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Science News for March 9, 2015


Supplemental feeding for endangered avian species

A University of Kent study reveals supplemental feeding improves Mauritius parakeet brood productivity, but increases disease susceptibility. Long-term monitoring highlights the importance of evidence-based conservation strategies.

SourceUniversity of Kent·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·DateMar 9, 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.

Amid chaos of Libya, newly unearthed fossils give clues to our own evolution

Fossil discoveries in Libya's Sirt Basin reveal a unique group of ancient mammals, shedding light on climate change and environmental shift. The findings suggest that global cooling and drying led to habitat fragmentation, promoting allopatric speciation and altering the evolution of primates.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalJournal of African Earth Sciences·DateMar 9, 2015

Research explores patient views of GP safety

A new study reveals that patients' perceptions of GP safety are crucial to reaching successful diagnosis and treatment. The research found that trust issues, alienation, and impersonal processes can lead to problems in improving patient safety within GP services.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalHealth Expectations·DateMar 9, 2015

Hippo 'crosstalk' may be vital to tumor suppression

Scientists at MD Anderson Cancer Center discovered a vital connection between the Hippo pathway and glucose metabolism, which can be manipulated to regulate tumor growth. The study found that regulating blood sugar levels impacts the nutrient source of tumors, ultimately leading to cancer suppression.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateMar 9, 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.

New gene sequencing technology like a high-powered microscope

A new gene sequencing technology, CaptureSeq, enables accurate measurement of specific genes' activity at minute levels, improving blood cancer diagnosis. The technology has practical applications in diagnosing diseases guided by gene expression.

SourceGarvan Institute of Medical Research·JournalNature Methods·DateMar 9, 2015

Oregon researchers detail new insights on arsenic cycling

Researchers found high concentrations of dimethylarsinate (DMA) in southern Willamette Valley aquifers, correlating with overall arsenite levels. The study suggests that monitoring organic arsenic is crucial for treating arsenic-contaminated water.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalNature Geoscience·DateMar 9, 2015

CO2 increase can intensify future droughts in tropics, study suggests

A new study suggests that CO2 increases could intensify extreme droughts in tropical and subtropical regions, such as Australia and the Amazon. The Hadley Circulation is expected to continue expanding and strengthening due to warming climate conditions.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 9, 2015

Boosting older adults' vision through training

Research shows that training can effectively eliminate the age deficit in contrast sensitivity, improving visual function in older adults. The study found improvements in both near and far acuity, allowing participants to read more letters on eye charts after training.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateMar 9, 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.

Venus, if you will, as seen in radar with the GBT

Scientists used bistatic radar to create high-resolution images of Venus' surface from Earth, revealing features like mountains, craters, and volcanoes. The technique enables comparison of images taken at different periods, helping detect signs of active volcanism or geologic processes.

SourceNational Radio Astronomy Observatory·JournalIcarus·DateMar 9, 2015

How blood group O protects against malaria

Researchers from Karolinska Institutet identified the key role of RIFIN protein in protecting blood type O individuals from severe malaria. The protein binds strongly to A blood cells but weakly to O, explaining why O individuals are less susceptible to the disease.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature Medicine·DateMar 9, 2015

Most information in drug development is lost

A McGill University study reveals that only 37% of registered drug trials in cancer, cardiovascular, and neurological diseases were published between 2005 and 2009. The findings highlight the importance of sharing information from stalled drug trials to improve care, protect patients, and discover better drugs.

SourceMcGill University·DateMar 9, 2015

Blood-based genetic biomarkers identify young boys with autism

A new blood-based test has been developed to diagnose autism in young males as early as one to two years old, outperforming existing behavioral and genetic screens. The test uses genomic biomarkers that differentiate ASD toddlers from typically developing children with high accuracy.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateMar 9, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Johns Hopkins researchers engineer custom blood cells

Scientists have made a breakthrough in treating patients with sickle cell disease by engineering custom blood cells that can evade the immune system. Lab-grown stem cells were reprogrammed and edited using CRISPR to replace the defective gene, resulting in healthy red blood cells that function just as well as those from unaffected donors.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalStem Cells·DateMar 9, 2015

Electrons in slow motion

Researchers developed a method to measure electron interactions in high-temperature copper oxide superconductors, finding that these interactions are mediated by the spin of electrons. This breakthrough allows for better understanding of the mechanism enabling superconductivity.

