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Science News for October 5, 2015


UC Davis researchers receive grant to study K-12 student readiness

Researchers at UC Davis will investigate how the state's 'Smarter Balanced' assessments identify students as ready for college and careers, and examine early signals of college readiness on high school coursework and outcomes. The project aims to improve alignment between K-12 and higher education.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·DateOct 5, 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.

Electron tomography with 3,487 images in 3.5 seconds

Researchers have developed a high-speed electron tomography technique that sets new standards for 3D imaging of the nanoworld. The method enables visualization of dynamic processes and structures with sub-nanometre precision, opening up new horizons in life sciences and soft matter research.

SourceForschungszentrum Juelich·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 5, 2015

Flipping molecular attachments amps up activity of CO2 catalyst

Researchers found that flipping the molecular attachments on an iridium hydride catalyst improves its ability to transform CO2 into formate and carbon monoxide, two precursors for methanol production. The study offers insights into designing more effective catalysts for a carbon-neutral society.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateOct 5, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Africa faces rising rates of traumatic brain injury

African countries face a significant burden of traumatic brain injury, with the majority resulting from motor vehicle accidents. Developing accurate surveillance systems and public health measures is crucial to reducing the risk and impact of TBI.

SourceWiley·JournalEuropean Journal of Neurology·DateOct 5, 2015

Study finds high HPV prevalence in subset of Peruvian men

A UC Riverside-led study found a high prevalence of HPV infection among Peruvian men who have sex with men (MSM), highlighting the need for targeted HPV vaccine delivery. The study suggests that HPV vaccine can be a useful tool in preventing chronic infection and related cancers among sexually experienced individuals.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 5, 2015

Why hasn't he/she replied yet?

A new study from USC Viterbi School of Engineering identifies key factors that influence email response times. The study found that younger people respond faster, but write shorter replies, while older individuals take longer to respond. Additionally, the researchers discovered that platform usage and timing also impact response time.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·DateOct 5, 2015

Developing a nanoscale 'clutch'

Researchers have created a model microscopic system to demonstrate torque transmission at the nanoscale, overcoming thermal fluctuations and energy dissipation. The device uses colloidal particles to transfer rotational motion, revealing new transmission phenomena not seen in macroscopic machines.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNature Physics·DateOct 5, 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.

Green walls: A red card for office worker health?

A new study by University of York academics reveals that green walls can lead to higher levels of ultrafine particles (UFPs) indoors due to the oxidation of outdoor plant species. This could have significant implications for indoor air quality, particularly in offices with high temperatures and pollution.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateOct 5, 2015

Molecular nanoribbons as electronic highways

Researchers at Umeå University and UC Berkeley have developed a method to synthesise novel molecular nanoribbons that resemble graphene but in molecular form. The nanoribbons exhibit ideal properties as electronic highways for organic solar cells, with dimensions smaller than 10-15 nanometres.

SourceUmea University·JournalACS Nano·DateOct 5, 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.

Packaged food purchases at non-grocery stores are up but nutritional quality is down

A new study found that consumers are increasingly buying packaged foods from mass merchandisers, warehouse clubs, and convenience stores, leading to a decline in nutritional quality. The study revealed that households purchase more calories, sugar, sodium, and saturated fat compared to grocery stores.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateOct 5, 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.

Crucial hurdle overcome in quantum computing

Researchers at the University of New South Wales have successfully built a silicon quantum computer, overcoming a crucial hurdle. The achievement enables the creation of a logic gate using two qubits, paving the way for a full-scale processor chip.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalNature·DateOct 5, 2015

Scientists use holography to peer into clouds

Researchers used holographic imaging to analyze cloud mixing behavior, revealing clear boundaries between wet and dry air. The findings challenge current computer models and may enhance weather predictions by providing more accurate insights into cloud interactions.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalScience·DateOct 5, 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.

