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Science News for January 6, 2015


Grain market mystery solved

Researchers found a storage rate discrepancy that caused the cash and futures prices to diverge. The storage rate was set too low, resulting in a $2 difference between the two prices.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Agricultural Economics·DateJan 6, 2015

Drug stimulates brown fat and boosts metabolism

A FDA-approved drug may help combat obesity by stimulating brown fat's metabolic activity, increasing resting metabolic rate, and promoting weight loss in rodents. Researchers discovered that mirabegron activates the beta-3 adrenergic receptor, a promising target for obesity treatment.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateJan 6, 2015

Fractional quantum Hall effect: Experimental progress and quantum computing applications

Recent research on the fractional quantum Hall effect (FQHE) has made significant progress, including the observation of the 5/2 filling state in graphene. This state is an even denominator state that requires new theoretical concepts to understand its many-body physics. FQHE applications in quantum computing are also being explored.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateJan 6, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Researchers map direct gut-brain connection

A new system between the gut and nervous system may be more direct than hormone release in signaling fullness. The connection also suggests a potential pathway for foodborne viruses to infect the brain.

SourceDuke University·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 6, 2015

Researchers identify new genetic and epigenetic contributors to diabetes

Researchers have discovered new genetic and epigenetic factors that contribute to diabetes, suggesting a shared pathway between genes and environment. The study found similar epigenetic changes in fat cells of obese mice and humans, highlighting the consilience of genetics and environment.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalCell Metabolism·DateJan 6, 2015

New year's res-illusions

Shoppers spend 15% more on food during the holiday season and only 25% of that extra food is healthy. After the New Year, shoppers continue to purchase less-healthy items while making healthier purchases.

SourceCornell Food & Brand Lab·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 6, 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.

Drought led to massive 'dead zone' in Lake Erie

A massive dead zone in Lake Erie was linked to the 2012 drought, according to a new study. Researchers found that agricultural practices and meteorological conditions explain year-to-year variability in the size of the dead zone.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJan 6, 2015

Potential option for treating chronic kidney disease

A new clinical study found that tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) supplementation can dial back excessive sympathetic nervous system activation, leading to positive effects on arterial stiffness. BH4 is a cofactor for nitric oxide synthesis and has been shown to have beneficial effects on blood pressure and cardiovascular risk factors.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·DateJan 6, 2015

Positive personality traits may protect police at high risk for PTSD

A new study found that resilience, satisfaction with life, and a grateful disposition may protect police officers from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms. The research, conducted in the New Orleans area during and after Hurricane Katrina, suggested that these protective qualities can mitigate PTSD symptoms even years later.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalStress and Health·DateJan 6, 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.

Study finds certification may impact surgical patients

A recent study published in AORN Journal found that specialty nursing certification contributes to improved surgical patient outcomes in hospitals. The research showed higher rates of certified ambulatory perianesthesia nurse (CAPA) and certified nurse operating room (CNOR) certifications were associated with lower rates of central-lin...

SourceSeaCrest Company·DateJan 6, 2015

Study suggests that dopamine is a safe anti-angiogenic drug in cancer treatment

A new study suggests that dopamine can prevent the growth of blood vessels in tumors without causing serious side effects, unlike existing anti-angiogenic drugs. Dopamine also prevents low neutrophil counts induced by chemotherapy, making it a potential alternative for gastrointestinal cancer treatment.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalInternational Journal of Cancer·DateJan 6, 2015

Pneumonia risk far higher for HIV-positive children, study shows

A global study found that HIV-positive children in developing countries are six times more likely to die from pneumonia than their non-HIV positive peers. The research, published in The Lancet Infectious Diseases, highlights the need for improved early testing for HIV in infants, antiretroviral therapy and vaccination.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateJan 6, 2015

New whole blood assay may help overcome roadblocks to TB eradication

A new multiple-target, real-time reverse transcription-PCR (real-time RT-PCR) TaqMan assay can differentiate between patients with latent TB and those with active disease. The assay targets eight human immune markers and has a sensitivity of up to 100% for active disease.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Molecular Diagnostics·DateJan 6, 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.

Poor vitamin D status linked to longer respiratory support in ICU patients, study finds

A new cohort study found that low plasma 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels are inversely associated with the need for mechanical ventilation in critically ill surgical patients. The study suggests that optimized vitamin D status may reduce respiratory muscle weakness and systemic inflammation, leading to shorter respiratory support times.

SourceAmerican Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (A.S.P.E.N.)·JournalJournal of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition·DateJan 6, 2015

New technology enables ultra-fast steering and shaping of light beams

Researchers at the University of Bristol have developed a new acousto-optic device that can shape and steer light beams at speeds never before achieved. The device, which consists of 64 tiny piezo-electric elements, can create complex sound fields that deflect and sculpt light passing through it.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalOptics Express·DateJan 6, 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.

