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Science News for March 9, 2016


Bioprospecting study finds biosurfactant-producing microbes target biodiversity in Latin America

A review of bioprospecting studies identifies biosurfactant-producing microorganisms and sustainable production methods to manufacture low-cost biosurfactants from agro-industrial waste. The study highlights the advantages of biosurfactants over chemical counterparts, including higher biodegradability and lower toxicity.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalIndustrial Biotechnology·DateMar 9, 2016

Child care providers need more education, training on benefits of breastfeeding, human milk

A study by University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing found that 60% of child care centers do not have staff trained on the benefits of breastfeeding and human milk. The researchers recommend widespread education for child care providers and staff to ensure adherence to breastfeeding support guidelines.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Nursing·JournalMCN The American Journal of Maternal/Child Nursing·DateMar 9, 2016

How have gender stereotypes changed in the last 30 years?

A new study found that gender stereotypes are as strong today as they were 30 years ago, with people believing men avoid traditional female roles. Despite greater diversity, participants continued to strongly stereotype men and women on personality traits, gender role behaviors, occupations, and physical characteristics.

SourceSAGE·JournalPsychology of Women Quarterly·DateMar 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.

The turbot: The first vertebrate to be sequenced in Spain

The first vertebrate to be sequenced in Spain, the Turbot has a highly developed sense of sight due to adapting to low light conditions. Its genes show high levels of fat in cellular membranes for cold tolerance, and researchers aim to use this knowledge for genetic selection programs and possible vaccines.

SourceSpanish National Research Council (CSIC)·JournalDNA Research·DateMar 9, 2016

Cheap, simple tests could improve Alzheimer's disease management at the bedside

A new review proposes using cheap and quick point-of-care tests to measure beta-amyloid levels in the blood, enabling doctors to deliver personalized care and improving patients' quality of life. The tests could be especially beneficial for patients in developing countries where access to healthcare is limited.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiosensors and Bioelectronics·DateMar 9, 2016

Delivery strategies of chemotherapy to the central nervous system

Innovative chemotherapy delivery methods for brain tumors are explored, including intra-arterial delivery, osmotic disruption, and implantable polymers. These strategies aim to enhance therapeutic agent distribution in the CNS, raising interest in the oncology community.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCurrent Cancer Drug Targets·DateMar 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.

Spotted Gar genome links humans to vertebrate ancestry

The Spotted Gar genome is a small and manageable genome that has conserved its genetic material over time, making it an out-group for evolutionary studies. The study reveals the conservation of key genes involved in enamel formation, providing clues to the evolutionary history of gene families and their role in human complex diseases.

SourceEarlham Institute·JournalNature Genetics·DateMar 9, 2016

How to make porous materials dry faster

Researchers found that subtle changes in the air-water interface shape near the surface of capillaries significantly impact drying rates. By controlling microstructure, drying time can be improved. The study's findings could lead to more efficient porous materials for various industries.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateMar 9, 2016

Vanderbilt researchers identify potential antibody treatment for H7 avian flu

Vanderbilt researchers have identified a new antibody treatment for H7 avian flu with remarkable neutralizing potency, potentially offering short-term protection to people exposed or infected by the virus. The antibodies were isolated from human monoclonal antibodies generated in response to an experimental bird flu vaccine.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 9, 2016

Research identifies first step in design of new anti-cancer drugs

A new generation of anti-cancer drugs is being designed with an agent to inhibit resistance to their effectiveness. The research identified a specific mechanism to target drug pumps in cancer cells, leading to more effective treatment options. This breakthrough could improve outcomes for patients with therapy-resistant cancers.

SourceUniversity of Kent·JournalOncoTargets and Therapy·DateMar 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.

The benefits of food processing

A new Harvard University study suggests that early humans processed meat with stone tools to reduce chewing effort, allowing for a higher-quality diet and eventual emergence of hunting and gathering. By slicing meat and pounding vegetables, researchers found a significant reduction in the number of chews required per day.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature·DateMar 9, 2016

Plant pathologist awarded nearly $2 million

Hailing Jin, a UC Riverside professor of plant pathology and microbiology, received $1.25 million from the National Institutes of Health to study small RNA machinery in plant immunity. She will also receive $700,000 from the National Science Foundation to investigate RNA trafficking pathways between pathogens and hosts.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateMar 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.

