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Science News for February 2, 2016


Misery of work second only to illness

Researchers found a 7-8% drop in happiness among British workers compared to leisure activities outside of work. The Mappiness app, which quizzes users on their wellbeing, debunks the myth that Brits love queuing and reveals lovemaking as the most pleasurable experience.

SourceUniversity of Sussex·JournalThe Economic Journal·DateFeb 2, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Seeing exemplary peer work can undermine student performance

A new study published in Psychological Science found that exposure to exemplary peer work can undermine student motivation and lead to quitting. Researchers discovered that students who assessed exemplary peers' essays were substantially less likely to earn course credit than those who assessed average peers' essays.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateFeb 2, 2016

With ravens, out of sight is not out of mind

New research suggests that ravens share human-like ability to think abstractly about other minds, attributed to mental states including vision. Ravens guarded food caches in response to auditory cues from unseen competitors, demonstrating a level of Theory of Mind previously unknown in non-human animals.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 2, 2016

What goes wrong in the brain when someone can't spell

Studies of stroke victims with spelling impairments reveal distinct brain regions responsible for long-term and working memory, offering new insights into the mechanics of language and memory. Damage to these regions can lead to different symptoms, including difficulty guessing or assembling words.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalBrain·DateFeb 2, 2016
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.

New Zealand's little penguins are recent Australian invaders

A new study found that New Zealand's little penguin species is a recently introduced Australian invader, replacing the native species that was hunted by early human settlers and introduced predators. The Australian penguins arrived in Otago between 1500 and 1900 AD.

SourceUniversity of Otago·DateFeb 2, 2016

Front of package food labels do not mean a food is healthy

Researchers analyzed over 2,200 breakfast cereals and prepared meals with front-of-pack (FOP) claims, finding no correlation between the claims and nutritional quality. The FDA defines four types of FOP claims, but none can distinguish 'healthy' foods.

SourceInstitute of Food Technologists·JournalJournal of Food Science·DateFeb 2, 2016

Listeria: Hypervirulent strains with cerebral and placental tropism

Researchers identified hypervirulent strains of Listeria monocytogenes associated with human infections, which are more invasive and infect central nervous system and fetus more often than those linked to food. The study used large-scale analysis of epidemiological, clinical, and microbiological data.

SourceInstitut Pasteur·JournalNature Genetics·DateFeb 2, 2016
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.

'Gene fusion' mutation uses 3-way mechanism to drive childhood brain cancers

A powerful three-way mechanism driving childhood brain cancer growth has been discovered by scientists. The MYB-QKI gene fusion is found in rare pediatric glioma subtype angiocentric glioma and drives tumor formation through abnormal expression, disruption of tumor suppression, and activation via a positive feedback loop.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNature Genetics·DateFeb 2, 2016

Longer shifts for surgical residents are safe for patients

A new landmark national study by Northwestern Medicine found that allowing surgical residents to work longer hours without compromising patient safety improved patient care and resident training. The FIRST trial investigated 4,330 residents and 138,691 patients, with similar rates of complications in both groups.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateFeb 2, 2016

Greenland model could help estimate sea level rise

Researchers used computer models and field data to accurately depict current flow conditions in Greenland's topographically complex ice sheet. The study aims to improve knowledge of subglacial topography and predict potential effects on sea levels from a melting ice sheet.

SourceUniversity of Alaska Fairbanks·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 2, 2016
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.

New light shed on anti-adhesive molecule in the vascular endothelium

Researchers from Harvard Medical School have gained new understanding of how endomucin, a key molecule with anti-adhesive properties, prevents inflammatory cells from adhering to blood vessels. By promoting the expression of endomucin, they believe it may be possible to develop treatments for inflammation.

SourceMass Eye and Ear·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 2, 2016

Uncommon surnames narrate the family history of those who bear them

A Spanish study analyzed 2,000 volunteers and found that men sharing rare surnames have similar Y chromosomes, indicating they descended from the same original bearers. The correlation between surname frequency and Y chromosome variation only depends on surname frequency.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalEuropean Journal of Human Genetics·DateFeb 2, 2016

Women more sensitive to irksome behavior than men

A recent study by Michigan State University suggests women are more likely to get irked at irritating behavior exhibited by acquaintances and partners. Women's heightened social awareness may contribute to their increased sensitivity to annoyance.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalPersonality and Individual Differences·DateFeb 2, 2016
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.