SourceInternational School of Advanced Studies (SISSA)·JournalNature Physics·DateMar 9, 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.

Ancient fossils reveal diversity in the body structure of human ancestors

New research has found significant differences in the body structure of early human ancestors, including facial features and skeletal traits. The discovery of a 1.9 million-year-old pelvis and femur fossil reveals greater diversity in the human family tree than previously thought.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Human Evolution·DateMar 9, 2015

Progeny of old parents have fewer offspring

A long-term study on house sparrows found that offspring of older parents produced fewer young. This transgenerational age effect was confirmed by researchers for the first time in free-living animals.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 9, 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.

Seeing tiny twins

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have made a groundbreaking discovery in the study of nanomaterials, revealing that tiny tungsten crystals can exhibit deformation twinning, which affects their strength and function. This phenomenon has significant implications for the development of nanostructured metals and alloys.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalNature Materials·DateMar 9, 2015

Tip sheet from Annals of Internal Medicine, March 10, 2015

A study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that the appropriate use criteria for diagnostic cardiac catheterization may not be reliable for guiding clinical decisions. The researchers evaluated a cohort of 48,336 patients without a history of coronary artery disease and found that obstructive CAD is more likely to be diagno...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMar 9, 2015

Pregnancy weight gain tilts the scales for child becoming obese

Excessive pregnancy weight gain was associated with greater overall and abdominal body fat in children and obesity at age seven. The study found that excessive pre-pregnancy weight gain was linked to a 300% increased risk of childhood obesity.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalMaternal and Child Nutrition·DateMar 9, 2015

TUM Prof. Arthur Konnerth shares in million-euro Brain Prize

The Grete Lundbeck European Brain Research Foundation has awarded TUM Prof. Arthur Konnerth the million-euro Brain Prize for his work on two-photon microscopy, enabling detailed images of individual nerve cells and synapses in living brains. His research has improved understanding of brain development, plasticity, and functional circui...

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·DateMar 9, 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.

Mother's own immune system may cause pregnancy complications

Researchers found that restricting maternal immune cells from the placenta can protect against pregnancy complications during maternal infection and complications not triggered by prenatal infection. Blocking CXCR3 effectively eliminated fetal resorption and restored healthy live offspring to Listeria infected mice.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 9, 2015

Methane in Arctic lake traced to groundwater from seasonal thawing

Researchers at UC Santa Cruz found that methane-rich groundwater contributes to lake emissions, which can exacerbate global warming. The study suggests that future warming in the Arctic could expand the active layer and increase methane transport to lakes.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 9, 2015

Biofuel proteomics

Researchers at Joint BioEnergy Institute used proteomics to analyze switchgrass, a promising fuel crop candidate, and identified 1,750 unique proteins. This study demonstrates the potential of proteomics in optimizing biofuel production from switchgrass.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalPROTEOMICS·DateMar 9, 2015

Two-step treatment improved function and decreased pain severity in veterans

A new study by researchers from the Richard L. Roudebush VA Medical Center, the Regenstrief Institute, and Indiana University School of Medicine reports that a stepped-care strategy improved function and decreased pain severity in veterans with chronic musculoskeletal pain, producing at least a 30 percent improvement in pain-related di...

SourceIndiana University·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateMar 9, 2015

Interdependence explained

A UCSB ecologist examines how human disturbance affects landscape and wildlife, revealing links between conservation and human health. She finds that land-use change increases plague transmission by moving rodents closer to human habitats, while environmental conditions affect flea infestations.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalAmerican Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene·DateMar 9, 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.

