Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for February 9, 2016


The herbivore dilemma: How corn plants fights off simultaneous attacks

A recent study found that corn plants may prioritize defense against caterpillars over aphids, potentially making them more susceptible to aphid attacks. This metabolic trade-off could lead to the development of new corn varieties with naturally increased resistance to certain insects.

SourceBoyce Thompson Institute·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateFeb 9, 2016

Absorbing acoustics with soundless spirals

Researchers at CNRS and University of Lorraine develop a coiled-up acoustic metasurface that achieves total acoustic absorption in very low-frequency ranges. The absorber's deep-subwavelength thickness enables it to handle large wavelengths with reduced size structure, making it physically practical for most applications.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateFeb 9, 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.

Superconductivity: Footballs with no resistance

Researchers from Max Planck Institute achieve light-induced lossless electricity transmission in fullerenes, contributing to the search for practical superconducting materials. The discovery could lead to a better understanding of high-temperature superconductivity and the development of artificial superconductors.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·DateFeb 9, 2016

Tick genome reveals secrets of a successful bloodsucker

Researchers have deciphered the genome of the blacklegged tick, revealing secrets to its success as a disease vector. The study identifies genes and protein families that shed light on why ticks excel at spreading pathogens, providing potential targets for new interventions.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 9, 2016

Wayne State University researchers discover new source of mutations in cancer

Researchers found that APOBEC3 enzymes target the lagging-strand template during DNA copying, causing C-to-T mutations. This discovery sheds light on a major source of mutations driving tumor growth and explains microbial evolution.

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 9, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Ancient gene network helps plants adapt to their environments

A team of scientists at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory has discovered an ancient gene network that helps plants adapt to their environments. The tasiARF/ARF gene network, found in both mosses and flowering plants, plays a crucial role in regulating the response to environmental cues.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateFeb 9, 2016

Twisted X-rays unravel the complexity of helical structures

Researchers propose using twisted X-rays to study non-crystalline but symmetric structures like helices. This method matches the symmetry of incoming radiation to the structure's symmetry, producing sharp peaks in diffraction data that can be used for accurate structure prediction.

SourceInternational Union of Crystallography·JournalActa Crystallographica Section A·DateFeb 9, 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.

Hunting pressure on forest animals in Africa is on the increase

A team of European researchers has predicted increased hunting pressure in the Congo Basin, leading to dramatic population declines or extinctions. The study identified areas with high hunting pressure, including Virunga National Park and the Okapi Wildlife Reserve.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalBiotropica·DateFeb 9, 2016

Stronger evidence found for link between prenatal exposure to paracetamol and the risk of developing

Research found a consistent link between prenatal paracetamol exposure and asthma development, with the strongest association seen in children who had been exposed for multiple complaints. The study, the largest of its kind, also found no strong evidence for an association between maternal or paternal paracetamol use outside pregnancy.

SourceOxford University Press UK·JournalInternational Journal of Epidemiology·DateFeb 9, 2016

Columbia seminary professor to discuss biodiversity at AAAS Annual Meeting

Professor Bill Brown from Columbia Seminary will present on 'Theological Reasons for Protecting Biodiversity' at the AAAS 2016 Annual Meeting. He argues that the crisis of biodiversity loss is underappreciated by people of religious faith, and institutions must develop theological grounding to value biodiversity.

SourceColumbia Theological Seminary·DateFeb 9, 2016

Menominee Crack is an unusual geological pop-up structure

Researchers from Michigan Technological University identified a geological pop-up structure known as the Menominee Crack, which formed in 2010. The crack is believed to be a unique feature resulting from the removal of overlying rock or ice, possibly due to glaciers receding over 11,000 years ago.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalSeismological Research Letters·DateFeb 9, 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.

New guideline for treatment of prolonged seizures in children and adults

The American Epilepsy Society has released a new guideline to help physicians effectively treat patients with prolonged seizures. The guideline recommends a three-phase approach to treatment, prioritizing rapid termination of seizure activity to reduce neurological injuries and deaths.

