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Science News for September 8, 2014


Co-flowing liquids can stabilize chaotic 'whipping' in microfluidic jets

A research team led by Alberto Fernandez-Nieves has figured out how to convert the standard chaotic waveform to a stable helical form. By controlling the viscosity and speed of the secondary liquid surrounding the jets, they were able to stabilize the structure associated with the whipping behavior.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 8, 2014

NASA catches the end of Tropical Depression 14W

Tropical Depression 14W made landfall in southeastern China on September 8 after forming in the South China Sea. NASA's Aqua satellite captured infrared data showing a powerful storm with cold cloud top temperatures near -63F/-52C.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 8, 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.

Whale sex: It's all in the hips

Research from USC and NHM found that whale pelvic bones serve a purpose and are influenced by sexual selection. The study compared the size of pelvic bones to testis size, revealing a correlation between more competitive mating environments and larger pelvic bones.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalEvolution·DateSep 8, 2014

Study puts some mussels into Bay restoration

Researchers found that mussels on restored oyster reefs can filter up to two-fold more plankton than oysters alone, significantly enhancing water quality. This discovery could increase the 'return on investment' for oyster-reef restoration projects.

SourceVirginia Institute of Marine Science·JournalRestoration Ecology·DateSep 8, 2014

Pastors get scant seminary training on how to help mentally ill, Baylor study finds

A Baylor University study found that seminaries provide inadequate training for pastors to recognize serious psychological distress and refer individuals to professionals. Most counseling classes focused on premarital or family counseling, with limited elective options available for mental health courses.

SourceBaylor University·JournalJournal of Research on Christian Education·DateSep 8, 2014

Fish as good as chimpanzees at choosing the best partner for a task

Researchers at the University of Cambridge found that coral trout are as proficient as chimpanzees in determining when to collaborate and selecting the most effective partner. The study showed that the fish can learn quickly and make informed decisions about their collaborators, mirroring human-like abilities.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 8, 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.

Researchers part water

Researchers have developed a method to isolate and separate para and ortho water molecules, which differ in their nuclear spin states. This breakthrough could provide new insights into various phenomena, including the study of interstellar ice and protein structures.

SourceDeutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateSep 8, 2014

Coral trout pick their collaborators carefully

Researchers found that coral trout can choose the best moray partner for hunting, and even learn which one is more helpful. They use intentional communication to manipulate the behavior of suitable species to achieve a common goal.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 8, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Brain damage caused by severe sleep apnea is reversible

A neuroimaging study reveals that severe obstructive sleep apnea causes significant damage to brain white matter integrity in multiple brain areas. However, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy has been shown to reverse this damage and improve cognitive function, mood, and quality of life after just 12 months of treatment.

SourceAmerican Academy of Sleep Medicine·JournalSLEEP·DateSep 8, 2014

Novel cancer drug proves safe for leukemia patients

A new cancer drug targeting mitochondrial function has been proven safe and showed some efficacy in a Phase I clinical trial for leukemia patients. The drug selectively shut down energy production in cancer cells, which can reproduce faster and repair damage from chemotherapy.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateSep 8, 2014

Transformative science

A new partnership between NSF, NCI, SU2C, and The V Foundation will explore transformative, theoretical biophysics for cancer research and treatment. This collaboration aims to merge life sciences with physical, computational, and engineering sciences to develop innovative approaches.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalCancer Research·DateSep 8, 2014

A single evolutionary road may lead to Rome

Researchers identified a shared gene responsible for flashy markings in two butterfly families, tracing it back to their ancient ancestors. This finding suggests that simple traits may follow a single evolutionary road, potentially revolutionizing our understanding of evolution.

SourceBoston University·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 8, 2014

Rice chemist wins rare NSF Special Creativity Award

Zubarev's team is refining methods to produce more gold nanorods using ascorbic acid, with potential applications in medical diagnostics and photothermal therapy. The NSF grant extension will support further research into processing and incorporating nanorods into metamaterials.

SourceRice University·DateSep 8, 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.

Sodium's influence on blood pressure statistically insignificant

A new study published in the American Journal of Hypertension suggests that sodium intake has a minimal impact on blood pressure. Higher consumption of fruits and vegetables was shown to significantly lower blood pressure, while increased physical activity showed no noticeable effect.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalAmerican Journal of Hypertension·DateSep 8, 2014

Rapid and durable protection against ebola virus with new vaccine regimens

Researchers have successfully tested a new vaccine regimen that provides rapid protection against Ebola virus in monkeys, with some animals remaining protected for up to 10 months after vaccination. The experimental ChAd3 Ebola vaccine demonstrated strong immune responses in both single-dose and prime-boost regimens.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNature Medicine·DateSep 8, 2014

Bacteria from bees possible alternative to antibiotics

Researchers identified lactic acid bacteria in honey that effectively counteracted severe human wound pathogens and persistent horse wounds. The bacteria produce a broad spectrum of antimicrobial compounds as needed, depending on the threat.

