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Science News for October 21, 2015


Vitamin B3 derivative cuts risk of new skin cancers

Nicotinamide significantly lowered the risk of common non-melanoma skin cancer in high-risk patients, reducing incidence by 23% compared to placebo controls. The treatment also cut the incidence of pre-cancerous sun spots by around 15%.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateOct 21, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Astronomers catch a black hole shredding a star to pieces

Researchers observe closest tidal disruption event in nearly a decade, gaining new understanding of black hole effects on nearby stars. The study reveals details about the formation of an accretion disk and the expulsion of gas from the black hole.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalNature·DateOct 21, 2015

Prawns reveal the secrets of innovation

A new study found that small and hungry prawns are more likely to innovate when in a group, while size has no effect alone or with hunger. This challenges the long-held notion that necessity drives innovation.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 21, 2015

University of Illinois awarded $8 million from NIH to study nuclear structure

A team led by Professor Andrew Belmont is using a combination of cytological, genomic, and functional mapping techniques to understand the organization and function of the nucleus. The research aims to uncover how changes in DNA positioning affect gene activity and overall genomic function.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·DateOct 21, 2015

European birdwatchers unravel how birds respond to climate change

A large dataset of bird sightings across Europe shows that some species benefit from warmer winters and more productive spring times, while others decline due to changing conditions. The study suggests that climate change will favor some species over others, with the most vulnerable being those adapted to colder regions.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateOct 21, 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.

Glowing fingerprints to fight crime

A CSIRO scientist has developed a novel fingerprint detection method that uses ultraviolet (UV) light to reveal latent prints on surfaces. This technique enables faster and more precise analysis, reducing the need for heat and vacuum treatment in laboratories.

SourceCSIRO Australia·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateOct 21, 2015

Penn researchers examine effects of federal recommendations on cartilage repair studies in large animal models

A team of Penn researchers analyzed 114 large animal studies on cartilage repair to determine adherence to federal guidelines. They found that most studies did not follow the guidelines, particularly when evaluating study outcomes, and suggested that a standardized reporting structure be implemented to improve translation.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateOct 21, 2015

Hulet wins American Physical Society's Davisson-Germer Prize

Randy Hulet, a leading expert in ultracold atomic gases, has won the American Physical Society's Davisson-Germer Prize for his groundbreaking investigations of quantum degenerate gases. His research group uses lasers to cool lithium gas to near absolute zero, unlocking the mysteries of quantum mechanics.

SourceRice University·DateOct 21, 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.

Gear, not geoducks, impacts ecosystem if farming increases

A new study suggests that geoduck farming in central Puget Sound could have significant impacts on the food web if farming activities increase by 120 percent. The equipment used to farm geoducks, including PVC pipes and nets, may have a greater impact than the addition of the clams themselves.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalICES Journal of Marine Science·DateOct 21, 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.

California 2100: More frequent and more severe droughts and floods likely

A study published in Nature Communications suggests that California will experience more frequent and severe droughts and floods due to the El Nino-Southern Oscillation. The researchers found that extreme weather events are likely to increase, with droughts potentially doubling and floods tripling by 2100.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 21, 2015

Nano power grids between bacteria

Researchers have found nano-wire connections between thermophilic AOM consortia, enabling energy transfer between archaea and sulphate reducers. These direct power wires facilitate the growth of sulphate reducers, providing insight into the anaerobic oxidation of methane.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·DateOct 21, 2015

Marker may predict risk of breast cancer spreading to the brain

Researchers developed a new tumor marker test that may predict breast cancer spread to the brain, based on alpha B-crystallin levels in breast tumors. The test found nearly three times higher likelihood of brain metastasis in women with alpha B-crystallin expression.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·Journalnpj Breast Cancer·DateOct 21, 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.

Finding the markets in emerging markets

A study in the Journal of Retailing found that leveraging distribution strategies can maximize firm performance in emerging markets. The authors propose an econometric model to help firms develop multichannel distribution strategies tailored to these markets.

SourceJournal of Retailing at New York University·JournalJournal of Retailing·DateOct 21, 2015

Chipping away at the secrets of ice formation

Researchers found that particle surfaces can impact ice crystallization and encourage different ice crystal orientations. This discovery could help improve understanding of climate science, air travel, and cryopreservation.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateOct 21, 2015

Biologists discover bacteria communicate like neurons in the brain

Researchers at UC San Diego found that bacteria use electrical signaling mechanisms similar to those in the human brain to communicate and resolve metabolic stress. This discovery suggests that bacterial biofilms may be connected to neurological disorders, such as migraines and seizures.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature·DateOct 21, 2015

Cosmic 'Death Star' is destroying a planet

Astronomers have spotted a large, rocky object disintegrating in its death spiral around a distant white dwarf star, confirming a long-standing theory behind the source of white dwarf 'pollution' by metals. The system shows signs of surrounding debris disk and at least one compact, rocky object.

