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Science News for November 30, 2015


First outcomes report from novel heart surgery registry shows excellent results for TAVR

The report analyzed outcomes of 26,414 TAVR procedures performed from 2012-2014 and found low risk for mortality, myocardial infarction, kidney injury, and neurologic complications. The most common complications were vascular and bleeding requiring transfusion, with a decrease in vascular complications over time.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateNov 30, 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.

A fine kettle of fish

A new study reveals that fluctuating food supplies and competition can alter survival of adult fish and cause populations to fluctuate in abundance. The research found strong interactions between the amount of food and the survival rate as well as the number of fish, with more fish leading to less survival due to competing for limited ...

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalEcology Letters·DateNov 30, 2015

Female hormone supplements with estrogen and progestin linked to breast cancer risk

Postmenopausal African American women who use female hormone supplements containing estrogen and progestin are at a 50% increased risk of estrogen receptor positive breast cancer. The study found greater increases in risk for recent and long-term users, highlighting the importance of limiting combination therapy.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateNov 30, 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.

NASA's Webb Space Telescope receives first mirror installation

The James Webb Space Telescope has received its first mirror installation, with 18 primary mirror segments scheduled to be installed by early next year. The mirrors are made of ultra-lightweight beryllium and must remain precisely aligned in space for successful science investigations.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 30, 2015

Rare fossil of a horned dinosaur found from 'lost continent'

A rare fossil from eastern North America of a dog-sized horned dinosaur has been identified by a scientist at the University of Bath. The discovery highlights an east-west divide in North American dinosaur evolution, suggesting that dinosaurs in Appalachia evolved differently from those in western North America.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalCretaceous Research·DateNov 30, 2015

International Xenotransplantation Congress highlights major advances in the field

The 13th biennial Congress of the International Xenotransplantation Association showcased significant breakthroughs in xenotransplantation, including the survival of cardiac, kidney, and pancreatic islet cell xenografts for extended periods. New technology to improve animal donor safety was also presented.

SourceInternational Xenotransplantation Association·JournalXenotransplantation·DateNov 30, 2015

Processing facial emotions in persons with autism spectrum disorder

A study using fMRI found that individuals with ASD exhibit different neural activity patterns when viewing emotional faces compared to typically developing participants. This suggests that ASD is not a uniform condition and may be linked to differences in how the brain processes emotional stimuli.

SourceChildren's Hospital Los Angeles·JournalHuman Brain Mapping·DateNov 30, 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.

DNA repair protein BRCA1 implicated in cognitive function and dementia

Researchers found that BRCA1 depletion impairs brain cell function and contributes to cognitive decline in Alzheimer's disease. The study suggests that therapeutic manipulation of BRCA1 may prevent neuronal damage and cognitive decline in patients with Alzheimer's disease or at risk for the disease.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 30, 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.

Simulating the jet streams and anticyclones of Jupiter and Saturn

Scientists have successfully simulated 3D models of deep jet streams and storms on Jupiter and Saturn, revealing their dynamics and providing clues to Earth's weather patterns. The study helps clarify the origin and behavior of these features, which remain debated among researchers.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalNature Geoscience·DateNov 30, 2015

Immune cells make appendix 'silent hero' of digestive health

A network of immune cells helps the appendix maintain digestive system health by preventing damage and inflammation during bacterial attacks. This discovery suggests the appendix may be more relevant to our health than previously thought, potentially even serving as a natural reservoir for 'good' bacteria.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalNature Immunology·DateNov 30, 2015

Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care releases updated guideline

The Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care recommends against screening older community-living adults for cognitive impairment if they are asymptomatic. However, physicians should investigate patients or their family members expressing concern about possible memory loss.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateNov 30, 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.