Bats in Asia found to have resistance to white-nose syndrome fungus

Researchers discovered Asian bat species have lower levels of infection and fungal loads compared to North American bats, suggesting host resistance as a possible explanation. This finding provides hope that some declining North American bat species could evolve resistance to the devastating disease.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·DateMar 9, 2016

Gamers don't notice the ads when they're busy killing

A study found that gamers playing violent video games recalled 51% fewer corporate brand names than those playing the same game with nonviolent goals. The study also discovered that when players' goal is killing, they notice little else - including corporate brands.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPsychology of Popular Media Culture·DateMar 9, 2016

Serotonin deficiency implicated in rheumatoid arthritis

A study in the American Journal of Pathology finds that serotonin deficiency is associated with worse rheumatoid arthritis (RA) symptoms and pathology in mice. Serotonin or its agonists can reduce RA effects, suggesting a new therapeutic target for this debilitating disease.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateMar 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.

Health insights: Fighting hypertension

African-American adults are at higher risk of developing hypertension, with nearly half being at risk. Researchers from UTA aim to understand the underlying mechanisms and develop treatment strategies to combat hypertension.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateMar 9, 2016

Want a younger brain? Stay in school -- and take the stairs

A Concordia University study found that education and daily stair climbing can significantly slow down brain age, reducing the appearance of grey matter loss by 0.95 years per year of education and 0.58 years per flight of stairs climbed.

SourceConcordia University·JournalNeurobiology of Aging·DateMar 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.

A step toward reducing brain damage after stroke

Researchers have developed a tailored small molecule that dramatically reduces brain damage after a stroke by inhibiting the production of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) in the brain. The study shows a 70% reduction in stroke severity when tested in rats.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Central Science·DateMar 9, 2016

Warren Alpert Foundation Prize recognizes CRISPR pioneers

Five scientists, including Jennifer Doudna and Emmanuelle Charpentier, received the Warren Alpert Foundation Prize for their work on CRISPR, a powerful tool for rapidly determining gene function and democratizing gene editing. The discovery has enormous potential for developing new therapies, including treatments for genetic diseases.

SourceHarvard Medical School·DateMar 9, 2016

Being bullied does not lead to higher substance abuse

A UT Dallas study found that students who were bullied in third grade did not have a greater risk of using drugs or alcohol by ninth grade. However, children who experienced the highest level of victimization smoked cigarettes or used alcohol at higher rates than high school peers.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalVictims & Offenders·DateMar 9, 2016

All we are is dust in the interstellar wind

Researchers have created a 3D map of interstellar dust reddening across three-quarters of the visible sky using data from almost one billion stars. This map reveals the structure and history of our galaxy, including the distribution of dust in the disk and the presence of ghostly trails indicating collisions with other galaxies.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·DateMar 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.

New intervention program reduces bullying in early childhood

A new eight-week intervention program, called the Early Childhood Friendship Project (ECFP), has been shown to significantly reduce relational bullying and aggressive behavior in preschoolers. The ECFP uses puppets, stories, and activities to teach social skills and empathy.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalSchool Psychology Review·DateMar 9, 2016

Victims of violence stop breastfeeding sooner

A Norwegian study found that women who experienced childhood sexual abuse are 22% more likely to stop breastfeeding before four months. Women exposed to multiple types of violence have a 41% greater chance of stopping early. Breastfeeding helps mothers' health, but trauma can hinder it.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalBMJ Open·DateMar 9, 2016

Work climate contributes significantly to working moms' decision to breastfeed

A new study by the University of Houston found that supervisor and co-worker attitudes significantly impact working mothers' decisions to breastfeed. Women with supportive supervisors were eight times more likely to continue exclusive breastfeeding. The study highlights the importance of workplace climate in supporting breastfeeding mo...

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalJournal of Organizational Behavior·DateMar 9, 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.

Artemisinin combination therapy prevents malaria in pregnancy

A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that dihydroartemisinin-piperaquine (DP) was effective in preventing malaria in pregnancy, with no reported cases among women taking monthly doses. The therapy showed better results than sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine (SP), a widely used but ineffective option due to widespread ...