Jumping, roly-poly, untethered robot described in Soft Robotics journal

A novel, fully untethered soft robot capable of repeated jumping has been developed, covering half a meter in a single hop-and-roll motion. The innovative design utilizes a combustion-powered system based on a roly-poly toy, enabling the robot to function over rough terrain.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalSoft Robotics·DateMar 9, 2015

Millions of modern men found to be descendants of 11 Asian dynastic leaders

A study by University of Leicester researchers found that millions of modern Asian men are descended from 11 powerful dynastic leaders who lived up to 4,000 years ago. The genetic link was discovered in the Y chromosomes of over 5,000 Asian men belonging to 127 populations.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalEuropean Journal of Human Genetics·DateMar 9, 2015

Canadians' preferences for receiving incidental findings from genetic testing

A survey of 1200 Canadians found that most valued news of incidental findings, but personal utility depended on the type of findings. Individuals preferred hearing about diseases with lifestyle modifications or treatment available, while those without treatment options saw less value in receiving such information.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateMar 9, 2015

Quantum sensor's advantages survive entanglement breakdown

Researchers at MIT demonstrate that quantum sensors can outperform classical systems even when entanglement breaks down due to environmental influences. The study shows that correlations between entangled beams remain strong enough to improve signal-to-noise ratio, leading to increased sensitivity.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 9, 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.

Cancer-linked protein helps control fate of intestinal stem cells

Researchers discovered that Snai1 protein controls the fate of intestinal stem cells in mice, regulating their survival and differentiation. By reducing Snai1 activity, intestinal stem cells shifted towards secretory roles, impairing regeneration and promoting tumor growth.

SourceEMBO·JournalThe EMBO Journal·DateMar 9, 2015

A real eye-opener: Narcolepsy bears classic autoimmune hallmarks

Researchers have found that narcolepsy bears the hallmarks of a classic autoimmune disorder, with a particular autoantibody process triggering the loss of orexin neurons. This discovery opens up new avenues for diagnosis and treatment, potentially leading to a better understanding of the disease.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalPharmaceutical Research·DateMar 9, 2015

Eviction can result in depression, poorer health and higher stress

Research shows that eviction from housing can result in multiple negative consequences, including depression, poorer health, and higher levels of stress. Evicted mothers are more likely to experience depression, poor child health, and material hardship, highlighting the need for eviction-prevention initiatives.

SourceRice University·JournalSocial Forces·DateMar 9, 2015

Societally engaged adults see their lives as redemption stories

Research found that socially engaged middle-aged adults with good mental health are more likely to view their lives as stories of personal redemption. This narrative format is associated with healthy psychosocial adaptation in the midlife years and resonates particularly deeply with African American adults.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateMar 9, 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.

Vaccinate against measles

A recent study examines reasons people refuse vaccines and highlights the importance of vaccination in preventing measles outbreaks. The study found that vaccine refusal can lead to unnecessary risk to children, with cases reporting complications such as pneumonia and encephalitis.

SourceWiley·JournalAustralian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health·DateMar 9, 2015

Assumptions of equality lead to poorer group decisions

New research from University College London suggests that people with differing competence give each other's views equal weight, preventing optimal group decisions. This 'equality bias' affects decision-making processes in various contexts, including everyday situations and high-level policy decisions.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 9, 2015

The climate is starting to change faster

Researchers analyzed changes in climate over several decades, finding that the Earth is now entering a period of faster-than-natural warming. The study suggests that decision-makers need to better prepare for the impacts of climate change by understanding how quickly temperatures will rise.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalNature Climate Change·DateMar 9, 2015

Ancient Africans used 'no fly zones' to bring herds south

A new study has cast doubt on the theory that ancient tsetse-infested bush stopped African herders in their tracks. The research found extensive grasslands east of Lake Victoria during a nearly 2,000-year-old settlement.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 9, 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.

One step closer to artificial photosynthesis and 'solar fuels'

Researchers at Caltech have developed a nickel oxide film that enables record-efficient and stable chemical processes in the production of fuels like hydrogen. The film works well with a membrane to separate oxygen and hydrogen gases, ensuring safety and efficiency in the system.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 9, 2015

Childhood leukemia study reveals disease subtypes, new treatment option

A new study has identified two distinct subtypes of childhood leukemia and found that about 13 percent of ALL cases may be successfully treated with targeted drugs. The research developed a simple lab test to determine which patients fall into the less-common subtype, opening up new hope for treatment options.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalCancer Cell·DateMar 9, 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.