Has car manufacturer taken the corner too fast with the boxfish design?

Researchers at the University of Groningen have resolved the 'boxfish swimming paradox' by showing that the fish's triangular shape and body design actually promote manoeuvrability. The study, published in the online journal Interface, challenges a previous American research group's claims about the magical properties of boxfish ridges.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalInterface·DateJan 6, 2015

An unexpected way to recover from a breakup

A new study suggests that repeatedly reflecting on a breakup can speed emotional recovery. Researchers found that participants who completed a more intensive set of tasks and measures had better overall recovery from their breakups. Reflecting on the relationship helped participants build a stronger sense of themselves as single people.

SourceSAGE·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·DateJan 6, 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.

Landmark trial: Early blood glucose control extends life in people with type 1 diabetes

A recent report led by a University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health investigator found that people with type 1 diabetes who intensively control their blood glucose soon after diagnosis are likely to live longer. The study showed a 33 percent reduction in deaths over the past several decades among participants.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalJAMA·DateJan 6, 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.

Researchers uncover key cancer-promoting gene

A recent study by researchers at Michigan Medicine has uncovered a key gene involved in regulating TGF-beta receptor, explaining the paradox of cancer-promoting proteins. The identified gene, Bub1, was shown to bind to the TGF-beta receptor and promote aggressive cell growth.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalScience Signaling·DateJan 6, 2015

New treatment offers hope for headshaking in horses

A new study by University of Bristol researchers found that percutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (PENS) therapy reduces signs of headshaking in horses. The treatment, also used to manage neuropathic pain in people, showed promising medium-term remission results for five out of seven affected horses.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·DateJan 6, 2015

Children's vulnerability reflected in genes

Researchers found that a specific gene variant is associated with children's vulnerability to negative environments, but also responded positively to an intensive intervention program called Fast Track. The study suggests that personalized treatments may be possible for society's most troubled children.

SourceDuke University·JournalJournal of Policy Analysis and Management·DateJan 6, 2015

Gemini Planet Imager produces stunning observations in its first year

The Gemini Planet Imager (GPI) has produced high-quality exoplanet images and spectra from its first year of science operations. The instrument's advanced imaging capabilities have revealed significant differences in the colors of two planets in the HR 8799 system, suggesting unique atmospheric compositions.

SourceGemini Observatory·DateJan 6, 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.

Study quantifies the effect of depressive thoughts on memory

Researchers at the Center for BrainHealth found individuals with depressed mood experience 12% memory deficit when exposed to depressive thoughts. The study suggests therapeutic approaches teaching cognitive inhibition may be effective in treating depression-related cognitive deficits.

SourceCenter for BrainHealth·JournalCognition & Emotion·DateJan 6, 2015

New picture, new insight

Researchers at the University of Iowa have discovered previously unrecognized differences in the brains of patients with bipolar disorder using a novel MRI imaging approach. The study found elevated signal in cerebral white matter and cerebellar region of patients, suggesting abnormal cell metabolism may play a role in the disorder.

SourceUniversity of Iowa Health Care·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateJan 6, 2015

Marine litter education boosts children's understanding and actions

A new study by University of Plymouth found that educating children about marine litter improves their knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors towards reducing waste. Children who participated in the educational event were more concerned about the issue and encouraged family and friends to take action.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalMarine Pollution Bulletin·DateJan 6, 2015

Alcohol sales linked with alcohol deaths across GB regions

A study analyzing alcohol sales data across GB regions found that areas with higher sales per adult had higher rates of alcohol-related deaths. The South West region, despite high consumption, had low alcohol death rates, possibly due to tourism.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Public Health·DateJan 6, 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.

Almost three-quarters of parents turn car seats to face forward too early

A recent study found that almost three-quarters of parents transition their children to forward-facing car seats too early, with many doing so before the child is one year old. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends using rear-facing car seats until age two or until the child has outgrown the weight/height limits.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalAcademic Pediatrics·DateJan 6, 2015

Study casts doubt on mammoth-killing cosmic impact

A recent study published in the Journal of Archaeological Science has challenged the long-held idea that a cosmic impact triggered the Younger Dryas cold period. The research found that the scoria droplets believed to be evidence of an impact event were actually formed by heating most likely caused by Stone Age house fires.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalJournal of Archaeological Science·DateJan 6, 2015

Drug overdose epidemic to recede soon

A new study projects that the US drug overdose epidemic will peak at 50,000 annual deaths in 2017 before declining to 6,000 deaths in 2035. The researchers use Farr's Law to analyze the rise and fall of epidemics and predict a similar decline based on trends in prescription painkiller deaths.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalInjury Epidemiology·DateJan 6, 2015

Ischemic micro-lesions associated with flow-diverting stents for aneurysms

Researchers found that flow-diverting stents associated with ischemic complications in brain territories supplied by parent arteries and small branches covered by the stent. Despite high incidence of clinically silent lesions, low permanent complication rate suggests technique is safe and effective for aneurysm treatment.

