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Science News for February 18, 2015


NASA satellites reveal Tropical Cyclone Lam strengthening

NASA's Aqua satellite captured infrared data on Tropical Cyclone Lam, revealing a large area of strong thunderstorms circling the center of the storm. The system is expected to intensify to Category one hurricane status, bringing heavy rainfall and powerful winds to northern Australia.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateFeb 18, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Doctoral students to develop gentle anti-tumor drugs

A European Training Network is supporting the development of targeted cancer medication using peptides as delivery vectors. The goal is to create effective treatments with fewer side effects, building on the concept of "magic bullets" coined by Nobel laureate Paul Ehrlich.

SourceBielefeld University·DateFeb 18, 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.

Hydrogel baits offer novel way to manage invasive ants

Researchers found that hydrogels saturated with thiamethoxam dissolved in sugar water reduced the Argentine ant population by 94% in two weeks. The use of hydrogel baits offers an inexpensive, easy-to-apply alternative to traditional pesticides, reducing environmental costs and selectively targeting invasive ants.

SourcePurdue University·JournalEntomologia Experimentalis et Applicata·DateFeb 18, 2015

Best drug to improve poor vision in diabetes

A national study found Eylea effective in improving eyesight for individuals with poor vision due to diabetic macular edema. The condition affects an estimated 7.7 million people in the US, and treatment options are limited, making informed decisions crucial.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateFeb 18, 2015

Igniting the air for atmospheric research

Austro-Russian research team develops high-energy mid-infrared laser capable of igniting laser filaments in air at normal atmospheric pressure. This technology enables tracing pollutants in the atmosphere using back-scattered light analysis.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 18, 2015

Can a bacterial virus from Jerusalem sewage prevent root canal infections?

Researchers identified a bacteriophage from Jerusalem sewage that can infect and eliminate Enterococcus faecalis biofilms, a common cause of persistent root canal infections. This phage therapy approach may offer a new solution for combating antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateFeb 18, 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.

New insight into a fragile protein linked to cancer and autism

Researchers have found that mutations in the PTEN gene lead to reduced activity and stability of a critical protein, promoting genetic instability and disease. This discovery could pave the way for new treatments for patients with both autism and cancer.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalBiochemistry·DateFeb 18, 2015

Development of personalized cellular therapy for brain cancer

A preclinical study by the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine found engineered T cells to be both safe and effective at controlling tumor growth in mice with glioblastoma. The CAR T cells target a mutation in the epidermal growth factor receptor protein called EGFRvIII, found on about 30% of glioblastoma patients' tumor cells.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateFeb 18, 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.

Researchers build atomically thin gas and chemical sensors

Scientists have created ultra-small and highly sensitive gas sensors made of molybdenum disulfide, which can selectively detect ethanol, acetonitrile, toluene, chloroform and methanol vapors. The sensors are ideal for various applications due to their small size, high selectivity and sensitivity.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateFeb 18, 2015

Sardines move north due to ocean warming

A pioneering study analyzing 57,000 fish censuses reveals that sardines and other pelagic fish are highly vulnerable to changes in ocean temperature, driving them to migrate north. The research warns of significant socio-economic and ecological repercussions for coastal towns dependent on these fishery resources.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateFeb 18, 2015

Cheap solar cells made from shrimp shells

Researchers at Queen Mary University of London have created cheap solar cells from shrimp shells, using chitin and chitosan. The efficiency is currently low, but improving it could make them suitable for wearable chargers and other devices.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateFeb 18, 2015

Global warming to increase ocean upwelling, but fisheries impact uncertain

A report suggests global warming will increase ocean upwelling in several systems, enhancing marine productivity and fisheries. However, a thicker, warmer top layer may reduce upwelling's ability to energize coastal ecosystems, posing a significant threat to global fisheries and marine biodiversity.

SourceOregon State University·JournalNature·DateFeb 18, 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.