SourceLund University·JournalInternational Wound Journal·DateSep 8, 2014

Agricultural revolution in Africa could increase global carbon emissions

Improving agricultural productivity in Africa could lead to an increase in global deforestation rates and carbon emissions. However, the study found that if markets become more integrated, the negative effects of a green revolution in Africa will diminish over time.

SourcePurdue University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 8, 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.

Gobbling up poison: A method for killing colon cancer

Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University have discovered a novel approach to killing colon cancer cells by using an antibody that targets the GUCY2C receptor, which is over-produced and exhibited on the surface of cancer cells. The immunotoxin selectively destroys colon cancer cells while sparing surrounding tissue.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalOncoTargets and Therapy·DateSep 8, 2014

New mechanism in gene regulation revealed

Scientists have unraveled a molecular mechanism of mRNA recognition, essential for understanding differential gene regulation in male and female organisms. This principle represents an essential and widespread mechanism of gene regulation in higher organisms.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalNature·DateSep 8, 2014

Doped graphene nanoribbons with potential

Scientists create doped graphene nanoribbons with nitrogen atoms, enabling directional electronic current flow and solving scaling issues. The development allows for the transfer of ultra-narrow graphene ribbons onto non-conductive materials, paving the way for future graphene-based electronics.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateSep 8, 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.

UCLA biologists delay the aging process by 'remote control'

Researchers identified a gene called AMPK that can slow the aging process throughout the entire body when activated remotely in key organ systems. Activating AMPK in fruit flies increased their lifespans by about 30 percent and kept them healthier longer.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalCell Reports·DateSep 8, 2014

E-cigarette nicotine refill cartridges pose danger for toddlers

E-cigarette nicotine refill cartridges contain high levels of nicotine, posing a risk to young children who may accidentally ingest them. The US CDC reports a massive rise in accidental poison calls related to e-cigarette refills, with over half involving children under 5.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalArchives of Disease in Childhood·DateSep 8, 2014

Study finds tear gas could have temporary impact on lung health

A study found that tear gas exposure can lead to respiratory symptoms such as coughing, chest pain, and phlegm production in protesters, with the effects lasting up to two weeks. Researchers also discovered that people living near protest areas were exposed to harmful lung health effects from tear gas use.

SourceEuropean Respiratory Society·DateSep 8, 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.

Miriam Hospital among national research group awarded $20 million NIH grant

The Miriam Hospital is part of a research collaboration that has received a $20 million grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to develop an intravaginal ring (IVR) that can deliver powerful antiretroviral drugs to prevent the spread of sexually transmitted HIV in women. The project will test multiple-drug combinations to d...

SourceLifespan·DateSep 8, 2014

Textbook theory behind volcanoes may be wrong

Researchers confirm that textbook theory behind volcanoes is incorrect, with no evidence for narrow mantle plumes. Instead, large, slow-moving chunks of mantle drive volcano formation through plate tectonics.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 8, 2014

UNC researchers find new genetic target for a different kind of cancer drug

Researchers found that the protein RBM4, crucial to gene splicing, is drastically decreased in multiple forms of human cancer, including lung and breast cancers. This discovery offers a new route toward therapies targeting altered genetic pathways that allow cancer cells to proliferate and spread.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalCancer Cell·DateSep 8, 2014

Layered graphene sandwich for next generation electronics

Scientists have successfully demonstrated how combining hexagonal boron nitride and graphene can create perfect crystals capable of being used in ultra-high frequency devices. The research paves the way for innovative applications in high-frequency electronics.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateSep 8, 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.

Sex hormones may play a part in autism

A study found that autistic males have lower levels of estrogen receptors and aromatase, an enzyme converting testosterone to estradiol. This could lead to increased testosterone levels, potentially contributing to the disorder's prevalence in men. The findings suggest a possible reason for the gender bias in autism diagnosis.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalMolecular Autism·DateSep 8, 2014

Unusual immune cell needed to prevent oral thrush, Pitt researchers find

Pitt researchers identify natural TH17 cells as a key player in preventing oral thrush, a common infection among HIV patients and those with impaired immune systems. These innate immune cells produce IL-17 to fight Candida albicans, a fungus that causes painful white lesions.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateSep 8, 2014

In directing stem cells, study shows context matters

Researchers at University of Wisconsin-Madison found that the stiffness of surfaces on which stem cells are grown influences cell fate. A soft, brain tissue-like surface directed cells to become neurons, while stiffer surfaces favored the stem cell state.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 8, 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.

