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Science News for May 27, 2015


Perfume researchers lend their noses to design less odorous latrines

Latrine odor can deter users, leading to open defecation. Perfume researchers identified key compounds causing the stench in Indian, Kenyan, and South African facilities. Understanding these sensory profiles is crucial to countering odors and making latrines more welcoming.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateMay 27, 2015

Getting 'inked' may come with long-term medical risks, physicians warn

A novel survey of New Yorkers with tattoo-related complications found high rates of infection, itching and swelling that lasted longer than four months. Physicians warn of potential long-term consequences due to poorly understood chemical composition of colored inks.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalContact Dermatitis·DateMay 27, 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.

Are antidepressants more effective than usually assumed?

Researchers analyzed data from major company-sponsored studies on SSRIs and found a significant difference favoring the active drug. The conventional measure of efficacy was only 44% effective, but analyzing the effect on depressed mood showed 91% superiority over placebo.,

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateMay 27, 2015

Study reveals novel use of 3-D imaging for measurement of injectable wrinkle reducers

Researchers developed a novel method to measure injectable wrinkle reducer efficacy using 3D imaging. The technique, called speckle tracking photogrammetry, allows for objective evaluation of wrinkle reduction and optimal dosage. It has the potential to guide physician and consumer choice in individual cases.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery·DateMay 27, 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.

Tablets can help elderly cross the 'digital divide'

New Michigan State University research reveals tablets can help seniors overcome barriers to getting connected online. The use of tablets makes it easier for older adults to maneuver and access information without the need for a mouse.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalEducational Gerontology·DateMay 27, 2015

Sandwich system found effective in organic apple orchards

Researchers found sandwich systems, combining living mulch with modified tillage, improve soil conditions, decrease pests, and increase biodiversity. The system showed the most promise by eliminating vegetative cover competition and increasing soil respiration.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateMay 27, 2015

The Albian Gap, salt rock, and a heated debate

A new study critiques the geological and geophysical evidence supporting competing models for the origin of the Albian Gap, a feature along the Brazilian continental margin. The researchers suggest that much of this evidence is not diagnostic of either model, highlighting the need for a revised understanding of the structure's origin.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalACM SIGSAM Bulletin·DateMay 27, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

The least religious generation

A study of 11.2 million US adolescents over 50 years found that millennials have lower religious involvement than previous generations, due to cultural change rather than youth-related factors. This trend is part of a larger cultural context of rising individualism in the US.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 27, 2015

Researchers use mobile phone data to predict employment shocks

An interdisciplinary research team demonstrated that mobile phone data can be used to quickly and accurately detect, track, and predict changes in the economy. Call detail records were found to predict unemployment rates up to four months before official reports, offering a more accurate alternative to traditional forecasts.

SourceNortheastern University·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateMay 27, 2015

Internet acne education with automated counseling tested in clinical trial

A new study published in JAMA Dermatology found that an internet-based acne education program with automated counseling did not improve acne severity or quality of life in adolescents. Despite lower-than-expected use, the automated-counseling website showed short-term improvements in skin care behaviors.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Dermatology·DateMay 27, 2015

Lethal wounds on skull may indicate 430,000-year-old murder

A nearly complete skull from the Sima de los Huesos cave site in northern Spain shows two penetrating lesions that may indicate an act of lethal interpersonal aggression around 430,000 years ago. The injuries are unlikely to be caused by a fall and suggest early evidence of funerary behavior.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 27, 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.

Iowa researchers find ending Medicaid dental benefit costly

A new study suggests that states may not save money by eliminating adult dental coverage under Medicaid. California's program showed a 68% increase in Medicaid costs for dental care in emergency departments after the benefit was ended, with over 1,800 additional visits annually to ERs.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalHealth Affairs·DateMay 27, 2015

Diagnosing cancer with help from bacteria

Researchers at MIT and UCSD developed a new approach to detecting liver tumors using engineered probiotics. The bacteria produce a luminescent signal that can be detected with a common laboratory test, showing high sensitivity in detecting liver tumors larger than one cubic millimeter.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMay 27, 2015

Brain signals contain the code for your next move

Researchers have identified a neural pathway in the brain that predicts an animal's next move, using differential firing patterns of specific neurons. The study confirms that this pathway, involving the medial prefrontal cortex and hippocampus, enables animals to plan their trajectory.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalNature·DateMay 27, 2015

Congressional action needed to optimize regulation of genomic tests

A new report recommends that Congress authorize the development of nationally scaled genomic data systems for patient safety, public health, and scientific advancement. The authors argue that existing regulatory resources are insufficient to assure patients of maximal benefits from genomic testing.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 27, 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.

