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Science News for January 26, 2015


Cochlear implant users can hear, feel the beat in music

Researchers found that cochlear implant users can synchronize body movement to music with a strong beat, similar to hearing individuals. The study suggests that using music compositions emphasizing beats may improve cochlear implant users' understanding and use of spoken language, as well as their enjoyment of music.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalHearing Research·DateJan 26, 2015

How cancer turns good cells to the dark side

A new study by Rice University researchers shows how cancer cells use 'jagged' proteins to hijack cell-signaling process and promote metastasis. The mechanism plays a crucial role in embryonic development and wound healing.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 26, 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.

Nanoshuttle wear and tear: It's the mileage, not the age

A new study led by Columbia University researcher Henry Hess found that molecular shuttles degrade over time, similar to a car's wear and tear, when operating. The degradation is measured in terms of distance traveled, with equivalent wear occurring at just a millimeter for the shuttle.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJan 26, 2015

Is head CT overused in emergency departments?

Researchers found that less than 7% of patients with dizziness or syncope benefited from head CT scans. Most cases can be managed with a careful history and physical examination, making unnecessary CT scans a common but potentially harmful practice.

SourceAmerican Roentgen Ray Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·DateJan 26, 2015

High cholesterol in 30s, 40s, increases later risk of heart disease

Researchers found that high cholesterol in young adults between 35-55 years increases heart disease risk by 39% each decade, even among those with normal blood pressure and weight. The study suggests that healthy individuals in this age group should consider cholesterol control earlier.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·DateJan 26, 2015

Study shows risk for younger adults with isolated systolic hypertension

A large study found that younger adults with isolated systolic hypertension have a significantly higher risk of cardiovascular disease and coronary heart disease. Women in this age group are particularly at risk, with a 55% increase in cardiovascular death compared to their male counterparts.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateJan 26, 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.

3-D enzyme model provides new tool for anti-inflammatory drug development

Phospholipase A2 (PLA2) enzymes play a role in inflammatory diseases. Researchers created 3D models that show how PLA2 enzymes extract substrates from cell membranes, triggering inflammation. These models could help design and develop specific PLA2 inhibitor drugs.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 26, 2015

Support cells in the brain offer a new strategy to boost memory

Researchers at Gladstone Institutes discovered a new memory regulator in astrocytes, which improved memory in healthy mice and prevented impairments in Alzheimer's disease models. The study suggests that targeting A2A adenosine receptors may offer a potential treatment for improving memory.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateJan 26, 2015

Winters in Siberian permafrost regions have warmed since millenia

Researchers have reconstructed the development of winter temperatures in Russia's Lena River Delta, revealing a clear trend: warming winters over the past 7,000 years. The study used oxygen isotope analysis on ice wedges to access temperature information stored in the ice and compile it into a climate curve.

SourceAlfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJan 26, 2015

Morphine following common childhood surgery may be life threatening

A recent study published in PEDIATRICS found that morphine administered for post-operative pain in children who have undergone tonsillectomy with or without adenoidectomy can cause significant respiratory problems and potentially fatal breathing disruptions. In contrast, ibuprofen was shown to be a safe and effective alternative.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateJan 26, 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.

Study finds potential new drug target for lung cancer

Researchers at the University of Kentucky's Markey Cancer Center have identified pyruvate carboxylase as a key enzyme in lung cancer cell growth and survival. The study suggests that inhibiting this enzyme could lead to novel drug development for treating lung cancer, offering new hope for improving current treatment options.

SourceUniversity of Kentucky·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 26, 2015

Good bedtime habits equal better sleep for kids

The study found that well-established rules for getting good sleep, such as limited caffeine and a regular bedtime, led to sufficient sleep quantity and adequate sleep quality. Reducing the encroachment of technology into sleep time is crucial to support well-known sleep hygiene principles.

