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Science News for August 10, 2015


Engineering a permanent solution to genetic diseases

Scientists have developed a new technology that significantly improves the ability to target specific faulty genes and edit them with healthy DNA. The method reduces off-target DNA binding, allowing researchers to produce gene editing tools that are 100 times more specific for their target sequence.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalNature Methods·DateAug 10, 2015
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.

Study of 83,000 veterans finds cardiovascular benefits to testosterone replacement

A study of over 83,000 veterans found that restoring normal testosterone levels through gels, patches, or injections reduced the risk of heart attack, stroke, and death. Men who achieved normal levels saw significant benefits in cardiovascular health, while those who did not attained normal levels did not experience similar reductions.

SourceVeterans Affairs Research Communications·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateAug 10, 2015

Mussels inspire development of waterproof adhesives

Researchers at University of Akron develop soybean oil-based adhesives that work in wet conditions, addressing a billion-dollar industry's need for sustainable materials. The new adhesives mimic mussel proteins' ability to stick even in harsh marine environments.

SourceUniversity of Akron·DateAug 10, 2015

Terra captures Alaskan wildfires

The 2015 Alaska fire season has seen a record-breaking number of acres burned, surpassing 5 million, with eight smokejumpers dispatched to address increased activity. The fires have been monitored using NASA's Terra satellite, capturing detailed images of the affected areas.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 10, 2015

NASA stares Hurricane Hilda in the eye

NASA's Terra satellite captured a cloud-free image of Hurricane Hilda's eye on August 8, showing strong thunderstorms circling the center. The storm is expected to cause rough surf along east and southeast facing shores of the main Hawaiian Islands over the next couple of days.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 10, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Camera for the nano-cosmos

Scientists at HZDR and TU Dresden create compact camera that enables precise filming of dynamic processes at the nanometer scale. The instrument combines advantages of two methods, allowing high spatial and temporal resolution.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 10, 2015

Analytics for resilience

The field of risk analysis is entering a new phase with real-time probabilistic risk analysis, enabling better management of complex systems. New methodologies and technologies are being used to predict risks and improve global resilience.

SourceAmerican Statistical Association·DateAug 10, 2015

Seniors at high risk for readmission after ambulatory surgery

A new study from Northwestern Medicine finds that seniors are more likely to be readmitted to the hospital within 30 days of ambulatory surgery, with age being an independent risk factor. The likely cause is difficulty understanding medication dosing and discharge instructions, as well as cognitive impairment among older patients.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateAug 10, 2015

Mass. General-led team identifies first gene that causes mitral valve prolapse

A team of international researchers led by Massachusetts General Hospital has identified the DCHS1 gene as the cause of the common form of mitral valve prolapse, a heart valve disorder that affects nearly 2.5 percent of the population. The study reveals that mutations in this gene lead to defects in the formation of the mitral valve.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalNature·DateAug 10, 2015
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.

Slowing down muscle loss in heart failure patients

Researchers have deciphered a new molecular signaling pathway that promotes muscle loss in heart failure patients. The study found that suppressing this pathway may inhibit muscle atrophy, offering high potential for therapeutic options.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalCirculation Research·DateAug 10, 2015

More precise colon cancer screening?

A clinical scoring system could identify patients at low risk for colon cancer, allowing them to be screened with less invasive methods. The study found that patients classified as low-risk had far fewer advanced adenomas compared to those classified as high-risk.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateAug 10, 2015
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.

Common class of 'channel blocking' drugs may find a role in cancer therapy

Researchers discovered that blocking a specific ion channel in medulloblastoma can impede tumor cells from proliferating and spreading. The development of targeted treatments could improve outcomes for patients with this disease, which is a common cause of death in children.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateAug 10, 2015

Places with more marijuana dispensaries have more marijuana-related hospitalizations

A University of Pittsburgh analysis found that areas with a higher density of marijuana dispensaries experience a greater number of hospitalizations involving marijuana abuse and dependence. Hospitalizations with marijuana abuse or dependence codes increased from 17,469 in 2001 to 68,408 in 2012.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence·DateAug 10, 2015

New hydrogel stretches and contracts like a heat-driven muscle

A team of scientists from RIKEN has developed a new hydrogel that can stretch and contract in response to temperature changes without absorbing or excreting water. The material's unique property allows it to change shape rapidly and efficiently, making it suitable for practical applications such as artificial muscles.

