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Science News for April 4, 2011


Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Researchers identify new role for cilia protein in mitosis

Researchers at UMass Chan Medical School discovered a new function of the cilia protein IFT88 in mitosis, which could contribute to ciliopathies such as primary ciliary dyskinesia and polycystic kidney disease. IFT88 plays a transport role during mitosis, similar to its function in cilia formation.

SourceUMass Chan Medical School·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateApr 4, 2011

Got up on the wrong side of the bed? Your work will show it

A new study found that employee mood affects perceptions of customers and work quality, with positive moods linked to greater verbal fluency and reduced errors. Employees in a bad mood tend to answer fewer calls, need more breaks, and perform less well, while positive customers can help improve their mood.

SourceOhio State University·JournalAcademy of Management Journal·DateApr 4, 2011

Dead midges reveal living conditions of fish

Researchers at the University of Gothenburg have developed a method to study lake-bottom sediments and infer fish death in acidified lakes. By analyzing microscopic remains of dead midge larvae, they can recreate the history of the lake back to the early 19th century.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalJournal of Paleolimnology·DateApr 4, 2011

Caterpillars aren't so bird brained after all

Researchers found that caterpillars position themselves in areas with abundant twigs during the day to avoid detection, but switch to richer feeding grounds at night. This complex behavior shows that masquerading prey use habitat-selection strategies to exploit predators' hunting behavior.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 4, 2011
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.

Aspirin may lower the risk of pancreatic cancer

A large case-control study found that taking aspirin at least once a month can reduce the risk of pancreatic cancer by 26% compared to non-users. The effect was also seen in those taking low-dose aspirin for heart disease prevention, with a 35% lower risk.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·DateApr 4, 2011

University of Cincinnati team to track tumor DNA through bloodstream

A team of University of Cincinnati researchers is sequencing individual glioblastoma genomes and tracking abnormalities in the bloodstream to establish personalized biomarkers. The study aims to guide treatment efforts and identify new therapeutic targets for this aggressive brain tumor.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateApr 4, 2011

Mars in Spain

Researchers from Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona have discovered formations in Catalonia resembling Mars' giant spring mounds. The study, published in Geodinamica Acta, suggests possible similarities in origin, shedding new light on the search for water on Mars.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalGeodinamica Acta·DateApr 4, 2011

First polymer solar-thermal device heats home, saves money

A new polymer-based solar-thermal device collects both solar energy and heat, providing a more efficient way to heat homes. The device has shown 30% efficiency in converting solar energy to power, outperforming standard solar cells with a conversion efficiency of up to 8%.

SourceWake Forest University·JournalSolar Energy Materials and Solar Cells·DateApr 4, 2011
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.

Scientists discover a way to kill off tumors in cancer treatment breakthrough

Researchers at Queen's University Belfast have developed a new drug that prevents tumor growth by cutting off their blood supply, showing promise for treating prostate and breast cancers. The treatment targets tumor angiogenesis using an entirely different pathway than existing therapies.

SourceQueen's University Belfast·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateApr 4, 2011

Protein test detects early-stage, asbestos-related pulmonary cancer

Researchers have developed a novel biomarker test that can detect proteins secreted from tumors caused by asbestos exposure with high accuracy. The test, which uses aptamer proteomics platform, showed an 80% sensitivity rate in detecting stage 1 or 2 malignant pleural mesothelioma, a type of aggressive and often fatal lung cancer.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·DateApr 4, 2011

Studies underestimate Mexican Americans' economic progress, new research shows

Research by Brian Duncan and Stephen Trejo found that third-generation Mexican youth are more successful than previously reported, as many fail to identify as Mexican due to intermarriage with non-Mexicans. This 'ethnic attrition' skews results, leading to a downward bias in measures of attainment.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Labor Economics·DateApr 4, 2011
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.

