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Science News for September 16, 2014


Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Novel capability enables first test of real turbine engine conditions

A team of researchers has developed a novel capability to simulate extreme turbine engine conditions, allowing scientists to study the microstructure and internal strain in coated test blades during real operating conditions. This breakthrough could lead to improved material lifespan estimates and coatings for energy-efficient turbines.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 16, 2014

Newborn Tropical Storm Polo gives a NASA satellite a 'cold reception'

Tropical Storm Polo is intensifying with strong thunderstorms and high cloud top temperatures near -63F/-53C, potentially generating heavy rain. The storm's center was located near latitude 12.8 north and longitude 99.4 west, with maximum sustained winds of 40 mph (65 kph) and a predicted strengthening into a hurricane by Thursday.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 16, 2014

Nanoribbon film keeps glass ice-free

Rice University scientists have developed a transparent coating for glass that can keep surfaces free of ice and fog while maintaining radio frequency transparency. The graphene nanoribbon film, refined for consistency, retains its heat-conductive properties when applied to glass or plastic surfaces.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateSep 16, 2014

Neuroimaging technique identifies concussion-related brain disease in living brain

A new experimental PET tracer effectively diagnoses chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) while patients are still alive. The technology differentiates CTE from other forms of dementia, enabling estimates of prevalence and risk. This breakthrough improves diagnosis and treatment for athletes and others exposed to repeated head trauma.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalTranslational Psychiatry·DateSep 16, 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.

Gene variant that dramatically reduces 'bad' lipids

A rare genetic variant in the APOC3 gene has been identified as a significant contributor to reduced triglyceride levels, associated with lower risk of cardiovascular disease. The study analyzed data from 4,000 healthy individuals and found that approximately 0.2% of the population carries this variant.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 16, 2014

Computerized emotion detector

A new software emotion detector uses a three-phase approach to analyze facial features and associate them with emotional states, achieving a 94% success rate. The technology has the potential to enhance human-computer interactions and improve security checks at airports.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Computational Vision and Robotics·DateSep 16, 2014

Results of RIBS IV trial reported at TCT 2014

The RIBS IV trial reported that everolimus-eluting stents (EES) provide superior late angiographic results and better late clinical outcomes compared to drug-eluting balloons (DEB). EES demonstrated a larger in-segment minimal lumen diameter at nine months and higher rates of freedom from target lesion revascularization.

SourceCardiovascular Research Foundation·DateSep 16, 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.

For electronics beyond silicon, a new contender emerges

Harvard researchers have engineered a material to perform comparably with the best silicon switches, achieving an on/off ratio of greater than 10^5. The discovery uses solid-state chemical doping and exploits chemistry rather than temperature to achieve dramatic results.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 16, 2014

Study on global carbon cycle may require reappraisal of climate events in Earth's history

Scientists at the University of Miami re-evaluate the global carbon cycle by analyzing marine sediment cores, suggesting that post-depositional changes can mimic ancient trends. This new perspective highlights the importance of understanding geological context in interpreting carbon isotope records.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 16, 2014

Boosting global corn yields depends on improving nutrient balance

A review of over 150 studies reveals that optimal nitrogen-phosphorus and nitrogen-potassium ratios are crucial for high-yielding corn production. Achieving these balanced nutrient uptake ratios can lead to significant yield increases regardless of the region where the corn is grown.

SourcePurdue University·JournalAgronomy Journal·DateSep 16, 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.

First blood test to diagnose depression in adults

A new blood test identifies 9 RNA markers tied to depression, predicting who will benefit from therapy and providing the first objective, scientific diagnosis. The test also shows biological effects of cognitive behavioral therapy, offering personalized medicine approach to people suffering from depression.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalTranslational Psychiatry·DateSep 16, 2014

The future face of molecular electronics

Researchers identify picene as a potential candidate for small-scale electronics due to its high carrier mobility and chemical stability. A thin layer of picene molecules attached to a silver surface maintains its structure and function.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateSep 16, 2014

Smoke wafts over the Selway Valley in Idaho

Smoke from the Selway Complex and Johnson Bar fires is wafting into the Selway River valley, as detected by NASA's MODIS satellite on September 15, 2014. The fires, ignited by lightning strikes between August 10 and August 25, have spread to over 9,600 acres.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 16, 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.

