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Science News for February 25, 2015


Cherenkov Effect improves radiation therapy for patients with cancer

Researchers from Dartmouth's Norris Cotton Cancer Center have discovered the Cherenkov Effect can be measured to improve radiation therapy. The study found that light emission correlates with dose, making it suitable for narrow beam stereotactic radiation therapy and surface dosimetry applications.

SourceThe Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth·JournalPhysics in Medicine and Biology·DateFeb 25, 2015

Workplace negativity can hurt productivity

Employees who point out problems may become mentally fatigued, defensive, and experience a drop-off in production. Suggesting ideas for improvement can have a positive effect, but finding a balance between constructive feedback and positivity is key.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Applied Psychology·DateFeb 25, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Understanding faith, teaching evolution not mutually exclusive

A study by Penn State researchers found that students from Catholic colleges were more reflective when discussing issues of faith and science, suggesting they may be better prepared to address evolution questions. The study suggests that incorporating faith into discussions about evolution can help build confidence in biology teachers,...

SourcePenn State·JournalThe Annals of the American Academy of Political and Social Science·DateFeb 25, 2015

Competition among physicians and retail clinics drive up antibiotic prescribing rate

A study by Johns Hopkins researchers found that competition among healthcare providers, including physicians and retail clinics, leads to higher antibiotic prescribing rates in affluent areas. The analysis revealed a strong correlation between the number of clinics and increased antibiotic prescriptions in wealthy regions.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy·DateFeb 25, 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.

Using snus doubles the risk of alcohol dependency

A Swedish study published in Drug and Alcohol Dependence found that using snus increases the risk of developing alcohol dependency, with a doubled risk compared to non-users. The more snus used, the higher the risk, and this association holds true even after accounting for socio-economic factors.

SourceUmea University·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence·DateFeb 25, 2015

Molecular mouse-trap technique sheds light on key cell processes

Researchers have developed a molecular mouse-trap technique that aids understanding of cell division and its role in cancer. By studying the structure of proteins involved in chromosome formation, scientists can develop new approaches to analyze complex biological molecules.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalOpen Biology·DateFeb 25, 2015

Team approach boosts human and environmental wellbeing

Researchers say treating human health as part of an ecosystem can resolve problems like antibiotic crisis and obesity epidemic. Professor Mark Wahlqvist advocates for integrative approaches to healthcare, emphasizing the importance of nature and varied diets.

SourceMonash University·JournalAsia Pacific Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateFeb 25, 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 simple way to make and reconfigure complex emulsions

The MIT team devised a two-step process to create large quantities of complex emulsions with precise control over the composition of droplets. By adding different chemicals or exposing them to light or different acidity levels, they can finely tune the configuration of droplets. This allows for rapid, large-scale production and enables...

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateFeb 25, 2015

How the 'mute' cicada sings

Researchers found that 'mute' cicadas produce sound by banging their forewing costa against the operculum, a newfound mechanism. This discovery expands our understanding of acoustic signaling in cicadas without tymbal organs.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 25, 2015

Quick antibiotics reduce PICU needs and mortality of pediatric cancer patients

Pediatric cancer patients who receive antibiotics within 60 minutes of reporting fever and neutropenia have decreased intensive care consultation rates and lower mortality. The study shows that timely antibiotic delivery can lead to significant reductions in hospitalization and fatalities among pediatric cancer patients.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalPediatric Blood & Cancer·DateFeb 25, 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.

Sewage provides insight into human microbiome

Researchers from Marine Biological Laboratory and University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee used sewage samples to compare human gut bacteria with high accuracy, revealing a core set of bacteria linked to obesity levels in cities. The approach provides a non-intrusive way to monitor public health without compromising individual privacy.

SourceMarine Biological Laboratory·JournalmBio·DateFeb 25, 2015

Study maps extroversion types in the brain's anatomy

A new study maps distinct brain signatures for two types of extroverts: gregarious 'people-persons' and ambitious 'go-getters'. The research, published in Cognitive, Affective, and Behavioral Neuroscience, found overlapping yet distinct signatures in the anatomy of the brain.

