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Science News for November 23, 2015


University of California scientists create malaria-blocking mosquitoes

Researchers at University of California have successfully created a strain of mosquitoes capable of rapidly introducing malaria-blocking genes into its population, potentially eliminating the disease. The breakthrough uses a gene editing technique that allows for efficient creation of large populations of mosquitoes with this trait.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 23, 2015

Ancient genomes reveal natural selection in action

Researchers analyzed ancient human DNA to understand genetic changes during farming's introduction in Europe. They found variants associated with height, lactose digestion and immune function, supporting the idea that early farmers adapted to their new diet.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNature·DateNov 23, 2015

NYU Langone enhances patient experience by reducing referrals to facilities after surgery

A new study from NYU Langone found that reducing post-surgery care referrals to facilities did not increase readmission rates, while improving patient recovery and reducing costs. The hospital implemented a program to discharge more patients home for recovery, with significant drops in facility referrals.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateNov 23, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Electric fields remove nanoparticles from blood with ease

A new technology uses oscillating electric fields to isolate drug-delivery nanoparticles from blood, overcoming traditional separation methods' limitations. The device can recover nanoparticles in various processes and monitor their interaction with blood proteins.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalSmall·DateNov 23, 2015

Tallest trees could die of thirst in rainforest droughts, study finds

A study by the University of Edinburgh found that droughts could kill off the tallest trees in tropical rainforests as breakages in their water transport system lead to death. The research indicates smaller trees are more likely to survive long-term droughts and store less carbon.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalNature·DateNov 23, 2015

Bioart: An introduction

Bioart uses genetic engineering, bacteria manipulation, and other scientific methods to create artistic works, sparking discussions about ethics and safety. The field has evolved from Fleming's 'germ paintings' to modern-day projects like genetically engineered silk worms and metagenomics analyses.

SourceCell Press·JournalTrends in Biotechnology·DateNov 23, 2015

Mountain ranges evolve and respond to Earth's climate, study shows

A groundbreaking international study has revealed that mountain ranges actively evolve with the Earth's climate, responding to changes in temperature and ice cover. The research found that erosion accelerated sharply during global cooling periods, wearing down mountains faster than plate tectonics can build them.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 23, 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.

Blood sugar levels in response to foods are highly individual

A recent study monitored 800 participants' blood sugar levels in response to over 46,000 meals, revealing highly individual responses to different foods. The researchers developed an algorithm predicting individualized responses based on lifestyle and microbiome analysis, which was successfully applied to new participants.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalCell·DateNov 23, 2015

Using light-force to study single molecules

Scientists at EPFL show how a light-induced force can push the capabilities of surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) even further. They overcame limitations by amplifying molecular vibrations with light, increasing sensitivity and resolution.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateNov 23, 2015

Army ants build bridges to shorten journeys through the rainforest

Army ants construct complex bridges from their own bodies to span gaps and create shortcuts in the floor of the tropical forests of Central America. These living bridges are made up of dozens of ants and can assemble and disassemble in a matter of seconds.

SourceNew Jersey Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 23, 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.

ACP recommends generics over branded meds

The American College of Physicians recommends prescribing generic medications whenever possible to reduce costs and improve adherence to therapy. Generic medications are as effective as their branded counterparts, but underuse is a significant issue due to misconceptions about safety and efficacy.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateNov 23, 2015

Nanomagnets: Creating order out of chaos

Researchers from HZDR and TU Dresden have developed a method to fabricate nanomagnets in an iron-aluminum alloy layer without masks. The use of highly focused ion beams enables the generation of complex magnetic geometries suitable for spintronic device applications.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 23, 2015

New species of early anthropoid primate found amid Libyan strife

A team of researchers from the University of Kansas has discovered a previously unknown species of early anthropoid primate, Apidium zuetina, in the Libyan desert. The find provides evidence that climate change and environmental conditions played a significant role in shaping the evolution of these primates.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalJournal of Human Evolution·DateNov 23, 2015

Climate can grind mountains faster than they can be rebuilt

Erosion caused by glaciation during ice ages can wear down mountains faster than plate tectonics can build them, according to a new study. The research, conducted over more than a decade, revealed that erosion rates accelerated sharply about 1 million years ago when global climate cooling triggered stronger and more persistent ice ages.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 23, 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.