Chicken pox virus may be linked to serious condition in the elderly

Researchers found the varicella zoster virus in 74% of giant cell arteritis biopsies, suggesting a link between the chicken pox virus and the condition. The study suggests treating giant cell arteritis with a combination of steroids and anti-viral treatment may be effective

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateFeb 18, 2015

Moths shed light on how to fool enemy sonar

Researchers discover that luna moths use tail-spinning to fool bat sonar, increasing survival rate by 47%. The findings expand knowledge of anti-predator strategies and have implications for military sonar development.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 18, 2015

Researchers unravel health/disease map

Researchers have generated and analyzed reference epigenome maps for 111 human cell types, revealing the complex interplay between genetic and environmental factors in shaping our genome. This breakthrough has significant implications for understanding and treating diseases such as cancer and Alzheimer's.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalNature·DateFeb 18, 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.

Researchers developed a cost-effective and efficient rival for platinum

Aalto University researchers have successfully created a cost-effective and efficient electrocatalyst made of iron and carbon, replacing traditional platinum-based systems. The new material reduces losses and makes the process economically viable, addressing challenges in energy storage.

SourceAalto University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateFeb 18, 2015

The growing evidence on standardized packaging of tobacco products

The UK government is set to introduce standardized packaging for tobacco products, building on evidence from Australia and other countries that suggests it can reduce smoking rates. Studies have shown that plain packaging may decrease the appeal of cigarette brands and increase awareness of health warnings, saving lives.

SourceWiley·JournalAddiction·DateFeb 18, 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 studies to test safety of injectable drugs to prevent HIV

HIV Prevention Trials Network (HPTN) has initiated two phase 2 studies to evaluate the safety and acceptability of long-acting injectable antiretroviral drugs, a promising advancement in HIV prevention. The studies aim to provide an alternative to daily oral PrEP pills, which have shown limitations in some trials.

SourceHIV Prevention Trials Network (HPTN)·DateFeb 18, 2015

Predicting cancers' cell of origin

A study by Brigham and Women's Hospital researchers uses epigenomic maps to predict a cancer's cell type of origin, providing new insights into early cancer events. This discovery could help guide treatment decisions for patients with unknown primary sites, which pose significant challenges.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNature·DateFeb 18, 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.

Hair dye 'CSI' could help police solve crimes

Scientists have developed a new method to analyze hair samples at crime scenes, using surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) to detect minute amounts of illicit drugs and explosives. This technique can quickly confirm whether hair is dyed and what brand of colorant was used.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateFeb 18, 2015

Direct observation of bond formations

A team of scientists successfully observed the birth of molecular bonds using femtosecond X-ray scattering. The technique allows for direct visualization of chemical reactions, enabling researchers to better understand light energy conversion and develop new renewable energy resources.

SourceHigh Energy Accelerator Research Organization/KEK·JournalNature·DateFeb 18, 2015

NIH-sponsored HIV vaccine trial launches in South Africa

The HVTN 100 trial aims to build on the RV144 results by testing a modified vaccine regimen with greater protection for southern Africa's predominant HIV subtype. The trial will enroll 252 HIV-uninfected adults and monitor safety and immune responses.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·DateFeb 18, 2015

Nanotechnology: Better measurements of single molecule circuits

Researchers at UC Davis have developed a method to measure the conformation of single molecule 'wiring', resolving a gap between theoretical predictions and experiments. This technique provides important information for theoretical modeling, enabling better design and prediction of molecule-scale circuits.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalNature Materials·DateFeb 18, 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.

Precision nano 'drones' deliver healing drug to subdue atherosclerosis

Researchers at Columbia University Irving Medical Center developed nanoparticles that deliver a special type of healing molecule to fat deposits in arteries, slowly releasing the drug and repairing damage. The approach avoids common side effects and may prevent heart attacks by targeting inflammation hotspots.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateFeb 18, 2015

Basic personality changes linked to unemployment, study finds

Research published by the American Psychological Association found that unemployment can lead to changes in personality traits such as conscientiousness and openness. The study suggests that policies to reduce unemployment are vital for enabling positive personality growth in individuals.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Applied Psychology·DateFeb 18, 2015

An innovative road to cut lentil imports in rice growing countries

Scientists develop shorter-growing-season lentil varieties to accommodate between two rice growing seasons. The approach has already proven its potential in Bangladesh, increasing annual income by $26.6 million and improving small-scale farmers' livelihoods.

SourceInternational Center for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas·DateFeb 18, 2015

Where ants go when nature calls

In a study published in PLOS ONE, researchers found that ants in white plaster nests filled specific corner areas with feces of the same color as their fed food, indicating potential 'toilets'. The ants also preferentially placed these toilets in corners, highlighting a unique aspect of ant sanitation.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 18, 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.