SourceBrown University·DateFeb 25, 2015

UT Dallas criminologist's study shows lack of mental health care for prisoners

A recent study published in the American Journal of Public Health found that one in four prison inmates have a diagnosed mental health condition, yet few receive treatment. The study highlights the need for prisons to prioritize validated screening procedures and treatment for mental health disorders.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateFeb 25, 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.

Endocrine Society honors 2015 Helmsley Award winners

The Endocrine Society has selected 22 winners of the Helmsley Charitable Trust Abstract Awards in Type 1 Diabetes, recognizing outstanding work in clinical care and underlying mechanisms. The award winners will present their research at ENDO 2015 and received travel grants to attend.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·DateFeb 25, 2015

Agricultural insecticides pose a global risk to surface water bodies

A global map produced by researchers at Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research reveals that streams within 40% of the global land surface are at risk from insecticide runoff. The map highlights areas such as the Mediterranean, USA, Central America, and Southeast Asia as particularly vulnerable to water pollution.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·DateFeb 25, 2015

Bariatric surgery affects risk of pregnancy complications

Pregnant women after bariatric surgery are at higher risk for complications like preterm birth and small babies, but lower risk of gestational diabetes. Maternal health services should provide extra care to these women.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateFeb 25, 2015

Warming up the world of superconductors

Researchers at USC found that aluminum 'superatoms' exhibit superconductivity at temperatures around 100 Kelvin, a significant increase from bulk aluminum metal. This discovery raises the possibility of creating ultraefficient electronic devices, such as laptops and power grids, with minimal energy loss.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalNano Letters·DateFeb 25, 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.

Study shows troubling rise in use of animals in experiments

A new study by PETA found a staggering 73% increase in the number of animals used in US laboratories between 1997 and 2012, despite industry claims of reduced animal use. Mice usage accounted for a 72.7% increase due to genetic modification experiments.

SourcePeople for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA)·JournalJournal of Medical Ethics·DateFeb 25, 2015

Could an HIV drug beat strep throat, flesh-eating bacteria?

Scientists have found a tool that could help fight bacterial infections, including strep throat and flesh-eating disease. A drug approved to treat HIV has been shown to inhibit the production of a deadly toxin in lab tests, offering new hope for developing therapies against these deadly pathogens.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Chemical Biology·DateFeb 25, 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.

New study shows safer methods for stem cell culturing

A new study at The Scripps Research Institute shows that certain stem cell culture conditions can reduce DNA mutations. Researchers developed a method using feeder cells and manual passaging to minimize genetic instability.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 25, 2015

Scientists grow leg muscle from cells in a dish

Researchers successfully generated mature, functional skeletal muscles in mice by growing cells in a dish and implanting the graft near a normal muscle. This breakthrough could lead to treatments for various muscle disorders, including Duchenne muscular dystrophy.

SourceEMBO·JournalEMBO Molecular Medicine·DateFeb 25, 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.

New compound may lead to development of cheaper anti-cancer drugs

A new compound developed at the University of Toronto Scarborough can monitor protein kinase activity without using radioactive isotopes. This innovation has potential to improve cancer treatment by providing a safer and more accurate method for assessing drug effectiveness.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalChemistry - A European Journal·DateFeb 25, 2015

Study reveals possible biological trigger for canine bone cancer

A study published in Veterinary and Comparative Oncology reveals an association between frizzled-6 protein expression and more aggressive behavior in canine bone cancer. The findings may provide a new pathway for tumor formation and improve outcomes for dogs with the disease.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalVeterinary and Comparative Oncology·DateFeb 25, 2015

Transplant journal study: Many transplant surgeons suffer burnout

A national study found nearly half of organ transplant surgeons experience low personal accomplishment and 40% feel emotionally exhausted. Surgeons who reported higher levels of personal accomplishment felt more control in their work life and had more support from co-workers.

SourceHenry Ford Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Transplantation·DateFeb 25, 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.

Astronomers find impossibly large black hole

An international team of astronomers has found a huge and ancient black hole powering the brightest object in the early universe. The massive black hole is 12 billion times the size of our Sun and lives at the center of a quasar, emitting millions of billions of times more energy than the Sun.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalNature·DateFeb 25, 2015

What does the future hold for treating patients with locally advanced breast cancer?