Four new algae species discovered in Hawaii's deep waters

Scientists have discovered four new species of deep-water algae from Hawaii, which are similar in appearance to limu palahalaha and hold great cultural significance for Native Hawaiians. The newly discovered species were collected between 200-400 feet deep and are believed to redefine our understanding of algal distributions in Hawaii.

SourceNOAA Headquarters·JournalJournal of Phycology·DateFeb 2, 2016

Backing from their GP could lead thousands more to take bowel cancer test

Research suggests that adding a simple endorsement from a patient's GP practice to the invitation letter could increase the number of people taking the bowel cancer screening test by up to 40,000 annually. This would lead to an additional 61 cases of bowel cancer and 165 high or medium-risk polyps being detected each year.

SourceCancer Research UK·JournalBritish Journal of Cancer·DateFeb 2, 2016

Is being a morning person in your DNA?

A recent study published in Nature Communications has identified genetic variants linked to a preference for mornings or nights, revealing the biological basis of morningness. The research found that individuals with a 'morning' genotype tend to have lower BMI and are less likely to suffer from depression.

SourceEdelman, Orlando·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 2, 2016
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

New drug target for Rett syndrome

Harvard researchers have identified a disrupted signaling pathway that, when corrected, can ameliorate symptoms of Rett syndrome in mice. The findings may lead to the discovery of compounds or drugs that can benefit children affected by the disease.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 2, 2016

Antiseptic baths to prevent infections deemed effective for long-term use

A study published by the Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America found that long-term use of antiseptic soap in bathing critically ill patients did not cause high levels of resistance in bacteria on their skin. The prevalence of MRSA-resistant strains decreased after starting chlorhexidine (CHG) bathing.

SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateFeb 2, 2016

Newly identified pathway links fetal brain development to adult social behavior

Researchers discovered a critical period during embryonic brain development that establishes normal social behavior and linked it with abnormalities in specific adult brain structures. Treating mice during fetal development reversed the deficits that lead to social and repetitive behavior disorders.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateFeb 2, 2016
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.

CWRU researcher developing portable method to detect tainted medicines and supplements

A portable method to detect tainted medicines and supplements has been developed by a CWRU researcher, potentially improving public health globally. The device uses Nuclear Quadrupole Resonance spectroscopy to authenticate good medicines and supplements, while also addressing the issue of counterfeit products.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalIEEE/ACM Transactions on Computational Biology and Bioinformatics·DateFeb 2, 2016
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.

Logging helps black rats invade rainforests

A new study shows that logging in tropical rainforests creates micro-environments that black rats love, facilitating their invasion into the habitat. This can lead to displacement of native small mammals and have negative impacts on the forest ecosystem.

SourceImperial College London·JournalBiotropica·DateFeb 2, 2016

Researchers discover a way to potentially decrease peanut allergen

A study published in Journal of Food Science found that seed germination can degrade allergenic proteins in peanuts, reducing their allergenicity. By altering environmental factors, researchers may have discovered a simple method to produce hypoallergenic peanut food.

SourceInstitute of Food Technologists·JournalJournal of Food Science·DateFeb 2, 2016

Effects on HIV and Ebola

Scientists at Helmholtz Zentrum München discover that Cistus incanus extracts prevent human immunodeficiency viruses from infecting cells and block Ebola- and Marburg viral envelope proteins. The study demonstrates broad antiviral activity of Ci extracts against various major human viral pathogens.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 2, 2016

Seafood consumption may play a role in reducing risk for Alzheimer's

Research suggests that eating at least one seafood serving per week may lower the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease in older adults with the APOE-4 gene. The study found no association between seafood consumption and increased brain mercury levels or beta amyloid protein plaques, key markers of the disease.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences·JournalJAMA·DateFeb 2, 2016
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Maps of forests, fields and soils to aid climate change forecasts