Climate change likely to increase black carbon input to the Arctic Ocean

A recent study published in Frontiers in Earth Science found that climate change is likely to increase the input of black carbon to the Arctic Ocean. The team, led by University of Georgia Skidaway Institute of Oceanography scientist Aron Stubbins, discovered that black carbon stored in Arctic soils is being exported to the oceans.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalFrontiers in Earth Science·DateNov 30, 2015

Beware, asthma sufferers: Migraines may worsen

Researchers analyzed data from a study of over 4,500 individuals with episodic migraine, finding that those with coexisting asthma were more likely to develop chronic migraine. The study suggests that inflammation and shared environmental factors may contribute to the link between asthma and chronic migraine.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateNov 30, 2015

Inflammation is associated with bone growth

Researchers found Activin-A as a candidate drug target for treating Fibrodysplasia ossificans progressive (FOP), a genetic disease where bone grows in soft tissue. The study uses induced pluripotent stem cells and suggests that inflammation could be the key to preventing diseased bone growth.

SourceCenter for iPS Cell Research and Application - Kyoto University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 30, 2015

Gender segregation in jobs is not rooted in early family planning

A new study by Rice University social scientist Erin Cech dispels the idea that women choose more flexible career fields due to plans to raise children, while men opt for provider-friendly roles. Most students did not consider their future family plans when making career decisions.

SourceRice University·JournalGender & Society·DateNov 30, 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.

How anxiety can kill your social status

Researchers have pinpointed an area of the brain that links anxious temperament to low social status. High-anxious individuals perform poorly in social competition, leading to social subordination. Pharmacological manipulation of mitochondria may influence social rank.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 30, 2015

Asserting the freedom of navigation: Does the US go too far?

A new article by Amitai Etzioni argues that US freedom of navigation operations (FONAs) can be overly aggressive and escalate into dangerous clashes with nations. FONAs operate on a limited budget and are often used as a fallback option after diplomatic efforts fail.

SourceSAGE·JournalArmed Forces & Society·DateNov 30, 2015

New study: Air evacuation may do further harm in patients with brain injury

A new study by researchers at the University of Maryland School of Medicine suggests that air evacuation may worsen neurological function and increase brain cell loss in patients with traumatic brain injuries. The study's findings have major implications for the treatment of military injuries.

SourceUniversity of Maryland School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Neurotrauma·DateNov 30, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Critically ill patients at long-term risk for bone fracture

A new study published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine found that critically ill patients experience significant bone loss, increasing their risk of fragility fractures. The researchers suggest that anti-resorptive therapies may be necessary to prevent bone loss in these patients.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateNov 30, 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.

Simulation shows key to building powerful magnetic fields

Researchers used supercomputer simulations to understand how magnetic fields amplify in collapsing stars, enabling jets that power supernovae and gamma-ray bursts. The study found a dynamo process creates large-scale fields needed for these explosions.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateNov 30, 2015

Tracing a path toward neuronal cell death

A fruit fly model of Alexander disease has been developed to study astrocyte dysfunction and its role in neurodegeneration. Nitric oxide has been identified as a critical mediator in the process.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 30, 2015

Our epigenome is influenced by our habitat and lifestyle

Researchers found that moving from forest to urban habitats affects epigenetic patterns of the immune response, while historical lifestyles impact development and physical characteristics. These findings suggest a significant influence of environment on epigenetics and potential risks for autoimmune diseases.

SourceInstitut Pasteur·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 30, 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.

Study offers insights to how ovarian cancer grows -- and potential to stop it

A new study offers insights into how ovarian cancer grows, revealing a patterned hierarchy of cancer stem cells. The research identifies a key protein, BMP2, that regulates the growth of these stem-like cells. Targeting this protein could lead to more effective therapies for ovarian cancer.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 30, 2015

The future of cities

Cities are facing bigger challenges than ever before, including rural-urban migration, optimizing housing conditions, health and education. Digital technology has the potential to overcome many of these challenges, but concerns remain around privacy and cybersecurity.

SourceWorld Scientific·JournalAsia-Pacific Biotech News·DateNov 30, 2015

Hospital-to-home transitions can stress out family caregivers, affect sick kids

A study by Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center found that hospital-to-home transitions can cause mental exhaustion, emotional toll, and uncertainty among family caregivers. The researchers identified a need for in-home follow-up visits, telephone calls from nurses, and enhanced care plans to improve the transition.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateNov 30, 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.

