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Science News for February 23, 2016


Bacteria overgrowth could be major cause of stunting in children

Research suggests excessive bacterial growth in small intestine may be causing malnutrition and stunting in children living in low-income countries. A study of 103 2-year-old children in Bangladesh found that one in six showed signs of small intestine bacterial overgrowth, which was associated with gut inflammation and stunted growth.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalmBio·DateFeb 23, 2016

Food-based proteins discovered as key to child malnutrition in developing countries

A Johns Hopkins Medicine study found that African children with stunted growth had lower levels of essential amino acids and other protein markers compared to non-stunted children. This challenges the widespread assumption that children in developing countries are receiving adequate protein, highlighting the need for improved diets.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalEBioMedicine·DateFeb 23, 2016

More hands-on training for doctors required if policy changes

Research suggests that medical students benefit from more hands-on training and responsibility, and assessments of their clinical capabilities need improvement. The study recommends greater emphasis on undergraduate clinical placements and postgraduate supervision to enhance medical education.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalBMJ Open·DateFeb 23, 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.

World's large river deltas continue to degrade from human activity

Researchers are racing to understand and mitigate the degradation of major river deltas worldwide, primarily caused by human activities such as damming, groundwater extraction, and agriculture. The study highlights that more than two-thirds of the world's 33 major deltas are sinking at an alarming rate.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·DateFeb 23, 2016

Shaping lumens by force

A team of scientists from Singapore and France has revealed the underlying mechanism for the formation and growth of epithelial tubes. They found that the shape and size of these tubes are governed by mechanical forces arising from cell interaction with the extracellular matrix, influencing lumen morphology and elongation direction.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateFeb 23, 2016

Everyday mindfulness linked to healthy glucose levels

A study of 399 participants found an association between higher mindfulness scores and healthier glucose levels. The researchers identified obesity risk and sense of control as potential mediators of this link, with mindful individuals being less likely to be obese and more likely to believe they can change their lives.

SourceBrown University·JournalAmerican Journal of Health Behavior·DateFeb 23, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

It's great to have siblings, but they're also hard work

A study by Aarhus University explores what happens to sibling relationships when parents get divorced and find new partners. The research reveals that children have different experiences depending on whether they live in multiple homes or traditional families.

SourceAarhus University·DateFeb 23, 2016

New wheat genetic advancements aimed at yield enhancement

The study confirms 13,000 previously mapped SNPs and newly maps 2,190 unique SNPs to improve drought tolerance, greenbug and wheat curl mite resistance. The research aims to develop high-yielding wheat varieties with improved resilience to stressors across different climates.

SourceTexas A&M AgriLife Communications·JournalCrop Science·DateFeb 23, 2016

Children aren't active enough in winter, say Cambridge researchers

Researchers found that physical activity among children is lower in autumn and winter compared to spring and summer. The study highlights the need for increased active opportunities during the colder months to support children's health and development.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalMedicine & Science in Sports & Exercise·DateFeb 23, 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.

New Nature Communications study says 'fear itself' can help restore ecosystems

A new study published in Nature Communications demonstrates that the fear of large carnivores can have cascading effects on the food chain and restore ecosystems. The researchers found that instilling fear in raccoons reduced their time spent feeding and reversed their impacts on their prey, leading to a healthier ecosystem.

SourceUniversity of Western Ontario·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 23, 2016

Science achievement gaps begin by kindergarten

A study found that kindergarten general knowledge is the strongest predictor of first-grade and third-grade science achievement. Children's science achievement gaps persist from third to eighth grade, with low-income and minority students facing larger gaps.

SourceAmerican Educational Research Association·JournalEducational Researcher·DateFeb 23, 2016

New therapeutic pathway may keep cancer cells turned 'off'

A new therapeutic pathway has been discovered to keep cancer cells dormant, offering hope for treating osteosarcoma and potentially other cancers. Researchers found three microRNAs that can inhibit the growth of cancer cells, allowing them to remain asymptomatic and manageable.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalACS Nano·DateFeb 23, 2016

El Niño prolongs longest global coral bleaching event

The current global coral bleaching event, started in 2014, could extend into 2017 due to record ocean temperatures caused by El Niño. Corals are stressed when expelling symbiotic algae, leading to erosion and destruction of fish habitats.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·DateFeb 23, 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.

