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Science News for April 23, 2012


Colitis in test mice responds to treatment with human umbilical cord-derived mensenchymal cells

A study published in Cell Transplantation found that human umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal cells effectively reduced clinical and pathological severity of induced colitis in test mice. The treatment inhibited pro-inflammatory cytokine expression, indicating its potential for treating inflammatory bowel diseases.

SourceCell Transplantation Center of Excellence for Aging and Brain Repair·JournalCell Transplantation·DateApr 23, 2012

Researchers study costs of 'dirty bomb' attack in L.A.

A dirty bomb attack on downtown Los Angeles' financial district could lead to significant economic losses, with estimated costs of nearly $16 billion over a decade. The study found that the public's fear and risk perception would have a larger impact than the immediate damage, with employees demanding higher wages to return to work.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalRisk Analysis·DateApr 23, 2012

A matter of priorities

Researchers found that bacteria have a 'risk management' strategy to control mutation rate in key genes, decreasing the risk of detrimental mutations. The study provides insights into how disease-causing mutations arise and may be involved in cancer development.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalNature·DateApr 23, 2012

Obstructive sleep apnea's damage evident after 1 month

A new study model has found that cerebral vessel function is altered in just 30 days of obstructive sleep apnea exposure, increasing the risk of stroke. The model developed by researchers at Baylor College of Medicine reveals a link between OSA and stroke, highlighting the need for early diagnosis and treatment.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·DateApr 23, 2012
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.

Preventing dementia

Researchers at UBC and VCH found that a senior's exercise program using resistance-training can improve executive cognitive functions, associative memory, and brain plasticity. The study suggests that resistance training can be an effective prevention strategy for dementia.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateApr 23, 2012

Diversity aided mammals' survival over deep time

A recent study found that mammalian families in North America maintained similar niches throughout the past 56 million years, despite significant climate changes. The research suggests that family diversity played a crucial role in their ability to adapt and maintain larger ranges.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 23, 2012

Johns Hopkins researchers uncover genes at fault for cystic fibrosis-related intestinal obstruction

Researchers at Johns Hopkins identified a gene, methionine sulfoxide reductase (MSRA), that modifies the risk of newborns with cystic fibrosis developing neonatal intestinal obstruction. This study may lead to a better understanding of how intestines work and pave the way for identifying genes involved in secondary complications.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNature Genetics·DateApr 23, 2012
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.

Animated characters keep it real in teen violence prevention videos

Researchers created animated characters, Briana and Damon, to communicate anti-violence messages to urban youth. The characters were developed in collaboration with community members and featured in Facebook videos aimed at reducing teen violence.

SourceDrexel University·JournalAmerican Journal of Community Psychology·DateApr 23, 2012

Timing is everything when using oxygen to regenerate bone

A Tulane research team found that applying high levels of oxygen to a severed bone facilitates bone regrowth, particularly when applied at the right time. This discovery may one day benefit injured soldiers, diabetics, and other accident victims with partial limb regeneration.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·DateApr 23, 2012

Bascom Palmer Eye Institute announces breakthrough for degenerative vision disorder

Researchers at Bascom Palmer Eye Institute have developed a novel gene therapy to treat Leber Hereditary Optic Neuropathy (LHON), an inherited genetic defect that causes rapid vision loss. The treatment successfully replaces mutated genes with healthy ones, restoring visual function in experimental models.

SourceBascom Palmer Eye Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 23, 2012
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.

Gut organisms could be clue in controlling obesity risk

Researchers found that mice with intestinal bacteria from obese animals gained more weight and became more obese when fed a high-fat diet. The study suggests that specific gut microbiota profiles may promote excess weight gain and influence food intake. The findings offer hope for developing new strategies to prevent and treat obesity.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·DateApr 23, 2012

Climate change, biofuels mandate would cause corn price spikes

A study predicts that climate change and biofuel mandates will increase corn price volatility by 50% by 2040, exacerbating the impact of extreme heat events on corn yields. The federal mandate for biofuel production could lead to higher prices for livestock producers and consumers.