SourcePenn State·JournalSleep Health·DateJan 26, 2015

How ionic: Scaffolding is in charge of calcium carbonate crystals

A team of researchers discovered that negatively charged molecules in biological scaffolds act like an 'ion sponge,' capturing calcium ions to guide crystallization. This new understanding may aid in developing advanced materials for energy and environmental applications.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalNature Materials·DateJan 26, 2015

Patents provide insight on Wall Street 'technology arms race'

A new study reveals that top firms behind most of the innovation in market infrastructure are a mix of 'new entrant' and 'incumbent' firms. Software companies and smaller brokerage firms have invested heavily in technology to stay competitive.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalTechnological Forecasting and Social Change·DateJan 26, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Frogs prove ideal models for studying developmental timing

Researchers successfully mutated the thyroid hormone receptor in tadpoles, disrupting hind limb development and providing insight into the importance of hormones in early development. The study also has potential applications in understanding human developmental disorders such as cretinism.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalEndocrinology·DateJan 26, 2015

'Kindness curriculum' boosts school success in preschoolers

A new kindergarten curriculum developed by the University of Wisconsin-Madison has been shown to improve preschoolers' academic performance and social skills. The curriculum focuses on promoting kindness, compassion, and self-regulation skills in young children.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalDevelopmental Psychology·DateJan 26, 2015

Flexible work schedules improve health, sleep

A study found that giving employees more control over their work schedules can improve sleep quantity and quality, reducing the risk of chronic disease and early mortality. Participants experienced an average gain of nearly an hour of sleep per week compared to those without flexible scheduling.

SourcePenn State·JournalSleep Health·DateJan 26, 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.

Ribose-seq identifies and locates ribonucleotides in genomic DNA

Researchers have identified widespread incorporation of ribonucleotides in genomic DNA, with hotspots found in nuclear and mitochondrial DNA. The Ribose-seq technique allows for the precise location of ribonucleotides, which can affect genome stability and function.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Methods·DateJan 26, 2015

Even with copayments for nonurgent care, Medicaid patients still rely on ERs

A study found that Medicaid copayments for nonurgent emergency room visits had little impact on usage rates, with no significant difference in states with and without copayments. The researchers suggest that lack of access to primary care physicians may be a reason why patients continue to seek ER care.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJan 26, 2015

Researchers identify brain circuit that regulates thirst

A team of scientists has identified a brain circuit in mice that regulates thirst, with two distinct cell types working together to maintain fluid balance. The study found that activating one set of cells triggers drinking behavior, while silencing the other population suppresses thirst.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalNature·DateJan 26, 2015

CNIO scientists discover a new blood platelet formation mechanism

Researchers at CNIO have discovered a new way to produce platelets artificially, reprogramming megakaryocytes to increase in size. This breakthrough could lead to the development of new treatments for thrombocytopenia and cancer by targeting specific proteins involved in cell growth.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateJan 26, 2015

Initial diagnostic test in ED for chest pain did not affect low rate of heart attack

A recent study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that low-risk patients presenting to the emergency department (ED) with chest pain did not experience a significant increase in heart attack risk regardless of the initial diagnostic testing strategy. The researchers analyzed data from over 421,000 ED visits and concluded that ce...

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJan 26, 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.

Brain study sheds light on how children with autism process social play

A recent brain study has confirmed significant differences in play behavior, brain activation patterns, and stress levels between children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and typically developing children. The research suggests that some children with autism may experience social engagement as stressful or aversive.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalSocial Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience·DateJan 26, 2015

Study of former NFL players reveals specifics of concussive brain damage

Research finds accumulated brain damage linked to memory deficits and mood regulation in former NFL players, supporting calls for improved athlete protection from concussion. PET scans show concentrated zones of high translocator protein levels, indicating brain injury and potential long-term neurological risk.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNeurobiology of Disease·DateJan 26, 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.

Chemists control structure to unlock magnetization and polarization simultaneously

Researchers at the University of Liverpool have successfully controlled a material's structure to generate both magnetisation and electrical polarisation, two contradictory properties. This breakthrough has significant implications for low-energy information technology applications, such as efficient information storage and logic devices.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalScience·DateJan 26, 2015

Cells take sole responsibility for Merkel cell maintenance

Researchers have identified a specific population of stem cells in the skin that exclusively generate and maintain Merkel cells, crucial for touch sensation. Removing these cells led to a permanent reduction in Merkel cells, highlighting their unique role.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateJan 26, 2015

Phase 1 clinical trial of CUDC-101 'throws kitchen sink' at head and neck cancer

The CUDC-101 clinical trial, conducted at the University of Colorado Cancer Center, demonstrated activity against key drivers of head and neck cancer. In the study, patients with medium- to high-risk head and neck cancer showed significant results after treatment with CUDC-101 combined with radiation and chemotherapy.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateJan 26, 2015

With pollinator declines, millions at risk of malnutrition

A new study finds that pollinator declines could lead to severe nutritional deficiencies in some populations, particularly vitamin A deficiencies. The research examines the connection between crop-pollinating animals and human nutritional health, revealing alarming effects in certain countries.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 26, 2015

Swarm of microprobes to head for Jupiter

A swarm of microprobes with different sensors could be sent to Jupiter, collecting data as they fall and transmitting it before burning up. This mission concept aims to study the planet's atmosphere and shed light on its composition, solar nebula formation, and impact history.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Space Science and Engineering·DateJan 26, 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.

