Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for February 12, 2015


People value resources more consistently when they are scarce

A study published in Psychological Science found that when resources are scarce, people evaluate goods in a more stable and consistent way. High-income participants were willing to pay more for luxury items if it meant making trade-offs, whereas lower-income participants were less sensitive to price differences.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateFeb 12, 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 brain system that appears to compensate for autism, OCD, and dyslexia

Research proposes that a brain system called declarative memory compensates for autism, OCD, and dyslexia by providing strategies to overcome learning difficulties. This compensation allows individuals to learn scripts for social situations and control tics and compulsions.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalNeuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews·DateFeb 12, 2015

Dogs know that smile on your face

Researchers found that dogs could distinguish between emotional expressions in humans, even with unfamiliar faces. The dogs' discriminatory abilities were tested in four types of trials, including novel faces and previously trained faces.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateFeb 12, 2015

Screen name matters in the online dating game

Choosing a screen name with a letter starting in the top half of the alphabet can maximise online dating success. A 70:30 ratio of who you are and what you're looking for is also key, while humour, physical fitness, and genuine profiles can increase likability. Men and women have different preferences when it comes to names and traits.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalEvidence-Based Medicine·DateFeb 12, 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.

NSF@AAAS

NSF staff and scientists present findings on gender in STEM policy, practice and research, as well as graduate science education and broader impacts of research. The session includes discussions on reducing the gender gap, innovative pathways to science careers and strategies for effective broader impacts work.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·DateFeb 12, 2015

An ocean of plastic

A new study by the NCEAS Marine Debris Working Group estimates that over 4.8 million metric tons of plastic waste enter the world's oceans from land annually, with a possible maximum of 12.7 million metric tons.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalScience·DateFeb 12, 2015

'Megadrought' likely for western US by end of century

A new report by Cornell University and NASA researchers warns of a high risk of megadrought in the Southwest and Great Plains by late this century. The study suggests that reducing greenhouse gas emissions within the next 10 years could mitigate this risk.

SourceCornell University·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 12, 2015

Researchers design 'evolutionary trap' to thwart drug resistance

A new approach, called an evolutionary trap, steers cells into one evolutionary path while shutting off others, then knocks out the cell population for good. The strategy may be applied to various clinical scenarios where drug resistance is a problem.

SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·JournalCell·DateFeb 12, 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.

Scientists tackle issue of how to get a first date in a digital world

Researchers at Queen Mary University of London analyzed over 4000 studies on online dating to provide dos and don'ts for a successful first date. They found that choosing an attractive profile name and using certain words in a headline message can increase interest, while avoiding complex language and being genuine is key.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalEvidence-Based Medicine·DateFeb 12, 2015

Gold nanotubes launch a three-pronged attack on cancer cells

Researchers have developed gold nanotubes that can selectively destroy cancer cells while imaging tumors, using near-infrared light to convert to heat. The technique has the potential to enhance conventional treatments with minimal toxicity.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateFeb 12, 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.

The neural basis of 'being in the mood'

A study in female mice reveals the brain region where hormonal state and social interaction are integrated, providing insights into human attraction and rejection behaviors. The researchers found that neurons dedicated to socio-sexual behavior were active only when females were receptive to males.

SourceJLM&A, SA·JournalCurrent Biology·DateFeb 12, 2015

Here's looking at you

Researchers found that dogs can discriminate between happy and angry human faces, even when only showing the eye region. Dogs trained to choose happy faces mastered the task faster than those trained to choose angry faces, suggesting they use stored memories to recognize emotions.

SourceUniversity of Veterinary Medicine -- Vienna·JournalCurrent Biology·DateFeb 12, 2015

New film footage reveals potential 'killer blow' to King Richard III

Researchers have discovered that three of King Richard III's injuries had the potential to cause death quickly, including two to the skull and one to the pelvis. The forensic analysis used modern techniques such as CT scans and micro-CT imaging to analyze trauma to the skeleton and determine which wounds might have proved fatal.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalThe Lancet·DateFeb 12, 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.

