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Science News for January 14, 2016


Researchers develop novel cell line for screening of brain drugs

Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have created a novel cell line to screen brain drugs, mimicking the blood-brain barrier's impermeability. This tool may accelerate the development of improved treatments for brain diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalMolecular Pharmaceutics·DateJan 14, 2016

How malaria fools our immune system

Researchers at OIST have reconstructed the 3D structure of Plasmodium falciparum protein PfEMP1, which deceives IgM antibodies and facilitates rosette formation. This understanding can aid in designing anti-malaria treatments that target these clusters.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalCell Reports·DateJan 14, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Preventing youth gun violence: What we know and still need to know

A comprehensive review of youth gun violence highlights the need for a multifaceted approach, including strengthening families, reducing violent media effects, and improving school climates. The study also explores the potential use of online data mining to predict potential youth violence.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalAmerican Psychologist·DateJan 14, 2016

Berkeley Lab launches new projects for grid modernization

The DOE has awarded $220 million for 88 new projects across 14 National Laboratories to deliver new grid concepts, tools, and technologies. Berkeley Lab is leading two projects: the California Distributed Resource Planning and Optimization Platform and Future Utility Regulation.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·DateJan 14, 2016

Metamaterials boost sensitivity of MRI machines

The technology uses metamaterials to improve the signal-to-noise ratio, resulting in higher-resolution images and faster scanning times. This innovation has the potential to revolutionize medical diagnostics, particularly in cancer detection and tissue analysis.

SourceITMO University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJan 14, 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.

Youths with gender dysphoria have higher rates of Asperger syndrome

A new study found that 23% of youths with gender dysphoria possibly or likely had Asperger syndrome. The researchers recommend routine assessment of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in youth presenting to a gender dysphoria clinic for optimal clinical care.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalLGBT Health·DateJan 14, 2016

TSRI chemists devise powerful new method for modifying drug molecules

Researchers at Scripps Research Institute have developed a new method for modifying complex drug molecules, known as strain-release amination. This technique has enabled the efficient synthesis of a promising cancer drug candidate, which was previously unsolvable due to its high difficulty and toxicity. The breakthrough also opens up n...

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalScience·DateJan 14, 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.

Strategically corrupt: Businesses break the law to stay competitive

A new study finds that Indian technology firms, both registered and unregistered, engage in corruption when competing with smaller rivals. However, when facing foreign multinational corporations, they prioritize employee training over corrupt practices.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalStrategic Management Journal·DateJan 14, 2016

Flexible film may lead to phone-sized cancer detector

A thin, stretchable film developed by University of Michigan researchers could enable doctors to catch cancer recurrence earlier with more effective treatment. The film produces circularly polarized light, a crucial ingredient in early warning systems, making it potentially simpler and less expensive to produce.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNature Materials·DateJan 14, 2016

Scientists show a new way to absorb electromagnetic radiation

Researchers have developed a new way to fully absorb electromagnetic radiation using an anisotropic crystal, hexagonal boron nitride. This breakthrough has significant implications for reducing radar visibility and improving applications in photovoltaics, sensing, nanochemistry, and photodynamic therapy.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalPhysical Review B·DateJan 14, 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.

Regrowing functional joints in frogs

Scientists have developed a method to regrow functional joints in frogs using a 'reintegration' mechanism. This approach could potentially be used to regenerate limbs in mammals and humans. The research paves the way for further studies on functional joint regeneration.

SourceKyoto University·JournalRegeneration·DateJan 14, 2016

Northwest Atlantic Ocean may get warmer, sooner

A new study by NOAA researchers predicts that ocean temperatures in the Northeast U.S. may warm twice as fast and three times faster than previously estimated. This accelerated warming is driven by a higher resolution climate model that better reflects regional ocean circulation patterns.

SourceNOAA Northeast Fisheries Science Center·DateJan 14, 2016

Health warning labels may deter parents from purchasing sugar-sweetened beverages for kids

A new study found that health warning labels on sugar-sweetened beverages significantly reduce the likelihood of parents purchasing these drinks for their children, regardless of education level. The study also shows that these labels improve parents' understanding of the health dangers associated with overconsumption.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateJan 14, 2016

Chimp friendships are based on trust

A study found that chimpanzees extend trust selectively to their closest friends, showing similar characteristics to human friendships. The researchers observed interactions among 15 chimps over 5 months and used a modified trust game to assess their behavior.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJan 14, 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.