SourceAmerican Epilepsy Society·JournalEpilepsy Currents·DateFeb 9, 2016

Chinese male teens aren't smoking as much, Saint Louis University research finds

Research from Saint Louis University and Chongqing University found that younger Chinese teenage boys are less likely to start smoking than those born longer ago. The study suggests that urbanization and improved access to education may be contributing factors to the decline in smoking rates among Chinese male teens.

SourceSaint Louis University·JournalInternational Journal of Public Health·DateFeb 9, 2016

Study shows positive psychological effects of hormone therapy in transgender individuals

A systematic review of hormone therapy's effects on transgender individuals found significant improvements in mental health status and quality of life after as little as 3-6 months of treatment. Researchers suggest that increased access to hormone therapy could help eliminate or reduce depression and anxiety in this population.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalTransgender Health·DateFeb 9, 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.

Mysterious menominee crack is unusual geological pop-up feature

Researchers studying a massive crack in the ground near Menominee, Michigan, have discovered it's likely a rare geological phenomenon known as a 'pop-up' feature. The team used seismic refraction techniques to confirm the formation of the feature, which is believed to be caused by stress in ancient limestone rock.

SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalSeismological Research Letters·DateFeb 9, 2016

Engineering researchers use laser to 'weld' neurons

Researchers at the University of Alberta have developed a groundbreaking technique to connect neurons using femtosecond laser pulses. This breakthrough allows for complete control over cell connection processes, enabling researchers to conduct experiments that would be impossible with traditional methods.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 9, 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.

Moscow gets rid off aerosols

Researchers detected a trend of lowering aerosol percentage in Moscow over the XXI century. The decrease is attributed to reduced anthropogenic emissions of proto-aerosol gases due to higher petrol quality and lower sulfur oxide emissions, with significant effects during spring and autumn periods.

SourceLomonosov Moscow State University·JournalAtmospheric Measurement Techniques·DateFeb 9, 2016

A new home - but with no medical home? Study of immigrants' kids with special health needs

A new study published in Pediatrics reveals that immigrant children with special health needs are more likely to lack a true 'medical home', despite growing popularity of the model. The disparity affects even American-born children whose parents are foreign-born, highlighting the need for family-centered care coordination.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateFeb 9, 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.

Study compares outcomes at VA hospitals vs. non-VA hospitals

A study found that Veterans Affairs (VA) hospitals had lower 30-day all-cause mortality rates for heart attack and heart failure, but higher readmission rates for these conditions compared to non-VA hospitals. The findings suggest that VA hospitals are starting from a better place in terms of quality care than two decades ago.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateFeb 9, 2016

Uncoding a citrus tree killer

A team of researchers led by UC Riverside scientist Wenbo Ma has received a $4 million grant to study the citrus greening disease and develop resistant varieties. They will use CRISPR-based genome editing to modify native citrus genes and investigate public acceptance of genome-edited crops.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateFeb 9, 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.

Horses can read human emotions, University of Sussex research shows

Researchers found that horses looked more with their left eye when viewing angry faces and showed a quicker increase in heart rate, indicating they had a functionally relevant understanding of the emotions. This ability to read human emotions may serve as a warning system, allowing horses to anticipate negative behavior.

SourceUniversity of Sussex·JournalBiology Letters·DateFeb 9, 2016

Study offers treatment hope for sleep disordered breathing

Scientists have gained insights into breathing signals during sleep, leading to potential new treatments for central sleep apnoea. Researchers used genetically modified mice to show that AMPK enzyme helps breathe faster in low oxygen environments.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateFeb 9, 2016

Watch: Barley can help improve blood sugar levels and reduce appetite

A recent study from Lund University found that barley can rapidly improve people's health by reducing blood sugar levels and risk for diabetes. The special mixture of dietary fibres in barley stimulates the increase of good bacteria and the release of important hormones.

