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Science News for January 15, 2015


Moffitt researchers develop novel approach to visualize, measure protein complexes in tumors

Researchers developed a new technique called proximity ligation assays (PLA) to analyze protein complexes in cancer specimens, which may aid in patient treatment decisions. By focusing on the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), they discovered that patients with high amounts of EGFR protein complexes had a better prognosis when tr...

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalScience Signaling·DateJan 15, 2015

Doctors who use health information technology are 'slightly' more likely to get patient data, reports Medical Care

A study published in Medical Care found that healthcare professionals who use health information technology are only slightly more likely to receive the necessary patient data for coordinated care. Despite this, many physicians still rely on non-electronic means to access patient information, highlighting ongoing challenges with health...

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalMedical Care·DateJan 15, 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.

The secret of empathy

A new study published in Current Biology found that stress caused by being around strangers limits empathy, but playing games together can increase it. Researchers discovered that spending just 15 minutes playing Rock Band with a stranger can move them from an 'stranger zone' to an 'empathy zone'.

SourceMcGill University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJan 15, 2015

Liquids and glasses relax, too. But not like you thought.

Researchers at NIST discover two environments for molecules in liquids and glasses, shedding light on molecular-level processes that affect protein stability. The findings provide a theoretical foundation for designing optimal sugar coatings to preserve proteins' structure intact.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJan 15, 2015

Early returns on 2014 show significant growth in use of GBIF

The Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) reported a 35% increase in the use of biodiversity data accessed via its open-access infrastructure. Meanwhile, web traffic saw significant annual gains, with over 1.13 million sessions logged by users from 236 countries and territories.

SourceGlobal Biodiversity Information Facility·DateJan 15, 2015

Training the next generation of power engineers

The College of Engineering & Computer Science educates students on complex power engineering topics through modernized courses and hands-on experiments. Students learn to work as a team and develop essential skills in open-minded lifelong learning, making them attractive candidates for the smart grid workforce.

SourceSyracuse University·DateJan 15, 2015

MIT team enlarges brain samples, making them easier to image

Researchers at MIT have developed a method to enlarge tissue samples by embedding them in an expandable polymer gel, making it easier to image large biological specimens with nanoscale resolution. This technique allows for the imaging of brain cells and mapping how they connect across large regions.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateJan 15, 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.

Difficult behavior in young children may point to later problems

Researchers found that certain symptoms of conduct disorder, such as high-intensity defiant behavior, aggression, and destruction of property, indicate a higher likelihood of problems persisting into school age. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to help young children avoid recurring issues.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·DateJan 15, 2015

People can be convinced they committed a crime that never happened

A study found innocent adults can be led to believe they committed serious crimes, including assault with a weapon, over the course of a few hours. Participants developed detailed false memories after being interviewed and encouraged to recall events.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateJan 15, 2015

UW-Madison scientists find how cancers can evade treatment

Researchers found that inactive EGFR is involved in autophagy, a process where cells consume nonessential contents to survive. Cancer cells use this process to thrive under stressful conditions. Combining drugs that block autophagy with those that inactivate EGFR could be an effective way to treat cancers

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalCell·DateJan 15, 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.

What makes pancreatic cancer so aggressive? New study sheds light

A new study reveals that a specific gene, ATDC, plays a key role in the development of pancreatic cancer by promoting tumor growth and spread. The study found that patients with early-stage pancreatic cancer have a survival rate of only 30 percent.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalGenes & Development·DateJan 15, 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.

Wild pollinators at risk from diseased commercial species of bee

A new study found that viruses carried by commercial bees can jump to wild pollinators with potentially devastating effects. The researchers are calling for measures to prevent the introduction of diseased pollinators into natural environments.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateJan 15, 2015

Hope for muscular dystrophy patients: Harnessing gene helps repair muscle damage

Researchers have successfully improved muscle repair in mice with muscular dystrophy by increasing the BMI1 gene, leading to increased strength and longer treadmill runs. The study provides a proof of concept for harnessing this gene to enhance muscle regeneration and may lead to new treatments for patients.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateJan 15, 2015

For sea turtles, there's no place like magnetic home

Researchers found that sea turtles imprint on the unique magnetic field of their natal beach as hatchlings and then use this information to return as adults. The study suggests that tiny magnetic particles in the turtles' brains respond to the Earth's field, providing a basis for their magnetic sense.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJan 15, 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.

