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Science News for February 5, 2016


'Cannibalism' between stars

Researchers discovered that stars undergo sharp stellar brightening caused by gravitational instabilities in massive gaseous disks, leading to a new understanding of star formation and evolution. The discovery may imply that our Sun experienced several such episodes, affecting the formation of giant planets.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 5, 2016

Pilot study shows meditation can help US veterans manage chronic pain

A new pilot study suggests that meditation can help US veterans manage chronic pain by reducing pain intensity and interference with daily life. The study used Integrative Restoration Yoga Nidra (iRest) mindfulness meditation, which is already being used at Veterans Health Administration medical centers nationwide.

SourceAmerican University·JournalMilitary Behavioral Health·DateFeb 5, 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.

New solution to economic eyesores?

Researchers are testing whether recycling and repurposing building materials can revitalize a distressed Great Lakes community. The project aims to create an economic cluster by identifying industries that can maximize material reuse and resale. By doing so, it could provide jobs and boost local economy.

SourceMichigan State University·DateFeb 5, 2016

From allergens to anodes: Pollen derived battery electrodes

Purdue University researchers have discovered that pollen-derived carbon architectures can be used as anodes in lithium-ion batteries. The study found that the cattail pollen-based carbon performed better than bee pollen, with a higher theoretical capacity of 200 milliamp hours per gram.

SourcePurdue University·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 5, 2016

Studies link healthy workforces to positive stock market performance

Four recent studies found companies with best-in-class workplace health programs outperformed the Standard & Poor's index by 7-16 percent per year. Employers investing in employee health can see a positive impact on their bottom line.

SourceFeinstein Kean Healthcare·JournalJournal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine·DateFeb 5, 2016

Assessing the biosimilarity of protein drugs: New study shows method's precision

A new study published in Nature Biotechnology reports that a 2D-NMR spectroscopy method can reliably assess the atomic structures of biologically similar products, yielding equivalent fingerprints. The method's precision is demonstrated through an interlaboratory comparison of four versions of a therapeutic protein drug.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateFeb 5, 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.

Where infants sleep may affect how long they are breastfed

A study of 678 women found that frequent bed-sharing with infants and a strong motivation to breastfeed were linked to longer breastfeeding durations. This challenges recommendations against bed-sharing due to SIDS fears, suggesting these practices may hinder some mothers from achieving their breastfeeding goals.

SourceWiley·JournalActa Paediatrica·DateFeb 5, 2016

First reported autopsy of patient with MERS coronavirus infection provides critical insights

The article presents findings from the first reported autopsy of a patient with MERS coronavirus infection, revealing diffuse damage to lungs and identification of anti-MERS-CoV antibodies in specific cells. These results contradict previous assumptions and suggest that lung targeting is crucial for infectious control strategies.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateFeb 5, 2016

Cells that show where things are going

Scientists have identified four classes of nerve cell involved in calculating directionally selective signals in fruit flies, unlike previously proposed models. These cells, including T5 cells, perceive the direction of motion and receive input from four upstream cells.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNeuron·DateFeb 5, 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.

Possible marker for recurring HPV-linked oropharyngeal cancers

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University found a possible marker for recurring HPV-linked oropharyngeal cancers. The study suggests that an increase in E6 antibody levels after treatment may indicate a higher risk of cancer returning.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalCancer Prevention Research·DateFeb 5, 2016

Scientists discover molecular link between psychiatric disorders and type 2 diabetes

Researchers have discovered a molecular link between psychiatric disorders and type 2 diabetes, with the DISC1 gene playing a critical role in pancreatic beta cell function. The study found that disrupting the DISC1 gene led to increased beta cell death, impaired glucose regulation, and reduced insulin secretion.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateFeb 5, 2016

Concussions -- researchers try to reduce stigma of reporting

University of Georgia researchers are developing intervention methods to help athletes report concussions without fear of team repercussions. The study aims to change the culture of sport from concealing to reporting concussions, promoting a safer and healthier environment for athletes.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·DateFeb 5, 2016

NIH researchers identify striking genomic signature shared by 5 types of cancer

Researchers have discovered a striking genomic signature shared by colon, lung, breast, stomach and endometrial cancers, which may be used to diagnose the disease at early stages. The methylation signature could lead to the development of a non-invasive blood test for cancer detection.

SourceNIH/National Human Genome Research Institute·JournalJournal of Molecular Biology·DateFeb 5, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Forest losses increase local temperatures

The study reveals that forest clearing substantially affects local climate by altering average temperature and maximum summer temperatures. Evapotranspiration plays a key role in these impacts, with arid areas experiencing the most pronounced effects.