SourceRIKEN·JournalNature Materials·DateAug 10, 2015

Parents' math anxiety can undermine children's math achievement

Research from the University of Chicago found that parents' math anxiety can undermine children's math achievement and increase their own math anxiety when providing frequent help with homework. The study suggests that adults' attitudes toward math play an important role in determining their children's academic success.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalPsychological Science·DateAug 10, 2015
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Education intervention with residents improves understanding of transgender issues

A study led by Boston University School of Medicine researchers found that educating medical residents about transgender identity improved their knowledge and willingness to assist with hormonal therapy. The intervention increased residents' willingness to provide care for transgender patients from 5% to 76% for female-to-male patients...

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalEndocrine Practice·DateAug 10, 2015

Carbon dioxide-spewing volcano drives reef from coral to algae

A volcanic island's unique location allows scientists to study ocean acidification effects on a small scale. Elevated CO2 levels trigger a dramatic ecosystem change from vibrant coral to algae-covered rocks.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·JournalNature Climate Change·DateAug 10, 2015
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.

Study finds steroid therapy benefits patients with pneumonia

A study published by McMaster University has shown that corticosteroid therapy significantly benefits patients with community-acquired pneumonia. The research found that corticosteroids can reduce the need for mechanical ventilation from 9% to 5% of patients and decrease the risk of life-threatening complications.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateAug 10, 2015

Link between hunger and health care costs

A study published in CMAJ found that people with food insecurity use more health care services and incur higher health care costs. Adults in marginally food-insecure households had 23% higher health care costs, while those in severely food-insecure households had 121% higher costs.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateAug 10, 2015
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.

Scripps Florida scientists determine how antibiotic gains cancer-killing sulfur atoms

Researchers at Scripps Florida Institute uncover a novel mechanism for incorporating sulfur into natural products, which has implications for advancing new therapies beyond cancer. The study provides insights into the chemistry of polyketide synthases and could lead to the development of new antitumor agents.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 10, 2015

Scientists present review of liposomes: A basis for drugs of the future

The review highlights the major achievements in liposome technology, including modern synthesis methods, drug delivery systems, and their use in disease diagnosis. Liposomes are being explored as a potential solution to improve treatment outcomes and reduce side effects for various diseases, including cancer and inflammatory conditions.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalChemical Reviews·DateAug 10, 2015

Rice, ASU, Yale, UTEP win NSF engineering research center

A Rice University-led consortium has been chosen to establish a new NSF Engineering Research Center to develop compact, mobile, off-grid water-treatment systems. The NEWT Center aims to provide clean water to millions of people who lack it and make U.S. energy production more sustainable and cost-effective.

SourceRice University·DateAug 10, 2015

miR-7 suppresses stomach cancer

Researchers found that miR-7 directly targets and suppresses the activity of growth factor receptor IGF1R, as well as the pro-oncogenic NF-κB pathway. Increasing miR-7 levels reduced tumor growth in mice and correlated with improved patient survival.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateAug 10, 2015
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.

Keeping beef in the center of the plate

Researchers offer knowledge on reducing antibiotic usage and implementing growth technologies in beef production. Drs. Daniel Thomson, Clint Krehbiel, and Chris Calkins presented their findings at the ADSA-ASAS Joint Annual Meeting.

SourceAmerican Society of Animal Science·JournalJournal of Animal Science·DateAug 10, 2015

Parents' math anxiety can undermine children's math achievement

Research found that parents' frequent help with math homework exacerbates children's math anxiety, leading to lower math achievement. Math attitudes play a crucial role in determining children's success, and parents' own anxiety can be a significant factor.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateAug 10, 2015

Patients at risk for blood clots are not receiving recommended treatment

A study in the Canadian Journal of Cardiology found that even after educating healthcare providers about VTE prophylaxis, significant numbers of patients did not receive the recommended treatment. The study suggests that electronic patient records and innovative software programs can improve compliance rates.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalCanadian Journal of Cardiology·DateAug 10, 2015

Severe droughts could lead to widespread losses of butterflies by 2050

A new UK study predicts that severe droughts could lead to the extinction of six butterfly species by 2050, highlighting the urgent need for climate action. However, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and restoring habitats can greatly improve the chances of drought-sensitive butterflies surviving until at least 2100.