Huge 3-D displays without 3-D glasses

Researchers at Vienna University of Technology have developed a new 3D display system that uses laser beams to create 3D effects without the need for special glasses. The system can display hundreds of images simultaneously, creating a realistic 3D effect similar to walking around an object.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalOptics Express·DateJan 15, 2015

New study reveals crippling financial burden of leprosy

A new study reveals that households affected by leprosy face significant financial burdens due to loss of earnings and treatment costs. The study found that patients with Erythema Nodosum Leprosum, a complication of leprosy, incurred losses equivalent to almost a third of their income.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateJan 15, 2015

A fatty acid used to decode weight control

Researchers found that a fatty acid called myristoleic acid can help decode weight control by analyzing the lipidome, gene expression, and phenotype of obese women. This comprehensive insight may improve obesity management by understanding how adipose tissue responds to calorie restriction.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateJan 15, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

UF/IFAS study: Wheat yield to decline as temperatures increase

A new UF/IFAS study reveals that warming temperatures could lead to a decline in wheat production, with crop losses estimated at one fourth of the annual global wheat trade. The research used computer models to predict the impact of temperature increases on wheat yield and found that warmer temperatures are already slowing yield gains.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalNature Climate Change·DateJan 15, 2015

Closing your eyes boosts memory recall, new study finds

Researchers from the University of Surrey discovered that closing eyes enhances memory recall in witnesses, while building rapport also increases accuracy. In two experiments, participants showed improved performance when recalling details after closing their eyes, regardless of whether rapport was built beforehand.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalLegal and Criminological Psychology·DateJan 15, 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.

New approach to preventing fibrosing strictures in IBD

Researchers found that cathelicidin protein can prevent intestinal fibrosis and scarring in colitis, potentially sparing patients from repeated surgeries. The study used pre-clinical models of disease and human colonic fibroblasts to demonstrate the anti-fibrotic effects of cathelicidin.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·JournalCellular and Molecular Gastroenterology and Hepatology·DateJan 15, 2015

Healthy diet associated with lower risk of type 2 diabetes in minority women

A healthy diet is associated with a lower risk of type 2 diabetes among women in all racial and ethnic groups, but has an even greater benefit for Asian, Hispanic, and black women. The study found that healthy diets can prevent 5.3 cases of diabetes per 1,000 white women per year, compared to 8.0 cases per 1,000 minority women per year.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalDiabetes Care·DateJan 15, 2015

New planetary dashboard shows 'Great Acceleration' in human activity since 1950

A new planetary dashboard reveals that human activity has become a prime driver of change on Earth since 1950, with indicators showing significant changes in greenhouse gas levels, ocean acidification, and biodiversity deterioration. This research supports the proposal that Earth has entered a new geological epoch, the Anthropocene.

SourceInternational Geosphere-Biosphere Programme·JournalThe Anthropocene Review·DateJan 15, 2015

Bone stem cells shown to regenerate bone and cartilage in adult mice

Researchers at Columbia University Irving Medical Center have discovered a stem cell capable of regenerating both bone and cartilage. The discovery, published in the journal Cell, suggests that this stem cell could be exploited to treat osteoarthritis and osteoporosis. Further study is needed to determine if this technology can be appl...

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalCell·DateJan 15, 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.

What drives killers like the Ottawa or Paris attackers?

Researchers suggest that overvalued ideas, often driven by psychopathology, motivate young male offenders to engage in senseless violence. The study, published in Violence and Gender, sheds light on the 'motivating mindset' of attackers like Zehaf-Bibeau, who killed a Canadian military reservist.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalViolence and Gender·DateJan 15, 2015

Humans at risk from planetary-scale activities

Researchers warn of planetary-scale risks from human activities, citing four processes that have exceeded safe conditions and two that pose serious threats to future human wellbeing. The team's findings indicate that the Earth is entering a new geological epoch, the Anthropocene, where the global economic system drives change.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalThe Anthropocene Review·DateJan 15, 2015

Wildlife loss in the global ocean

A new report by UCSB researchers highlights the alarming rate of marine animal extinctions, driven by industrial activities such as factory farming and seafloor mining. Climate change is also degrading marine habitats, posing a significant threat to ocean wildlife.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalScience·DateJan 15, 2015

Study reveals lack of data on opioid drugs for chronic pain

A National Institutes of Health white paper found little to no evidence for the effectiveness of opioid drugs in treating long-term chronic pain, despite their widespread use. The study's findings suggest that many studies used to justify prescription were poorly conducted or of insufficient duration.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJan 15, 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.