Described a powerful drug to advance in the fight against familial amyloidosis

Researchers have identified a powerful drug, SOM0226 (tolcapone), that can significantly improve the pharmacological treatment of familial transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTR). Tolcapone has been shown to inhibit the aggregation of amyloid fibers by TTR and stabilize the protein structure, slowing down disease progression.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 23, 2016

New study shows emotional cost for parents who put on a happy face for their children

A recent study found that parents' attempts to regulate their emotional expressions can detract from their well-being and high-quality parent-child bonds. Parents reported feeling less authentic and experiencing lower emotional well-being when suppressing negative emotions and amplifying positive emotions during childcare. The study su...

SourceSociety for Personality and Social Psychology·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateFeb 23, 2016

Copper destroys MRSA at a touch

Researchers at the University of Southampton found that copper can destroy MRSA bacteria by damaging their DNA and respiration, making it difficult for them to survive. This discovery explains why touch surfaces made from solid antimicrobial copper are effective in reducing the spread of infections.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateFeb 23, 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.

Humans speeding up evolution by causing extinction of 'younger' species

Researchers at University of British Columbia found that human-induced introduction of new species can cause 'reverse speciation', where two similar species merge into one hybrid species. This shift has significant consequences for the ecosystem, altering ecological roles and impacting biodiversity.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalCurrent Biology·DateFeb 23, 2016

Major pharma companies sign up to groundbreaking Parkinson's consortium

Seven major pharmaceutical companies have signed up to a groundbreaking Parkinson's consortium aimed at accelerating the development of safe and effective therapies. The consortium will share data, expertise, and resources with leading academics and industry members to promote and develop new treatments for Parkinson's.

SourceParkinson's UK·DateFeb 23, 2016

New way to reduce plant lignin could lead to cheaper biofuels

Scientists at Berkeley Lab have developed a method to reduce plant lignin using an enzyme, which could lead to cheaper production of carbon-neutral fuels. The technique decreases lignin content by 30 percent while increasing sugar production in model plants.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalPlant and Cell Physiology·DateFeb 23, 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.

Ebola survivor study yields insights on complications of disease

A study of Ebola survivors found high rates of eye, musculoskeletal, and neurological complications. The study also explored the risk of sexual transmission of Ebola, with most survivors reporting regular sexual activity but few using condoms.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·DateFeb 23, 2016

New study finds our desire for 'like-minded others' is hard-wired

A new study by Wellesley College and University of Kansas researchers suggests people are drawn to those who share similar values, attitudes, and personality traits from the start. The findings could lead to a shift in understanding relationship formation and suggest that social influence may be limited when partners are already similar.

SourceWellesley College·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateFeb 23, 2016

Advanced NASA-developed instrument flies on Japan's Hitomi

The mission extends studies initiated by JAXA's Suzaku mission, enabling investigations into black hole motion, element abundances, and galaxy evolution. The SXS instrument features a 36-pixel microcalorimeter array, three-stage adiabatic demagnetization refrigerator, and stronger filters to collect X-ray photons.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateFeb 23, 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.

Old data may provide new insights on honey bee populations

Researchers used three long-term datasets to analyze honey bee population trends, identifying the USDA Census of Agriculture as the most accurate dataset for measuring changes in abundance. However, they acknowledged limitations of the data, including lack of information on colony usage and losses.

SourceEntomological Society of America·JournalEnvironmental Entomology·DateFeb 23, 2016

Dodos might have been quite intelligent, new research finds

New research reveals that dodos had a brain size comparable to pigeons, suggesting moderate intelligence. The study also found an enlarged olfactory bulb in the dodo's brain, indicating a reliance on smell for navigation.

SourceAmerican Museum of Natural History·JournalZoological Journal of the Linnean Society·DateFeb 23, 2016

For weather forecasting, precise observations matter more than butterflies

A University of Washington study found that small-scale disturbances, like those from butterfly wings, do not significantly impact weather forecasts. However, even minor errors in large-scale observations can throw off a forecast, emphasizing the importance of precise measurements.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalBulletin of the American Meteorological Society·DateFeb 23, 2016

Fat cells outlive skinny ones

A new study from Michigan State University finds that fat cells, not lean cells, have a longer lifespan. The researchers used yeast to demonstrate that increasing the cellular content of triacylglycerol, or fat, extends lifespan. This finding supports the obesity paradox theory and has implications for human aging and health.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateFeb 23, 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.

UW engineers achieve Wi-Fi at 10,000 times lower power

Researchers achieved Wi-Fi transmissions using 10,000 times less power than conventional methods, consuming only tens of microwatts of power. This breakthrough enables the 'Internet of Things' reality where household devices and wearable sensors can communicate using Wi-Fi without worrying about power.