SourceEuropean Commission Joint Research Centre·JournalScience·DateFeb 5, 2016

Uncovering secrets of elastin's flexibility during assembly

A team of researchers has revealed the molecular motions behind elastin's flexibility, showing how scissor-shaped molecules assemble into long chains that give tissues their stretchability. The study provides insights into the material's durability and could lead to new materials for engineering applications.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 5, 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.

Petroleum reservoir simulation using super element method

The study introduces a super element modeling method for petroleum reservoir simulation, which speeds up calculations by hundreds of times. This allows for rapid development of oil fields with improved accuracy.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalProcedia Earth and Planetary Science·DateFeb 5, 2016

NASA's GPM satellite examines violent thunderstorms

The NASA GPM satellite examined violent thunderstorms in the southern US on February 2-3, with one powerful storm in North Carolina dropping rain at an extreme rate of 112.96 mm (4.4 inches) per hour. The satellite's radar instruments measured precipitation within the area and created a 3D cross-section through the storms.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateFeb 5, 2016

A flawed measure

A new study published in the International Journal of Obesity suggests that 34.4 million Americans considered overweight by BMI are actually healthy, and 19.8 million who are considered obese are also healthy. The research reveals that BMI mislabels millions of individuals as unhealthy, while overlooking those with 'healthy' BMIs who a...

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalInternational Journal of Obesity·DateFeb 5, 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.

Man-made underwater sound may have wider ecosystem effects than previously thought

Research from the University of Southampton found that man-made sounds can alter the behavior of seabed creatures, impacting nutrient recycling and carbon storage. Exposure to certain sounds can cause species to reduce irrigation and sediment turnover, leading to reduced oxygen levels and potentially affecting seabed productivity.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 5, 2016

Prunetin prolongs lifespan in male fruit flies and enhances overall health

Research published in The FASEB Journal found that prunetin, a plant-derived compound, prolongs lifespan and enhances overall health in male fruit flies by increasing glucose balance and fitness levels. The effect was not observed in female fruit flies.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateFeb 5, 2016

Health care for older adults should honor diversity

By 2050, older adults representing minority groups are projected to rise to 39% globally, with significant increases among Asian and Native Hawaiian populations. To address this growing need, the American Geriatrics Society recommends culturally sensitive indicators to improve healthcare outcomes for diverse older adult populations.

SourceAmerican Geriatrics Society·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateFeb 5, 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.

Study evaluates pay-for-performance program for Medicaid children in an ACO

A recent study evaluated the impact of a pay-for-performance program on pediatricians under a full-risk Medicaid accountable care organization (ACO) for children. The results show that the program was partially responsible for higher performance on quality measures, with significant improvements seen in independent incentivized provide...

SourceNationwide Children's Hospital·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateFeb 5, 2016

PPPL physicists help celebrate first hydrogen plasma on W7-X

The PPPL-led collaboration achieved a significant breakthrough in fusion energy research by creating a hydrogen-fueled superhot gas called a plasma on the W7-X stellarator. The achievement marks a major step forward for understanding plasma and demonstrates the potential of stellarators as a model for future fusion power plants.

SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·DateFeb 5, 2016

The mystery of the Red Sea

Biologists from Moscow State University found new luminescent creatures in the Red Sea, with unique fluorescent patterns that can help identify different species. The study published in PLOS ONE reveals insights into the role of glow in attracting prey and exploring symbiotic relationships.

SourceLomonosov Moscow State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 5, 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.

Online shopping might not be as green as we thought

A multi-year regional study at the University of Delaware suggests that home shopping has a greater impact on transportation sector than previously believed. The study found that online shopping leads to increased wear and tear on pavements and higher environmental pollution due to more delivery trucks on the roads.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalInternational Journal of Sustainable Development & World Ecology·DateFeb 5, 2016

Milk, vitamin supplements and exercise raise children's vitamin D levels

A new study from the University of Eastern Finland found that children who drink at least three glasses of milk per day have higher serum vitamin D levels than their peers. The use of vitamin D supplements and regular exercise also contribute to improved vitamin D levels in children.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalBritish Journal Of Nutrition·DateFeb 5, 2016

The geometry of histamine understood by Russican scientists

Researchers from Lomonosov Moscow State University studied histamine molecules using gas electron diffraction and quantum-chemical calculations. They were able to determine the molecule's geometric structure and predict its mechanism of tautomerization, a spontaneous transition between structural states.

SourceLomonosov Moscow State University·JournalPhysical Chemistry Chemical Physics·DateFeb 5, 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.