Homely men who misbehave can't win for losing

A study found that women tolerate unattractive men up to a point but shun them if they misbehave. The 'devil effect' magnifies the negative impact of unattractiveness when combined with social norm violations.

SourceSpringer·JournalGender Issues·DateMay 27, 2015

Hubble sees shock collision inside black hole jet

Astronomers have discovered a rare collision between two high-speed knots of ejected matter in a supermassive black hole jet. The finding suggests that shocks produced by collisions within the jet accelerate particles and brighten the regions of colliding material.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalNature·DateMay 27, 2015

Penn Medical School dean: Precision medicine is 'personalized, problematic, and promising'

The rapidly emerging field of precision medicine is characterized by its use of genetic, biomarker, and psychosocial characteristics to tailor treatments for individual patients. While it holds great promise, precision medicine also raises concerns about the balance between patient needs and fiscal management.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 27, 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.

False breast cancer alarm has negative impact on health

A new study by the University of Copenhagen found that women who received a false positive mammogram result showed signs of stress and depression years after the initial diagnosis was denied. Researchers are now urging for better information and support to be provided to women receiving false positives.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateMay 27, 2015

On the trail of the clever snail

Researchers found that snails vary in their ability to remember and respond to training, with those good at one type of memory being poor at others. The study reveals that there is no universally smart snail, but rather individuals are smart at some things but not everything.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 27, 2015

Signal identified that prompts one kidney to grow larger when the other is lost

Researchers have discovered a key driver of kidney growth in response to losing a single organ, highlighting the importance of protein synthesis and mTORC1 activation. By understanding this mechanism, they hope to develop new strategies for preserving kidney function in patients with a single functioning kidney.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateMay 27, 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.

ASCO: Trial creates 6 percent weight loss after breast cancer treatment

A two-year study found that female breast cancer survivors lost an average of 6% of their body weight through lifestyle changes, which may lower the risk of cancer recurrence. The study's results suggest that modest weight loss could become a routine part of oncology care to improve patient outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·DateMay 27, 2015

Scientists identify key to preventing secondary cancers

Researchers discovered an enzyme called LysYl Oxidase (LOX) that enhances the spread of breast cancer to the bone. Treatment with bisphosphonate, a class of existing drugs for osteoporosis, has shown promise in preventing bone damage and tumour cell metastasis.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalNature·DateMay 27, 2015

Weak electric current to the brain may improve thinking in people with schizophrenia

Researchers found that transcranial direct current stimulation led to improvements in short-term memory and subtle changes in word retrieval in people with schizophrenia. The study suggests that this type of brain stimulation might ease some cognitive difficulties, enabling individuals to lead a more normal life.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalClinical Schizophrenia & Related Psychoses·DateMay 27, 2015

Why Americans can't buy some of the best sunscreens

The US market offers less effective sunscreens compared to European counterparts, which have approved eight superior formulations for better protection against UV-A and -B rays. Manufacturers are waiting for FDA approval since 2002, hindering product availability.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateMay 27, 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.

Imaging test may identify biomarker of Alzheimer's disease

A new study published in Radiology found that degeneration of white matter in the brain may be an early marker of specific types of Alzheimer's disease. White matter damage was found to be more severe and widespread in patients with atypical AD forms, suggesting a potential biomarker for early diagnosis.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateMay 27, 2015

Hallucinations and delusions more common than thought

A comprehensive international study found that approximately five percent of the general population experiences hallucinations and delusions at some point in their lives. The study, involving over 31,000 participants from 19 countries, revealed that these experiences can be temporary and not always linked to serious mental illness.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateMay 27, 2015

Invisible helpers of the sea: Marine bacteria boost growth of tiny ocean algae

Researchers have found that diatoms grow faster in the presence of Sulfitobacter bacteria, which release a growth hormone beneficial to land plants. This discovery sheds light on the complex interactions between marine microbes and their environment, with potential implications for understanding ocean productivity and climate change.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalNature·DateMay 27, 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.

New planning toolset gives farmers more options for improving water quality

A promising new solution for improving water quality is the Agricultural Conservation Planning Framework (ACPF), a systematic approach to identifying best options for reducing nutrient losses and erosion within a watershed. The framework provides an inventory of conservation possibilities, allowing farmers and stakeholders to choose th...