Stanford researchers find sleep gene linked to heart failure

Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine have identified a gene that appears to reduce the risk of heart failure and improve treatment outcomes. The gene codes for a protein involved in regulating sleep, appetite, and blood pressure, which may play a protective role in the heart.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateNov 30, 2015

Discovery of an embryonic switch for cancer stem cell generation

Researchers at UC San Diego School of Medicine discovered a specific group of proteins decrease, triggering changes in the cancer microenvironment and accelerating growth of therapy-resistant CSCs. A targeted monoclonal antibody treatment effectively impaired CSC regeneration and made them easier to target with existing therapies.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 30, 2015

Robot adds new twist to NIST antenna measurements and calibrations

The NIST robot, CROMMA, measures antenna properties with high precision and configurability, enabling faster and more accurate measurements of antennas for advanced communications, remote sensing, and imaging systems. The system uses near-field scanning technology to determine antenna gain, polarization, and pattern at long distances.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalIEEE Transactions on Antennas and Propagation·DateNov 30, 2015

Liquid foam: Plastic, elastic and fluid

French physicists develop a novel understanding of foam flow in a wedge-shaped channel, identifying connections between plastic events and deformation rates. This study has implications for further research on liquid foam properties and their impact on mechanical energy absorption.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateNov 30, 2015

Drug-resistant bacteria carried by nursing home patients focus of study

Researchers identified highly resistant bacteria in 23 of 500 acute care hospital admissions from nursing homes, with a feeding tube associated with gastrointestinal carriage. This study emphasizes the importance of hospital and nursing home infection control measures to prevent the spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

SourceLifespan·JournalAmerican Journal of Infection Control·DateNov 30, 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.

Imaging identifies cartilage regeneration in long-distance runners

A study published at the Radiological Society of North America meeting found that ultra-distance running causes significant degradation in knee and ankle cartilage, but also enables its regeneration. The researchers used a mobile MRI scanner to track 44 runners over 64 days, revealing no distance limit for joint cartilage damage.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateNov 30, 2015

900,000 Euros for memory research

A three-year project is launching to investigate neural network mechanisms of sequence generation in the hippocampus. The researchers aim to shed light upon the neuronal foundations of memory, a brain structure crucial for remembering personal experiences.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·DateNov 30, 2015

Brook trout study identifies top climate change pressure factor

A 15-year study found that high summer air temperatures have a significant impact on Eastern brook trout populations, particularly on the smallest fry and eggs. The researchers predict that if climate warming proceeds as projected, these fish could become extinct in 15 years unless they evolve to adapt.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateNov 30, 2015

Procreation trumps survival -- even on a cellular level

A newly discovered mechanism in worms suggests that mothers sacrifice their health for future generations, fueling egg cell development with fats. This phenomenon raises the possibility of a similar trait in humans, potentially impacting reproductive success and lifespan.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 30, 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.

Black women less likely to benefit from early chemotherapy, study shows

A recent Yale University study found that black women with stage I-III cancer are less responsive to neoadjuvant chemotherapy compared to other racial groups. Despite presenting with more advanced-stage and aggressive tumors, the findings suggest biologic differences or disparities in treatment may be contributing factors.

SourceYale University·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateNov 30, 2015

Latino youth who feel discriminated against are more depressed, less likely to help others

Recent studies found that Latino immigrant youth who reported feeling discriminated against had more depressive symptoms and were less likely to perform altruistic behaviors six months and a year after experiencing discrimination. The study suggests that discrimination can lead to mental health issues and decreased social engagement.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Youth and Adolescence·DateNov 30, 2015

TGen and Barrow identify genes linked to stress-triggered heart disease

TGen and Barrow researchers identified rare genetic changes associated with stress-triggered heart disease, a condition previously referred to as 'broken heart syndrome.' The study's findings may help guide care and treatment before and after patients experience a life-threatening stressor.

SourceThe Translational Genomics Research Institute·JournalNeurosurgery·DateNov 30, 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.

Looking back 3.8 billion years into the root of the 'Tree of Life'

Researchers at Georgia Tech use ribosomal RNA to trace life's evolution, finding molecular structures and events near the biochemical origins of life. By analyzing variations in ribosomal RNA, they uncover secrets of creation and answer foundational questions about life's origins.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 30, 2015

Global warming may affect pesticide effectiveness

A recent study found that global warming can reduce the effectiveness of permethrin in killing yellowfever mosquitoes. As temperatures increase, permethrin's efficacy decreases, highlighting the need for temperature consideration when choosing a pest-control product.

