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Science News for March 4, 2015


Cell powerhouse sequencing technology provides deeper look at inherited disease risk

A new sequencing technology called Mseek provides a deeper understanding of how genes in mitochondria influence inherited diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. By accurately identifying heteroplasmy in mtDNA, researchers can better explain individual risks and potentially develop new therapeutic targets.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateMar 4, 2015

Infant gut bacteria and food sensitization: Associations in the first year of life

Researchers at the University of Alberta and University of Manitoba identified a link between infant gut bacteria and future food sensitization. The study found that infants with fewer diverse gut bacteria at three months old were more likely to develop food allergies by one year old.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalClinical & Experimental Allergy·DateMar 4, 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.

An alternative to medical marijuana for pain?

Researchers discover cannabinoid CB2 agonist AM1710 suppresses chemotherapy-induced pain in mice without tolerance or withdrawal symptoms. The therapeutic effect of AM1710 is preserved even after repeated dosing and blocking CB1 receptors produces no signs of withdrawal.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateMar 4, 2015

Family interventions reduce smoking rates in children and adolescents

A global review found family-based programs can effectively stop children from taking up smoking, with high-intensity interventions showing the most promising results. The programs encourage parents to set limits, strengthen nurturing skills, and discuss substances with their adolescents, helping them resist peer pressure.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·DateMar 4, 2015

Experiment and theory unite at last in debate over microbial nanowires

Scientists have devised a combination of new experiments and better theoretical modeling to settle the dispute between experimental and theoretical scientists. The new results are consistent with the hypothesis that microbial nanowires possess metallic-like conductivity, contrary to previous models.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalmBio·DateMar 4, 2015

Chance as a motivator? Uncertainty can make people work harder

A study by Luxi Shen and colleagues found that uncertainty motivates people to put in more effort to obtain uncertain rewards. In experiments, consumers completed tasks for lower potential rewards when the outcome was uncertain, highlighting the motivating-uncertainty effect.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateMar 4, 2015

UH researchers find link between flame retardants and obesity

Researchers at the University of Houston found a link between flame retardants and obesity in zebrafish exposed to compounds, suggesting these chemicals may contribute to weight gain. The study used zebrafish as a model organism to investigate the effects of two common flame retardants on body mass.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateMar 4, 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.

Think twice about investing in own company

Researchers found that employees do not disinvest in their company's stock even when the company is failing, resulting in average losses of nearly $30 million. Employees should diversify their retirement plans to avoid significant financial losses.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateMar 4, 2015

Strength in numbers

Quantum physicists at the University of California - Santa Barbara have developed a quantum circuitry system that self-checks for errors and suppresses them, preserving qubits' state(s) and imbuing the system with reliability. The system uses the surface code scheme to detect errors based on parity information.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNature·DateMar 4, 2015

Scientists quantify healthy years gained by avoiding risk factors

A study has quantified the average number of heart failure-free years a person gains by not developing risk factors such as obesity, hypertension, and diabetes by age 45. The results show that individuals with all three risk factors are diagnosed with heart failure an average of 11 to 13 years earlier than those without any risk factors.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·DateMar 4, 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.

L.A. story: Cleaner air, healthier kids

A 20-year study found that improved air quality in Southern California led to significant gains in lung function development among millennial children. Lung growth accelerated as air pollution declined, resulting in lower rates of abnormally low lung function and reduced risks of respiratory disease.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 4, 2015

Big box stores could ditch the grid, use natural gas fuel cells instead

Researchers at PNNL found that natural gas solid oxide fuel cells can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 56% compared to conventional coal plants, while also lowering electricity costs. The technology could play a significant role in meeting future energy demand and help offset costs by selling excess power back to the grid.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalFuel Cells·DateMar 4, 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.

