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Science News for February 2, 2015


Pregnancy outcomes similar for women with kidney transplants as child, adult

A recent study found that women with kidney transplants in childhood and adulthood have comparable live birth rates, premature birth rates, and small-for-gestational-age babies. The findings suggest that early onset of kidney failure and longer periods of immunosuppression do not negatively impact pregnancy outcomes.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateFeb 2, 2015

News from Annals of Internal Medicine tip sheet, Feb. 3, 2015

A study found that an oral supplement containing arginine, zinc, and antioxidants improves healing of mild to severe pressure ulcers in malnourished patients. Meanwhile, a survey suggests that pain and other alarming symptoms in the last year of life have increased from 1998 to 2010. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's ACI...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateFeb 2, 2015

Study looks at the impact of fetal gender on the risk of preterm birth

A Dutch nationwide study found that male fetuses were at increased risk of spontaneous preterm birth, particularly between 28-31 weeks. Additionally, male fetuses were more likely to experience prelabor rupture of membranes between 26-37 weeks, leading to higher neonatal morbidity rates.

SourceSociety for Maternal-Fetal Medicine·DateFeb 2, 2015
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

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

RNA: The unknotted strand of life

Researchers found no knots in RNA structures among 6,000 known chains. Instead, naturally occurring RNAs tend to form simple geometric configurations.

SourceInternational School of Advanced Studies (SISSA)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 2, 2015

1.3 million euros to develop computational microscope

The project, led by Associate Professor Ilia Solov'yov, aims to deliver multiscale modeling tools for computer simulations in biomedical tasks. Researchers will utilize powerful computational machines to observe intracellular processes, gaining valuable insights into disease development and drug action.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·DateFeb 2, 2015

Barriers to end-of-life care discussions identified

A Canadian multicenter survey of over 1,200 hospital-based clinicians identified key barriers to end-of-life care discussions with seriously ill patients and their families. The study found that factors such as difficulty accepting a poor prognosis, limited understanding of life-sustaining treatments, and disagreements among family mem...

SourceMcMaster University·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateFeb 2, 2015

Dance of the nanovortices

Scientists at Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin have successfully created and tracked magnetic nanovortices with mass, a discovery that challenges previous theories on skyrmions. The researchers used holographic recording techniques to track the movement of these nanovortices, which were found to move along spiral trajectories.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalNature Physics·DateFeb 2, 2015
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Sequential screening provides better test performance than cell free DNA

A study found that cell free DNA analysis is less effective than sequential screening for detecting all fetal chromosomal abnormalities. Sequential screening detected an 81.6% success rate and a 4.11% false positive rate, while cell free DNA detection had a lower 68% success rate at a one percent screen positive rate.

SourceSociety for Maternal-Fetal Medicine·DateFeb 2, 2015

Agricultural fires in Indochina

Agricultural fires in Indochina were detected by NASA's MODIS instrument, revealing the region's reliance on deliberate burning for land management. The practice helps enhance crops and grasses but also degrades air quality through smoke production.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateFeb 2, 2015

Wrinkle predictions

A team of MIT mathematicians developed a theory predicting wrinkled patterns on curved surfaces, confirmed through experiments. The theory states that curvature is the main parameter determining pattern formation, with thicker shells forming hexagonal patterns and thinner shells resulting in labyrinthine configurations.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Materials·DateFeb 2, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Clean technology can partially make up for weak CO2 pricing

A new study by the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research suggests that supporting clean technologies like renewables and carbon capture can help mitigate greenhouse gas emissions even with weak CO2 pricing. The researchers used a state-of-the-art computer model to analyze different policy instruments and their interactions.

SourcePotsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)·JournalNature Climate Change·DateFeb 2, 2015

Oceans' increasing mercury levels may be harming fish

Mercury contamination is affecting fish populations worldwide, with yellowfin tuna concentrations doubling by 2050 if emissions continue to rise. Human activity is driving the increase in mercury levels, highlighting the need for urgent action to reduce pollution.

