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Science News for February 11, 2015


Oyster disease thrives in nightly dead zones

A study by Smithsonian scientists found that oyster disease is more prevalent in areas with low oxygen levels at night, which can cripple the oysters' defense against the parasite. However, surprisingly, oysters' filtration powers flag during periods of low oxygen but recover afterwards.

SourceSmithsonian·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 11, 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.

Nationwide study reports shifts in Americans' use of natural products

A nationally representative survey shows that natural product use in the US has shifted since 2007, with some products becoming more popular and others falling out of favor. Fish oil was the top natural product among adults, while melatonin saw a significant increase in use among children.

SourceNIH/National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health·DateFeb 11, 2015

A new variant of the rabbit hemorrhagic disease endangers the Iberian lynx

A new variant of the rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus is threatening the survival of the Iberian lynx, a predator that relies heavily on wild rabbits for prey. The study found a significant decline in rabbit populations and a notable drop in the number of Iberian lynx cubs born in the wild.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalEmerging Infectious Diseases·DateFeb 11, 2015

Low vitamin D predicts more severe strokes, poor health post-stroke

Research found that patients with low vitamin D levels suffered larger areas of dead tissue resulting from obstruction of the blood supply compared to those with normal levels. Additionally, a 10 ng/mL reduction in vitamin D level was associated with a decreased chance for healthy recovery after stroke

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateFeb 11, 2015

UC San Diego/SDSC study advances brain cancer research

Researchers at UC San Diego identified a pyramid hierarchical network of coherent gene modules that regulate glioblastoma genes, involved in highly aggressive brain cancer. This finding informs a strategy to elucidate these modules and identify new drug therapies.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalMolecular BioSystems·DateFeb 11, 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.

Carbon release from ocean helped end the Ice Age

A study published in Nature shows that a release of carbon dioxide from the deep Southern Ocean helped bring an end to the last Ice Age. The finding provides insight into how oceanic carbon storage affects climate change.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalNature·DateFeb 11, 2015

Long-term changes in dead wood reveal new forest dynamics

A study in California's Sierra Nevada region found a nine-fold increase in standing dead trees and nearly three times more logs on the ground, but smaller and more decayed pieces. This shift poses a challenge for forest managers, who must balance habitat value with fire hazard reduction.

SourceUSDA Forest Service - Pacific Southwest Research Station·JournalForest Ecology and Management·DateFeb 11, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Order matters: Sequence of genetic mutations determines how cancer behaves

Researchers at the University of Cambridge discovered that the order of genetic mutations acquired determines how cancer behaves. The study found that patients who acquire mutations in JAK2 prior to those in TET2 are more likely to develop a severe red blood cell disease subtype and suffer from blood clots.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateFeb 11, 2015

Terrible at remembering names? Blame it on the music, not the memory

A new study by Georgia Institute of Technology found that music can impair the memory of older adults when trying to remember names. The researchers tested participants' ability to associate faces with names in silence and while listening to background music, discovering a 10% decline in performance among older adults.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalThe Gerontologist·DateFeb 11, 2015

A new species of hummingbird?

A new species of hummingbird has been discovered in the Bahamas, characterized by its distinctive lyre-tailed plumage and unique courtship displays. Genetic analysis reveals that the two subspecies diverged around 400,000 to 1 million years ago.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateFeb 11, 2015

Better how-to videos

Researchers at MIT and Harvard University developed a new system called Crowdy that recruits viewers to create subgoal labels for educational videos. The system improves video annotations by leveraging crowdsourcing, reducing costs to $1 per minute, and enhancing learner retention and satisfaction.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateFeb 11, 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.

OHSU Knight Cancer Institute awards more than $460,000 to community projects

The OHSU Knight Cancer Institute awarded $462,656 to 17 projects statewide to address community-identified needs and decrease the impact of cancer on Oregonians. The funded projects focus on preventing tobacco use among youth, increasing colorectal cancer screening, and developing skin cancer prevention programs.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·DateFeb 11, 2015

VLA finds unexpected 'storm' at galaxy's core

Astronomers found a supermassive black hole actively heating and blasting gas in the galaxy J1430+1339, transforming it into an elliptical-type galaxy devoid of gas. The VLA observations revealed powerful jets and winds that remove or destroy raw material needed for star formation.