NASA sees post-Tropical Cyclone Norbert fading near Baja California

Post-tropical cyclone Norbert is weakening and losing strength, but still causing rough surf along the Baja California coast. The storm's remnants are expected to spread heavy rains and life-threatening flash flooding across northern Mexico and the southwestern United States.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 8, 2014

Input from a psychologist can help improve asthma symptoms

A new study suggests that addressing psychological needs can help alleviate severe asthma symptoms. The research found a 42% reduction in hospital days among patients who received psychological support after experiencing an asthma exacerbation.

SourceEuropean Respiratory Society·DateSep 8, 2014

Sun-powered desalination for villages in India

Researchers at MIT have developed a solar-powered desalination system that can provide clean drinking water to villages in India. The system, which uses electrodialysis technology, is more energy-efficient and cost-effective than traditional reverse-osmosis systems.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalDesalination·DateSep 8, 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.

First-ever look inside a working lithium-ion battery

Using a neutron beam, researchers at Ohio State University track lithium atoms in real time as batteries charge and discharge. This technique, called neutron depth profiling, may help explain why rechargeable batteries lose capacity over time.

SourceOhio State University·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateSep 8, 2014

To admit or not to admit: Variation in hospitalizations from ER costs billions

A new University of Michigan study found significant variation in hospital admissions for ER patients with common non-life-threatening conditions, resulting in estimated annual costs of $5 billion and $266 billion. The study analyzed data from 961 hospitals and 28.5 million emergency visits, revealing that some conditions had high rate...

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalHealth Affairs·DateSep 8, 2014

Light detector to revolutionize night vision technology

A team of researchers at Monash University has developed a light detector based on graphene that can detect light over an unusually broad range of wavelengths, including terahertz waves. This breakthrough could lead to inexpensive infrared cameras or night-vision goggles with unparalleled sensitivity and speed.

SourceMonash University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateSep 8, 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.

Climate change to increase forest fire danger in Europe

A new study predicts that climate change will increase forest fire danger in Europe by 200% by 2090. However, prescribed burns and improved firefighting can reduce this risk to below 50%. The study examined adaptation options for forest fires on a pan-European scale.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalRegional Environmental Change·DateSep 8, 2014

New targets for treating pulmonary hypertension found

Researchers discovered two potential therapeutic targets to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension, a deadly disease marked by high blood pressure in the lungs. The targets involve suppressing abnormal proliferation of smooth muscle cells and signaling molecules involved in the disease.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateSep 8, 2014

Too many kids with asthma, food allergies lack school emergency plans

According to a Northwestern Medicine study, only one in four students with asthma and half of children with food allergies have emergency health management plans in place at school. This underutilization leaves schools inadequately prepared to handle medical emergencies and puts the most vulnerable students at risk.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateSep 8, 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.

Barley business for beer brewing nets scientists enterprise funding

Scientists from the John Innes Centre are developing a new business concept to revive heritage lines of barley for brewing, offering greater choice and added value to farmers and brewers. The venture aims to provide sustainable production and high-quality malting barley, capitalizing on the demand for unique beer ingredients.

SourceBiotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council·DateSep 8, 2014

Popular cancer drug target implicated in cardiovascular defects

A new study by UNC researchers led by Kathleen Caron, Ph.D., shows that deleting CXCR7 allows adrenomedullin to run rampant, triggering enlarged heart and overgrowth of lymphatic vessels. The study highlights the importance of understanding the role of CXCR7 in cardiovascular health.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateSep 8, 2014

Study traces ecological collapse over 6,000 years of Egyptian history

Scientists analyzed depictions of animals in ancient Egyptian artifacts to reconstruct the large mammal community that lived in the Nile Valley. The study found that species extinctions led to a decline in ecosystem stability, with only eight species remaining today compared to 37 six millennia ago.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 8, 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.

Breath temperature test could identify lung cancer

Researchers discovered that patients with lung cancer have a higher breath temperature than those without. The study also identified a cut-off value in temperature measurement to accurately diagnose lung cancer.

SourceEuropean Respiratory Society·DateSep 8, 2014

Teens living with 2 college-educated parents less likely to use alcohol and marijuana

A UT Arlington study found that teens living with two college-educated parents are significantly less likely to drink alcohol or smoke marijuana. The presence of both parents is a strong protective factor for African-American adolescents, with white teenagers being 69% more likely to engage in substance abuse than black peers.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalSocial Work in Public Health·DateSep 8, 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.