New materials discovered to detect neutrons emitted by radioactive materials

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University have developed a new material, boron-coated vitreous carbon foam, to detect neutrons emitted by radioactive materials. This breakthrough improves homeland security and nuclear power instrumentation, overcoming the scarcity of traditional detection material helium-3.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateMar 4, 2015

Animal functional diversity started out poor, became richer over time

A study by Stanford researchers reveals that animal functional diversity evolved at a slower pace than taxonomic diversity, with most new species emerging from variations on existing body plans. The research found that the current biodiversity crisis can be reversed, but recovery will take millions of years.

SourceStanford's School of Earth, Energy & Environmental Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 4, 2015

Team to study Montana forest to help forests across American West

A team led by Montana State University ecologist Jia Hu will investigate the movement of nitrogen through a western Montana forest to provide baseline information on nitrogen availability and forest productivity. The goal is to help forest managers make informed decisions leading to healthier forests across the West.

SourceMontana State University·DateMar 4, 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.

Defined by your possessions? How loving parents unintentionally foster materialism in their children

A new study in the Journal of Consumer Research found that children who receive more material rewards from their parents grow up to be more materialistic as adults. This can occur even when loving and supportive parents intend to steer their children away from relying on material possessions for happiness or self-worth.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateMar 4, 2015

Energy-generating cloth could replace batteries in wearable devices

Scientists have created a durable, flexible cloth that harnesses human motion to generate energy, self-charging batteries or supercapacitors without an external power source. The novel TNG fabric can be stacked and reused multiple times, making it suitable for various biomedical and commercial applications.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Nano·DateMar 4, 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.

How big data can be used to understand major events

Academics from the University of Bristol's Intelligent Systems Laboratory used big data to analyze mass media coverage of the 2012 US presidential election. The study found that the media focused more frequently on positive statements about the Democrats, while the Republicans were often portrayed in a negative light. Key issues covere...

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalBig Data & Society·DateMar 4, 2015

Why isn't the universe as bright as it should be?

Researchers at MIT and Michigan State University have developed a theory explaining how galaxy clusters regulate star formation. The study found that hot intracluster gas cools rapidly, condenses, and collapses to form new stars, but also triggers conduction and precipitation-driven feedback, which prevent excessive star birth.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateMar 4, 2015

Determining recipes for some of the world's oldest preserved beers

Researchers analyzed 1840s' shipwreck beer samples to understand brewing processes, finding similar yeast-derived flavor compounds to modern beers. They also identified hop content differences between two bottles, which may have contributed to the unique characteristics of the preserved beers.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateMar 4, 2015

Characterizing permafrost microbes in a changing climate

The study analyzed microbial activities in Alaskan soils, revealing diverse species and genes involved in degrading organic carbon and producing greenhouse gases. Researchers also found evidence of previously undescribed microbes and insights into microbial survival strategies in permafrost.

SourceDOE/Joint Genome Institute·JournalNature·DateMar 4, 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.

Time management: Why we feel busier when close to reaching a goal

A recent study found that consumers tolerate interruptions less when close to completing a task or achieving a goal. This phenomenon is attributed to the psychological state of being 'close enough' to a task, making individuals impatient and more likely to decline opportunities for time-saving interventions.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateMar 4, 2015

Northeastern researchers make breakthrough discovery in cancer treatment

Northeastern researchers have found that supplemental oxygenation can shrink tumors and improve cancer immunotherapy by inhibiting hypoxia-driven adenosine accumulation and weakening immunosuppression. This approach has the potential to increase survival rates of patients with cancer, which kills over 8 million people annually.

SourceNortheastern University·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMar 4, 2015

Launching a new brand: Is partnering with a popular brand a good idea?

A new study in Journal of Consumer Research suggests that partnering with an established brand can be detrimental to a new brand. In three studies, consumers viewed the new brand less favorably when it partnered with an existing brand immediately, but more favorably when the announcement was delayed.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateMar 4, 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.

Manipulating cells' shapes could treat breast cancer

A study by the Institute of Cancer Research found that breast cancer cells with a 'mesenchymal-like' shape are more sensitive to inflammatory signals, which could be harnessed to treat cancer. The researchers used robotic microscopy and automated algorithms to measure the shape of hundreds of thousands of different breast cancer cells.