SourceNational Radio Astronomy Observatory·DateFeb 11, 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.

Protein controls both alcohol craving and organ damage

Researchers at the University of Iowa have identified a protein called RGS6 that controls both alcohol craving and organ damage. The team found that inhibiting RGS6 could represent a new approach to counteract alcohol dependence and protect against cell-killing actions of alcohol.

SourceUniversity of Iowa Health Care·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 11, 2015

New study 'game-changer' for stroke treatment worldwide

A landmark study published in the New England Journal of Medicine shows a dramatic improvement in restoring blood flow to the brain after adding stent thrombectomy to standard clot-dissolving therapy. The new treatment restores blood flow to 89% of patients, with 71% returning to independent living.

SourceMelbourne Health·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateFeb 11, 2015

Novel basic science news tip sheet

Researchers found that aged mice developed more severe intestinal permeability and bacterial infections after stroke, leading to higher mortality rates. In contrast, social isolation improved recovery in aged mice by reducing inflammation and enhancing brain function.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateFeb 11, 2015

Automatic Whale Detector, version 1.0

The new system, developed by NOAA scientists, can track individual whales and increase the sample size of the population count. This allows for more accurate estimates of population size and helps conservation efforts.

SourceNOAA National Marine Fisheries Service·DateFeb 11, 2015

Mainz researchers identify novel factor involved in autophagy

Researchers at Johannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz identified RAB3GAP complex as a key factor in autophagy, a process that breaks down cellular proteins and organelles. This discovery may enable innovative approaches to treat neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalAutophagy·DateFeb 11, 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.

Wikipedia use -- nothing to be ashamed about

A study by Monash University found that while seven in eight students use Wikipedia, it's not considered the most useful education resource. Academics and universities should integrate Wikipedia into teaching and learning to support students' scholarship.

SourceMonash University·JournalJournal of Higher Education Policy and Management·DateFeb 11, 2015

Buildings with 'rocking' technology would be more earthquake-resilient

Case Western Reserve University researcher Michael Pollino developed a computer model that suggests optimal sizes for 'rocking steel-braced frames' to dissipate seismic energy. These designs could provide better earthquake resilience and repairability, potentially reducing costs.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalEngineering Structures·DateFeb 11, 2015

Diabetes drug spurs host defense

Researchers found that pioglitazone enhances ROS production in white blood cells, killing difficult-to-treat pathogens. This finding demonstrates a relevant contribution to host defense in mouse and cellular models of chronic granulomatous disease.

SourceNational Jewish Health·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateFeb 11, 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.

Revolutionary new probe zooms in on cancer cells

Researchers at McGill University developed a powerful new intraoperative probe for detecting cancer cells in real time during surgery. The Raman spectroscopy probe has a greater than 92% accuracy in identifying invasive brain cancers, and its use may improve patient outcomes by reducing cancer recurrence and extending survival times.

SourceMcGill University·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateFeb 11, 2015

Making a better wound dressing -- with fish skin

Scientists develop nanofibers from tilapia collagen and apply them to rat wounds, resulting in faster healing times and no immune reactions. The study suggests fish collagen could be a viable alternative for wound treatment, reducing the risk of transmitting diseases.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateFeb 11, 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.

Want to save the planet? Neighbors better allies than family

A recent study by University of Vermont researchers reveals that socializing with neighbors is linked to a set of environmental behaviors, including buying chemical-free fruits and vegetables, conserving water and energy, and driving less. Generalized trust in others also plays a crucial role in promoting eco-friendly habits.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalEnvironment and Behavior·DateFeb 11, 2015

Researchers find new therapy benefits stroke patients

A recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine shows that endovascular treatment can dramatically improve patient outcomes after an acute ischemic stroke, increasing positive outcomes from 30% to 55%. The treatment resulted in a 50% reduction in deaths and restored blood flow to the brain.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateFeb 11, 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.