First-of-its-kind study explains why rest is critical after a concussion

A new study in mice shows that repetitive mild concussions can cause mounting damage and brain inflammation, even with extended rest periods. The findings support the importance of adequate rest after a concussion to allow for neural network rebalancing and repair.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateFeb 5, 2016

Motorboat noise gives predators a deadly advantage

Motorboat noise increases stress levels in young coral reef fish, reducing their ability to flee from predators. This study found that boat noise can halve survival chances and double the capture rate of fish.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 5, 2016

Discovery: Many white-tailed deer have malaria

Researchers estimate that up to 25% of white-tailed deer along the East Coast of the United States are infected with Plasmodium odocoilei, a previously unknown malaria parasite. The discovery fundamentally changes our understanding of malaria distribution and evolutionary history in mammals.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 5, 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.

New analysis method may reduce need for invasive biopsies

Researchers have developed a chimera design that allows antibodies to cross cell membranes, potentially reducing the need for invasive biopsies. This breakthrough could lead to improved diagnosis and treatment of diseases such as cancer, Alzheimer's, and viral infections.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateFeb 5, 2016

Proteomics and precision medicine

A research team at the University of Iowa uses proteomics to create personalized molecular diagnoses, tailoring treatments to individual patients. By analyzing protein profiles, doctors can identify specific disease causes and develop targeted therapies.

SourceUniversity of Iowa Health Care·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateFeb 5, 2016

The iron stepping stones to better wearable tech without semiconductors

Researchers have created a new material using quantum dots of iron on boron nitride nanotubes, which can replace semiconductors in wearable technology. This new material enables transistors to shrink and reduces heat generation, making it suitable for flexible and efficient wearable electronics.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 5, 2016

Biophysics: Partitioning by collision

Researchers have found that mixtures of equally sized particles in solution will demix, or sort themselves, if they differ in their diffusion constants. This phenomenon, known as the Brazil Nut effect, was simulated and explained by a theoretical model, showing that random particle motions play a key role in the process.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 5, 2016

Central Appalachia flatter due to mountaintop mining

Researchers at Duke University found that 40 years of mountaintop coal mining has made parts of Central Appalachia 40% flatter than before excavation. The study suggests that this change could lead to increased water quality issues due to the creation of valley fills and changes in water movement.

SourceDuke University·DateFeb 5, 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.

Motorboat noise gives predators a deadly advantage

A new study found that motorboat noise increases stress levels in young coral reef fish, making them more vulnerable to predators. The team recommends creating marine quiet zones or buffer areas to mitigate this effect and protect the marine environment.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 5, 2016

Record Missouri flooding was manmade calamity, scientist says

Scientists found that recent developments near the Meramec River, including a levee and landfill, significantly magnified flood levels. The study showed that floods are becoming more chaotic, unpredictable, and severe due to human activities such as development in floodways and floodplains.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalJournal of Earth Science·DateFeb 5, 2016

Chromosomes reconfigure as cell division ends

A new study reveals that chromosomes undergo a transformation in senescent cells, with some genes moving into more restrictive compartments. This change affects gene expression and may have implications for health conditions such as aging and cancer.

SourceBrown University·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 5, 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.

AMP updates pathology residency curriculum recommendations

The Association for Molecular Pathology (AMP) has updated its pathology residency curriculum recommendations, focusing on 10 major molecular pathology topics. The new report aims to equip pathologists with the latest scientific breakthroughs and technological innovations in molecular pathology.

SourceAssociation for Molecular Pathology·JournalJournal of Molecular Diagnostics·DateFeb 5, 2016

When older adults stop driving, it may impact health and well-being

When older adults stop driving, they experience doubled symptoms of depression, faster physical and mental health declines, and increased mortality risk. Effective programs ensuring mobility and social activities are needed to mitigate these adverse effects.

SourceAmerican Geriatrics Society·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateFeb 5, 2016

Clinicians’ exposure to basic science articles has significantly declined

A recent study in The FASEB Journal found that the number of articles dealing with basic scientific research in top medical journals has decreased dramatically over the past two decades. This decline is likely to reduce doctors' exposure to science, which could have implications for advances in medicine.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateFeb 5, 2016

Aggression causes new nerve cells to be generated in the brain

A Russian-US research team found that aggressive behavior leads to new nerve cells being generated in the brain, specifically in the hippocampus. This discovery could help understand aggression and its link to autism and other disorders.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalFrontiers in Neuroscience·DateFeb 5, 2016

Radar reveals the hidden secrets of wombat warrens

Using ground-penetrating radar, researchers mapped wombat warrens, finding that soil warrens consist of a single tunnel underground, while limestone warrens feature extensive tunnels and chambers. This discovery has important implications for estimating wombat numbers and understanding their social structure.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalWildlife Research·DateFeb 5, 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.