Ethnic, racial & socioeconomic disparities in retinoblastoma in children

Disparities in retinoblastoma outcomes exist among children of different ethnicities and socioeconomic statuses, with Hispanic children having a higher percentage of extraocular disease and being more likely to undergo enucleation. Low socioeconomic status is associated with greater risks for advanced disease and poorer ocular outcomes.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateOct 5, 2015

New TSRI metabolomic platform reveals fundamental flaw in common lab technology

A new study reveals that gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS) fundamentally alters the samples it analyzes due to heat, affecting thousands of laboratories worldwide. The researchers used a data analysis platform to observe small molecules transforming and disappearing during an experiment meant to mimic the GC-MS process.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateOct 5, 2015

New kind of plant movement discovered in a carnivorous pitcher plant

Researchers at University of Bristol have discovered a new type of plant movement that uses falling raindrops to drive its trapping mechanism, outperforming the Venus flytrap. The pitcher plant's lid pivots up and down like a springboard, flinging ants into the trap with peak velocities similar to a jumping locust.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 5, 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.

Pinpointing gene that regulates repair and regeneration in adult lungs

The sonic hedgehog gene plays a crucial role in maintaining the normal physiological state and repair process of an adult healthy lung. In contrast to previous reports, hedgehog signaling decreases after lung injury, which correlates with the loss of cells that normally express the sonic hedgehog gene.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNature·DateOct 5, 2015

Face-to-face socializing more powerful than phone calls, emails in guarding against depression

A new study by Oregon Health & Science University found that regular face-to-face social interactions with family and friends significantly lower the risk of depression, while phone calls and digital communications have less impact. Study participants who met up frequently had the lowest level of depressive symptoms.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateOct 5, 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.

What's in store 5 decades following childhood-onset epilepsy?

A 45-year study of 179 individuals with childhood-onset epilepsy found that patients attain excellent seizure outcomes, but often exhibit abnormal neurologic signs. These signs may be a risk factor for future stroke and cognitive impairment, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and care.

SourceWiley·JournalEpilepsia·DateOct 5, 2015

Sharing of genetic data empowers discovery of new disorders in children

A new study has identified four previously uncharacterized genetic disorders in children, using a computational approach to analyze DNA samples from over 4,000 families across the UK and Republic of Ireland. The researchers compared these samples with data from millions of people who have agreed to share their genetic information.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalNature Genetics·DateOct 5, 2015

New centers help health workers fight deadly infections

The University of Illinois at Chicago has been chosen as one of six research centers in the US to combat emerging infectious diseases. Researchers will study how healthcare workers can care for patients without putting themselves at risk, addressing concerns about Ebola and other diseases.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·DateOct 5, 2015

Cryptic invasions by ecological engineers conceal profound changes in nature

A new study found that introduced salt marsh plants, like Spartina alterniflora, have caused significant shifts in ecosystem productivity and biodiversity over the past 200 years. These changes were likely hidden from scientists due to the 'ecological mirage' phenomenon, where our perception of nature can be illusory.

SourceWiley·JournalDiversity and Distributions·DateOct 5, 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.

History shows more big wildfires likely as climate warms

A new study suggests that large fires will continue to increase as a result of climate warming, citing evidence from charcoal deposits in lakes near Mount Zirkel Wilderness in northern Colorado. The research found that even modest regional warming trends can cause exceptionally large areas to be burned by wildfires.

SourceUniversity of Wyoming·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 5, 2015

Turning T cell immunology on its head

Researchers at Monash University discovered that regulatory T cells can function even when their receptors bind to MHC in a completely different orientation, challenging established views on the immune system. This finding opens up new avenues for investigating and potentially treating autoimmune diseases like type 1 diabetes.

SourceMonash University·JournalNature Immunology·DateOct 5, 2015

Paper: Civic participation can bridge social-class segregation

A new study by Richard Benton suggests that participating in voluntary civic organizations strengthens ties to high-status individuals and improves social capital. This is particularly true for shared social spaces like workplaces, schools, and neighborhoods, which are often segregated by social class traits.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalSocial Networks·DateOct 5, 2015

Stress in adolescence prepares rats for future challenges

Rats exposed to frequent stress during adolescence showed improved problem-solving skills and foraging efficiency under high-threat conditions in adulthood. This study provides insights into how humans respond to adolescent stress and may inform research on human maltreatment and adverse environments.