NIH-funded scientists create potential long-acting HIV therapeutic

A new molecule called eCD4-Ig has shown promise in controlling HIV without daily antiretroviral drugs. The molecule, developed by NIH-funded scientists, safely protected monkeys from infection with an HIV-like virus during a 40-week study period.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNature·DateFeb 18, 2015

The highest plume ever observed on Mars

Researchers have detected a mysterious high plume on Mars, extending horizontally about 500 km and reaching an exceptional altitude of 200-250 km above the planet's surface. The team used images from amateur astronomers and spacecraft to analyze the phenomenon, exploring possible scenarios such as cloud or auroral emission.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalNature·DateFeb 18, 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.

Mutant bacteria that keep on growing

Researchers at Concordia University have grown mutant E. coli bacteria up to 3/4 millimeter long, 750 times their normal length, by blocking cell division. This breakthrough has potential applications in the nanoscale industry and may lead to a better understanding of pathogens.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalJournal of Bacteriology·DateFeb 18, 2015

New HPV vaccine offers greater protection against cervical cancer than current vaccine

A new HPV vaccine, Gardasil 9, has been developed to protect against nine types of the virus, significantly improving protection against cervical cancer compared to the current vaccine. The new vaccine offers up to 97% effectiveness in preventing high-grade cervical and vaginal disease caused by high-risk HPV types.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateFeb 18, 2015

Ebola and the International Health Regulations Treaty

The article highlights the weaknesses of the 2007 International Health Regulations (IHR) Treaty in responding to public health threats. Despite SARS strengthening the IHR, only 20% of countries met their obligations, leading to criticism of the treaty's effectiveness.

SourceSociety for Disaster Medicine and Public Health, Inc.·JournalDisaster Medicine and Public Health Preparedness·DateFeb 18, 2015

CU School Of Medicine researchers offer new target for treating asthma

Researchers at CU School of Medicine have identified Muc5ac, a protein involved in airway hyperreactivity, as a potential target for reducing obstruction in asthma. The study found that genetic removal of Muc5ac eliminated airway hyperreactivity, offering new hope for treating this chronic respiratory disease.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 18, 2015

Improved health care systems needed to combat obesity crisis

A new study published in The Lancet emphasizes the need for improved healthcare systems to combat the growing obesity crisis. The study suggests that current clinical delivery systems are poorly suited for preventing and managing obesity, and that health professionals lack the training and tools needed to treat this condition. The auth...

SourceGeorge Washington University Milken Institute School of Public Health·JournalThe Lancet·DateFeb 18, 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.

3-D engineered bone marrow makes functioning platelets

Researchers create first three-dimensional tissue system that reproduces human bone marrow and generates functional human platelets. The system provides a laboratory model for studying blood disorders and predicting drug efficacy, with potential applications in regenerative medicine and patient-specific treatments.

SourceTufts University·JournalBlood·DateFeb 18, 2015

The Lancet: Obesity Series exposes 'unacceptably slow' progress in tackling soaring global obesity rates over last decade: Global failure to tackle obesity epidemic demands new ways of thinking, say leading experts

The Lancet's Obesity Series reveals that global progress towards tackling obesity has been 'unacceptably slow', with only one in four countries implementing policies on healthy eating. The series calls for a radical shift in approach, including smart food policies and increased accountability to governments and industries.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·DateFeb 18, 2015

NIH-supported researchers map epigenome of more than 100 tissue and cell types

Researchers have mapped the epigenomes of over 100 human cells and tissues, offering new insights into how genes are turned on and off in different cellular contexts. The comprehensive data set provides a powerful tool for studying human biology and understanding the links between the genome and disease.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences·JournalNature·DateFeb 18, 2015

Getting a grip on exotic atomic nuclei

Researchers developed a new model describing atomic nuclei that better predict exotic isotope properties. This improvement enables simulations of supernova explosions and nuclear reactor processes.

SourceUniversity of Warsaw, Faculty of Physics·JournalPhysical Review C·DateFeb 18, 2015

Painkillers for non-cancer chronic pain: New insights on risk

Two studies found that morphine equivalent doses of opioids over 100mg/day increase drug overdose risk, while antidepressant use can mitigate this risk. A third study revealed a 'catch-22' where patients without depression are more likely to overdose when taking opioids with sedatives.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateFeb 18, 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.