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 9, 2016

Scripps Florida study lays groundwork for potential bipolar disorder therapies

A new Scripps Research Institute study has identified specific genetic variations associated with increased susceptibility to bipolar disorder and other conditions. The research focuses on a gene called PDE10A, which produces proteins that regulate intracellular levels of cAMP, influencing biological processes like learning and memory.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalTranslational Psychiatry·DateMar 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.

Widespread use of meldonium among elite athletes, research shows

Research reveals widespread use of meldonium among elite athletes, with up to 490 athletes taking the substance during the Baku 2015 European Games. The study highlights that meldonium was detected in athletes competing in 15 out of 21 sports and that its use was significantly underreported.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·DateMar 9, 2016

Vision restored in rabbits following stem cell transplantation

Researchers at Cardiff University have successfully transplanted human stem cells into rabbits with corneal blindness, repairing the front of the eye and restoring vision. The study demonstrates the generation of multiple eye tissues, including the lens, cornea, and conjunctiva, from human induced pluripotent stem cells.

SourceCardiff University·JournalNature·DateMar 9, 2016

'Dose-dense' chemo for premenopausal breast cancer patients improves survival

Researchers found that dose-dense adjuvant chemotherapy significantly improved overall survival after ten years by nearly a third compared to standard interval regimens. Dose-dense chemotherapy was not associated with an increased risk of treatment-induced amenorrhea, and it seemed effective irrespective of hormone receptor status.

SourceECCO-the European CanCer Organisation·DateMar 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.

Expert panel urges new approaches to curtail US opioid epidemic

A report by an expert panel highlights the need for new approaches to tackle the US opioid epidemic, including multimodal pain management and optimizing health outcomes. The panel also emphasizes the importance of collaboration between healthcare providers, patient advocates, and legislators to address this growing public health issue.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalPopulation Health Management·DateMar 9, 2016

UTHealth research: Excess heat significantly affects health of migratory workers

Research by UTHealth found that hot weather significantly impacts the health of migratory farmworkers, with a higher likelihood of visiting clinics on hot days. The study suggests heat stress may be more significant in Texas due to its hotter summers.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalJournal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine·DateMar 9, 2016

New insights into the evaporation patterns of coffee stains

Researchers have elucidated new factors influencing particle deposition via solvent evaporation, crucial for microchip production. The study found that interplay between solvent convection and nanoparticle collective diffusion governs particle recede at contact lines.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateMar 9, 2016

Banning words on Instagram doesn't help -- it makes it worse

A Georgia Tech study found that Instagram's ban on pro-eating disorder terms led to communities rallying around censored words, driving up participation by 30%. Researchers suggest allowing banned terms to be searchable with recovery-related links or tweaking search algorithms instead.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·DateMar 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.

Is educational neuroscience a waste of money?

A new study from the University of Bristol finds that educational neuroscience lacks concrete benefits for teaching and child progress in classrooms. The research criticizes the use of brain scans and other methods without solid evidence to support their effectiveness.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalPsychological Review·DateMar 9, 2016

Model developed to help predict risk of in-hospital death after TAVR

Researchers developed a statistical model to predict in-hospital mortality after TAVR based on over 13,000 patients. The model includes factors like age, glomerular filtration rate, and hemodialysis, providing valuable information for patient counseling and quality improvement.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateMar 9, 2016

'Big data' drills down into metabolic details

A new computational method, CORDA, models tissue-specific metabolic pathways by assigning a cost to reactions without experimental data. Researchers found key differences in metabolic similarities between healthy and cancerous tissues, including up-regulation of folate metabolism.

SourceRice University·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateMar 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 Lancet: Low cost, 25 min TB-test could help reduce tuberculosis death rate among patients with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa

A new study published in The Lancet suggests that a low-cost, urine test to diagnose tuberculosis among patients with HIV could save thousands of lives per year in sub-Saharan Africa. The test, which provides results in 25 minutes and costs $2.66, showed an absolute reduction of 4% in TB death rate among patients with HIV.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·DateMar 9, 2016

Protected Majorana states for quantum information

Majorana zero modes are present and protected in a superconducting state, storing quantum information in a way that leaves the quantum state intact when either location is disturbed. This finding verifies previous experiments and goes further by showing that Majorana modes are protected as predicted theoretically.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Niels Bohr Institute·JournalNature·DateMar 9, 2016

New treatment regimen cuts severity of drug-resistant malaria in pregnancy

A two-drug preventive treatment reduces the severity of malaria during pregnancy, providing a reliable alternative to standard treatment. The study found that the treatment reduced the risk of adverse birth outcomes and placental malaria.

SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 9, 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.

One-size-fits-all support services don't suit needs of younger grandmothers raising grandchildren

A new study found that younger grandmothers face different needs and require unique types of support to manage depression and improve their mental health quality of life. The study suggests that age affects the effectiveness of social support services, highlighting the need for tailored interventions.

SourceGeorgia State University·JournalThe International Journal of Aging and Human Development·DateMar 9, 2016

Dingo skull resistant to change from cross breeding with dogs, research shows

Research published in Evolutionary Biology has found that dingoes are resistant to changes in their skull shape resulting from cross-breeding with domestic dogs. The study used CT scans and 3D shape analyses to determine that hybrid skulls are indistinguishable from those of pure dingoes.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalEvolutionary Biology·DateMar 9, 2016

Changes in heart activity may signal epilepsy

Researchers discovered altered heart rate variability in children with epilepsy, suggesting a connection to the autonomic nervous system. The study suggests that changes in parasympathetic tone may precede epilepsy onset, offering potential biomarkers for diagnosis and new treatment avenues.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalJournal of Neurophysiology·DateMar 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.

Imaging advance may bring earlier disease detection

Scientists have developed a new imaging technique that can detect diseases earlier with enhanced sensitivity, allowing for earlier diagnosis and treatment. The technique uses probes that light up specific targets inside cells, enabling researchers to track changes in molecular make-up of tissues.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 9, 2016

Self-harming youngsters put at risk by 'cycle of shame'

A study at the University of Exeter found that young people who self-harm only seek emergency hospital care when their injuries are too serious or when complications arise. They experience punitive treatment and intense negative emotions, reinforcing feelings of shame and self-loathing.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalThe British Journal of Psychiatry·DateMar 9, 2016

Mass. General research team identifies key step in process of Shigella infection

The Massachusetts General Hospital research team discovered a crucial interaction between intermediate filaments and the Shigella injection protein IpaC, required for efficient delivery of effector proteins into host cells. This finding suggests that similar mechanisms may apply to other pathogens using type 3 secretion systems.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalNature Microbiology·DateMar 9, 2016

Introducing the five new 'Drowned Apostles'

Scientists have discovered five new limestone sea stacks, or 'Drowned Apostles', 50m beneath the water's surface 6km off Victoria's southern coast. The unexpected find challenges normal erosion rates and provides insights into the region's reef ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalJournal of Coastal Research·DateMar 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.

Expert outlines medical approach to treatment of traumatized refugees

A medical approach combining psychoactive medications, long-term psychotherapy, and screening for associated health issues is recommended for treating posttraumatic symptoms in refugees. This approach provides rapid relief from suffering and supports a long-term doctor-patient relationship.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Psychiatric Practice·DateMar 9, 2016

Nations ranked on their vulnerability to cyberattacks

The study analyzed over 20 billion reports from 4 million machines worldwide, ranking countries by their vulnerability to cyberattacks. The US ranked 11th safest, while Scandinavian countries were found to be the least vulnerable.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalACM Transactions on Intelligent Systems and Technology·DateMar 9, 2016

Nicotine vaccine delays the drug's effects in mice

Scientists have designed a new vaccine that increases anti-nicotine antibodies, delaying nicotine's effects in mice. This approach shows promise for reducing cravings and aiding smokers in quitting

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Medicinal Chemistry·DateMar 9, 2016

Announcing the PALM Network Spring 2016 Fellows

The Genetics Society of America is announcing its inaugural class of PALM Network Spring 2016 Fellows. These fellows are working with mentors to develop and implement evidence-based active learning strategies in their classrooms, aiming to catalyze enduring change in teaching culture at their institutions.

SourceGenetics Society of America·DateMar 9, 2016

Small peptides attack ovarian cancer on 2 fronts, research shows

Researchers discover small peptides psaptides that can force tumors to regress by stimulating an anti-angiogenic response in healthy tissues. Psaptides mimic the naturally occurring human protein prosaposin, which stimulates immune cells to produce a potent anti-inflammatory protein called thrombospondin-1.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMar 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.

