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Science News for December 9, 2015


Air pollutions control policies effective in improving downwind air quality

A study by the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science found that emissions controls on coal-fired power plants reduced mercury levels in the air by up to 75% over a 10-year period. This reduction was strongly correlated with power plant emissions from Ohio, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Center for Environmental Science·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateDec 9, 2015

University of Tennessee receives $1 million to fight childhood obesity

The University of Tennessee is working to solve its state and nation's obesity problem with a new center focused on reducing childhood obesity. The USDA grant will support programs like SNAP-Ed and EFNEP to improve nutrition education and address barriers to healthy living.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture·DateDec 9, 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.

Fossils reveal ancient shrublands in fiery landscape

New fossil evidence reveals that Australia's fire-prone shrubland open vegetation originated at least 70 million years ago. This finding rejects the previous notion that rainforests covered Australia until 40 million years ago and instead suggests that native vegetation types evolved under the influence of fires on a drying continent.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalAmerican Journal of Botany·DateDec 9, 2015

How Ebola spread in Western Africa, 2014-2015

Researchers used genome sequencing to trace Ebola's spread in Liberia, finding that most cases were linked to a single introduction of the virus in September 2014. The study suggests that widespread migration within Liberia contributed to the outbreak's magnitude and longevity.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateDec 9, 2015

Hospital safety culture critical in improving surgical results

A Journal of the American College of Surgeons study reveals that a hospital's safety culture plays a significant role in delivering high-quality patient care. The study found that 10 out of 12 safety culture factors influenced surgical site infection rates after colon operations.

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateDec 9, 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.

A gold standard to improve cancer genome analysis

A gold standard data record has been established to improve cancer genome analysis and detect somatic mutations reliably. The record, obtained from interlaboratory testing, provides a basis for laboratories to evaluate their bioinformatic methods and thresholds for detecting specific mutations.

SourceGerman Cancer Research Center (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ)·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 9, 2015

INRS professor José Azaña elected Optical Society Fellow

Professor José Azaña has been elected Fellow by the Optical Society (OSA) in recognition of his remarkable contributions to ultrafast photonics. He is the only Quebec academic and one of three Canadian researchers among this year's group of 77 OSA Fellows.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·DateDec 9, 2015

Health professionals lack knowledge about female genital mutilation

A review of 18 studies found that health professionals' knowledge of female genital mutilation (FGM/C) varies greatly according to their work setting. FGM/C is a harmful practice affecting 100-140 million women worldwide, with long-term complications including recurrent urinary infections and psychological problems.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalBMC International Health and Human Rights·DateDec 9, 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.

Minerals from Papua New Guinea hold secret for recycling of noble gases

Researchers from Syracuse University found that atmospheric argon and neon are trapped in minerals formed at ultra-high pressure depths within the Earth's mantle. These findings indicate that noble gases can be recycled from the atmosphere into the deep Earth, and back to the surface again through a process known as forearc recycling.

SourceSyracuse University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 9, 2015

New method allows scientists to screen natural products for antibiotics

A new method developed by UC San Diego biologists can quickly identify and characterize compounds capable of controlling antibiotic-resistant bacteria in natural product extracts. This breakthrough could shave years off screening efforts and lead to the discovery of new antibiotics, addressing a growing global crisis.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalThe Journal of Antibiotics·DateDec 9, 2015

Could metal particles be the clean fuel of the future?

A study by McGill University researchers proposes using metal powders as a viable alternative to fossil fuels for generating electricity and powering transportation. The use of metal powders in external-combustion engines could provide a zero-carbon solution with recyclable fuels that store clean primary energy.

SourceMcGill University·JournalApplied Energy·DateDec 9, 2015

Stereotypes around aging can negatively impact memory and hearing

A recent study by researchers at the University of Toronto found that negative views on aging can negatively impact memory and hearing in older adults. The study suggests that education and training exercises can help improve cognitive and physical performance, dispel stereotypes about aging, and enhance overall quality of life.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalPsychology and Aging·DateDec 9, 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.