Florida State-Russian research team explores vision complications for astronauts

A Florida State University and Russian Academy of Sciences team found that space travel may impair the body's ability to regulate blood flow to the brain, contributing to temporary or permanent vision problems experienced by astronauts. The research team plans to conduct further experiments to find solutions.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalJournal of Applied Physiology·DateFeb 11, 2015

Berkeley Lab researchers at AAAS

Researchers from Berkeley Lab presented on severe weather events in a changing climate, novel technologies for exploring uncultivated microorganisms, and future of accelerators. They also discussed battery innovations and what to expect from the LHC's second run.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·DateFeb 11, 2015

Plant extract fights brain tumor

A novel, non-invasive treatment strategy for Cushing Disease has been discovered using silibinin from milk thistle seeds. The active compound binds to heat shock protein 90, allowing glucocorticoid receptor molecules to dissolve and restore normal ACTH production.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Medicine·DateFeb 11, 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.

Study finds new lethal combination of cancer drugs shrinks tumors

Researchers at Harvard Medical School and University of Waterloo have discovered a new lethal combination of cancer drugs that can shrink tumors and extend the survival of mice with cancer. The study found that targeting specific protein Hck can kill transitioning cells between non-Cancer Stem Cells (CSCs) and CSCs.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 11, 2015

Novel high-power microwave generator

A new study by scientists from Bangladesh explores the viability of a novel structure for generating high-power microwaves, offering an alternative to traditional approaches. The proposed semi-circular slow wave structure is capable of producing high-power microwaves via ultra-high-frequency radio waves.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal D·DateFeb 11, 2015

Minds at attention: Military and mindfulness

A University of Miami study found that short-form mindfulness meditation training reduces attentional lapses and mind wandering, enhancing cognitive resilience in military personnel. This technique can be beneficial for civilians in demanding professions as well.

SourceUniversity of Miami·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 11, 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.

Largest ever genome-wide study strengthens genetic link to obesity

Researchers analyzed genetic samples from over 300,000 individuals to find genetic variations associated with obesity traits. They discovered 140 locations across the genome that play roles in various obesity traits, including waist-to-hip circumference ratio.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalNature·DateFeb 11, 2015

Why sleep has restorative effects

Research reveals that sleep plays a crucial role in removing toxic waste from the brain by increasing fluid flow and clearance of neurotoxic waste products. The glymphatic system, responsible for this process, is most active during sleep, suggesting the necessity of sleep for maintaining a healthy brain environment.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·DateFeb 11, 2015

Improving end-of-life care: Lessons from 40 years of work

After 40 years of work, experts conclude that securing individual rights, improving caregiving relationships, and reforming healthcare systems are crucial to advancing end-of-life care. Strategies include training clinicians in communication skills, designing systemic improvements, and enacting financing reforms.

SourceThe Hastings Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateFeb 11, 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.

New technology could help patients make better decisions on care

A new electronic model developed by McMaster University researchers aims to revolutionize shared decision-making in doctor's offices. The SHARE-IT decision aids provide simple formats for patients to review medical information and evidence, promoting meaningful conversations between patients and doctors.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalThe BMJ·DateFeb 11, 2015

Mobile stroke units improve response times, outcomes for patients

Researchers report improved diagnosis and treatment of stroke patients with Mobile Stroke Treatment Units, reducing median alarm-to-CT scan completion times by 41 minutes. The units provide pre-hospital evaluation and treatment, allowing for earlier clot-busting medication administration and better outcomes.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateFeb 11, 2015

Mutation detection in human in vitro fertilized embryos using whole-genome sequencing

Researchers used a new whole-genome sequencing method to detect potential disease-causing mutations in human IVF embryos, detecting 82% of single base de novo mutations. The technique, which uses DNA barcodes and advanced sequencing technology, can help identify the cause of congenital disorders such as intellectual disability and autism.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenome Research·DateFeb 11, 2015

New research sheds light on defense systems of the human body

A new discovery by scientists at the University of Turku reveals a key role for the plasmalemma vesicle-associated protein (PLVAP) in regulating the transport of proteins and migration of white blood cells into lymph nodes. The findings provide insights into rapid defence responses in the human immune system.

SourceAcademy of Finland·JournalNature Immunology·DateFeb 11, 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.

Optic nerve may help predict stroke patient death risk

A new study presents a non-invasive test using optic nerve ultrasound to measure sheath thickness, which can help identify acute stroke patients at high risk of dying within days or months. The findings suggest that larger nerve sheath measurements are associated with increased death risk and disability six months later.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateFeb 11, 2015

Carbon release from ocean helped end the Ice Age

A recent study published in Nature found that carbon stored in an isolated reservoir deep in the Southern Ocean re-connected with the atmosphere, driving a rise in atmospheric CO2 and global temperatures. This process is crucial in understanding how the ocean affects the carbon cycle and climate change.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalNature·DateFeb 11, 2015

How does evolution work?