Job stress not the only cause of burnouts at work

A new study published in Social Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology found that factors outside the workplace contribute to mental health problems. Employees living with a partner, with young children or higher household income, experienced fewer burnout symptoms. The research emphasizes the importance of considering home life along...

SourceConcordia University·JournalSocial Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology·DateSep 16, 2014

Effect of magnesium sulfate during pregnancy on very preterm infants

A study found that antenatal magnesium sulfate treatment was not associated with improved outcomes in children born at less than 28 weeks' gestation. Despite its neuroprotective effects for preterm fetuses, the treatment had no long-term benefits on neurological, behavioral, growth, or functional outcomes.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateSep 16, 2014

Why are consumers willing to spend more money on ethical products?

A study in Journal of Consumer Research finds that consumers who prioritize ethics make choices based on emotions such as anger, concern, and joy. Ethical consumerism can be fueled by these sentiments to encourage more responsible habits.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateSep 16, 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.

More cheese, please! New study shows dairy is good for your metabolic health

A new Canadian study found that consuming dairy products may have beneficial effects on metabolic health, including lower blood pressure and body weight. The study monitored the dairy-eating habits of healthy French-Canadians and discovered a positive association between dairy intake and specific metabolic risk factors.

SourceCanadian Science Publishing·DateSep 16, 2014

Meteorite that doomed the dinosaurs helped the forests bloom

A new study published in PLOS Biology reveals that the meteorite impact that ended the dinosaurs also accelerated the growth of fast-growing flowering plants, which replaced slower-growing evergreen species. The research used fossilized leaves to reconstruct a plant community thriving during a 2.2 million-year period after the impact.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateSep 16, 2014

Powerful synergies across different sectors improve health of poor women and children

New research finds that 50% of under-five child mortality reduction is due to high-impact health interventions, while the remaining 50% is attributed to factors outside the health sector. Successful countries deployed tailored strategies to address immediate needs, work towards long-term visions, and adapt quickly to change.

SourceHoffman & Hoffman Worldwide·JournalBulletin of the World Health Organization·DateSep 16, 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.

Healthy humans make nice homes for viruses

A recent study found that healthy individuals carry an average of five types of viruses on their bodies, with some individuals harboring up to 15 viruses. The researchers discovered seven families of viruses, including strains of herpes viruses not associated with sexually transmitted infections.

SourceWashU Medicine·DateSep 16, 2014

NASA HS3 instrument views 2 dimensions of clouds

The NASA HS3 mission is studying the changing profile of the atmosphere to learn more about how hurricanes form and strengthen. The CPL instrument provides a two-dimensional picture of cloud and aerosols, allowing scientists to discriminate between different types of particles and improve hurricane models.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 16, 2014

The genetics of coping with HIV

Researchers found that tolerance to HIV varies substantially between individuals, influenced by inherited genes, and is distinct from resistance. The study also discovered a gene linked to both resistance and tolerance, suggesting a unique mechanism for coping with the virus.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateSep 16, 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.

World Health Organization policy improves use of medicines

A study by WHO and University of Toronto researchers found that implementing essential medicines policies is associated with improved quality use of medicines. Countries with higher per capita wealth levels showed weaker correlation, highlighting the importance of these policies in low-income nations.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateSep 16, 2014

Cancer patients with malignant spinal cord compression have preserved mobility

Cancer patients with malignant spinal cord compression who receive a single dose of 10 Gy radiation therapy have preserved mobility, comparable to those receiving five daily doses of lower-radiation therapy. The study also found similar changes in bladder function and overall survival rates between the two groups.

SourceAmerican Society for Radiation Oncology·DateSep 16, 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.

Researchers studying improving physician opioid prescribing

The study aims to test a collaborative care intervention to improve chronic opioid therapy management and reduce prescription opioid misuse among HIV-infected patients. Researchers at Boston University School of Medicine hope to develop an effective model that can be adopted nationwide.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·DateSep 16, 2014

Imaging identifies asymptomatic people at risk for stroke

A new study found that imaging can be a cost-effective way to identify people at risk for stroke and help sort patients into invasive or less invasive options. The study used transcranial Doppler sonography to assess cerebrovascular reserve in asymptomatic individuals with carotid artery stenosis.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateSep 16, 2014

Patient's question triggers important study about blood thinners

A new study has provided clinical guidelines for selecting the best oral blood thinner for patients suffering from deep vein thrombosis. The study, published in JAMA, analyzed 45 randomized trials involving nearly 45,000 patients and found no major differences in effectiveness and safety among eight anticoagulant therapies.