Dengue vaccine enters phase 3 trial in Brazil

A large-scale clinical trial has been launched in Brazil to evaluate a candidate vaccine for dengue fever, which affects half the world's population and causes 500,000 hospitalizations annually. The vaccine, TV003, aims to prevent the mosquito-borne illness with a robust antibody and cellular immune response.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·DateJan 14, 2016

Much like white light, spacetime is also composed of a certain rainbow

Theorists have shown that particles of different energies sense slightly modified versions of spacetime, leading to a phenomenon similar to a rainbow. This discovery suggests that the structure of spacetime sensed by individual particles depends on their energy.

SourceUniversity of Warsaw, Faculty of Physics·JournalPhysics Letters B·DateJan 14, 2016

New tool may help predict patients' motor function recovery after stroke

A new tool may help predict patients' motor function recovery after stroke by analyzing changes in brain network configuration. Graph theoretical analysis revealed that a lower characteristic path length indicates better recovery, suggesting improved rehabilitation planning and therapy development.

SourceIOS Press·JournalRestorative Neurology and Neuroscience·DateJan 14, 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.

Drug 'cocktail' could restore vision in optic nerve injury

Researchers at Boston Children's Hospital restored vision in mice with optic nerve injury using gene therapy and a channel-blocking drug. The study found that the regenerated nerve fibers needed to be helped to conduct impulses without myelin sheath, which can be achieved by adding a potassium channel blocker.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalCell·DateJan 14, 2016

Inhibitory neurons, not age, determine song learning in birds

A new study reveals that inhibitory neurons play a crucial role in song learning in birds, rather than the bird's age. The research found that firing patterns of inhibitory neurons correspond with song accuracy, and similar patterns are seen in both juvenile and adult birds.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJan 14, 2016

Zika virus has potential to spread rapidly through Americas

The Zika virus has been introduced into the Americas, spreading locally among people who have not traveled abroad. The virus is linked to serious birth defects, including microcephaly, and there is currently no vaccine or antiviral treatment available.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalThe Lancet·DateJan 14, 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.

Study suggests that what you eat can influence how you sleep

A new study found that eating less fiber, more saturated fat, and more sugar is associated with lighter, less restorative sleep. Greater fiber intake predicted more time spent in deep slow wave sleep, while a higher percentage of energy from saturated fat predicted less slow wave sleep. On the other hand, greater sugar intake was linke...

SourceAmerican Academy of Sleep Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Sleep Medicine·DateJan 14, 2016

NASA sees Tropical Depression Pali headed toward Equator

Tropical Depression Pali has weakened to a depression with maximum sustained winds near 35 mph, moving southwest towards Hawaii and expected to dissipate on January 15. The storm's proximity to the equator and south-southwesterly vertical shear are contributing factors to its demise.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 14, 2016

How will climate policy affect energy access goals?

A new study warns that stringent climate policies could limit the adoption of modern cooking fuels in developing countries, putting millions at risk. The study found that without targeted subsidies, increasing carbon prices would disproportionately harm energy access goals.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalNature Energy·DateJan 14, 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.

Mammoth injuries indicate humans occupied Arctic earlier than thought

A frozen mammoth carcass with signs of weapon-inflicted injuries suggests human occupation of the Eurasian Arctic at 45,000 years ago. This finding challenges previous estimates and highlights advancements in mammoth hunting that enabled human survival and spread across northernmost Arctic Siberia.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJan 14, 2016

Study reveals how birds learn through imitation

Researchers found that early in adolescence, listening to a father's song activates brain cell networks used later for singing, while inhibitory interneurons 'lock' learned notes into memory by suppressing surrounding nerve activity. Fast learners showed faster brain changes.

SourceNew York University·JournalScience·DateJan 14, 2016

Trio of autism-linked molecules orchestrate neuron connections

A trio of molecules, hevin, neurexins, and neuroligins, orchestrate neuron connections in the developing brain that are responsible for processing sensory information. The study may provide insight into brain disorders including autism, depression, and addiction.

