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Science News for December 2, 2015


Genetic mutations differ within a single tumor, study finds

Researchers found that different regions of a single tumor shared varying levels of genetic mutations, ranging from 67% to 93%. This variation could make it harder for targeted therapies to work effectively. The study's findings have significant implications for treatment recommendations and patient care.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalLaboratory Investigation·DateDec 2, 2015

Are blood clots in patients with heart-assist pumps decreasing or on the rise in 2015?

Recent studies have analyzed trends in blood clot formation in patients with heart-assist devices, revealing a potential decline in thrombosis rates since 2011. However, the exact impact of this trend on patient outcomes remains unclear, and experts emphasize the need for continued vigilance and research.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalThe Journal of Heart and Lung Transplantation·DateDec 2, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New research: Intestinal bacteria are affected by antidiabetic drugs

Researchers found that metformin treatment leads to favourable changes in gut microbiota, increasing the production of health-promoting short-chain fatty acids. However, other antidiabetic drugs showed no impact on gut bacteria, contradicting previous research findings.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalNature·DateDec 2, 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.

CWRU researchers laying groundwork for new type of pain relief

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University are developing a new type of pain relief using high-frequency electrical stimulation. The study aims to understand why this method is more effective than traditional stimulation, with potential applications in the fight against opioid addiction.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·DateDec 2, 2015

First direct evidence for synaptic plasticity in fruit fly brain

Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory have observed direct evidence of synaptic plasticity in the fruit fly brain while flies learn. The team found a dramatic reduction in synaptic strength upon subsequent presentations of the test odor, indicating a decrease in its attractiveness.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalNeuron·DateDec 2, 2015

Can slow walking speed in elderly signal Alzheimer's disease hallmarks?

A recent study published in Neurology found an association between slow walking speed and amyloid plaques in the brain, which are a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease. The researchers discovered that participants with higher levels of amyloid were more likely to have slower walking speeds.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateDec 2, 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.

Quantum computer made of standard semiconductor materials

Researchers at TUM and Los Alamos National Laboratory have discovered a way to prevent the loss of stored quantum information by applying an external magnetic field. The new nanostructures use common semiconductor materials compatible with standard manufacturing processes.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature Physics·DateDec 2, 2015

Research team discovers novel pestivirus affecting swine

A team of researchers at Kansas State University's Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory has identified a novel pestivirus affecting swine, causing uncontrollable shaking that led to the death of nearly 700 pigs. The virus, named APPV, was found to be widely distributed in the US swine herd and is associated with neurological disease.

SourceKansas State University·JournalJournal of General Virology·DateDec 2, 2015

New plastic solar cell minimizes loss of photon energy

Researchers at RIKEN and Kyoto University have developed a new polymer that minimizes photon energy loss in solar cells, leading to higher efficiency and robust conversion of solar energy into electricity. The achievement marks a significant step towards commercializing cheaper and more efficient polymer-based solar cells.

SourceKyoto University·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 2, 2015

Involvement in traditional dating abuse increases chances of cyberdating abuse in teens

A new study reveals that teenagers who experience traditional dating abuse are at a higher risk of becoming cyberdating abuse victims, and vice versa. Researchers analyzed data from over 1,000 high school students and found that involvement in one form of abuse increases the likelihood of involvement in the other.

SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·JournalJournal of Youth and Adolescence·DateDec 2, 2015

Incarcerated mothers impact children's future criminal involvement

A Sam Houston State University study found that children of incarcerated mothers are more likely to experience attachment disruptions, separation anxiety, and depression. The study also showed a significant link between maternal incarceration and adult offspring's involvement in the criminal justice system.

SourceSam Houston State University·JournalJournal of Research in Crime and Delinquency·DateDec 2, 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.

Global bicycle ownership has halved in 30 years, research reveals

The study found that global bicycle ownership has declined from 60% to 32% over the past three decades, with significant variations across regions. The data highlights the need for policy makers to develop targeted strategies to boost cycling as a sustainable mode of transport.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Transport & Health·DateDec 2, 2015

Fries with a side of acrylamide

A team of scientists has identified two promising potato varieties, Payette Russet and Easton, that form less acrylamide when fried. The study shows a strong relationship between the genetics of raw potatoes and their potential to produce acrylamide.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalCrop Science·DateDec 2, 2015

New insights into the creation of heavy elements

A new method using supercomputers simulates the scattering of helium nuclei inside stars, shedding light on the formation of heavier elements. By reducing computational effort, scientists can now model complex processes involving more particles, bringing them closer to understanding the 'Holy Grail of astrophysics': oxygen creation.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalNature·DateDec 2, 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.