SourceThe Ottawa Hospital·JournalJAMA·DateSep 16, 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.

Results of DKCRUSH-VI trial reported at TCT 2014

A new study compared the effectiveness of fractional flow reserve (FFR)-guided and angiography-guided provisional side branch stenting in patients with true coronary bifurcation lesions. The FFR-guided approach yielded similar one-year composite rates of major adverse cardiac events to the current standard of care.

SourceCardiovascular Research Foundation·DateSep 16, 2014

Smart teens rub off on teammates

A new study at Brigham Young University found that high school students who participate in extracurricular activities with members who get good grades are more likely to attend college. The type of team or club doesn't matter, as long as the student is surrounded by peers with high GPAs.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalSocial Science Research·DateSep 16, 2014

New research decodes virus-host interactions in ocean dead zones

A new study reveals that marine viruses are more important to microbial ecology below sunlit surface waters than previously suspected. The research focused on a sulfur-oxidizing bacterium called SUP05, which is dominant in oxygen minimum zones and has not been successfully cultivated in a lab setting.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·DateSep 16, 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.

Human faces are so variable because we evolved to look unique

A new study by University of California, Berkeley scientists found that human facial traits are more variable than other bodily traits and show higher levels of genetic variation. This is consistent with the idea that evolution has favored uniqueness in facial features to enhance recognition and social interaction.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 16, 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.

How learning to talk is in the genes

Researchers discovered a genetic link between changes near the ROBO2 gene and the number of words spoken by children in early stages of language development. The study found significant association between genetic variations and expressive vocabulary in infancy, suggesting a strong role for genetics in early language skills.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 16, 2014

Sam Houston State study examines use of GIS in policing

A Sam Houston State University study examines the use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in policing, identifying key uses and limitations. The review found that while GIS is widely used for crime mapping and profiling, there is a lack of independent evaluations on its effectiveness in curbing crime.

SourceSam Houston State University·JournalInternational Journal of Applied Geospatial Research·DateSep 16, 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.

36 Pit Fire in Oregon

The 36 Pit Fire in Oregon began on September 13, 2014 and is still under investigation. Firefighters have made progress in establishing an anchor point and constructing a fireline on the West and North sides of the fire.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 16, 2014

Combination therapy for COPD associated with better outcomes

A study found that combination therapy with long-acting beta-agonists (LABAs) and inhaled corticosteroids (ICSs) is associated with a lower risk of death or COPD hospitalization among older adults with COPD, particularly those with asthma. The therapy also showed promise for patients without asthma.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateSep 16, 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.

A novel therapy for sepsis?

Researchers at the University of Tokyo have found that PTX3, a protein involved in innate immunity, can reduce mortality from sepsis by protecting endothelial cells from damage. The study's findings suggest that PTX3 may be used to develop a novel therapy for sepsis.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalScience Signaling·DateSep 16, 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.

Good networkers make prime targets

Pathogens specifically target highly networked proteins with multiple functions to weaken their host. The plant model Arabidopsis thaliana shows that different pathogens attack the same proteins, suggesting a convergent targeting strategy.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateSep 16, 2014

Pairing social networks with social motives to close the science gap

Researchers are using social networks to spread messages about public health knowledge, aiming to close the gap between scientific discoveries and practical applications. A study combining social networks with knowledge about social motives is exploring how to craft effective messages for influential individuals.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 16, 2014

Sharks' skin has teeth in the fight against hospital superbugs

Researchers have developed a surface micropattern called Sharklet that mimics shark skin's natural texture, reducing bacterial contamination by up to 94% compared to smooth surfaces. This technology could potentially curb the spread of MRSA and MSSA in hospital settings.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalAntimicrobial Resistance and Infection Control·DateSep 16, 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.

Meteorite that doomed dinosaurs remade forests

A study of fossilized leaves reveals that the meteorite impact that ended the dinosaurs' reign favored fast-growing, deciduous plants. This shift from slow-growing evergreens to fast-growing species indicates that the extinction was not random, but rather a response to the major disturbance caused by the impact.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalPLOS Biology·DateSep 16, 2014

Exxon Valdez 2014: Does media coverage of manmade disasters contribute to consumer complacency?