SourceLund University·JournalBritish Journal Of Nutrition·DateFeb 9, 2016

Inland fisheries determined to surface as food powerhouse

A new review highlights the importance of inland fish and fisheries, which contribute to at least 40% of the world's reported fish production. Inland fisheries provide essential livelihoods for millions of people, particularly in low-income countries, while also supporting biodiversity and recreation.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalEnvironmental Reviews·DateFeb 9, 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.

How stable is the West Antarctic Ice Sheet?

A future warming of the Southern Ocean may cause the collapse of the West Antarctic Ice Sheet, leading to a significant rise in sea levels. Model simulations suggest that critical temperature limits will be exceeded if ocean temperatures rise by more than two degrees Celsius, resulting in a sea level rise of three to five meters.

SourceAlfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateFeb 9, 2016

Cutting prison sentences could reduce spread of HIV, study suggests

A computer model suggests that cutting incarceration can decrease the number of sexual partners men and women have, thus reducing the spread of sexually transmitted infections. The study also found that harsher penalties may exacerbate this effect, highlighting the need for more open criminal justice systems.

SourceElsevier·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·DateFeb 9, 2016

Starfish reveal the origins of brain messenger molecules

Biologists from Queen Mary University of London have discovered 40 new neuropeptide genes in the common European starfish, providing new insights into neural function evolution. The discovery includes a neuropeptide similar to kisspeptin, which triggers human puberty.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalOpen Biology·DateFeb 9, 2016

Penn Medicine 'brain road maps' reflect behavior differences between males and females

Researchers found structural differences in brain connectivity match behavioral differences between men and women, with stronger motor skills linked to male performance and social cognition skills linked to female strengths. The study provides new insights into sex differences in the brain and behavior, potentially advancing treatment ...

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London (B )·DateFeb 9, 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.

'Molecular movie' opens door to new cancer treatments

A team of scientists has produced a structural movie showing the creation of S-Adenosylmethionine (SAMe), a major methyl donor in the body that plays a role in some cancers. The research provides insight into how this enzyme synthesizes SAMe and highlights it as an excellent therapeutic target for cancer treatment.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 9, 2016

Climate change will delay transatlantic flights

A new study by the University of Reading predicts that climate change will delay transatlantic flights due to accelerated jet stream winds. This will result in longer journey times, increased fuel costs, and worsened environmental impacts.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateFeb 9, 2016

Link between stress fracture injuries and genes found

A study by University of Liverpool researchers found that specific gene variations are associated with stress fracture injuries in healthy, exercising individuals. This discovery may lead to the development of preventative measures and tailored treatments for athletes and military personnel at risk of developing this common sports injury.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalPurinergic Signalling·DateFeb 9, 2016

UC's Arlitt Center awarded $1.6 million NSF grant

The University of Cincinnati's Arlitt Center has received a three-year, $1.6 million grant from the National Science Foundation to support teacher development and research into early childhood science learning through outdoor play environments. The grant will fund four initiatives: web-based professional development programs, research ...

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateFeb 9, 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.

BMJ provides Zika virus resources to support healthcare workers

BMJ is offering free online resources to help healthcare professionals keep up with the latest developments and guidance on diagnosing, advising, and treating patients affected by the Zika virus. The resources include information from leading health organizations such as WHO, Public Health England, and CDC.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateFeb 9, 2016

Rare bumble bee may be making a comeback in Pacific northwest

A recent study suggests that the Bombus occidentalis bumble bee may be making a comeback in the Pacific Northwest. The population's resurgence is believed to be linked to evolution and a decline in the impact of the Nosema parasite. This reversal could have significant implications for local ecosystems.