Researchers have created detailed maps of the world's natural landscapes to better predict climate change impacts. The maps show how carbon is stored in plants, trees, and soils, revealing differences in biological properties between habitats.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 2, 2016

NASA's ICESat-2 equipped with unique 3-D manufactured part

ICESat-2 will employ a novel technique to determine ice sheet topography and sea ice thickness, leveraging a 3D-printed PEKK bracket that offers electrostatic dissipation and minimal outgassing. The satellite's Advanced Topographic Laser Altimeter System (ATLAS) will utilize photon counting for precise surface elevation measurements.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateFeb 2, 2016

Ravens attribute visual access to unseen competitiors

Researchers tested ravens' understanding of 'seeing' as mental state, using their predisposition to compete for hidden food. The birds showed cache protection behaviors when dominants were visible or audible, indicating they mentally integrate information about others' presence and their own visual experience.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 2, 2016
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.

Researchers sequence bedbug genome, find unique features

The completed genetic blueprint of the bedbug reveals key findings on mechanisms for resisting pesticides and mitigating the effects of rough sexual insemination practices. The genome sequence shows genes that encode enzymes and proteins to fight insecticides and reduce traumatic effects of copulation.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 2, 2016

Heliophysics CubeSat to launch on NASA's SLS

The Heliophysics CubeSat will measure incoming radiation that can affect Earth's radio communications, satellite electronics, and power grids. The satellite will provide unprecedented insight into the sun's impact on our planet.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateFeb 2, 2016

You can teach an old dog new tricks

A study by Lisa Wallis and Friederike Range found that older Border Collies perform slower in tasks requiring learning, logical reasoning, and cognitive flexibility. However, the dogs' long-term memory for touchscreen stimuli remained unaffected by age.

SourceUniversity of Veterinary Medicine -- Vienna·JournalAGE·DateFeb 2, 2016

Height influences risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer

A recent study by DZD researchers found that height has a significant impact on the mortality from certain common diseases. Tall people have a lower risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes, but a higher cancer risk. The study suggests that increased height may be related to overnutrition during growth stages.

SourceDeutsches Zentrum fuer Diabetesforschung DZD·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·DateFeb 2, 2016
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.

Penn Nursing study answers: What's a good breakfast for kids?

A study published in Eating Behaviors found that a breakfast high in protein, such as eggs, can keep children fuller for longer and reduce their energy intake at lunch by approximately 70 calories. However, the effects of this protein-rich meal do not last throughout the day.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Nursing·JournalEating Behaviors·DateFeb 2, 2016

Humans evolved by sharing technology and culture

Researchers found similar patterns in engraved ostrich eggshells across different sites, indicating the sharing of symbolic material culture. This exchange enabled groups to adopt and adapt new technologies and cultures, contributing to the survival and development of Homo sapiens.

SourceThe University of Bergen·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 2, 2016

Scientists map the genome of the common bed bug

Researchers have successfully mapped the genome of the common bed bug, identifying 805 possible instances of genes transferred from bacteria. The findings suggest that these genes, such as a patatin-like gene, could become effective targets for pest control.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 2, 2016

Lack of data increases risk to species' survival

A recent study has found that the majority of species are poorly known, making it difficult to determine their conservation status. Newly discovered species are often found to have smaller ranges and occupancies, as well as greater perceived extinction risk.

SourceUniversity of Kent·JournalDiversity and Distributions·DateFeb 2, 2016
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.

'Junk' DNA plays role in preventing breast cancer

Scientists have identified a piece of non-coding RNA that stops cells from turning cancerous, regulating cell growth and metastasis. The discovery could lead to new treatments for cancer.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 2, 2016
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Risk of breaking a bone in childhood depends on where you live

A new study has found that children from different ethnic backgrounds in the UK are at varying risk of breaking a bone. The research, published in the journal Bone, analyzed data from 1988 to 2012 and discovered that white children were more likely to fracture than South Asian or black children.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalBone·DateFeb 2, 2016

Autophagy -- a review of techniques

The Autophagy Regulatory Network database provides integrated and systems-level source for autophagy research, containing data on over 14,000 proteins. The new edition of the guidelines offers recommendations for best practices in autophagy monitoring, measurement, and diagnosis.