Curious monkeys share our thirst for knowledge

Researchers found that rhesus macaques were willing to give up a significant portion of a potential prize to quickly find out if they selected the winning option in a game of chance. The study suggests that the brain's Orbitofrontal cortex plays a crucial role in processing curiosity and evaluating rewards.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalNeuron·DateFeb 12, 2015

Exotic states materialize with supercomputers

Researchers at MIT and UT Austin create a new class of materials for quantum spin Hall effect, enabling potential electronic devices with low losses. They used Stampede and Lonestar supercomputers to model the interactions of atoms in these novel materials, two-dimensional transition metal dichalcogenides.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·JournalScience·DateFeb 12, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Ebola virus may have been present in West Africa long before 2014 outbreak

Researchers found evidence of prior exposure to Ebola virus among patients with Lassa fever in Sierra Leone between 2011-2014. The discovery suggests that the deadly disease may have been circulating in the area for years before the 2014 outbreak, sparking hope for prevention and control strategies.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalViral Immunology·DateFeb 12, 2015

Plant-based diet may reduce obese children's risk of heart disease

A recent study by Cleveland Clinic found that a plant-based vegan diet can significantly improve cardiovascular risks in obese children, including lower BMI, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels. The study suggests that such diets may be more effective than the American Heart Association diet in reducing heart disease risk.

SourceCleveland Clinic·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·DateFeb 12, 2015

Microbes prevent malnutrition in fruit flies -- and maybe humans, too

A study by scientists from Scripps Research Institute found that certain microbes promote nutritional harvest in fruit flies, rescuing their health and longevity when fed nutrient-poor diets. This natural symbiosis may offer a new strategy to treat and prevent malnutrition in humans.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalCell Reports·DateFeb 12, 2015

Large numbers of teenage girls experience sexual coercion in relationships

A study of over 4,500 children in England found that more than four in ten teenage schoolgirls have experienced sexual coercion, with many reporting pressure to have sex and physical attacks from their boyfriends. The research also highlighted a high proportion of boys who regularly view pornography and harbor negative attitudes toward...

SourceUniversity of Bristol·DateFeb 12, 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.

Live assessment of blood formation

Researchers have developed a revolutionary model to study hematopoiesis in living organisms, revealing that at least one-third of blood stem cells produce differentiated progenitor cells. The study also shows that mature blood cells are supplied by first progenitor cells that regenerate themselves over time.

SourceGerman Cancer Research Center (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ)·JournalNature·DateFeb 12, 2015

Earliest-known arboreal and subterranean ancestral mammals discovered

Two 160 million-year-old fossils of Agilodocodon scansorius and Docofossor brachydactylus provide evidence of early mammalian ecological diversity. These ancient mammals had adaptations for arboreal and subterranean lifestyles, suggesting genetic mechanisms operated long before modern mammals.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalScience·DateFeb 12, 2015

Data-storage for eternity

Researchers have developed a new method to store large volumes of data using DNA and silica, which can potentially survive for over a million years. The technique uses an algorithm to correct errors and encases the information-bearing segments of DNA in silica, providing a robust storage solution.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateFeb 12, 2015

Spontaneous activity shapes neuron development

Research from King's College London found that spontaneous release of neurotransmitter glutamate causes neurons to branch and connect with each other, enabling the formation of synapses. This process plays a crucial role in regulating electrical signals through the brain.

SourceKing's College London·JournalCell Reports·DateFeb 12, 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.

Instructional DVD reduces MRI scan patients' anxiety and improves scan quality

A DVD designed to help people prepare for an MRI scan led to a significant reduction in anxious patients and improved scan quality. The study found that the DVD helped patients feel less anxious and more confident about taking the scan, leading to more successful scans and better patient outcomes.