SourceWiley·JournalEnvironmental Toxicology and Chemistry·DateFeb 2, 2015
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

New method shrinks metastatic ovarian cancer and reduces chemotherapy dose

Researchers discovered a new way to shrink ovarian cancer tumors by inhibiting abnormal angiogenesis. Using a naturally occurring protein inhibitor called 3TSR, the approach improved chemotherapy drug delivery and resulted in significant tumor regression and survival.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateFeb 2, 2015

Preventive strategies protect against delirium

A meta-analysis of 14 studies suggests that non-medication interventions can significantly reduce the risk of delirium and falls among older patients. These interventions include nutrition and hydration improvement, exercise, therapeutic activities, and re-orientation strategies.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateFeb 2, 2015

Area-wide management a must for Asian citrus psyllid

The Asian citrus psyllid can travel at least two kilometers in a twelve-day period, infesting neighboring groves and exacerbating citrus greening disease. Area-wide management practices are recommended to control the insect and prevent further losses.

SourceEntomological Society of America·JournalJournal of Economic Entomology·DateFeb 2, 2015

Worms lead way to test nanoparticle toxicity

A Rice University study uses the lowly roundworm to measure the effects of various nanoparticles on individual organisms and entire populations. The researchers found that five types of nanoparticles showed little to no toxicity, while others were moderately or highly toxic to the worm population.

SourceRice University·DateFeb 2, 2015
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

How spaceflight ages the immune system prematurely

Research published in The FASEB Journal suggests that spaceflight conditions can induce changes in B lymphocyte production in bone marrow, leading to premature aging of the immune system. A ground-based model simulating low-gravity conditions found similar effects in mice as those observed in elderly mice on Earth.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateFeb 2, 2015

Identification of much-needed drug target against MRSA, gram-positive infections

Scientists at the University of Utah and Georgia have discovered a pharmacological target that could enable development of novel drugs against antibiotic-resistant pathogens, including MRSA. The target is based on a unique pathway for making heme, an essential iron-carrying molecule specific to Gram-positive bacteria.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 2, 2015

Interconnected IT for business models in rural areas

The Fraunhofer Institute is developing a platform to interconnect various IT systems in rural areas, enabling secure real-time communication and optimizing transportation systems. This technology will be presented at CeBIT, allowing people to test business models for rural areas with a real-life simulation.

SourceFraunhofer-Gesellschaft·DateFeb 2, 2015

Activated immune cells indicate a favorable prognosis in colorectal cancer

Researchers found high TNF alpha levels in tumor tissue correlate with increased numbers of activated killer cells and a favorable course of the disease. The study suggests that TNF alpha could serve as an independent biomarker for disease prognosis.

SourceGerman Cancer Research Center (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ)·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateFeb 2, 2015
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Study supplies insight into behavior of African monsoon

Researchers analyzed sediments from Lake Bosumtwi, Ghana, to reconstruct precipitation patterns in West Africa over the past 20,000 years. The study suggests that the African monsoon's response to climate forcing is more complex than previously understood, with a gradual decrease and southward migration over several thousand years.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalNature Geoscience·DateFeb 2, 2015

Review of nonmedicinal interventions for delirium in older patients

A meta-analysis of multicomponent nonpharmacological interventions found significant reductions in delirium incidence and falls among hospitalized older patients. These strategies also trended toward decreases in length of hospital stay and institutionalization, suggesting a potential cost savings of over $16 billion annually.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateFeb 2, 2015

In the Balkans, resilience is rooted in knowledge of wild plants

A study in Albania found that traditional communities' understanding of local plants is crucial for their well-being. The researchers recorded 418 plant uses, highlighting the overlap between cultures and the importance of preserving this knowledge for science and community improvement.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalNature Plants·DateFeb 2, 2015

Still doubts on gravitational waves

A recent study confirms that galactic contaminants are too intense to distinguish cosmological gravitational waves, casting doubt on the detection. The Planck-BICEP2 collaboration used multiple instruments to rule out contamination, but acknowledge the need for sharper eyes to detect the signal.

SourceInternational School of Advanced Studies (SISSA)·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 2, 2015
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

New in the Hastings Center Report

The Hastings Center Report explores the controversy surrounding the Surfactant, Positive Pressure, and Oxygenation Randomized Trial (SUPPORT), a study that gauged risks and benefits of blood oxygen levels in premature infants. The debate highlights concerns over informed consent and the ethics of comparative effectiveness research.

