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Science News for November 17, 2008


UNC researchers find clue to stopping breast-cancer metastasis

A study by UNC researchers found that palladin, a protein expressed mostly in invasive breast cancer cells, plays a crucial role in their ability to migrate and spread. Knocking down palladin expression reduced the ability of breast cancer cells to metastasize.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalOncogene·DateNov 17, 2008
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.

New deep-sea observatory goes live

The MARS Observatory is a deep-sea ocean observatory that allows researchers to continuously monitor the dark world of the deep sea. It enables real-time data and video transmission from instruments installed on the seafloor.

SourceMonterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute·DateNov 17, 2008

Are ants that specialize better at their job?

A new study by Anna Dornhaus found that individual rock ants specializing on one task are no more efficient than those performing multiple tasks. Despite concentrating their work on a specific job, specialized ants do not perform better or faster, but instead spend more hours working.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateNov 17, 2008

Put on a happy face: It helps you see the big picture

A new study reveals that positive moods increase our ability to understand the big picture and make healthier decisions. Researchers found that people in a good mood think more abstractly and adopt higher-order future goals.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateNov 17, 2008
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Exercise and rest reduce cancer risk

A recent study found that regular physical activity can lower a woman's overall risk of cancer, but only if she gets a good night's sleep. The study, published by the American Association for Cancer Research, suggests that short duration sleep can undermine exercise's cancer prevention benefits.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·DateNov 17, 2008

Effective global regulation

A study by Professor Demetriades and colleagues suggests that government-owned banks are a safe haven for depositors when regulatory institutions are perceived as weak. The research challenges the 'political view' of state banks, arguing that privatisation can lead to financial instability and dis-intermediation.

SourceEconomic & Social Research Council·DateNov 17, 2008

What cures you may also ail you: Antibiotics, your gut and you

A new study finds that antibiotics like ciprofloxacin significantly affect the diversity and abundance of health-associated bacteria in the human gut. The study reveals that even after treatment is stopped, some strains of beneficial bacteria may take up to four weeks or longer to return to pre-treatment levels.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateNov 17, 2008

Forgotten but not gone -- how the brain takes care of things

Scientists at Max Planck Institute of Neurobiology show that new cell contacts established during learning process stay active, enabling faster learning of forgotten information. This reactivation facilitates more efficient relearning and retains ability to learn up to advanced age.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·DateNov 17, 2008

Study finds Canada's supervised injection facility cost-effective

A new study reveals that Canada's supervised injection facility, Insite, saves the healthcare system millions of dollars while extending life-years by 920 over a decade. The facility's implementation reduces HIV and Hepatitis C cases, increases methadone treatment referrals, and decreases drug overdose rates.

SourceUniversity of Western Ontario·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateNov 17, 2008
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.

World's earliest nuclear family found

Researchers found evidence of a mother, father, and two sons aged 8-9 and 4-5 years buried face-to-face with arms interlinked. The graves also showed signs of violent raids and injuries, indicating a tragic event in prehistoric Central Europe.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 17, 2008

Hypertension develops early, silently, in African-American men

Young African-American men have higher central blood pressure and stiffer blood vessels compared to their white counterparts, indicating early signs of hypertension. Central blood pressure is a key factor in detecting the problem, suggesting that it may be developing undetected in young African-American men.

SourceAmerican Physiological Society·DateNov 17, 2008

Asthma prevalence in Chinese adolescents

Researchers analyzed 13,223 school children aged 13-14 from four locations to investigate asthma prevalence. The study found that asthma symptoms were lowest in mainland China, highest in Canada-born individuals, and varied among Hong Kong residents.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateNov 17, 2008

Caltech researchers get first 3-D glimpse of bacterial cell-wall architecture

Researchers use advanced microscopy techniques to image the structure of peptidoglycan, a key component of bacterial cell walls. The study reveals that glycan strands wrap around the cell like a belt, allowing scientists to better understand how bacteria grow and respond to antibiotics.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 17, 2008
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.

Intervention program boosts survival in breast cancer patients

A new study found that a psychological intervention program designed for breast cancer patients increases their chance of survival and reduces the risk of recurrence. Participants who received the program reduced their risk of dying from breast cancer by 56 percent and breast cancer recurrence by 45 percent.