SourceCenter for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian·JournalNature·DateOct 21, 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.

Immune responses provide clues for HIV vaccine development

A new review outlines findings that hint at the types of immune responses a preventive HIV vaccine may need to induce, including production of antiviral antibodies and CD4+ T cell responses. Many RV144 vaccinees produced antibodies in the IgG family linked to protection against acquiring HIV.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateOct 21, 2015

Number of postdocs declines for first time, new study shows

A new study shows a decline in postdoctoral researchers in the US, with a 5.5% loss from 2010-13, despite increasing PhD students. This decrease affects men and women, as well as US citizens and foreign postdocs.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateOct 21, 2015

For Latinos, African ancestry adds to risk of glaucoma

A recent study found that Latinos with greater African ancestry are at increased risk for high intraocular pressure, a condition that can lead to glaucoma and blindness. The study, led by Xiaoyi Gao, analyzed the genomes of over 3,500 participants and found that those with more African ancestry had higher pressure inside the eye.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalOphthalmology·DateOct 21, 2015

Study in mice shows how brain ignores distractions

Scientists mapped the thalamus circuitry that may be involved in neurological disorders such as autism, ADHD, and schizophrenia. The study found that inhibitory neurons in the thalamus play a critical role in filtering out distractions.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournalNature·DateOct 21, 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.

New care approach to liver operations speeds patient recovery

Patients undergoing oncologic liver operations who participated in an enhanced recovery program returned sooner to their normal life function and adjuvant cancer therapies than patients who were treated with a traditional approach. The study found that 75% of enhanced recovery patients achieved their baseline functional status within 3...

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateOct 21, 2015

Dead men punching

Researchers used cadaver arms in experiments supporting the idea that human hands evolved for both manual dexterity and fistfighting. They found humans can safely strike with 55% more force with a fully buttressed fist than with an unbuttressed fist.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateOct 21, 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.

Gardening therapy helps women on long-term sick leave return to work

A study at the University of Gothenburg found that combining garden therapy and job coaching strengthens women's physical and mental health, improving their quality of life. The program included practical gardening, mental exercises, and social work to support women on long-term sick leave

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalScandinavian Journal of Caring Sciences·DateOct 21, 2015

Nanoscale diamond 'racetrack' becomes breakthrough Raman laser

Researchers at Harvard University have developed a new class of Raman laser using nanoscale diamond resonator, enabling wider wavelength range and potential for improved telecommunications. The device works by converting one frequency of laser light to another, opening up possibilities for broadband data communications.

SourceOptica·JournalOptica·DateOct 21, 2015

Test could predict whether breast cancer will spread to the brain

A new test predicts whether breast cancer will spread to the brain by analyzing high activity in a particular gene called alpha beta-crystallin. Women with aggressive forms of breast cancer are three times more likely to develop secondary brain tumors if they test positive.

SourceInstitute of Cancer Research·Journalnpj Breast Cancer·DateOct 21, 2015

Researchers measure gait to reduce falls from glaucoma

Washington State University researchers created a sensing platform to measure and analyze gait patterns in people with glaucoma. This innovation aims to reduce falls and injuries by detecting early signs of the disease, such as slower walking pace and unequal step placement.

SourceWashington State University·DateOct 21, 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.

The dirty business of making new clothes tries to clean up

The textile industry is making efforts to clean up its act by using safer chemicals and natural alternatives, reducing water pollution caused by toxic compounds like dyes and solvents. Environmental groups are also calling for stricter practices to prevent illnesses among nearby residents and harm to local farms.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateOct 21, 2015

Rice news release: Cobalt atoms on graphene a powerful combo

Researchers at Rice University have created a novel, solid-state catalyst that splits water into hydrogen and oxygen, promising lower-cost alternatives to expensive platinum catalysts. The catalyst, made from nitrogen-doped graphene and cobalt atoms, shows high efficiency and durability in generating clean energy.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 21, 2015

Metal defects can be eliminated by cyclic loading

Researchers have found that repeated small stretching of nanoscale metal pieces can eliminate crystal defects in its crystalline structure, strengthening the material. This phenomenon is counterintuitive, as it is opposite to what one sees in larger metal crystals.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 21, 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.

