordinated activity between the cerebral cortex and hippocampus during memory retrieval. The study confirms a long-standing idea about memory processing, providing new insights into how the brain functions.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalNeuron·DateOct 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.

Satellite movie shows Hurricane Simon's remnants moving through US

NASA's GOES-East satellite captures Hurricane Simon's landfall in Mexico and movement into the U.S. Southwest, with remnants expected to reach the central Plains and Midwest on Oct. 9-10. Heavy rain, including a threat of flash flooding, is forecast for eastern Kansas and western Missouri.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateOct 9, 2014

Researchers identify a new class of 'good' fats

Researchers have identified a new class of lipid molecules that enhance insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control, offering a promising direction for preventing and treating type 2 diabetes. The fatty acid hydroxyl fatty acids (FAHFAs) are produced and broken down inside the human body and may serve as an early marker for the risk of...

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalCell·DateOct 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.

Thanks, fruit flies, for that pleasing beer scent

Fruit flies are attracted to the beer-like scent produced by brewer's yeast due to a specific gene called ATF1. This symbiotic relationship benefits both species: flies feed on yeasts and yeasts receive dispersal of their cells.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Reports·DateOct 9, 2014

Griffith and Menzies Foundation health collaboration

Griffith University and the Menzies Foundation have collaborated to create a national Menzies Health Institute Queensland, enhancing research excellence in allied health. The new institute will focus on addressing healthcare challenges and opportunities globally.

SourceGriffith University·DateOct 9, 2014

Researchers reveal lung cancer can stay hidden for over 20 years

Researchers discovered that lung cancers can exist undetected for many years due to unique genetic faults in separate areas of the tumor. The study highlights the need for better early detection methods to improve treatment outcomes, as two-thirds of patients are diagnosed with advanced disease when treatments are less effective.

SourceCancer Research UK·JournalScience·DateOct 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.

Earth to data: Making sense of environmental observations

A new DataONE project aims to provide a network of data repositories for Earth observational data, enhancing research efficiency and addressing complex environmental questions. By combining citizen scientist data with land use information, researchers can accurately assess species protection needs and public land agency responsibilities.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·DateOct 9, 2014

Greek Bronze Age ended 100 years earlier than thought, new evidence suggests

Researchers from the University of Birmingham have re-dated the end of the Greek Bronze Age to 925-1025 BCE, based on radiocarbon analysis of animal bones and plant remains. This new chronology challenges traditional estimates and has implications for our understanding of ancient civilizations in the Mediterranean.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 9, 2014

Entire female reproductive tract susceptible to HIV infection in macaque model

Researchers have discovered that HIV can infect the entire female reproductive tract, including the vagina and ovaries, in a macaque model. The study used an artificial virus to track the spread of infection through the FRT, revealing that infected cells were detected throughout the tract within 48 hours after vaginal introduction.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateOct 9, 2014

Similar but different: New discovery for degenerative disease

Researchers have made a groundbreaking discovery about the similarities and differences between two neurodegenerative diseases, progressive supranuclear palsy and Parkinson's Disease. The study reveals that individuals with PSP experience more severe cognitive impairments than those with PD early on.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalJournal of Neuropsychology·DateOct 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.

Big Data methods in biobehavioral health goal of training grant

A Big Data to Knowledge Program grant will develop big data methods to tackle 80% of coronary heart disease causes, including physical inactivity and poor stress management. The goal is to create adaptive, individualized health-behavior interventions using real-time data from smartphones and wearable devices.

SourcePenn State·DateOct 9, 2014

Why men are the weaker sex when it comes to bone health

The International Osteoporosis Foundation reports that one-third of all hip fractures worldwide occur in men, with mortality rates as high as 37% in the first year following fracture. Millions of men are left vulnerable to early death and disability due to osteoporosis.

SourceInternational Osteoporosis Foundation·DateOct 9, 2014

College athletes in contact sports more likely to carry MRSA, study finds

A study found that college athletes playing football, soccer, and other contact sports are more likely to carry MRSA, increasing their risk of infection. Experts recommend practices like frequent hand washing, covering open wounds, and not sharing personal equipment to reduce the spread of the superbug.

SourceInfectious Diseases Society of America·DateOct 9, 2014

Snakes and snake-like robots show how sidewinders conquer sandy slopes

Researchers successfully replicated the sidewinder snake's ability to traverse sandy slopes using a modular snake robot, gaining insights into the animals' unique wave motion. By studying the snakes and physical model simultaneously, they learned general principles that allowed them to improve the robot.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateOct 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.

Migrating animals' pee affects ocean chemistry

Researchers found that migrating animals release ammonia, which plays a significant role in shaping marine chemistry, particularly in low-oxygen zones. The study reveals that animal behavior on a large scale influences the ocean's chemistry, with implications for predicting ocean changes under climate change.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 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.