SourcePurdue University·JournalNature Climate Change·DateApr 23, 2012

The fat stopper

Researchers at the University of Delaware have identified a protein called endoglin that regulates the creation of fat cells. By decreasing the amount of this protein on the surface of cells, it may be possible to force fat cells to transform into other cell types, potentially leading to new treatments for osteoporosis and obesity.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·DateApr 23, 2012

Link between common environmental contaminant and rapid breast cancer growth

A recent study by Maggie Louie reveals that prolonged exposure to cadmium can cause breast cancer cells to become more aggressive and develop malignant characteristics. The researchers found that even small concentrations of cadmium at chronic exposures can contribute to the progression of breast cancer.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·DateApr 23, 2012
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New stem cell found in the brain

Scientists at Lund University have identified a new stem cell type in the adult brain that can form various cell types, including neuronal cells. The discovery holds promise for treating neurodegenerative diseases and stroke by harnessing the stem cell's repair mechanisms.

SourceLund University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 23, 2012

Study reveals how ancient viruses became genomic 'superspreaders'

A study revealed that ancient viruses, which infected ancestors as far back as the age of dinosaurs, became widespread in mammals' genomes due to a loss of cell infectivity. This led to a dramatic increase in viral genetic material, resembling the spread of 'superspreaders' during epidemic outbreaks.

SourceWellcome Trust·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 23, 2012

Research on carbon-consuming life-forms in Antarctica published in JoVE

A team led by Dr. Rachel Morgan-Kiss sampled Lake Bonney's ice-covered waters to study the single-celled organisms that inhabit it. These microbes play a crucial role in global climate change, with their mixotrophic metabolism influencing carbon cycling.

SourceThe Journal of Visualized Experiments·JournalJournal of Visualized Experiments·DateApr 23, 2012

Northern Canada feels the heat – Climate change impact on permafrost zones

A new study reveals how climate change affects permafrost conditions across northern Canada, with varying factors influencing the thawing process. The research highlights the need for Canadians to adapt their northern infrastructure to accommodate changing ground temperatures.

SourceCanadian Science Publishing·JournalCanadian Journal of Earth Sciences·DateApr 23, 2012

Laparoscopy reduces the risk of small-bowel obstruction

A new study at the University of Gothenburg found that laparoscopic procedures reduce the risk of small-bowel obstructions by up to four times compared to open surgery. The study, published in Archives of Surgery, analyzed 108,141 operations and showed that surgical technique is a key factor in adhesive small-bowel obstruction.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalArchives of Surgery·DateApr 23, 2012
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.

Understanding and treating bedwetting in older children

Bedwetting in children aged five years or older is common due to excessive urine production, overactive bladder, and inability to wake up. Treatment options include lifestyle modifications, medication, and bed alarms, with the latter showing long-term success in reducing nighttime water production.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateApr 23, 2012

A physician's guide for anti-vaccine parents

A Mayo Clinic expert and pediatrician refute three immunity-related misconceptions about vaccines, citing a recent review of 1,200 articles that found no autoimmune side effects. The experts also emphasize the risk of illness and death from under-vaccination, including whooping cough and measles.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalHuman Immunology·DateApr 23, 2012
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Intravenous vaccination promotes brain plasticity and prevents memory loss in Alzheimer's disease

Recent studies suggest that prolonged administration of human immunoglobulin can attenuate Alzheimer's disease-type cognitive dysfunction while promoting synaptic plasticity. This experimental observation provides a rational basis for rectifying inconsistent study outcomes in Alzheimer's disease clinical trials with IVIG.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·DateApr 23, 2012

JCI early table of contents for April 23, 2012

Researchers found vitamin D can stimulate bone cells to remove calcium from bones, potentially leading to density loss and increased fracture risk. This discovery may explain conflicting results of clinical trials examining the effects of vitamin D supplements on preventing fractures in elderly patients.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 23, 2012

Clinical decline in Alzheimer's requires plaque and proteins

A new study reveals that both amyloid-beta plaque deposits and elevated levels of the altered protein p-tau are required for clinical decline in Alzheimer's disease. The presence of both is associated with significant clinical decline over three years, highlighting p-tau as a potential target for new therapies.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalArchives of Neurology·DateApr 23, 2012
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.

Canadian provinces need to adopt a patient charter of rights

Canadian provinces should adopt patient charters with independent enforcement to help patients resolve concerns and complaints easily and cost-effectively. A well-designed charter can improve the quality and timeliness of care, increase accountability and reduce costly litigation.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateApr 23, 2012

Opioids effective in relieving severe shortness of breath in COPD patients

A Canadian study found opioids significantly improved the quality of life and relief from shortness of breath for advanced COPD patients. However, physicians were hesitant due to lack of guidance, fear of respiratory suppression, and concerns about censure. Innovative educational initiatives may help bridge this gap in care.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateApr 23, 2012

Shingles vaccine is safe, according to new study

A recent Vaccine Safety Datalink study found the shingles vaccine to be generally safe and well-tolerated in adults aged 50 and older, with a small increased risk of local reactions. The study also ruled out any increased risk for serious conditions such as cerebrovascular diseases or meningitis.