A tick that feeds on birds may increase the range of Lyme disease

Researchers found Ixodes affinis parasitizing five songbird species in southeastern Virginia, increasing the tick's range and potential for Lyme disease transmission. The study suggests that having two competent tick vectors may lead to an increase in Lyme disease cases.

SourceEntomological Society of America·JournalJournal of Medical Entomology·DateNov 23, 2015

Canada must respect physician objectors who do not wish to refer patients for assisted death: Right to die

Physicians' conscientious objections to assisted death will be respected in Canada, with a system created to allow patients to receive medical support for dying while vulnerable patients and caregivers fight their doctors for rights. A direct service will be offered to patients, and physicians informed of the service.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateNov 23, 2015

Want to remember new names? Sleep on it

Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital found that a full night of sleep significantly improved participants' ability to correctly identify the name associated with a face. The study suggests that sleep after new learning activities may help improve memory, regardless of age.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNeurobiology of Learning and Memory·DateNov 23, 2015

New mechanisms of self-organization in living cells

Researchers at MSU have discovered the mechanisms of self-organization in living cells, revealing the role of topologically associated domains (TADs) in compacting DNA into three-dimensional structures. This knowledge may lead to new approaches for understanding and treating diseases related to gene regulation.

SourceLomonosov Moscow State University·JournalGenome Research·DateNov 23, 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.

Online porn may feed sex addicts' desire for new sexual images

Researchers at the University of Cambridge found that people with compulsive sexual behavior seek out new sexual images more frequently than others. They are also more susceptible to environmental cues linked to sexual images, which can trigger their addiction.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalJournal of Psychiatric Research·DateNov 23, 2015

Bivalve family tree offers evolutionary clues

A team of scientists has constructed the most complete look at the evolutionary family tree of cardiid bivalves, including clams and cockles. The study reveals that much of their diversification was localized over time and that some species need to be re-classified.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalMolecular Phylogenetics and Evolution·DateNov 23, 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.

A row-bot that loves dirty water

Researchers at the University of Bristol have developed a row-bot that can operate indefinitely in remote locations by harnessing energy from dirty water. The robot's bio-inspired mechanism allows it to feed on nutrient-rich water, generating electricity through microbial fuel cells.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·DateNov 23, 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.

New access to the interior of electronic components

A team of researchers at Ruhr-Universität Bochum has developed a method to control the interior of transistors by applying resonators at terahertz frequencies. This allows for manipulation of ultra-thin electron layers, enabling new applications in sensors and chemical technology.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 23, 2015

New protein biomarker identifies damaged brain wiring after concussion

Researchers have discovered a blood test for the SNTF protein, which may predict long-term cognitive impairments in concussion patients. The study suggests that even mild concussions can cause permanent damage to brain wiring, leading to cognitive impairment.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalActa Neuropathologica·DateNov 23, 2015

Infants under 12 months most at risk of physical abuse

A large study found that infants under 12 months are most at risk of serious physical abuse, with severe injuries leading to a threefold increase in mortality compared to other types of trauma. The majority (98%) of abused children were under 5 years old, and nearly all (76%) were less than 1 year old.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalEmergency Medicine Journal·DateNov 23, 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.

Laboratory study: Scientists explore a new approach to prevent newborn epilepsies

Researchers discovered that treating newborn mice with bumetanide can almost completely prevent the disease progression and allow them to develop normally. The study suggests that timing is crucial, as treatment within the first two postnatal weeks can normalize brain activity and behavior.