SourceUK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology·JournalNature Climate Change·DateAug 10, 2015

Newly identified tadpole disease found across the globe

A newly identified and highly infectious tadpole disease has been discovered in diverse frog populations across the globe. The study reveals a previously unidentified microbial group that infects tadpole livers, contributing to the decline of amphibian populations.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 10, 2015
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Novel material design for undistorted light waves

Researchers at TU Wien have discovered new materials that can locally amplify or absorb light, allowing for the creation of undistorted light waves with uniform intensity. This breakthrough enables new kinds of light waves without wave interference, potentially useful for technological applications.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 10, 2015

Poor survival among colorectal cancer patients tied to biomarker CSN6

A study at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center found that CSN6 is overexpressed in colorectal cancer tissue samples, leading to poor survival rates. The biomarker's deregulation can lead to cancer development through cellular signaling pathways.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalCancer Cell·DateAug 10, 2015

Southern diet could raise your risk of heart attack

A recent study published in Circulation found that a traditional Southern-style diet is associated with a higher risk of heart disease. Researchers analyzed data from over 17,000 adults and found that those who consumed foods conforming to the Southern dietary pattern had a 56% higher risk of heart disease compared to those who ate it ...

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalCirculation·DateAug 10, 2015
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Big data analysis of state of the union remarks changes view of American History

A new study at Columbia University finds that World War I marks a significant shift in modern political thought, with keywords like 'democracy' and 'unity' emerging after 1917. The researchers analyzed nearly 1.8 million words from State of the Union addresses to chart the evolution of social and political discourses over time.

SourceColumbia University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 10, 2015

Rice U. discovery may boost memory technology

Scientists at Rice University have developed a solid-state memory technology that allows for high-density storage with minimal computer errors. The memories use tantalum oxide and can store up to 162 gigabits, much higher than other oxide-based memory systems.

SourceRice University·JournalNano Letters·DateAug 10, 2015

Knee replacement is effective treatment for degeneration caused by Blount disease

A study at Loyola University Medical Center found that knee replacements can treat degeneration caused by Blount disease, resulting in stable knees and no pain medications. Researchers used a scoring system to evaluate the success of the surgery, with mean scores indicating excellent range of motion and low disability.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalThe Journal of Arthroplasty·DateAug 10, 2015
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.

$10M federal grant to JAX will launch Center for Precision Genetics

A five-year, $9.97M grant will establish a new Center for Precision Genomics at JAX, leveraging the lab's expertise in mammalian genetics and disease modeling to develop precision models of disease. The Center will accelerate translation to medical benefit through global collaborations and shared resources.

SourceJackson Laboratory·DateAug 10, 2015

Work, pedal, and be healthy

A study from the University of Iowa found that portable pedaling devices under desks can inspire active work habits in sedentary employees. Participants who used these devices for 50 minutes a day over 16 weeks showed significant benefits.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateAug 10, 2015
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.

New ORNL hybrid microscope offers unparalleled capabilities

The Hybrid Photonic Mode-Synthesizing Atomic Force Microscope combines nanospectroscopy and nanomechanical microscopy, allowing for rapid non-invasive exploration of materials' surface and subsurface. Researchers can study synthetic and biological samples with high resolution and spectroscopic capabilities.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateAug 10, 2015

Stepping up the sexy

A study by Queen's University professor Nikolaus Troje found that attractiveness depends on internal consistency of appearance, with mismatched features perceived as less attractive. The researchers used hybrid walkers, combining movement styles and body shapes, to demonstrate the importance of consistency in appearance.