The European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer recently published an article discussing the management of locally advanced inoperable breast cancer. The review, led by Dr. Konstantinos Tryfonidis, examines current treatment options and future directions for improving outcomes.

SourceEuropean Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer·JournalNature Reviews Clinical Oncology·DateFeb 25, 2015

Improving inmate health can lead to better community health and safety

A systematic review of 59 studies found that interventions in prisons led to improved health outcomes for prisoners and the general population. The research highlights the importance of providing treatment and access to primary care after release, resulting in reduced substance abuse, mental health problems, and infectious diseases.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateFeb 25, 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.

New flow battery to keep big cities lit, green and safe

A new zinc-polyiodide redox flow battery boasts an energy density exceeding other flow batteries of its kind and size. This design enables efficient long-duration energy storage for urban grids, enhancing resiliency and flexibility.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 25, 2015

Magnetic nanoparticles enhance performance of solar cells

Researchers found that adding magnetite nanoparticles increases the performance of polymer solar cells, allowing them to convert more incident light into electrical power. The addition of heavy elements enables a material conversion that prolongs the lifetime of electron-hole pairs, leading to higher efficiency.

SourceDeutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·DateFeb 25, 2015

Mountain birds beat the odds

Researchers found that mountain chickadees living at harsher high elevations exhibit superior spatial memory and problem-solving abilities. However, these birds tend to avoid novel objects, contradicting the expectation that enhanced problem-solving skills would come with increased innovation.

SourceSpringer·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateFeb 25, 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.

DARPA contract to fund exploration of hard-to-find information on the web

Juliana Freire is developing scalable techniques for traditional search engines, enabling focused crawling for tracking criminal activities and integrating crawling with search and data analysis. Her research also aims to address human trafficking, a key Defense Department mission with a significant web presence.

SourceNYU Tandon School of Engineering·DateFeb 25, 2015

Oat breakfast cereals may contain a common mold-related toxin

A study by American Chemical Society researchers found that oat-based breakfast cereals exceeded EU standards for ochratoxin A levels in 8% of samples. The findings highlight the need for improved oat production, storage, and processing to protect consumer health.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateFeb 25, 2015

Electric-car driving range and emissions depend on where you live

Scientists found that electric car driving range and emissions differ greatly depending on regional energy sources and climate, with extreme temperatures affecting battery efficiency. The study's analysis revealed that geographical differences can influence the energy implications of electric vehicles.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateFeb 25, 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.

Helmet add-ons may not lower concussion risk in athletes

Researchers evaluated four football helmet add-ons, including Guardian Cap and Concussion Reduction Technology, which showed limited impact on reducing concussion risk. The study found that helmets with these add-ons reduced linear accelerations by about 11 percent but had little effect on angular accelerations.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·DateFeb 25, 2015

Penn vet researchers identify effective treatment for Niemann Pick Type C

A study published in Science Translational Medicine shows that treating cats with Niemann Pick Type C with cyclodextrin significantly improved their neurological symptoms. The treatment halted disease progression and allowed the cats to live past three years of age, making it a promising potential therapy for human patients.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateFeb 25, 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.

Frequent sauna use protects men against cardiac death

A 20-year follow-up study found that frequent sauna use can reduce the risk of cardiac death in men. Men who used saunas 4-7 times a week were 63% less likely to experience sudden cardiac death compared to those using them once a week. Longer sauna sessions also reduced cardiovascular risks.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateFeb 25, 2015

Should smoking be banned in UK parks?

Extending UK anti-smoking legislation to parks and squares aims to support healthy lifestyle choices, particularly among young people. The proposal is based on evidence from successful smoking bans worldwide, which have been shown to reduce smoking prevalence and improve public health.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateFeb 25, 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.

Heart's inner mechanisms to be studied with NIH grant

The grant will allow Cui to analyze mechanisms underlying potassium ion channel properties and develop targeted treatments for cardiac arrhythmia. He aims to understand a novel mechanism behind Long QT syndrome, which can be fatal.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·DateFeb 25, 2015

Researchers enable solar cells to use more sunlight

A team of researchers from the University of Luxembourg and TDK has improved a conductive oxide film to increase transparency in the infrared region, enabling solar cells to harness more sunlight. The breakthrough allows for stable films that retain conductivity after exposure to air for over a year.