Think global, act local goes for e-commerce, too

A new meta-analysis of e-excellence reveals that online businesses need to adjust almost every aspect to local culture, regulatory environment, and industry-specific factors. The study found that the relative importance of quality dimensions varied according to cultural attributes, regulatory environments, and industry contexts.

SourceJournal of Retailing at New York University·JournalJournal of Retailing·DateOct 21, 2015

Dive of the RoboBee

Researchers at Harvard's John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences have created a flying, swimming robotic bee that can transition between air and water. The microrobot, smaller than a paperclip, uses flapping motions inspired by puffins to propel itself through both mediums.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·DateOct 21, 2015

Dynamic social-network analysis reveals animal social behaviors

A new dynamic social-network analysis tool has revealed that the two species have vastly different community structures, with zebras forming large, stable groups and onagers forming smaller, more transient groups. This study provides insights into the adaptive value of these behaviors in response to different environmental pressures.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 21, 2015

Leprosy and elephantiasis: New cases could be prevented in 10 years

A new study by the NTD Modelling Consortium suggests that targeted research and high-quality data analysis can help prevent transmission of these diseases. The researchers aim to identify high-risk populations and develop effective interventions to meet the 2025 target.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalParasites & Vectors·DateOct 21, 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.

Study reveals how brain multitasks

A study published in Nature found that the thalamic reticular nucleus (TRN) plays a crucial role in multitasking by filtering out distracting sensory information. The TRN acts like a switchboard, continuously filtering sensory input and shifting attention to one sense while blocking out others.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalNature·DateOct 21, 2015

Genomic study sheds light on protective effects of malaria vaccine candidate

A genomic study has uncovered key biological insights into the protective effects of the RTS,S/AS01 malaria vaccine candidate. The research found that genetic variation in the protein targeted by RTS,S influences its ability to ward off malaria in young children, with allele-specificity playing a crucial role in vaccine protection.

SourceBroad Institute of MIT and Harvard·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateOct 21, 2015

Dehydration in older people could be detected by routine blood tests

Researchers have found a way to accurately screen for dehydration in older adults using routine blood tests for sodium, potassium, urea, and glucose. A simple mathematical equation can tell whether an older person is drinking enough fluid, reducing the risk of poor health outcomes such as disability and death.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalBMJ Open·DateOct 21, 2015

Synthetic batteries for the energy revolution

Researchers at Jena University developed a simple, safe, and economical redox-flow battery based on organic polymers and water, which can be produced at lower cost than traditional systems. The new technology has shown high capacity and efficiency in initial tests.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalNature·DateOct 21, 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.

Antarctic species threatened by willful misinterpretation of legal treaty

Scientists and legal scholars warn that countries are misinterpreting the 'rational use' of natural resources to escalate fishing efforts in Antarctic waters. Marine protected areas, crucial for conserving the region's last intact ecosystem, are being hindered by this misinterpretation.

SourceStanford's School of Earth, Energy & Environmental Sciences·JournalMarine Policy·DateOct 21, 2015

Study: Internet TV means more options, not viewing time -- even for binge watchers

A new study from the University of Texas at Dallas finds that online TV viewing does not lead to increased viewing time, but rather makes the experience more pleasurable with greater variety of shows to choose from. Consumers can find a program that fits their taste without changing their overall TV consumption habits.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalJournal of Cultural Economics·DateOct 21, 2015

Beavers take a chunk out of nitrogen in Northeast rivers

Research found beaver-created ponds can remove 5-45% of nitrogen from water, reducing the risk of algal blooms and low oxygen levels. The study's findings suggest a new perspective on the ecological benefits of beavers in the region.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalJournal of Environmental Quality·DateOct 21, 2015

Everything you always wanted to know about marketing channels

The article provides a comprehensive overview of marketing channel systems, tracing their evolution from two-party relationships to networks of channels and multiple platforms. Key findings include the impact of globalization, e-commerce technologies, and big data on channel decisions.

SourceJournal of Retailing at New York University·JournalJournal of Retailing·DateOct 21, 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.

Children who take antibiotics gain weight faster than kids who don't

A new study suggests that antibiotic use during childhood can lead to faster weight gain and higher body mass index (BMI) over time. The research analyzed data from over 163,000 children and found that those who received antibiotics multiple times weighed about three pounds more than those who did not.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalInternational Journal of Obesity·DateOct 21, 2015

Magneticum Pathfinder: Evolution of the universe in an unmatched precision

A new hydrodynamical simulation of the universe's visible structure, Magneticum Pathfinder, provides unparalleled insights into the cosmic landscape. The simulation covers a vast area of 12.5 billion light years, featuring unprecedented resolution and detail.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateOct 21, 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.