T cell population altered in patients with type 2 diabetes and/or obesity

A new study reveals that mucosal-associated invariant T (MAIT) cells are dramatically reduced in individuals with type 2 diabetes and severe obesity, yet abundant in adipose tissue. MAIT cell abnormalities may contribute to obesity-associated metabolic alterations after weight loss restored circulating MAIT cells.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 9, 2015

Physical labor, hypertension and multiple meds may reduce male fertility

Researchers analyzed data from over 450 men trying to conceive, finding that heavy work-related activity, high blood pressure, and multiple medications may lower sperm counts. The study suggests environmental factors and health status play a significant role in semen quality.

SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·JournalFertility and Sterility·DateMar 9, 2015

Viagra in combination with new drugs can have anti-cancer, antibacterial, and therapeutic effects

A Review article discusses how existing drugs like Viagra can reduce the activity of a specific chaperone protein, HSPA5/Dna K, which may lead to anti-tumor and anti-Alzheimer's disease effects. The study also reveals potential applications in treating antibiotic-resistant infections and chemotherapy-resistant cancers.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalDNA and Cell Biology·DateMar 9, 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.

Advances of alternating EM field for earthquake monitoring in China

The study introduces a new developed CSELF technique and experimental examples, which can observe not only crustal resistivity but also electromagnetic fields. The technique is found effective for data analysis, e.g., EM spectra and apparent resistivities, using software such as the 'wavelet maxima' method.

SourceScience China Press·DateMar 9, 2015

March/April 2015 Annals of Family Medicine tip sheet

Researchers predict a shortage of over 33,000 primary care physicians by 2035 due to demographic changes and insurance expansion. To eliminate this deficit, experts suggest increasing residency production by nearly 2,200 positions by 2020.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateMar 9, 2015

Go meta: New technique expands possibilities for molecular designers

Chemists at Scripps Research Institute have developed a broadly useful technique for building new drug molecules and other chemical products by expanding the meta-C-H activation method. The new method enables the attachment of functional groups at the meta position, previously difficult to achieve.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalNature·DateMar 9, 2015

Quick, easy and early diagnosis with rare earth ions

A new compound based on rare earth ions has been developed to measure oxygen concentrations in living tissue with high precision. The compound works by emitting coloured light that varies in colour with the amount of oxygen present, making it possible to measure oxygen using optical microscopes already present in hospitals.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalChemical Science·DateMar 9, 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.

Innovative light therapy reaches deep tumors

Researchers have developed a new light therapy that can reach deep tumors using nanoparticles and FDG, producing different kinds of free radicals that overwhelm tumor cells. This treatment shows promise in reducing cancer growth and increasing survival rates with minimal toxic side effects.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateMar 9, 2015

PET/MR can effectively diagnose cause of unclear foot pain

Researchers found PET/MR to be superior in diagnosing foot pain causes, providing more diagnostic information and higher certainty than PET/CT. This non-invasive method offers an important tool for sensitive diagnosis of foot pathologies.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateMar 9, 2015

Youth suicide rate in rural areas is nearly double the rate in cities

A new study found that rural US youth have a nearly double suicide rate compared to urban areas, with a significant increase in hanging as a method. The researchers suggest improving access to mental health care in rural areas through telemedicine and school-based interventions.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateMar 9, 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.

CEO bonuses could cost companies in the long term

A new study published in the Review of Financial Studies suggests that regulating CEO payments and performance bonuses can lead to more profitable companies in the long term. The research found that relying on bonuses can encourage CEOs to pursue short-term gains, leading to poor strategic decisions.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalReview of Financial Studies·DateMar 9, 2015

'Ouch zone' in the brain identified

A new brain imaging study has identified a specific brain area, the dorsal posterior insula, directly related to pain intensity. This discovery could help detect pain in people with limited communication abilities.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateMar 9, 2015

Traffic light food labels strengthen self-control

Researchers at the University of Bonn found that traffic light labels are more effective in helping consumers resist high-calorie foods than traditional nutrition labels. The study participants were willing to pay significantly more for healthy products with green labels and less for unhealthy products with red labels.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalObesity·DateMar 9, 2015

'Exercise hormone' irisin may be a myth

Recent research suggests that irisin, believed to travel from muscle to fat tissue after exercise, may not exist in humans. New tests used in previous studies found antibodies were poorly vetted and nonspecific, leading to false positive results.