SourceBritish Psychological Society·JournalBritish Journal of Health Psychology·DateFeb 12, 2015

Dehydration linked to worsening stroke conditions

Research presented at American Stroke Association's International Stroke Conference 2015 found that dehydration worsens stroke conditions. Almost half of ischemic stroke patients were dehydrated when admitted to the hospital, with hydrated patients experiencing better recovery outcomes and lower risk of worsening conditions.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateFeb 12, 2015

Light in the Moebius strip

Scientists generate Moebius strip from laser light to process materials and manipulate microparticles, opening up new possibilities for nanotechnology. The optical tool could also be used to guide nanoparticles on complex paths using optical tweezers.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience·DateFeb 12, 2015

JMD publishes article on laboratory perspective of incidental findings reporting

The Journal of Molecular Diagnostics published a Special Article on laboratory perspective of incidental findings reporting, highlighting the need for increased understanding and transparency of complex genomic testing. The AMP Incidental Findings Working Group recommends laboratories establish clear policies for delivering ancillary i...

SourceAssociation for Molecular Pathology·JournalJournal of Molecular Diagnostics·DateFeb 12, 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.

Ebola has lessons for local health departments' role in health crises

A recent article highlights the importance of local health departments' roles in responding to global health security threats posed by infectious diseases. Key findings include the need for dedicated staff to interpret federal guidance, form partnerships with healthcare coalitions, and communicate accurate risk information. The Ebola e...

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Public Health Management and Practice·DateFeb 12, 2015

Warming pushes Western US toward driest period in 1,000 years

A new study predicts that the Western US will face persistent drought worse than any seen in the past 1,000 years, driven by human-induced global warming. The region's larger population and increased resource use will exacerbate the devastating impacts of such a drying period.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 12, 2015

Middle-aged men at highest risk of suicide after breathing poor air

A new study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology found that short-term exposure to nitrogen dioxide and fine particulate matter increases the risk of suicide among middle-aged men. The study also revealed that individuals between 36-64 years old experienced a higher risk of suicide following air pollution exposure.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Epidemiology·DateFeb 12, 2015

Research defines more behaviors that reveal romantic attraction

Researchers found that people with different flirting styles show attraction in ways that match their style. Sincere flirts are attentive and less fidgety, while traditional flirts lean into interactions and adopt open body postures. Physical flirts offer fewer compliments when attracted to a romantic match.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalJournal of Nonverbal Behavior·DateFeb 12, 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.

Critical green turtle habitats identified in Mediterranean

A new study has identified two major foraging grounds of the Mediterranean green turtle and recommends the creation of a new Marine Protected Area to preserve the vulnerable species. The researchers tracked 34 female turtles from breeding grounds in Cyprus, Turkey, Israel, and Syria over 8,521 tracking days.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalDiversity and Distributions·DateFeb 12, 2015

Moffitt physicians promote screening strategies for those at high-risk for melanoma

Experts suggest that targeted screening programs for middle-aged and older patients using newer diagnostic tools could significantly reduce melanoma mortality rates. Studies in Australia and Germany have shown a substantial decrease in melanoma-related deaths after implementing comprehensive skin cancer screening programs.

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalJAMA·DateFeb 12, 2015

Study finds lack of ID checks for buying cigarettes in NYC

A study by NYU Steinhardt School found that over a quarter of New York City retailers did not request identification from young adults buying cigarettes. Chain stores were more likely to comply with minimum age laws than independent vendors.

SourceNew York University·JournalTobacco Control·DateFeb 12, 2015

New Science paper calculates magnitude of plastic waste going into the ocean

A new study estimates that between 4.8 and 12.7 million metric tons of plastic enter the world's oceans every year, with a midpoint estimate of 8 million metric tons. The research, published in Science, used a complex model to analyze data from 192 coastal countries and highlights the need for improved waste management systems worldwide.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalScience·DateFeb 12, 2015

Institutional prestige dominates faculty hiring, leads to systemic inequality

A new study reveals that faculty careers are largely determined by their alma mater, with only a small percentage of professors receiving training outside elite institutions. The research found a systematic bias against women with elite doctorates, who face significant career advancement barriers.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 12, 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.