SourceJournal of Neurosurgery Publishing Group·JournalJournal of Neurosurgery·DateJan 6, 2015

Primary care physicians more likely to recommend careers as nurse practitioners

A recent survey of primary care clinicians reveals that more physicians would recommend careers as nurse practitioners than as primary care physicians, driven by the need for greater clarity about roles and a shift in how clinician's view their careers. The study suggests that efforts to bolster the workforce should focus on reimaginin...

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalAcademic Medicine·DateJan 6, 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.

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.

Seed beetle diversity in Xinjiang, China

An international team of scientists discovered a diverse range of seed beetles in Xinjiang, China, including four previously unknown species. The study found a total of 19 species, shedding light on the region's insect biodiversity.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalZooKeys·DateJan 6, 2015

Major depression in the National Comorbidity Survey

The study found that major depression was highly prevalent in adolescents, with a lifetime prevalence rate of 11%, and females had twice the rates of males. The majority of adolescents with MDD demonstrated severe role impairment and substantial comorbidity with other mental conditions.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateJan 6, 2015

Despite resolutions, people buy more food after New Year

A study by University of Vermont researcher Prof. Lizzy Pope found that consumer spending on food increases by 15% over the holiday season, with most of the increase attributed to higher levels of junk food. People tend to continue buying unhealthy holiday favorites even after New Year's resolutions are made.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 6, 2015

Peat fires -- a legacy of carbon up in smoke

A new study published in Nature Geoscience highlights the devastating impacts of peat fires, which can burn for days and weeks, producing severe air quality issues and triggering respiratory problems. The study finds that peat-rich regions will become more susceptible to drying and burning with a changing climate.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJan 6, 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.

The 'Berlin patient,' first and only person cured of HIV, speaks out

In a unique account, Timothy Ray Brown describes his experience as the first person cured of HIV through a stem cell transplant. He shares the details of the bold experiment that used a donor resistant to HIV infection. The 'Berlin patient' offers a rare glimpse into the human side of this groundbreaking treatment.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalAIDS Research and Human Retroviruses·DateJan 6, 2015

Novel imaging technique improves prostate cancer detection

A novel imaging technique called restriction spectrum imaging-MRI (RSI-MRI) has been developed to improve the accuracy of prostate cancer detection. RSI-MRI corrects for magnetic field distortions and focuses on water diffusion within tumor cells, providing a more refined sense of the tumor's extent.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProstate Cancer and Prostatic Diseases·DateJan 6, 2015

Study rules out spiders as common cause of bacterial infections in humans

A team of scientists led by UC Riverside expert Richard Vetter analyzed spider bite data to conclude that the evidence for spider-vectored infections is scarce. The study found that bacterial infections are often misattributed to spider bites, and spiders should not be blamed for human skin infections.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalToxicon·DateJan 6, 2015

Small change in blood acidity could prove detrimental to kidney disease patients

Researchers have discovered that small changes in blood acidity can lead to inaccurate calcium level monitoring, resulting in higher PTH levels and increased risk of artery damage. This affects patients with chronic kidney disease, who already face a high risk of fatal calcification.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateJan 6, 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.

More choice may lead to higher costs in ACA marketplaces, study finds

A study by RAND Corporation found that consumers in regions with more health plan choices faced higher deductibles than peers in areas with fewer plans offered. The study suggests that limiting the number of health plans or requiring equivalent cost-sharing terms may be policy options to address this issue.

SourceRAND Corporation·JournalHealth Affairs·DateJan 6, 2015

How to sell the drugs of the future

A study by Concordia University marketing professor Lea Prevel Katsanis and her co-author found that knowledge of the benefits and risks of personalized medicine (PM) is crucial for patient acceptance. The research also highlights the importance of doctor-patient communication in PM adoption.

SourceConcordia University·JournalInternational Journal of Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Marketing·DateJan 6, 2015

New drug design enhances brain signaling by a factor of 1,000

Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have designed new peptides that interact with gephyrin to enhance brain signaling, with effects up to 1,000 times stronger than natural counterparts. This breakthrough could lead to more effective treatments for mental disorders with fewer side effects.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 6, 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.