SourceEntomological Society of America·JournalJournal of Insect Science·DateFeb 9, 2016

The shield is crumbling

Research reveals that ice-shelf loss leads to rapid dynamic ice loss, exacerbating sea-level rise. The Antarctic Peninsula has experienced significant retreat and break-up of ice shelves over the past two decades, with upstream glaciers flowing into the ocean at an accelerated rate.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalNature Climate Change·DateFeb 9, 2016

Some heart drugs and antibiotics show effective in fighting cancer

Researchers have identified a dozen FDA-approved drugs that reactivate tumour suppressor genes through an epigenetic mechanism, targeting intracellular calcium levels. These cardiac glycosides and antibiotics may rapidly become available for clinical validation and treatment of cancer patients.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalCancer Research·DateFeb 9, 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.

Breeding wildness back into our fruit and veg

Wild tomato varieties exhibit dual resistance against whiteflies, which damages plants by extracting sap, creating honeydew, and transmitting viruses. Breeding these traits into commercial tomatoes could offer a sustainable solution for controlling the pest.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalAgronomy for Sustainable Development·DateFeb 9, 2016

Study: Carbon reductions won't hinder Chinese growth

A new study by an MIT professor suggests that China's efforts to price carbon will significantly lower the country's CO2 emissions without impeding economic development. The study uses a unique model linking China's energy system and economy, predicting that coal use will peak around 2020 and overall emissions will peak around 2030.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalEnergy Economics·DateFeb 9, 2016

Paper: Homeownership a 'dream deferred' for millennial generation

A new paper finds that millennials still want to own homes but face obstacles like high student loan debt, low credit ratings, and delayed marriage and children. This delay may lead to a more sustainable and financially stable homeownership in the future.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalFamily and Consumer Sciences Research Journal·DateFeb 9, 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.

Behind the levees

A recent study by the University of California, Davis, found that levees can actually increase flood risk for up to a third of residential structures and 22% of commercial structures behind them. The research team estimated long-term flood risk, probabilities of levee failure, and resulting economic losses in the Sny Island levee distr...

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalEnvironmental Science & Policy·DateFeb 9, 2016

Identifying plant and animal DNA switches much faster and cheaper

A new research technique developed by the Netherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO-KNAW) enables researchers to identify epigenetic changes in plants and animals much faster and cheaper. This breakthrough can help scientists study climate change, plagues, and other stress-factors more efficiently.

SourceNetherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO-KNAW)·JournalNature Methods·DateFeb 9, 2016

Oral capsule with bacterial spores may be effective treatment for recurrent C. difficile

A Phase 1b/2 trial suggests that an oral therapeutic drug containing the spores of beneficial bacteria is effective for preventing recurrence of C. difficile infection and restoring a healthy gut microbiome. The treatment achieved a 96.7% clinical cure rate, comparable to open-label antibiotic trials and fecal microbiota transplants.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateFeb 9, 2016

Patient access to online health action plans enhances rate of preventive care

A Kaiser Permanente study shows that patients who accessed their online health information and received timely alerts about potential gaps in care were more likely to receive preventive tests and screenings. The online tool enhanced the rate of preventive care by 9% for mammograms, 6% for Pap smears, and 12% for diabetes testing.

SourceKaiser Permanente·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateFeb 9, 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.

Biologists find genetic mechanism for 'extremophile' fish survival

Researchers found that about 170 of the extremophilic fish's genes were turned on to detoxify and remove hydrogen sulfide, a toxic compound in their environment. This discovery opens doors to new insights into evolutionary processes, adaptations, and potential biomedical applications.

SourceWashington State University·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateFeb 9, 2016

Wound-healing intestinal bacteria: Like shrubs after a forest fire

A study published in Nature Microbiology found that Akkermansia muciniphila and other anaerobic bacteria temporarily bloom in response to injury, contributing to wound healing. The researchers suggest exploiting these microbes as treatments for inflammatory bowel disease.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalNature Microbiology·DateFeb 9, 2016

WSU researchers see helpful protein causing cancer

WSU researchers found that the APOBEC protein can cause genetic mutations in actively replicating DNA, leading to cancer. The study reveals how tumors benefit from the protein's activity, which could inform new treatments targeting its activity.