Students master math through movement using Kinect for Windows

A study by UVM's Carmen Petrick Smith found that elementary school students who performed body-based tasks while interacting with a Kinect program showed significant gains in understanding angles and angle measurements. The movement-based lessons were more effective than traditional static representations.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalThe Journal of Mathematical Behavior·DateJan 26, 2015

Scientists identify new mechanism to aid cells under stress

Scientists have discovered a novel mechanism that helps cells respond to oxidative stress, a major cause of Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases. The new mechanism involves a protein modification called ubiquitination, which stabilizes ribosome function and promotes protein synthesis.

SourceNew York University·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateJan 26, 2015

Partly wrong with a chance of being right

A Tel Aviv University study prioritizes reasons for forecast failures across different regions, identifying man-made and natural factors such as land-use changes, topography, particles in the atmosphere, and population density. The researchers found unique factors affecting forecasts in various regions, including Europe, North Africa, ...

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalLand·DateJan 26, 2015

Reducing work-family conflicts in the workplace helps people to sleep better

A new report published in Sleep Health found that reducing work-family conflicts in the workplace can lead to better sleep outcomes. Workers who participated in an intervention aimed at reducing conflict slept an hour more each week and reported greater sleep sufficiency compared to those who did not participate.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalSleep Health·DateJan 26, 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.

Unlocking the kidney riddle in newborns

Researchers discovered that babies born with smaller kidneys are more likely to develop chronic kidney disease and high blood pressure as adults. The study found enhanced nerve activity and an inability to respond to nitric oxide promote kidney injury.

SourceMonash University·JournalCirculation·DateJan 26, 2015

Study finds rabies booster defends pets with out-of-date vaccination against the disease

A new study by Kansas State University veterinary diagnosticians found that a rabies booster can protect pets with out-of-date vaccinations from developing the fatal disease. The finding gives pet owners and veterinarians new options when faced with quarantining or euthanizing a pet exposed to the rabies virus.

SourceKansas State University·JournalJournal of the American Veterinary Medical Association·DateJan 26, 2015

Collagen: Powerful workout with water

Researchers at the Max Planck Institute discovered that removing water from collagen fibers dramatically increases their tensile forces, generating up to 300 times more force than human muscles. This finding suggests a more active role for collagen in living organisms and opens new possibilities for developing novel materials.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 26, 2015

Brain's on-off thirst switch identified

Researchers at Columbia University Irving Medical Center have identified the brain's on-off switch for thirst, revealing two types of neurons that drive and suppress the sensation. The study uses optogenetics to activate specific neuron populations in the subfornical organ, leading to increased drinking behavior in mice.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalNature·DateJan 26, 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.

Chromium-centered cycloparaphenylene rings for making functionalized nanocarbons

A team of chemists at Nagoya University has synthesized novel transition metal-complexed cycloparaphenylenes that enable selective monofunctionalization of CPPs. The discovery opens doors to the construction of unprecedented nanocarbons, including carbon nanotubes with new properties.

SourceInstitute of Transformative Bio-Molecules (ITbM), Nagoya University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJan 26, 2015

New Canadian guideline to help prevent and manage adult obesity

A new Canadian guideline recommends measuring body mass index at primary health care visits to prevent and manage obesity. Structured behavioral interventions, including counseling, education, and environmental modifications, can help individuals lose weight, particularly those at high risk of diabetes.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJan 26, 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.

Nocturnal leg cramps more common in summer

Researchers found that prescriptions for quinine and Google searches for leg cramps peak during the summer months. This seasonality could lead to a 'quinine holiday' during colder months for patients taking the medication.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJan 26, 2015

New strategy to combat 'undruggable' cancer molecule

Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have discovered that Ras protein misregulation is linked to cell shape. By targeting changes in membrane curvature, they hope to develop new ways to diagnose and treat cancers.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateJan 26, 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.