76-million-year-old extinct species of pig-snouted turtle unearthed in Utah

A team of scientists has unearthed a 2-foot-long, 76-million-year-old fossil of an extinct turtle species with a unique pig-like snout, providing valuable insights into the evolution of turtles. The discovery sheds light on the impact of climate change and rising sea levels on ancient ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalJournal of Vertebrate Paleontology·DateOct 21, 2015

LSTM's health economists call for strategies for universal access to medicines

Health economists from the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine argue that universal access to medicines is critical in controlling neglected diseases, major infections, and chronic diseases. The PURE study reveals that secondary prevention is unavailable and unaffordable in many communities worldwide, highlighting the need for polici...

SourceLiverpool School of Tropical Medicine·JournalThe Lancet·DateOct 21, 2015

Splitting human embryos to produce twins for IVF may not be viable

A new study led by King's College London found that splitting human embryos to produce twins for IVF may not be viable due to delays in development. The research suggests that a 'developmental clock' plays a critical role in earliest stages of human development, which can be interrupted by the splitting process.

SourceKing's College London·JournalHuman Reproduction·DateOct 21, 2015

Berkeley Lab scientists to help build world's first total-body PET scanner

The Berkeley Lab team is developing electronics that will send data from the scanner's detectors to a computer, converting it into a three-dimensional image of the patient. This new scanner will have half a million detectors, reducing a patient's radiation dose by a factor of 40 and scanning time from 20 minutes to just 30 seconds.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·DateOct 21, 2015

Using ultrasound to improve drug delivery

Researchers have found a way to enable ultra-rapid drug delivery to the gastrointestinal tract using ultrasound waves, which could aid in treating inflammatory bowel diseases. The technology, tested in pig and mouse models, showed improved absorption of insulin and mesalamine, paving the way for potential new treatments.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateOct 21, 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.

Japanese animal biologist Takashi Yoshimura wins the 2015 Van Meter Award

Takashi Yoshimura, a professor at Nagoya University, has made outstanding contributions to thyroid hormone research. His discoveries on seasonal reproduction in birds, mammals, and fish are expected to advance human reproductive health and mood disorders related to seasonal changes.

SourceInstitute of Transformative Bio-Molecules (ITbM), Nagoya University·DateOct 21, 2015

Gone with the wind

Researchers at the Max Planck Institute for Ornithology found that birds can save energy and time by using optimal wind conditions. They calculated global aerial flyways that allow efficient traveling, suggesting a new strategy for migratory birds to reduce travel time and increase reproductive output.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalEcology Letters·DateOct 21, 2015

New study rings alarm for sugar maple in Adirondacks

A new study found a significant decline in the growth rate of sugar maple trees in the Adirondack Mountains, raising concerns about the long-term health of northeastern ecosystems. The research suggests that factors such as acid rain, insect outbreaks, and late frost damage may contribute to this decline.

SourceSUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry·JournalEcosphere·DateOct 21, 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.

Breast, ovarian cancer risk may have association with sense of smell

Researchers found that mice with BRCA1 mutations exhibited enhanced responsiveness to male scent, which stimulated their estrous cycles and ovary function. This discovery suggests a potential indirect link between sense of smell and breast, ovarian cancer risk in women carrying BRCA1 mutations.

SourceUniversity of Southern California - Health Sciences·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 21, 2015

Diamonds -- a tooth's best friend?

Researchers have created a new material combining nanodiamonds, gutta-percha, and amoxicillin to strengthen root canal fillings and kill bacteria. The material shows promise in preventing re-infections and improving current therapies.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Nano·DateOct 21, 2015

Staphylococcus aureus Achilles' heels

Scientists have identified a human cell protein called PLEKHA7 as a key modulator of Staphylococcus aureus virulence. Mice lacking this protein showed improved healing from skin infections and pneumonia, paving the way for potential new therapies to combat antibiotic-resistant strains.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 21, 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.

Caltech scientists find cells rhythmically regulate their genes

A new study finds that cells activate and deactivate proteins in a series of unpredictable pulses, allowing them to control gene expression. The timing of these pulses may play an important role in cellular processes such as information processing and stress response.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateOct 21, 2015

Worldwide shift in heart medication delivery required: Study

A radical shift is needed in how heart medicines are provided and preventive care is organized in healthcare systems to improve rates of use. Generic versions of medicines should be made available for free in developing countries, while non-physician health workers can improve uptake and adherence.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalThe Lancet·DateOct 21, 2015

Blood pressure medication can't undo all damage

A new Northwestern Medicine study found that blood pressure medication can reduce cardiovascular disease risk, but it cannot undo all previous damage. Middle-aged adults with well-controlled hypertension on medication had a higher risk of end-organ damage compared to those without treatment.