SourceDZNE - German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases·JournalNature Medicine·DateNov 23, 2015

Beavers restore dead wood in boreal forests

Researchers found that beaver dams create dead wood hotspots, increasing quantities of standing and deciduous dead wood. This restoration benefits a large number of species, including those dependent on these resources.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalForest Ecology and Management·DateNov 23, 2015

Forecasting the path of breast cancer in a patient

The study found that cancer metastasis is neither random nor unpredictable, with survival depending on the location of the first metastatic site. Breast cancer patients who developed metastasis in specific organs had significantly different chances of long-term survival.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalBreast Cancer·DateNov 23, 2015

Higher resting heart rate linked to increased risk of death from all causes

A higher resting heart rate is associated with a greater risk of death from all causes, independent of traditional cardiovascular disease risk factors. Research published in CMAJ found that every 10 beats/min increment of resting heart rate increases the risk by 9% for all-cause mortality and 8% for cardiovascular mortality.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateNov 23, 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.

Earth not due for a geomagnetic flip in the near future

A new MIT study found that Earth's geomagnetic field intensity is double the long-term historical average, indicating it has a long way to fall before reaching an unstable level. This suggests that the current field intensity has a long buffer zone, making a reversal less likely in the near future.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 23, 2015

New research suggests a novel route in the fight against cancer

Researchers at the University of Surrey have discovered a new link between gene regulation and metabolism in baker's yeast and roundworms. The findings, published in Nature Structural & Molecular Biology, could lead to more effective therapies for diseases like cancer and neurodegenerative disorders.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateNov 23, 2015

Early childhood bronchiolitis increases asthma risk in adulthood

A study found that children who had bronchiolitis in early childhood are more likely to develop asthma by age 28-31 and experience reduced health-related quality of life. Lung function tests also show signs of irreversible airway obstruction, a risk factor for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalPediatric Allergy and Immunology·DateNov 23, 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.

No lens? No problem for FlatCam

Researchers developed patented prototypes of FlatCam, a thin sensor chip that processes sensor measurements into images and videos. The technology decouples the parameters of light collection and device thickness, enabling large sensors with thin devices.

SourceRice University·DateNov 23, 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.

'Connector hubs' are the champions of brain coordination

Research identifies 'connector hubs' as the brain's 'champions of coordination,' allowing distinct networks to interact effectively and process more information during complex tasks. The findings have implications for understanding neurological disorders like schizophrenia and Alzheimer's.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 23, 2015

Climate study finds evidence of global shift in the 1980s

A global climate shift occurred in the late 1980s, triggered by anthropogenic warming and a volcanic eruption, resulting in significant changes in Earth's biophysical systems. The study found a 60% increase in winter river flow and a 400% increase in wildfires in the Western United States.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateNov 23, 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.

How the Earth's Pacific plates collapsed

Researchers have found distinctive rocks formed when the Pacific plate changed direction and plunged under the Philippine Sea Plate 50 million years ago. The discovery sheds new light on the formation of copper and gold deposits, as well as the mechanism behind massive earthquakes and volcanoes.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalNature Geoscience·DateNov 23, 2015

'Sport shoppers' bargain hunt simply for the thrill of it, new research finds

Researchers identify sport shoppers as female customers who seek thrills in finding discounts, remembering stories behind bargain items and employing strategy to optimize shopping trips. This new profile provides valuable insight for retailers to target this distinct customer segment.

SourceSan Francisco State University·JournalJournal of Retailing and Consumer Services·DateNov 23, 2015

Stretchy slabs found in the deep Earth

Researchers found that a deep-seated slab beneath Peru's Nazca Plate deforms easily during subduction, weakening its internal structure. The study sheds new light on the behavior of oceanic slabs in the Earth's interior.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalNature Geoscience·DateNov 23, 2015

City-wide effort boosts NYC's colorectal cancer screening rates

A city-wide coalition launched by NYC DOHMH and Mount Sinai resulted in a 40% increase in colorectal cancer screening rates over four years. Screening rates rose from 42% in 2003 to 62% in 2007, with significant reductions in disparities based on ethnicity.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalCancer·DateNov 23, 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.

Johnson announces £20 million for manufacturing hubs

The UK has announced a £20 million investment for two manufacturing research Hubs, addressing key challenges and seizing opportunities in the sector. The Hubs will focus on commercializing early-stage research in engineering and physical sciences, with potential impacts on industries such as automotive and healthcare.