SourceWashington State University·JournalCell Reports·DateFeb 9, 2016

An artificial diet may make it easier to rear insects

Researchers have found an artificial diet that makes it easier to rear insects, including moths and other species. They successfully reared 39 different moth species on the McMorran diet, saving time, space, and money.

SourceEntomological Society of America·JournalJournal of Insect Science·DateFeb 9, 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.

Protect your Chicago water heater against earthquakes? There's a better bet

A Northwestern University class estimated the costs and benefits of securing water heaters against earthquake damage. The study concluded that investing in water heater protection would yield a low return on investment compared to buying lottery tickets with high jackpots.

SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalSeismological Research Letters·DateFeb 9, 2016

Alcohol offender program associated with drop in deaths, study finds

A new study found that a 24/7 Sobriety Program in South Dakota reduced deaths by 4%, particularly among circulatory conditions associated with excessive alcohol use. The program requires frequent testing and swift sanctions for violations, leading to significant reductions in repeat DUI arrests and domestic violence incidents.

SourceRAND Corporation·JournalThe Lancet Psychiatry·DateFeb 9, 2016

Americans recognize 'past presidents' who never were, study finds

A recent study from Washington University in St. Louis confirms that about 71% of Americans are fairly certain Alexander Hamilton was a U.S. president. The study found that people's confidence in Hamilton's presidency is high, higher than for six actual presidents.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalPsychological Science·DateFeb 9, 2016

NASA data reveals tropical cyclone forming near Madagascar

A tropical low-pressure area is consolidating into a depression in the Southern Indian Ocean, with powerful convective storms dropping rain at a rate of over 3.7 inches per hour near Madagascar's eastern coast. The system's winds are expected to continue developing over the next 24 hours, posing a threat to the region.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateFeb 9, 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.

Unrest and eruptions

Researchers propose a new conceptual model for monogenetic eruptions, suggesting seismic crises occur before eruption and magmatic intrusions play a key role. This framework could improve forecasting of these events in populated areas, reducing economic and societal impact.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeology·DateFeb 9, 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.

Getting more miles from plug-in hybrids

Researchers at University of California, Riverside developed an energy management system that improves plug-in hybrid efficiency by 12 percent. The system uses machine learning and real-time data to optimize energy consumption and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalTransportation Research Record Journal of the Transportation Research Board·DateFeb 9, 2016

Air pollution exposure during pregnancy linked with asthma risk

Research by the University of British Columbia found that babies born to mothers exposed to air pollution from traffic had a higher risk of developing asthma before age six. The study, which included over 65,000 children in Metro Vancouver, linked increased exposure to traffic-related pollutants with an increased risk of asthma.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalEuropean Respiratory Journal·DateFeb 9, 2016

Modeling robust use of pesticides

The study proposes adaptive control techniques to manage pests, which can help reduce crop losses due to pest control. The approach tolerates uncertainty in pest dynamics, making it suitable for developing better models or adopting design approaches that tolerate the likely level of uncertainty.

SourceSociety for Industrial and Applied Mathematics·JournalSIAM Journal on Applied Mathematics·DateFeb 9, 2016

Duplicate DNA a hallmark of tick genome

Researchers have sequenced the Ixodes scapularis tick genome, which supports redundancy and has implications for disrupting disease transmission. The large genome includes duplicative elements and hormones regulating development, suggesting potential for developing a 'birth-control pill' to eradicate ticks.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 9, 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.

Protein that limits the severity of genetic kidney disease found

Researchers from Kumamoto University have identified the protein p53, which plays a crucial role in slowing down the progression of Alport syndrome. The study suggests that recovering the function of the p53 gene could help inhibit symptom progression and develop new treatment strategies for genetic diseases.