Researchers investigate plant molecular structures for climate adaptation, discovering novel pathways subject to natural selection. The project sheds light on convergent evolution and potential applications in ecology and agriculture.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·DateFeb 11, 2015

A novel solar CPV/CSP hybrid system was proposed by researchers at NCEPU

Researchers at NCEPU propose a novel solar CPV/CSP hybrid system that combines electricity generation with heat utilization. The system improves overall solar-to-electricity efficiency by increasing the useful peripheral low-concentration radiation, resulting in high-efficiency solar power generation.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience Bulletin·DateFeb 11, 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.

'Drink less' campaigns should focus on why and how

A new study published in the British Journal of Health Psychology found that university students who focused on the benefits of abstaining from alcohol reduced their overall drinking levels. Participants who imagined strategies for non-drinking also reported fewer binge drinking episodes and more favorable perceptions of non-drinkers.

SourceUniversity of Sussex·JournalBritish Journal of Health Psychology·DateFeb 11, 2015

Research finds 15-fold increase in newborn opioid withdrawal in Ontario

A study published in CMAJ Open found that the incidence of newborn opioid withdrawal increased 15-fold in Ontario between 1992 and 2011, with most babies born to mothers who were legally prescribed opioids. The shift from other opioids to methadone before delivery was associated with higher rates of premature birth and low birth weight.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalCMAJ Open·DateFeb 11, 2015

New device improves healing of some ruptured aneurysms

Researchers have developed a new device that significantly improves healing of small ruptured brain aneurysms. The HydroCoil device combines a gel-like substance with a platinum coil, allowing it to expand and block blood flow to the aneurysm, reducing recurrence rates by up to 70% compared to standard treatment.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateFeb 11, 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.

Early retina cell changes in glaucoma identified

Researchers identified structural features and cell types in the retina that may act as key factors in glaucoma progression. Within seven days of elevated eye pressure, some retinal ganglion cells underwent significant rearrangements, such as reductions in number and length of dendritic branches.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateFeb 11, 2015

Apes prefer the glass half full

A Duke University study found that chimpanzees and bonobos prefer the glass half full when presented with a choice between two snacks. The apes were more likely to choose fruit over nuts when framed as a prize rather than a penalty, regardless of equal average payoffs.

SourceDuke University·JournalBiology Letters·DateFeb 11, 2015

Unraveling the complex web of global food trade

A new study sheds light on nutrition, land use, and water security dimensions of global food trade. The research reveals that more than one-fifth of calories grown in farm fields are traded, requiring about 20% of the world's croplands.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalBioScience·DateFeb 11, 2015

Lab-in-a-box takes aim at doctors' computer activity

The Lab-in-a-Box system tracks a doctor's behavior during consultations with patients, analyzing their interactions with electronic medical records. The goal is to provide insights on how to run medical practices more efficiently, while minimizing distractions from screen time.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalPersonal and Ubiquitous Computing·DateFeb 11, 2015

Feeling ducky

Researchers have identified ducks as an ideal model organism to study the cellular mechanisms of mechanosensation, a complex process involving sensory neurons. The study reveals that ducks have highly specialized trigeminal ganglion neurons that are capable of converting force into excitation more efficiently than other birds and mammals.

SourceBiophysical Society·DateFeb 11, 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.

Heating targeted cancer drugs increases uptake in tumor cells

Researchers at the University of Manchester developed heat-activated liposomes with antibody targeting capabilities, showing improved drug delivery to tumour tissue in mice. The combination approach resulted in a moderate improvement in animal survival, offering potential for novel targeted drug delivery strategies.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalJournal of Controlled Release·DateFeb 11, 2015

CU researchers find link in how cells start process necessary for life

Researchers at the University of Colorado School of Medicine have discovered an RNA structure-based signal that bridges evolutionary divergence between bacteria and eukaryotes, enabling protein synthesis. This finding challenges long-held assumptions about the molecular signals initiating protein synthesis in these distinct life forms.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalNature·DateFeb 11, 2015

A gene that shaped the evolution of Darwin's finches

Researchers identified a gene influencing beak shape in Galápagos finches, which varied among individuals within species. This finding highlights the genetic basis for evolution and natural selection, shedding new light on how species diverge over time.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalNature·DateFeb 11, 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.