SourceOhio State University·JournalCancer·DateNov 17, 2008

Cooling the brain prevents cell death in young mice exposed to anesthesia

New research from Washington University School of Medicine suggests that cooling the brain may prevent nerve cell death in infant mice exposed to anesthesia. The study found that hypothermia blocked neuroapoptosis and reduced low-level neuroapoptosis during brain development, potentially preventing cognitive and developmental delays.

SourceWashU Medicine·DateNov 17, 2008

Technology gives 3-D view of human coronary arteries

Researchers developed an optical imaging technique called OFDI that visualizes areas of inflammation and plaque deposits in coronary arteries, improving understanding of coronary artery disease. The technique has the potential to diagnose and treat plaque before it leads to serious problems.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·DateNov 17, 2008

Cancer in Canada

Mortality rates for most Canadian cancers are declining, while others are increasing, including liver and lung cancer. Research shows that at least half of all cancers are preventable, emphasizing the need for effective cancer control measures.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateNov 17, 2008

Psychological interventions associated with breast cancer survival

A randomized clinical trial found that breast cancer patients who participate in psychological intervention sessions experience reduced stress, improved mood, and altered health behaviors. This led to a significant decrease in cancer recurrence and death from breast cancer, as well as overall mortality.

SourceAmerican Cancer Society·JournalCancer·DateNov 17, 2008
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.

Water vapor confirmed as major player in climate change

Researchers used NASA satellite data to estimate the heat-trapping effect of water vapor, validating its critical component role in climate change. The study found that increasing water vapor leads to a spiraling cycle of warming and increased absorption, amplifying the warming effect of other greenhouse gases.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateNov 17, 2008

Gaps in adhesion

Scientists have reproduced the protein responsible for mussel adhesion in a synthetic material, showing that adhesion is independent of link number. The findings could lead to manufacturing polymers with binding sites for different materials.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateNov 17, 2008

Bottoms up: Individualists more likely to be problem drinkers

A new study finds that high levels of individualism are associated with increased beer and alcohol consumption. In the US, individualistic regions showed higher rates of teen drinking, heavy drinking, and adult binge drinking.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateNov 17, 2008
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.

New guidelines for managing kidney disease

The Canadian Society of Nephrology has released new guidelines to slow progression, prevent complications, and reduce mortality in chronic kidney disease patients. The guidelines encourage shared care among general practitioners and specialists.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateNov 17, 2008

Does growth hormone drug slow Alzheimer's disease?

A new study published in Neurology found that a growth hormone drug, MK-677, did not slow the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease in humans. The study involved 416 participants with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease and showed no significant impact on disease progression despite increased levels of insulin-like growth factor-1.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateNov 17, 2008

2 cancer drugs prevent, reverse type 1 diabetes, UCSF study shows

Researchers found that cancer drugs imatinib and sunitinib can put type 1 diabetes into remission in 80% of test mice. The benefits of the drugs' rapid action are attributed to their ability to block platelet-derived growth factor receptor, a tyrosine kinase not known to be implicated in diabetes.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 17, 2008

Gut check reveals vast multicultural community of bugs in bowels

A new study from Stanford University School of Medicine found at least 5,600 separate species or strains of bacteria in the human colon, surpassing previous estimates. The research uses pyrosequencing technology to assess bacterial ecosystems and reveals the critical functions performed by intestinal microbes.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalPLOS Biology·DateNov 17, 2008
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.

'Orphan' genes play an important role in evolution

A team of scientists discovered that novel genes are responsible for morphological differences between two closely related species of freshwater polyps called Hydra. The study found that a secreted protein encoded by one such gene controls the pattern in which the tentacles develop, leading to species-specific traits.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateNov 17, 2008

Predicting the future for patients with severe traumatic brain injury

A multidisciplinary team from McGill University Health Centre developed effective predictive tools to assess patient progress after severe traumatic brain injury. The study found that cognitive and emotional faculties did not develop to the same extent as physical function, leading to persistent deficits.

SourceMcGill University Health Centre·JournalJournal of Head Trauma Rehabilitation·DateNov 17, 2008

Sleep helps people learn complicated tasks

Researchers found that a night's sleep restored abilities lost after 12 hours of training, and protected memory against loss over the next day. Sleep consolidation may help in learning language processes and eye-hand skills.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalLearning & Memory·DateNov 17, 2008

Acinetobacter baumannii -- dangerously increasing its profile as a health-care-associated infection

The Lancet Infectious Diseases review highlights the growing concern of Acinetobacter baumannii infections, which can be caused by environmental exposure, skin colonization, or hospital-acquired conditions. Researchers emphasize the need for strict hygiene compliance and further research on antibiotic treatment options to prevent major...