Nanotech drug delivery shows promise for improved melanoma treatment

Researchers at Oregon State University have developed a three-drug delivery system that targets cancer cells in the lymph nodes, reducing toxicity and resistance. The technology has shown success in laboratory animals and holds potential for treating various types of cancer that spread through the lymphatic system.

SourceOregon State University·JournalJournal of Controlled Release·DateDec 9, 2015

Linguists discover the best word order for giving directions

A study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that people are quicker to find a hard-to-see person in an image when the directions mention a prominent landmark first, as opposed to last. The researchers also discovered that listeners prefer to use these landmarks as 'mental bookmarks' to speed up the process.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateDec 9, 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.

Geometric study of brain cells could change strategies on Alzheimer's

Researchers discovered that astrocytes are repelled by amyloid plaques, contrary to previous assumptions. This finding suggests that modifying astrocyte function rather than changing position may be a key response to plaque formation.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 9, 2015

Detecting and identifying explosives with single test

A new sensor developed by UCL scientists can detect and identify five commonly used explosives in solution within 10 seconds. The sensor uses fluorescent technology to create unique 'fingerprints' for each compound, allowing for multiple explosives to be detected with a single test.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalACS Nano·DateDec 9, 2015

A new sensor to detect physiological levels of nitrate and nitrite

A team at Tohoku University developed sNOOOpy, a genetically encoded FRET-based indicator that senses nitrate and nitrite levels. The sensor can monitor intracellular levels in real-time and has potential applications in various organisms and research fields.

SourceTohoku University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateDec 9, 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.

'Hijacking' and hibernating parasite could alter brain behavior

Researchers discovered how a common parasite, Toxoplasma, hijacks host cells to store food for decades, altering host behavior. The findings could lead to vaccines and drugs to protect against the parasite's serious risks, including miscarriage and birth defects.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateDec 9, 2015

In short children, a study highlights parents' concerns, reframes a long-running debate

A new study led by Adda Grimberg proposes to reframe the debate on treating short stature in children. The research team found that psychosocial issues such as self-esteem and future adult success dominate parent discussions, with treatment characteristics and health concerns playing a significant role in decision-making.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalHormone Research in Paediatrics·DateDec 9, 2015

Witnessing drug use can spur immediate antisocial behavior by teens

Researchers found that teens who witness others using substances are more likely to engage in antisocial behavior, especially those with a 'risk-taking' gene. The study used cell phones to track teens' daily lives and found that witnessing substance abuse triggers misbehavior.

SourceDuke University·JournalDevelopment and Psychopathology·DateDec 9, 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.

NASA Goddard lab chief wins Maryland Chemist Award

Jason Dworkin, chief of NASA's Astrochemistry Laboratory, has made significant contributions to our understanding of the early solar system through his research on organic compounds in meteorites, comets, and asteroids. His work has identified amino acids and nucleobases that are precursors to essential biological molecules, shedding l...

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateDec 9, 2015

Plants cope with climate change at genetic level

Researchers found that certain plant species can quickly respond to induced climate challenges through rapid genetic changes. This study suggests that pre-existing genetic variation plays a crucial role in supporting plant resilience in the face of climate change.

SourceSyracuse University·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateDec 9, 2015

Scientists discover 'white whale' fossil

A 15-million-year-old fossil sperm whale specimen from California has been re-analyzed by researchers, revealing a new genus name 'Albicetus' due to its bone-white color. This discovery sheds light on the evolution of body size in sperm whales and suggests that they may have fed on large prey like marine mammals.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 9, 2015

What computers won't tell you about ecological and evolutionary dynamics

Researchers applied complexity theory from computer science to study ecological and evolutionary dynamics, revealing unexpected connections between the two fields. They found that certain fundamental questions in ecology and evolution can be precisely characterized by specific classes of complexity theory.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 9, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Redesigning inpatient care: Transforming health care one unit at a time

A multidisciplinary accountable care team model has been shown to decrease hospital stays and lower costs by $649 per stay. The ACT model, implemented across an urban hospital, has also improved communication with patients and families, as well as employee engagement and job satisfaction.