Birth of a star quartet

An international team of astrophysicists has witnessed the formation of a quadruple star system, consisting of a young star and three gas clouds that will develop into stars in 40,000 years. The system is unstable and prone to interference due to its multiple members.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature·DateFeb 11, 2015

Does illness make people lonely?

A Concordia University study found that chronic illness is often accompanied by feelings of loneliness, even in people with long-term partners. The research suggests that self-protective strategies can reduce stress and prevent feelings of loneliness.

SourceConcordia University·JournalHealth Psychology·DateFeb 11, 2015

Higher mortality risk in individuals with mental health disorders

A meta-analysis of 203 articles from 29 countries found that individuals with mental health disorders have a relative risk of mortality 2.22 times higher than the comparison population. The majority of deaths among people with mental health disorders are due to natural causes, with a median potential life lost of 10 years.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateFeb 11, 2015

UH team works to help patients with Down syndrome see better

A team of UH College of Optometry researchers aims to improve the vision of individuals with Down syndrome using computer-simulated prescribing strategies. The study, funded by the National Eye Institute, hopes to demonstrate improved visual acuity with new prescription methods that consider optical distortions in the eyes.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateFeb 11, 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.

One-two punch catches cancer cells in vulnerable state

Researchers from Brigham and Women's Hospital discovered that targeting cancer cells immediately after chemotherapy can make them more vulnerable to treatment. The 'one-two punch' approach involves administering two drugs simultaneously or sequentially, increasing the effectiveness of cancer therapy.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 11, 2015

Nationwide survey reveals widespread use of mind and body practices

A large nationally representative survey shows that the number of Americans using mind and body approaches to improve health and well-being remains high. The survey highlights a significant increase in yoga usage, with nearly double the number from 2002, as well as notable increases in meditation and chiropractic use.

SourceNIH/National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health·DateFeb 11, 2015

Evolution of the Darwin's finches and their beaks

A team of scientists has sequenced 120 birds to study the evolutionary history of Darwin's finches and identified a gene associated with beak shape variation. The research reveals that hybridization between species played a critical role in shaping the genetic diversity of these iconic birds.

SourceUppsala University·JournalNature·DateFeb 11, 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.

Brain's GPS system influenced by shape of environment

Research at University College London reveals that grid cells in the brain modify their patterns based on the environment's geometry. The study found that grid patterns align with the local environment and distort in trapezoid-shaped spaces, challenging previous theories about the brain's navigation system.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature·DateFeb 11, 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.

Carbon release from ocean helped end Ice Age

Researchers found that a massive release of carbon dioxide from the ocean during the last ice age warmed the planet and ended the glacial period. The study, published in Nature, suggests that natural variations in atmospheric carbon dioxide are linked to carbon stored in oceans.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalNature·DateFeb 11, 2015

New research: Malaria parasites unlikely to jump from animals to humans

A new study led by University of Maryland School Medicine researcher Joana C. Silva found that five common Plasmodium species have not changed which animals they infect for at least 3 million years. This suggests that host switching by malaria-causing parasites is not a common event on an evolutionary time scale.

SourceUniversity of Maryland School of Medicine·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateFeb 11, 2015

Love online is about being real, not perfect

Researchers found that people prefer online profiles highlighting a potential partner's success and humility, with specific details about their life. This approach balances presenting the best version of oneself while avoiding exaggerations.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·DateFeb 11, 2015

Stroke patients receiving better, more timely care

A new study published at the American Stroke Association's International Stroke Conference found that 1 in 4 acute ischemic stroke patients treated with tPA were transferred quickly to certified stroke centers. The study suggests that these transfers may lead to improved patient outcomes, as time is brain in stroke care.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateFeb 11, 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.

UH psychology professor wins prestigous research prize

Arturo Hernandez, a University of Houston developmental psychology professor, has received the Friedrich Wilhelm Bessel Research Award for his groundbreaking work on how the brain processes language. His research has significant implications for teaching and learning multiple languages, including second languages.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateFeb 11, 2015

Bacterial armor holds clues for self-assembling nanostructures

A new study by Berkeley Lab reveals how calcium ions trigger the folding and binding of S-layer protein nanosheets, enabling the self-assembly of complex two- and three-dimensional structures. The findings have potential applications in creating nanostructured arrays for various materials.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalACS Nano·DateFeb 11, 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.