SourceEngineering and Physical Sciences Research Council·DateNov 23, 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.

Penn biologists characterize new form of mRNA regulation

Biologists at the University of Pennsylvania have discovered a new way that messenger RNA is regulated, which affects the production of proteins. The study found that modified mRNAs are more likely to be involved in stress responses and cell cycle control, suggesting a mechanism for dynamic regulation.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateNov 23, 2015

NASA sees Tropical Storm Rick become a post-tropical low

Tropical Storm Rick weakened into a post-tropical cyclone, with NASA's RapidScat instrument detecting strongest winds on its eastern side. The remnant low is expected to dissipate in a few days, with maximum sustained winds near 35 mph.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 23, 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.

To save the earth, better nitrogen use on a hungrier planet must be addressed

A study suggests that increasing nitrogen use efficiency globally can improve crop yields while reducing nitrous oxide emissions and other forms of nitrogen pollution. Researchers propose specific targets for different regions to achieve a global average nitrogen use efficiency of 70% by 2050.

SourcePrinceton School of Public and International Affairs·JournalNature·DateNov 23, 2015

TSRI scientists reveal potential treatment for life-threatening viral infections

Scientists from TSRI have shown how a previously unknown process promotes infection in dangerous viruses, such as dengue, West Nile, and Ebola. They also point to an experimental antibiotic called duramycin that inhibits infection by these deadly viruses, all of which lack vaccines and treatments.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 23, 2015

Tuberculosis: Daily antibiotics recommended to prevent resistant strains

A computer model of tuberculosis has shown that daily antibiotic regimens are more effective than once or twice a week in preventing drug-resistant strains. The study suggests that increasing the number of doses and improving drug properties can lead to significant improvements in treatment success rates.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalBMC Systems Biology·DateNov 23, 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.

Adapting to -70 degrees in Siberia: A tale of Yakutian horses

The study reveals that Yakutian horses developed their adaptations in less than 800 years, making it one of the fastest examples of adaptation in mammals. The genome analysis shows that the founders of modern Yakutian horses entered the region with Yakut horse-riders in the 13-15th century AD.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 23, 2015

Complex hospital infection data confuses consumers

A recent study published in Infection Control & Hospital Epidemiology found that patients struggle to understand CMS hospital infection data, which is meant to help them make informed decisions. The authors recommend improving the way this data is presented to increase transparency and quality of care.

SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateNov 23, 2015

Hydra can modify its genetic program

Researchers at the University of Geneva discovered that Hydra cells can modify their genetic program by overexpressing genes involved in nervous functions. This study sheds light on cellular plasticity, a phenomenon that could influence research into regenerative medicine and neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London·DateNov 23, 2015

Next-generation infrared detectors win NSF funding

The Rochester Institute of Technology and Raytheon Vision Systems collaboration has received $2 million in NSF funding to develop new infrared detectors grown on silicon wafers. The technology is expected to increase discovery space for telescopes and expand its use to homeland security, remote sensing, and biomedical imaging.

SourceRochester Institute of Technology·DateNov 23, 2015

Anti-fat attitudes shaped early in life

Researchers found that older toddlers as young as 32 months prefer looking at average-weight figures over obese ones, with maternal anti-fat prejudice strongly correlated. This suggests that children absorb and display societal attitudes early on, highlighting the need to address weight-based prejudice.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalJournal of Experimental Child Psychology·DateNov 23, 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.

Early childhood exposure to Medicaid linked to better adult health, UMD study shows

A new study from the University of Maryland School of Public Health found that children exposed to Medicaid in early childhood have significant improvements in adult health. The research suggests that increased access to and use of healthcare services, as well as reduced family medical debt, contribute to better adult outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalJournal of Health Economics·DateNov 23, 2015

New research may draw a 'curtain of fire' on dinosaur extinction theory

A new study provides a quantitative estimate of the effects of continental flood basalts on climate, vegetation, and oceans during the time of the dinosaurs. The researchers found that temperatures would cool by as much as 4.5 degrees Celsius due to volcanic gas emissions but return to normal within 50 years after an eruption ceased.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalNature Geoscience·DateNov 23, 2015