SourceThe Hastings Center·JournalHastings Center Report·DateFeb 2, 2015

Shrinking range of pikas in California mountains linked to climate change

A study documents the disappearance of pikas from low-elevation sites in California's mountains, primarily due to climate change. The researchers predict that by 2070, pikas may disappear from up to 75% of their historical range, depending on greenhouse gas emissions levels.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalJournal of Biogeography·DateFeb 2, 2015

Cumulative daily screen time linked to teen sleep problems

A large study published in BMJ Open found that teens who spend more than 2 hours on screens after school are strongly linked to longer sleep onset latency and shorter sleep duration. The research suggests that screen time may replace sleeping time or interfere with sleep by stimulating the nervous system.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Open·DateFeb 2, 2015

A simple intervention can make your brain more receptive to health advice

Researchers found that self-affirmation increases activity in the ventromedial prefrontal cortex, leading to a steeper decline in sedentary behaviors. The study showed that people who were affirmed before receiving health advice demonstrated higher brain activity and improved behavior change.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania Annenberg School for Communication·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 2, 2015
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Metformin may lower lung cancer risk in diabetic nonsmokers

A retrospective cohort study found that metformin use was associated with a decreased risk of lung cancer in diabetic patients who had never smoked. Nonsmokers taking metformin for five years or longer showed a 52% reduction in lung cancer risk, but this finding was not statistically significant.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalCancer Prevention Research·DateFeb 2, 2015

Mesozoic mammals -- what do we know from China?

Recent studies of Mesozoic mammals in China reveal a diverse range of species, with many exhibiting mammalian characteristics. The findings provide insights into the evolution of the mammalian middle ear and the origin of mammals, with implications for our understanding of vertebrate biology.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateFeb 2, 2015

Commonly used antibiotics with diuretic can double risk of sudden death in older patients

A large Canadian Medical Association Journal study found that combining trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole with spironolactone more than doubles the risk of sudden death in older patients. The study suggests that physicians should consider alternative antibiotics for patients on spironolactone to reduce this risk.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateFeb 2, 2015

Study finds deep ocean is source of dissolved iron in Central Pacific

A new study by scientists at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution reveals that the deep ocean is a major source of dissolved iron in the central Pacific Ocean. The research found that hydrothermal vents and sediments thousands of meters below the sea surface are the primary sources of iron, contradicting previous assumptions.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 2, 2015
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

One good turn: Birds swap energy-sapping lead role

A new study by Oxford University scientists reveals that migrating birds 'share the pain' of leading a v-formation, allowing them to take turns saving energy. The research found that individual birds spend an average of 32% of their time benefiting from flying in the updraft produced by another bird's flapping wings.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 2, 2015

Friend, foe or queen? Study highlights the complexities of ant perception

Researchers discovered that trap-jaw ants can tell who belongs in the nest and who doesn't by recognizing the distinctive blend of odors. The ants use chemical context to assess an individual's status, a hierarchical system that is fundamental to their social structure.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalBiology Letters·DateFeb 2, 2015
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

New pathway for stalling BRCA tumor growth revealed

Researchers at NYU Langone Health have discovered a new pathway to slow down tumor growth in cancers with BRCA1 and BRCA2 genetic mutations. By inhibiting the action of polymerase theta enzyme, cancer cell growth can be cut by more than half.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalNature·DateFeb 2, 2015

To speed up magma, add water

Researchers have discovered that water helps melt rock and speed up the transport of magma to the surface. The Lau Basin in the South Pacific, where water content is highest, surprisingly shows less magma than expected.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalNature·DateFeb 2, 2015
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Scientists discover organism that hasn't evolved in more than 2 billion years

Researchers discovered a type of sulfur bacteria preserved in rocks over 1.8 billion years old, which remain unchanged and indistinguishable from modern bacteria found in the same region. This finding supports Charles Darwin's theory of evolution by suggesting that evolution occurs only when environmental conditions change.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 2, 2015

Laying a foundation for treating ALS, spinal cord injury

A new study by the University of Wisconsin-Madison Waisman Center has made significant progress in understanding the role of human astrocytes in neurodegenerative diseases such as ALS and spinal cord injuries. Astrocytes, a type of glial cell, have been found to play a crucial role in neuronal survival and proper nervous system signaling.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateFeb 2, 2015

Winding borders may enhance graphene

New research suggests that sinuous grain boundaries in graphene can relieve stress, resulting in enhanced mechanical strength and predictable electronic transport gaps. This discovery may lead to the development of polycrystalline graphene with precise misalignment of components, enabling the control of semiconducting characteristics.