SourceInstitute of Cancer Research·JournalMolecular Systems Biology·DateMar 4, 2015

Using fruit flies to understand how we sense hot and cold

Researchers at Northwestern University have discovered how a fruit fly's brain represents temperature, mapping it neuron by neuron. The study reveals three types of neurons that respond to hot, cold, or both temperatures, converging in the brain to create a cohesive response.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature·DateMar 4, 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.

Wild yaks -- shaggy barometers of climate change

A new study reveals that climate change is affecting male and female yaks differently, with females shifting to steeper terrain in search of snow for milk production. The research team analyzed historical data and recent observations to find that females are 20 times more likely to be found near snow patches than males.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 4, 2015

Genetic data can help predict how pine forests will cope with climate change

Researchers identified 18 genetic variants associated with maritime pine tree survival under climate stress, improving forecasts of forest growth and reforestation efforts. These findings demonstrate the importance of genetic data in managing biodiversity and commercial forestry amid a changing climate.

SourceGenetics Society of America·JournalGenetics·DateMar 4, 2015

Mediterranean diet cuts heart disease risk by nearly half

The Mediterranean diet was found to be highly protective against heart disease, with participants who closely followed the diet being 47% less likely to develop heart disease. Adherence to the diet was more protective than physical activity, and its benefits were seen across all age groups and genders.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·DateMar 4, 2015

James Cook University in major study on rapid fish acclimatization

Researchers from JCU and a Saudi university are conducting a three-year joint study to understand why fish exposed to high water temperatures have offspring already acclimatised. The study aims to uncover the epigenetic changes triggered by the environment that enable fast adaptation.

SourceJames Cook University·DateMar 4, 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.

ILROG issues treatment guidelines for pediatric Hodgkin lymphoma

The International Lymphoma Radiation Oncology Group (ILROG) has issued a guideline outlining the use of 3D computed tomography-based radiation therapy planning and volumetric image guidance to treat pediatric Hodgkin lymphoma. The guidelines aim to reduce radiation dose to normal tissue and decrease the risk of late side effects.

SourceAmerican Society for Radiation Oncology·JournalPractical Radiation Oncology·DateMar 4, 2015

Deadly frog fungus dates back to 1880s, studies find

Researchers found that deadly frog fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis has been present in Illinois and Korea since the 1880s, with stable dynamics for over 100 years. This discovery helps scientists better understand the disease caused by Bd and its survival conditions.

SourceSan Francisco State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 4, 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.

Smoking when pregnant increases cancer risk for daughters

A new study found that mothers who smoke during pregnancy are putting their daughters at a greater risk of developing ovarian and breast cancer later in life. Early menarche, triggered by smoking, increases the number of ovulation cycles, leading to increased exposure to hormones like oestrogen.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalHuman Reproduction·DateMar 4, 2015

Discovery of jaw by ASU team sheds light on early Homo

A fossil lower jaw found in Ethiopia pushes back the human genus evidence to 2.8 million years ago, providing clues to changes in the jaw and teeth of early Homo species. The discovery helps narrow the evolutionary gap between Australopithecus and early Homo.

SourceArizona State University·JournalScience·DateMar 4, 2015

New research could lead to more efficient electrical energy storage

Researchers at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory have identified changes in the structure and bonding of graphitic carbon electrodes that may improve the capacity and efficiency of electrical energy storage systems. The new X-ray adsorption spectroscopy capability provided key information on how the structure and bonding evolve du...

SourceDOE/Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateMar 4, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

UBC scientists uncover cause of tree-killing fungus

Forest scientists at UBC have discovered the root cause of a deadly tree fungus: extra genes that produce a toxic toxin. The fungus, Mycosphaerella populorum, threatens poplar trees in plantations and eastern North America.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 4, 2015

X-ray imaging of a single virus in 3-D

Researchers have successfully imaged the 3D structure of a giant mimivirus using an X-ray free-electron laser, without relying on crystal formation. This achievement paves the way for imaging important pathogenic viruses like HIV and influenza.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 4, 2015

NSU researchers discover hurricanes helped accelerate spread of lionfish

Researchers found that hurricane-altered ocean currents accelerate the invasion of non-native marine species, such as lionfish, by 45% and increase population size by 15%. This study has broader implications for global climate change and the spread of marine invasives.