Tandem solar cells are simply better

Researchers at EMPA have developed tandem solar cells that convert a larger portion of light energy into electricity, using polycrystalline thin films and semi-transparent perovskite film. The new process enables large area low-cost processing and flexible plastic or metal foils as substrates.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 23, 2015

New test may improve diagnosis and treatment of pancreatic cancers

Researchers found CTCs in 100% of patients with suspected tumors, but only 4% detected through peripheral blood. Portal vein samples provided more accurate tumor cell information, enabling better clinical decisions. The test could help predict patient outcomes and guide treatment options.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateNov 23, 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.

Sharing economy can help financial struggles

A QUT research found that sharing economy model could be developed to support people experiencing financial hardship by providing essential services like food relief. Clients who interacted with each other at the centre appreciated social value and gained useful knowledge, while stigma attached to seeking help was reduced.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·DateNov 23, 2015

Ants filmed building moving bridges from their live bodies

Researchers discovered that army ant bridges can move to span large gaps and change position as needed, balancing a cost-benefit trade-off between colony benefits and worker sequestration. This finding has implications for developing swarm robotics for disaster relief and exploration.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 23, 2015

Exploring the causes of cancer

Cancer occurs when cell signals are dysregulated, leading to abnormal growth. The RET protein plays a crucial role in kidney and nerve development, as well as many human cancers.

SourceQueen's University·JournalTraffic·DateNov 23, 2015

NASA eyes Tropical Cyclone Annabelle in Southern Indian Ocean

Tropical Storm Annabelle formed on Nov. 21 with NASA's Terra satellite capturing its development, intensified winds reaching up to 67 mph/108 kph. The storm weakened on Nov. 23 as cloud tops warmed, indicating a decrease in convection and tropospheric height.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 23, 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.

Fruit flies provide new insight into body's rhythms

Researchers discovered that IR25a plays a key role in entraining fruit fly brains to small changes in temperature. The study found that when temperature fluctuations were large, flies lacking IR25a could adapt, but when they were small, the flies struggled to synchronize their circadian clocks.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNature·DateNov 23, 2015

A huge chunk of a tardigrade's genome comes from foreign DNA

Researchers found that tardigrades have a massive amount of foreign DNA, with around 17.5% coming from non-tardigrade sources, primarily bacteria. This challenges conventional views on how DNA is inherited and raises new questions about the connection between foreign DNA and extreme environment survival.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 23, 2015

New finding offers hope for diabetic wound healing

Researchers at the University of Notre Dame have discovered a compound that accelerates diabetic wound healing, opening doors to new treatment options. The study found that combining an MMP-9 inhibitor with enzyme MMP-8 enhances healing even further.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 23, 2015

Seizure risk of anti-shivering agent meperidine greatly overstated

A new review of 45 years of medical literature found relatively few cases of meperidine-associated seizures, with coexisting conditions often contributing to the increased risk. The study concludes that meperidine's role as an effective anti-shivering agent should continue to be explored.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalTherapeutic Hypothermia and Temperature Management·DateNov 23, 2015

Common cause for complications after kidney transplantation identified

The BK polyomavirus often causes complications after kidney transplantation due to immunosuppressive drugs like Tacrolimus. Researchers have found that Tacrolimus directly activates virus replication, while Sirolimus inhibits it, providing a rationale for clinical trials.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalAmerican Journal of Transplantation·DateNov 23, 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.

Ultrastable materials investigated in depth

Researchers measured thermal expansion of ceramics and silicon in a precise temperature range, revealing significant deviations from reference values. The results are crucial for future space missions like JWST and SPICA.

SourcePhysikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB)·JournalPhysical Review B·DateNov 23, 2015

Neuroscientists gain insight into cause of Alzheimer's symptoms

A study published in the journal Brain found that amyloid plaques around blood vessels in the brain can disrupt astrocyte function, leading to reduced cerebral blood flow. This could account for symptoms such as memory lapses, impaired decision-making, and personality changes associated with Alzheimer's disease.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalBrain·DateNov 23, 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.