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalJournal of Environmental Quality·DateMay 27, 2015

New online tool to predict genetic resistance to tuberculosis drugs

A new online tool called TB-Profiler can predict genetic resistance to tuberculosis drugs in a matter of minutes, improving the likelihood of cure for patients with drug-resistant TB. The tool uses genome sequence data to analyze and interpret resistance to 11 drugs used for treatment.

SourceLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine·JournalGenome Medicine·DateMay 27, 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.

Healthy Hearts Northwest helps small and mid-sized practices

The AHRQ-funded Healthy Hearts Northwest project aims to improve heart health among patients in primary care practices in Washington, Oregon, and Idaho. The initiative provides resources, support, and quality improvement strategies to help small- and mid-sized practices build their capacity for delivering high-quality cardiovascular care.

SourceGroup Health Research Institute·DateMay 27, 2015

Eating a Mediterranean diet could cut womb cancer risk

Researchers found that women who adhered to a Mediterranean diet most closely lowered their risk of womb cancer by more than half. The diet's components included eating lots of vegetables, fruits and nuts, pulses, cereals and potatoes, fish, monounsaturated fats, and moderate alcohol intake.

SourceCancer Research UK·JournalBritish Journal of Cancer·DateMay 27, 2015

Pitt's Arthur S. Levine, M.D., and 17 other med school deans speak out

Leading medical schools warn of a hostile work environment due to uncertain federal funding, threatening research initiatives and clinical advances. The deans call for predictable funding streams and increased financial stability to support biomedical research and innovation.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMay 27, 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.

Job-sharing with nursing robot

Researchers at Toyohashi University of Technology developed Terapio, a next-generation nursing robot that assists healthcare staff in delivering resources and recording patient information. The robot's friendly communication abilities and autonomous navigation capabilities enable efficient data management and care delivery.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·DateMay 27, 2015

Hip fractures in the elderly caused by falls, not osteoporosis

A recent study published in the BMJ finds that anti-osteoporotic medication is not effective in preventing hip fractures among older adults. The research highlights that falls and balance disorders are more significant contributors to hip fractures than bone brittleness, challenging current treatment strategies.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalThe BMJ·DateMay 27, 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.

Social media & archaeology -- a match not made in heaven

Archaeologists are using social media to save sites, but a new study warns of potential harm from naive initiatives without strategic oversight. The use of online platforms puts archaeologists at risk of harassment and exploitation, and local communities face unequal access to their heritage.

SourceDe Gruyter·JournalOpen Archaeology·DateMay 27, 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.

Roadside air can be more charged than under a high-voltage power line

A world-first study by QUT reveals that roadside air is more charged with particles than air under high-voltage power lines, with concentrations up to 15 times higher within 10 meters of a freeway. The study highlights the significant impact of motor vehicle emissions on urban air quality.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateMay 27, 2015

Omitting market risk factor creates critical flaw in case-shiller home price indices

A new study reveals that omitting the market risk factor from the Standard & Poor's Case-Shiller Home Price Indices can create a critical flaw, leading to inaccurate estimates. The authors propose an alternative weight model to properly incorporate the market risk factor and demonstrate its impact using empirical evidence.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalJournal of Real Estate Research·DateMay 27, 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.

CU-Boulder instrument selected for NASA mission to Europa

A CU-Boulder instrument, SUDA, has been selected for a NASA mission to Jupiter's icy moon Europa to measure surface particles and study the moon's hidden ocean. The mission aims to understand the prerequisites of life in the solar system.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·DateMay 27, 2015

Challenging students benefit from limit setting

A study by Jaana Viljaranta and colleagues found that limit setting is beneficial for children's math skill development, whereas guilt-inducing techniques hinder progress, especially among girls. The research project, funded by the Academy of Finland and Jacobs Foundation, examined teachers' interaction styles with around 150 children.

SourceAcademy of Finland·JournalChild Development·DateMay 27, 2015

Study in Nigeria finds 1 in 10 malaria drugs are poor quality

A study in Nigeria found that 9.3% of antimalarial drugs purchased in Enugu were of poor quality, while 1.2% were falsified and 6.8% substandard. The results highlight the need for improved drug regulation and monitoring to protect patients from receiving ineffective or harmful treatments.

SourceLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 27, 2015

Autism and rare childhood speech disorder often coincide

A study by Penn State researchers reveals that 64% of children initially diagnosed with autism also have apraxia, a rare neurological speech disorder. The Checklist for Autism Spectrum Disorder (CASD) accurately diagnoses autism in children with apraxia, and ongoing screenings are crucial to prevent long-term problems.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics·DateMay 27, 2015

Sex chromosomes -- why the Y genes matter

Researchers found four essential genes that were lost from the human Y chromosome but relocated to other chromosomes, including one gene crucial for sperm production. These findings suggest a complex role of sex chromosomes in genetic function and may contribute to male infertility.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalGenome Biology·DateMay 27, 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.

Paleontologists pioneer laser-beam scanning of dinosaur fossils

A team of scientists has developed a method using commercial-grade laser equipment to find and analyze fossils of dinosaurs, revealing complex details unseen with traditional visual enhancers. The technique causes fossil samples to fluoresce, allowing for the detection of fakes and the identification of new species.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 27, 2015

Reading the Earth's LIPS

Researchers have found a novel way to 'read the Earth's LIPS', revealing a previously missed connection between Large Igneous Provinces and mid-ocean ridges. This discovery changes our understanding of massive volcanism in ocean basins, suggesting that undersea eruptions are less catastrophic than thought.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalNature Geoscience·DateMay 27, 2015

Importance of clinically actionable results in genetic panel testing for cancer

While advances in technology have made multigene testing useful in predicting breast cancer risk, clinicians need awareness of its limitations. Recent studies suggest that low-cost genetic testing solutions may cause undue anxiety and stress due to lack of information about many genetic variants.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 27, 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.

Helping robots put it all together

A new MIT algorithm significantly reduces robot teams' planning time by deferring difficult grasp decisions until easier ones are made. The algorithm produces a workable plan that may not be perfectly efficient but saves time in planning, often offsetting added execution time.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateMay 27, 2015

Dr. Gary Frishman authors editorial in Journal of Minimally Invasive Gynecology

Dr. Gary Frishman's editorial in Journal of Minimally Invasive Gynecology suggests that second-look laparoscopy may not be the best approach due to its risks and high cost. The procedure, which involves a repeat surgery to check for adhesions after a previous treatment, is questioned by Dr. Frishman as a model for responsible healthcare.

SourceCare New England·JournalJournal of Minimally Invasive Gynecology·DateMay 27, 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.

3-D printing technique explored to help treat type 1 diabetes

Researchers developed a 3D printing technique to create scaffolds for insulin-producing cells, which showed full functionality and improved transplantation success rates. The bioplotting method enabled the creation of porous structures that facilitated glucose and insulin exchange, while protecting the cells from the immune system.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalBiofabrication·DateMay 27, 2015

NYU researchers examine obesity perceptions among Chinese-American adults in NYC

A recent study by NYU researchers found that approximately one-third of Chinese Americans incorrectly perceive their body weight. The study explored the accuracy of body weight perception and its impact on obesity among 162 participants, revealing significant differences among participants in terms of gender, age, and education years.

SourceNew York University·JournalObesity Research & Clinical Practice·DateMay 27, 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.

How container-grown plants capture sprinkler irrigation water

Container-grown plant researchers developed a formula to evaluate irrigation capture in ornamental plants, revealing factors that affect CF, including plant size, growth habit, and sprinkler type. This knowledge can aid growers in adjusting irrigation rates and reducing water use.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateMay 27, 2015

The safe use of flavorings in e-cigarettes

A new guide provides a systematic approach to evaluating the safety of e-cig flavorings, considering toxicological thresholds and thermal breakdown products. The guide aims to fill data gaps and provide guidance for regulatory standards, ensuring safer e-cigarette production.

SourceR&D at British American Tobacco·JournalRegulatory Toxicology and Pharmacology·DateMay 27, 2015

Pre-surgery beta blockers, risk of death examined in noncardiac surgery

A study found that pre-surgery beta-blockers may increase the risk of death in patients with no cardiac risk factors undergoing noncardiac surgery. However, the use of beta-blockers was beneficial for patients with three to four cardiac risk factors. The analysis included over 326,000 patients and measured 30-day surgical mortality.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateMay 27, 2015

Study could explain why ovarian cancer treatments fail

Researchers discovered ovarian cancer cells can lock into survival mode and avoid chemotherapy destruction. The study, published in Nature, used whole genome sequencing to analyse tumour DNA samples from 91 patients with high-grade serous ovarian cancer.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNature·DateMay 27, 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.