SourceNova Southeastern University·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateMar 4, 2015

Permafrost's turn of the microbes

A study reveals new species of microbes in permafrost and active layer, hinting at life strategies under subzero temperatures. The researchers used 'omics' tools to understand how microbes survive and thrive in frozen conditions.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalNature·DateMar 4, 2015

Metabolic path to improved biofuel production

Researchers introduced new metabolic pathways into yeast to efficiently ferment xylose and hemicellulose from plant cell walls. This allows for biofuel production without harsh pre-treatments or expensive enzymes, overcoming existing bottlenecks in fermentation of lignocellulosic feedstocks.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·DateMar 4, 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.

Gout may lessen chances of developing Alzheimer's disease

A study published in Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases found that people with a history of gout have a 24% lower risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. The researchers analyzed data from over 3.7 million people and found this protective effect, possibly due to uric acid's antioxidant properties.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateMar 4, 2015

Heritability of autism spectrum disorder studied in UK twins

A UK twin study found that genetics account for up to 95% of the risk of developing autism spectrum disorder, with moderate environmental influences also playing a role. The study's results provide new insights into the complex causes of autism and may help inform future treatments.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateMar 4, 2015

MARC Travel Awards announced for EB 2015

The FASEB MARC Program has announced the travel award recipients for EB 2015, promoting diversity in biomedical research. The program aims to increase the number and competitiveness of underrepresented groups in biomedical and behavioral research.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·DateMar 4, 2015

Twitter chatter predicts health insurance marketplace enrollment, Penn study shows

A study by researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine found a significant correlation between Twitter sentiment and health insurance marketplace enrollment. The analysis of 977,303 tweets revealed that a 0.10 increase in positive sentiment was associated with a 9% increase in enrollment.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·DateMar 4, 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.

Better midlife fitness may slow brain aging

Research found that individuals with lower fitness levels had smaller brain tissue volumes and poorer cognitive function later in life. Regular physical exercise may help slow down brain aging by reducing blood pressure fluctuations and vascular damage.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalCirculation·DateMar 4, 2015

GeneSight multi-gene test more predictive of antidepressant response

The GeneSight test combines multiple gene variations to predict patient responses to medications, improving treatment outcomes and healthcare resource utilization. The study found that patients on red category medications showed significantly less improvement in depressive symptoms.

SourceAssurex Health·JournalThe Pharmacogenomics Journal·DateMar 4, 2015

Research uncovers basis for cadmium toxicity

A University of Adelaide research team has discovered that cadmium causes toxicity by disrupting the transport of essential metals like manganese and zinc into and out of cells. The study also sheds light on how disease-causing bacteria scavenge metals during infection, paving the way for new strategies to prevent cadmium poisoning.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 4, 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.

Trying to lose weight? How to avoid setting yourself up for failure

A recent study by Margaret C. Campbell and Caleb Warren found that consumers tend to believe they will succeed in achieving their goals, giving more weight to positive behaviors. This 'progress bias' can lead people to think skipping dessert is a huge accomplishment, while overlooking setbacks, such as weight regain after exercise.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateMar 4, 2015

Breakthrough in nonlinear optics research

Researchers at the University of Sydney developed a method to selectively enhance or inhibit optical nonlinearities in photonic chips, which can be useful for both hindering and helping signal processing applications. This breakthrough uses a grating structure on chip scale devices to control optical nonlinearity.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 4, 2015

Study: Men tend to be more narcissistic than women

A study of 31 years of data found that men scored higher in narcissism across multiple generations and age groups. The researchers also found that men are more likely to exhibit entitlement and assertiveness, but not vanity or self-absorption.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalPsychological Bulletin·DateMar 4, 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.