Genes an important factor in urinary incontinence

A study of twins found that genetic factors play a significant role in urinary incontinence, accounting for around 50% of the variation. Various forms of urinary incontinence, including stress and urge incontinence, have also been linked to genetic explanations.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalEuropean Urology·DateApr 4, 2011
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Partner controlling behaviors appear to be associated with relationship violence

A study found that controlling behaviors in relationships are associated with physical and sexual relationship violence, particularly among young women. Controlling behaviors include restriction of contact with family and friends, ignoring or treating someone indifferently, and expecting permission for health care decisions.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateApr 4, 2011

'Epidemiological' tree study shows impacts of climate change on forests

An epidemiological study on trees reveals earlier spring warming and summer drought as significant risk factors for tree reproduction and survival. The study helps scientists predict which species are vulnerable to climate change by analyzing the effects of climate variability on tree growth and fecundity.

SourceDuke University·DateApr 4, 2011

Study confirms genetic differences in breast tissue among races

A new study confirms that genetic differences exist in breast tissue across racial groups, which may explain disparities in breast cancer morbidity and mortality. The research found varying levels of genes related to the DNA repair pathway, a known mechanism in cancer.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·DateApr 4, 2011
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.

Algae that live inside the cells of salamanders are the first known vertebrate endosymbionts

Scientists have discovered algae living inside the cells of developing spotted salamanders, marking the first known example of a eukaryotic algae endosymbiont in vertebrates. This finding highlights the complexity of animal-algae interactions and raises questions about the evolutionary origins of mitochondria and chloroplasts.

SourceIndiana University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 4, 2011

Prix Galien winners published in Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences

The Prix Galien awards recognize outstanding achievements in improving the global human condition through innovative drugs and treatments. The 2010 winners were announced as a special issue of Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, including Luminex Corporation for xTAG™ and Merck & Co, Inc. for RotaTeq™.

SourceWiley·JournalAnnals of the New York Academy of Sciences·DateApr 4, 2011

When African animals hit the hay

Fossil teeth analysis reveals different herbivore families responded differently to the emergence of C4 warm-season grasses in East Africa. The shift occurred at varying rates and times, with some animals adapting to their new diet before grasslands spread rapidly.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 4, 2011
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.

Transmission lines for nanofocusing of infrared light

Scientists at nanoGUNE have successfully transmitted and focused infrared light with miniature transmission lines, enabling single molecule spectroscopy and sensitive optical detection. The technique uses tapered transmission lines to confine light down to nanometer scales.

SourceElhuyar Fundazioa·JournalNature Photonics·DateApr 4, 2011

Leatherback sea turtle nests increasing in Florida

A new Duke University-led study reveals a 10.2% increase in leatherback sea turtle nests at 68 beaches in Florida since 1979, suggesting conservation and recovery efforts are paying off. The growth may be attributed to improved monitoring, reduced predators, and changing ocean conditions favoring turtles.

SourceDuke University·JournalEcological Applications·DateApr 4, 2011

Cocaine images capture motivated attention among users

A study by Brookhaven National Laboratory found that cocaine users initially respond more intensely to drug-related images than non-users, but this response diminishes with recent use. The researchers suggest that this may lead to compulsive drug use as a way to compensate for reduced motivation.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalEuropean Journal of Neuroscience·DateApr 4, 2011

New models may reduce seabird bycatch

Researchers developed new models to predict seabird bycatch, using remotely sensed data to project where birds and boats are likely to intersect. The models demonstrate potential for improved conservation efforts in predicting bird habitats.

SourceDuke University·DateApr 4, 2011

Georgia Tech seismologist to be honored with Richter Early Career Award, by SSA

Peng, a 35-year-old Assistant Professor at Georgia Tech, will be honored with the Seismological Society of America's (SSA) Charles F. Richter Early Career Award for his work on physics of earthquakes and faults. Peng has made significant contributions to understanding earthquake triggering, non-volcanic tremor, and fault zone structure...

SourceSeismological Society of America·DateApr 4, 2011
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.