SourceUniversity of Luxembourg·JournalProgress in Photovoltaics Research and Applications·DateFeb 25, 2015

Warning on use of drug for children's sleep

Researchers at the University of Adelaide warn against giving melatonin to children to treat sleep problems, citing lack of rigorous safety studies and potential interactions with other medications. Melatonin is a hormone that regulates circadian rhythms in adults but its use for children's sleep is unregulated in the US.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalJournal of Paediatrics and Child Health·DateFeb 25, 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.

Multicenter study finds respiratory viruses most common cause of pneumonia in children

A multicenter study found that respiratory viruses, particularly RSV and human rhinovirus, are the leading causes of pneumonia in children. The study, which included over 2,300 hospitalizations, revealed that viral infections accounted for 81% of cases, while bacterial infections were responsible for only 8%. The findings suggest that ...

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateFeb 25, 2015

One-minute test predicts how well a patient may recover after an operation

A new, shortened test to assess frailty can accurately determine which surgical patients are most at risk for complications. The test, taking less than a minute, assesses grip strength and weight loss, providing critical information for patient planning and setting expectations.

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateFeb 25, 2015

Million man study examines long-term effects of blocking inflammation

Researchers found that blocking interleukin-1, a master regulator of inflammation, increased the risk of coronary heart disease and abdominal aortic aneurysm. In contrast, naturally occurring interleukin-1 inhibition decreased the risk of rheumatoid arthritis.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·DateFeb 25, 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.

Consumer behavior and free trials: What makes a customer stay?

A new study in the Journal of Marketing Research found that free trial customers have a distinct relationship with service providers, forming a less-developed bond. This can be leveraged by firms targeting these customers with personalized marketing communication and information on their usage behavior to encourage retention.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing Research·DateFeb 25, 2015

New nanowire structure absorbs light efficiently

Researchers at Aalto University have developed a new method to combine different types of nanowires into a single array, improving absorption efficiency. The dual-type nanowire arrays show better light coupling and reduced reflection, making them suitable for applications such as solar cells and LEDs.

SourceAalto University·JournalNano Letters·DateFeb 25, 2015

Breakfast habits affect teens' metabolic responses to protein-packed morning meals

Researchers found that habitual breakfast skippers had poorer glucose control after consuming a high-protein breakfast, while those who typically ate breakfast experienced improved glucose control. The study suggests that young women should gradually increase protein intake in the morning to improve glycemic control.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalEuropean Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateFeb 25, 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.

Graphene shows potential as novel anti-cancer therapeutic strategy

Researchers at the University of Manchester have discovered that graphene oxide can selectively target and neutralize cancer stem cells (CSCs), which are responsible for cancer spread and recurrence. The study suggests that graphene oxide could be used as a non-toxic anti-cancer agent in combination with existing treatments.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalOncoTargets and Therapy·DateFeb 25, 2015

Sharp rise in experimental animal research in US

The study found a sharp rise in the use of mice and unregulated species in US laboratory research, contradicting industry claims and government efforts. The data highlights the need for greater transparency and efforts to curb animal use in scientific research.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Medical Ethics·DateFeb 25, 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.

Do long sleepers have an increased risk of stroke?

A new study published in Neurology found that people who sleep more than eight hours a night have an increased risk of stroke. Those who shifted from sleeping less than six hours a night to more than eight hours were nearly four times as likely to have a stroke.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateFeb 25, 2015

The body's 'Transformers'

A study by UCSB scientists examined the unique properties of tau, a critical protein in neurons that can form clumps associated with Alzheimer's disease. Researchers found that exposing tau to certain chemicals, such as urea, could prevent aggregation, while another compound, TMAO, accelerated it.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 25, 2015

Study IDs key birds that host Lyme disease bacteria in California

A study published in PLOS ONE identified wood rats and western gray squirrels as hosts for Lyme disease-causing bacteria in California, but birds were found to be more important than previously recognized. The study also discovered a new subtype of Lyme disease spirochete, Borrelia bissettii, in birds for the first time in California.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 25, 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.

International marketing: Are store brands becoming a global phenomenon?