A new study reveals that news coverage of environmental disasters like the Exxon Valdez 2014 oil spill calms consumer anxieties instead of driving change. The media coverage creates a 'disaster myth' that directs attention to the company responsible, providing a dramatic closure, and distracting from systemic risks.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateSep 16, 2014

Single fraction RT as effective as multiple fraction RT for bone metastases

A study found that single fraction radiation therapy (SFRT) is equally effective as multiple fraction radiation therapy (MFRT) in improving patients' pain, function, and quality of life, including for those with excluded characteristics. The results support the generalizability of prior randomized controlled trials to real-world practice.

SourceAmerican Society for Radiation Oncology·DateSep 16, 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.

Tornadoes occurring earlier in 'Tornado Alley'

A new study reveals peak tornado activity in the central and southern Great Plains of the US is starting and ending earlier than it did half a century ago. The shift in tornado activity could help states in 'Tornado Alley' better prepare for these violent storms, with some states experiencing an average shift of 14 days compared to 1954.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateSep 16, 2014

Counting fish teeth reveals regulatory DNA changes behind rapid evolution, adaptation

Scientists have discovered that a single genetic change in the Bmp6 gene is associated with an increase in tooth number in freshwater sticklebacks, which can lead to cleft palate deformities. The study suggests that regulating this gene may hold the key to replacing human teeth and improving tooth formation.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 16, 2014

Study identifies when and how much various prostate cancer treatments will impact urinary and sexual functioning

Researchers analyzed data from over 17,000 surveys to track changes in urinary and sexual symptoms following various prostate cancer treatments. The study found that certain treatments, such as surgery and low-dose rate brachytherapy (LDR), may cause temporary increases in symptoms, while others, like intensity modulated radiation ther...

SourceFox Chase Cancer Center·DateSep 16, 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.

Waistlines of US adults continue to increase

The prevalence of abdominal obesity and average waist circumference increased significantly among US adults between 1999-2012. The overall age-adjusted average waist circumference rose by 1.2 inches in men and 1.5 inches in women, with significant increases seen across different racial groups.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateSep 16, 2014

And so they beat on, flagella against the cantilever

Scientists at Boston University and Stanford University School of Medicine attach E. coli colonies to a microcantilever, allowing real-time monitoring of bacterial motion and communication patterns. The new system enables rapid assessment of antibiotic susceptibility and potential applications in cancer drug development.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateSep 16, 2014

Results of IVUS-CTO trial reported at TCT 2014

A randomized trial found that IVUS-guidance significantly improved 12-month clinical outcomes after new-generation drug-eluting stent implantation, compared to conventional angiography-guided CTO intervention. The IVUS-CTO study showed lower rates of cardiac death, myocardial infarction, and target-vessel revascularization in the IVUS-...

SourceCardiovascular Research Foundation·DateSep 16, 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.

Making quantum dots glow brighter

Researchers have discovered a way to control the properties of quantum dots by using ultrathin layers of metal oxides. This new approach makes quantum dots glow brighter and enhances their emission efficiency, which is crucial for applications such as sensors, light-emitting diodes, and solar cells.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateSep 16, 2014

Select group of stage IV lung cancer patients achieve long-term survival after aggressive treatments

A meta-analysis of 757 Stage IV NSCLC patients found that factors such as timing of metastases and lymph node involvement impact overall survival. The study identified three risk groups with different five-year OS rates, and highlighted the importance of identifying patients who are most likely to benefit from aggressive treatments.

SourceAmerican Society for Radiation Oncology·DateSep 16, 2014

Artworks are people!

A new study suggests that artworks are perceived as an extension of the creator, with original pieces valued more highly than copies. The researchers propose a concept called 'magical contagion,' where the artist's physical presence imbues the work with their essence.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Booth School of Business·JournalTopics in Cognitive Science·DateSep 16, 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.

Prostate cancer patients who receive hypofractionated RT report consistent QoL

A phase I/II trial of hypofractionated radiation therapy found that prostate cancer patients reported similar quality of life, bladder and bowel function before and after treatment. The study's results also indicated that different regimens of hypofractionated RT produced similar outcomes in terms of patient-reported quality of life.