Linking superconductivity and structure

Researchers have discovered a key link between superconductivity and structure in iron arsenide compounds, which could potentially lead to higher-temperature superconductivity. Under pressure, the compound undergoes a structural change that leads to a loss of superconducting ability.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 27, 2015

Beliefs and family crucial in South Asian people's management of diabetes

A study published in BMC Family Practice reveals that South Asian individuals with diabetes often struggle due to conflicting views on the causes of their condition. However, strong family support networks can help manage the disease, highlighting the need for culturally sensitive treatment plans and education guidelines.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalBMC Family Practice·DateMay 27, 2015

How spacetime is built by quantum entanglement

Physicists at University of Tokyo unify general relativity and quantum mechanics by showing how spacetime emerges from quantum entanglement. Quantum entanglement generates extra dimensions of gravitational theory, shedding light on the microscopic structure of spacetime.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMay 27, 2015

Global climate on verge of multi-decadal change

A study published in Nature reveals that ocean circulation is driving decadal-scale climatic change, with a potential half-degree cooler phase bringing drier summers in Britain and Ireland. The Atlantic Multi-decadal Oscillation (AMO) influences temperature, rainfall, drought, and hurricane frequency worldwide.

SourceNational Oceanography Centre, UK·JournalNature·DateMay 27, 2015

Coping skills training in rheumaotoid arthritis research recognized by BSBS of MI

A randomized clinical trial found that cognitive-behavioral coping skills training had positive effects on pain and mood in rheumatoid arthritis patients for at least one year. Written emotional disclosure was less effective, with no long-term benefits on joint functioning or pain reduction.

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·JournalJournal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology·DateMay 27, 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.

Pennington Family Foundation awards $200,000 grant to LIBD for autism research

The Lieber Institute for Brain Development (LIBD) has been awarded a $200,000 grant by the Pennington Family Foundation to investigate the factors contributing to varying outcomes in individuals with autism spectrum disorder. The study aims to identify biological associations that can improve treatment strategies and prevent long-term ...

SourceLieber Institute for Brain Development·DateMay 27, 2015

'Hidden' fragrance compound can cause contact allergy

Researchers at the University of Gothenburg found that linalyl acetate, a common fragrance chemical, can react with oxygen to form allergenic hydroperoxides. Approximately 2% of tested individuals had allergic reactions to oxidized linalyl acetate, highlighting the need for broader testing and declaration on cosmetic products.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalContact Dermatitis·DateMay 27, 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 electronic stent could provide feedback and therapy -- then dissolve

Researchers have developed a drug-releasing electronic stent that provides diagnostic feedback by measuring blood flow, which slows when an artery starts narrowing. The device can also heat up on command to speed up drug delivery, and it can dissolve once it's no longer needed, reducing the risk of blood clot formation.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Nano·DateMay 27, 2015

Glacier changes at the top of the world

Researchers warn that Himalayan glaciers in the Everest region could experience dramatic change, with sustained ice loss likely through the 21st century. The study suggests that increased temperatures and changes in precipitation patterns will lead to reduced glacier growth and increased melt, impacting water availability and river flows.

SourceEuropean Geosciences Union·JournalThe Cryosphere·DateMay 27, 2015

Robots can recover from damage in minutes

A new algorithm allows robots to automatically adapt to injury, learning a compensatory behavior in under two minutes. The Intelligent Trial and Error algorithm enables robots to quickly discover a new way to walk or perform tasks despite damage.

SourceUniversity of Wyoming·JournalNature·DateMay 27, 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.

The analogy that builds human thought

Researchers discovered that infants as young as 7-9 months old possess the ability to identify abstract relations between objects and generalize them to new pairs. This suggests that analogical thinking is an innate cognitive function that precedes linguistic abilities.

SourceInternational School of Advanced Studies (SISSA)·JournalChild Development·DateMay 27, 2015

Girls receive conflicting career messages from media, new research shows

Research shows teenage girls value women in non-appearance focused careers, such as CEOs and military pilots, over those in appearance-focused jobs like modeling. Girls rate female CEOs and military pilots as more competent and likable than women in appearance-focused roles.

SourceOregon State University·JournalJournal of Adolescent Research·DateMay 27, 2015

Similarities between aurorae on Mars and Earth

Researchers predict that Mars' aurorae can be visible to the naked eye, displaying colors similar to those on Earth. The study suggests that carbon dioxide in the Martian atmosphere contributes to the formation of blue, green, and red aurorae.