SourceKaiser Permanente·JournalJournal of Internal Medicine·DateApr 23, 2012

New method to measure work addiction

Researchers have created a new instrument, the Bergen Work Addiction Scale, to measure work addiction. The scale assesses seven core elements of addiction and can differentiate between workaholics and non-workaholics.

SourceThe University of Bergen·JournalScandinavian Journal of Psychology·DateApr 23, 2012

Mechanism of HIV spread has potential for future drug therapy

Researchers describe a novel mechanism of HIV-1 spread by dendritic cells, using a molecule called GM3 for attachment and spread. This unique contact between HIV-1 and dendritic cells may offer a new direction for anti-viral therapies, as drugs targeting this interaction could have the benefit of acting on the host.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 23, 2012
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.

Discovery of missing links for Salmonella's weapon system

Salmonella causes food poisoning, killing around 400,000 people worldwide every year. Researchers have discovered multiple gene switches that control the bacteria's weapon systems, offering new ways to curb human infection. The discovery could lead to the development of antibiotics to reduce disease caused by Salmonella.

SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 23, 2012

Hispanic lung cancer patients tend to live longer than blacks and whites

A new analysis found that Hispanic lung cancer patients have a 15% lower risk of dying compared to white patients, with black patients slightly more likely to die. The study also identified higher frequencies of less serious lung cancer types in Hispanics, which may be linked to genetic or environmental factors.

SourceWiley·JournalCancer·DateApr 23, 2012
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.

Vitamin E in diet protects against many cancers

Researchers found that gamma and delta-tocopherols in vegetable oils prevent cancer formation and growth in animal models. Alpha-tocopherol supplements, however, showed no such benefit in preventing these types of cancer.

SourceRutgers University·JournalCancer Prevention Research·DateApr 23, 2012

2 distinguishable gene groups detected: 1 'normal' and 1 problematic

Two distinguishable gene groups have been detected: one producing abundant biochemical products and functioning properly in most biological processes, and another with potentially abnormal function in diseases. The findings have significant implications for tailoring therapy to individual patients

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 23, 2012
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.

Malaria resurgence is linked to reduction of malaria-control programs

A recent study found that 91% of documented malaria resurgence events were attributed to weakened control programs, highlighting the need for sustained funding. The researchers emphasize the importance of continued investment in successful malaria control and elimination programs to maintain progress and save thousands of lives.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalMalaria Journal·DateApr 23, 2012

Robots fighting wars could be blamed for mistakes on the battlefield

Researchers found that people attribute human characteristics and moral accountability to humanoid robots that can harm humans, even in non-life-threatening situations. This suggests that as robots become more sophisticated, they may be held responsible for causing harm.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalJournal of Human-Robot Interaction·DateApr 23, 2012

Association for Psychological Science, SAGE launch Clinical Psychological Science

The Association for Psychological Science and SAGE have launched a new peer-reviewed journal, Clinical Psychological Science, which aims to publish advances in clinical science and provide a platform for innovative research. The journal welcomes diverse topics, including translational articles, novel interventions, and theory-driven re...

SourceSAGE·JournalClinical Psychological Science·DateApr 23, 2012
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.

Leeches are DNA bloodhounds in the jungle

A new method developed by the University of Copenhagen allows researchers to track mammal species in Southeast Asian rainforests using DNA-analysis from collected leeches. The technique has been successfully tested on local Vietnamese mammals, including rare species, and could revolutionize the monitoring of threatened wildlife.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 23, 2012

WSU astrobiologist proposes fleet of probes to seek life on Mars

A team of scientists, led by WSU astrobiologist Dirk Schulze-Makuch, is calling for a Mars mission with a strong life detection component. The BOLD mission would feature six probes that could detect signs of life in Martian soil through various experiments.

SourceWashington State University·JournalPlanetary and Space Science·DateApr 23, 2012
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.