The Sun could release flares 1000x greater than previously recorded

Researchers have discovered a stellar superflare on KIC9655129 with wave patterns similar to those observed in solar flares, suggesting the potential for the Sun to also produce a superflare. This could lead to catastrophic consequences, including power blackouts and disruptions to GPS and radio communication systems.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateDec 2, 2015

Texas engineers develop potential treatment for whooping cough

Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin have developed two antibodies to potentially treat or prevent pertussis, a highly contagious respiratory tract infection that affects millions of infants worldwide. The antibodies potently neutralize pertussis toxin, bolstering immune function and rapidly reducing white blood cell counts.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateDec 2, 2015

CU Denver research finds long term effect of natural gas leakage

New study from CU Denver finds that even low levels of natural gas leakage can make it as damaging as coal for climate change. The research shows a leakage rate of 3.9% over 20 years and 9.1% over 100 years makes natural gas equivalent to coal in terms of greenhouse gas emissions.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalClimatic Change·DateDec 2, 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.

A quantum spin on molecular computers

Researchers created cleverly designed molecular complexes that can store information in a quantum state, overcoming one of the biggest challenges in quantum computing. These new molecules could potentially lead to the development of functional devices and more efficient computer designs.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Central Science·DateDec 2, 2015

CT and 3-D printing aid surgical separation of conjoined twins

A combination of detailed CT imaging and 3-D printing technology has been used to plan the surgical separation of conjoined twins. The 3-D models were designed so that they could be assembled together or separated during the surgical planning process, with a high level of concordance between the models and the twins' actual anatomy.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateDec 2, 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.

Risk of childhood wheeze from antibiotic use in third trimester of pregnancy

A new study suggests that antibiotic use during the third trimester of pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of childhood wheeze. However, when confounding factors such as maternal infections and respiratory conditions are accounted for, the link between antibiotic use and childhood wheeze becomes less clear.

SourceEuropean Respiratory Society·JournalEuropean Respiratory Journal·DateDec 2, 2015

Research team finds detailed record of mysterious fast radio burst

Researchers have discovered a detailed record of an FRB, providing new insights into its origin and environment. The signal exhibited Faraday rotation and passed through two distinct regions of ionized gas, shedding light on the mysterious astrophysical phenomenon.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalNature·DateDec 2, 2015

Carbon capture analyst: 'Coal should stay in the ground'

A new study from the University of Michigan found that most economic analyses of carbon capture and storage technology for coal-fired power plants severely underestimates its costs and overestimates its energy efficiency. The researchers conclude that renewable energy sources are likely to be cheaper than reducing carbon emissions from...

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateDec 2, 2015

US forest products in the global economy

The US forest products market share has declined from 28% in 1999 to 17% in 2013, mainly due to decreases in construction and paper manufacturing. However, a return to long-term housing market averages could bring the demand for wood as a construction material back up.

SourceUSDA Forest Service ‑ Southern Research Station·JournalJournal of Forestry·DateDec 2, 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.

FSU researchers pushing limits of solar cells

Researchers at Florida State University have introduced a new strategy for generating more efficient solar cells, increasing maximum efficiency from 33% to over 45% through photon upconversion and self-assembly process.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·DateDec 2, 2015

New study shows high use of complementary therapies by cancer inpatients

More than 95% of cancer patients expressed interest in at least one complementary therapy if offered, with vitamins/nutritional supplements being the most commonly used. Patients were also interested in massage, acupressure, nutritional counseling, and mindfulness meditation.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalThe Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine·DateDec 2, 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.