SourceAalto University·JournalPlanetary and Space Science·DateMay 27, 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.

Zebrafish model gives new insight on autism spectrum disorder

Researchers used zebrafish to study the impact of dysregulation of SYNGAP1 and SHANK3 genes on brain development and behavior. The study found that disrupting these genes leads to hyper-excitable behaviors, delayed development, and changes in brain structure.

SourceUniversity of Miami·JournalHuman Molecular Genetics·DateMay 27, 2015

Treatments of hot water with calcium found effective for kiwifruit

A new study from Iran recommends treatments of hot water with calcium to extend storage life and improve quality in kiwifruit. The research evaluated the effect of hot water combined with Ca solution treatments on qualitative characteristics of kiwifruit during cold storage, showing that these treatments significantly suppressed color ...

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateMay 27, 2015

Discovery shows what the solar system looked like as a 'toddler'

An international team of astronomers has identified a young planetary system, located 360 light years away, with a disc-shaped bright ring of dust around a star similar to the sun. The disc's brightness and composition are consistent with the Kuiper Belt in our solar system.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateMay 27, 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.

When children with autism grow old

A new NIH grant will help researchers at SDSU study brain connections and cognitive abilities in older adults with autism. This is a significant step towards understanding how autism affects individuals across the lifespan.

SourceSan Diego State University·DateMay 27, 2015

AACR and Bayer partner to fund fellowships to advance cancer research

The American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) has partnered with Bayer HealthCare to expand its Basic Cancer Research Fellowship Program. The partnership aims to support young scientists conducting basic cancer research, addressing the current funding crisis in biomedical research.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·DateMay 27, 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.

Lawrence Livermore scientists 1 step closer to mimicking gamma-ray bursts

Researchers at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory have created a record high number of positrons using lasers, which could help study gamma-ray bursts and extreme astrophysical processes. The team used three laser systems to produce nearly a trillion positrons, opening opportunities for antimatter research.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMay 27, 2015

Experiments in the realm of the impossible

Physicists at Jena University successfully simulated charged Majorana particles, a theoretical concept long considered impossible. The experiment allows for the study of non-physical processes and may lead to breakthroughs in quantum computing.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalOptica·DateMay 27, 2015

NEH funds international project to digitize Coptic texts

The University of the Pacific has been awarded a $192,500 grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities to digitize Coptic texts. This two-year project, called KELLIA, is an international collaboration between US universities and German institutions.

SourceUniversity of the Pacific·DateMay 27, 2015

'Do' is better than 'don't' when it comes to eating better

A new study by Cornell Food & Brand Lab found that emphasizing healthy food benefits over warning about unhealthy foods is more effective for most people. Focusing on the positive consequences of eating healthy, such as broccoli's benefits, can lead to better dietary habits.

SourceCornell Food & Brand Lab·DateMay 27, 2015

A new era for genetic interpretation

ClinGen aims to standardize genetic variant interpretation, resolving differences between labs and clinicians. The program uses ClinVar, a database of over 170,000 variant submissions, and has formed expert working groups to interpret gene-disease relationships and improve clinical decision-making.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 27, 2015

Understanding and controlling the propagation of waves

The Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) has secured funding for two collaborative research centers (CRCs): one focused on wave phenomena in mathematics and the other on enhancing weather forecasting. The CRCs aim to analytically understand, numerically simulate, and manipulate wave propagation under realistic scenarios.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·DateMay 27, 2015

How longhorned beetles find Mr. Right

Beetle species segregate mating activity by time of day and seasonal changes, allowing females to choose mate from specific species. This discovery provides a framework for understanding how insects produce separate signals with the same pheromone.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalJournal of Chemical Ecology·DateMay 27, 2015

Expanding the code of life with new 'letters'

Two new nucleotides, 'Z' and 'P', have been found to form double helix structures similar to those made by the four natural bases C-G-A-T, opening up possibilities for creating new proteins with medical applications.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMay 27, 2015

Notre Dame paper examines how students understand mathematics

A new study by Nicole McNeil and Emily Fyfe found that using abstract labels to identify patterns improves preschoolers' problem-solving skills. The researchers compared concrete labels to abstract labels in a set of patterning problems, with children assigned to the abstract labels condition solving more problems correctly.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalChild Development·DateMay 27, 2015