Canada funds 22 inventive ideas for better health in developing nations

Grand Challenges Canada awards $2.4 million to 22 projects addressing major health burdens in low-resource countries, including tuberculosis, deafness, and mental health problems. Innovations include a personal eyepiece for deaf children and sterile drill covers for low-cost orthopaedic trauma surgery.

SourceTerry Collins Assoc·DateSep 8, 2014

International Balzan Foundation announces 2014 prize winners

The International Balzan Foundation announced the 2014 prize winners, including Mario Torelli, Ian Hacking, G. David Tilman, Dennis Sullivan, and Vivre en famille. The foundation's awards focus on innovative research in various fields, with half of the prize money dedicated to supporting young scholars.

SourceGold Communications·DateSep 8, 2014

Scientists take a look at the feel-good benefits of belly dance

An Australian study found that belly dancers have a more positive body image than college students, focusing on the experience rather than appearance. This embodying activity allows women to feel good about themselves and explore their sensual selves in a safe and creative way.

SourceSpringer·JournalSex Roles·DateSep 8, 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.

Taking short walking breaks found to reverse negative effects of prolonged sitting

A new study found that taking short walking breaks during prolonged sitting can significantly improve endothelial function and reduce cardiovascular risks. The research involved 11 healthy men who sat for three hours with or without regular breaks, showing that breaks can prevent decline in arterial function.

SourceIndiana University·JournalMedicine & Science in Sports & Exercise·DateSep 8, 2014

A single evolutionary road may lead to Rome

A new paper published in Nature Communications suggests that simple traits like butterfly wing patterns may have a shared genetic source. Researchers identified a single gene, WntA, responsible for the evolution of similar color patterns in two distantly related butterfly species.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 8, 2014

New knowledge of cannabis paves the way for drug development

Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have developed a new screening method that reduces precious sample consumption by a billion times, enabling faster and cheaper drug development. The method uses nanotechnology to study cell membrane proteins binding drugs like cannabis and adrenaline.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalNature Methods·DateSep 8, 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.

Penn team finds ovarian cancer oncogene in 'junk DNA'

A team led by Lin Zhang identified a non-protein-coding RNA, FAL1, whose expression is linked to ovarian cancer. The study found that blocking the activity of FAL1 reduces cancer cells' growth and may serve as a biomarker for BRCA-related cancer prognosis.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalCancer Cell·DateSep 8, 2014

Plant insights could help develop crops for changing climates

A new computer model simulates how plants grow under varying conditions, providing valuable insights into nutrient distribution and adaptation to changing climates. The study's findings could lead to the development of crop varieties with high yields in specific environmental conditions.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 8, 2014

Yale study shows how conversion of forests to cropland affected climate

A Yale study finds that the conversion of forests to cropland worldwide has reduced global BVOC emissions, leading to a net cooling effect on climate temperatures. The loss of dark-colored forests and reduction in emissions of short-lived climate pollutants have offset warming caused by increased fossil fuel carbon dioxide emissions.

SourceYale School of the Environment·JournalNature Climate Change·DateSep 8, 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.

A bird-pollinated flower with a rather ingenious twist

Researchers discovered that a unique twist in the nectar spur of a bird-pollinated flower allows for more efficient pollen placement on sunbirds' heads and bills. This adaptation increases the likelihood of successful pollination and reduces competition among plant species.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 8, 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.

Study examines immunosuppressant effect on central nervous system disorder

A study published in JAMA Neurology found that immunosuppressant MMF treatment significantly reduced relapse rates and improved disability scores in patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD). The results suggest MMF may be an effective treatment option for preventing attacks and resulting disabilities in these patients.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateSep 8, 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.

September/October 2014 Annals of Family Medicine Tip Sheet

The Illinois Medicaid primary care case management program, implemented in 2006, was associated with substantial savings, reductions in inpatient and emergency care, and improvements in quality measures. The programs promoted preventive care, reduced redundancy of services, and improved chronic disease management.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateSep 8, 2014

Should lung cancer screening be covered for Medicare beneficiaries?

A secondary analysis of the National Lung Screening Trial (NLST) data found that both cancer prevalence and positive predictive value of lung cancer screening were higher in the 65+ cohort than in the under-65 cohort. Clinicians should share age-specific estimates of screening benefits and harms with patients to make an informed decision.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateSep 8, 2014

Notch1 and osteoblasts play role in bone cancer initiation

A new mouse model reveals that high levels of Notch1 can transform osteoblasts into cancerous cells, leading to osteogenic sarcoma. This study supports the hypothesis that Notch activating mutations can act as a common triggering mechanism in bone cancer.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalCancer Cell·DateSep 8, 2014

Scientists reveal cell secret potentially useful for vaccines

Researchers found that memory cells arise directly from effector cells through a signaling molecule called Bcl-6. This discovery could lead to more effective vaccine development by strengthening the immune system's ability to respond to recurring pathogens.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalNature Immunology·DateSep 8, 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.