Under pressure

Researchers found that receiving cells respond to pressure on their membranes by stiffening their skeletons to prevent movement away from the attacking cell. This process allows for close proximity of cell membranes, enabling fusion to occur.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateFeb 12, 2015

Key to blocking influenza virus may lie in a cell's own machinery

Researchers discovered that the immune system can turn off cellular enzymes needed by the Influenza A virus, which could lead to new treatments for flu. The study found that PAI-1 protein plays a key role in this process, and its inhibitors may be used to combat viral infections.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalCell·DateFeb 12, 2015

Looking for love? Use Reddit to give Cupid tech support

Users of popular dating services OKCupid and Tinder rely on Reddit to learn tips and strategies for online dating, including how to cheat the system and avoid common pitfalls such as trolling and catfishing. The study highlights the importance of social norms and effective matchmaking techniques in online dating.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·DateFeb 12, 2015

Remoras don't suck

Researchers studied remoras' ability to attach to surfaces securely yet release easily, finding a complex mechanism involving lamellar spinules and uniquely-structured blood vessels. This discovery could inspire designs for tags or bandages that don't harm hosts.

SourceNew Jersey Institute of Technology·DateFeb 12, 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.

Instructional DVD reduces MRI scan patients' anxiety and improves scan quality

A study published in the British Journal of Health Psychology found that an instructional DVD reduced MRI scan patients' anxiety, leading to more successful scans with higher image quality. The DVD provided relaxation techniques to help patients prepare for and complete the scan.

SourceBritish Psychological Society·JournalBritish Journal of Health Psychology·DateFeb 12, 2015

Reality is distorted in brain's maps

Researchers discovered that brain's grid cells are anchored to one wall and rotated by a specific angle (7.5 degrees) to minimize symmetry and errors in navigation. The rotation is necessary to ensure accurate mapping of environments, even when landmarks are far apart.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalNature·DateFeb 12, 2015

Juvenile gang members in US top 1 million, new study finds

A new study from Sam Houston State University reveals that approximately 2% of US youth are gang members, with involvement highest at age 14. Gangs have high turnover rates, recruiting new members constantly to replace those who leave.

SourceSam Houston State University·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateFeb 12, 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.

Study finds positive trends in medical genetics education

A new study reveals that genetics curricula are improving, but still lag behind, with minimal instruction in years three and four of medical school. Medical schools are adopting innovative teaching strategies to incorporate genomics into training.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalGenetics in Medicine·DateFeb 12, 2015

UT Arlington computer system to reserve vehicles, send reminders to veterans

A University of Texas at Arlington computer scientist is designing a reservation/reminder software system to help veterans with Traumatic Brain Injury or Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. The system will be accessible through an android cell phone app or kiosk and can send text reminders about upcoming appointments.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateFeb 12, 2015

A high acid diet may have negative effects on kidney health

Patients with chronic kidney disease who consume high acid diets are 3-times more likely to develop kidney failure than those on low acid diets. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables can help protect kidneys.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateFeb 12, 2015

Scientists get first glimpse of a chemical bond being born

Researchers observed atoms forming a weak bond on the path to molecule creation, with only a small fraction converting to stable products. The study paves the way for more efficient reactions in industries such as energy generation and crop fertilization.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalScience·DateFeb 12, 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.

NIH Ebola study in macaques provides timeframes for post-mortem viral stability

A recent NIH study found that Ebola virus can remain infectious in a body for at least seven days after death, with viral RNA detectable for up to 10 weeks. The research highlights the importance of safe handling practices and suggests oral swabbing as a reliable alternative for obtaining diagnostic samples.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalEmerging Infectious Diseases·DateFeb 12, 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.

A*STAR develops systems to identify treatment targets for cancer and rare diseases

Researchers at A*STAR's Genome Institute of Singapore have developed an expert system called OncoIMPACT that combines cancer omics data with machine learning models to predict treatment targets. The system has been applied to over a thousand cancers, including melanomas and ovarian cancers, and shows promise for personalized medicine.

SourceBiomedical Sciences Institutes (BMSI)·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateFeb 12, 2015

Bubonic bottleneck: UNC scientists overturn dogma on the plague

Researchers discovered that Yersinia pestis bacteria traffic to lymph nodes on their own, not relying on human phagocytic cells. Most microbes get trapped in a bottleneck in the skin or node, and only a few break free to cause disease.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateFeb 12, 2015

How much plastic debris moves from land to sea?