Scientists take first X-ray portraits of living bacteria at the LCLS

Researchers at SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory have developed a technique to rapidly explore, sort, and analyze samples with high-resolution X-ray imaging. This method enables the study of viral infections, cell division, and photosynthesis in unprecedented detail, and has the potential to revolutionize biology research.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 11, 2015

Education, not mandatory screening, best for women with dense breast tissue

A new commentary suggests that mandatory screening for women with dense breast tissue without careful analysis of benefits and risks is unwise. Education on the increased risk and other important factors can help healthcare providers guide recommendations for supplemental screening.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateFeb 11, 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.

Lower systolic blood pressure reduces risk of stroke

A new study found that lowering systolic blood pressure to below 140 mm Hg significantly reduces the risk of stroke in people over 60, with especially high risks for Hispanics and blacks. The study also highlights the importance of targeting this group with specific treatment guidelines.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateFeb 11, 2015

Epilepsy drug could aid stroke victims

A study found that retigabine, an epilepsy drug, protected the brain against ischemic stroke damage in mouse models. The medication acted directly on nerve cells to minimize damage, showing protective effects up to five days after the stroke.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·DateFeb 11, 2015

What makes the feather soar

Research reveals that the variety and adaptability of interlocking protein building blocks make up the feather's success. Birds have dozens of smaller variations within each type of brick, represented by the many differing copy numbers in their gene.

SourceUniversity of South Carolina·JournalBMC Evolutionary Biology·DateFeb 11, 2015

Better batteries inspired by lowly snail shells

Researchers at UMBC isolated a peptide that binds strongly to lithium manganese nickel oxide, improving the potential power and stability of electrode materials. The peptides can latch onto nanoscale components, forming a bridge between conductive components and maintaining a connection through multiple charging cycles.

SourceBiophysical Society·DateFeb 11, 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.

Transcriptomics identifies genes and signaling pathways that may regulate neurodegeneration

A recent study published in Experimental Biology and Medicine identified over 4,000 genes with altered expression in dying neurons, including those involved in cell death, survival regulation, and oxidative phosphorylation. This breakthrough opens doors to future research on novel players regulating neuronal survival and death.

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology and Medicine·JournalExperimental Biology and Medicine·DateFeb 11, 2015

Exercise ball used in delivery process decreases labor time, reduces number of C-sections

A new study published in the Journal of Perinatal Education found that using an exercise ball during labor with an epidural can significantly reduce the need for C-sections and shorten labor time. Women who used the peanut-shaped ball were half as likely to undergo a cesarean surgery and delivered babies faster than those without.

SourceThe Reis Group·JournalThe Journal of Perinatal Education·DateFeb 11, 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.

With generic drugs, eye patients are more likely to take medicine as directed

A U-M study found that switching to generic glaucoma medication led to improved adherence rates among patients. Lower copays after the introduction of generics were a key factor in this improvement. However, black patients with severe disease showed decreased adherence compared to white patients.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalOphthalmology·DateFeb 11, 2015

In-flight blood transfusions increase survival rates and improve trauma patient outcomes

A study published in Journal of the American College of Surgeons confirms the effectiveness of pre-trauma center blood transfusions in increasing one-day survival rates and reducing shock among air-lifted trauma patients. The UPMC protocol involves giving guidelines on when to administer transfusions, resulting in improved outcomes.

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateFeb 11, 2015

Astronomers catch multiple-star system in first stages of formation

Scientists have observed a multiple-star system in its early stages of formation, with three dense condensations that will collapse into stars in just 40,000 years. The system is expected to form a stable triple-star system, with the fourth star potentially leaving the system soon.

SourceNational Radio Astronomy Observatory·JournalNature·DateFeb 11, 2015

Fluorescing food dyes as probes to improve food quality

Researchers found that fluorescent properties of edible food colors increase with the viscosity of surrounding fluids, suggesting they could act as embedded sensors for food's physical consistency. This could provide a less invasive and more accurate way to test food quality, potentially revealing changes in spoilage or consistency.

SourceBiophysical Society·DateFeb 11, 2015