Brain injuries no match for sPIF treatment

Researchers at Yale School of Medicine have found a synthetic molecule called PreImplantation Factor (sPIF) that protects against neuronal death and brain injury. The study suggests that sPIF mitigates brain damage through a novel pathway, potentially treating perinatal brain injuries and neurodegenerative disorders.

SourceYale University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 8, 2014

Food craving is stronger, but controllable, for kids

Children show stronger food craving than adolescents and adults but can use a cognitive strategy to reduce it by 16%, according to new research. The study's findings have implications for interventions to curb childhood obesity and suggest that brain areas involved in regulating craving differ depending on body mass.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateSep 8, 2014

Broken signals lead to neurodegeneration

A study published in PNAS reveals that a protein cross-linking enzyme interacts with a cell receptor to lock it in a closed state, reducing neuron signaling in neurodegenerative diseases like Huntington's and Alzheimer's. The mechanism may provide insight into the development of new drug therapies for these conditions.

SourceRIKEN·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 8, 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.

New research shows that there could be increased numbers of psychopaths in senior managerial positions and high levels of business

Researchers found that individuals with psychopathic tendencies and high intelligence can mask their symptoms by manipulating tests designed to reveal their personalities. This raises concerns about the potential presence of ruthless risk-takers in key business posts.

SourceUniversity of Huddersfield·JournalJournal of Forensic Psychiatry and Psychology·DateSep 8, 2014

Fish oil may help curb seizure frequency in epilepsy

Low-dose fish oil was found to reduce seizure frequency by a third in people with epilepsy who no longer responded to drug treatment. The study also showed a modest fall in blood pressure, but no significant changes in heart rate or fat levels.

SourceBMJ Group·DateSep 8, 2014

Hog workers carry drug-resistant bacteria even after they leave the farm

A new study reveals that nearly half of hog workers in North Carolina carry livestock-associated Staphylococcus aureus, with 46% persistently carrying the bacteria up to four days after exposure. The drug-resistant strains have implications for public health, potentially spreading to family members and communities.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalOccupational and Environmental Medicine·DateSep 8, 2014

Nearly half of older adults have care needs

A recent study reveals that nearly half of older adults (18 million) struggle with daily activities, with 20% requiring assistance. The majority receive help from informal caregivers, but unmet needs persist, particularly among those with few economic resources.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalMilbank Quarterly·DateSep 8, 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.

Social networking can help people lose weight

Research by Imperial College London combining 12 previous studies shows social networking programmes have achieved modest but significant results in helping participants lose weight. The programme provides a community of support from clinicians and peers, empowering patients to be more proactive in their treatment.

SourceImperial College London·JournalHealth Affairs·DateSep 8, 2014

Tip sheet from Annals of Internal Medicine, Sept. 9, 2014

The American College of Physicians (ACP) advises pregnant women at high risk for preeclampsia to take daily low-dose aspirin. Meanwhile, a study found that health insurance remains unaffordable for many younger adults under the Affordable Care Act, with premiums often exceeding the cost of purchasing a plan.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateSep 8, 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.

New parasitoid wasp species found in China

A new species of parasitoid wasp, Spasskia brevicarinata, has been discovered in China, adding to the genus Spasskia. The newly identified species exhibits distinct characteristics, including a short ridge on its first tergite.

SourceEntomological Society of America·JournalJournal of Insect Science·DateSep 8, 2014

Faces are more likely to seem alive when we want to feel connected

New research reveals that people with lower social connections have a higher threshold for determining animacy in faces. This suggests that individuals with high social connection desires prioritize recognizing human-like features less to form connections. The study sheds light on the role of social motivation in face perception and ma...

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateSep 8, 2014

Giving the breath of life to infants

University of Alberta researchers have developed a new resuscitation method that combines oxygen flow and chest compressions, increasing survival rates for newborn babies. The technique has already helped save the lives of eight infants in a clinical trial.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·DateSep 8, 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.

A low-energy optical circuit for a new era of technology

EPFL scientists have developed a silicon-based photonic crystal nanocavity that requires record-low energy to operate as a switch, enabling faster and more efficient technology. The device's high Q factor and small size produce higher light intensity for the same energy, making it a significant step towards optical circuits.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateSep 8, 2014