Study finds 'Western diet' detrimental to fetal hippocampal tissue transplants

Researchers found that a high-saturated-fat, high-cholesterol diet elevated microglial activation and reduced neuronal development in middle-aged laboratory rats. However, treatment with IL-1Ra alleviated these effects, suggesting potential use in neurological disorders involving neuroinflammation.

SourceCell Transplantation Center of Excellence for Aging and Brain Repair·JournalCell Transplantation·DateApr 23, 2012

Researchers find potential link between drinking alcohol and breast cancer

A study found a potential link between alcohol consumption and breast cancer, suggesting that the protein CYP2E1 plays a direct role in explaining the long-established risk factor. Women who naturally express higher levels of CYP2E1 and consume alcohol may be at a greater risk for developing breast cancer.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·DateApr 23, 2012
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.

IADR/AADR publish studies on severe early childhood caries – proposes new classification

Researchers propose a new classification of severe early childhood caries, which affects mostly young children living at or below poverty levels. The condition is characterized by structurally damaged primary teeth and is linked to developmental dental defects such as enamel hypoplasia.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·JournalJournal of Dental Research·DateApr 23, 2012

Researchers find mechanism that gives plants 'balance'

Researchers at Michigan State University have found a way for plants to balance their growth and defense mechanisms, enabling them to continue growing while protecting themselves from harm. This discovery could help improve crop yields by allowing plants to prioritize growth over defense.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 23, 2012

Bark beetle management and ecology in southern pine forests

The article suggests that preventative measures are most effective in managing bark beetles, which can be controlled naturally by environmental factors. Maintaining a diversity of healthy tree species and adequate spacing between host trees reduces the likelihood of beetle outbreaks.

SourceEntomological Society of America·JournalJournal of Integrated Pest Management·DateApr 23, 2012
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.

Study shows that, in restaurants, race matters

A North Carolina State University study reveals that over one-third of restaurant servers admit to discriminating against African-American customers, with many perceiving black patrons as impolite or poor tippers. The survey found that 38.5% of servers reported varying their service based on customers' race, highlighting the persistenc...

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Black Studies·DateApr 23, 2012

Even positive stereotypes can hinder performance, researchers report

A new study found that broad generalizations about social groups can undermine both boys' and girls' performance on challenging activities. Researchers tested how sweeping pronouncements about skills or likely success of social groups influence children's performance.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalPsychological Science·DateApr 23, 2012

Olympic boxing may damage the brain

A study of Swedish boxers found elevated protein levels in brain fluid after bouts, indicating nerve cell damage. The study suggests that Olympic boxing may cause similar brain injury to Alzheimer's disease.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 23, 2012
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.

Canadian drug shortage: recent history of a mystery

A recent shortage of prescription generic drugs in Canada has highlighted the issue for two years, with up to 98% of pharmacists experiencing shortages during working shifts. The problem is exacerbated by the affordability issues faced by 10% of Canadians who rely on these medications.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateApr 23, 2012

Collaborative research examines executive turnover in federal workplaces

Researchers are investigating the factors predicting senior executive turnover in federal workplaces, which can result in costly losses for organizations. The study focuses on the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs' Senior Executive Service, finding that turnover is highest among new or low-tenure executives.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateApr 23, 2012

Computing the best high-resolution 3-D tissue images

Researchers developed a computational technique to correct aberrations in optical tomography, enabling faster, less expensive and higher resolution tissue imaging. The technique was demonstrated using gel-based phantoms and rat lung tissue, resulting in sharp points and clearer tissue structures.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 23, 2012

New guidelines: Treatments can help prevent migraine

The American Academy of Neurology issues new guidelines for preventing migraine, recommending several treatments including prescription drugs and over-the-counter options. These guidelines aim to address the underrecognition and undertreatment of migraine, with potential benefits in reducing attack frequency and severity.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·DateApr 23, 2012
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.

Towards an agroforestry policy in Indonesia

A historic workshop in Indonesia aimed to develop a national strategy on agroforestry research, identifying key challenges such as government partiality, land tenure insecurity, and trade-offs between conservation and development. Opportunities for agroforestry were also highlighted, including international support and knowledge sharing.

SourceWorld Agroforestry Centre (ICRAF)·DateApr 23, 2012

Palms reveal the significance of climate change for tropical biodiversity

Researchers at Aarhus University have discovered that climate change over millions of years shapes the composition of species assemblages in the tropics. The study reveals distinct differences in palm species diversity between South America and Africa, with South America boasting higher biodiversity due to its relatively stable climate.