Researchers unravel age-old mystery of why cells use fermentation

A team of physicists and biologists from UC San Diego found that the cost of synthesizing enzymes for aerobic respiration outweighs its benefits in fast-growing cells, leading them to favor fermentation. This discovery provides a new perspective on why many organisms use fermentation instead of aerobic respiration.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature·DateDec 2, 2015

Even thermally tolerant corals are in hot water when it comes to bleaching

Research found that corals from the Kimberley region in north Western Australia are sensitive to heat stress and bleaching, despite their natural tolerance to temperature fluctuations. Massive corals had a better chance of surviving and recovering from bleaching than branching corals.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 2, 2015

Global food system faces multiple threats from climate change

Climate change impacts on global food security are projected to be larger in tropical and subtropical regions due to changes in crop and livestock productivity. The report warns that warmer temperatures and altered precipitation patterns can disrupt transportation systems, degrade food safety, and threaten food production.

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·DateDec 2, 2015

New studies create better understanding of cancer-spreading enzymes

Researchers at the University of Missouri have determined a detailed structural view of MMP7, an enzyme that makes cancer cells more aggressive and likely to spread. Understanding its structure could help prevent cancer cell signaling and slowing their growth.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalStructure·DateDec 2, 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.

Review does not support monthly lab testing for oral isotretinoin use for acne

A review of medical literature suggests that isotretinoin therapy does not require frequent laboratory monitoring for most patients. The analysis of 26 studies found low rates of high-risk laboratory abnormalities and no significant increase in liver function or lipid levels. This finding supports less frequent lab testing, potentially...

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Dermatology·DateDec 2, 2015

'Fast radio burst' sheds new light on origin of these extreme events

A team of astronomers discovered the most detailed record ever of a Fast Radio Burst (FRB), indicating that it originated in a highly magnetized region of space. The research suggests a link to recent supernovae or active star-forming nebulae, significantly narrowing down the source's environment and type of event.

SourceNational Radio Astronomy Observatory·JournalNature·DateDec 2, 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.

Exploring the limits for high-performance LEDs and solar cells

Researchers from Cyprus and Greece investigate Förster resonant energy transfer, a radiationless energy transmission process that promotes alternative contactless pathways for energy transfer. The study reveals the importance of understanding FRET in hybrid structures to develop novel devices with high efficiency.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateDec 2, 2015

Keeping emotions under control

A new study uses real-time fMRI-based neurofeedback to help kids control their emotions, improving regulation and preventing future mental health issues.

SourceInternational School of Advanced Studies (SISSA)·JournalNeuroImage·DateDec 2, 2015

Engraved schist slab may depict paleolithic campsites

A 13,000-year-old engraved schist slab discovered in Spain is believed to represent a human social group. The authors analyzed the morphology of the engraved motifs and suggest that they were created using a similar technique and instrument, depicting everyday life.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 2, 2015

Toolkit for microbiota research

Scientists cultivate over half of the bacterial species found on and in the leaves and roots of Arabidopsis thaliana, creating a representative collection for microbiota reconstruction. The developed toolkit enables controlled perturbation of microbiota under controlled environmental conditions.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·DateDec 2, 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.

Coffee compounds that could help prevent type 2 diabetes identified

Researchers have identified two coffee compounds, cafestol and caffeic acid, that contribute to the health benefit of drinking three to four cups of coffee per day in preventing type 2 diabetes. Cafestol increases insulin secretion and glucose uptake in muscle cells, matching the effects of a currently prescribed antidiabetic drug.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Natural Products·DateDec 2, 2015

Concern over drug industry involvement at India's 'health camps'

Pharmaceutical sales representatives are screening people in India for their products, raising concerns about unchecked conflicts of interest and potential harm to patients. Local residents receive medical testing at 'health camps,' some organized by Indian drug firms and pharmaceutical companies like Abbott and Roche.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateDec 2, 2015

New heart failure therapy projected to increase life expectancy

A new study from Brigham and Women's Hospital found that sacubitril-valsartan can extend life expectancy by one to two years for heart failure patients with reduced ejection fraction. The therapy, currently used as standard care, was shown to improve overall survival by 16% and reduce hospitalization rates.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateDec 2, 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.

Now is the time to uncover the secrets of the Earth's microbiomes

The Unified Microbiome Initiative aims to study the planet's least understood ecosystems, with potential breakthroughs in medicine, agriculture and environmental science. New genomic tools have linked microbes to various health issues, including obesity and brain development.

SourceThe Kavli Foundation·JournalScience·DateDec 2, 2015

UN report takes global view of 'green energy choices'

The UN report concludes that green energy technologies can significantly reduce global pollution if chosen wisely. Renewable electricity generates much lower greenhouse gas emissions than fossil fuels, with wind and solar power producing only 5-6% of the emissions created by coal-fired plants.