SourceDuke University·JournalCell·DateJan 14, 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.

How the cell's power station survives attacks

When cells are exposed to mitochondrial damage, AMPK sends an emergency alert instructing them to break apart into tiny fragments. This process helps recycle damaged pieces and promotes mitochondrial health.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalScience·DateJan 14, 2016

'Bursting' cells gain the brain's attention for life-or-death decisions

Using optogenetics and other technology, researchers have for the first time precisely manipulated this bursting activity of the thalamus, tying it to the sense of touch. The work reveals that cells in the thalamus detect potential threats and quickly focus on life-or-death decisions before switching to detailed analytical processing.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalCell Reports·DateJan 14, 2016

New study indicates students' cognitive functioning improves when using standing desks

A recent study by Texas A&M University found that students who used standing desks showed significant improvements in executive function and working memory capabilities. The research, published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, is the first to objectively examine students' cognitive responses to ...

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateJan 14, 2016

Born to break: Mutation causes fragile bones

Researchers discovered a specific gene variant linked to fragile bones in mice with Hajdu-Cheney syndrome, a rare inherited disorder. The study suggests that overactive bone-absorbing cells contribute to the disease's characteristic bone loss and fractures.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJan 14, 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: Deadly amphibian fungus may decline

A new study suggests that climate change may reduce the range of the deadly chytrid fungus in Africa's Albertine Rift, potentially saving some amphibian populations. Microscopic examination revealed that most infected frogs appeared to be in good health, indicating regional resistance to the disease.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 14, 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.

E-cigarettes, as used, aren't helping smokers quit, study shows

Adult smokers who use e-cigarettes are 28 percent less likely to stop smoking cigarettes, according to a systematic review and meta-analysis of published data. The largest study to quantify the effect of e-cigarettes on quitting found no association between e-cigarette use and increased smoking cessation.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalThe Lancet Respiratory Medicine·DateJan 14, 2016

Education and industrial variety power high-growth companies nationwide

A study by Penn State researchers found that high-growth firms are more likely to be in communities with a variety of industries, rather than just one or two specialized industries. Communities with higher numbers of bachelor's degrees also tend to host these businesses.

SourcePenn State·JournalEntrepreneurship and Regional Development·DateJan 14, 2016

Nano-shells deliver molecules that tell bone to repair itself

Scientists at the University of Michigan have developed a polymer sphere that delivers microRNA molecules to bone wounds, instructing cells to repair damage. This technology can help grow bone in patients with conditions like oral implants or osteoporosis, offering a new therapy for treating bone loss and associated functional problems.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 14, 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.

High-deductible plans linked to lower use of medical imaging studies

A study published in Medical Care found that patients with high-deductible insurance plans used fewer imaging tests and had lower costs for diagnostic imaging. However, the study could not determine whether this was due to high- or low-value utilization, raising concerns about potential drawbacks of high-deductible plans.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalMedical Care·DateJan 14, 2016

Researchers attack citrus greening with $4 million USDA grant

A team of researchers, including those at Florida State University and the University of Florida, have secured a $4 million USDA grant to tackle citrus greening. They plan to culture the bacteria in labs to test new treatments and approaches to combat the disease, which has devastated citrus crops in Florida.

SourceFlorida State University·DateJan 14, 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.

Poor sleep in seniors linked to hardened brain arteries

Researchers found a significant association between poor sleep quality and severe arteriosclerosis in the brain, as well as increased oxygen-starved tissue, among elderly individuals. Sleep fragmentation was linked to higher odds of stroke and cognitive impairment, independent of other cardiovascular risk factors.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalStroke·DateJan 14, 2016

UBC study: Rats pose health threat to poultry and humans

A UBC study found that rats can absorb disease agents from their environment and spread them, posing a significant health threat to both poultry and humans. The researchers discovered avian pathogenic E. coli in the feces of farm rats, with over one quarter carrying multidrug-resistant strains.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalJournal of Wildlife Diseases·DateJan 14, 2016

Low blood levels of bicarbonate linked to earlier death in healthy older adults

A recent study found that low blood levels of bicarbonate are associated with an increased risk of premature death in healthy older adults. Participants with normal or high bicarbonate levels had a similar risk of dying compared to those with low bicarbonate levels, which was linked to a 24% higher mortality rate.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateJan 14, 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.