SourceIndiana University·JournalJournal of Hospital Medicine·DateDec 9, 2015

Superhydrophobic coating protects without the price

Researchers at Rice University and Swansea University have developed a new class of superhydrophobic nanomaterials that are inexpensive, nontoxic, and can be applied to various surfaces via spray- or spin-coating. The coating is equivalent in performance to commercial coatings that employ hazardous fluorocarbons.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateDec 9, 2015

Pesticide found in milk decades ago may be associated with signs of Parkinson's

A study published in Neurology found an association between pesticide heptachlor epoxide and reduced brain cells in nonsmokers who drank more than two cups of milk daily. Researchers discovered residues of the pesticide in 90% of participants with high milk consumption, but note that the study does not show cause-and-effect.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateDec 9, 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.

Satellite animation shows series of storms pummel Pacific Northwest

A series of low-pressure areas pummelled the Pacific Northwest from Nov. 29 to Dec. 9, 2015, bringing heavy rain and snow to western Washington and northwestern Oregon. The National Weather Service described the event as a classic atmospheric river event with subtropical moisture and upper-level disturbances affecting the region.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateDec 9, 2015

Imbalanced gender ratios could affect views about casual sex and hook-up culture

An experimental study found that an imbalanced gender ratio affects views about casual sex, with women more willing to engage in casual sex when they outnumber men. Men, on the other hand, tend to place less importance on casual sex and be more open to long-term commitment when there are more women than men.

SourceSociety for Personality and Social Psychology·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateDec 9, 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.

Nanostructured metal coatings let the light through for electronic devices

Researchers developed a nanostructured metal coating that lets light through without hindering electrical access, outperforming flat surfaces. The coating combines enhanced optical transmission with electrical contact, enabling higher-efficiency optoelectronic devices.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateDec 9, 2015

Is chemical exposure in mothers, babies, linked to poor vaccine response?

A new study from the University of Rochester found that early life exposures to toxic chemicals like PCBs and DDE reduce infants' responses to vaccines. The research, which analyzed blood samples from over 500 mother-infant pairs in eastern Slovakia, shows that even small changes can lead to long-term immune system dysfunction.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateDec 9, 2015

Plus-sized models in advertising linked to rising obesity rates: Study

A study from Simon Fraser University suggests that plus-sized models in advertising campaigns may contribute to growing obesity rates. The researchers found that non-traditional models with larger body types can have a detrimental effect on the public's lifestyle and eating behavior.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalJournal of Public Policy & Marketing·DateDec 9, 2015

Flushed resource restores ecosystem

Researchers used biosolids to create a soil blend that supported healthy bacteria, fungus, and plants, outperforming traditional compost in restoring the degraded surface area of Lake Calumet Cluster Site. The 'dream treatment' has potential to restore poor quality soils in Chicago's dense urban areas.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalJournal of Environmental Quality·DateDec 9, 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.

Racial disparities found in major surgeries at quality-improvement hospitals

A new Henry Ford Hospital research study has found significant racial disparities in surgical outcomes for black and Hispanic patients undergoing major cancer and non-cancer surgeries. Despite improvements seen in other areas of healthcare, these disparities persist even at quality-improvement institutions.

SourceHenry Ford Health·JournalAnnals of Surgery·DateDec 9, 2015

Study measures drag from fishing gear entanglements on North Atlantic right whales

Researchers quantify the amount of drag on entangled whales created by towing fishing gear, revealing significant effects on energy costs and survival. The study provides crucial data for evaluating risks and benefits of whale disentanglements and reinforces current efforts to minimize entangling gear.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalMarine Mammal Science·DateDec 9, 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.

Genomic analysis sheds light on Ebola virus disease outbreak in Liberia

A comprehensive genomic analysis of Ebola virus sequences from Liberia reveals a single introduction source, followed by local spread and diversification. The study also identified reintroductions as a key factor in the continuation of the outbreak in Guinea.