SourcePenn State·JournalAnimal Behaviour·DateOct 5, 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.

Dengue epidemics linked to high temperatures during strong El Nino season

A recent study found that dengue epidemics are more likely to occur during abnormally high temperatures brought by El Niño weather patterns. The research team analyzed 18 years of data and discovered synchronicity in dengue transmission across the entire region, highlighting the need for improved disease surveillance and control efforts.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 5, 2015

Laws in 25 states put the brakes on high school bullying

A comprehensive study of 25 US states found that compliance with antibullying laws reduces rates of bullying and cyberbullying by 24% and 20% respectively. The study identified three critical components of successful anti-bullying state laws: school intervention, clear definitions, and local policies.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateOct 5, 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.

Artificial scents have no place in hospitals

Asthma and other allergies can be aggravated by artificial scents in hospitals, affecting vulnerable patients. Implementing a scent-free policy promotes patient safety and well-being.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateOct 5, 2015

Expectant dads get depressed too

A recent study published in the American Journal of Men's Health found that 13.3% of expectant fathers experience elevated levels of depressive symptoms during their partner's pregnancy. The research highlights the importance of depression screening and early prevention efforts for men who are about to become parents.

SourceMcGill University Health Centre·DateOct 5, 2015

'Religions resemble each other in their diversity'

A scholar of religion proposes a new theory on religious diversity, suggesting that religions share more commonalities than differences. He argues that interreligious theology can help believers overcome prejudices and develop appreciation for other religions.

SourceCluster of Excellence "Religion and Politics"·DateOct 5, 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.

Horse sickness shares signs of human brain disorders, study finds

Researchers found similarities between horse sickness and human conditions like Alzheimer's disease in a study published in Molecular and Cellular Proteomics. The findings shed light on the causes of equine grass sickness, a rare but fatal condition that can be tricky to diagnose.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalMolecular & Cellular Proteomics·DateOct 5, 2015

Ancestors of land plants were wired to make the leap to shore

Research reveals that ancient aquatic algae were genetically pre-adapted to form symbiotic relationships with microorganisms, crucial for plant nutrient acquisition. This finding sheds light on the evolution of land plants from freshwater algae and could help unlock efficient nutrient acquisition in crops like cereals.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 5, 2015

Optogenetic research shows which neurons flip fertility master switch

Researchers have identified kisspeptin neurons as the key players in generating episodic hormone pulses crucial to normal reproductive functioning. These findings hold promise for developing new fertility treatments targeting brain circuitry disorders, which contribute to up to one-third of all infertility cases.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 5, 2015

Southampton researchers find a new way to weigh a star

Researchers at the University of Southampton have developed a new method for measuring the mass of pulsars, highly magnetised rotating neutron stars. This breakthrough technique relies on principles of nuclear physics and can be used to measure the mass of young pulsars in isolation.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 5, 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.

A simpler way to estimate the feedback between permafrost carbon and climate

A team of researchers developed a simple model of permafrost carbon based on direct observations. For every one degree Celsius of global warming, the amount of permafrost carbon that enters the atmosphere is equivalent to 1.5 years of global carbon dioxide emissions.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London·DateOct 5, 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.

Are fish the greatest athletes on the planet?

Research reveals fish have a more efficient oxygen delivery system than humans, allowing them to thrive in various water conditions. This adaptation is crucial for their survival, particularly during times of stress or low oxygen levels.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 5, 2015

Happy head, happy heart: Positive emotions may promote heart-healthy behaviors

Patients with higher positive psychological states were more likely to engage in healthy habits, such as physical activity and better sleep quality. Positive emotions also enabled people to cope with stress and adjust their health goals, leading to improved adherence to medications and reduced smoking rates.