NIH genome sequencing program targets the genomic bases of common, rare disease

The National Institutes of Health has launched the Centers for Common Disease Genomics (CCDG) to explore the genomic contributions to common diseases such as heart disease and diabetes. The program will sequence tens of thousands of genomes from individuals with these diseases, aiming to identify genes and genomic variants underlying d...

SourceNIH/National Human Genome Research Institute·DateJan 14, 2016

Medical school program addresses rural physician shortage

A recent study by the University of Missouri School of Medicine found that its Community Integration Program enhances training and may increase interest in rural practice for graduating medical students. The program encourages third-year students to identify a health need in a community and implement a project to meet it, leading to in...

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalMedical Teacher·DateJan 14, 2016

Fuel cell advance

Researchers at the University of Delaware have developed a low-cost nickel-based catalyst that can power fuel cells with unprecedented efficiency. This breakthrough could make hydrogen fuel cell cars truly affordable, potentially priced around $23,000 for a Toyota Mirai.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 14, 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.

Hay fever medicine reduces symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome

Researchers from KU Leuven identified histamine as a cause of abdominal pain in IBS patients, discovering that it makes the pain receptor TRPV1 hypersensitive. A pilot clinical study found that ebastine, an existing hay fever medicine, significantly reduced abdominal pain in IBS patients.

SourceKU Leuven·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateJan 14, 2016

Genes may contribute to making some nations happier than others

A study found that nations with higher prevalence of the A allele in the fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) gene variant are also reported as happier. This allele helps prevent pain and enhances sensory pleasure. Climate, economics, and politics did not significantly influence happiness levels.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of Happiness Studies·DateJan 14, 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.

Weather-worn lizards might adapt to new climates

A study by James Cook University scientists found that lizards in environmentally variable areas can tolerate more fluctuations, leading to wider ranges. Climate change predictions are met with evidence of species adapting to extreme weather events.

SourceJames Cook University·JournalEcological Monographs·DateJan 14, 2016

Photovoltaics? On perovskites produced by mechanochemistry!

Researchers from Warsaw University of Technology develop a mechanochemical process to synthesize perovskites, which can be used in high-efficiency solar cells. The new method is environmentally friendly and produces higher-quality materials than traditional methods.

SourceInstitute of Physical Chemistry of the Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry A·DateJan 14, 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.

Signals that make early stem cells identified

Researchers at Rockefeller University discover a new signaling mechanism that instructs cells to become stem cells during embryonic development. The finding suggests that stem cells may exist before the niche is formed and has implications for understanding skin cancer treatments.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalCell·DateJan 14, 2016

Mothers' comments linked to eating disorders in Asian young adults

A study found that negative comments from mothers have a significant impact on Asian young adults' self-image, regardless of gender. The research team is now calling for a more tailored approach to treatment, as the Western approach adopted in Singapore may not be effective.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalBody Image·DateJan 14, 2016

Breast cancer study suggests new potential drug targets and combinations

A recent study suggests new potential drug targets and combinations for treating breast cancer, including signaling proteins and proteins that regulate cell growth pathways. The research identifies candidate genes essential to cancer cell survival and validates a gene as a target for further study.

SourceNew York University·JournalCell·DateJan 14, 2016

Preventing violent extremism requires new police programs

A new report from Duke University's Triangle Center on Terrorism and Homeland Security recommends expanding community policing efforts to prevent violent extremism. The report finds that building trust with Muslim-Americans has become especially challenging due to widespread discrimination and harassment since 9/11.

SourceDuke University·DateJan 14, 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.

Closer look reveals nematode nervous systems differ

Researchers have discovered significant differences in the number of neurons in nematode ventral cords across various species, suggesting that neuron number and anatomy may have evolved multiple times. This variation could lead to the development of more targeted nematicides to control plant-parasitic nematodes.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalFrontiers in Neuroanatomy·DateJan 14, 2016

The S-stroke or I-stroke?

A research team from the University of Tsukuba found that the S-stroke is more efficient for middle and long distance swimming due to its ability to generate propulsive power with less physical exertion. In contrast, the I-stroke is better suited for short distances where speed over efficiency is prioritized.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalJournal of Sports Sciences·DateJan 14, 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.