Ads effective even in the midst of multitasking, studies find

A study by University of Illinois researcher Brittany Duff found that people's processing styles and moods can impact their ability to recognize ads while multitasking. Analytic processors tend to focus on specific items, while holistic processors take in everything at once.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Advertising·DateJan 26, 2015

Study reveals how a cancer-causing virus blocks human immune response

Researchers discovered that EBV microRNAs block a key component of the human immune system called interferon response. This finding explains why some cancer therapies fail in certain cases and may lead to new treatments for viral cancers.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 26, 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.

Learning from scorpions to control impulses

A study isolated the domain IV paddle of scorpion venom and found it remained sensitive to scorpion venom even when bound to a chip. This breakthrough could lead to faster identification of drugs that target this region, modifying sodium channel activity in beneficial ways.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of General Physiology·DateJan 26, 2015

Higher dementia risk linked to more use of common drugs

A large study links taking commonly used medications with anticholinergic effects to a significantly increased risk of developing dementia and Alzheimer's disease. People taking certain medications at high doses or for longer periods are estimated to be at greater risk for developing dementia.

SourceGroup Health Research Institute·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJan 26, 2015

Daily drinking increases risk of alcoholic cirrhosis

Researchers investigated 56,000 participants and found daily drinking significantly increases the risk of alcoholic cirrhosis. Recent alcohol consumption, not lifetime consumption, is the strongest predictor of this condition.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Hepatology·DateJan 26, 2015

Satellite witnesses developing US nor'easter

A strong nor'easter is developing in the Atlantic Ocean and will bring snowfall of 1-3 feet or more to parts of the Northeast. The storm system was captured in a NASA movie of NOAA's GOES-East satellite imagery, showing its progression from January 24 through 26.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 26, 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.

Annals of Internal Medicine tip sheet for Jan. 27, 2015

The American College of Physicians marks its centennial year with a focus on the role of internal medicine in healthcare systems, professional satisfaction, and cost control. The journal also explores the challenges of sharing clinical trial data, highlighting the need for a consistent approach to balance benefits and risks.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJan 26, 2015

Electronic circuits with reconfigurable pathways closer to reality

Researchers at EPFL have developed a way to control the formation of conductive pathways in ferroelectric materials, allowing for the creation of adaptable electronic circuits. This technology has the potential to miniaturize devices and enable resilient circuits that can function even with damaged components.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJan 26, 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.

New model better predicts breast cancer risk in African American women

Researchers developed a breast cancer risk prediction model specifically for African-American women, using data from 55,000 women. The new model predicts higher risk and is expected to increase the number of African-American women invited to participate in prevention trials.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateJan 26, 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.

Introgression in the pig genome leads to their altitude adaptation

Researchers identified a set of gene loci responsible for thermostatic regulation in Chinese pigs, highlighting the importance of introgression in adaptation. The study found that adaptations to cold and hot environments were triggered by interspecies introgression, providing insights into evolutionary history and adaptation mechanisms.

SourceBGI Shenzhen·JournalNature Genetics·DateJan 26, 2015

NOAA's DSCOVR going to a 'far out' orbit

DSCOVR will observe the sun, tracking Coronal Mass Ejections that can affect power grids and communications systems. The satellite will also study the Earth from its unique L1 orbit, providing multi-spectral images and radiation measurements.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 26, 2015

High cholesterol during young adulthood raises heart disease risk

A new study published in Circulation reveals that long-term exposure to elevated cholesterol levels substantially increases lifetime risk for heart disease. Adults with longstanding mild to moderately elevated cholesterol levels may benefit from more aggressive prevention strategies earlier, according to the study's lead author.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalCirculation·DateJan 26, 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.

Towards a scientific process freed from systemic bias

Large-scale analysis of bibliographic data reveals insights into scientific evaluation methods and publication practices. The studies found cumulative advantage in initial publishing success, detectable patterns in author name disambiguation, and limitations of citation-based measures for quantifying scientific impact.