Physical activity encouraged more in boys than in girls

A study of over 550 Australian children found that girls were 19% less active than boys, with lower fitness levels and weaker home and school support. The authors suggest strategies to increase physical activity for girls should focus on home, school, and extracurricular activities

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 9, 2016

The gut: Performing into old age

A groundbreaking study led by Dr. Dagmar Krüger has revealed that the human gut's secretory capacity does not decline with age, contradicting long-held assumptions. The research team examined over 2200 specimens from 450 patients with bowel disease and found no correlation between intestinal secretion and age or gender.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·DateMar 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.

Compounds restore antibiotics' efficacy against MRSA

Researchers identified two synthetic compounds that can restore the effectiveness of antibiotics against MRSA by blocking an enzyme involved in bacterial cell wall production. When paired with existing antibiotics, these compounds significantly improved survival rates and reduced infection severity in mice infected with MRSA.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMar 9, 2016

New staffing model reveals unintended consequences in public mental health clinics

A new study from the University of Pennsylvania found that therapists working as independent contractors in public mental health clinics reported less willingness to adopt evidence-based psychosocial practices and had lower knowledge about them compared to salaried employees. This shift may be driven by budgetary reasons, with agencies...

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalPsychiatric Services·DateMar 9, 2016

Researchers at the University of Bonn boost fat-burning

A team of scientists at the University of Bonn discovered a switch that can convert unwanted white fat cells into energy-burning brown cells by blocking Gq proteins. This breakthrough has significant implications for obesity treatment, as it may lead to the development of pharmaceutical products that target this pathway.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 9, 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.

Colorado River flows reduced by warmer spring temperatures

A new study reveals that warmer spring temperatures have a significant impact on upper Colorado River flows, reducing them more than previously recognized. This finding has implications for drought management and climate modeling, which suggests that warming temperatures will exacerbate drought conditions in the Western US.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateMar 9, 2016

Seeing the light: Army ants evolve to regain sight and more in return to surface

A study of army ants led by Drexel University professor Sean O'Donnell found that certain species regained vision and developed larger brains after moving back to the surface. The ants' brains showed increased investment in visual processing, smell, and overall cognitive function compared to underground-dwelling relatives.

SourceDrexel University·JournalThe Science of Nature·DateMar 9, 2016

Accelerating discovery in materials science

The Materials Innovation Platforms (MIPs) program aims to accelerate materials research and development, enabling the discovery of new materials, techniques, and instrumentation. The program focuses on crystal growth, oxide and 2D materials, and will advance a focused research area of national importance.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·DateMar 9, 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.

The tortoise and the hare of spinal neural circuits

Researchers found that practicing movements at different speeds improves certain nerve functions, particularly for patients with spasticity after a stroke or spine injury. The study suggests tailoring physical therapy routines to reflect the type of neural circuit controlling the movement for optimal rehabilitation outcomes.

SourceHiroshima University·JournalFrontiers in Human Neuroscience·DateMar 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.

Turning to dirt as part of the climate change solution

Soil is an effective carbon sink, and adopting new farming practices like cover crops and no-till farming can enhance its organic matter, boosting carbon content. This approach has direct benefits to farmers, including reduced soil erosion and increased resilience to drought.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateMar 9, 2016

Virtual time machine of Earth's geology now in the cloud

The cloud-based virtual globe portal offers unprecedented speed and ease of use for visualizing Earth's geological evolution. It features interactive reconstructions of supercontinents and 3D visualizations of seafloor geology, allowing users to explore how the planet has changed over time.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 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.

Don't let youth trip you; more than 50 percent young adults fall, trip

A four-month study of 94 young adult college students found that 52% fell at least once, with 16% resulting in injury, while physical activity levels increased fall rates. The most common cause of falls was talking while walking, highlighting the cognitive demand of multi-tasking on balance and stability.