SourceUS Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateDec 9, 2015

NCAR to develop wildland fire prediction system for Colorado

NCAR will develop a revolutionary forecasting system to predict wildland fire behavior in Colorado, capturing critical feedbacks between fires and local weather. The system will provide unprecedented detail about interactions between weather and fire, helping firefighters and the public.

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·DateDec 9, 2015

Heart injury reduced after bariatric surgery but not lifestyle intervention

Research published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology reveals that bariatric surgery can reduce cardiac stress and chronic subclinical cardiac injury in morbidly obese patients. In contrast, lifestyle intervention had a limited impact on reducing high-sensitivity cardiac troponin I levels.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Journal of Preventive Cardiology·DateDec 9, 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.

Mount Sinai researchers develop tool to determine function of MicroRNAs

Mount Sinai researchers developed a synthetic vector to rapidly eliminate total cellular miRNA populations, revealing the limited role of microRNAs in modulating cell biology over long periods. This tool enables manipulation of miRNA responses for potential treatment of diseases like cancer.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateDec 9, 2015

'Ornamental' faced ceratopsian found in China

Scientists have uncovered a new, 160 million-year-old ceratopsian dinosaur from China with an 'ornamental' texture on its skull. The fossil, named Hualianceratops wucaiwanensis, provides insights into the early evolution of Ceratopsia and suggests that at least five ceratopsian lineages may have emerged during this period.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 9, 2015

Which college students are likely candidates for risky sex?

A University of Illinois study links instability in young adults' lives to increased risk-taking behavior, including casual sex and impulsive sexual activity. The researchers suggest that colleges should focus on teaching stress management and self-esteem skills to reduce these risks.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Social and Personal Relationships·DateDec 9, 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.

Eyes and a citrus smell could help cut hospital infections

A new study found that images of intense staring eyes and a clean citrusy smell substantially improved hand-washing rates among hospital staff and visitors. The researchers discovered that exposure to male eyes led to a higher rate of hand-washing compared to female eyes, while the citrus smell boosted hand-washing by nearly 50%.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalHealth Psychology·DateDec 9, 2015

Deep core of African lake gives insight to ancient lake levels, biodiversity

Researchers have uncovered a 380-meter-deep time capsule from Lake Malawi, providing unprecedented insight into the past of this African lake. The study found that changes in lake level over the last 1.3 million years played a significant role in the development of the lake's diverse fish species.

SourceSyracuse University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 9, 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.

Computing with time travel

Scientists have found a way to solve complex problems using a quantum computer traveling along 'open timelike curves' without breaking the laws of causality. This breakthrough allows for supercomputational power while maintaining the integrity of quantum principles.

SourceCentre for Quantum Technologies at the National University of Singapore·Journalnpj Quantum Information·DateDec 9, 2015

Researchers work to fingerprint hydrofracking water quality

A Syracuse University study, Project SWIFT, aims to establish a baseline for groundwater quality and develop geochemical fingerprinting tools to analyze water quality in areas with potential shale gas drilling. The researchers are analyzing flow-back water to uncover unique chemistry not found in well water.

SourceSyracuse University·DateDec 9, 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.

Have sex workers revealed a connection between semen exposure and HIV resistance?

Studies reveal that long-term sex work may increase HIV-1 resistance through changes in the cervical and vaginal microenvironment. Women who remain uninfected despite repeated sexual activity exhibit lower immune activation, enhanced expression of interferon ε, and reduced expression of genes critical for HIV survival.

SourceThe Wistar Institute·JournalMucosal Immunology·DateDec 9, 2015

Teresensis' bromeliad treefrog found in Brazil

A new tree frog species, Dendropsophus bromeliaceus, has been discovered in the Brazilian Atlantic forest, where tadpoles develop in pooled rainwater stored in bromeliad leaves. The species is distinguished by its small size and unique color pattern.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 9, 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.