SourceDuke University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 9, 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.

Protein in the brain can 'put the brakes' on binge drinking

Researchers have identified a naturally occurring protein in the brain that can act to suppress binge alcohol drinking. The study found that Neuropeptide Y (NPY) increases inhibition on cells producing corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF), leading to reduced binge drinking.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateMar 9, 2015

TSRI scientists reveal structural secrets of nature's little locomotive

Researchers have determined the basic structural organization of the dynein-dynactin complex, a molecular motor responsible for cellular activities such as cell division and intracellular transport. The findings shed light on diseases like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and ALS, and could lead to new treatments.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateMar 9, 2015

Seeding mixtures recommended for midwest lawns

The study recommends seeding mixtures with a higher proportion of perennial ryegrass (PRG) to speed initial establishment, while maintaining a balance between PRG and Kentucky bluegrass (KBG). The recommended ratios vary depending on the region's climate and weed pressure, suggesting a more tailored approach for Midwest lawns.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateMar 9, 2015

Perceptual training boosts contrast sensitivity for older adults

Researchers at UC Riverside found that perceptual learning training improved contrast sensitivity and visual acuity for both younger and older adults. The study also produced an unexpected improvement in visual acuity for older adults after just five days of training.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalPsychological Science·DateMar 9, 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.

Preterm babies continue to receive inhaled nitric oxide

A study published in Pediatrics found that the rate of inhaled nitric oxide (iNO) utilization in American NICUs increased by 23% between 2009 and 2013, with nearly half of all iNO users being preterm neonates. This trend has significant economic implications, estimated to be $153 million in 2013.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateMar 9, 2015

Study shows teens and adults hazy on Washington marijuana law

A new study found that only 57% of Washington parents knew the legal age for recreational marijuana use, while 49% knew how much marijuana can be legally possessed. The study also revealed that parents' conversations about marijuana laws with their children were infrequent.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalSubstance Use & Misuse·DateMar 9, 2015

Measuring the marketing effectiveness of asking versus telling

A study by Henrik Hagtvedt found that marketing statements are more effective when consumers are in a state of high arousal, while questions receive better reception when consumers are calm. This suggests that marketers should tailor their promotional phrases to the level of arousal they encourage.

SourceBoston College·JournalJournal of Consumer Psychology·DateMar 9, 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.

DeuteRx's novel approach to chiral switching for racemic drugs

DeuteRx has discovered a method for in vivo stabilization and differentiation of thalidomide analogs, improving anti-inflammatory and antitumorigenic properties. The company's 'deuterium-enabled chiral switching' platform enables the testing and development of single enantiomers with improved therapeutic properties.

SourceMacDougall Biomedical Communications, Inc.·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 9, 2015

Carina Nebula survey reveals details of star formation

A new survey of Carina Nebula helps astronomers understand the processes that may have contributed to the formation of our sun. The region contains dozens of examples of forming stars at various stages of development, providing insights into how solar-type stars evolve.

SourceRice University·DateMar 9, 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.

How parents may help create their own little narcissists

Researchers surveyed parents and children to identify factors leading to inflated views of self. Overvaluing parents were associated with higher levels of child narcissism, while parental warmth predicted children's self-esteem. Parental overvaluation was linked to narcissism even after accounting for the children's narcissism levels.

SourceOhio State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 9, 2015

Understanding how neurons shape memories of smells

Researchers discovered a type of neuron in the olfactory cortex that serves as a tuner and volume control for various neuronal inputs, increasing signal-to-noise ratio and improving odor discrimination. This discovery has implications for understanding epilepsy, which often affects the olfactory cortex.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateMar 9, 2015

Understanding of cell enzyme flipped on its head

A recent study has explored the effect of mutations in PKC on tumour growth, revealing that most 'loss of function' mutations stop PKC from working. The study found that correcting these mutations in bowel cancer cells resulted in a reduction in tumour growth.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalCell·DateMar 9, 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.