Scientists discover a 'good' fat that fights diabetes

Researchers have discovered a new class of lipids in humans called fatty acid hydroxy fatty acids (FAHFAs) that are linked to reduced inflammation and improved blood sugar levels in diabetes. FAHFA levels are low in humans with a high risk for diabetes, suggesting potential therapeutic opportunities for metabolic disorders.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalCell·DateOct 9, 2014

Chemists uncover new role of a key base in organic synthesis

Researchers discovered cesium carbonate generates an aggregate state that acts as the starting point for catalytic reactions. This finding has the potential to impact C-H functionalization reactions and catalytic reaction development.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateOct 9, 2014

UPMC investigation into GI scope-related infections changes national guidelines

UPMC's investigation into GI scope-related infections led to the discovery that sterilization, not disinfection, is necessary in preventing serious infections. The new approach has already been implemented and no additional healthcare-associated infections have been linked to scopes since switching to sterilization.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·DateOct 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.

Researchers reveal genomic diversity of individual lung tumors

A study published in Science found that sequencing a single region of a localized tumor can identify most cancer-driving genomic aberrations. The researchers identified 20 known cancer gene mutations across all regions of the same tumor, suggesting a potential connection to relapse.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalScience·DateOct 9, 2014

UPMC programs to improve hand hygiene reduced infections, increased compliance

The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) has implemented successful techniques to improve hand hygiene compliance, reducing infections by educating patients about proper hand-washing techniques. The initiatives have led to significant increases in hand hygiene rates, with near-perfect compliance rates maintained over time.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·DateOct 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.

Bowel cancer risk reduced by adopting multiple healthy behaviors

Researchers found that combining five key healthy lifestyle behaviors - a healthy weight, low abdominal fat, regular physical activity, not smoking, and a balanced diet high in fruits and fiber - reduces the risk of bowel cancer. The study analyzed data from 347,237 men and women over 12 years and found a significant decrease in risk f...

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Medicine·DateOct 9, 2014

New technique yields fast results in drug, biomedical testing

A new technique called slug flow microextraction allows for the quick detection of drugs and monitoring of medical conditions using only a small sample of biological fluid. The method involves extracting target molecules from the sample and analyzing them with mass spectrometry, resulting in results in just minutes.

SourcePurdue University·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateOct 9, 2014

Advanced X-ray, neutron beam imaging reveal workings of powerful biochemical switch PKA

A University of Utah-led study used advanced imaging techniques to understand the inner workings of Protein Kinase A (PKA), a master switch regulating cellular functions. The research found that PKA changes shape with only one sensor, revealing new insights into its unique biological functions and potential targets for disease treatment.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateOct 9, 2014

'Superglue' for the atmosphere

Researchers at Goethe University Frankfurt found that dimethylamine can greatly enhance the formation of aerosol particles from sulfuric acid, creating 'neutral molecular cluster' formations. This process could influence Earth's climate by affecting cloud condensation nuclei and precipitation patterns.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 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.

Discovery of new subatomic particle sheds light on fundamental force of nature

Physicists at the University of Warwick have discovered a new subatomic particle, Ds3*(2860)ˉ, which contains a charm quark and has spin 3. The discovery is expected to transform our understanding of strong interactions, one of four fundamental forces. Researchers believe that studying this particle will provide valuable insights into ...

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateOct 9, 2014

Drinking decaf coffee may be good for the liver

Researchers found that decaf coffee consumption was linked to lower levels of abnormal liver enzymes in a study of over 27,000 participants. The study suggests that chemical compounds in coffee other than caffeine may help protect the liver.

SourceWiley·JournalHepatology·DateOct 9, 2014

From human embryonic stem cells to billions of human insulin producing cells

Researchers at Harvard University have made a breakthrough in producing human insulin-producing beta cells equivalent to normally functioning cells, offering hope for new diabetes treatment. The development involves massive quantities of human embryonic stem cells and could lead to drug discovery and transplantation therapy.

SourceHarvard University·JournalCell·DateOct 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.

Of bio-hairpins and polymer-spaghetti

The study reveals that biopolymer filaments undergo a transition from entangled spaghetti-like structures to aligned bow-shaped filaments when in flow, leading to dramatic shear-thinning behavior. This finding may aid the search for renewable alternatives and provide insights into biological processes such as cytoplasmic flow.

SourceForschungszentrum Juelich·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 9, 2014

Unstoppable magnetoresistance

Scientists discovered a new material, WTe2, exhibiting unlimited growth in magnetoresistance when exposed to strong magnetic fields. This phenomenon could be useful for detecting magnetic fields in scanners.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalNature·DateOct 9, 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.