UT Dallas researchers study mindset of Hong Kong voters

Researchers Dr. Harold Clarke and Dr. Karl Ho are studying voter behavior in Hong Kong elections, examining attitudes toward electoral democracy and factors that influence voting decisions. The study aims to understand the impact of class, generation, immigration status, and political affinity on voters' choices.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·DateDec 9, 2015

Using 'big data' to combat influenza

A team of researchers combined large genomic and proteomic datasets to identify new factors that can be targeted to prevent viruses from spreading. They found 20 previously unrecognized host proteins required for IAV replication, including the pivotal protein UBR4.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalCell·DateDec 9, 2015

It is about me

A rising trend in narcissism may require firms to rethink their marketing strategies by offering customizable products. Studies show that narcissistic consumers desire uniquely designed items and are willing to pay more for them.

SourceWashington State University·JournalJournal of Retailing·DateDec 9, 2015

Triceratops gets a cousin: Researchers identify another horned dinosaur species

Researchers have discovered a new species of plant-eating dinosaur, Hualianceratops wucaiwanensis, that sheds light on the ceratopsian family tree. The findings suggest that Jurassic period dinosaurs may have had more species diversity than previously thought, with at least four lineages present by the beginning of the Jurassic Period.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 9, 2015

Erasing fear: A one-session treatment for phobia?

A new study published in Biological Psychiatry reports the successful reduction of fear in spider-fearful participants following a 2-minute exposure combined with a single dose of propranolol. The treatment resulted in drastically reduced avoidance behavior and increased approach behavior, with effects persisting for one year.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateDec 9, 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.

Climate outlook may be worse than feared, global study suggests

A new study suggests that global land surface temperatures will increase by an average of almost 8C by 2100 if significant efforts are not made to address climate change. This would have a devastating impact on life on Earth, posing risks from extreme temperatures, flooding, regional drought, and food shortages.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalEarth and Environmental Science Transactions of the Royal Society of Edinburgh·DateDec 9, 2015

Quantum physics problem proved unsolvable

A mathematical problem in particle and quantum physics is provably unsolvable, showing that even a complete microscopic description cannot predict macroscopic behavior. This finding limits the extent to which we can predict the behavior of quantum materials.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature·DateDec 9, 2015

Students report high levels of hazardous drinking, CAMH survey finds

According to the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) survey, Ontario students reported high levels of hazardous drinking, with 29% of 12th graders engaging in hazardous drinking. The survey also found that more students used electronic cigarettes than tobacco cigarettes.

SourceCentre for Addiction and Mental Health·DateDec 9, 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.

Better understanding of cell renewal and cellular quality control

The newly established Collaborative Research Centre on selective autophagy aims to improve therapy for diverse diseases by targeting autophagy at the molecular and cellular level. Researchers will study autophagy in complex organisms, including humans, to understand its role in pathophysiology and develop new therapies.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·DateDec 9, 2015

Is stroke prevention taking a back seat to stroke treatment?

A recent study by the University of California, Irvine found that three-fourths of ER stroke cases had some degree of preventability, highlighting the need for improved stroke prevention strategies. The study's results suggest that resources for acute stroke treatment may be misdirected towards patients whose strokes are more preventable.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateDec 9, 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.

Research leads to first puppies born by in vitro fertilization

For the first time, a litter of puppies was born through in vitro fertilization, thanks to work by Cornell University researchers. The breakthrough enables conserving endangered canid species and study genetic diseases, as dogs share more than 350 similar disorders with humans.

SourceCornell University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 9, 2015

Europe injects 3 million euros into three-dimensional genomics

The EU-funded project aims to lay the groundwork for 3D genomics by standardizing experiments, storing data, and developing protocols. The goal is to move from 1D genomic studies to understanding DNA structure and function in a 3D context.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·DateDec 9, 2015

Bold new Journal Healthcare Transformation launched Dec. 8, 2015

The inaugural issue of Healthcare Transformation features provocative conversations with thought leaders and decision makers, including Aneesh Chopra and Jack and Suzy Welch. The journal aims to reimagine healthcare delivery, education, and technology, predicting a Blockbuster-to-Netflix paradigm shift in the healthcare industry.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalHealthcare Transformation·DateDec 9, 2015

New nanomanufacturing technique advances imaging, biosensing technology

Researchers develop novel method to build large arrays of nanolenses using chemical and lithographic techniques, enabling extremely high-resolution imaging or biological sensing. The technique allows for precise control over nanoparticle placement, producing tiny separations that produce the nanolensing effect.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateDec 9, 2015

UM study: Plants absorb less carbon dioxide than models show

Researchers at the University of Montana found that current models overpredict plant growth's ability to offset CO2 emissions, suggesting the earth's capacity may be limited. The study highlights the importance of integrating model, satellite, and on-the-ground measurement approaches to improve understanding of plant growth's response ...