SourceEarlham Institute·JournalAutophagy·DateFeb 2, 2016

Extracting rare-earth elements from coal could soon be economical in US

Researchers at Penn State have developed a cost-effective and environmentally friendly way to extract rare-earth elements from coal byproducts. This breakthrough could provide an economic boon for companies and reduce the US's dependence on importing these metals, which are essential for producing high-tech equipment.

SourcePenn State·JournalMetallurgical and Materials Transactions E·DateFeb 2, 2016

Geology 101

A new book by UC Santa Barbara geologist Arthur Sylvester explores the region's complex geology and notable features like the San Andreas Fault and Joshua Tree National Park. The guide includes 196 geo-referenced photographs, maps, and diagrams to help drivers appreciate the region's geological treasures.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·DateFeb 2, 2016
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.

Open-access article on Mexican bean beetles offers control tips

Researchers have discovered a behavioral trait that can be used against Mexican bean beetles, offering new control strategies without insecticides. Reflective mulch has been shown to significantly reduce beetle numbers and plant damage in outdoor plots.

SourceEntomological Society of America·JournalJournal of Integrated Pest Management·DateFeb 2, 2016

Flu tackles Super Bowl fans

Researchers at Cornell University found a significant spike in flu-related deaths among people above 65 in areas with NFL teams that reached the Super Bowl. The study suggests disease transmission is driven by increased socialization and cramped spaces.

SourceCornell University·JournalAmerican Journal of Health Economics·DateFeb 2, 2016

'Schizophrenia' does not exist, argues expert

A professor of psychiatry argues that schizophrenia should be replaced with 'psychosis spectrum syndrome' due to the complexity and heterogeneity of psychotic illness. The current classification system uses outdated language and may lead to misdiagnosis or overemphasis on this condition.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateFeb 2, 2016

Using mathematics to improve human health

Researchers used mathematical calculations to create a complete picture of protein nanoparticle surface morphology, identifying structures most advantageous for vaccine design. This approach may lead to the development of cost-effective vaccines, including a malaria vaccine set to start clinical testing soon.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateFeb 2, 2016
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.

Online therapy can help those affected by body dysmorphic disorder

A study published in The BMJ found that internet-based cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) can effectively treat body dysmorphic disorder, reducing symptom severity and depression. Participants who received BDD-NET showed significant improvements compared to those receiving online supportive therapy.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateFeb 2, 2016

Severe drought no longer caused just by nature

Researchers propose broadening drought definition to include human activities that contribute to extreme water shortages. This shift acknowledges the complex interactions between nature and society, highlighting the need for innovative methodology to analyze causes of drought.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalNature Geoscience·DateFeb 2, 2016

Extending length of surgical trainees' shifts does not affect surgical patients' safety

A national multicenter randomized trial found that extending surgical trainees' shifts does not compromise patient safety. The study showed flexible duty hour policies reduced handoffs and increased residents' satisfaction with their training. The findings provide high-level evidence to inform resident duty hour policies.

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateFeb 2, 2016
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.

Bed bug genome uncovers biology of a pest on the rebound

The bed bug's genome has been sequenced, offering insights into its unique biology and potential targets for controlling its resurgence. The study found that bed bugs have evolved multiple ways to resist insecticides, including barriers and detoxification genes.

SourcePurdue University·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 2, 2016

Researchers sequence first bed bug genome

The researchers' findings could lead to more effective bedbug control and development of new insecticides. The study's data also provide insights into the genetic basis of bedbug adaptation to human environments.

SourceAmerican Museum of Natural History·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 2, 2016

Natural clay deposit may hold keys to defeating hospital infections

Researchers have discovered a natural clay deposit that exhibits strong antibacterial activity against the ESKAPE group of bacterial pathogens, including MRSA and other antibiotic-resistant strains. The clay, named Kisameet clay, has been used for centuries by indigenous communities to treat various ailments.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmBio·DateFeb 2, 2016
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.