SourceEntomological Society of America·JournalJournal of Medical Entomology·DateNov 30, 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.

Researchers grow retinal nerve cells in the lab

Johns Hopkins researchers have developed a method to efficiently turn human stem cells into retinal ganglion cells, a type of nerve cell that transmits visual signals. The breakthrough could lead to the development of cell transplant therapies for glaucoma and multiple sclerosis patients.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 30, 2015

Telepathology consultations benefit patients in China

A study by UPMC and KingMed Diagnostics researchers found that international telepathology consultations significantly improved patient care in China, altering treatment plans for over half of cases. The consultation service expanded access to pathology expertise, facilitating the diagnosis of rare malignancies.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Pathology Informatics·DateNov 30, 2015

UofL scientists identify critical pathway to improve muscle repair

Researchers at UofL discovered a mechanism involved in skeletal muscle repair that may enable clinicians to boost the effectiveness of adult stem cell therapies. TRAF6 ensures the vitality of stem cells, which regenerate muscle tissue, and its removal depletes Pax7, resulting in reduced muscle regeneration.

SourceUniversity of Louisville·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 30, 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 better way to grow bone cells

Researchers at Harvard developed a new technique to control stem cell differentiation into bone cells, mimicking the viscoelasticity of living tissue. The method increased osteogenic differentiation and allowed cells to grow into bone cells weeks after initial differentiation.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature Materials·DateNov 30, 2015

Common kitchen practices detrimental to tomato aroma

Refrigeration and blanching are detrimental to tomato aroma quality, impacting key contributors. Common kitchen practices not only affect consumer complaints but also alter volatile compound production.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateNov 30, 2015

Promising new antimicrobials could fight drug-resistant MRSA infection, study finds

Researchers at Georgia State University developed novel antimicrobials targeting SecA, a key disease-causing component of bacteria. The study found that these inhibitors can overcome drug resistance and reduce toxin secretion, offering a promising alternative to existing antibiotics for treating MRSA infections.

SourceGeorgia State University·JournalBioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry·DateNov 30, 2015

Novel insights into genetic cause of autoimmune diseases

Researchers have developed a new technique that maps genomic contact points to shed light on the parts of the genome involved in autoimmune diseases. This approach identified novel candidate genes relating to the risk of developing conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and type 1 diabetes.

SourceBabraham Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 30, 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.

Red clover genome to help restore sustainable farming

The red clover genome provides a valuable tool for improving the beneficial traits of this important forage crop, including its ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen and provide protein-rich livestock feed. The genome assembly will pave the way towards genomics-assisted breeding methods for forage legumes.

SourceEarlham Institute·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 30, 2015

UW researchers estimate poverty and wealth from cell phone metadata

Researchers used metadata from calls and texts to estimate wealth and poverty in Rwanda, finding patterns such as varied pre-paid time purchases and daily calling rhythms. The study suggests an alternative to traditional censuses for governments to estimate wealth distribution, costing around $10,000.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalScience·DateNov 30, 2015

Advanced new camera can measure greenhouse gases

A new hyperspectral infrared camera can photograph and film methane in the air, addressing uncertainty around its sources and sinks. The camera measures emissions from environments such as sewage sludge deposits, combustion processes, animal husbandry, and lakes.

SourceLinköping University·JournalNature Climate Change·DateNov 30, 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.

MRI reveals weight loss protects knees

A new MRI study reveals that substantial weight loss can protect against knee cartilage degeneration and reduce the risk of osteoarthritis. The study found that patients who lost more than 10% of their body weight showed slower cartilage degeneration compared to those who did not lose weight.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateNov 30, 2015

Dead-easy test to tackle parasites

A new test, xWORM, uses the xCELLigence E-Plate to measure parasite motility, reducing time-consuming microscope checks and costs, offering a promising solution for treating parasitic worm diseases. The technology has potential applications in global health, particularly in tropical regions where such parasites infect millions of peopl...