SourceQueen's University·JournalEvolution and Human Behavior·DateAug 10, 2015

Kids, teens win when mental health providers team with pediatricians, family doctors

A meta-analysis of integrated care for youth found that children and teens who receive combined mental health and medical treatment are 66 percent more likely to have a good outcome. The study also revealed that the likelihood of a positive outcome increases when primary care and mental health providers work together closely.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateAug 10, 2015
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.

Guam research aids native trees

Researchers from the University of Guam's Western Pacific Tropical Research Center found that three native tree species require contrasting levels of light for optimal growth, contrary to their co-occurring forest habitats.

SourceUniversity of Guam·JournalHortScience·DateAug 10, 2015

Scientists measure slow death of the Universe

Researchers measured energy generated within space more precisely than ever before, discovering the Universe is slowly dying. The Galaxy and Mass Assembly project used seven powerful telescopes to observe 200,000 galaxies at 21 wavelengths.

SourceInternational Centre for Radio Astronomy Research·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateAug 10, 2015
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.

Developing a better flu vaccine

Johns Hopkins researchers study nasal spray flu vaccine in human nasal tract cells to determine optimal weakening or strengthening of the virus. They find that by adjusting nine mutations, a stronger vaccine can be created for older adults while still protecting children under two, offering new hope for effective flu vaccines.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalVaccine·DateAug 10, 2015

KCI/WSU among lead centers in nationwide NCI MATCH trial

The Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, in partnership with Wayne State University School of Medicine, is one of the lead centers participating in the National Cancer Institute's MATCH Trial. The trial seeks to determine whether targeted therapies for people with tumors having specific gene mutations will be effective.

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·DateAug 10, 2015

UBC scientists discover possible 'obesity gene'

Researchers identified a gene called 14-3-3zeta, which controls the production of fat cells and growth. Silencing this gene in mice resulted in a 50% reduction in specific unhealthy white fat, regardless of food intake.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 10, 2015

Tenth transiting 'Tatooine'

Astronomers at SDSU announce the discovery of Kepler-453 b, the 10th known 'circumbinary' planet. The new planet orbits two stars and has a surprisingly tilted orbit, making transits visible only 9% of the time.

SourceSan Diego State University·DateAug 10, 2015
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.

Movie theaters in developing economies should consider the big screen

A new study from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business finds that movie house owners can maximize ticket sales by understanding the preferences of their local audience. The research reveals that urban markets with highly educated consumers prefer wider screens, while other regions favor more showtimes.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Booth School of Business·JournalQuantitative Marketing and Economics·DateAug 10, 2015

A small, modular, efficient fusion plant

Researchers at MIT propose a compact tokamak fusion reactor that could produce significant power in a decade. The new design uses commercially available superconductors to achieve higher magnetic fields, enabling more efficient fusion reactions.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalFusion Engineering and Design·DateAug 10, 2015
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.

Brazilian antibody will be used to create new cancer drug

A Brazilian antibody developed by Recepta Biopharma with FAPESP support will be used to create a new cancer drug. The technology has been licensed to US-based company Mersana Therapeutics, which will use it to develop an immunoconjugate against target tumor cells.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·DateAug 10, 2015

NASA sees Tropical Depression Molave spinning down

Tropical Depression Molave was characterized by strongest winds of near 24 meters per second (53.6 mph/86.4 kph) in its southeastern quadrant on August 8, but these have since weakened. On August 9, NASA's Terra satellite captured a visible-light image showing the depression winding down about 400 miles away from Japan.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 10, 2015

Math boosts brain research

Researchers at the University of Basel used computational models to describe human memory processes for the first time. The study identified specific genetic profiles underlying distinct mental processes, such as learning and memory storage.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 10, 2015
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.

Scientists identify a mechanism of epidemic bacterial disease

Researchers found genetic changes in group A streptococcus that increase toxin production, contributing to large epidemics. The study provides new insights into the molecular basis of epidemic bacterial infections and potential strategies for developing novel therapeutics.