SourceKumamoto University·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateFeb 9, 2016

Childhood maltreatment predicts range of negative outcomes in bipolar patients

A meta-analysis found that bipolar patients with childhood maltreatment developed BD more than four years earlier, had more severe symptoms, and higher risks of suicide and PTSD. This study suggests a history of childhood maltreatment could be an early indicator of high risk for poor outcomes among individuals with bipolar disorder.

SourceKing's College London·JournalThe Lancet Psychiatry·DateFeb 9, 2016

A 'nudge' reduces doctors' unnecessary antibiotic prescription, study finds

A new study found that behavioral interventions, such as peer comparison and accountable justification, significantly reduced unnecessary antibiotic prescriptions for acute respiratory infections. The study built upon prior research and resulted in a 16 percentage point reduction in prescription rates.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalJAMA·DateFeb 9, 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.

Task-oriented rehab program does not result in greater recovery from stroke

A recent study published in JAMA Network found that a structured task-oriented rehabilitation program did not result in better motor function or recovery after 12 months for patients with moderate upper extremity impairment following a stroke. The study suggested that more than doubling the dose of therapy does not lead to meaningful d...

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateFeb 9, 2016

Penn researchers illuminate 'dark side' of the transcriptome

A new approach has been devised to map the transcriptome, revealing RNA variants that were largely invisible to previous techniques. The study identified complex splice variants in mammals, which are strikingly common and likely have roles in gene regulation across tissues and human diseases.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·DateFeb 9, 2016

It doesn't 'get better' for some bullied LGBT youths

A new Northwestern University study found that about a third of adolescents experience severe and ongoing bullying, which can lead to major depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The study also highlighted the importance of addressing these patterns in schools through policies and programs.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateFeb 9, 2016

Tick genome reveals inner workings of a resilient blood-guzzler

The tick genome provides valuable biological resources for controlling ticks and understanding disease transmission. Researchers identified proteins involved in the interactions between deer ticks and pathogens, offering insights into developing strategies to halt tick-borne diseases.

SourcePurdue University·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 9, 2016

Cells with an incorrect number of chromosomes lead to tumor development

A recent study published in Developmental Cell reveals that 68% of solid tumors are aneuploid, meaning they have an abnormal number of chromosomes. Aneuploidy contributes to genomic instability and cancer progression by triggering cell death and proliferation signals.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateFeb 9, 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 Nullarbor Plain's ancient forests revealed

Scientists dated fossilized pollen to show the Nullarbor Plain was once home to gum and eucalyptus trees before a dramatic climate shift. The region's history reveals a rainfall increase of up to four times higher than today, contradicting its modern arid conditions.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 9, 2016

Iowa State engineers develop hybrid technology to create biorenewable nylon

Researchers at Iowa State University have successfully developed a hybrid technology that combines genetic engineering and electrocatalysis to convert sugar into biobased, unsaturated nylon-6,6. This process offers several advantages, including low operating temperatures, the use of cheap metals, and production from water.

SourceIowa State University·DateFeb 9, 2016

Teaching neurons to respond to placebos as potential treatment for Parkinson's

A study published in The Journal of Physiology found that neurons in the thalamus can be conditioned to respond to placebos in Parkinson's patients. When apomorphine was administered before a placebo, it increased thalamic neuronal activity and clinical improvement. The response lasted up to 24 hours.

SourceThe Physiological Society·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·DateFeb 9, 2016

In autism, the social benefits of being a girl

A Yale University study found that infant girls at risk for autism exhibit better social attention and observational skills than boys, which may help prevent or mitigate the severity of autism symptoms in high-risk females.

SourceYale University·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateFeb 9, 2016

New thin film transistor may lead to flexible devices

Researchers at the University of Alberta have invented a new transistor that could revolutionize thin-film electronic devices with its bipolar action architecture. The device has power-handling capabilities up to 10 times greater than commercially produced transistors, making it suitable for flexible electronics applications.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 9, 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.