Making the invisible visible: Color-changing indicators highlight microscopic damage

Researchers developed a color-changing indicator that detects small cracks and scratches in polymers, highlighting areas of mechanical damage. The system uses microcapsules with pH-sensitive dyes that change color upon stress or fracture, allowing for early detection and prevention of costly failures.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJan 14, 2016

Educational gains by immigrants to US not as large as believed, study finds

A new study by RAND Corporation researchers found that many European immigrants and their descendants in the US did not achieve significant educational gains compared to those who remained in their native countries. However, exceptions were seen in Italy and Poland, where descendants experienced substantial educational advantages.

SourceRAND Corporation·DateJan 14, 2016

Study finds high melt rates on Antarctica's most stable ice shelf

Researchers found dramatic changes in melt rate within less than a mile on the Ross Ice Shelf, which is normally stable. The study suggests freshwater from subglacial drainage systems contributes to melting, impacting the ice shelf's stability.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJan 14, 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.

$60 million to fund study of genetics underlying common diseases

The McDonnell Genome Institute will receive $60 million from the National Institutes of Health to study the genetics of common diseases. The research aims to uncover how differences in DNA contribute to disease risk, with potential benefits for improved diagnosis and treatment options.

SourceWashU Medicine·DateJan 14, 2016

Odor biomarker for Alzheimer's disease

Researchers discovered a distinctive odor signature in mouse models of Alzheimer's disease that appears before significant brain pathology development, suggesting a non-invasive tool for early diagnosis. The odor profile may be related to the presence of an underlying gene rather than actual brain changes.

SourceMonell Chemical Senses Center·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 14, 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.

New particle can track chemo

Researchers have discovered a way to light up a common cancer drug, allowing them to see where the chemo goes and how long it takes to get there. This breakthrough could lead to more personalized medicine and better understanding of how cells interact with drugs.

SourceOhio State University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJan 14, 2016

BESC study seeks nature's best biocatalysts for biofuel production

A study from the Oak Ridge National Laboratory-based BioEnergy Science Center finds unconventional bacteria could help boost cellulosic biofuel production efficiency. Researchers analyzed six microorganisms to solubilize switchgrass, a potential bioenergy feedstock.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalBiotechnology for Biofuels·DateJan 14, 2016

Attention neuron type identified

Scientists at Karolinska Institutet have identified a cell type in the brain's frontal lobes that is integral to attention. Parvalbumin-expressing neurons were found to reflect animals' level of attention, with high activity associated with attentive states and low activity with inattentive states.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalCell·DateJan 14, 2016

Nanoprobe development will enable scientists to uncover more DNA secrets

Researchers at the University of Kent have developed a nanoprobe that enables the detailed study of individual proteins interacting with DNA. This technology allows for the manipulation and investigation of proteins bound to DNA tightropes, providing new insights into protein behavior.

SourceUniversity of Kent·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 14, 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.

Engineers invent a bubble-pen to write with nanoparticles

Researchers developed bubble-pen lithography, a technique that uses microbubbles to inscribe nanoparticles onto a surface with precise control. This method allows for the creation of new materials and devices, such as metamaterials, with unique properties.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalNano Letters·DateJan 14, 2016

New research on preventing fall asthma exacerbations

A study published in The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology found that preventative treatment with omalizumab reduces fall exacerbations in a high-risk group of allergic asthma subjects. Increasing inhaled steroid treatment levels offered little to no additional benefit.

SourceChildren's Hospital Colorado·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateJan 14, 2016

New discoveries concerning Ötzi's genetic history

Researchers at EURAC have made new discoveries about Ötzi's genetic history, clarifying that his maternal lineage is no longer present in modern populations. The study found that Ötzi's mitochondrial DNA, named K1f, originated locally in the Alps and is now extinct.

SourceEuropean Academy of Bozen/Bolzano (EURAC)·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 14, 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.