Student confidence correlated with academic performance

Research at Kansas State University found that student confidence levels correlate with academic achievement, particularly when targeted learning objectives are used. Students' reported confidence improved significantly over the course period and was positively correlated with their academic performance.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateApr 4, 2011

Addressing the nuclear waste issue

Researchers use Closterium moniliferum algae to remove strontium, a major component of nuclear waste, by sequestering it in solid crystals. The algae's ability to differentiate between strontium and calcium can help isolate highly radioactive 'high-level' waste from 'low-level' waste.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalChemSusChem·DateApr 4, 2011

Stronger alcohol 'buzz' predicts future binge drinking problems

Researchers found that people who experience stronger stimulating and lower sedative effects of alcohol are more likely to develop binge drinking problems. A new study published in Archives of General Psychiatry suggests that the 'double whammy' of alcohol effects predicts those who progress to severe drinking and alcohol-use disorders.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·DateApr 4, 2011

New research explains autistic's exceptional visual abilities

Researchers found that autistic brains concentrate more activity in temporal and occipital regions, which are involved in pattern recognition and object perception. This enables them to perform well in visual tasks that require reasoning and decision-making.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalHuman Brain Mapping·DateApr 4, 2011
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.

Researchers say children need horticultural interventions

A Finnish study suggests that urban children have weaker connections to nature than their rural counterparts. Horticultural interventions can help bridge this gap, particularly for girls who show greater interest in plants. The research also highlights the importance of outdoor learning environments.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateApr 4, 2011

Nationwide utilization of virtual colonoscopy triples, study suggests

CTC utilization has tripled in recent years, increasing access to colorectal cancer screening, and potentially saving lives through early detection of disease. The study suggests an opportunity for more people to be screened due to CTC's alternative to conventional optical colonoscopy.

SourceAmerican College of Radiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Radiology·DateApr 4, 2011
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.

Climate change and evolution of Cross River gorillas

Two species of gorillas diverged 17,800 years ago during the Pleistocene era, with climate change causing intermittent interbreeding and population separation. The critically endangered Cross River gorilla population has lost 60% of its genetic diversity in 320 years due to anthropogenic pressure.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalBMC Evolutionary Biology·DateApr 4, 2011

A better understanding of the aging immune system

The GERONTOSHIELD project aims to understand the aging immune system and develop personalized therapies for the elderly. Researchers investigate how immune responses in young and old mice differ from each other and identify risk markers predicting increased susceptibility for infectious diseases.

SourceHelmholtz Association·DateApr 4, 2011
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Babies born earlier in areas near busy road junctions

Research suggests that living near a busy road junction increases the likelihood of premature birth by 4.4%. The study found that even short distances from freeways can have negative effects on gestation times. Reducing traffic emissions through improved vehicles or public transport use could provide immediate health benefits.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalEnvironmental Health·DateApr 4, 2011
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.

Tumors resistant to radiation therapy may be controlled by the MET oncogene

Researchers discovered that ionizing radiation drives overexpression and activity of MET through the ATM and NF-κB signaling pathways, making some tumor cells resistant to radiation. Inhibiting MET counteracted this increased invasiveness, promoting apoptosis in tumor cells and enhancing the effect of radiation.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateApr 4, 2011

Study shows patient's own cells may hold therapeutic promise after reprogramming, gene correction

Researchers have determined that correcting a genetic defect does not substantially increase the number of potentially cancer-causing mutations in induced pluripotent stem cells. This breakthrough suggests that human-induced pluripotent stem cells altered to correct a genetic defect may be cultured into subsequent generations of cells ...

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 4, 2011

Measuring oxidative stress can predict risk of atrial fibrillation

A study from Emory University School of Medicine found that measuring oxidative stress can predict the risk of developing atrial fibrillation. High levels of the amino acid cystine in blood are linked to increased risk, while factors like high blood pressure and obesity also play a role.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·DateApr 4, 2011
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.

Scientists find gene linked to alcohol consumption

A study of over 47,000 people found that a genetic variation in the AUTS2 gene is associated with lower alcohol consumption, suggesting its role in regulating drinking behaviour. The researchers also investigated animal models and found that blocking a related gene increased sensitivity to alcohol.

SourceImperial College London·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 4, 2011

Pneumonia death rate lower among people who take statins

A study by the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine found that statin users had a 33% lower risk of death from pneumonia compared to non-statin users. This protective effect was observed among patients who were already taking statins when they developed pneumonia.

SourceLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine·DateApr 4, 2011

Gene involved in predisposition to alcohol consumption identified

A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences has identified a novel gene, AUTS2, associated with differences in alcohol consumption. The research team analyzed data from over 48,000 individuals and found that this gene contributes to individual variations in drinking patterns.