Solar cells get growth boost

Researchers at OIST discovered that growing Perovskite films in ambient air instead of a nitrogen atmosphere results in larger grain sizes, making solar cells more efficient. The study's findings could significantly reduce costs associated with climate control machinery.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalChemistry of Materials·DateMar 4, 2015

Cities have a memory and interact with their neighbors

Research reveals that cities in Spain have a 15-year memory, while those in the US have a 25-year memory, influenced by historical events. The study also shows that city growth is linked to neighboring cities and their surrounding areas.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateMar 4, 2015

Where you live could mean 'greener' alternatives do more harm than good

A new study proposes a decision-making threshold for electrification, which can increase or lower carbon emissions depending on the region's electricity production. Regions with high-carbon electricity production, such as China and Australia, may actually experience increased emissions when transitioning to electric-powered technologie...

SourceUniversity of Toronto Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering·JournalNature Climate Change·DateMar 4, 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.

Mental health soon after war-zone concussions predicts disability

Researchers found that early post-traumatic stress symptoms are the strongest predictors of later disability in military personnel with mild brain injuries. A study evaluated 38 patients with mild blast-related brain injury and 34 controls, showing that mental health assessments soon after injury were more predictive of long-term disab...

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalBrain·DateMar 4, 2015

Obesity is associated with brain's neurotransmitters

Researchers found altered opioid neurotransmission in obese individuals, with reduced opioid receptors in the brain. The study provides new insights into the mechanisms of overeating and obesity, but its findings do not indicate whether the changes are a cause or consequence of obesity.

SourceAalto University·DateMar 4, 2015

Time for balance? Preventing atypical femoral fractures related to bisphosphonates

Recent articles in JBJS publications examine the relationship between bisphosphonates and atypical femoral fractures. Prodromal thigh pain, radiolucent lines on X-rays, and prolonged bisphosphonate use are indicators of an impending fracture. Conservative management with discontinuation and weight-bearing is recommended.

SourceJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·JournalJBJS Reviews·DateMar 4, 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.

Kids and robots learn to write together

Researchers developed a robot-based writing tool called CoWriter that helps children improve their handwriting and writing skills. The program uses learning by teaching, a recognized principle in pedagogy, and has been tested with over 70 students aged 6-8 years old.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·DateMar 4, 2015

Air pollution connected with narrowing of the arteries

Research suggests chronic exposure to air pollution increases the risk of stroke by causing fatty substances to build up in the neck arteries. The study found those living in areas with high levels of fine particulate matter had a 24% greater risk of carotid artery stenosis compared to those in cleaner areas.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateMar 4, 2015

Novel approach helps prevent early menopause in breast cancer patients, study finds

A study published in The New England Journal of Medicine found that adding goserelin to chemotherapy regimens can significantly reduce the risk of early menopause and improve fertility in young breast cancer patients. Women who took goserelin had a higher pregnancy rate and were more likely to deliver healthy babies.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 4, 2015

New protein booster may lead to better DNA vaccines and gene therapy

Scientists have discovered a new way to manipulate how cells function, improving the efficiency of DNA vaccines and gene therapy. The new method boosts protein production by up to 20 times, potentially leading to stronger immune responses and reduced side effects.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 4, 2015

Choice of monitoring method could be key for babies with poor growth in the womb

A recent study published in the Lancet found that babies with severely restricted growth in the womb who were monitored using late ductus venosus changes had better neurodevelopmental outcomes than those who were monitored using other techniques. The researchers recommend that these babies should be supervised in specialist centers whe...

SourceImperial College London·JournalThe Lancet·DateMar 4, 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.

Personalized health coaching helps reverse progression to diabetes

A comprehensive health program with personalized coaching on exercise, nutrition, stress, and sleep helped people with prediabetes reverse their condition and improve overall health. Participants showed significant improvements in blood glucose levels, blood pressure, and other key risk factors.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·DateMar 4, 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.