Eylea outperforms other drugs for diabetic macular edema with moderate vision loss

A clinical trial comparing Eylea (aflibercept), Avastin (bevacizumab), and Lucentis (ranibizumab) for diabetic macular edema found that Eylea provided greater visual improvement, especially in patients with moderate vision loss. The study enrolled 660 participants and showed similar results when starting vision was mild.

SourceNIH/National Eye Institute·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateFeb 18, 2015

Models predict where lemurs will go as climate warms

Lemurs are expected to lose considerable amounts of suitable habitat due to climate change, with some species shrinking their ranges by nearly 70 percent. The study identifies key forest corridors that need protection for lemurs to reach future habitats.

SourceDuke University·JournalEcology and Evolution·DateFeb 18, 2015

NIH expands key tuberculosis research program

The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) is expanding its Tuberculosis Research Units (TBRU) program to improve understanding of TB latency and persistence. Four new institutions will collaborate on research projects focusing on biomarkers, metabolic factors and T cell responses to control TB.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·DateFeb 18, 2015
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

A bodyguard for your ears

Researchers at Northwestern University have found a secret bodyguard for the ears - a newly discovered connection from the cochlea to the brain that warns of intense incoming noise. This novel pain system protects the ear from very loud or damaging noise, which may be why people jam their fingers in their ears when exposed to loud soun...

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Reviews Neuroscience·DateFeb 18, 2015

'Most comprehensive map' of human epigenomes is unveiled

The comprehensive maps and analyses of the epigenomes of human cells and tissues will provide new insights into normal development and disruption in disorders such as cancer, autism, and heart disease. The data will also be valuable in studying autoimmune diseases, Alzheimer's disease, and other conditions.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature·DateFeb 18, 2015

Discovery: Tropical fire ants traveled the world on 16th century ships

Researchers traced tropical fire ant origins to Acapulco, Mexico, and mapped their invasion history using genetic diversity analysis. The ants were transported on ships going between the Americas and Asia, establishing a new distribution in virtually all tropical regions.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateFeb 18, 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.

Autism genes activate during fetal brain development

Scientists at UC San Diego School of Medicine discovered that autism mutations are connected to a pathway regulating brain development. The study found that specific genes were expressed in different developmental periods, influencing brain growth and behavior.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNeuron·DateFeb 18, 2015

How do vertebrates take on their form?

French scientists have discovered that vertebrate formation is guided by a pattern present from early development stages, with folds along boundaries of elastic contrast forming the final shape. This finding explains how complex structures like vertebrates emerged during evolution.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateFeb 18, 2015

Licorice extract protects the skin from UV-induced stress

Researchers have discovered that licorice extract's antioxidant active compound Licochalcone A strengthens the skin's defense systems, producing higher amounts of self-protecting molecules. This approach may provide superior sun protection by combining physical and biological defenses.

SourceWiley·JournalExperimental Dermatology·DateFeb 18, 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 breakthrough in nanotoxicology by INRS researchers

INRS researchers found that silver nanoparticles induce stress in the endoplasmic reticulum, triggering an inflammatory response and potentially leading to nanotoxicity. The study suggests a new mechanism of action for these particles, which could have implications for cancer treatment.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateFeb 18, 2015

Epigenomics of Alzheimer's disease progression

Researchers analyzed gene and epigenetic mark changes in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease to understand the role of microglia and immune pathways in disease progression. They found conserved epigenomic signatures between mice and humans, suggesting a potential therapeutic target.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateFeb 18, 2015

New insights into origins of the world's languages

A new study by Berkeley linguists provides evidence that the 'Indo-European' language family originated 5,500 - 6,500 years ago, supporting the 'steppe hypothesis'. The study examined over 200 sets of words from living and dead languages, concluding that divergence began around 6,500 years ago.

SourceLinguistic Society of America·JournalLanguage·DateFeb 18, 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.

Neanderthal groups based part of the their lifestyle on the sexual division of labor

Researchers found that Neanderthals, like modern hunter-gatherer societies, showed a sexual division of labor. Female fossils showed longer dental grooves than male individuals, suggesting different tasks were performed. The study also found differences in teeth enamel imperfections between males and females.