SourcePenn State·JournalPsychosomatic Medicine·DateOct 5, 2015

Genetic differences among monkeys in Tanzania show troubling pattern

Research reveals that human activities, particularly deforestation and fires, are driving genetic differentiation among the Udzungwa red colobus monkey in Tanzania. The study's findings suggest that these changes are threatening the species' survival, as smaller populations become isolated and more susceptible to extinction.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalHeredity·DateOct 5, 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.

UTA Physicist wins American Physical Society instrumentation award

David Nygren, a renowned physicist at UTA, has been awarded the Division of Particles and Fields Instrumentation Award for his pioneering work on the Time Projection Chamber. This technology has enabled accurate capture of results in high-energy particle collisions, leading to breakthroughs in particle detection and discovery.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateOct 5, 2015

Big range of behaviors for tiny graphene pores

Scientists at MIT have developed tiny graphene pores that exhibit diverse preferences for certain ions, similar to those found in biological channels. The findings have significant implications for the development of ion-specific membranes for environmental sensing and trace metal mining.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateOct 5, 2015

Animal species in today's oceans most diverse than ever

The analysis reveals that modern oceans have a unique and unparalleled biodiversity, with numerous species coexisting due to the fossil record's large Internet database. Human impacts on the environment could lead to a decline in biodiversity.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeology·DateOct 5, 2015

Volcanic eruptions affect flow of world's major rivers, study finds

Major volcanic eruptions can trigger reduced river flow in tropical and northern Asia regions, including Amazon, Congo, and Nile, researchers found. The study also reveals increased flow in sub-tropical regions like the south-west US and parts of South America.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalNature Geoscience·DateOct 5, 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.

Self-regulating corals protect their skeletons against ocean acidification

A team of scientists found a coral species that can maintain a constant pH in its calcifying fluid, even under acidic conditions. This unique mechanism allows the coral to form its calcium carbonate skeleton and grow at a relatively constant rate.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 5, 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.

True colors: Using molecular analysis to clarify dino color claims

Scientists utilize advanced molecular techniques to clarify dinosaur color, distinguishing melanosomes from microbial coats. By analyzing keratin and ToF-SIMS results, researchers confirm the presence of melanin in fossilized feathers, shedding light on ancient color patterns.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalBioEssays·DateOct 5, 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.

Global studies in October Health Affairs

The October issue of Health Affairs explores global health experiences to inform US policy, particularly on addressing risk selection and premium rates. Studies examine strategies used by European countries to reduce high costs, such as quality skimping and flexible premium rates.

SourceHealth Affairs·JournalHealth Affairs·DateOct 5, 2015

Study examines antibullying policies and bullying in 25 states

A study published by JAMA Pediatrics found that students in states with antibullying laws including at least one U.S. Department of Education-recommended legislative component had lower odds of reporting bullying and cyberbullying compared to those in states without such provisions.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateOct 5, 2015

Surprise: Your visual cortex is making decisions

Researchers found that the visual cortex can make decisions on its own, switching between different interpretations of visual input. This discovery challenges previous assumptions about the role of the visual cortex in processing visual information.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateOct 5, 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.

Dengue protein modulates human enzyme: Fuel for replication

Researchers discovered that the Dengue virus NS1 protein binds to the host enzyme Glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH), increasing its glycolytic activity to support viral replication. This finding suggests that GAPDH is a crucial target for developing new treatments against dengue.

SourcePublicase International·JournalJournal of Virology·DateOct 5, 2015

OU engineering professor leads NSF grant on infrastructure resilience

University of Oklahoma School of Industrial and Systems Engineering researcher Kash Barker is leading a project to evaluate the impact of analytics on infrastructure resilience. The goal is to design resilience into infrastructure systems, such as transportation and electric power networks, to withstand disruptions and recover rapidly.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·DateOct 5, 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.