SourceSpringer·JournalEPJ Data Science·DateJan 26, 2015

UCI, fellow chemists find a way to unboil eggs

UCI professors have developed a device that can restore molecular proteins in egg whites after they have been boiled, potentially slashing biotechnology costs. This innovation could transform industrial and research production of proteins, making cancer treatments more affordable and improving protein manufacturing efficiency.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalChemBioChem·DateJan 26, 2015

Protein-based therapy shows promise against resistant leukemia

A new protein-based therapy has been developed to target drug-resistant leukemia cells, with promising results in mouse models and potentially amplifying the potency of standard treatment options. The fusion protein CD19L-sTRAIL selectively binds and delivers a 'death signal' to leukemia cells.

SourceChildren's Hospital Los Angeles·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 26, 2015

Researchers identify materials to improve biofuel and petroleum processing

A team of researchers at the University of Minnesota discovered potential materials that could improve ethanol and petroleum production, reducing multi-step processes and costs. The study identified all-silica zeolites with superior performance for separating ethanol from water and upgrading petroleum compounds into higher-value products.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 26, 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.

Would you tell your manager you had a mental health problem?

A CAMH survey found that nearly four in 10 workers are reluctant to disclose mental health problems to their managers, citing concerns about career impact and stigma. However, the study also reveals that supportive policies and positive relationships with managers can encourage disclosure and create a more supportive work environment.

SourceCentre for Addiction and Mental Health·JournalInternational Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine·DateJan 26, 2015

Leaky channels could contribute to unusual heart arrhythmias

Researchers found that mutant sodium channels with opposite effects on channel function can lead to disruptions in normal cardiac function due to ion leaks. This overload of positively charged ions within the cell may be a key mechanism linking these mutations to atypical arrhythmias and dilated cardiomyopathy.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of General Physiology·DateJan 26, 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.

Staircase fractures in microbialites and travertines, Italy

Researchers from Italy and Brazil present a new conceptual model of staircase fractures in microbialites and travertines, enhancing permeability by connecting highly porous zones. This understanding is valuable for locating water supplies and exploring oil, gas, and geothermal resources.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalACM SIGSAM Bulletin·DateJan 26, 2015

In infants, pain from vaccinations shows up in brain activity

A new study found that infants show specific brain activity patterns when receiving vaccinations, which may help develop improved vaccination techniques and pain-relieving treatments. The researchers used EEG measurements to identify these patterns, which appeared earlier in younger infants and were more consistent in older children.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalPain·DateJan 26, 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.

Care eliminates racial disparity in colon cancer survival rates, Stanford study finds

A Stanford University School of Medicine study reveals that more equitable delivery of evidence-based care can close the gap in colon cancer survival rates between white and African-American patients. The researchers found that five-year death rates were lower for all colon cancer patients treated in integrated health-care systems, wit...

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateJan 26, 2015

Girls lead boys in academic achievement globally

According to an international study, girls lead boys in educational achievement globally, especially in reading, mathematics, and science literacy. In 70% of countries studied, girls outperformed boys, with only a few exceptions where high-achieving boys surpassed high-achieving girls.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalIntelligence·DateJan 26, 2015

Sounds of silence

A recent study by OIST researchers used chemogenetic inhibition to suppress neuronal activity in zebra finches, showing that the arcopallium region controls song composition but not order or timing. This precise technique provides a detailed understanding of how unique neurons coordinate vocalization.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalEuropean Journal of Neuroscience·DateJan 26, 2015

Helmholtz International Fellow Award for Prof. Amanda Fisher from London

Prof. Amanda Fisher, a renowned cell biologist from Imperial College London, has been awarded the Helmholtz International Fellow Award for her outstanding contributions to gene regulation and HIV research. Her work focuses on epigenetic gene regulation and T lymphocyte development.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·DateJan 26, 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.

Study reveals how Listeria breaches the placenta

Listeria uses distinct tactics to breach the intestine and placenta, utilizing protein phosphoinositide-3 kinase (PI3-K) for invasion. The study uncovers key differences in Listeria's internalin proteins and their role in PI3-K activation.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateJan 26, 2015

Genetic safety switches could help curb potential bioterror risks

Researchers have developed a set of genetic switches to control the function of genes in engineered organisms, preventing potential harm from theft or misuse. The switches use naturally occurring chemicals and can be customized for various products, including biofuels, food, and medicines.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 26, 2015

Mother's stress hormone levels may affect fetal growth and long term health of child

A recent study published in The Journal of Physiology found that increased stress hormone levels in pregnant mice can lead to overeating and reduced fetal growth. However, this effect is not seen when the hormone is administered earlier in pregnancy or when the diet is restricted. The researchers believe that maternal glucocorticoid le...