SourceSpanish National Research Council (CSIC)·JournalJournal of Human Evolution·DateFeb 18, 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.

Needle-free vaccination: How scientists ask skin cells for help

Researchers introduce a novel approach to stimulate the skin immune response using needle-free vaccination. The cyanoacrylate skin surface stripping (CSSS) method enhances penetration of vaccine particles into deeper skin layers, activating key immune cells.

SourceWiley·JournalExperimental Dermatology·DateFeb 18, 2015

Medtech meets cleantech: Malaria vaccine candidate produced from algae

Scientists at University of California - San Diego School of Medicine developed a malaria parasite protein produced by algae, generating antibodies in mice that nearly eliminated mosquito infection. The method uses an affordable and environmentally friendly approach to prevent malaria transmission from host to mosquito.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalInfection and Immunity·DateFeb 18, 2015

Deconstructing the dynamic genome

Two landmark studies reveal the interplay between chromosomal structure and gene expression across tissues. Researchers found that variations in gene expression are linked to differences in enhancer sequences and transcriptional regulation.

SourceLudwig Institute for Cancer Research·JournalNature·DateFeb 18, 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.

Bacterial defense mechanism targets duchenne muscular dystrophy

Duke researchers demonstrate a genetic therapeutic technique targeting a large region of the dystrophin gene to treat up to 60 percent of DMD patients. The CRISPR system is used to cut specific exons, altering the gene and producing a shortened dystrophin protein.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 18, 2015

Older adults with limited mobility may lessen heart problems with activity

A study found that older adults with physical limitations who engage in low-intensity activities for a short duration can lower their risk of heart attack and coronary death. Participants who spent more time being sedentary had higher predicted risks, highlighting the importance of regular intervals of movement.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateFeb 18, 2015

Can you judge a man by his fingers?

Researchers at McGill University found that men with short index fingers and long ring fingers are more agreeable and less quarrelsome with women. This unexpected phenomenon may be linked to fetal exposure to hormones during pregnancy.

SourceMcGill University·JournalPersonality and Individual Differences·DateFeb 18, 2015

How stress can lead to inequality

Scientists found that stress increases competitive confidence in people with low anxiety, while decreasing it in those with high anxiety. This suggests that stress is a cause of social inequality, rather than just a consequence.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalPsychoneuroendocrinology·DateFeb 18, 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.

Fires and snow in Central Europe

Scientists observed multiple hot spots across Russia's Kaliningrad Oblast, indicating forest fires, which are associated with smoke containing carbon monoxide and particulate matter. The surrounding areas experienced heavy snowfall, covering parts of Poland, Belarus, Lithuania, and Latvia.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateFeb 18, 2015

New growth factor indicates possible regenerative effects in Parkinson's disease

A recent clinical study has shown that applying a growth factor to the brain may help preserve dopaminergic cells and fibers, increasing dopamine signaling in patients. The study suggests that future therapies could utilize the brain's own protective mechanisms to limit neuronal cell death and restore natural dopamine production.

SourceLund University·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateFeb 18, 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.

Possible strategy identified to combat major parasitic tropical disease

Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital have identified a potential strategy to combat the parasitic tropical disease leishmaniasis. Neutralizing the activity of interleukin 18 (IL-18) protected mice from infection, suggesting this approach may aid in fighting the disease.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateFeb 18, 2015

Ranibizumab reverses vision loss caused by diabetes

A new study led by USC Eye Institute finds that ranibizumab may help reduce cases of blindness by 75 percent among Hispanic and non-Hispanic whites with diabetic macular edema. The treatment could potentially save the sight of thousands of working-age individuals suffering from diabetic eye disease.

SourceUniversity of Southern California - Health Sciences·JournalOphthalmology·DateFeb 18, 2015

In the city, rabbits build more densely

Researchers found that European wild rabbits construct smaller, more densely packed burrows in urban areas than in rural settings. This suggests that cities provide a more suitable habitat for these animals, leading to concerns about their potential impact on rural populations and the preservation of the species.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalJournal of Zoology·DateFeb 18, 2015

A good night's sleep keeps your stem cells young

A study reveals that hematopoietic stem cells are vulnerable to DNA damage when rapidly dividing under stress conditions. This can lead to premature aging and increase the risk of cancer.