SourceYale School of the Environment·DateDec 2, 2015

Depression contributes to preventable hospitalizations in Danish study

Individuals with depression are more likely to experience preventable hospitalizations for common chronic conditions, such as diabetes and congestive heart failure. Researchers found that those with depression were 2.35-times more likely to be hospitalized for preventable conditions than without depression.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalBMJ Open·DateDec 2, 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.

Breast density alone found not to be a factor for breast cancer risk

A new study by Johns Hopkins researchers finds no link between breast density and breast cancer risk, instead attributing increased cancer to age and body fat. The study suggests that women with dense breasts may be younger and leaner, reducing their risk of breast cancer.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalEuropean Radiology·DateDec 2, 2015

Climate-change foes winning public opinion war

A new study by Michigan State University researchers suggests that climate-change deniers are successfully changing people's minds with negative messages, regardless of their political affiliation. The study found that core beliefs about climate change remain unchanged even when presented with positive messages, highlighting the diffic...

SourceMichigan State University·JournalTopics in Cognitive Science·DateDec 2, 2015

False-positive mammograms may indicate increased risk of breast cancer later

Women with a history of false-positive mammogram results may be at increased risk of developing breast cancer for up to 10 years after the initial false-positive result. A new study found that women who received a false-positive result had a 39% higher risk of subsequent breast cancer compared to those with true-negative results.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·DateDec 2, 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.

How does my therapist rate?

Researchers at USC, University of Washington and University of Utah developed a machine-learning algorithm that detects high-empathy or low-empathy speech in therapist-patient sessions. The tool uses automatic speech recognition and natural language processing to analyze over 1,000 therapy sessions.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 2, 2015

Studying stonefish venom may help combat transplant rejection

Monash University researchers have solved the X-ray crystal structure of stonefish venom's lethal factor, providing insight into a crucial human immune response. The discovery aims to develop immunosuppressants to improve transplant therapy success rates for leukaemia treatment.

SourceMonash University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 2, 2015

Sylvester presents latest cancer research at ASH Annual Meeting

Researchers from Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center are presenting their latest hematology research at the American Society of Hematology (ASH) Annual Meeting. Highlights include the discovery of a potent inhibitor of Lysine demethylase Lsd-1, which augments pro-differentiation effects in acute myeloid leukemia (AML), and targeting ...

SourceUniversity of Miami Miller School of Medicine·DateDec 2, 2015

A cheap, disposable device for diagnosing disease

Researchers at Penn State have created a reusable microfluidic device that can sort and manipulate cells for cheap and convenient biomedical diagnosis. The device, called acoustic tweezers, uses gentle vibrations to manipulate cells and has the potential to be used in diagnostics, therapeutics, and biology labs.

SourcePenn State·JournalLab on a Chip·DateDec 2, 2015

Praying for Plan B: How a higher power can inspire climate change action

A researcher from QUT found that people worldwide are willing to act on climate change by reducing carbon footprints and supporting government action. A 'Plan B' is proposed to develop policies and communication strategies tying climate change to a more caring and ethical society, leveraging the influence of religious leaders.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalNature Climate Change·DateDec 2, 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.

Dissecting paleoclimate change

Researchers at UCSB decipher the history of paleoclimate change, revealing an abrupt warming in sea surface temperatures and simultaneous releases of methane that accelerated climate shift. The discovery sheds light on potential processes behind rapid climate changes.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalPaleoceanography·DateDec 2, 2015

Neonicotinoid pesticides linked to butterfly declines in the UK

A UK study by University of Stirling researchers found that neonicotinoid pesticide use is linked to declining butterfly populations, with 15 species showing population declines. The chemicals can persist in the environment and contaminate wildflowers, providing little nourishment for butterflies.

SourceUniversity of Stirling·JournalPeerJ·DateDec 2, 2015

Study reveals non-invasive warning sign of kidney disease progression

Researchers have identified a simple, non-invasive test to identify patients at risk of chronic kidney disease progression by measuring epidermal growth factor levels in urine. Decreased epidermal growth factor protein is an early sign of diminishing kidney function and pinpoints the at-risk patient population.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateDec 2, 2015

New stretchable, wearable sensor made with chewing gum (video)

A team of researchers developed a unique sensing device using chewing gum and carbon nanotubes that can track breathing and detect humidity changes. The flexible sensor, which can withstand bending and stretching up to 530% strain, has the potential to monitor body functions around the clock.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateDec 2, 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.