A new study found that countries with modernized marketing systems and supermarkets are best positioned to lower prices on store brands. Businesses in these nations face challenges finding quality suppliers and efficient transportation systems. As a result, store brands will inevitably become a global phenomenon.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of International Marketing·DateFeb 25, 2015

Systemic sclerosis patients with unhealed digital ulcers benefit from fat cell transplant

Researchers have found that local implants of autologous adipose tissue-derived cells resulted in significant pain reduction and healing within two to seven weeks for all patients with long-lasting, non-healing digital ulcers. The treatment showed promise as an alternative to traditional therapies.

SourceCell Transplantation Center of Excellence for Aging and Brain Repair·JournalCell Transplantation·DateFeb 25, 2015

Epigenetic 'switch' regulates RNA-protein interactions

Researchers discovered that epigenetic modifications to mRNA act as a structural switch allowing RNA-binding proteins to recognize inaccessible regions. This phenomenon, known as the m6A switch, affects practically all RNA-protein interactions, with widespread implications for gene expression and regulation.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalNature·DateFeb 25, 2015

Hidden gene gives hope for improving brain function

Researchers found that the Gomafu gene is dynamically regulated in the adult brain, affecting behavior related to anxiety and schizophrenia. The discovery sheds light on the gene's potential as a surveillance system for rapid brain responses to environmental changes.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateFeb 25, 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.

Is your busy schedule affecting your health? Time might not be the problem

A new study found that emotional conflict between activities makes consumers feel they have less time, generating stress and anxiety. Authors suggest two strategies: slow breathing and channeling stress into positive emotions to reduce feelings of being pressed for time.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing Research·DateFeb 25, 2015

Unusual disease that causes acute confusion may be underdiagnosed

Susac syndrome is a rare autoimmune disease causing acute confusion, hearing problems, and eyesight issues. It is often misdiagnosed as multiple sclerosis or ADEM, but may be considered in young patients with unexplained acute onset of confusion and abnormal spinal fluid tests

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalJournal of Stroke and Cerebrovascular Diseases·DateFeb 25, 2015

Found: Ancient, super-bright quasar with massive black hole

Astronomers have found a super-bright quasar powered by the most massive black hole ever observed for an object from that time, located at a distance of 12.8 billion light years away. The quasar is 7 times brighter than the most distant known quasar and has a luminosity of 420 trillion solar units.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalNature·DateFeb 25, 2015

Shining new light on vascular diseases in diabetics

Researchers have developed a novel vascular optical tomographic imaging system to improve the diagnosis and monitoring of peripheral artery disease in diabetics. The system uses near-infrared light to map hemoglobin concentration, revealing perfusion issues in extremities.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·DateFeb 25, 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.

Why companies don't learn from their mistakes

A study by economists from Friedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena found that three out of four customer complaints are not passed on to line managers, despite specific regulations in place. The researchers recommend training employees on the importance of forwarding complaints and developing incentives for their participation.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalJournal of Service Research·DateFeb 25, 2015

Monster black hole discovered at cosmic dawn

Researchers have discovered the brightest quasar in the early universe, powered by a massive 12 billion solar mass black hole. The quasar's luminosity is equivalent to 420 trillion suns and is seven times brighter than the most distant known quasar.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalNature·DateFeb 25, 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.

Using 'fuzzy logic' to optimize hybrid solar/battery systems

A team of researchers has developed a new sizing system for hybrid photovoltaic panel/battery systems using fuzzy logic, which can determine optimal panel surfaces and battery capacity. The system was verified through simulations and demonstrated effectiveness in optimizing cost and losses.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Renewable and Sustainable Energy·DateFeb 25, 2015

The future is looking less cloudy

Tel Aviv University researchers have discovered a practical solution to fog detection using cellular communication networks. The study utilizes higher cellular frequencies to detect even light fog, providing high-resolution spatial measurements and potentially reducing accidents. Current fog monitoring tools are insufficient, but the n...

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalBulletin of the American Meteorological Society·DateFeb 25, 2015

How the landscape of the pancreatic cancer genome is coming into view

A study of 100 pancreatic cancer genomes identifies four subtypes, including 'stable', 'locally rearranged', 'scattered', and 'unstable' genomes. The analysis suggests that patients with 'unstable' genomes respond well to platinum-based drugs and PARP inhibitors, offering a promising lead for personalized treatment.