SourceVirginia Commonwealth University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 4, 2011

Mangroves among the most carbon-rich forests in the tropics

A recent study found that mangroves store up to four times more carbon per hectare than most tropical forests. The high-carbon storage capacity of mangroves can be attributed to their deep organic-rich soils and complex root systems.

SourceUSDA Forest Service - Pacific Southwest Research Station·JournalNature Geoscience·DateApr 4, 2011
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.

Simpler woodland strawberry genome aids research on more complex fruits

The University of Illinois has sequenced the genome of the woodland strawberry, a close relative of the apple, to aid in researching complex fruits. This will help improve strawberry quality and characteristics, as well as enhance the development of desirable traits in apples.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalNature Genetics·DateApr 4, 2011

Breast milk may provide a personalized screen of breast cancer risk

Researchers have developed a method to assess breast cancer risk using epithelial cells found in breast milk. The study showed that average RASSF1 methylation levels were higher in biopsied breasts compared to non-biopsied breasts, suggesting a potential correlation between epigenetic signals and breast cancer risk.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·DateApr 4, 2011

New information provides sustainable options for greenhouse operations

Biocontainers offer a sustainable alternative to traditional plastic containers, with rice hulls showing the highest vertical dry strength and lowest water loss rates. Researchers recommend selecting biocontainers based on specific physical properties to meet greenhouse needs.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateApr 4, 2011

Underage binge drinking can create lasting brain changes

Adolescent binge drinking may lead to subtle yet persistent alterations in the frontal cortex, impacting decision-making and related behaviors. Reduces neurotransmitter activity and forebrain volume, increasing risk of impulsive actions and poor adaptation to life situations as adults.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·DateApr 4, 2011
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.

Serum test could identify lung cancer in people who never smoked

A recent study presents a promising serum test that can identify lung cancer in people who have never smoked. The test uses a panel of biomarkers to analyze blood samples and has shown high sensitivity and specificity in distinguishing lung cancer from non-cancerous conditions.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·DateApr 4, 2011

Adult-sized ATVs are not safe for kids; statistics startling

ATV-related injuries disproportionately affect children, with lower extremity fractures, partial foot amputations, and head injuries being common. The number of ATV-related deaths among children has increased dramatically over the past decade, highlighting the need for proper adult supervision, helmets, and age-appropriate vehicles.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateApr 4, 2011

Call of the riled

Researchers discovered that cancer cells generate a 'stress response' signal that induces nearby macrophages to issue a similar stress response, promoting inflammation and tumor development. This finding presents a potential target for tumor-specific therapies.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 4, 2011
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.

Genetic changes behind sweet tooth

A new study from the University of Gothenburg found that people with certain genetic changes in the ghrelin gene consume more sugar than those without. Trials using rats also showed reduced sugar consumption when ghrelin was blocked, suggesting a strong link between ghrelin and addictive behaviors

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 4, 2011

Potassium channel gene modifies risk for epilepsy

Researchers at Vanderbilt University identified a new gene, KCNV2, that influences the risk of developing epilepsy. The gene codes for a unique potassium channel protein and alters electrical activity in nerve cells, leading to seizures.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 4, 2011

Severe psoriasis linked to major adverse cardiovascular events

A cohort study analyzing over 3,600 patients with severe psoriasis found a 53% increased incidence of major adverse cardiac events compared to the general population. Patients with severe psoriasis have an additional 6% ten-year risk of MACE.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·DateApr 4, 2011

'Epidemiological' study demonstrates climate change effects on forests

An 18-year study of 27,000 trees found that climate change is more sensitive to tree growth and fecundity than previously thought. Early spring warming and summer drought were identified as key factors affecting tree reproduction and growth. The study provides valuable insights into how climate change impacts specific tree species.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateApr 4, 2011
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.

Are ICDs up to par with patients living longer?

A new study found that implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) can effectively prevent sudden cardiac death in patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy and dilated cardiomyopathy. The average survival time for ICD patients was seven years, outpacing the typical lifespan of an ICD battery.