SourceRice University·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateFeb 2, 2015
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Actions and beliefs behind climate change stance

A new study found that climate change sceptics and believers share integrated expressions of self, forming specific social identities. The researchers suggest building support for mitigation policies requires approaches beyond science education, focusing on changing relationships between groups.

SourceMonash University·JournalNature Climate Change·DateFeb 2, 2015

Confidence in government linked to willingness to vaccinate

A study by Ohio State University suggests that confidence in government is a key factor in public willingness to vaccinate. People with high trust in the government were more likely to take the swine flu vaccine, while those with low trust had lower vaccination rates. The research also found that individuals who watched more news and h...

SourceOhio State University·JournalHealth Promotion International·DateFeb 2, 2015

Toward the next biofuel: Secrets of Fistulifera solaris

Fistulifera solaris, a diatom microalga, is found to grow quickly and produce high levels of oils simultaneously. Its genome and transcriptome analyses provide insights into its characteristics, making it an excellent candidate for batch culture biofuel production.

SourceAmerican Society of Plant Biologists·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateFeb 2, 2015
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

UI researchers link smoke from fires to tornado intensity

Researchers found that smoke from spring fires in Central America intensified conditions leading to severe tornadoes in the US. The study's results suggest a novel mechanism by which smoke affects tornado severity, and highlight the importance of considering atmospheric particles in weather prediction models.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateFeb 2, 2015

You can be a coward or a fighter -- just pick one and stick with it, says study

Researchers found that aphids which consistently display risk-averse or risk-prone behavior tend to thrive better than those that exhibit mixed strategies, especially when faced with predators. The study suggests that committing to a consistent behavioral type can be key to achieving overall fitness and reproductive success.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·DateFeb 2, 2015

AAO-HNSF clinical practice guideline: Allergic rhinitis

The AAO-HNSF clinical practice guideline for allergic rhinitis aims to improve diagnosis and treatment, addressing quality improvement opportunities and reducing harmful variations in care. It affects about 1 in every 6 Americans, generating an estimated $2 to $5 billion in expenditures each year.

SourceAmerican Academy of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery·DateFeb 2, 2015

First sensor for 'crowd control' in cells

University of Groningen scientists have created a molecular sensor to measure crowding in living cells, allowing for the quantification of macromolecule concentrations. The sensor uses Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) to detect changes in protein-protein interactions and provides valuable insights into cellular function.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalNature Methods·DateFeb 2, 2015

New technique captures real-time diagnostic 3-D images

Researchers have developed a new technique to capture real-time 3D images of living organisms, such as zebrafish and fruit flies, allowing for the visualization of their anatomy and functions. This breakthrough uses Optical Projection Tomography, enabling the creation of three-dimensional images up to three millimeters long.

SourceUniversidad Carlos III de Madrid·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 2, 2015
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Too many heart failure patients are treated with IV fluids, study finds

A Yale-led study found that 11% of hospitalized heart failure patients received intravenous fluids in addition to diuretics. Patients given both therapies were more likely to suffer adverse consequences, such as higher rates of critical care admission and even death.

SourceYale University·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateFeb 2, 2015

Scientists view effect of whisker tickling on mouse brains

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University developed a technique to visualize AMPA receptors in live mice, revealing that tickling increases receptor levels and strengthens synapses. This discovery has broad applications for studying learning and neurological disorders like autism, Alzheimer's disease, and schizophrenia.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateFeb 2, 2015

Study shows top 10 challenges facing global pharmaceutical supply chains

A new study identifies the top 10 challenges facing global pharmaceutical supply chains, including lack of coordination, inventory management, and human resource dependency. The research highlights the need for strengthened pharmaceutical delivery systems to improve health outcomes in developing regions.