Novel tool visualizes whole body SIV replication

Researchers developed a non-invasive method to image SIV replication in real-time, allowing capture of viral dynamics and identification of novel sites of replication. The approach has broad application to studying immunodeficiency virus pathogenesis and potential use in human patients to identify viral reservoirs.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalNature Methods·DateMar 9, 2015

Widening rural-urban disparities in youth suicides

A study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that rural youth suicide rates are significantly higher than urban rates, with firearm deaths being the leading cause of death in both sexes. The study analyzed national mortality data from 1996 to 2010 and found that rural areas had nearly twice the number of suicides as urban areas.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateMar 9, 2015

NIST gets new angle on X-ray measurements

Scientists at NIST have developed a new approach to measure X-ray angles with greater precision, reducing errors by three times. This improvement will enable better understanding of newly designed materials and their properties.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalMetrologia·DateMar 9, 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.

The secret of wrinkling, folding, and creasing

The research provides a unified model that explains how layer properties and bonding determine surface textures, applicable to various biological processes and material applications. The findings could lead to the creation of materials with tailored surface properties for specific uses, such as disease treatment or water-shedding.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 9, 2015

New technique can locate genes' on-off switches

Researchers at Stowers Institute for Medical Research developed a new method to precisely map individual transcription factor binding sites in the genome. The technique, called ChIP-nexus, uses an enzyme to trim back DNA fragments to the spot where transcription factors bind, providing more accurate information than existing methods.

SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateMar 9, 2015

Centuries-old DNA helps identify origins of slave skeletons found in Caribbean

Researchers at Stanford University and the University of Copenhagen have used ancient DNA to identify the ethnic origins of three African-born slaves found in the Caribbean. The study, published in PNAS, marks a significant breakthrough in genealogical research and sheds light on the trans-Atlantic slave trade.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 9, 2015

Content creators leave social networks when messaging gets too easy

Research suggests that social networking is a market where senders compete for attention, leading to a scarcity of message creators and cluttered networks. As messaging becomes cheaper and easier, senders target more people, decreasing payoffs and increasing competition.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley Haas School of Business·JournalManagement Science·DateMar 9, 2015

Cooperative communities emerge in transparent social networks

Transparency of network connections and reputation enhances cooperation, leading to a community of highly cooperative individuals. The study suggests that in a world with more accessible information, people may form insular communities, and belonging to such groups is beneficial.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 9, 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.

NASA's SDO captures images of a mid-level solar flare

A mid-level solar flare occurred on March 7, 2015, peaking at 5:22 pm EST, as captured by NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory. The event was classified as an M9.2-class flare, which is twice as intense as the next largest category, M8.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 9, 2015

KAIST develops ultrathin polymer insulators key to low-power soft electronics

Researchers at KAIST developed an ultrathin polymeric insulator using initiated chemical vapor deposition, overcoming limitations of traditional techniques. The resulting insulator enables the creation of low-power, high-performance field-effect transistors on flexible substrates.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalNature Materials·DateMar 9, 2015

Poorly preserved DNA from African slaves reveals their origins

Researchers analyzed DNA from three enslaved Africans with highly degraded skeletal remains to uncover their origins. The study's findings demonstrate the potential for genomic data to identify ancient individuals' genetic ancestry, especially in cases where historical records are limited.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 9, 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.

Vegetarian diet linked to lower risk of colorectal cancers

A vegetarian diet was associated with a 22% lower risk of all colorectal cancers, and higher risks were found for non-vegetarians. Vegetarian diets similar to those studied may be important for primary prevention of colorectal cancers.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateMar 9, 2015

Toward Methuselah -- long-living lighting devices

Researchers at the University of Basel have made significant advancements in developing next-generation lighting technologies. The team has successfully created light-emitting electrochemical cells (LECs) with remarkable lifetimes exceeding 2500 hours, paving the way for a more efficient and cost-effective alternative to traditional LEDs.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalChemical Science·DateMar 9, 2015

Novel drug candidate regenerates pancreatic cells lost in diabetes

A study published in Nature Medicine found that a novel drug candidate, harmine, can drive human insulin-producing beta cells to multiply and triple the number of beta cells in mice. This breakthrough could potentially lead to more effective treatment for diabetes.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNature Medicine·DateMar 9, 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.