Researchers estimate that around 8 million tons of plastic waste entered the world's oceans in 2010, with coastal countries generating close to 275 million tons. To prevent this number from increasing by a full order of magnitude over the next decade, nations need to improve their waste management practices and adopt better strategies.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateFeb 12, 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.

Harm and response

A comprehensive study reveals that plants respond uniquely to different insects, activating specific genes to defend against attacks. The research shows that plants can distinguish between closely related insect species, leading to targeted defense responses.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalFrontiers in Plant Science·DateFeb 12, 2015

The company you keep

Researchers at the La Jolla Institute for Allergy and Immunology report that Nuclear Factor of Activated T cells (NFAT) plays a key role in CD8 T cell exhaustion, leading to impaired immune responses. The study identifies NFAT as a molecular hub that orchestrates T cell activation and exhaustion.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalImmunity·DateFeb 12, 2015

Study: Global rainfall satellites require massive overhaul

A new study by Cornell University warns that the existing system of space-based rainfall observation satellites requires a serious overhaul due to aging technology and lack of international coordination. Replacing just two of the four outdated satellites could help close gaps in data coverage, but broader collaboration is still needed.

SourceCornell University·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateFeb 12, 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.

Switching superconductivity by light

A novel superconducting transistor can be switched reversibly between ON and OFF by light-irradiation, opening a way to new high-speed devices. The device uses a photo-active electric double layer and can be controlled by both gate-voltage and light-irradiation.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalScience·DateFeb 12, 2015

Common biomarkers of sleep debt found in humans, rats

Researchers found common biomarkers of sleep debt in humans and rats, indicating a link to metabolic disorders such as weight gain, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. The study also identified potential biomarkers, oxalic acid and diacylglycerol 36:3, which could serve as indicators of sleep quality and quantity.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 12, 2015

An aggressive form of HIV uncovered in Cuba

Researchers at KU Leuven's Laboratory for Clinical and Epidemiological Virology have identified a recombinant form of HIV that targets the anchor point CXCR4 early after infection, shortening the healthy phase and triggering rapid progression to AIDS. The study found abnormally high doses of the virus and defensive molecule RANTES in i...

SourceKU Leuven·JournalEBioMedicine·DateFeb 12, 2015

Making teeth tough: Beavers show way to improve our enamel

Researchers discovered beaver teeth have a harder, more resistant form of enamel built with iron that surpasses fluoride-treated enamel in acid resistance. This finding could lead to better understanding of human tooth decay and improvement on current treatments.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalScience·DateFeb 12, 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.

Carnegie Mellon researchers reveal how mindfulness training affects health

Mindfulness training reduces stress by increasing prefrontal activity, regulating the biological stress response. This can help prevent diseases like depression, HIV, and heart disease. The study provides an evidence-based biological account of mindfulness training's effects on health.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalCurrent Directions in Psychological Science·DateFeb 12, 2015

Cerebral palsy -- it can be in your genes

Researchers at the University of Adelaide have discovered that at least 14% of cerebral palsy cases are caused by genetic mutations. This groundbreaking finding has significant implications for the diagnosis, management, and treatment of the condition.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateFeb 12, 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.

Genomic profiling for cancer of unknown primary site

A study published in JAMA Oncology found that at least one clinically relevant genomic alteration was present in most samples tested, suggesting a potential for personalized therapy. The research analyzed 200 cancer of unknown primary site (CUP) samples and identified 169 specimens with potentially targetable genomic alterations.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateFeb 12, 2015

High seas fishing ban could boost global catches, equality

A high-seas moratorium would improve fisheries income distribution among maritime nations, with European and developed nations benefiting the most. Coastal catches could increase by up to 18% in a catch-neutral scenario, while others may face significant losses.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 12, 2015

Stroke survivors may be at higher risk of having cancer

Research presented at the American Stroke Association's International Stroke Conference 2015 found that stroke survivors have a higher annual rate of age-adjusted cancer incidence compared to the general population. Additionally, stroke survivors who develop cancer are more than three times likely to die compared to those without cancer.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateFeb 12, 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.