SourceGerman Cancer Research Center (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ)·JournalNature·DateFeb 18, 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.

New insights into 3-D genome organization and genetic variability

Recent studies by UC San Diego researchers have uncovered widespread differences in gene regulation between chromosome pairs, influenced by inherited sequence variations. Chromosome folding structures, known as topologically associating domains (TADs), were also found to play a crucial role in gene expression and epigenome organization.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature·DateFeb 18, 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.

Roadmap Epigenomics project releases latest 'annotations' to the human genome

The Roadmap Epigenomics Project has released new annotations of the human genome, which may hold the key to understanding and combating diseases. By mapping epigenetic signatures associated with complex traits, researchers aim to better understand how genes change and develop effective treatments for Alzheimer's disease.

SourceRush University Medical Center·JournalNature·DateFeb 18, 2015

Dresden researchers manage transplantation of adrenal cells encapsulated in a bioreactor

Researchers at the Technische Universität Dresden have successfully transplanted adrenal cells encapsulated in a bioreactor, paving the way for future human transplantation. This breakthrough could benefit patients with adrenal insufficiency and congenital diseases such as 21-hydroxylase deficiency.

SourceTechnische Universität Dresden·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 18, 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.

Osteoarthritis patients will benefit from jumping exercise

Postmenopausal women with mild knee osteoarthritis saw improved patellar cartilage quality through high-impact jumping exercises. High-impact loading also enhanced physical function, including knee extensors strength and cardiorespiratory fitness.

SourceAcademy of Finland·JournalMedicine & Science in Sports & Exercise·DateFeb 18, 2015

New paper-like material could boost electric vehicle batteries

Researchers at the University of California, Riverside have developed a novel paper-like material composed of silicon nanofibers to boost lithium-ion battery performance. The material has the potential to increase specific energy by several times, making it suitable for electric vehicles and personal electronics.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 18, 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.

Popular soda ingredient poses cancer risk to consumers

A new analysis suggests that people who consume at least one can of soda per day may be exposed to a potential carcinogen called 4-methylimidazole (4-MEI) from caramel-colored soft drinks. Researchers estimate that this exposure could elevate cancer risk over a lifetime, highlighting the need for regulation and reformulation of these b...

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 18, 2015

Many teens with clinical excessive daytime sleepiness test positive for marijuana

A new study reveals that nearly half of adolescents with excessive daytime sleepiness consistent with a diagnosis of narcolepsy test positive for marijuana, emphasizing the need for drug screening. The study's findings also suggest that marijuana use may be contributing to misdiagnoses of narcolepsy in teens.

SourceAmerican Academy of Sleep Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Sleep Medicine·DateFeb 18, 2015

Neighboring birds sing 'out of tune'

Researchers found that neighboring birds sang at significantly different rates than non-neighboring birds, according to a study published in PLOS ONE. Great tits use their songs to signal territory boundaries, and the study suggests that neighborhood structure may shape variation in territorial birdsong.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 18, 2015

Funding cutting-edge, collaborative research

The National Science Foundation has awarded $56 million in funding to 12 Materials Research Science and Engineering Centers (MRSECs) for multidisciplinary research in materials science. The MRSECs will support collaborative projects across universities, national laboratories, industry partners, and international collaborations.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·DateFeb 18, 2015

Protein that repels immune cells protects transplanted pancreatic islets from rejection

A Massachusetts General Hospital team has developed a method to protect insulin-producing islets from the immune system, enabling long-term blood sugar control without immunosuppression. The approach involves coating or encapsulating islets with CXCL12, a protein that repels immune cells and attracts regulatory T cells.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalAmerican Journal of Transplantation·DateFeb 18, 2015

Secret of extinct British marine reptile uncovered

A new species of Ichthyosaurus has been identified in a British marine reptile fossil, shedding light on the diversity of ichthyosaurs during the early Jurassic period. The discovery was made possible by advances in analysis and comparison with other groups of reptiles.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalJournal of Vertebrate Paleontology·DateFeb 18, 2015

Study confirms LSU Health finding of higher diabetes indicator in black children

A new study confirms earlier findings that African-American children have significantly higher HbA1c levels than their white counterparts despite similar average blood glucose levels. The study calls for prioritizing efforts to identify and address the sources of ongoing disparities in young patients with type 1 diabetes.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateFeb 18, 2015