Christopher H. Scholz wins top honor in seismology

Scholz has made significant contributions to seismology, bridging laboratory studies of rock mechanics with fundamental research on crustal-scale deformation. He has developed influential models for earthquake prediction and helped create regional seismic hazard maps.

SourceSeismological Society of America·DateNov 23, 2015

Infertile worms resist infection-induced neurodegeneration

Researchers have found that infertile animals appear to be protected from neurodegeneration in a study using C. elegans worms. The study, which appears online now, showed that infected worms display hallmarks of neurodegeneration similar to those seen in humans, but infertile animals resist this process.

SourceDuke University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateNov 23, 2015

Stem cell treatment mediates immune response to spinal cord injury in pre-clinical trials

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University have developed a stem cell treatment that mediates an immune response to spinal cord injury, reducing tissue damage and preserving function. The treatment, involving multipotent adult progenitor cells (MAPCs), was effective in preventing the cascade of immune responses that often lead to l...

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 23, 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.

CU researchers study palliative care preferences of Latinos on dialysis

A CU research study found that Latino patients on dialysis prefer aggressive care and earlier discussions about end-of-life decisions. The study highlights the importance of delivering palliative care in a culturally sensitive way to meet the needs of this growing segment of the US population.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalAmerican Journal of Kidney Diseases·DateNov 23, 2015

Breastfeeding lowers risk of type 2 diabetes following gestational diabetes

A recent study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that breastfeeding significantly lowers the risk of developing type 2 diabetes after gestational diabetes. Women who exclusively or mostly breastfed for at least two months after giving birth were half as likely to develop type 2 diabetes within two years after delivery.

SourceKaiser Permanente·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateNov 23, 2015

Bird poaching continues to result in victims

In Gipuzkoa province, bird poaching continues to pose a threat to biodiversity conservation, with dozens of birds arriving at rehabilitation centers with firearm-inflicted wounds. Researchers analyzed data from 2006 to 2013 and found that the spatial distribution of shot birds was concentrated around fixed hunting stands.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalEuropean Journal of Wildlife Research·DateNov 23, 2015

Young women who survive cardiovascular event have long-term risks

A study found that young women who survived heart attacks or strokes had higher mortality rates from cardiovascular events, with an increased risk of cardiac and cerebral events. The researchers followed up with 226 women who had a heart attack, 160 women who had ischemic stroke, and 782 comparison patients for nearly 19 years.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateNov 23, 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.

Marine airgun noise could cause turtle trauma

Scientists warn that seismic surveys may cause behavioural changes and physical harm to turtles, including auditory damage and entanglement in gear. Researchers call for more research to address knowledge gaps and propose preventative measures to minimize the impact of seismic surveys on marine turtle populations.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalBiological Conservation·DateNov 23, 2015

Blood from small children 'remembers' prenatal smoking exposure

Research led by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health finds that blood from preschoolers contains molecular evidence of prenatal smoking exposure, detectable 5 years post-birth. The study uses epigenetic analysis to identify a signature associated with smoking during pregnancy, which may also be linked to other toxins and hea...

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalEnvironmental Research·DateNov 23, 2015

Vitamin D does not reduce colds in asthma patients

A randomized controlled trial found that vitamin D supplementation did not reduce the number or severity of colds in adults with mild-to-moderate asthma. Achieving normal levels of vitamin D made no difference in cold frequency or severity, contradicting previous findings.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateNov 23, 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.

Loss of mastodons aided domestication of pumpkins, squash

Research suggests that wild pumpkin and squash were initially used for non-food purposes, such as containers and tools, before humans discovered their edible value. The loss of megafauna allowed wild plants to grow in new environments, leading to the evolution of palatability.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 23, 2015

Teaching problem-solving, leadership to young African-American girls lowers relational aggression

A new CHOP study finds that teaching problem-solving skills and leadership opportunities to elementary school-aged African-American girls can lower relational aggression. The Friend to Friend program improved social problem-solving knowledge and decreased relational aggression in urban minority girls, with positive effects lasting at l...