SourceHouston Methodist·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 10, 2015

Clearing habitat surrounding farm fields fails to reduce pathogens

A new study led by UC Berkeley researchers found that clearing non-crop vegetation around farms does not lower pathogen levels in produce. Instead, diverse habitats can encourage pollinated food crops and filter out agrichemical runoff.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 10, 2015

Municipal utilities drive sustainability in smaller cities

New research at Binghamton University finds a positive correlation between municipal power companies and increased community-wide sustainable energy policies. Municipal utilities provide financial resources and local expertise, enabling governments to take action on energy conservation and green-energy production.

SourceBinghamton University·DateAug 10, 2015
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.

Markey's D'Orazio receives funding to further skin cancer research

The University of Kentucky's Dr. John D'Orazio is leading a 3-year research project on melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, with a focus on hormonal pathways and DNA repair. The study aims to understand how specific hormones affect melanocortin1 receptor signaling, which is linked to an increased risk of developing melanoma.

SourceUniversity of Kentucky·DateAug 10, 2015

Super-small needle technology for the brain

Researchers at Toyohashi University of Technology developed a methodology to temporarily enhance the stiffness of flexible microneedles, allowing them to penetrate biological tissues without causing damage. The dissolvable material expands opportunities for flexible microneedles used for brain penetrations.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalAdvanced Healthcare Materials·DateAug 10, 2015

How a female X chromosome is inactivated

A team of ETH Zurich researchers has identified seven genes central to X chromosome inactivation in females, including Spen, which prevents gene expression at the X chromosome. The discovery sheds light on how the human body maintains a delicate balance between genes, preventing disease.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalCell Reports·DateAug 10, 2015

Dartmouth researcher discovers 'brain signature' that predicts human emotions

A Dartmouth researcher and his colleagues have discovered a neural signature of negative emotion that accurately predicts how negative a person will feel after viewing unpleasant images. The study, which included a large sample size of general adult population participants, found the brain signature to be highly accurate and specific.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalPLOS Biology·DateAug 10, 2015
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.

Researcher uses vibrations to identify materials' composition

Researchers developed Hybrid Photonic-Nanomechanical Force Microscopy (HPFM) to identify materials' unique chemical 'fingerprints', mapping their properties at higher spatial resolution. The technology has potential applications in fields like biofuel production, solar energy and pharmaceuticals.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateAug 10, 2015

Bioengineers identify the key genes and functions for sustaining microbial life

Researchers define the core set of genes and functions that a bacterial cell needs to sustain life, providing a foundation for new cell engineering approaches. The study identifies 356 essential genes across various microorganisms, enabling the rapid construction of genome-scale cellular growth models.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 10, 2015

Eliminating entanglements

A team of polymer physicists and chemists at Harvard developed a way to create an ultra-soft dry silicone rubber by eliminating entanglements. The material features tunable softness to match various biological tissues, opening new opportunities in biomedical research and engineering.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateAug 10, 2015

Research shows catastrophic invertebrate extinction in Hawai'i and globally

A recent study found that Hawaii has lost a significant portion of its unique and diverse invertebrate species, with only 15 out of 325 recognized Amastridae species still alive. Globally, the team estimated that up to 14% of Earth's animal species may have been lost due to human activities.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 10, 2015

As California wildfires burn, southern plant species are shifting northward

A study from University of California, Davis, found that forest disturbances like wildfire and thinning are replacing understory plants with those from more southern areas, such as Mexico and Southern California. This shift is driven by climate change, leading to a potential increase in forest diversity.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalJournal of Ecology·DateAug 10, 2015
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.

Study suggests altered brain development among former NFL players

A study by researchers at Boston University School of Medicine found that former NFL players who started playing tackle football before age 12 had a higher risk of altered brain development compared to those who started later. The study used advanced imaging techniques to examine brain structure in these players.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Neurotrauma·DateAug 10, 2015

New mathematics advances the frontier of macromolecular imaging

A new mathematical theory and algorithm, Multi-tiered iterative phasing (M-TIP), solves the reconstruction problem for fluctuation X-ray scattering data. This approach enables quick determination of general structure in minutes on a desktop computer, unlocking new advances in biophysics.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 10, 2015

JDR articles discuss diet, dental caries and health policy

Recent studies published by the International Association for Dental Research (IADR) highlight the significant link between sugar intake and dental caries. The findings emphasize that even low sugars intakes can contribute to the development of caries, underscoring the need for effective health policies.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·JournalJournal of Dental Research·DateAug 10, 2015

Life is but a DREAM

A crowdsourcing challenge in systems biomedicine has combined predictions from hundreds of scientists to estimate population-level response to toxic compounds. The study provides new methodologies for hazard evaluation and assessment, offering a way to accelerate toxicity testing.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateAug 10, 2015
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.