Newly discovered supernova outshines all others

Researchers discovered the most luminous supernova yet observed in an unusual host galaxy, providing insights into super-luminous supernovae. The record-breaking ASASSN-15lh was found to mimic hydrogen-poor SLSNe's behavior but with greater extremes, sparking speculation about its extraordinary emission.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJan 14, 2016

Autism-linked protein lays groundwork for healthy brain

A gene linked to mental disorders helps lay the foundation for a crucial brain structure during prenatal development. Mutations in this gene can lead to severe depletion of neurons in the cortex, compromising its ability to communicate with other brain areas.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalCell Reports·DateJan 14, 2016

School shootings and street violence: How they're alike and different

A new report by Ohio State University researchers highlights the similarities in prevention approaches for school rampage shootings and street violence, despite differences in demographics and risk factors. The study emphasizes the need for a multifaceted approach to prevent youth violence, including strengthening families, reducing ac...

SourceOhio State University·JournalAmerican Psychologist·DateJan 14, 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.

Forensic research on modern child abuse can shed light on past cultures

Biological anthropologists use skeletal remains to understand how earlier peoples lived, while forensic experts decipher skeletal evidence to solve crimes. Researchers at North Carolina State University have published guidance on analyzing child-abuse victims to shed light on past cultures' treatment of children.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalClinical Anatomy·DateJan 14, 2016

Drug curbs marijuana use, but with tough side effects

A new randomized controlled trial at Brown University found that combining the drug topiramate with psychological counseling significantly reduced marijuana use among young smokers. However, many participants struggled with the medication's side effects, leading to dropout rates of 60%. The study suggests that medications can help redu...

SourceBrown University·JournalAddiction Biology·DateJan 14, 2016

Seduced by the label

Research from the Cornell Food & Brand Lab found that smaller recommended serving sizes on nutrition labels can mislead consumers into purchasing more of unhealthy foods like cookies. Shoppers tend to ignore serving size differences and assume healthier products.

SourceCornell Food & Brand Lab·JournalJournal of the Association for Consumer Research·DateJan 14, 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.

Brain waves could help predict how we respond to general anesthetics

Researchers found that brain network activity can predict how patients respond to general anesthesia. By analyzing alpha wave patterns and delta-alpha coupling, doctors may be able to optimize the amount of drug needed, reducing risks associated with anesthesia.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateJan 14, 2016

New blood test may expand scope of liquid biopsies

Researchers at UW Medicine developed a method to identify tissues contributing to cell-free DNA by analyzing fragmentation patterns, expanding the scope of liquid biopsies. This approach may aid in diagnosing unknown metastatic cancers and help guide treatment.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalCell·DateJan 14, 2016

Researchers solve long-standing ecological riddle

A study led by USGS research ecologist Jim Grace found that communities rich in species are substantially healthier and more productive than those depleted of species. Biodiversity is crucial for stable ecosystems and human society, the researchers say.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalNature·DateJan 14, 2016

How, when and where could affect outcome of psychological treatment

A cross-sectional survey of 14,587 patients found that 86% had a preference for at least one aspect of their psychological treatment, with time of day and location being the most popular. Patients who had unmet preferences were less likely to report being helped by the treatment.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Psychiatry·DateJan 14, 2016

Is suicide a tragic variant of an evolutionarily adaptive set of behaviors?

Research suggests that suicidal behavior may be a misguided expression of self-sacrificial tendencies, which are otherwise beneficial in eusocial species. The study identifies parallels between self-sacrifice in non-human species and human suicide, highlighting the importance of addressing underlying misconceptions about one's own value.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalPsychological Review·DateJan 14, 2016

Discovery: Most-luminous ever supernova

The newly discovered super-luminous supernova, ASAS-SN-15lh, is the most luminous ever recorded, outshining the entire Milky Way galaxy. Its unusual characteristics challenge current theories on magnetar-powered explosions.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalScience·DateJan 14, 2016

Speed reading promises are too good to be true, scientists find

A team of psychological scientists found little evidence to support speed reading as a shortcut to understanding and remembering large volumes of written content. Effective skimming is a more effective approach when interested in getting the gist of what's being read.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science in the Public Interest·DateJan 14, 2016

Nanodevice, build thyself

Researchers used density functional theory to understand the self-assembly of porphine molecules on copper and silver surfaces. They found that weak van der Waals interactions were the largest contributor to molecule-surface interaction, and surface-mediated molecule-molecule interactions occurred at higher coverages.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateJan 14, 2016