Bioengineers put human hearts on a chip to aid drug screening

Researchers have created a human heart-on-a-chip that models the structure and function of human heart tissue, enabling accurate testing of cardiovascular medications. The system successfully replicated the effects of four well-known drugs on heart cells.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 9, 2015

Early herders' grassy route through Africa

Researchers found that early herders from northern Africa could travel past Lake Victoria on their way to southern Africa due to the area's grassy landscape, not a tsetse fly-infested environment. This new discovery sheds light on the migration route of early human populations.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 9, 2015

From brain tumors to memory: A very multifunctional protein

Researchers have discovered a multifunctional protein called BAI1, which is involved in limiting the growth of brain tumors but also critical for spatial learning and memory. Mice lacking BAI1 exhibit changes in neural responses and structure, leading to impaired spatial memory acquisition.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 9, 2015

Quantum mechanic frequency filter for atomic clocks

Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have developed a method that reduces the noise in atomic clocks, enabling them to be even more precise. The new technique uses a quantum frequency filter to sort out unwanted wavelengths of light, resulting in a laser beam that is much more stable and precise.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Niels Bohr Institute·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 9, 2015

Tiny minority of Chinese adults enjoy ideal heart health

A new survey found that nearly three-quarters of Chinese adults have poor cardiovascular health, with a tiny minority enjoying ideal heart health. The study emphasizes the need for effective interventions to combat the rising rates of heart disease in China.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateMar 9, 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.

Psychedelic drug use could reduce psychological distress, suicidal thinking

A nationwide survey of over 190,000 US adults found that lifetime use of nonaddictive psychedelic drugs was associated with a reduced likelihood of psychological distress and suicidal thoughts. The study suggests that these substances may hold promise for treating depression, warranting reconsideration of their restricted legal status.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Psychopharmacology·DateMar 9, 2015

Bioelectrochemical processes have the potential to one day replace petrochemistry

Researchers at Helmholtz Center for Environmental Research have found that bioelectrochemical processes promise improved yields and can be economically competitive. The technology has the potential to save costs of up to 18% in EU and US markets, with estimated savings over a ten-year horizon reaching $50 million.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ·JournalChemSusChem·DateMar 9, 2015

Fifteen new breast cancer genetic risk 'hot-spots' revealed

Scientists have identified 15 new genetic 'hot-spots' linked to an increased risk of breast cancer, with some women having multiple variations that double their risk and others being three times more likely to develop the disease. The discovery could help identify high-risk women and improve cancer screening and prevention.

SourceCancer Research UK·JournalNature Genetics·DateMar 9, 2015

Online health information -- keep it simple!

A study by Deakin University found that many Australian online health information is too difficult to read, leading to potential misinterpretation and inappropriate healthcare decisions. The researchers suggest that websites need to be assessed for readability and changes made to improve accessibility.

SourceWiley·JournalAustralian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health·DateMar 9, 2015

JAMA Viewpoint: Young African-American men deserve better from health care

Boston Medical Center researchers highlight the need for improved funding and support for social and public health programs to address healthcare disparities among young African-American men. Effective interventions beyond medical care are crucial to addressing social determinants of health.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJAMA·DateMar 9, 2015

Sexism -- it's in his smile

A study by Jin Goh and Judith Hall found that men who display benevolent sexism are perceived as more approachable, warmer, and friendlier, while those with hostile sexism are less friendly. The researchers also discovered that men with benevolent sexism use positive emotional words and are more patient, despite appearing harmless.

SourceSpringer·JournalSex Roles·DateMar 9, 2015

Tiny nanoparticles could make big impact for patients in need of cornea transplant

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine discovered a way to prevent rejection in corneal transplants using biodegradable nanoparticles that release medication into the eye after surgery. The treatment showed 100% efficacy in animal studies, offering hope for improving medicine compliance and patient outcomes.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Controlled Release·DateMar 9, 2015