SourceUniversity of Washington·DateFeb 23, 2016

'Kurly' protein keeps cilia moving, oriented in the right direction

Researchers discovered that Kurly protein is required for proper cilia movement and orientation, crucial for fluid flow and organ development. The study highlights the importance of Kurly in understanding human diseases such as polycystic kidney disease and left-right patterning disorders.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalCell Reports·DateFeb 23, 2016

First hospital-based rapid detection Zika test now available

A new hospital-based rapid detection test for the Zika virus is now available, allowing for quicker diagnosis and testing in a large metropolitan area. The test can detect Zika virus-specific RNA sequences directly, enabling healthcare providers to offer rapid answers to anxious patients.

SourceHouston Methodist·DateFeb 23, 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.

Natural sugar may treat fatty liver disease

Researchers found that trehalose prevents the buildup of fat in liver cells by blocking the transport of energy from sugar into liver cells. This triggers autophagy, a natural process where cells consume stored fats and other waste materials. The study suggests that trehalose may offer a potential treatment for nonalcoholic fatty liver...

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalScience Signaling·DateFeb 23, 2016

New research introduces 'pause button' for boiling

A team of researchers has developed a method to create a single vapor bubble in a pool of liquid that can remain stable on a surface for hours. This technique enables the microscopic study of vapor bubbles and the optimization of the boiling process, which could lead to advancements in heat transfer systems.

SourceSyracuse University·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 23, 2016

Adaptable, ecology-based US National Vegetation Classification debuts today

The US National Vegetation Classification provides a standardized system for vegetation classification, allowing land managers to collaborate across ownership boundaries and analyze trends on a landscape, regional, and national scale. The classification is based on rigorous data and reflects the functional ecology of plant communities.

SourceEcological Society of America·DateFeb 23, 2016

Tracking worm sex drive, neuron by neuron

A team of researchers at Worcester Polytechnic Institute and California Institute of Technology has found a neural network in male worms that processes sex-specific sensory cues, allowing them to make decisions about pursuing mates. The network involves four male-specific sensory neurons that communicate with each other through synapti...

SourceWorcester Polytechnic Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 23, 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.

Counting molecules with an ordinary cell phone

Researchers at Caltech have developed a visual readout method using analytical chemistries and image processing to quantify single nucleic-acid molecules, enabling the use of any cell-phone camera. This technology has potential applications in limited-resource settings for disease diagnosis.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalACS Nano·DateFeb 23, 2016

Most US cancer prevention guidelines don't provide information needed for decision-making

A recent study has found that most US cancer prevention guidelines do not provide sufficient information on benefits and harms, making it difficult for clinicians and patients to make informed decisions. The researchers analyzed data from various guidelines and found that 39% of recommendations were given comparable ratings, while 14.5...

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateFeb 23, 2016

Migraine, tension headaches and irritable bowel syndrome linked?

Researchers discovered a possible link between migraine, tension-type headaches, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), with people with migraine being twice as likely to also have IBS. The study found that common genes related to serotonin transport and receptors were shared among the three conditions.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·DateFeb 23, 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.

How sweet can you get?

Researchers at Kyoto University have successfully made thaumatin, a widely used plant-derived sweetener, even sweeter by substituting acidic amino acids with basic ones. This breakthrough confirms the complex interaction between thaumatin and the sweetness receptor of the tongue.

SourceKyoto University·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 23, 2016

Imaging technique may help discover Earth-like planets

A new space imaging technique, using charge injection devices, may help scientists directly image exoplanets next to bright stars. This technology has been successfully tested, enabling the detection of objects 70 million times fainter than the host star's light.

SourceFlorida Institute of Technology·JournalPublications of the Astronomical Society of the Pacific·DateFeb 23, 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.

Soil mapping may indicate success of brush control method

A Texas A&M study found that soil texture impacts shrubland resilience to brush removal, allowing landowners to prioritize management practices. Brush removal is more effective on fine-textured clay soils than coarse-textured sandy soils.

SourceTexas A&M AgriLife Communications·JournalEcological Applications·DateFeb 23, 2016

Shrinking 3-D technology for comfortable smart phone viewing

Researchers at Sun Yan-Sen University developed a new display with comfortable 3D visual effects using the super multi-view technique, reducing vergence-accommodation conflict and viewer discomfort. The device is thin, around 65 millimeters, making it suitable for portable devices.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Express·DateFeb 23, 2016

Therapy to stop premature birth safe but ineffective, study finds

A widely recommended therapy to prevent premature birth has been found to be ineffective in preventing early delivery. The treatment, which involves administering the hormone progesterone, does not appear to pose any risk to mothers or babies, but its effectiveness in reducing premature births is zero.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalThe Lancet·DateFeb 23, 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.