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateNov 17, 2008
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 molecular insight into vertebrate brain development

Researchers discovered that the Hippo signaling pathway regulates vertebrate neural development by controlling cell growth and differentiation. The study identified a new transcription factor protein, TEA domain (TEAD), as the cognate partner of YAP in the nucleus.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenes & Development·DateNov 17, 2008

Oak Ridge supercomputer is the world's fastest for science

Jaguar, the Oak Ridge supercomputer, has a peak performance of 1.64 petaflops, enabling researchers to solve complex problems faster and explore dynamic systems. The system has already run scientific applications in days, sustaining petaflops performance on multiple applications.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·DateNov 17, 2008
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.

Simple new method detects contaminants in life-saving drug

University of Michigan researchers have developed a simple method for detecting contaminants in heparin, a blood-thinning drug used to prevent and treat blood clots. The new method uses potentiometric polyanion sensors to distinguish pure heparin from tainted heparin containing oversulfated chondroitin sulfate.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateNov 17, 2008

How is our left brain is different from our right?

Researchers found asymmetrical synaptic structure and molecule composition between left and right hippocampus synapses. This discovery sheds light on the distinct neural mechanisms underlying learning and memory processes.

SourceNational Institute for Physiological Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 17, 2008

No honeymoon replays: People don't want to taint special memories

A study in the Journal of Consumer Research found that individuals tend to protect their memories of special experiences from being repeated. Participants preferred to acquire souvenirs that would help them remember meaningful experiences rather than mundane ones, even if they were more memorable.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateNov 17, 2008
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

How often will you use that treadmill?

A University of Chicago Press Journals study finds that unrealistic optimism in exercising leads to overestimation, costly treadmill purchases, and a more decisive personality. Researchers suggest instructing consumers to be less idealistic may improve realistic estimates.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateNov 17, 2008

'Let the sunshine in' to protect your heart this winter

A new review article in Circulation highlights the link between vitamin D deficiency and heart disease, with rates of severe disease or death potentially 30-50% higher among sun-deprived individuals. Treatment options such as vitamin D supplements may help decrease the risk of cardiovascular disorders.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalCirculation·DateNov 17, 2008

MIT: A quicker, easier way to make coal cleaner

Researchers at MIT suggest that capturing a fraction of carbon dioxide emissions from coal-burning plants could be a near-term solution to reduce emissions and generate much-needed electricity. This approach, known as 'partial capture,' could allow the US to meet its climate goals while also demonstrating carbon capture technology.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateNov 17, 2008

Why only some former smokers develop lung cancer

Researchers studied DNA methylation in former smokers and found differences between those with lung cancer and disease-free individuals. Altered methylation levels may explain why some former smokers develop lung cancer despite quitting smoking.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·DateNov 17, 2008

Archives of Facial Plastic Surgery celebrates 10 years of publication

The journal marks a decade of publication with a special series on the art and science of facial plastic surgery, featuring topics such as wound healing, laser technology, and biomaterials. The Archives also covers advances in craniofacial surgery and facial reanimation.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Facial Plastic Surgery·DateNov 17, 2008
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.

Biomedical engineers' detective work reveals antibiotic mechanism

Researchers reveal a surprising mechanism of action for certain antibiotics, finding that they trigger the production of hydroxyl radicals, contributing to bacterial cell death. The study identifies potential new targets for antibiotic development and could help rejuvenate older antibiotics.

SourceBoston University·JournalCell·DateNov 17, 2008

Scientists self-censor in response to political controversy

A survey of researchers found that many engaged in self-censorship after public debate about NIH grant funding, removing politically sensitive language and stopping certain topics. The study also showed that some researchers strengthened their commitment to complete their research despite controversy.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateNov 17, 2008

Breaking BubR1 mimics genetic shuffle seen in cancer cells

A study by Fox Chase Cancer Center researchers reveals that BubR1 protein plays a crucial role in chromosome distribution during mitosis. Mutating this protein may cause genetic shuffling similar to that seen in cancer cells, making it a potential target for cancer treatment enhancement.

SourceFox Chase Cancer Center·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateNov 17, 2008
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.