SourceThe University of Montana·JournalNature Climate Change·DateDec 9, 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.

US capability for treating ebola outbreak appears sufficient but limited

The US has sufficient capacity to treat another Ebola outbreak, but challenges remain in providing necessary resources, staffing, and training. The study highlights issues with waste disposal, staffing, and pediatric care, emphasizing the need for further investigation and investment.

SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateDec 9, 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.

Using 'big data' to fight flu

A recent study identified 20 previously unknown host molecules that enable influenza A viruses to replicate and spread. Blocking these host proteins can inhibit viral growth and slow disease progression in mice. The researchers developed a public web portal to facilitate drug development and analysis of host-protein interactions.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateDec 9, 2015

New details on link between epilepsy and suicide attempt

Researchers at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health report a strong association between new onset epilepsy and increased risk of suicide attempts. The study found that patients with new epilepsy had a nearly two-fold increased risk of recurrent suicide attempt compared to controls.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateDec 9, 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.

Genomic sequencing finds common link in congenital heart and brain disorders

Researchers discovered a single genetic mutation responsible for 20% of severe congenital heart disease cases accompanied by neurodevelopmental disorders. The study used genomic sequencing to analyze 1,213 children with congenital heart disease and identified a subset of genes that act as conductors in organ formation.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalScience·DateDec 9, 2015

How skates and rays got their wings

A new study by scientists from the University of Chicago reveals that the unique pectoral fins of skates and rays are built using repurposed genes from typical limb-development pathways. The findings provide insight into the genetic mechanisms behind the evolution and diversification of vertebrate appendages.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 9, 2015

It's all about polarity

Asymmetric cell division occurs when endosomes, containing signalling molecules, are distributed unevenly between daughter cells. The central spindle, a scaffold structure composed of microtubules, plays a crucial role in dispatching this information.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature·DateDec 9, 2015

UofL scientists enhance understanding of muscle repair process

University of Louisville scientists enhance understanding of muscle repair process by revealing the vital role of protein TAK1 in regulating satellite stem cells. The protein is required for satellite cell proliferation and survival to regenerate adult skeletal muscles after injury or disease.

SourceUniversity of Louisville·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 9, 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.

Bacteriorhodopsin crystals consume their smaller counterparts

A team of scientists has discovered that larger crystals of bacteriorhodopsin grow by consuming smaller crystals around them, creating a depletion zone. This phenomenon was observed using fluorescence microscopy over the course of a month, showing how the distribution of protein in the sample changed with time.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalCrystal Growth & Design·DateDec 9, 2015

Iceland volcano's eruption shows how sulfur particles influence clouds

A new study by the University of Washington uses a unique volcanic eruption in Iceland to measure the effect of sulfur emissions on clouds. The results confirm that volcanoes cool the planet not just by emitting particles high in the atmosphere, but also by releasing low-level sulfur to influence cloud formation.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateDec 9, 2015

TET proteins help maintain genome integrity

A recent study published in Nature Communications reveals that TET protein loss of function leads to rapid development of malignant cancer. The research found that mice lacking both Tet2 and Tet3 developed aggressive myeloid leukemia, highlighting the importance of TET proteins in maintaining genome stability and preventing cancer.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 9, 2015

Physics of wrapping miniature droplets takes cue from street foods

Scientists have found that wrapping tiny liquid droplets in ultrathin elastic sheets produces half-moon shapes similar to street foods. The researchers discovered this shape arises from the most efficient way to cover the drop, minimizing exposed liquid surface area.

SourceSyracuse University·JournalNature Materials·DateDec 9, 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.