SourceAmerican Society for Radiation Oncology·DateSep 16, 2014

New gene research helps pinpoint prostate cancer risk

A global study of 80,000 men with prostate cancer has identified another 23 prostate cancer risk loci, bringing the total to 100 genetic regions associated with the disease. The study found that these genetic variants explain 33% of familial risk and can be used to predict aggressive form of prostate cancer.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalNature Genetics·DateSep 16, 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.

UCI team is first to capture motion of single molecule in real time

Researchers from UCI capture moving images of a single molecule as it vibrates and shifts between quantum states, opening a window into the realm of quantum mechanics. This breakthrough could lead to applications such as lightning-fast quantum computers and uncrackable encryption.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalNature Photonics·DateSep 16, 2014

NASA's HS3 mission covers transition of Hurricane Cristobal

The HS3 mission gathered data on Hurricane Cristobal as it became an extra-tropical storm, revealing strong winds and dry air moving eastward across the western side of the storm. The data showed a shift in the strongest winds outward from the center compared to earlier stages in the storm's lifecycle.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 16, 2014

Slimy fish and the origins of brain development

Researchers studied lamprey embryology to understand the evolutionary origins of modern vertebrates. They discovered that Hox genes play a crucial role in hindbrain segmentation, which is conserved across vertebrates.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateSep 16, 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.

'Smart material' chin strap harvests energy from chewing

Researchers have created a smart material-based chin strap that generates electricity from chewing, eating and talking, with potential to power hearing aids, cochlear implants and other small electronic devices. The device harnesses piezoelectric fiber composites to convert mechanical stress into electric charge.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalSmart Materials and Structures·DateSep 16, 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.

Evidence of genetic link to PTSD in soldiers exposed to childhood trauma

Researchers at Columbia University and the University of Michigan found an interaction between the ADRB2 gene and childhood adversity in a study of Ohio National Guard soldiers. The study suggests that genetic variations can influence PTSD symptoms, particularly in individuals with two or more experiences of childhood trauma.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateSep 16, 2014

Do ads showing sexy women make male consumers less charitable?

A recent study found that men who viewed images of sexy women felt less connected to others and were less likely to make charitable contributions. Exposure to such images temporarily decreased male consumers' sense of psychological connectedness with others, making them less receptive to ads promoting social benefits.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateSep 16, 2014

Do wearable lifestyle activity monitors really work?

Researchers analyze 13 wearable activity monitors to determine their effectiveness in promoting healthy behaviors. While many apps are in line with health community recommendations, some lack key features such as action planning and problem-solving tools.

SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·DateSep 16, 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.

Scientists twist radio beams to send data

Researchers at USC have developed a technique to twist radio beams and transmit data at high speeds of 32 gigabits per second. This method outperforms traditional optical systems and could enable ultra-high-speed links for next-generation cellular systems.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 16, 2014

Study compares effectiveness of treatments for blood clots

A network meta-analysis of nearly 50 randomized trials compared the efficacy and safety outcomes of eight anticoagulation options for venous thromboembolism. Rivaroxaban and apixaban were associated with the lowest bleeding risk, while UFH-vitamin K antagonist combination was linked to higher recurrent venous thromboembolism rates.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateSep 16, 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.

Camera developed at WUSTL sheds light on mate choice of swordtail fish

Female northern swordtail fish are attracted to specific patterns visible in polarized light, increasing mating chances for males with higher polarization. The camera developed by Viktor Gruev captures real-time polarization properties of light, revealing new insights into vertebrate behavior.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 16, 2014

Results of OCT STEMI trial reported at TCT 2014

A new randomized trial demonstrated that optical coherence tomography (OCT) guidance during stent implantation in primary PCI for ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) improves patient outcomes. The OCT STEMI trial found lower area stenosis and fewer uncovered struts after nine months, indicating better long-term results.

SourceCardiovascular Research Foundation·DateSep 16, 2014

Unraveling cell division

Researchers have found that Topo 2, an essential enzyme for chromosome separation, needs more time to untangle long chromosomes, which can lead to mutations and cancer. The study suggests that chromosome length affects the enzyme's action and highlights the importance of understanding cell division.

SourceCenter for Genomic Regulation·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateSep 16, 2014