Study helps identify beachgoers at increased risk of skin cancer

A study found that beachgoers who intended to tan and used the least amount of sunscreen were at higher risk of skin cancer. The researchers identified three groups with distinct characteristics and sun protection behaviors, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to reduce UV radiation exposure.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Dermatology·DateNov 17, 2008

Researchers find link between nicotine addiction and autism

Scientists have identified a relationship between two proteins in the brain linked to both nicotine addiction and autism. The discovery suggests that existing drugs used to curb nicotine addiction might serve as a basis for potential therapies to alleviate autism symptoms.

SourceOhio State University·DateNov 17, 2008

Genetic risk factors may tailor prostate cancer screening approaches

African-American men and those with a family history of prostate cancer are at higher risk due to genetic factors. Genetic markers associated with increased risk have been found to be more prevalent in these populations, suggesting they may be used for personalized screening recommendations.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·DateNov 17, 2008

Non-white med students reject therapies associated with their culture

A study found that non-white medical students are less likely to adopt complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) practices, while white students view these therapies more positively. The survey of medical students measured attitudes towards CAM during four years of medical training.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalMedical Teacher·DateNov 17, 2008
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

'Enlightened' atoms stage nano-riot againsts uniformity

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University have discovered that certain atoms can move apart and rejoin together under specific conditions, creating a phenomenon known as a 'nano-riot'. This behavior can be controlled using laser light, enabling the creation of tiny computer components with reduced heat emissions.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateNov 17, 2008

Pain and itch responses regulated separately

Scientists have determined that pain and itch are regulated by different molecular mechanisms. Researchers at WashU Medicine separated itch and pain sensations in mice, a finding that could have important implications for treating both pain and chronic itching. GRPR gene plays key role in transmitting itching sensations.

SourceWashU Medicine·DateNov 17, 2008

Physical activity after bariatric surgery improves weight loss, quality of life

A new study by researchers from The Miriam Hospital's Centers for Behavioral and Preventive Medicine suggests that increased physical activity after bariatric surgery can lead to better postoperative outcomes, including greater weight loss and improved health-related quality of life. More than two-thirds of participants who became acti...

SourceLifespan·JournalObesity·DateNov 17, 2008
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.

Drug therapy for premature infants destroys brain cells in mice

New research reveals that commonly used drugs to treat chronic lung damage in premature infants can cause brain cell damage, potentially leading to cognitive and motor-control issues. Synthetic glucocorticoids like dexamethasone and betamethasone were found to be toxic to neural progenitor cells in mice.

SourceWashU Medicine·DateNov 17, 2008

Embargoed news from Annals of Internal Medicine

A new ACP clinical practice guideline states that second-generation antidepressants are equally effective in treating depression but have different adverse effects. The guideline recommends assessing patient status and modifying treatment if necessary, to maximize therapeutic response while minimizing side effects.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateNov 17, 2008

Behavior/lifestyle factors influence cancer risk among the elderly

Researchers found associations between lifestyle, behavioral, and demographic variables on cancer risk among the elderly, including moderate physical activities decreasing cancer risk. Tobacco consumption was also linked to lung cancer, while comorbidities increased breast and prostate cancer risk.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·DateNov 17, 2008
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.

Genes associated with fat metabolism could increase kidney cancer risk

Research identified three genes linked to fat processing that could raise kidney cancer risk, according to a study presented at the American Association for Cancer Research. Variants of nitric oxide synthase 2A and prostaglandin-endoperoxide 2 were found to increase risk, while apolipoprotein E1 was associated with reduced risk.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·DateNov 17, 2008

Canada's supervised injection site is cost-effective

A cost-effectiveness analysis of Insite, Canada's supervised safe injection site, concludes that it saves $14 million over 10 years while preventing 920 life-years lost to HIV and Hepatitis C. The study suggests that Insite is almost certainly cost-saving to Canadian society.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateNov 17, 2008

Study helps clarify role of vitamin D in cancer therapy

Research reveals vitamin D's role in regulating colon cancer cell behavior by modulating gene expression and cytoskeleton structure. The study highlights a previously unknown pathway governing vitamin D's diverse effects on cancer cells.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateNov 17, 2008

Conference report highlights new research into drug delivery to treat eye disease

Researchers are exploring new techniques to combat visual impairment and blindness by delivering drugs through the eye. Alternative methods such as microneedles, nanoparticles and polymer carriers are being investigated to improve drug delivery and reduce side effects.

SourceAssociation for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology·JournalInvestigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science·DateNov 17, 2008
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.