The key to mass-producing nanomaterials

Researchers at the University of Southern California have developed a method for manufacturing nanoparticles on a large scale, using microfluidics technology. This innovation enables the cost-effective production of gold nanoparticles with unique properties, making them ideal for applications in medicine and other fields.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 23, 2016

Dietary link to stunted growth identified

Children under age 5 with stunted growth are found to have low levels of essential amino acids and nutrient choline, which can prevent cognitive development, increase susceptibility to illness, and shorten life spans. Researchers hope to develop new approaches to treat this debilitating condition by targeting dietary intake.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalEBioMedicine·DateFeb 23, 2016

Frozen section analysis for breast cancer could save time, anxiety

Mayo Clinic researchers found that using frozen section analysis during lumpectomies can reduce the need for second operations by 95%, saving patients time and financial burdens. The study estimates annual cost savings of $90.9 million to payers and $1.8 million to providers.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalJournal of Oncology Practice·DateFeb 23, 2016

Shock Trauma model for critically ill patients cuts transfer time in half

A novel Critical Care Resuscitation Unit at the University of Maryland Medical Center significantly speeds access to specialized care, cutting transfer time in half. The unit has decreased wait times and increased transfers, leading to better patient outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Medical Center·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateFeb 23, 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.

Two forms of radiosurgery for brain metastases are equally effective

Researchers at Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center found that Gamma Knife and RapidArc radiation therapy for brain metastases produce similar results, with the latter being faster. This study offers patients a choice of treatments and highlights the importance of advanced radiosurgery technology in treating increasing cases of brain metastases.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalFrontiers in Oncology·DateFeb 23, 2016

Specialist treatment delivery at university hospitals

A new study by Charité researchers reveals that the true cost of treating patients with chronic inflammatory bowel disease exceeds reimbursement levels under the current German DRG system, highlighting the need for a more accurate cost recovery method.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 23, 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.

Creation of an island: The extinction of animals on Zanzibar

A team of researchers from the University of York conducted a first-of-its-kind study on Zanzibar's formation and fauna extinction. The study, which analyzed mangrove sediments and animal remains, found that large mammals like zebras and buffalo disappeared after sea levels rose and coastal cultures inhabited the island.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 23, 2016

Survivors of sexual abuse find support in online 'anonymity'

A Drexel study found that anonymity is crucial for men seeking support, with those using throwaway accounts more likely to disclose their experiences. The researchers also discovered that online forums can be a vital platform for first-time disclosures of sexual abuse and rape, leading to increased support-seeking behavior.

SourceDrexel University·DateFeb 23, 2016

Influenza viruses can hide from the immune system

Researchers discovered that influenza viruses can hide from the immune system by using a protein that masks the virus, making it harder for the body to detect and fight. This finding has implications for developing treatments against influenza and autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.

SourceAarhus University·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 23, 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.

NASA invites public to send artwork to an asteroid

NASA is inviting the public to participate in the #WeTheExplorers campaign by submitting artworks that reflect their spirit of exploration. The artworks will be saved on a chip on the OSIRIS-REx spacecraft, which is scheduled to launch in September and travel to asteroid Bennu.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateFeb 23, 2016

Underwater robots can be programmed to make independent decisions

Researchers at the University of Delaware have successfully programmed underwater robots to independently analyze data and trigger new missions based on real-time information. This technology has the potential to reveal new details about prey movement and behavior in the ocean.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalRobotics·DateFeb 23, 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.

Cardiologists use 3-D printing to personalize treatment for heart disease

Researchers at the University of Melbourne are using supercomputers to create personalized 3D models of patients' arteries, helping cardiologists predict plaque buildup and tailor stents. This technology aims to reduce heart disease's toll by identifying high-risk plaques earlier.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateFeb 23, 2016

New NTU microchip shrinks radar cameras to fit into a palm

Scientists at Nanyang Technological University have developed a chip that allows radar cameras to be made as small as palm-sized while maintaining high image quality. The new technology has the potential to revolutionize various applications including unmanned aerial vehicles, driverless cars, and satellite imaging.