A combined carbon and sugar tax could have environmental and health benefits

A combined carbon and sugar tax in the UK could lead to significant environmental and health benefits, including a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and an increase in fiber intake. The tax scenarios predicted a decrease in purchases of beef, lamb, and other meats, as well as an increase in consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Public Health·DateFeb 2, 2016

Greenland ice sheet releasing 'Mississippi River' worth of phosphorus

New research reveals Greenland's ice sheet is releasing 400,000 metric tons of phosphorus annually, enriching Arctic Ocean waters and potentially stimulating growth of marine food chain. The nutrient could impact birds, fish, and marine mammals higher up the food chain.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGlobal Biogeochemical Cycles·DateFeb 2, 2016

Nature Materials: Smallest lattice structure worldwide

Researchers from Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) have developed the world's smallest lattice structure made of glassy carbon, with struts and braces less than 200 nm in diameter. The structure boasts higher specific strength than most solids and has potential applications as electrodes, filters, or optical components.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalNature Materials·DateFeb 2, 2016
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Study examines response to sexual violence on campus

A study by Sam Houston State University's Crime Victims' Institute found that only 88% of Title IX Coordinators received training on investigating sexual assault cases, while less than half were trained for stalking, intimate partner violence, or LGBTQ+ cases.

SourceSam Houston State University·DateFeb 2, 2016

Adenosine deaminase may help the immune system fight HIV on its own

Scientists discovered that adenosine deaminase enhances anti-HIV-1 specific immune responses by reducing regulatory T-cell mediated suppression. The enzyme activation increases CD4+ responder T cells, CD8+ T cell proliferation, and T cell memory generation.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalJournal of Leukocyte Biology·DateFeb 2, 2016

Genomic info may help researchers fathom bedbug insecticide resistance

A massive research project has sequenced the bedbug genome, providing insight into its ability to resist insecticides. The study found that bedbug skin genetics play a crucial role in this resistance, and may also shed light on whether bedbugs originated from one or multiple sources.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 2, 2016

Project embeds computer science lessons in math instruction for K-5 students

A two-year project integrates computing with elementary school mathematics, developing research-based learning trajectories for each grade level. The Track 1 Exploratory Integration Project aims to democratize access to computer science education and promote diversity in the U.S. technology workforce.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·DateFeb 2, 2016
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.

Scientists have put a high precision blood assay into a simple test strip

Researchers developed a new biosensor test system based on magnetic nanoparticles to measure protein concentrations in various samples. The system provides high sensitivity and accuracy, exceeding laboratory methods, and can detect proteins even in opaque liquids.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalBiosensors and Bioelectronics·DateFeb 2, 2016

National politics shape the impacts of park law enforcement

A University of Illinois researcher found that a country's governance quality affects the livelihoods of families who rely on resources from national parks. In Benin, better governance led to better social and ecological outcomes, while Niger's poor governance resulted in negative consequences for poorer communities.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateFeb 2, 2016

Minority of cancer cells affect the growth and metastasis of tumors

A small minority of cancer cells in neuroendocrine tumors contribute to the overall growth and metastasis of the tumor. The discovery sheds light on the different functions of cancer cells, with implications for understanding tumor aggression.

SourceLund University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 2, 2016
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.

Two AgriLife Research entomologists co-author bedbug genome mapping paper

A team of entomologists, including Dr. Ed Vargo and Dr. Spencer Johnston from Texas A&M AgriLife Research, has mapped the bedbug genome, revealing its unique features and ecological niche. The study identifies critical genes for survival, providing a valuable resource for developing new control targets.

SourceTexas A&M AgriLife Communications·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 2, 2016

Risk of lead poisoning from urban gardening is low, new study finds

A University of Washington-led study finds that the benefits of locally produced vegetables in cities outweigh any risks from gardening in contaminated soils. Compost can dilute lead levels and make it less hazardous to eat, especially for root vegetables like carrots.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalJournal of Environmental Quality·DateFeb 2, 2016
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.