SourceJames Cook University·JournalInternational Journal for Parasitology·DateNov 30, 2015

Study suggests bees aren't the be all and end all for crop pollination

A recent study led by the University of Queensland found that non-bee insect pollinators, such as flies and butterflies, are crucial for crop pollination. These insects performed 25-50% of total flower visits and provided similar pollination services to bees.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 30, 2015

Unveiling the turbulent times of a dying star

A team of international researchers employed powerful computer simulations to study the creation of jets in dying stars. Their work sheds light on an explosive chain reaction that helps form the structure of the universe. The simulations revealed a highly turbulent place, where magnetorotational instability drives the formation of jets.

SourcePerimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics·JournalNature·DateNov 30, 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.

New study reveals what's behind a tarantula's blue hue

A recent study reveals that tiny nanostructures in the exoskeletons of blue-haired tarantulas are responsible for their vibrant color. The researchers believe this discovery could lead to new ways to improve computer and TV screens using biomimicry.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 30, 2015

New report outlines benefits and trade-offs of low-carbon energy

The report reveals that renewable energy improves the environment and protects human health by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and pollution. However, it also highlights challenges such as material scarcity, recycling issues, and energy penalties from carbon capture and storage systems.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·DateNov 30, 2015

Shining light on microbial growth and death inside our guts

Researchers develop novel method to track microbial populations, revealing key role of initial cell death in long-term survival and adaptation to gut environment. This advancement could help identify novel therapies for treating conditions like irritable bowel syndrome, obesity, and cancer.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 30, 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.

DNA repair factor linked to breast cancer may also play a role in Alzheimer's disease

Research suggests that low levels of BRCA1 protein in the brain may contribute to dementia. The study found that adding amyloid beta to neurons lowers levels of BRCA1, increasing DNA damage and cognitive decline. Further research is needed to determine whether BRCA1 may be a potential therapeutic target for treating dementia.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 30, 2015

Tiny octopods catalyze bright ideas

Researchers at Rice University have created nanoparticles that can function as both catalysts and plasmonic sensors. These tiny octopods, composed of gold and palladium, enhance chemical reactions while retaining their optical properties. This breakthrough may lead to more efficient industrial processes and sun-driven chemical reactions.

SourceRice University·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 30, 2015

Giant waste bins

Scientists have unraveled the abilities of multinucleated giant cells, which help the body deal with bulky items that obstruct physiological processes. The treatment for systemic amyloidosis has been found to be effective due to the complement system's role in marking and destroying protein deposits.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalCell Reports·DateNov 30, 2015

Assessing impact of asthma and eczema on children's lives

A new Northwestern Medicine project aims to better understand the effects of asthma and eczema on children's quality of life. The study will use PROMIS tools to measure the impact of these conditions, providing researchers and clinicians with more accurate assessments.

SourceNorthwestern University·DateNov 30, 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.

Waters are more polluted than tests say

Researchers found that pesticides can have lasting impacts on aquatic ecosystems, affecting populations of small crustaceans and zooplankton. The study's results suggest that standard toxicity tests may not capture the full extent of pollution in waters.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalEnvironmental Toxicology and Chemistry·DateNov 30, 2015

Method of postoperative pain relief may influence recovery from total knee replacement surgery

A new study found that periarticular injections reduced postoperative hospital stay and number of inpatient physical therapy sessions after total knee replacement surgery. Patients who received these injections recovered quicker due to maintaining control over the quadriceps muscles, allowing for faster walking independently.

SourceAmerican Osteopathic Association·JournalThe Journal of the American Osteopathic Association·DateNov 30, 2015

Aspirin targets key protein in neurodegenerative diseases

A study found that aspirin's breakdown product salicylic acid blocks cell death associated with Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and Huntington's disease by inhibiting the GAPDH enzyme. Derivatives of salicylic acid may hold promise for treating multiple neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceBoyce Thompson Institute·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 30, 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.

New in the Hastings Center Report

The November-December issue of the Hastings Center Report explores the ethics of neural devices, including deep brain stimulation and brain-computer interfaces. The issue also examines the use of e-cigarettes in health care organizations, where controversy surrounds their safety and effectiveness.