SourceNew York University·JournalOperations Research for Health Care·DateFeb 2, 2015

Safe production in Industry 4.0

The Fraunhofer Institute's IT Security Laboratory provides a secured test environment to assess the security of industrial automation systems and develop new defense strategies. Real-time requirements in production facilities necessitate unique IT security measures.

SourceFraunhofer-Gesellschaft·DateFeb 2, 2015
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Discovery of a gene responsible for familial scoliosis

A variation in the POC5 gene was found to be associated with familial scoliosis in a large French family study. The gene encodes for a centrosomal protein involved in microtubule-organising centres and cellular polarity, leading to rotational deformations similar to those observed in scoliosis patients.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateFeb 2, 2015

Range of options, prices brings in the crowdfunding bucks, says Rotman research

Researchers at the University of Toronto's Rotman School of Management found that offering a range of options and different price points can lead to higher success rates and profits in crowdfunding campaigns. This approach allows creators to tap into consumers' willingness to pay more, generating additional revenue.

SourceUniversity of Toronto, Rotman School of Management·JournalMarketing Science·DateFeb 2, 2015
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Getting yeast to pump up the protein production

Scientists at Northwestern University have found a way to harvest industrially useful protein from yeast in greater quantities without increasing its production. By genetically knocking out proteins responsible for reabsorption, the team increased protein yields by two- to three-fold.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalBiotechnology and Bioengineering·DateFeb 2, 2015

New '2-in-1' test simplifies retina evaluations

Researchers developed a new test using magnetic resonance imaging to measure the function of retinal blood vessels and light-detecting cells. This breakthrough enables doctors to detect eye problems earlier, including macular degeneration and after childhood injuries, and may slow disease progression.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateFeb 2, 2015

To save your energy while strolling, walk this sway

Researchers at Ohio State University discovered that when people walk in sync on a swaying bridge, they conserve energy and reduce their energy costs. By widening their stride, individuals can increase stability while also saving energy, which is equivalent to walking with or without a school backpack.

SourceOhio State University·DateFeb 2, 2015

Sleep problems may impact bone health

Recent research suggests sleep apnea impacts bone metabolism through sleep duration and quality disruptions. Daily rhythms play a crucial role in maintaining normal bone health.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·DateFeb 2, 2015
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Sexual behavior among female students has gradually become more risky

Sexual behavior among female university students has become more risky, with younger age at first intercourse and higher numbers of lifetime and recent partners. Condom use during initial sex also decreased, highlighting a concerning trend in Swedish female student sexuality.

SourceWiley·JournalActa Obstetricia Et Gynecologica Scandinavica·DateFeb 2, 2015

NASA catches speedy Tropical Cyclone Eunice transitioning

Tropical Cyclone Eunice was spinning in the Southern Indian Ocean when NASA's Terra satellite captured its transition to an extra-tropical cyclone. The storm's warm core became a cold core, characteristic of mid-latitude low pressure areas.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateFeb 2, 2015
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Possible cause of IVF failure in some women identified

Researchers at the University of Manchester have identified a possible cause of IVF failure in some women, which may be treated with therapies targeting microRNA-145 and its effects on IGF1R. The study's findings suggest that manipulating this biological process could lead to improved rates of embryo attachment during implantation.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalJournal of Cell Science·DateFeb 2, 2015

Scientists open new chapter in cell biology and medicine

Scientists at TU Dresden have presented a novel method, real-time deformability cytometry (RT-DC), to mechanically screen large populations of cells quickly and accurately. This technology enables the continuous, on-the-fly mechanical screening of hundreds of cells per second.

SourceTechnische Universität Dresden·JournalNature Methods·DateFeb 2, 2015

Smartphones change teenagers' digital media use patterns

Teenagers who own smartphones spend more time online during the night, leading to an increased risk of poor sleep and depressive symptoms. Smartphone use at night is associated with a higher likelihood of sleep disturbances.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalJournal of Youth and Adolescence·DateFeb 2, 2015
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Physical activity as medicine among Family Health Teams: Study

A recent study found that almost 60% of Ontario Family Health Teams offer physical activity services, but their quality and accessibility vary. The study suggests that standardized physical activity promotion is needed to increase its effectiveness in promoting healthy lifestyles among Canadians.