Doctor raises serious questions about medical awards system

A consultant cardiologist calls for a culture shift in British medicine to prioritize integrity and transparency, highlighting the case of Anjan Kumar Banerjee, who was awarded an MBE despite research fraud and financial misconduct. The doctor argues that the system is opaque and prone to manipulation.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateFeb 2, 2016

Sharpin emerges from the pack as a regulator of inflammation

A study reveals Sharpin's role in regulating survival of immunosuppressive T cells, essential for preventing autoimmune disease and cancer. Sharpin-deficient mice develop severe skin lesions and inflammation due to reduced Treg counts.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalNature Immunology·DateFeb 2, 2016

Study shows North Atlantic Ocean CO2 storage doubled over last decade

A University of Miami-led study shows that the North Atlantic absorbed 100% more man-made carbon dioxide over the last decade, impacting ocean life and marine organisms. The findings highlight the importance of reducing fossil fuel emissions to mitigate the effects on the oceans.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·JournalGlobal Biogeochemical Cycles·DateFeb 2, 2016

Collagen and heparan sulfate coatings alter cell proliferation and attachment

A team of researchers from UCLA has developed biomaterial coatings that alter cell proliferation and attachment. The coatings, which include collagen and heparan sulfate, were found to improve cell survival after implantation by promoting blood vessel development. This breakthrough could lead to the creation of functional tissues for t...

SourceWorld Scientific·JournalTECHNOLOGY·DateFeb 2, 2016
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.

2016 AAAS/Subaru SB&F prizes honor science books about animals

The 2016 AAAS/Subaru SB&F prizes recognize outstanding science writing and illustration for children and young adults. The winners include Sy Montgomery's 'The Octopus Scientists' and Beth Shapiro's 'How to Clone a Mammoth: The Science of De-Extinction.'

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·DateFeb 2, 2016

Pilot training program to improve transgender competency among medical staff in an urban clinic

A pilot training program implemented in an urban clinic significantly improved attitudes and clinical skills towards transgender individuals. The evaluation showed a notable change in awareness of transphobic practices and readiness to serve transgender patients, indicating potential for broader healthcare equity.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalTransgender Health·DateFeb 2, 2016

Fishing for answers about mercury consumption

Researchers at Rush University Medical Center found that moderate seafood consumption was associated with less Alzheimer's disease pathology, including lower amyloid plaques and tangles. Seafood intake was only linked to reduced harm when individuals had a specific genetic profile, highlighting the need for personalized nutrition advice.

SourceRush University Medical Center·JournalJAMA·DateFeb 2, 2016
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.

Study suggests improvements in how mesothelioma is staged

Researchers suggest significant improvements in mesothelioma staging by incorporating tumor weight and volume into the current TNM system. This could lead to more accurate prognoses and personalized treatment plans for patients.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalEuropean Journal of Cardio-Thoracic Surgery·DateFeb 2, 2016
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.

A new alternative to sodium: Fish sauce

A study found that Vietnamese fish sauce can reduce sodium chloride by 10-25% without compromising taste. Researchers suggest using fish sauce as a partial substitute for salt to create lower-sodium foods.

SourceInstitute of Food Technologists·JournalJournal of Food Science·DateFeb 2, 2016

Biomolecule's behavior under artificial conditions more natural than expected

A team of researchers monitored the folding of an RNA hairpin in a living cell and compared the results with those of test tube analyses. They found that the RNA molecule in the living cell exhibited strong fluctuations in stability, similar to the dynamic changes in the cellular environment.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateFeb 2, 2016

Inflammation attacks brain's reward center

A new study published in Biological Psychiatry suggests that inflammation can directly affect the brain's reward center, leading to changes in behavior similar to depression. The study found that patients with hepatitis C who received interferon-alpha treatment showed microstructural changes in their striatum, which was associated with...

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateFeb 2, 2016

Clip-on device offers protection against mosquitoes that transmit Zika

A study published in the Journal of Medical Entomology found that the OFF! Clip-On repellent device is highly effective against hungry Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. The device causes high mosquito mortality and knockdown rates, making it a promising tool for preventing Zika bites.

SourceEntomological Society of America·JournalJournal of Medical Entomology·DateFeb 2, 2016
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.

Research links prenatal stress to babies' health in war zones

Researchers discovered a link between prenatal stress and lower birth weight in children born to mothers experiencing trauma in war-torn regions. The study also found that stressful life experiences can affect genes involved in the body's response to stress, with long-term consequences for child development.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalChild Development·DateFeb 2, 2016