SourceThe Hastings Center·JournalHastings Center Report·DateNov 30, 2015

Parental absence affects brain development in children

Researchers found that children left without direct parental care for extended periods show larger gray matter volumes in the brain. The study also revealed a negative correlation between gray matter volume and IQ scores in left-behind children, suggesting delayed brain development.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateNov 30, 2015

COP21 -- A health, technology, energy, transportation agreement

COP21 seeks a universal agreement on climate change, aiming for a 40% reduction in greenhouse gases. The conference will focus on sustainable innovation, including biofuels research development, and encourage public awareness on climate change.

SourceWorld Scientific·JournalAsia-Pacific Biotech News·DateNov 30, 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.

Three food grade colorants identified for citrus

Researchers have identified three food-grade colorants that can replace Citrus Red No.2 (CR2) in citrus fruit treatment. Annatto extract was found to be the most successful replacement, producing a stable 'dark orange' color in treated peels.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateNov 30, 2015

Very large volcanic eruptions could lead to ice sheet instability

A new study from Durham University found links between massive volcanic eruptions and polar temperatures during the last Ice Age. The research indicates that Southern Hemisphere eruptions may have triggered abrupt warming in Greenland, while Northern Hemisphere eruptions caused Antarctic warming.

SourceDurham University·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 30, 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.

SSA honors Fan-Chi Lin with 2015 Charles F. Richter Early Career Award

Lin has published 26 papers on using ambient seismic noise to reconstruct internal structures of the Earth and map out structures in the crust and upper mantle with unprecedented accuracy. His method has been used to create detailed images of the Earth's inner core and a vast magma plumbing system below Yellowstone National Park.

SourceSeismological Society of America·DateNov 30, 2015

Medicaid expansion improves breast cancer screening for low-income women

A study presented at the Radiological Society of North America meeting found that Medicaid expansion improved breast cancer screening rates among low-income women in US states. The analysis showed a significant increase in breast cancer screening adherence after implementation of Medicaid expansion programs in early adopter states.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateNov 30, 2015

University of Illinois' researchers chart 'fitness landscape' to fight hep C virus

A team of researchers at the University of Illinois has developed a novel computational approach to accelerate the search for a hepatitis C vaccine. By analyzing the fitness landscape of the virus, they identified optimal formulations targeting viral vulnerabilities that can be attacked by the immune system.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalPhysical Biology·DateNov 30, 2015

Researchers find new phase of carbon, make diamond at room temperature

Researchers from North Carolina State University have discovered a new phase of solid carbon, called Q-carbon, which has unusual characteristics such as ferromagnetism. They have developed a technique for creating diamond-related structures at room temperature and ambient atmospheric pressure using Q-carbon.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateNov 30, 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.

Climate can grind mountains faster than they can be rebuilt

Researchers have discovered that climate-induced glaciation during ice ages can wear down mountains at a rate comparable to plate tectonics' ability to build them. Over a million-year period, erosion accelerated sharply due to global climate cooling, outpacing mountain building by 50-80 percent.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 30, 2015

Mechanobiology Institute and Cancer Science Institute of Singapore

Researchers have created a novel method to efficiently culture clusters of circulating tumour cells (CTCs) from blood samples in just 14 days. This breakthrough can help clinicians assess the best therapy options for patients and monitor their treatment progress, potentially replacing traditional biopsies.

SourceWorld Scientific·JournalAsia-Pacific Biotech News·DateNov 30, 2015

NASA sees Tropical Cyclone Tuni becomes extra-tropical

Tropical Cyclone Tuni lost its tropical characteristics and became extra-tropical as it moved southeast in the Southern Pacific Ocean. The storm's maximum sustained winds decreased from 60.4 mph to 40 mph, with heavy rain falling at a rate of over 1.4 inches per hour.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 30, 2015

USGS projects large loss of Alaska permafrost by 2100

Alaska permafrost is projected to decline by 16-24% by 2100 under widely accepted climate scenarios, with more losses expected in central Alaska than northern Alaska. Climate change degrades permafrost, affecting ground and surface water pathways, transportation, and releasing stored carbon.

SourceU.S. Geological Survey·JournalRemote Sensing of Environment·DateNov 30, 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.