SourceMinneapolis Heart Institute Foundation·DateApr 4, 2011

Teens who choose music over books are more likely to be depressed

A University of Pittsburgh study found that teenagers who spent more time listening to music were 8.3 times more likely to be depressed, compared to those who read books the most, which had a protective effect against depression. The study used an intensive 'real-life' methodology and involved 106 adolescent participants.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateApr 4, 2011

Study finds leptin restores fertility, may improve bone health in lean women

Researchers at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center have found that a synthetic form of leptin can restore fertility and reduce the risk of bone fractures in lean women with hypothalamic amenorrhea. The study shows significant improvements in hormone levels, menstrual cycles, and bone density after treatment with metreleptin.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 4, 2011

Embargoed news from Annals of Internal Medicine

Researchers found that adults reporting workdays of 11 hours or longer had a 67 percent higher relative risk for CHD than those working 7 or 8 hours a day. Additionally, self-monitoring and self-adjustment of anticoagulant doses resulted in superior patient outcomes without an increase in major bleeding events.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateApr 4, 2011
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.

Formaldehyde: Poison could have set the stage for the origins of life

Research suggests formaldehyde was likely source of solar system's organic carbon solids, abundant in comets and asteroids. The complex organic solids were formed from formaldehyde through polymerization under primitive solar system conditions.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 4, 2011

High dose of oxygen enhances natural cancer treatment

Researchers at University of Washington and Washington State University found that combining high-pressure oxygen with artemisinin increases cancer cell death by 50% compared to using artemisinin alone. Artemisinin, a natural malaria remedy, has been shown to kill cancerous cells in previous studies.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalAnticancer Research·DateApr 4, 2011

Study offers first look at Asian Americans' glaucoma risk

A National Eye Institute-funded study found Asian Americans' glaucoma risk to be 6.5%, similar to U.S. Latinos. The study identified ethnic groups with higher rates of narrow-angle and normal-tension glaucoma, emphasizing the need for targeted eye care.

SourceAmerican Academy of Ophthalmology·JournalOphthalmology·DateApr 4, 2011

ACC/AHA/HFSA release 2011 Heart Failure Programs Staffing Profile survey results

A recent survey by the ACC/AHA/HFSA found that heart failure programs in the US are struggling to find the right mix of clinicians to manage this growing patient population. The study concludes that staff ratios remain the same despite program growth, indicating under-staffing with reduced financial resources.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateApr 4, 2011
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.

Dangerous blood pressure increases during exercise can be blocked, UT Southwestern researchers find

UT Southwestern researchers have identified a specific type of blood pressure medication that minimizes the effect of decreased blood flow and oxygen levels in muscles during exercise. This finding has implications for people with high blood pressure who may stop exercising due to fear of heart attack or stroke.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·DateApr 4, 2011

Heart surgery wait times down in Alberta and BC

Wait times for percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery have dropped significantly in Alberta and British Columbia, with median wait times decreasing by over 50%.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalCanadian Journal of Cardiology·DateApr 4, 2011

Alternate route to blocked arteries safe and effective for angioplasty

A landmark study has found that radial access for angioplasty is a safe and effective alternative to traditional femoral access, resulting in fewer vascular complications and similar success rates. The RIVAL trial involved over 7,000 patients and compared radial and femoral access for coronary angiography and intervention.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalThe Lancet·DateApr 4, 2011

Study provides first link between 2 major Parkinson's genes

A Canadian-led international study has found a link between the most common genetic risk factor for Parkinson's and the hallmark accumulation of alpha-synuclein in the brains of people with Parkinson's. The GBA mutation increases the risk of developing Parkinson's symptoms four to five years earlier than those without it.

SourceThe Ottawa Hospital·JournalAnnals of Neurology·DateApr 4, 2011
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.

T cells outpace virus by getting a jump-start on division

Cytotoxic T cells (CTLs) get a head start on viral replication by dividing early during their journey to infected tissue. This allows them to quickly respond to the virus upon arrival, making them more effective in defending against infection.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateApr 4, 2011

Nicotine does not promote lung cancer growth in mouse models

A recent study published by the American Association for Cancer Research found that nicotine at doses similar to those found in most nicotine replacement therapies did not increase lung cancer tumor incidence, frequency or size. The researchers concluded that nicotine replacement therapy is probably a safe option.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·DateApr 4, 2011

Lung cancer risk rises in the presence of HPV antibodies

Researchers found significantly higher rates of HPV antibodies in people with lung cancer compared to those without the disease. High-risk types of HPV were particularly prevalent, suggesting a potential link between HPV infection and lung cancer development.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·DateApr 4, 2011
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.