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·DateJan 26, 2015

Visualizing interacting electrons in a molecule

Researchers at Aalto University and the University of Zurich have successfully imaged electron interactions in a single molecule. The study reveals exotic effects that were previously neglected, shedding light on device performance.

SourceAalto University·JournalNature Physics·DateJan 26, 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.

Live broadcast from inside the nerve cell

Scientists have visualized protein degradation in intact nerve cells for the first time, shedding light on how proteasomes remove defective proteins. The study reveals that only a minority of proteasomes are actively degrading proteins in quiescent cells.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience·DateJan 26, 2015

Climate models disagree on why temperature 'wiggles' occur

A new study finds that climate models are inconsistent in explaining decade-to-decade temperature variability, which may lead to misinterpretation of data. The inconsistency may undermine the models' reliability for projecting future warming and suggests a bumpier road to a warmer world.

SourceDuke University·DateJan 26, 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.

Hospitals helping violence victims could save millions

Researchers at Drexel University found that hospital-based violence intervention programs can prevent violent reinjury and perpetration, reduce aggressive behaviors, and improve employment and education outcomes. These programs are estimated to save tens of thousands to $4 million in costs over five years.

SourceDrexel University·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateJan 26, 2015

An engineering approach from Virginia Tech helps breast cancer researchers at Georgetown

A team of scientists from Georgetown University and Virginia Tech developed a mathematical model to understand breast cancer cell decisions, revealing a key molecular component that determines resistance to antiestrogen therapy. The study found that interferon regulatory factor-1 (IRF1) promotes resistance to antiestrogens.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalCancer Research·DateJan 26, 2015

Programmed synthesis towards multi-substituted benzene derivatives

Chemists at Nagoya University have developed a new method to synthesize multi-substituted benzene derivatives, enabling the creation of novel functional organic materials. The study reveals the first example of controlled synthesis of benzene with different arene groups at all six positions.

SourceInstitute of Transformative Bio-Molecules (ITbM), Nagoya University·JournalNature Chemistry·DateJan 26, 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.

CU Denver Business School study calls for audit transparency

A new study from the University of Colorado Denver Business School suggests that greater transparency is needed to help investors evaluate the quality of audits performed by multiple firms. The research found that when investors learn about audits being done by other firms, they react negatively and stock prices fall.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalThe Accounting Review·DateJan 26, 2015

Cell imaging gets colorful

Researchers have developed a new method for detecting and imaging protein-protein interactions in live cells using color changes, enabling immediate visualization of biochemical events. The FPX technique converts biochemical processes into dramatic green to red color changes.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalNature Methods·DateJan 26, 2015

Are medications' adverse cognitive effects reversible?

Researchers from Indiana University and Regenstrief Institute call for further research to determine if medications' adverse cognitive effects can be reversed. They also highlight the need for safer alternatives to prevent Alzheimer's disease and other dementing disorders.

SourceIndiana University·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJan 26, 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 gain new insights into hypothyroidism

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation found that a genetic polymorphism may be responsible for why standard treatments for hypothyroidism fail some patients. The researchers suggest that personalized medicine could lead to effective treatment for all patients, and identify potential targets for new therapies.

SourceRush University Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 26, 2015

Mayo Clinic: New breast cancer risk prediction model more accurate than current model

A new breast cancer risk prediction model developed by the Mayo Clinic has been shown to be more accurate than the current screening standard in predicting breast cancer risk. The model uses histologic features of biopsied breast tissue and individual patient demographic information, classifying breast cancer risk with a concordance st...

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateJan 26, 2015

Beating the clock: UGA researchers develop new treatment for rabies

Researchers at the University of Georgia have successfully tested a new treatment on mice that cures the disease even after the virus has spread to the brain. The new vaccine rescues mice much longer after infection than what was traditionally thought possible, with 50% of treated mice saved even after physical symptoms appear.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalJournal of Virology·DateJan 26, 2015

Engineering self-assembling amyloid fibers

Scientists at UC Davis and Rice University have developed methods to manipulate natural proteins into amyloid fibrils with predictable heights. These self-assembling fibers show great toughness, withstanding boiling, digestive proteins, and ultraviolet radiation, making them suitable for tissue engineering and other applications.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalACS Nano·DateJan 26, 2015