Damaged DNA amplified

Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a method to amplify gene samples containing damaged DNA adducts, which are common in cancer. This breakthrough could enable the analysis of molecular mechanisms involved in cancer initiation and risk factors.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJan 15, 2015

When used effectively, discharge summaries reduce hospital readmissions

Research from Yale University finds that timely, well-communicated discharge summaries can lower hospital readmission rates among heart failure patients. The studies analyzed data from Telemonitoring to Improve Heart Failure Outcomes and found that quality of discharge summaries was associated with readmission risk.

SourceYale University·DateJan 15, 2015

Shining a light on quantum dots measurement

A team of researchers at Syracuse University developed a multilevel computational approach to simulate the formation and behavior of protein coronas on quantum dots. This breakthrough enables more accurate measurements in various biological applications, such as tumor cell imaging and biomolecule detection.

SourceSyracuse University·JournalJournal of Chemical Theory and Computation·DateJan 15, 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.

Tool helps measure patients' readiness to make decisions about starting dialysis

A new algorithm is a useful tool for measuring chronic kidney disease patients' readiness to make decisions about initiating dialysis. Patients with knowledge and fewer lifestyle barriers to home dialysis are more likely to be ready to make decisions, while clinicians who explain treatment options can increase readiness.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateJan 15, 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.

Planets outside our solar system more hospitable to life than thought

A study suggests that exoplanets are more likely to have liquid water and be habitable due to their rotation speed, which can create a day-night cycle. This finding challenges the traditional assumption that all exoplanets exhibit synchronous rotation, potentially increasing their ability to develop life.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·DateJan 15, 2015

Perovskites provide big boost to silicon solar cells, Stanford study finds

Researchers at Stanford University have developed a novel perovskite-silicon tandem device that dramatically improves the overall efficiency of conventional silicon solar cells. The device achieves an efficiency boost of nearly 50% with relatively low cost, making it a promising solution for the renewable energy sector.

SourceStanford University·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateJan 15, 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.

For sea turtles, there's no place like magnetic home

Researchers found a strong association between sea turtle nesting sites and subtle shifts in the Earth's magnetic field. Turtles pack themselves along shorter stretches of coastline when magnetic signatures diverge, and lay eggs fewer and farther between.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJan 15, 2015

Improved interface for a quantum internet

Physicists at the University of Innsbruck have improved an interface for a quantum internet by harnessing superradiant states, which enhance the creation of single photons. This breakthrough enables faster information transfer and more robust storage, paving the way for future quantum computing applications.

SourceUniversity of Innsbruck·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJan 15, 2015

New sequencing technique reveals genetic clues to rare breast tumors

Researchers used next-generation sequencing techniques to analyze archived tissue samples of phyllodes tumors, identifying two genes (EGFR and IGF1R) that were amplified in malignant tumors. The study also found the gene MED12 was frequently mutated in all classifications of phyllodes tumors.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalMolecular Cancer Research·DateJan 15, 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.

Research offers novel insight into Hirschsprung's disease

Researchers have discovered a link between Sox10 protein defects and post-operative GI dysfunction in Hirschsprung's disease patients. The study found that mutations in the Sox10 gene disrupts the balance of cell types in the intestine, leading to impaired GI motility.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·JournalCellular and Molecular Gastroenterology and Hepatology·DateJan 15, 2015

Scientists discover gene tied to profound vision loss

A new gene, hexokinase 1 (HK1), has been linked to retinitis pigmentosa, an incurable eye disorder affecting millions worldwide. The discovery brings the total number of genes associated with this disease to over 60 and offers potential targets for drug treatments and gene therapy.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalInvestigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science·DateJan 15, 2015

Long-acting drug effectively prevents HIV-like infection in monkeys

Long-acting cabotegravir injections have been shown to be highly protective against vaginal transmission of a virus similar to HIV in two studies involving female monkeys. The drug's potential to improve adherence and offer an additional option for HIV prevention has sparked hope among researchers.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJan 15, 2015

Two or one splashing? It's different!