Surgery for obesity is linked to longer survival

A study of 2,500 obese patients and 7,500 matched controls found bariatric surgery reduces mortality risk by 53% at 5-14 years post-procedure. The surgery also became safer over time, with lower risk of death during and after the procedure.

SourceGroup Health Research Institute·JournalJAMA·DateJan 6, 2015

Bariatric surgery associated with improved long-term survival

A study found that bariatric surgery significantly reduced all-cause mortality rates among obese patients, with improved survival at 5 and 10 years post-surgery. The research involved 2,500 surgical patients and 7,462 control patients, and suggests a beneficial relationship between surgery and survival for severely obese adults.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateJan 6, 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.

Eight new planets found in 'Goldilocks' zone

Astronomers discovered eight new planets in the habitable zone of their stars, doubling the number of small planets believed to exist. Two of these, Kepler-438b and Kepler-442b, are the most Earth-like known exoplanets, with a high probability of being rocky and having liquid water on their surface.

SourceCenter for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian·DateJan 6, 2015

New model identifies eastern stream sections holding wild brook trout

A new model developed by Penn State researchers can accurately identify stream sections suitable for wild brook trout, helping fisheries managers protect habitat. The model uses characteristics like water temperature and soil type to predict brook trout occurrence in the eastern United States.

SourcePenn State·JournalTransactions of the American Fisheries Society·DateJan 6, 2015

Smokers, the obese, have markedly higher health-care costs than peers

A new study by Ruopeng An found that smokers and the obese incur substantially higher annual health care costs compared to their peers. Out-of-pocket medical expenses, inpatient and outpatient care, emergency room visits, and prescription drugs contribute to these added expenditures.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalPublic Health·DateJan 6, 2015

Pharmaceuticals, personal care products could taint swimming pools

Researchers found three chemicals in swimming pool water: DEET, caffeine, and TCEP. The detection of these chemicals highlights the potential for uncontrolled releases into swimming pools, which can pose risks to swimmers through inhalation, ingestion, or skin absorption.

SourcePurdue University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·DateJan 6, 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.

Early blood glucose control lengthens life in people with type 1 diabetes

Research funded by the National Institutes of Health found that people with type 1 diabetes who intensively control their blood glucose levels can live longer than those who do not. The study, which followed participants for an average of 27 years, found a 33% reduction in deaths among those who received intensive treatment.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases·JournalJAMA·DateJan 6, 2015

An old genetic tool in plant biology still has value

Researchers found that fragmented chloroplast DNA sequences, known as cpSSRs, are still widely used to study plant genetics. The number of studies using cpSSRs has doubled in the past decade.

SourceBotanical Society of America·JournalAmerican Journal of Botany·DateJan 6, 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.

Corporate philanthropy increases workers' productivity

A study from the University of Southampton found that corporate philanthropy increases workers' productivity by up to 30% when tied to their job performance. When workers can choose how much of their pay to donate, it improves performance by an average of 13%, rising to 26% in those who were initially less productive.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalManagement Science·DateJan 6, 2015

'Iron Sun' is not a rock band, but a key to how stars transmit energy

Researchers at Sandia National Laboratories have discovered that iron's opacity plays a significant role in regulating energy transfer within the sun. By creating conditions similar to those found inside the sun, the team was able to measure the opacity of iron and close a theoretical gap in the Standard Solar Model.

SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·JournalNature·DateJan 6, 2015

What motivates males who commit sexual assault on campus?

Researchers explore how callous attitudes towards women can lead to forced intercourse, even among males without hostility. The study's findings have significant implications for education programs and identifying subtypes of offenders based on motivation and personality traits.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalViolence and Gender·DateJan 6, 2015

Tightly packed in its shell

Researchers found that even minimal mutations in viral RNA can make it too bulky for the capsid, preventing replication. The study used computer simulations and verified previous research on optimized RNA packing.

SourceInternational School of Advanced Studies (SISSA)·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateJan 6, 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.

When DNA gets sent to time-out

A team of researchers from Johns Hopkins Medicine has discovered a specific sequence and protein tags that send DNA to the edge of the nucleus, where its genes get turned off. This process is crucial for controlling genes and determining cell fate, particularly during development.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateJan 6, 2015

Hey, guys: Posting a lot of selfies doesn't send a good message

A new study by Ohio State University found that men who post more online photos of themselves are more likely to score higher on measures of narcissism and psychopathy. Editing photos before posting is also related to higher levels of self-objectification, which values appearance over other traits.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPersonality and Individual Differences·DateJan 6, 2015

Unraveling controls for plant root growth

UC Davis researchers have identified a complex network of genetic controls governing plant root growth, which may help create varieties suited for biofuel production. The study reveals how environmental changes affect the system, with potential applications in improving plant breeding and biomass conversion.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalNature·DateJan 6, 2015