Usual prey gone, a fish survives by changing predictably

Researchers found that bigmouth sleepers adapt by changing their behaviors, sex ratio, and physical appearance to survive on insects, snails, and crustaceans when isolated from their normal prey. The study suggests that evolution may be occurring in a predictable way, with the ability to anticipate ecological changes.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalBiological Journal of the Linnean Society·DateMar 4, 2015

New models yield clearer picture of emissions' true costs

A new Duke University study estimates that a gallon of gasoline costs around $3.80 more than the pump price when health and environment are factored in. The social cost of diesel is about $4.80 more, while natural gas becomes cheaper than its initial price. Solar and wind power also become cheaper.

SourceDuke University·JournalClimatic Change·DateMar 4, 2015

Galactic 'rain' could be key to star formation

A team of astronomers has found that galactic 'rain' may be the key to understanding why some galaxies are more productive at creating stars than others. The researchers analyzed X-rays from over 200 galaxy clusters using NASA's Chandra X-ray Observatory and discovered that massive black holes can slow down gas that helps form stars.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalNature·DateMar 4, 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.

Oxytocin may enhance social function in psychiatric disorders

Researchers at Yerkes National Primate Research Center have shown that inducing oxytocin release can activate the social brain and create bonds. A new drug candidate has been identified to stimulate oxytocin cells, leading to enhanced attention to and learning from social information in people with social disorders.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalNeuropsychopharmacology·DateMar 4, 2015

New study reveals widespread risk of infectious diseases to wild bees

Researchers have discovered a network of viruses that pose a threat to multiple species of bumblebees and managed honeybees, highlighting the urgent need for disease management strategies. The study found five viruses, including deformed wing virus, in wild bees across Great Britain.

SourceRoyal Holloway, University of London·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·DateMar 4, 2015

Can exercise training prevent premature death in elderly?

A new study suggests that exercise training can reduce the risk of premature death in elderly individuals. The Norwegian University of Science and Technology study found that high-intensity training and moderate intensity training both showed promising results in improving fitness levels and reducing mortality rates.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalBMJ Open·DateMar 4, 2015

Common antidepressant may hold the key to heart failure reversal

Researchers found that paroxetine, a commonly prescribed antidepressant, restored heart function in mice with heart failure by inhibiting the GRK2 enzyme. The study's findings suggest that physicians may consider prescribing paroxetine to heart failure patients with clinical depression to improve their heart function.

SourceTemple University Health System·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMar 4, 2015

History holds valuable lessons in the war on drugs

This groundbreaking research sheds light on the complex origins of drug policies that have inspired murderous violence in Mexico and the US. By examining the history of drugs in Latin America, researchers offer new perspectives on how societies have dealt with drugs and their cultural significance.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalHispanic American Historical Review·DateMar 4, 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.

Often-ignored glucose value in routine blood tests correlates with risk of type 2 diabetes

A study from UT Southwestern Medical Center found that a single elevated random blood glucose value is a strong risk factor for diabetes. Individuals with values above 100 mg/dL were up to 30 times more likely to have undiagnosed diabetes, highlighting the importance of considering these often-overlooked values.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalJournal of Endocrinology and Metabolism·DateMar 4, 2015

Activating genes on demand

Scientists have developed a new mechanism for engineering traits governed by multiple genes, paving the way for personalized gene therapies and regenerative medicine. The approach uses the Cas9 protein to activate specific genes, allowing for precise control over multiple genes and potentially treating diseases.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalNature Methods·DateMar 4, 2015

UT Dallas technology could make night vision, thermal imaging affordable

Engineers at UT Dallas have created a semiconductor technology that can detect electromagnetic waves to create images at nearly 10 terahertz, making night vision and heat-based imaging more accessible. This breakthrough could enable various applications such as animal tracking, intruder detection, and building inspection.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·DateMar 4, 2015

Dog DNA tests alone not enough for healthy pedigree, experts say

Breeding dogs solely based on DNA tests can increase inbreeding and reduce genetic diversity, experts warn. A combined approach of DNA analysis, health screening, and pedigree information is necessary to minimize inherited diseases and improve the health of pedigree lines.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalCanine Genetics and Epidemiology·DateMar 4, 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.