SourceAarhus University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 23, 2012

Making human textiles: Research team ups the ante with development of blood vessels woven from donor cells

A research team has developed a new technique for creating human textiles by weaving donor cells into blood vessels, promising to reduce production costs. The technology uses a combination of cultured cells and medical-textile-making techniques to create strong, biocompatible fibers that can be woven into various structures.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·DateApr 23, 2012
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.

Fish larvae find the reef by orienting: The earlier the better

A team of female scientists from the University of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science have developed a sophisticated numerical model to study fish larvae's navigation skills. The model uses reliable larval swimming speeds and vertical migration to create realistic scenarios that can be studied in detail.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·JournalJournal of Theoretical Biology·DateApr 23, 2012

Brain surgery for epilepsy underutilized

A new study from UCSF found that brain surgery for epilepsy has not increased in the decade since a landmark clinical trial demonstrated its effectiveness. Despite this, thousands of Americans suffer from uncontrolled seizures each year, highlighting disparities by race and insurance status.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNeurology·DateApr 23, 2012

Letting go can boost quality of life

A study by Concordia University found that breast cancer survivors who can redefined their goals show an overall improvement in well-being. The researchers measured the capacity to adjust goals and found a positive association with more physical activity, emotional well-being, and fewer physical symptoms.

SourceConcordia University·JournalPsycho-Oncology·DateApr 23, 2012

Quantum physics mimics spooky action into the past

Physicists have demonstrated that quantum particles can be in an entangled state even after measurement, which was previously thought to be an objective fact. The team realized a 'delayed-choice entanglement swapping' experiment, where Victor's choice affected Alice's and Bob's photons after they had been measured.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalNature Physics·DateApr 23, 2012
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.

Vitamin D: A double-edged sword in the fight against osteoporosis?

Researchers found vitamin D can promote bone density loss while maintaining normal serum calcium levels. The study suggests vitamin D supplements may not be effective in preventing fractures in elderly patients, and high doses could even increase fracture risk.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 23, 2012

Xenotransplantation as a therapy for type 1 diabetes

Researchers at Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München have developed a genetically modified strain of pigs whose beta-cells can restore glucose homeostasis and inhibit human-anti-pig immune reaction. This breakthrough could potentially treat type 1 diabetes, overcoming the major barrier of immune rejection.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalDiabetes·DateApr 23, 2012

Research is ensuring stormwater systems are designed for the future

Researchers at Kansas State University are updating rainfall distribution data to provide a more accurate benchmark for engineers designing stormwater systems. The study found that the state is experiencing more rain across its entire area, with more intense storms in the southeast region.

SourceKansas State University·DateApr 23, 2012

Scientists see solution to critical barrier to fusion

Researchers from DOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory discovered a possible solution to the density limit, a major impediment to harnessing fusion. Tiny, bubble-like islands in plasmas appear to be at the root of the problem, and injecting power directly into these islands could help reach the high temperatures needed for fusion.

SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 23, 2012
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.

Pain relief with PAP injections may last 100 times longer than a traditional acupuncture treatment

Scientists at UNC have developed a new method for delivering long-lasting pain relief through PAPuncture, which mimics the molecular mechanism behind acupuncture. The treatment has been shown to provide up to six-day pain relief in animal models and may be applicable to any area where regional anesthesia is performed.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalMolecular Pain·DateApr 23, 2012

That impulsive, moody preschooler may grow up to be a problem gambler

A longitudinal study of 900 individuals found that under-controlled temperament in early childhood is a significant predictor of disordered gambling in adulthood. Those with restless, impulsive, and negative behaviors were twice as likely to develop problems with gambling.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateApr 23, 2012

Immunosignaturing: An accurate, affordable and stable diagnostic

Immunosignaturing uses random sequence arrays of peptides to trawl for antibodies to disease, producing a machine-readable image of immune activity that can be used to diagnose a broad range of ailments. The technique has been tested as a diagnostic for over 20 diseases and shows good correlation between serum and plasma samples.

SourceArizona State University·JournalClinical and Vaccine Immunology·DateApr 23, 2012

Birds cultivate decorative plants to attract mates

Researchers found male bowerbirds growing fruit-bearing plants around their bowers to attract females, using these fruits for decoration. The birds' preferred color of the fruit led to changes in plant selection over time.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 23, 2012
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.