SourceNorthwestern University·DateOct 21, 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.

Masaaki Suzuki receives the 2015 Gutenberg Teaching Award

Masaaki Suzuki, a leading authority on Johann Sebastian Bach, received the 2015 Gutenberg Teaching Award for his contributions to academic teaching in instrumental music, conducting, and vocal arts. The award recognizes his interdisciplinary approach to teaching, which crosses subject and cultural borders.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·DateOct 21, 2015

This fish out of water cools down fast: Study

Researchers found that mangrove rivulus fish rapidly lose body temperature by jumping out of water and onto solid ground, where evaporation cools them down. The study, led by the University of Guelph team, also showed that these fish can tolerate warmer waters better after being exposed to higher temperatures for a week.

SourceUniversity of Guelph·JournalBiology Letters·DateOct 21, 2015

Genetic defense for violent crimes could backfire for defendants

New research suggests that jurors may support an insanity defense if they believe a defendant has a genetic explanation for their actions, but also view them as a persistent threat. The study found that participants were more likely to support a diminished capacity defense and believed the defendant had less control over their actions.

SourceSociety for Personality and Social Psychology·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateOct 21, 2015

Cats retain multiple functional bitter taste receptors

New research reveals cats have at least seven functional bitter taste receptors, despite not consuming plants in their diet. The study questions the common hypothesis that bitter taste evolved to protect animals from ingesting poisonous plant compounds.

SourceMonell Chemical Senses Center·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 21, 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.

YouTube videos on peripheral nerve pain may misguide patients

Researchers found that YouTube videos on peripheral neuropathy were often misleading, with alternative medicine being the most frequently cited treatment. Only a minority of treatment discussions were based on recommendations from the American Academy of Neurology.

SourceWiley·JournalMuscle & Nerve·DateOct 21, 2015

Cracking the code for selling into the developing world

The study analyzed sales of soft drinks in southeastern Brazil, finding that mass advertising is less effective in full-service stores, where package size variety is crucial. Brands' channel relationship programs support price increases with no decrease in sales, highlighting the need for tailored marketing strategies.

SourceJournal of Retailing at New York University·JournalJournal of Retailing·DateOct 21, 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.

Advances made against the deadly infection complication, sepsis

A hospital surveillance program utilizing a two-stage Clinical Decision Support (CDS) system reduced the risk of adverse outcomes, such as death and hospice discharge for sepsis patients, by 30%. The study found that 61% of patients who first activated the alert had SIRS syndrome, an early physiologic response to infection.

SourceSAGE·JournalAmerican Journal of Medical Quality·DateOct 21, 2015

Ocean heat content reveals secrets of fish migration behaviors

A new method estimates fish movements using ocean heat content images, revealing detailed movements not apparent with surface temperature data. The analysis shows large migratory fishes have affinities for ocean fronts and eddies, similar to hurricanes.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 21, 2015

Antipsychotics use among older adults increases with age

Researchers found that antipsychotic prescriptions for seniors increased with age after 65, with nearly half of those over 80 using the drugs in excess of 120 days. The study highlights concerns about safety and calls for alternative treatments.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Mental Health·JournalJournal of Clinical Psychiatry·DateOct 21, 2015

More menopause-focused education required for doctors

A new study from Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine demonstrates the effectiveness of a two-year menopause-focused curriculum for OB/GYN residents. The program improved residents' confidence in managing menopause patients, with 85.7% feeling comfortable or very comfortable after completion.

SourceThe Menopause Society·JournalMenopause·DateOct 21, 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.

How diet may affect the progression of multiple sclerosis

Research found that long-chain fatty acids promote CNS reactive immune cells, while short-chain fatty acids regulate autoimmune responses. The study suggests a potential role for dietary interventions in managing multiple sclerosis.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalImmunity·DateOct 21, 2015

Scientists predict cool new phase of superionic ice

Researchers at Princeton University have predicted a new phase of superionic ice with unusual conductivity properties. The P21/c-SI phase occurs at high pressures beyond giant ice planets, offering insights into the material's behavior.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 21, 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 study: Algae virus can jump to mammalian cells

A new study by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln has provided direct evidence that an algae-infecting virus can invade and replicate within some mammalian cells. The virus, known as Acanthocystis turfacea chlorella virus 1 (ATCV-1), successfully infiltrated macrophage cells in mice, causing changes characteristic of a viral infection.

SourceUniversity of Nebraska-Lincoln·JournalJournal of Virology·DateOct 21, 2015