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals alter thyroid hormone activity during pregnancy

A new study found that PCBs can infiltrate the placenta during pregnancy and affect thyroid hormone activity at the cellular level. This may be particularly concerning for pregnant women who smoke, as it can lead to higher levels of the enzyme CYP1A1 in the placental tissue.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateOct 9, 2014

Space-based methane maps find largest US signal in Southwest

A new study by the University of Michigan and NASA reveals that the Four Corners region in the US Southwest has the largest methane signal seen from space, with over half a teragram emitted annually. The research uses satellite data to identify the source of the emissions, which are likely caused by infrastructure and coalbed methane.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateOct 9, 2014

Hunger games: How the brain 'browns' fat to aid weight loss

A Yale study reveals the brain's control over transforming white fat into brown fat, which burns energy and aids in weight loss. The researchers found that neurons controlling hunger and appetite regulate this process, suggesting a novel approach to combating obesity.

SourceYale University·JournalCell·DateOct 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.

Researchers uncover how 'love hormone' regulates sexual behavior

A study by researchers at The Rockefeller University has identified a new class of brain cells that play a crucial role in regulating female social behavior in mice. These oxytocin-responsive neurons are found in the prefrontal cortex and may mediate other aspects of behavior in response to elevated oxytocin levels.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateOct 9, 2014

Neuroscientists claim rare pair of research grants

Neuroscientists at USC will establish two Centers of Excellence to mine brain data, aiming to identify new treatments for autism, Alzheimer's disease, and mental illness. The $23 million awards total $12 million and $11 million over four years, supporting large-scale analyses that could revolutionize neurological research.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·DateOct 9, 2014

Multiple neurodevelopmental disorders have a common molecular cause

A study reveals that distinct genetic mutations in neurodevelopmental disorders produce similar molecular effects, suggesting a one-size-fits-all therapeutic approach may be effective for conditions like seizures and ADHD. The research identifies shared molecular pathways involved in these diseases, providing new insights into their ca...

SourceCell Press·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateOct 9, 2014

Recent kidney policy changes have not created racial disparities in care

A study found that recent policy changes did not create racial disparities in the management of anemia and mineral metabolism among dialysis patients. The analysis of 7384 patients at 132 facilities showed similar trends in laboratory measures and management practices for different races.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateOct 9, 2014
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Special chromosomal structures control key genes

Researchers discovered that DNA scaffolding plays a crucial role in controlling gene expression by forming topologically associated domains. These domains contain super enhancer regions that enhance or repress gene activity.

SourceWhitehead Institute for Biomedical Research·JournalCell·DateOct 9, 2014

Clove oil tested for weed control in organic Vidalia sweet onion

Researchers found that clove oil herbicide did not consistently improve weed control in organic Vidalia sweet onions. The study concluded that the herbicide was not effective enough to justify its expense due to issues with maintaining an emulsion and affecting onion yield.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateOct 9, 2014

New leafhopper species named after University of Illinois entomologist

Three new species of leafhoppers from China's Futasujinus genus were identified and described, one named after Dr. Chris Dietrich, a renowned University of Illinois entomologist. The newly discovered species exhibit unique characteristics, including processes on their aedeagal shafts.

SourceEntomological Society of America·JournalAnnals of the Entomological Society of America·DateOct 9, 2014

Wild tomato species focus of antioxidant study

Scientists have discovered that wild tomato species like Solanum habrochaites and Solanum peruvianum contain higher levels of antioxidants, which can help improve the health-related characteristics of cultivated tomatoes. The study provides valuable insights for breeding programs aiming to enhance antioxidant traits in elite tomato lines.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateOct 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.

The geoscience community honors the man who shook up earthquake science

Dr. James Davis is being honored by the geoscience community for his work in advancing earthquake hazards preparedness and mitigation in the US. He has helped shape how geoscientists communicate with the public about seismic environments, and has been instrumental in implementing the Seismic Hazards Mapping Act in California.

SourceAmerican Geosciences Institute·DateOct 9, 2014

DNA nano-foundries cast custom-shaped metal nanoparticles

Researchers at Wyss Institute have developed a method to form tiny 3D metal nanoparticles in prescribed shapes using DNA as a construction mold. The breakthrough has the potential to advance laser technology, microscopy, solar cells and more.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalScience·DateOct 9, 2014

Researchers unfold new details about a powerful protein

A team of researchers uncovered how Protein Kinase A II-beta changes shape in response to cAMP, revealing its internal architecture and ability to regulate energy consumption and hormone interactions.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateOct 9, 2014

Human health, wealth require expanded marine science, experts say

Experts urge greater investment in ocean research to address pressing marine-related issues. The declaration sets a five-year roadmap for integrated policy-oriented ocean scrutiny and identifies four key policy goals: valuing the ocean, capitalizing on European leadership, advancing ocean knowledge, and breaking scientific barriers.

SourceTerry Collins Assoc·DateOct 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.