SourceNanyang Technological University·DateFeb 23, 2016

College psychology classes lack curriculum about disabilities

The study found that many types of disability are underrepresented in psychology classes, including chronic health and physical disabilities. To address this, researchers recommend reworking course content to include more diversity and examples of different disabilities.

SourceOregon State University·JournalTeaching of Psychology·DateFeb 23, 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.

Pigs' genetic code altered in bid to tackle deadly virus

Scientists have successfully altered the genetic code of pigs to make them more resilient to African Swine Fever. By modifying a specific gene, researchers believe they may be able to reduce the disease's devastating effects on infected animals.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 23, 2016

NIH-funded study finds effect of PrEP on bone density is reversible

Researchers found that young adult males and transgender participants experienced a measurable but clinically insignificant loss of bone mineral density while taking PrEP. However, after stopping the regimen, bone mineral density levels returned to normal in just six months.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·DateFeb 23, 2016

Georgia Tech discovers how mobile ads leak personal data

A Georgia Tech study found that mobile ads can reveal sensitive user information, including gender, parental status, and income, due to leakage between ad networks and app developers. Researchers tested 200 participants and discovered that 73% of ad impressions were correctly aligned with demographic profiles.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·DateFeb 23, 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.

Controlling ultrafast electrons in motion

Researchers successfully control ultrafast electron motion using FERMI's light, achieving a time resolution of 3 attoseconds. This breakthrough enables the study of fast chemical reactions on the scale of attoseconds, shedding new light on processes like photosynthesis and combustion.

SourceTohoku University·JournalNature Photonics·DateFeb 23, 2016

DNA 'Trojan horse' smuggles drugs into resistant cancer cells

Researchers at Ohio State University have developed a DNA 'Trojan horse' that can deliver cancer drugs into resistant cells, effectively killing them. The capsule made of folded up DNA hides the invading force, allowing it to bypass cell defenses and accumulate in cancer cells.

SourceOhio State University·JournalSmall·DateFeb 23, 2016

Critical care resuscitation unit speeds up transfer of critically ill patients

The Critical Care Resuscitation Unit (CCRU) at the University of Maryland Medical Center has seen a significant increase in transfers of critically ill surgical patients, with median arrival times cut by nearly half and median time to surgery reduced by over two-thirds. This faster intake and treatment strategy has led to improved outc...

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateFeb 23, 2016

NASA sees pinhole eye seen in weakening Tropical Cyclone Winston

Tropical Cyclone Winston maintained a pinhole eye as it weakened, with strong thunderstorms wrapping into the low-level center. The storm's forward speed increased, and forecasters expect it to turn southwestward before weakening significantly due to strong vertical wind shear.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateFeb 23, 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.

Two Carnegie Mellon statistics professors earn NSF CAREER awards

Carnegie Mellon University's Jing Lei and Ryan Tibshirani have been awarded NSF CAREER grants for their cutting-edge research projects in large-scale data analysis and nonparametric estimation. Their work aims to advance statistical inference with complex high-dimensional data.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·DateFeb 23, 2016

Searing heat waves detailed in study of future climate

A new study predicts that heat waves could become annual occurrences across 60% of the world's land surface by 2075 if greenhouse gas emissions continue unchecked. However, aggressive emission reductions could significantly reduce the severity of these events, especially for vulnerable populations.

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·JournalClimatic Change·DateFeb 23, 2016

Study supports fish consumption during pregnancy

A new study suggests that moderate fish consumption during pregnancy may have beneficial effects on infant neurobehavior and development. The research found that infants of mothers with higher mercury exposure and greater fish consumption showed improved attention and reduced special handling needs.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalNeurotoxicology and Teratology·DateFeb 23, 2016

Urban soils release surprising amounts of carbon dioxide

Researchers at Boston University found that urban soils in metropolitan areas surrounding the city core release significant amounts of CO2 through a process called soil respiration. This discovery highlights the importance of considering biological emissions in assessments of climate action programs.

SourceBoston University·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·DateFeb 23, 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.

Why is impulsive aggression in children so difficult to treat?

Maladaptive and impulsive aggression is a disabling symptom in children with psychiatric disorders, characterized by explosive behavior triggered by routine cues. The development of effective treatments requires better descriptive and quantitative methods to characterize this disorder.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Child and Adolescent Psychopharmacology·DateFeb 23, 2016

What bats reveal about how humans focus attention

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University discovered how bats determine what's worth paying attention to, finding that their brains selectively respond to certain sounds. This discovery has implications for understanding how humans focus attention and process sensory information.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 23, 2016