SourceGarvan Institute of Medical Research·JournalNature·DateFeb 25, 2015

Blockbusters: Can EEGs predict a movie's success better than surveys?

A new study found that EEG measurements were more accurate in predicting individual preferences for movies than participants' conscious statements. The study also suggested that EEG tests are relatively cheap and can capture complete information about consumer behavior.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing Research·DateFeb 25, 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 demonstrate optogenetic stimulation of the brain to control pain

Scientists at UT Arlington discovered that optogenetically stimulating a small area of the brain, specifically the anterior cingulate cortex, can significantly reduce pain behavior in lab mice. This breakthrough could lead to new strategies for managing chronic pain and improving our understanding of pain pathways.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 25, 2015

Antifreeze protein from ticks fights frostbite in mice

Researchers at Yale University have discovered a protein found in ticks that can prevent frostbite in mice. The antifreeze protein, when introduced into mouse cells or whole live mice, showed significant protection against frostbite, with 60% of treated mice showing no visible signs of damage.

SourceYale University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 25, 2015

Molecular feedback loop gives clues to how flowers drop their petals

Researchers identified a positive feedback loop between genes and proteins that regulates floral abscission, allowing plants to shed petals. The study, supported by the National Science Foundation, provides new insights into plant development and responses to environmental cues.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 25, 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.

Predicting consumer preferences? Do NOT walk a mile in their shoes

A new study in the Journal of Marketing Research found that marketing managers' attempts to imagine themselves as consumers lead to biased predictions, with their own preferences taking over. The researchers conducted four studies and discovered that by acknowledging this bias, managers can overcome it and make more customer-centric de...

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing Research·DateFeb 25, 2015

Shopping vouchers could help 1 in 5 pregnant women quit smoking

A recent study found that financial incentives can encourage one in five pregnant women to quit smoking, with a significant number stopping at least for the duration of their pregnancy. The scheme, which provided vouchers worth up to £752, was successful in motivating many women to quit, with only a small number 'gaming' the system.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalAddiction·DateFeb 25, 2015

Mechanistic insight into immortal cells could speed clinical use

Researchers deciphered the signaling pathways associated with immortal cells, which work in parallel to suppress terminal differentiation. The discovery enables the use of purified proteins to reduce contamination and accelerate clinical application.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 25, 2015

Fossil database to create cross-discipline collaboration

A new open-source resource helps scientists accurately date the tree of life by combining fossil data with DNA sequences, providing minimum ages for groups such as mollusks, penguins, and humans. This will aid in understanding the origin and evolution of biodiversity.

SourceField Museum·JournalPalaeontologia Electronica·DateFeb 25, 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.

Navigators help patients overcome health-care inequities

A Northwestern University study found that community navigators can significantly improve healthcare outcomes for low-income, uninsured Spanish-speaking women. Despite facing numerous barriers, patients in the navigation program had shorter follow-up times and did not experience delayed diagnoses compared to English-speaking counterparts.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateFeb 25, 2015

Causes of Great Lakes smelt population decline are complex

Researchers from Purdue University and collaborators found that offspring survival in Lake Michigan is on the rise despite smaller parent size, with potential benefits for juvenile smelt. The study suggests that fewer adults may be allowing hatchlings to thrive due to reduced predation pressure.

SourcePurdue University·JournalJournal of Great Lakes Research·DateFeb 25, 2015

Public perceptions of monkeys affected by the media

A new study reveals that media portrayals of monkeys in human settings increase their desirability as pets and alter public perception. The research, published in PLOS ONE, suggests that such images change the way people perceive these species from wild animals needing conservation help to those suitable as household pets.

SourceLincoln Park Zoo·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 25, 2015

Sleeping over 8 hours a day associated with greater risk of stroke

A study by the University of Cambridge found that sleeping over 8 hours a day is associated with a greater risk of stroke, particularly for older individuals. The researchers followed 10,000 participants and discovered that those who persistedently slept longer had double the risk of stroke compared to those with average sleep duration.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNeurology·DateFeb 25, 2015