A window into sexuality

A study by Meredith Chivers found that heterosexual women exhibit diverse patterns of sexual response to both male and female stimuli, challenging previous assumptions about heterosexuality. The research suggests a more nuanced understanding of the relationships between sexual identity, attractions and genital responses.

SourceQueen's University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 2, 2015

SAGE to begin publishing the International Bulletin of Mission Research

The SAGE Journal will begin publishing the International Bulletin of Mission Research in partnership with The Overseas Ministries Study Center. The journal provides in-depth analyses of worldwide Christianity and mission-focused book reviews. IBMR is an unparalleled source of information on the world church in mission.

SourceSAGE·JournalInternational Bulletin of Mission Research·DateDec 2, 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.

Chickadee research predicts drastic northward shift for southern species

Researchers at Lehigh University predict a drastic northward shift in suitable habitat for southern chickadee species by 2050, displacing northern species. Climate change affects species distributions and hybridization, with potential implications for the merging of two species.

SourceLehigh University·JournalEcology and Evolution·DateDec 2, 2015

Liquid metal 'nano-terminators' target cancer cells

Researchers have developed a biodegradable liquid metal technique that uses 'nano-terminators' to target cancer cells. The liquid metal drug carriers enhance the effectiveness of anticancer drugs while minimizing long-term toxicity.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 2, 2015

Swimming devices could deliver drugs inside the body

Researchers at the University of Sheffield have developed microscopic swimming devices that can be guided by physical structures and used for drug delivery or medical diagnosis. The devices use a catalytic coating to move automatically on a pre-determined route, opening up possibilities for targeted treatments and disease diagnosis.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield - Faculty of Engineering·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 2, 2015
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.

Scientists design a new method for screening cancer cells

Researchers at UCLA have designed a new method for screening cancer cells using parallel microfiltration, which could lead to better treatments for various diseases. The study found that drug-resistant ovarian cancer cells are softer than their sensitive counterparts, and more invasive cells are also softer.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 2, 2015

New research sheds light on neuronal communication

A new study reveals GIT proteins as critical presynaptic regulators of synaptic strength, uncovering previously unknown roles in regulating neurotransmitter release. This finding has significant implications for understanding neuronal communication and the development of neurological diseases.

SourceMax Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience·JournalNeuron·DateDec 2, 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.

Distracted walking: A serious issue for you, not me

A study by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons reveals that 78% of US adults consider distracted walking a serious issue, yet only 29% admit to themselves. Common behaviors include talking on phones, listening to music, and using smartphones while walking.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateDec 2, 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.

RNA mystery solved in triple negative breast cancer

Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University discovered that both strands of a tiny microRNA are active in suppressing genes in triple negative breast cancer cells. This breakthrough enables the design of specific blockers of one microRNA strand without imitating the opposite strand, opening a pathway to new treatments.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 2, 2015

Danes' vitamin D levels are determined by their genes

A PhD project from the National Food Institute found that certain genetic variations increase the risk of lower vitamin D levels in Danes. The study identified two genes, CYP2R1 and GC, as influencers of vitamin D status. Genetic predisposition may be used to identify individuals at risk of lower vitamin D levels.

SourceTechnical University of Denmark·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 2, 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.

Popping microbubbles help focus light inside the body

Researchers at Caltech developed a novel technique called TRUME that utilizes microbubbles to focus light inside biological tissue. The technique can be used as an effective 'guidestar' to target specific locations in tissues, enabling minimally invasive treatments such as tumor destruction and diagnostic imaging. This innovation has t...