Two cell-signaling molecules found to suppress the spread of melanoma

Two tiny bits of non-coding genetic material, miR-382 and miR-516b, have been found critical to stalling melanoma's spread in early-stage tumors. These microRNAs may help identify patients most likely to spread and benefit from more aggressive therapy.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateFeb 12, 2015

How the Eastern tiger swallowtail got 'scary'

The Eastern tiger swallowtail's genome has been sequenced, revealing mutations in proteins responsible for its unique circadian rhythm and stinky substance used to scare off predators. This breakthrough opens the door for more insect genome sequencing projects at an affordable price.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Reports·DateFeb 12, 2015

AAAS 2015: New Alzheimer's targets via proteomics

Researchers at Emory University School of Medicine have discovered new Alzheimer's disease targets through proteomics, which may lead to a better understanding of the disease mechanism. They identified tangle-like structures that sequester proteins critical for RNA splicing in early stages of the disease.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·DateFeb 12, 2015

Motorized cycling may prime brain for relearning after stroke

Research suggests that motorized cycling can prime the brain for relearning everyday tasks and improve motor function in stroke patients. In a small study, 17 stroke survivors showed a 34% improvement in motor skills after exercising on a motorized stationary bike compared to voluntary cycling or no aerobic exercise training.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateFeb 12, 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.

Study recommends closing the high seas to fishing

A recent study led by Simon Fraser University biologist Isabelle Côté suggests that closing the high seas to fishing would have little impact on global fish catches. Most fish stocks are already shared between the high seas and exclusive economic zones, reducing the financial implications of such a closure.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 12, 2015

Cancer patients rarely demand unnecessary tests and treatments

A new study of cancer patient-clinician encounters found that only a small percentage of patients requested clinically inappropriate tests or treatments. Most requests were for imaging studies, laboratory tests, or palliative care interventions, with few requesting chemotherapy or proton beam therapy.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateFeb 12, 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.

New study in Science calculates amount of plastic waste going into the ocean

A recent study published in Science estimates that between 4.8 and 12.7 million metric tons of plastic enter the ocean every year, mainly from coastal regions. The researchers used a grand model to estimate the amount of plastic waste entering the ocean and found that it is significantly higher than previously estimated.

SourceSea Education Association·JournalScience·DateFeb 12, 2015

Changing stereotypes key to getting girls interested in computer science

Researchers at the University of Washington found that female teachers can inspire high school girls to be interested in computer science. The study also recommends broadening the image of who computer scientists are to counteract negative stereotypes. By shifting these stereotypes, more girls can feel included and encouraged to pursue...

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateFeb 12, 2015

Better catalysts, made-to-order

University of Utah scientists develop computational model to predict catalyst performance, allowing for the design of more efficient and selective catalysts. The model uses big data analysis to identify structural features that correlate with reaction selectivity.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalScience·DateFeb 12, 2015

New fluorescent protein permanently marks neurons that fire

Researchers have developed a new fluorescent protein called CaMPARI, which permanently marks neurons that are active at a particular time. This allows scientists to visualize neural activity beyond the limited field of view of a microscope and capture snapshots of neural activity during complex behaviors.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalScience·DateFeb 12, 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.

Southwest & Central Plains face unprecedented drought risk in the 21st century

A recent study suggests that both regions will experience severe droughts in the future, worse than any in the last millennium. The projections are based on computer model simulations and comparison with past climate reconstructions, indicating a future with extremely parched Southwest and Central Plains.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 12, 2015

Urban pollinators get the job done, SF State study finds

A study from San Francisco State University found that native bees can provide sufficient pollination for tomatoes in urban gardens, with floral resource density being the key factor. This research challenges conventional wisdom and offers good news for farmers in space-starved cities.

SourceSan Francisco State University·JournalUrban Ecosystems·DateFeb 12, 2015

Penn Medicine: Brain activity can predict increased fat intake following sleep deprivation

A new study found that sleep-deprived individuals consume more fat and less carbohydrates, while displaying increased connectivity in the salience network, which is linked to emotional responses and bodily sensations. This unique approach examines changes in brain activity's impact on eating behavior following sleep deprivation.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 12, 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.