Researchers at the University of Bonn have successfully observed the interaction of exactly two atoms in a light cage, contradicting the assumption that two atoms would behave differently from a single atom. The experiment reveals that backaction suppresses high light waves, limiting the emergence of photons.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJan 15, 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.

Did the Anthropocene begin with the nuclear age?

Scientists propose the Anthropocene began with the nuclear age on July 16, 1945. Human-made changes, such as artificial radionuclides and increased carbon emissions, altered the Earth system, leading to a 'Great Acceleration'. The start date marks the historic turning point when humans accessed an enormous new energy source.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalQuaternary International·DateJan 15, 2015

Discovery of CLPB gene associated with a new pediatric mitochondrial syndrome

Researchers at Children's Mercy Hospital identified the CLPB gene associated with a new pediatric mitochondrial syndrome, characterized by cataracts, psychomotor regression, epilepsy, and death in early childhood. The discovery demonstrates the importance of basic research into human CPLB gene function and paves the way for diagnosing ...

SourceChildren's Mercy Hospital·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateJan 15, 2015

Argonne model analyzes biofuel impacts

The new version of Argonne's WATER tool predicts water consumption associated with use of cellulosic feedstocks. The tool provides analysis down to the county level for the first time, supporting biofuel industry development and planning.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·DateJan 15, 2015

Emerald ash borer confirmed as threat to white fringetree

The emerald ash borer has expanded its host range to include the white fringetree, causing significant damage and economic losses. The insect's larvae disrupt tree nutrient flow, leading to dieback and deformities.

SourceEntomological Society of America·JournalJournal of Economic Entomology·DateJan 15, 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.

Estimating the best time of year for malaria interventions in Africa

Researchers estimate best times for mass drug treatment and house spraying to combat malaria, finding optimal seasons to target mass drug administration during the low season and house spraying just before the high season. The study's findings can help optimize combination of existing interventions and inform novel control measures.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateJan 15, 2015

Study supports new explanation of gender gaps in academia

A new study suggests that women are underrepresented in academic fields that prioritize brilliance, rather than intellectual ability. Researchers found that a strong emphasis on brilliance among practitioners is the best predictor of women's underrepresentation in these fields.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalScience·DateJan 15, 2015

Extra-short nanowires best for brain

Researchers found that nanowires shorter than 2 micrometres cause no harm to the brain tissue, while longer ones lead to inflammation and neurotoxic effects. The study suggests developing electrodes with smaller and more flexible nanowire coatings for safer neural implants.

SourceLund University·JournalBiomaterials·DateJan 15, 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.

Inventors choose to reveal their secret sauce before patent approval

A new study of nearly 2 million patents in the US found that most inventors choose to disclose information about their patents before approval, contrary to previous economic research. The disclosure correlates with more valuable patents, and small inventors also opt for disclosure, challenging initial concerns about secrecy.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateJan 15, 2015

Discovery of new signaling intermediates provides clues to novel therapies in pancreatitis

Researchers have discovered a new signaling intermediate, leukotriene B4, which is synthesized and released by pancreatic acinar cells. This finding provides a potential target for the development of novel therapies for pancreatitis, a common disorder that complicates many ailments.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·JournalCellular and Molecular Gastroenterology and Hepatology·DateJan 15, 2015

Facebook sharing can boost involvement with news and information

Researchers found that users who share news on social media sites, especially those who engage with friends, are more involved with the content. Users who ask questions or seek opinions from friends show increased involvement, suggesting that developers should encourage discussions about shared content.

SourcePenn State·JournalComputers in Human Behavior·DateJan 15, 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.