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalPsychology of Violence·DateNov 23, 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.

ACP: Doctors should prescribe generic medications whenever possible

The American College of Physicians recommends prescribing generic medications when available, as it improves health outcomes, reduces harm, and eliminates wasteful practices. Generic substitution can lead to better long-term medication adherence and save patients $1.4 billion annually.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateNov 23, 2015

Getting under the skin of a medieval mystery

A team of researchers used a non-invasive method to extract protein from medieval parchment samples, identifying the use of multiple mammal species in some manuscripts. The study resolves a long-standing controversy over the origin of 'uterine vellum' and sheds new light on medieval manuscript production techniques.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 23, 2015

Sensor sees nerve action as it happens

Researchers at Duke University have created a technique for monitoring neurons in action with a time resolution of about 0.2 milliseconds, allowing for the first holistic view of neural activity in mammalian brains. This breakthrough enables scientists to study how brain activity translates into specific thoughts and behaviors.

SourceDuke University·JournalScience·DateNov 23, 2015

UMD study explains racial and ethnic disparities in unintended pregnancy

A new study from the University of Maryland School of Public Health examined why African American and Hispanic women have higher rates of unintended pregnancies than White women. Researchers found that unique factors such as maternal age, income, health insurance status, US born status, and educational level contributed to these dispar...

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateNov 23, 2015

Surprise: Stretchy slabs in deep Earth

Scientists have observed unusual seismic wave speeds that suggest the frozen olivine structure within the flat-slab slab has vanished and been replaced by a new unexpected structure. This implies that slabs are weak enough to deform internally in the upper mantle over time.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalNature Geoscience·DateNov 23, 2015

Loneliness triggers cellular changes that can cause illness, study shows

A recent study by the University of Chicago has found that loneliness triggers fight-or-flight stress signaling, leading to increased production of white blood cells and impaired antiviral responses. This shift in monocyte output contributes to loneliness' associated health risks, including premature death.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 23, 2015

New class of RNA tumor suppressors identified by Stanford researchers

Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine have identified a new class of RNA molecules that act as powerful tumor suppressors by inhibiting the cancer-causing protein KRAS. The study found that these RNAs, called SNORD50A/B, are deleted in over a quarter of common human cancers, leading to poorer survival rates for patients.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalNature Genetics·DateNov 23, 2015

Children who take ADHD medicines have trouble sleeping, new study shows

A new study from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln found that children taking ADHD medications experience significant sleep problems, including delayed sleep onset and poor quality sleep. The researchers recommend frequent monitoring by pediatricians and consideration of behavioral treatments to minimize these adverse effects.

SourceUniversity of Nebraska-Lincoln·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateNov 23, 2015

NASA's Terra satellite sees Typhoon In-fa stretching

Typhoon In-fa has become elongated to the northeast with powerful thunderstorms surrounding its cloud-filled eye. The storm is expected to weaken over the next couple of days and approach the island of Iwo To, Japan on Nov. 26.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 23, 2015

UF creates trees with enhanced resistance to greening

Researchers at the University of Florida have developed genetically modified citrus trees that exhibit enhanced resistance to greening, reducing disease severity and even remaining disease-free after 36 months. The study, published in PLOS ONE, used a gene isolated from Arabidopsis to create the new trees.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 23, 2015

A tumor that can unroll: Engineers create new technology for understanding cancer growth

A team of U of T engineers has developed a way to grow cancer cells in the form of a rolled-up sheet that mimics the 3D environment of a tumour, offering a way to speed up drug development and ask new questions about cell behavior. The single-layer design makes it easier for other lab researchers to adopt the process.

SourceUniversity of Toronto Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering·JournalNature Materials·DateNov 23, 2015

Scientists discover the secret behind the power of bacterial sex

Researchers find migration between bacteria communities key to horizontal gene transfer and spread of traits like antibiotic resistance. Mathematical modeling reveals the secret behind bacterial sex lies in movement between communities, increasing DNA swap chances.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 23, 2015