Laser-wielding physicists seize control of atoms' behavior

Researchers have successfully tuned lasers to manipulate atoms' interactions in a Bose-Einstein condensate, allowing for exotic states of matter. This breakthrough enables the exploration of unusual quantum phenomena and the engineering of novel quantum devices.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateOct 5, 2015

A genetic polymorphism associated with lung cancer progression

A genetic polymorphism in the EPAS1 gene has been associated with poor prognosis and enhanced expression in patients with non-small cell lung cancer. The study found that individuals with the A allele had a significantly shorter overall survival time compared to those with the G allele.

SourceHiroshima University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 5, 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.

Hospital care patterns vary greatly for children with complex medical issues

Researchers found significant differences in hospital care for children with medical complexity, including variation in intensive care unit days and diagnostic tests. The study highlights the need to identify best practices to improve quality and reduce costs in care for this growing patient population.

SourceThe Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy & Clinical Practice·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateOct 5, 2015

ORNL researchers find 'greener' way to assemble materials for solar applications

Scientists at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have found a way to assemble photovoltaic polymers in water using a surfactant, enabling the creation of defect-free polymer assemblies for fast electric charge transport. This breakthrough creates molecular building blocks for designing optoelectronic and sensory materials.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalNanoscale·DateOct 5, 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.

UV-light enabled catheter fixes holes in the heart without invasive surgery

Researchers have designed a specialized catheter that uses biodegradable adhesive and patch to fix holes in the heart without open heart surgery. The catheter is inserted through a vein and activates a patch with UV light, allowing it to secure itself in place and dissolve over time.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateOct 5, 2015

Blood clots may complicate aortic valve replacements

A new study from the Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute shows that about 15% of patients with bioprosthetic aortic heart valves develop blood clots on the leaflets, which can impair valve motion. However, anti-coagulation medications like Warfarin quickly resolve the issue for all patients, regardless of the type of valve or procedure.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateOct 5, 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.

Many women experience 'post-sex blues'

A study published in Sexual Medicine found that postcoital dysphoria affects 46% of women, leading to feelings of melancholy or depression. The study also revealed a relationship between negative emotions and potential evolutionary functions.

SourceWiley·JournalSexual Medicine·DateOct 5, 2015

Scientists test new gene therapy for vision loss from a mitochondrial disease

Researchers develop novel mouse model for Leber hereditary optic neuropathy and demonstrate successful gene therapy in improving visual function. The approach could aid therapy development for various mitochondrial diseases, with a clinical trial currently underway.

SourceNIH/National Eye Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 5, 2015

When care turns costly, patients leave private Medicare

A new Brown University study found that patients who require high-cost services like hospital, at-home, or nursing home care are more likely to switch from private Medicare Advantage plans to traditional Medicare. This shift occurs despite federal policy aimed at preventing it, raising questions about the effectiveness of current regul...

SourceBrown University·JournalHealth Affairs·DateOct 5, 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.

Brightness-equalized quantum dots improve biological imaging

A new class of light-emitting quantum dots has been introduced, enabling precise control over their fluorescence brightness across a range of colors. This innovation allows for more accurate measurements of molecules in diseased tissue and improved quantitative imaging capabilities.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 5, 2015

Antibiotics after knee and hip surgery: Are they effective?

A commentary published in CMAJ argues that prescribing antibiotics after joint surgery has little evidence to support it. Research suggests that bone cement impregnated with antibiotics is a more effective practice, but its use is not widespread.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateOct 5, 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.

Research improves efficiency from larger perovskite solar cells

Researchers at Brown University have developed a new fabrication method to attain better than 15-percent energy conversion efficiency from perovskite solar cells larger than one square centimeter area. The process, which involves growing ultra-smooth films of perovskite crystals, reduces defects and increases efficiency.