Research pours cold water on ice bath recovery theory

A comprehensive study found that cold water immersion after strength training reduced long-term muscle mass and strength gains. Muscle biopsies revealed blunted activity of satellite cells and pathways needed to build bigger muscles up to two days after exercise in the ice bath group.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·DateAug 10, 2015

Study examines how and why states adopt drunk driving laws

A new study found that states adopting their first drunk driving laws were more likely to have large populations of young people and neighboring states with similar laws, contradicting expectations that political makeup or traffic fatality rates would be predictors.

SourceNew York University·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateAug 10, 2015

Stepchildren who view former stepparents as family maintain relationships after divorce

A study found that stepchildren who viewed their former stepparents as family maintained relationships after the dissolution of the stepfamily unit. The researchers noted that emotional reactions to the divorce, patterns of support and resource exchanges, and parental encouragement played a significant role in these relationships.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Marriage and Family·DateAug 10, 2015
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.

New research sheds light on the molecular origins of Parkinson's disease

Researchers at Rockefeller University have identified two proteins, SATB1 and ZDHHC2, that appear to protect neurons from degeneration in Parkinson's disease. These proteins were found to be more abundant in dopamine-producing neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta region, which is less affected by the disease.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateAug 10, 2015

Dartmouth team uses smart light, shadows to track human posture

The Dartmouth College team developed a system called LiSense that reconstructs human postures continuously and unobtrusively using VLC. The researchers overcame two key challenges to realize shadow-based human sensing, enabling a new passive health and behavioral monitoring paradigm.

SourceDartmouth College·DateAug 10, 2015

Fires near Lake Baikul, Russia

Forest fires in Siberia have grown over three times to 146 fires covering 63,600 hectares, with blazes reported in the Buryatia Republic and Zabaikalye Territory. A total of 10,700 hectares are registered in nature reserves, with firefighting efforts employing 3,500 people and 11 aircraft.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 10, 2015

Atomic-level defense secrets revealed

Researchers have unraveled the molecular secrets of plant defense mechanisms at the atomic level, focusing on jasmonate and its interaction with three key proteins. The study aims to develop crops better equipped to fend off future threats.

SourceVan Andel Research Institute·JournalNature·DateAug 10, 2015

Carnivorous dinosaurs strolled around in Germany

Two carnivorous dinosaurs, measuring 1.6m and 1.1m at hip height, left 50 fossilized footprints in Germany, revealing slow speeds of 6.3km/h and 9.7km/h for the large and small species, respectively. The analysis provides insight into their daily life, including social behavior and hunting habits.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·DateAug 10, 2015
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.

Volcanic vents preview future ocean habitats

Researchers used natural CO2 underwater seeps to study ecosystems in high-CO2 levels and adjacent ecosystems with present-day levels of CO2. The study found that acidification affects fish behavior, but some species thrive in acidified waters, while others decline or shift habitats.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalNature Climate Change·DateAug 10, 2015

New digital seafloor map provides answers and more questions

A new digital seafloor geologic map created using artificial intelligence reveals that deep ocean basins are more complex than previously thought. The map shows diatom accumulations on the seafloor are nearly entirely decoupled from diatom blooms in surface waters, highlighting a key link in the carbon cycle.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeology·DateAug 10, 2015

World population likely to surpass 11 billion in 2100

The world population is expected to surpass 11 billion people by 2100, driven primarily by Africa's rapid population growth. The UN projects that Nigeria will have a 90% chance of exceeding 752 million people in 2100, with the US population projected to reach 450 million by century's end.

SourceAmerican Statistical Association·DateAug 10, 2015
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.