SourceCanadian Science Publishing·DateFeb 2, 2015

Bowhunting may have fostered social cohesion during the Neolithic

Researchers analyze ancient wooden bows found in La Draga, Spain, and conclude that bowhunting played a significant community and social role among early peasant societies. The discovery provides new evidence on the social role of hunting in the first farming societies.

SourceSpanish National Research Council (CSIC)·JournalJournal of Archaeological Science·DateFeb 2, 2015
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Protein threshold linked to Parkinson's disease

A new study by University of Cambridge researchers identified a critical threshold in alpha-synuclein protein levels that increases the chances of aggregation and neurodegeneration. The findings provide a mechanistic description of the initial molecular events leading to Parkinson's disease.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateFeb 2, 2015

Skin based immunity secrets revealed

Researchers have discovered a new mechanism by which immune cells in the skin function as the body's 'border control'. This finding could improve how we fight some infections, allergies and auto-immune diseases. The discovery of CD1a molecule reveals how it interacts with lipid molecules to identify foreign invaders.

SourceMonash University·JournalNature Immunology·DateFeb 2, 2015

More evidence that musical training protects the brain

A new study found that older adults with musical training were 20% faster at identifying speech sounds than non-musicians. The research suggests that music instruction can enhance brain areas supporting speech recognition, even in old age. Music training may help counteract cognitive decline and improve auditory processing abilities.

SourceBaycrest Centre for Geriatric Care·DateFeb 2, 2015
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Language study offers new twist on mind-body connection

Research from Northeastern professor of psychology Iris Berent and her colleagues finds that linguistic preferences are guided by abstract rules rather than motor system simulation. Abstract rules trigger motor action, not the other way around.

SourceNortheastern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 2, 2015

New reset button discovered for circadian clock

Researchers at Vanderbilt University have discovered a new reset button for the brain's master biological clock, which can be stimulated using light to alter sleep patterns. This finding has the potential to lead to new treatments for conditions like seasonal affective disorder and reduce adverse health effects of night shifts.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateFeb 2, 2015

Turning up heat on plants could help grow crops of the future

Researchers discovered that high temperatures stimulate stem growth in plants, contrary to cooler temperatures where light inhibits it. Mathematical models and experiments validated the findings, suggesting plants may associate hot weather with drought risk and grow quickly to reproduce.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalMolecular Systems Biology·DateFeb 2, 2015

Mining the moon becomes a serious prospect

Texas-based Shackleton Energy Company plans to mine lunar water ice and convert it into rocket propellant, with Moon Express also interested in using the resource as fuel. Meanwhile, China is making headway in mining rare-earth elements on the Moon, sparking interest in establishing a human settlement.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalPhysics World·DateFeb 2, 2015
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Babies can follow complex social situations

Infants as young as 13 months old can comprehend complex social scenarios, taking into account who knows what about whom. They are able to make inferences about others' behavior based on the information they have learned, indicating that they are developing essential skills for assessing social situations and making relevant judgments.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateFeb 2, 2015

Penn professor shows how 'spontaneous' social norms emerge

A new study led by Penn's Damon Centola reveals that social conventions can emerge spontaneously, with no centralized leader or media source, through the normal interactions of people in social networks. The research used a web-based game to test how large populations come to consensus, and found that random mixing allowed for the emer...

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 2, 2015

Break on through to the other side: How HIV penetrates the blood-brain barrier

A new study found that HIV penetrates the blood-brain barrier by relying on proteins expressed by mature monocytes. These proteins could serve as a target for preventing HIV from reaching brain cells. The research aims to shed light on novel mechanisms for improving drug delivery to the brain.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalJournal of Leukocyte Biology·DateFeb 2, 2015
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Epigenetic signatures that differentiate triple-negative breast cancers

A new study reveals distinct methylation patterns in primary biopsy breast cancer cells, indicating better or worse prognosis. This epigenetic signature can stratify triple-negative breast cancers into two sub-groups, allowing for more precise disease management and potential improved outcomes.