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 2, 2015

Researchers develop antibody to save cancerous bones

A new antibody treatment has shown promise in blocking the process of bone degradation caused by osteosarcoma, a rare type of bone cancer. The treatment reduced bone degradation by up to 80% in a cancer mouse model, offering hope for reducing amputations among young patients.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen, Biotech Research & Innovation Centre·JournalThe Journal of Pathology·DateDec 2, 2015

Conductor turned insulator amid disorder

Researchers have discovered a multifractal spatial structure in disordered materials that can turn them from conductors to insulators. This finding has significant implications for understanding the behavior of disordered materials, which are found in amorphous solids like glass and biological tissue.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal B·DateDec 2, 2015

Little known about children living with HIV-infected adults in Africa

A new study estimates that up to 50% of children in Lesotho live in households with someone infected or are orphaned due to HIV/AIDS. The research highlights the substantial number of children affected by HIV-infected adults, often living with parents who are infected, and emphasizes the need for distinct care and outreach efforts.

SourceBrown University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 2, 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.

Scientists discover that the immune system affects gut bacteria evolution

Researchers found that an impaired immune system alters the composition of gut bacteria and affects its evolutionary pace. The study suggests personalized therapies based on individual gut bacteria composition may be more effective than generalist treatments for inflammatory bowel disease.

SourceInstituto Gulbenkian de Ciencia·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 2, 2015

Vessel speed biggest factor in noise affecting killer whales

A new study published in PLOS ONE reveals that vessel speed is the most influential factor in how much noise from boats reaches endangered killer whales. The research used digital acoustic recording tags and laser positioning system to track boat noise levels and found that speed was the main contributor.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 2, 2015

Survival has improved for women with stage IV breast cancer

A study of over 20,000 women with stage IV breast cancer found improved survival rates, especially among those who received initial breast surgery. The median survival increased from 20 to 26 months, and age, tumor size, hormone receptor status, and year of diagnosis were associated with prolonged survival.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateDec 2, 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.

What is the universe made of?

Researchers discovered the majority of missing ordinary matter in the universe, found in hot gas associated with intergalactic filaments. The study validates models of galaxy formation and could lead to a better understanding of heavy elements formed by stars since the beginning of the universe.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature·DateDec 2, 2015

Stock market bubbles: Investor emotions fuel the frenzy

Researchers found that investors who experienced intense positive emotions before trading were more aggressive and pushed prices up, while those with negative emotions proceeded cautiously. This study increases understanding of how bubbles work and highlights the importance of considering emotional triggers in asset price inflation.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley Haas School of Business·JournalReview of Finance·DateDec 2, 2015

Fast radio burst hints at its source

Researchers analyzed 700 hours of archival data to discover a burst of radio waves from six billion light years away. The region of space it came from was highly magnetized, suggesting it could be related to a supernova or nebula forming new stars.

SourceCIFAR·JournalNature·DateDec 2, 2015

Aloysius Helminck to receive 2016 AMS Distinguished Public Service Award

Helminck is honored for increasing the diversity of the mathematical research community through his work at North Carolina State University. He has successfully recruited and retained doctoral students from underrepresented groups, as well as directed programs to foster diversity in mathematics education.

SourceAmerican Mathematical Society·DateDec 2, 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.

Twitter data can make roads safer during inclement weather

A University at Buffalo study uses Twitter data to enhance computer models guiding traffic during snowstorms and adverse weather. By analyzing over 360,000 tweets, researchers found that including such data improves the accuracy of models, particularly during peak tweeting hours and in densely populated areas.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalTransportation Research Record Journal of the Transportation Research Board·DateDec 2, 2015

Mitochondria affect stress responses

Research suggests that mitochondrial function affects hormonal, metabolic, and behavioral systems in response to mild stress. This discovery has implications for understanding the genetic basis of neuropsychiatric diseases and the role of stress in human health.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 2, 2015

Protecting the brain from Parkinson's disease

A study at Thomas Jefferson University has successfully increased the production of GM1 ganglioside in mice with Parkinson's disease. The researchers used an enzyme to convert naturally occurring ganglioside molecules into GM1, providing neuronal protection similar to direct GM1 injection.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 2, 2015

Trapping climate pollutant methane gas in porous carbon

Researchers develop methods to accurately simulate methane adsorption and desorption in porous carbon, relevant for energy research and climate change mitigation. The study used computational methods to analyze molecular interactions between methane and activated carbon, providing insights into preventing gas adsorption.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal B·DateDec 2, 2015

Healthful hemp poised to grow in US

The US hemp industry is expected to grow as the country's demand for healthful foods increases, thanks to the nutritional profile of hemp. The crop contains all nine essential amino acids, omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids, and has been shown to have potential health benefits.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateDec 2, 2015