SourcePurdue University·JournalHuman Movement Science·DateMar 9, 2016

Eyeing climate change, satellites provide missing information

Researchers use satellite data to quantify cloud base updraft speeds and aerosol particles' ability to create cloud droplets, providing critical information for understanding climate change. The study aims to reduce the uncertainty around global warming estimates by 1.5 to 4.5 degrees by the end of the 21st century.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 9, 2016

Understanding the dynamics of crowd behavior

A new mechanism reveals counterintuitive rules for individual movement in crowds, with implications for controlling active systems, such as nanoparticle delivery and crowd security. Researchers plan to apply their findings to develop intelligent nanorobots for drug-delivery and environmental sustainability.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 9, 2016

ASRC professor leads study on reconfigurable magnetic nanopatterns

A team of international scientists has demonstrated a novel approach for designing fully reconfigurable magnetic nanopatterns using thermal scanning probe lithography. This method offers researchers the opportunity to control magnetism at the nanoscale, enabling the development of novel metamaterials and computing devices.

SourceAdvanced Science Research Center, GC/CUNY·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateMar 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.

Risks less likely to be reported by public-health researchers paid by industry or military

A University of Illinois Chicago researcher found that scientists with financial ties to firms that make, use, or dispose of industrial and commercial products are less likely to find adverse health risks. In contrast, authors employed by the military reported negligible risks in 64% of studies.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalJournal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine·DateMar 9, 2016

Study: Meditation and ballet associated with wisdom

A study published in PLOS ONE found that meditation and ballet practices are associated with increased wisdom. Meditation was confirmed as a path to wisdom, while classical ballet also showed a link to higher wisdom levels among practitioners. The research suggests that physical practices like ballet may cultivate personal wisdom.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 9, 2016

Stanford scientists make renewable plastic from carbon dioxide and plants

Researchers at Stanford University have discovered a novel way to produce plastic from CO2 and plant waste, which could significantly reduce greenhouse emissions. The new technology converts fructose-free biomass into polyethylene furandicarboxylate (PEF), a promising alternative to petroleum-based plastics.

SourceStanford University·JournalNature·DateMar 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.

Study seeks to reduce pediatric HIV infection rates in Africa

Researchers found that a family-focused package of services can significantly reduce mother-to-child transmission of HIV in resource-limited areas. The study showed a 74% reduction in infant infections in the intervention group compared to the control group.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalThe Lancet HIV·DateMar 9, 2016

Researchers optimize methods to study neurons during motor activity

Max Planck Florida scientists have optimized techniques for studying motor learning in neurons of the cerebellum, enabling prolonged assessment of neural activity. This breakthrough allows for further characterization of continuously engaged neurons during motor activity and normal behavior.

SourceMax Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience·JournalJournal of Neurophysiology·DateMar 9, 2016

Sea-level rise too big to be pumped away

Researchers explore storing water on Antarctica to delay sea-level rise, but conclude it's unlikely to mitigate the problem due to the enormous weight and distance required. They emphasize the need for rapid greenhouse-gas emission reductions and substantial investment in long-term local coastal protection.

SourcePotsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)·JournalEarth System Dynamics·DateMar 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.

Overfishing devastates spawning aggregations

Fish populations that gather and spawn in large groups face growing threats from overexploitation and inadequate management. Insufficient regulation allows a few active boats to deplete these vulnerable populations, while changing economic conditions may lead to rapid species declines.

SourceAmerican Institute of Biological Sciences·JournalBioScience·DateMar 9, 2016

HIV patients in Africa with a specific genetic variant have much lower rate of TB

A study found that HIV patients in Africa with a certain genetic variant have a 63-percent lower chance of developing tuberculosis than those without the variant. This discovery may lead to the development of new TB treatments effective for both HIV-positive individuals and the general population.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateMar 9, 2016

Atomic vibrations in nanomaterials

Scientists discovered that surface vibrations in nanomaterials significantly affect their behavior, impacting applications such as solar cells. The researchers found that suppressing these vibrations can lead to higher photocurrent and efficiency in solar cells.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature·DateMar 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.

Greenhouse gas 'bookkeeping' turned on its head

Researchers found that human activities have transformed the land biosphere into a contributor to climate change by overwhelming its ability to soak up carbon dioxide. This discovery reverses conventional thinking on human impacts on terrestrial carbon uptake.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalNature·DateMar 9, 2016

Light helps the transistor laser switch faster

A new study by University of Illinois engineers found that the transistor laser device can switch faster than traditional technologies due to photon-assisted tunneling, enabling ultra-high-speed signal modulation. The technology has the potential to revolutionize big data transfer and computing.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateMar 9, 2016