Researchers link herpes to Alzheimer's disease

A new technique allows scientists to observe herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV1) infections growing inside cells, revealing a mechanism by which HSV1 leads to Alzheimer's disease. Frequent interactions between viral particles and cellular amyloid precursor protein facilitate viral transport while interfering with normal APP distribution.

SourceBrown University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 4, 2011
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.

Repetitive, high-impact sports linked to stress fractures in girls

A study from Boston Children's Hospital found that high-impact activities, particularly running, basketball, and gymnastics, increase fracture risk in preadolescent and adolescent girls. Early recognition and activity restriction are key to treating stress fractures.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateApr 4, 2011

Facial structure of men and women has become more similar over time

Researchers from North Carolina State University discovered that craniofacial features of men and women have become less pronounced in Spanish skulls spanning four centuries. The study highlights the changes in facial structure among females, which may be attributed to improved nutrition or environmental factors.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalForensic Science International·DateApr 4, 2011

System aims to improve teachers and teacher training programs

The UCR-developed TEISS system integrates common record-keeping needs of teacher education programs with data collection mandated by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing. This platform aims to improve teacher training and program quality, providing a collective story of work to defend teaching excellence.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateApr 4, 2011

U-M scientists find potential driver of some aggressive prostate cancers

U-M scientists identified a genetic anomaly in the KRAS gene, known for its role in numerous cancers, that may promote tumor progression in a rare subset of prostate cancers. This finding suggests different subtypes of prostate cancer will need targeted treatment strategies.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalCancer Discovery·DateApr 4, 2011
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.

Can plant parables promote peace?

Researchers found that reading plant parables enhanced spiritual beliefs in students with horticultural background, but not in those without. Horticultural activities were found to have potential in promoting spiritual health.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateApr 4, 2011

Clumsy kids who don't 'grow out of it'

Children with DCD tend to struggle with motor skills, socialization, and emotional regulation, leading to feelings of loneliness and isolation. The study found that voluntary lack of participation in after-school activities can exacerbate the problem, but intervention is possible with proper diagnosis and monitoring.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalResearch in Developmental Disabilities·DateApr 4, 2011

Oxygen sensor invention could benefit fisheries to breweries

A new oxygen sensor invented by Michigan State University professor Ruby Ghosh can provide real-time data at a relatively low cost. This technology has potential applications in various industries such as aquaculture, beverage manufacturing, biomedical research, and petroleum manufacturing.

SourceMichigan State University·DateApr 4, 2011
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Mountain pine beetle marching east from Alberta

The mountain pine beetle has invaded jack pine forests in Alberta, successfully jumping species from its main host to the dominant Canadian boreal forest tree. Researchers tracked the infestation's progress across Alberta, finding the insects as far east as Slave Lake, and plan further research to estimate their potential speed of spread.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateApr 4, 2011

Tracking down the origin of leukemia relapse

Cancer cells that reign during leukemia relapses have distinct DNA profiles compared to those at diagnosis. These mutated cells exhibit aggressive behavior in mice, suggesting a possible link between human and mouse models.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateApr 4, 2011

BRCA2 mutations associated with improved survival for ovarian cancer

A study published at the AACR Annual Meeting found that women with ovarian cancer and BRCA2 mutations had improved survival rates compared to those with BRCA1 mutations or no mutations. The five-year survival rate for women with BRCA2 mutations was 61%, significantly higher than those without mutations (36%). Further research is needed...

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·DateApr 4, 2011
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.

Protocol-driven heart attack care proves effective and contagious

Since 2003, Minnesota hospitals without cardiac catheterization labs have dramatically improved their acute heart attack or STEMI guidelines and protocols. As a result, the state has seen a significant decline in cardiovascular mortality rates, with a 50% decrease from 2002 to 2009.

SourceMinneapolis Heart Institute Foundation·DateApr 4, 2011