New study bolsters beliefs about DNA repair

Researchers found that HP1 proteins help cells fix damaged DNA by latching onto methylated histones. The study used mouse models to show that one missing version of the protein leads to genomic instability and brain defects.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateNov 17, 2008

Forests may play overlooked role in regulating climate

Scientists at the University of New Hampshire have discovered a link between forest foliage nitrogen levels and canopy albedo, which could influence climate change predictions. The study suggests that trees with high foliar nitrogen have a two-fold effect on climate by absorbing more CO2 and reflecting more solar radiation.

SourceUniversity of New Hampshire·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 17, 2008
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.

Indigo ointment may help treat patients with psoriasis

A randomized trial found that indigo naturalis ointment significantly improved scaling, erythema, and induration in patients with treatment-resistant psoriasis. After 12 weeks, the treated plaques showed an 81% improvement compared to a 26% improvement for non-medicated ointment-treated lesions.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Dermatology·DateNov 17, 2008
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Football helmet shields can protect against a kick in the face

Researchers at Ohio State University found that popular football helmet faceshields can withstand high-velocity impacts equivalent to a kick in the face. The shields maintained structural integrity and optical quality, providing protection without disrupting players' vision.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Optometry·DateNov 17, 2008

Microarray analysis improves prenatal diagnosis

A new microarray analysis technique improved prenatal diagnosis for detecting chromosomal abnormalities in 300 cases at Baylor College of Medicine. The test identified 58 copy number variations, including 15 significant findings that would have been missed otherwise.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalPrenatal Diagnosis·DateNov 17, 2008
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.

Can an ant be employee of the month?

A new study published in PLoS Biology found that ants specializing in specific jobs are not more efficient than 'generalist' ants, challenging the idea that job specialization contributes to their success. The research tested individual ants performing various tasks and found that specialists put in more hours of work but did not outpe...

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalPLOS Biology·DateNov 17, 2008

How should we assess new anti-malarial drugs?

A team of researchers argues that the success of ACT in curing malaria demands a new approach to assessing new antimalarial drugs. The authors discuss the design and interpretation of clinical trials for new antimalarial drugs, emphasizing the need for improved efficacy and public health utility.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateNov 17, 2008

New gene-silencing pathway found in plants

A team led by Craig Pikaard discovered a new mechanism by which plant cells silence potentially harmful genes, involving the non-coding region of DNA and two plant-specific RNA polymerases. The research has major implications for gene therapy, where RNA-centric approaches show promise for controlling diseases such as cancer and HIV.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalCell·DateNov 17, 2008

Management Accounting Research article receives prestigious Management Accounting Research Award

The paper 'CEVITATM: the valuation and reporting of strategic capabilities' by Janek Ratnatunga, Norman Gray, and Kashi R. Balachandran has been awarded the Management Accounting Section (MAS) Greatest Potential Impact on Practice Award for its potential to bridge the gap between academic research and professional management accounting...

SourceElsevier·JournalManagement Accounting Research·DateNov 17, 2008
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.

Acid soils in Slovakia tell somber tale

A new study published in Nature Geoscience reveals the devastating impact of increased nitrogen deposition on Slovakian soil acidity, compromising plant fertility and surface water quality. Researchers warn that many soils are already susceptible to this process due to decades of human-influenced pollution.

SourceU.S. Geological Survey·JournalNature Geoscience·DateNov 17, 2008

MIT: Safe storage of greenhouse-gas carbon dioxide

Researchers have created a new model to calculate how much CO2 can be stored safely in geological formations, with potential applications for large-scale carbon sequestration projects. The tool predicts the migration of CO2 plumes and can help policymakers make informed decisions about storage sites.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateNov 17, 2008

Could genetic research awaken racist attitudes?

A University of Alberta researcher has developed guidelines to prevent genetic research from awakening racist attitudes. The study emphasizes the importance of proper group representation and justifying research focus on specific ethnic groups.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalGenome Medicine·DateNov 17, 2008

A big bunch of tomatoes?

A new study identifies a genetic pathway that determines the pattern of flower growth in tomato plants. The researchers found that manipulation of this pathway can turn a single stem into hundreds of branch-bearing shoots, increasing crop yields.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateNov 17, 2008
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.

Asthma over diagnosed in one third of Canadian adults

A longitudinal study of 540 adults found that approximately one third of Canadians with physician-diagnosed asthma do not have asthma when objectively tested. Obesity is linked to increased asthma rates in North America, but overdiagnosis may be more common than previously thought, particularly among obese adults.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateNov 17, 2008