SourceGarvan Institute of Medical Research·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 2, 2015

Addressing feral cats' diet may help protect native species

Feral cats feed on a wide range of native species, including endangered birds and mammals. A study suggests that controlling rabbit populations could harm native mammals instead, highlighting the need for multi-species pest control approaches.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Biogeography·DateFeb 2, 2015

Light jogging may be most optimal for longevity

According to a study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, light jogging is associated with lower mortality rates. Jogging frequencies between 1-2.4 hours per week showed significant lower mortality rates compared to sedentary non-joggers.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateFeb 2, 2015
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Bushfire in Southwestern Australia

A severe bushfire burned in southwestern Australia, covering an area of 70 square miles. Residents were forced to evacuate due to the high risk of fire spreading.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateFeb 2, 2015

IU biologists partner bacterium with nitrogen gas to produce more, cleaner bioethanol

Researchers at Indiana University have discovered a way to use nitrogen gas as a nitrogen source for bioethanol-producing bacteria, increasing ethanol yield and reducing costs. This breakthrough could make cellulosic ethanol more competitive with corn ethanol and gasoline, benefiting the industry and environment.

SourceIndiana University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 2, 2015

BU study finds occupational link in kidney disease epidemic in Central America

A new BU study finds a decline in kidney function among Nicaraguan sugarcane workers, suggesting heat stress and dehydration may play a role in the high rates of chronic kidney disease. The research team recruited 284 workers performing different tasks and found that those with longer employment duration had worse kidney function.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalInternational Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health·DateFeb 2, 2015

Risk for autism increases for abandoned children placed in institutions

A recent study published in JAACAP found that abandoned children placed in institutions have an increased risk for behaviors similar to those seen in children with autism. However, when moved into child-centered foster family care at a young age, their social behaviors improved significantly.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateFeb 2, 2015
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Moffitt researchers discover biological markers associated with high-risk pancreatic lesions

Researchers at Moffitt Cancer Center discovered six microRNAs that can distinguish between high-risk and low-risk pancreatic lesions, offering a promising biomarker for early detection. This finding may lead to the development of a microRNA-based blood test to aid in predicting disease severity and foster new prevention strategies.

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 2, 2015

Physician guidelines for Googling patients need revisions

A Penn State College of Medicine researcher proposes updating professional medical society guidelines to address when it is ethically justified to Google a patient. The proposed guidelines would help healthcare providers navigate the use of search engines in patient care.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateFeb 2, 2015

Graphene displays clear prospects for flexible electronics

Researchers at University of Manchester and University of Sheffield create see-through and efficient electronic devices using graphene and related materials. The new technology enables the creation of light-emitting devices that are incredibly thin, flexible, durable, and semi-transparent.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalNature Materials·DateFeb 2, 2015

State-of-the-science help for hay fever sufferers

Hay fever sufferers can benefit from state-of-the-science treatments like sublingual immunotherapy. The American Academy of Otolaryngology recommends this treatment for patients with specific allergies who don't respond to other treatments, with a completion period of up to five years. Other key recommendations include diagnosing and t...

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·DateFeb 2, 2015

New mechanism of inheritance could advance study of evolution, disease treatment

Researchers at the University of Maryland have discovered a new mechanism of inheritance in roundworms that could revolutionize our understanding of evolution and disease treatment. The team found that genes can be silenced through a process called RNA interference, and this silencing can persist for multiple generations.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 2, 2015

Researchers introduce a macrosystems approach to study stream ecology

Scientists have created a Stream Biome Gradient Concept to compare streams across continents, aiming to improve understanding of stream ecosystems and biodiversity. The concept takes a macrosystems approach, viewing systems on a continental or national scale, to develop hypotheses for testing at various aquatic sites.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalFreshwater Science·DateFeb 2, 2015

Researchers determine how the brain controls robotic grasping tools

Researchers at the University of Missouri discovered that the cerebellum plays a critical role in controlling robotic grasping tools. By monitoring brain activity with fMRI, they found that participants' brains adapted quickly to associate new movements with grasping actions.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Cognitive Neuroscience·DateFeb 2, 2015

Ebola vaccine trial opens in Liberia

The Liberia-NIH partnership is conducting a Phase 2/3 study to test the safety and efficacy of two experimental vaccines against Ebola virus infection. The trial will enroll approximately 27,000 healthy adults and those at high risk of infection, and will provide crucial information on potential countermeasures for future outbreaks.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·DateFeb 2, 2015