SourceBrown University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateOct 5, 2015

Compulsive texting associated with poorer school performance among adolescent girls, study finds

A study published by the American Psychological Association found that teenage girls who compulsively text do worse academically compared to their male counterparts. The research suggests that compulsive texting is more problematic than mere frequency of texting, as it involves trying to cut back and feeling frustrated.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalPsychology of Popular Media Culture·DateOct 5, 2015

Gut bacteria population, diversity linked to anorexia nervosa

Researchers at UNC School of Medicine found that people with anorexia nervosa have distinct microbial communities compared to healthy individuals, which is associated with some psychological symptoms. The study suggests that altering gut microbiota could help patients with weight maintenance and mood stabilization.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalPsychosomatic Medicine·DateOct 5, 2015

Should women have an annual pelvic exam? Depends on who you ask

The American College of Physicians recommends against routine pelvic exams for asymptomatic adult women due to low diagnostic accuracy. In contrast, the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology maintains that annual exams are necessary for recognizing issues like incontinence and sexual dysfunction.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateOct 5, 2015

Training by repetition actually prevents learning for those with autism

A new study published in Nature Neuroscience found that individuals with autism spectrum disorder struggle to transfer learned knowledge to new contexts when trained through repetition. In contrast, breaks in repetition allow autistic individuals to learn efficiently and generalize, promoting broader concept understanding.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateOct 5, 2015

Flame retardant breakthrough is naturally derived and nontoxic

Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin have created a new flame retardant made from polydopamine, a natural compound found in humans and animals. The nanocoating reduces fire intensity by 67% and is about 20% better than existing flame retardants.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalChemistry of Materials·DateOct 5, 2015

Schools are underprepared for pandemics and natural disasters: Study

A study published in the American Journal of Infection Control found that US schools are not better prepared for pandemics than they were in 2011. Schools reported having less than half of the measured indicators for preparedness, with notable gaps in bioterrorism readiness and addressing student psychological needs.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Infection Control·DateOct 5, 2015

Early concept projects explore Internet-enabled manufacturing

Researchers explore ways to expand and ease access to manufacturing services through web-based operating systems and apps. They aim to create interoperable, reliable, and secure cybermanufacturing systems that enable easy access and simplify design and manufacturing processes.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·DateOct 5, 2015

Ohio State research helps optimize safety of child car seat installation

A new study by Ohio State researchers found that more than 40 percent of child car seats do not align properly with vehicle seats. The study analyzed 3,600 potential combinations and recommended measuring cars to ensure the best fit, as proper installation is crucial for child safety.

SourceMediaSource·JournalTraffic Injury Prevention·DateOct 5, 2015

In-person contact is critical to seniors' mental well-being

A recent study highlights the importance of in-person social connections for preventing depression in older adults. Individuals without regular face-to-face interactions had a significantly higher risk of developing depressive symptoms.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateOct 5, 2015

Superconductivity trained to promote magnetization

Researchers at Lomonosov Moscow State University have discovered a phenomenon where superconductivity promotes magnetization under certain conditions. This finding could lead to the development of spintronics devices that are more energy-efficient and stable, potentially replacing traditional computing methods.

SourceLomonosov Moscow State University·JournalNature Physics·DateOct 5, 2015

New on-chip optical sensing technique used to detect multiple flu strains

Researchers at UC Santa Cruz and Brigham Young University have developed a novel method for multiplex fluorescence detection on a small chip, enabling the rapid detection and identification of different flu virus subtypes. The technique uses wavelength division multiplexing to create distinctive signals in an optical waveguide.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 5, 2015

Three new chigger mite species discovered in Taiwan

Three new species of trombiculid mites and 23 new records of previously-known species have been found in Taiwan, increasing the total number of chigger species to 47. The discovery highlights the potential for more species to be discovered in mountainous regions.

SourceEntomological Society of America·JournalJournal of Medical Entomology·DateOct 5, 2015

EU funding to support chronic lung disease research

The FRESH AIR project will adapt and test innovative ways to implement evidence-based practice in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of chronic lung disease. Researchers from Plymouth University will use experience gained from previous projects involving pulmonary rehabilitation clinics and smoking cessation programmes.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·DateOct 5, 2015