Eczema woes not just skin deep

Adults with eczema are more likely to experience health problems such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and insomnia due to the emotional toll of the disease. Physicians need to address these lifestyle risks alongside skin treatments.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateJan 15, 2015

Could our brain instruct our bodies to burn more fat?

Researchers discovered the brain's role in regulating body fat by combining hormones leptin and insulin, which stimulate the conversion of white fat to brown fat through the nervous system. This process normally maintains body weight but goes awry in diet-induced obesity.

SourceMonash University·JournalCell·DateJan 15, 2015

Humanity has exceeded 4 of 9 'planetary boundaries,' according to researchers

A report by a team of researchers warns that four of nine 'planetary boundaries' have been crossed due to human activity, posing risks to the stability of Earth's systems. The boundaries include climate change, loss of biosphere integrity, and altered biogeochemical cycles like phosphorus and nitrogen runoff.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalScience·DateJan 15, 2015

Tumor suppressor protein plays key role in maintaining immune balance

Research from St. Jude Children's Research Hospital reveals that PTEN tumor suppressor protein is essential for proper regulatory T cell function, helping to prevent autoimmune diseases. The study identified a crucial role of PTEN in controlling Tfh cells and autoantibody production, offering new focus for improving treatment.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalNature Immunology·DateJan 15, 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.

Nearly half the systems crucial to stability of planet compromised

A team of researchers warns that human activity has crossed four planetary boundaries, putting food production and clean water at risk. The nitrogen-phosphorus cycle, essential for life, is particularly compromised due to limited phosphorus supplies and excessive fertilizer use.

SourceMcGill University·JournalScience·DateJan 15, 2015

Going with the flow

Scientists at OIST created models to investigate mixtures of self-motile and passive agents, finding that only a low fraction of self-motile agents are needed to achieve desired flow patterns. This research has promising applications in microfluidic processes such as water purification and self-powered drug delivery systems.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalSoft Matter·DateJan 15, 2015

Lower mortality rates among Asian and Hispanic lupus patients

A new study reveals that Asian and Hispanic patients with systemic lupus erythematosus have lower mortality rates compared to Black, White, or Native American patients. The risk for death among White patients is much lower than in Black and Native American SLE patients.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatology·DateJan 15, 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.

Is lower stress the secret to finding empathy?

A study published in Current Biology found that stress hormones block empathy, while a game of Rock Band increased emotional contagion of pain in both mice and human strangers. Researchers discovered that biochemical changes related to stress prevented emotional contagion in animals.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJan 15, 2015

Good things come to those who wait?

A study published in Current Biology found a causal link between serotonin neuron activation and patient behavior in mice, contradicting the notion that increased serotonin leads to reward. Researchers used optogenetics to activate serotonin neurons, observing longer waiting durations in mice with stronger activation.

SourceJLM&A, SA·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJan 15, 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.

Yak dung burning pollutes indoor air of Tibetan households

A new study finds that traditional yak dung burning in Tibetan households releases high levels of fine particulate matter, including black carbon. The pollution poses a significant health risk to the local population, who spend most of their time indoors during the cold season.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalAtmospheric Environment·DateJan 15, 2015

Gold nanoparticles show promise for early detection of heart attacks

Researchers at NYU Polytechnic School of Engineering have developed a new colloidal gold test strip that demonstrates high detection sensitivity for cardiac troponin I (cTn-I) detection. The new strip uses microplasma-generated gold nanoparticles, attracting more antibodies and resulting in significantly higher detection sensitivity.

SourceNYU Tandon School of Engineering·JournalPlasma Processes and Polymers·DateJan 15, 2015

NASA's GPM satellite sees Tropical Storm mekkhala organizing

The NASA GPM satellite captured detailed rainfall data of Tropical Storm Mekkhala on January 14, revealing intense convective storms near its center. The storm strengthened into a tropical storm over the western quadrant, with moderate vertical wind shear.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 15, 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.

Breakthrough lights up metamaterials

A City College of New York led-team successfully demonstrated enhancing light emission and capturing light from metamaterials with light emitting nanocrystals. The breakthrough could lead to practical applications in ultrafast LEDs, nanoscale lasers, and efficient single photon sources.

SourceCity College of New York·JournalOptica·DateJan 15, 2015